Anda di halaman 1dari 232

GKTODAY

Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-31, 2019


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Contents
......................... ...... . .. ....... .... ..........................................................
News Headlines: July 1-15, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 1, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................... 3
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 2, 2019 .............................................................................................................................................. 4
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 3, 2019 .............................................................................................................................................. 4
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 4, 2019 .............................................................................................................................................. 5
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 5, 2019 .............................................................................................................................................. 6
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 6, 2019 .............................................................................................................................................. 7
Union Budget 2019-20: Highlights .............................................................................................................................................................. 8
UNION BUDGET 2019-2020 ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 7, 2019 .............................................................................................................................................. 9
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 8, 2019 .............................................................................................................................................. 9
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 9, 2019 .............................................................................................................................................. 9
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 10, 2019 ........................................................................................................................................... 10
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 11, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................. 11
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 12, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................ 11
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 13, 2019 ........................................................................................................................................... 12
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 14, 2019 ........................................................................................................................................... 13
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 15, 2019 ........................................................................................................................................... 13
July 1, 2019 ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Aparna Kumar becomes 1st IPS Officer to complete 7 Summits Challenge ............................................................................................ 14
1 July: GST Day ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
India sign Rs.200 crore deal with Russia to acquire Strum Ataka .............................................................................................................. 15
30 June: International Day of Parliamentarism ................................................................................................................................................ 15
What is SDG Dashboard launched by Statistics Ministry? ........................................................................................................................... 16
ISALEX19: ISAs joint security exercise begins ................................................................................................................................................. 17
Fact Box: Jaya Arunachalam ................................................................................................................................................................................ 17
National Film Heritage Mission Project reviewed by I&B Minister ............................................................................................................. 18
Donald Trump becomes 1st sitting US president to enter North Korea ................................................................................................... 18
UP launches Dastak Campaign to eradicate AES & JE .................................................................................................................................. 19
July 2, 2019 ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Tamil yeoman: now Tamil Nadu’s State Butterfly ......................................................................................................................................... 19
Japan resumes commercial whaling .................................................................................................................................................................. 20
Jal Shakti Abhiyan for Water Conservation launched .................................................................................................................................... 21
Nagaland declared ‘Disturbed Area’ under AFSPA for 6 more months ................................................................................................... 21
Garuda-VI: Indo-French Joint Air Exercise begins ......................................................................................................................................... 22
WBC Asia: Indian Pro Boxer Vaibhav Yadav wins ......................................................................................................................................... 22
UGC launches STRIDE scheme to boost research culture in universities ................................................................................................ 23
High Powered Committee for ‘Transformation of Agriculture’ constituted ............................................................................................ 23
New Zealand bans Single-Use Plastic shopping bags .................................................................................................................................... 23
Kaziranga National Park: Special Rhino Protection Force deployed .......................................................................................................... 24
July 3, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Manoj Kumar Nambiar elected Chairman of MFIN ..................................................................................................................................... 24
IAEA confirms Iran breached enriched Uranium Stockpile limit ................................................................................................................ 25
AYUSH, MeitY ministries signs MoU for digitisation of AYUSH sector ................................................................................................... 26
Centre to raise Health Services Expenditure to 2.5% of GDP by 2025 .................................................................................................... 26
34th Sailing Championship inaugurated in Telangana ................................................................................................................................. 26
UIDAI operationalizes 1st Aadhaar Seva Kendra in Delhi and Vijayawada .............................................................................................. 27
US Senate passes law to give India NATO ally-like status ........................................................................................................................... 27
India pledges $5 Million aid to UN Palestine Refugee Agency in 2019 .................................................................................................... 28
July 4, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 29
India ratifies OECD’s convention to check Tax Evasion ............................................................................................................................... 29
Delhi Police signs pact to implement Rooftop Solar Energy Systems ....................................................................................................... 29
CCMB and CDFD inks MoU on Genetic Disease Diagnostics ................................................................................................................... 30
Illegal Coal Mining in Meghalaya: SC directs State Govt to deposit fine ................................................................................................. 30
Unmanned Level Crossings in all Broad-Gauge Network eliminated: Govt ............................................................................................. 31
RBI constitutes panel to review Core Investment Companies ...................................................................................................................... 31

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 2


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Germany’s Ursula von der Leyen appointed new President of EU Commission ..................................................................................... 32
High trading costs impact liquidity of Indian equities: World Bank ........................................................................................................... 32
Centre ropes in IBM for pilot study on using AI in Agriculture ................................................................................................................. 33
July 5, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
IMF Chief Christine Lagarde to now head European Central Bank .......................................................................................................... 33
USISPF to honour Wipro’s Azim Premji, Mastercard CEO Ajay Banga ................................................................................................... 34
MoU between India and Maldives for Shipping approved by Cabinet ...................................................................................................... 34
SCR commissions Longest Electrified Railway Tunnel in India ................................................................................................................... 35
1st-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair to be held in India .................................................................................................. 35
Working on a Warmer Planet: ILO Report ...................................................................................................................................................... 35
State of the Education Report for India 2019 launched ............................................................................................................................... 36
July 6-7, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 37
Iraq’s Babylon listed as UNESCO’s World Heritage Site .............................................................................................................................. 37
India to train Bangladeshi Civil Servants at Mussoorie ................................................................................................................................. 37
Centre fixes price for Sovereign Gold Bonds at Rs.3,443 per gram ......................................................................................................... 38
Key Highlights of Union Budget 2019-20 (Part 1) ........................................................................................................................................ 38
Key Highlights of Union Budget 2019-20 (Part 2) ....................................................................................................................................... 40
Key Highlights of Union Budget 2019-20 (Part 3) ....................................................................................................................................... 42
July 8, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Operation Sudarshan: launched by BSF to fortify border with Pakistan .................................................................................................. 43
Vice President releases book titled Vivekadeepini .......................................................................................................................................... 44
1st model village built with Indian assistance inaugurated in Sri Lanka .................................................................................................... 44
FIFA Women’s World Cup: U.S.A beats Netherlands ................................................................................................................................... 45
Grand Prix of Spain Women’s Wrestling: Vinesh, Divya win gold ............................................................................................................. 45
Australia’s Budj Bim Cultural Landscape included in UNESCO’s WHS .................................................................................................... 45
Six Sigma Institute of Mountain Medicines and High-Altitude Rescue to be set up at Uttarakhand ................................................. 46
Copa America: Brazil beat Peru with 3-1 ........................................................................................................................................................ 46
Jaipur listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site ................................................................................................................................................ 47
July 9, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 47
Operation Milap: 333 missing children rescued in 7 months ..................................................................................................................... 47
DRDO carries out 3 tests of Nag Missile in one day in Pokhran ............................................................................................................... 47
Coffee Table Book launched to commemorate 50 years of partnership with UNWFP ....................................................................... 48
Mexico beats US to lift 8th CONCACAF Gold Cup .................................................................................................................................... 48
Gully Boy’ wins NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film at BIFAN ............................................................................................................... 49
Kutno Athletics Meet: Hima Das wins gold in Women’s 200m ................................................................................................................ 49
Italy’s Prosecco hills enters UNESCO World Heritage list ........................................................................................................................... 50
Saudi Arabia adopts Digital India, equality of women in Haj 2019 ........................................................................................................... 50
Parliament adopts resolution levying 200% duty on all Pakistani goods ................................................................................................... 51
July 10, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 51
Utkarsh 2022: finalized by RBI board ............................................................................................................................................................... 51
National Museum of Indian Cinema’s news bulletin launched .................................................................................................................... 51
Northeast Frontier Railway’s Plan Bee wins Best Innovation Award ......................................................................................................... 52
Arun Kumar appointed as DGCA Director General ..................................................................................................................................... 52
MoEF recommends ‘in-principle’ approval for Uranium exploration ........................................................................................................ 53
India has adequate number of healthcare professionals: Survey ................................................................................................................. 53
BCC inks MoU with BRICS Chamber to promote trade ............................................................................................................................. 54
India hands over 250 pre-fabricated houses to Myanmar’s Rakhine State .............................................................................................. 54
France to impose green tax on plane tickets from 2020 ............................................................................................................................. 55
July 11, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 55
Pro-Khalistan group ‘The Sikhs for Justice’ banned by govt. ...................................................................................................................... 55
2nd India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue held in New Delhi ........................................................................................................... 56
Dutee Chand wins 100m gold in World Universiade in Italy ...................................................................................................................... 57
Indian Army places order for procuring Spike missiles from Israel .......................................................................................................... 57
Delhi’s Connaught Place 9th most expensive office location in World: CBRE ........................................................................................ 57
Kerala Govt. to set up Non-Resident Keralites Investment company ........................................................................................................ 58
CCEA approves 3rd phase of PMGSY ............................................................................................................................................................. 59
AIFF Awards: Ashalata Devi and Sunil Chhetri bag top honours .............................................................................................................. 59
Air India allows Hajj Pilgrims to carry Zamzam Water on Flight .............................................................................................................. 60
July 12, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 60

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 3


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Operation Thirst: launched by Railway Protection Force ............................................................................................................................ 60


11 July: World Population Day observed .......................................................................................................................................................... 60
Japan’s Hayabusa2 Probe makes 2nd touchdown on asteroid Ryugu ....................................................................................................... 61
Gafa Tax: France to levy 3% tax on Internet giants ....................................................................................................................................... 61
US House passes Bill to remove 7% cap on issuing Green Card ............................................................................................................... 62
July 13, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 62
Viswanathan Anand joins as mentor of ChessKid .......................................................................................................................................... 62
Kharchi Puja Festival being celebrated in Tripura .......................................................................................................................................... 63
SBI Managing Director Anshula Kant appointed World Bank’s MD and CFO ...................................................................................... 63
12 July: ‘Save Water Day’ observed by West Bengal government .............................................................................................................. 63
Defence Ministry signs MoU with IPFC and NRDC ..................................................................................................................................... 64
Kalyani Rafael Advanced Systems bags $100 million missile kit order ..................................................................................................... 64
Nagarkirtan: wins Best Feature Film award at SAARC film festival .......................................................................................................... 65
RBI’s Working Group recommends extension of market hours ................................................................................................................ 65
World Tour Platinum Australian Open: Indian Duo win bronze ............................................................................................................... 66
July 14-15, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 66
Meghalaya becomes 1st state to ensure Water Conservation ...................................................................................................................... 66
Iwai Ship Carrying Bhutanese Cargo flagged off from Assam to Bangladesh ........................................................................................ 67
Baba Guru Nanak International University: Foundation stone laid in Pakistan ....................................................................................... 68
Tropical Storm Barry hits Louisiana in US and entire Gulf coast .............................................................................................................. 69
Simona Halep beats Serena for Maiden Wimbledon Title ........................................................................................................................... 69
Kladno Memorial Athletics Meet: Mohammad Anas, Hima Das wins gold ............................................................................................ 70
IFFI’s Golden Jubilee Edition to be held in Goa ............................................................................................................................................. 70
Defence Minister lights Victory Flame to Mark 20 Years of Kargil War .................................................................................................. 71
14 July: French Bastille Day celebrated ............................................................................................................................................................. 71
Multiple Choice Questions ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 72

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 4


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

News Headlines: July 1-15, 2019

Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 1, 2019


India
India sign Rs. 200 crore deal for acquiring ‘Strum Ataka’ anti-tank missiles from Russia
Working Women’s Forum (WWF) founder Jaya Arunachalam dies in Chennai at the age of 87
New comic book titled ‘Dabbawala’ on tiffin carriers of Mumbai, written and illustrated by artist
Abhijeet Kini, released
National Statistics Day celebrated with theme as ‘Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)’ on June 29
Economy & Corporate
Price of non-subsidised LPG cut by over Rs 100 per cylinder
Money in Swiss banks: India slips one place to 74th, UK retains top rank
World
Abu Dhabi hosting joint security exercise of International Security Alliance ‘ISALEX19’ from June 30
International Security Alliance comprises UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, France, Italy, Spain, Senegal,
Singapore, and Slovak Republic
World Social Media Day observed on 30 June
International Day of Parliamentarism observed on 30 June; marks the day of establishment of Inter-
Parliamentary Union in 1889
International Asteroid Day observed on 30 June; marks the day of the Tunguska impact over Siberia,
Russia in 1908
271 million people globally used recreational drugs in 2017: United Nations World Drug Report
Donald Trump becomes first sitting US president to set foot in North Korea
Membership of China’s ruling Communist Party exceeds 90 million
European Union and Vietnam sign free trade deal that will slash duties on almost all goods
Sports
Max Verstappen of Red Bull wins Formula One Austrian Grand Prix at Spielberg followed by Charles
Leclerc (Ferrari) and Valtteri Bottas (Mercedes) in 2nd and 3rd places respectively
Rakesh Shukla, former India leg-spinner, passes in Delhi at the age of 71
Czech Republic’s Karolina Pliskova defeats Germany’s Angelique Kerber in final 6-1, 6-4 to win
women’s singles title at Eastbourne International tennis in UK
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 3
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 7, 2019


India
PM visits Virtual Experiential Museum at Man Mahal in Varanasi
PM unveils statue of former PM Lal Bahadur Shastri at Varanasi airport
Gandhian Young Technological Innovation Awards-2019 presented in New Delhi by Vice-President
Karnataka: JD(S)-Congress govt under threat as 11 MLAs submit resignation
Former AP CM N. Bhaskara Rao joins BJP
Uttarakhand: Asia’s first Six Sigma Institute of Mountain Medicines and High-Altitude Rescue to be
set up at Rudraprayag
Economy & Corporate
Petrol and diesel prices hiked by Rs 2.4 per litre after excise and cess hikes in Budget
World
International Day of Cooperatives celebrated on July 6 with its theme as ‘COOPS 4 DECENT WORK’
USA: Earthquake measuring 7.1 on the Richter scale shakes southern California
Artist Leon Kossoff, who painted post-war London, dies at 92
UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee meeting in Azerbaijan’s capital Baku from June 30 to July 10
World Heritgae List Additions
The walled city of Jaipur
Iran’s Hyrcanian forests
Bahrain’s Dilmun Burial Mounds
German city of Augsburg for its water management system
Sports
Jasprit Bumrah completes 100 wickets in ODI in his 57th match, 2nd fastest Indian after Mohammad
Shami
Rohit Sharma becomes 1st batsman to score five centuries in a single World Cup
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 8, 2019
India
BSF launches exercise code named ‘Sudarshan’ to fortify anti-infiltration grid along Pak border in
Punjab, Jammu
Vice President releases book titled ‘Vivekadeepini’, a concise book of aphorisms initially written by
Adi Shankaracharya
World
Australian Aboriginal site Budj Bim Cultural Landscape included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List
Sri Lanka: First model village built with Indian assistance inaugurated at Ranidugama in Gampaha
Iran has announced it will break a limit set on uranium enrichment, in breach of the landmark 2015
nuclear deal
Sports
S. beat Netherlands in final 2-0 to win FIFA Women’s World Cup title at Lyon, France
Grand Prix of Spain Women’s Wrestling in Madrid: Vinesh Phogat (53kg): gold, Divya Kakran (68kg):
gold, Pooja Dhanda (57kg): Silver, Seema (50kg), Manju Kumari (59kg): Silver and Kiran (76kg): Silver
England’s Ian Gould retires after having umpired in 74 Tests and 140 ODIs
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 9, 2019
India
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar holds talks with his UAE counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin
Zayed in New Delhi
Army asks its personnel not to join any WhatsApp group where the identity of individuals is not
known
Operation Milap of Delhi Police: 333 missing children reunited with their families outside Delhi since
January
29 killed after Lucknow-Delhi bus falls from bridge on Yamuna Expressway in Agra, UP

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 9


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

DRDO carries out three tests of anti-tank missile Nag in one day in Pokhran
Union Minister N. S. Tomar launches Coffee Table Book commemorating 50 years of partnership
with UNWFP towards food and nutrition security in India
Karnataka: Ministers of both Congress and JD(S) resign
Economy & Corporate
‘Kaushal Yuva Samwaad’ launched by Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to hear
ideas of youth
to hear their ideas and recommendations
Parliament passed amendment bill which allows voluntary use of Aadhaar as proof of identity for
opening bank accounts and getting mobile phone connections
Parliament adopts resolution levying 200% duty on all goods imported from Pakistan
World
Greece: Kyriakos Mitsotakis sworn-in as new PM after his New Democracy party won parliamentary
elections
‘Gully Boy’ wins NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film at Bucheon International Fantastic Film
Festival (BIFAN) in South Korea
Italy’s Prosecco Hills added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list
Sports
India’s Hima Das wins gold in women’s 200m at Kutno Athletics Meet in Poland
Canada Open Super 100 badminton tournament: India’s Parupalli Kashyap loses in men’s singles
final to China’s Li Shi Feng 22-20, 14-21, 17-21
Hosts Brazil beat Peru 3-1 in final to win 2019 Copa America football tournament at the Maracana
Stadium in Rio De Janeiro
India loses to Tajikistan 4-2 in the opening game of the Intercontinental Cup football at EKA Arena
in Ahmedabad
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 10, 2019
India
SC directs States, UTs and high courts to apprise it on the status of vacancies of judicial officers as
on June 30
Forest & Environment Ministry panel recommends ‘in-principle’ permission for exploration of
Uranium in Amrabad Tiger Reserve in Telangana
A fortnightly bulletin of the National Museum of Indian Cinema, brought out by the Films Division,
launched in Mumbai
India has adequate number of healthcare professionals: Indian Institute of Public Health
Plan Bee earns Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) the best innovation award in Indian Railways for
the 2018-19 fiscal
Plan Bee is an amplifying system imitating the buzz of a swarm of honey bees to keep wild elephants
away from railway tracks
Economy & Corporate
BCC (Bharat Chamber of Commerce) signs MoU with BRICS of Commerce and Industry to promote
trade
India – ASEAN Troika Trade Ministers’ meeting held in New Delhi for informal consultation on
RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership)
Arun Kumar appointed Director General in the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
Pravin Kumar Purwar appointed as CMD of BSNL
Ducati launches Multistrada 1260 Enduro priced at Rs 20 lakh
World
India hands over 250 pre-fabricated houses to Myanmar for displaced Rohingya returnees in
Rakhine State
French govt. to impose a tax of up to €18 on plane tickets for all flights from airports in France from

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 10


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

2020 to fund less-polluting transportation projects


Former Argentine President Fernando de La Rua dies in Buenos Aires at the age of 81
Ross Perot, founder and former CEO of Electronic Data Systems and Perot Systems, dies in US at 89
Sports
All India Football Federation (AIFF) 2018-19 awards: Men’s footballer of the year: Sunil Chhetri,
Women’s footballer of the year: Ashalata Devi
Former India football goalkeeper A. U. Celestine dies at the age of 73
India win 13 medals on the opening day of the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship in Apia,
Samoa
India’s Abhijeet Gupta (men’s) and Tania Sachdev (women’s) win Commonwealth chess
championship in New Delhi July 7, 2019
India’s Muhammed Anas (men’s 200m, 21.18s) and M.P. Jabir (men’s 400m hurdles, 50.21s) win gold
medals at Kutno Athletics Meet in Poland
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 11, 2019
India
Goa: 10 out of 15 Congress MLAs join BJP; BJP’s strength in 40 seat Assembly rises to 27
Pro-Khalistan group The Sikhs for Justice banned by the govt.
Economy & Corporate
PAN not linked to Aadhaar card will become invalid from September
Lok Sabha passes New Delhi International Arbitration Centre (NDIAC) Bill, 2019
CCEA approves 3rd phase of PMGSY (Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana)
2nd India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue (IRSED) held in New Delhi
Army places order for procuring anti-tank Spike missiles from Israel
India’s current total installed nuclear power capacity is 6780 MW: Govt.
Kerala Govt. to set up a Non-Resident Keralites Investment company with 74% stake to be held by
expats
TCS iON partners AICTE to equip students with career skills
New Delhi’s Connaught Place (CP) is the ninth most expensive office location in the world with an
annual rent of nearly $144 per sq ft: property consultant CBRE
International Tractors Ltd launches Solis and Yanmar range of tractors
World
Sir Kim Darroch, Britain’s ambassador to the US, resigns
Sports
India (221/10 in 49.3) lost to NZ (239/8 in 50) by 18 runs in ICC World Cup semifinal at Old Trafford,
Manchester
Indian athlete Dutee Chand wins gold medal in women’s 100 m (11.32 seconds) in the World
Universiade in Napoli, Italy
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 12, 2019
India
ITBP DIG Aparna Kumar becomes 1st IPS Officer to complete ‘Seven Summit Challenge’
Seven Summit Challenge: Everest, Aconcagua, Denali, Kilimanjaro, Vinson, Mont Blanc and
Carstensz Pyramid
Railway Protection Force (RPF) launches ‘Operation Thirst’ to stop selling of unauthorised Packaged
Drinking Water (PDW)
Tamil Nadu: Muhammath John and N. Chandrasekaran of AIADMK, Anbumani Ramadoss of PMK,
M. Shanmugham and P Wilson of DMK and Vaiko of MDMK elected to the Rajya Sabha
West Bengal: Greenfield University renamed as Darjeeling Hills University
Economy & Corporate
Max speed limit for cars at 120 kmph on expressways; 100 kmph for buses

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 11


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

World
World Population Day observed on July 11
US House passes Bill to remove 7% country-cap on Green Card applicants
Japan’s Hayabusa2 probe makes second touchdown on asteroid Ryugu
Germany’s Volkswagen ends production of iconic “Beetle” car
France to levy 3% tax on sales generated in the country by non-tax paying online giants like Google
and Facebook
NYSE’s Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) crosses 27000 point-mark for the first time
Sports
ICC Cricket World Cup: England (226/2 in 32.1) beat Australia (223/10 in 49) 8 wickets in semifinal at
Edgbaston, Birmingham
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 13, 2019
India
India reduced poverty rate from 55% to 28% in 10 years between 2005/6 and 2015/16: UN’s
Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) report
2,896 posts of scientist lying vacant in 70 institutes under Science & Technology Ministry: Govt
Lok Sabha passes Bill for establishment of a Central University and a Central Tribal University in
Andhra Pradesh
‘Save Water Day’ observed by the West Bengal government
Diplomat Vikas Swarup appointed as Secretary, Overseas Indian Affairs
Well-known Malayalam cinematographer M. J. Radhakrishnan dies in Thiruvananthapuram
Model Tenancy Act
Will facilitate regulation of rent
Draft placed in public domain by Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry, comments invited till August
1
Sets a maximum of two months’ rent as security deposit, a 3-month notice for raising the rent and
appointment of rent authorities
Economy & Corporate
Industrial growth, measured in terms of IIP (Index of Industrial Production), declines to 3.1% in May
Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based retail inflation rises to 3.18% in June
India’s foreign exchange reserves increased by US$ 2.23 billion to US$ 429.91 billion in the week
ended July 5
SBI Managing Director Anshula Kant appointed MD and CFO of World Bank
TVS Motor launches ethanol-powered bike Apache RTR 200 at Rs 1.2 lakh
RBI finalises three-year roadmap named ‘Utkarsh 2022’ to improve regulation and supervision
Hyundai launches electric SUV Kona at ₹3 lakh
Kalyani Rafael Advanced Systems (KRAS) gets $100 million contract for manufacturing 1,000
Barak-8 MRSAM missile kits
KRAS is a JV of India’s Kalyani group (51%) and Israel’s Rafael Advanced Systems (49%)
World
‘Nagarkirtan’ (Bengali) wins ‘Best Feature Film’ award at the SAARC film festival in Colombo
US: Tropical Storm Barry moves towards New Orleans
Turkey receives first batch of Russia’s S-400 missile defence system
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar attends Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting in
London, calls for re-induction of Maldives as member country
India and Pakistan failed to improve the situation in Kashmir: UN Commission on Human Rights
(UNCHR)
Film producer Artur Brauner, a Polish-born Holocaust survivor, dies in Berlin aged 100
Sports
World Tour Platinum Australian Open Table Tennis: India’s G. Sathiyan and Anthony Amalraj wins

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 12


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

bronze in men’s doubles


Mexico defeat hosts US 1-0 in Chicago to win the CONCACAF Gold Cup football tournament of
countries in North America, Central America and the Caribbean
Viswanathan Anand becomes mentor for the Indian edition of chesskid.com, a US-based chess
platform
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 14, 2019
India
No intrusion by Chinese soldiers in Ladakh’s Demchok sector: Army chief Gen. Bipin Rawat
Meghalaya becomes 1st state to ensure the conservation of water and have own water policy
Economy & Corporate
Assam: IWAI (Inland Waterways Authority of India) ship carrying Bhutanese cargo flagged off from
Dhubri over the Brahmaputra River to Narayanganj in Bangladesh
World
US House of Representatives passes bill restricting President’s ability to authorise a military strike
on Iran
Pakistan: Foundation stone of Baba Guru Nanak International University laid in Nankana Sahib
Tropical Storm Barry hits Louisiana in US
Sports
Wimbledon tennis: Romania’s Simona Halep beats Serena Williams of US 6-2, 6-2 in the final to win
women’s singles title
title
Kladno Memorial Athletics Meet in Czech Republic: India’s Mohammad Anas wins gold in men’s
400m in 45.21 seconds, betters his own national record
Gold winners for India in freestyle at Yasar Dogu 2019 Ranking Series wrestling tournament in
Istanbul: Rahul Aware (men’s 61kg), Seema (women’s 51 kg), Manju Kumari (women’s 59kg)
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 15, 2019
India
Defence Minister lights Victory Flame at National War Memorial in New Delhi to begin celebrations
of 20th Anniversary of the victory in Operation Vijay at Kargil
Golden Jubilee Edition of International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Panaji, Goa on November
20-28
Navjot Singh Sidhu resigns as Punjab Cabinet Minister
World
Bangladesh: Former military dictator Muhammad Ershad (1982-1990) dies at 91
France: President Emmanuel Macron announces creation of a national military space force
command
National Day of France, also known as Bastille Day, celebrated on July 14
S. govt. fines Facebook $5 billion for the social network’s privacy and data protection lapses
Fernando Corbató, known for his work on computer time-sharing in the 1960s, dies at 93 in US
PAK PENALTY
International arbitration court imposes $5 billion penalty on Pakistan for unlawful denial of a mining
lease to a company in 2011
The Tethyan Copper Company (TCC) was unlawfully denied a mining lease for the Reko Diq project
in 2011 in Balochistan
Sports
Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton wins Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone followed by
Valtteri Bottas (Mercedes) and Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) in 2nd and 3rd places respectively
Yasar Dogu International Wrestling tournament in Istanbul: Vinesh Phogat wins gold in women’s
53kg freestyle
Kladno Memorial Athletics Meet in Czech Republic: Hima Das wing gold medal in women’s 200m in

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 13


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

23.43 seconds
Tatyana Kolpakova international athletics meet in Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan): M. Sreeshankar wins gold
medal in men’s long jump (7.97m)
WIMBLEDON TENNIS
Men’s Doubles title won by Colombian pair of Juan Sebastián Cabal & Robert Farah who beat French
pair of Nicolas Mahut & Édouard Roger-Vasselin in final 6−7(5−7), 7−6(7−5), 7−6(8−6), 6−7(5−7), 6−3
Mixed Doubles title won by Ivan Dodig (Croatia) & Latisha Chan (Chinese Taipei) who defeated
Robert Lindstedt (Sweden) & Jeļena Ostapenko (Latvia) in the final 6–2, 6–3
July 1, 2019
Aparna Kumar becomes 1st IPS Officer to complete 7 Summits Challenge
Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and DIG Frontier in Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Aparna Kumar
recently scaled North America’s Highest Peak Denali (20,310 feet) in Alaska, USA. With this she became 1st
civil servant to climb the rare mountain. She scaled this summit in her 3rd attempt.
Key Highlights
Mount Denali in Alaska was her seventh Summit in her mission ‘Seven Summits’ Challenge. By scaling Mt.
Denali she completed her ‘Seven Summits’ Challenge.
She is the 1st civil servant and IPS officer to achieve this rare feat.
She also became 1st woman IPS DIG and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) officer to successfully complete
South Pole expedition
Aparna Kumar– She is 2002 batch Uttar Pradesh (UP) Cadre IPS officer. She has been posted at Northern
Frontier Headquarters of ITBP in Dehradun.
What is ‘Seven Summits’ Challenge?
It is the name given to challenge of climbing highest point in each of the 7 continents.
1st such challenge was completed in 1985 when Dick Bass, Texas oil tycoon reached summit of Mt Everest.
Currently over 300 people have completed the ‘Seven Summits Challenge’.
The Seven Summit inlcudes
1. Carstensz Pyramid– 4884m; Location: Oceania (Australia – New Guinea)
2. Kilimanjaro– 5892m; Location: Africa
3. Elbrus– Height: Location: Russia
4. Aconcagua– Height: 6962m; Location: South America
5. Denali (or Mt McKinley)- Height: 6194m; Location: North America
6. Vinson Massif– Height- 4892m; Location: Antarctica
7. Mt. Everest– Height- 8848m; Location: Asia
1 July: GST Day
1st July 2019 is being celebrated as GST (Goods & Services Tax) Day. This year marks the 2nd anniversary
of implementation of historic tax reform of Goods & Services Tax.
Background
First GST Day was celebrated on 1 July 2018, as to mark the first anniversary of new indirect tax regime
i.e. Goods and Services Tax (GST). GST was rolled out in intervening night of 30 June and July 1 2017 in a
ceremony held in the Central Hall of Parliament.
GST Day 2019
Finance Ministry will be introducing new return system on a trial basis from 1 July 2019 and will make it
mandatory basis from 1 October 2019.
Reforms proposed–
Union Ministry of Finance kicked off the celebrations of GST day by coming up with further reforms in
Indirect Tax system with introduction of-
New return system: Sahaj & Sugam returns for small taxpayers
Rationalisation of Cash Ledger System: With regards to single cash ledger, Centre will rationalise ledger
in a manner that earlier 20 heads are merged into 5 major heads. There is only 1 cash ledger for tax,
penalty, interest, fee among others.
Single Refund-Disbursing Mechanism: will come into play wherein government which sanctions refund

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 14


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

disburses all four major heads of refunds namely Central Goods & Services Tax (CGST), State Goods &
Services Tax (SGST) or Integrated Goods & Services Tax (IGST) and Cess.
Introduction of Composition Scheme: As per FinMin threshold limit of Rs.40 lakh is offered of suppliers
of goods as per choice of states. Thus ministry propose to introduce composition scheme for small service
providers up to an annual turnover of Rs.50 lakh with a tax rate of 6%, electronic invoicing system in a
phase-wise manner for B2B (Business to Business) transactions.
GST Appellate Tribunals: are being established at various state headquarters and also in area benches.
Celebrations:
Anurag Thakur Minister of State (MoS) for Finance and Corporate Affairs will preside over event alongside
key secretaries and officials of various departments.
At event Book on ‘GST for MSME’ will be released.
‘GST Commendation Certificates‘ will be awarded to Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)
officers who worked hard in GST implementation.
What is GST?
Goods & Services is an Indirect Tax levied on the supply of goods and services and which has replaced
many Indirect Taxes that previously existed in India. On 29th March 2017, Goods and Service Tax Act was
passed in Parliament and Act came into effect on 1st July 2017.
It is one Indirect Tax for entire country and is a multi-stage, comprehensive, destination-based tax that is
levied on every value addition.
Under GST regime, tax is levied at every point of sale (PoS). In case of Intra-state sales, Central GST (CGST)
and State GST (SGST) are charged and the Inter-state sales are chargeable to Integrated GST (IGST).
GST has transformed India into ‘one nation, one Tax, and integrated country into an Economic Union and
into single common market by breaking barriers to inter-state trade and commerce.
India sign Rs.200 crore deal with Russia to acquire Strum Ataka
India has signed Rs.200 crore deal with Russia for acquiring Strum Ataka anti-tank missile for its fleet of
Mi-35 attack choppers of Indian Air Force (IAF). This deal comes in wake of an IAF’s attempt to keep itself
battle-ready in situations like post-Balakot aerial strikes.
Key Highlights
This Rs.200 crore deal for Strum Ataka anti-tank missile would give an added capability to Mi-35 attack
choppers of IAF to take out enemy tanks and other armoured elements.
Mi-35s are set to be replaced with Apache gunships being acquired from United States (US) and slated to
be delivered from August onwards.
Emergency Clause: For more than a decade India has been trying to acquire Russian missiles but the deal
has been signed under emergency clauses through which missiles would be supplied within 3 months of
contract signing.
What is Emergency Clause?
Within few weeks after 14 February Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed,
emergency powers were given to Indian Defence forces and India started increasing vigil at borders with
Pakistan.
Under, emergency powers given to three services, they can procure equipment of their choice within 3
months at a cost of about Rs.300 crore per case.
IAF has emerged as front runner in terms of weapon acquisition under emergency procurement, followed
by Indian Army.
Under emergency provisions IAF has acquired also acquired Spice-2000 stand-off weapon system along
with a number of spare and air to air missile deals with multiple counties to equip itself for sudden war.
30 June: International Day of Parliamentarism
Every year 30 June is celebrated across the world as International Day of Parliamentarism. It marks day of
establishment of Inter-Parliamentary Union, the global organization of parliaments in 1889.
About International Day of Parliamentarism
Background: It was established by United Nations General Assembly in 2018 by adopting n its resolution
A/RES/72/278. The day seeks to unite all parliamentarians of the world. The year 2019 is the 130th
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 15
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

anniversary of IPU.
It recognized role played by parliaments in national plans and strategies and in ensuring greater
transparency and accountability at national as well as global levels.
Significance: The Day celebrates parliaments and ways in which parliamentary systems of government
improve everday lives of people throughout the world. It is also an opportunity for parliaments to identify
challenges, and stock ways to address them effectively.
About Inter-Parliamentary Union
IPU is the world organization of parliaments. It connects national parliaments in order to promote greater
accountability, transparency and participation at global level.
Along with other parliamentary organizations, IPU engages with UN on activities that cover a broad range
of issues, such as health, gender equality, youth empowerment, peace and security, human rights and
sustainable development.
Facts About Parliaments
Every country in world has some form of representative government be it Presidential form or
Parliamentary form.
A parliamentary system is of two categories:
1. Bicameral-with two chambers of parliament
2. Unicameral-with one chamber
Out of 193 countries, 79 are bicameral and 114 are unicameral, which makes a total of 272 chambers of
parliament with more than 46,000 members of parliament.
Althingi, the Icelandic Parliament, founded in 930 is World’s oldest parliament.
Importance: Strong parliaments are a cornerstone of democracy as they represent voice of people,
allocate funds to implement laws and policies, pass laws and hold governments accountable to people.
What is SDG Dashboard launched by Statistics Ministry?
Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) launched India’s first Sustainable
Development Goal (SDG) dashboard in a bid to effectively track country’s progress on Agenda 2030
adopted by UN. It was launched on occasion of National Statistics Day (on June 29) which marks birth
anniversary of Prof. P C Mahalanobis.
About SDG Dashboard
It is a unique, searchable platform, which provides data and insights on how India is progressing on SDGs.
Function:
It is a first of its kind national platform that pulls together reliable data from more than 100 different data
sets, portals and sectors on to only one easy to use and intuitive platform, to power better informed
decision making on SDGs.
It will be India’s official data repository of National Indicator Framework (NIF) on SDGs, which is India’s
largest monitoring framework with 306 statistical indicators.
Partnership: SDG Dashboard is developed in partnership with United Nation in India, Department for
International Development (DFID) India and data intelligence firm Social Cops.
Need: India is one of the world’s fastest growing economies and is also one of the nations with fastest
growing populations. Therefore, being home to about 17% of world population India’s progress in SDGs is
crucial.
Significance:
Dashboard can help fast-track India’s progress in SDGs by helping state governments contextualize,
visualize, track and measure their progress towards goals more effectively.
It also allows state governments to track their performance on each goal and compare it to other states
and identify priority areas, which need urgent action.
What are SDGs?
They are universal call by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for action towards ending
poverty, improving health and education, protecting planet, and ensuring that all people enjoy peace and
prosperity by 2030.
India has been closely monitoring its progress on SDGs through its National Indicator Framework and
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 16
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

India SDG Index released in 2018.


ISALEX19: ISAs joint security exercise begins
Abu Dhabi, capital of United Area Emirates (UAE) is hosting International Security Alliance (ISAs) first
joint security exercise named ISALEX19.
About ISALEX19
Activity Undertaken: It will simulate a real-life security threat in a virtual context, to test readiness of
different teams and to evaluate strategies, procedures and tools developed jointly between member
countries since formation of Alliance in 2017.
Participants: Representatives of 50 law enforcement agencies of ISA are taking part in 1st joint security
exercise in Abu Dhabi. Participants include representatives from tactical teams, communications, civil
defence, rapid intervention units and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams.
About International Security Alliance
It is an international working group to confront organised, transnational and extremist crimes by joint
security cooperation projects and exchange of expertise on practices implemented across ISA member
countries.
It was launched in 2017 in Abu Dhabi, UAE.
Headquarters: Abu Dhabi.
Members (9): ISA now comprises of nine countries viz. Bahrain, Morocco, France, Italy, Spain, Senegal,
Singapore, Slovak Republic and United Arab Emirates.

Fact Box: Jaya Arunachalam


Jaya Arunachalam, Indian social worker and founder of Working Women’s Forum (WWF) died at age of 87
in Chennai. She was also a pioneer of the women’s Self Help group (SHG) movement in the country.
About Dr. Jaya Arunachalam
She was a graduate in Economics and Geography. In 1999 she was awarded honorary doctorate by
University of Lueneberg, Germany.
Through WWF she helped lakhs of women from underprivileged background to organise themselves
towards becoming financially independent.
Achievements:
She is recipient of Padma Shri (1987), Jamnalal Bajaj Award (2009) for her work towards welfare of women
and children.
In 2003 she recieved International Activist Award by Glietsman Foundation and Godfrey Phillips National
Bravery Social Lifetime Achievement Award (2010).

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 17


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

About Working Women’s Forum


It is a women’s organisation that was founded Jaya Arunachalam in Madras (Chennai) in 1978.
It is a non-governmental organization (NGO) based in Indian state of Tamil Nadu, working for welfare of
marginalized women.
Objective: To empower poor women in southern India by providing them microcredits, a trade union,
health care and training.
It works with poor women who work in informal sector like street vendors, silkworm growers and silk
weavers, washerwomen, handicraft producers and fisherwomen.
Two Organisations closely related to WWF-
1. Indian Co-operative Network for Women (ICNW): It provides loans
2. National Union of Working Women (NUWW): It is a trade union
National Film Heritage Mission Project reviewed by I&B Minister
Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Prakash Javadekar reviewed Ministry’s prestigious
project of National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM) and various activities undertaken under the project in a
meeting held at National Film Archives of India (NFAI) in Pune, Maharashtra.
Key Highlights
Minister notified that film condition assessment work of nearly 1.32 lac film reels has been completed and
now preventive conservation work will start soon and after that Digitisation work will start.
Once restoration work is completed, this treasure of Indian Films can be made available to Film Lovers all
across world with help of Information Technology (IT).
For safely storing of this National Treasure, there was a need of space thus Government is setting up new
preservation facilities (vaults) at 3 acres of land given by Film Institute of India where films can be stored
safely.
The heritage Jaykar Bungalow adjoining to NFAI building is restored completely and will be inaugurated
next month.
About National Film Heritage Mission
It is a film condition assessment project by I&B Ministry under which almost 1.32 lakh film reels at
National Film Archive of India (NFAI) will be assessed and preserved for future use, as per global
standards.
It seeks to preserve, conserve, digitize and restore India’s cinematic heritage.
Government has allotted budget worth Rs.600 crore for this project.
Nodal agency for implementation of this project is NFAI.
Features: NFHM will undertake-
Film condition assessment and preventive conservation of around 150,000 film reels
Digitization of around 3500 films, picture & sound
Restoration of around 2000 landmark films of Indian cinema
Construction of Preservation and Conservation facilities (vaults), training and workshops
Creating a comprehensive Web-based End to End IT solution
Donald Trump becomes 1st sitting US president to enter North Korea
United States President Donald Trump became 1st sitting US president to set foot in Democratic People’s
Republic of Korea (or North Korea) when he met its leader, Kim Jong Un, in Demilitarised Zone (DMZ)
between North Korea and South Korea.
Key Highlights
President Donald Trump met North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at border village of Panmunjom in the
Demilitarized Zone, South Korea and agreed to resume stalled nuclear talks.
This was the third meeting between two leaders in just over a year on old Cold War frontier that for
decades has symbolised hostility between their countries, which are technically still at war.
Unique 3-way Gathering: Trump while escorted by Kim, briefly crossed a military demarcation line into
North Korea and moments later, they returned to South Korean side and joined South Korea’s President
Moon Jae-in for a brief chat, marking an unprecedented 3-way gathering.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 18


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

About US-North Korea Meet


1st summit: In 2018 between North Korean Chairman Kim Jong-un and U.S. President Donald Trump was
held in Singapore city, called as North Korea–United States Singapore Summit or Singapore Summit. At the
summit a joint statement was signed between two agreeing to security guarantees for North Korea,
denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, new peaceful relations, recovery of soldiers’ remains, and
follow-up negotiations between high-level officials.
2nd summit: In February 2019 in Hanoi, Vietnam called as 019 North Korea–United States Hanoi Summit, or
Hanoi Summit. This meet was cut short and that no agreement was reached as two sides failed to narrow
differences between US demand for North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons and a North Korea’s
demand for relief of sanctions.
Why is meet Important?
Now for years North Korea has pursued nuclear and missile programmes in defiance of United Nations
Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and easing tensions with North Korea and denuclearisation of Korean
peninsula is one of US president’s top foreign policy priorities.
North Korea (DMZ) was set up after 1950-53 Korean War ended in an armistice, not a truce, leaving North
Korea and a US-led U.N.
UP launches Dastak Campaign to eradicate AES & JE
Uttar Pradesh government has launched a massive campaign called ‘Dastak’ to eradicate deadly Acute
Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and Japanese Encephalitis (JE) disease.
About Dastak Campaign
It is a state-wide campaign against communicative diseases which will run from 1st to 31st July 2019. It is
started by UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
This campaign is part of a comprehensive Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) strategy
embraced by state government.
Background: In 2018, UP government started ‘Dastak’ campaign in association with UNICEF (United
Nations Children’s Fund) to control encephalitis and other vector-borne diseases. As part of campaign,
entire state machinery with help of UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) went door to door in 38
districts affected by JE and AES. The state government claimed that campaign has improved health
conditions and fatality rate due to AES and JE dripped since then.
Procedure: Under it teams will go door to door in every village of state’s 75 districts to create awareness
about communicable diseases as well as Acute Encephalitis Syndrome and Japanese Encephalitis. The
districts sensitive for the vector-borne diseases such as encephalitis, dengue, kalaazar, malaria,
chickungunya, etc. are already marked.
Department Involved: In this large scale campaign, many state departments such as health, primary
education, rural development, will work together to spread awareness about diseases through mass media
communication.
Mandate: The campaign will ensure availability of clean drinking water, initiate sanitation drive. It will
also ensure vaccination and early treatment so that disease should be nipped in bud.
July 2, 2019
Tamil yeoman: now Tamil Nadu’s State Butterfly
Butterfly species Tamil yeoman (Cirrochroa thais) has been officially declared as state butterfly of Tamil
Nadu. The southern State formally notified this by an order on lines of the State Tree (Palm), Bird (Emerald
Dove), Flower (Gloriosa) and Animal (Nilgiri Tahr).
About Tamil yeoman
Scientific Name: Cirrochroa thais
It is also known as Tamizh Maravan (which means warrior).
This butterfly species is endemic to Western Ghats. It is among 32 butterfly species found in Western
Ghats but mainly in the hilly areas.
Features: Uniformly orange in colour with a dark brown outer ring.
This butterfly species moves in groups in large numbers, but only in a few places.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 19


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Why Tamil yeoman?


It was chosen for honour after both Tamil Nadu Forest Department and state conservation groups decided
to work together to identify a butterfly species that could be iconic, easily recognisable and easy to spot, and
a the same time serve as another symbol of State.
Key Facts
For the 1st time Tamil Nadu has declared its state butterfly. With this it becomes only 5th in country to do
so.
Maharashtra was 1st to declare Blue Mormon as its state butterfly, followed by Common peacock in
Uttarakhand, Southern bird wings in Karnataka and Malabar banded peacock in Kerala.

Japan resumes commercial whaling


Japan has resumed commercial whaling after a period of 31 years, but will stay within country’s exclusive
economic waters. Since 1988 Japan had switched to so-called research whaling. Though this move is
slammed by anti-whaling activists but is welcomed by Japanese whaling communities.
Key Highlights
On 1 July 2019 Whaling boats embarked their first commercial hunts since 1988. This comes after Japan’s
6 month notice to withdraw from International Whaling Commission (IWC) took effect on 30 June 2019.
Japanese boats will not be allowed to venture more than 200 miles (321km) off Japan’s Pacific coast.
For a very long period Whaling has proved to be a diplomatic flashpoint for Tokyo, which justifies practice
as a Japanese tradition and thus it should not be subject to international interference.
Way Ahead: The fate of commercial whaling depends on whether whale meat is widely accepted by
consumers since it won’t be getting as much subsidies as it used to get.
Why Whaling is important for Japan?
During the lean times after World War II, Whale meat was an affordable source of protein and in 1962 its
consumption peaked at 223,000 tons. But later whale was quickly replaced by other meats and in 1986
Whale meat consumption was down to 6,000 tons. In fiscal 2017 whaling in Japan involved only a few
hundred people and accounted for less than 0.1% of total meat consumption. But still whaling is kept
synonymous with Japan’s traditional lifestyle.
About International Whaling Commission
It is an international body set up under International Convention for Regulation of Whaling (ICRW), which
was signed in 1946 in Washington, D.C., United States (US).
ICRW governs scientific, commercial, and aboriginal subsistence whaling practices of 59 member nations.
IWC Headquarters: Impington, England.
Objective: To provide for proper conservation of whale stocks and make possible orderly development of
whaling industry.
IWC-JAPAN: In 1986, IWC adopted a moratorium on commercial whaling to protect the world’s last
remaining whales. The ban on commercial whaling nevertheless allowed Japan an annual whale quota for

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 20


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

scientific reasons which meant that Japan could undertake whaling only for scientific reasons. In
December 2018 Japan announced its decision to withdraw from IWC.
Jal Shakti Abhiyan for Water Conservation launched
Union Jal Shakti Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat recently launched Jal Shakti Abhiyan- a
campaign for water conservation and water security in 1592 stressed blocks in 256 districts.
About Jal Shakti Abhiyan
It is a collaborative effort of various Union Ministries and State Governments, being coordinated by
Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS).
Focus Area: is water stressed districts (256) and blocks (1592).
Team: Central government officers, led by joint secretaries and additional secretaries, are assigned to
these 256 districts and district administration will also nominate 2 members to join the team. This team of
officers from central government and district administration will visit and work on water stressed
districts and blocks to ensure water conservation interventions.
Campaign is centred on 5 aspects
1. Water conservation and rainwater harvesting
2. Renovation of traditional and other water bodies/tanks
3. Reuse of water and recharging of structures such as bore well
4. Watershed development
5. Intensive afforestation
Special Intervention: Water conservation efforts will also be supplemented with special interventions
such as
Development of Block and District Water Conservation Plans
Promotion of efficient water use for irrigation
Better choice of crops through Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
Phases: Campaign will run through citizen participation during
1. Monsoon season- from 1st July to 15th September, 2019.
2. Additional Phase 2- from 1st October to 30th November, 2019 for States receiving North East
retreating monsoons.
Large-scale Communications Campaign: has also been planned side by side with JSA, which will involve
mass mobilisation of different groups such as swachhagrahis, school students, college students, youth
groups (NSS/NYKS/NCC), Self Help Groups (SHG), Panchayati Raj Institution members, defence personnel,
ex-servicemen and pensioners, among others.
Significance: With this initiative government aims to provide drinking water to every household on
priority and in a sustainable manner. It is also expected to bring positive change in people for water
conservation.
Campaign will help people to work for rain water harvesting, maintenance and upkeep of ponds and
village tanks and conservation of water.
Nagaland declared ‘Disturbed Area’ under AFSPA for 6 more months
Centre has declared entire State of Nagaland a ‘disturbed area’ for a period of 6 more months under Armed
Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) with effect from 30 June 2019. The central government opinion was
notified by Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
Key Highlights
Background: AFSPA has been in force in Nagaland for several decades. On August 3, 2015 a framework
agreement was signed by Naga insurgent group NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and
central government in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi AFSPA but still even after it AFSPA was
not withdrawn. This framework agreement came after over 80 rounds of negotiations in past 18 years.
Current Scenario: Central government declared whole of Nagaland to be a ‘disturbed area’ for a period of
six months in exercise of its powers conferred by Section 3 of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (No.
28 of 1958).
Government justified that area comprising entire State of Nagaland is in such a disturbed and dangerous

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 21


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

condition that use of armed forces in aid of civil power is necessary.


About AFSPA
Background
On passing of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Bill by both Houses of Parliament and approved by President
on 11 September 1958 it became known as Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA), 1958. This Act came
into force in context of increasing violence in North-eastern States of India decades ago, which State
governments found difficult to control.
Powers Given: It empowers security forces to maintain public order in ‘disturbed areas’. If reasonable
suspicion exists, Armed forces have authority to prohibit a gathering of five or more persons in an area,
can conduct search operations anywhere without warrant, arrest anyone without warrant, ban possession
of firearms among others.
Where necessary Union Ministry of Home Affairs would usually enforce this Act, but n exceptions exists
where Centre decide to forego its power and leave decision to State governments.
What is disturbed area?
It is one which is declared by notification under Section 3 of AFSPA. It can be invoked in places where use
of armed forces in aid of the civil power is necessary.
Central Government, or Governor of State concerned or administrator of Union Territory (UT) can declare
whole or part of State or UT as a disturbed area.
Garuda-VI: Indo-French Joint Air Exercise begins
Indian Air Force (IAF) and Armée de l’Air (French Air Force) are participating in Garuda VI, a bilateral air
exercise at Mont de Marsan in France.
The last edition of joint exercise between IAF-FAF was held in June 2014 at Air Force Station Jodhpur,
Rajasthan. This year is the 6th edition of exercise which is taking place from 1 July to 12 July 2019.
About Garuda VI
Objective: This joint India-France air exercise is aimed at enhancing interoperability level of French and
Indian crews in air defence and ground attack missions.
Drill: The exercise will see most potent fighter aircraft of India and France going head-to-head to validate
latest defence strategies and fine-tune their waging capabilities.
Aircrafts Participating: It is expected to showcase fighter jets such as Rafale, Sukhoi 30 and Mirage 2000
from two sides.
IAF contingent comprises of- 120 air-warriors and 4 Sukhoi 30 MKI along with an IL-78 flight
refuelling aircraft. Also, IAF’s C-17 Globemaster strategic lift aircraft will provide logistics support to
contingent during induction and de-induction phases.
French Air Force (FAF) units will comprise- Rafale, Mirage 2000, C135, E3F, C130, Casa and Alpha Jet.
Significance: Such joint exercises between two countries increases understanding of interoperability
during mutual operations between two air forces as well as provide an opportunity to learn from each
other’s best practices.
WBC Asia: Indian Pro Boxer Vaibhav Yadav wins
Indian pro boxer Vaibhav Yadav became World Boxing Council (WBC) Asia silver Welterweight Champion
after winning the title bout held in Pattaya, Thailand.
Highlights
He won the title after defeating Fahpetch Singmanassak of Thailand. Vaibhav clinched a 3rd-round
knockout win over Singmanassak.
The fight was conducted by Asian Boxing Council (ABC) and approved by World Boxing Council (WBC).
About Vaibha Yadav
The 24-year-old Indian boxer is nicknamed ‘Ahir boxer’.
He hails from New Delhi and so far have a record of 5-1-0 on pro circuit.
He is a cousin of Commonwealth Games (CWG) gold-medallist Vikas Krishan who has also turned pro now.
About Asian Boxing Council
It is a professional boxing organization that is responsible for sanctioning title fights in Greater Asian
region.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 22


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

It was established in 1985 with headquarters in Thailand


ABCO is a Federation of national professional boxing commissions which was formed as a confederation
affiliated with WBC.
Members– 20 national members
UGC launches STRIDE scheme to boost research culture in universities
University Grants Commission (UGC) has launched STRIDE scheme to boost research culture and
innovation in colleges and universities. STRIDE stands for Scheme for Trans-disciplinary Research for India’s
Developing Economy.
Key Features of STRIDE
Objective: To identify young talent, build capacity, strengthen research culture, support trans-disciplinary
research and promote innovation for India’s developing economy and national development.
Feature: This new initiative will seek to support local need-based, socially relevant, nationally important
and globally significant research project.
Overseeing: An advisory Bhushan Patwardhan committee set up by UGC under chairmanship of Prof
Bhushan Patwardhan, Vice Chairman, UGC will oversee entire scheme.
3 Components of STRIDE:
Attempting to identify motivated young talents with research and innovation aptitude in colleges
and universities. This component is open to all disciplines (subjects) for grant up to Rs.1 crore.
Encouraging collaborations between universities, government, industries and voluntary
organizations. This component is open to all disciplines for grant upto Rs.50 lakh to 1 crore.
Funding high impact research projects in humanities and Social Sciences via national network of
eminent scientists from leading institutions of country. Grant available for this component is up to
Rs.1 crore for one High Educational Institute (HEI) and up to Rs.5 crores for multi institutional
network.
STRIDE web portal: will be open to receive applications from 31 July 2019.
High Powered Committee for ‘Transformation of Agriculture’ constituted
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has constituted a High-powered Committee of Chief Ministers (CMs) for
‘Transformation of Indian Agriculture’.
HPC was set up subsequent to the deliberations of Governing Council meeting of NITI Aayog and in
keeping with promise of Centre government for Agriculture reforms, rural development, water
conservation and its proper.
About High Powered Committee
Objective: It will suggest policy measures, attract investments and raise growth in food processing.
Composition: The 9 member committee is headed by Devendra Fadnavis Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
Other members include-
Narendra Singh Tomar (Union Agriculture, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister) and Ramesh
Chand (NITI Aayog member) and Chief Ministers of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh,
Haryana, Arunachal Pradesh.
Timeframe: Committee will submit its report within 2 months.
Terms of Reference (ToR) of Committee:
To discuss measures for transformation of agriculture in country and for raising farmer’s income.
To examine various provisions of Essential Commodity Act (ECA) so as to attract private investments in
agricultural marketing and infrastructure.
To suggest mechanism for linking of market reforms with e-NAM (National Agriculture Market), GRAM
and other relevant Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS).
To suggest modalities for adoption and time-bound implementation of agriculture sector reforms.
To suggest policy measures to raise growth in food processing, boost agricultural export and attract
investments in value chains and logistics, modern market infrastructure.
New Zealand bans Single-Use Plastic shopping bags
New Zealand has officially banned single-use plastic shopping bags with effect from 1 July 2019. It has also

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 23


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

introduced hefty fines for businesses that continue to provide them. As per United Nation Environment
Programme (UNEP) more than 80 countries have already introduced similar bans.
Key Highlights
Background: The Waste Minimisation (Plastic Shopping Bags) Regulations 2018, legislation regarding plastic
ban was announced in August 2018 and came into force on 1 July 2019. It is supposed to have little
practical effect, as New Zealand’s major supermarkets have already voluntarily banned plastic bags.
Ban Implies: Under new rules, New Zealand retailers including supermarkets, stores and restaurants will
no longer be able to sell or distribute any single-use plastic shopping bags but law allows reusable carriers
to continue being provided. Only exceptions are Plastic shopping bags in fruit and vegetable section and
other areas of supermarkets.
What is Single-use plastic shopping bag?
It is defined as any plastic bag which has handles and is less than 70 microns thick.
Why? The move was taken as Plastic pollution has become growing global concern. Every year nearly a
million birds and over 100,000 marine mammals injured or killed by becoming entangled in packaging or
ingesting it through the food chain.
Fine: Companies that will break New Zealand’s ban will face heavy penalties such as fines of up to 100,000
New Zealand dollars ($ 67,000).
Significance: Ending use of single-use plastic shopping bags would help country maintain its country’s
clean and green reputation. Due to Ban people are now talking about single-use plastics and how they can
phase them out.
Kaziranga National Park: Special Rhino Protection Force deployed
An 82-member Special Rhino Protection Force which is trained to combat poachers and understand
animal behaviour was recently deployed in Kaziranga National Park (KNP).
About Special Rhino Protection Force
Background: The process of setting up special force was initiated in 2015. In July 2018 members recruited
were given appointment letter after which they were trained at Forest Guard School in eastern Assam’s
Makum. All recruits also underwent weapons training at 9th Assam Police Battalion in Nagaon district of
Assam.
SRPF: Basically SRPF is a tiger protection force that was named after the rhino since threat of poaching is
more for one-horned herbivore.
Raised by: This Special Force has been raised by initiative of both central as well as state governments so
as to control rhino poaching in tiger reserve. The state government of Assam would be paying salaries of
SRPF members and amount would be reimbursed by National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), which
recommended setting up of this special force.
Members: It consists of 82 personnel among whom eight are women. Out of 82 SRPF personnel, 60 have
been assigned ranges under Eastern Assam Wildlife Division on southern bank of river Brahmaputra.
Task: SRPF personnel will be posted under 8 ranges of Kaziranga National Park (KNP) to control rhino
poaching as well as protecting striped cat (tiger poaching) since Kaziranga is also a tiger reserve.
About Kaziranga National Park
Background: The 430 sq.km national park is located in Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam. In 1968 it
was given National Park status and in 1985 it was declared UNESCO World Heritage Site (WHS) for its
unique natural environment.
Known for: It is home to World’s largest population of One Horned Rhinoceros i.e. about 68%. The one-
horned rhinoceroses are listed as vulnerable on IUCN Red list of Threatened Species. It is also recognized as
an Important Bird Area (IBA) by Birdlife International for conservation of avifaunal species.
It encompasses 8 ranges under two wildlife divisions: (1) Eastern Assam and (2) Biswanath along the river
Brahmaputra.
July 3, 2019
Manoj Kumar Nambiar elected Chairman of MFIN
Manoj Kumar Nambiar Managing Director of Arohan Financial Services has been elected as new chairman

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 24


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

of Microfinance Institutions Network (MFIN). He was elected at 6th annual general meeting of MFIN.
Highlights
Nambiar is also a director on boards of IntelleCash Microfinance Network Company. He will be replacing
Ujjivan Financial Services CEO and MD Samit Ghosh.
Gyan Mohan and Jagadish Ramadugu were also inducted to MFINs governing board.
About Microfinance Institutions Network
Background: It was established as a Society in December 2009 under Andhra Pradesh Societies Registration
Act 2001. It is an association for microfinance sector in India. It is also a Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO)
for regulated NBFC-MFI.
Members Organizations: constitute India’s leading microfinance institutions. According to MFIN Bye-
Laws, all NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Company) registered with Reserve Bank India as NBFC-MFIs are
eligible for membership of Society. To a large extent MFIN is member funded.
Governing Board: comprises of Members elected from amongst leadership of member MFIs and 33% of
Board comprises of independent Members.
Currently: MFIN comprises 56 NBFC-MFIs (Non-Banking Financial Company-Micro Finance Institutions)
and 40 associates including banks, small finance banks and NBFCs and it controls 90% of India’s MFI
business. In financial year 2018-19 the microfinance industry saw a 38% growth in its gross loan portfolio
at Rs 1.87 lakh crore.
Significance: This sector has played a significant role in getting rural India into folds of financial
inclusion.
IAEA confirms Iran breached enriched Uranium Stockpile limit
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations’ atomic watchdog has confirmed that
Iran has exceeded limit on amount of enriched uranium in its stockpile set out in 2015 nuclear deal with
world powers.
This marks the 1st major departure by Iran from unraveling agreement a year after U.S. unilaterally
withdrew from Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) accord.
Key Highlights
The initial announcement about Iran had broken limit set on its stockpile of low-enriched uranium by
2015 nuclear deal were made by Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.
Limit Breached: Later IAEA inspectors verified and confirmed that the country has exceeded 300-
kilogramme limit on its enriched uranium reserves.
Threat: Iran has threatened that country is planning to increase its enrichment of uranium closer to
weapons-grade levels by July 7 and to suspend its other commitments under JCPOA deal in 10 days unless
European powers took steps to implement their new mechanism called INSTEX for facilitating trade.
Iran also announced that it is planning to suspend other commitments also.
What is INSTEX?
INSTEX stands for Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges.
It is a special-purpose vehicle established in January 2019 by E3 i.e. France, Germany and United Kingdom
to facilitate non-dollar trade with Iran amid US unilateral withdrawal from JCPOA.
This new trading system is designed to circumvent sanctions on Iran. As of May 2019 use of SPV is limited
to humanitarian purposes such as purchase of otherwise embargoed foods or medicines.
Issue: On 28 June 2019, EU stated that INSTEX has been made operational and that 1st transactions are
being processed, but according to Iran, it did not meet countries needs.
About Iran Nuclear Deal
Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) also known Iran nuclear deal or Iran deal was an agreement
on Iranian nuclear program reached.
Participants: It was signed between Iran, P5+1 (refers to UN Security Council’s 5 permanent members (P5);
namely France, United Kingdom, China, Russia, and US; plus Germany.), and European Union in Vienna on
July 14, 2015.
Under the 2015 Nuclear Deal, Iran had agreed to limit its sensitive nuclear activities and allow in IAEA
inspectors in return for lifting of sanctions.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 25
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Limit: As per the deal Iran can stockpile no more than 300kg of low-enriched uranium. Iran is permitted
to produce low-enriched uranium, which has a 3.67% concentration of U-235, and can fuel a power plant
only until 2031.
Uses: Enriched uranium used for peaceful purposes, including medical research and producing electricity
but, if it is highly purified it can also be used to make a nuclear bomb.
AYUSH, MeitY ministries signs MoU for digitisation of AYUSH sector
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Union Ministry of Electronics and
Information Technology (MeitY) and Union Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani,
Siddha and Homoeopathy) has signed to collaborate on digitization of AYUSH sector.
Key Highlights of MoU
As per MoU, MeitY has agreed to advice and give technical support to AYUSH Ministry for planning and
development of AYUSH GRID Project.
Need for Project: In pursuance to National Health Policy 2017 and e-governance initiative, AYUSH
Ministry seeks to digitize entire AYUSH as it will lead to transformation in at all levels of health care
delivery field, along with education, greater research, delivery of various health care programmes and
better drug regulations.
Significance: AYUSH GRID Project will be beneficial for all stakeholders, including citizens of country and
will also help to achieve various national and international goals in healthcare. Also, high quality technical
support from MeitY to AYUSH Ministry would lead to success in endeavor of Ministry of AYUSH in field of
digitalization.
Meity & Healthcare
Meity led health initiatives: includes e-Aushadhi, e-Hospital, e-Rakt Kosh, Online Registration System (ORS)
and e-Shushrut for digitizing internal work-flows and processes of hospitals enabling efficient and online
delivery of health care services across India.
It has sponsored a number of Research and Development projects for development of medical electronics
devices and systems like medical and imaging equipment, establishing a centre of excellence in medical
electronics.
Meity has also launched an online information guide called Vikaspedia. It is a portal for various social
sectors including health as well as offers information in 23 languages.
Centre to raise Health Services Expenditure to 2.5% of GDP by 2025
Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan while addressing a query during Question Hour in Rajya Sabha
announced that Government has set a target to raise health services expenditure to 2.5% of country’s GDP
(Gross domestic product) by 2025. He also highlighted that public expenditure on health services has
increased continuously over the years and continues to increase.
Key Highlights
The government’s objective is in line with National Health Policy 2017 which envisages increasing public
health expenditure to 2.5% of GDP by 2025.
The policy also recommends that State governments should spend more than 8% of their budget on health
sector by 2020.
Steps taken by Government:
Under Aayushman Bharat programme ( or Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana or National Health
Protection Scheme), Government envisions setting up 1.5 lakh health and wellness centres by 2022 and
out of this 18,000-19,000 have already been established. These centres will boost healthcare facilities in
country’s Urban as well as rural areas.
The 3% Education Cess on personal income tax and corporation tax to is already replaced with 4% Health
and Education Cess so as to cater to education and health needs of poor and rural families.
Higher Education Funding Agency (HEFA) has also started supporting infrastructure works of medical
institutions.
34th Sailing Championship inaugurated in Telangana
The 34th edition of Hyderabad Sailing Week National Ranking Multi-Class Championship 2019 was
inaugurated by Governor of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, ESL Narasimhan in Hyderabad, Telangana.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 26
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

About Hyderabad Sailing Week


The YAI Multi-Class (Ranking) Sailing Championship is one of oldest sailing competitions in India. It is
held every year in twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad is taking place at Hussain Sagar Lake.
Objective: of this Championship is to put Hyderabad into World sailing map.
Schedule: The event will take place between 2 to 7 July. The 2019 is a landmark year for EME Sailing
Association as this year event has been accredited as YAI National Ranking Event hence participant’s
sailor’s performance will be ranked and this will give them points for selection into National team.
Participants: includes 190 plus sailors, 16 sailing clubs with round 21 sailors from Telangana state alone.
Technical part of championship is being taken care of by foreign sailing members.
Organiser: Event is jointly organised by Secunderabad Sailing Club and EME Sailing Association (EMESA)
under the aegis of Laser Class Association of India supported by Sports Authority of Telangana State.
Why Hyderabad? The wind conditions in city are most favourable to hone sailor’s skills in yacht handling
and understanding wind shifts.
About EME Sailing Association
EMESA was formed in 1964. It has produced a number of medal winners both at National and
International level.
In year 1986 LCAI was founded with a view to promote sailing in India. Since then, event has been
conducted continuously for last 33 years and is popularly known as “Hyderabad Sailing week”.
UIDAI operationalizes 1st Aadhaar Seva Kendra in Delhi and Vijayawada
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has operationalized 1st ‘Aadhaar Seva Kendra’ (ASKs)
in Delhi and Vijayawada. The new centres are functioning on a pilot basis and have set in motion UIDAI’s
ambitious plan to set up 114 such centers by the end of 2019.
About Aadhaar Seva Kendra
ASKs being set up by UIDAI will be covering 53 cities across India at an estimated project cost of Rs
300-400 crore. These centers are similar to the concept of Passport Seva Kendras.
Objective: These new centres seek to provide more touch points to public for availing Aadhaar enrolment
and updation services.
Function: These Aadhaar centers are meant to facilitate enrolment, updation and other activities.
ASKs are owned by UIDAI. They operate in addition to thousands of centers that are currently being run
by post offices and banks and even in government premises (offering similar Aadhaar services).
Delhi Centre- It is located at Akshardham metro station premises and has a capacity to handle 1,000
enrolment/updation requests a day. It is equipped with 16 workstations and will be operational 6 days a
week including weekends. It will be closed only on Tuesday and public holidays.
Vijayawada Centre- The capacity of this centre is half that of the Delhi centre.
Benefits: New ASK model entails an online appointment management system to allow people to book a
slot as per their convenience. These ASK have more capacity, more requests for enrolment and updation
thus can be processed on a daily basis compared to other centres.
About UIDAI
It is a Government agency which was founded on 28 January 2009, as an attached office of then
Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog). It is Headquartered in New Delhi.
On 12 July 2016, it was established by Government of India, as a statutory authority under the
provisions of Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act,
2016 (or Aadhaar Act 2016) under the aegis of Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
(MeitY).
Function: It is mandated to issue Aadhaar to all Residents of India, which is an easily verifiable 12
digit random number as Unique Identity.
US Senate passes law to give India NATO ally-like status
The United States Senate (Upper Chamber of US Congress) has passed a legislative provision that brings
India at par with America’s NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) allies and countries like South
Korea, Australia, Japan and Israel for increasing defence cooperation.
This development to bring India at last with NATO ally comes amid a meeting between Prime Minister
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 27
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump during G20 in Osaka, Japan and visit by US Secretary of
State (SoS) Mike Pompeo to New Delhi.
What is National Defense Authorisation Act?
The legislative provision called National Defense Authorisation Act (or NDAA) for fiscal year 2020 was
passed by Senate in late June.
Purpose: NDAA provides for increased US-India Defence cooperation in Indian Ocean in areas of counter-
piracy, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and maritime security.
Significance: The move of elevating India to non-NATO status is vital towards advancement of US-India
strategic partnership and will further boost collaboration between India and US in defence.
Way Ahead: The bill would be signed into law after both chambers of US Congress pass it. The House of
Representatives is expected to take up its version of NDAA in July before legislators adjourn for August
recess on July 29.
US-INDIA Relation
In 2016 United States recognised India as a Major Defence Partner, a designation that allows India to buy
more advanced and sensitive technologies from US at par with that of US’ closest allies and partners.
In July 2018, US President Donald Trump-led administration granted India status of Strategic Trade
Authorization-1 (STA-1) country. This made India the only South Asian nation to be given the said
designation along with US’ NATO allies. This move would ease export controls for high technology
product sales to India.
The increased engagement of US with India in multilateral frameworks seeks to promote regional security
and defend shared values and common interests in rules-based order.
India pledges $5 Million aid to UN Palestine Refugee Agency in 2019
India has pledged to contribute $5 Million in 2019 to United Nation Palestine refugee agency. This move
comes amid India voiced its concern over agency’s financial situation and called for ensuring sustained
financial support for its work.
India and UNRWA
During UN General Assembly (UNGA) Ad Hoc Committee meeting for Voluntary Contributions to United
Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in June 2019, India
notified that it has increased its annual financial contribution fourfold to UNRWA core budget from $1.25
Million in 2016 to $5 million in 2018 in solidarity with Palestine refugees.
Every year Government of India is assisting 150 Palestinian professionals under Indian Technical and
Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme.
Also in past 5 years under India-Palestine Development Partnership, several agreements have been
signed in fields of IT, agriculture, healthcare, women’s empowerment, media, consular affairs and youth
affairs.
About UNRWA
It is a relief and human development agency that was established in 8 December 1949. Since 1950 it has
been providing relief, social services health and education as well as emergency humanitarian assistance.
Mandate: It supports registered Palestinian refugees, and their patrilineal descendants, who fled/expelled
their homes during Palestine war (1948) and those who fled/expelled during and following Six Day war
(1967). At present Agency serves 5.4 million Palestinian refugees 20% of world’s refugees.
It provides aid in 5 fields of operation– Syria, West Bank (including East Jerusalem), Jordan, Lebanon, and
Gaza Strip. Aid for Palestinian refugees outside these 5 areas of operation is provided by UNHCR (United
Nations High Commissioner for Refugees).
The meeting of Ad Hoc Committee, established by UN General Assembly is the primary forum for
announcing financial support. At this year’s meet a total of 23 donors announced contributions, or their
intention to contribute, to UNRWA’s 2019 budget.
Almost all of UNRWA’s resources come from voluntarily contributions, with a limited donor base of
traditional donors.
Current Situation: Currently UNRWA is under difficult financial situation which has caused concern and

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 28


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

has put to risk Agency’s core services to Palestine refugees, especially in fields of health, education and
assistance to the most vulnerable refugees.
July 4, 2019
India ratifies OECD’s convention to check Tax Evasion
India has ratified Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty Related Measures (MLI) to prevent
Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS). It will pave way for amendments to double taxation avoidance
agreements (DTAA) with countries signatories to convention to plug revenue leakages. The provisions
enshrined in framework will come into effect from fiscal year 2020-21 for bilateral tax treaties.
Key Highlights
Earlier on 25 June 2019 India deposited to OECD an Instrument of ratification, along with India’s final
position in terms of reservations, Covered Tax Agreements (CTAs), options and notifications under MLI.
Impact: MLI will modify India’s tax treaties that will help reduce revenue loss due to treaty abuse and Base
Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) strategies by ensuring that profits are taxed where ever substantive
economic activities generating profits are carried out.
India’s DTAA with MLI shall get modified in following prominent ways-
MLI will modify their application in order to implement BEPS measures. It will be applied alongside
existing tax treaties.
Avenues leading to avoidance of capital gains from alienation of shares or interests which derive
value principally from immovable property would be plugged.
Some dividend transfer transactions that are intended to lower withholding taxes payable on
dividends artificially would also be prevented.
As on date out of 93 CTAs notified by India, 22 countries have already ratified MLI and so DTAA with
these countries will be modified by MLI.
Once MLI comes into effect, India’s DTAA will have a new Preamble and Principal Purposes Test
(PPTs).
These changes would also lead to curbing of artificial avoidance of Permanent Establishment (PE)
status through various arrangements.
Way Ahead: MLI will enter into force for India on 1 October 2019 and provisions enshrined in framework
will come into effect on India’s DTAAs from fiscal year 2020-21 for bilateral tax treaties.
What is MLI?
The Multilateral Convention (MLI) is an outcome of OECD or G20 Project to tackle Base Erosion and Profit
Shifting (called as BEPS Project). BEPS means tax planning strategies which exploit mismatches and gaps
in tax rules so as to artificially shift profits to a low or no-tax location where there is little/no economic
activity, which further results in little or no overall corporate tax being paid.
Delhi Police signs pact to implement Rooftop Solar Energy Systems
Delhi Police signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)
to set up Rooftop Solar Energy Systems in more than 200 of its buildings across the city.
Key Highlights of MoU
As per MoU, SECI will support implementation of grid-connected rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems
on establishments of Delhi police. This is because solar energy is economical as well as environmental
friendly.
Capacity: Under this green initiative project, Rooftop Solar Systems of total capacity of about 3-4 MW will
be implemented across various Delhi Police buildings.
Need: As per Delhi Police, it has more than 200 establishments spread across city and their electricity
requirements are quite significant. Thus project intends to utilize these vacant roofs of their buildings so
as to harness solar energy and also to cater part of their electricity demand via generated green energy.
Significance: MOU will go a long way in making Delhi green and will be optimally used in buildings and
complexes available with Delhi Police all across the city. It will not only result in significant reduction on
electricity bill payments of Delhi Police but also further cause of ‘Clean Energy‘.
Way Ahead: Project would be completed soon in a phased manner with active cooperation between two
agencies involved.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 29
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

About Solar Energy Corporation of India


SECI is a company under Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).
It is government’s nodal agency for implementation of the National Solar Mission (NSM). It is the only
Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) dedicated to solar energy sector.
It was established on 20 September 2011 and originally incorporated as a section-25 (not for profit)
company under Companies Act 1956. Later through Centre Government’s decision company has been
converted into a Section-3 company under Companies Act, 2013. This mandate of company has also been
broadened to cover entire renewable energy domain.
CCMB and CDFD inks MoU on Genetic Disease Diagnostics
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
(CSIR)-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) and Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and
Diagnostics (CDFD) to improve understanding and to enable better ways diagnosis and treatment of
human genetic disorders.
Key Highlights of MoU
Both CCMB and CDFD institutes have mutually agreed to undertake training and educational activities in
genetic diagnostics.
Objective of MoU:
To provide quality DNA-based diagnostic services to public at lower costs
To develop newer diagnostic methods
To engage in scientific research for improving understanding of human genetic disorders
Need: Each year more than 50 lakh babies are born with genetic disease in India. The burden of genetic
disorders has its effects on economic and social structure of society.
Importance: Most of genetic disorders are presently untreatable and for those which can be treated,
treatment is very expensive. Therefore only option to address genetic disorder problem is preventive
approach which requires prenatal diagnosis and genetic counselling.
About Centre for Cellular & Molecular Biology
It is an Indian biotechnology premier research organization located in Hyderabad. It operates under the
aegis of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
Objective: To conduct high quality basic research and training in frontier areas of modern biology. It also
promotes centralized national facilities for new and modern techniques in inter-disciplinary areas of
biology.
About Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics
CDFD is an autonomous Indian Biotechnology research centre, located in Hyderabad.
It operates under the aegis of Department of Biotechnology, Union Ministry of Science and Technology.
Illegal Coal Mining in Meghalaya: SC directs State Govt to deposit fine
Supreme Court of India has directed Meghalaya state government to deposit Rs.100 crore fine imposed on
it by National Green Tribunal (NGT) for failing to curb illegal coal mining with Central Pollution Control
Board (CPCB).
Key Highlights of Judgement
A SC bench of Justice Ashok Bhushan and Justice K M Joseph has directed state administration to hand over
illegally extracted coal to Coal India Limited (CIL) which will auction it and deposit the funds with state
government.
SC upheld that as per statutory regime brought in force by notification of 15 January 2016 issued under
Environment (Protection) Act (EPA) 1986, environmental clearance was required for a project of coal for
mining of any extent of area.
SC bench also acknowledged that since Meghalaya has very limited sources of revenue and it allowed it to
transfer Rs.100 crore to CPCB would be used for restoration work from Environment Protection and
Restoration Fund (EPRF).
Evidence: Allegations of environmental degradation by illegal and unregulated coal mining has taken
place in Meghalaya were fully proved from report of Meghalaya State Pollution Control Board, report of
committee headed by former High Court Judge B P Katakey (or Katakey Committee), and report of

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 30


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

experts, which all proved environmental degradation of water, air and surface.
Coal lying in Open: SC clarified that all extracted coal as assessed by Meghalaya government lying in
different districts which as per order of NGT is in custody of state shall be handed over to Coal India Ltd.
(CIL) for proper disposal. Katakey Committee after discussion with CIL and Meghalaya shall formulate a
mechanism for transport, weighment of all assessed coal. The apex court had earlier refused to allow
miners to transport extracted coal lying at various sites in Meghalaya.
Allowed Sites: SC bench has allowed mining operation to go on in Hills districts of Meghalaya on either
privately or community owned land, but it is subjected to lease or required permissions from concerned
authorities.
Background
On 13 December 2018, total of 15 miners were trapped in an illegal coal mine in East Jaintia Hills district of
Meghalaya, about 3.7 km deep inside a forest, when water from nearby Lytein river gushed into it. So far
only two bodies have been recovered from mine.
Unmanned Level Crossings in all Broad-Gauge Network eliminated: Govt
Union Minister of Railway Piyush Goyal recently informed Lok Sabha during Question Hour that Centre
government has eliminated Unmanned Level Crossings (ULCs) in whole Broad-Gauge (BG) network in the
country.
Key Highlights
On January 31, 2019, Indian Railways declared that last unmanned level crossing has been sealed and at
present there is not a single Unmanned Level Crossing in the broad-gauge network in India.
Method: Majority of such UMLCs were eliminated by merger, closure, introducing subway and manning.
Although nearly 93% of total network of over 120,000 km is under broad gauge but India’s railway
network still has close to 1,500 UMLCs on meter gauge and narrow gauge.
Why was ULCs eliminated?
Since ULCs were not designated crossings and were not protected so there have been a often suffer injury
or loss of life or even number of deaths in past due to a collision between trains and vehicles. Now as ULCs
have been entirely removed from railway network so numbers of train accidents are expected to decrease
significantly.
Way Ahead
In 2019-20, 1500 Road Over Bridges (ROBs) and Road Under Bridges (RUBs) have been targeted for
construction out of which 195 ROBs/RUBs have been constructed till May 2019. Currently government is
considering a Policy for construction of ROBs/RUBs to eliminate Manned Level Crossings (MLCs) on Golden
Quadrilateral/Golden Diagonal (GQ/GD).
Indian Railways also seeks to revamp all railway stations as many as 87 out of 115 aspirational districts
have been connected with the rail network.
RBI constitutes panel to review Core Investment Companies
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) constituted a working group to review regulatory guidelines and supervisory
framework for Core Investment Companies (CIC). The 6-member working group is chaired by Tapan Ray,
non-executive chairman, Central Bank of India and former Secretary in Union Ministry of Corporate
Affairs (MCA).
Key Highlights
Background: In August 2010, Central Bank on recognising the difference in business model of a holding
company relative to other Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) had introduced a separate
framework for regulation of systemically important.
RBI’s Objective behind forming Panel
Country’s Corporate Group structures have become more complex over the years. It now involves
multiple layering and leveraging, which has further led to greater inter-connectedness with financial
system through their access to public funds. Also, in light of recent developments, there is a need to
strengthen corporate governance framework of CICs.
Troubled financial conglomerate Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&FS) is registered with
RBI as a CIC.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 31


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Terms of Reference for Panel


It will examine current regulatory framework for CICs in terms of efficacy, adequacy and effectiveness
and will also suggest changes.
It will also suggest measures to strengthen corporate governance and disclosure requirements for CICs as
well as measures to enhance RBI’s on-site supervision and off-sight surveillance over CICs.
To assess adequacy of supervisory returns submitted by CICs and also suggest changes.
Timeframe: Working Group must submit its report by 31 October 2019
Germany’s Ursula von der Leyen appointed new President of EU Commission
Germany’s Ursula von der Leyen was appointed by European Union (EU) leaders as bloc’s next Chief
Executive i.e. European Commission president. She will be replacing Jean-Claude Juncker.
About Ursula von der Leyen
The 60 year old, is the only minister who has been in Merkel’s government since German leader took office
in 2005.
She is Chancellor Angela Merkel’s defense minister and fellow conservative party member.
She was backed by Angela Merkel but there was resistance to her nomination within the German coalition
ending in her appointment as a compromise.
This would be 1st time a German holds top EU job since Walter Hallstein was head of Commission of
European Economic Community more than 50 years ago.
Challenge Ahead: To navigate world full of bruising trade wars, renewed geopolitical tension around Iran,
and calling for increased transparency and representation within EU itself.
About European Commission
It is an institution of European Union (EU) that was founded on 1 January 1958.
Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium
It is responsible for implementing decisions, proposing legislation, upholding EU treaties and managing
day-to-day business of European Union.
Role of EU Commission President: heads executive branch, sets policy agenda and controls a cabinet of
commissioners.
High trading costs impact liquidity of Indian equities: World Bank
As per latest study by World Bank, the turnover ratio of Indian stock market has fallen significantly by
60% in past 10 years. The turnover ratio fall has been higher in India in comparison to some of the other
leading markets of world.
Key Highlights of Study
Turnover ratio of Indian stock market had fallen from 143 in 2008 to 58 in 2018 which means a fall of
nearly 60% between 2008-2018 decade.
Although the ratio had managed to move up in last 5 years but it is still quite low when compared with
earlier highs.
The fall had been highest among most leading markets of world, except United States (US) and European
Union (EU).
Other Countries: Between 2008 and 2018, China’s turnover ratio fell less than 6% in last 10 years; Brazil
(12.85%) and South Korea (31.12%), Japan and Hong Kong saw ratio dip between 40-50%.
Significance: Key analysis by WB study assumes significance as market participants have been lobbying
hard with central government to reduce overall cost of trading in equities in India, which, they feel, is
adversely affecting investors’ interest in stock market.
Background
In 2007-08, central government stopped treating Securities Transaction Tax (STT) as tax paid and rather
treated it as an expense that led to double taxation for gains assessed under business income. Moreover,
while introducing STT in 2004 the Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) tax was made nil but STT was not done
away with when LTCG was reintroduced in 2018.
Way Forward for India
The capital market participants had sought rationalisation of STT apart from bringing back certain
exemption benefits that were available earlier.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 32


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

What is Turnover Ratio?


It is a universally accepted parameter to measure trading volumes. It is the total value of shares traded in
a specific period divided by average market capitalisation of that period. It indicates how easy, or difficult,
it is to sell shares of a particular stock on capital market.
Centre ropes in IBM for pilot study on using AI in Agriculture
Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has signed a Statement of Intent (SoI) with IBM India
Private Limited (Indian subsidiary of IBM) for undertaking a pilot study to utilise Artificial Intelligence (AI)
and weather technology solutions in agriculture in selected pilot districts.
Key Highlights of SoI
The pilot study will be undertaken in 3 districts of Bhopal, Rajkot and Nanded in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat
and Maharashtra respectively. The pilot study will be conducted for Kharif crop season 2019.
As part of collaboration, IBM’s Watson Decision Platform for Agriculture will be leveraged to gain village
level soil moisture and farm level weather forecast in 3 pilot districts.
IBM’s Watson Decision Platform for Agriculture will give solution in field of agriculture through
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Weather Technology at village level as well as farm level so as to provide
weather forecast and soil moisture information on free of charge basis to help farmers for taking decisions
regarding crop and water management for better production and productivity.
Benefits: Watson Decision Platform for Agriculture can improve the future of food and crop years as it
aims to harness multiple data points and combine predictive analytics, AI, weather data, and Internet of
Things (IoT) sensors to give farmers insights on plowing, planting crops, spraying, and harvesting.
Significance:
This move of signing of SoI between Agriculture Ministry and IBM to enable use of Next-Generation
technologies like AI and advanced weather data for better insights to make faster and more informed
agricultural decisions signifies that India is foraying further into the digital age in line of aspiration
towards achieving goal of doubling farmers’ income by 2010.
It can also be seen as government’s assurance to bring digital technologies to help our farmers to increase
their income and transform Indian agriculture.
July 5, 2019
IMF Chief Christine Lagarde to now head European Central Bank
International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Christine Lagarde has been confirmed as new head
of European Central bank (ECB). Her appointment would make her 1st woman to lead powerful institution
of ECB.
Key Highlights
Following Lagarde’s nomination as President of ECB she announced to temporarily relinquish her
responsibilities as head of IMF. She will now step down 2 years before end of her second five-year term as
IMF Chief.
She would be succeeding Mario Draghi, whose term ends on 31 October 2019.
About Christine Lagarde
The 63 years old French, was the 1st woman to head International Monetary Fund (IMF) when she took the
job in 2011.
In 2005 she was appointed France’s trade minister and in 2007 as finance minister.
She will next head European Central Bank starting November 2019.
About European Central Bank
It was established on 1 June 1998 with Headquarters in Ostend district, Frankfurt, Germany. It is the
central bank of 19 European Union (EU) countries which have adopted Euro.
It is EU’s one truly federal institution which is responsible for administering of Euro and Monetary policy
of Eurozone. It is one of the largest monetary areas in world.
After U.S. Federal Reserve, ECB is most influential central bank in world.
Mandate: To maintain price stability in Euro area and so preserve purchasing power of single currency.
ECB Presidency:
It is not just most powerful position in Europe, far more significant than European commission presidency

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 33


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

but is one of the most significant policymaking positions in world.


The position is currently held by Mario Draghi, who was widely credited with saving the euro during the
eurozone debt crisis.
USISPF to honour Wipro’s Azim Premji, Mastercard CEO Ajay Banga
US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) has selected MasterCard CEO and President Ajay Banga
and Wipro Chairman Azim Premji for its 2019 Global Excellence Awards.
Key Highlights
The two business leaders will receive 2019 Global Excellence Awards at USISPF’s 2nd Annual Leadership
Summit scheduled to be held on 11 July in Washington, US.
Jared Kushner, senior adviser to US President will be presenting the awards during summit.
The prestigious Global Excellence Awards are being conferred for significant contribution made by Azim
Premji and Ajay Banga towards strengthening economic ties between US and India.
Azim Premji: His work to transform Indian Information and Technology industry into a global
powerhouse is globally well-known. The award recognises his philanthropic efforts, which reflect his
mission to change lives through education.
Ajay Banga: He had been a champion of US-Indian partnership, advancing bilateral ties across multiple
transitions. His efforts along with Mastercard’s commitment to Digital India and Make in India inititive,
the US firms continue to regard India with a positive outlook.
About US-India Strategic Partnership Forum
It is a non-profit organization that was established in 2017 by its Executive Board with primary objective
of strengthening U.S.-India bilateral and strategic partnership.
Objective: It is committed towards creating most powerful strategic partnership between U.S. and India
with the purpose of enabling business and governments to collaborate and create meaningful
opportunities that can positively change lives of citizens.
USISPF 2nd Annual Leadership Summit will be held in Washington, D.C. on 11 July 2019. The leadership
summit will highlight areas of bilateral cooperation like trade and investment, manufacturing, strategic
energy ties and innovation partnership.
MoU between India and Maldives for Shipping approved by Cabinet
Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given ex-post facto approval for
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Maldives for establishment of passenger and
cargo services by sea, which was signed on 8 June 8 2019 during the visit of Indian Prime Minister to
Maldives.
Key Highlights of MoU
Objective: This MoU with Maldives has been signed with a view towards harnessing potential opportunity
that lies in passenger and cargo transportation by sea between two countries.
It will pave way for ferry services between Maldives and Kerala by Connecting Kochi with Male &
Kulhudhuffushi in Maldives by Sea route.
Male is Maldive’s capital and most populous city of country. It is situated at a distance of 708 Kms from
Kochi.
Kulhudhuffushi is 3rd most populous city of Maldives. It is 509 Kms away.
Significance:
Current connectivity between India and Maldives involves flights to Male and sea planes to resorts, which
is majorly an expensive option. Thus, connectivity with Kochi via sea could promote inbound tourism,
mainly health and wellness tourism for India.
Also a large number of Maldivians also travel to Kerala as well as other South Indian cities for educational
purposes.
This proposed ferry service would contribute in a big way in promoting people to people contact and to
boost bilateral trade between two nations.
India-Maldives
India is a leading development partner of Maldives.
Till now India has established many of the leading institutions of Maldives.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 34
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

At present, India has provided US $100 Million Stand-by Credit facility (SCF) to island nation of Maldives,
including long-term loans and revolving credit for trade.
SCR commissions Longest Electrified Railway Tunnel in India
South Central Railway (SCR), one of the 18 zones of Indian Railways has commissioned the longest
electrified tunnel in Indian Railways.
Key Features of Longest Electrified Railway Tunnel
The newly commissioned electrified tunnel measures 6.6 kilometres.
It is situated between Cherlopalli and Rapuru Railway stations in Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh. It will
be helpful for decongesting traffic on Vijayawada-Gudur main line.
It is part of 113-km new railway line completed recently between Obulavaripalli– Venkatachalam –
Krishnapatnam Port. The tunnel construction was completed in a record time of 43 months.
The height of tunnel (rail level to roof) is 6.5 metres and Minimum height of contact wire is maintained at
5.2 metres.
The electrified tunnel is an engineering marvel which is constructed in a horseshoe design. It is
constructed on New Australian Tunnelling Method, at a cost of ₹460 crore.
This new line would facilitate direct and viable connectivity between South Coast and West Coast Railway.
It will aslo improve freight revenue of zone.
About South Central Railway
It is one of 18 Indian Railways zones. Its jurisdiction zone is spread over states of Maharashtra, Telangana,
and some portions of Madhya Pradesh.
It has 3 divisions under its administration, which include Nanded, Secunderabad, Hyderabad.
1st-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair to be held in India
The First Ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair (IICTF) will be held at Pragati Maidan in New
Delhi. It scheduled from 11th till 13th October 2019. It is a unique initiative for taking farmers, artisans &
other members of cooperatives directly to global trade arena.
Key Highlights
Objective: Trade Fair is aimed at promoting cooperative to cooperative trade within India and abroad
leading to enhanced rural and farm prosperity.
Organizations Involved: Steered by National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), the Fair is
being conducted with support of one international organization NEDAC (Network for the Development of
Agricultural Cooperatives), 3 Ministries, 4 State Governments and several apex level Indian cooperative
organizations.
This initiative is a part of Agriculture Export Policy 2018 which aims at doubling agriculture export and
integrating Indian farmers and agriculture products with global value chains.
Significance:
IICTF would be a major platform for promoting exports by cooperatives so that it direct benefit to
farmers, women, artisans and people coming from Schedule Caste/Schedule Tribe communities can be
ensured.
It also offers a huge opportunity for industry and business houses from India and abroad to build alliances,
product sourcing as well as interact with primary producers of a wide range of products and service
providers.
Working on a Warmer Planet: ILO Report
According to a recent report by International Labour Organization (ILO) titled- Working on a Warmer
Planet – The Impact of Heat Stress on Labour Productivity and Decent Work, India will be the most
affected country due to global warming. The major impact would be on agriculture and construction
sectors of the country.
Key Highlights of Report
India will be the most affected country primarily because of its large population. Also, the costs may be
higher without mitigating climate change.
Working Hours: It projects that India would lose 5.8% of working hours in 2030 due to global warming.
The loss of working hours will be due to temperature being too hot to work or because workers work at a

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 35


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

slower pace.
Productivity: In an absolute term India is expected to lose equivalent of 34 million full-time jobs in 2030 in
productivity due to global warming.
Although most of global warming impact in India will be felt in agricultural sector but, increasing working
hours are expected to be lost in construction sector, where heat stress affects both male and female
workers.
Heat stress: is defined as generally above 35 degrees Celsius (or 95 Fahrenheit), in places with high
humidity.
Based on: These projections by ILO are based on a global temperature rise of 1.5 degree Celsius by end of
21st century and labour force trends.
ILO report also noted that Ahmedabad (in Gujarat) incorporated a cool roofs initiative into its 2017 Heat
Action Plan. Under it notably provided access to affordable cool roofs for city’s slum residents and for
urban poor.
About ILO
It was founded on 29 October 1919 with Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland
It was United Nations first specialised agency.
Mandate: to advance social justice as well as promote decent work by setting internationally accepted
labour standards.
Members: 187 member states: 186 of the 193 UN member states plus the Cook Islands are members of the
ILO.
State of the Education Report for India 2019 launched
The State of the Education Report for India 2019: Children with Disabilities, was recently launched at an
event organized by UNESCO in New Delhi. The event was attended by more than 200 representatives
from government, civil society, academia, partners and youth.
To be published annually, the 2019 edition of report is 1st of its kind published by UNESCO New Delhi. It
highlights accomplishments and challenges with regards to Right to Education (RTE) of children with
disabilities (CWDs).
Key findings of Report
Based on extensive research of national and international documents of reference, the report provides
comprehensive and detailed information on present state of education of CWDs and submits 10 key
suggestions to policy makers.
Bodies involved: It is Prepared by Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) and commissioned by UNESCO.
Citing 2011 census data, report showed that there are more than 78 lakh CWDs in India between age group
of 5-19 years. 27% of these CWDs between (ages 5 to 19) have never attended any educational institution.
Nearly 75% of 5 year olds who have certain disabilties, do not go to any educational institution.
In schools there are fewer girls with disabilities than boys.
The proportion of CWDs who are out of school is higher than overall proportion of out-of-school children
at national level.
Home-based education: In many parts of rural India, if a parent opts for home-based education, the child
may not be getting an education at all as it often exists only on paper for CWDs.
Challenges: Inadequate allocations, delays in releasing funds and under-utilisation of allocation remain
key challenges in financing education for CWDs.
Differences noted among various types of disabilities
Only 20% of children with impairments related to Visual and Hearing had never been in school. However,
among children with multiple disabilities or mental illness, that figure rose to more than 50%.
Recommendations:
Amend the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 to make it align with the Right of Persons with
Disabilities Act, 2016.
Data: There is a need to strengthen data on children with disabilities which can help in effective planning,
implementation and monitoring of their education.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 36


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Campaign: There should be concentrated campaigns and large scale awareness which can improve the
attitude towards children with disabilities in the classroom and beyond.
Mechanism under Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) is needed to coordinate all
education programmes for children with disabilities across departments. This would help remove
inconsistencies and achieve synergy in the various measures aimed at their education.
About United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
It seeks to build peace through international cooperation in Education, Sciences and Culture.
UNESCO’s programmes contribute towards achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
defined in Agenda 2030, adopted by UN General Assembly (UNGA) in 2015.
It fosters scientific programmes and policies as platforms for development and cooperation.
July 6-7, 2019
Iraq’s Babylon listed as UNESCO’s World Heritage Site
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage Committee
has voted to list sprawling Mesopotamian metropolis of Babylon as a World Heritage Site (WHS) after 30
years of lobbying efforts by Iraq.
Key Highlights
Since 1983 Iraq had been trying to have Babylon site recognised by UNESCO.
The World Heritage Committee met in Baku (capital of Azerbaijan) to consider Babylon and another 34 sites,
including in Brazil and Burkina Faso, for World Heritage List.
After the successful vote Babylon, the cradle of civilization was chosen.
Significance: Putting Babylon on WHS List will encourage research and development of the site.
About Babylon
It is a massive 10sq-km complex of which just 18% has been excavated thus far.
It was the Centre of ancient Babylonian empire more than 4,000 years ago. The excavation of site began in
early 1800s and artefacts were sent abroad.
The city straddles Iraq’s Euphrates River and is about 100 kilometres south of Baghdad.
Babylon developed as a walled city of mudbrick temples and towers. It is the largest populated city in
ancient history.
It is internationally known for its hanging gardens, the Ishtar Gate and Tower of Babel.
Parts of Ishtar Gate were sent abroad which still remain in museums across Europe.
The Babylonians were civilisation of writing, administration and science.
Other World Heritage Sites in Iraq include: the southern Mesopotamian marshes, Hatra, Samarra, Ashur
and the Erbil citadel in northern Iraq. Erbil is the capital of Iraq’s Kurdistan Region.
India to train Bangladeshi Civil Servants at Mussoorie
A batch Bangladeshi civil servant will be trained at the National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG),
Mussoorie in Uttarakhand for a period between 2019-2025. NCGG is an institute under Department of
Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).
Key Highlights
Background: This training is based on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in February 2019
between National Centre for Good Governance (NCGG) and Ministry of Public Administration,
Government of Bangladesh, in this regard during 5th meeting of the India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative
Commission (JCC). This is 2nd time that NCGG has signed an MOU for a training programme for
Bangladesh civil servants. Under the 1st MOU signed 5 years ago, 1,500 Bangladesh civil servants were
trained by NCGG.
Training Areas: public policy and implementation, e- governance and service delivery, information
technology (IT), decentralization, ethics in Administration, urban development and planning and
challenges in implementation of sustainable development goals (SDGs).
The training batch will consist of a total of 1800 Bangladeshi mid-career civil servants.
The 1st batch consisting of 30 civil servants leaving for a two-week long training programme at Mussoorie
have already paid a visit to Indian High Commission in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Significance:

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 37


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

This collaboration represents a historic milestone in training and capacity building programmes between
India and Bangladesh.
Such trainings provide an opportunity to share experiences of administration between civil servants of
two countries and help in establishing strong bilateral relations.
Since the thrust of civil services has now moved towards development activities rather than
administration therefore civil servants of India and Bangladesh knowing each other would help foster
deeper ties between two countries.
Centre fixes price for Sovereign Gold Bonds at Rs.3,443 per gram
Government of India has fixed the price at Rs.3,443 per gram for the new series of Sovereign Gold Bonds
(SGBs) opening July 8.
Key Highlights
Union Finance Ministry recently announced that Centre in consultation with Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
has decided to allow a discount of Rs.50 per gram from issue price to those investors who apply online and
payment which is made via digital mode. This implies that for such investors, the issue price of gold bond
will be Rs.3,393 per gram of gold.
On 30 may 2019 RBI announced calendar for issuance of SGB for 1st half of current financial year
(2019-2020).
The SGB’s will be issued every month from June 2019 to September 2019.
About Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme
It was launched by Government of India in November 2015 with the goal of reducing the demand for
physical gold and shifting a part of domestic savings, used for purchase of gold, into financial savings.
Under the SGB scheme, bonds are denominated in units of 1 gram of gold and multiples thereof.
Minimum Investment: in bonds is 1 gram and a maximum limit of subscription of 500 gram/person/fiscal
year (April-March).
Maximum Limit: of subscription is 4 kg for an individual and Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) and 20 kg
maximum subscription limit for trusts and similar entities per fiscal (April-March).
Annual Ceiling: includes bonds subscribed under different tranches during initial issuance by centre and
those purchased from secondary market.
Key Highlights of Union Budget 2019-20 (Part 1)
Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs recently presented Union
Budget 2019-20 before Parliament. Key Highlights of which are-
10-point Vision for the decade
1. Jan Bhagidari: Minimum Government Maximum Governance for Building Team India.
2. Space: Launching Gaganyan, Chandrayan, other Space and Satellite programmes
3. Environment: Achieving green Mother Earth and Blue Skies through a pollution-free India
4. Self-sufficiency and export of food-grains, pulses, oilseeds, fruits and vegetables.
5. Digital India: Making Digital India reach every sector of the economy.
6. Building physical and social infrastructure.
7. Water: Water, water management, clean rivers
8. Blue Economy
9. Health: Achieving a healthy society via Ayushman Bharat, well-nourished women & children, safety
of citizens
10. Emphasis on Start-ups, MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises), defence manufacturing,
electronics, automobiles, fabs and batteries, and medical devices under Make in India
Towards a 5 Trillion Dollar Economy
India Inc. are India’s job-creators and nation’s wealth-creators”- Finance Minister.
Indian economy to become a $3 Trillion economy in current year (2019-2020)
Government aims to make India a $5 trillion economy.
Need for investment in: Infrastructure, Digital economy and Job creation in small and medium firms
Initiatives to be proposed for kick-starting the virtuous cycle of investments and
Common man’s life changed through MUDRA (Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency Bank)
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 38
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

loans for ease of doing business (EDB).


Measures related to MSMEs:
Pradhan Mantri Karam Yogi Maandhan Scheme (PMKYMS):
Pension Benefits: to about 3 crore retail traders & small shopkeepers with annual turnover of less
than Rs.1.5 crore
Scheme Enrolment to be kept simple, requiring only Aadhaar, bank account and a self-declaration-
350 crore allocated for Financial Year 2019-2020 for 2% interest subvention (on fresh/incremental
loans) to all GST-registered MSMEs, under Interest Subvention Scheme (ISE) for MSMEs.
Payment platform for MSMEs to be created to enable filing of bills and payment thereof, to eliminate
delays in government payments.
INFRASTRUCTURE
National Common Mobility Card: India’s first indigenously developed payment ecosystem for transport,
based on National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) standards, launched in March 2019.
Ease of Travelling: Inter-operable transport card runs on RuPay card and would allow the holders to pay
for bus travel, toll taxes, parking charges, retail shopping.
Massive push given to all forms of Physical Connectivity via: Bhartamala (road and highways project) and
Sagarmala projects (national water port development connectivity scheme), Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak
Yojana (PMGSY), Jal Marg Vikas and UDAN Schemes, Industrial Corridors and Dedicated Freight
Corridors.
State road networks to be developed in 2nd phase of Bharatmala project.
Jal Marg Vikas Project: Under it Navigational capacity of Ganga to be enhanced through multi modal
terminals at Sahibganj and Haldia and a navigational lock at Farakka by 2019-20.
Ganga Waterways: 4 times increase in next 4 years estimated in cargo volume on Ganga, leading to
cheaper freight and passenger movement and reducing import bill.
Railways:
For Railway Infrastructure during 2018-2030, Rs.50 lakh crore investments is needed
Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) proposed for development and completion of tracks, delivery of
passenger freight services and rolling stock manufacturing.
657 kilometers of Metro Rail network has become operational across India.
Aviation:
Policy interventions to be made for development of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), to achieve
self- reliance in aviation segment
Government will be laying a Regulatory roadmap for making India a hub for aircraft financing and leasing
activities from Indian shores
e-vehicles:
Outlay of Rs. 10,000 crore for 3 years approved for Phase-II of FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing
of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles) Scheme
Upfront incentive proposed on purchase and charging infrastructure, to encourage faster adoption of
Electric Vehicles (EV).
Under FAME Scheme only advanced-battery-operated and registered e-vehicles to be incentivized
Highways: National Highway Programme (NHP) to be restructured to ensure a National Highway Grid,
using a financeable model
Power: to be provided to states at affordable rates ensured under ‘One Nation, One Grid’ and package of
power sector tariff and structural reforms to be soon announced.
Undesirable duties on captive generation or open access sales for industrial as well as other bulk power
consumers to be removed under Ujjwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY).
Blueprints to be made available for water grids, gas grids, i-ways, and regional airports
Gas:
Implementing HLEC (High Level Empowered Committee) Recommendations which is- Addressing low

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 39


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

utilization of gas plant capacity due to paucity of Natural Gas; Retirement of old & inefficient plants.
Housing:
Model Tenancy Law to be finalized and circulated to all states in country
To promote rental housing appropriate reform measures are to be taken up
For public infrastructure and affordable housing on land parcels held by Central Government and Central
Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs), a joint development and concession mechanisms to be used.
FINANCE
Measures for enhancing sources of capital for Infrastructure Financing:
Credit Guarantee Enhancement Corporation to be set up in FY 2019-2020
To deepen the market for long term bonds Action Plan to be put in place with focus on infrastructure
Proposed transfer/sale of investments by FIIs (Foreign Institutional Investor)/FPIs (Foreign portfolio
investment) (in debt securities issued by IDF-NBFCs) to any domestic investor within specified lock-in
period
Measures to deepen bond markets:
To enable securities exchange (or stock exchange) to allow AA rated bonds as collaterals
Review the User-friendliness of trading platforms for corporate bonds
Social stock exchange:
Electronic fund raising platform under regulatory ambit of SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India)
Listing social enterprises and voluntary organizations
To raise capital as debt, equity or units like a mutual fund
Investment:
SEBI to consider raising threshold for minimum public shareholding in listed companies from 25% to 35%
Government to supplement efforts by RBI to get retail investors to invest in government treasury bills
and securities (G-Sec), with further institutional development using stock exchanges
Measures for making India a more attractive FDI destination:
Know Your Customer (KYC) norms for FPIs to be made more investor friendly
Foreign Direct Investment in sectors like media (animation, AVGC), insurance sectors and aviation can be
opened further after multi-stakeholder examination.
Insurance Intermediaries to get 100% FDI
Easing local sourcing norms for FDI in Single Brand Retail sector.
Annual Global Investors Meet to be organized by Government in India, using National Infrastructure
Investment Fund (NIIF) as an anchor to get all three sets of global players (pension, insurance and
sovereign wealth funds).
The statutory limit for FPI investment in a company is suggested to be increased from 24% to sectoral
foreign investment limit. Also, option to be given to the concerned corporate to limit it to a lower
threshold
FPIs to be permitted to subscribe to listed debt securities issued by Real estate investment trusts (REITs)
and Infrastructure investment trusts (InvITs).
NRI-Portfolio Investment Scheme Route is proposed to be merged with FPI Route.
Cumulative resources garnered through new financial instruments such as InvITs, REITs as well as
models like Toll-Operate-Transfer (ToT) exceed Rs. 24,000 crore.
INDIA and SPACE:
New Space India Limited (NSIL), a Public Sector Enterpises (PSE), incorporated as a new commercial arm
of Department of Space (DoS)
To tap benefits of Research & Development carried out by ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
such as commercialization of products like launch vehicles, transfer to technologies and marketing of
space products
Key Highlights of Union Budget 2019-20 (Part 2)
TAXES

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 40


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Direct Taxes
Performance: India’s Ease of Doing Business (EDB) ranking under ‘Paying Taxes’ category jumped from
172 in 2017 to 121 in 2019. In past 5 years, Direct tax revenue increased by over 78% to Rs. 11.37 lakh crore
Tax Slabs:
For companies with annual turnover of up to Rs.400 crore, Tax rate reduced to 25%
For individuals having taxable income from Rs.2 crore to Rs.5 crore and Rs. 5 crore and above, Surcharge
to be increased
Tax Simplification and Ease of Living: Leveraging technology to make compliance easier:
Interchangeability of PAN and Aadhaar– Those who don’t have PAN (Permanent Account N​umber is a
ten-digit alphanumeric number) can file tax returns using Aadhaar. Moreover wherever PAN is
required, Aadhaar can be used.
Pre-filling of Income-tax Returns (ITR) for faster, more accurate tax returns- Pre-filled ITR with details
of several incomes and deductions to be made available and regarding this information to be
collected from Stock exchanges, Banks, mutual funds etc.
Faceless e-assessment– with no human interface to be launched soon. Initially it is to be carried out in
cases which require verification of certain specified transactions or discrepancies.
Other Direct Tax measures: includes Simplification of tax laws to reduce genuine hardships of taxpayers
such as-
Appropriate class of persons exempted from anti-abuse provisions of Section 50CA of Income Tax
(IT) Act and Section 56 of IT Act
Higher tax threshold for launching prosecution for non-filing of returns
Relief for Start-ups:
Scrutiny: Funds raised by start-ups to not require scrutiny from IT Department.
‘Angel tax’ issue resolved- start-ups and investors filing requisite declarations and also providing
information in their returns are not to be subjected to any kind of scrutiny in respect of valuations of
share premiums
Capital gains (a profit from sale of capital asset like property/investment/stocks) exemptions from
sale of residential house for investment in start-ups extended till FY 2021
Relaxation of conditions for carry forward and set off of losses
e-verification mechanism so as to establish identity of investor and source of funds
Special administrative arrangements for grievance redressal and pending assessments. In such
cases no inquiry by Assessing Officer (AO) would be done without obtaining approval of Supervisory
Officer.
No scrutiny of valuation of shares issued to Category-II Alternative Investment Funds (AIF).
Category II AIF are funds which are allowed to invest anywhere in any combination but cannot take
debts, except for day-to-day operation purposes
Affordable housing: For purchase of house which is valued up to Rs.45 lakh an additional deduction of up
to Rs.1.5 lakhs proposed for interest paid on loans borrowed up to 31st March 2020. Overall benefit would
be around Rs.7 lakh over loan period of 15 years.
Boost to Electric Vehicles: Additional IT deduction of Rs.1.5 lakh on interest paid on electric vehicle loans
as well as customs duty exempted on certain parts of electric vehicles.
Non-bank financial institution (NBFCs): Interest on certain doubtful or bad debts by deposit taking and
systemically important non-deposit taking NBFCs to be taxed in year in which interest is actually received
Securities Transaction Tax (STT): is restricted only to difference between settlement and strike price in
case of exercise of options. STT (a direct tax) is levied on every sale and purchase of securities that are
listed on recognized stock exchanges in India.
International Financial Services Centre (IFSC): Direct tax incentives proposed for IFSC are as follows-
Exempting interest payment on loan taken from non-residents
100 % profit-linked deduction in any 10 year block within a 15-year period

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 41


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Exemptions on capital gain to Category-III AIFs (are funds that make short-term investments and
then sell like hedge funds Category III).
Exemption from dividend distribution tax from current and accumulated income to companies and
Mutual Funds
Indirect Taxes
Make In India: Custom Duty-
Imposed– Basic Customs Duty (a duty/tax imposed under Customs Act 1962) increased on optical
fibre cable, CCTV camera, auto parts, cashew kernels, PVC, tiles, marble slabs, etc.; 5% Basic Custom
Duty imposed on imported books.
Withdrawn– End use based exemptions on fatty oils, palm stearin withdrawn; Custom Duty
Exemptions on certain electronic items now manufactured in India withdrawn; Exemptions to
various kinds of papers withdrawn
Reduced– on certain raw materials such as: Capital goods required for manufacture of specified
electronic goods; Fuels for nuclear power plants and Inputs for artificial kidney and disposable
sterilised dialyser etc.
Exempted: Defence equipment not manufactured in India exempted from basic customs duty
Increased: on gold as well as other precious metals.
Other Indirect Tax provisions
Increase in Special Additional Excise Duty and Road and Infrastructure Cess each by Rs.1 per litre on both
petrol and diesel
Export Duty rationalised on raw and Semi-Finished Leather
Legacy Dispute Resolution Scheme (LDSR) for quick closure of pending litigations in Central Excise and
Service tax from pre-GST (Goods & Service Tax) regime
Key Highlights of Union Budget 2019-20 (Part 3)
SCHEMES Introduced In Budget For Grameen Bharat or Rural India
Electricity and Clean Cooking facility to all willing rural families by year 2022
2nd Phase of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G): It aims to achieve “Housing for All” by
2022. Under PMAY-G eligible beneficiaries are to be provided 1.95 crore houses with amenities such as
toilets, electricity and LPG connections during its 2nd phase (2019-20 to 2021-22).
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): Under it a robust fisheries management framework
to be established by Department of Fisheries so as to address critical gaps in value chain including
infrastructure, traceability, modernization, production, productivity, quality control and post-harvest
management.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY): Target of connecting eligible and feasible habitations
under PMGSY have been advanced from 2022 to 2019. Progress made under it-
All weather connectivity already being provided to 97% of such habitations
30,000 kilometers of PMGSY roads are built using Green Technology, Waste Plastic and Cold Mix
Technology, thus reduces carbon footprint.
Under PMGSY III, about 1,25,000 kilometers of road length to be upgraded over next 5 years with an
estimated cost of Rs.80,250 crore
Scheme of Fund for Upgradation and Regeneration of Traditional Industries’ (SFURTI):
Common Facility Centres (CFCs) to be setup under SFURTI. CFCs will facilitate cluster based development
for making traditional industries more profitable, productive and capable for generating sustained
employment opportunities.
During 2019-20, 100 new clusters to be setup with special focus on Honey, Bamboo and Khadi. This will
enable 50,000 artisans to join economic value chain.
A Scheme for Promotion of Innovation, Rural Industry and Entrepreneurship’ (ASPIRE):
It was launched to set up a network of technology centres and incubation centres so as to accelarate
enterpreneurship and to promote startups for innovation in agro industry. It is now to be consolidated
with setting up 80 Livelihood Business Incubators (LBIs) and 20 Technology Business Incubators (TBIs)

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 42


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

during 2019-2020 and also 75,000 entrepreneurs to be skilled in agro-rural industry sectors.
Farming:
Supporting Private entrepreneurships in driving value-addition to farmers’ produce from field and for
those from allied activities
Encouraging Dairying via cooperatives by creating infrastructure for cattle feed manufacturing,
processing, milk procurement & marketing.
For ensuring economies of scale for farmers 10,000 new Farmer Producer Organizations (FPO) to be
formed
Government to work with State Governments to allow farmers to benefit from e-NAM (National
Agriculture Market)
Zero Budget Farming in which presently few states’ farmers are already being trained to be replicated in
other states
India’s water security:
Newly formed Jal Shakti Ministry to look at management of country’s water resources and water supply
in an integrated and holistic manner
Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)– to achieve Har Ghar Jal (piped water supply) to all rural households by 2024.
Under JJM, objective is to integrate demand and supply side management of water at local level.
For the Jal Shakti Abhiyan, 1592 critical and over exploited Blocks spread across 256 District being
identified.
Additional funds available under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning
Authority (CAMPA) fund can be used for this purpose.
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:
Since 2 Oct 2014 9.6 crore toilets have been constructed and over 5.6 lakh villages have become Open
Defecation Free (ODF).
SBM to be expanded to undertake sustainable solid waste management in every village.
Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan:
Over 2 crore rural Indians made digitally literate.
Bharat-Net:To bridge rural-urban divide, Internet connectivity to be provided in local bodies in every
Panchayat under Bharat-Net. Universal Obligation Fund under a PPP (Public–private partnership)
arrangement to be utilized for speeding up Bharat-Net.
Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) to distribute 50 million LPG connections to women of BPL families and
Saubhagya Yojana (Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana) to provide electricity to all households
have transformed lives of every rural family, dramatically improving ease of their living.
July 8, 2019
Operation Sudarshan: launched by BSF to fortify border with Pakistan
Border Security Force (BSF) has launched a massive exercise, code named as Sudarshan, to fortify Anti-
Infiltration Grid along Pakistan border in Punjab and Jammu. The operation was launched on 1 July and is
expected to be finished within a fortnight.
Operation Sudarshan
Name: The exercise has been named Sudarshan drawing from Sudarshan Chakra (or mythological cutting
wheel) of Lord Krishna.
Coverage Area: It will cover entire over 1,000-km length of India-Pakistan International Border out of which
Jammu shares about 485-km of border with Pakistan and about 553-km of border front is in Punjab. The
international border then further runs down towards Rajasthan and Gujarat on India’s western flank.
Why BSF?
As it is the primary force guarding this frontier as First Line of Defence. The exercise will see entire BSF’s
senior field brass, thousands of troops and machinery being deployed in these forward areas.
Boosting Defence:
Huge assortments of heavy machinery, communication interceptors and mobile bulletproof bunkers have

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 43


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

been mobilized to the borders as part of exercise.


Frontier and Battalion commanders from Commandant rank to Inspector General (IG), their second-in-
command as well as commanders of company (unit) of nearly 40 BSF battalions are camping in forward
areas of two states (Jammu and Punjab) so as to finish operation within 15 days and be at their bases by
July 15. This is because after 15 July monsoon will unleash heavy rains and cut easy access to these
locations.
To strengthen vigil along sensitive and infiltration-prone border, the Commanders of force have been
asked to-
Prepare their watchtowers and sentry posts better
Multiple patrols
Strengthen artillery positions
Replenish arms and ammunition dumps
Check and plug border fence breaches
Make all operational and logistical arrangements
Detect underground and cross-border tunnels
About BSF
It was formed on 1 December 1965 in the wake of India-Pakistan 1965 War, for ensuring security of India’s
borders and for matters connected there with.
Function: It is the country’s primary border defence organisation. It is responsible for guarding India’s
land border during peacetime as well as preventing transnational crime.
It is a Government Agency under administrative control of Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It is one
of the 7 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) of India and currently stands as world’s largest border
guarding force.
Vice President releases book titled Vivekadeepini
Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu releases a book titled ‘Vivekadeepini’, a concise book of
aphorisms (a memorable expression of a general truth or principle) initially written by Adi
Shankaracharya, one of India’s greatest spiritual and literary geniuses.
About Vivekadeepini
This short book is a summary of Prashnottara Ratnamalika written by Adi Shankaracharya.
It is a compilation of select 36 verses drawn from 67 verses of Prashnottara Ratnamalika which are
written in Question-Answer format.
The verses in this book contain universal truths and are the starting points for reflection. It contains
glimpses of India’s wisdom in most lucid language.
Languages: The book has been translated into ten languages- English, Hindi, Bengali, Kannada, Telugu,
Tamil, Malayalam, Marathi Gujarati and Odia.
This lucid commentary is written by Shri S.S. Naganand and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO)
Vedanta Bharati has taken up this onerous responsibility to connect citizens of India with country’s
intellectual tradition and ethical foundations.
About Adi Shankaracharya
He is 8th century Indian philosopher and theologian.
He consolidated the doctrine (or Philosophy) of Advaita Vedanta (Monism).
Advaita Vedanta: states that Brahman is only reality and world is illusory (Maya), thus ignorance of
reality is what causes suffering, and liberation can be obtained only by true knowledge of Brahman.
He is founder of Dashanami Sampradaya, Hindu monastic tradition of single-staff renunciation. He is also
credited with unifying and establishing main currents of thought in Hinduism.
1st model village built with Indian assistance inaugurated in Sri Lanka
The first model village built with Indian assistance under the Model Villages Program was inaugurated at
Ranidugama in Gampaha in Sri Lanka. It is a part of housing project meant for war affected people and
estate workers. The fully constructed houses were handed over to beneficiaries.
Key Highlights
Background: India has partnered with Sri Lankan Ministry of Housing and Construction and Cultural

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 44


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Affairs to build 100 model villages which will consist of a total of 2400 houses all across Sri Lanka. These
2400 houses are in addition to 60000 accommodations built under Indian Housing Project meant for war
affected people in north and east Sri Lanka and estate workers in plantation areas of the country.
Grant: The Indian grant for the project would be Rs.1,200 million ($17.5 million).
Other Development Projects by India in Sri Lanka: India has undertaken over 70 people-oriented
development projects across Sri Lanka in various fields such as health, skill development, education,
housing, infrastructure and vocational training among other. It also includes largest University
Auditorium in Ruhuna University in Matara in Sri Lanka. Around 20 such projects are currently under
progress.
FIFA Women’s World Cup: U.S.A beats Netherlands
The United States of America (USA) won FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019 title after beating Netherlands in
final at Lyon, France. US won with 2-0 goals scored by from Megan Rapinoe penalty and Rose Lavelle.
Key Highlights
US retained the women’s World Cup title with help of penalty scored by Megan Rapinoe and strike by Rose
Lavelle that gave holders a 2-0 victory.
The victory underlines USA’s status as dominant force in international women’s football as they claim
World Cup title for 4th time (earlier 1991, 1999 and 2015) in 8 editions.
US were already the 1st team to appear in 3 consecutive finals. Also Coach Jill Ellis becomes 1st coach to
win back-to-back World Cups in men’s or women’s game since Italy’s Vittorio Pozzo in 1930s.
USA was the only non-European team to make it to quarter-finals in France.
Megan Rapinoe: She won the Golden Boot after finishing with 6 goals and 3 assists, and she also took
Golden Ball award for best player of tournament.
Grand Prix of Spain Women’s Wrestling: Vinesh, Divya win gold
At the Grand Prix of Spain Women’s Wrestling India’s top wrestler Vinesh Phogat won her 1st gold medal
after shifting to 53kg category and Divya Kakran claimed top honours in 68kg category in Madrid, Spain.
India finished 2nd with 130 points in team championship behind Russia with 165 points.
Key Highlights
Vinesh Phogat (53kg) and Divya Kakran (68kg) won gold.
Other Winners: Pooja Dhanda in 57kg category, Seema in 50kg category, Manju Kumari in 59kg category
and Kiran in 76kg category registered silver to their name.
Vinesh Phogat: is one of India’s medal hopefuls at 2020 Tokyo Games. She was competing only in her 3rd
tournament in this new (53) category. Before this tournament in Madrid she had competed in Asian
Championship and Dan Kolov, where she won a bronze and silver respectively in 53kg category. She is a
Gold medal winner at Jakarta Asian Games.
Australia’s Budj Bim Cultural Landscape included in UNESCO’s WHS
Australian Aboriginal site ‘Budj Bim Cultural Landscape’ in south-west Victoria has been added to
UNESCOS’s World Heritage List. It was added to UNESCOS’s World Heritage List at a meeting in Baku, in
Azerbaijan following a decades-long campaign by traditional owners.
About Budj Bim Cultural Landscape
The site is located within Country of the Gunditjmara, an Aboriginal nation in southwest of Australia.
It was created about 6,600 years ago by the Gunditjmara people. It is older than pyramids, Acropolis and
Stonehenge.
Now being included in WHS it has become 1st site in Australia to receive world heritage protection only
for its Aboriginal cultural importance.
It features remnants of nearly 300 round stone huts that are now only remaining permanent houses built
by an indigenous community in Australia. These stone huts challenges common perception that all
Aboriginal people were nomadic.
Geography: It includes Budj Bim Volcano and Lake Condah (or Tae Rak), as well as Kurtonitj (Indigenous
Protected Area) component, characterized by wetland swamps, and Tyrendarra in south, which is an area
of rocky ridges and large marshes.
Worlds’ oldest Freshwater Aquaculture Systems: Volcano Budj Bim lava flows, which connect these 3
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 45
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

components, have enabled Gunditjmara to develop one of the largest and oldest aquaculture networks in
world.
Eel Harvesting: Being composed of dams, channels and weirs (low head dam), they are used to contain
floodwaters and create basins so as to trap, store and harvest kooyang eel (Anguilla australis), which has
provided native population with an economic and social base for 6 millennia.
It is the 20th site in Australia to make it to WHS list. It is 2nd site for Victoria alongside Royal Exhibition
Building and Carlton Gardens, which was listed in 2004.
Other Australian World Heritage Sites includes- Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Opera House and Kakadu
national park.
Six Sigma Institute of Mountain Medicines and High-Altitude Rescue to be set up at Uttarakhand
Asia’s 1st Six Sigma Institute of Mountain Medicines and High Altitude Rescue to be established at
Rudraprayag district in Uttarakhand. This comes after Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Trivendra Singh
Rawat recently accepted and agreed to a proposal for establishling the mountain institute.
About Six Sigma Institute of Mountain Medicines and High Altitude Rescue
It will be a high altitude institute of mountain medicine, training and research center.
First of its Kind: This state of art institute when once completed would be dealing with health issues
related with high altitudes would be first of its kind in Asia.
Training: The institute would also train armed forces as well as para-military personnel in Mountain
Medicines. It would also offer courses in mountains medicines and high altitude rescue. It will also train
local people, schools and colleges in high altitude rescue and disaster.
Services: It would provide necessary high altitude medical services to pilgrims and tourists visiting the
state. The institute would also help in enchansing high altitude communications (HAM) and endeavour to
develop better food product and beverages.
This mountain institute will create 1200 employment, Specialised healthcare, advance education and
Rescue Training in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand.
About Six Sigma health care
It is a company which at present is operating hospitals in Kedarnath, Tungnath and Madhymaheshwar. It
has proposed to set up mega Rs.750 cr project in Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand.
Six Sigma team also handed over Kedarnath Medical Intelligence Report to Uttarakhand Chief Minister and
gave following suggestions to Uttarakhand Chief Minister-
Medical screening of Yatris and Empanelment of Hospitals across country for medical checks
Provision of Air Ambulances for Emergencies
Establishment of Bhandara for better food services in Kedarnath Yatra
Increase of Hospital bed strength at Kedarnath and Permanent Medical Post at Tungnath and
Madhymaheshwar
Copa America: Brazil beat Peru with 3-1
Brazil have defeated Peru with 3-1 to win this year’s Copa America football trophy. This is Brazil’s 9th
Copa America title after a gap of 12 years since 2007.
Key Highlights
Gabriel Jesus and Richarlison scored a goal each for Brazil.
Brazil has won the title every time they hosted the tournament and this is its 5th title at home. The last
time they won Copa América at home was in 1989 against Uruguay.
Since 2007 Brazil’s only other title came in 2013 Confederations Cup which was also at home.
Brazil had not made it past Copa América’s quarterfinals since beating Argentina with 3-0 in 2007 final in
Venezuela. In 2016 Brazil did not even get past group stage.
This is also Brazil’s 1st tournament success since winning a gold medal at 2016 Olympics.
Player of the Final: Everton. He also finished as one of tournament’s top scorers with three goals.
Player of the Tournament: Dani Alves, Brazil’s veteran right-back
Uruguay are Copa América’s most successful nation with 15 titles (one more than Argentina).
About Copa América
It is an international men’s association football championship.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 46


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

It is organized by South America’s football ruling body CONMEBOL.


2019 Copa América: was 46th edition of Copa América. It was held in Brazil between 14 June to 7 July 2019
at 6 venues across the country.
Final positions-
1. Champions- Brazil (9th title)
2. Runners-up- Peru
3. 3rd place-Argentina
4. 4th place- Chile
Jaipur listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Walled City of Jaipur, known for its iconic architectural legacy and vibrant culture, made an official
entry into UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage
Site list.
The decision was taken at 43rd session of UNESCO World Heritage Committee, underway in Azerbaijan from
June 20 up to July 10. During this session, in addition to Jaipur, Committee examined 36 nominations for
inscription on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
About Jaipur
Founded: It was founded in 1727 CE under the patronage of Maharaj Sawai Jai Singh II. It serves as capital
city of culturally-rich state of Rajasthan.
Why Selected?
The Pink City Jaipur was nominated for its value of being an exemplary development in architecture and
town planning that demonstrates an amalgamation and important exchange of ideas in late medieval
period.
The city shows an interchange of ancient Hindu, Mughal and contemporary Western ideas in town
planning that resulted in the form of city.
It is also a unique example of late medieval trade town in South Asia which defined new concepts for a
thriving trade and commercial hub.
It is also associated with living traditions in form of crafts that have national as well as international
recognition.
Significance: Being listed on world map as World Heritage site will give a boost to state’s tourism and
local economy will benefit along with improving infrastructure.
About World Heritage Committee
It is composed of representatives of 21 States Parties to World Heritage Convention.
The representatives meet annually and the committee is in charge of implementing the Convention.
As of date total 1092 sites in 167 countries have been inscribed on UNSECO’s World Heritage List.
July 9, 2019
Operation Milap: 333 missing children rescued in 7 months
Under Operation Milap of Delhi Police, Delhi Police Crime Branch has rescued 333 missing children from
the city and handed them over to their families in different parts of country. These children were missing
since January 2019 from various parts of country and were found in Delhi.
About Operation Milap
It was launched in December 2014 as a project under which children are rescued.
Under Operation Milap Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (AHTU) of Delhi Police has been set up. AHTU is
responsible for developing information, rescuing kidnapped or trafficked person and arrest kidnappers.
The children rescued are given requisite medical attention and are also counselled.
Most of these children have been rescued from railway stations, bus stands and other crowded places in
the capital.
DRDO carries out 3 tests of Nag Missile in one day in Pokhran
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out 3 successful test firings of Nag
missiles during both day and night in Pokhran firing ranges. With this successful trial of Nag anti-tank
guided missiles is in final stages of being inducted into Army.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 47


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Background
In 2018 Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved procurement of NAG Missile System (NAMIS) at the
cost of Rs.524 crore. NAMIS is designed and developed by DRDO. It includes a 3rd generation Anti-Tank
Guided Missile, the NAG, along with Missile Carrier Vehicle (NAMICA).
About NAG Missile
It is a 3rd generation anti-tank guided missile, which has top attack capabilities that can effectively
engage and destroy all known enemy tanks during day and also in night. Integrated Missile Guided
Development Programme: Nag was one of 1st 5 strategic missiles planned to be developed under
Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IMGDP) initiated in 1980s. Other missiles developed
under IMGDP project include Agni, Prithvi, Trishul and Akash. Except Trishul all three of them have been
successfully developed and inducted into Indian armed forces as Trishul project was shut down after
being developed as technology demonstrator.
Significance: successful induction of NAG missile into Army is expected to give a quantum boost to
Army’s capability against enemy armour. Indian Army will use it by mounting them on modified
armoured vehicles.
Way Ahead: Indian Army and DRDO are supposed to carry out more tests of missiles also to further
validate the missile’s capabilities.
Coffee Table Book launched to commemorate 50 years of partnership with UNWFP
‘The Coffee Table Book – 50 years of Partnership for Change’ was launched by Union Minister of
Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar along with Dr. Hameed Nuru,
Representative and Country Director, United Nation World Food Programme (UNWFP) in India, to
commemorate five decades (50 years) of partnership between Union Ministry and agency towards
addressing food and nutritional security in India.
About Coffee Table Book
It showcases key milestones achieved by Government of India (GoI) in its efforts to make the country free
from hunger and malnutrition and role played by WFP in this endeavour.
The book includes some of the major turning points in India’s journey towards food and nutrition security
captured in Green Revolution, White revolution (also known as operation flood), digitization of food safety
nets, improvements in livestock and dairy development.
About UN World Food Programme
It was founded in 1961. It was formally established by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and United
Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 1963. It is headquartered in Rome, Italy.
It is food-assistance branch of United Nations. It is also the world’s largest humanitarian organization that
addresses hunger and promotes food security.
It is member of United Nations Development Group (UNDG) and part of its executive committee.
As per WFP, it provides food assistance to an average of 91.4 million people in 83 countries each year.
UNWFP is prime partners of Agriculture Ministry to achieve collective target of Sustainable Development
Goal (SDG)-2: ending hunger, achieving food security, improving nutrition and promoting sustainable
agriculture.
Mexico beats US to lift 8th CONCACAF Gold Cup
Mexico’s men’s soccer team won 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup by defeating United States men with 1-0 in
the final. This is Mexico’s record 8th Gold Cup title.
Key Highlights
While US is the defending champions of biennial North American championship, as it won the 2017
tournament but in 2019 edition it lost to Mexico at Soldier Field, an American football stadium in Near
South Side of Chicago, Illinois.
The loss for US, men came hours after women’s team lifted its 2nd consecutive World Cup title in France.
Mexico’s Jonathan dos Santos scored only goal to win CONCACAF Gold Cup with 1-0. This win handed
Mexico their 8th Gold Cup title since championship for teams from CONCACAF was rebooted in 1991.
About CONCACAF Gold Cup
It is the international men’s football championship of North, Central American, and Caribbean region

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 48


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

organized by CONCACAF.
It was founded in 1963 and is a biennial event i.e. held every two years. It was previously referred to as
CONCACAF Championship before being renamed in 1991 to CONCACAF Gold Cup.
It is a single championship being held for the continent including regions of North America, Central
America and the Caribbean.
2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup: It was 15th edition of CONCACAF Gold Cup. It took place from 15 June – 7
July 2019.
Host countries for tournament were United States, Costa Rica and Jamaica.
Participating Teams-16
Gully Boy’ wins NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film at BIFAN
Indian movie ‘Gully Boy’ was honoured with NETPAC (The Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema)
Award for Best Asian Film at 23rd Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN) in South Korea.
Key Highlights
The film directed by Zoya Akhtar, revolves around the underground rap movement in India and was
released on 14 February 2019.
It is inspired by the lives of Mumbai street rappers Vivian Fernandes (aka Divine) and Naved Shaikh (aka
Naezy).
It will also be screened at 2019 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne in Australia.
Other than bagging award at BIFAN in South Korea, Zoya Akhtar recently joined the list of new members
of Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that organises annual Oscar awards.
BIFAN:
It was founded in 1997 with particular attention to Asian cinema from East Asia and Southeast Asia.
It is an international film festival which is held annually in July in Bucheon, South Korea.
About NETPAC Award
It is given at select international film festivals to promote Asian cinema by spotlighting exceptional films
as well as discovering new talents.
It is awarded to the best Asian feature film by a jury from Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema
(NETPAC).NETPAC Jury Committee, comprised of NETPAC members and film professionals, select best
Asian Film from World Fantastic Blue section that features newer genres and variety of stories such as
comedy, fantasy and drama.
NETPAC:
It is a pan-Asian film cultural organization of 29 member countries which involves critics, filmmakers,
distributors and exhibitors, festival organizers and curators, and film educators.
It was created in 1990 as result of a conference on Asian cinema organized by Cinemaya (Asian Film
Quarterly), in New Delhi at instance and with support of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organization), Paris.
Kutno Athletics Meet: Hima Das wins gold in Women’s 200m
Indian sprinter Hima Das clinched gold in Women’s 200m race with a top finish at Kutno Athletics Meet
held in Poland. India’s VK Vismaya bagged silver in 24.06 seconds.
Key Highlights
Hima Das, clocked 23.97 seconds to clinch gold at Kutno Athletics Meet.
This was Hima’s 2nd competitive 200m race of the year and also her 2nd international gold.
In her 1st competitive 200m race of 2019, the Assam runner Das who has a personal best of 23.10s had
clocked 23.65 seconds on her way to gold in Poznan Athletics Grand Prix, which was also held in Poland.
Hima is national record holder in 400m. She is reigning world junior champion.
Other Winner:
Men’s 200m Race: National record holder Muhammed Anas also won gold.
Men’s 400m Hurdles: Jabir MP won gold in 50.21s. Jithin Paul finished 3rd in 52.26 secs.
Women’s 400m Race: Indians won women’s 400m race through- P Saritaben (52.77 secs), Sonia Baishya
(53.73 secs) and R Vithya (53.73 secs).

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 49


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Italy’s Prosecco hills enters UNESCO World Heritage list


Italy’s hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, which is home to world-famous sparkling wine Prosecco,
were added by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) to World
Heritage list. The decision to add hills to list was taken at a meeting of UNESCO’s World Heritage
Committee in Baku in Azerbaijan.
About Prosecco hills
The Conegliano and Valdobbiadene hills are where grapes grown produce famous prosecco sparking wine.
Location: These Prosecco hills are located northeast of Venice, have been cultivated for centuries. It
stretch for 30 kilometres (nearly 20 miles)a
Landscape: It is characterised by hogback hills, ciglioni–small plots of vines on narrow grassy terraces-
forests, small villages and farmland.
This rugged terrain has been shaped and adapted by man for centuries now.
Italy has been lobbying to have Prosecco hills receive World Heritage recognition for at least a decade.
It has now become Italy’s 55th World Heritage site.
Importance of Prosecco: The prosecco sparkling white wine has highest classification available to an
Italian wine. It is produced in a territory spread over 9 provinces in Italy’s northeast. Sales of wine rose 6%
in 2018 to 460 million bottles, of which 75% were exported. It has now become the most popular Italian
wine abroad, with its exports seen rising by a record 21% in 2019 in foreign markets.
Saudi Arabia adopts Digital India, equality of women in Haj 2019
Indian Haj mission in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has adopted digital technology to reach out to a large
number of pilgrims as part of Digital India initiative of Government of India.
Key Initiatives
Indian Haj Information System (Haj App):
It has been developed to receive feedback, a grievance from Hajis (Haj pilgrims).
At present, it receives feedback in English, Hindi and Urdu but soon other regional languages will be
incorporated.
The app also connects pilgrims with Haj service coordinators (of their respective states) known as Qadimul
Hajjaj. Qadimul Hajjaj are government employees who are deputed to assist pilgrims during Haj season.
Significance: With introduction of Haj App, Indian diplomats in Saudi Arabia are trying to form a bridge
with pilgrims so as to facilitate a smooth and hassle-free Haj operation to them and also to receive
grievances and feedbacks to improve service.
e-MASIHA: for medical facilities to visiting pilgrims.
e-MASIHA (Medical Assistance System for Indian Hajis Abroad) is an online platform where Health status
and medical history of visiting pilgrims is being stored.
It would retrieve pilgrims’ health information to apply appropriate treatment whenever he or she visits
Indian medical facilities during Haj.
Other intiatives:
Besides App, other means to connect the officials and pilgrims are website and social media channels, toll-
free numbers and exclusive in-house Youtube channel.
SIM Cards: Pilgrims are being provided Saudi Arabian mobile SIM card in India itself. These SIM cards can
be activated in their buildings in Madinah and Makkah after recording their biometrics. Also, Biometrics is
a mandatory requirement for issue of SIM cards in Saudi Arabia.
About Hajj
It is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia the holiest city for Muslims.
Hajj 2019: will begin in the evening of 9 August and ends in the evening of 14 August 2019. This year, a
total of 2 lakh Indian pilgrims are expected to travel for Haj to Saudi Arabia. Out of this 1.4 lakh pilgrims
are travelling through government arm HCI (Haj Committee of India) and remaining through private Haj
operators.
This year 2332 single women are travelling for Haj under Centre governments’ Haj without ‘Mehram’
(male companion) initiative. In a bid to empower Muslim women, Narendra Modi government has

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 50


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

removed restriction on single women pilgrims to travel and encouraged them to apply for Haj.
Parliament adopts resolution levying 200% duty on all Pakistani goods
The Parliament of India has adopted a statutory resolution for levying 200% duty on all goods exported
from or originating in Pakistan. The two statutory resolutions were moved by Anurag Thakur, Minister of
State (M/S) for Finance on behalf of Union Minister of Finance Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman and both were
adopted by voice vote.
Key Highlights
India had notified about levying of basic custom duty to 200% on all goods exported from Pakistan with
effect from 16 February 2019. In this regard both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha approved the amendment in
1st schedule of Customs Tariff Act (CTA), 1975.
The 1st resolution sought to approve February 2019 notification to insert new tariff item 9806 00 00
under Chapter 98 of 1st Schedule of Customs Tariff Act.
Besides, the statutory resolution the Rajya Sabha adopted the move to increase basic custom duty (BCD)
on lentils, boric acid and diagnostic and laboratory reagents. Custom duty on lentils has been increased
from 40% to 50%, on diagnostic items from 20% to 30% and on boric acid it has been increased from 17.5 to
27.5%.
What is a Statutory Resolution?
It is a resolution in pursuance of a provision in Indian Constitution or an Act of Parliament.
July 10, 2019
Utkarsh 2022: finalized by RBI board
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) board has finalised Three Year Roadmap to improve supervision and
regulation, among other functions of central bank. This medium term strategy is named as Utkarsh 2022.
Worldwide, all central banks strengthen regulatory and supervisory mechanism and everybody is
formulating a medium-term plan and a long-term plan. So, RBI also decided to formulate a pragramme to
outline what is to be achieved in the next three years.
About Utkarsh 2022
It is a 3-year road map for medium term objective to be achieved for improving regulation, supervision of
RBI.
This medium term strategy is in line with Global central banks’ plan to strengthen regulatory and
supervisory mechanism.
An internal committee to identify issues that needed to be addressed over next 3 years was formed, which
was anchored by Viral Acharya outgoing Deputy Governor of RBI.
Idea behind Utkarsh 2022 is that central bank plays a proactive role and takes preemptive action to avoid
any crisis and can avoid situations like IL&FS debt default issue and crisis of confidence non-banking
financial sector faced in aftermath.
National Museum of Indian Cinema’s news bulletin launched
A fortnightly bulletin of the National Museum of Indian Cinema as “NMIC Bulletin“, brought out by the
Films Division was launched in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
About NMIC Bulletin
National Museum of Indian Cinema are not just about artefacts kept in them but are also about witnessing
journey that made cinema possible as well as about narrating untold stories behind those cinemas.
Need: This bulletin will give several educational institutions and students of media studies who visit
Museum regularly a physical document to cherish and to get relevant information.
Significance: India is a nation of great storytellers and produces largest number of films in world. Also,
the diversity in Indian cinema can be found nowhere else. Thus need is to market Indian cinema better
which this News Bulletin will help in.
About National Museum of Indian Cinema
National Museum of Indian Cinema was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 19 January
2019. Its portions occupy 19th century heritage bungalow and a modern building in south Mumbai.
It aims to conserve film heritage of India.
It provides a glimpse of evolution of Indian cinema over the years in a storytelling mode with help of
graphics, visuals, artifacts, multimedia expositions and interactive exhibits.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 51
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Northeast Frontier Railway’s Plan Bee wins Best Innovation Award


A unique strategy adopted by Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) called ‘Plan Bee’ to keep wild elephants
away from train tracks has won the ‘Best Innovation Award’ in Indian Railways for the 2018-19 fiscal. The
prize is awarded by Indian Railways and comprises of a citation and a cash award of Rs.3 lakh.
What is Plan Bee?
It is an amplifying system that imitates the buzz of a swarm of honey bees to keep wild elephants away
from railway tracks.
Many studies suggest that elephants are scared of swarming bees thus this device was designed to
generate amplified sound of honey bees audible from about 700-800 metres.
First such instrument was installed at a level crossing west of Guwahati in Assam on a track adjoining
Rani Reserve Forest, an elephant habitat.
NFR now has 46 such devices installed at vulnerable points.
Significance: As per the study conducted Plan Bee device has been helpful in diverting herds of elephants,
especially when trains approach and dashing becomes imminent. Also as per NFR officials, a mix of Plan
Bee and other measures have helped them save 1,014 elephants from 2014 to June 2019.
Background
There are 29 earmarked elephant corridors with operating zone of Northeast Frontier Railway spread
across north-eastern states of India and some parts of Bihar and West Bengal. Trains passing through are
required to slow down at these corridors and adhere to speed specified on signs.
But in past elephants have ventured into path of trains even in non-corridor areas, often leading to
accidents resulting in elephant deaths. NFR’s Rangiya Railway Division (one of the five railway divisions
under NFR zone of Indian Railways) and Forest Department field officials have worked on certain
deterrents and provide a solution to the problem.
But the desperation to find an ‘elephant repellent’ was triggered when 67 pachyderms were knocked down
by trains from 2013 to June 2019. Most of these elephant deaths cases were reported from Assam and
northern West Bengal.
Thus in a bid to tackle this problem, NFR came up with ‘Plan Bee’ in 2017 and installed devices at several
level crossings in state to play sound of buzzing honey bees to drive away pachyderms.
Testing: A team then tested Honey Bee Buzz on a domestic elephant in north-eastern Assam’s Rangapara
and 1st such instrument was installed at level crossing gate between Azara and Kamakhya stations under
Rangiya Railway Division. Later, a 2nd test at tea estate under Rangiya Division proved successful on a
herd of wild elephants.
Arun Kumar appointed as DGCA Director General
Appointments Committee of Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved
appointment of Arun Kumar, Additional Secretary and Financial Advisor, to Union Ministry of Civil
Aviation as the new Director General (DG) in Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in rank and pay
of Additional Secretary.
About Arun Kumar
He is 1989 batch IAS officer of Haryana cadre.
He is currently serving as additional secretary in Union Ministry of Civil Aviation and will now be holding
full-time charge as Chief of aviation regulator DGCA.
He was heading DGCA as an additional charge between 31 May 31 and 9 July 2019.
Predecessor: He will succeed B S Bhullar who was appointed as full-time DGCA chief in December 2016. He
is an IAS officer of Uttar Pradesh (UP) cadre. In between June 2016 and December 2016, he was also
heading DGCA as additional charge. During his tenure, his main role was as additional secretary in
Ministry of Civil Aviation.
About Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
It is regulatory body in field of Civil Aviation primarily dealing with safety issues. It is headquartered in
New Delhi with regional offices in various parts of India.
It is an attached office of Union Ministry of Civil Aviation which is responsible for regulation of air
transport services to or from or within India and for enforcement of civil air regulations, air safety and

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 52


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

airworthiness standards.
It is also responsible for coordinating all regulatory functions with International Civil Aviation Organisation
(ICAO).
MoEF recommends ‘in-principle’ approval for Uranium exploration
A Union Ministry of Forest, Environment and Climate Change (MoEFCC) panel has recommended for ‘in-
principle’ permission for survey and exploration of Uranium in Amrabad Tiger Reserve in Telangana.
Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) under MoEFCC made recommendation at its meeting on 22 May 2019.
Background
The Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD) had earlier sought permission from
Environment Ministry to carry out survey and drilling of boreholes around for exploration of uranium in
Amrabad and Udimalla (Mahaboobnagar district) region upto 76 km besides 7 km in the adjoining
Nagarjunasagar Tiger Reserve in Andhra Pradesh, for use in nuclear power generation.
Initially FAC under Environment Ministry observed that there are certain deficiencies in proposal.
However, considering the fact that proposal to establish Uranium deposits is of critical importance from
national perspective, thus it recommended for in-principle approval to the Atomic body subject to
submission of all required document/information in due format.
Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (AMD) Proposals
In its proposal AMD indicated that review of all areas of ongoing investigations and their assessment
indicates that northern part of Cuddapah basin (second largest Proterozoic sedimentary basin in India) is
the most promising and potential area in India for locating high grade, large tonnage uranium deposits.
The proposed forest land is one of the prime target for exploration of unconformity related U-deposits in
the country.
Although in India, uranium deposit discovered till now was either of low grade or of low tonnage or of
both low grade and low tonnage but keeping in view huge amount of electricity to be produced by nuclear
route, economically feasible high grade deposits are to be found out expeditiously.
Criticism
Field Director, Project Tiger, after inspection of Amrabad region, confirmed presence of tigers in area
based on pug marks and cattle kills, along with evidence of fauna like spotted deer, panther, sloth bear,
wild boar, wild dog and sambar.
As per the report there are no existing roads in 3,800 hectares sought for exploration thus would make it
difficult to transport drilling machinery.
Near Udumilla also, there was evidence of occasional visit by tigers at Nallavagu locality. Similar issues of
transportation and tree felling will prevail at this location too. Noting that AMD proposes to dig a total of
4,000 bores, report noted that environmental impact of mining includes erosion, sink holes formation,
biodiversity loss and contamination of soil, groundwater and surface water and which could affect wildlife.
Way Ahead
Currently FAC has given only “in principle” permission to AMD while “full and necessary permissions” are
required for the department to allow exploration activities in Tiger Reserve. As per FAC after receipt of in-
principle approval, the complete proposal may be soon placed before the Competent Authority for
approval.
India has adequate number of healthcare professionals: Survey
In a recent study carried out by researchers from Indian Institute of Public Health (IIPH), Gurugram on
‘Size, composition and distribution of human resource for health in India: New estimates using National
Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) and Registry institutions’ data’ has revealed that India has an
adequate number of health professionals.
Key Highlights of Study
Data Based on: The study is based on data collected from registry institutions and estimated data from
NSSO 2011-2012 to projected population as of on 1 January 2016.
The study used National Sample Survey data (NSSO 2011-2012) and projected Human Resource for Health
(HRH) number for 2016 using census projection and worker participation rate. In addition to this survey
also used 2017 registry data of health professionals including Medical Council of India (MCI), India

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 53


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Nursing Council (INC), Dental Council of India (DCI) and other professional associations.
Subject: It addresses issue of distribution of Human Resource for Health (HRH) in India.
It found that in India about 71% of people living in a rural area whereas 36% of all health workers are
deployed in rural areas.
Density of Total Health Workers: is estimated to be 29 per 10,000 populations. This is based on NSSO and
38 per 10,000 population based on registration data, which is close to World Health Organisation’s
(WHO’s) minimum threshold of 22.8 health workers per 10,000 population.
Disparity in density of doctors and nurses across India: is reported by study. As per it the number of
doctors in Kerala and Union Territories (UTs) is high as compared to larger states such as Rajasthan,
Jharkhand and Bihar.
BCC inks MoU with BRICS Chamber to promote trade
The Bharat Chamber of Commerce (BCC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with BRICS
of Commerce and Industry for promoting trade and investments between BRICS countries and eastern
part of India, in particular.
Key Highlights of MoU
It was signed by Sitaram Sharma, BCC president and B B L Madhukar, BRICS Chamber of Commerce and
Industry Director General.
It will enable both the signatories BCC and BRICS chamber to share trade related information and
exchange trade delegations among 5 members of group namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South
Africa.
BCC is looking forward to work closely with BRICS Chamber of Commerce to foster trade, industrial and
technological cooperation between West Bengal and BRICS countries.
About Bharat Chamber of Commerce
BCC was initially established in 1900 as the “Marwari Chamber of Commerce” at Calcutta.
Following Indian Independence, in 1949 Chamber re-christened itself as Bharat Chamber Commerce.
Function: It works towards
Expanding economic and commercial activity via enhancement of efficiency and competition at all levels
Economic empowerment of society in rural areas via guidance on application of appropriate technology
and evolving marketing strategies
Promoting Bilateral Trade using Business Delegation as engine for exploring opportunities
About BRICS Chamber of Commerce and Industry
BRICS CCI is a parent organization which promotes commerce and industry in BRICS nations. It was
founded in 2012 with efforts of eminent professionals and entrepreneur.
It is a not-for-profit and non-governmental organization (NGO).
Objective: to create an enabling support system especially for MSME (Micro Small and Medium
Enterprises) segment of businesses and young entrepreneurs from across all geographies.
India hands over 250 pre-fabricated houses to Myanmar’s Rakhine State
India handed over 250 pre-fabricated houses for use of displaced Muslim minorities, who are currently
residing in Myanmar’s Rakhine State. The houses delivered to Myanmar for displaced Rohingya returnees
in Rakhine State are under India’s ‘Rakhine State Development Programme’ (RSDP) for $25 Million for a
period of 5 years.
Background
In December 2017 a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between India and Myanmar on
Rakhine State Development Programme (RSDP). $25 million RSDP focused on providing a sustainable
solution in violence-torn Rakhine state for socio-economic development. It also aimed towards
contributing to socio-economic development in northern Rakhine State.
Need: Due to rising violence against Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar, 1000s of them have entered India
and Bangladesh to seek refuge.
Key Highlights
Saurabh Kumar, Ambassador of India to Myanmar, handed over documents related to 250 pre-fabricated
houses for use of displaced returnees from Bangladesh to U Aung Kyaw Zan, Joint-chairman of Returnee

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 54


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Resettlement Work Committee and Minister for Electricity, Industry and Transportation of Rakhine State
Government at a ceremony in Maung Daw, Rakhine State.
Out of 250 pre-fabricated houses put together by India in three villages in Northern Rakhine region 148
units are in Shwe Zar village, 60 in Kyein Chaung village and 42 in Nan Thar Taung.
These houses besides being rust free and water proof are designed to survive earthquakes and cyclonic
storms.
Houses Made By: The project was undertaken by Indian companies- M/s Hindustan Prefab Limited as
Project Management Consultant and M/s Enertech Limited as contractor.
Way Ahead: Construction of 250 houses was 1st initiative under RSDP has been successfully completed.
Now another 22 proposals which include construction-related projects, capacity building projects, solar
power related projects and agriculture mechanisation projects are presently under consideration.
France to impose green tax on plane tickets from 2020
The French government is set to impose tax of up to €18 on plane tickets for all flights from airports in
France. It is aimed to fund less-polluting transportation projects.
Key Highlights
This move by French government to impose green tax on plane tickets will take effect from 2020 which
means all tickets for outbound flights from French airports will include a green tax from 2020.
It will only be applied on outgoing flights and not those flying into country.
It will see a tax of €1.5 imposed on economy-class tickets on internal flights and those within Europe. The
highest tariff of €18 per ticket will be applied to business-class travellers flying outside bloc.
This new measure by France is expected to bring in about €182 million per year to its economy which will
be invested in greener transport infrastructures, mainly rail.
In April 2018, a similar tax was introduced in Sweden, which imposed an added charge of up to €40 on
every ticket. This was in a bid to lessen impact of air travel on climate.
July 11, 2019
Pro-Khalistan group ‘The Sikhs for Justice’ banned by govt.
Pro-Khalistani group ‘The Sikhs for Justice’ (SFJ) has been banned by Central government for its alleged
anti-national activities. In a recently held Union Cabinet meeting decision was taken to ban on Sikh
fundamentalist organisation SFJ under Section 3 of Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) for its
alleged anti-national activities.
Reasons for ban given by government is that the Sikhs for Justice has been indulging in activities
prejudicial to internal security of India and public order and have potential of disturbing peace and unity
and integrity of country. Also, the group openly espouses cause of Khalistan and in that process challenges
the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India.
About The Sikhs for Justice
It is a US-based Pro-Khalistani group that was formed in 2007.
It is headed by Avtar Singh Pannun and Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The internal group of SFJ comprises of 8
to 10 people but, it’s online support is close to 2 lakh.
SFJ primary objective: to establish an independent and sovereign country in Punjab.
It gained prominence only in last 5 years as it started advocating a separate Khalisatn state. For this
purpose it also started an online secessionist campaign, ‘Sikh Referendum 2020’. SKJ pushes for Sikh
Referendum 2020 as part of its separatist agenda.
Cases Registered: Punjab Police has registered 10 different cases against SFJ and it’s members, while
National Investigation Agency (NIA) is also probing group in one case. But in all 11 cases, investigators
found that SFJ was providing money and logistical support to local terrorists in Punjab to carry out
subversive activities.
What is Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act?
It is an Indian law which is aimed at effective prevention of unlawful activities associations in India.
Objective: to make powers available for dealing with activities directed against integrity and sovereignty
of India.
UAPA was first framed in 1967, and since then it has been amended twice- first in 2008 and then in 2012.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 55
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

2nd India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue held in New Delhi


The 2nd India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue (IRSED) was held in New Delhi. It took place under
chairmanship of Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice-Chairman of NITI (National Institution for Transforming India)
Aayog and Mr. TimurMaksimov, Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russian Federation.
Key Highlights of IRSED
Participants: included government officials, business leaders and experts. All brought in diverse
perspectives for ideation.
Six Core Areas of Cooperation focused on 2nd IRSED meeting-
1. Development of Transport Infrastructure and Technologies
2. Development of Agriculture and Agro-Processing sector
3. Small and Medium Business support
4. Digital Transformation and Frontier Technologies
5. Cooperation in Trade, Banking, Finance, and Industry
6. Tourism & Connectivity.
Parallel Roundtables included in IRSED discussed areas of cooperation and concrete roadmaps for future
negotiations across outlined core areas such as-
Roundtable on Digital transformation and Frontier Transformation: It focussed on areas of
collaboration between India and Russia in digital space and frontier technologies and potential for
future collaborations across various sectors like payments platform, joint startup ecosystem, use of
digital technology in areas of education, construction and skilling.
Roundtable on Development of Transport Infrastructure and Technologies: It discussed areas of
cooperation across various modes of transport like creation of twin ports between India and Russia,
ship building and river navigation, safety and passenger comfort in railways, speed upgradation,
ensuring predictability of cost and movement schedules across transport corridors and research and
development.
Roundtable for increasing collaboration and cooperation between Small and Medium Businesses
in India and Russia: It recommended setting up of nodal points of interaction between two
countries and ensuring access to finance, access to E-markets and seamless digital banking.
Roundtable on Agriculture and Agro-processing: It noted dynamic nature of agriculture, livestock
rearing and food processing in both countries and immense opportunities of cooperation.
Roundtable on Tourism and Connectivity: It highlighted need for increasing bilateral tourism and
exploring natural avenues for economic and commercial partnerships such as expanding visitor
itineraries for both countries, and creating more products for tourist interest like yoga and medical
tourism.
Roundtable on Industrial Trade and Cooperation: It emphasised awareness exchange between two
countries in areas of investment opportunities, exploring better Business-to-Business (B2B)
communication and collaboration, generating greater investment flows through public and private
cooperation in an organised way.
Significance: Such discussions help enhance strategic economic cooperation between two countries. It
gives opportunity to discuss and prepare specific proposals for joint action in future and establish
economic relations which reflect potential of cooperation between two nations.
About India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue
It was established after a bilateral MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) was signed between India’s NITI
Aayog and Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development of Russian Federation. The MoU was signed
during 19th edition of Annual India-Russia Bilateral Summit which was held on 5 October 2018, in New
Delhi.
1st IRSED was held in St. Petersburg in Russia from 25-26 November 2018. It was chaired by Russia’s
Minister of Economic Development of Russian Federation Mr. Maxim Oreshkin and Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice-
Chairman of NITI Aayog.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 56


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Dutee Chand wins 100m gold in World Universiade in Italy


Dutee Chand, the Indian sprinter won gold medal in women’s 100m in World Universiade, 30th Summer
University Games held in Naples, Italy. With this win she became 1st Indian woman to do so.
Key Highlights
The 23-year-old Indian athlete clocked 11.32 seconds to win gold as she led the race from start to finish.
She became 1st Indian woman track and field athlete to clinch a gold medal in World Universiade after
winning this 100m dash event held in Napoli, Italy.
Other Winner:
Del Ponte (11.33 seconds) of Switzerland won silver
Lisa KwaYie (11.39 seconds) of Germany won bronze
About Dutee Chand
She is a student at Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, a deemed university in Bhubaneswar
in Odisha. Her 100m national record stands at 11.24 seconds.
She became the first Indian to win a 100m gold in a global event.
She has now become only 2nd Indian sprinter to win gold in a global event after Hima Das. Das won
top spot in 400m in World Junior Athletics Championships in 2018.
She won silver each in 100m and 200m in 2018 Asian Games.
She is also only 2nd Indian track and field athlete to win gold in World Universiade. Earlier, Inderjeet
Singh had won top spot in men’s shot put event in 2015 edition.
She is yet to qualify for World Championships to be held in Doha in September-October 2019.
She is also one of few athletes in world to openly admit being in a same-sex relationship in May 2019.
Indian Army places order for procuring Spike missiles from Israel
Indian Army has placed an order for procuring Israeli Anti-Tank Spike missiles from Israel. The
procurement was made under emergency purchases to meet operational preparedness of the army.
About Spike missile
It is known for their precision targeting with an ability to pierce even bunkers.
Range: It can hit targets at a range of 4 kilometers.
Terrain: It can be deployed in both mountains and plains.
Firing Platform: It can be fired from different platforms such as- vehicles, helicopters, ships and ground
launchers. It can be deployed even along the Line of Control (LoC).
In April after Balakot strike, Indian Army cleared procurement of the missile and orders were placed in
July 2019.
Indian Army is also prioritising purchase of precision guided kit for artillery ammunition.
Background
After 14 February 2019 Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed, three armed forces were
given powers to make emergency purchases. Under these emergency provision forces can make
procurement up to Rs 300 crore.
Delhi’s Connaught Place 9th most expensive office location in World: CBRE
As per property consultant CPRE’s annual Global Prime Office Occupancy Costs Survey, New Delhi’s
Connaught Place (CP) is 9th most expensive office location in the world with an annual rent of nearly $144
per sq. ft. CP retained its 9th position from last year. CBRE is world’s leading commercial real estate
services company.
Key Highlights of Survey
New Delhi’s Connaught Place (CP) is among top 10 most expensive office markets globally. As per the
report, office occupancy cost in New Delhi’s CP is $143.97 per sq ft.
Asia’s performance in prime office space leasing segment-
6 of world’s 10 most expensive office markets are found in Asia.
For 2nd year straight Hong Kong’s central district retained top spot as World’s most two expensive
market for prime office rents. Its occupancy cost was valued at $322 per sq.ft.
Reason Behind Cost: As per report the growing significance of talent acquisition race are driving prime
occupancy cost to newer heights. Along with this other driving forces behind price growth are limited

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 57


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

supply and moderate construction pipelines in most cities.


On Indian commercial Real Estate Market: BPRE survey highlights that strong demand from technology,
finance and e-commerce sectors has fueled growth momentum in prime occupancy costs. Also in India
commercial office market remains a strong growth propeller for real estate sector.
About Global Prime Office Occupancy Costs survey
It is an annual survey released by BPRE.
The cost taken in Survey reflects rent, plus local taxes and service charges for highest-quality prime office
properties.
It tracks cost of leasing prime office space globally.

Kerala Govt. to set up Non-Resident Keralites Investment company


Kerala Government decided to form a Non-Resident Keralites Investment company with 74% stake to be
held by expatriate (or expat) to channelize investments from overseas Keralites for major infrastructure
development in the state. Decision in this regard was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Kerela Chief
Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Key Highlights
In Non-Resident Keralites (NRK) Investment and Holding company ltd. 74% of capital will be raised by issuing
shares to NRKs and Government will have 26% stake.
The main aim of this shareholding is to utilise NRI investments for implementing various projects.
The company can set up a special purpose vehicle (SPV) or subsidiary company for the purpose.
Special officer of Company: Kerala cabinet also decided to appoint a NORKA (Non-Resident Keralites
Affairs) Chief Executive officer (CEO) as special officer of company.
Formation of NRK Investment company was one of the major recommendations submitted by standing
committees of Loka Kerala Sabha (World Kerala Assembly). The Loka Kerala Sabha is an event hosted by
state government to bring Keralites living across the world under one platform and utilising NRK
expertise for developing state.
Projects to be undertaken by the proposed company include construction of NRI townships and

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 58


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

infrastructure development.
CCEA approves 3rd phase of PMGSY
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has
approved 3rd phase of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) to consolidate 1,25,000 km of roads in
the states.
Key Features of PMGSY-III Scheme
The 3rd phase of PMGSY (or PMGSY-III) involves consolidation of through routes and major rural links that
connects habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), hospitals as well as Higher Secondary
Schools.
Financial Implications-
Cost: An estimated cost of PMGSY-III would be Rs 80,250 crore over next five years out of which Central
Share-Rs 53800 crore and State Share- Rs 26450 crore.
Fund: to be shared in ratio of 60:40 between Centre and State for all States except for 8 North Eastern and
3 Himalayan States (Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh & Uttarakhand) for which it is 90:10.
Implementation-
Project Target period: 2019-20 to 2024-25.
Parameter for Road Selection: A candidate road selection is based on sum total of marks obtained by
particular road on basis of parameters of population served, educational and medical facilities, market, etc.
Construction of Bridges: up to 200 m in Himalayan and NE States and 150 m in plain areas proposed from
existing provisions of 100 m and 75 m in Himalayan and NE States and plain areas respectively.
Memorandum of Understanding: States shall be asked to enter into MoU before launching of PMGSY-III
in concerned State for providing adequate funds for maintenance of roads constructed under PMGSY post
5-year construction maintenance period.
Background
PMGSY-III scheme was announced by Union Finance Minister in Budget Speech for year 2018-19.
CCEA in its meeting held on 9th August, 2018 approved continuation of PMGSY-I & PMGSY-II beyond 12th
FYP Plan and covering of balance eligible habitations under PMGSY-I by March 2019, PMGSY-II, and
habitations under identified LWE blocks (100-249 population) by March 2020.
Progress under PMGSY: Under the scheme a total of 5,99,090 Km road length has been constructed since
inception till April, 2019 inclusive of PMGSY-I, PMGSY-II and Road Connectivity Project for Left Wing
Extremism Area (RCPLWEA) Scheme.
AIFF Awards: Ashalata Devi and Sunil Chhetri bag top honours
Indian men’s football team captain Sunil Chhetri and women’s footballer Ashalata Devi have bagged top
honours at All India Football Federation (AIFF) 2018-19 awards. Chhetri was named as Men’s footballer of
the year, while Ashalata Devi won the Women’s footballer of the year title.
Key Highlights
Sunil Chhetri: He is Indian captain and skipper, who scored a brace in India’s loss to Tajikistan in opening
match of Intercontinental Cup 2019. He won AIFF award for 3rd consecutive year and for a record-
extending 6th time (2007, 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2017). With 70 goals for India, he is also the 2nd-highest
active international scorer only behind Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal. He currently plays for Bengaluru FC
in Indian Super League (ISL).
Other Awardees are as follows:
AIFF Emerging Men’s Footballer of Year 2018-19: Sahal Abdul Samad (from Kerala)
AIFF Emerging Women’s Footballer of Year 2018-19: Dangmei Grace (from Manipur)
AIFF Award for Best Referee: R Venkatesh (from Tamil Nadu)
AIFF Award for the Best Assistant Referee: Joseph Tony (from Karnatak)a
Best Grassroots Development Programme: Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) Football Association
About AIFF Awards
AIFF Player of Year has been awarded by All India Football Federation since 1992.
It is an annual association football award presented to best footballer in India.
AIFF is governing body of football association in India sicne its inception in 1937. It was one of founding
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 59
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

members of Asian Football Confederation, which is overseer of football in Asia.


Air India allows Hajj Pilgrims to carry Zamzam Water on Flight
Air India has allowed pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia after Haj to carry holy water from Zamzam
within permissible baggage allowance.
Baggage allowance on all Commercial flights operating out of Saudia Arabia is uniformly 40 kg for
everyone. Special 5kg allowance is given to those passengers who may carry Zam Zam (holy water). This
special allowance is exclusively for Zam Zam only i.e. it cannot be converted into baggage allowance.
About Zamzam
The well of Zamzam is located in Masjid al-Haram, Mecca (holiest place in Islam) in Kingdom Saudi Arabia
and many Haj pilgrims bring the holy water from the well for family and friends.
Every year Millions of pilgrims visit well while performing Hajj or Umrah pilgrimages in order to drink its
water.
Background
Earlier on first week of July, sales team of Air India’s Jeddah office informed all travel agents stating that
till 15 September due to change of aircraft and limitation of seats, Zamzam cans will not be allowed on
some flights. Now Air India has clarified that passengers are allowed to carry Zamzam cans within their
permissible baggage allowance.
July 12, 2019
Operation Thirst: launched by Railway Protection Force
Railway Protection Force (RPF) recently launched ‘Operation Thirst’ to stop selling of unauthorised
Packaged Drinking Water (PDW). During the operation, which was carried out on 8 and 9 July 2019 fines
were imposed on those found guilty and many were arrested.
About Operation Thirst
It was launched by Railway Protection Force (RPF) as an all India drive to crackdown selling of
unauthorised Packaged Drinking Water (PDW) in Delhi.
Under it as many as 1,371 people were arrested and over 69,294 bottles were seized by RPF. The bottles
were seized under section 144 and section 153 of Indian Railway Act.
Areas: As per RPF, operation was launched in all major railway stations across the country to curb menace
of unauthorized Packaged Drinking Water inside railway stations.
Implementation: During the operation, a total fine amount of Rs. 6,80,855 has been realised from
offenders and 4 pantry car managers involved in selling of spurious mineral water was also arrested. Also
many stalls on platforms which were found selling of PDW bottles of brands were found to be not
authorized by Indian Railways.
11 July: World Population Day observed
World Population Day is observed every year across the world on 11 July. Its observance is aimed to shift
focus towards urgency and significance of issues related to population.
About World Population Day
Background: The World Population Day was established by the Governing Council of United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP) in 1989.
Why 11 July? It was inspired by public interest in Five Billion Day on 11 July 1987. It is the approximate
date on which world’s population reached 5 billion people.
Celebration: WPD is being celebrated for over three decades (30 years). It is meant to raise awareness
about solutions related to issues of growing population. On occasion of day UN’s Population Division
works closely with agencies, programmes, funds, and various other bodies to execute several programmes
on population.
Objective: To focus attention on consequences of increasing population and how it affects overall
development plans and programmes.
Why Population a worry?
According to United Nation, every year about 83 million people are added to world’s population and by
2030. With this pace the world population is expected to reach 8.6 billion mark.
One of the greatest consequences of growing population is that it possess a threat to our livelihood and

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 60


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

quick depletion of natural resources. This is dangerous as it hampers Sustainable Development.


10 Most Populous Countries in the World
1. China remains most populous country in world- with 1.4 billion inhabitants (18% of world
population)
2. India with 1.3 billion inhabitants (17.7% of world population)
3. United States (329 Million) is the 3rd most populous country
4. Indonesia (269 million)
5. Brazil (212 million)
6. Pakistan (204 million)
7. Nigeria (200 million)
8. Bangladesh (168 million)
9. Russia (143 million)
10. Mexico (132 million)
NOTE: Together India and China account for 2.79 billion people or 36.15% of world population.
Japan’s Hayabusa2 Probe makes 2nd touchdown on asteroid Ryugu
Japan’s Hayabusa2 probe has made a perfect touchdown on a distant asteroid named Ryugu, some 300
million kilometres from Earth. It collected samples from beneath surface in an unprecedented mission
that could shed light on origins of solar system.
About Hayabusa2 Mission
Creating History: Before this touchdown by Hayabusa2 probe, a sub-surface material from a celestial
body further away than moon have never been gathered. Thus Japan became 1st country to do so.
Hayabusa2 also made history with the creation of the crater on Ryugu’s surface.
Objective: It is intended to collect pristine materials from beneath surface of desolate asteroid as it is
believed that collected material could provide insights into what solar system was like at its birth, some
4.6 billion years ago.
Background: It is the successor to JAXA’s (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) 1st asteroid explorer
called Hayabusa which is Japanese word for ‘falcon’. In 2010 Hayabusa returned with dust samples from a
smaller, potato-shaped asteroid. It was also hailed as scientific triumph despite various setbacks during its
epic 7-year odyssey. Then Hayabusa2 Mission was launched in December 2014, with project cost around
$270 million. Hayabusa2 mission is a complex multi-year which has also involved sending rovers and
robots down to the surface. It is scheduled to return to Earth with its samples in 2020.
1st Touchdown of Hayabusa2: The recent brief landing is 2nd time Hayabusa2 has touched down on
desolate asteroid Ryugu. The 1st touchdown was in February 2019, when it landed briefly on asteroid
Ryugu and fired a bullet into surface to puff up dust for collection just before blasting back to its holding
position.
Importance of 2nd Touchdown: The 2nd Touchdown required special preparations as any problems could
have meant that probe would lose precious materials already gathered during its 1st landing. It is the last
major part of Hayabusa2’s mission, and when probe returns to Earth in 2020 to drop off its samples,
scientists hope to learn more about history of solar system and even origin of life on Earth.
Ryugu, in in Japanese means Dragon Palace. It refers to a castle at bottom of ocean in an ancient Japanese
tale.
Gafa Tax: France to levy 3% tax on Internet giants
The French parliament approved a law dubbed as Gafa Tax (an acronym for Google, Apple, Facebook and
Amazon), the legislation will impose a 3% levy on sales generated in the country by non-tax paying online
giants.
Key Highlights
Levying this 3% tax on total annual revenues of largest technology firms providing services to French
consumers would make France 1st major economy to impose a tax on internet heavyweights.
Background: At present, digital companies pay nearly no tax in countries where they have large sales like
France. The Bill was adopted by National Assembly last week has got its final approval from Senate.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 61


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Objective: To stop multinationals from avoiding taxes by setting up headquarters in low-tax European
Union (EU) countries. At present, companies pay nearly no tax in countries where they have large sales
such as France.
Applicable on: The tax would be applied only to companies with global revenues in excess of €500 million
and revenue of at least €25 million from UK activities.
Implications:
As per France’s Finance Ministry estimations the Gafa tax will raise about €500 million ($566 million) in
2019 but that should increase “quickly.”
The tech industry has warned that it could lead to higher costs for consumers.
It could also affect US multinational companies such as Airbnb and Uber as well as those from China and
Europe.
Way ahead: Although France failed to persuade European Union (EU) partners to impose a Europe-wide
tax on online giants, but it is pushing for an international deal with member countries of Organization for
Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
US House passes Bill to remove 7% cap on issuing Green Card
United States’ House of Representatives has passed a Bill titled Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act
of 2019, or HR 1044, by an overwhelming 365-65 votes in a 435-member House to remove 7% country-cap
on green card applicants. The development could end agonising wait of tens of thousands of skilled
professionals from countries like India who have sought permanent residency in USA.
Salient Features of Bill
The HR 1044 Bill, when signed into law would increase the per-country cap on Family-Based Immigrant
Visas from 7% of total number of such visas available that year to 15%, and will also eliminate 75 cap for
Employment-Based Immigrant Visas.
It removes an offset that reduced number of visas for individuals belonging to China.
Green Card: allows a non-US citizen to live and work permanently in USA.
Need: Indian Information Technology (IT) professionals, who mostly go to US on H-1B work visas, are
worst sufferers of current immigration system, which imposes a 7% per country quota on allotment of
green card, or permanent legal residency.
Reservation: The Bill establishes transition rules for employment-based visas from Financial Year
2020-2022 by reserving certain percentage of EB-2 i.e. workers with advanced degrees/exceptional ability,
EB-3 i.e. skilled and other workers and EB-5 (investors) visas for individuals not from two countries with
largest number of recipients of such visas.
Out of unreserved visas, not more than 85% shall be allotted to immigrants from any single country.
Significance: This Bill will help ensure that those seeking permanent residency (PR) will not have to face
extraordinary wait times which is sometimes projected at 50 years or more for people from countries
such as China and India simply because of their country of origin.
Way Ahead: The bill has to be passed by Senate (Upper Chamber of US Congress), where ruling Republican
Party enjoys a majority, before it can be signed into law by President Donald Trump.
July 13, 2019
Viswanathan Anand joins as mentor of ChessKid
Viswanathan Anand, India’s first Grandmaster and five-time World chess champion has become mentor
for Indian edition of chesskid.com, a US-based chess platform.
Under the guidance of 49-year-old Anand who has inspired a generation of young chess players, online
platform chesskid.com would release curated chess content and hold annual online competitions for
India’s aspiring young chess players.
About Chess Kid
It is a US-based online chess platform. It launched its Indian edition under mentorship of Viswanathan
Anand.
It is the world’s largest scholastic website for kids, besides being safe and accessible platform. Kids can
play live chess, do puzzles, interact with other players.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 62


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Currently there are 1 million kids playing on the online platform.


It develops not only chess skills, but also helps in academics.
Need: Although in India, there are lot of good talents such as Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin and D. Gukesh,
but not all kids have ability to get training or resources they require. Thus one way to get that is via
technology.
Kharchi Puja Festival being celebrated in Tripura
The annual festival of worship of 14 Gods, popularly known as Kharchi Puja is being celebrated in Tripura.
It started at Chaturdash Devata Bari in old Agartala (Puran Agartala). The festival began on 10 July will
continue till 16 July 2019.
According to an agreement signed with Royal family of Tripura, the Tripura government has been bearing
all the expenses of the festival for the last several decades.
About Kharchi Puja
It is one of the most popular festivals in Tripura and is celebrated at Puran Agartala in temple premises of
14 gods.
The word Kharchi is derived from word ‘Khya’ which means earth thus Kharchi Puja is basically done to
worship earth.
It’s a week-long royal Puja which falls in month of July on 8th day of new moon and attracts thousands of
people.
The Puja celebrations extend till a week and are held in temple premises which are attended by thousands
of devotees.
All of rituals during puja are of tribal origin, which includes worshipping of 14 gods and mother earth.
Puja is performed for seven consecutive days to wash out sins and to clean post menstrual phase of
mother earth’s menstruation.
On day of Puja, 14 gods are carried to Saidra river by members of chantai where gods are bathed in holy
water and are brought back to temple.
An important part of this festival includes animal sacrifice of goats and pigeons.
SBI Managing Director Anshula Kant appointed World Bank’s MD and CFO
Anshula Kant, Managing Director of State Bank of India (SBI) has been appointed as Managing Director
and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of World Bank. She will be the 1st woman CFO of World Bank. Her
appointment was announced by David Malpass, World Bank’s President.
Key Highlights
Since September 2018 she has been a Managing Director and member of the World Bank Board.
Role as CFO: While functioning her role as MD and CFO, Anshula Kant will be responsible for financial and
risk management of World Bank Group and will report WB’s President.
Duties: Among other key management duties, her work will include risk management and oversight of
financial reporting. She will also work closely with World Bank CEO on mobilization of International
Development Association (IDA) and other financial resources. IDA is a member of World Bank Group. It is
an international financial institution that offers concessional loans and grants to world’s poorest
developing countries.
About Anshula Kant
She is a graduate in Economic Honours from Lady Shri Ram (LSR) College for Women, New Delhi and
Post-Graduate in Economics from Delhi School of Economics.
Role in SBI:
She has held position of Chief Financial Officer of SBI. As SBI’s CFO she managed $38 billion of revenues
and total assets of $500 billion.World Bank
She has more than 35 years of expertise in finance and banking sector. Stewarding SBI she greatly
improved capital base and focused on long-term sustainability of organisation within her mandate.
She has held direct responsibility for SBI’s Risk, Compliance and Stressed Asset Portfolio and led creation
of several investment opportunities while empowering risk management via bank.
12 July: ‘Save Water Day’ observed by West Bengal government
On 12 July 2019, West Bengal government observed Save Water Day across the state to spread the

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 63


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

message of water conservation. This is the 1st time the day was observed. From now onwards it will be
observed in state each year to create awareness among people to check misuse of water.
About ‘Save Water Day
On occasion of day West Bengal’s Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and eminent persons of different fields
including writers, actors and directors of Bengali film and theatre industry and sports personalities,
school students took part in Padayatra in Kolkata.
It was also observed in Districts and Blocks of State.
Padayatra: was undertaken in Kolkata which began from Jorashanko Thakurbari and ended at base of
Gandhi Statue in city. All present took pledge for conservation of water was also taken on occasion.
On occasion of day Chief Minister urged prople to-
Save water and save life.
Come forward for joining such social programme
Take precautionary measures to save natural resource as water scarcity has become a major issue in
world.
Steps Taken for Water Conservation in State
Since 2011, programme of digging ponds is being undertaken throughout state for conservation of water.
About 3 lakhs ponds have been dug till now to deal with water scarcity.
State has water conservation programme: Jal dharo Jal bharo (Collect water, store water). To prevent
floods and provide water during the period of scarcity, many check dams have been constructed and
irrigation canals have been rejuvenated.
From now on state government would observe a Student Day to disseminate message of conservoing
water in every sphere of society.
Defence Ministry signs MoU with IPFC and NRDC
In a major boost to Mission Raksha Gyan Shakti, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed
between Intellectual Property Facilitation Cell (IPFC), Department of Defence Production, Union Ministry
of Defence and National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), Union Ministry of Science and
Technology.
Key Highlights of MoU
The partnership between IPFC and NRDC is expected to bridge capacity shortfall and provide a major
fillip to ongoing efforts of MoD towards promoting a culture of Innovation and Intellectual Property
Rights (IPR) in Indian Defence industry.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has also approved Action Plan 2019-20 of MRGS which includes
training of additional 20,000 personnel from Public/ Private Sector Industry and Armed Forces on
relevance of IP Culture to Indian Defence manufacturing industry. The Action Plan will also institute a
framework which enables full utilization of new ideas and innovation towards achieving self-reliance in
defence sector.
About Mission Raksha Gyan Shakti
It was launched with aim to inculcate Intellectual Property (IP) culture in Indian Defence manufacturing
ecosystem.
Under the mission, an Intellectual Property Facilitation Cell (IPFC) has been established under aegis of
Directorate General Quality Assurance (DGQA). Within a short span of a year IPFC has achieved challenging
target of training over 12,000 personnel on IPR and facilitating filing of over 1000 new IPR applications.
About National Research Development Corporation
It was established by Government of India in 1953.
Objective: To promote, develop and commercialise technologies, know-how, patents, inventions and
processes emanating from various national R&D institutions or Universities.
It is presently working under administrative control of Dept. of Scientific & Industrial Research, Union
Ministry of Science & Technology.
Kalyani Rafael Advanced Systems bags $100 million missile kit order
Kalyani Rafael Advanced Systems Ltd (KRAS) has secured $100-million order from Israel’s Rafeal for
manufacturing 1,000 Barak-8 Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MR-SAM) Missile kits for Indian

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 64


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF).


Key Highlights
KRAS plans to develop these systems at facility located near international airport in Hyderabad,
Telangana. These systems would be produced over next 4 years and then be supplied to India’s state-run
defence manufacturer Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) for further integration.
Rafael’s collaboration with Indian defence industry has led to investment of over $250 million over the
years as a part of Make-in-India initiative.
About KRAS
It is a 49:51 joint venture (JV) of Israel’s Rafael Advanced Systems (49%) and India’s Kalyani Strategic
Systems Ltd. (51%).
Unique: It is 1st private missile production facility in India. It produces missiles, interceptors, besides
deploying defence systems and providing long-term maintenance of missiles and equipment. It is
committed to operational readiness of Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF).
Site Expansion: Kalyani group plans to set up 2nd manufacturing facility on a 100-acre site in Telangana
to enhance its production capability, primarily to serve India and also to operate as an export facility for
friendly neighbouring countries.
KRAS unit: It is an advanced production facility that offers engineering services as well as extended life-
cycle support for systems that are supplied to Indian defence forces.
KRAS Facility: near Hyderabad was set up in August 2017. It has now bagged $100-million order and has
been exporting defence systems and achieved business of $15 million in 2018. It expects to clock nearly $30
million by 2019.
Nagarkirtan: wins Best Feature Film award at SAARC film festival
Director Kaushik Ganguly’s Bengali outing Nagarkirtan, has won big at prestigious 2019’s SAARC (South
Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) film festival, bagging 4 awards in total, including Best
Feature Film.
Key Highlights
Nagarkirtan, a love story of a transwoman and flautist, stars Riddhi Sen and Ritwik Chakraborty.
It is a critically acclaimed movie that swept many National Awards in 2018.
‘Nagarkirtan’ was honoured with Best Feature Film, Best Original Score awards, Best Director and Best
Actor.
About SAARC Film Festival
It is held by SAARC Cultural Centre.
This year is 9th edition of SAARC film fest. It took place in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
SAARC Film Festival has built a reputation as being very important platform and focal point for
promoting and celebrating some of the best films from SAARC Region.
SAARC Film Festival 2019–
It will focus on films created in South Asia and first screened after 1 May 2017.
Two other Indian films won awards at 2019 edition of fest.
Best Short Film’ award– Na Bole Wo Haram, a 20-minute film by debutant director Nitish Patan
Special Jury Award for Direction and Story– Walking With the Wind, by Praveen Morchhale
RBI’s Working Group recommends extension of market hours
An Internal Working Group of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Comprehensive Review of Market Timings has
suggested calibrated extension of Currency Market (Foreign Exchange Market) hours, from 9 am to 9 pm
for both Over the Counter (OTC) and Exchange Traded. At present the markets close at 5 pm.
Key Highlights of Draft Report
As per the draft report prepared by RBI’s working group, although extension of market timings is
expected to provide benefits like improved onshore price discovery, better pricing of post market hours
information or data and possible shift of offshore volumes to onshore but there is a view that it may entail
higher costs to stakeholders.
The central bank is in process of reviewing and rationalising Forex regulations so as to provide flexibility
in operation in currency markets, which would allow calibrated extension of market timings.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 65


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Recommendations by Working Group-


Call Market: Its timings could be extended till 6 pm. As Real Time Gross Settlement (RTGS) system is
operational till such time.
Bond Market: On account of lack of demand from participants group recommended that the government
bond market timing can be retained and the market be closed at 5 pm.
G-Sec Trading: Currently there have been no requests from any market participants seeking extension of
market hours for G-sec trading.
Most of the Foreign portfolio investments (FPIs) investing in India already have Asian base and therefore
the internal group notes that extending timings may not lead to larger volume and mentions that
feedback from market also supports that current timings are more than adequate.
Moreover regarding products, participation and position both for residents and non-residents, extension
of market hours would complement these policy measures.
What are ETD and OTC?
Exchange Traded Derivatives (ETD) are traded via central exchange with publicly visible prices i.e. on a
centralized exchange while Over the Counter (OTC) derivatives are for companies that are not listed on a
formal exchange and traded between two parties (bilateral negotiation) without going through an
exchange or any other intermediaries.
World Tour Platinum Australian Open: Indian Duo win bronze
The Indian pair of G. Sathiyan and Anthony Amalraj won bronze in Men’s Doubles at World Tour Platinum
Australian Open Table Tennis 2019 held in Geelong near Melbourne in Australia.
Key Highlights
The duo went down with 12-14, 9-11, 8-11 to top seed Korean pair of Jeoung Youngsik and Lee Sangsu. The
Korean pair could not be pinned down despite being extended in 1st game. The Indian duo (G. Sathiyan
and Anthony Amalraj) fought really well before bowing out in semifinal.
This was India’s first ever medal in Australian Open, which is a Platinum event.
This lone bronze medal was only silver lining as other Indians failed to cross preliminary-round hurdles in
all events. This included Sharath Kamal and Sathiyan as the only two Indians who could make it to 3rd
round of qualifying matches in men’s singles before bowing out.
About 2019 ITTF World Tour
It is 24th edition of International Table Tennis Federation’s professional table tennis world tour. It is
scheduled from 17 January 2019 to 15 December 2019.
Total no. of Tournaments: 12 + Grand Finals
The tournaments in 2019 tour is divided in to two Categories-
1. World Tour (6)
2. World Tour Platinum (6)- It offer higher prize money and more points towards the ITTF World Tour
standings. The points earned determine qualifiers for ITTF World Tour Grand Finals in December
2019.
July 14-15, 2019
Meghalaya becomes 1st state to ensure Water Conservation
Meghalaya became 1st state in India to ensure conservation of water and have its own State Water Policy.
This move comes following a nod given by State Cabinet for the purpose.
Key Highlights
The draft policy was approved by Meghalaya’s State Cabinet in a meeting chaired by state’s Chief Minister
Conrad K. Sangma.
Amid water crisis in country, this draft water policy of Meghalaya would work towards addressing water
issues, conservation, and protection of water sources in state.
About ‘State Water Policy’ of Meghalaya
Objective:
To recognize water resources as a common pool resource (CPR) as these are susceptible to overuse
To provide safe and hygienic water for drinking, domestic needs and sanitation
Livelihood development to all residents of state

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 66


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Community Participation: Among other things, draft State Water Policy of Meghalaya seeks to protect
and improve management of water resources while actively involving community participation.
Mandate:
Policy intends to achieve sustainable development, management and use of water resources with help of
community participation. This will help improve health and livelihood as well as reduce vulnerability
among people.
At village level committees will be formed and issue of groundwater will also be catered by this policy.
Also, state department will also monitor quality of the water to check if it has a high Iron content or if it’s
acidic.
Protecting Catchment Areas: Policy also seeks to ensure protection and conservation of catchment areas
of all water sources in state so as to prevent degradation of quantity and quality of water sources. It also
outlines issue of river pollution.
Implementation: For the purpose of implementation of the policy via active participation of the
community a Water Sanitation Village Council at the village level would be constituted.
Significance:
This policy would go long way in changing mindset of people and proper utilization of water.
It will also assure of good governance for present and future generations via Integrated Water Resources
Management and Environmental Sustainability
Iwai Ship Carrying Bhutanese Cargo flagged off from Assam to Bangladesh
In a first ever movement of its kind, IWAI (Inland Waterways Authority of India) ship carrying Bhutanese
cargo was flagged off from Dhubri in Assam to Narayanganj in Bangladesh over Brahmaputra River and
the Indo Bangladesh Protocol Route.
The cargo carrying stone from Bhutan to be delivered in Bangladesh was digitally flagged-off by Mansukh
Mandaviya, Minister of State for Shipping (Independent Charge) and Chemical & Fertilizers.
Key Highlights
Background: Until now, Bhutan has been exporting significant quantity of stone aggregates to
Bangladesh via land route by trucks from Phuentsholing in Bhutan which is 160 KMs from IWAI’s Dhubri
jetty in Assam. This new route development is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of
promoting cargo transportation via inland waterways.
Iwai Ship carries 1000 MT of stones aggregates i.e. about 70 trucks would be required to transport the
same cargo by road. In return journey of the vessel Bangladesh will send jute and rice to Bhutan in same
vessel.
Benefits
This move will strengthen relations between the neighbouring countries thus will be beneficial to all
countries involved i.e. India, Bhutan and Bangladesh.
The transport of cargo via this route will reduce travel time by 8 to 10 days, and will cut down
transportation cost by 30%, bringing down logistics costs.
It will also be more environment friendly mode of transport.
Other than strengthening India’s ties with its neighbouring countries, this new development will also
open up an alternate route to country’s North Eastern states, making it easier and cheaper to reach goods
to these places from other parts of the country.
Dredging undertaken along Ship route:
Capital dredging was carried out to maintain an assured draft in navigation channel
Maintenance dredging will be carried out as and when required
Importance: This is for the 1st time ever, an Indian waterway is being used for transport of cargo between
two countries, using India for transit.
Steps Taken by Government for promoting Inland Waterways
Currently, at least 10 other National Waterways are under development.
Centre government is also undertaking many initiatives to increase use of Inland Waterways and Coastal
Shipping for greater cargo shipment such as providing assured depth of water in channels, terminals at

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 67


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

regular intervals, navigation aids (ex- GPS and River Information System), facilities for mechanized
handling of cargo handling etc.
At major ports of country a minimum 40 % discount and priority in berthing is being given to coastal
vessels.
Central Government has also provided Licensing relaxations under section 406 and 407 of Merchant
Shipping Act 1958 for fisheries/animal husbandry products/fertilizers/horticultural/agricultural
products/empty containers as well as containers being transshipped from another Indian port, special
vessels such as Ro-Ro (Roll-on/roll-off), Ro-Pax (roll-on/roll-off passenger), Project cargo/ Over
Dimensional Cargo (ODC).

Baba Guru Nanak International University: Foundation stone laid in Pakistan


Foundation stone of Baba Guru Nanak University (BGNU) was laid at Nankana Sahib, in Pakistan’s Punjab
province. University’s foundation stone was laid by Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar. This comes
ahead of beginning of International Nagar Kirtan by Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee on July
25.
Key Highlights
Nankana Sahib is the birth place of founder of Sikhism Baba Guru Nanak Dev.
BGNU is spread over 10 acres and would be completed with an amount of over Rs 258 crores.
The establishment of Baba Guru Nanak University in Nankana Sahib is part of Prime Minister of Pakistan
Imran Khan’s vision to facilitate students in Nankana Sahib and other adjoining districts.
This university would help promote religious tourism in Pakistan and also portray country’s good image
at international level.
Other steps taken by Pakistan for promoting secularism–
In 2019, for the 1st time a Pakistani university had created Baba Guru Nanak research chair to promote
message of peace that Sikh spiritual leader preached.
A motel of Tourism Development Corporation of Punjab (TDCP) was also inaugurated in Nankana Sahib to
promote religious tourism.
Foundation stone of a road repair project was also laid in Nankana Sahib district that will be completed
with Rs 150 million.
Background
The decision to construct BGNU came after Sikhs living in Pakistan demanded university after name of

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 68


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

founder of their religion Baba Guru Nanak at his birthplace in Nankana Sahib. The construction proposal
of building university was 1st surfaced in 2003 during Punjab government of Pervaiz Elahi.
In 2017 in government of Pakistan Muslim League (N) (PML-N), the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB)
gave a final approval to project.
Tropical Storm Barry hits Louisiana in US and entire Gulf coast
After making landfall along central Louisiana coast (in United States) as a Category 1 hurricane, the
powerful storm Barry was downgraded to a tropical storm. After briefly becoming 1st hurricane of
Atlantic season, the storm downsized to a tropical depression over northwestern Louisiana, but its heavy
rain continues to plague communities.
Key Highlights
Background: All concerned authorities were on high alert as Barry’s path went across the western
periphery of New Orleans, where 14 years ago (in 2005) Hurricane Katrina devastated city and surrounding
areas. After receiving a letter from Edwards urging federal action, in early July 2019 US President Donald
Trump declared a state of emergency in state. This declaration gives Louisiana access to federal
assistance.

Wind Speed: Tropical Storm Barry made landfall Louisiana as a Category 1 hurricane with sustained
winds clocking in at more than 130 kilometers per hour (81 miles per hour) but it quickly weakened to a
tropical storm with winds dropping to 70 miles per hour.
Concern: Storm is expected to bring more heavy rain and possible tornadoes to the region and the
Mississippi River is already swollen from springtime floodwaters.
Scientists already warned of compounding risks due to climate change.
The surge of fresh water due to tropical storm endangers oysters, speckled trout, brown shrimp and other
fish that require particular salinity levels. Thus Barry’s severe flooding could make things worse especially
in light of more intense and frequent storms brought on by global warming.
Moreover there are going to be short-term effects on ecosystem but the amount of rainfall is linked to
longer-term trend because of climate change.
About Tropical Cyclones
They are violent storms originates over oceans in tropical areas. They then move over to coastal areas
bringing about large scale destruction due to violent winds (which are known as squalls), torrential
rainfall and storm surge.
Various names are given to tropical storms depending on where they appear such as:
Hurricanes– are tropical storms form over North Atlantic Ocean and Northeast Pacific.
Cyclones– over South Pacific and Indian Ocean
Typhoons– Northwest Pacific Ocean
Simona Halep beats Serena for Maiden Wimbledon Title
Simona Halep of Romania beats Serena Williams of United States with 6-2, 6-2 in final to win Women’s
Singles Wimbledon Title 2019. She dispatched 7-time Wimbledon Champion Serena Williams in just 56
minutes to clinch her 1st Wimbledon and 2nd Major title.
Key Highlights
Simona Halep is now 1st Romanian to win singles crown at SW19 (the location i.e. South-West London 19
of Wimbledon tennis club). Earlier, mercurial Ilie Nastase was a two-time finalist in 1972 and 1976.
She dropped only one set throughout tournament to claim her 1st Wimbledon title.
One of the biggest motivations for Simona Halep to win Wimbledon was to get a life-time membership of
coveted All England Club.
For Serena, it was a 3rd successive loss in Major final since her return from maternity. She is still one
short of Margaret Court’s record of 24 Majors.
About Simona Halep
The 27 Year old is born on 27 September 1991 in Constanta, Romania.
Simona’s Grand Slam titles (2): French Open in 2018; Wimbledon in 2019
Won her 1st Grand Slam title after falling at final hurdle 3 times- Roland Garros (2014, 2017) and
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 69
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Australian Open (2018)


She became 1st Romanian to win Grand Slam crown since her manager Virginia Ruzici in Paris in 1978.
She claimed her 1st Grand Slam title at Roland Garros by defeating Sloane Stephens.
She made several changes to her coaching team and in 2019 her ranking dropped to 7th.
Kladno Memorial Athletics Meet: Mohammad Anas, Hima Das wins gold
India’s Mohammad Anas won gold in men’s 400m with an effort of 45.21 seconds and Hima Das won gold
in women’s 200m event at Kladno Memorial Athletics Meet at Kladno in Czech Republic. This is Hima Das
3rd international triumph in 11 days.
Key Highlight
Mohammad Anas: He bettered his own national record in men’s 400m race. His earlier national record
time stood at 45.24 seconds which he recorded in 2018. The 24-year-old Anas finished nearly one second
ahead of silver winner Omelko Rafal (46.19) of Poland.
Hima Das: clocked a much improved time of 23.43 seconds to win gold while she has personal best of 23.10
sec in 200m. This was her 3rd international gold within 2 weeks. She won other two gold in Poznan
Athletics Grand Prix in Poland and at the Kutno Athletics Meet in Poland.
V K Vismaya clocked her personal best of 52.54 seconds to win the ‘A’ race in women’s 400m.
Other Winners:
Indian trio Vipin Kasana (82.51m), Abhishek Singh (77.32m) and Davinder Singh Kang (76.58m) took top 3
spots in men’s javelin final respectively.
In Men’s Shot Put event, national record holder Tejinder Pal Singh Toor managed best throw of 20.36m to
win bronze. He holds national record of 20.75m.
Saritaben stood 3rd with 53.37.
Other Gold Winners:
Archana in 100m (11.74 sec)
Harsh Kumar in 400m (46.76 sec)
Lili Das in 1500m (4:19.05)
Sahil Silwal in javelin throw (78.50m)
Women’s 4×100 relay (45.81 sec).
In XXII International Memorial Competition in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan-
Indians bagged 6 gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze, with national record holder M Sreeshankar winning long
jump event with a creditable 7.97m.
IFFI’s Golden Jubilee Edition to be held in Goa
The Golden Jubilee Edition of International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will be held from 20-28 November
2019 in Panaji, Goa. The announcement regarding IFFI 2019 was made by Prakash Javadekar, Union
Minister for Information and Broadcasting following the steering committee meeting of IFFI 2019 in
Panaji.
About IFFI
Background: IFFI is being organised in Goa since 2004 under the leadership of then chief minister of Goa
Late Manohar Parrikar. Before 2004 festival was organised in some other states as well. The 2019 IFFI
edition would also pay tribute to Parrikar considering his contribution towards the event and making Goa
the permanent venue for the festival.
IFFI 2019-
Partner: In this years’ edition i.e. 50th International Film Festival of India Russia will be IFFI’s partner.
Organiser: IFFI 2019 is being organised in Panaji jointly by Directorate of Film Festivals and state-run
Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG).
This year road shows will be organised in 7 cities on occasion of golden jubilee year of prestigious film
event.
Business exhibition during event will showcase latest technology, film production and distribution and
other aspects regarding films.
To mark 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in 2019, separate exhibition depicting the life of the

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 70


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Father of the Nation will be also held.


Students from Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and Satyajit Ray Institute of India and students
from some other film institutes will be a part of IFFI to gain some hands on experience.
Invitees: John Bailey, President of Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and other eminent
producers and cinematographers have been invited for event.
The Ministry concerned is also working on idea to rope in some private theatres for viewing of cinema to
reach out to masses.
Defence Minister lights Victory Flame to Mark 20 Years of Kargil War
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lighted Victory Flame at National War Memorial in New Delhi on 14 July
2019 to begin celebrations of 20th Anniversary of victory in Operation Vijay (Kargil War 1999) at Kargil (in
Kargil district of Ladakh region), in Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Highlights
The year 2019 marks 20th anniversary of successful culmination of Operation Vijay wherein brave soldiers
of Indian Army overcame seemingly insurmountable odds, hostile terrain, weather, and determined
enemy (Pakistan) occupying dominating heights, to win Kargil war.
Theme of 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas- Remember, Rejoice and Renew which stads for- The
country all together ‘remember’ our martyrs by revisiting their sacrifices, ‘rejoice’ by celebrating victory
in Kargil and ‘renew’ our resolve to safeguard honour of Tricolour.
The Victory Flame was lit by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh along with General Bipin Rawat, COAS,
Subedar Sanjay Kumar, PVC who handed it over to ace army shooter Subedar Jitu Rai, as 1st torch bearer of
the Flame.
Events Planned:
Indian Army is celebrating this kargil war victory in memory of its brave martyrs with events covering a
myriad spectrum.
Relay of Victory Flame from National War Memorial (in New Delhi) to Kargil War Memorial (in Dras).
Indian Army’s outstanding sportsmen and war heroes will be carrying Victory Flame.
It will pass through 9 major towns/cities of North India and finally culminate at Kargil War Memorial
located at Dras on 26 July 2019, where it will be received by General Bipin Rawat, COAS.
All along journey of Victory Flame, Indian Army personnel will be paying homage to heroes who fought
valiantly for Nation.
About Victory Flame
It symbolizes coalescence of souls of Kargil War martyrs.
Its design has been inspired by grit, guts and glory displayed by immortals who made supreme sacrifice
for motherland in finest tradition of Indian Army.
Torch of Victory Flame is made of copper, brass and wood which symbolizes tenacity and determination of
country’s fallen heroes.
Torch Symbolism–
Upper portion of Torch has a metal etching of Amar Jawan that epitomizes fallen Unknown Soldiers.
Lower portion of Torch is Wooden and it has 20 gold embossed inscriptions of Amar Jawan exemplifying
20 glorious years of Kargil Victory.
14 July: French Bastille Day celebrated
Every year France celebrates 14 July as National Day of France also known as Bastille Day. It is
commemorated the anniversary of Storming of the Bastille during French Revolution on 14 July 1789.
About French Bastille Day
The Day celebrates storming of Bastille in Paris, which signaled start of French Revolution and became an
important symbol for French Republican movement. It is the French National day and is formally called La
Fete Nationale in France.
Celebration
It is celebrated throughout France. It is also celebrated by other countries and especially French speaking
peoples and communities in other countries.
On the occasion of day many public events take place but most famous event is Bastille Day Military Parade.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 71
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

It takes place in morning of 14 July in Paris. The 1st parade was in 1880. Today the parade runs down
Champs-Elysees from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde at the end of which French President
and many foreign ambassadors wait and greet military.
Famous bicycle race Tour de France also takes place during Bastille Day.
Background
The Bastille was a medieval armory, fortress, and political prison in Paris. To many of common people, it
represented all that was wrong with monarchy and was a symbol of monarchy’s abuse of power. On July
14, 1789 soldiers stormed Bastille and took over it. This signaled the start of French Revolution and three
years later in 1792 French Republic was formed.
On day Bastille was stormed it held only seven prisoners as it was only big enough to hold around 50
prisoners.
Bastille Day1st became a national holiday in France in 1880 after being proposed by French politician
Benjamin Raspail. This was also year of 1st Bastille Day Military Parade.
Multiple Choice Questions

1. Veer Chotrani is associated to which sports?


[A] Athletics
[B] Wrestling
[C] Badminton
[D] Squash
Correct Answer: D [Squash]
Notes:
In Squash, India won a gold as Veer Chotrani beat compatriot Yash Fadte to win the Under-19 title at the
Asian Junior Championship in Macau, China. With this victory, Veer became the third Indian to win the
Asian trophy after Ravi Dixit and Vela Senthilkumar. It was a contest of fluctuating fortunes until Veer
held his nerve to beat Fadte 11-5, 9-11, 11-7, 9-11, 11-7. In the other two finals, India bagged two silver
medals through Neel Joshi in the boys Under-17 category and Yuvna Gupta in the girls Under-15 section.
India finished the tournament with one gold, three silver and as many bronze medals.
2. Who is the current director of Intelligence Bureau (IB)?
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 72
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[A] Anil Dhasmana


[B] Arvind Kumar
[C] Samant Kumar Goel
[D] Rajiv Jain
Correct Answer: B [Arvind Kumar]
Notes:
Arvind Kumar, a 1984 batch IPS officer from Assam- Meghalaya cadre, has been appointed as the new
chief of the Intelligence Bureau (IB). Kumar is considered an expert on Kashmir, with specialisation in
counter-terrorism and is said to have been closely involved in tackling Left-wing extremism at the IB. He
also holds charge as the special director of Kashmir in the intelligence agency. Kumar succeeded Rajiv
Jain as IB chief, who completed his tenure of two and half years. IB is India’s internal intelligence agency
and is headquartered at New Delhi.
3. Which state government has launched free crop insurance scheme for farmers?
[A] Jharkhand
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] West Bengal
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: C [West Bengal]
Notes:
For the 2019 kharif season, the West Bengal government has rolled out a free crop insurance scheme in
collaboration with the Agriculture Insurance Company of India (AIC). The scheme called Bangla Shashya
Bima (BSB) is applicable for farmers in 15 districts – Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Purba Bardhaman, Paschim
Bardhaman, Purba Medinipur, Malda, Hooghly, Nadia, Murshidabad, Cooch Behar, Birbhum, Purulia,
Dakshin Dinajpur, North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas. The crop insurance scheme would be free
of cost for the farmers since the government will pay the full premium. The crops that will come under
insurance are aman paddy, aus paddy, jute and maize. All farmers taking loans (granted or applied for)
and even those not taking loans can avail of the insurance. The insurance will be paid in four stages – for
any losses suffered during planting, during cultivation, during the period post-cutting when crops are
lying in the field, and for adverse weather situations. The amount will be decided by the state
government and will be calculated per hectare.
4. Abburi Chaya Devi, who passed away recently, was the famous fiction writer of which
language?
[A] Telugu
[B] Tamil
[C] Malayalam
[D] Kannada
Correct Answer: A [Telugu ]
Notes:
Abburi Chaya Devi (86), the popular Telugu fiction writer, has passed away in Hyderabad on June 28,
2019. Born on 13th October 1933 in Andhra Pradesh, she was active in literary circles since the fifties and
even in her 70s, was still known as a creative feminist writer. She highlighted the cause of women in her
writings & received the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2005 for her book ‘Thana Margam’. Chaya Devi is the
wife of the late Abburi Varada Rajeswara Rao, who himself was a writer, critic and former Chairman of
Official Languages Commission (OFC). Her works are Anaga Anaga (folk stories for children), Abburi
Chayadevi Kathalu (short stories), 1991, Mrityunjaya (long story),1993 Tana Margam (short stories about
the exploitation of women in the guise of family bonds).
5. What is the theme of the 2019 edition of World Vitiligo Day (WVD)?
[A] Children, Research, and Hope for the Future
[B] The Quality of Life of a Vitiligo Patient
[C] Mental and Medical Journey of Living with Vitiligo
[D] How I Feel

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 73


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Correct Answer: B [The Quality of Life of a Vitiligo Patient]


Notes:
The World Vitiligo Day (WVD) is observed every year on June 25 to raise awareness about the condition.
The 2019 theme ‘The Quality of Life of a Vitiligo Patient’ focuses on mental and medical journey of
vitiligo. Vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder wherein the immune system of the body attacks the healthy
cells and in turn starts affecting the body. The condition is characterized by white patches on the skin
that develops as a result of melanocytes within the skin. These are the cells that are responsible for the
skin pigment melanin that gives color to your skin. The white patches appear when the melanocytes die
off. The condition is also termed as Vitiligo or Leucoderma or White Leprosy.
6. Mohammed Baji, who passed away recently, was the eminent freedom fighter of which state?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Odisha
[C] UP
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: B [Odisha]
Notes:
Mohammed Baji (103), the eminent freedom fighter, has passed away at Sunari Sahi in Nabarangpur ,
Odisha. He was born on 20th January 1917 and was a bachelor. A close associate of tribal civil rights
activist Laxman Nayak, Baji was injured in police firing during the 1942 movement when 29 tribals were
killed while protesting before the Mathili police station in Malkangiri district. He had joined the Indian
National Congress in 1936, the year Odisha became a separate province on the basis of language. He also
joined the Quit India Movement and was held on August 19, 1942. He spent nearly five years in jail before
he was released on June 25, 1947. After the freedom struggle, Baji was active in the Sarvodaya
movement. He was the chairman of Utkal Gandhi Smarak Nidhi and a close associate of Utkal Sarvodaya
Mandal. Baji led padayatras at Nabarangpur for the restoration of peace after the demolition of the Babri
Masjid and again after the communal riot in Kandhamal in 2008.
7. What is the theme of the 13th National Statistics Day (NSD-2019)?
[A] Administrative Statistics
[B] Quality Assurance in Official Statistics
[C] Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare
[D] Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Correct Answer: D [Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)]
Notes:
The 13th National Statistics Day (NSD-2019) is celebrated on 29th June at the National level in India with
theme “Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” to popularize the use of Statistics in everyday life and
sensitize the public as to how Statistics helps in shaping and framing policies. The 2019 theme has been
chosen for intensive and focused discussions towards filling the data gaps and improvement of
timelines/quality in SDGs. The day is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Late Prof. Prasanta Chandra
Mahalanobis in recognition of his invaluable contribution in establishing the National Statistical System.
He had set up Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) at Kolkata in 1931 for research and training in Statistics.
8. Who has become the first IPS Officer to complete ‘Seventh Summit’ Challenge?
[A] Dipankar Ghosh
[B] Aparna Kumar
[C] Malavath Purna
[D] Nawang Gombu
Correct Answer: B [Aparna Kumar]
Notes:
Aparna Kumar, a 2002 batch IPS officer from UP cadre, has created history by becoming the first civil
servant and IPS officer to achieve the incredible and rare feat of completing ‘7 Summits’ challenge.She
hoisted India’s tricolour on Mount Denali in Alaska, which is the highest peak of North America standing
at 20,310 ft. She is also the first woman IPS DIG and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) officer to
successfully complete the South Pole expedition. The Seven Summits is a mountaineering challenge
which includes scaling the highest mountains from each of the 7 continents. It includes Mount Everest
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 74
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

in Nepal, Aconcagua in Argentina, Denali in the US, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Mount Elbrus in
Russia, Mount Vinson in Antarctica, and Puncak Jaya and Mount Kosciuszko in Australia. Canadian
mountaineer Patrick Morrow was the first man to climb the Seven Summits in 1986 while Indian Army
officer Colonel Ranveer Singh Jamwal is the first Indian to summit the seven highest peaks spread
across the seven continents.
9. Which Indian politician has authored the book titled ‘The New Delhi Conspiracy’?
[A] Shashi Tharoor
[B] Abhishek Manu Singhvi
[C] Sanjay Nirupam
[D] Meenakshi Lekhi
Correct Answer: D [Meenakshi Lekhi]
Notes:
The book titled ‘The New Delhi Conspiracy’ has been authored by Meenakshi Lekhi, a Lok Sabha MP from
Delhi and a Supreme Court lawyer. It is co-authored by Krishna Kumar and is slated for release on July 8.
The debut novel talks about undercurrents of Delhi’s political landscape and attempts to lay bare what is
influencing the course of the nation’s political trajectory. The book talks of a malicious man with a
dangerous agenda, an assassin on a diabolical mission, a courageous politician on a treacherous trail and
a conspiracy that will shake the nation.
10. Which state government has launched Dastak campaign against AES & JE disease?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] MP
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Bihar
Correct Answer: C [Uttar Pradesh]
Notes:
The Uttar Pradesh government has launched massive door to door campaign “DASTAK” against Acute
Encephellitis Syndrome (AES) and Japanese Encephallitis (JE) disease. The campaign, which was
launched in association with UNICEF, will run from 1st to 31st July. Under this state-wide campaign
teams will go door to door in every village of the 75 districts of the state to create awareness about the
communicable diseases as well as JE and AES. In this massive campaign, many departments of the state
especially health, rural development, primary education will work together to spread awareness about
the diseases through mass media communication and will ensure availability of clean drinking water,
initiate sanitation drive, ensure vaccination and early treatment so that disease should be nipped in the
bud.
11. Which city is hosting the first-ever ISA’s joint security exercise “ISALEX19”?
[A] Pune
[B] Paris
[C] New York
[D] Abu Dhabi
Correct Answer: D [Abu Dhabi]
Notes:
The first-ever International Security Alliance (ISA)’s joint security exercise titled ‘ISALEX19’ has kick-
started in Abu Dhabi, the capital of United Area Emirates (UAE). The representatives of 50 law
enforcement agencies of the ISA are participating in the exercise. The participants include
representatives from tactical teams, rapid intervention units, communications, civil defence, and
explosive ordnance disposal, teams. The ISA is an international working group to confront organised,
transnational and extremist crimes. The alliance now comprises nine countries, the United Arab
Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, France, Italy, Spain, Senegal, Singapore, and the Slovak Republic.
12. STRIDE, which is in news recently, is associated to which of the following issues?
[A] To boost research culture
[B] To boost women empowerment

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 75


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[C] To promote tribal handicrafts


[D] To promote child education
Correct Answer: A [To boost research culture]
Notes:
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has approved a new initiative – Scheme for Trans-
disciplinary Research for India’s Developing Economy (STRIDE) to boost research culture in the country.
The aim of STRIDE is to identify young talent, strengthen research culture, build capacity, promote
innovation and support trans-disciplinary research for India’s developing economy and national
development. Broadly, STRIDE will provide support to research projects that are socially relevant, locally
need-based, nationally important and globally significant. STRIDE shall support research capacity
building as well as basic, applied and transformational action research that can contribute to national
priorities with focus on inclusive human development. STRIDE shall support creation, development and
integration of new ideas, concepts and practices for public good and strengthening civil society.
13. On which date, the 2019 edition of International Olympic Day (IOD) is observed?
[A] June 23
[B] June 39
[C] June 25
[D] June 27
Correct Answer: A [June 23 ]
Notes:
The International Olympic Day (IOD) is celebrated every year on June 23 to promote participation in
different sports throughout the world without any discrimination of the gender, age and athletic ability.
The day is not confined to sports activities but a serious international effort to promote fitness and well-
being in addition to the Olympic ideals of fair play, solidarity, respect and Sportsmanship across the
globe.
14. The first-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair (IICTF) will be held in which of the
following cities?
[A] Pune
[B] New Delhi
[C] Dehradun
[D] Bhopal
Correct Answer: B [New Delhi]
Notes:
The first-ever India International Cooperatives Trade Fair (IICTF) will be held in New Delhi between 11th
to 13th October. The initiative is a part of the Agriculture Export Policy 2018 which aims at doubling the
agriculture export and integrating Indian farmers and agriculture products with global value chains.
The Trade Fair is aimed at promoting cooperative to cooperative trade within the country and abroad
leading to enhanced rural and farm prosperity. The fair offers a huge opportunity for the industry and
business houses from India and abroad to build alliances, product sourcing and interact with the
primary producers of a wide range of products and service providers.
15. Which district administration of J&K has launched ‘Operation Khumaar’ to make 312
panchayats tobacco-free?
[A] Rajouri
[B] Udhampur
[C] Kathua
[D] Poonch
Correct Answer: A [Rajouri ]
Notes:
In Jammu and Kashmir, the district administration of Rajouri has been launched a campaign called
“Operation Khumaar” to make 312 panchayats tobacco-free. The programme is run by the district
administration to make panchayats free from tobacco and tobacco-based products. Under this

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 76


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

programme, even the headmaster of the schools have been authorised to impose a fine on the sale of
tobacco within 100 yards of school limits. Block Medical Officers (BMO) have been directed to set up
counselling centres at all Community Health Centres (CHCs) to help tobacco consumers to quit this
habit. The district officers have been urged upon to work in a mission mode so as to make the society
free from the injurious tobacco and tobacco-based products.
16. Santosh Rana, who passed away recently, was the veteran leader of which political party?
[A] CPI (ML)
[B] BJP
[C] INC
[D] SP
Correct Answer: A [CPI (ML)]
Notes:
Santosh Rana (76), the veteran Naxalite leader, has passed away in Kolkata on June 29, 2019. He is one of
the foremost leaders of the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) and a major thinker on caste,
class and tribal politics in West Bengal and winner of a top literary award in the State. The CPI-ML (PCC)
was one of the very first Naxalite groups to participate in elections. Under his leadership, CPI-ML (PCC)
was active in parts of Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Assam. It played a significant role in opposing the
CPI-M led government during the Nandigram land agitation, which contributed to the electoral debacle
of the Left Front in West Bengal. He argued in his award-winning autobiography, Rajnitir Ek Jibon [A
Life in Politics], that the Left in India made a huge mistake as they never analysed and responded to the
caste question.
17. Who is the author of the book ‘A Prime Minister to Remember- Memories of a Military Chief’?
[A] Vishnu Bhagwat
[B] Sureesh Mehta
[C] Sushil Kumar
[D] Vijai Singh Shekhawat
Correct Answer: C [Sushil Kumar]
Notes:
The book titled “A Prime Minister to Remember- Memories of a Military Chief” has been authored by
former Navy Chief Admiral Sushil Kumar. The book is about the huge impact that the late Prime
Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had on the armed forces of India. The author called Kargil as the finest
hour of Vajpayee . He credits Vajpayee for turning the strategic tactical loss into a massive victory and
for which he gave full credit to the Armed Forces. Admiral Kumar was the Navy Chief between 1998 and
2001 and oversaw the Kargil conflict in 1999.
18. The 21st Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship will be hosted by which of the following
states?
[A] Odisha
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Punjab
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: A [Odisha ]
Notes:
The Odisha government has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with state’s table
tennis body and Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) to host the 21st Commonwealth Table Tennis
Championship. The tournament is scheduled to be held at the Jawaharlal Indoor Stadium in Cuttack
from July 17-22, 2019. The tournament has received a good entry with 14 associations, consisting India,
Singapore, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, England, Scotland, Wales, Jersey, Australia, Cyprus, South
Africa, Nigeria, Pakistan.
19. India has inked Rs 200 crore defence deal with which country for ‘Strum Ataka’ anti-tank
missile?
[A] United States

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 77


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[B] Israel
[C] Russia
[D] France
Correct Answer: C [Russia]
Notes:
Under the emergency provisions, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has signed an Rs 200 crore defence deal with
Russia to acquire ‘Strum Ataka’ anti-tank missile for its fleet of Mi-35 attack choppers. The Mi-35s are
the existing attack choppers of the Indian Air Force and are set to be replaced with the Apache gunships
being acquired from the US and slated to be delivered from next month onwards. Earlier, in June 2019,
IAF signed Rs 300 crore deal with an Israeli defence firm to procure a batch of ‘Spice 2000’ guided
bombs. These bombs are already present with the IAF and were used in the Balakot air strikes by
Dassault’s Mirage 2000 to target Jaish-e-Mohammed training camps across the Line of Control (LoC).
With this, the IAF has emerged as the frontrunner in terms of weapon acquisition under the emergency
procurement, followed by the Indian Army. Under the emergency powers given to the three services,
they can buy the equipment of their choice within three months at a cost of up to Rs 300 crore per case.
20. Which water conservation campaign has been launched by Central Government?
[A] Jal Bachav Abhiyan
[B] Jal Tarang Abhiyan
[C] Jal Suraksha Abhiyan
[D] Jal Shakti Abhiyan
Correct Answer: D [Jal Shakti Abhiyan]
Notes:
Union Jal Shakti Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has recently launched the Jal Shakti Abhiyan
– a campaign for water conservation and water security, with an emphasis on 1592 stressed blocks in
256 districts. The campaign will run through citizen participation during the monsoon season, from 1st
July, 2019 to 15th September, 2019. The focus of the campaign will be on water stressed districts and
blocks. The ‘Jal Shakti Abhiyan’ will focus on five aspects — water conservation and rainwater
harvesting, renovation of traditional and other water bodies, reuse of water and recharging of
structures, watershed development, and intensive afforestation. The conservation efforts will be
supplemented by initiatives like developing block and district water conservation plans and ‘krishi
vigyan kendra melas’ to promote efficient water use for irrigation and better crop choices. In urban
areas, plans with time-bound targets will be developed for waste water reuse for industrial and
agricultural purposes.
21. On which date, the 2019 edition of International Day of the Tropics is observed?
[A] June 27
[B] June 28
[C] June 29
[D] June 30
Correct Answer: C [June 29]
Notes:
The International Day of the Tropics is observed every year on June 29 to raise awareness to the specific
challenges faced by tropical areas, the far-reaching implications of the issues affecting the world’s
tropical zone and the need, at all levels, to raise awareness and to underline the important role that
countries in the tropics will play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The day
provides an opportunity to take stock of progress across the tropics, to share tropical stories and
expertise and to acknowledge the diversity and potential of the region. The Tropics are a region of the
Earth, roughly defined as the area between the tropic of Cancer and the tropic of Capricorn. The Tropics
account for 40% of the world’s total surface area and are host to approximately 80% of the world’s
biodiversity and much of its language and cultural diversity. The tropical region faces a number of
challenges such as climate change, deforestation, logging, urbanisation and demographic changes.
22. Which country has officially resumed commercial whaling?
[A] Japan
[B] South Korea

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 78


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[C] New Zealand


[D] UK
Correct Answer: A [Japan]
Notes:
On 1st July 2019, Japan officially resumed commercial whaling after more than 30 years of limiting
whale hunts to scientific purposes — a policy that still resulted in the deaths of hundreds of whales
every year. The hunts come after Japan’s withdrawal from the International Whaling Commission (IWC).
The move is slammed by anti-whaling activists but welcomed by Japanese whaling communities. Now,
Japan has joined Iceland and Norway as the only nations to allow commercial whaling despite the IWC
moratorium. Hunting will reportedly be limited to Japan’s territorial sea and exclusive economic zone,
which stretches about 200 nautical miles (370 kilometers) from the nation’s coasts. The IWC, established
in 1946, to conserve and manage the world’s whale and cetacean population, introduced a moratorium
on commercial whaling in 1986.
23. Which of the following butterfly species has been officially declared as state butterfly of Tamil
Nadu?
[A] Cirrochroa thais
[B] Papilio bianor
[C] Papilio buddha
[D] Troides Minos
Correct Answer: A [Cirrochroa thais]
Notes:
Tamil yeoman (Cirrochroa thais) has been officially declared as state butterfly of Tamil Nadu. These
butterflies are also known as Tamil Maravan (which means warrior) and are endemic to Western Ghats.
The tawny-coloured creature with a dark brown outer ring is among the 32 butterfly species found in
Western Ghats. Hence, Tamil Nadu has become the 5th state in the country to announce its state
butterfly. Maharashtra was the first to declare Blue Mormon as its state butterfly, followed by
Uttarakhand (Common peacock), Karnataka (Southern Bird Wing) and Kerala (Malabar banded peacock).
While the butterfly becomes the pride of the state after such a declaration, the decision also helps
conserve its ecosystem and paves the way for eco-tourism. People also recognize the importance of
butterflies which subsequently helps in its conservation. There are a total of 32 butterfly hotspots in
Tamil Nadu. The state had declared its various other icons earlier, like state animal (Nilgiri Tahr), state
bird (Emerald Dove), state tree (palm tree), state flower (Gloriosa) and state fruit (jack fruit).
24. Indo-French Joint Air Exercise “Garuda-V” has started in which of the following sites?
[A] Montpellier
[B] Pune
[C] Jodhpur
[D] Mont-de-Marsan
Correct Answer: D [Mont-de-Marsan]
Notes:
The 6th edition of Exercise Garuda-VI has started between Indian and French Air Force from 1st of July
2019 at French Air Force Base – Mont-de-Marsan. The exercise will see the most potent fighter aircraft
of the two countries going head-to-head to validate the latest defence strategies and fine-tune their
waging capabilities and is expected to showcase fighter jets like Rafale, Mirage 2000, Sukhoi 30 from the
two sides. Participation of Indian Air Force (IAF) in the exercise will also promote professional
interaction, exchange experiences and operational knowledge besides strengthening bilateral relations
with the French Air Force. It will also provide a good opportunity to the air warriors to operate in an
international environment.
25. Which Indian scientist has been selected as the Co-Investigator for NASA’s PUNCH mission?
[A] Dipankar Banerjee
[B] Raghunath Anant Mashelkar
[C] Ashoke Sen
[D] Narendra Karmarkar

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 79


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Correct Answer: A [Dipankar Banerjee]


Notes:
NASA has selected Texas-based Southwest Research Institute to lead its PUNCH mission which will
image the Sun. This is a landmark mission that will image regions beyond the Sun’s outer corona. Prof.
Dipankar Banerjee, solar physicist from Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is also a Co-Investigator of
the PUNCH mission. The acronym ‘PUNCH’ stands for “Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and
Heliosphere”. The PUNCH mission is focused on understanding the transition of particles from the Sun’s
outer corona to the solar wind that fills interplanetary space. India is also planning to send up its own
satellite Aditya-L1, a mission to study the Sun’s corona, and Prof. Banerjee is the co-Chair of the Science
Working Group.
26. Dr. Jaya Arunachalam, veteran social activist has passed away. She was from which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Karnataka
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: D [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
Dr. Jaya Arunachalam (87), founder of Working Women’s Forum (WWF), has passed away in Chennai on
June 29, 2019. She is best known for her social service contributions through WWF which she initiated in
1978. Through WWF, she helped several lakhs of women from underprivileged background to organise
themselves towards becoming financially independent. Dr. Arunachalam was conferred the Padma Shri
by the Government of India (GoI) in 1987. She received the Jamnalal Bajaj Award in 2009 for her work
towards the welfare of women and children. A graduate in Economics and Geography, she was awarded
a honorary doctorate by the University of Lueneberg, Germany in 1999. She is a recipient of the
International Activist Award by Glietsman Foundation in 2003, and the Godfrey Phillips National
Bravery Social Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010. She has also served as vice president of Tamil Nadu
Congress Committee (TNCC) and member of All India Congress Committee.
27. Which of the following public sector banks has signed MoU with NIIF to boost capital
availability for infrastructure projects?
[A] SBI
[B] PNB
[C] BoB
[D] BoI
Correct Answer: A [SBI]
Notes:
The State Bank of India (SBI) and National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) have inked a
memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost the availability of capital for infrastructure projects. The
scope of the MoU includes equity investments, project funding, bond financing, renewable energy
support and take-out finance for operating assets. The objective of this initiative is to aid in filling the
gap at a time when the availability of equity and debt financing for infrastructure has moderated. The
initiative will address concerns relating to the availability of equity and long-term debt funding options
to large scale projects, thereby stimulating the infrastructure development.
28. Which Indian personality has been elected as a member of International Olympic Committee
(IOC)?
[A] Pargat Singh
[B] Narinder Batra
[C] Ramandeep Singh
[D] Dilip Tirkey
Correct Answer: B [Narinder Batra]
Notes:
Dr. Narinder Batra, President of Indian Olympic Association (IOA), has been elected as a member of
International Olympic Committee (IOC) during the IOC Session in Lausanne, Switzerland. Batra now has
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 80
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

a rare distinction of becoming a member of the IOC, while heading a National Olympic Committee (NOC)
as well as an international federation. He is the first Indian to have this distinction. He has already
become the first Indian to head an international federation of an Olympic sport — that of International
Hockey Federation (FIH). With the election of Batra, the number of Indians who are currently active
members of IOC will rise to two. Reliance Foundation Chairperson Nita Ambani was elected as an
individual member of the IOC in 2016. She is the first Indian woman to be elected to the prestigious seat.
29. Impressed tortoise, which is in news recently, is discovered in which of the following states?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Nagaland
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: B [Arunachal Pradesh]
Notes:
A team of herpetologists from the Forest Department and two NGOs — Help Earth and Turtle Survival
Alliance (TSA) have discovered the Impressed Tortoise (Manouria impressa) in Yazali area of the Lower
Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh. This is the first-ever recorded sighting in India of this tortoise
which is on a red list of threatened species. Chelonian is an order of reptile that includes turtles,
terrapins and tortoises. The male Impressed Tortoise is smaller than the female which is 30 cm in
length. This Manouria species is one-third the size of the Asian Forest Tortoise. There are only two
species of tortoises under the Manouria genus. India was known to be the home of only the Asian Forest
Tortoise (Manouria emys) until the discovery of the Impressed Tortoise. The Asian Forest Tortoise, the
largest in mainland Asia, is found only in the northeast, as are 20 of the other 28 species of chelonians.
30. The first UIDAI-run Aadhaar Seva Kendra (ASK) operational in which of the following cities?
[A] Delhi & Vijayawada
[B] Bhopal & Jaipur
[C] Nagpur & Varanasi
[D] Varanasi & Delhi
Correct Answer: A [Delhi & Vijayawada]
Notes:
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has operationalized the first Aadhaar Seva Kendra
(ASK) in Delhi and Vijayawada. The new Aadhaar centres are similar to Passport Seva Kendras run by the
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). These are meant to facilitate enrolment, updation and other
activities. The centre has the capacity to handle upto 1,000 Aadhaar-related requests daily. The Aadhaar
enrolment and updation centre is open from 9.30 am to 6 pm on all days except Tuesdays. These centres
will soon be rolled out across 53 cities of India at an estimated project cost of Rs 300-400 crore.
31. Where is the headquarters of Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) is
located?
[A] Delhi
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Lucknow
[D] Indore
Correct Answer: B [Hyderabad]
Notes:
The CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) has signed Mou with Centre for DNA
Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) to provide DNA-based diagnostic service to the public at lower
cost and to develop newer diagnostic methods has been signed here. The objectives of the MoU include
provision of quality DNA-based diagnostic services to the public at lower costs, to develop newer
diagnostic methods and to engage in scientific research to improve understanding of human genetic
disorders. Both the institutes have also mutually agreed to undertake training and educational activities
in genetic diagnostics. The CDFD is a Biotechnology research centre i.e. operated by the Department of
Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology . It is located at Hyderabad, Telangana.
32. Who is the author of the autobiography ‘Lessons Life Taught Me, Unknowingly”?

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 81


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[A] Sanjay Dutt


[B] Irrfan Khan
[C] Anupam Kher
[D] Naseeruddin Shah
Correct Answer: C [Anupam Kher]
Notes:
The autobiography titled “Lessons Life Taught Me, Unknowingly” has been authored by Bollywood actor
Anupam Kher i.e. set to hit stands on 5 August. It is a story of a small town boy who dared to dream. It is
a story about hope, disappointments, success, failures and eternal optimism. The book will be an
extraordinary, riveting and no-holds-barred saga in which Kher will make some behind-the-scenes
revelations, and share anecdotes and rare nuggets from his life and the lessons it taught him. He has
over 530 films in several languages, both in India and the West, 100 plays and numerous TV shows to his
credit. He is a winner of two National awards, 8 Filmfare awards and a BAFTA nomination. He is also a
recipient of the Padma Shree and Padma Bhushan awards.
33. The 2nd edition of International Day of Parliamentarism (IDP-2019) was observed on which of
the following dates?
[A] June 27
[B] June 28
[C] June 29
[D] June 30
Correct Answer: D [June 30]
Notes:
The 2nd edition of International Day of Parliamentarism (IDP-2019) is celebrated across the world on
30th June to recognize the importance of parliaments and their responsibility of representing the
people. The day is not only an occasion to stress the critical importance of parliaments in any
democratic society but also to reinforce the call for a global parliament. It is also an opportunity for
parliaments to take stock, identify challenges, and ways to address them effectively. It is also the date, in
1889, on which the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) — the global organization of parliaments — was
established. The parliamentary systems fall into two categories: bicameral and unicameral. Out of 193
countries, 79 are bicameral and 114 are unicameral, making a total of 272 chambers of parliament with
over 46,000 members of parliament. The oldest parliament is the Althingi, the Icelandic Parliament,
founded in 930.
34. Who has been elected new chairman of Microfinance Institutions Network (MFIN)?
[A] Harsh Shrivastava
[B] Vineet Chattree
[C] Manoj Kumar Nambiar
[D] Jagadish Ramadugu
Correct Answer: C [Manoj Kumar Nambiar]
Notes:
Manoj Kumar Nambiar, MD of Arohan Financial Services (AFS), has been elected as new chairman of
Microfinance Institutions Network (MFIN). The MFIN is an industry association consists of 56 NBFC-
MFIs (Non Banking Financial Company-Micro Finance Institutions) and 40 associates including Banks,
SFBs (Small Finance Banks ) and NBFCs. It is also the Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO) for the
regulated NBFC-MFI.
35. Who is the head of the RBI committee to strengthen Core Investment Companies (CIC)
framework?
[A] Lily Vadera
[B] N S Venkatesh
[C] T Ravishankar
[D] Tapan Ray
Correct Answer: D [Tapan Ray]
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 82
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has constituted a 6-member committee, under the chairmanship of
former secretary of MCA Tapan Ray, to strengthen the corporate governance framework of
systematically important Core Investment Companies (CICs). These are Non-Banking Financial
Companies (NBFCs) which have their assets predominantly as investments in shares for holding stake in
group companies but not for trading. CICs also do not carry out any other financial activity. The
committee report is to be submitted by October 31, 2019. The working group will examine regulatory
framework, enhance onsite and offsite surveillance of these companies, suggest changes in registration
criteria including the practice of multiple CIC within a group and other such assessment to strengthen
the corporate governance framework. The committee report is to be submitted by October 31, 2019.
36. What is the rank of the Indian passport at the 2019 Henley Passport Index?
[A] 55th
[B] 64th
[C] 86th
[D] 77th
Correct Answer: C [86th ]
Notes:
The Indian passport has been ranked at the 86th position with a mobility score of 58 in the latest Henley
Passport Index 2019. The score points out that Indian passport holder can access 58 countries around
the world without a prior visa. The index includes 199 passports and 227 travel destinations — including
micro-states and territories. India shares the 86th position with Mauritiana and Sao Tome and Principe.
The list is topped by Japan & Singapore with a mobility score of 189. South Korea, Finland and Germany
have acquired 2nd position, while Denmark, Italy, and Luxembourg are on the third rank. France has
dropped to the fourth spot, now sharing the position with Spain and Sweden. The ranking is based on
exclusive data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which maintains the world’s
largest and most accurate database of travel information.
37. Who is the head of the high-powered committee of Chief Ministers (CMs) to transform Indian
agriculture?
[A] Devendra Fadnavis
[B] Ramesh Chand
[C] Manohar Lal Khattar
[D] Vijay Rupani
Correct Answer: A [Devendra Fadnavis]
Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently constituted a high-powered committee of Chief Ministers
(CMs) for the transformation of agriculture and raising farmers’ income. The nine-member committee,
headed by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, will suggest policy measures, attract investments and
raise growth in food processing. The members of the committee are as follows: Chief Ministers of
Karnataka, Haryana, Arunachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Union Agriculture,
Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar and NITI Aayog member
Ramesh Chand. The terms of reference (ToR) of the committee include suggesting modalities for
adoption and time bound implementation of reforms such as Agriculture Produce and Livestock,
Contract Farming and Services (Promotion & Facilitation) Act, 2018’; changes in the Essential
Commodity Act, 1955 to attract private investments in agricultural marketing and infrastructure. The
committee has also been asked to suggest mechanism for linking of market reforms with e-NAM, GRAM
and other relevant Centrally Sponsored Schemes; and ways to upgrade agri-technology to global
standards and improve access of farmers to quality seed, plant propagation material and farm
machinery in agriculturally advance countries.
38. Babu Narayanan, who passed away recently, was the popular filmmaker of which regional
cinema?
[A] Tamil
[B] Malayalam
[C] Telugu

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 83


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[D] Kannada
Correct Answer: B [Malayalam ]
Notes:
Babu Narayanan (59), the popular Malayalam filmmaker, has passed away in Thrissur, Kerala on June 29,
2019. He was part of the famed Anil-Babu duo that had helmed several blockbusters during 1990s. Before
pairing up, they had made films separately but hadn’t tasted much success. Together though, they
directed several successful films in the 1990s. Movies like Sthreedhanam, Kudumba Vishesham,
Welcome to Kodaikanal, Aramanaveedum Anjoorekkarum and Pattabhishekam established themselves
as a force to reckon with in the mainstream cinema.
39. Ambati Rayudu, who recently retired from all forms of cricket, is from which state?
[A] Telangana
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: B [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
Indian middle-order batsman Ambati Rayudu from Andhra Pradesh retired from all forms of cricket on
July 3, 2019. He did not specify reasons for calling it quits. He was in India’s official standbys list for the
on-going World Cup but was omitted twice. Rayudu played 55 ODIs for India, scoring 1694 runs at an
average of 47.05. However, he did not play any Test.
40. Dragonfly mission, which is in news to explore Saturn’s Moon Titan, is associated to which
space agency?
[A] Roscosmos
[B] CNES
[C] ISRO
[D] NASA
Correct Answer: D [NASA ]
Notes:
NASA has recently announced its New Frontiers program, called Dragonfly mission, to explore Saturn’s
largest moon – Titan. It’s the only moon in our solar system that has an atmosphere.The rotorcraft will
fly to dozens of promising locations on Titan looking for pre-biotic chemical processes common on both
Titan and Earth. The mission will launch in 2026 and will reach Titan by 2034. Titan is the 2nd-largest
natural satellite in our Solar System, and is larger than the Moon and the planet Mercury. As it orbits
Saturn, Titan is about 886 million miles (1.4 billion km) away from the Sun, about 10 times farther than
Earth. Because it is so far from the Sun, its surface temperature is minus 290 degrees Fahrenheit (minus
179 degrees Celsius). Its surface pressure is also 50% higher than Earth’s. Titan has a dense, nitrogen-
based atmosphere like Earth. Unlike Earth, it has clouds and rain of methane. Other organics are formed
in the atmosphere and fall like light snow.
41. Which state government has launched toll-free CM helpline 1076?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: A [Uttar Pradesh]
Notes:
In Uttar Pradesh, the state government has launched a toll-free Chief Minister helpline No. 1076 that will
enable people from across the state to register their complaints and will ensure a time-bound action on
the complaints also. The CM helpline number 1076 will work 24×7 and anyone from any part of the state
can call on this number anytime. The 500-seater call centre has been established for the helpline and it
has the capacity to handle 80,000 inbound and 55,000 outbound calls on a daily basis. When the
complainant calls the helpline, he/she will get an SMS informing that the complaint has been sent to the
department concerned.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 84
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

42. Which Indian sprinter has won gold in women’s 200 m at the Poznan Athletics Grand Prix in
Poland?
[A] Dutee Chand
[B] Hima Das
[C] Sarita Gayakwad
[D] Sathi Geetha
Correct Answer: B [Hima Das]
Notes:
Indian sprinter Hima Das clocked 23.65s to win gold in women’s 200 metres at the 2019 Poznan
Athletics Grand Prix in Poland. Hima is the world junior champion and national record holder in 400m.
This was Hima’s first competitive 200m race of the year. She has a personal best of 23.10s, which she
clocked in 2018. While national record holder shot putter Tajinder Pal Singh Toor bagged a bronze in the
ongoing tournament. Another Indian, V K Vismaya finished third with a personal best time of 23.75
seconds in the race at Poznan.
43. The world’s largest burn and plastic surgery institute Institute has started functioning in
which of the following cities?
[A] Yangon
[B] Jakarta
[C] Pune
[D] Dhaka
Correct Answer: D [Dhaka ]
Notes:
The world’s largest “Sheikh Hasina National Burn and Plastic Surgery Institute” has started functioning
in Dhaka from 4th July 2019. The 500-bed hospital with 50 ICU and 12 operation theatres will provide
advanced treatment to burn patients in Bangladesh. The institute has been built at a cost of over 500
crore Taka.
44. Which international organisation has recently released its report ‘Working on a Warmer
Planet”?
[A] ILO
[B] UNICEF
[C] UNESCO
[D] FAO
Correct Answer: A [ILO]
Notes:
The International Labour Organization (ILO) has recently released its report titled- Working on a
Warmer Planet – The Impact of Heat Stress on Labour Productivity and Decent Work’. It stated that
working hours will be lost because it is too hot to work or because workers work at a slower pace. The
UN report said India will be the most affected country. It said because of its large population, in absolute
terms, India is expected to lose the equivalent of 34 million full-time jobs in 2030 in productivity. India is
projected to lose 5.8% of working hours in 2030 due to global warming, particularly impacting
agriculture and construction sectors. The projections are based on a global temperature rise of 1.5
degree Celsius by the end of the twenty-first century, and labour force trends. Most of the impact in
India will be felt in the agricultural sector. But, increasing working hours are expected to be lost in the
construction sector, where heat stress affects both male and female workers. Heat stress is defined as
generally above 35 degrees Celsius, in places with high humidity.
45. What is the theme of the 2019 edition of UN MSME Day?
[A] Entrepreneurship: A way of success
[B] Big Money For Small Business: Financing the SDGs
[C] The Youth Dimension
[D] Small business – big impact

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 85


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Correct Answer: B [Big Money For Small Business: Financing the SDGs]
Notes:
The United Nations’s Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day (MSME) Day is observed every
year on 27 June to raise public awareness of their contribution to sustainable development. These types
of enterprises are responsible for significant employment and income generation opportunities across
the world and have been identified as a major driver of poverty alleviation and development. MSMEs
tend to employ a larger share of the vulnerable sectors of the workforce, such as women, youth, and
people from poorer households. MSMEs can even sometimes be the only source of employment in rural
areas. The 2019 theme is ‘Big Money For Small Business: Financing the SDGs’.
46. Which of the following railway zones has commissioned the longest electrified tunnel in
Indian Railways?
[A] South Central Railway
[B] Northern Railway
[C] Central Railway
[D] Western Railway
Correct Answer: A [South Central Railway]
Notes:
The South Central Railway (SCR) has recently commissioned the longest electrified tunnel of 6.6 km
built at a total cost of Rs 460 crore between Cherlopalli and Rapuru stations. The tunnel is part of the
113-km new railway line completed recently between Obulavaripalli– Venkatachalam – Krishnapatnam
Port. The electrified tunnel is constructed in the shape of ‘Horse Shoe’ on New Australian Tunnelling
Method. The height of the tunnel (rail level to roof) is 6.5 metres and the minimum height of the contact
wire is maintained at 5.2 metres. The new line would facilitate direct and viable connectivity between
South Coast and West Coast Railway and improve freight revenue of the zone.
47. Which of the following Indian business leaders will receive 2019 Global excellence awards from
US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF)?
[A] Anand Mahindra
[B] Ratan Tata
[C] Mukesh Ambani
[D] Ajay Banga
Correct Answer: D [Ajay Banga]
Notes:
The US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) has selected Mastercard CEO and President Ajay
Banga and Wipro Chairman Azim Premji for its 2019 Global Excellence Awards. The prestigious award
will be presented to both the business leaders at its 2nd Annual Leadership Summit in Washington on
July 11. The leadership summit will highlight areas of bilateral cooperation like trade and investment,
strategic energy ties, manufacturing and innovation partnership.
48. Who is the author of the book ‘Whispers of Time’?
[A] Jhumpa Lahiri
[B] Krishna Saksena
[C] Vikram Seth
[D] Rohinton Mistry
Correct Answer: B [Krishna Saksena]
Notes:
The book titled ‘Whispers of Time’ has been authored by Dr Krishna Saksena. The story witnesses three
generations in the author’s long life of 90 years in which she found a great difference. If the first was too
strict and severe in clinging hard to traditions, the second had softened down to new values of love and
helpfulness. In a way it was a beautiful world of togetherness. But this world soon dwindles into a world
of selfishness and deceit. The series of events are developed in a powerful manner that makes the novel
both real and revealing. The book has recently unveiled by Smriti Zubin Irani, the Union Minister of
Textiles & Minister of Women and Child Development (WCD), at India International Centre (IIC) in New
Delhi.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 86
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

49. Where is the headquarters of National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj
(NIRDPR)?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] New Delhi
[C] Mumbai
[D] Raipur
Correct Answer: A [Hyderabad]
Notes:
The National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) has collaborated with public
sector enterprise Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) on a pilot project to supply sanitary napkins to 11,516
students free of cost through a team of volunteers and female teachers of 75 schools in Gandipet,
Moinabad, Rajendranagar, Serilingampally and Shamshabad mandals of the State. The project involves
creating awareness on menstruation and menstrual hygiene among children in government schools in
Telangana. It is being taken up with a funding of Rs 71.82 lakh given by the BDL as part of its Corporate
Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The aim of the project is to create awareness on hygiene along
with sociological and environmental issues, and removing the stigma associated with menstruation
among rural adolescent girls. The NIRDPR is an Indian institute for research in rural development. It is
located in Rajendranagar near Hyderabad.
50. The scientists of India and which country have identified a new gene linked to schizophrenia?
[A] South Africa
[B] Russia
[C] Australia
[D] Belgium
Correct Answer: C [Australia ]
Notes:
After 18 years of research, the scientists from the University of Queensland in Australia and a team of
Indian researchers have identified a new gene – called NAPRT1 – directly linked to schizophrenia. Using
DNA from thousands of people in India, the team has found clues in the quest for the causes of
schizophrenia, and for potential treatments. This study identified a gene that encodes an enzyme
involved in vitamin B3 metabolism — we were also able to find this gene in a large genomic dataset of
schizophrenia patients with European ancestry. The team of Indian researchers was led by R. Thara, co-
founder and director of the Chennai-based Schizophrenia Research Foundation. Schizophrenia is a
chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels and behaves. People with
schizophrenia may seem like they have lost touch with reality.
51. MOSAiC mission, which is in news recently, is a year-long expedition into which of the
following oceans?
[A] Arctic ocean
[B] Antarctica ocean
[C] Pacific ocean
[D] Indian ocean
Correct Answer: A [Arctic ocean]
Notes:
The scientists from 17 nations will take part in the year-long MOSAiC mission as they anchor the ship to
a large piece of Arctic sea ice to study climate change. The German icebreaker RV Polarstern will be the
base for scientists studying the impact of climate change on the Arctic and how it could affect the rest of
the world. The MOSAiC mission stands for Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic
Climate. It comes about 125 years after Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen first managed to seal his
wooden expedition ship (Fram) into the ice during a three-year expedition to the North Pole. The
mission has received funding from U.S. institutions such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), the
Department of Energy, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and NASA.
52. Which city of Rajasthan has recently declared UNESCO World Heritage site?
[A] Bikaner
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 87
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[B] Udaipur
[C] Jaipur
[D] Jodhpur
Correct Answer: C [Jaipur ]
Notes:
The historic walled city of Jaipur in Rajasthan has recently declared UNESCO World Heritage site at the
ongoing 43rd Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee at Baku, Azerbaijan. The city was
founded in 1727 AD under the patronage of Sawai Jai Singh II. It is known for its iconic architectural
legacy and vibrant culture, and serves as the capital city of the culturally-rich state of Rajasthan. In town
planning, it shows an interchange of ancient Hindu, Mughal and contemporary Western ideas that
resulted in the form of the city. In addition, Jaipur City is an exceptional example of a late medieval trade
town in South Asia and defined new concepts for a thriving trade and commercial hub. Additionally, the
city is associated with living traditions in the form of crafts that have national and international
recognition.
53. The Government of India (GoI) has signed pact with which tech company for pilot study on
using AI in Agriculture?
[A] Infosys
[B] Wipro
[C] Microsoft
[D] IBM
Correct Answer: D [IBM ]
Notes:
The Government of India (GoI) has signed pact with IBM India for undertaking a pilot study to utilise
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and weather technology solutions in agriculture in one district each in three
states. The pilot study will be conducted for the Kharif crop season 2019 in three districts – Bhopal,
Rajkot and Nanded – in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra, respectively. As part of the
collaboration, IBM’s Watson Decision Platform will give solution in the field of agriculture through AI
and weather technology at village level/ farm level to provide weather forecast and soil moisture
information on pro bono basis to help farmers for taking decisions regarding water and crop
management for better production and productivity.
54. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Doctor’s Day (NDD) is celebrated in India?
[A] July 5
[B] July 1
[C] July 3
[D] July 7
Correct Answer: B [July 1]
Notes:
In India, the National Doctor’s Day (NDD) is observed every year on 1st of July to raise awareness about
the importance of doctors and the crucial role they play in our day to day lives. The day aims at making
the effort for helping medical professionals come closer and take their responsibilities more seriously
and delicately. The day is also marked to honour the legendary physician and the second Chief Minister
of West Bengal, Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy. Dr Roy was a highly respected physician and a renowned
freedom fighter. He is often considered the great architect of West Bengal, who founded five eminent
cities, Durgapur, Kalyani, Bidhannagar, Ashokenagar, and Habra. The 2019 theme is “Zero tolerance to
violence against doctors and clinical establishment”.
55. Damnganga-Pinjal river inter-linking project, sometimes seen in news, is associated to which
of the following states?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Karnataka
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Maharashtra

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 88


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Correct Answer: D [Maharashtra]


Notes:
In Maharashtra, the state government has decided to inter-link rivers to solve the crisis of drought. For
Mumbai, the best option is the Damnganga-Pinjal river inter-linking project that will fulfill Mumbai’s
water needs till 2060. The project proposes to divert excess water from reservoirs in the Damanganga
basin to Mumbai through the Pinjal dam, built on the Pinjal river in Vaitarna basin.
56. Ikram Ali Khil, who broke Sachin Tendulkar’s rare World Cup record, is from which country?
[A] Afghanistan
[B] South Africa
[C] Pakistan
[D] England
Correct Answer: A [Afghanistan ]
Notes:
Afghanistan Wicket-keeper batsman, Ikram Alikhil has achieved a rare feat as he broke Sachin
Tendulkar’s record of the highest score by a teenager in the World Cup. He scored 86 off 92 balls in
Afghanistan’s final league fixture against West Indies in Leeds on 4th July 2019. The record was
previously held by Tendulkar who scored 84 against in the 1992 World Cup at the age of 18 years and 318
days.
57. Which state has topped the NITI Aayog’s 2019 AMFFR Index?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: D [Maharashtra ]
Notes:
The state of Maharashtra achieved first rank in NITI Aayog launched “Agricultural Marketing and
Farmer Friendly Reforms Index (AMFFRI). The index ranks states based on the degree of reforms they
have undertaken in agricultural marketing. Gujarat ranked second with a score of 71.5 out of 100, closely
followed by Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. NITI Aayog launched an index to rank States and UTs based
on implementation of seven provisions proposed under model APMC Act like joining e-NAM initiative,
special treatment to fruits and vegetables for marketing and level of taxes in mandis. These indicators
reveal ease of doing agribusiness as well as opportunities for farmers to benefit from modern trade and
commerce and have wider option for sale of her/his produce. These indicators also represent
competitiveness, efficiency and transparency in agri markets.
58. The Athi Varadar festival has started in which of the following states?
[A] Kerala
[B] Odisha
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: C [Tamil Nadu ]
Notes:
In Tamil Nadu, the Kanchi Athi Varadar festival has started in Kanchipuram from July 1, 2019. The
temple of Varadar is in Kancheepuram. The deity is made of fig tree and hence the name Athi Varadar.
He is immersed in Anantasaras, the temple tank. He is brought out once in 40 years, pujas done for 45
days and restored to his water bed. The last time he came out was on July 2, 1979, and earlier on July 12,
1939. More than one lakh devotees thronged the temple on the first day.
59. Which of the following ancient sites of Iraq has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
[A] Babylon
[B] Baghdad
[C] Mosul

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 89


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[D] Karbala
Correct Answer: A [Babylon ]
Notes:
The ancient Mesopotamian city of Babylon has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Iraq has
been lobbying since 1983 for the 4,000-year-old site to be added to the UN’s prestigious list. The seat of
successive empires, under rulers such as Hammurabi and Nebuchadnezzar, Babylon represents the
expression of the creativity of the Neo-Babylonian Empire at its height. The city’s association with one of
the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — the Hanging Gardens — has also inspired artistic, popular
and religious culture on a global scale. It also warns that the site is in an “extremely vulnerable
condition” and in need of urgent conservation. The city was famous for its Hanging Gardens, which were
among the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The site has suffered in recent years – first from the
construction of a palace for Saddam Hussein, and later from being used as a base for US troops.
60. Who is the author of the book “War over Words: Censorship in India, 1930-1960”?
[A] Rohinton Mistry
[B] Devika Sethi
[C] Amitav Ghosh
[D] Sudeep Nagarkar
Correct Answer: B [Devika Sethi]
Notes:
The book titled ”War over Words: Censorship in India, 1930-1960” has been authored by Devika Sethi,
who teaches modern Indian history at IIT-Mandi. The book explores the diverse mechanisms and
motivations for censorship and its role in the shaping of the modern Indian republic. It looks at state
censorship in India in the transition period from colonial to national rule, when historical actors behaved
in unpredictable ways. The book is divided into four parts – Guarding the State, Protecting the Public:
Censorship Policies and Practices in the 1930s; Protests and Publicity: Banning Non-Indian Authors;
Political or Military? Censorship in India during the Second World War; and The Censored Turn
Censors: Freedom and Free Speech.
61. Which UT / state has decided to introduce Bi-cycle sharing scheme?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Karnataka
[C] Odisha
[D] Puducherry
Correct Answer: D [Puducherry ]
Notes:
Under Puducherry smart city development plan, the Union Territory government has decided to
introduce Bi-cycle sharing scheme in a couple of months. The registered users or customers can use
bicycles to hop from one place to another within the boulevard area. The bicycles can be left at any of the
docking stations after use. For the scheme, 100 spots have been identified for cycle docking stations. To
begin with, 20 docking stations with 10 to 15 cycles each, are to be set up in places like beach promenade,
Bharathi Park, Gandhi Thidal, Aurobindo ashram and railway station. The novel scheme is a boon to
tourists who throng to Puducherry in thousands whose number swells to several thousand on weekends.
The project under the public-private partnership model will be operationalised after a suitable operator
is found out through tender. This scheme is one among the 22 prioritised schemes of the Puducherry
Smart City Project for which about 194 crore rupees would be spent.
62. Arinjeeta Dey, who won silver in 2019 World Youth Cup, is from which state?
[A] West Bengal
[B] UP
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Haryana
Correct Answer: A [West Bengal]
Notes:
Arinjeeta Dey, a village girl from West Bengal, has won a silver under-12 age group category in the 2019

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 90


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

World Youth Cup in Umag, Croatia. The tournament was organised by World Karate Federation
affiliated to the International Olympic Association. A total of 35 countries participated in this
competition.
63. Reliance Jio has partnered with which social media platform for its Digital Udaan?
[A] Instagram
[B] Twitter
[C] Facebook
[D] WhatsApp
Correct Answer: C [Facebook ]
Notes:
Reliance Jio Infocomm has collaborated with Facebook to launch a countrywide digital literacy drive,
christened as Digital Udaan, for its growing base of JioPhone users and other first-time internet users.
Under the initiative, Jio will engage with users every Saturday to apprise them on features of its 4G
VoLTE feature phone (called JioPhone), the use of various apps and internet safety, including the use of
Facebook to connect with friends and family in a simple and secure way. The digital literacy engagement
will be undertaken via audiovisual training in 10 regional languages. Digital Udaan will initially be
launched in nearly 200 different locations across 13 states, and the initiative will subsequently reach
over 7,000 locations, empowering millions of JioPhone users and other first-time internet users.
64. Which public sector bank has set up a centralized hub Cen-MARG to process retail and MSME
loans?
[A] SBI
[B] Punjab National Bank
[C] Punjab & Sind Bank
[D] Dena Bank
Correct Answer: C [Punjab & Sind Bank]
Notes:
The Punjab & Sind Bank has set up the Centralised MSME & Retail Group (Cen-MARG) for credit
facilities at its head office in New Delhi. Now, all MSME and retail credit approvals will be performed at
this centralised set up. This will help branches focus better on lead generation for retail and MSME
lending and enhanced customer service. The Cen-MARG would be linked with pan-India branches in a
phased manner. It has been envisioned to ensure a qualitative improvement in credit appraisal,
improved turnaround time, uniform documentation and efficient monitoring.
65. Which Indian manufacturing plant has been included in the WEF’s Global Lighthouse Network
(GLN)?
[A] Jindal Steel and Power Ltd
[B] Durgapur Steel Plant
[C] Rourkela Steel Plant
[D] Tata Steel Kalinganagar
Correct Answer: D [Tata Steel Kalinganagar ]
Notes:
The Tata Steel Kalinganagar (TSK) is the first and the only Indian manufacturing plant to be included in
the Global Lighthouse Network (GLN) of World Economic Forum (WEF). The lighthouses are chosen for
their leadership in applying Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies to drive financial and operational
impact. The factories were selected based on their success in integrating these technologies to increase
efficiency and drive innovation. Tata Steel’s IJmuiden plant at Netherlands is already a member of this
network. The TSK steel plant is the largest single-location greenfield steel project in India and is located
at Jajpur district in Odisha.
66. India’s first design development centre ‘Fashionova’ has recently launched in which of the
following cities?
[A] Pune
[B] Surat
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 91
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[C] Ahmedabad
[D] Delhi
Correct Answer: B [Surat ]
Notes:
In Gujarat, India’s first design development centre ‘Fashionova’ has recently launched in Textile city
Surat to provide a platform to apparel business aspirants. It offers scope to fulfil all business needs from
co-working space, technicians, expert advice to cognitive workshops and industry exposure. The main
objective of this centre is to provide a strong platform to all those who have a flair of the apparel
business. It fulfills, on a large scale, all business needs from co-working space, technicians, expert advises
to cognitive workshops and exposure to the industry.
67. The Kargil Tribute Song has been composed by which noted Hindi lyricist?
[A] A M Turaz
[B] Swanand Kirkire
[C] Sammer Anjaan
[D] Neelesh Misra
Correct Answer: C [Sammer Anjaan]
Notes:
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas (KVD) on 26th of July 2019, Army Chief General
Bipin Rawat has released a Kargil Tribute Song at a function in New Delhi to honour, salute and pay
homage to the Kargil martyrs and war veterans. The song has been composed by Mr Sammer Anjaan,
renowned hindi lyricist and sung by Mr Shatadru Kabir. The music has been composed by Mr Raju
Singh. The 20th anniversary celebrations are aimed at ‘Remembering their sacrifice’, ‘Rejoicing in their
victory’ and ‘Renewing the pledge’ to go beyond the call of duty when called upon. Operation Vijay
involved major operations to evict Pakistani intruders from Indian territory on the icy heights of Dras,
Kargil, Batalik and Turtuk.
68. Who is the current chief of National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)?
[A] Manish Kumar
[B] Jyotsna Sitling
[C] K P Krishnan
[D] Anil Manibhai Naik
Correct Answer: D [Anil Manibhai Naik]
Notes:
The ‘WorldSkills India’s International Cloud Computing Challenge 2019’ will be organized by NASSCOM
in partnership with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). Ten countries including India
are participating in the competition, along with New Zealand, Belgium, Japan, China, South Korea,
Russia, Oman and Ireland. The finalists would further compete in the 45th “WorldSkills International
Competition 2019”, to be held in Kazan, Russia in August 2019. The “WorldSkills India” is an NSDC
initiative launched in 2011 to provide a platform to the youth, along with industries and educators to
compete, experience, learn and develop key professional skill sets required for Industry 4.0. The NSDC is
headquarterd at New Delhi & Anil Manibhai Naik is its chief.
69. What is the theme of 2019 edition of International Co-operative Day (ICD)?
[A] Cooperative Enterprise Empowers Women
[B] Coops 4 Decent Work
[C] Co-operatives ensure no one is left behind
[D] Choose co-operatives, choose equality
Correct Answer: B [Coops 4 Decent Work]
Notes:
The International Co-operative Day (ICD) is an annual celebration of the co-operative movement
observed on the first Saturday in July since 1923 by the International Co-operative Alliance. The 2019
theme is “COOPS 4 DECENT WORK”. The aim of this celebration is to increase awareness of
cooperatives. The event underscores the contributions of the cooperative movement to resolving the
major problems addressed by the United Nations and to strengthening and extending the partnerships
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 92
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

between the international cooperative movement and other actors.


70. Which state government has decided to produce its own seeds under brand name Sah-Beej?
[A] Chhattisgarh
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
In Madhya Pradesh, along with distribution and marketing of certified and high quality seeds to farmers,
the Madhya Pradesh State Cooperative Seed Federation has decided to produce its own seeds under the
brand name ‘Sah-Beej’. The decision has been taken in a Board of Directors’ meeting held under the
chairmanship of the Minister for Cooperatives Govind Singh in Bhopal on 9th July 2019. A plan has been
made to produce seeds from the next Rabi season. A large number of seed committees present in the
state, which will be linked to the seed federation and these committees will help in the marketing of
seeds.
71. Who has been appointed as Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy (NCA)?
[A] Saurav Ganguly
[B] V V S Laxman
[C] Anil Kumble
[D] Rahul Dravid
Correct Answer: D [Rahul Dravid]
Notes:
Former India captain Rahul Dravid has been appointed as Head of Cricket at the National Cricket
Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. He will oversee all cricket related activities at NCA and will be involved in
mentoring, coaching, training and motivating players, coaches and support staff at the NCA. He will also
work closely with the National men’s and women’s Head coaches and coaches for India Developmental
teams including India A, India Under 19, India Under 23 teams — to identify key training methods and
the areas for development. Dravid will also be responsible for monitoring progress of the developmental
teams and provide necessary inputs on the same to the senior men’s and women’s head coaches.
72. Budj Bim Cultural Landscape is located in which country?
[A] West Indies
[B] New Zealand
[C] Australia
[D] England
Correct Answer: C [Australia ]
Notes:
The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape in south-west Victoria has become the first in Australia to receive
world heritage protection solely for its Aboriginal cultural importance. It has been added to the UNESCO
World Heritage Site list at a meeting in Baku, Azerbaijan on 6th July 2019. The site was created about
6,600 years ago by the Gunditjmara people and is considered one of the world’s oldest freshwater
aquaculture systems. The site features the remnants of about 300 round stone huts that are the only
remaining permanent houses built by an indigenous community in Australia – challenging the common
perception that all Aboriginal people were nomadic.
73. The Asia’s first Six Sigma Institute of Mountain Medicines and High Altitude Rescue is set to
come up in which Indian state?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Jammu & Kashmir
[D] Sikkim
Correct Answer: B [Uttarakhand ]

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 93


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Notes:
The Asia’s first Six Sigma Institute of Mountain Medicines and High Altitude Rescue will be set up at
Rudraprayag in Uttarakhand. It comes after Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat approved the
proposal for establishing the mega Rs 750 crore mountain institute in Rudraprayag district of state. The
institute will create 1,200 employment, Specialised healthcare, advance education and Rescue Training
in the Uttarakhand. The purpose of the institute is to develop all type of research in Allopathy,
Homeopathy, Ayurveda, Naturopathy and Yoga concerning High Altitude Mountains and to educate
professionals in mountain medicines. The institute will also provide consultancy to the central and state
government on key issues and help in promoting healthy lifestyle in mountains.
74. The term Utkarsh 2022 in news is related to which organization?
[A] IRDA
[B] NABARD
[C] SEBI
[D] RBI
Correct Answer: D [RBI]
Notes:
The board of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has finalized a 3- year roadmap — named Utkarsh 2022 — to
improve regulation and supervision of the central bank. This medium term strategy is in line with the
global central banks’ plan to strengthen the regulatory and supervisory mechanism. This specifically
includes central bank’s proactive role to avoid any other IL&FS debt default issue in future. The RBI
board also approved the RBI’s budget for the July 2019—June 2020 period.
75. Which new method has been identified for predicting monsoon?
[A] Xenon-7
[B] Krypton-7
[C] Argon-7
[D] Beryllium-7
Correct Answer: D [Beryllium-7]
Notes:
Lucrezia Terzi, a researcher at the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCKCEN), has come up with a new
way of predicting the monsoon at a science and technology conference organised in Vienna by the
Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO). The new method measures how much
Beryllium-7 (an isotope of the element Beryllium) is present in the air. The Be-7 is chosen because it is
created only in the stratosphere, when cosmic rays hit and break the nuclei of nitrogen and oxygen. Due
to the sun warming the oceans differently at different latitudes, and the spin of the earth, water-bearing
air moves up and down in circular fashions, which is the basic cause of the monsoons. When air flows
down from the stratosphere (upwards of 33,000 feet from the earth’s surface), it brings with it some
Be-7. That makes the strong connection between the amount of Be-7 and the timing of monsoons.
76. Which new section has been inserted in the SEBI Act to act against entities that tamper or
destroy electronic databases?
[A] Section 16A
[B] Section 18AA
[C] Section 19HA
[D] Section 15HAA
Correct Answer: D [Section 15HAA]
Notes:
As per the Finance Bill 2019, a new section — 15HAA — has been inserted in the SEBI Act to act against
entities that tamper or destroy electronic databases or fail to furnish information when sought by the
capital markets regulator. Now, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) can impose penalties
of up to Rs 1 crore on brokers for certain violations. These new powers assume significance as the
regulator is in the midst of probing the leak of sensitive data through WhatsApp and also recently
passed fresh orders on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) co-location matter, which had been
challenged at the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT).

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 94


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

77. Which place in Kerala is slated to be home of India’s first elephant rehabilitation centre?
[A] Kottoor
[B] Thrissur
[C] Alappuzha
[D] Kollam
Correct Answer: A [Kottoor]
Notes:
India’s first elephant rehabilitation centre will be set up by the Kerala Government in Kottoor, an
ecotourism village near the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. The centre is expected to have an
elephant museum, mahout training centre, super-specialty hospital, a retirement home and
crematorium for the animals. It will also house orphaned, injured and older elephants. The centre will
also have a training centre for mahouts along with a residential facility for them. It is being planned on
the lines of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Sri Lanka.
78. India’s first cow sanctuary is located in which district of Madhya Pradesh?
[A] Neemuch
[B] Agar Malwa
[C] Mandsaur
[D] Ujjain
Correct Answer: B [Agar Malwa]
Notes:
India’s first cow sanctuary – Kamdhenu Gau Abhyaranya – is located in the Agar Malwa district of
Madhya Pradesh. It is in news recently because the Congress-led government has decided to privatized
the cow sanctuary due to financial crises. Around 4,000 cows are living in the sanctuary which is spread
across 472 hectares. The sanctuary was developed by the MP Gau Samvardhan Board at a cost of Rs 32
crore.
79. The Union Government has launched which human atlas initiative for holistic understanding
of human body?
[A] Gupha Manav
[B] Manav
[C] Primitive man
[D] Cave Manav
Correct Answer: B [Manav ]
Notes:
The new human atlas initiative – named Manav – has been launched by the Department of
Biotechnology (DBT) and Persistent Systems for holistic understanding of human body. The aim of the
initiative is to create a unified database of molecular network of all the tissues in the human body and to
derive a holistic picture of working of human body. The database would eventually help researchers in
identifying gaps in current knowledge and help in future projects in diagnostics and disease biology. In
this public-private venture, DBT and Persistent Systems will invest Rs 13 crore and Rs 7 crore
respectively. The project will be executed by Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER)
and National Center for Cell Sciences (NCCS) based at Pune.
80. Who has become the first Indian sprinter to win Gold in the 100m event at the 30th World
University Games (WUG-2019)?
[A] Ashwini Akkunji
[B] Sathi Geetha
[C] Hima Das
[D] Dutee Chand
Correct Answer: D [Dutee Chand]
Notes:
Indian sprinter Dutee Chand has clinched a Gold medal in the 100-metre dash event at the 30th World

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 95


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

University Games (WUG-2019) at Napoli in Italy. Del Ponte of Switzerland won the Silver, while German
Lisa Kwayie took home the Bronze. With the Gold, Dutee has become the first Indian woman track and
field athlete to win the coveted yellow metal at the event. No Indian had qualified for the 100-metre final
in the history of the University Games before this. She is also now only the second Indian sprinter to win
a Gold in a global event after 19-year old Hima Das.
81. The famous Kataragama temple is located in which country?
[A] Nepal
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] Myanmar
[D] Bangladesh
Correct Answer: B [Sri Lanka]
Notes:
In Sri Lanka, the annual festival at historic Kataragama temple has begun recently that attracted
devotees from all faiths. The fortnight long festival is joined by people all over Sri Lanka and abroad. The
festival will end next week on full moon night with a water cutting ceremony, its touch said to invoke
good luck. Thousand of devotees from all over Sri Lanka flock to the holy shrine of Katargama in south
during this month for the annual festival. The place finds mention in Skanda purana and is popular for
centuries-old Hindu temple of Lord Kartika, known locally as Katargama Deviyo. Kataragma is a multi
religious city as it contains a mosque within the temple complex and a Buddhist temple nearby. It is
considered to be one of the 16 main places of Buddhist pilgrimage in Sri Lanka. The small town hosts a
fortnight-long festival or Esala Perahera, one of the most cultural and spiritual significant events in Sri
Lanka. The perahera sees a grandly decorated elephant carrying the Kataragama Deviyo, flanked by
dancers and drummers.
82. The Skill development training programme for jail inmates has started in which district of
Assam?
[A] Cachar
[B] Bongaigaon
[C] Karbi Anglong
[D] Kokrajhar
Correct Answer: B [Bongaigaon ]
Notes:
In Assam, a 3- month skill development training programme has been started in Bongaigaon district for
the jail inmates. The purpose of the programme is to provide opportunities for the prison inmates to
engage themselves in fruitful pursuits during the term of their sentence. Besides the main objective, the
course is expected to increase the employability potential of the prisoners after their release. It is said
that the prisoners are not in jail to suffer, but to change and reform and to lead a dignified life after
release from the jail. Apart from the skill development training, a month long Yoga training session will
also begin for the jail inmates in Bongaigaon district.
83. Who has been adjudged as the AIFF Men’s Footballer of the Year 2019?
[A] Jeje Lalpekhlua
[B] Lallianzuala Chhangte
[C] Abdul Samad
[D] Sunil Chhetri
Correct Answer: D [Sunil Chhetri]
Notes:
Talismanic Indian captain Sunil Chhetri has been named as the AIFF Men’s Footballer of the Year for a
record-extending sixth time. He is the most capped player of the country with 109 matches, ahead of
former captain Bhaichung Bhutia (107). Chhetri, with 70 goals for India, is also the second-highest active
international scorer — only behind Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo (149). He currently plays for Bengaluru
FC in the Indian Super League (ISL). Beside Chhetri, Indian midfielder Abdul Samad was named the AIFF
Emerging Men’s Player of the Year. Ace India international Ashalata Devi was named the AIFF Women’s
Footballer of the Year 2018-19, while Dangmei Grace was adjudged the AIFF Emerging Women’s
Footballer of the Year 2018-19. Earlier, Chhetri won the honour in 2007, 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2017.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 96


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

84. Which state government has recently implemented Center’s Witness Protection Scheme
(WPS)?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Odisha
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: C [Odisha ]
Notes:
The Naveen Patnaik led Odisha Government has recently informed the state High Court that it has
implemented the Central Government’s Witness Protection Scheme-2018. The aim of the scheme is to
ensure that investigation, prosecution and trial of criminal offences are not prejudiced because
witnesses are intimidated or frightened to give evidence without protection from other criminal forces.
According to the state government’s notification, the scheme includes three categories of witnesses as
per threat perception. Category A consists of those cases where threat extends to the life of witness or
family members during an investigation, trial or thereafter. Cases where the threat extends to safety,
reputation or property of the witness or family members during the investigation or trial falls under
category B. Category C will have cases where the threat is moderate and extends to harassment or
intimidation of the witness or family members, reputation or property during investigation, trial or
thereafter. The important features of the scheme include protective measures like ensuring that the
witness and accused do not come face to face during probe, protection and change of identity, relocation
of witness, confidentiality and preservation of records and recovery of expenses among others.
85. Who has been appointed as the new chief of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)?
[A] Arun Kumar
[B] Pradip Kumar
[C] Aditi Chauhan
[D] Pronay Halder
Correct Answer: A [Arun Kumar]
Notes:
Arun Kumar, an IAS officer of 1989 batch of Haryana cadre, has been appointed as the new chief of the
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Kumar is also the additional secretary in the Ministry of
Civil Aviation. The DGCA is the Indian governmental regulatory body for civil aviation under the
Ministry of Civil Aviation and is headquartered at New Delhi. This directorate investigates aviation
accidents and incidents.
86. Who has been appointed CMD of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL)?
[A] C K Vineeth
[B] Narayan Das
[C] Pravin Kumar Purwar
[D] Anirudh Singh
Correct Answer: C [Pravin Kumar Purwar]
Notes:
Pravin Kumar Purwar has been appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Bharat
Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) for a period of five years. He is at present CMD of Mahanagar Telephone
Nigam Limited (MTNL).
87. The Amrabad Tiger Reserve (ATR) is located in which state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Telangana
[C] Karnataka
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: B [Telangana]
Notes:

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 97


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

The Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) under the Ministry of Forest and Environment (MoEF) has
recommended for “in-principle” permission for exploration of Uranium in Amrabad Tiger Reserve in
Telangana. The approval comes despite contrary reports by forest officials after field inspections. The
revised proposal seeks permission for exploration of uranium in 76 km in Amrabad and Udumilla
regions, besides 7 km in the adjoining Nagarjunasagar Tiger Reserve in Andhra Pradesh, for use in
nuclear power generation. The report noted that the environmental impact of mining included erosion,
formation of sink holes, loss of biodiversity, and contamination of groundwater, surface water and soil,
which could affect wildlife. However, the revised proposals will not need approval from the State Board
of Wildlife again. They will be sent directly to the advisory panel for final approval, after which the State
government will need to issue permission through formal orders. In India, uranium deposit discovered
till now was either of low grade or of low tonnage or of both low grade and low tonnage.
88. The Plan Bee, which won the Indian Railways ‘s Best Innovation Award, is associated to which
railway zone?
[A] Western Railway
[B] Northern Railway
[C] Northeast Frontier Railway
[D] North Central Railway
Correct Answer: C [Northeast Frontier Railway]
Notes:
The Plan Bee initiative of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has won the Best Innovation Award in
Indian Railways for the 2018-19 fiscal. The initiative helps in preventing trains from hitting elephants
crossing tracks. The Plan Bee is an amplifying system imitating the buzz of a swarm of honey bees to
keep wild elephants away from railway tracks. The unique initiative is helpful in diverting herds of
elephants, especially when trains approach and dashing becomes imminent. The first prize comprises a
citation along with a cash award of Rs 3 lakh.
89. The 2019 Women Startup Summit (WSS) is scheduled to be held in which city?
[A] Pune
[B] Kolkata
[C] New Delhi
[D] Kochi
Correct Answer: D [Kochi ]
Notes:
The Kerala Startup Mission will host the Women Startup Summit (WSS-2019) in association with the
Indian Women Network floated by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) at the Integrated Startup
Complex, Kochi on August 1. The aim of the summit is to encourage aspiring women professionals to
take up their entrepreneurial journey and developing an inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystem in the
State. The meet will be open for all women professionals, aspiring entrepreneurs, corporate leaders and
startup founders.
90. Prasar Bharati has signed MoU with which IIT for research collaboration in newly emerging
technologies?
[A] IIT Delhi
[B] IIT Bombay
[C] IIT Indore
[D] IIT Kanpur
Correct Answer: D [IIT Kanpur]
Notes:
Prasar Bharati has signed MoU with IIT Kanpur for research collaboration in newly emerging
technologies and broadcasting-related areas in New Delhi. The move is likely to boost research activities
in the broadcasting field. Direct to mobile broadcasting, Convergence of 5G, Artificial Intelligence
Incubation Centre by Prasar Bharati and student internship for students of IIT Kanpur at Prasar Bharati
are among the main areas in the research collaboration.
91. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Population Day (WPD) is observed?
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 98
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[A] July 10
[B] July 11
[C] July 12
[D] July 13
Correct Answer: B [July 11]
Notes:
The World Population Day (WPD) is observed every year on 11th of July to focus attention on the urgency
and importance of population issues. Unlike every year, this year (2019) there is no specific theme but
the day aims to draw attention towards maternal health. This year, the day calls for global attention to
the unfinished business of the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development. The
landmark conference was attended by 179 governments who recognized that reproductive health and
gender equality are essential for achieving sustainable development.
92. Who has been sworn-in as the new Prime Minister of Greece?
[A] Kyriakos Mitsotakis
[B] Dimitris Koutsoumpas
[C] Alexis Tsipras
[D] Fofi Gennimata
Correct Answer: A [Kyriakos Mitsotakis]
Notes:
Kyriakos Mitsotakis has been sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Greece. His party – New
Democracy – won a landslide victory in the 2019 legislative election with a score of 39.85% of votes and
158 seats in the Hellenic Parliament.
93. Which Indian movie has won the NETPAC Award for Best Asian Film at the 23rd Bucheon Film
Festival 2019?
[A] Gully Boy
[B] Kabir Singh
[C] Bharat
[D] Super 30
Correct Answer: A [Gully Boy]
Notes:
The film ‘Gully Boy’, directed by Zoya Akhtar, has won the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema
(NETPAC) Award for Best Asian Film at the 23rd Bucheon International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFAN)
in South Korea. ‘Gully Boy’, which features actors Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, is based on the lives of
street rappers. It is inspired by the lives of Mumbai street rappers Vivian Fernandes aka Divine and
Naved Shaikh aka Naezy. It will also be screened at the 2019 Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.
94. Under whose chairmanship, the 2nd India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue (IRSED) was
held in New Delhi?
[A] Ajay Narayan Jha
[B] Subhash Chandra Garg
[C] Nirmala Sitharaman
[D] Rajiv Kumar
Correct Answer: D [Rajiv Kumar]
Notes:
On 10th July 2019, the 2nd India-Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue (IRSED) was held in New Delhi
under the chairmanship of Dr. Rajiv Kumar, Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog. The meeting was focused on
six core areas of cooperation viz. Development of Transport Infrastructure and Technologies;
Development of Agriculture and Agro-Processing sector; Small and Medium Business support; Digital
Transformation and Frontier Technologies; Cooperation in Trade, Banking, Finance, and Industry; and
Tourism & Connectivity. The strategic dialogue was established following a bilateral MoU signed
between the NITI Aayog and the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation during

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 99


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

the 19th edition of the Annual India-Russia Bilateral Summit, which was held on 5th October 2018 in
New Delhi.
95. Under which section of UAPA act of 1967, the Government of India (GoI) has banned Sikhs for
Justice (SFJ)?
[A] Section 3(2)
[B] Section 3(3)
[C] Section 3(1)
[D] Section 3(4)
Correct Answer: C [Section 3(1)]
Notes:
The Union Ministry of Home has recently banned a US-based secessionist group – Sikhs for Justice (SFJ)
for advocating secessionist and pro-Khalistani activities in India. The group was advocating an online
campaign for Khalistan “Sikh Referendum 2020” to establish an independent and sovereign country in
Punjab. a separate land for the Sikhs. Its founder Avtar Singh Pannu was seen shouting slogans and
wearing a T-shirt that said “Khalistan Zindabad, Referendum 2020” at the India-New Zealand cricket
match in the U.K. on 10th July 2019. The group has been banned as an unlawful association under
Section 3(1) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967.
96. Which European country has decided to impose a green tax on plane tickets from 2020?
[A] Austria
[B] France
[C] Germany
[D] Poland
Correct Answer: B [France]
Notes:
The French government has decided to impose a tax of up to 18 euros ($20) on plane tickets for all flights
from airports in France to fund less-polluting transportation projects. The move, which will take effect
from 2020, will see a tax of 1.5 euros imposed on economy-class tickets on internal flights and those
within Europe. The new measure is expected to bring in some €182 million a year which will be invested
in greener transport infrastructures, notably rail. It will only be applied on outgoing flights and not
those flying into the country. Earlier, in April 2018, a similar tax was introduced in Sweden that imposed
an added charge of up to €40 on every ticket in a bid to lessen the impact of air travel on the climate.
97. Which pharmaceutical company has become the India’s first company to launch Romiplostim
to treat chronic ITP?
[A] Lupin
[B] Cipla
[C] Sun Pharma
[D] Intas
Correct Answer: D [Intas ]
Notes:
Drug-maker Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd has become the first company to launch Romiplostim in India
under the brand name Romy for the treatment of chronic Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP). ITP is an
autoimmune blood disorder which leads to low platelet counts. The newly-launched drug will cost just
one-fifth of the price of the current medication. It is estimated that around 42,000 patients are
diagnosed with ITP in India every year. Less than 10% of patients have access to the treatment, which is
required to maintain adequate platelet counts for a longer duration.
98. The Prosecco hills is located in which country?
[A] Spain
[B] Italy
[C] Norway
[D] Sweden

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 100


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Correct Answer: B [Italy]


Notes:
Italy’s Prosecco hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene has been named as the UNESCO World Heritage
at the 43rd Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Baku, Azerbaijan. It is the site where
the grapes that produce the world-famous prosecco sparkling wine are grown. It is an area of hilly
terrain in northeast Italy known for its Prosecco production. The landscape is characterized by hogback
hills, ciglioni — small plots of vines on narrow grassy terraces — forests, small villages and farmland.
The prosecco sparkling white, which has the highest classification available to Italian wine, is produced
in a territory spread over 9 provinces in Italy’s northeast. The region has become the 55th Italian site
inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
99. Which IT company has partnered with AICTE to equip students with career skills?
[A] TCS
[B] Infosys
[C] Reliance
[D] Wipro
Correct Answer: A [TCS ]
Notes:
TCS iON, a unit of IT major Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), has partnered with All India Council for
Technical Education (AICTE) to provide students with a digital learning course to equip them with
career skills. TCS iON has curated a free, 20 hour-career skills course that will cover topics like
corporate etiquette, effective e-mail writing, impactful presentations and IT awareness that will be
available to students throughout the duration of their degree course. The course will be available for
students of more than 10,000 AICTE approved institutions. It can be accessed on TCS iON Digital
Learning Hub through any device. The unique course provided by TCS iON will help improve placement
opportunities for AICTE institutions & will initiate a strong start to the professional careers of the
students. AICTE is the national-level apex advisory and regulatory body for technical education.
100. Which Indian weightlifter has won Gold in 81 kg category at the 2019 Commonwealth
Championships in Apia?
[A] Gurdeep Singh
[B] Rustam Sarang
[C] Ajay Singh
[D] Deepak Lather
Correct Answer: C [Ajay Singh]
Notes:
On 12th July 2019, Indian weightlifter Ajay Singh has won Gold in 81 kg category at the Commonwealth
Championships in Apia, city of Samoa. He has also created a new Commonwealth record in the clean and
jerk category by lifting more than double his body weight (190kg) to score vital points at the Olympic
qualifying event. He also smashed the national record in the same category. The other Indian in the 81kg
category, Papul Changmai clinched the silver medal by lifting a total of 313kgs.
101. Who has been appointed as Secretary of Overseas Indian Affairs?
[A] Sumanta Chaudhury
[B] Anup Wadhawan
[C] Anant Narayan Nanda
[D] Vikas Swarup
Correct Answer: D [Vikas Swarup]
Notes:
Vikas Swarup, a 1986-batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service, has been appointed as Secretary,
(consular, passport, visa and Overseas Indian affairs) in the External Affairs Ministry. His appointment
will come into effect from August 1, 2019. At present, he is India’s High Commissioner to Canada.
Swarup is the author of award-winning book Q&A, which was adapted into the Oscar-winning movie
Slumdog Millionaire. The book bagged the Exclusive Books Boeke Prize 2006 and the Paris Book Fair’s
Reader’s Prize.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 101


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

102. Which is the India’s most expensive office location , as per Commercial Real Estate Services
(CBRE)’s latest survey?
[A] Connaught Place
[B] Nariman Point
[C] Bandra Kurla Complex
[D] India Gate
Correct Answer: A [Connaught Place]
Notes:
According to a study conducted by property consultant Commercial Real Estate Services (CBRE), New
Delhi’s Connaught Place (CP) is the 9th most expensive office location in the world with an annual rent
of nearly USD 144 per sq ft. In its annual Global Prime Office Occupancy Costs survey, CBRE tracks the
cost of leasing prime office space globally. At the top of the list was Hong Kong (Central) for the second
consecutive year with an average price of $322 per square feet. , followed by London (West End) with an
average occupancy rate of $222.7 per square feet. London’s (West End) is ranked 2nd, followed by Hong
Kong (Kowloon) and New York (Midtown Manhattan). Beijing’s (Finance Street) is at the fifth position on
the list. As per the report, Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) and Nariman Point-Central Business
District (CBD) ranked at 27th and 40th positions, respectively.
103. The Operation Thirst has been launched by which Indian organisation?
[A] Indian Army
[B] ISRO
[C] Indian Railway
[D] BARC
Correct Answer: C [Indian Railway ]
Notes:
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has recently launched ‘Operation Thirst’ to crackdown the selling of
unauthorized Packaged Drinking Water (PDW). According to RPF, the operation was launched in all
major railway stations across the country to curb the menace of unauthorized PDW in the premises of
railway stations. During the operation, which was carried out on 8th & 9th July, 1371 persons were
arrested for selling of packaged drinking water of unauthorised brands under different sections i.e. 144
& 153 of Railway Act. A total fine amount of Rs 6,80,855 has been realized from these offenders.
104. Which international organisation has released the 2019 global Multidimensional Poverty
Index (MPI)?
[A] WHO
[B] UNDP
[C] FAO
[D] ILO
Correct Answer: B [UNDP]
Notes:
The 2019 global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) has recently released by UN Development
Programme (UNDP), the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI). As per the report,
India lifted 271 million people out of poverty between 2006 and 2016 & recorded the fastest reductions in
the MPI values during the period with strong improvements in areas such as assets, cooking fuel,
sanitation and nutrition. The global MPI tracks 101 countries on deprivations across 10 indicators in
health, education, and standard of living. The report underscored that the traditional concept of poverty
is outdated, demonstrating more clearly than ever that labelling countries – or even households – as
rich and poor is an oversimplification. The report also highlighted a positive trend that those furthest
behind are moving up the fastest. The multi-dimensionally poor means that poverty is defined not
simply by income, but by a number of indicators, including poor health, poor quality of work and the
threat of violence.
105. The Residential Asset Price Monitoring Survey (RAPMS) has been conducted by which Indian
organisation?
[A] NHB
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 102
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[B] SEBI
[C] NABARD
[D] RBI
Correct Answer: D [RBI]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has conducted the quarterly Residential Asset Price Monitoring Survey
(RAPMS) on housing loans disbursed by select banks / Housing Finance Companies (HFCs) across 13
cities. The report indicated that housing affordability has worsened over the past 4 years as the House
Price to Income (HPTI) ratio increased from 56.1 in March 2015 to 61.5 in March 2019. The HPTI ratio
reflects affordability. Mumbai (with a HPTI of 74.4) remains the least affordable city in India. While
Bhubaneswar (54.3) remains the most affordable city for home buying with a price-to-income ratio of
54.3 in the March quarter compared to 47.2 in March 2015. The concept of price-to-income ratio is used
by lenders to measure affordability of residential property, essentially as a measure of purchasing power
for home buyers.
106. Who has been elected as the new President of the European Parliament?
[A] David Sassoli
[B] Jan Zahradil
[C] Ska Keller
[D] Sira Rego
Correct Answer: A [David Sassoli]
Notes:
Italian socialist David Maria Sassoli has been elected as the new President of the European Parliament
and will lead Parliament until January 2022. He will succeed Antonio Tajani. Sassoli is a member of the
Alliance of Socialists and Democrats. The President of the European Parliament presides over the
debates and activities of the European Parliament. He also represent the Parliament within the EU and
internationally. The president’s signature is required for enacting most EU laws and the EU budget.
107. Which state government has announced Rs 10k monthly allowance for Padma Shri awardees?
[A] Jharkhand
[B] Odisha
[C] Punjab
[D] MP
Correct Answer: B [Odisha ]
Notes:
The Odisha government has decided to provide monthly financial assistance of Rs 10,000 to Padma
award winners of the state belonging to Economically Weaker Section (EWS). The move has come days
after media reports highlighted the plight of several Padma Shri winners from the state and how they
are forced to do odd jobs like grazing goats for survival. A total of 84 persons from the state have so far
been honoured with Padma Sri award of whom 45 have passed away. Of the remaining 39 persons,
financial condition of some is precarious. Recently, 75-year-old tribal farmer Daitari Nayak of
Talabaitarani village, who was awarded the 2019 Padma Shri for digging a 3-km long canal through a
mountain in Odisha, had openly announced to return the award as he was not given work by the
villagers after getting the award.
108. The first-ever Global Conference for Media Freedom was held in which city?
[A] Paris
[B] New York
[C] London
[D] Berlin
Correct Answer: C [London]
Notes:
The first-of-its-kind Global Conference for Media Freedom was co-hosted by the UK and Canada in
London. The conference was aimed to strengthen media freedom around the world. It was attended by
Prasar Bharati Chairman A Surya Prakash, Member of Parliament Swapan Das Gupta and Kanchan
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 103
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Gupta, Member of Press Council.


109. The Film Division of India (FDI) has launched a documentary film club “KSHITIJ” in which
city?
[A] Pune
[B] Mumbai
[C] Delhi
[D] Jaipur
Correct Answer: B [Mumbai]
Notes:
In Mumbai, a documentary film club “KSHITIJ” has been launched by Film Division of India (FDI) in
association with Indian Documentary Producer Association (IDPA). The public screenings will be
organized on the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month during 5:00 pm – 6:30pm at Films Division
Complex, followed by a short interaction of audience with the director / curator of the film. The
acclaimed documentary film “Secret Life of Frogs” by Ajay & Vijay Bedi will be screened as the inaugural
film. Films Division, established in 1948, has been relentlessly striving to maintain a record of the social,
political and cultural imaginations and realities of the country on film. It works under the Ministry of
Information and Broadcasting (I&B) to produce documentaries and news magazines for publicity of
Government programmes and cinematic record of Indian history.
110. The Asia’s largest solar Power project is located in which district of Madhya Padesh?
[A] Jabalpur
[B] Chhindwara
[C] Indore
[D] Rewa
Correct Answer: D [Rewa]
Notes:
In Madhya Pradesh, continuous rain has damaged Asia’s largest solar Power project in Rewa. The
damage was caused after heavy rain triggered a mudslide. Now the rain has stopped, and experts are
busy repairing this power plant. As per the estimates, this project has suffered a loss of more than Rs 20
crores by rain. The production of the solar plant has also been affected and it has reduced about 90 MW.
Generally, this solar plant produces 740 MW of electricity. Due to a sudden rise in the water level the
many solar plates and other equipment were submerged. Water also reached inside the switch control
board.
111. Who has been appointed as MD & CFO of the World Bank (WB)?
[A] Sunil Mehta
[B] Anshula Kant
[C] Karnam Sekar
[D] R A Sankara Narayanan
Correct Answer: B [Anshula Kant]
Notes:
Anshula Kant, Managing Director of State Bank of India (SBI), has been appointed as MD and Chief
Financial Officer (CFO) of the World Bank (WB). She will be responsible for financial and risk
management of the organisation. Her work will include oversight of financial reporting, risk
management, and working closely with the World Bank CEO on the mobilization of the International
Development Association (IDA) and other financial resources. IDA is the part of the World Bank that
helps the world’s poorest countries.
112. Anthony Amalraj is associated to which sports?
[A] Tennis
[B] Golf
[C] Badminton
[D] Table Tennis

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 104


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

Correct Answer: D [Table Tennis]


Notes:
In Table Tennis, the Indian pair of G. Sathiyan and Anthony Amalraj won the bronze at the 2019 World
Tour Platinum Australian Open after they went down 12-14, 9-11, 8-11 to top seed Korean pair of Jeoung
Youngsik and Lee Sangsu in Geelong near Melbourne on July 13. This was India’s first ever medal in the
Australian Open, which is a Platinum event. The Korean pair could not be pinned down despite being
extended in the first game. But credit must be given to the Indian duo who fought really well before
bowing out in the semifinal.
113. M J Radhakrishnan, who passed away recently, was the renowned film maker of which
regional cinema?
[A] Malayalam
[B] Tamil
[C] Telugu
[D] Odia
Correct Answer: A [Malayalam ]
Notes:
M J Radhakrishnan (60), the well-known Malayalam cinematographer , has passed away in
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on July 12, 2019. Starting his career as a still photographer, Radhakrishnan
later worked as an associate of renowned cinematographer-turned-director Shaji N Karun. His well-
acclaimed works include: Deshadanam, Karunam and Naalu Pennungal. Radhakrishnan had won three
International awards besides being a 7-time winner of the Kerala State Award for Best Cinematography.
One of his works, Marana Simhasanam (English: Throne of Death; French: Le Trone de la mort), won
Camra d’Or (Golden Camera Award) in the Un Certain Regard section at the 1999 Cannes Film Festival.
114. The first-ever Himalayan states’ conclave is slated to be held in which state?
[A] Meghalaya
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Jammu and Kashmir
Correct Answer: C [Uttarakhand ]
Notes:
Uttarakhand will host the first-ever Himalayan states` conclave in Mussoorie on July 28 where the
prime focus will be on sustainable development. The conclave will deliberate on the problems faced by
Himalayan states. It will be attended by the chief ministers of all Himalayan states – Uttarakhand,
Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland,
Tripura, Mizoram and Nagaland, along with administrators and specialists. The conclave will discuss
methods to protect the Himalayan eco system from global warming, water conservation measures to be
adopted besides working out an action plan for sustainable development in the Himalayan region and
submitting its draft to Niti Ayog.
115. Which Indian organization has collaborated with Ministry of Health to conduct largest pan-
India oral health survey?
[A] Tata memorial
[B] Sanjeevan Hospitalw
[C] Apollo Hospitals
[D] AIIMS
Correct Answer: D [AIIMS ]
Notes:
In 2019, the AIIMS Centre for Dental Education and Research will undertake the largest nationwide oral
health survey in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to collect data that would act as a baseline for
planning preventive and treatment strategies. The aim of the survey is to record specific, representative
data on the most prevalent dental diseases in the country like dental decay, gum diseases, dento-facial
deformities, cancerous lesions, dental fluorosis and dental trauma among others. Some of the unique
aspects of this round of the survey are collection of oral health data of the children in early years of life,
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 105
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

assessment of prosthetic treatment needs in the geriatric groups considering the increasing life
expectancy, the impact of traditional oral hygiene practices and high sugars diet on oral health.
116. The rare footage of 1948 film Vande Mataram has become part of NFAI. The film was directed
by whom?
[A] Sudhir Phadke
[B] Satish Jakatdar
[C] P L Deshpande
[D] Ram Gabale
Correct Answer: D [Ram Gabale]
Notes:
The rare footage of an iconic Marathi film Vande Mataram (1948) has become part of the Pune-based
National Film Archives of India (NFAI). A Video Home System (VHS) cassette containing about 35 minute
footage of the film is part of the collection that was donated to NFAI by Dinesh Thakur ( nephew of
Sunita Deshpande) and film historian Satish Jakatdar, along with U-Matic tapes containing rare footage
of Harmonium playing by P.L. Deshpande. The film Vande Mataram is considered a very important as
the story was based on India’s freedom movement and struggle. The legendary writer and playwright P
L Deshpande played a major role along with his wife Sunita Deshpande. The script, dialogue and lyrics
were written by renowned writer G.D. Madgulkar whereas the music was composed by stalwart
composer Sudhir Phadke. The iconic film was directed by renowned filmmaker Ram Gabale. The film
was released a year after independence and presented narratives woven with patriotism and humanist
affection. Songs like “Ved Mantrahun Vandya…” became very popular and are remembered even today.
The shooting for the film took place in early 1948 at Shalini Studio in Kolhapur.
117. The researchers of which country have found that Electronic cigarettes damage brain stem
cells?
[A] South Africa
[B] India
[C] France
[D] United States
Correct Answer: D [United States]
Notes:
The researchers in the United States (US) have found that Electronic Cigarettes (ECs) produce a stress
response in brain stem cells. They identified the mechanism underlying EC-induced stem cell toxicity as
“Stress-Induced Mitochondrial Hyper-fusion (SIMH) using cultured mouse neural stem cells. The study
showed that exposure of stem cells to e-liquids, aerosols, or nicotine produces a response that leads to
SIMH. Stem cells are present throughout life & become specialized cells with more specific functions,
such as brain cells, blood cells, or bone. ECs are nicotine-delivery devices that aerosolize nicotine and
flavour chemicals through heating. The high levels of nicotine in ECs lead to a nicotine flooding of
special receptors in the neural stem cell membrane. If the nicotine stress persists, SIMH collapses, the
neural stem cells get damaged and could eventually die. If that happens, no more specialised cells,
astrocytes and neurons, for example, can be produced from stem cells. Then, damaged stem cell
mitochondria could accelerate aging and lead to neurodegenerative diseases. Nicotine exposure during
prenatal or adolescent development can affect the brain in multiple ways that may impair memory,
learning, and cognition
118. The Agri-Business Incubation Centre in Raipur has been set up under which central scheme?
[A] RAFTAAR
[B] Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana
[C] Soil Health Card
[D] National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture
Correct Answer: A [RAFTAAR]
Notes:
An Agri-Business Incubation Centre has been set up by the Union Agriculture Ministry in the Indira
Gandhi Agriculture University of Raipur in Chhattisgarh. The Centre is set up under the National
Agriculture Development Scheme- RAFTAAR. The objective of the scheme is to make farming a
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 106
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

remunerative economic activity by strengthening farmer’s efforts, risk mitigation and promoting agri-
business entrepreneurship. Under the scheme, guidance, technology and infrastructure will be provided
to youth and entrepreneurs for start-ups in different areas of agriculture. The Agri-Business Incubation
Centre in Raipur, with focus on innovations, skill building and entrepreneurs development in agriculture
and allied sectors, will act as catalyst for developing an ecosystem conducive for the growth of agri-
preneurship in the state and foster a start-up culture.
119. The 2019 Kharchi Puja Festival has celebrated in which state?
[A] Nagaland
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Mizoram
[D] Tripura
Correct Answer: D [Tripura]
Notes:
On 11th July 2019, the centuries-old annual Kharchi Puja festival has started with great pomp & show at
Puran Agartala in Tripura. The word ‘Kharchi’ is derived from the word Khya which means earth.
Kharchi Puja is basically done to worship the earth. Originally a Hindu tribals’ festivity, it is now
observed by all communities and religions. The royal fest, which lasts for 7 consecutive days, is meant to
cleanse the sins of mortal souls. It involves the worship of the 14 deities – Shiva, Durga, Vishnu, Laxmi,
Saraswati, Kartik, Ganesha, Brahma, Abadhi (God of water), Chandra, Ganga, Agni, Kamdev and Himadri
(Himalaya) – forming the dynasty deity of the Tripuri people.
120. Who won the men’s title at the 2019 Wimbledon tennis tournament?
[A] Rafael Nadal
[B] Roger Federer
[C] Andy Murray
[D] Novak Djokovic
Correct Answer: D [Novak Djokovic]
Notes:
In Tennis, Serbian Novak Djokovic won his fifth Wimbledon title after defeating Swiss tennis ace Roger
Federer 7-6, 1-6, 7-6, 4-6, 13-12 in a match that lasted for more than 4 hours. The match had to be decided
in the fifth set, as both Federer and Djokovic won two sets each in the longest ever final to be played so
far. This is Djokovic’s 16th Grand Slam and 5th Wimbledon title. He is now level with Bjorn Borg as a
five-time Wimbledon winner.
121. Who has been adjudged player of the tournament at the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup?
[A] Eoin Morgan
[B] Ben Stokes
[C] Mark Wood
[D] Kane Williamson
Correct Answer: D [Kane Williamson]
Notes:
The captain of the New Zealand, Kane Williamson has been adjudged player of the tournament at the
2019 ICC Cricket World Cup for his excellent returns with the bat and inspiring leadership. On 14th July
2019, England lifted their first-ever ICC World Cup cricket trophy after defeating New Zealand in a
nerve-wracking final that was decided via a dramatic Super Over in London. Opting to bat, New Zealand
put up a modest 241 for eight. In reply, England ended at the same score leading to the one-over
eliminator at the Lord’s. In the Super Over, England batted first and the duo of Ben Stokes and Jos
Buttler made 15, and New Zealand also ended at the same score but for the loss of one wicket, paving the
way for an English victory on boundary count. England’s Ben Stokes is named player of the match for a
heroic knock of 84 not out off 92 balls.
122. Pardeep Singh, who has created a new Commonwealth record in the clean and jerk category,
is from which state?
[A] Haryana

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 107


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

[B] Punjab
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Uttarkhand
Correct Answer: B [Punjab ]
Notes:
Pardeep Singh from Punjab has created a new Commonwealth record in the clean and jerk category on
the way to gold in the 109kg category by lifting 202 kgs at the 2019 Commonwealth Championships
(CWC) in Apia (Samoa). Two-time Commonwealth Games medallist Vikas Thakur clinched the silver in
the men’s 96 kg event. Vikas lifted a total of 338 kg (153kg185kg). India ended their campaign with a rich
tally of 35 medals in the youth, junior and senior categories, breaking numerous national,
Commonwealth, world and Asian records.
123. Which Indian woman wrestler has won gold in the 53kg category at Yasar Dogu International
in Istanbul?
[A] Kavita Devi
[B] Babita Kumari
[C] Vinesh Phogat
[D] Sakshi Malik
Correct Answer: C [Vinesh Phogat]
Notes:
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has won gold in the 53kg category at Yasar Dogu International in
Istanbul. Phogat beat her Russian opponent Ekaterina Poleshchuk 9-5 in the final match to bag the gold
medal. It was third gold in the women’s competition for India after Seema (50kg) and Manju (59kg)
triumphed in their respective categories.
124. Which state has become the first Indian state to have water policy?
[A] Meghalaya
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [Meghalaya ]
Notes:
Meghalaya has become the first state in India to approve a draft water policy to address water issues,
conservation, and protection of water sources in the state. The draft policy was approved by the State
Cabinet in a meeting chaired by state Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma. The purpose of the policy is to
recognize water resources as a common pool resource, to provide safe and hygienic water for drinking,
domestic and sanitation and livelihood development to all residents of the state. It seeks to protect and
improve management of water resources while actively involving the community. It also aims at
ensuring protection and conservation of catchment areas of all water sources to prevent degradation of
the quantity and quality of water sources.
125. Which Indian movie has won the Best Feature Film award at the 2019 SAARC film festival?
[A] Walking With the Wind
[B] Village Rockstars
[C] Nagarkirtan
[D] Na Bole Wo Haram!
Correct Answer: C [Nagarkirtan]
Notes:
The critically acclaimed Bengali movie, Nagarkirtan has won the Best Feature Film award at the 9th
edition of SAARC film festival 2019 in Colombo. The movie, which was directed by Kaushik Ganguly, has
also won the ‘Best Director’, ‘Best Actor’ and ‘Best Original Score’ awards. It’s a love story of a
transwoman and a flautist. Two other Indian films have won awards at the fest. ‘Na Bole Wo Haram’, a
20-minute film by debutant director Nitish Patankar, bagged the ‘Best Short Film’ award, while ‘Walking
With the Wind’ by Praveen Morchhale received the Special Jury award for direction and story.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 108


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 1-15, 2019

126. Which state government has observed the first-ever Save Water Day on 12th July?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Odisha
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: D [West Bengal]
Notes:
The West Bengal government has observed the first-ever Save Water Day on 12th July 2019 across the
state to spread the message of water conservation. From now onwards, the day will be observed in the
state every year to create awareness among people to check misuse of water. The state government also
organized the Padayatra in Kolkata to save the natural resource as water scarcity has become a major
issue in the world.
127. Who has been appointed the new Governor of Himachal Pradesh?
[A] Kalraj Mishra
[B] Jagdish Mukhi
[C] Lalji Tandon
[D] Acharya Devvrat
Correct Answer: A [Kalraj Mishra]
Notes:
Kalraj Mishra, the former Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), has been
appointed the new Governor of Himachal Pradesh. He replaced Acharya Devvrat, who has been
transferred and appointed as the Governor of Gujarat. Mr. Mishra (78) had resigned from the Narendra
Modi-led government as Minister for MSME in 2017 after he crossed the age of 75, the BJP’s unofficial
age limit for holding an elected post.
128. Hussain Muhammad Ershad, who passed away recently, was the former military dictator of
which country?
[A] Myanmar
[B] Bangladesh
[C] Pakistan
[D] Iran
Correct Answer: B [Bangladesh]
Notes:
Hussain Muhammad Ershad (89), the former military dictator of Bangladesh, has passed away in Dhaka
on July 14, 2019. He was the Jatiya Party chief and also the leader of the opposition in Parliament. He was
born in 1930 in Coochbehar district of West Bengal state in the then British India. His parents migrated
to present-day Bangladesh, which was then a part of Pakistan, in 1948, after the end of British colonial
rule in the Indian subcontinent. In 1982, Ershad took over the state power in a bloodless coup and
subsequently ran the country for 8 years until he was forced to quit in a pro-democracy mass upsurge in
1990. Despite being imprisoned subsequently on several charges, Ershad emerged as one of the most
powerful political leaders in the 1990s after his Jatiya Party became the country’s third biggest political
outfit. His rule was marked by a controversial move to make Islam the state religion of the officially
secular Bangladesh.
129. The Spektr-RG space telescope is a joint venture of which of the following countries?
[A] Russia & Germany
[B] India & Russia
[C] France & United States
[D] China & South Korea
Correct Answer: A [Russia & Germany]
Notes:
The Spektr-RG space telescope is a joint venture of Russia & Germany that will map X-rays across the

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 109


GKTODAY

Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Contents
......................... ...... . .. ....... .... ..........................................................
News Headlines: July 16-31, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................ 3
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 16, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................. 3
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 17, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................. 3
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 18, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................ 4
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 19, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 20, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................ 6
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 21, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................. 6
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 21-22, 2019 ...................................................................................................................................... 7
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 23, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................ 8
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 24, 2019 ............................................................................................................................................ 9
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 25, 2019 .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 26, 2019 .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 27, 2019 ........................................................................................................................................... 11
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 28, 2019 .......................................................................................................................................... 12
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 29, 2019 .......................................................................................................................................... 12
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 30, 2019 .......................................................................................................................................... 13
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 31, 2019 ........................................................................................................................................... 14
July 16, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Extinct bird had an extra-long toe: Study ......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Spektr-RG: Telescope launched by Russia into space .................................................................................................................................... 15
International arbitration court imposes $5 billion penalty Pakistan ............................................................................................................ 15
Agri-Business Incubation Centre set up in Chhattisgarh .............................................................................................................................. 16
India is home to 1,256 species of orchid: 1st comprehensive survey .......................................................................................................... 16
Alan Turing: WW-II Code-breaker to appear on U.K.’s new £50 bank note .......................................................................................... 17
Kartarpur Sahib: Pakistan agrees to Visa-free, year-long travel for Indians ............................................................................................. 17
LS passes National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019 ............................................................................................................ 18
15 July: World Youth Skills Day .......................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Justice Sikri appointed as Singapore International Commercial Court Judge .......................................................................................... 19
July 17, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
National Digital Health Blueprint: released by Health Ministry ................................................................................................................... 19
Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships Awards for 2018 announced .......................................................................................................... 20
Internet Saathi programme to be expanded to Punjab and Odisha ........................................................................................................... 20
Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskars for 2018 announced ......................................................................................................................... 21
SC forms Panel to frame Emergency Plan to prevent extinction of Indian birds .................................................................................... 22
MP gets its 1st international flight with Air India’s Indore-Dubai service ................................................................................................. 22
Rajya Sabha passes Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Bill 2019 ........................................................................ 23
India secures top spot in Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship ................................................................................................... 23
Newly Appointed Governors of Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh .......................................................................................................... 24
Palau becomes 76th nation to join International Solar Alliance ................................................................................................................. 24
Maharashtra Govt. raises Financial Aid for Martyrs’ Kin to Rs.1 crore ..................................................................................................... 25
July 18, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
Kulbhushan Jadhav Case: ICJ asks Pakistan to review conviction order ................................................................................................... 25
Cabinet approves extension of term of 15th Finance Commission ............................................................................................................ 26
21st Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship begins in Cuttack ....................................................................................................... 26
Cabinet approves 2880 MW Dibang MPP in Arunachal Pradesh ............................................................................................................. 27
Cabinet approves setting up of National Medical Commission replacing MCI ....................................................................................... 28
US not to sell F-35 fighter jets to Turkey for buying Russian S-400 ....................................................................................................... 28
US slaps sanctions against Myanmar’s military chief for killing of Rohingya Muslims .......................................................................... 29
July 19, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 29
12 Indian beaches in race to top Blue Flag Challenge ................................................................................................................................... 30
Incredible India Campaign Wins Pata Gold Award 2019 ............................................................................................................................ 30
Health Ministry launches Jan Jagrukta Abhiyaan in New Delhi ................................................................................................................... 31
Deeksharambh: Guide to Student Induction Programme released by HRD Ministry ............................................................................ 31
10th Jagran Film Festival inaugurated in New Delhi ..................................................................................................................................... 32
Israel inks $50m deal with India to supply MRSAM to Navy ..................................................................................................................... 32
Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Parliament .......................................................................................................... 33

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 2


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

July 20, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33


IFS officer Vivek Kumar appointed Private Secretary to PM Modi ............................................................................................................ 33
Telangana Government and WEF to launch Drone Delivery Project ........................................................................................................ 33
WHO declares Ebola outbreak in DRC as a Global Health Emergency ................................................................................................... 34
Indian Army successfully conducts Summer User Trials of Nag Missile .................................................................................................. 34
International Police Expo 2019 held in New Delhi ........................................................................................................................................ 35
India, China to have Joint Military Exercise in Meghalaya ............................................................................................................................ 35
Lok Sabha passed Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill 2019 ................................................................................................ 36
July 22, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
11th DefExpo India- 2020 to be held in Lucknow ......................................................................................................................................... 37
IUCN adds more than 7,000 to its Red List ................................................................................................................................................... 37
Bhabha Kavach: India’s 1st Lightest, Indigenous Bullet Proof Jacket gets MHA nod ............................................................................ 38
Health Ministry bans Colistin in Animal Food Industry ................................................................................................................................ 39
CCMB unveils new Next Gen Sequencing facility ......................................................................................................................................... 39
Nishagandhi Monsoon Ragas Music Fest organized by Kerala .................................................................................................................. 40
Motihari-Amlekhgunj Oil Pipeline ready for commercial operation ......................................................................................................... 40
All lanes at toll plazas to be ‘FASTag lanes’ from 1st Dec ........................................................................................................................... 40
Project Sampark: Defence Minister inaugurates Ujh and Basantar Bridges in J&K ................................................................................ 41
UDAN Scheme: 8 more air routes added ........................................................................................................................................................ 41
July 23, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 42
Lt Gen. Manoj Mukund Naravane appointed next Vice Chief of Indian Army ....................................................................................... 42
INAS 313: 5th Dornier aircraft squadron commissioned into Indian Navy ............................................................................................. 42
Sangita Kalanidhi Award: Carnatic vocalist S. Sowmya wins ...................................................................................................................... 42
Lok Sabha passes Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 .............................................................................................................. 43
Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft successfully launched by GSLV MkIII-M1 ...................................................................................................... 44
NAM Ministerial Meeting held in Caracas, Venezuela .................................................................................................................................. 45
JATAN: special software for Digitization of Archaeological Museum ...................................................................................................... 45
Indian bodybuilder Ravinder Malik wins Mr. South Asia title ..................................................................................................................... 45
Mohun Bagan Ratna Award 2019: Keshav Dutt, Prasun Banerjee ............................................................................................................ 46
CW Table Tennis Championships: India tops medal tally with 7 Gold .................................................................................................... 46
July 24, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 47
Inter-Ministerial Committee on Virtual Currencies submits Report .......................................................................................................... 47
Odisha renews effort to revive Gharial population ........................................................................................................................................ 47
23 July: National Broadcasting Day .................................................................................................................................................................. 48
What is PENCIL Portal? ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 48
Bangladesh develops plastic alternative from jute .......................................................................................................................................... 49
Book on Fire and Fury Corps of Army released ............................................................................................................................................ 49
Vande Bharat Express completes trial run from New Delhi to Katra ........................................................................................................ 50
New India-UK bilateral scheme launched on Pilot basis .............................................................................................................................. 50
Boris Johnson takes charge as new Prime Minister of United Kingdom ................................................................................................... 51
24 July: CBDT celebrates Aaykar Diwas .......................................................................................................................................................... 51
July 25, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 51
RIL becomes highest-ranked Indian company on Fortune Global 500 list .............................................................................................. 51
Govt targets to install Rooftop Solar projects of 40,000 MW by 2022 ................................................................................................... 52
Scaly-Foot Snail: 1st ever Species Endangered due to Deep Sea Mining .................................................................................................. 53
Andhra Pradesh passes Bill for 75% jobs to locals in factories ................................................................................................................... 53
Cabinet approves merger of NIMH with ICMR-NIOH ............................................................................................................................... 54
National Data Quality Forum: launched by ICMR ......................................................................................................................................... 54
CCEA keeps Fair and Remunerative Price of sugarcane at Rs275/quintal .............................................................................................. 54
Govt approves creation of buffer stock for 40 lakh MT of sugar for 1 yr .............................................................................................. 55
Priti Patel: Britain’s first Indian-origin Home Secretary ................................................................................................................................ 55
CARE4U app: for elderly people developed by IIT Kharagpur team ....................................................................................................... 55
July 26, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 56
26 million year old Species of Vine Snake found in Western Ghats .......................................................................................................... 56
IBBI tightens norms governing resolution professionals (RPs) ................................................................................................................... 56
Cabinet approves sale of FACT land to Government of Kerala ................................................................................................................. 57
‘Chandra Shekhar – The Last Icon of Ideological Politics’book released ................................................................................................. 58
Dracaena cambodiana: India’s first dragon blood-oozing tree ................................................................................................................... 58
Govt signs MoU with NATHEALTH to streamline delivery of services under PMJAY ........................................................................ 58

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 3


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Jordan: Underwater Museum Of Military Vehicles unveiled ........................................................................................................................ 59


Badri Narain Sharma reappointed NAA Chief ............................................................................................................................................... 60
July 27, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 60
B S Yeddyurappa sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka ........................................................................................................................ 60
Iran tests Medium-Range Missile: US Official ................................................................................................................................................ 60
TIFF 2019: Meryl Streep wins Tribute Actor award ..................................................................................................................................... 61
26 July: 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrated ......................................................................................................................... 61
Haryana invites Nepal to be partner country for Gita Jayanti Mahotsav .................................................................................................. 62
Kiren Rijiju Committee: Strategise Preparations for 2020, 2024 Olympics ............................................................................................ 62
Mines Ministry organises Workshop on Effective utilization of Red Mud ................................................................................................ 62
Average Monthly Income per Agricultural Household less than Rs. 6500: Govt. ................................................................................. 63
July 28, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 63
Khelo India Youth Games 2020 to be held in Guwahati ............................................................................................................................. 63
5th Dharma-Dhamma conference being held in Rajgir, Bihar ................................................................................................................... 64
1st batch of Boeing AH-64E Apache helicopters reaches India ................................................................................................................. 64
Dengue hits record high of 18 years in Bangladesh ...................................................................................................................................... 64
DRC plans surveillance, vaccination training to tackle Ebola ...................................................................................................................... 65
Mary Kom wins gold in President’s Cup ......................................................................................................................................................... 65
July 29, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 65
29 July: International Tiger Day (Global Tiger Day) .................................................................................................................................... 65
Sudarsan Pattnaik wins People’s Choice Award in U.S. ............................................................................................................................... 66
Uttarakhand holds 1st Himalayan conclave ..................................................................................................................................................... 66
India-Nepal Logistics Summit organised in Kathmandu .............................................................................................................................. 67
IPS officer V. K. Johri appointed as New BSF Director General ................................................................................................................ 67
IIT Hyderabad develops eco-friendly solar cells using Kumkum Dye ...................................................................................................... 67
World Hindu Economic Forum launches its Nepal Chapter in Kathmandu ............................................................................................ 68
Govt sets 100% Digitization target of all Waqf properties in 100 days .................................................................................................... 68
July 30, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 69
All India Tiger Estimation Report 2018 released ........................................................................................................................................... 69
‘Odisha Rasagola’ gets GI Tag ........................................................................................................................................................................... 70
Landing Craft Utility L-56 Commissioned into Indian Navy ........................................................................................................................ 71
Govt. may review List of Iconic Tourist Sites .................................................................................................................................................. 71
West Bengal CM launches ‘Didi Ke Bolo’ campaign ..................................................................................................................................... 72
10 Monuments to be open for public from sunrise till 9 PM ..................................................................................................................... 72
5,645 electric buses sanctioned for 65 cities: NITI Aayog .......................................................................................................................... 72
Centre plans to combat vehicle theft with Microdot Patches ...................................................................................................................... 73
India signs deal to acquire R-27 Air-to-Air Missiles from Russia .............................................................................................................. 73
Infosys launches Cyber Defence Center in Bucharest, Romania ................................................................................................................ 74
July 31, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 74
Shawala Teja Singh temple in Pakistan opened for Hindus after 72 Years ............................................................................................. 74
Highlights: President Ram Nath Kovind Visit to Benin ................................................................................................................................. 74
IAF’s Tarun Chaudhri became 1st pilot to do Wingsuit Skydive Jump ..................................................................................................... 75
ITBP DG S S Deswal given charge of NSG ................................................................................................................................................... 75
Sri Lanka exempts Visa Fees by Indian tourists .............................................................................................................................................. 75
30 July: World Day Against Trafficking in Persons ...................................................................................................................................... 76
Atal Community Innovation Centre launched in New Delhi ...................................................................................................................... 76
TOI 270: NASA’s TESS discovers .................................................................................................................................................................... 77
Parliament passes Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019 ................................................................................ 77
Parliament passes Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2019 ............................................................................................................................... 77
Multiple Choice Questions .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 78

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 4


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

News Headlines: July 16-31, 2019


Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 16, 2019
India
Lok Sabha passes Bill to allow NIA (National Investigation Agency) to probe terrorist acts against
Indians and Indian interests abroad
Rajasthan High Court tells lawyers to “desist” from addressing the judges as “My Lord” and “Your
Lordship”
BJP leader Kalraj Mishra appointed new Governor of Himachal Pradesh
Acharya Devvrat appointed new Governor of Gujarat
Samajwadi Party leader Neeraj Shekhar quits his Rajya Sabha membership, his term was to end in
November 2020.
Chandrayaan-2 launch called off due to technical glitch, ISRO to announce revised date later
Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan releases the National Digital Health Blueprint (NDHB)
Former SC judge, Justice AK Sikri, appointed as an international judge of the Singapore
International Commercial Court (SICC)
Extinction of Great Indian Bustard, Lesser Florican: SC forms panel to frame emergency plan
Fourth anniversary of Skill India Mission observed on July 15
Theme of 20th anniversary of victory in Operation Vijay at Kargil — ‘Remember, Rejoice and Renew’
World
World Youth Skills Day observed on July 15
5,000 Sikh pilgrims to be allowed to visit Kartarpur Sahib per day: Pakistan
Computer pioneer and World War II codebreaker Alan Turing to feature on new 50-pound note:
Bank of England
Economy & Corporate
Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation declines to 2.02% in June vs 2.45% in May
RBI fines SBI Rs. 7 crores for non-compliance with norms related to NPA identification and fraud
risk management
Business sentiment in India fell to its lowest level since June 2016: IHS Markit India Business
Outlook
Shortage of certain spare parts of AN-32 transport aircraft due to strain in Russia-Ukraine ties:
Govt.
MP gets its 1st international flight with Air India’s Indore-Dubai service
Sports
Vijender Singh defeats Mike Snider of US in super middleweight division in US professional boxing
circuit in Newark
WIMBLEDON TENNIS TITLE WINNERS
Men’s Singles: Novak Djokovic (Serbia)
Women’s Singles: Simona Halep (Romania)
Men’s Doubles: Juan Sebastián Cabal & Robert Farah (Colombia)
Women’s Doubles: Hsieh Su-wei (Chinese Taipei) & Barbora Strycova (Czech Republic)
Mixed Doubles: Ivan Dodig (Croatia) & Latisha Chan (Chinese Taipei)
ICC WORLD CUP
England defeat NZ in Super Over in final at Lord’s London; Player of the Match: Ben Stokes (England)
Player of the tournament: Kane Williamson (NZ)
Most runs in tournament: Rohit Sharma (India): 648 runs, most wickets: Mitchell Starc (Australia):
27 wickets
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 17, 2019
India
New Governors: Anusuiya Uikey: Chhattisgarh, Biswa Bhusan Harichandan: Andhra Pradesh
Zakir Hussain, Sonal Mansingh, Jatin Goswami and K Kalyanasundaram Pillai awarded Sangeet

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 3


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Natak Akademi Fellowships (Akademi Ratna) for 2018


44 artists from the field of Music, Dance, Theatre, Traditional/Folk/Tribal Music/Dance/Theatre,
Puppetry and Overall contribution/scholarship in the Performing Arts selected for the 2018 Sangeet
Natak Akademi Awards (Akademi Puraskar)
Sangeet Natak Akademi announces 2018 Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskars for artistes below the
age of 40
Former SP Rajya Sabha MP Neeraj Shekhar joins BJP
Economy & Corporate
Bombay HC quashes CRZ clearances granted to BMC’s Rs. 14,000 crore Coastal Road Project
Delhi HC restrains Prasar Bharati from using the trademark ‘Dish’ of Dish TV for its DTH service
Rajya Sabha passes Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (Amendment), Bill
Defence Ministry suspends business dealings with Switzerland-based Pilatus Aircraft Limited over
alleged corruption
Union Minister Piyush Goyal addresses the UK-India Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO)
in London
Google India and Tata Trusts to expand their ‘Internet Saathi’ digital literacy programme for rural
women
World
Pakistan opens its airspace for Indian civilian aircrafts closed since Balakot strikes of Feb 26
UK marks India Day with the launch of 40 million pound Fast-Track Start-Up Fund
820 million people across the world did not have enough to eat in 2018 says the ‘State of Food
Security and Nutrition in the World 2019’ report released by FAO, IFAD, UNICEF, WFP and WHO
Palau, an archipelago of over 500 islands in Oceania, becomes 76th signatory country to join the
International Solar Alliance
Sports
India finish on top of medals tally at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship in Apia, Samoa
Wimbledon champion Simona Halep awarded Steaua Romaniei- the highest distinction of Romania
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 18, 2019
India
International Court of Justice (ICJ) asks Pakistan to review conviction, sentencing of alleged Indian
spy Kulbhushan Jadhav and provide him consular access
Cabinet approves setting up of National Medical Commission replacing Medical Council of India
BJP expels its Uttarakhand MLA Pranav Singh Champion from the party for six years for serial
public misconduct
NIA BILL
Parliament passes National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019
Enhances jurisdiction of NIA to investigate offences targeting Indians and Indian assets abroad
Economy & Corporate
Cabinet approves extension of the term of Fifteenth Finance Commission to 30 November 2019
Cabinet approves proposal to carry out seven amendments to Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016
Cabinet approves 2880 MW Dibang Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh
Tourism Ministry’s ‘Find the Incredible You’ campaign wins PATA (Pacific Asia Travel Association)
Gold Award, 2019
Israel inks USD 50 mn deal with India to supply complementary Naval MRSAM (medium range
surface-to-air missile) systems
US-based Ebix to acquire Indian travel portal Yatra for $338 million
World
World Emoji Day celebrated on July 17
Pakistan increases land allotted to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib at Kartarpur from 3 to 42 acres
Ursula von der Leyen of Germany elected as 1st female President of the European Commission

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 4


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

US House votes to condemn President Trump over his ‘racist’ tweets against four non-white
Congresswomen
US not to sell F-35 fighter jets to Turkey for buying Russian defence equipment
US slaps sanctions against Myanmar’s military chief for killing of Rohingya Muslims
Italian author Andrea Camilleri, creator of ‘Inspector Salvo Montalbano’, dies at 93
Legendary South African singer Johnny Clegg dies at 66
Sports
Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship begins in Cuttack
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 19, 2019
India
Ayodhya land dispute: SC allows mediation process to continue, seeks outcome report by August 1
Parliament passes New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Bill, 2019, with the Rajya Sabha
approving it by a voice vote
INS Sagardhwani, an oceanographic research vessel of DRDO, embarks on 2-month-long SAGAR-
MAITRI Mission-2 from Kochi
10th Jagran Film festival starts at Siri Fort Auditorium in New Delhi
STATES
Punjab govt. to extend reservation for sportspersons, wards of 1984 anti-Sikh riot victims in private
medical colleges
Andhra Pradesh: World Bank decides not to fund ‘Amaravati Sustainable Capital City Development
Project’ initiated by former CM Chandrababu Naidu
Andhra Pradesh cabinet decides that the government would run liquor shops in the state
Telangana Assembly passes Bill increasing retirement age of teaching faculty in govt. medical
colleges and others from 58 to 65
Tamil Nadu: P. Rajagopal, founder of Saravana Bhavan restaurant group, dies in Chennai at 72
Tamil Nadu: 2 new districts — Tenkasi and Chengelpet – would be created taking total number of
districts to 35
IIT Madras launches first-of-its-kind tech MBA programme for undergraduates
Gujarat: Former Congress MLAs Alpesh Thakor and Dhavalsinh Zala join BJP
Economy & Corporate
ADB cuts growth outlook for India to 7.0% in 2019 (FY2020) and 7.2% in 2020 (FY2021)
Former CEA Arvind Subramanian sticks to claim of India overestimating GDP growth during
2011-16
Govt makes anti-money laundering law stricter, widens definition of ‘proceeds of crime’
Centre should link grants to states with the reforms in the agriculture sector says ‘High-Powered
Committee of Chief Ministers for Transformation of Indian Agriculture’
CCI approves Nippon Life Insurance’s acquisition of up to 75% stake in Reliance Nippon Asset
Management
Purnendu S. Mishra takes over as new Member Traffic (MT), Railway Board
Care Ratings sends its MD and CEO Rajesh Mokashi on leave after a complaint to SEBI
World
Nelson Mandela International Day observed on July 18
G7 Finance Ministers agree on a plan to fix minimum level of taxation for digital companies such as
Facebook and Google
Ship carrying cargo from Bhutan arrives in Bangladesh through India via the Brahmaputra river
Hilary Swank to be honoured with the Leopard Club Award at the 2019 Locarno International Film
Festival
Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) declared ‘Public Health Emergency of
International Concern’ by WHO
Boeing to pay $50 million compensation to 737 MAX crash victims’ families

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 5


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Mexican drug lord Joaquin ‘El Chapo’ Guzman jailed for life by US Court
Sports
Former Indian athlete P. T. Usha nominated for the International Association of Athletics
Federations (IAAF) Veteran Pin
Tabor Grand Prix Athletics in Czech Republic: Muhammed Anas wins men’s 400m gold in 45.40s,
Hima Das (23.25s) win women’s gold
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 20, 2019
India
Centre and Assam govt. move SC seeking extension of the July 31 deadline for finalisation of NRC
(National Register of Citizens)
Indian Army conducts summer user trials of 3rd Generation Anti-Tank Guided Missile NAG at
Pokhran Field Firing Ranges
IFS officer Vivek Kumar appointed private secretary to PM Narendra Modi
India’s new Ambassadors: Upender Singh Rawat: Panama; Sanjeev Kumar Singla: Israel
HUMAN RIGHTS BILL
Lok Sabha passes Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2019
Now a Supreme Court judge besides CJI can be appointed Chairperson of NHRC
Number of members of NHRC increased from two to three
At least one of 3 members of NHRC should be a woman
Economy & Corporate
India’s foreign exchange reserves decline by USD 1.113 billion to USD 428.797 billion in the week to
July 12
International Energy Agency Executive Director Fatih Birol praises Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
All Nippon Airways (ANA) to start first direct flight from South India to Japan connecting Tokyo to
Chennai – from Oct 27
Chennai-based Laxman Muthiyah wins $30,000 reward from Instagram for spotting a flaw in the
photo-sharing app
World
Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy awarded honorary doctorate by Royal Holloway,
University of London
Ministerial to Advance Religious Freedom organised in Washington
US blocks sale of Turkish-made T129 ATAK helicopter gunships to Pakistan
AB InBev to sell Aussie brewer CUB (Carlton & United Breweries) to Asahi of Japan for USD 11.3 bn
S. House votes to block Trump administration from selling billions of dollars in weapons to Saudi
Arabia
33 killed in an arson incident in an animation studio in Kyoto, Japan
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) adds more than 7,000 animals, fish
and plants to its endangered ‘Red List’
Sports
15-year old Prithu Gupta becomes India’s 64th Grandmaster, crossing the Elo threshold of 2500
points
ICC inducts Sachin Tendulkar, Allan Donald in its Hall of Fame list
Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju Friday launches AIFF’s Golden Baby Leagues handbook 2019-20 for 6-12
years age group
Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships in Cuttack: India win both men’s and women’s team
titles beating England (3-2) and Singapore (3-0) respectively
North Korea beat Tajikistan 1-0 in final to win Intercontinental Cup football tournament in
Ahmedabad
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 21, 2019

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 6


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

India
Three-time Delhi CM and Congress leader Sheila Dikshit passes away at 81
New Governors: Anandi Ben Patel: UP, Lal Ji Tandon: MP, Phagu Chauhan: Bihar, Jagdeep Dhankhar:
West Bengal, Ramesh Bais: Tripura, R. N. Ravi: Nagaland
Rajya Sabha MP D Raja to take over as General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) after
incumbent S Sudhakar Reddy resigned
J&K: Defence Minister visits Kargil War Memorial at Dras
J&K: Defence Minister inaugurates 1 km long Ujh bridge in Kathua district, 617.40 m long Basantar
bridge in Samba district
Next Generation Sequencing (NSG) facility inaugurated at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular
Biology in Hyderabad by Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan
Kerala Tourism organises ‘Monsoon Ragas’ music festival in Thiruvananthapuram from July 20 to
24
SKILL CENTRES
2 Skill Centre of Excellence (CoE)s to be set up in UP with joint collaboration between State and
Central Government
Centre of Excellence for Plumbing to be set up in Greater Noida, Centre of Excellence for Services
Sector to be set up Varanasi
Economy & Corporate
Eight more routes start operations under the regional connectivity scheme UDAN: Mysore-
Hyderabad, Mysore-Goa, Mysore-Cochin and Kolkata-Shillong.
Aditya Birla Idea Payments Bank Limited (ABIPBL) Saturday announces winding up of its business
All lanes at toll fee plaza on national highways will be ‘FASTag lanes’ from December 1
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code: Union Cabinet approves new deadline of 330 days for completion
of the corporate insolvency resolution process (CIRP)
World
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards confiscate British tanker Stena Impero in the Strait of Hormuz for
breaking ‘international maritime rules ‘
US launches ‘Operation Sentinel’ to improve surveillance in Middle East waterways
Italy: Mount Etna volcano erupts on Sicily, closing two airports in Catania
China’s space lab Tiangong-2 re-enters the earth’s atmosphere
Cesar Pelli, architect of Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, dies aged 92
Sports
Shiva Thapa wins gold for India in men’s 63 kg at the President’s Cup boxing tournament in Astana,
Kazakhstan
Algeria defeat Senegal 1-0 in final to win the Africa Cup of Nations football tournament in Cairo
2018 Jakarta Asian Games: India’s silver in 4×400 mixed relay event (Mohammad Anas, Hima Das,
Arokia Rajiv & M R Poovamma) to be upgraded to gold after disqualification of Bahrain for doping
Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) suspends 23-year-old Sanjivani Jadhav, bronze winner in women’s
10,000m at the 2019 Asian Championships, for 2 years for doping
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 21-22, 2019
India
Lok Janshakti Party MP from Samastipur, Bihar Ramchandra Paswan dies at 57
Bardhaman railway station in West Bengal to be named after revolutionary freedom fighter
Batukeshwar Dutt
Carnatic vocalist S. Sowmya wins ‘Sangita Kalanidhi’ award given by The Music Academy in Chennai
Darthawma, the lone surviving Mizo member of Subhash Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army
(INA), dies at 99
CM Edappadi K. Palaniswami launches the Tamil Nadu Water Resources Conservation and
Augmentation Mission

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 7


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Pratap Bhanu Mehta steps down as the Vice-Chancellor of Ashoka University; Prof. Malabika Sarkar
appointed new VC
Economy & Corporate
Health Ministry bans sale, distribution of antibiotic Colistin for food producing animals
World
PM Shinzo Abe’s ruling coalition secured a majority in Japan’s upper house of parliament (House of
Councillors) in elections
YouTube fined by US government over kids’ data privacy breach
Harley-Davidson to launch its first electric motorcycle, the Livewire
FaceApp, which shows people how they’ll look when they’re older, launched worldwide
Sports
Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships in Cuttack: G. Sathiyan and Archana Kamath defeat
Singapore’s Peng Yu En KoenGoi Rui Xuan 11-1, 11-7, 11-4 in the final to win Mixed Doubles title
Indonesia Open BWF Tour Super 1000 tournament in Jakarta: P. V. Sindhu loses to Japan’s Akane
Yamaguchi in women’s singles final 15-21, 16-21; Taiwan’s Tien Chen Chou defeats Denmark’s
Anders Antonsen 21-18, 24-26, 21-15 to win men’s singles title
Indian sprinter Hima Das wins gold in women’s 400 m in 52.09 seconds at Nove Mesto in the Czech
Republic
India’s Ravinder Kumar Malik wins Mr. South Asia title at South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique
Sports Championship in Kathmandu
Army Chief General Bipin Rawat approves MS Dhoni’s request to train with the Parachute regiment
for two months
2018 Jakarta Asian Games: India’s silver in 4×400 mixed relay event (Mohammad Anas, Hima Das,
Arokia Rajiv & M R Poovamma) to be upgraded to gold after disqualification of Bahrain for doping
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 23, 2019
India
Chandrayaan-2 successfully launched by GSLV-MkIII-M1 from Sriharikota (AP); is aimed at landing a
rover on unchartered Lunar South Pole
Parliament passes Protection of Human Rights Amendment Bill to expedite the process of
appointment of chairperson and members of NHRC and states’ rights bodies
Naval Chief Admiral Karambir Singh commissions Navy’s fifth Dornier squadron, Sea Eagles, in
Chennai
Lt Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane appointed next vice chief of Indian Army
IIT-Madras students develop ‘Agricopter’ to eliminate manual spraying of pesticides in agricultural
farms
Arun Kumar Roy, 3-time member of the Bihar Assembly and 3-time MP for Dhanbad, dies at 84
RTI BILL
Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Lok Sabha with 218 members voting in its
favour and 79 against it
Bill allows Central govt. to notify the term of office for Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) and
Information Commissioners (ICs)
Economy & Corporate
Lucknow to host 11th biennial edition of DefExpo-2020 from February 5 to 8, 2020, main theme:
‘India: the emerging defence manufacturing hub’
World
Ukraine: Servant of the People party of President Vladimir Zelensky wins absolute majority in
parliamentary elections
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Yukiya Amano dies at the age of 72
NAM Ministerial Meeting held in Caracas, Venezuela
‘Avengers: Endgame’ ($2.790.2 billion) topples James Cameron’s ‘Avatar’ ($2,789.7 billion) to become

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 8


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

the highest-grossing film of all time.


Sports
Two-time Olympic gold medallist Keshav Dutt (hockey) and former India Football Captain Prasun
Banerjee selected for ‘Mohun Bagan Ratna’ award
Winners of 21st Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships in Cuttack: Men Singles: Harmeet
Desai, Women Singles: Ayhika Mukherjee, Men Doubles: A. Amalraj & Manav Thakkar, Women
Doubles: Pooja Sahasrabudhe & Krittwika Sinha Roy
American John Isner beats Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan in final 7-6 (7/2), 6-3 to win Men’s Singles
title at ATP grass court tennis at Newport, Rhode Island
Former Wimbledon doubles champion Peter McNamara of Australia dies at the age of 64
Army Chief General Bipin Rawat approves MS Dhoni’s request to train with the Parachute regiment
for two months
Ireland’s Shane Lowry wins British Open golf tournament at Royal Portrush in UK
Manny Pacquiao (Philippines) beats defending champion Keith Thurman (US) to win the WBA
welterweight super boxing title in Las Vegas
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 24, 2019
India
Karnataka: CM H. D. Kumaraswamy loses trust vote in Assembly 99–105; 14-month old Congress-
JD(S) govt falls
Assam: SC extends the deadline for the final publication of the National Register of Citizens (NRC)
from July 31 to August 31
Lok Sabha passes the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill that seeks to address issues relating to road
safety and strengthen public transport, automation, and computerisation
Vande Bharat Express, India’s fastest train at 160 km/hr, completes trial run from New Delhi to
Katra
Coffee table book on Fire and Fury Corps, which guards LoC in Ladakh region of J&K, released
National broadcasting Day celebrated on July 23, 1st radio broadcast in India from the Bombay
Station by the Indian Broadcasting Company (a private company), on July 23, 1927
Economy & Corporate
IMF cuts India’s GDP growth forecast by 0.3% for both 2019-20 (7%) and 2020-21 (7.2%) in its World
Economic Update.
Income tax department to celebrate Aaykar Diwas on July 24, income tax introduced in India on July
24, 1860
extends due date for filing income tax returns by individuals for 2018-19 by a month till August 31
RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das launches Utkarsh 2022, the central banks’ medium-term strategy
framework
Govt sets target for installation of Rooftop Solar projects of 40,000 MW by 2022
Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) is the highest-ranking (106th) Indian company on
the Fortune Global 500 list; list topped by Walmart
SC cancels Amrapali group RERA (Real Estate Regulation and Development Act) registration for
cheating homebuyers in ‘connivance with banks’
The Institute of Cost Accountants of India elects Balwinder Singh as its President
World
Boris Johnson elected as the Conservative Party leader and Britain’s new PM
Former Chinese premier (1987-98) Li Peng dies at the age of 90 in Beijing
Sports
Bengal Open squash tournament in Kolkata: Abhay Singh and Tanvi Khanna clinch men’s and
women’s titles respectively
Hosts India win all seven gold medals at the Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships in
Cuttack

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 9


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 25, 2019


India
The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed in the Rajya Sabha
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill passed in the Lok Sabha
Odisha: Ruling BJD wins Patkura Assembly seat, now has 11 MLAs in 147-member House
to dissolve National Institute of Miners’ Health (NIMH) and merge it with ICMR-National Institute
of Occupational Health
ICMR launches NDQF (National Data Quality Forum) to improve quality of health and demographic
data in India
First earth bound orbit-raising manoeuvre for Chandrayaan-2 successfully performed: ISRO
AP passes bill providing for 75% job reservation for locals in industries and factories
‘Bad Man’, biography of Gulshan Grover written by journalist Roshmila Bhattacharya, released
‘Chandra Shekhar – The Last Icon of Ideological Politics’ book written by Harivansh (Deputy
Chairman, Rajya Sabha) and Ravi Dutt Bajpai, released
Economy & Corporate
Lok Sabha passes the Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2019
Cabinet approves fair and remunerative price (FRP) of sugarcane at Rs 275 per quintal
to create a buffer stock of 40 lakh metric tonne sugar for a period of one year from August 1, 2019
Cabinet approves sale of 481.79 acres of land held by FACT to the Government of Kerala and
utilization of the sale proceeds by FACT
IBBI tightens norms governing resolution professionals (RPs); relatives of RPs can’t accept
employment offers from resolution applicant after completion of a resolution process
Beijing-backed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) drops plans to finance new capital
Amaravati for AP, after the World Bank pulled its support on July 19
India 52nd on Global Innovation Index (GII) 2019 of 129 countries; Switzerland first
GII rankings published annually by Cornell University, INSEAD, WIPO and GII Knowledge Partners
(CII in India)
Netflix unveils mobile only subscription plan in India at Rs 199 per month
Students of IIT Kharagpur develop app CARE4U which will inform the caregiver when the elderly
person falls down with the exact location.
World
Facebook slapped with $5 billion fine for users’ privacy violation in the Cambridge Analytica data
scandal involving 87 million users
Sports
Six Indians storm into semi-finals of the Thailand International boxing Tournament in Bangkok
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 26, 2019
RTI BILL
Parliament passes the Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019
Gives govt. powers to decide salary and service terms of the head and members of Central
Information Commissioner (CIC)
TRIPLE TALAQ BILL
Lok Sabha passes Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019 commonly known as
Triple Talaq bill by voice vote
Provision of a three-year jail sentence for men who practice triple talaq
India
Karnataka Assembly speaker K. R. Ramesh Kumar disqualifies 2 Congress rebel MLAs and an
Independent legislator till the end of the term of current House in 2023 under the anti-defection law
Govt’s National Health Authority (NHA) tis up with the Healthcare Federation of India
(NATHEALTH) to streamline delivery of services under Ayushman Bharat

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 10


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Economy & Corporate


Union Minister Amit Shah receives a dividend cheque for FY 2018-19 from Repco Bank which is
under the administrative control of Home Ministry
Badri Narain Sharma re-appointed NAA (National Anti-profiteering Authority) Chairperson for two
years
BMW launches its sports activity vehicle X7 priced at Rs 98.9 lakh
E-learning platform Byjus to replace mobile handset brand Oppo as official Team India sponsor from
Sept 5
R.L. Narasimhan, former business editor of The Hindu, dies in Chennai at the age of 71
DCC (Digital Communications Commission) approves TRAI’s penalty totalling ₹3,050 crore on
Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea for not providing points of interconnection to Reliance Jio when it
entered the market
India and China to surpass the U.S. as the World’s Centers of Tech Innovation by 2035: Bloomberg
New Economy Global Survey
World
Tunisia: President Beji Caid Essebsi dies at the age of 92
IAEA appoints Romanian diplomat Cornel Feruta as its acting director-general to replace Yukiya
Amano, who died recently
Britain: New Prime Minister Boris Johnson appoints Indian-origin Priti Patel as Home Secretary
Milky Way’s current shape is because of a collision with another smaller galaxy 10 bn years ago
Jordan: Underwater military museum opens on the bed of Red Sea off the coast of Aqaba
Sports
Kerala Tourism to launch Champions Boat League (CBL) at 13 backwater venues from Aug 10 to Nov
1
World Swimming Championship at Gwangju South Korea: Hungary’s Kristof Milak wins 200m
men’s butterfly gold in 1:50.73, shatters Michael Phelps’s 10-year old world record
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 27, 2019
India
20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrated on July 26 with theme as ‘Remember, Rejoice and
Renew’
President to visit West African nations– Benin, The Gambia and Guinea– from July 28 to August 3
Karnataka: State BJP President B S Yeddyurappa sworn in as Chief Minister, asked to prove majority
by July 31
Haryana: CM Khattar invites Nepal as partner country for 2019 ‘Gita Jayanti Mahotsav’ in
Kurukshetra from Dec 3 to 8
Congress Lok Sabha MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury appointed Chairman of the Public Accounts
Committee (PAC) of Parliament
Second earth-bound orbit-raising manoeuvre for Chandryaan-2 successfully performed
Malayalam poet and translator Attoor Ravi Varma dies in Thrissur at the age of 89
COMPANIES BILL
Companies (Amendment) Bill 2019 passed by a voice vote in Lok Sabha
Seeks to ensure better compliance levels and to re-categorise some of the compoundable offences as
civil defaults
Unspent annual CSR funds must be transferred to govt. notified funds within 6 months of the
financial year
Registrar of Companies can remove a company’s name if the latter is not carrying out business
activities as per the Act.
Economy & Corporate
IBBI amends the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Insolvency Resolution Process for
Corporate Persons) Regulations, 2016 and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Liquidation

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 11


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Process) Regulations, 2016


Reliance Jio becomes country’s largest telecom operator at 331.3 million subscribers in June,
Vodafone Idea: 320 million
Average monthly income per agricultural household from all sources is less than Rs. 6,500: Govt.
Ashok Leyland Ltd launches air-conditioned bus ‘Oyster’
World
Iran releases 9 Indians detained aboard MT Riah on July 13
US: Army General Mark Milley appointed next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Meryl Streep wins Tribute Actor award at 2019 Toronto International Film Festival
Ukraine seizes Russian tanker ‘Nika Spirit’ in Black Sea, crew members freed
S. federal government announces reinstatement of death penalty after two decades
Sports
England (85, 303) defeat Ireland (207, 38) by 143 runs in the one-off Test at Lord’s, London
Bhakti Kulkarni wins 46th National Women Chess Championship at Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu
World Swimming Championship at Gwangju South Korea: Caeleb Dressel (US) creates new world
record in men’s 100 m butterfly (49.50 sec), breaks 10-year old WR held by Michael Phelps (US)
Medals to be awarded at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics unveiled, designed by Junichi Kawanishi
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 28, 2019
India
5th Dharma-Dhamma conference being held in Rajgir, Bihar: July 27-28
1st batch of four Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian Attack helicopters arrive at IAF’s Hindon airbase
Lt Gen Paramjit Singh to be the next Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of the Indian
Army
Foundation day function of the Ministry of Earth Sciences celebrated on July 27
New website of India Meteorological Department ‘www.mausam.imd.gov.in’ launched
Economy & Corporate
GST council approves rate cut on Electric Vehicles (EVs) from 12% to 5% and on EV chargers from
18% to 5%
Samprada Singh, founder of pharma company Alkem Laboratories, dies at 94
World
US approves $125-mn military sales to support, monitor Pakistan’s F-16 jets
US Supreme Court allows Trump administration to use $2.5bn in Pentagon funds for construction of
wall on Mexican border
Oscar-winning Mexican filmmaker Alejandra Gonzalez Iñárritu to get Honorary Heart of Sarajevo
Award at the 25th Sarajevo Film Festival (Aug 16-23)
Iran test fires Shahab-3 medium-range missile (1100 km)
THAILAND OPEN BOXING
India win eight medals at Thailand Open International boxing tournament in Bangkok: 1 gold, 4
silver and 3 bronze
Gold: Ashish (men’s 75 kg)
Silver: Nikhat Zareen (women’s 51kg), Deepak (men’s 49kg), Mohammed Hussamuddin (men’s 56kg),
Brijesh Yadav (men’s 81kg)
Bronze: Manju Rani (women’s 48kg), Ashish (men’s 69kg), Bhagyabati Kachari (women’s 75kg)
Sports
MyTeam11 becomes title sponsor for India tour of Windies, starting August 3
Khelo India Youth Games will be held in Guwahati in January 2020
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 29, 2019
India
President Ram Nath Kovind arrives in Cotonou, Benin, on the 1st leg of his 3-nation tour to West
Africa

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 12


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Senior Congress leader and former union minister Jaipal Reddy dies at 77 in Hyderabad
Meghalaya Legislative Assembly Speaker Donkupar Roy dies at 64 in Gurugram
IPS officer V. K. Johri appointed as the next Director General (DG) of BSF
Conclave of the Himalayan States held in Mussoorie
Economy & Corporate
India-Nepal Logistics Summit organised in Kathmandu on July 28, theme: ‘Transforming Logistics
Landscape’
Hindu Economic Forum (HEF) launches its Nepal Chapter in Kathmandu
Flipkart forays into offline presence with Furniture Experience Centre in Bengaluru
World
World Hepatitis Day observed on July 28 with its theme as ‘Invest in eliminating hepatitis’
July 28: birth anniversary of Dr Baruch Blumberg, who discovered hepatitis B virus (HBV) and
developed a diagnostic test and vaccine for the virus
Sudarsan Pattnaik wins People’s Choice Prize at Boston International Sand Art Championship
Russi Taylor, Minnie Mouse voice actor, dies at 75 in US
Sports
President’s Cup Boxing tournament in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia: India win 9 medals – 7 gold, 2 silver
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 30, 2019
India
India has 2967 tigers says All India Tiger Estimation Report 2018: MP-526, Karnataka: 524,
Uttarakhand: 442, Maharashtra: 312, Tamil Nadu: 264, Assam: 190, Kerala: 190
Mobile application M-STrIPES (Monitoring System For Tigers-Intensive Protection and Ecological
Status) used for Tiger census
Repealing and Amending Bill, 2019, a Bill seeking to repeal 58 obsolete laws, passed unanimously by
the Lok Sabha
Lok Sabha passes National Medical Commission Bill, 2019 that seeks to create National Medical
Commission in place of Medical Council of India
Landing Craft Utility commissioned into Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam; is 100th warship built by
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE), Kolkata
Odisha wins Geographical Indication (GI) tag for ‘Odisha Rasagola’, W. Bengal had got GI for ‘Banglar
Rasogolla’ in 2017
West Bengal: CM launches phone number (9137091370) and website www.didikaybolo.com to
address public grievances
Karnataka: CM B.S. Yeddyurappa wins floor test in the Assembly by voice vote
Maharashtra: Congress MLA Kalidas Kolambkar quits the Assembly
Economy & Corporate
Rajya Sabha approves Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2019; seeks to speed up
bankruptcy resolution process
Commerce and industry ministry to set up a ‘National Traders Welfare Board’ to advise the
government to reduce compliance burden and improve availability of funds for traders
India signs Rs 1,500 crore deal to acquire R-27 air-to-air missiles from Russia for equipping
Su-30MKI combat aircraft
Cisco collaborating with Google to launch free high-speed WiFi at public locations across India
Infosys launches Cyber Defence Center in Bucharest, Romania
World
President Ram Nath Kovind holds talks with his Beninese counterpart Patrice Talon in Cotonou
Pakistan: 1,000-year-old Shawala Teja Singh temple in Sialkot opened for Hindus for the 1st time
since partition
BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, participants-Sergei Lavrov (Russia),
Wang Yi (China), Ernesto Araujo (Brazil), Naledi Pandor (South Africa) and V.K. Singh (India)

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 13


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Israel and the U.S. conduct tests of Arrow-3 missile defence system in Alaska
ICC WORLD TEST CHAMPIONSHIP (WTC)
WTC to begin from August 1 with Australia-England test in Ashes series
9 countries will play a total of 71 Test matches across 27 series over two years
Top 2 two teams to play in final in June 2021 in the UK
Sports
Athletics: Dalilah Muhammad (52.2 sec) of US breaks 16-year old WR in women’s 400 m hurdles
Colombia’s Egan Bernal of Team Ineos wins 3,365.8 km Tour de France cycle race (July 6-Brussels –
July 28-Paris)
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen of Finland wins German Grand Prix at Hockenheim, Germany’s
Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari) is 2nd and Russian Daniil Kvyat (Toro Rosso) finished 3rd
13-year old Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa wins Xtracon Open chess championship in
Copenhagen
Georgia’s Nikoloz Basilashvili beats Russia’s Andrey Rublev in final 7-5, 4-6, 6-3 to win men’s singles
title at Hamburg Open tennis
Current Affairs – News Headlines: July 31, 2019
India
Rajya Sabha passes the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage), Bill, 2019 that
criminalises instant triple talaq and attracts a jail term of three years for the husband
ITBP DG S. S. Deswal given the additional charge of the counter-terror force NSG
Sanjay Sinh. Congress Rajya Sabha member from Assam, resigns from the party and the Upper
House
3 NCP MLAs and 1 Congress MLA resigned from Maharashtra Assembly
President Kovind addresses National Assembly (Parliament) of Benin in Cotonou, meets President
Patrice Talon
Wing commander Tarun Chaudhri became 1st pilot of Indian Armed Forces to do a wingsuit jump
Economy & Corporate
Parliament passes the Companies (Amendment) Bill which seeks to tighten CSR norms and ensure
stricter action for non-compliance of the company law regulations
Lok Sabha passes Code on Wages Bill, 2019 to enable introduction of minimum wage for workers
Lok Sabha passes the Consumer Protection Bill, 2019 that provides for creation of Central Consumer
Protection Authority (CCPA)
RBI liberalises norms related to ECB by relaxing the end-use restrictions with regard to working
capital, general corporate purpose and repayment of rupee loans
Centre nominates Economic Affairs Secretary Atanu Chakraborty on RBI’s central board
Rajiv Kumar designated as the new Finance Secretary
India ranked 4th globally (behind Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia) in terms of business optimism
over the next 12 months: Grant Thornton’s International Business Report
World
UN celebrates International Day of Friendship on July 30
UN observes World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30, theme: ‘Human Trafficking: Call
Your Government To Action’
India gifts 44 SUVs to Mozambique’s Ministry of Interior during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s
visit
Actor-filmmaker Andy Serkis wins International Broadcasting Convention’s highest award, the
International Honor for Excellence
Military plane of Pakistan Army crashes in Rawalpindi, killing 19 people, including five military
personnel
US: Tropical storm Erick grows into a hurricane in the eastern Pacific Ocean

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 14


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Sports
BCCI suspends batsman Prithvi Shaw till November 15 for doping violation
July 16, 2019
Extinct bird had an extra-long toe: Study
In 2014 fossil of Elektorornis chenguangi, a small bird which lived nearly 99 million years ago, with a
weird elongated toe were discovered in amber tree resin in Hukawng Valley of Myanmar.
The study was led by Lida Xing, a palaeontologist at China University of Geosciences who specialises in
Cretaceous birds and was published in Current Biology.
Key Finding of Study
The bird was found partially buried in amber (fossilized tree resin) with its lower leg and foot remained
undisturbed in hardened tree resin until amber miners eventually discovered fossil in Hukawng Valley in
2014.
Preserved toe of bird measures less than half an inch (O.5 inch) from knuckle to claw-tip, which makes it
41% longer than next longest digit on creature’s foot.
Its elongated toe structure has never been observed in other birds either living or even extinct.
Probable Reason: Elektorornis chenguangi may have used long, sensitive digit to probe cracks in trees for
insects and grubs.
Spektr-RG: Telescope launched by Russia into space
Russia launched a Powerful X-ray space telescope called Spektr-RG from cosmodrome in Baikonur,
Kazakhstan, in a joint project with Germany. The launch of telescope was originally scheduled for 21 June
2019 but was postponed twice because of a battery problem.
About Spektr-RG
It is developed by Russia as a joint project with Germany.
Launch Vehicle: Proton-M rocket
It is launched to observe black holes, neutron stars and magnetic fields.
It is a space observatory that intends to replace Spektr-R, known as the Russian Hubble, which Roskosmos
(Russian space agency) lost control of in January 2019. Spektr-R was launched in 2011 and now its
successor Spektr-RG will take up its duties.
Current Scenario
Although since 2011, Russia has been only country capable sending teams to International Space Station
(ISS) but in recent years Russia’s space programme that was a source of great pride to nation, has suffered
a series of humiliating setbacks, although country remains committed to ambitious projects.
A series of recent setbacks along with corruption scandals within Roskosmos and competition from Elon
Musk’s SpaceX have threatened its monopoly.
The next launch to ISS by Russia is scheduled for July 20 and it will carry an Italian and US astronauts
together with a Russian cosmonaut.
International arbitration court imposes $5 billion penalty Pakistan
International Arbitration Court has imposed over $5 billion penalty on Pakistan for unlawful denial of a
mining lease to a company called Tethyan Copper Company for Reko Diq project in 2011. This penalty on
cash-strapped Pakistan is one of the biggest in its history.
About Tethyan Copper Company v/s Pakistan Case
In 2012 Tethyan Copper Company (TCC) had filed claims for international arbitration before World Bank’s
International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) after Balochistan government rejected
a leasing request from company in 2011.
Damage Claims: TTC a joint venture between Chilean mining company Antofagasta and Canada’s Barrick
Gold Corporation had claimed 11.43 billion dollars in damages.
Case between Pakistan government and company continued for 7 years.
Arguments by TCC: During August 2010 TCC undertook an extensive and detailed bankable feasibility
study that established basis for mine development at Reko Diq and submitted a mining lease application
in February 2011, along with an environmental and social impact assessment (SIA) report. Then in
November 2011, after Balochistan government summarily rejected application by local operating

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 15


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

subsidiary of TCC for mining lease in respect of Reko Diq, the project was stopped.
Way Ahead: Imran Khan, Prime Minister of Pakistan has issued orders for formation of commission to
investigate and fix responsibility for massive loss borne by country in Reko Diq Mining case.
About Reko Diq
In Balochi language Reko Diq means sandy peak. It is a small town in Chagai district in Balochistan that
lies close to the border with Iran and Afghanistan.
Reko Diq mine is famous for its vast gold and copper (Cu) reserves. It is believed to have the world’s 5th
largest gold deposit.
International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID)
It is an international arbitration institution established in 1966.
It arbitrates for legal dispute resolution and conciliation between international investors.
Parent organization: World Bank Group.
Background: ICSID was established in 1966 by Convention on Settlement of Investment Disputes between
States and Nationals of Other States (the ICSID Convention). It is Headquartered in Washington, D.C.,
United States.
Agri-Business Incubation Centre set up in Chhattisgarh
Union Agriculture Ministry has set up an Agri Business Incubation Centre in Chhattisgarh. The centre has
been set up by Agriculture Ministry in Indira Gandhi Agriculture University of Raipur, Chhattisgarh.
About Agri Business Incubation Centre
Agri Business Incubation Centre is set up under National Agriculture Development Scheme- RAFTAAR
(Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied sector Rejuvenation).
It is established to focus on innovations, skill building and entrepreneurs development in agriculture and
allied sectors.
It will also act as catalyst for developing an ecosystem conducive for growth of agripreneurship (i.e.
entrepreneurship in agriculture) in state and foster a start-up culture.
About National Agriculture Development Scheme- RAFTAAR
Background: In November 2017 Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi, approved continuation of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (or National Agriculture
Development Scheme) as Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana- Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and
Allied sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) for a period of 3 years i.e. 2017-18 to 2019-20
Objective: To make farming a remunerative economic activity by strengthening farmer’s effort, risk
mitigation and promoting agribusiness entrepreneurship.
Mandate: Under the scheme, guidance, technology and infrastructure will be provided to youth and
entrepreneurs for start-ups in different areas of agriculture.
Continuation of RKVY-RAFTAAR will therefore keep momentum of agriculture and allied sector growth.
India is home to 1,256 species of orchid: 1st comprehensive survey
According to the first comprehensive census of orchids of India titled ‘Orchids of India: A Pictorial Guide’,
India is home to 1,256 species of orchid. The census containing photographs of 775 species is published
recently by the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) was unveiled in early July 2019 Union Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
In the light of importance of orchids in floriculture, this publication by BSI, which has photographs of 60%
of all species, is 1st authentic inventory and thus will be useful for researchers, growers, nature lovers and
people with different backgrounds.
Key Findings of Study
1,256 orchid species or taxa belong are found in India.
388 species of orchids are endemic to India. Out of the 388 species about one-third (128) endemic species
are found in Western Ghats.
Three life forms: Orchids can be broadly categorised into 3 life forms-
Epiphytic– are plants growing on another plants including those growing on rock boulders and often
termed lithophyte. About 60% of all orchids found in India, which is 757 species, are epiphytic. These are
abundant up to 1800 m (above sea level) and their occurrence decreases with increase in altitude

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 16


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Terrestrial– are plants growing on land and climbers. 447 species in India are terrestrial. These grow
directly on soil, are found in large numbers in temperate and alpine region.
Mycoheterotrophic– are plants which derive nutrients from mycorrhizal fungi that are attached to the
roots of a vascular plant). 43 species in India are mycoheterotrophic. These are mostly associated with
ectomycorrhizal fungi, are found in temperate regions, or are found growing with parasites in tropical
regions.
Distribution of orchid:
Among 10 Bio Geographic Zones of India, Himalayan zone is richest in terms of orchid species followed by
Northeast India, Western Ghats, Deccan plateau and Andaman & Nicobar (A&N) Islands.
North-East India rank at top in species concentration of Orchids.
Western Ghats have high endemism of orchids.
Highest number of orchid species: is recorded from Arunachal Pradesh with 612 species. This is followed
by Sikkim with 560 species and West Bengal.
FACT
The entire orchid family is listed under Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). Thus any trade of wild orchid is banned globally.
Alan Turing: WW-II Code-breaker to appear on U.K.’s new £50 bank note
Alan Turing, the code-breaker during World War II has been chosen by Bank of England to feature on
Britain’s new £50 note. The £50 note will be the last of Bank of England collection to switch from paper to
polymer and is due to enter circulation by end of 2021. It shows a photo of Alan Turing taken in 1951.
This prestigious announcement comes decades after his tragic death following a conviction for
homosexuality.
About Alan Turing
He is known for his code-cracking work that proved vital to Allies in World War II.
He played a pivotal role in development of early computers. He was an outstanding mathematician whose
work has had an enormous impact on today’s world.
He is also referred as Father of Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for his far ranging and
path-breaking contributions in field.
His career was cut short by his conviction in 1952 for gross indecency with a 19-year-old man. Although he
did not go to prison but was chemically castrated and died aged 41 due to cyanide poisoning in an
apparent suicide in 1954.
Royal Pardon: In 2013 he received a posthumous pardon from Queen Elizabeth II.
Later in 2017, the Alan Turing Law posthumously pardoned men who had been cautioned or convicted
under historical legislation that outlawed homosexual acts in Britain.
Kartarpur Sahib: Pakistan agrees to Visa-free, year-long travel for Indians
Pakistan has agreed in principle to allow year-long visa-free access for Indian pilgrims to holy Gurdwara
of Kartarpur Sahib. The agreement was reached at 2nd bilateral formal meeting held at Wagah for
finalising the modalities for Kartarpur Sahib corridor, a gateway for pilgrims to visit Kartarpur Sahib in
Pakistan.
Indian delegation at 2nd bilateral formal meet comprised representatives from Union Ministry of Home
Affairs, Union Ministry of External Affairs, Union Ministry of Defence, Government of Punjab and National
Highway Authorities of India (NHAI).
Key Highlights
Pakistan has agreed to allow year-long Visa-free travel to Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara for pilgrims holding
Indian passport and Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card holders for 7 days a week.
Throughout the year, 5,000 pilgrims will be allowed to visit Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara per day. India
insisted that 10,000 more could be allowed to visit Gurudwara on special occasions and festivals.
Pilgrims will be allowed to travel individually or in groups and can also travel on foot.
Permit system: Although India proposed that holy shrine be open to Indian citizens of all faiths but
Pakistan government reiterated its stand that there will be provision for a permit system for pilgrims

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 17


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

travelling via religious corridor.


Plea for ‘Nagar Kirtan’: India urged Pakistan to allow ‘Nagar Kirtan’ from Delhi to Nankana Sahib in
Pakistan in July and during October-November 2019 as part of celebrations to mark 550th birth
anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak, founder of Sikhism.
About Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara
It is located at Kartarpur in Pakistan’s Narowal district and the holy shrine is visible from Indian side.
It stands on bank of River Ravi, about 120 km northeast of Lahore.
Religious Importance: It is the final resting place of First Sikh Guru Baba Guru Nanak, founder of Sikhism.
It was here that the Baba Guru Nanak Dev assembled a Sikh community and lived for 18 years until his
death in 1539.
About Kartarpur Sahib Corridor
It links India’s Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district with Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara in Pakistan’s
Punjab province.
This corridor is set to be completed by 31 October 2019. Once functional it could strengthen bilateral ties
between two countries.
Preparatory work: India claimed that significant progress had been made in building infrastructure
needed to handle pilgrims from India and that infrastructure on Indian side would be able to handle 15000
pilgrims/day. The work is expected to be completed by 31 October 2019, a week before celebrations of birth
anniversary of Guru Nanak are expected to begin.
LS passes National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019
The National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed by Lok Sabha, to allow NIA to probe
terrorist acts against Indians and Indian interests abroad. The Bill seeks to give more teeth to National
Investigation Agency (NIA).
Key Highlights
NIA was set up in 2009 in aftermath Mumbai terror attack that had claimed 166 lives.
Since 2017, Union Home Ministry has been pushing for giving more power to NIA to meet fresh
challenges.
The amendments will allow NIA to probe cybercrimes and cases of human trafficking.
In every state there is only one NIA designated court and these courts would only take NIA cases and not
others.
Salient Features of Bill
The National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019 amends National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act,
2008 that provides for a national-level agency to investigate and prosecute offences listed in a schedule
(scheduled offences). Also, NIA Act allows for creation of Special Courts for trial of scheduled offences.
Scheduled offences: The schedule to Act mentions list of offences which are to be investigated and
prosecuted by NIA which include offences under Acts like Atomic Energy Act (AEA), 1962, and Unlawful
Activities Prevention Act (UAPA), 1967. In addition to these the Bill also seeks to allow NIA to investigate
following offences- cyber-terrorism, offences related to counterfeit currency or bank notes, offences under
Explosive Substances Act (1908), manufacture or sale of prohibited arms and human trafficking.
Jurisdiction of NIA: The present NIA Act provides for creation of NIA to investigate and prosecute
offences specified in schedule and NIA officers have same powers as other police officers in relation to
investigation of such offences, across India. The NIA Amendment Bill seeks that in addition to current
provisions, NIA officers will have power to investigate scheduled offences committed outside India,
subject to domestic laws of other countries and international treaties. Also, if the offence has been
committed in India Central government may direct NIA to investigate such cases and Special Court in
New Delhi will be having jurisdiction over these cases.
Special Courts: Currently the Act allows central government to constitute Special Courts for trial of
scheduled offences but the Bill passed amends this to state that central government may designate
Sessions Courts as Special Courts for trial of scheduled offences.
Although, before designating Sessions Courts as Special Courts for trial of scheduled offences, the central
government is required to consult Chief Justice of High Court under which the Sessions Court is
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 18
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

functioning.
In case when more than one Special Court has been designated for any area, then senior-most judge will
distribute cases among courts. Moreover, state governments may also designate Sessions Courts as
Special Courts for trial of scheduled offences.
15 July: World Youth Skills Day
The World Youth Skills Day is observed every year on 15 July across the world. UNESCO’s theme for
WYSD 2019 is- Learning to learn for life and work.
The day 15 July 2019 also marks 4th anniversary of National Skill Development Mission also known as Skill
India Mission which was launched on 15 July in 2015. At present about 1 crore youth are being imparted
skills training annually under Skill India Mission.
About World Youth Skills Day
Background: On 18 December 2014, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by consensus adopted, a
resolution lead by Sri Lanka, and declared 15th July as World Youth Skills Day. Sri Lanka initiated this
resolution, with assistance of G77 (Group of 77 Countries) & China, to highlight at global level, the
importance of youth skills development.
Objective: To achieve better socio-economic conditions for today’s youth that would act as a means of
addressing challenges of unemployment and under employment.
Organised by: The World Youth Skills Day is traditionally organized by Permanent Missions of Portugal
and Sri Lanka, together with UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization),
ILO (International Labour Organisation) and Office of Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth.
Importance: WYSD is important because in today’s world rising youth unemployment is seen as one of
the most significant problems facing economies and societies, for developed and developing countries
alike.
Way Ahead: Nearly 73 million youth are currently unemployed, with 40 million joining labour market
every year. To tackle this humongous unemployment problem, at least 475 million new jobs need to be
created over next decade.
Justice Sikri appointed as Singapore International Commercial Court Judge
Justice A K Sikri, former Supreme Court judge has been appointed as an International Judge of Singapore
International Commercial Court.
Key Highlights
President of Republic of Singapore, on advice of Prime Minister of Singapore, has made appointment of
Justice Sikri starting from 1 August 2019. He is appointed until 4 Jan 2021.
About Justice A K Sikri
He retired from Supreme Court of India on 6 March 2019.
He was nominated in January 2018 for appointment to Commonwealth Secretariat Arbitral Tribunal (CSAT)
at London in United Kingdom (UK). But, following the controversy arising out of coincidence of his
nomination with his participation in committee meeting which recommended removal of Alok Verma as
Central Bureau of Intelligence (CBI) Director, he later chose to withdraw his consent for CSAT
appointment.
On 14 May 2019 he was appointed as Chairman of News Broadcasting Standards Authority (NBSA).
About Singapore International Commercial Court
SICC was officially launched on 5 January 2015. It was establishment in line with vision to promote
Singapore as a leading dispute resolution hub.
It is established as part of Supreme Court of Singapore, and is a division of Singapore High Court.
It deals with international commercial disputes and has 16 international judges in its panel.
July 17, 2019
National Digital Health Blueprint: released by Health Ministry
Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan released National Digital Health Blueprint (NDHB) which aims to
create National Digital Health Eco-System, in public domain. Health Ministry also sought inputs from
various stakeholders on its vision.
Background

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 19


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Information Technology (IT) enabled schemes in health sector such as Ayushman Bharat Yojana (or
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana or National Health Protection Scheme), Reproductive Child Healthcare
(RCH), NIKSHAY (a Tuberculosis control programme) etc. are benefitting patients at right time with right
service delivery. Now, there is a need to ensure convergence across all these IT systems to monitor and
provide health services in a robust and efficient manner. Thus in this background, Union Ministry of
Health has initiated efforts in direction of a comprehensive, nationwide integrated e-Health system under
National Digital Health Blueprint.
About National Digital Health Blueprint
NDHB is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi vision to reach each individual of India with services
at their doorstep under Digital India programme.
NDHB Vision: To create a National Digital Health Eco-system that supports Universal Health Coverage
(UHC) through a wide-range of data, IT/IT Enabled Services (IT/ITES), information and infrastructure
services by duly leveraging open an interoperable, standards-based digital systems that will ensure
security, confidentiality and privacy of health-related personal information.
Significance: It will strengthen Digital India and accelerate efforts towards Universal Health Coverage
(UHC).
Way Ahead:
Currently the need is to create an ecosystem which can integrate existing health information systems and
can also show a clear path for upcoming programmes for ensuring interoperability of Electronic Health
Record (EHR) or electronic medical record.
Government sought feedback and inputs from all stakeholders to make this “digital revolution” more
inclusive and collaborative.
Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships Awards for 2018 announced
Sangeet Natak Akademi, the National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama, has elected 4 eminent
personalities in field of Performing Arts namely tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, dancer Sonal Mansingh,
dancer and choreographer Jatin Goswami and Bharatnatyam exponent K. Kalyanasundaram Pillai for the
prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellows or Akademi Ratna Awards for 2018. The fellowship, referred
to as Akademi Ratna, is a coveted honour conferred on artists.
Key Highlights
The General Council of Sangeet Natak Akademi at its meeting held on 26 June 2019 at Guwahati, Assam
unanimously elected 4 eminent personalities.
Akademi Puraskar for 2018: Akademi’s General Council also selected 44 artistes from field of Music,
Dance, Theatre across Traditional, Folk, And Tribal Genres, Puppetry and overall contribution/scholarship
to the performing arts for Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards or Akademi Puraskar for 2018. These 44
selected artists include 3 Joint Awards.
Akademi Awards 2018: in the field of-
Music- 11 artists have been selected
Dance- 9 eminent artists have been selected
Theatre- 9 eminent artists have been selected
Traditional/Folk/Tribal Music/Dance/Theatre and Puppetry- 10 artists have been selected
Overall Contribution/Scholarship in Performing Arts- 2 are selected
About Sangeet Natak Akademi Award
It has been conferred since 1952 and is the highest Indian recognition given to practicing artists.
These honours not only symbolize highest standard of excellence and achievements, but also recognize
sustained individual work and contribution.
Akademi Fellow honour carries a purse money of Rs.3,00,000/- (3 lakh)
Akademi Award honour carries Rs 1,00,000/- (1 lakh), besides a Tamrapatra and Angavastram.
The awards will be conferred by President of India at a special investiture ceremony.
Internet Saathi programme to be expanded to Punjab and Odisha
Google India and Tata Trusts are set to expand their ‘Internet Saathi’ digital literacy programme for rural

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 20


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

women to villages in Punjab and Odisha. Currently, the programme has reach of 2.6 lakh villages across 18
states.
Key Highlights
On adding Punjab and Odisha the programme will now extend its reach to 20 states in India.
In Punjab, program will cover around 5,000 villages, such as Paras Rampur, Burj, Kotli Than Singh, Vehra
and from Hoshiarpur and Kapurthala districts.
In Odisha, program will cover over 16,000 villages. It has been kicked off from Sindhia in Baleshwar,
Parakana in Puri, Bhuinpur in Kendrapara.
About Internet Saathi
It is joint initiative of Google India and Tata Trusts.
It aims to facilitate digital literacy among women in rural India.
The programme was launched in July 2015 and was started as a pilot in Rajasthan.
States Covered: Since 2015 it has been expanded to states including- Uttar Pradesh, , Bihar, Haryana,
Gujarat, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana , Karnataka,
Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, Assam, West Bengal, Tripura and Goa.
Need: It is of vital importance that women in rural India are provided with adequate opportunities and
knowledge for inclusive growth and societal progress.
Internet Saathis: So far, the Internet Saathi programme has trained 70,000 Internet Saathis, who have in
turn impacted 2.6 crore million women in India.
Digital Gender Divide: It has also contributed towards bridging digital gender divide in rural India. In
2015 digital gender divide in rural India (i.e. female to male ratio) was 1 in 10 and in 2018 it has increased to
4 in 10.
Significance:
Some of women trained under this initiative have started their own micro-business such as stitching,
honeybee farming, and beauty parlours.
Many under programme are also driving awareness for issues like girl child education, menstrual hygiene
and more within their communities.
Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskars for 2018 announced
Sangeet Natak Akademi, National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama, has announced 2018 Ustad
Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskars for artistes artistes below 40 years of age.
Key Highlights
The Sangeet Natak Akademi’s General Council at its meeting held on 26 June 2019 at Guwahati, Assam
unanimously selected 32 (Including one joint Awards) Indian artists who have made a mark as young
talents in their respective fields of performing arts for Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar 2018.
The artists are selected for Yuva Puraskar 2018 in field of-
Music: 8 recipients
Dance: 8 recipients
Theatre: 7 recipients
Traditional/Folk/Tribal Music/Dance/Theatre and Puppetry- 8 recipients
About Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar
The award was instituted in 2006, in memory of Ustad Bismillah Khan.
It is conferred upon young artists below 40 years of age for their talent in fields of music, dance and
drama.
Yuva Puraskar will be presented at a special ceremony, by Chairman of Sangeet Natak Akademi.
Objective: behind conferring award is to identify and encourage outstanding young talents in diverse
fields of performing arts. The award gives them national recognition early in their life, so that they may
work with greater commitment and dedication in their chosen fields.
Prize: Award carries money of Rs.25000.
About Sangeet Natak Akademi
The National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama is the apex body of performing arts in India. It was set
up by Indian education ministry on 31 May 1952 and became functional the following year (in 1953).

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 21


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Parent organization: Union Ministry of Culture


Function: To preserve and promote vast cultural heritage of India expressed in music, dance and drama.
It also works with governments and art academies in states and territories of India.
SC forms Panel to frame Emergency Plan to prevent extinction of Indian birds
Taking serious note of alarming extinction of two Indian birds namely Great Indian Bustard and Lesser
Florican, the Supreme Court of India has constituted a High Powered Committee to urgently frame and
implement an Emergency Response Plan for protection of these species, considering the approaching
monsoon and breeding season.
Both the birds are protected under Wild Life (Protection) Act (WPA), 1972 but despite being accorded
highest level of protection under national law, birds face threat of imminent extinction.
Key Highlights
Apex court constituted 3 Member Panel comprising of-
Deepak Apte-Director of Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS)
Asad R Rahmani– former Director of BNHS and member of governing body of Wetlands
International South Asia
Dhananjai Mohan– Chief Conservator of Forests of Uttarakhand.
SC has also sought responses from Centre as well as concerned state governments where these two
species of birds are prominently found.
Petition: A plea of wildlife activists contended that over last 50 years population of Great Indian Bustard
has recorded a decline of more than 82%. It fell from an estimated 1260 in 1969, to 100-150 in 2018. Over
the past few decades, the population of Lesser Florican (also known as likh or kharmore) has seen a sharp
decline of 80%, from 3530 individuals recorded in 1999, to less than 700 in 2018.
Reasons given in plea: for threats faced by two endangered birds includes- Mortality by collision with
infrastructure (particularly powerlines and wind turbines), hunting, depletion of grasslands, development
of mines and human habitation in and around their habitats and ingestion of pesticides.
Emergency Response Plan: Under it, the wildlife activists have suggested certain steps that could be
taken. Such as-
Urgent dismantling and undergrounding of powerlines and wind turbines
Immediate embargo on any upcoming wind, solar power projects, and powerlines in and around
critical habitats
Other immediate steps includes-
Installation of diverters on powerlines in semi-critical habitats of birds
Urgent installation of predator-proof fencing in critical habitats to protect breeding grounds of both
the species from invasive human activities as well as predators
Implementation of dog population control program
MP gets its 1st international flight with Air India’s Indore-Dubai service
Indore, the commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh recently made it to international aviation map with
national carrier Air India launching its flight service to Dubai from MP Airport. Air India Flight AI903 took
wings from Indore’s Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar International Airport with 150 passengers on. This was the 1st
international commercial flight from Madhya Pradesh.
Key Highlights
The non-stop flight fulfilled long-standing desire from travel fraternity and tourists for direct
connectivity to Gulf region. This flight will also improve Dubai’s business relationship with Indore.
Air India is operating 162-seater A-320 Neo aircraft on Indore-Dubai route.
It will fly directly to Dubai on every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday while return flight from Dubai will
be on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday.
Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar International Airport:
It is named after Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore (1725–1795), who belonged to Holkar dynasty of
Maratha Empire.
It is considered as busiest airport in Central India.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 22


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

It has been bestowed Worlds Standardization Certification by United Kingdom (UK).


Background
On 29 May 2019 Central Government designated Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore of Madhya
Pradesh State as an international airport. This was in pursuance of sub-rule (b) of rule 3 of Passport (Entry
into India) Rules, 1950, that made the Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport as an authorized Immigration Check
Post for entry into/exit from India with valid documents for all classes of passengers.
An international airport has customs and border control facilities enabling passengers to travel between
two countries.
Rajya Sabha passes Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Bill 2019
The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill, 2019 has been passed by Rajya
Sabha. The bill seeks to amend Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008. It is yet to be
passed by Lok Sabha.
Salient Features of Amendment Bill
Definition of major airports: The Bill seeks to amend definition of major airport as any aerodrome which
has or is designated to have annual passenger traffic of over 35 lakh instead of existing 15 lakh. Currently,
major airports with an annual capacity to handle 15 Lakh passengers come under purview of AERA.
Tariff determination by AERA:
At present as per the Act, AERA is responsible for determining-
the tariff for aeronautical services at different airports every 5 years
the development fees of major airports
the passengers service fee.
Moreover AERA can also call for necessary information to determine tariffs and perform any other tariff-
related functions, such as amending tariffs if necessary in interim periods.
Amendment Bill adds that AERA will not determine the tariff, tariff structures and development fees, in
certain cases. These cases include the case of privatised airports where such tariff amounts were a part of
bid document (offered at the time of the privatisation) on basis of which airport operations were awarded.
Although AERA will be consulted by concessioning authority before incorporating such tariffs in bid
document, and such tariffs must be notified.
About Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India
AERA is a regulator that has powers to set tariffs charged at airports.
It was established by Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008.
It is an independent economic regulator for protection of interests of airports, airlines and passengers.
Function: It regulates tariffs and other charges for aeronautical services provided at civilian airports with
annual traffic above 15 lakh passengers. It also monitors performance standard of services across these
airports.
India secures top spot in Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship
India finished on top of medals tally at Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship held in Apia, Samoa.
Indian 37-member weightlifting contingent topped the medal tally in both junior and senior age groups.
Key Highlights
Weightlifting events were held across 3 categories- Senior, Junior and Youth.
India won 35 medals (22 golds, 10 silvers and 3 bronze medals) across 3 age groups; with 32 different
athletes (15 men and 17 women) securing medals thus securing 1st spot in medal tally of tournament.
Mirabai Chanu: Won gold in women’s 49 kg with a total lift of 191 kg. She is gold medalist at 2018
Commonwealth Games and 2018 Khel Ratna awardee.
Record Broken: In addition to 35 medals won at CWC meet, India also broke a total of 22 records in all 3
age groups in World, Asian, Commonwealth and National level.
Jeremy Lalrinnunga: competing in 67 kg male event broke a youth world record with lift of 136 kg in
snatch. This same lift also set new youth record at Asian, Commonwealth and National level, as well as set
a new junior record at Commonwealth and National level.
Jhilli Dalabehera: won gold in women’s 45kg event. She set 6 records with a clean and jerk lift of 94 kg and
total lift of 164 kg at Commonwealth (Senior and Junior) and Junior National level.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 23


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Newly Appointed Governors of Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh


President Ram Nath Kovind has confirmed appointment of Rajya Sabha member Anusuiya Uikey as
Governor of Chhattisgarh and Senior Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) leader Biswa Bhusan Harichandan as
Governor of Andhra Pradesh.
Anusuiya Uikey
She is a sitting member of Rajya Sabha from Madhya Pradesh.
She succeeds Anandiben Patel, who as Governor of Madhya Pradesh was also holding additional
charge of Chhattisgarh due to sudden demise of Balram Das Tandon then Chhattisgarh Governor on
August 2018.
She previously held the post of Minister of Women and Child Development in state government of
Madhya Pradesh.
In 2000 she became a member of National Commission for Women and since then has been leading
a campaign for tribal women’s empowerment.
She is the 1st tribal women to hold post of Governor of Chhattisgarh since formation of state in
2000.
Biswa Bhusan Harichandan
He is a Veteran Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) leader.
He succeeds ESL Narasimhan, who is serving as Governor for Andhra Pradesh since December 2009.
In 1971 he became member of Bharatiya Jana Sangha and became its National Executive Member till
formation of Janta Party in 1977. Later, he joined the BJP and served as BJPs President for Odisha
from 1980 to 1988.
He was also detained during Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) among several other leaders
during Emergency. MISA now stands repealed.
Governors in India
Articles 152-162 (in Part VI) of Constitution of India contain the provision related to Governors of states.
Article 153: States that there shall be Governor for each state. The same person can serve as governor for
two or more states, this was facilitated by 7th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1956.
Article 155: States that Governor is appointed by President by warrant under his hand and seal. By
convention, governor’s appointment is done on recommendation of Prime Minister of India.
Eligibility: He/she should be at least 35 years of age (Article 157). Person so appointed should not hold any
other office of profit (Article 158).
Tenure: There is no fixed tenure of governor. He/she holds office at pleasure of President.
Palau becomes 76th nation to join International Solar Alliance
Palau, an archipelago of more than 500 islands in Oceania, has become 76th signatory country to join the
International Solar Alliance (ISA). The agreement was opened for signature during COP22 (22nd
Conference of the Parties) at Marrakech, Morocco on 15 November 2016.
Countries which have signed agreement until now include India, United Kingdom (UK), Japan, France,
Australia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), amongst others.
About International Solar Alliance
ISA is a group of 121 solar resource-rich nations. It was jointly launched by India and France on November
2015 on side lines of COP21 UN Climate Change Conference held at Paris.
It is headquartered at campus of National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) in Gurugram, India.
As per United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the organisation aims to
deploy more than 1,000 gigawatts of solar energy and mobilise over $1,000 billion into solar power by
2030.
In November 2018, Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave ex-post facto approval
for moving a resolution in 1st assembly of ISA for amending its Framework Agreement so as to enable
membership for all member countries of UN.
Way Ahead
Inclusion of United Nation members to ISA will put solar energy in global agenda with universal appeal for
developing and deploying solar energy. Moreover expanding membership will also lead to ISA initiative

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 24


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

benefitting world at large.

Maharashtra Govt. raises Financial Aid for Martyrs’ Kin to Rs.1 crore
The Maharashtra government has approved an increase in financial assistance given to families of
martyred and disabled soldiers hailing from state who lay down their life in the line of duty. The approved
four-time increase in compensation from Rs 25 lakh to Rs.1 crore for Kin of martyred soldiers will be
implemented from January 1, 2019.
This decision by Maharashtra Cabinet replicates enhanced compensations announced by Centre and some
other states, including Madhya Pradesh. After Pulwama attack (on February 14) on CRPF personnel,
Centre had enhanced compensation for kin of soldiers, who have attained martyrdom, to Rs.1 crore.
Key Highlights
So far, families of martyred soldiers or jawans who lost their lives defending country were getting Rs 25
lakh as ex-gratia, they will now get Rs.1 crore.
Personnel wounded in conflict: Similarly jawans who sustained injuries were getting between Rs 8.5 lakh
and Rs 15 lakh, depending on severity of injuries. This amount has now been increased to Rs 20-60 lakh.
Eligible: Personnel who are residents of Maharashtra and have joined any security force like Indian Army,
Navy, Air Force, Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) among others, and
get killed in military action even outside country will get compensation,
Also, now the families of martyred soldiers need not come to government office for aide.
Compensation Amount:
If a jawan is martyred, one-time compensation has now been increased to Rs.1 crore.
If disability ranges from 1 to 25% Rs.20 lakh will be provided.
If disability ranges from 26% to 50% Rs.34 lakh will be provided.
If disability is as severe as 51% to 100% Rs.60 lakh.
July 18, 2019
Kulbhushan Jadhav Case: ICJ asks Pakistan to review conviction order
International Court of Justice (ICJ) has directed Pakistan to review conviction order of Kulbhushan Jadhav
and, until then, put his death sentence on hold. ICJ also asked Islamabad to allow New Delhi consular
access at earliest. This is a major diplomatic and legal victory for India in Kulbhushan Jadhav case.
Key Highlights of Judgement
In a 15-1 decision, ICJ has asked Pakistan to review conviction, sentencing of Jadhav and provide him
consular access. This effectively means is that death sentence awarded to Jadhav by a military court in
Pakistan is put on hold until probably a civil court, where accused will have better representation, hears
the case afresh.
Pak Violated Vienna Convention: ICJ upheld that Islamabad had violated Article 36 of Vienna Convention of
Consular Relations, 1963, by not informing India about Jadhav’s arrest immediately after Pakistan Army
had taken him into custody.
ICJ found that India had been deprived of ‘right to communicate with and have access to Jadhav, to visit
him in detention and to arrange for his legal representation’, which meant that Pakistan had breached
obligations incumbent upon it under Article 36, paragraph 1 (a) and (c), of Vienna Convention on Consular
Relations. The provisions of 1963 Vienna Convention define a framework for consular relations between
countries.
Kulbhushan Jadhav Case
Kulbhushan Jadhav (49), a retired Indian Navy officer, was allegedly arrested by Pakistani security forces
on 3 March 2016, while India was informed on March 25.
Claims by Pakistan: Jadhav was arrested in Pakistan’s restive province of Balochistan (near the Pak-
Afghan border of Chaman) in 2016. He is accused of terrorism, spying, and fomenting trouble in
Balochistan. Later in 2017 he was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court in 2017. Pakistan has
constantly accused India of supporting Baloch separatists is seeing Jadhav’s capture as proof of India’s
involvement in unrest.
Claims by India: India acknowledged that Jadhav was an Indian national, who had been kidnapped by

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 25


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Pakistani agents from Iran, where he had gone on a business trip after his retirement from Indian Navy.
ICJ Approached
In May 2017, India approached the Hague-based ICJ, which restrained Pakistan from executing Jadhav till
adjudication of case.
ICJ verdict in Jadhav’s case comes nearly 5 months after a 15-member bench of ICJ, headed by Judge
Yusuf, reserved its decision on 21 February 2019 post hearing oral submissions by India and Pakistan. The
proceedings in case lasted 2 years and 2 months.
Cabinet approves extension of term of 15th Finance Commission
Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved extension of term of 15th Finance
Commission (XV-FC) up to 30 November 2019. This will enable FC to examine various comparable
estimates for financial projections in view of reforms as well as new realities to finalise its
recommendations for period 2020-2025.
The government has also broadened ambit of FC’s recommendation to include funds for defence and
internal security.
Key Highlights
Background: 15th Finance Commission has been constituted by President on 27 November 2017 in
pursuance of clause (1) of Article 280 of Constitution of India and Finance Commission (Miscellaneous
Provisions) Act, 1951. FC was to submit its Report on basis of its Terms of Reference (ToR) by 30 October
2019, covering a period of 5 years commencing from 1 April 2020.
Reason for Extension:
The constitution of 15th FC has been in backdrop of various major fiscal and budgetary reforms introduced
by Union Government in past 4 years such as closure of Planning Commission (PC) and its replacement by
NITl Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India), removal of distinction between Non-Plan and
Plan expenditure, advancing budget calendar by 1 month and passing of full budget before
commencement of new financial year i.e. on 1 February, introduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST)
from July 2017 and New Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) architecture with debt and
fiscal deficit path.
ToR of FC takes into account above fiscal and budgetary reforms. The task of determining expenditure
and receipts of Union and State governments based on which FC shall make its recommendations is time
consuming, as checks for data consistency across time and data sets become challenging.
About Finance Commission
FC is constituted by President under Article 280 of Constitution of India. It is constituted to give
recommendations on distribution of tax revenues between Union and the States and amongst States
themselves.
XV FC:
It was constituted by Presidential Order on November 2017 under the Chairmanship of N. K. Singh.
It will decide formula for devolution of revenue/funds between Centre and States, for a 5 year period–
April 2020 to March 2025.
21st Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship begins in Cuttack
Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2019 began at the Jawaharlal Indoor Stadium in Cuttack,
Odisha. The tournament will be held from Wednesday 17th to Monday 22nd July 2019. 12 Nations are
participating in 21st edition of CTTC. The event was inaugurated by Governor of Odisha Prof. Ganeshi Lal.
Key Highlights
The final list of nations that are competing in Table Tennis tournament include India, Malaysia, Australia,
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Cyprus, England, Nigeria, South Africa, Singapore, Wales and Scotland. The teams
of Ghana, Guyana and Pakistan have pulled out at the last minute.
Groups:
Men:
Group A: England, Sri Lanka, Cyprus
Group B: India, Scotland, Singapore

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 26


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Group C: Nigeria, Malaysia, Bangladesh


Group D: Australia, South Africa, Wales
Women:
Group A: Singapore, Wales, Scotland
Group B: India, Sri Lanka, South Africa
Group C: Australia, Malaysia, Cyprus
Group D: Nigeria, England, Bangladesh
Format: allows two teams from each group to qualify for second stage.
On inaugural day of Tournament-
Men’s category–
India defeated Scotland by 3-0 while England defeated Cyprus by 3-0.
Nigeria defeated Bangladesh by 3-0 and Australia defeated Wales by 3-0.
Women’s category–
India defeated Sri Lanka by 3-0.
Australia defeated Cyprus by 3-0.
Nigeria defeated Bangladesh by 3-0.
About Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship
It was formed at meeting of Commonwealth delegates held in Munich, Germany at World Championships
1969. It was 1st staged in 1971 in Singapore.
CTTC 2019
It will be 21st edition of event and marks its 50 year anniversary.
Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) is hosting 2019 Commonwealth Championships.
India 1st staged tournament in Bombay (1982), Hyderabad (1994) and New Delhi (2001), Jaipur (2007), New
Delhi (2013) and Surat (2015).
Cabinet approves 2880 MW Dibang MPP in Arunachal Pradesh
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has
approved expenditure on pre-investment activities and various clearances for Dibang Multipurpose
Project (MPP) in Arunachal Pradesh for an amount of Rs.1600 crore.
About Dibang Multipurpose Project
Dibang MPP, a storage based hydro-electric project is the largest ever Hydro Electric Projects to be
constructed in India. The envisaged height of Concrete Gravity Dam is 278 metres and on completion it
will be highest dam in India.
Project is located on Dibang River, in Lower Dibang Valley District of Arunachal Pradesh. It envisages
construction of a 278 m high Concrete Gravity Dam (above deepest foundation level), 6 Nos. horseshoe-
shaped Head Race Tunnels of length varying from 300-600 m with 9 m diameter, an underground Power
House and 6 Nos. horseshoe-shaped Tail Race Tunnels of length varying from 320 m-470 m with 9m
diameter.
Key Objective behind construction of Dibang MPP is flood moderation as it shall prevent sizeable
downstream area from floods.
Dibang MPP is one of the components of master plan of Brahmaputra Board for flood moderation of all
rivers contributing to river Brahmaputra. After implementation of Brahmaputra Board’s master plan
sizable area will be protected from flooding and help in mitigating perennial damage due to floods in
Assam.
Project Cost: Estimated total cost of Project- Rs.28080.35 including Construction (IDC) & Financing
Charges (FC) of Rs.3974.95 crore at June 2018 price level.
Project Completion: Estimated completion period for project shall be 9 years from receipt of Government
sanction.
Power Generation: Project shall generate 2880 Megawatt (12x240MW) power to produce 11223MU
(Million Units) of energy in 90% dependable year.
Power Distribution: On completion, Government of Arunachal Pradesh will get 12% free power from

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 27


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

project i.e. 1346.76 MU. 1% free power (i.e. 112 MUs) will be given in Local Area Development Fund(LADF).
Estimated project life would be 40 years.
Clearances: Project already has all statutory clearances namely TEC, Environment Clearance, Forest
Clearance (Stage-l) and Defence Clearance except Forest Clearance (Stage-II) for seeking Investment
Sanction from Centre.
Cabinet approves setting up of National Medical Commission replacing MCI
Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved National Medical Commission Bill,
2019 which provides for setting up of a National Medical Commission in place of Medical Council of India
(MCI) so as to usher comprehensive reforms in the medical education sector. The Bill also seeks to repeal
Indian Medical Council Act 1956.
Key Features of Bill
Common final year MBBS Exams (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) will be known as National
Exit Test (NEXT) which would serve as Licentiate Exam, for entrance to Post Graduate (PG) medical
course and as screening test of foreign medical graduates.
It provides that National Entrance Test i.e. NEET, Common Counselling, NEXT will also be applicable to
Institutes of National Importance (INIs) such as AIIMS to have common standards in country.
National Medical Commission: NMC, an autonomous commission will regulate fee and all other charges
for 50% seats in private medical colleges and deemed universities.
NMC will ensure a transparent admission process and also reduce admission fee, and regulate fee in
private colleges as well.
NMC will have 4 Autonomous Boards,
1. Under-Graduate Medical Education Board
2. Post-Graduate Medical Education Board
3. Medical Assessment and Rating Board
4. Ethics and Medical Registration Board
NMC and respective boards will work towards ensuring a dynamic and modern educational environment,
decreasing emphasis on physical infrastructure, achieving norms in global standards and an effective
grievance redressal mechanism.
Significance: These new measures will ensure a transparent admission process and will also bring down
admission fee.
Criticism: NMC Bill is being pushed by Centre amid resistance from Indian Medical Association (IMA) and
other sections. The Bill has been facing flak over various issues and IMA, the apex medical body has
claimed that replacing MCI with another body may attract new forms of corruption.
US not to sell F-35 fighter jets to Turkey for buying Russian S-400
Donald Trump, President of United States of America has announced that US would not sell F-35 fighter
jets to Turkey, a major NATO ally after Ankara purchased S-400 missile defence system from sanctions-
hit Russia.
Key Highlights
Turkey, a member of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is denied purchase of F-35 fighter jets after
it received the 1st batch of Russian missile defence system despite repeated warnings from US against the
purchase.
CAATSA: Under current US laws, any country purchasing major defence equipment from Russia (against
whom US has put sanctions) could be subjected to American sanctions. US has imposed a series of
sanctions on Russian individuals/companies/government agencies over Russia’s military intervention in
Ukraine.
Although US Congress has made amendments in Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act
(CAATSA) for a Presidential waiver and many in India believe that this Presidential waiver was for India
but US officials had clarified that there was no blanket sanction waiver for any country.
F-35 Fighter Jet: It is a stealth, 5th-generation, multirole combat aircraft, designed for ground-attack and
air-superiority missions.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 28


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

What it means for India?


On October 2018 India inked an agreement with Russia in to procure a batch of S-400 missile systems at a
cost of Rs.40,000 crore. Later in June 2019, S Jaishankar Union Minister of External Affairs conveyed his
US counterpart Mike Pompeo that India will go by its national interest on S-400 missile defence deal with
sanctions-hit Russia.
This decision by Trump Administration against Turkey could be an indication for India as New Delhi has
also signed up with Russia to buy S-400 missile defence system against the advice of US.
US slaps sanctions against Myanmar’s military chief for killing of Rohingya Muslims
The United States of America has slapped sanctions against Myanmar’s Military Chief Min Aung Hlaing
and three other top officers for gross human rights violations, including killing of Rohingya Muslims. The
announcement in this regard was made by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
Key Highlights
Following the US sanctions, Myanmar’s Army Chief and others namely Deputy Commander-in-Chief Soe
Win, Brigadier General Aung Aung and Brigadier General Than Oo along with their immediate family
members have been banned from entering US. In 2018 US had designated two other generals Lieutenant
General Aung Kyaw Zaw and General Maung Maung Soe.
With this move US has become 1st government to publicly take action with respect to most senior
leadership of Burmese military.
Arguments by US
Ethnic cleansing of Rohingyas is an example of continued and severe lack of accountability for military
and its top leadership.
US State Department has taken action against Army Chief and others after finding credible evidence of
their involvement in violence 2 years ago (in 2017) that led to fleeing of 740,000 Rohingyas over border to
Bangladesh since the violence erupted.
US remains deeply concerned about human rights situation in Myanmar, mainly in conflict-affected
Rakhine State and other violence-affected areas of Myanmar like Kachin state and Shan states.
Who are Rohingya?
Rohingya are an ethnic group, largely comprising Muslims are one of the largest stateless populations in
the world.
This group predominantly lives in Western Myanmar province of Rakhine state. They speak a dialect of
Bengali, as opposed to commonly spoken Burmese language.
Although they have been living in South East Asian country for generations, Myanmar considers them as
persons who migrated to their land during Colonial rule and thus Rohingyas are not granted full
citizenship. According the 1982 Citizenship Law of Burma, a Rohingya (or any ethnic minority) is eligible
for citizenship only if he/she provides proof that his/her ancestors have lived in country prior to 1823 or
else, they are classified as resident foreigners or as associate citizens (even if one of the parent is a
Myanmar citizen).
Rohingya Crisis
Rohingya’s, one of the most persecuted community in world, are not recognised as citizens of Myanmar
and face widespread discrimination from authorities.
Prior to their exodus from Myanmar, tens of thousands of Rohingya have already been living as refugees
in several neighbouring countries.
The plight of Rohingya’s reached its peak in Myanmar during August 2017 when country’s military
cracked down on minority group in Rakhine State sparked mass exodus.
Inn Din village Massacre
The massacre in Inn Din village in Rakhine state of Myanmar in September 2017 was a mass execution of
Rohingyas by Myanmar Army and armed locals. The officials and soldiers involved in brutal killings were
released on the directions of Commander in Chief Hlaing. US have accorded this as a mockery of
accountability for military and its senior leadership.
July 19, 2019

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 29


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

12 Indian beaches in race to top Blue Flag Challenge


Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has selected 12 beaches across the
country to compete for Blue Flag Certification. Environment Ministry embarked on Blue Flag project in
December 2017.
Key Highlights
12 Beaches Selected are: Bhogave (Maharashtra), Shivrajpur (Gujarat), Ghoghla (Diu), Kasarkod and
Padubidri (Karnataka), Miramar (Goa), Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu), Rushikonda (Andhra Pradesh),
Golden (Odisha), Radhanagar (Andaman & Nicobar Islands), Kappad (Kerala) and Eden (Puducherry).
These 12 beaches are being developed by Society for Integrated Coastal Management (SICOM), in
accordance with Blue Flag standards. SICOM is an Environment Ministry’s body working for management
of coastal areas.
About Blue Flag Programme
It is international recognition conferred on beaches and marinas that meet certain criteria of cleanliness
and environmental propriety and equipped with amenities of international standards for tourists.
It is run by international, non-governmental, non-profit organisation Foundation for Environmental
Education (FEE).
It was first started in France in 1985 and has been implemented in Europe since 1987.
Since 2001 it has been implemented in areas outside Europe when South Africa joined.
Criteria: There are almost 33 criteria that must be met by beaches and marinas to qualify for Blue Flag
certification. It includes water meeting certain quality standards, having waste disposal facilities, first aid
equipment, disabled- friendly and no access to pets in main areas of beach. Some of these criteria are
voluntary and some compulsory.
Validation: If approved, beaches are given blue flag tag for a year and they must apply annually to
continue meriting right to fly this flag at their locations.
Top countries: Spain (total blue flags: 684), France (492) and Turkey (458). Japan and South Korea are only
countries from South/southeastern Asia to have Blue Flag beaches.
Asia’s First: Chandrabhaga beach on Konark coast in Odisha was first in Asia to get Blue Flag certification
(awarded in June 2019).
Incredible India Campaign Wins Pata Gold Award 2019
Union Tourism Ministry’s Incredible India ‘Find the Incredible You’ campaign has won PATA (Pacific Asia
Travel Association) Gold Award 2019. It won the award in ‘Marketing – Primary Government
Destination’ category. The 2019 edition of award attracted 198 entries from 78 organisations and
individuals worldwide.
Background
Tourism Ministry as part of its promotional initiatives annually releases Global Media Campaigns under
brand-line of Incredible India in Television, Print, Digital and Social Media in key and potential source
markets overseas. To take this yearly Campaigns to next level, Incredible India 2.0 Campaign was
launched in September 2017.
About Incredible India 2.0 Campaign
It was released globally during 2018-19 with the tagline “Find the Incredible You”.
This new edition marked shift from generic promotions undertaken across world to market specific
promotional plans and content creation. It focuses on digital and social media and promotion of Niche
Tourism products of India.
As part of Campaign, 5 new television commercials were produced by Ministry, which were aired globally
in TV, digital and social media. These were:
Yoga: The Yogi of the Racetrack
Wellness: The Reincarnation of Mr. and Mrs. Jones
Luxury: The Maharani of Manhattan
Cuisine: The Masala MasterChef
Wildlife: The Sanctuary in Paris
The series of films have received more than 153 million views on social media. They were earlier awarded
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 30
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

1st Prize in category of TV Cinema Spot at International Golden City Gate Tourism Awards at Berlin,
Germany in March 2019.
About PATA Gold Awards
These are annual awards which are given to tourism industry organizations and individuals making
outstanding contribution towards successful promotion of travel industry throughout Asia Pacific Region.
Award winners set industry standards for excellence and innovation and serve as examples for others to
follow.
Health Ministry launches Jan Jagrukta Abhiyaan in New Delhi
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) have launched a 3 day special campaign called Jan
Jagrukta Abhiyaan in New Delhi. It is a campaign aimed towards sensitizing and mobilising community
for prevention and control of vector borne diseases (VBDs) such as Dengue, Chikungunya and Malaria. The
3 day campaign will be held from 17 to 19 July 2019 in New Delhi.
About Jan Jagrukta Abhiyaan
Objective: To make community a partner for checking vector/mosquito breeding across Delhi.
Need: As per data compiled by Health ministry shows that till 30 June 2019at least 8,058 positive dengue
cases with 8 deaths, 14404 chikungunya cases have been reported from across country. Also a total of
66,313 Malaria cases have also been reported across country till 31 May 2019.
JJA is going to be a Peoples Movement by active involvement of people’s representatives, officers from
Centre Government, Government of NCT Delhi, all 3 Delhi Municipal Corporations, NDMC, Railways and
Cantonment board and other stakeholders to combat dengue, malaria and chikungunya.
For 1st time 3 governments agencies- national, state and local bodies have come together to create
awareness amongst people for a public health activity.
Strategy Followed:
A total of 286 ward-wise teams i.e. 272 Municipal wards and 14 locations of NDMC (New Delhi Municipal
Council) have been constituted with 20-25 members per team.
Each ward team includes field workers of Municipal Corporation, officers of Central Government and
Delhi Government.
The concerned Malaria circle incharge will coordinate and teams will visit schools, residential areas,
hospitals, Resident Welfare Association (RWA), market associations etc.
Activities Undertaken:
Schools– Team will meet Head of Institution/Principal, teachers and staff including nodal teacher and
sensitise them towards keeping school premises free of vectors, will address school children explaining
methods for prevention of VBDs, demonstrate larvae and adults of vector mosquito, distribute handbills
and other communication material and check school premises, eliminate breeding habitat if any.
Hospitals: Team will meet Medical Superintendent/Nodal Officer/Caretaker and sensitize them followed
by health talk on prevention and control of VBDs. The team will also place Information, Education and
Communication (IEC) materials with messages on prevention and control of VBDs at strategic locations
and interact with patients and accompanied person. Team will check hospitals premises for breeding of
vector mosquito, eliminate breeding habitat if any.
Similarly, teams will also meet members of RWA and community and undertake awareness activities with
them.
Wherever needed larvicide will be applied by team.
Deeksharambh: Guide to Student Induction Programme released by HRD Ministry
Union Minister of Human Resource Development (HRD) has released ‘Deeksharambh’, a University Grants
Commission (UGC) Guide to Student Induction Programme.
About Deeksharambh
It is a guide to Student Induction Programme which is prepared by University Grants Commission (UGC).
Objective:
To help new students adjust and feel comfortable in new environment and to students build bonds with
other students and faculty members
Expose students to a sense of larger purpose and self-exploration
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 31
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Inculcate in them ethos and culture of institution


Key Features:
Student Induction Programme (SIP) engages with new students as soon as they come into the institution
i.e. even before regular classes start.
At start of induction programme, the incumbents learn about institutional policies, processes, practices,
culture and values, and their mentor groups are formed.
Mentoring is one key component of SIP as it helps to develop an everlasting bonding of teacher and
student.
Significance: SIP is intended to empower aspirant learners to face Competitive world with confidence,
open new horizons of life leading to character building based on Universal Human Values like Truth,
Peace, Love, Righteous conduct, Non-violence and assist in developing self-awareness , compassion and
oneness.
Way Ahead
To spread awareness about Deeksharambh in Higher Education Institutions and its stakeholders, UGC
will conduct Awareness Programmes and training programme for teachers in different regions of country.
About UGC
It is a statutory body set up by Union government in accordance to UGC Act 1956. It is headquartered in
New Delhi.
It functions under the aegis of Ministry of Human Resource Development (MoHRD).
Mandate: It is charged with coordination, determination and maintenance of standards of higher
(university) education.
10th Jagran Film Festival inaugurated in New Delhi
The 10th Jagran Film Festival was inaugurated in an event held at Siri Fort Auditorium in New Delhi. It
was inaugurated by Prakash Javadekar Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting.
Key Highlights
The 2019 Jagran Film Festival is the 10th edition of festival.
Film is a democratic medium which can express different emotions and join people together. In today’s’
world Cinema has become a great tool for soft power and Indian films are loved and accepted globally.
Steps taken by I&B Ministry to promote India as a filming destination includes-
Single window clearance mechanism created via Film Facilitation Office.
Ministry is planning to bring further additions to National Museum of Indian Cinema, Mumbai. NMIC was
inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi in 2019.
About Jagran Film Festival
JFF is an initiative by Jagran Prakashan Group.
It aims to create a culture of cinema appreciation and provide a platform that connects great content with
audiences across country.
The media coverage of Jagran puts JFF reach well beyond 50 million people across India.
2018 edition of JFF was held over 18 towns with 400 screenings and 18 cinema appreciation workshops. It
directly touched over an audience of over 55000 people.
Israel inks $50m deal with India to supply MRSAM to Navy
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has signed a $50 million deal with India to supply complementary Naval
MRSAM systems to Indian Navy and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders. IAI is a state-owned company of Israel.
Key Highlights of Deal
The deal is a follow-up agreement between IAI and India, as per which former will provide complementary
Naval MRSAM (Medium Range Surface-To-Air Missile) systems to Indian Navy.
As per the contract, IAI will provide a range of maintenance and other services for various sub-systems of
IAI’s advanced MSRAM air defence system(ADS).
Importance:
The deal is a major breakthrough as it reflects strong relationship between IAI and Indian Navy. The
contract advances IAI from system development and delivery to looking after operational needs of India.
IAI-India: IAI’s partnership and strong relationship with Indian Navy is reflected in all activities

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 32


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

undertaken by them. Recently IAI successfully completed a multi-system trial in India that demonstrated
advanced technological centralised management capabilities of air defence system to utmost satisfaction
of India.
About Medium Range Surface-To-Air Missile (MRSAM)
It provides broad as well as topical defence against a range of assault marine, air and ground threats.
It comprises of several key state-of-the-art systems, such as command and control, digital radar,
launchers and interceptors along with advanced homing seekers.
Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Parliament
Central Universities (Amendment) Bill 2019, for establishing a Central University and Tribal University in
Andhra Pradesh has been passed by both the houses of Parliament.
The Bill seeks to amend Central Universities Act, 2009, which establishes universities for teaching and
research in various states. Moreover, establishment of a Central University and Central Tribal University
in State of Andhra Pradesh is obligatory under Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014.
Central Universities (Amendment) Bill, 2019
It provides for establishment of two central universities in Andhra Pradesh to be known as
1. Central University of Andhra Pradesh
2. Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh- It will offer research facilities in fields of art, culture
and technology to the tribal population. It will also take additional measures for providing higher
educational and research facilities in tribal art, culture, and customs primarily to tribal population of
India.
The universities would be set up in next 4 years.
Funds: Government has set aside Rs.450 crore for 1st stage of Central University project against total
amount of Rs.902.07 crore and Rs.420 crore for Tribal University against an outlay of Rs.836 crore.
Significance: Currently, there is no Central University in State of Andhra Pradesh while all the other
States (except Goa) have one or more Central University.
July 20, 2019
IFS officer Vivek Kumar appointed Private Secretary to PM Modi
Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer Vivek Kumar has been appointed as private secretary to Prime
Minister Narendra Modi. This new assignment for Vivek Kumar was cleared by Appointments Committee
of the Cabinet (ACC), headed by Prime Minister and order was issued by Department of Personnel and
Training (DoPT).
About Vivek Kumar
He is a 2004 batch IFS officer.
He is currently working as Director in Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). He was appointed in PMO as Deputy
Secretary in 2014.
His appointment as PM’s private secretary will come into effect from the day of assumption of charge.
His new tenure will be on co-terminus basis or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
Succeeds: Vivek replaces Sanjeev Kumar Singla, who will now be taking over as India’s Ambassador to
Israel.
Singla is a 1997 batch IFS officer. He was appointed private secretary to PM Modi in 2014. He had returned
home to serve in PMO after a posting in Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel.
Telangana Government and WEF to launch Drone Delivery Project
The State Government of Telangana and World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Centre for Fourth Industrial
Revolution (C4IR) Network announced the launch of drone-delivery project called ‘Medicine from the Sky’.
The Telangana government, World Economic Forum and Health Net Global signed an agreement for
project to be supervised and managed by leaders in field of medicine, technology and research.
About Medicine from the Sky Project
It is a pilot project that will run in partnership with State Government of Telangana and HealthNet Global
Limited.
This innovative project will include a comprehensive study of drone-based deliveries for vaccines, blood,
medical samples and organs.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 33


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Key Features
It is an innovative project to deliver emergency medical supplies like blood and vaccines by using drones.
It will help facilitate decision-making in healthcare supply chains.
It will focus on last-mile deliveries for augmenting national healthcare programme.
It will address issues that affect medical distribution system.
Significance: Drones have immense applications in healthcare sector therefore, roll-out of Medicine from
Sky project in India could be transformational.
WHO declares Ebola outbreak in DRC as a Global Health Emergency
World Health Organization (WHO) has declared deadly Ebola outbreak in Democratic Republic of Congo
(DRC) as ‘Public Health Emergency of International Concern’. This announcement comes after Ebola virus
spread to a city of 2 million people.
Key Highlights
Meaning: Invoking the emergency provision by WHO of declaring a Public health emergency of
international concern, is a rare designation which is only used for gravest epidemics. This is done when
there is an extraordinary event which constitutes a risk to other countries and requires a coordinated
international response.
Condition: As per WHO’s international health regulations, drafted in 2005, the emergency label should
apply to a situation that is an extraordinary event which poses public health risk to other countries via
international spread and that potentially requires a coordinated international response.
Impact: Declaring global health emergency brings greater international attention and aid, along with
concerns that nervous governments might overreact with border closures.
Reason: The year-old Ebola epidemic in eastern DRC, is 2nd deadliest on record. Although it has largely
been contained to remote areas, but recently in July second week a patient was diagnosed with virus in
provincial capital Goma, which became 1st case in a major urban hub. This confirmed case in Goma
escalated the crisis because the city is a gateway to Africa’s Great Lakes region and wider world.
Previous Declaration: This emergency provision, activated by UN health agency have been previously
invoked only four times-
1. 2009- H1N1, or swine flu pandemic
2. 2014- Spread of poliovirus
3. 2014-2016- Ebola epidemic that devastated parts of West Africa. It killed more than 11,000 people.
4. 2016- Surge of Zika virus
This is new declaration is 5th such declaration in history.
About Ebola Virus
It is highly contagious. It has an average fatality rate of around 50%.
Transmission: It is transmitted to humans from wild animals and spreads among people via close contact
with blood, body fluids, secretions or organs of an infected person.
Indian Army successfully conducts Summer User Trials of Nag Missile
Indian Army has successfully conducted summer user trials of NAG, 3rd Generation Anti-Tank Guided
Missile (ATGM). The test was carried out at Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. Trials were
conducted by user team from Indian Army as per user defined trial directive in presence of senior officials
of the Army and DRDO.
Key Highlights
As part of NAG Missile summer user trials, 6 missions were conducted under extreme temperature
conditions of Pokhran Ranges. Missile system has already cleared winter user trials in February 2019.
Result: All missiles met mission objectives such as minimum range, maximum range, in direct attack and
top attack modes and also achieved a direct hit onto the target.
Way Ahead: Completion of summer user trials will now pave the way for production and induction of
missile system into Indian Army. Center Government has already issued Acceptance of Necessity for
induction of NAG after user trials.
About NAG missile
Developed by: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), a government agency
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 34
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

responsible for military’s research and development,


Features:
It is a 3rd-generation fire and forget class missile.
It is capable of engaging highly fortified enemy tanks in all weather conditions. It has day and night
capabilities.
It uses an imaging infrared seeker in lock-on-before-launch mode.
It is launched from NAG missile carrier (NAMICA) which is capable of carrying up to 6 combat missiles.
Range: Minimum-500 metres and Maximum- 4 kilometres
What makes Nag Missile unique in its class is Robust imaging algorithm that made the missile hit target
at 4-kilometre distance even in severe summer desert conditions.
International Police Expo 2019 held in New Delhi
The International Police Expo 2019 on theme ‘Challenges to strengthen peace and security’ was organised at
Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. The 2019 event is scheduled from 19-20 July saw participation of
Manufacturers and technology players from more than 25 countries.
About International Police Expo 2019
This year is 5th edition of International Police Expo.
Organiser: Nexgen Exhibitions, Asia’s leading and established trade fair, exhibition and conference
organizer.
Focus Area: IPE focuses on everything about police forces even their welfare and fitness as well as all
other necessities of Police and other armed forces for their day to day life and other operations. It
showcases latest and modern technologies, equipments and inputs that are required for safety and
protection of society, enforcement of law, and providing rescue to disaster affected.
Participants:
At the Expo, more than 25 countries are showcasing combat/armoured vehicles, advanced firearms and a
plethora of disruptive technologies in cyber security, homeland security, drones and safety and rescue.
Over 100 leading manufacturers and technology players from Israel, Singapore, China, South Korea,
Taiwan, UK, US, Malaysia, Germany, Australia, Poland and other nations are displaying best and advanced
technologies.
Key Features of Expo are:
Police Welfare
Training for better Law Compliance
Healthcare & Fitness to force
Methods for creating awareness among society
Safety & Protection to society
Rescue Management techniques and equipments
Technology & Equipments for attaining basic aims of Policing
Surveillance for preventive measures
Indian Ordnance Factories and Dealers
Importance: It is the only exhibition that focuses and offers an interactive platform to police
representatives belonging to different nations where they can meet policing security
equipment/technology suppliers and discuss business opportunities related to fields of internal security.
India, China to have Joint Military Exercise in Meghalaya
The annual Joint Military Exercise ‘Hand-in-Hand’ between India and China will be held at Umroi, near
Shillong, Meghalaya in December 2019. The two-week long company-level exercise will take place in 2nd
half of December while the planning conference to finalise modalities for joint exercise will be held in
August 2019.
Key Highlights
The 2019 Hand-in-Hand exercise will be 8th edition of India and China military drill that was resumed in
2018 following a freeze over Doklam stand-off.
The 2018 exercise, which was 7th edition, was held in Chengdu in December 2018.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 35


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Company Level: In Umroi, Meghalaya the India and China military exercise will be at company level, it
means that around 100-120 infantry troops from both sides will be participating.
Focus Area: Both forces will focus on counter-terror operations, establishment of joint command post,
joint combat drill, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
Background
Joint Military Exercise Hand-in-Hand was 1st started in 2007 in Kunming (in China) but was halted after
Chinese troops came to Belgaum in Karnataka for 2nd edition of exercise. The exercised was resumed only
5 years later in 2013 when India and China suspended their military ties because of a staple visa row.
In 2016 after 6th edition of exercise in Pune it again got derailed because of 73-day stand-off between two
military forces in Sikkim’s Doklam area where troops from both sides (People’s Liberation Army (PLA)
soldiers and Indian Soldiers) came face to face.
This situation eased in 2018 and troops from both sides interacted once again in China.
Despite recent incident in Ladakh’s Demchok region where a Chinese group objected to locals celebrating
birthday of Dalai Lama’s, the 2019 drill is still on track. This situation was diffused in flag meeting as is the
practice.
Lok Sabha passed Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill 2019
Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Bill, 2019 introduced in Lok Sabha by Union Minister of Home
Affairs, Amit Shah has been passed by Lok Sabha. The Bill amends Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993
that provides for National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), State Human Rights Commissions (SHRC)
and Human Rights Courts.
Key Features of Amendment
Composition of NHRC: Under Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, chairperson of NHRC is a person
who has been Chief Justice of Supreme Court but Bill amends this provision to person who has been Chief
Justice of Supreme Court, or Judge of Supreme Court will be chairperson of NHRC. This means Supreme
Court judge besides CJI can also be appointed Chairperson of NHRC.
Number of members of NHRC increased from two to three
Act provides for 2 persons having knowledge of human rights to be appointed as members of NHRC but
Bill amends this provision to allow 3 members to be appointed as members of NHRC. Also, At least one of
3 members of NHRC should be a woman
Members of NHRC: Under the Act, chairpersons of commissions like National Commission for Scheduled
Castes (NCSC), National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), and National Commission for Women
(NCW) are members of NHRC. The Ammendement Bill provides for including chairpersons of National
Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)
as well as Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) as NHRC members.
Chairperson of SHRC: At present SHRC chairperson is a person who has been a Chief Justice of a High
Court but Bill amends this to provide that a person who has been Chief Justice/Judge of High Court will be
chairperson of SHRC.
Term of office: As per the Act chairperson and members of NHRC and SHRC will hold office for 5 years or
till 70 years of age or whichever is earlier. Bill reduces term of office to 3 years or till 70 years of age,
whichever is earlier. Moreover the bill removes the 5 year limit for reappointment unlike the present act
that allows for reappointment of members of NHRC and SHRCs for a period of 5 years.
Powers of Secretary-General: Bill seeks to amend the current provision of Secretary-General of NHRC and
a Secretary of SHRC, who exercise powers as may be delegated to them, to allowing the Secretary-General
and Secretary to exercise all administrative and financial powers (except judicial functions), subject to
respective chairperson’s control.
Union Territories: Bill provides that central government may confer on SHRC human rights functions
being discharged by UTs and the functions relating to human rights in case of Delhi will be dealt with by
NHRC.
July 22, 2019

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 36


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

11th DefExpo India- 2020 to be held in Lucknow


The 11th edition of DefExpo India- 2020 is scheduled to be held for 1st time in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
The biennial Expo will be a 4-day event, beginning from 5 to 8 February 2020. It offers an excellent
opportunity for Indian defence industry to showcase its capabilities and promote its export potential.
About DefExpo
Theme for DefExpo India- 2020 will be ‘India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub’. Its focus will be
on ‘Digital Transformation of Defence’.
Unique Platform: It would provide a unique platform for Defence industry Original Equipment
Manufacturers (OEMs), exhibitors and private industry to display their latest innovations and capabilities
in the field.
It would also provide an opportunity to major foreign OEMs to collaborate with Indian defence industry
and help promote Make in India initiative.
Visitors: The DefExpo is expected to be visited by Ministerial level delegations from foreign countries and
visitors from all over world to witness India’s emergence as major manufacturing hub.
B2B & G2G: At DefExpo international level shows are conducted that not only facilitates Government-to-
Government (G2G) meetings, signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between participants
but also Business-to-Business (B2B) interaction with senior foreign delegations.
Significance:
The Expo would provide attractive opportunities for co-development and co-production of defence
equipment and systems not only for our defence forces but also for exporting it globally.
It will also highlight emergence of UP as an attractive destination for investment in Defence sector and
act as a platform for alliances and joint ventures in defence industry.
Defence Industrial Infrastructure in UP
It has 4 units of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) at Lucknow, Kanpur, Korwa and Naini (Prayagraj).
9 ordnance factory units- such as Kanpur, Korwa, Shahjahanpur and Firozabad
1 unit of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) at Ghaziabad
India’s one of two Defence Industrial Corridors (DICs) is also planned in UP while other DIC is proposed in
Tamil Nadu. These corridors encourage Defence Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), like
Indian defence industry and promote Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs).
IUCN adds more than 7,000 to its Red List
International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has added more than 7,000 animals, fish and
plants to its endangered Red List. IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species shows that more and more
species assessed are being threatened with extinction. It also warned against mankind’s destruction of
nature that is driving species to brink of extinction at an unprecedented rate.
Key Highlights of update to IUCN Red List
IUCN has now assessed over 1,05,000 species worldwide, around 28,000 of which risk extinction.
Therefore, highlighting that nature is declining at rates unprecedented in human history.
It shows that every 5th species is threatened with extinction
While each group of organisms face specific threats, human behaviour which includes overfishing and
deforestation, was biggest driver of plunging/rapidly declining populations of species.
Most Imperilled Marine Families on Earth: includes Wedgefishes and giant guitarfishes, which are known
collectively as Rhino Rays due to their elongated snouts.
False Shark Ray is on brink of extinction after overfishing in waters off of Mauritania, a country in
Northwest Africa saw its population collapse by 80% in last 45 years.
It brings out an alarming rate of decline of freshwater and deep sea species such as over 50% of Japan’s
endemic freshwater fishes are under extinction.
Concern: More than 500 deep-sea bony fish and molluscs have been added to list for 1st time. This poses
something of a conservation conundrum as space these species inhabit is 1,000 metres beneath surface
that is often beyond national boundaries.
7 Primate species are closer to extinction on new Red list. It includes Roloway Monkey of Cote d’Ivoire and

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 37


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Ghana, with fewer than 2,000 individuals left in wild.


Main Drivers: of this decline are loss of free flowing rivers and severe habitat loss due to increasing
agricultural and urban pollution.
Way Ahead
It would be more beneficial that human beings wake up to the fact that conserving nature’s diversity is in
our interest.
According to global Strategic Plan for Biodiversity (2011-2020)’s Target 12, the extinction of known
threatened species has to be prevented by 2020 and target also includes an improvement in the
conservation status of species.
About International Union for Conservation of Nature
It is an international organization founded by Julian Huxley on 5 October 1948 in Fontainebleau, France.
It works in field of nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources which involves data
gathering, education, field projects, research and analysis, and advocacy.
Headquarters: Gland, Switzerland
Members: 1300
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
It was founded in 1964.
It is world’s most comprehensive inventory of global conservation status of biological species.
It uses a set of criteria to evaluate extinction risk of thousands of species/subspecies.
Headquarters: United Kingdom (UK)
Parent organization: IUCN
Bhabha Kavach: India’s 1st Lightest, Indigenous Bullet Proof Jacket gets MHA nod
Indigenously produced lightweight bullet proof jacket Bhabha Kavach was launched at International Police
Expo 2019 held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The jacket which is a major breakthrough for Paramilitary
Forces and Indian armed forces got nod from Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
About Bhabha Kavach
India’s Lightest Bullet Proof Jacket ‘Bhabha Kavach’ by was launched at the International Police Expo 2019.
Indigenously Developed: by Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) and Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI).
Features:
It is a state-of-the-art jacket that can withstand 7.62mm hard steel core or bullets fired from an AK-47 rifle,
5.56mm INSAS (INdian Small Arms System) bullet and even recently decommissioned 7.65mm bullet of
self-loading rifle (SLR).
It has four hard armour plates that offers 360 Degree Protection to wearer from the front, back, and
either side.
BARC: It is powered with nano technology from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). The BARC’s
carbon nanomaterial sprayed on hard armour plate instils the toughness and tenacity needed to slow
down and trap a bullet as it passes through the plate.
Layers: It is built from layers of high-density, high-tenacity polyethylene, which are thermo-sealed i.e.
layers are fused together at high temperature which then forms thick, hard armour plate that is then
sprayed with BARC’s carbon nanomaterial.
Weight: It is half Kilogram lesser than prescribed weight of MHA i.e. it only weighs 9.2kg.
Protection Level: It has achieved protection level of NIJ III+ (National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Ballistic
Levels Protection Level III). The jacket has a 5 year warranty.
Need: The rising graph of instances related to terrorism, cyber crime & various other kind of ethnic group
conflicts have increased demand for a robust homeland infrastructure in India.
Significance:
Bhabha Kavach is the lightest and a better jacket now available for Indian Defense forces which will be a
great piece of equipment for India’s paramilitary forces and state police forces operating in Naxalite areas.
Right from development stage, the developers received immense response from armed forces for Bhabha
Kavach.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 38


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Health Ministry bans Colistin in Animal Food Industry


Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has banned manufacture, sale and distribution of antibiotic,
Colistin as well as its formulations for food producing animals, poultry, aqua farming and animal feed
supplements. The ban is announced in a bid to preserve drug’s efficacy in humans.
What is Colistin?
It is a valuable, last-resort antibiotic that saves lives in critical care units. It is effective against most
Gram-negative bacilli. It is also known as polymyxin E.
It is an antibiotic for therapeutic purpose in veterinary but it is highly misused in poultry industry as a
growth promoter for prophylactic purpose. Thus one of reason for antibiotic resistance in India is due to
unwanted use of Colistin in poultry industry.
Issue: In recent years, medical professionals have been alarmed by number of patients who have exhibited
resistance to this drug. In late 2018 researchers from Apollo Cancer Hospital, Chennai claimed that
samples of raw food lifted from across Chennai had tested positive for colistin-resistant bacteria.
Key Highlights about Colistin Ban
The ban has been imposed under provisions of section 26A of Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
Reason: As per the notification issued by Centre in regard of ban, it was brought to notice of Central
government that use of drug Colistin and its formulations for food producing animals, poultry, aqua
farming and animal feed supplements is likely to involve risk to human beings thus following which Drug
Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), government’s top advisory body on technical matters related to drugs
in India considered the matter and recommended prohibiting Colistin.
Health Ministry also directed that manufacturers of colistin and its formulations (as it is also used to treat
humans) shall affix a label on container of drug reading: Not to be used in food producing animals, poultry,
aqua farming and animal feed supplements: on package, insert and promotional literature.
Significance: The move is a massive victory for movement against anti-microbial resistance. As per
experts, the ban would ensure that colistin does not enter food people eat, and thus people don’t develop
resistance to the antibiotic.
CCMB unveils new Next Gen Sequencing facility
Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Science and Technology and Earth
Sciences, inaugurated Next Generation Sequencing (NSG) facility at Centre for Cellular and Molecular
Biology (CCMB), a CSIR lab in Hyderabad, Telangana.
About Next Generation Sequencing (NSG) Facility
It would include technology for high genome sequencing and also diagnostic sequencing of clinical
samples. It is 4th such facility in the country.
It is a state-of-the-art genome sequencing facility that can sequence 18,000 samples in 8 minutes. It is
acquired at a cost of Rs.8 crore.
It can sequence 30 human genomes a day (or 384 diagnostic samples in a day). It would costs around ₹1
lakh to sequence one genome using this facility.
Applications:
It would help prenatal genetic screening and counselling, thus generating large scale genomic data critical
for diagnosis and therapy.
It would especially help patients suffering from rare genetic disorders.
It would help in finding drugs for rare genetic diseases, which drug industry does not manufacture
because of high costs involved.
By using NSG facility, scientists hope to find genetic cause of rare diseases and develop kits that can be
used to find population at risk of genetic/other rare diseases
Significance: Much of existing body of knowledge for therapies for genetic diseases comes from studies
done with Caucasian populations but this new NSG facility would help in generating large-scale genomic
data from Indian populations, which was critical for genetic diagnosis and therapy.
Way Ahead: There is a need to develop Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR) and ensure that research is
transferred to industry, and help public at large.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 39


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Nishagandhi Monsoon Ragas Music Fest organized by Kerala


Nishagandhi Monsoon Ragas Music Festival is being organised by Kerala Tourism in
Thiruvananthapuram. The five-day annual music festival is being held from 20 to 24 July 2019. It marks
state’s successful entry into music tourism and seeks to attract more tourists to Kerala.
Key Highlights of Fest
Music festival brings a rare treat of classical and ethnic musical traditions of sub-continent. It features
both vocalists and instrumentalists.
Organising such events promotes art and culture of state and moreover harmony of ragas enriches
listeners’ minds with lights of optimism.
Eminent classical musicians Parassala B Ponnammal and T V Gopalakrishnan have been selected for
inaugural Nishagandhi Sangeetha Puraskaram. This award has been instituted by Kerala Tourism to
honour artists who have made outstanding contributions to music. It carries a cash prize of Rs 1.5 lakh,
citation and memento.
Significance of such Fest: The unity in diversity has helped coastal state to make a strong comeback from
devastating floods and other natural disasters and tourism has proved its unique character in the adverse
situations.
Upcoming Tourism Projects across Kerala
The Travancore Heritage Project is about to kick start in 2019
The Champions Boat League (CBL)
The Vellar Craft Village
The Chala Heritage Street project (costs around `10 crore)
Raja Kesavadasan statue will be erected at Aryasala junction
Responsible Tourism Mission: by Kerala Tourism is a bold initiatives in women’s empowerment
Motihari-Amlekhgunj Oil Pipeline ready for commercial operation
The landmark Motihari-Amlekhgunj Petroleum Products Pipeline between India and Nepal is now
completed and is ready for commercial operation. The testing transfer of the pipeline was successfully
completed by Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC). As part of trial, diesel was
released from Motihari which reached Amlekhgunj.
It is expected to be inaugurated soon by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepalese counterpart K P
Sharma Oli.
About Motihari-Amlekhgunj Oil Pipeline
It is a 69 kilometre-long pipeline that will run from Motihari in Bihar to Amelkhgunj in Nepal.
It has been constructed by India in just 15 months, which is half of its 30 months deadline.
Many First: The prestigious project is the 1st oil pipeline in Nepal, 1st transnational petroleum pipeline
from India as well as 1st South Asian oil pipeline corridor.
Importance: Since 1974, Nepal has been importing its entire major petroleum products including petrol,
diesel, aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from India. Annual export worth of
these products is more than Rs.8500 crore thus this new oil pipeline will be a game-changer for Nepal as
it will ensure smooth, cost effective and eco-friendly supply of petroleum products to Nepal.
It will help in tackling oil storage problem in Nepal and doing away with transportation of petroleum
products via tankers.
All lanes at toll plazas to be ‘FASTag lanes’ from 1st Dec
Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has decided to declare all lanes in all toll fee
plazas on National Highways across country as dedicated ‘FASTag lanes‘ from 1 December 2019.
Key Highlights
Objective: To ensure seamless traffic and prevent congestion at toll plazas. It is also a part of Centre’s plan
to promote digital payments at toll plazas and decongest national highways.
Hybrid Lane: Among all lanes, only one hybrid lane (where FASTag and other modes of payment will be
accepted) will be allowed at every toll plaza. This is to facilitate and monitor over-dimensional or oversized
vehicles. However this lane will also be converted into FASTag-only lane in a time-bound manner.
Penalty: After 1 December 2019, non-FASTag users will be charged double fees if they pass through
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 40
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

FASTag-only lanes. However currently under National Highways Fee (Determination of Rates and
Collection) Rules, 2008 there is a provision of making a vehicle owner pay twice toll fee amount but
MoRTH now seeks to strictly implement imposing higher toll fee if a non-FASTag vehicle enters the
FASTag lane.
Way Ahead: Availability of adequate number of FASTags should be facilitated to encourage cashless
payments at toll plaza.
NHAI (National Highway Authority of India) has also been asked to identify and resolve logistics and other
problems that are likely to lead to any law and order problem in this venture of FASTags lanes.
What is a FASTag?
It is an electronic toll connection device which is installed in vehicle (mostly attached to windscreen) to
help drivers to drive through toll plazas without having to stop.
FASTag uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to enable direct toll payments while
vehicle is moving. The toll fare is deducted directly from prepaid of saving bank account linked to FASTag.
Project Sampark: Defence Minister inaugurates Ujh and Basantar Bridges in J&K
Union Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh inaugurated 1 km long Ujh bridge in Kathua district and 617.40
m long Basantar bridge in Samba district of Jammu & Kashmir. Both of these bridges have been
constructed by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under 69 RCC/13 BRTF of Project Sampark.
Key Highlights
Ujh bridge (1 Km long): is longest bridge constructed by BRO and was completed within scheduled time. It
also holds distinction for being bridge where technology of Pre Cast Segmental br with 60 m spans was
used. It has been constructed at a cost of nearly Rs.50 crore. It is located on Parole-Korepannu-Rajpura road
over UjhNallah.
Basantar bridge: It has been constructed at a total cost of about Rs.41.7 crore. It is located on
Rajpura–Madwal–Pangadur–Phulpur road over BasantarNallah.
These bridges will usher in vast improvement in connectivity of roads and bridges in border areas as they
will provide smooth connectivity and are also vital for Indian Army for deployment on border areas.
These bridges will also be a big relief for local people of border villages of Kathua and Samba sector as road
connectivity to these areas used to get disrupted during Monsoon.
About Project Sampark
It was raised by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in 1975 with its Headquarters at Jammu.
Geography: It has an area of responsibility from Pir Panjal Range (in north) to Pathankot (in south) and
from Poonch (in west) to Dalhousie (in east), covering about 2200 km of road network.
BRO has been rendering its services via construction and maintenance of roads and bridges in border
areas thereby fulfilling strategic needs of Defence Forces.
UDAN Scheme: 8 more air routes added
Civil Aviation Ministry announced addition of 8 more air routes under UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam
Naagrik), the regional air connectivity scheme. These air routes have become functional and started
operations.
Key Highlights
Out of 8 routes added 2 are in northeast region.
New 8 Routes added are: Mysore-Goa, Goa-Mysore, Mysore-Hyderabad, Hyderabad-Mysore, Mysore-
Kochi, Kochi-Mysore, Kolkata-Shillong, and Shillong-Kolkata. Flights connecting Kolkata and Shillong will
be served by IndiGo while others will be operated by Alliance Air.
With the addition of 8 new routes the total UDAN routes that are now operational in country has
increased to 194.
Up till now the Civil Aviation Ministry has awarded a total of 705 routes under the UDAN scheme
About UDAN
UDAN or Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik is a regional connectivity scheme (RCS). It was scheme on 21 October
2016 to stimulate regional air connectivity and make air travel affordable to masses.
Objective: It aims to make flying affordable besides connecting underserved and unserved airports across
India.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 41


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Besides seeking boost to regional air connectivity it provides various incentives to airlines.
Need: India ranks as world’s 3rd-largest domestic aviation market. To tap this potential government has
proposed to hike foreign direct investment (FDI) limit in domestic air carriers from existing 49%.
Way Ahead: The aviation sector in India is fast expanding its capacity expansion with addition of over 500
aircraft in coming years thereby also providing a significant opportunity for leasing and financing.
July 23, 2019
Lt Gen. Manoj Mukund Naravane appointed next Vice Chief of Indian Army
In a major rejig in Indian Army, Eastern Army Commander Lt Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane has been
appointed as next vice-chief of armed force. He will succeed Lt Gen D Anbu who is set to retire on 31
August 2019.
Key Highlights
Lt Gen M M Naravane will be in contention for Chief of Indian Army post as he will be the senior-most
commander when incumbent Gen Bipin Rawat retires on 31 December 2019.
Lt Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane: In his 37 years of service, he has served in numerous command and staff
appointments in peace, field and highly active counter insurgency environments. He has also commanded
Rashtriya Rifles Battalion in Jammu & Kashmir and an Infantry Brigade on eastern front.
Other Key Appointment
Director General of Military Operations Lt Gen Anil Chauhan will be new General Officer
Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Command
Lt Gen AS Kler has been appointed General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of South-Western
Command. He will succeed Lt Gen Cherish Matheson who retires on 31 August 2019.
Lt Gen I S Ghuman has been appointed General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Command.
He will be succeeding Lt Gen Abhay Krishna.
Lt Gen RP Singh has been appointed head of Western Command. He will be succeeding Lt Gen
Surinder Singh who is currently serving as commander of the 21 Strike Corps is set to retire from
service on 31 July 2019.
INAS 313: 5th Dornier aircraft squadron commissioned into Indian Navy
Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 313, the 5th Dornier Aircraft Squadron was commissioned into Indian
Navy at Naval Air Enclave, Meenambakkam, Chennai. The INAS 313 has been named as ‘Sea Eagle.’ It is
commanded by Cdr Vivek Koman, experienced Dornier test pilot with extensive operational experience.
About INAS 313
It derives its name Sea Eagle from bird of prey family Accipitridae. The insignia (emblem) of squadron
depicts- Greater Spotted Eagle searching over vast blue and White Sea waves, which symbolises the
envisaged role of squadron.
Operational: It will be operating from Chennai International Airport. With commissioning of INAS 313,
Tamil Nadu will now have 3 naval air bases, which is highest number for any Coastal State. Other two air
bases in Tamil Nadu are INS Rajali at Arakkonam and INS Parundu at Ramnad.
Dornier aircraft: Squadron will operate Dornier aircraft. It is a multi-role Short Range Maritime
Reconnaissance (SRMR) aircraft manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), under license
from RUAG Aerospace. Dornier is used for maritime surveillance, Search and Rescue Operations and to
provide targeting data to weapon platforms.
Significance
Commissioning of INAS 313 marks another milestone in Indian Navy’s efforts towards enhancing
maritime security and safeguarding nation’s maritime interests.
To maintain an edge over its adversaries in defence preparedness India needs to be constantly monitor
developing geo-political situation in the region and thus it is necessary to maintain surveillance over Bay
of Bengal, Palk Bay and adjoining regions.
The strategic position of squadron will give India dominance over North Eastern part of Indian Ocean
which also consists of trade routes.
Sangita Kalanidhi Award: Carnatic vocalist S. Sowmya wins
Noted Carnatic vocalist S. Sowmya won the 2019 Sangita Kalanidhi award of Music Academy. She will

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 42


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

preside over 93rd annual conference of Academy to be held between 12 December 2019 and 1 January
2020. She along with other awardees will be conferred with the awards during the Sadas of Madras Music
Academy on 1 January 2020.
Other Awards
Other 2019 Award conferred by Madras Music Academy-
Sangita Kala Acharya Awards: Vocalists Seetha Narayanan and M.S. Sheela.
TTK Awards: Nagaswaram player Vyasarpadi Kothandaraman and vocalist Rajkumar Bharathi
Musicologist Award: Aarti N. Rao
Nritya Kalanidhi Award (for Dance): Priyadarshini Govind.
About Sangita Kalanidhi Award
Background: It is an annual award presented by Madras Music Academy (MMA). MMA plays an important
role in promoting Carnatic Music. Sangita Kalanidhi Award came into existence in 1942 and prior to that,
a senior musician or expert was invited to preside over Music Academy’s annual conference.
Sangita Kalanidhi Award is considered as the highest accolade in field of Carnatic music.
It comprises of gold medal and a birudu patra (citation) and is conferred upon one person who has
contributed to the field of Carnatic music.
Since 2005, Sangita Kalanidhi also receives MS Subbulakshmi Award instituted by The Hindu (newspaper
publication).
About S. Sowmya
She is youngest musician to receive coveted award in recent times after Sanjay Subramaniam. She is a
high-calibre vocalist is known for her intellectual approach towards Carnatic music.
She is a student of renowned Dr. S. Ramanathan and T. Mukta.
She equally excelled in her academic pursuit and obtained a doctorate from Madras University.
Lok Sabha passes Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019
Lok Sabha has passed Right to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2019 amidst strong objection from
Opposition with 218 members voting in its favour and 79 against it.
Summary: The bill seeks to amend certain provisions of landmark transparency law- Right to Information
Act, 2005 so as to empower central government on deciding terms of Chief Information Commissioner
(CIC) and Information Commissioners (ICs) at both central and state levels, as well as have a say on
salaries, allowances and other terms and conditions of service.
Key Features of Amendment Bill
Term & Conditions of Service: Bill allows Central government to notify term of office for Chief
Information Commissioner (CIC) and Information Commissioners (ICs) while as per RTI Act, 2005, CIC at
the central level and ICs at state level will hold office for a term of 5 years.
Quantum of Salary: Bill proposes that salaries, allowances, and other terms and conditions of service of
CIC and ICs will be determined by central government. While as per RTI Act the salary of CIC and ICs will
be equivalent to the salary paid to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners
(EC) respectively.
Deductions in Salary: As per RTI Act, 2005 at time of the appointment of CIC and ICs, if they are receiving
pension or any other retirement benefits for previous government service, their salaries will be reduced
by an amount equal to pension. The RTI (Amendment) Bill, 2019 removes these provisions.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 43


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Chandrayaan-2 spacecraft successfully launched by GSLV MkIII-M1


Chandrayaan-2, India’s 2nd moon mission (after Chandrayaan-1, 2008) was successfully launched by
GSLV-MkIII-M1 from Second Launch Pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh.
This successful launch comes exactly a week after Missions’ liftoff was aborted due to a technical snag.
About Chandrayaan-2
Besides being India’s 2nd mission to the moon it is 1st-ever mission to be spearheaded by two women.
Mission Objective: To demonstrate key technologies for end-to-end lunar mission capability, including
soft-landing and roving on lunar surface. It will also carry detailed study of moon’s topography and
atmosphere leading to a better understanding of Moon. It seeks to improve understanding of moon which
could lead to discoveries that will benefit India and humanity as a whole.
Landing: The rover will land on unexplored lunar South Pole of Moon on 7 September 2019, to carry out
scientific experiments. After touchdown the rover will carry out experiments for 14 Earth days (equalling 1
Lunar Day).
Components: It comprises a fully indigenous-
1. Orbiter
2. Lander- Vikram. It is named after father of Indian space research programme Dr Vikram A Sarabhai.
It will be landed in a high plain between 2 craters at a latitude of about 70 degrees South of moon.
3. Rover- Pragyan. Pragyan in Sanskrit means wisdom. It is 6-wheeled robotic vehicle, weighing 27-kg.
It will set out on its job of collecting information on lunar surface
Rover Pragyan is housed inside Vikram lander i.e. Vikram will be carrying the rover Pragyan.
Payload: Mission carries a total of 13 payloads. It includes 3 from Europe, 2 from United States and 1
Bulgaria. A Laser Retroreflector Array (LRA) of NASA (US space agency) is among the payloads. LRA is aimed
at understanding dynamics of Earths’ moon system and deriving clues on Lunar interior.
Significance: Besides making India 1st country in world to land a rover on unchartered Lunar South Pole,
Chandrayaan-2 will also make India 4th country after Russia, United States and China to pull off a soft
landing on moon.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 44


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

About GSLV-MkIII-M1
It is a 3-stage launch vehicle developed by Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It has two solid
strap-ons, a core liquid booster and a cryogenic upper stage.
It is 43.43-metre tall. It is dubbed as Baahubali for its ability to carry heavy payloads.
It is designed to carry 4 ton class of satellites into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) or about 10 tons to
Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Chandrayaan-2 was the GSLV-MKIII’s 1st operational flight.
NAM Ministerial Meeting held in Caracas, Venezuela
Ministerial meeting of Coordinating Bureau of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was held in Caracas, capital
of Venezuela. Theme for 2019 Meet was- Promotion and Consolidation of Peace through Respect for
International Law.
Since 2016 Venezuela has held the presidency of NAM which will now be passed on to Azerbaijan in
October 2019.
Key Highlights
At NAM Ministerial Meeting 2019, India was represented by Indian envoy to United Nations Syed
Akbaruddin.
Issues raised by India at NAM Meet included- Climate change, Digital Technologies and Terrorism.
India highlighted that Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) needs to be re-examined and revise its
methodology. It also emphasized that the grouping needs to undertake a new journey.
India also slammed Pakistan for raking up Kashmir at grouping’s ministerial meet. India held its stand
that NAM never was and can never be a platform for pursuits aimed at undermining territorial integrity
of a State by another State.
About Non-Aligned Movement
Background: It was established in Belgrade in 1961 during Cold War so as to unite developing countries
that are not part of any collective defense pacts in interest of any major power. It was a joint initiative of
former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito. It was formed in
wake of decolonization processes in Africa, Asia and other parts of world around values of independence,
sovereignty, equality and territorial integrity.
It is forum comprising of developing states that are not formally aligned with or against any major power
bloc.
It is the 2nd largest international organization after United Nations (UN) with 120 member states.
Membership: 120 member states; 17 states (observers); 10 International Organisations
JATAN: special software for Digitization of Archaeological Museum
The Minister of State (I/c) of Culture and Tourism, Shri Prahlad Singh Patel informed Lok Sabha about
JATAN: Virtual Museum software. JATAN has been developed by Human Centres Design and Computing
Group, C-DAC, Pune, Maharashtra.
About JATAN
JATAN is used for creating digital collections in various museums and digital archival tools that are used
in background for managing National Portal and Digital Repository for Indian Museums. As per the
agreement with Union Ministry of Culture, the National Portal and Digital Repository for Indian Museums
is developed and hosted by Human Centres Design and Computing Group, a technical expertise. The
portal works through website- http://museumsofindia.gov.in/ wherein all digitised data on museums have
been up-loaded for on-line viewing.
Digitisation Phase 1: Currently there are 48 Archaeological Site Museums under Archaeological Survey of
India (ASI). Out of these 2 Archaeological Site Museums, namely Velha Goa and Nagarjunakonda, have been
digitised during 1st phase through JATAN and data has been up-loaded in public domain through National
Portal and Digital Repository for Indian Museums.
Digitisation Phase 2: Digitisation in rest of the 46 archaeological museums through multi-user JATAN
software is being done in phase-wise manner.
Indian bodybuilder Ravinder Malik wins Mr. South Asia title
Indian bodybuilder Ravinder Kumar Malik won Mr. South Asia title 2019. He was crowned overall

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 45


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

champion at 12th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship held in Kathmandu in
Nepal.
The championship was organised under the auspices of Nepal Bodybuilding and Fitness Association by
South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation. A total of 91 bodybuilders participated in
event.
Key Highlights
Ravinder Kumar Malik won the title in 80 kg category. He was adjudged best bodybuilder among winners
of 9 senior men’s weight categories.
India won a total 10 medals. It includes 4 gold, 5 silver and 1 bronze medal. But overall India remained 3rd
with 380 points.
Host Nepal finished 2nd with 445 points.
Other Winners
Afghanistan: won a total 15 medals. It includes 6 gold, 4 silver and 5 bronze. Afghanistan also won team
championship by securing a top position with 535 points.
Nepal: won a total 16 medals. It includes 3 gold, 7 silver and 6 bronze.
Maldives: won a total 5 medals. It includes 3 gold and 2 bronze medals.
Pakistan: won a total 5 medals. It includes 1 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze.
Bhutan: finished last with bronze medal.
Mohun Bagan Ratna Award 2019: Keshav Dutt, Prasun Banerjee
Two-time Olympic gold medal winning Hockey Player Keshav Dutt and former India Football Captain
Prasun Banerjee are selected for Mohun Bagan Ratna Award 2019. Awards will be given away on annual
celebration of Mohun Bagan Day (29 July).
This is for the 1st time Mohun Bagan’s executive committee has decided to confer their highest honour to
a non-footballer i.e. a sportsperson from other discipline.
Keshav Dutt
The 93 year old Dutt, who played as a half-back, was part of National hockey team that won gold medals
after India’s Independence– 1948 London Games, where India won the 1st gold post-Independence and
2nd Olympic gold in 1952 Helsinki.
He is one of the oldest surviving hockey Olympians of country.
Prasun Banerjee
The 64-year-old Banerjee, was a prominent midfielder of his times. He is the younger brother of iconic
footballer P.K. Banerjee. He played in 3 Asian Games in 1974, 1978 and 1982 and was also part of an Asian
All Star XI team.
Other Awardees
Arijit Bagui: The Best Football Player for the season 2018-19
Mohammed Shami: India’s hat-trick hero of 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Ashok Chatterjee (Footballer): The Lifetime Achievement Award.
The club will also confer life membership to distinguished personalities- Chuni Goswami, Sourav Ganguly,
Dr.Vece Paes, Deb Shankar Halder and Prasenjit Chatterjee.
About Mohun Bagan Ratna
It is an award presented each year on Mohun Bagan Day to outstanding former players. 1st recipient was
former captain Sailen Manna in 2001.
Mohun Bagan Day: Every year 29 July is celebrated as Mohun Bagan Day. It is on this day in 1911 the
Mariners became 1st club to defeat a British club, East Yorkshire Regiment, and lift IFA Shield, an annual
football competition organized by the Indian Football Association.
CW Table Tennis Championships: India tops medal tally with 7 Gold
Host India made most of home’ advantage and grabbed all 7 gold medals in 21st Commonwealth Table
Tennis Championships 2019 which concluded at Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Cuttack, Odisha.
Key Highlights
Winners of 21st Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships:
Indian paddlers topped medals tally with 7 gold, 5 silver and 3 bronze.
Men Singles: Harmeet Desai. He defeated favourite G. Sathiyan 4-3 in a hard-fought final to claim the
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 46
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

men’s singles title.


Women Singles: Ayhika Mukherjee. This is her maiden gold in the championships. She thrashed former
national champion Madurika Patkar 4-0.
Men Doubles: Anthony Amalraj & Manav Thakkar. The duo claimed Men’s doubles gold by stunning top
seeds Sathiyan and Sharath Kamal 3-1.
Women Doubles: Pooja Sahasrabudhe & Krittwika Sinha Roy. The duo defeated compatriots Sreeja Akula
and Mousumi Paul 3-1 to claim doubles crown.
England won 2 silver and 3 bronze medals.
Singapore got 6 bronze medals.
Malaysia and Nigeria got 1 bronze each.
July 24, 2019
Inter-Ministerial Committee on Virtual Currencies submits Report
Inter-Ministerial Committee on Virtual Currencies headed by finance secretary Subhash Chandra Garg
has submitted its report to the government. The committee set up by Centre has also proposed a draft bill
‘Banning of Cryptocurrency & Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill, 2019’.
Background
Government had constituted an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on 2 November 2017 under the
Chairmanship of Subhash Chandra Garg, Secretary of Department of Economic Affairs for studying issues
related to virtual currencies and to propose specific action to be taken in this matter. Members of
committee included secretary (MeiTY), Chairman of Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and
Deputy Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Key Highlights of Report
DLT Technology: Report submitted by group highlights positive aspect of distributed-ledger technology
(DLT). It suggested various applications for use of DLT in India, especially in financial services. DLT-based
systems for instance can be used by banks or other financial firms for processes like tracking of loan-
issuance, fraud detection, claims management in insurance, collateral management as well as
reconciliation systems in securities market.
Private Cryptocurrencies: Given the risks associated with private cryptocurrencies and volatility in their
prices, the committee recommended banning of cryptocurrencies in India by enacting a law and imposing
fines and penalties for carrying on activities related to such cryptocurrencies in India.
Key Proposals: As virtual currencies and its underlying technology are still evolving the Group has
proposed that-
Government should keep an open mind on official digital currency.
Government may establish a Standing Committee to revisit issues addressed in Report as and when
required.
Way Ahead
Report and Draft Bill submitted by Committee will now be examined in consultation with all concerned
Departments and Regulatory Authorities, before Central Government takes a final decision. For now draft
bill has been placed in the public domain on website of Department of Economic Affairs.
Odisha renews effort to revive Gharial population
Odisha has renewed its effort to revive population of gharials in their natural habitat by releasing 5
reptiles, fitted with radio transmitters, into Satkosia gorge of Mahanadi which is the southernmost limit
of gharials’ home range in India.
About Gharial
Features: When compared to alligators and crocodiles, a gharial has a very long and narrow snout (instead
of a broad snout). Also, male gharial has a distinctive boss at end of snout, which resembles an
earthenware pot.
Habitat: They are a fresh-water crocodile. They live in deep fast-flowing rivers with high sand banks that
they use for basking and building nests.
Gharial population is found only in India and Nepal.
India: Mahanadi River, Girwa River, Son River, Chambal River, Ken River, Ramganga River. In India major
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 47
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

‘breeding’ populations are confined to two Chambal and Girwa rivers only. However Chambal River
supports largest population of Gharials in wild.
Nepal: Rapti-Narayani River
Worry: They once inhabited all major river systems of Indian Subcontinent, from Irrawaddy River in east
to Indus River in west. Their total distribution is now limited to only 2% of their former range.
IUCN Red List-Critically Endangered
Threats: Being hunted for skins, trophies and indigenous medicine. Their eggs are also collected for
consumption. Major reason is decrease of riverine habitat as dams, barrages, irrigation canals and
artificial embankments were built; siltation and sand-mining changed river courses.
Conservation & Protection:
Species Listed in Schedule 1 under Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Project Crocodile: It began in 1975 intensive captive breeding and rearing program. It was undertaken by
Government of India in collaboration with United Nations Development Fund (UNDF) & Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) intensive captive breeding and rearing program.
Protected areas: National Chambal Sanctuary and Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary.
23 July: National Broadcasting Day
National broadcasting Day is observed every year on 23 July across India. It is on 23 July in 1927, the 1st
ever radio broadcast in country went on the air from Bombay Station under a private company called the
Indian Broadcasting Company (IBC). Thereby since 1927 radio has been an important part in people’s life
in India.
Key Highlights
Background: First broadcasting in India began in July 1923 with programmes by Radio Club of Mumbai.
Then according to an agreement of 23 July 1927, the Indian Broadcasting Company (IBC) started organised
radio broadcasting from Bombay station and eventually later on 8 June 1936, the Indian State
Broadcasting Service became All India Radio (AIR).
All India Radio: Since it’s inception, it has been serving to inform, educate and entertain masses and truly
living up to its motto – Bahujan Hitaya Bahujan Sukhaya
Radio is only tool that has become a medium of entertainment along with news everywhere in India.
AIR Reach: India is the most diverse nation in World and All India Radio has 414 stations in 23 languages
and broadcasts in 179 dialects thus making it one of the largest public broadcasting organisations in the
world.
Way Ahead
On occasion of National Broadcasting day Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar
highlighted that NDA government is working towards replacing one station by a four new stations and
that via new technology the All India Radio service will reach more people through Medium wave (MW)
and Frequency modulation (FM).
What is PENCIL Portal?
Union Minister for Labour & Employment informed Lok Sabha that 361 Complaints of Child Labour have
been resolved via PENCIL (Platform for Effective Enforcement for No Child Labour) Portal (pencil.gov.in).
About PENCIL Portal
It is a separate online portal Platform for Effective Enforcement for No Child Labour (PENCIL) launched on
26 September 2017 to ensure effective enforcement of provisions of Child Labour Act and smooth
implementation of National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme.
Components of PENCIL Portal: include Child Tracking System, Complaint Corner, State Government,
National Child Labour Project and Convergence.
Portal connects: Central Government to State Government(s), District(s), all Project Societies and the
General public.
Online complaints in regard to child labour can also be filed by anybody on Pencil Portal. Once received
the complaint gets assigned to concerned Nodal Officer automatically by system for further necessary
action.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 48


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Complaints Resolved: Of the 1010 complaints of child labour received on PENCIL portal, District Nodal
Officers have updated status in respect of 361 complaints as resolved.
About NCLP Scheme
It is a Central Sector Scheme (CSS) under which funds are provided directly to District Project Societies
headed by District Magistrate/Collector/Deputy Commissioner who in turn allocates funds to Non-
Governmental Organisation (NGOs)/Voluntary Agencies or others for running of Special Training
Centres.

Bangladesh develops plastic alternative from jute


Scientists in Bangladesh have developed a method to convert Jute fibre into low-cost Bio-Degradable
cellulose sheets dubbed as Sonali. It has been developed by the team of scientist working for state-run
Bangladesh Jute Mills Corporation (BJMC). The commercial production of these bags is likely to start by
end of 2019.
About Sonali
The word ‘Sonali’ is the Bengali word for ‘golden’.
Features: The physical qualities of invented jute fibre and plastic are quite similar.
They are not harmful for human health.
Uses:
Eco-friendly jute poly bags made up of Sonali can be used-
in garments and food packaging work.
as wrapping material and carrying bag.
Significance: Bangladesh is world’s 2nd biggest producer of jute after India. Though Jute, also called as
‘golden fibre’ for its colour and its once-high price, has lost its sheen in past as demand has fallen but it is
now being revived by being turned into low-cost biodegradable cellulose sheets that have the look and feel
of plastic bag.
Way Ahead: The large scale adoption of Sonali sheet is challenging due to relatively high cost of
production which is almost double that of polythene. However, production on a large scale is expected to
bring down the cost. For this purpose Government of Bangladesh has approved 9 lakh dollars in April 2019
from its climate change fund to help in large-scale production of these bags.
Book on Fire and Fury Corps of Army released
Coffee table book titled ‘Fire and Fury Corps– Saga of Valour, Fortitude and Sacrifice,‘ a repository of
exemplary valour of Fire and Fury Corps and their utmost dedication to nation was released. The book
was released in Leh, in J&K by Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ranbir Singh on the
occasion of nation celebrating 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 49
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

About Book
It showcases history and achievements of Fire and Fury Corps of the Army, which guards Line of
Control (LoC), the military control line between Indian and Pakistani controlled parts of former
princely state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Line of Actual Control (LAC), the line that separates
Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory in the former princely state of J&K.
It documents courage and bravery of Fire and Fury Warriors and portrays rich heritage and ethos of
Indian Army.
It brings to fore numerous sagas of great courage, supreme sacrifices and other hitherto hidden
facets of soldiering displayed by Corps in various wars.
It also covers serenity and mysticism of Ladakh and its people, as a tribute to symbiotic relationship
shared by Indian Army and people of Ladakh region.
Vande Bharat Express completes trial run from New Delhi to Katra
The Northern Railway zone of Indian Railway successfully conducted trial run of Vande Bharat Express,
known to be India’s fastest train. The trial run was conducted from New Delhi to Katra small town in
Jammu and Kashmir.
About Vande Bharat Express
It is also known as Train 18. It can run at a speed of 160 km per hour.
Besides being indigenous and fully automatic train, it is also one of the best and premium trains in India.
Developed by: It is designed and developed by Chennai-based Railways Production unit Integral Coach
Factory in a time of just 18 months which also included in-house design, manufacture, computer
modelling and working.
Features:
It has a GPS-based audio-visual passenger information system, pantry, on board hotspot Wi-Fi facility for
entertainment purposes, and bio-vacuum toilets.
It has also been equipped with improved seating, a facility for freezer, hot case and other technical
improvements based on passenger feedback.
2nd Vande Bharat Express is proposed to run three days a week i.e. on Monday, Thursday and Saturday.
Trial Run:
In February 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had flagged off train’s maiden run from New Delhi to
Varanasi. Later in early July 2019 Vande Bharat’s 2nd trial run was successfully completed conducted
between New Delhi Railway Station and Kanpur Central Railway station.
As per the trial run results Train 18 is better than Shatabdi Express as it has travel classes like Shatabdi
trains, but with better facilities in a bid to provide a new travel experience to passengers.
After successful Confirmatory Oscillograph Car Runs (COCR) trial of new Vande Bharat Express on Delhi-
Katra route, it is expected that train might soon extend its service to Vaishno Devi.
New India-UK bilateral scheme launched on Pilot basis
UKEIRI Mobility Programme: Study in India, a new India-UK bilateral scheme has been launched on pilot
basis to support Britain’s universities to collaborate with Indian partners to facilitate United Kingdom
(UK) students to visit India during their studies. UKERI stands for ‘UK-India Education Research
Initiative’.
About UKEIRI Mobility Programme
It is an initiative of Universities UK International (UUKI) and British Council India.
Objective: To fund students from UK to visit India. It also aims to generate up to 200 opportunities for
undergraduate students at UK universities to visit India by March 2021.
Target: Study in India programme will support national as well as institutional-level objectives to increase
levels of outward student mobility from UK to 13% by 2020. This target is set out in UUKi’s “Go
International: Stand Out” campaign.
To reach its goal UKEIRI Mobility Programme will support Britain’s universities to collaborate with Indian
partners to send UK students to India during their studies.
Implementation:
Programme will be funded by UK Government and Government of India as part of Phase 3 of UKEIRI and
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 50
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

delivered by British Council, Universities UK International (UUKI) and Educational Consultants India
Limited (EdCIL) in India.
Under programme the priority will be given to students from traditionally underrepresented groups to
visit India during their courses.
Boris Johnson takes charge as new Prime Minister of United Kingdom
Former British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson officially took charge as new Prime Minister of United
Kingdom (UK), he met Queen Elizabeth II, who invited him to form the new government. He defeated
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn.
Johnson, a Conservative Member of Parliament (MP), former foreign minister, and former mayor of
London replaced outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May, who was forced to step aside after failing to
deliver a Brexit deal.
About Boris Johnson,
The 55-year-old is an ardent backer of Brexit and vocal opponent of Theresa May’s deal. He is identified as
a one-nation conservative and has been associated with both economically and socially liberal policies.
He won a decisive victory over Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt for party’s leadership by a significant
margin after a race spanning 7 weeks, during course of which 1,60,000 members of British Conservative
Party picked next UK PM.
Like his predecessor Theresa May, he will be inheriting a wafer-thin parliamentary majority therefore, will
rely on support of Democratic Unionists Party (DUP) of Northern Ireland to govern.
24 July: CBDT celebrates Aaykar Diwas
On 24 July 2019, Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and all field offices observed and celebrated 159th
Income Tax Day also known as Aaykar Diwas.
About Aaykar Diwas 2019
Background: It was on 24 July in 1860 that Income Tax (IT) was introduced for 1st time in India by Sir
James Wilson to compensate for losses incurred by British regime during First War of Independence (also
known as Revolt of 1857) against British Rule.
Celebration: An event to mark Income Tax Day held in New Delhi was attended by Union Finance
Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. The event included release of departmental publications, e-journal,
publicity kit for outreach programmes among other things.
Week preceding Aaykar Diwas: was marked by various activities undertaken by regional offices of
department across India. It included-
Several field offices undertook grievance redressal week/fortnight to help redress pending grievances of
tax payers.
Some field stations made free legal aid available to tax payers in conjunction with local Tax Bar
Association.
Digital kiosk that have interactive as well as informative digital display was also set up in certain stations
so as to improve tax payer services.
Several field stations are also holding functions felicitating super senior tax payers for their contribution
to nation building, while also recognizing hard work put in by officers and officials of department in
various designated areas of work.
Kardaata e-SahyogAbhiyaan was launched by finance department. It is an endeavour to assist and support
taxpayers and other stakeholders in enabling them to e-file their returns and discharge other tax related
obligations.
Some offices also held street plays/nukkadnataks to promote awareness of taxes, while several others
organized Walkathon/Taxathon for a cause i.e. a Walk for Taxes.
July 25, 2019
RIL becomes highest-ranked Indian company on Fortune Global 500 list
Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) becomes highest-ranked Indian company on Fortune
Global 500 list. It has jumped 42 places and was ranked 106 this year.
Key Highlights
In this year’s list, RIL replaced Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) which ranked 117 as top-ranked Indian

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 51


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

company. State-owned IOC had been top-ranked Indian company on list for years and was 1st on Fortune
India 500 list which started in 2010. In 2018’s Global 500 list, RIL was ranked 148th and IOC was at 137th
place.
RIL’s revenue rose by 32.1% from $62.3 billion in 2018 to$82.3 billion in 2019 while IOC clocked a 17.7%
growth in revenue from $65.9 billion to $77.6 billion.
Other Indian companies to feature on list: Oil & Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) was ranked 160th, State Bank
of India (SBI) 236th, Tata Motors 265th , Bharat Petroleum Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL) 275th and Rajesh
Exports 495th.
Top 10 Position:
1. Walmart: United States (US) retail giant topped list.
2. Sinopec Group: Chinese state-owned oil and gas company
3. Royal Dutch Shell: Dutch company
4. China National Petroleum
5. State Grid
6. Saudi Aramco: Saudi oil giant
7. BP: British multinational oil and gas company
8. Exxon Mobil
9. Volkswagen
10. Toyota Motor
About Fortune Global 500
It is an annual ranking of top 500 corporations worldwide as measured by revenue. It is also known as
Global 500.
The list is compiled and published annually by Fortune magazine, an American multinational business
magazine.
Factors that push and pull Global 500 rankings- global economy, trade policies, mergers and acquisitions
and corporate upheaval.
Analysis: World’s 500 largest companies generated $32.7 trillion in revenues and $2.15 trillion in profits.
The companies represented by 34 countries and employ 69.3 million people worldwide.
Govt targets to install Rooftop Solar projects of 40,000 MW by 2022
Government has set a target for installation of Rooftop Solar projects (RTS) of 40,000 MegaWatt (MW) by
2022 in the country including installation of RTS on rooftop of houses. New and Renewable Energy
Minister RK Singh submitted reply in this regard to Rajya Sabha.
Key Highlights
Grid Connected Rooftop Solar programme is being implemented by Union Ministry of New and Renewable
Energy (MNRE). Projects include installation of solar panels on rooftop of houses.
Total Rooftop Solar Installations in India: As of 18 July 2019 over 1700 Mega Watt of grid-connected
rooftop systems has been installed in India. On an average it is estimated that 1.5 million units per
MegaWatt/year are generated from solar rooftop plants.
Gujarat Model: In terms of area of solar rooftop installations, Gujarat has stood 1st in India with total
261.97 megawatts (MW) of installed rooftop solar capacity at present. Out of total 261.97 MW installation,
183.51 MW are subsidised installations and 78.45 MW are non-subsidised installations. On an average it is
estimated that 1.5 million units per MW/year are generated from solar rooftop units.
Gujarat is followed by Maharashtra with 198.52MW and Tamil Nadu with 151.62MW in terms of installed
rooftop capacity.
Grid Connected Rooftop Solar Programme
This programme seeks to achieve a cumulative capacity of 40,000 MW from rooftop solar projects by year
2022.
It will be implemented in two phases with a total central financial support of ₹11,814 crore.
Phase II programme provides for central financial assistance (for residential rooftop solar installations)
up to 40% for rooftop systems up to 3kW and 20% for those with a capacity of 3-10kW. This 2nd phase will

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 52


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

also focus on increasing involvement of distribution companies (DISCOM).


What is Solar Rooftop System?
Rooftop solar installations as opposed to large-scale solar power generation plants can be installed on
roofs of any residential, commercial, institutional and industrial building.
They are of 2 types:
Solar Rooftop System which have storage facility by using battery
Grid Connected Solar Rooftop System.
Environmental Significance: On considering average energy generation of 1.5 million units per MW, it is
expected that addition of 38 GW solar rooftop plants under Phase-II (by year 2022) will result in CO2
emission reduction of about 45.6 tonnes/year.
Employment Opportunity: Besides increasing self-employment approval is likely to generate employment
opportunity equivalent to 9.39 lakh job years for skilled and unskilled workers.
Scaly-Foot Snail: 1st ever Species Endangered due to Deep Sea Mining
A rare snail species called ‘Scaly-Foot Snail’ found at only three spots on Indian Ocean floor near
Madagascar has become the 1st species to be officially declared threatened due to deep-sea mining. It was
added by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to its updated Red List of Endangered
Species on 18 July 2019.
About Scaly-Foot Snail
Scaly-foot snail (or Chrysomallon squamiferum) is otherwise known as Sea Pangolin. It has become the 1st
marine species to be assessed as officially endangered due to potential threat of deep sea mining.
Found: It is found at 3 hydrothermal vents in Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar.
It was recently added by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to its updated Red List of
Endangered Species.
A hydrothermal vent is a fissure on seafloor from which geothermally heated water issues and when this
happens, hot water mixes with cold seawater thus depositing minerals such as copper and manganese on
ocean floor.
Research: According to the report published in Nature journal, the researchers settled on including snail
in new Red List based on the criteria that it was found at just 3 spots on ocean floor and looming threat of
deep-sea mining.
Steps Taken: At present there is a freeze on all ocean-floor mining activities globally. Moreover,
International Seabed Authority (ISA), a United Nations (UN) agency, is currently formulating guidelines on
how to conduct ocean-floor mining, which should be completed by 2020.
Many experts hope that scaly-foot snail finding its way into Red List would act as a deterrent to mining
companies and it is not the case then at least 14 more species found in a hydrothermal vent ecosystem
could be included in next edition of IUCN’s Red List to be out in late 2019.
Andhra Pradesh passes Bill for 75% jobs to locals in factories
Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly passed Andhra Pradesh Employment of Local Candidates in Industries
and Factories Bill, 2019. The bill mandates reserved employment of at least 75% state candidates (locals) in
all private industrial units and factories, irrespective of whether companies get financial or any other help
from government. With this bill Andhra Pradesh became 1st state to reserve jobs for locals in respective
units.
Key Features of Bill
The 75% reservation to local is provided in private jobs across all categories such as- factories, industrial
units, joint ventures (JVs) as well as projects taken up under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode.
Train Locals: If locals with necessary skills are not available, then companies must train them in
association with state government and hire them.
Time Period: Existing industries, factories, joint ventures and PPP projects will have to comply with these
provisions within a period of 3 years from date of commencement of Act. Companies will have to provide
quarterly reports about local appointments to a nodal agency.
Exempted: Only those units that are listed in 1st schedule of Factories Act (mostly hazardous industries

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 53


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

like petroleum, pharmaceuticals, coal, fertilisers and cement, among others) will be exempted from the
new Act, after government approval.
Cabinet approves merger of NIMH with ICMR-NIOH
Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved to dissolve National Institute of
Miners’ Health (NIMH), an autonomous Institute under Union Ministry of Mines (MoM) and merge it with
ICMR-NIOH (Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Occupational Health), Ahmedabad,
under Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoH&FW) with all assets and liabilities.
Key Highlights
Actions required for effecting dissolution and merger of NIMH with NIOH will be taken by NIMH, ICMR,
NIOH, MoM and Department of Health Research (DHR), MoH&FW.
This NIHM amalgamation with ICMR-NIOH also includes absorbing of all employees of NIMH in NIOH in
similar post/pay scale as case may be and their pay be protected.
Impact: NIMH-NIOH merger will prove beneficial to both Institutes in term of enhanced expertise in field
of occupational health as well as efficient management of public money.
Expenditure Management Commission which was reviewing working and performance of autonomous
institutes recommended merger of NIMH with NIOH. It suggested that organisations with similar
objectives can be considered for merger to encourage synergy in operations and reduction in cost.
About National Institute of Miners’ Health (NIMH)
It was set up in 1990 by Government of India.
It is registered as a Society under Karnataka Societies Registration Act, 1960.
NIMH’s registered office is located at Kolar Gold Fields in Karnataka and Central Laboratory in Nagpur.
It conducts applied research in occupational health and hygiene. It specializes in providing technical
support services to mining as well as mineral based industry with special reference to metalliferous
sector. It also endeavors for safe mines and healthy miners through research & development (R&D).
Focus Areas: NIOH focuses on a vast array of areas related to occupational health including occupational
medicine and occupational hygiene.
National Data Quality Forum: launched by ICMR
Indian Council of Medical Research’s (ICMR’s) National Institute for Medical Statistics have launched
National Data Quality Forum (NDQF) to improve quality of health and demographic data in India.
About National Data Quality Forum (NDQF)
It is launched by ICMR’s National Institute for Medical Statistics (ICMR-NIMS), in partnership with
Population Council.
Purpose:
It seeks to generate meaningful dialogue around improvement of data quality in general, and for health
and medical research in particular.
It will integrate learnings from scientific and evidence-based initiatives and guide actions by periodic
workshops and conferences.
Activities undertaken by NDQF will help establish protocols and good practices of data collection, storage,
use and dissemination that can be applied to health and demographic data, and even be replicated across
industries and sectors.
NDQF platform will be guided by direction provided by a high level steering committee and will be
operationalised with help of a technical advisory group composed of subject matter experts with a mandate
to create dialogue for data quality, and build like-minded community of practice.
CCEA keeps Fair and Remunerative Price of sugarcane at Rs275/quintal
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved
the proposal for Determination of Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane payable by sugar mills
for 2019-20 sugar season.
Key Highlights
CCEA kept FRP at Rs 275 per quintal the same as last year (2018-19) for sugarcane sold to mills during
forthcoming sugar season of 2019-20, much to distress of sugarcane growers.
FRP is based on recommendation of Commission of Agricultural Costs & Prices (CACP) as per its August

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 54


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

2018 report on- Price Policy for Sugarcane for 2019-20 season.
CCEA also approved to provide a premium of Rs.2.75 per quintal for every 0.1% increase above 10% in
recovery.
Price of sugarcane is fixed by Centre/State, while price of sugar is market determined.
What is Fair and Remunerative Price?
It is the minimum price at which rate sugarcane is to be purchased by sugar mills from farmers. FRP is
fixed by Union government on basis of recommendations of Commission for Agricultural Costs and
Prices (CACP), an attached office of Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
Factors: Recommended FRP is achieved by taking into account various factors such as cost of production,
demand-supply situation, inter-crop price parity, domestic & international prices etc.
Sugarcane’s FRP is determined under Sugarcane (Control) Order, 1966 which will be uniformly applicable
all over country. Besides FRP, some states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Tamil
Nadu announce a State Advised Price, which is generally higher than the FRP.
Significance: FRP approval will ensure a guaranteed price to cane growers. It also assures margins to
farmers, irrespective of whether sugar mills generate a profit or not as FRP determination is in interest of
sugarcane growers keeping in view their entitlement to FRP for their produce.
Govt approves creation of buffer stock for 40 lakh MT of sugar for 1 yr
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved creation of a buffer stock of 40 lakh metric
tonnes (LMT) of sugar. This buffer stock would be created for one year starting from 1 August 2019 to 31
July 2020. The decision of approving a buffer stock is to maintain demand-supply balance and to stabilise
sugar prices.
Key Highlights
Estimated Cost & Review: Government will spend an estimated Rs.1674 crore for creation of a buffer stock
of 40 LMT. However, based on market price and availability of sugar, this may be reviewed by Department
of Food and Public Distribution under Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution
any time for withdrawal or modification.
Reimbursement: provided under scheme would be met on a quarterly basis (3 months) to sugar mills. It
would be directly credited into farmers’ account on behalf of mills against cane price dues. In case of any
subsequent balance, it would be credited to mill’s account.
Benefits: The decisions will lead to:
Reduction in sugar inventories
Improvement in liquidity positions of sugar mills
Stabilization in sugar prices by alleviating of price sentiments in domestic sugar market. This will
further facilitate timely clearance of cane price dues of farmers.
Benefits for sugar mills in all sugarcane producing States, by way of clearing sugarcane price dues of
sugar mills.
Priti Patel: Britain’s first Indian-origin Home Secretary
Newly elected British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has appointed Indian origin Priti Patel as the Home
Secretary of Britain. With this she has become Britain’s first Home Secretary of Indian origin. She has her
roots in Tarapur in Gujarat.
Former Home Secretary Sajid Javid would take over from Philip Hammond as Finance Secretary (or
Chancellor).
About Priti Patel
The 47-year-old leader is an old Eurosceptic and a powerful backer of Brexit. She was among most vocal
critics of Theresa May’s Brexit strategy.
As a Home Secretary she will be in charge of immigration, crime and policing, counter-terrorism and
drugs policy.
She was 1st elected as a Conservative Member of Parliament in 2010. However she gained prominence in
then David Cameron led Tory government as his Indian Diaspora Champion.
CARE4U app: for elderly people developed by IIT Kharagpur team
To help geriatric care, students of IIT Kharagpur have developed an application called CARE4U that
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 55
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

connect the caregiver to the elderly person. It will inform the caregiver when elderly person falls down
with exact location.
About CARE4U
It is an android-based app that will connect caregiver to elderly person. By using the network-based fall
detection algorithm in CARE4U app installed on phone of elderly can detect whether elderly has fallen
down.
If there is a fall, app automatically calls caregiver and emergency services along with providing exact
location of elderly person.
Features of CARE4U App
Mood Index: App can also detect emotions as whenever elderly opens the app the phone takes his picture
and a mood index is calculated. This index detects whether person is sad or not and automatically updates
caregiver with time stamp. Thus caregiver can check what mood senior citizen has been through in day.
Cognitive Intelligent Chatbot: To make mood index feature more effective IIT team has developed a
cognitive intelligent chatbot for elderly person to engage with. For instance chatbot can recommend a
motivational quote or an old song when the person is sad.
No cloud service: Best thing about app is that except for chatbot, all other machine learning models run
on mobile itself i.e. no cloud service is needed. This implies that even if there is no internet connection, all
other features such as fall detection, emotion detection will work.
Medicine Reminder: It also has a record of medical histories, allergies’ account, an SOS (emergency)
button, real time location tracking and also has Medicine Reminder feature to remind both elderly as well
as caregiver that it is time for former to take medicine.
July 26, 2019
26 million year old Species of Vine Snake found in Western Ghats
Team of researchers, from Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru while attempting to study and
classify snakes in Western Ghats discovered Proahaetulla antiqua, a new vine snake species. This is an
ancient species which is endemic to southern Western Ghats is thought to have evolved around 26 million
years ago during the mid-Oligocene.
Key Highlights
Study Funded: The study describing unique features of this snake was published in journal PLOS ONE in
collaboration with researchers from Chennai Snake Park, Chennai and Bombay Natural History Society,
Mumbai. Study was funded by Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Environment, Forests and
Climate Change (MoEFCC), DBT-IISc Partnership Programme and Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund.
Vine Snakes: Vine snakes get their names due to their slender bodies and vine-like appearances. Although
there are similar species in South America and Africa but Asian vine snakes, distributed throughout Asia,
belong to the genus Ahaetulla. In India particularly there are 4 species of commonly distributed vine
snakes, and another one was discovered in Odisha recently.
About Proahaetulla antiqua
They are named after Latin words ‘antiqua’, which means- old or ancient. The common name suggested
for these individuals is ‘keeled vine snake’.
While studying evolutionary tree of Proahaetulla antiqua, researchers discovered that this species
diverged from other vine snakes about 26 million years ago. Thus, they are not only a new species but also
belong to a new genus. The new species faces no major extinction threats at the moment.
It was found in protected habitats of Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu and Shendurney
Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala (both located in the southern Western Ghats).
Significance: Discovery would not only help know more about evolution of vine snakes but also
evolutionary history of Western Ghats, a landmass older than Himalayas.
IBBI tightens norms governing resolution professionals (RPs)
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) has tightened norms that governs resolution
professionals (RPs), wherein they would be barred from having employment when they are in possession
of authorisation to take up work under insolvency law. Also, restrictions will also be in place for relatives

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 56


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

of RPs in accepting employment after completion of resolution process. For this purpose IBBI has
amended respective regulations.
IBBI (Insolvency Professionals) Regulations, 2019
With this notified regulation Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India amends Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Board of India (Insolvency Professionals) Regulations, 2016.
Salient Amendments effected are:
An Insolvency Professional (IP) should not take up any assignment unless he/she holds an
Authorisation for Assignment issued by insolvency professional agency concerned. This provision is
effective from 1 January 2020. This would be applicable for an individual acting as an interim
resolution professional, (or resolution professional), bankruptcy trustee, liquidator, authorised
representative or in any other role under Insolvency and bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016.
An Insolvency Professional (IP) should not engage in any employment when he holds an
Authorisation for Assignment/when he is undertaking an assignment. Although he may surrender
Authorisation for Assignment when he wishes to take up employment.
Resolution professional, and his or her relatives, cannot accept any employment (other than an
employment secured through open competitive recruitment) from successful resolution applicant
concerned for one year.
Insolvency professional shall not appoint any of his relatives or related parties, in connection with
any work relating to any of his assignment.
IBBI (Model Bye-Laws and Governing Board of Insolvency Professional Agencies) (Amendment) Regulations, 2019
Salient Amendments effected are:
An insolvency professional agency shall issue or renew an Authorisation for Assignment to insolvency
professionals in accordance with its Bye-Laws.
An individual would be permitted to serve as an independent director on governing board of an
insolvency professional agency up to age of 75 years.
About Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI)
It was formed on 1 October 2016. It was given statutory powers under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code
(IBC), 2016.
It regulates and counters various bad loan cases reported by various creditors, which especially involved
banks in India.
It also regulates profession and processes related to insolvency and bankruptcy.
It plays the role of governing body for all Insolvency Resolution Professionals (IRP), Insolvency
Professional Agencies (IPA) and Information Utilities (IU).
Cabinet approves sale of FACT land to Government of Kerala
Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved sale of 481.79 acres of land held by
Fertilizers and Chemicals Travancore Ltd (FACT) to Government of Kerala. Cabinet also approved and
utilization of the sale proceeds by FACT.
Key Highlights
Sale Distribution: 150 acres of land at the rate of Rs. 1 crore per acre (in lieu, Govt. of Kerala agreed to give
free-hold right over 143.22 acres of land to FACT); and Remaining 331.79 acres @ Rs. 2.4758 crore per acre
as assessed by the District Collector of Ernakulam.
Through inclusion of fixed timelines for monitoring implementation of sale of land, the accountability of
management in achieving performance after sale of land will be ensured.
Utilization of Sale proceeds: FACT will utilise sale proceeds for addressing working capital deficiency,
improving balance sheet, enabling company to improve its financial performance by implementing
capacity expansion projects for sustainable growth of company.
Impact: Approval will help FACT to reduce bank borrowings and to implement projects for enhancing
fertilizer production capacity and upgrading logistics or raw material handling facilities.
Benefits:
Revival of FACT will create opportunities for expansion and diversification of company. This would in turn
help to generate more jobs, both directly and indirectly.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 57
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Net effect of step taken will be a boost to economy of Kerala and improving fertilizer availability to South
India.
It would also lead to reduction of dependence on import of fertilizers and chemicals will facilitate resultant
savings in foreign exchange (FOREX) to country and also improve fertilizers and food security.
About FACT
It is a fertiliser and chemical manufacturing company.
It was founded in 1943 and is headquartered in Kochi, Kerala.
Besides being 1st fertiliser manufacturing company in independent India it is also largest Central public
Sector Undertaking (CPSU) in Kerala.
‘Chandra Shekhar – The Last Icon of Ideological Politics’book released
Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the book titled ‘Chandra Shekhar – The Last Icon of Ideological
Politics‘ at an event held at Balayogi Auditorium, Parliament Library Building. The 1st copy of book was
presented to Venkaiah Naidu, Vice President of India.
The book chronicles the political journey of former Prime Minister of India Chandra Shekhar. It has been
written by Shri Harivansh, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha and Ravi Dutt Bajpai.
About Chandra Shekhar
He was 8th Prime Minister of India and served in office from 10 November 1990 – 21 June 1991. He is 1st
Indian Prime Minister who has never held any Government office.
He undertook a nationwide Padayatra (marathon walk) through the country in 1983, from Kanyakumari in
South to Rajghat in New Delhi covering a distance of about 4260 km in over 6 months. Rajghat is a
memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.
During his days he was popularly called as Young Turk for his conviction, courage and integrity in fight
against vested interests.
Dracaena cambodiana: India’s first dragon blood-oozing tree
Researchers have discovered Dracaena cambodiana, a dragon tree species in Dongka Sarpo area of West
Karbi Anglong District in Assam. This is for 1st time that a dragon tree species has been reported from
India. This research which added to India’s botanical wealth has been published in Journal of Botanical
Research Institute of Texas.
About Dracaena cambodiana
This plant yields dragon’s blood- a bright red resin. Sap of the plant species turns bright red after coming
in contact with air. It is an important medicinal plant as well as an ornamental tree. The plant resin is used
since ancient times as medicine, varnish, body oil, incense and dye.
Other than dragon’s blood several antifungal and antibacterial compounds, antioxidants, flavonoids, etc.,
have been extracted from various parts of plant.
Key Highlights of Research
As per the study in India, Dracaena genus belonging to family Asparagaceae is represented by 9 species
and 2 varieties in Himalayan region, northeast and Island of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. But Dracaena
cambodiana is only true dragon tree species.
Seed Dispersal: Dracaena seeds are usually dispersed by birds. But due to large fruit size, only a few
species of birds are able to swallow fruits, thereby limiting scope of its natural conservation.
Quarry Threat: Population size of dragon tree species in Assam is estimated to be less than 50 mature
individuals and there is continuing decrease in its area of occupancy and number of mature individuals.
This is because habitat of plant is severely fragmented due to open excavation of a stone quarry.
Demand Threat: The dragon’s blood is a precious traditional medicine in China. To meet increasing
demand for dragon’s blood the recent overexploitation has resulted in rapid depletion of plant. Therefore,
this plant species is already listed in inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of China.
Need: In view of its medicinal, ornamental and ecological values there is an urgent need for a
Conservation programme for Dracaena cambodiana.
Govt signs MoU with NATHEALTH to streamline delivery of services under PMJAY
National Health Authority (NHA) implementing agency of Ayushman Bharat, Centre’s flagship healthcare
scheme has signed Memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Healthcare Federation of India

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 58


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

(NATHEALTH) to streamline delivery of services under Ayushman Bharat.


Key Highlights of MoU
Objective: Partnership between National Health Authority (NHA) and Healthcare Federation of India
(NATHEALTH) aims-
To enable an ecosystem for industry partners within NATHEALTH network to participate in testing,
piloting, adopting, funding and scaling innovations.
To streamline all innovations so as to ensure that it increases efficacy of service delivery of
Ayushman Bharat.
To provide and enable a healthcare innovation ecosystem that supports healthcare innovators as
well as provides them opportunities to partner and scale.
Need: In the time when plethora of healthcare innovations are happening across country, it is crucial to
empower them by providing right support.
Significance:
This collaboration will provide an industry interface for testing innovations, providing mentorship
as well as creating channels for facilitating support required for scaling these innovations.
This joint initiative will also bolster NHA’s effectiveness in implementing its innovation strategy,
which is aligned with its vision of Health for All.
Partnership will help in linking PMJAY, industry and innovators thus enabling increased adoption of
numerous inventions, leading to an increase in access to quality care delivered under PM-JAY.
About Ayushman Bharat
It is centrally sponsored scheme also known by Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) or National
Health Protection Scheme (NHPS).
Launched: It was launched in September 2018 with aim to make interventions in primary, secondary and
tertiary care systems in country so as to address healthcare holistically. It covers both preventive and
promotive health.
Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Scheme (AB-NHPS), an insurance scheme seeks to provide
a health cover of up to Rs.5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisation to over
10.74 crore vulnerable families. It provides a cashless and paperless access to services for beneficiary at
point of service.
Significance: Since its launch under PMJAY more than 15,000 hospitals and health care providers have
been empanelled across the country and around 26 Lakh people have availed treatment so far in several
hospitals across country.
Jordan: Underwater Museum Of Military Vehicles unveiled
Jordan has unveiled its 1st Underwater Military Museum on the bed of Red Sea off the coast of Aqaba. As
part new underwater military museum the kingdom submerged several military vehicles, including tanks,
troop carriers and even a decommissioned Jordanian Armed Forces’ AH-1 Cobra helicopter into the
waters of the Red Sea. Before the vehicles were submerged, all hazardous materials were removed from
them.
About Jordan’s Underwater Military Museum
It features 19 decommissioned pieces of military hardware, submerged at depths up to 28 meters (92 feet).
Sunken items in the Underwater Museum have been stationed along the coral reefs in Red Sea imitating a
battle tactical formation.
As per Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) the display offers a new & unique type of museum
experience for visiting tourists as the museum would combine sports, environment and exhibits. It will
attract tourists to already popular diving resort of Aqaba.
Underwater Military Museum Dive Site includes several tanks, an ambulance, a military crane, a troop
carrier, an anti-aircraft battery, guns and a combat helicopter.
Museum will be accessible to scuba divers, snorkelers, and tourists by using glass-floored boats.
Fact Box: Red Sea
It is a narrow strip of water inlet of Indian Ocean. It extends southeastward from Suez in Egypt, to Bab el-
Mandeb Strait (it connects Red Sea to Gulf of Aden).
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 59
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

It lies between Africa and Asia. To its north lie Sinai Peninsula, Gulf of Aqaba, and Gulf of Suez.
Gulf of Aqaba: it penetrates between Saudi Arabia and Sinai Peninsula.

Badri Narain Sharma reappointed NAA Chief


Appointments Committee of Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has reappointed Badri
Narain Sharma as chairman of National Anti-profiteering Authority (NAA) for 2 years. B N Sharma a 1985-
batch IAS officer from Rajasthan was due for retirement on August 2019.
About National Anti-profiteering Authority (NAA)
NAA was constituted in 2017. It ensures that consumers get benefit of reduced prices under Goods and
Services Tax (GST).
Structure: At present NAA has 3 members- J C Chauhan, Chairman, Tax Tribunal, Himachal Pradesh and
Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officers R Bhagyadevi and Amand Shah.
Mandate: To protect consumer interests by ensuring that benefits of input credit and reduction in GST
rates on specified goods or services are passed on to them by way of commensurate reduction in prices.
NAA has power to cancel registration of any entity/business if it fails to pass on to consumers benefit of
lower taxes under GST regime, but it would probably be last step against any violator.
As per Anti-Profiteering Mechanism’s structure in GST regime-
Local level Complaints are 1st sent to state-level screening committee.
National level Complaints are marked for standing committee.
July 27, 2019
B S Yeddyurappa sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka
State BJP President B.S. Yediyurappa (76) took oath as 31st Chief Minister of Karnataka by Governor
Vajubhai Vala. His appointment comes 3 days after collapse of Congress-JD(S) government. He is set to
take floor test on 31 July 2019 to prove his majority.
This is for 4th time Yediyurappa’s is being sworn as Chief Minister however he has never completed full
term as CM.
Key Highlights
Swearing in came after weeks of political drama in Karnataka state politics and legal battle triggered by
resignation of 15 rebel Congress and JDS MLAs that led to the fall of Congress-JD(S) coalition government
led by HD Kumaraswamy as Chief Minister.
He was the lone person to be sworn in and is expected to decide on members of his Cabinet after
consulting party president Amit Shah.
Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa would call Karnataka assembly session for moving motion of confidence
and passage of finance bill on 29 July and legislative council would begin its proceedings on July 30.
Announcements Made:
After a Cabinet meeting, he announced loan waiver of ₹100 crore borrowed by weavers before 31 March
2019.
He also announced sops for farmers and weavers. It includes an additional sum of Rs.4,000 in 2
instalments would be given to farmers from State government under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman
Nidhi (PMKSM), which will take total benefit to Rs.10,000, including Rs.6,000 from Centre.
Iran tests Medium-Range Missile: US Official
United States military official reported Iran test-launched Shahab-3, a Medium-Range Ballistic Missile
inside its borders. Missile was launched from southern coast of Iran and landed east of Tehran. It flew
about 1,100 km, however did not pose threat to U.S. or other Western military or shipping bases in region.
Key Highlights
Tensions in Iran & West: The test came amid heightened tensions between Iran and West, mainly over
safety of commercial shipping in Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. The missile test also defies demand by
US President Donald Trump administration that Iran must curtail its weapon program and rather
demonstrates its intent to further push back against U.S. sanctions.
Calculated move by Iran: Despite US’s effort to minimise strategic importance of launch, it appears to be a
political statement by Iran, acting both as a carefully calibrated effort at escalation and also as a message

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 60


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

to Europe.
UNSC Resolution: Missile launches are not forbidden under 2015 Iran nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive
Plan of Action). This has been is one of President Donald Trump’s complaints about JCPAO agreement
which his administration abandoned in 2018. However a United Nation Security Council (UNSC) resolution,
passed just as the nuclear agreement was reached in 2015, says that- Iran is called upon not to undertake
any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, this includes
launches using such ballistic missile technology.
About Shahab-3
It is a liquid-fueled, medium-range ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear weapon. It is backbone of
Iran’s class of medium-range missiles. It is derived from a North Korean missile called Nodong-A.
Iranian news outlets previously called Shahab-3 as one of country’s Israel-hitting missiles.
Range: It can fly 1150-2000 kilometers, or even upto 1,242 miles, depending on variant.
TIFF 2019: Meryl Streep wins Tribute Actor award
Veteran actor Meryl Streep will be honoured with Tribute Actor award at 2019 Toronto International Film
Festival (TIFF). She will receive award in person on 9 September 2019 during TIFF’s Tribute Gala, a festival
fundraiser. She will be 1st-ever recipient of TIFF Tribute Actor Award.
About Meryl Streep
The 70-year-old actress is one of the most talented and versatile actors of her generation.
She is most nominated actor in Academy Award history and has won Oscar three times.
Her contribution to cinema, television and stage spans 5 decades, is tremendous as she has portrayed
characters that are as compelling as they are timeless.
About Toronto International Film Festival
It is one of the world’s largest publicly attended film festivals. Every year it attracts, more than 480,000
people. It was founded in 1976 and operates out of the TIFF Bell Lightbox, located in downtown Toronto in
Canada.
It presents best of International and Canadian cinema as well as creates transformational experiences for
film lovers and creators.
It has grown to become a permanent destination for film culture.
TIFF 2019 will run from 5-15 September.
TIFF’s Tribute Gala is basically a Charity Gala or a glitzy fundraiser that support festival’s year-around
efforts to promote films and industry’s leading creators.
26 July: 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrated
Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated across India on 26 July every year to remember victory of Indian Armed
Forces in Operation Vijay in 1999 against infiltrating Pakistani troops. The year 2019, marks 20th
anniversary of victory in Operation VIJAY popularly known as Kargil War, and is being celebrated with
theme- Remember, Rejoice and Renew.
About Kargil Vijay Diwas
Objective behind celebrating Kargil Vijay Diwas is to evoke feeling of nationalism and patriotism through
nationwide campaigns especially amongst youth and to pay homage to valiant soldiers.
Celebrations:
The annual observance of anniversary is to show respect and gratitude to brave servicemen of armed
forces who laid down their lives in re-capturing all positions that were then infiltrated & seized by
Pakistan Army.
It is celebrated with heavy enthusiasm and vigor by military personnel at Dras-Kargil sector and New
Delhi at Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate.
20th Anniversary celebrations of Kargil Vijay Diwas: began in New Delhi on 14 July 2019. The Victory
Flame traversed through 11 towns and cities and finally reached Dras where it was received from Major DP
Singh and passed on to Param Veer Chakra awardee Yogendra Yadav and then to Chief of Indian Army
Bipin Rawat to merge at Kargil War Memorial with eternal flame.
About Operation Vijay (Kargil War)
It was an armed conflict between India and Pakistan that took place in Kargil district of Kashmir and

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 61


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

elsewhere along Line of Control (LOC).


It was fought for over 60 days (between May and July 1999) and ended with India regaining control of all
previously held territory. In 60- day long conflict, the victory of Tiger Hill was one of the crucial
achievements.
Remembrance: Operation Vijay will always be remembered for its self-imposed national strategy of
restraint in keeping war limited to Kargil-Siachen Sectors (of Kashmir), strategic and tactical surprises
and the way in which tri-services military strategy and plans were swiftly executed.
Haryana invites Nepal to be partner country for Gita Jayanti Mahotsav
Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal Khattar has invited Nepal to be Partner Country for International
Gita Jayanti Mahotsav scheduled to be held at Kurukshetra from 3-8 December 2019. He extended
inviation to Ambassador of Nepal to India Nilamber Acharya.
About International Gita Jayanti Mahotsav
Gita Jayanti Mahotsav: It falls on Shukla Ekadashi of in Hindu Calendar month of Margashirsha. The day
symbolizes birth of Shrimad Bhagavad-Gita, the sacred text of Hindus and most pious and influential
scriptures of Hindu mythology. People celebrate Gita Jayanti to commemorate sacred day when Lord
Krishna offered his philosophical teachings to King Arjuna during battle of Kurukshetra.
Celebration in India: For last 3 years Haryana has been celebrating Gita Jayanti Mahotsav of International
Level and every year a country is invited to become a partner country for event. For 2019, Nepal is invited
to be a partner country. In 2018’s celebration 18,000 students recited ‘shlokas’ of Shrimad Bhagavad Gita.
The festival is a result of efforts made by Haryana for promotion of Shrimad Bhagwad Gita at a grand
scale. As part of celebrations an International Seminar on Shrimad Bhagwad Gita would also be organized on
December 6 and devotees and scholars from Nepal could participate in it.
Worldwide Celebrations: Many other countries have also started celebrating Gita Jayanti in their
countries. Such as Mauritius organized Gita Mahotsav in February 2019, United Kingdom is organising
from 7-8 August 2019 and Canada has also proposed to organize similar Mahotsav.
Kiren Rijiju Committee: Strategise Preparations for 2020, 2024 Olympics
High-Level Committee has been constituted under chairmanship Union Minister of Sports Kiren Rijiju to
coordinate and strategise preparation for 2020 and 2024 Olympics. Main focus of HLC would be to ensure
maximum participation and medals from Indian athletes in Tokyo Olympics 2020.
About Kiren Rijiju Committee
Objective: To ensure that the performance of the Indian athletes is optimised in Olympics and other
multidisciplinary events.
Members: High-Level Committee comprises of 10-member including prominent sportspersons like
Olympic medallists Tennis ace Leander Paes, Shooter Gagan Narang, Secretary of Department of Sports
Radhey Shyam Julaniya, Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Narinder Batra, IOA Secretary
General Rajeev Mehta, President of Indian Athletics Federation Adille Sumariwalla and Chief of Boxing
Federation of India chief Ajay Singh.
For Tokyo Games 2020:
Committee would seek to provide all possible support to potential and qualified athletes. It would also
facilitate smooth logistical arrangements for participation of Indian athletes, so as to ensure seamless
acclimatisation and hospitable environment for Indian participant contingent.
For Paris Games 2024:
The aim of committee would be to chart out a road-map for preparation and to continuously review and
suggest course correction whenever required.
Apart from these the committee will also prepare a strategy for bidding of multidisciplinary sporting
events in future.
Mines Ministry organises Workshop on Effective utilization of Red Mud
Union Ministry of Mines organized an interactive workshop called ‘Waste to Wealth’ in New Delhi for
discussing productive utilisation of bauxite residue, commonly known as Red Mud. The workshop was
presided over by Dr K. Rajeswara Rao, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines and was organised in

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 62


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

association with Jawaharlal Nehru Aluminium Research Development and Design Centre (JNARDDC)
Nagpur.
Key Highlights
In workshop discussions were held regarding present status of generation, safe disposal and utilization of
Red Mud. Mines Ministry urged all stake holders to work in synergy to find a lasting solution for
productive utilisation of red mud.
Prepare a Roadmap: Deliberations were held to focus all efforts for effective bulk utilization of red mud
with necessary government support, which will be a win-win situation for all stakeholders involved and
based on these deliberations, a roadmap will be prepared for productive utilization of red mud.
Participants: Workshop was widely attended by representatives from organisations including Union
Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Odisha
State Pollution Control Board, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM),
Union Ministry of Road Transport, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and Bureau of Indian
Standards (BIS), Engineer-in-Chief of Army. Top executives from all 3 primary Aluminium producing
companies in India namely- NALCO, VEDANTA & HINDALCO and user industries like cement and
ceramic industry also participated.
What is Red Mud?
It is a solid waste generated during Aluminium (Al) production process.
It is of high environmental concern due to presence of impurities like caustic soda and others minerals.
Globally of red mud is over 150 million tons and there exists a global inventory of over 3 billion tons. Red
mud generation in India is around 9 million tons per year.
Average Monthly Income per Agricultural Household less than Rs. 6500: Govt.
As per Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar the average monthly
income per agricultural household from all sources is less than Rs. 6,500. The data was provided by
government in written reply to Lok Sabha.
Key Highlights
Govt. claims based on: Latest available estimates provided by government of average income per
agricultural household in country are based on Situation Assessment Survey of Agricultural Households
conducted by National Sample Survey Office (NSSO), the nodal agency for conducting surveys and
collecting data, during its 70th round (January 2013-December 2013). As per these survey results, average
monthly income per agricultural household from all sources is estimated to be Rs. 6,426.
Inter-Ministerial Committee 2016: Since 2013 NSSO has not conducted any survey on income per
agricultural household thereby in April 2016 government constituted an Inter-Ministerial Committee to
examine issues relating to doubling of farmers income and to recommend strategies to achieve the same.
This committee submitted its Report to Central government in September 2018.
Methodology The Committee considered estimates of agricultural households income obtained from
NSSO 70th round unit-level data as base level income and it kept 2015-16 as base year. This is how it
derived income for base year at both current and constant prices for major states and major size-classes.
July 28, 2019
Khelo India Youth Games 2020 to be held in Guwahati
Union Minister of Sports Kiren Rijiju announced that 3rd edition of Khelo India Youth Games will be held
in Guwahati, Assam between 18-30 January 2020. Khelo India programme’s inaugural edition was held in
New Delhi in 2018, while Pune hosted 2nd edition in 2019.
2020 Games will be conducted in partnership with Indian Olympic Association (IOA), School Games
Federation of India (SGFI) & Assam as host State. The event will see a participation of over 10,000 athletes
and officials from all over country and it will be held .
About Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG)
KIYG formerly called Khelo India School Games (KISG) literally means Play India Youth Games are held
annually in month of January or February.
These are National level multidisciplinary grassroots games held for two categories-
Under-17 years school students

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 63


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Under-21 college students


Financial Assistance: Every year best performing 1000 participants are given an annual scholarship of
INR 5,00,000 for 8 years to prepare them for international sporting events.
Significance: Khelo India programme was introduced by Union Ministry of Sports to revive sports culture
in India at grass-root level. It seeks to build a strong framework for all sports played in country as well as
establish India as a great sporting nation.
5th Dharma-Dhamma conference being held in Rajgir, Bihar
5th International Dharma-Dhamma conference is being held Rajgir International Convention Centre in
Rajgir, Bihar from 27-28 July 2019. The conference was inaugurated Union Minister of State Kiren Rijiju
who is also the Chief Guest of Conference. It is being hosted by Rajgir for 2nd time.
About 5th International Dharma-Dhamma conference
Objective: To address people about terror, violence and global warming prevalent in world. The 2-day
conference also addresses subjects of Sat-Chit-Ananda and Nirvana Dharma-Dhamma Tradition which are
pivotal topics of Buddhism.
Organised by: Nalanda University (NU) in collaboration with New Delhi’s Centre for Study of Religion and
Society-India Foundation (CSRS-IF).
Participants: Almost 250 scholars and delegates from over 15 countries are participating in Conference.
Guest of Honour: Sri Lanka’s Home Minister Gamini Jaiwickrama Perera, Bhutan’s Home and Culture
Minister Lyonpo Sherub Gyeltshen and Juna Akhada’s Awadheshananda Giri Ji Maharaj.
Significance:
Dharma-Dhamma conference being hosted by India benefit international community as well and also act
as a platform for Hindu and Buddhist thinkers to express their views. It will help strengthen ties with
other Asian countries.
1st batch of Boeing AH-64E Apache helicopters reaches India
1st batch of Boeing AH-64E Apache Guardian Attack helicopters arrived at Indian Air Force’s (IAF’s)
Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. The 1st batch consists of 4 out of 22 choppers ordered by India
from United States.
In coming week 4 more Apaches will be arriving and thereafter, 8 will be moved to Pathankot Air Force
Station for their formal induction in IAF in September 2019.
About AH-64E Apache
It is the world’s most advanced Multi-Role Combat Helicopter. It is used by US Army as well as by growing
number of international defence forces.
Since the aircraft entered production Boeing has delivered over 2,200 Apaches to customers around the
world so far. India is 14th nation to select Apache.
Features: Besides greater thrust and lift, joint digital operability, cognitive decision aiding and improved
survivability AH-64E Apache is uniquely suited to meet commander’s needs such as security,
reconnaissance, peacekeeping operations as well as lethal attack in both land and littoral environments all
without reconfiguration.
It is most modern variant of Apache and is also flown by U. S. Army.
It has latest technology insertions that maintain its standing as world’s best attack helicopter.
It is only available combat helicopter with a spectrum of capabilities for virtually any mission
requirement.
Dengue hits record high of 18 years in Bangladesh
After a huge outbreak in Dhaka, capital of Bangladesh dengue has spread to different districts outside
capital. Number of dengue cases in Bangladesh has reached its highest level in past 18 years. The 1st case
was detected in country in 2000.
Key Highlights
According to Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) 10528 patients have been infected with
dengue as of July 2019 and close to 700 more people were reported in July last week with dengue infection
across the country.
8 people have died in current spate of dengue outbreak but numbers are likely to be much higher going by
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 64
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

reports coming from various parts of country and delay in collecting information by official agencies.
Latest Data from Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) shows that out of 800 beds in medicine
department, 561 were occupied by dengue patients and with each passing day hospitals in Dhaka are being
crowded with dengue patients.
DRC plans surveillance, vaccination training to tackle Ebola
Democratic Republic of Congo has been scaled up its fight against Ebola in country after World Health
Organization (WHO), the global health body sounded an alarm over its outbreak. WHO declared disease an
international health emergency after a Ebola case was confirmed in Goma, a densely populated eastern
city that borders Rwanda.
Key Highlights
The discovery of Ebola case in Goma was triggering point for WHO against declaring the outbreak a
global emergency as it signaled a change- inside Goma lies an international airport, which some health
experts described as gateway to rest of the world.
As per WHOs’ Emergency Operations reporting over the course of these outbreak, people traveling from
Goma, including across border into Rwanda, everyone’s being checked. Congolese supported by
international committees have tested over 70 million travelers.
Strategy: As a team led by veteran Ebola researcher Jean-Jacques Muyembe, first thing is to train young
people of decision (the strategy) so they would be in charge of vaccination, of surveillance and then involve
population of Benin, of Mangina, to follow the strategy we will implement there.
International Community and DRC government have come up with a program aimed at strengthening
response to Ebola outbreak over next 6 months, however they are calling on world to contribute more
money to help contain deadly disease that has killed more than 1,700 people since August 2018.
Mary Kom wins gold in President’s Cup
Six times World Champion MC Mary Kom (36) claimed gold medal at 23rd President’s Cup held in Labuan
Bajo, Indonesia. She defeated April Franks of Australia with 5-0 without breaking a sweat. With this win
the Olympic bronze medallist Boxer has asserted her supremacy in a lop-sided 51kg bout final.
Key Highlights
The 36-year-old Indian boxer claimed her 6th world title in 2018 in New Delhi. In May 2019 she had also
won a gold medal at India Open boxing tournament.
She will now be looking to qualify for 2020 Tokyo Olympics in 2019 World Boxing Championships for
women which will be held from September 7 to 21 in Yekaterinburg, Russia.
July 29, 2019
29 July: International Tiger Day (Global Tiger Day)
Every year 29 July is celebrated across the world as Global Tiger Day to create awareness about tiger
conservation and protection of natural habitat of tigers.
Why 29 July? This is because 29 July act as a reminder of agreement signed by countries at Saint
Petersburg Tiger Summit in Russia in 2010, to raise awareness about decline of global tiger population.
Signatories declared an agreement that governments of tiger-populated countries would double animal’s
population by 2022.
Global Tiger Day 2019
On occasion of Global Tiger Day 2019 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release results of 4th cycle of All
India Tiger Estimation (AITE) in New Delhi. The Tiger Estimation exercise is believed to be world’s
largest wildlife survey effort in terms of- coverage, quantum of camera trapping and intensity of
sampling. In India All India Tiger Estimation is conducts in every 4 years.
Government of India and National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) has also carried out an economic
valuation of tigers in mitigating adverse impact of climate change.
Tiger Conservation in India
Tigers are one of world’s most iconic species. Tigers are an ‘Umbrella Species’ as their conservation also
conserves many other species in same area.
Thus with initiative of conserving India’s national animal, Project Tiger was launched in 1973. Due to
planned efforts under Project Tiger, at present India has distinction of having maximum number of tigers

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 65


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

in world. The 2014 country level tiger assessment had shown a 30% increase of tigers i.e. from 1706 in
2010, tiger population has increased to 2226 in 2014.
However, despite conservation efforts since 1970s, wild tiger populations showed a rapid decline therefore
in 2010, during St. Petersburg Declaration, tiger range countries had resolved to double tiger numbers by
2022.
Significance: Observing World Tiger Day is significant because according to World Wildlife Fund (WWF),
currently there are only around 3,900 wild tigers in world and as per reports, since the beginning of 20th
century around 95% of global tiger population has been lost to various activities like poaching, etc.
Sudarsan Pattnaik wins People’s Choice Award in U.S.
Renowned Indian sand artist and Padma Awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik has won People’s Choice Award at a
prestigious sand sculpting festival in United States (US). He was among top 15 sand artists selected from
all over world to participate in 2019 Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival in Boston. He
wowed American public with his sculpture that highlighted message of combating plastic pollution in
oceans.
Key Highlights
Sudarsan Pattnaik was sole representative from India as well as Asia.
He bagged the ‘People’s Choice Award’ for his sand art on plastic pollution with message ‘Stop Plastic
Pollution, Save Our Ocean’. Through his sand sculpture he wanted to highlight that human activity is
destroying oceans as well as humans are also getting impacted by polluted waterways as they consume
food from sea/rivers.
Artists from Belgium and Canada also won at prestigious championship.
Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival
It is one of the largest sand sculpting festivals in world and sees participation from leading sand sculptors
from around the world.
It is hosted by non-profit organisation Revere Beach Partnership. The Sand festival is now in its 16th year.
The 2019 edition of festival ran from 26-28 July and was attended by close to a million people.
Uttarakhand holds 1st Himalayan conclave
Conclave of Himalayan States was held on at Mussoorie in Uttarakhand to discuss priorities of Indian
Himalayan Region (IHR) in 15th Finance Commission (XV FC). The conclave was initiated by government
of Uttarakhand with Integrated Mountain Initiative (IMI) as its knowledge partner. The chief guest of
conclave was Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Key Highlights of Conclave
Participants: The conclave saw participation of representatives from 11 hill states namely, Arunachal
Pradesh, Assam Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim,
Tripura and Uttarakhand.
Conclave’s Agenda: As most of country’s rivers originate in Himalayas therefore Himalayan states play
most significant role in prime minister’s water conservation initiative thus need is to work towards water
conservation, with focus on conserving glaciers, rivers, lakes and water bodies besides reviving water
resources which have dried up over years. Various other issues related to development of Himalayan
States were also discussed in conclave.
Green Bonus: 11 States belonging to Himalayan Region sought Green Bonus from Centre considering their
contributions to environmental conservation and to compensate the Himalayan states for their
disadvantages.
Separate Ministry: Concerned states also asked Centre to set up a dedicated Ministry for region, to deal
with problems endemic to them.
It is for 1st time that states belonging to Himalayan Region have come on a single platform to take a
unanimous stand on issue of green bonus and separate ministry for dealing with problems unique to
them.
Deliberation on development challenges and potential of IHR and concluded with adoption of Mussoorie
Resolution 2019.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 66


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

India-Nepal Logistics Summit organised in Kathmandu


India-Nepal Logistics Summit was organised in Kathmandu, Nepal on 28 July 2019. It was inaugurated by
Prime Minister of Nepal KP Sharma Oli. Theme for Summit was: Transforming Logistics Landscape.
Highlights of Summit
Participants: included Government representatives and trade community from India and Nepal.
Logistics: Nepal’s Prime Minister stressed upon smooth and quality logistics between India and Nepal. He
emphasized that smart logistics plays a crucial role in making trade and transit arrangements easy,
hassle-free and cost-effective. Since India and Nepal have significant volume of tourism, trade, investment,
and cross border people-to-people movement therefore smooth and quality logistics including easy transit
facilities is very essential.
Connectivity remains another topmost agenda in bilateral cooperation and many initiatives have been
taken by both the neighbouring countries on crucial components of road, rail, inland waterways and air
connectivity.
India also showed its full commitment to providing all necessary support to Nepal in achieving its goal of
prosperity.
Importance: Assuring a conducive environment for trade and investment as well as enhanced investment
and trade relationship with India is crucial not just because India is Nepal’s biggest trade and investment
partner, but also an important route for Nepal for third-country trade.
Significance: It was a 1st of its type event, which brought together government representatives and trade
community of both nations to discuss on some of pressing issues related to cross-border trade and
logistics of both nations such as need for reducing transit time between Nepali and Indian ports, issues
related to tariffs charged by logistics service providers, developing better warehouse facilities in Nepal
and need for automation of customs and border clearance etc.
IPS officer V. K. Johri appointed as New BSF Director General
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has
appointed IPS officer VK Johri as new Director General (DG) of, Border Security Force (BSF), country’s
largest border guarding force.
About VK Johri
He is a 1984-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Madhya Pradesh cadre.
Currently he is serving as Special Secretary in external intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing
(RAW), under Cabinet Secretariat.
He will take over charge of BSF from incumbent Rajni Kanti Mishra, who retires on 31 August. However, as
per the order issued by ACC he has been appointed as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Union home
ministry with immediate effect and will attain superannuation in September 2020.
About Border Security Force (BSF)
It is one of 7 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) of India. It was raised in wake of 1965 War on 1 December
1965.
It is country’s largest border guarding force with a present strength of about 2.5 lakh personnel. Being a
primary border defence organisation of India, it is tasked to secure two of India’s most important and
sensitive fronts with Pakistan and Bangladesh.
Two other border guarding forces in country are-
Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) for China
Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) for Nepal and Bhutan)
IIT Hyderabad develops eco-friendly solar cells using Kumkum Dye
A team from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad has developed a Dye-Sensitised Solar Cell
(DSSC) which is based on New Fuchsin (NF) dye with aqueous electrolyte and platinum-free counter
electrodes. The research was published in Solar Energy journal.
Key Highlights
Need: Currently, most familiar solar cells today are made up of Silicon (Si) and can be seen in various
overhead panels and other places. However, this technology is limited by huge fabrication costs as Si
processing is very expensive and involves very high temperature methods that leave a large carbon

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 67


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

footprint. Therefore to get around limitations of using Si, IIT Hyderabad team started working on solar
cells based on organic materials for photovoltaic technology, which were supposedly inexpensive and easy
to fabricate.
Initially, after facing many drawbacks IIT Hyderabad along with other researchers employed a very cheap
magenta-dye called New Fuchsin, which is used to make kumkum or vermillion when grounded with
turmeric. New Fuchsin is an inexpensive dye available off-shelf in most supermarkets in India, and in its
purest form costs $2 per gramme.
About Dye-Sensitised Solar Cell (DSSC)
It is a 3rd-generation thin-film organic Molecule-Based Energy Conversion Device.
DSSC is cheap, non-toxic and is soluble in water and does not degrade in presence of water. It takes
inspiration from nature, almost mimicking primary process of photosynthesis phenomenon in plants.
DSSC has 3 components:
Monolayer of dye molecule adsorbed on semiconductor material
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) deposited on transparent conductive oxides, like indium tin oxide (ITO)
Liquid electrolyte with an excess of electrons
Process involved: Sunlight is absorbed by dye molecule and gets excited. Electrons from excited dye
molecule get injected into conduction band of TiO2 and then electrons are transported to charge collector.
Dye cation (after losing its electron) takes an electron from surrounding electron-rich liquid electrolyte.
The counter electrode, typically, is platinum-coated ITO.
DSSCs are generally considered eco-friendlier to produce than conventional solar cells because they
require little energy to manufacture.
Drawbacks: Best performing DSSCs use organic solvent-based liquid electrolytes but these liquid-
electrolytes come with drawbacks like high vapour pressure, toxicity and sometimes explosives resulting
in severe environmental impact in addition to being corrosive to the platinum counter-electrodes, thereby
limiting long-time stability of the devices.
World Hindu Economic Forum launches its Nepal Chapter in Kathmandu
World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) has launched its Nepal Chapter which was inaugurated by Nepal’s
Minister of State for Health and Population Dr. Surendra Kumar Yadav in Nepal’s Capital of Kathmandu.
The event was attended by large number of industrialists, business persons, traders, thinkers and other
eminent personalities from Nepali society.
About World Hindu Economic Forum
It has been founded by Swami Vigyananand.
WHEF brings together financially successful elements within Hindu society (such as bankers, technocrats,
investors, industrialists, business persons, professionals, economists, thinkers among others), so that each
group can share their business knowledge, expertise and resources with their fellow brethren to trigger
creation of surplus wealth and make society prosperous.
Objective of Nepal Chapter:
To increase economic cooperation between India and Himalayan state of Nepal.
To connect Nepal with a global network for its economic prosperity.
India-Nepal
Economic relation is base of longevity of any relationship this is jufied as Nepal’s two third external trade
is with India and India is also the largest investor in Himalayan country.
After opening of Integrated Check Post at Birgunj, a city in Nepal, the India-Nepal trade has increased, cost
of doing business has reduced and ease of doing business has improved.
Govt sets 100% Digitization target of all Waqf properties in 100 days
Centre government has set a target to achieve 100% Digitization of Waqf properties across country in its
1st 100 days. The announcement in this regard was made by Union Minister of Minority Affairs Mukhtar
Abbas Naqvi Minister while addressing National Conference of State and Union Territories Waqf Boards in
New Delhi. Minister also gave away national awards to waqf boards for excellence in management.
Key Highlights
Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping is being used on a war footing to achieve target.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 68


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Reason: As per the government move is aimed at improving infrastructural and financial conditions of
waqf boards so that waqf properties can be used for welfare of Muslim community, and encroachment of
such properties be prevented.
Government Initiative: Centre is providing 100% funding to waqf boards for various educational and
developmental programmes.
Note: National Conference of State and Union Territories Waqf Boards was organised by Central Waqf
Council, Union Ministry of Minority Affairs to review progress of waqf related activities.
What are Waqf Boards?
The word waqf literally means detention and in legal context, Waqf means detention or permanent
dedication of movable or immovable properties so that its produce/income may always be available for
religious or charitable purposes.
When a waqf is created, property is detained or, is tied up forever and thereafter becomes non-
transferable. Law of waqf is most important branch of Mohammedan Law for it is interwoven with entire
religious, social, and economic life of Muslims.
Under Wakf Act, 1954 (now a sub section the Wakf Act, 1995), Central Wakf Council, India was established
in 1964 by Government of India as an Indian statutory body for purpose of advising it on matters
pertaining to working of State Wakf Boards and proper administration of the Wakfs in country.
July 30, 2019
All India Tiger Estimation Report 2018 released
As per the All India Tiger Estimation Report 2018 India has 2,967 tigers, a third more than in 2014. The
Tiger census made public on occasion of Global Tiger Day (29 July) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Key Findings
Top 5 Performing States: Madhya Pradesh saw highest number at 526, followed by Karnataka (524),
Uttarakhand (442), Maharashtra (312) and Tamil Nadu (264).
States that saw Decline in Tiger Population: Chhattisgarh and Mizoram. While all other States saw a
Positive increase.
Highest Number of Tigers: found in Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh.
Maximum Improvement in Tiger Population since 2014: recoded in Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve in
Tamil
4th cycle of the Management Effectiveness Evaluation of Tiger Reserves (MEETR), which evaluates India’s
50 tiger sanctuaries was also released along with 4th National Tiger Estimation (Tiger census). According
to it-
Pench sanctuary (MP) and Periyar sanctuary of Kerala emerged as best managed tiger reserves in country.
Top performers scored 93.75%.
Dampa Reserve (Mizoram) and Rajaji reserve (Uttarakhand) with score of 42.97% and 44.53% respectively
were left at bottom of ladder.
Chhattisgarh was least performing State in reserve management.
Methodology: Sanctuaries, which spanned 80 States, were divided into 5 geographic clusters and on the
whole, Western Ghats cluster comprising reserves in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka scored an average
of 81%. A score of 75% and above is rated ‘very good’ and score of 41% and above was marked as ‘fair’.
4th National Tiger Estimation (Tiger census)
It is 4th such tiger survey since 2006. It is a gargantuan exercise and is conducted once in 4 years. Latest
survey is culmination of 15 months (1.3 year) of forest officials surveying 3,81,400 sq-km of forested
habitat, installing 26,760 camera traps and wildlife biologists digging by 35 million images of wildlife-
76,523 out of which were tigers (there can be multiple images of same tiger). Nearly 83% of estimated tiger
population was captured in these images.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 69


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

‘Odisha Rasagola’ gets GI Tag


After years of controversy around sweet, Rasagola, a popular dessert of Odisha, has received Geographical
Indication (GI) tag in GI Registry from Registrar of Geographical Indication. Both Odisha and West Bengal
have been contesting origin of rasagola and West Bengal had got GI for ‘Banglar Rasogolla’ in 2017.
As per Historical records submitted Odisha Rasagola has an age-old tradition and is associated with world
famous Puri Jagannath Temple as it is offered to Lord Jagannath as part of bhog since centuries.
Key Highlights
Registration was conferred on Odisha Rasagola under Section 16(I)/ of authorised Section 17(3)(c) of
Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act 1999. GI Tag number 612 (which is
2nd received by Odisha after Kandhamal Haldi) has been registered in favour of Odisha Small Industries
Corporation Ltd. (OSIC Ltd.) and and Utkal Mistanna Byabasayee Samiti in foodstuff category. OSIC Ltd. is a
Government of Odisha undertaking and Utkal Mistanna Byabasayee Samiti is a traders’ organisation.
Uniqueness of Odisha Rasagola: As per application submitted to Registrar of GI for GI status-

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 70


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Method: Odisha Rasagola is a sweet from state of Odisha made of chhena (cottage cheese) cooked in
sugar syrup, which is very soft to feel, is juicy and non- chewy in consistency and can be swallowed
without pressure from teeth.
Colour development of Odisha Rasagola is very specific, where without addition of external colour,
various intensely-coloured rasagolas are prepared using principle of caramelisation of sugar with a
very specific methods of preparation.
Ancient: Reference of rasagola was found in late 15th century, Odia (Dandi) Ramayana written by
Balaram Das.
What is meaning of Geographical Indication Tag?
GI tag for a particular product, which experts call Legal Right, recognises it as distinctive to a particular
locality/region/country. As a World Trade Organization (WTO) member country, India had enacted
Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999. This act came into force from
2003.
Landing Craft Utility L-56 Commissioned into Indian Navy
Landing Craft Utility (LCU) LCU L56 was commissioned into Indian Navy at Naval Dockyard,
Visakhapatnam. Indian Navy Ship LCU L-56 is the 6th ship of Landing Craft Utility (LCU) MK IV class.
Landing Craft Utility is 100th warship built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE),
Kolkata. With this it has become 1st shipyard in the country to do so.
About INS LCU 56
It is an amphibious ship. Its primary role is transportation and deployment of Armoured Vehicles, Main
Battle Tanks, Troops and Equipment from ship to shore.
Based in Port Blair: LCU L56 would be administered and based in Port Blair. It would be under Naval
Component Commander (NAVCC) in Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC).
Advantages: Induction of LCU 56 will add to Maritime and Humanitarian and Disaster Relief (HADR)
capability of ANC. Ship will be deployed for multi-role activities like Coastal Patrolling, Search and Rescue
(SAR) operations, Disaster Relief operations, Beaching operations as well as Surveillance operations along
Andaman and Nicobar Group of Islands.
Features: Displacement of 900 tonnes; Measures 62 metres in length and is fitted with two MTU diesel
engines, which provide a sustainable speed of more than 15 knots. Ship is equipped with state-of-art
equipment and is armed with two 30 mm CRN-91 guns manufactured by Ordnance Factory, Medak, in
Telangana.
Ship is manned by a team comprising 4 officers and 56 sailors and is also capable of carrying 150 troops.
Govt. may review List of Iconic Tourist Sites
Government of India’s plan to develop 17 Iconic Tourist Sites could possibly see some changes. Recently,
Union Culture and Tourism Minister of State (independent charge) Prahlad Singh Patel ordered setting up
of a committee to review sites included in project.
Changes sought: Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan aked Minirty to include Odisha’s
Konark Sun Temple and Jagannath Temple, Puri.
List of Iconic Tourist Sites Project
Background: In July 2018, K.J. Alphons then Tourism Minister announced 17 Iconic Tourist Sites under
List of Iconic Tourist Sites Project would be developed. List of Iconic Tourist Sites Project was mentioned
by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in her maiden Budget 2019-2020 Speech on 5 July 2019.
As per the project, 17 Iconic Tourist Sites in country would be developed by government into world class
tourist destinations, to serve as a model for other tourism sites. It is aimed at enhancing India’s soft
power.
The Names of these 17 sites were-
Humayun’s Tomb, Red Fort and Qutub Minar (Delhi), Taj Mahal and Fatehpur Sikri (Uttar Pradesh), Ajanta
and Ellora caves (Maharashtra), Amer Fort (Rajasthan), Somnath and Dholavira (Gujarat), Khajuraho
(Madhya Pradesh), Hampi (Karnataka), Colva Beach (Goa), Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu), Kaziranga
(Assam), Kumarakom (Kerala) and Mahabodhi (Bihar).

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 71


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Significance: Government is looking at overall development from tourism point of view in and around
these sites including roads and infrastructure, hotels and lodges, connectivity and access.
Nodal Agency: for project will be Tourism Ministry while Railways Ministry and Civil Aviation Ministry
will be involved.
Funding: Tourism Ministry has been allocated Rs.1,378 crore for development of tourism infrastructure.
West Bengal CM launches ‘Didi Ke Bolo’ campaign
Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee launched a unique initiative called ‘Didi Ke Bolo’ (Tell your
sister) campaign to reach out to people of State. This campaign for common masses, is devised to
entertain voters’ regarding various issues for which phone number (9137091370) and website
www.didikaybolo.com are also launched. The move is being seen as fresh plans to mobilise people and
strengthen party at booth level ahead of Assembly polls due in 2021.
Didi Ke Bolo initiative
The Didi Ke Bolo initiative or Tell Didi (Ms. Banerjee) has been developed as a platform with phone number
and website to communicate directly with Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief.
Its online platform will be monitored by a special IT team who will coordinate with Chief Minister for her
prompt reply on issues raised by people across West Bengal.
Under the campaign-
A team will monitor complaints lodged by people against any issue and will convey them to Chief Minister
Mamata Banerjee, who will then personally respond to complainants through social media which could be
Facebook, WhatsApp, text or voice messages.
More than 1,000 elected representatives and TMC party functionaries will visit more than 10,000 villages
and urban habitations to listen to people. As part of an enhanced public relations campaign functionaries
will also spend night in those habitations and also listen to residents of area.
10 Monuments to be open for public from sunrise till 9 PM
Union Culture and Tourism Minister of State (independent charge) Prahlad Patel announced that 10
centrally protected monuments across India will be open to public from sunrise till 9 p.m. Currently gates
of most monuments are closed for visitors by 5:30-6 pm.
Key Highlights
Change in timings will be effective for a period of 3 years.
Extended timings will apply to-
1. Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi
2. Safdarjung Tomb in Delhi
3. Rajarani Temple in Bhubaneswar
4. Dulhadev Temple in Khajuraho
5. Shekh Chilli Tomb in Kurukshetra
6. Group of Monuments at Pattadakal in Karnataka
7. Gol Gumbaj in Karnataka
8. Group of Temples in Maharashtra (Markanda)
9. Man Mahal in Uttar Pradesh (Varanasi)
10. Rani ki Baav in Paatan, Gujarat.
Background
Proposal to keep some tourist sites open till 9 pm was 1st proposed by former Union Minister of State for
Culture, and Tourism Alphons Kannanthanam who favoured that tourists should be given maximum
opportunity to visit heritage sites.
Later a committee formed by two ministries (Culture Ministry and Tourism Ministry) to discuss proposals
coming in from states had discussed 35 such monuments which were proposed to be kept open till 10 pm
for public. However, a decision was taken by committee to introduce new timings in 10 of sites in first
phase and restrict time till 9 pm.
5,645 electric buses sanctioned for 65 cities: NITI Aayog
According to NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog an Inter-Ministerial Panel has
sanctioned 5645 electric buses for operations in 65 cities and for inter-city operations to 8 state transport

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 72


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

undertakings. The announcement in this regard was made by NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant. The move
will give huge impetus to automobile sector, clean up cities & drive Make in India intiative.
Niti Aayog has also proposed that all two-wheelers below capacity of 150cc sold in country after March 31,
2025, should be electric only while three-wheelers sold in country after March 31, 2023 should be electric
ones.
Steps taken by Centre to popularise Environment-Friendly Electric Vehicles
Tax Rebate: GST Council decided to cut tax rates on e-vehicles from 12% to 5% with effect from 1 August
2019.
In Union Budget 2019-20, Central government proposed additional income tax deduction of Rs.1.5 lakh on
Interest paid on loans taken to purchase electric vehicles. Also, certain parts of EVs have been exempted
from customs duty to further incentivise e-mobility in India.
FAME II: Centre has also approved Rs.10,000 crore under Phase II of FAME (Faster Adoption and
Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles) scheme, which aims to encourage faster adoption of such
vehicles by right incentives and charging infrastructure.
Centre plans to combat vehicle theft with Microdot Patches
Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has issued a Draft Notification GSR 521(E) that
seeks to amend Central Motor Vehicle Rules and allows motor vehicles and their parts, components,
assemblies, sub-assemblies to be affixed with Microdot Patches. MoRTH has sought comments/objections
on draft notification within 30 days.
Also, microdots have to comply with AIS (Automotive Industry Standard) 155 requirements if affixed.
What are Microdot Patches?
They are based on Microdot technology which involves spraying body and parts of vehicle or any other
machine with microscopic dots, which give a unique identification.
Microdots and adhesive will become permanent fixtures/affixation which cannot be removed without
damaging asset that is vehicle itself.
These nearly invisible microdots are permanent and can only be read physically with a microscope and
identified with ultra violet (UV) light source.
Application: Use of this technology will help check theft of vehicles and also use of fake spare parts.

India signs deal to acquire R-27 Air-to-Air Missiles from Russia


India has signed Rs.1,500 crore deal to acquire R-27 air-to-air missiles from Russia for equipping
Su-30MKI combat aircraft fleet of the Indian Air Force and for boosting its capabilities in beyond visual
range warfare.
Key Highlights
R-27 air-to-air missiles have been acquired under 10-I projects which mandate all the 3 services (Indian
Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force) to maintain critical weapon systems and spares for a specified
minimum period called as War Wastage Reserve (WWR).
In almost past 2 months Indian Air Force (IAF) has signed deals worth over Rs.7,600 crore for acquiring
equipment under emergency requirements provisions approved by Union Defence Ministry in aftermath
of Pulwama Attack. These Rs.7,600 crore has been spent by IAF in procuring missiles like Spice-2000,
Strum Ataka ATGMs and a large number of spares under emergency procurement route.
Emergency Powers: After Pulwama attack in which 44 CRPF personnel were killed, Central government
had given emergency powers to 3 services to buy whatever equipment is required by them for
safeguarding borders with Pakistan. Under these powers given, security forces can buy equipment of their
choice within 3 months at cost of up to Rs.300 crore per case.
About R-27 Missile
It is a medium-to-long-range air-to-air missile.
It is developed by Russia for its MiG and Sukhoi series of fighter jets.
These Russian missiles with an extended range would give an added capability to Sukhois to take on
enemy aircraft at long ranges.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 73


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Infosys launches Cyber Defence Center in Bucharest, Romania


Infosys launched its state-of-the-art Cyber Defence Center in Bucharest, Romania. This Defence Center is
an expansion of services delivered via Infosys Digital Innovation Center which opened in Bucharest in
early 2019.
Infosys Cyber Defence Center
Mandate: Cyber Defence Center will provide Real-Time, End-To-End, 24×7 Cyber Security monitoring and
protection services to support European and global businesses on their digital transformation journey.
Services provided include– security analytics, security monitoring, management and remediation,
incident discovery, threat hunting and response.
These services will be delivered by certified and highly skilled cyber security professionals and also
services offered will comply with country-specific regulatory requirements.
With the launch of new Centre Infosys is expanding its current team in Romania by recruiting local talent
as well as investing in advanced training for both its current employees and new hires.
Significance: The Cyber Defence Centers by helping enterprises Prevent, Detect and Respond to advanced
cyber-attacks will enable them to scale securely in their digital journey.
Why Romania?
Since the European country is an established leader in European cyber security talent market thus became
a natural choice for Infosys to invest in and develop cyber security research and innovation potential.
July 31, 2019
Shawala Teja Singh temple in Pakistan opened for Hindus after 72 Years
Almost 1,000-year-old Shawala Teja Singh Temple located in Sialkot city of Pakistan, which was sealed for
last 72 years, has been re-opened for devotees for the 1st time since partition. Decision to reopen temple
was issued by Paksitan Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Shawala Teja Singh Temple
History: Shawala Teja Singh temple is an ancient Hindu temple which was built by Sardar Teja Singh. It is
dedicated to Hindu deity Shiva, in Sialkot in Punjab province of Pakistan. Pilgrims climb a steep staircase
to reach temple. It was shut down during Partition. In1992 a mob protesting against demolition of Babri
Masjid in India had reportedly damaged temple, following which Hindu pilgrims had stopped visiting it.
Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) looks after holy places of minorities in Pakistan. ETPB has opened
Shawala Teja Singh temple after Partition on demand of local Hindu community. The board is also
undertaking restoration work of this temple which is still underway and is expected to complete it shortly.
Significance of Re-opening:
Restoring and re-opening of Shawala Teja Singh temple is a major decision in favour of Hindu pilgrims
who form biggest minority community in Pakistan. As per official estimates nearly 75 lakh Hindus live in
Pakistan. Majority of them are settled in Sindh province where they share culture, traditions and language
with Muslims.
Hindu pilgrim from India will also be able to visit the temple.
Highlights: President Ram Nath Kovind Visit to Benin
President Ram Nath Kovind arrived in Benin at Cardinal Bernadine de Cotonou International Airport in
Cotonou, the largest city in the West African country. This visit is part of first leg of his 3 nations’ tour to
West African region which includes Gambia and Guinea from July 28 to August 3. This is first visit by
either a head of state or head of government to three West African countries.
This is the 23rd country to be visited by President Kovind during his Presidential tenure till now.
Key Highlights
President Kovind held talks with his Beninese counterpart Patrice Talon. He also traveled to Porto Novo,
the seat of Beninese Parliament.
In a special honour extended to India by Benin, President Kovind addressed National Assembly in Benin.
He also met members of Indian community at a reception hosted in his honour in Cotonou.
Significance: The visit is expected to reinvigorate and give new direction to India’s ties with three
countries.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 74


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

India-Benin
Transformative growth of India and natural strengths of Benin complement each other.
In last 10 years, India-Benin bilateral trade has risen from $350 million over $800 million thus India has
become Benin’s largest trading partner.
India’s duty free tariff preference scheme has helped Benin’s exports grow by more than 68% in 2018 to
reach $376 million.
Various MoUs and Agreements were signed during President Kovind’s visit include-
India offered $100 million line of credit to Benin for its development projects.
India offered further training assistance to Benin to expand its anti-piracy capacity.
Both countries agreed to work together to combat climate change through International Solar Alliance.
Both countries showed commitment towards taking development partnership forward by signing of
country agreement for Benin to avail various initiatives by India such as tele-medicine initiative– e-
Arogyabharati and tele-education programme– e-Vidyabharati.
India also extended free tele-education courses to over 15,000 Beninese students and tele-medicine
courses to 1,000 doctors and paramedics in Africa.
IAF’s Tarun Chaudhri became 1st pilot to do Wingsuit Skydive Jump
Wing commander Tarun Chaudhri became 1st pilot of Indian Armed Forces (IAF) to do a Wing Suit
Skydive Jump. The jump was accomplished from an altitude of 8500 feet (2590.8 meters) from a Mi-17
helicopter. This is 1st IAF Wing Suit Skydive Jump by a pilot who has flown and captained same type of
helicopter.
Key Highlights
This is 1st flying wingsuit jump demonstration at an organised gathering. The feat was deepest imprint of
ethos and professionalism of IAF.
Jump was undertaken during Kargil Diwas celebrations at Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan on 21-22
July 2019.
Since 1999, Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on July 26 in India to mark success of Operation
Vijay by Indian armed forces against Pakistani intruders in Kargil sector of Jammu and Kashmir in which
Indian Air Force played a decisive role in changing the tide of the war in India’s favour.
ITBP DG S S Deswal given charge of NSG
ITBP Director General S S Deswal was given additional charge of counter-terror force National Security
Guard (NSG). He will take over from incumbent NSG DG Sudeep Lakhtakia who is set to retire on 31st July
2018.S S Deswal is 1984-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Telangana cadre.
About National Security Guard (NSG)
It was established in 1984, to protect states against internal disturbances and terrorism. It is under
administrative control of Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
It is Federal Contingency World Class Zero Error Force. It deals with anti-terrorist activities in all its
forms.
It is not categorised under Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and has Special Forces mandate. Its
core operational capability is provided by Special Action Group (SAG) which is drawn from Indian
Army. The post NSG DG is occupied by an IPS officer.
Functions: It is trained to conduct counter terrorist operations including bomb disposal, counter
hijacking tasks on land/sea/air as well as Post Blast Investigation (PBI) and Hostage Rescue missions.
It is intended for use only in exceptional situations and do not take over functions of other Para
Military Forces or State Police Forces. Its police component Special Rangers Group (SRG) is
mandated to handle VIP security and is composed of personnel on deputation from other CAPF.
Why Black Cats? NSG personnel also called Black Cats due to their black dress and black cat insignia
worn by them on their uniform.
Achievement: 26/11, Operation Black Tornado , Operation Ashwamedh, akshardham attack.
Sri Lanka exempts Visa Fees by Indian tourists
Sri Lankan Government has exempted Indian tourists from Visa Fees for tourism purposes. This decision
comes into effect from 1 August 2019. With this move India is now among 48 countries whose citizens

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 75


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

have been exempted from visa fees by Sri Lankan government.


Key Highlights
Visa fees, which ranged from $20 to $40, will not be charged for grant of 1 month visa for tourism.
Tourists can apply for electronic travel authorisations online or even apply for visa on arrival.
Measure will be implemented for 6 months initially and a decision will be taken later for extension
depending upon its impact on revenue.
As per Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremsinghe revenues from enhanced tourism arrivals is
expected to offset loss of the island nation.
Why Visa Exemtion?
Sri Lankan government asserted that security situation has retuned back to normal after Easter Sunday
attacks as all criminal suspects have been taken into arrest. Due to the attacks Sri Lankan tourism has
been impacted but tourism authorities claimed that there is a revival seen since July 2019.
Also Indian tourist constitute maximum number of tourist to Sri Lanka with around one fourth (25%) of
total tourist arrivals.
Tourism is Sri Lanka’s 3rd largest and fastest growing source of foreign currency in 2018 which account
for almost 5% percent of gross domestic product (GDP in 2018).
30 July: World Day Against Trafficking in Persons
United Nations (UN) observed World Day Against Trafficking in Persons on July 30 to raise awareness of
the plight of human trafficking victims, and promote and protect their rights. The theme for this year was
‘Human Trafficking: Call Your Government To Action’.
Background
UN- International Labour Organization (ILO) defines human trafficking as trade of humans, most
commonly for purpose of forced labour, commercial sexual exploitation or sexual slavery for the trafficker
or others. It estimates that 21 million people are victims of forced labour globally which includes victims of
human trafficking for labour and sexual exploitation. According to United Nations Office on Drugs and
Crime (UNDOC) Global Report on Trafficking in Persons, women and girls comprise 71% of human
trafficking victims and additionally children make up almost one third of all human trafficking victims
worldwide.
About World Day against Trafficking in Persons
This day was proclaimed by UN General Assembly (UNGA) in 2013 by adopting resolution A/RES/68/192 in
2013. This resolution had declared that the main objective of observance of this day is to raise awareness
of situation of victims of human trafficking and for promotion and protection of their rights.
Atal Community Innovation Centre launched in New Delhi
Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan launched Atal Community Innovation
Centre in New Delhi. It aims to encourage spirit of innovation at community level.
About Atal Community Innovation Centre
Objective:
To encourage spirit of innovation through solution-driven design thinking to serve society.
To make innovation ecosystem socially inclusive and to ensure equitable distribution of infrastructure for
innovation across India.
Need: In order to achieve target of 5 trillion dollar economy by 2025, Atal Innovation Mission has a key
role to perform.
Features:
The Atal Community Innovation Centre initiative has been launched under Atal Innovation Mission
(AIM), a flagship initiative of NITI Aayog. NITI Aayog is tasked upon to open innovation Centres in all
Gram Panchayats of country to promote local innovation.
It has been launched to focus on 484 backward districts where innovation infrastructure is very weak.
This will also help improve innovation environment in country.
It has been specifically designed for underserved, unserved regions of Tier 1 cities, Tier 2 cities and Tier 3
cities, North-East, Jammu and Kashmir, Smart Cities, Aspirational districts as well as rural and tribal
regions of India.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 76


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

About Atal Innovation Mission


AIM is an Innovation Promotion Platform in NITI Aayog. It has replaced National Innovation Council
(NIC), a significant difference between two will be powers to disburse funds.
It involves academics, entrepreneurs and researchers and draw upon national/international experiences
to foster culture of innovation, scientific research and Research & Development (R&D) in India.
It will promote a network of world-class innovation hubs and grand challenges for India as well as provide
inputs to all central ministries on innovation and suggest a funding mechanism for result-oriented
research.
Significance: It has brought radical transformation in Indian education system thereby government is
promoting innovation in all rural, backward and aspirational districts to make India one of prominent
innovative nations.
TOI 270: NASA’s TESS discovers
NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) recently discovered new dwarf star and planetary
system named as TOI 270. It is located about 73 light years away from Earth, and in the constellation
Pictor.
TOI 270 Planetary System
Its members include Dwarf star named TOI 270, which is 40 % smaller than the Sun in size and mass, and
three exoplanets (planets outside solar system) that have been named TOI 270b, TOI 270c and TOI 270d.
These three planets orbit their star every 3.4 days, 5.7 days, and 11.4 days respectively.
TOI 270b is innermost planet and is expected to be a rocky world about 25% bigger than Earth. It is not
habitable (or within Goldilocks Zone) since it is located too close to star — about 13 times closer than our
Solar System’s Mercury is from Sun. On other hand, TOI 270c and TOI 270 d are Neptune-like planets
because their compositions are dominated by gases rather than rock.
Parliament passes Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019
Parliament passed the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2019 or Triple Talaq Bill
after it was approved by Rajya Sabha. It replaces Ordinance promulgated on February 21, 2019. It aims to
declares practice of instant triple talaq void and illegal by making it cognizable penal offence.
Salient Features of Bill
Objective: Protect rights of married Muslim women and ensure gender equality and gender justice
to Muslim women by declaring practice of triple talaq as void and illegal i.e. not enforceable in law
and prevent divorce by practice of ‘talaq-e-biddat’ by their husbands.
Definitions: It defines talaq or any other similar form of talaq pronounced by Muslim man resulting
in instant and irrevocable divorce. It defines Talaq-e-biddat as practice under Muslim personal laws,
as pronouncement of word ‘talaq’ by Muslim husband thrice in one sitting to his wife, resulting in
instant and irrevocable divorce
Offence and Penalty: It makes this offence punishable with imprisonment up to 3 years and fine. It
also makes all declaration of talaq, including in written or electronic form (email, text message etc)
to be void and illegal.
It proposes to make offence cognizable, if information relating to commission of an offence is given
to police officer by married Muslim woman upon whom talaq is pronounced or by any person
related to her by blood/marriage.
It makes offence compoundable with permission of Magistrate at the instance of the married
Muslim woman upon whom talaq is pronounced. It further provides for hearing married Muslim
woman upon whom talaq is pronounced, before accused is released on bail by Magistrate.
Allowance: It also provides for payment of subsistence allowance (to be determined by Magistrate)
to married Muslim women against whom talaq has been declared and dependent children. The
amount of allowance will be determined by Magistrate.
Custody: It entitles Muslim woman against whom such talaq has been declared to seek custody of
her minor children. In this case, Magistrate is empowered to determine manner of custody.
Parliament passes Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2019
Parliament passed Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2019 aimed at tightening Corporate Social Responsibility
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 77
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

(CSR) compliance and ensuring stricter action for non-compliance of the company law regulations. It
amends the Companies Act, 2013. It was first passed by Lok Sabha on July 26, 2019 and then by Rajya
Sabha by July 30, 2019.
Salient Features of Bill
It aims to ensure greater accountability and better enforcement of the corporate governance norms.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): It brings key change related to CSR spending, wherein
companies would have to mandatorily keep unspent money into a special account. The companies
will have one year to firm up CSR proposal and another three years to spend funds. In case money
remains unspent for one plus three years, then the money will have to be moved to an escrow
account, could even be Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.
Registrar of Companies (RoCs): It empowers RoC to initiate action for removal of name of a
company from Register of Companies if it is not carrying on any business or operation in according
with Company Law.
Re-categorisation of 16 minor offences: It re-categories 16 out 81 compoundable offences mentioned
in the parent Act as civil defaults, where adjudicating officers (appointed by the central government)
may now levy penalties instead. These offences include: (i) failure to file annual return (ii) issuance of
shares at a discount. Further, it also amends the penalties for some other offences.
Change in approving authority: It shifts powers for conversion from public to private companies
from National Companies Law Tribunal to central government.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Which Bollywood personality is set to be honoured with honorary doctorate by Melbourne’s La
Trobe University?
[A] Priyanka Chopra
[B] Shah Rukh Khan
[C] Madhuri Dixit
[D] Aishwarya Rai Bachchan
Correct Answer: B [Shah Rukh Khan]
Notes:
In August 2019, Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan will visit Australia to attend the 10th edition of
Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) as its chief guest. Here, he is set to receive an honorary
doctorate degree from Melbourne-based La Trobe University for his contributions and efforts towards
underprivileged children, women’s empowerment through Meer Foundation and his achievements in
the Indian entertainment industry. La Trobe University is the first Australian university to award Khan
with an Honorary Doctor of Letters (honoris causa), and will present the honorary doctorate ‪on August
9 at its Melbourne campus in Bundoora.
2. Which Indian surgeon has been conferred the Honorary Fellowship of The Royal College of
Surgeons (FRCS) of Thailand?
[A] Ramakanta Panda
[B] Deep Goel
[C] P Raghu Ram
[D] Pradeep Chowbey
Correct Answer: C [P Raghu Ram]
Notes:
Well-known breast surgeon and Padma Shri awardee, Dr. P Raghu Ram has been conferred the Honorary
Fellowship of The Royal College of Surgeons (FRCS) of Thailand in recognition of his bold vision coupled
with an intense body of work that has paved the way for improving breast healthcare in India. It is the
highest recognition bestowed by the institute. He received the honour at the 44th Annual Scientific
Congress of the Royal College in Pattaya. With this, Dr. Ram achieved the rare distinction of having been
conferred FRCS from five Surgical Royal Colleges (London, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Ireland and Thailand) as
well as FACS from the American College of Surgeons. He is also the president-elect of the Association of
Surgeons of India.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 78


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

3. Which of the following NBFCs has become the first NBFC to get $100 million loan from AIIB for
Green Energy Funding?
[A] L&T Finance Holdings
[B] HDB Financial Services
[C] Muthoot
[D] Tata Capital
Correct Answer: A [L&T Finance Holdings]
Notes:
The L&T Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (LTIF) has become the first Non-Banking Finance
Company (NBFC) to get $100 million loan from Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) for on-
lending to wind and solar power infrastructure projects in India. LTIF is a subsidiary of L&T Finance
Holdings Ltd and a leading non-bank financier of renewable energy in India. The loan mobilises private
capital from sponsors, other financiers and LTIF’s own sources. India is committed to reducing its
carbon intensity by 30-35% of the 2005 levels by 2030 under the Paris agreement.
4. Who won the women’s title at the 2019 Wimbledon tennis tournament?
[A] Angelique Kerber
[B] Naomi Osaka
[C] Serena Williams
[D] Simona Halep
Correct Answer: D [Simona Halep]
Notes:
In Tennis, Simona Halep defeated Serena Williams in the final by 6–2, 6–2 to win the Ladies’ Singles
tennis title at the 2019 Wimbledon Championships. Halep became the first Romanian female player to
reach and win the Wimbledon final. At 37 years 291 days, Williams is the oldest Grand Slam women’s
singles finalist to compete since the start of the Open Era in 1968. This was the first Wimbledon where a
final set tie break rule was introduced. Upon reaching 12–12 in the third set, a classic tie break would be
played. No women’s singles match required the use of the final set tie break.
5. Which state has become the first Indian state to get fund through World Bank’s climate
resilience program?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Kerala
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: B [Kerala ]
Notes:
Under climate resilience program, the World Bank has recently approved $250 million aid to Kerala for
its Resilient Kerala Programme (RKP) to brace against natural disasters. Hence, Kerala has become the
first Indian state to get this fund to enhance the state’s resilience against the impacts of natural
disasters and climate change. The Resilient Kerala Program (RKP) will focus on strengthening the state’s
institutional and financial capacity to protect the assets and livelihoods of poor and vulnerable groups
through an inclusive and participatory approach. The new program is part of the Government of
India(GoI)’s support to Kerala’s ‘Rebuild Kerala Development Programme’ aimed at building a green and
resilient Kerala.
6. Which former SC Judge of India has been appointed as an International Judge of the Singapore
International Commercial Court (SICC)?
[A] Arjan Kumar Sikr
[B] Adarsh Kumar Goel
[C] Sanjay Kishan Kaul
[D] Surinder Singh Nijjar
Correct Answer: A [Arjan Kumar Sikr]

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 79


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Notes:
Justice Arjan Kumar Sikr, an eminent jurist and a former judge of the Supreme Court of India (SCI), has
been appointed as an International Judge of the Singapore International Commercial Court (SICC). He
will assume charge as an international judge with effect from August 1 & his term will expire on January
4, 2021. . The SICC is a division of the Singapore High Court and part of the Supreme Court of Singapore.
It is designed to deal with transnational commercial disputes. It currently has 16 international judges as
part of its panel. Justice AK Sikri was recently appointed as the Chairperson of the News Broadcasting
Standards Authority (NBSA) by the News Broadcasters Association (NBA).
7. The Kasarkod beach is located in which state?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Puducherry
[C] Karnataka
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: C [Karnataka]
Notes:
The Union Environment Ministry has selected 12 beaches in India to vie for a ‘Blue Flag’ certification.
These beaches are at Shivrajpur (Gujarat), Bhogave (Maharashtra), Ghoghla (Diu), Miramar (Goa),
Kasarkod and Padubidri (Karnataka), Kappad (Kerala), Eden (Puducherry), Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu),
Rushikonda (Andhra Pradesh), Golden (Odisha), and Radhanagar (Andaman & Nicobar Islands). The Blue
Flag certification is an international recognition conferred on beaches that meet certain criteria of
cleanliness and environmental propriety. The Blue Flag Programme for beaches and marinas is run by a
Denmark-based organization – Federation of Environment Education (FEE).There are nearly 33 criteria
that must be met to qualify for a Blue Flag certification, such as the water meeting certain quality
standards, having waste disposal facilities, being disabled- friendly, have first aid equipment, and no
access to pets in the main areas of the beach. Some criteria are voluntary and some compulsory.
8. The researchers at which Indian institute have developed technology to pack microbial strains
in tiny capsules?
[A] Indian Institute of Water Management, Bhubaneshwar
[B] Indian Institute of Seed Research, Mau
[C] Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kasargod
[D] Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), Kozhikode
Correct Answer: D [Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR), Kozhikode]
Notes:
The researchers at the Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) in Kozhikode have developed a
technology to pack microbial strains beneficial to farmers in tiny capsules. It will eliminate the need for
lugging around sacks of bio-fertilisers as farmers do currently. The bio-capsules made with the
technology weigh just one gram. But the microbial population they contain is equivalent to what is
present in a one-kg pack of powder-based biofertliser or a one-litre bottle. The beauty of the technology
is that it can be used for packing any kind of farm-friendly microbes, including nitrogen-fixing bacteria,
solubolise phosphates, micronutrients and fungi that help control pathogens. The achievement by the
IISR scientists led by Dinesh Raghavan is remarkable because no such technology is commercially
available world over. The IISR is a subsidiary of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New
Delhi, under the Ministry of Agriculture.
9. What is the theme of 2019 edition of World Youth Skills Day (WYSD)?
[A] Skills Development to Improve Youth Employment
[B] Skills for All
[C] World Skills for peace and prosperity
[D] Learning to learn for life and work
Correct Answer: D [Learning to learn for life and work]
Notes:
The World Youth Skills Day (WYSD) is observed every year on 15th of July to generate awareness and
discussion about skill development for the youths to have a better livelihood. The 2019 theme is
“Learning to learn for life and work”. This year, the world’s leading short video platform ‘TikTok’ and
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 80
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) have collaborated to support Skill Development in India
and to celebrate World Youth Skills Day (WYSD) 2019. The partnership aims to leverage TikTok’s 200
million user community to build awareness around NSDC’s mission to educate India’s youth. The aim of
NSDC is to promote skill development by catalysing creation of large, quality and for-profit vocational
institutions.
10. Which Indian organisation has published the first comprehensive census of orchids of India
“Orchids of India : A Pictorial Guide”?
[A] Tata Institute of Fundamental Research
[B] National Centre for Cell Science
[C] Zoological Survey of India
[D] Botanical Survey of India
Correct Answer: D [Botanical Survey of India]
Notes:
The first comprehensive census of orchids of India has been published by the Botanical Survey of India
(BSI) under the title “Orchids of India : A Pictorial Guide”. As per the census, the 1256 species or taxa of
orchids belong to 155 genera and 388 species are endemic to India. The highest number of orchid species
is recorded from Arunachal Pradesh with 612 species, followed by Sikkim (560 species) and West Bengal
(Darjeeling Himalayas) with 479 species. There are 388 species of orchids, which are endemic to India of
which about one-third (128) endemic species are found in Western Ghats. The publication point out that
Kerala has 111 of these endemic species while Tamil Nadu has 92 of them. The publication, which has
photographs of 60% of all species, is the first authentic inventory and will be useful for researchers,
growers, nature lovers and people with different backgrounds. Another interesting factor is that the
entire orchid family is listed under appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) and hence any trade of wild orchid is banned globally.
11. Who has been selected for Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowships in the field of performing arts?
[A] Tarun Bhattacharya
[B] Zakir Hussain
[C] Rajiv Naik
[D] Malini Awasthi
Correct Answer: B [Zakir Hussain]
Notes:
The Sangeet Natak Akademi has named four eminent personalities in the field of performing arts – tabla
virtuoso Zakir Hussain, dancer Sonal Mansingh, dancer and choreographer Jatin Goswami and
Bharatnatyam exponent K. Kalyanasundaram Pillai – for the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellow
or Akademi Ratna awards. The Fellowship of the Akademi is the most prestigious and a rare honour,
which is restricted to 40 numbers at any given time. The General Council meeting of the Sangeet Natak
Akademi also selected 44 artistes from the field of music, dance, theatre, traditional / folk / tribal music/
dance/ theatre, puppetry and overall contribution / scholarship in the performing arts for the Sangeet
Natak Akademi Awards (Akademi Puraskar) for the year 2018. The artistes include, Mani Prasad in
Hindustani Vocal, Tarun Bhattacharya for Hindustani Instrumental – Santoor, Radha Sridhar for
Bharatanatyam, Akham Lakshmi Devi for Manipuri, Rajiv Naik for Playwriting and Malini Awasthi in
Folk Music. The 44 artistes include three joint awards.
12. Ursula von der Leyen, who has been elected as the European Commission’s first female
president, is from which country?
[A] Austria
[B] Poland
[C] France
[D] Germany
Correct Answer: D [Germany]
Notes:
German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen has been elected as the first female president of
European Commission (EC) following a secret ballot among MEPs. She secured the backing of more than
half of the Members in the European Parliament (MEPs) for the biggest job in Brussels. She will succeed
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 81
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Jean-Claude Juncker on 1st November 2019. The Commission drafts EU laws, enforces EU rules and has
the power to impose fines on member states if necessary.
13. Swarup Dutta, who passed away recently, was the veteran actor of which regional cinema?
[A] Odia
[B] Tamil
[C] Bengali
[D] Telugu
Correct Answer: C [Bengali ]
Notes:
Swarup Dutta (78), the veteran Bengali actor, has passed away on July 17, 2019. Born on 22nd June 1941,
Dutta was considered to be one of the distinguished actors of the Bengali silver screen during the late
60s and early 70s. He had got his first break in Tapan Sinha’s ‘Apanjan’ (1968). The film was set against
the political turmoil in West Bengal in the 1960s. Some of his best-known movies included ‘Sagina
Mahato,’ ‘Harmonium’, ‘Pita Putra’ and ‘Maa o Meye’.
14. The researchers at which University have developed a low-cost filter to remove arsenic from
water?
[A] Delhi University
[B] IIT Bombay
[C] Tezpur University
[D] IISC Bangalore
Correct Answer: C [Tezpur University]
Notes:
Researchers at Assam’s Tezpur University have developed a simple and cost-effective filtration system –
Arsiron Nilogon – that may help reduce the health burden caused by arsenic and iron contaminated
groundwater. The system filters out 99.9% of the arsenic contamination from the groundwater to make
it suitable for drinking. The chemicals used in the filtration process are cooking soda for pH
conditioning, potassium permanganate for supplying oxygen and ferric chloride for providing solid iron
oxide adsorbents of arsenic. The method can remove arsenic even to below 2 ppb (parts per billion) level
while the World Health Organization (WHO) has set 10 ppb as the standard level. According to theWHO,
arsenic is a natural component of the Earth’s crust and is widely distributed throughout the
environment — in air, water and land. However, it is highly toxic in its inorganic form. The long term
exposure to inorganic arsenic, mainly by drinking contaminated water, eating food grown or even
prepared with this water, can cause skin lesions and cancer. The filtration process also removes other
toxic metal ions like manganese, lead, nickel, chromium, copper, etc, very well along with arsenic and
iron.
15. Which state / UT government has launched “Happiness Utsav” in its schools?
[A] Haryana
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Delhi
Correct Answer: D [Delhi ]
Notes:
The Delhi government has recently launched “Happiness Utsav” in its schools to celebrate completion of
a year of introduction of its happiness curriculum. During the festival, the first 50 minutes of each day,
all children studying in Delhi govt schools will take part in various activities. Activities like plays, poems,
exhibitions will be part of the 15-day festival which will culminate in a grand ceremony. During the fest,
the morning assembly session and the first period will be combined to conduct activities.
16. Vijayveer Sidhu is associated to which sports?
[A] Judo
[B] Weightlifting
[C] Shooting

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 82


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[D] Wrestling
Correct Answer: C [Shooting]
Notes:
In shooting, Vijayveer Sidhu picked up his third gold medal of the ongoing ISSF Junior World Cup in
Suhl, Germany. With Rajkanwar Singh Sandhu and Adarsh Singh, he clinched the men’s 25m pistol
event. For Adarsh, it was his second gold of the competition. India maintained its top spot at the medal
standings after day three with 7 gold 7 Silver and 2 Bronze in a total of 16 medals won so far. China is
second with 5 Gold 3 Silver and 5 bronze.
17. The International Shark Awareness Day (ISAD) is observed on which date?
[A] July 17
[B] July 14
[C] July 16
[D] July 15
Correct Answer: B [July 14]
Notes:
The International Shark Awareness Day (ISAD) is observed every year on 14th of July to recognize the
importance of sharks play in the ecosystem. The 2019 theme “The sharks in crisis: a call to action for the
Mediterranean” . According to the latest report issued by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), Tunisia has
become the 2nd largest fishing country for sharks in the Mediterranean after Libya. The WWF report
calls on fishermen and fishery managers on both sides of the Mediterranean to avoid fishing in critical
areas such as nurseries and to use adapted gear to eliminate by catch. It also underlines the need to
improve knowledge of shark populations and commercialized species in order to strengthen
conservation efforts and ensure transparency and legality in the fishing sector.
18. From which city, the first-ever international commercial flight from Madhya Pradesh has
launched?
[A] Indore
[B] Bhopal
[C] Jabalpur
[D] Gwalior
Correct Answer: A [Indore ]
Notes:
In Madhya Pradesh, Air India has recently launched the state’s first international flight from Indore to
Dubai from Devi Ahilyabai Holkar International Airport. The non-stop flight AI903 has fulfilled a long-
standing desire from the travel fraternity and tourists for direct connectivity to the Gulf. From Indore,
Air India is operating a 162-seater A320 Neo aircraft which will fly three times a week — Mondays,
Wednesdays and Saturdays — non-stop to Dubai. Indore born Sunish Kumar Bhargava was the
commander of this first-ever international flight from his home city. The aircraft will fly directly to
Dubai on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday while the return leg from Dubai will be on Tuesday, Friday
and Sunday. It will have very attractive fares starting from Rs. 18,700 (return fare) and the return fare
for the business class will be Rs. 42,000.
19. Which Indian organisation has decided to develop the Broadband Readiness Index (BRI) for
Indian States and Union Territories (UT)?
[A] TRAI
[B] BSNL
[C] ICRIER
[D] MTNL
Correct Answer: C [ICRIER]
Notes:
The Department of Telecom (DoT) and the Indian Council for Research on International Economic
Relations (ICRIER) signed a MoU to develop a Broadband Readiness Index (BRI) for Indian States and
Union Territories (UT). The first estimate will be made in 2019 and subsequently every year until 2022.
This index will appraise the condition of the underlying digital infrastructure and related factors at
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 83
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

state/UT levels. It will provide useful insights into strategic choices made by states for investment
allocations in ICT programmes. The index will encourage states to cross learn and jointly participate in
achieving the overall objective of digital inclusion and development in India.
20. The Markandeshwar temple is located on the bank of which river in Maharashtra?
[A] Wainganga
[B] Painganga
[C] Wardha
[D] Koyna
Correct Answer: A [Wainganga ]
Notes:
The Markandeshwar temple is situated on the bank of River Wainganga in district Gadchiroli of
Maharashtra. It is in news because the Archaeological Survey of India initiated the large scale
restoration work of this temple since November 2017. . Known as the “Khajuraho of Vidarbha”, the
temples belong to the Nagara group of temples of North India. On stylistic grounds, their date ranges in
between 9-12th centuries CE. The temples belong to saiva, vaishnava and sakta faith. Most of the temples
have a simple plan, with ardhamandapa, mandapa, antarala and garbhagriha forming the component of
the entire set up. The most striking feature of this temple is the largescale destruction caused on the
main shrine (garbhagriha) and the very first recordings made by Alexander Cunningham states that –
about 200 years ago the shikhara of the main shrine and mahamandapa was struck by a lightning which
led to the partial collapse of the shikhara (the finial, north and south facade).
21. Which state government has raised financial aid for Martyrs’ Kin to Rs.1 crore?
[A] Odisha
[B] Kerala
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: D [Maharashtra ]
Notes:
The Maharashtra government has recently increased financial aid to families of jawans martyred in war
or war-like situations or conflict related to national security from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 1 crore. Personnel
wounded in conflict will get monetary compensation ranging from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 60 lakh each,
depending on the severity of their injury. The rule will be applicable retrospectively from January 1,
2019.
22. Which country has become the 76th signatory country to join the International Solar Alliance
(ISA) Framework Agreement?
[A] Norway
[B] Palau
[C] Sweden
[D] Latvia
Correct Answer: B [Palau]
Notes:
Palau, an archipelago of over 500 islands in Oceania, has become the 76th signatory country to join the
International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement. The ISA is a group of 121 solar resource-rich
countries with headquarters in Gurugram, India. The organisation was jointly launched by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi and then French President Francois Hollande at the UN Climate Change
Conference in Paris in November 2015. It is a major global initiative for contributing to the
implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement through rapid and massive deployment of solar energy.
Palau will host the 2020 edition of the ‘Our Oceans conference’, which will focus on issues such as
climate change, sustainable fisheries and marine pollution.
23. Which Indian woman sprinter has won gold in the 200m race at “Tabor Athletics”?
[A] Dutee chand
[B] VK Vismaya

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 84


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[C] Hima Das


[D] Swapna Barman
Correct Answer: C [Hima Das]
Notes:
Star Indian sprinter Hima Das clinched gold in the 200m race in 23.25 seconds creditable timing in the
Tabor Athletics Meet in Czech Republic. Hima’s compatriot VK Vismaya was second with a season of
best 23.43 seconds. Hima has a 200m personal best of 23.10 seconds.This was Hima’s fourth gold since
2nd July 2019 when she ran her first competitive race in Europe.
24. Which Indian Government campaign has won the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Gold
Award 2019 in the “Marketing – Primary Government Destination” category?
[A] Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
[B] Find the Incredible You
[C] India Shining
[D] God’s Own Country
Correct Answer: B [Find the Incredible You]
Notes:
The Incredible India campaign – Find the Incredible You – has won the Pacific Asia Travel Association
(PATA) Gold Award 2019 in the “Marketing – Primary Government Destination” category. The campaign
was released globally by the Union Ministry of Tourism during 2018-19. The campaign focuses on digital
and social media and the promotion of Niche Tourism products of the country. The campaign strategy
was to shift the focus from the external experience of tourist destinations to the internal experience of
travellers themselves. This series of transformative experiences was brought alive through unique
storytelling in the format of autobiographies of travellers, with the tagline “Find the Incredible
You.PATA Gold Awards are given to tourism industry organizations and individuals making an
outstanding contribution towards the successful promotion of the travel industry throughout the Asia
Pacific Region. The winners of the awards set industry standards for excellence and innovation and
serve as examples for others to follow.
25. Who is the author of the book “Kargil: Untold stories from the War”?
[A] Rachna Bisht Rawat
[B] Mrunal Thakur
[C] Prakash Kovelamudi
[D] Lakshmi Manchu
Correct Answer: A [Rachna Bisht Rawat]
Notes:
The book titled “Kargil: Untold stories from the War” has been authored by Rachna Bisht Rawat. The
book is based on author’s interviews with war survivors and martyrs’ families. It will take the readers to
the treacherous Himalayan mountains where some of the Indian Army’s bloodiest battles were fought.
The war, which lasted for nearly three months, initiated in the May of 1999 in an effort to displace
Pakistani soldiers from the peaks they had occupied on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC). India
won the war, but lost over 500 soldiers. The book is a tribute to their courage and to that of their
families, who have faced their loss with such dignity.
26. Which Indian organisation has introduced web-based application system for contribution
from Fund of Funds for Startups (FFS)?
[A] IRDA
[B] SEBI
[C] RBI
[D] SIDBI
Correct Answer: D [SIDBI ]
Notes:
SIDBI has introduced web-based application system for contribution from Fund of Funds for Startups
(FFS). The applications for contribution from various Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) will now be

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 85


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

accepted online and the status of the same shall be accessible to applicants, thereby increasing the
transparency in the system. The provision of submission of online application will be on the home page
of SIDBI. To begin with the application process, the AIF should create an account, fill in the details and
submit the application form online along with the required supporting documents. SIDBI is the
implementing agency for FFS with a corpus of Rs 10,000 crore on behalf of the Government of India
(GoI).
27. Which Indian woman cricketer has been conferred the 2018 Arjuna Award?
[A] Veda Krishnamurthy
[B] Smriti Mandhana
[C] Harmanpreet Kaur
[D] Jhulan Goswami
Correct Answer: B [Smriti Mandhana]
Notes:
Star Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana and ace tennis player Rohan Bopanna have been conferred with
the 2018 Arjuna Awards by Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kiren Rijeju at a ceremony held in
New Delhi. She is currently ranked no. 1 in the ICC ODI Batting rankings. Playing for India, Mandhana
has already registered 1951 runs in the format at a splendid average of 42.41. On the other hand, Bopanna
won the gold medal in tennis men’s double category in Asian Games 2018. The total amount awarded is
Rs. 350,000,000.
28. The Union Cabinet has approved Inter-Institutional Agreement between India and which
country for 3D bioprinting & regenerative medicine?
[A] United States
[B] France
[C] Italy
[D] Canada
Correct Answer: A [United States]
Notes:
The Union Cabinet has given ex-post facto approval to the Inter-Institutional Agreement (IIA) between
India and the USA in the areas of regenerative medicine and 3D bioprinting, new technologies, exchange
of scientific ideas/information and technologies, and joint use of scientific infrastructure. The purpose of
the Agreement is to contribute towards the development of research and education of both the
Institutions through academic collaboration. The joint research projects, training programmes,
conferences, seminars etc. under this Agreement will be open to all qualified scientists and
technologists, and will be supported on the basis of scientific merit and excellence. Scientific research
and technology development in the areas of regenerative medicine and 3D bio-printing will have
potential for generation of new Intellectual Property, processes, prototypes or products.
29. The 2019 World Day for International Justice (WDIJ) is observed on which date?
[A] July 19
[B] July 17
[C] July 18
[D] July 16
Correct Answer: B [July 17]
Notes:
The World Day for International Justice (WDIJ) is observed every year on July 17 to promote
international criminal justice and as a way of supporting the work of the International Criminal Court
(ICC) . The aim of this day is to unite everyone who wants to support justice as well as promote victims’
rights. It is to help prevent serious crimes and those that put the peace, security and well-being of the
world at risk. The day is also referred as the International Criminal Justice Day (ICJD) or International
Justice Day (IJD).
30. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Ebola outbreak as global health
emergency in which African country?

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 86


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[A] Mozambique
[B] Zambia
[C] DR Congo
[D] Angola
Correct Answer: C [DR Congo]
Notes:
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the Ebola crisis in the Democratic Republic of
Congo (DRC) a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). The outbreak in DR Congo
has killed more than 1,600 people. The outbreak, the second largest in history, started in August 2018
and is affecting two provinces in DR Congo – North Kivu and Ituri. This is the fifth such declaration in
history. Previous emergencies were declared for the devastating 2014-16 Ebola outbreak in West Africa
that killed more than 11,000 people, the emergence of Zika in the Americas, the swine flu pandemic and
polio. Ebola is a virus that initially causes sudden fever, intense weakness, muscle pain and a sore throat.
It progresses to vomiting, diarrhoea and both internal and external bleeding. People are infected when
they have direct contact through broken skin, or the mouth and nose, with the blood, vomit, faeces or
bodily fluids of someone with Ebola. Patients tend to die from dehydration and multiple organ failure.
31. Which Indian cricketer has been inducted into ICC Hall of Fame?
[A] Saurav Ganguly
[B] V V S Laxman
[C] Javagal Srinath
[D] Sachin Tendulkar
Correct Answer: D [Sachin Tendulkar]
Notes:
Indian batting icon Sachin Tendulkar has been inducted into the International Cricket Council (ICC)’s
Hall of Fame alongside South African pace legend Allan Donald and Australian woman cricketer Cathryn
Fitzpatrick. Tendulkar is regarded the greatest to have played the game along with Sir Donald Bradman
and remains the top run-accumulator in both Tests and ODIs. He has 34,357 runs across formats and is
the only batsman to have 100 internationals hundreds under his belt. Donald is one of the finest bowlers
to have played the game and had 330 Test and 272 ODI wickets to his credit before calling it quits in
2003. Fitzpatrick is the second highest wicket-taker of all time in women’s cricket with 180 ODI scalps
and 60 in Tests. As a coach, she guided the Australian women’s team to three World Cup titles.
32. Which state / UT Cricket Association has been granted the status of a Full Member of the
BCCI?
[A] Daman & Diu
[B] A & N Islands
[C] Pondicherry
[D] Lakshadweep
Correct Answer: C [Pondicherry ]
Notes:
The Cricket Association of Pondicherry (CAP) has been granted the status of a Full Member of the BCCI
by the Committee of Administrators (CoA). CAP will now become a voting member of the BCCI. It was
given Associate Member status in October 2018 and went on to take part in the Ranji Trophy and other
age-group tournaments of the Board.
33. Paramarsh scheme is associated to which union ministry?
[A] Ministry of Defense
[B] Ministry of Railways
[C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Ministry of HRD
Correct Answer: D [Ministry of HRD ]
Notes:
The Union Minister for Human Resource Development (HRD), Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal “Nishank” launched
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 87
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

‘Paramarsh’ – a University Grants Commission (UGC) scheme. The scheme is aimed at mentoring
National Accreditation and Assessment Council (NAAC) Accreditation Aspirant Institutions to promote
Quality Assurance in Higher Education in New Delhi. Initially, 71 universities and 391 colleges with
NAAC score of 3.26 and above will mentor five colleges each. Under the Paramarsh scheme, the leading
institutions will provide regular mentoring to help colleges achieve high quality standards. The scheme
also proposes to provide financial assistance to the mentoring institutions and the option of appointing
an expert, who can be paid a fellowship amount of Rs 31,000 per month. The scheme is expected to have
a major impact in addressing a national challenge of improving the quality of Higher Education in India.
34. What name has been given to the recently launched UGC Guide to Student Induction
Programme (SIP)?
[A] Praveshika
[B] Deeksha
[C] Deeksharambh
[D] Dakshina
Correct Answer: C [Deeksharambh]
Notes:
The Union HRD Minister, Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank released UGC Guide to Student Induction
Programme (SIP) – “Deeksharambh” in New Delhi on 18th July 2019. The guide will help new students to
build bonds with fellow students and faculty members in the new environment. The programme is
intended to empower the aspirant learners to face the Competitive world with confidence, open new
horizons of life leading to character building based on Universal Human Values such as Truth, Righteous
conduct, Love, Non-violence, Peace and assist in developing self awareness , compassion and oneness. To
spread awareness about Deeksharambh – SIP in Higher Education Institutions and its stakeholders,
UGC has decided to conduct Awareness Programmes and training programme for teachers in different
regions of the country.
35. On which date, the Nelson Mandela International Day (NMID) is observed?
[A] July 19
[B] July 20
[C] July 18
[D] July 21
Correct Answer: C [July 18]
Notes:
The Nelson Mandela International Day (NMID) is celebrated every year on July 18 to pay tribute to South
Africa’s former president for his values, legacy and contribution to society. The day recognizes
Mandela’s values and his dedication to the service of humanity in: conflict resolution; race relations;
promotion and protection of human rights; reconciliation; gender equality and the rights of children and
other vulnerable groups; the fight against poverty; the promotion of social justice. The day also
acknowledges his contribution to the struggle for democracy internationally and the promotion of a
culture of peace throughout the world.
36. Motihari- Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline project, sometimes seen in news, is connected to
India & which country?
[A] Bangladesh
[B] Nepal
[C] Myanmar
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: B [Nepal ]
Notes:
The Rs 325 crore Motihari- Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline project has been successfully completed &
will start commercial operation by August 2019. The 69-Km long petroleum pipeline from Motihari in
Bihar to Amelkhgunj in Nepal has been constructed by India. It will ensure smooth, cost effective and
environment friendly supply of petroleum products to Nepal. The pipeline will help in tackling the oil
storage problem in Nepal and doing away with transportation of petroleum products through tankers.
Hence, Nepal will officially start fuel trade with India via the pipeline after its virtual launch by Prime
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 88
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Minister KP Sharma Oli and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi. The Motihari-Amlekhgunj oil
pipeline project was first proposed in 1996. However, the project finally edged closer to reality during
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kathmandu in 2014.
37. The ‘Medicine from the Sky’ is the pilot project of which state government?
[A] Telangana
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Kerala
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: A [Telangana ]
Notes:
The innovative pilot project – Medicine from the Sky – will be launched by the Telangana government
and the World Economic Forum (WEF)’s Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution Network. The aim
of the pilot project is to deliver emergency medical supplies such as blood, vaccines, medical samples and
organs via drones. The project will run in partnership with the state government and HealthNet Global
Limited. It will help facilitate decision-making in healthcare supply chains, focus on last-mile deliveries
and address issues that affect the medical distribution system.
38. ICC has suspended which country’s Cricket Federation with immediate effect for breach of
constitution?
[A] Belgium
[B] Zimbabwe
[C] Spain
[D] Brunei
Correct Answer: B [Zimbabwe ]
Notes:
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended Zimbabwe Cricket with immediate effect over
violation of global body’s constitution which doesn’t allow any government intervention. Zimbabwe
Cricket was found to have been in breach of Article 2.4 (c) and (d) of the ICC Constitution for failing to
provide a process for free and democratic elections and to ensure that there is no government
interference in its governance and/or administration for cricket respectively. As a consequence of
suspension, Zimbabwe Cricket will no longer receive funding from the ICC and its representative teams
are now ineligible from competing in any ICC events. The ICC has directed that the elected Zimbabwe
Cricket Board be reinstated to the office within three months and progress in this respect will be
considered again at the October Board meeting. The Croatia Cricket Federation and the Zambia Cricket
Union have both also been suspended for continuing non-compliance with ICC Membership criteria. The
Moroccan Royal Cricket Federation has also been expelled from Membership of the ICC.
39. Which Indian golfer has won the FCG Callaway Junior world Golf Championship 2019?
[A] Arjun Bhati
[B] Shubhankar Sharma
[C] Rashid Khan
[D] Mukesh Kumar
Correct Answer: A [Arjun Bhati ]
Notes:
The 14-year old Indian golfer Arjun Bhati has won the FCG Callaway Junior world Golf Championship
2019 by defeating Taiwan’s Jeremy Chen in Palm Desert, California. Out of 637 golfers from 40 counties
that participated in the tournament, Arjun secured the first position with a total of 199 strokes in the
three-day final. He was followed by Chen and New Zealand’s Joshua Bai at second and third positions
with 202 and 207 strokes respectively.
40. Which state / UT police has launched the new e-challan system for the use of Traffic Police?
[A] Delhi
[B] Pondicherry
[C] Himchal Pradesh

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 89


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[D] Haryana
Correct Answer: A [Delhi]
Notes:
Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik has recently launched the new e-challan system and the e-
payment gateway for the use of Delhi Traffic Police. The E-challan devices are enabled with active GPS
where the challaning officer and the violator, both can be logged and tracked to a particular geo-location.
This is an important tool for evidence to establish the credibility of the prosecution. The payment
gateway will help the citizens with the flexibility to login securely at their convenience and settle the
pending violation notices with proof of payment. It is an important step towards cashless economy. It
also ensures that the citizen interface with police improves and becomes more transparent.
41. The 10th Jagran Film Festival (JFF-2019) has started in which city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Kolkata
[D] Kochi
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi]
Notes:
On 18th July 2019, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar inaugurated the
10th Jagran Film festival (JFF) at Siri Fort Auditorium in New Delhi. The JFF is an initiative by the
Jagran Prakashan Group (JPG) towards creating a culture of cinema appreciation and an honest and
sincere attempt create a platform that connects great content with audiences across the country. Last
year, with over 18 towns, 400 screenings, 18 cinema appreciation workshops, the festival directly
touched over an audience of over 55 thousand people and the media coverage of Jagran puts the reach of
JFF well beyond 50 million people across India.
42. The Andhra Bank has partnered with which company to launch AI chatbot “ABHi”?
[A] Microsoft
[B] Wipro
[C] Infosys
[D] Floatbot
Correct Answer: D [Floatbot ]
Notes:
The Andhra Bank has partnered with Floatbot to offer an Artificial Intelligence-powered virtual
assistant for online banking users. The AI chatbot named “ABHi” – made by Floatbot – is integrated with
Core Banking Servers (CBS) of Andhra Bank and will automate customer support for 5 crore Andhra
Bank account holders. This AI chatbot solution can resolve customer queries and provide banking
services in English, Hindi and Hinglish. With ABHi, customers will be able to get the information
instantaneously 24×7, anytime they want. Customers can connect and know details from ABHi through
website www.andhrabank.in over Mobile/Desktop browser, Facebook Messenger and over voice using
Google Assistant. Customer can ask details on digital banking, loans, banking services, govt. schemes,
insurance, senior citizen, RuPay Offers, Aadhaar services, payment mode, deposit/EMI Calculator, lodge
a customer complaint, know nearest Branch / ATM on Google map, recharge prepaid mobile etc., on chat
anytime and on move.
43. Which former Indian athlete has been nominated for IAAF Veteran Pin?
[A] Milkha Singh
[B] PT Usha
[C] Anju Bobby George
[D] Manju Bala Swami
Correct Answer: B [PT Usha]
Notes:
India’s track and field legend PT Usha has been nominated for the International Association of Athletics
Federation’s (IAAF) ‘Veteran Pin’ for her outstanding service to the sport. She is often called the “queen
of track and field”. The IAAF CEO Jon Ridgeon has also extended an invitation to PT Usha to attend the

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 90


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

award ceremony during the opening of the 52nd IAAF Congress in Qatar in September 2019. She won
five gold medals — 100 metres(m), 200m, 400m, 400 m hurdles and the 4×400 m relay — besides a
bronze in the Asian Games which were held at Jakarta in 1985 . Usha’s most memorable performance
came in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics where she became the first Indian to reach the finals of the
400m hurdles, but lost the bronze by one-hundredth of a second.
44. The 5th International Police Expo 2019 was held at which city?
[A] Kanpur
[B] Udaipur
[C] New Delhi
[D] Shimla
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi]
Notes:
The 5th International Police Expo 2019 was held at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi with theme ‘Challenges
to strengthen peace and security’ from July 19 to 20. The exhibition is an interactive platform where
police representatives of different nations can meet policing security equipment and technology
suppliers. Over 25 countries showcased advanced firearms, combat or armoured vehicles and a plethora
of disruptive technologies in cyber security, drones, homeland security, and safety and rescue at the
International Police Expo. More than 100 companies from Singapore, Israel, South Korea, Taiwan, China,
UK, the US, Malaysia, Germany, Australia, Poland and other nations displayed the best and advanced
technologies at the expo organised by Nexgen Exhibitions. The police to people ratio at the all-India level
is about 117 policemen for every 100,000 people.
45. Prithu Gupta is associated to which sports?
[A] Chess
[B] Judo
[C] Hockey
[D] Football
Correct Answer: A [Chess]
Notes:
15-year-old Prithu Gupta from Delhi has become the India’s 64th Grandmaster as he crossed the 2500-
mark. He beat IM Lev Yankelevich in the fifth round of the Portuguese League 2019 to cross the Elo
threshold. Gupta has joined an elite list, 31 years after Viswanathan Anand became India’s first
Grandmaster.
46. The Indian women team has defeated which team to won Gold at the 21st Commonwealth
Table Tennis Championship 2019?
[A] Australia
[B] South Africa
[C] England
[D] Singapore
Correct Answer: D [Singapore ]
Notes:
In 21st Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2019 held in Cuttack on 18th July, India made a
record by winning gold in both men’s and women’s category at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The
Indian women team won the gold for the first time in the history in the commonwealth games. The
women’s team defeated Singapore 3-0 to dethrone the previous champions whereas men’s team
outclassed England 3-2. As a result of this win, the men’s team has extended their reign for the second
successive time. The Indian men had won their first crown in Kuala Lumpur in 2004.
47. The 2019 Durand Cup is slated to be held in which state?
[A] Bangaluru
[B] Agra
[C] New Delhi
[D] Kolkata
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 91
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Correct Answer: D [Kolkata ]


Notes:
The 2019 Durand Cup will be the 129th edition of the Durand Cup, which will be held at Kolkata in West
Bengal from August 2 to 23. This will be for the first time that the tournament will be played outside
New Delhi, its traditional venue. The matches will be played across three locations in West Bengal –
Kolkata, Siliguri and Kalyani in 5 different stadiums namely East Bengal Ground, Mohun Bagan Ground,
Kalyani Stadium, Siliguri Stadium and Salt Lake Stadium from 2nd August 2019. Army Green is the
defending champion, who won its first title beating NEROCA FC on penalties in the last edition in 2016.
The Durand Cup is the Asia’s oldest football tournament and third oldest football tournament in the
world.
48. The scientists of which country have developed a concept named Ramanujan Machine?
[A] United States
[B] Israel
[C] Japan
[D] France
Correct Answer: B [Israel ]
Notes:
The scientists from Technion — Israel Institute of Technology (IIT) have developed a concept & have
named Ramanujan Machine, after the Indian mathematician. It is not really a machine but an algorithm
that automatically generates conjectures for fundamental constants. The Conjectures are mathematical
statements which are proposed as true statements. In other words, they are mathematical statements
that are, as yet, unproven. Typically, people provide the input and the algorithm (hopefully) finds the
solution. The Ramanujan Machine reverses the process. So, if a constant such as π is fed into the
machine, it will generate a series whose value would lead towards π. The researchers hope that their
creation will inspire younger mathematicians. If a user develops a new proof or algorithm, it will be
named after him. The algorithm reflects the way Srinivasa Ramanujan worked during his brief life
(1887-1920). Throughout his life, Ramanujan came up with novel equations and identities —including
equations leading to the value of pi — and it was usually left to formally trained mathematicians to
prove these.
49. Which section of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 empowers the states to send a list of wild
animals to the Centre requesting it to declare them vermin for selective slaughter?
[A] Section 61
[B] Section 63
[C] Section 62
[D] Section 64
Correct Answer: C [Section 62]
Notes:
The Union environment ministry has recently declared Rhesus Macaque monkeys as vermin in
Himachal Pradesh for a period of one year & allow the state forest department to cull them for
preventing crop depredation, conflict with humans and loss of property. Though Rhesus Macaque
monkeys are protected species under Schedule II of the Wildilfe Protection Act of 1972, the law allows for
it to be hunted by declaring it ‘vermin’ for a specific period if it poses a danger to human life or property.
The section 62 of the Wild Life (Protection) Act of 1972 empowers the states to send a list of wild animals
to the Centre requesting it to declare them vermin for selective slaughter.
50. The AIFF Golden Baby Leagues handbook 2019-20 is associated to which sports?
[A] Basketball
[B] Football
[C] Hockey
[D] Badminton
Correct Answer: B [Football ]
Notes:
Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju has recently launched the All India Football Federation (AIFF)’s

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 92


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Golden Baby Leagues handbook 2019-20 on the sidelines of the Intercontinental Cup in Ahemadabad.
The launch marked the renaming of the ‘AIFF Baby Leagues’ to ‘AIFF Golden Baby Leagues’, with
emphasis being laid for ages under 6 to under 12 both for girls and boys. The handbook is a guide to help
the stakeholder to organise the Golden Baby League. The Leagues aim to provide access to football in
localities irrespective of gender, religion, economic background, or ethnic origin. The league can be
organised by anyone, as long as the Handbook guidelines are met.
51. The Union Government has proposed which light urban rail transit system for small cities?
[A] Metrolight
[B] MetroTank
[C] Metrolite
[D] MetroRail
Correct Answer: C [Metrolite]
Notes:
The Union Government has proposed light urban rail transit system – ‘Metrolite’ – in small cities and
towns having lower projection of ridership, with each train having three coaches and a restricted speed
of 25 kmph. The ‘Metrolite’ can be developed at a lower cost in comparison with existing metro system &
will also act as feeder system to high capacity Metro. The three-coach train will have capacity of
carrying 300 passengers. Sources said the government would provide financial assistance to states to
implement the light urban rail transit system. It will have a dedicated path separating the road traffic
with it. For segregation with road traffic, fencing can be provided on either side of network. The
‘Metrolite’ system will have shelter platforms. Metrolite platforms will not have AFC gates, platform
screen doors, X-ray and baggage scanner. The ‘Metrolite’ train will comprise three non-separable
coaches with low floor height of about 300-350 mm. Unit length should be of minimum 33 m. The car
structure material will be stainless steel or aluminium.
52. Arun Kumar Roy, who passed away recently, was the veteran Left leader of which state?
[A] Odisha
[B] Bihar
[C] West Bengal
[D] Jharkhand
Correct Answer: D [Jharkhand ]
Notes:
Arun Kumar Roy (90), the veteran Left leader and chief patron of CITU Jharkhand state committee, has
passed away in Dhanbad, Jharkhand on 21st July 2019. He was the former Lok Sabha MP and founder of
Marxist Coordination Committee (MCC). Roy won the Dhanbad Lok Sabha seat in 1977, 1980 and 1989.
He also represented Sindri in the Bihar Assembly in 1967, 1969 and 1972. Along with Jharkhand Mukti
Morcha (JMM) supremo Shibu Soren and former MP, the late Binod Bihari Mahto, Roy began the
Jharkhand movement that demanded a separate State from Bihar in 1971. Jharkhand became a separate
State on November 15, 2000. Roy was called a ‘political saint’ by his associates and followers, as his bank
account always showed a ‘zero’ balance.
53. Who has become India’s first gold-medallist at the President’s Cup boxing tournament?
[A] Vikas Krishan Yadav
[B] Shiva Thapa
[C] Mohammed Ali Qamar
[D] Jagdish Singh
Correct Answer: B [Shiva Thapa]
Notes:
Four-time Asian medallist Shiva Thapa has become the India’s first gold-medallist at the President’s Cup
boxing tournament after getting a walkover in the finals in Astana, Kazakhstan on July 20, 2019. It was
his international debut in the newly-introduced Olympic category of 63kg. Thapa was to fight
Kazakhstan’s Zakir Safiullin in the summit clash but his opponent had to pull out due to injury. Earlier,
this year, Thapa had lost to Safiullin in the 2019 Asian Championship semifinal.
54. Which state government has decided to set up India’s first Space Park?

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 93


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[A] Kerala
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Telangana
Correct Answer: A [Kerala ]
Notes:
The Kerala Government has decided to set up a state-of-the-art Space Systems Park at Knowledge City
Thiruvananthapuram to attract global start-ups working in space sector and also develop it as a major
manufacturing hub for space-related technology, research and development. The state government has
claimed that it will be the India’s first space park. The state government has issued orders to make Dr
APJ Abdul Kalam Centre and Space Museum part of the space park and to allot the land required for the
facility. This will be an added attraction to the park and the entire investment will be made by the
Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). The government will transfer 20.01 acres as lease to the Kerala
State Information Technology Infrastructure Ltd (KSITIL) to develop the space park at Knowledge City
within Technocity as an international space technology ecosystem. Of this, 16.07 acres, now having SEZ
status, will be denotified by KSITIL. The land belongs to Technopark. The project will be implemented by
the Electronics and IT Department, government of Kerala.
55. Which Indian bodybuilder has clinched 2019 Mr. South Asia title?
[A] Yatinder Singh
[B] Miihier Singh
[C] Yogesh Kumar Sanan
[D] Ravinder Kumar Malik
Correct Answer: D [Ravinder Kumar Malik]
Notes:
Indian bodybuilder Ravinder Kumar Malik has clinched Mr. South Asia title. He has crowned the overall
champion at 12th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship in Kathmandu on July
20, 2019. Malik, the winner of 80 kg category, was adjudged best bodybuilder among the winners of nine
senior men’s weight categories. Afghanistan won team championship by securing a top position with
535 points. Host Nepal finished second with 445 points, while India remained third with 380 points. A
total of 91 bodybuilders participated in the championship organised by South Asian Bodybuilding and
Physique Sports Federation under the auspices of Nepal Bodybuilding and Fitness Association.
56. The 11th biennial edition of DefExpo India – 2020 is scheduled to be held in which city?
[A] Delhi
[B] Lucknow
[C] Amravati
[D] Hyderabad
Correct Answer: B [Lucknow ]
Notes:
The Eleventh biennial edition of DefExpo India – 2020 is scheduled to be held for the first time in Uttar
Pradesh capital Lucknow from 5th February 2020. The 4-day event will offer an excellent opportunity
for the Indian defence industry to showcase its capabilities and promote its export potential. The main
theme of the DefExpo India- 2020 will be — India – the Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub and the
focus will be on Digital Transformation of Defence. The exhibition will also highlight the emergence of
Uttar Pradesh as an attractive destination for investment in the defence sector and act as a platform for
alliances and joint ventures in the defence industry. The DefExpo will provide an opportunity to the
major foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers to collaborate with the Indian defence industry and
help promote Make in India initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
57. The 2019 Homeless World Cup football tournament is scheduled to be held in which country?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] France
[C] United States
[D] Germany
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 94
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Correct Answer: A [United Kingdom ]


Notes:
The 17th edition of the Homeless World Cup football tournament will take place in Cardiff in Wales from
July 27 to August 3, 2019. The tournament is organised by the Homeless World Cup Foundation, which
uses football as a vehicle to help homeless people learn to trust, share, and build relationships and
discipline. As per the Homeless World Cup Foundation, players must be at least 16 years old and should
not have taken part in a previous edition of the World Cup. Indian men’s and women’s football squads,
led by Amrit Pal Singh and Sujata Rai, would take part in the 2019 football tournament. Singh hails from
Bhathinda in Punjab while Sujata Rai is from West Bengal. Wales is a country that is part of the United
Kingdom and the island of Great Britain.
58. The Union Government has banned which antibiotic in animal food industry?
[A] Biaxin
[B] Keflex
[C] Colistin
[D] Doxycycline
Correct Answer: C [Colistin ]
Notes:
In a bid to preserve the drug’s efficacy in humans, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has banned
the manufacture, sale and distribution of Colistin and its formulations for food-producing animals,
poultry, aqua farming and animal feed supplements. The ban has been imposed under provisions of
section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940 and a notification in this regard has been issued by
the Centre. According to a ministry official, the antibiotic is being used as a last resort for treatment of
patients suffering from infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria. But the drug is highly misused in
poultry industry as a growth promoter for prophylactic purpose.
59. The Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) facility has recently opened in which city?
[A] Shimla
[B] Jabalpur
[C] Kochi
[D] Hyderabad
Correct Answer: D [Hyderabad]
Notes:
The Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) facility has been inaugurated by Union Minister of Science and
Technology Harsh Vardhan at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), a CSIR lab in
Hyderabad. This is the fourth such facility in the country, which can sequence 30 human genomes (or
384 diagnostic samples) in a day. It costs around Rs 1 lakh to sequence one genome using this facility.
This opens up multiple avenues in investigating fundamental biology of individual cells in tissues as well
as fighting disease like cancer through understanding the heterogeneity in cell populations. By using the
facility, scientists hope to find genetic cause of rare diseases and develop kits which can be used to find
population at the risk of genetic or other rare diseases. These services would be available to hospitals,
industry, and academicians by paying charges.
60. The 2019 Hand-in-Hand military exercise is scheduled to be held in which Indian state?
[A] Meghalaya
[B] Nagaland
[C] Arunachal Pradesh
[D] Sikkim
Correct Answer: A [Meghalaya ]
Notes:
The 2019 edition of India and China joint military exercise titled “Hand-in-Hand” will be held in Umroi
near Shillong, Meghalaya in December 2019. It will be a two-week exercise which will be based on
counter-terrorism and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. The exercise aims to build
close relations between the armies of the two countries. It comes in the backdrop of situation along the
Line of Actual Control (LAC), which has so far remained peaceful. It will be a company-level exercise,
where around 120 troops from each side will be participating.
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 95
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

61. Yukiya Amano, who passed away recently, was the Chief of which international organisation?
[A] UNICEF
[B] UNESCO
[C] FAO
[D] IAEA
Correct Answer: D [IAEA]
Notes:
Yukiya Amano ( 72), the former Japanese diplomat and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
Chief, has passed away on 23rd July 2019. He had been chief of the key U.N. agency that regulates
nuclear issues worldwide since 2009. It is not yet clear who will succeed Amano on an interim basis.
During his tenure, Amano oversaw the signing of a landmark deal in 2015 between Iran and six major
powers — Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States — under which the Islamic
republic agreed to curb its nuclear programme in exchange for the lifting of sanctions. As Head of the
IAEA, Amano also dealt with the aftermath of the devastating 2011 Fukushima nuclear accident in Japan.
Amano had wide experience in disarmament, non-proliferation diplomacy and nuclear energy.
62. Chandrayaan-2 will explore & perform studies on which region of Moon?
[A] North pole
[B] West pole
[C] South pole
[D] East pole
Correct Answer: C [South pole]
Notes:
India has successfully launched its 2nd lunar mission Chandrayaan-2 onboard its powerful rocket GSLV-
MkIII-M1 from Sriharikota to explore the uncharted south pole of the Moon by landing a rover. The Rs
978 crore mission will mark a giant leap in India’s space research and make it only the 4th country to
have landed a rover on Moon. For the first time in India’s space history, an interplanetary expedition is
being led by two women – Muthaya Vanitha (the project director) & Ritu Karidhal (the mission director).
According to ISRO, the lunar South Pole is an interesting surface area which remains in shadow than
North pole. There is a possibility of the presence of water in permanently shadowed areas around it. The
lander ‘Vikram’, named after father of Indian space research programme Dr Vikram A Sarabhai, carrying
the rover ‘Pragyan’, will be landed in a high plain between two craters at a latitude of about 70 degrees
South of the moon. Then the 27-kg ‘Pragyan’ meaning ‘wisdom’ in Sanskrit and a six-wheeled robotic
vehicle, will set out on its job of collecting information on lunar surface. A safe site free of hazards for
landing would be decided based on pictures sent back by the camera onboard the lander and after
touchdown the rover will carry out experiments for 14 Earth days, equals one Lunar Day.
63. Where is the headquarters of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI)?
[A] Kochi
[B] Nagpur
[C] Delhi
[D] Shimla
Correct Answer: A [Kochi]
Notes:
The Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has launched a research project for developing
an online platform in order to facilitate effective fish marketing systems. The project aims to develop a
fish market information system, fish price information and facilitate an e-auctioning system trade
platform for commercially important fish species. As many as 1,500 fish markets, including landing
centres, wholesale markets, retail markets and aquaculture production markets, across the country will
be selected for implementing the programme. The project on fish market and price information system
is funded by the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Hyderabad. The headquarters of CMFRI
is located in Kochi, Kerala.
64. The 2019 International shark meet is slated to be held in which Indian city?
[A] Cuttack

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 96


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[B] Chennai
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Kochi
Correct Answer: D [Kochi ]
Notes:
In Kerala, the 4-day International shark meet 2019 is being held in Kochi from July 24 to set up a
platform for researchers from across the globe working on shark and ray trade to share their experience
in the field. It is a first-of-its-kind event in India, which is being jointly organized by the Central Marine
Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) and the FAO under the collaborative research project of the two
entities on sharks and rays non-fin commodities. The purpose of the meet is to bring together scientific
community in the spectrum to describe various methodologies being transpired and adopted in research
works on sharks and rays, to define their strengths and weaknesses and develop practical but not rigid
set of guidance. Representatives from the FAO and experts from various countries such as UK, Australia,
Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Indonesia, Malaysia, Peru, Italy, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, Somalia, Myanmar and
Namibia will attend the meet to discuss the priorities in monitoring shark and ray fisheries, trade and
market chain assessment..
65. Who is the author of the book “Indo-Pak Relations : Beyond Pulwama & Balakot”?
[A] Nirad C. Chaudhuri
[B] Amish Tripathi
[C] Vinit Goenka
[D] U V Singh
Correct Answer: D [U V Singh]
Notes:
The book titled “Indo-Pak Relations: Beyond Pulwama and Balakot” has been authored by Dr. U V Singh.
The book deals with the fundamental causes of the Indo-Pak conflict—why it is difficult, if not
impossible, to have peace between the two neighbors. Also it explores the short spurt of Pulwama-
Balakot stand-off or a game of one-upmanship.
66. Who has been appointed as the Chairman of Asian Boxing Confederation’s (ASBC)
competitions commission?
[A] Kishen Narsi
[B] Akhil Kumar
[C] Manish Kaushik
[D] Varghese Johnson
Correct Answer: A [Kishen Narsi]
Notes:
Kishen Narsi from India has been appointed as the Chairman of Asian Boxing Confederation’s (ASBC)
competitions commission. Narsi is a former All-India University champion boxer. He was an
international referee and vice-chairman of the executive committee of the International Boxing
Association (AIBA). He has officiated in three Olympics. He was also the founding interim president of
the Boxing Federation of India (BFI).
67. Who has been chosen for the Sangita Kalanidhi award of the Music Academy?
[A] Seetha Narayanan
[B] S Ramanathan
[C] S Sowmya
[D] Priyadarshini Govind
Correct Answer: C [S Sowmya]
Notes:
Noted vocalist Dr. S Sowmya has been chosen for the Sangita Kalanidhi award of the Music Academy
and she will preside over 93rd annual conference of the Academy to be held between December 12, 2019,
and January 1, 2020. A student of Dr. S. Ramanathan and T. Mukta, Ms. Sowmya equally excelled in her
academic pursuit and obtained a doctorate from the Madras University. Beside her, Sangita Kala

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 97


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Acharya awards will go to vocalists Seetha Narayanan and M.S. Sheela. Nagaswaram player Vyasarpadi
Kothandaraman and vocalist Rajkumar Bharathi will get the TTK awards while Aarti N. Rao will get the
Musicologist Award. All awards will be conferred during the Sadas of the Academy on January 1. The
Nritya Kalanidhi award for Dance will be conferred on Priyadarshini Govind at the inauguration of the
dance festival on January 3, 2020.
68. Who has been elected as chairman of the Commonwealth Table Tennis Federation (CTTF)?
[A] Indu Puri
[B] M P Singh
[C] Kamlesh Mehta
[D] Vivek Kohli
Correct Answer: D [Vivek Kohli]
Notes:
Vivek Kohli has been elected as chairman of the Commonwealth Table Tennis Federation (CTTF). He
defeated incumbent Alan Ransome of England. The elections were recently held in Bhubaneswar, close
to the venue of the 21st Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship 2019 (Cuttack). M.P. Singh, who is
secretary general at Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI), was unanimously elected as secretary
general of CTTF. The CTTF president’s post is already held by TTFI chief Dushyant Chautala. It is for the
first time that all the three positions in CTTF are held by Indians.
69. Who won the women’s singles titles at the 21st Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships?
[A] Ayhika Mukherjee
[B] Pooja Sahasrabudhe
[C] Krittwika Sinha Roy
[D] Manika Batra
Correct Answer: A [Ayhika Mukherjee ]
Notes:
In Table Tennis, hosts India completed a clean sweep & claimed all the 7 gold medals at the 21st
Commonwealth Championships, which concluded recently in Cuttack. Harmeet Desai and Ayhika
Mukherjee won the men’s and women’s singles titles, respectively. Harmeet defeated favourite G.
Sathiyan 4-3 in a hard-fought final to claim the men’s singles title. In women singles, Ayhika won her
first gold in the championships after defeating former national champion Madurika Patkar 4-0. Anthony
Amalraj and Manav Thakkar claimed the men’s doubles gold by stunning top seeds Sathiyan and Sharath
Kamal 3-1.While Pooja Sahasrabudhe and Krittwika Sinha Roy defeated compatriots Sreeja Akula and
Mousumi Paul 3-1 to claim the women’s doubles crown. Indian paddlers topped the medals tally with 7
gold, 5 silver and 3 bronze. England won two silver and three bronze medals. Singapore got 6 bronze
medals while Malaysia and Nigeria got 1 bronze each.
70. Who represented India at the NAM Ministerial Meeting in Caracas?
[A] Ranjan Mathai
[B] Syed Akbaruddin
[C] Subrahmanyam Jaishankar
[D] Vijay Keshav Gokhale
Correct Answer: B [Syed Akbaruddin]
Notes:
India was represented by Indian envoy to United Nations Syed Akbaruddin at the 2019 Non Aligned
Movement (NAM) Ministerial Meeting in Caracas, Venezuela. Here, India has strongly rejected
Pakistan’s references to Kashmir & said that the global forum can never be a platform for a self-serving
narrative that aims to undermine the territorial integrity of one nation by another state. The NAM needs
to be in the vanguard of those addressing the primary issues of our times that cry for global cooperation,
rather than become a platform for venting bilateral grievances between members. Akbaruddin did not
name Pakistan but his comments were aimed at Islamabad raising the issue of Kashmir at the multi-
lateral forum. NAM was established in Belgrade in 1961 and was a joint initiative of former Indian Prime
Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito.
71. Which hockey player has been chosen for 2019 Mohun Bagan Ratna?

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 98


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[A] Udham Singh


[B] Keshav Dutt
[C] Leslie Claudius
[D] Dhanraj Pillay
Correct Answer: B [Keshav Dutt]
Notes:
Two-time Olympic gold medal winning Hockey Player Keshav Dutt and former India Football Captain
Prasun Banerjee has been chosen for 2019 Mohun Bagan Ratna. This is the first time that the club is
conferring the award on a sportsperson from a discipline other than football. Dutt (93) was part of the
team that won gold in the 1948 (London) and 1952 (Helsinki) Olympics. Prasun was a prominent
midfielder of his times. He played in three Asian Games in 1974, 1978 and 1982 and was part of an Asian
All Star XI team. The Best Footballer for the 2018-19 will be given to Arijit Bagui. Mohun Bagan will also
felicitate pacer Mohammed Shami, India’s hat-trick hero of the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, while
footballer Ashok Chatterjee will be given the Lifetime Achievement award. The Mariners will also give
Life Memberships to Sourav Ganguly, ChuniGoswami, Dr Vece Paes, Prasenjit Chatterjee and Deb
Shankar Halder. The awards will be given away on Mohun Bagan Day on July 29. July 29 is celebrated as
the ‘Mohun Bagan Day’ because on this day in 1911, the Mariners became the first club to defeat a British
club, East Yorkshire Regiment, and lift the IFA Shield.
72. The scientists of which country have developed a method to convert Jute fibre into low-cost
bio-degradable cellulose sheets?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Myanmar
[C] India
[D] Bangladesh
Correct Answer: D [Bangladesh ]
Notes:
Scientists in Bangladesh have developed a method to convert Jute fibre into low-cost bio-degradable
cellulose sheets named ‘Sonali’ which can be used as wrapping material and carrying bag. The Eco-
friendly jute poly bags made up of Sonali can be used in garments and food packaging work and they are
not harmful for human health. The commercial production of these bags is likely to start by the year-
end. The main challenge in the large scale adoption of Sonali sheet is the relatively high cost of
production which is almost double that of polythene. However, production on a large scale is expected to
bring down the cost.
73. Who has been appointed next Vice Chief of Indian Army?
[A] Manoj Mukund Naravane
[B] I S Ghuman
[C] A S Kler
[D] Cherish Matheson
Correct Answer: A [Manoj Mukund Naravane]
Notes:
Lt Gen. Manoj Mukund Naravane appointed next Vice Chief of Indian Army. He will succeed Lt Gen
Devraj Anbu who is slated to retire on August 31. Lt Gen Naravane will be in contention for the Army
chief’s post as he will be the senior-most commander when incumbent Gen Bipin Rawat retires on
December 31. In his 37 years of service, Lt Gen Naravane has served in numerous command and staff
appointments in peace, field and highly active counter insurgency environments. He has also
commanded a Rashtriya Rifles Battalion in Jammu and Kashmir and an Infantry Brigade on the eastern
front.
74. On which date, the 159th Income Tax Day (ITD-2019) is celebrated in India?
[A] July 25
[B] July 26
[C] July 24
[D] July 23
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 99
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Correct Answer: C [July 24]


Notes:
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has celebrated the 159th Income Tax Day i.e. Aaykar Diwas on
24th July 2019. The week preceding the Aaykar Diwas 2019 has been marked by various activities
undertaken by the regional offices of the department across the country. The event will include release
of departmental publications, e-journal, publicity kit for outreach programmes among other things. It
was on 24th July 1860 that Income Tax was introduced for the first time in India by Sir James Wilson to
compensate for the losses incurred by the British regime during the first war of independence against
British Rule. This is why 24th July is observed as the Income Tax Day.
75. Which state government has decided to bring legislation for ensuring Journalists’ job security?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Odisha
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [West Bengal]
Notes:
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee led West Bengal government has decided to bring legislation in the
Assembly for ensuring the job security of Journalists in the State. The legislation aims at social security
of Journalist. Besides, it will deal with the issues of retrenchment of Journalists and closure of TV
channels and Newspapers publication houses.
76. Which IIT has developed an AI app CARE4U for elderly people?
[A] IIT Kanpur
[B] IIT Kharagpur
[C] IIT Bombay
[D] IIT Madras
Correct Answer: B [IIT Kharagpur]
Notes:
In a move to help geriatric care, students of IIT Kharagpur have built an app which will inform the
caregiver when the elderly person falls down with the exact location. The app named ‘CARE4U’ will
connect the caregiver to the elderly person. The neural network-based fall detection algorithm in the
app installed on the phone of the elderly can detect whether the elderly has fallen down. If there is a fall,
it automatically calls the caregiver and emergency services with the location of the elderly person.
CARE4U can also detect emotions and whenever the elderly opens the app, the phone takes his picture
and a mood index is calculated. This detects whether the person is sad or not and automatically updates
the caregiver with the time stamp. The caregiver can check what mood the senior citizen has been
through in the day. To make this feature more effective the team has developed a cognitive intelligent
chatbot for the elderly person to engage with.
77. Who is the head of the reconstituted Group of Ministers (GoM) on sexual harassment at
workplace?
[A] Ramesh Pokhriyal
[B] Smriti Irani
[C] Nirmala Sitharaman
[D] Amit Shah
Correct Answer: D [Amit Shah]
Notes:
The Government of India (GoM) has reconstituted the Group of Ministers (GoM), under the
chairmanship of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, looking after the issues of how to prevent sexual
harassment at workplace and strengthen legal frameworks. The other members of the reconstituted
GoM are: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ and Women
and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani. The GoM was set up to examine and give
recommendations for strengthening the legal and institutional frameworks to deal with and prevent
sexual harassment at workplace in October 2018.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 100


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

78. Which state has become the first Indian State to reserve 75% private jobs for local youths?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Kerala
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
Andhra Pradesh has become the first Indian State to reserve 75% jobs for local youths in all private
industries. The state assembly has recently passed the Andhra Pradesh Employment of Local Candidates
in Industries/Factories Act of 2019, which reserves 75% jobs in industrial units, factories, joint ventures
and projects set up under public-private partnership mode. According to the new law, if a company does
not find the necessary skills in locals, then it will need to train them in association with the state
government. In this way, no company will be able to hide behind the excuse of not finding skilled local
labourers. The act will ensure the employment of youth in the state but at the same time, the state will
have to ramp up the training centres in order to make them skillful.
79. Which IIT has developed ‘Agricopter’ to eliminate manual spraying of pesticides in agricultural
farms?
[A] IIT Delhi
[B] IIT Madras
[C] IIT Indore
[D] IIT Bombay
Correct Answer: B [IIT Madras]
Notes:
The students at the IIT Madras have developed a smart agricopter to eliminate manual spraying of
pesticides in agricultural fields and help identify crop health by using a imaging camera. The innovation
will allow spraying pesticides 10 times faster and with 100% precision at the same cost as manual
spraying. The current version of Project Smart Agricopter is a hexacopter drone with the capacity to
carry 15 liters of pesticide.
80. Who is the head of the Cryptocurrency panel that proposes ban on private digital currencies?
[A] Nirmala Sitharaman
[B] Subhash Chandra Garg
[C] N K Singh
[D] Anurag Thakur
Correct Answer: B [Subhash Chandra Garg]
Notes:
The Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) set up to look into the legality of cryptocurrencies and
blockchain has recently submitted its report to the Finance Ministry and recommended that private
cryptocurrencies be banned completely in India. It has also drafted a law, the ‘Banning of
Cryptocurrency & Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill, 2019’, which mandates a fine and
imprisonment of up to 10 years for offences. The committee was formed under the Chairmanship of
Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg. The draft law says that anybody who mines,
generates, holds, sells, deals in; transfers, disposes of or issues cryptocurrencies with will face a fine
and/or jail time of between 1 and 10 years. The fine has been set at the either three times the loss or harm
caused by a person, or three times the gain made by the person, whichever is higher.
81. Who officially took over charge as new British Prime Minister?
[A] Jeremy Corbyn
[B] Boris Johnson
[C] Jeremy Hunt
[D] Nigel Farage
Correct Answer: B [Boris Johnson]

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 101


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Notes:
Boris Johnson, the former foreign secretary and London Mayor, has officially took over the charge as
new British Prime Minister after Theresa May handed in her resignation to the Queen at Buckingham
Palace. He promised to leave the European Union (EU) on 31st October 2019 under a “new deal, a better
deal” with the 28-member economic bloc. Mr Johnson is expected to use the opportunity to increase the
number of women in full cabinet positions and boost the representation of ethnic minorities.
82. Who has been appointed Britain’s first Indian-origin home secretary?
[A] Shailesh Vara
[B] Priti Patel
[C] Indarjit Singh
[D] Virendra Sharma
Correct Answer: B [Priti Patel]
Notes:
Priti Patel, a prominent member of the Back Boris campaign for the Conservative Party leadership, has
become the Britain’s first Indian-origin home secretary as part of new Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s
top team. She succeeded Pakistani-origin Sajid Javid, who moves to the Treasury department as the first
ethnic minority Chancellor of the Exchequer. Mr Javid, a former banker from a modest background, was
a contender for the premiership but endorsed Johnson when he failed to get enough support from fellow
Conservative MPs. Mr Johnson has also named Brexit hardliner Dominic Raab as the country’s Foreign
Secretary.
83. Indian Railway’s first printing press heritage gallery has opened in which city?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Kolkata
[C] Delhi
[D] Chennai
Correct Answer: A [Mumbai]
Notes:
The Western Railway (WR) has opened the first-of-its-kind printing press heritage gallery of the Indian
Railways at Mahalaxmi in Mumbai. With this, the Western Railway Mahalaxmi General Stores Depot
(GSD) has become the first in Indian Railways to portray a heritage gallery of the printing and allied
machines used in the Western Railway Printing Press since 1948, which are still in working condition.
The GSD Mahalaxmi is spread over 12,171 sq meter area, which is a British-era single-storey building
made with black stone having interiors made with wood, has its own beauty and uniqueness. The press
came into existence in 1912 under the Greater Indian Peninsular Railway (GIP) Bombay, as the railway
needed stationery and tickets to run the operations.
84. Who has been appointed the new Union Home Secretary of Government of India (GoI)?
[A] Subhash Chandra Garg
[B] Anshu Prakash
[C] Atanu Chakraborty
[D] Ajay Kumar Bhalla
Correct Answer: D [Ajay Kumar Bhalla]
Notes:
Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the1984-batch Assam Meghalaya cadre IAS officer , has been appointed Officer on
Special Duty (OSD) to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) with immediate effect. He will take over as
Home Secretary from incumbent Rajive Gauba. Mr. Bhalla will have a fixed two-year tenure as Union
Home Secretary till August 2021. Excerpts of the major reshuffle in the senior bureaucracy: Subhash
Chandra Garg has been shifted to the Power Ministry as Secretary, while Gujarat cadre IAS officer Atanu
Chakraborty has been made new Economic Affairs Secretary. Anshu Prakash has been appointed new
Secretary of Telecommunications. This is the first reshuffle in the top bureaucracy after the
parliamentary polls that saw return of the Narendra Modi government with thumping majority. The
reshuffle includes IAS officers of 1984, 1985 and 1986 batches.
85. What is the India’s rank in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2019?

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 102


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[A] 64th
[B] 52nd
[C] 45th
[D] 33rd
Correct Answer: B [52nd ]
Notes:
India has improved its rank by five places to stand at 52nd in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2019 of
the world’s most innovative economies and maintained its position as the top exporter of IT services.
The list continues to be topped by Switzerland while Israel finds its place in the top ten for the first time.
The latest GII ranking shows that India has constantly been maintaining its leadership position as the
most innovative country in Central and South Asia region every year since 2011. The GII ranks 129
economies based on 80 indicators, ranging from intellectual property filing rates to mobile-application
creation, education spending and scientific and technical publications. The rankings are published
annually by Cornell University, INSEAD and the UN World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO)
and GII Knowledge Partners.
86. Which RBI deputy governor has been assigned to run the monetary policy portfolio?
[A] Viral Acharya
[B] M K Jain
[C] N S Vishwanathan
[D] B P Kanungo
Correct Answer: D [B P Kanungo]
Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has assigned deputy governor B.P. Kanungo to run the monetary policy
portfolio after the resignation of fellow deputy governor Viral Acharya. Kanungo would become the 6th
member of the RBI’s Monetary Policy Committee, which will next convene on 5-7 August. He will also
retain his currency management portfolio. Now, all the other three deputy governors — N S
Vishwanathan, B P Kanungo and M K Jain — have been made responsible for 12 departments each.
87. Which state government has decided to ply ‘water taxis’ in its inland waterways?
[A] Kerala
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Goa
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: C [Goa]
Notes:
In a first, the Goa government has decided to ply ‘water taxis’ in its inland waterways between Panaji
and Old Goa. The announcement was made while tabling the performance budget of the River
Navigation department (RND) for the financial year 2019-2020. The department also plans to upgrade
existing ferry ramps and jetties and provide better facilities on all the ferry routes. The RND has a fleet
of 34 ferry boats which cater to different inland routes, connecting islands to the mainstream areas. The
Central government’s Sagarmala project has also funded reconstruction of 9 jetties in Goa. A flagship
programme of the Ministry of Shipping, the Sagarmala project aims to promote port-led development by
exploiting India’s 7,500 km long coastline, 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways and its
strategic location on international maritime trade routes.
88. Ehsan Mania, who has been appointed chief of the ICC’s Finance & Commercial Affairs (F&CA),
is from which country?
[A] Afghanistan
[B] New Zealand
[C] Pakistan
[D] England
Correct Answer: C [Pakistan ]
Notes:
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 103
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Ehsan Mania, the current Chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has been appointed chief of the
ICC’s influential Finance & Commercial Affairs (F&CA). The move may not be music to Indian board’s
(BCCI) ears. The fear within the Indian cricket circles is that it could pit India against Pakistan in the
corridors of the game’s administration in the near future. F&CA is one of the ICC’s most important
committees & is responsible for designing budgets for ICC events and distributing money to its member
countries.
89. Who has been appointed the new national coach of the Indian table tennis team?
[A] Veselin Matic
[B] Igor Stimac
[C] Dejan Papic
[D] Harendra Singh
Correct Answer: C [Dejan Papic]
Notes:
Dejan Papic from Canada has been appointed the new national coach of the Indian table tennis team. He
accepted the one-year contract that was offered to him by the Sports Authority of India (SAI). He will be
paid USD 7000 per month and his contract will be up for renewal after the Tokyo Olympics. The Indian
team has been playing without a coach since the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta. Without a coach, the team
suffered a lot of defeats in several important tournaments. However, in the recently concluded 2019
Commonwealth Table Tennis Championship, India won the gold medal in all categories.
90. On which date, National Broadcasting day (NBD) is celebrated in India?
[A] July 23
[B] July 24
[C] July 26
[D] July 25
Correct Answer: A [July 23]
Notes:
In India, the National Broadcasting day (NBD) is celebrated every year on 23rd of July because on this
day, in 1927, the radio broadcasting was started. The first ever radio broadcast in the country went on
the air from the Bombay Station under a private company – the Indian Broadcasting Company (IBC). It
was started by the British Viceroy of India Lord Irwin. Since 1927, radio has been an important part in
people’s life in India. On 8th of June 1936, the Indian State Broadcasting Service became All India Radio
(AIR). The AIR has been serving to inform, educate and entertain the masses since it’s inception, truly
living up to its motto – Bahujan Hitaya Bahujan Sukhaya. The AIR is one of the largest public
broadcasting organizations in the world. It has 414 stations in 23 languages and broadcasts in 179
dialects.
91. India’s first dragon blood-oozing tree has recently discovered in which state?
[A] Assam
[B] Kerala
[C] Nagaland
[D] Tripura
Correct Answer: A [Assam ]
Notes:
The research team led by Assam forest officer Jatindra Sarma has discovered Dracaena cambodiana – a
dragon tree species in the Dongka Sarpo area of West Karbi Anglong. Researchers took 4 years of
fieldwork and study to classify the plant as a dragon tree species whose sap turns bright red after
coming in contact with air. This is for the first time that a dragon tree species has been reported from
India. Dracaena cambodiana is an important medicinal plant as well as an ornamental tree. It is a major
source of dragon’s blood, a precious traditional medicine in China. Several antifungal and antibacterial
compounds, antioxidants, flavonoids, etc., have been extracted from various parts of the plant. In India,
the Dracaena genus belonging to the family Asparagaceae is represented by nine species and two
varieties in the Himalayan region, the northeast and Andaman and Nicobar Islands. But Dracaena
cambodiana is the only true dragon tree species.
92. Who is the author of the book ‘Fire and Fury Corps — Saga of Valour, Fortitude and Sacrifice’?
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 104
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[A] Brij Mohan Kaul


[B] Ranbir Singh
[C] Mukund Naravane
[D] D Anbu
Correct Answer: B [Ranbir Singh]
Notes:
The book titled ‘Fire and Fury Corps — Saga of Valour, Fortitude and Sacrifice’ has been authored by
Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ranbir Singh. The book is showcasing the history and
achievements of the Fire and Fury Corps which guards the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual
Control (LAC) in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). It documents the courage and bravery of
the Fire and Fury Warriors and portrays the rich heritage and ethos of the Indian Army. The book also
covers the serenity and mysticism of Ladakh and its people, as a tribute to the symbiotic relationship
shared by the Indian Army and the people of Ladakh region.
93. Which company has become the official sponsor for the Indian cricket team?
[A] BYJU’s
[B] Jio
[C] Vedantu
[D] Airtel
Correct Answer: A [BYJU’s ]
Notes:
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has recently announced that Bengaluru-based
educational technology and online tutorial firm Byju’s has replaced Chinese mobile manufacturer Oppo
as the official Team India sponsor. The deal period will begin from 5 September, 2019 until 31 March,
2022. BYJU’s is a leading education and learning app and has superstar Shah Rukh Khan as its brand
ambassador. Byju’s will now be seen on the Indian team jersey from September 2019 when the home
series against South Africa begin.
94. SUPARCO is the official space agency of which country?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Myanmar
[C] Bangladesh
[D] Pakistan
Correct Answer: D [Pakistan]
Notes:
The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) is an executive and bureaucratic
space agency of the Government of Pakistan. It is responsible for the nation’s public and civil space
programme and for aeronautics and aerospace research. It is in news because the space agency has
recently announced that it will send its first astronaut to space in 2022 using ally China’s satellite
launching facilities. Pakistan’s decision came as India on July 22 successfully launched its second lunar
mission Chandrayaan 2.
95. India’s first space war drill “IndSpaceEx” has kick started in which city?
[A] Kochi
[B] Visakhapatnam
[C] New Delhi
[D] Nellore
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi]
Notes:
India’s first space war drill ‘IndSpaceEx’ has kick started by Indian armed forces in New Delhi on July 25
and 26. The aim of the exercise is to assess imminent threats to the nation beyond earth. It also plans on
drafting a joint space doctrine for future battles. The development comes on the background of China’s
growing influence in space defence and counter-space capabilities.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 105


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

96. How many companies are honoured with the 2019 CSR Journal Excellence Awards?
[A] 5
[B] 6
[C] 7
[D] 4
Correct Answer: B [6]
Notes:
Six companies — Tata Power, ReNew Power, Hindustan Zinc, Aditya Birla Capital Ltd., YES Bank Ltd.
and Mahindra & Mahindra — emerged winners in the CSR Journal Excellence Awards. In the 3rd edition
of awards, there were six categories — education and skill training, women empowerment and child
welfare, agriculture and rural development, sports, health and sanitation and environment. The awards
are instituted by The CSR Journal, a digital and print news publication. The theme of the event was
‘India First’.
97. Beji Caid Essebsi, who passed away recently, was the President of which African country?
[A] Congo
[B] Tunisia
[C] South Africa
[D] Nigeria
Correct Answer: B [Tunisia]
Notes:
Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi (92), the North African country’s first democratically elected leader,
has passed away on July 25, 2019. He was the world’s oldest sitting president. Essebsi won Tunisia’s first
free elections in 2014 following Arab uprisings across the region. As president, Essebsi largely
maintained stability in Tunisia. Tunisia has won praise as the only democracy to emerge from the
revolutions of the so-called Arab spring.
98. Which state has become No. 1 in implementation of Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana
(PMSBY)?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Odisha
[C] Punjab
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Uttar Pradesh]
Notes:
Uttar Pradesh has become number one in implementation of Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana
(PMSBY) in the country. As per the statement released by state government, 1.95 crores people have
been given insurance cover under the scheme till 31 march 2019. The implementation of this ambitious
central government scheme started in state from January 2018 under which people between age group
of 18 to 70 get accidental insurance cover of Rs. 2 lakh by paying a nominal premium of Rs 12 annually.
Beside this, Uttar Pradesh stands second in the country in the implementation of Pradhan Mantri Jeevan
Jyoti Beema Yojana (PMJJBY). The PMJJBY is a life insurance scheme that provides a life cover of Rs.2
lakh at Rs.330/year. It is available to people in the age group of 18 to 50 years having a bank account who
give their consent to join / enable auto-debit.
99. The researchers at which Indian organisation have discovered 28 new stars in Milky Way
galaxy?
[A] VSSC
[B] BARC
[C] ISRO
[D] ARIES
Correct Answer: D [ARIES]
Notes:

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 106


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

The Indian scientists at the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) have
recently discovered 28 new variable stars in the Milky Way galaxy using 3.6 metre Devasthal Optical
Telescope (DOT) established in 2016 near Nainital. The ARIES team of researchers was led by Dr. Sneh
Lata and Dr. A K Pandey. It is for the first time that variable stars have been identified in Globular cluster
NGC 4147 in the constellation of Coma Berenices. Besides the detection of new variable stars, the study
also provides important insights into the internal structure of NGC 4147 which is located closer to the
Earth than previously thought. A variable star is a star whose luminosity or brightness changes. This
change may be caused due to periodical swelling and shrinking of the star or occasional block of light
due to an eclipse by some other solar body. NGC 4147 was discovered by British astronomer William
Herschel in 1784. A globular cluster is a spherical collection of stars that orbit a galactic core, as a
satellite. Globular clusters are very tightly bound by gravity, which gives them their spherical shapes,
and relatively high stellar densities towards their centres.
100. The National Institute of Miners’ Health (NIMH), works under which union ministry?
[A] Ministry of Women and Child Development
[B] Ministry of Railways
[C] Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoH&FW)
[D] Ministry of Mines
Correct Answer: D [Ministry of Mines]
Notes:
The National Institute of Miners’ Health (NIMH), an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Mines
(MoM), has been dissolved and merged with the ICMR-National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH),
Ahmedabad with all assets and liabilities. All the employees of NIMH will be absorbed in NIOH in the
similar post/pay scale as the case may be and their pay be protected. The merger / amalgamation of
NIMH with NIOH will prove beneficial to both the Institutes in term of enhanced expertise in the field of
occupational health besides the efficient management of public money. The ICMR – NIOH works under
Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoH&FW).
101. Who is the newly appointed chairperson of National Anti-profiteering Authority (NAA)?
[A] Badri Narain Sharma
[B] Amand Shah
[C] R Bhagyadevi
[D] J C Chauhan
Correct Answer: A [Badri Narain Sharma]
Notes:
Badri Narain Sharma, a Rajasthan cadre IAS officer of 1985 batch, has been re-appointed as chairman of
the National Anti-profiteering Authority (NAA) for next two years. The NAA ensures that consumers get
benefit of reduced prices under the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The NAA has been constituted under
Section 171 of the Central GST Act of 2017 to ensure that the reduction in rate of tax or the benefit of
input tax credit is passed on to the recipient by way of commensurate reduction in prices. The NAA has
the power to cancel registration of any entity or business if it fails to pass on to consumers the benefit of
lower taxes under the GST regime, but it would probably be the last step against any violator.
102. Who is the author of the book “Chandra Shekhar – The Last Icon of Ideological Politics”?
[A] Rama Devi
[B] Harivansh
[C] Bhupesh Baghel
[D] Snehlata Shrivastava
Correct Answer: B [Harivansh ]
Notes:
The book titled ‘Chandra Shekhar – The Last Icon of Ideological Politics‘ has been authored by Rajya
Sabha deputy chairman Harivansh and writer Ravi Dutt Bajpai. The book was recently launched by
Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Balayogi Auditorium, Parliament Library Building. It chronicles
the journey of former PM Chandra Shekhar from his humble lower middle-class background to
becoming one of the most prominent political icons of India.
103. Securitypedia has been launched by which Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) of India?
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 107
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[A] SSB
[B] ITBP
[C] BSF
[D] CISF
Correct Answer: D [CISF]
Notes:
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched a customised video interface – CISFTube – on
the lines of YouTube and an on-line encyclopedia “Securitypedia” on the lines of Wikipedia to update its
personnel about security related issues, best practices in forces and latest technologies available across
the world. Securitypedia is an on-line encyclopedia which incorporates a wide gamut of security related
practices across the globe. It is not just a static website containing data archives but is more of a
dynamic platform where a force member can contribute by writing blogs on relevant security related
professional issues. CISF Tube is an online video database of all videos relevant to CISF. The videos
available on CISF Tube enable CISF personnel to learn on various subjects related to their functioning.
104. Which state has topped in solar rooftop installations?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: A [Gujarat]
Notes:
In the area of solar rooftop installations, Gujarat has stood first in the country with total 261.97
megawatts (MW) of installed rooftop solar capacity as on July 23, 2019. Gujarat is followed by
Maharashtra (198.52 MW) and Tamil Nadu (151.62 MW), respectively. As per the Central government
data, the total rooftop solar installations in India are 1700.54 MW. The Government of India (GoI) has set
a target of installation of 40,000 MW of Rooftop Solar (RTS) projects by the year 2022 in the country
including installation of RTS on rooftop of houses.
105. Attoor Ravi Varma, who passed away recently, was the renowned poet and translator of
which language?
[A] Tamil
[B] Malayalam
[C] Telugu
[D] Kannada
Correct Answer: B [Malayalam ]
Notes:
Attoor Ravi Varma (88), the well-known poet and translator, has passed away in Thrissur, Kerala on July
26, 2019. He was considered as one of the pioneers of modern Malayalam poetry. He was recipient of
many prestigious awards, including the Ezhuthachan Puraskaram, Ashan Award, Kerala Sahitya
Akademi Award, and Kendra Sahitya Academy Award. His poems ignored metre and used free verse. His
major works include Kavitha; Attur Ravi Varmayude Kavithakal (1957-1994); Attur Ravi Varmayude
Kavithakal (1995-2003); J.J. Chila Kurippukal; Oru Pulimarathinte Katha; Nale Mattoru Nal Matram;
Randam Yamangalude Katha; and Puthunaanooru: Thamizh Kavithakalude Mozhimattam.
106. Who is set to become the first ever recipient of Tribute Actor Award at TIFF 2019?
[A] Leonardo DiCaprio
[B] Kirk Douglas
[C] Meryl Streep
[D] Ellen DeGeneres
Correct Answer: C [Meryl Streep]
Notes:
Veteran star Meryl Streep will become the first-ever recipient of the TIFF Tribute Actor award at the
44th Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF-2019). She will receive the award in person on 9th
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 108
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

September for her tremendous contribution to cinema, television and the stage spans five decades.
Streep is a 3-time Oscar winner for ‘The Iron Lady’, ‘Sophie’s Choice and Kramer vs. Kramer. She
previously scored an Emmy win for her leading role in HBO’s miniseries adaptation of ‘Angels in
America’. The actor’s next film “The Laundromat”, about the Panama Papers scandal, is among the films
that will be screened at the famed festival.
107. Which Arab nation has recently launched its first Underwater Military Museum?
[A] Kuwait
[B] Saudi Arabia
[C] Jordan
[D] Oman
Correct Answer: C [Jordan ]
Notes:
Jordan has recently launched its first Underwater Military Museum on the bed of Red Sea off the coast
of Aqaba. The dive Site includes several tanks, an ambulance, a military crane, a troop carrier, an anti-
aircraft battery, guns and a combat helicopter. The kingdom is hoping the 19 decommissioned pieces of
military hardware, submerged at depths up to 28 metres (92 feet), will attract tourists to the already
popular diving resort of Aqaba. The aim of the museum is to offer a new and unique museum experience
where adventure-loving tourists can experience the interaction between sports, the environment and
the display pieces. Coral reefs in the northern Red Sea are a popular destination for divers and other
tourists due to its good health despite global reef depletion due to global warming.
108. The GST Council has decided to reduce GST Rate on Electrical Vehicles from 12% to how
much per cent?
[A] 10%
[B] 8%
[C] 5%
[D] 6%
Correct Answer: C [5%]
Notes:
In a bid to promote electric mobility, the GST Council has decided to reduce GST Rate on Electrical
Vehicles from 12% to 5% and on charger or charging stations for Electric vehicles from 18% to 5%. The
new rates will come into effect from the 1st of August 2019. The Council also approved an exemption
from GST on the hiring of Electric Buses by local authorities. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman held
the meeting through video conferencing. This is the first GST Council meeting after the presentation of
2019 Union Budget in Parliament on 5th of July.
109. Which Indian economist has unveiled an account aggregator model “Sahamati”?
[A] Amartya Sen
[B] Raghuram Rajan
[C] Nandan Nilekani
[D] Jagdish Bhagwati
Correct Answer: C [Nandan Nilekani]
Notes:
Aadhaar architect Nandan Nilekani has launched an account aggregator model – Sahamati – via which,
individuals and small businesses can share their digital financial data with third-parties in a safe and
secure manner. For example, a user seeking a loan will be able to quickly share bank statements and
other details required by lending institutions digitally through their choice of preferred Account
Aggregator (AA). So far, six AAs have received in-principle approval from the RBI. These include NESL
Asset Data, CAMS Finserv Financial Services, Cookiejar Technologies Pvt Ltd, FinSec AA Solutions Pvt
Ltd, Yodlee Finsoft Pvt Ltd, and Jio Information Solutions. In order to support the ecosystem, Sahamati
has been formed as a Section 8 non-profit. It will be headed by BG Mahesh who founded OneIndia.com.
Sahamati will apply for the SRO (self-regulatory organisation) licence with the Reserve Bank of India
(RBI), which will give it a self-governing body status, allowing it to work on a code of conduct and best
practices for member organizations. The technology framework was developed by non-profit iSpirt.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 109


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

110. The researchers at which IIT have developed a novel molecular framework for superbugs?
[A] IIT Bombay
[B] IIT Kanpur
[C] IIT Madras
[D] IIT Indore
Correct Answer: B [IIT Kanpur]
Notes:
The researchers at the IIT Kanpur and the Lucknow-based Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) have
designed a novel molecular framework to destroy superbugs, which are becoming increasingly resistant
to most known antibiotics. It would help drugs latch on to the germs and prevent them from
multiplying. For the study, the scientists used bacteria – Staphylococcus Aureus – which are frequently
found in the nostrils, upper respiratory tract and on the skin of nearly 30% of people. According to
researchers, a substance called gyrase is essential for bacteria’s survival and multiplication. In most
organisms, there are two types of gyrases — gyrase A and gyrase B. The new molecule targets gyrase B,
which is more conserved in organisms and hence difficult to mutate. The strategy is very attractive
because it makes it possible to destroy these bacteria with the same class of drugs to which they have
developed resistance.
111. The 3rd edition of Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG-2020) is scheduled to be held in which city?
[A] Kanpur
[B] Guwahati
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Chennai
Correct Answer: B [Guwahati]
Notes:
The third edition of Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG-2020) is scheduled to be held in Guwahati, Assam
from 18th January 2020. The Games will see participation of more than 10,000 athletes and officials. It
will be conducted in partnership with Indian Olympic Association (IOA), School Games Federation of
India & Assam as host State. The first edition was held in New Delhi, while Pune hosted the 2nd one in
2019.
112. The Hindu Economic Forum (HEF) has launched its national chapter in which country
recently?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Nepal
[C] Myanmar
[D] Thailand
Correct Answer: B [Nepal ]
Notes:
The Hindu Economic Forum (HEF) has launched its Nepal Chapter. On this occasion, the founder of
World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) Swami Vigyananand said economic empowerment is very
necessary to get due respect and recognition in the modern world. The basic objective of Nepal chapter
is to increase economic cooperation between India and Nepal and to connect the Himalayan nation with
a global network for its economic prosperity. HEF brings together financially successful elements within
Hindu society so that each group can share their business knowledge, expertise and resources with their
fellow brethren to trigger the creation of surplus wealth and make society prosperous. HEF is affiliated
with WHEF. It has national chapters in various countries like Bharat, Germany, Kenya etc. and city
chapters within those countries such as HEF-Mumbai, HEF-Washington DC etc.
113. The scientists at which IIT have developed two-finger robotic hand to help paralysed stroke
patients?
[A] IIT-Bombay
[B] IIT-Delhi
[C] IIT-Kanpur

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 110


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[D] IIT-Indore
Correct Answer: C [IIT-Kanpur]
Notes:
The scientists at the IIT-Kanpur have developed two-finger robotic hand (exoskeleton) to help paralysed
stroke patients. For the exoskeleton, Prof. Ashish Dutta and Prof. KS Venkatesh have partnered with the
University of Ulster (based in the United Kingdom) and their teacher Girijesh Prasad, who belongs to
Gorakhpur. The exoskeleton uses a four-bar mechanism and has four degrees of freedom (DOF). It can be
used by a patient on the hand. It uses brain signals, with the help of the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI)
that is worn on the head, and helps paralyzed patients to open and close the movement of their thumb,
forefinger and middle fingers for physical practice. The exoskeleton is operated by a MEGA
microcontroller of 300 Mhz and powered by a battery. The device will cost around Rs 15,000.
114. Which is the host country for the 2019 edition of World Hepatitis Day (WHD)?
[A] Bangladesh
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] India
[D] Pakistan
Correct Answer: D [Pakistan ]
Notes:
The World Hepatitis Day (WHD) is observed every year on 28rd of July to raise awareness about the
disease which causes inflammation of the liver and claims around 1.4 million lives every year. The date of
28 July was chosen because it is the birthday of Nobel-prize winning scientist Dr Baruch Blumberg, who
discovered hepatitis B virus (HBV) and developed a diagnostic test and vaccine for the virus. The host
country for WHD 2019 is Pakistan and the theme for this year is “Invest in eliminating hepatitis“.
Hepatitis is preventable, treatable, and in the case of hepatitis C, curable. However, over 80% of people
living with hepatitis are lacking prevention, testing and treatment services.
115. Jaipal Reddy, who passed away recently, was the veteran leader of which political party?
[A] INC
[B] BJP
[C] CPI
[D] BJD
Correct Answer: A [INC]
Notes:
Jaipal Reddy (77), the former Union Minister & Senior Congress leader, has passed away in Hyderabad
on July 28, 2019. He joined politics as a student leader of Osmania University and went on to become
Congress MLA in 1970s . In the wake of an upsurge of opposition to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi
after she imposed Emergency in the country, Reddy joined Janata Party and later Janata Dal in the
splinter groupings that took place. He rejoined Congress in 1999 and was elected to Lok Sabha from
Miryalguda in 2004. He won the next time in 2009 from Chevella constituency. He was Union Minister
in Federal front government earlier and Congress-led UPA I and UPA II regimes. He was elected to the
Lok Sabha four times and Rajya Sabha twice.
116. Which Union territory has recently got BCCI affiliation?
[A] A&N Islands
[B] Daman & Diu
[C] Puducherry
[D] Chandigarh
Correct Answer: D [Chandigarh ]
Notes:
After nearly four decades, Chandigarh has finally received affiliation from the Board of Control for
Cricket in India (BCCI). Now, the city can also have its own team in the Ranji Trophy and other domestic
tournaments organised by the BCCI. This was stated by Union Territory Cricket Association (UTCA)
President Sanjay Tandon. Following the development, Chandigarh cricketers, who were earlier forced to
represent Punjab or Haryana to be able to play at the national or international level, can now directly

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 111


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

represent the city. UTCA was registered in 1982 and since then various attempts were made to get the
affiliation. Delhi is the only other Union Territory with BCCI affiliation.
117. Who has been appointed as the new Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of the
Indian Army ?
[A] Anant Prasad Singh
[B] H S Panag
[C] Paramjit Singh
[D] K Ravi Prasad
Correct Answer: C [Paramjit Singh]
Notes:
Lt Gen Paramjit Singh, who has vast experience in counter-terror operations, will be the next Director
General of Military Operations (DGMO) of the Indian Army. He will succeed Lt Gen Anil Chauhan on
October 15. Currently, he is serving as General Officer Commanding of the Army’s Nagrota-based XVI
Corps. As DGMO, Lt Gen Singh will oversee various operations of the Indian Army including along the
LoC in Jammu and Kashmir. He has vast experience in high-altitude warfare, including a tenure at the
Siachen Glacier. He spent most of his career conducting counter insurgency operations in Jammu and
Kashmir, besides taking part in operations against the LTTE in Sri Lanka. He was also involved in the
planning of the 2016 surgical strikes on terror launch pads across the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu
and Kashmir.
118. Which Indian sand artist has won People’s Choice Award in US?
[A] Subodh Gupta
[B] Vivan Sundaram
[C] Akbar Padamsee
[D] Sudarsan Pattnaik
Correct Answer: D [Sudarsan Pattnaik]
Notes:
Renowned Indian sand artist and Padma Awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik has won the People’s Choice Award
at a prestigious sand sculpting festival in the United States. He won the award for his sand sculpture
‘Stop Plastic Pollution, Save Our Ocean’ at the 2019 Revere Beach International Sand Sculpting Festival
in Boston, Massachusetts. Pattnaik was the sole representative from India and Asia. The award-winning
sculpture showed a turtle caught in a plastic bag and a fish with plastic trash such as slippers, bottles
and glass inside its body. The tail of the fish is in the mouth of a human, signifying how plastic pollution
in the oceans is adversely impacting human beings also when they consume sea food.
119. Which Indian woman boxer has won gold in the 51kg category at the 23rd President’s Cup?
[A] Laishram Sarita Devi
[B] Ankushita Boro
[C] Simranjit Kaur
[D] Mary Kom
Correct Answer: D [Mary Kom]
Notes:
Six-time world champion & Olympic bronze medallist, MC Mary Kom claimed gold in the 51kg category
at the 23rd President’s Cup by defeating Australia’s April Franks by 5-0. She asserted her supremacy in a
lop-sided 51kg bout final in Labuan Bajo, Indonesia. The 36-year-old Indian had also won a gold medal at
the India Open boxing tournament in May 2019. She is looking to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in
the World Championships in Yekaterinburg, Russia. The 2019 World Boxing Championships for women
will be held from September 7 to 21.
120. The 5th International Dharma-Dhamma conference was held in which city?
[A] Dharamshala
[B] Patna
[C] Rajgir
[D] Shimla
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 112
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Correct Answer: C [Rajgir]


Notes:
The 5th International Dharma-Dhamma conference was held in Rajgir, Bihar from 27-28 July 2019.
Approx 200 delegates from 15 countries participated in the conference. The main purpose of this
conference was to address people about the terror, violence and global warming prevalent in the world.
This two-day conference addressed the subjects of Sat-Chit-Ananda and Nirvana which are the pivotal
topics of Buddhism. The Dharma-Dhamma conference will act as a platform for the Hindu and Buddhist
thinkers to express their views.
121. India’s 7th Economic Census has started from which state?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Meghalaya
[C] Nagaland
[D] Tripura
Correct Answer: D [Tripura]
Notes:
On 30th July 2019, the Government of India (GoI) has kick off the 7th Economic Census from Tripura. It
will be launched in other states and union territories in August and September. The census is being
conducted by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) & will be held this year
after a gap of five years. The ministry has partnered with CSC e-Governance Services India Limited, a
Special Purpose Vehicle under the Ministry of Electronics and Information. The census would also cover
all establishments, including household enterprises, engaged in production or distribution of goods and
services. The data will be collected through door to door survey of each household and commercial
establishment under the provisions of Collection of Statistics Act 2008. The fieldwork is expected to be
completed by December and the results at the national level is expected to be available by March 2020.
The economic census is the only source of information on the significantly large unorganized sector in
the country. As per the last Economic Census conducted in 2013, there were 58.5 million establishments
employing around 131 million workers.
122. The 22nd National Conference on e-Governance 2019 is scheduled to be held in which North-
Eastern state of India ?
[A] Tripura
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Meghalaya
[D] Nagaland
Correct Answer: C [Meghalaya]
Notes:
The 22nd National Conference on e-Governance 2019 will be held with the theme “Digital India: Success
to Excellence” on 8-9th August 2019 at Shillong, Meghalaya. It is being organized by Department of
Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), in association with Union Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and the State Government of Meghalaya. This is the
first time that the event is being organized in the North-Eastern region of the country. The conference
will provide a platform to disseminate knowledge on effective methods of designing and implementing
sustainable e-Governance initiatives to provide end-to-end Digital services, exchange experience in
solving problems, mitigating risks, resolving issues and planning for success. The Conference at Shillong
is part of the DARPG’s 100 days initiatives in the new Union Government. 28 States and 8 Union
Territories will participate in the 22nd National e-Governance Conference. Over 450 delegates are
expected to attend the Conference.
123. The scientists of which country have developed a statistical model that predict pollution
levels using oceans’ memory?
[A] China & United States
[B] India & France
[C] Poland & Italy
[D] France & Germany

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 113


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Correct Answer: A [China & United States]


Notes:
Researchers from China and the U.S. have developed a novel computer model that can help accurately
predict air pollution levels in the region a season in advance. The statistical model uses certain climatic
patterns related to the oceans which have a regulatory effect on the wintertime air pollution over
northern India. The new model could allow the government to forecast aerosol pollution conditions in
winter and accordingly improve plans for pollution control. The study found that the inter-annual
variability of wintertime aerosol pollution over northern India is regulated mainly by a combination of El
Nino — a climate cycle in the Pacific Ocean with a global impact on weather patterns — and the
Antarctic Oscillation (AAO), a low-frequency mode of atmospheric variability of the southern
hemisphere. Both El Nino sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies and AAO-induced anomalies can
persist from autumn to winter, offering prospects for a pre-winter forecast of wintertime aerosol
pollution over northern India.
124. Donkupar Roy, who passed away recently, was the speaker of which state assembly?
[A] Odisha
[B] Meghalaya
[C] West Bengal
[D] Nagaland
Correct Answer: B [Meghalaya]
Notes:
Dr. Donkupar Roy (64), the current Meghalaya Assembly Speaker and former Chief Minister of the state,
has passed away in Gurugram on July 28, 2019. Donkupar Roy – who headed the United Democratic
Party (UDP) – was seen as one of the most influential politicians from the Khasi community. The UDP
was a key partner in the Conrad Sangma’s National People’s Party-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance
(MDA) government.
125. Who has been appointed chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC)?
[A] Meenakshi Lekhi
[B] Girish Bhalchandra Bapat
[C] Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury
[D] Kirit Premjibhai Solanki
Correct Answer: C [Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury]
Notes:
Congress floor leader in the Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury has been appointed chairman of the
Public Accounts Committee (PAC). Chowdhury is the lone member of the party in the PAC from the
House. The appointment was made by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The PAC has 15 members from the
Lok Sabha and seven from Rajya Sabha. It is one of the most important finance committees in the
Parliament along with the Estimates committee (EC) and Committee on Public Undertakings (COPU).
The purpose of PAC is to audit the revenue and the expenditure of the Government of India (GoI). Beside
this, the Estimates Committee (EC) will be headed by Girish Bhalchandra Bapat, COPU will be headed by
Meenakshi Lekhi and Committee on Welfare of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes will be headed by
Kirit Premjibhai Solanki.
126. Who has been appointed as the new Director General (DG) of Border Security Force (BSF)?
[A] Rajesh Chandra
[B] VK Johri
[C] S S Deswal
[D] Rajiv Rai Bhatnagar
Correct Answer: B [VK Johri]
Notes:
VK Johri, a 1984-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of Madhya Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as
the new Director General (DG) of Border Security Force (BSF). He will take over the charge of the BSF
from incumbent Rajni Kanti Mishra, who retires on August 31. Johri is presently serving as the Special
Secretary in the external intelligence agency RAW, under the Cabinet Secretariat. He will attain
superannuation in September, 2020. The BSF is the India’s largest border guarding force and is tasked to
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 114
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

secure two of India’s most important and sensitive fronts with Pakistan and Bangladesh. The two other
border guarding forces are ITBP (China) and SSB (Nepal and Bhutan).
127. The Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) is slated to be launch by which union ministry?
[A] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
[B] Ministry of Earth Sciences
[C] Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
[D] Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Earth Sciences]
Notes:
The Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) has finally got the green signal from the Government of India (GoI). It is
five-year, Rs 8000-crore plan to explore the deepest recesses of the ocean & will be launched by the
Union Ministry of Earth Sciences. The mission proposes to explore the deep ocean similar to the space
exploration started by ISRO about 35 years ago. A major thrust of the mission will be looking for metals
and minerals. India has been allotted a site of 75,000 sq. km. in the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB) by
the UN International Sea Bed Authority for exploitation of Poly-Metallic Nodules (PMN). These are rocks
scattered on the seabed containing iron, manganese, nickel and cobalt. It has been estimated that 380
million metric tonnes of PMN are available at the bottom of the seas in the Central Indian Ocean (CIO).
128. Which country has been invited as a partner country for Gita Jayanti Mahotsav 2019 of India?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Nepal
[C] Indonesia
[D] Thailand
Correct Answer: B [Nepal]
Notes:
Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has invited Nepal to be the partner country for the ‘Gita
Jayanti Mahotsav 2019’ scheduled to be held at Kurukshetra. He extended the invitation to Ambassador
of Nepal to India Nilamber Acharya. The Geeta Jayanti falls on the Shukla Ekadashi of the waxing phase
of Moon in the Hindu month of Margashirsha. It symbolizes the birth of Shrimad Bhagavad-Gita, the
sacred text of the Hindus. The Geeta Jayanti Mahotsav possesses huge significance and importance as it
is regarded as the birthday of Bhagavad-Gita which is considered as the most pious and influential
scriptures of Hindu mythology. It comprises political, spiritual, psychological, practical and
philosophical values. Thus, to commemorate the sacred day when Lord Krishna offered his philosophical
teachings to King Arjuna during the battle of Kurukshetra, people celebrate Gita Jayanti.
129. NITI Aayog has partnered with which social networking site to promote women
entrepreneurs?
[A] Skype
[B] LinkedIn
[C] Twitter
[D] WhatsApp
Correct Answer: D [WhatsApp]
Notes:
Under the aegis of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), the NITI Aayog and has partnered
with Facebook-owned WhatsApp to support and promote women entrepreneurs in India. Both will
announce an annual calendar of events aimed at capacity building of women entrepreneurs and develop
specific programmes aimed at addressing challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. The initiative will
target registered users of the WEP forum in India. WhatsApp will also partner with the Women
Transforming India (WTI) Awards 2019, a flagship initiative of NITI Aayog and provide $100,000 for the
WTI winners. The WTI Awards are organised by the NITI Aayog in partnership with the United Nations.
These awards recognize and celebrate the contributions of women who are not just addressing and
solving key societal challenges but also challenging the stereotypes and breaking the glass ceiling.
130. The researchers at which IIT have developed eco-friendly solar cells using kumkum dye?
[A] IIT Madras
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 115
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

[B] IIT Bombay


[C] IIT Hyderabad
[D] IIT Kanpur
Correct Answer: C [IIT Hyderabad]
Notes:
The scientists at IIT Hyderabad have developed low-cost, environment-friendly solar cells by employing
an off-the-shelf dye used to make kumkum or vermilion in India. The Dye-Sensitised Solar Cell (DSSC) is
based on New Fuchsin (NF) dye with aqueous electrolyte and platinum-free counter electrodes. The
research is published in the Solar Energy journal. The most familiar solar cells today are made up of
silicon. However, this technology is limited by huge fabrication costs as silicon processing is very
expensive and involves very high temperature methods that leave a large carbon footprint. DSSC is a
third-generation thin-film organic molecule-based energy conversion device. It consists of three
components: A monolayer of dye molecule adsorbed on semiconductor material, titanium dioxide (TiO2)
deposited on transparent conductive oxides, like indium tin oxide (ITO) and a liquid electrolyte with an
excess of electrons. DSSCs are generally considered eco-friendlier to produce than conventional solar
cells because they require little energy to manufacture. The best performing DSSCs use organic solvent-
based liquid electrolytes.
131. Who clinched the Formula One German Grand Prix 2019?
[A] Daniil Kvyat
[B] Lance Stroll
[C] Sebastian Vettel
[D] Max Verstappen
Correct Answer: D [Max Verstappen]
Notes:
Red Bull’s driver Max Verstappen clinched the rain-hit German Grand Prix 2019 at Hockenheim. He
secured his 2nd win of the season and 7th of his career. He held himself calm and composed in a race
littered with crashes and safety cars. Four-time former champion Ferrari driver Sebastian Vettel
claimed the 2nd spot after starting from the rear of the grind. Russian Daniil Kvyat achieved the third
spot for Toro Rosso followed by Canadian Lance Stroll in fourth for Racing Point.
132. Who has been appointed the new Finance Secretary of India?
[A] Neeraj Kumar Gupta
[B] Girish Chandra Murmu
[C] Atanu Chakraborty
[D] Rajiv Kumar
Correct Answer: D [Rajiv Kumar]
Notes:
Rajiv Kumar, a 1984 batch Indian Administrative Service officer of Jharkhand cadre, has been appointed
the new Finance Secretary. He succeeded Subhash Chandra Garg, who is currently the power secretary.
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the
designation of Kumar as the new Finance Secretary. The finance secretary is the administrative head of
the Ministry of Finance and is the principal adviser to the Finance Minister on all matters of policy and
administration within the Finance Ministry. He is the senior-most bureaucrat among the five
Secretaries of the five Departments of the Ministry of Finance, viz. Economic Affairs, Revenue,
Expenditure, Financial services and Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM).
133. Shawala Teja Singh temple, which is in news recently, is located in which country?
[A] Malaysia
[B] Indonesia
[C] Pakistan
[D] Cambodia
Correct Answer: C [Pakistan ]
Notes:
Pakistan has opened a 1,000-year-old Hindu temple in eastern city Sialkot for worship for the first time
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 116
Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

since partition on the demand of the local Hindu community. The step was taken on the direction of
Prime Minister Imran Khan. The Shawala Teja Singh Temple in Dhaarowal was built by Sardar Teja
Singh and closed during partition. The Hindus of Sialkot stopped visiting the temple after a mob
damaged it in 1992 while protesting the demolition of the Babri Masjid in India. According to official
estimates, 75 lakh Hindus live in Pakistan. However, according to the community, over 90 lakh Hindus
are living in the country.
134. The researchers of which institute have discovered a new species of vine snake from the
Western Ghats that dates back 26 million years?
[A] IIT Madras
[B] IIT Kharagpur
[C] IIT Bombay
[D] IISc – Bengaluru
Correct Answer: D [IISc – Bengaluru ]
Notes:
The researchers from Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru have discovered a new vine snake
species called Proahaetulla antiqua in Western Ghats . This is an ancient species which is endemic to
southern Western Ghats. This is thought to have evolved around 26 million years ago during the mid-
Oligocene period. Vine snakes get their names due to their slender bodies and vine-like appearances.
These new vine snakes are named after the Latin words ‘antiqua’, meaning ‘old or ancient’. The common
name suggested for these individuals is ‘keeled vine snake’. They are found in the protected habitats of
the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu and the Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary in
Kerala, both located in the southern Western Ghats. The discovery not only help the researchers know
more about the evolution of vine snakes but also the evolutionary history of the Western Ghats (a
landmass older than the Himalayas).
135. According to the 2018 Tiger Census report, which state has recorded highest number of
tigers?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Karnataka
[D] Chhattisgarh
Correct Answer: A [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
On the occasion of 2019 International Tiger Day (ITD), Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the
results of the 4th cycle of All India Tiger Estimation report 2018 in New Delhi. The count of tigers in
India has risen to 2967 in 2018. The rise in tiger numbers was in conformity with the average annual
growth rate of tigers since 2006. According to the Tiger census, Madhya Pradesh saw the highest
number of tigers at 526, closely followed by Karnataka at 524 with Uttarakhand at 442. It was a moment
of pride for the country as it achieved its commitment to the St. Petersburg Declaration, of doubling
Tiger population, much in advance to the 2022 deadline. Chhattisgarh and Mizoram saw a decline in
their tiger numbers while tiger’s numbers in Odisha remained constant. The Pench Tiger Reserve in
Madhya Pradesh recorded the highest number of tigers, while Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve in Tamil
Nadu registered the maximum improvement since 2014. The ITD is observed every year on 29th of July
to spread the message to protect these endangered species and assist in maintaining ecological
integrity. It was created in 2010 at the Saint Petersburg Tiger Summit in Russia with the goal to bring
worldwide attention to the dwindling numbers of tigers and their plight.
136. The Union Government has recently imposed definitive anti-dumping duty on PTA imports
from which countries?
[A] Cambodia & Indonesia
[B] South Korea & Thailand
[C] Vietnam & Sri Lanka
[D] Philippines & China
Correct Answer: B [South Korea & Thailand]

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 117


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

Notes:
The Ministry of Finance has imposed definitive anti-dumping duty on all imports of Purified
Terephthalic Acid (PTA) from South Korea and Thailand. PTA is primary raw material in the
manufacture of polyester chips, which in turn are used in a number of applications in textile, packaging,
furnishings, consumer goods, resins and coatings. The latest action comes in less than a month after the
Designated Authority came up with its final findings on the sunset review.
137. The Ministry of Culture has recently included which language in Senior/Junior Fellowships
for Artistes?
[A] Nimadi
[B] Kumauni
[C] Chhattisgarhi
[D] Santhali
Correct Answer: D [Santhali ]
Notes:
The Ministry of Culture has recently announced to include the remaining languages from 8th schedule
of the Indian Constitution — Nepali and Santhali in the Sub-Field of Field “Literature” in the scheme
component ‘Award of Senior/Junior Fellowships to Outstanding Artistes in the Fields of Culture’. The
Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT) of Dwarka is the nodal institute for handling the
scheme of the fellowship till selection process. “Literary Arts” is one of the Fields under this Scheme
where candidates can apply for research in 22 languages as their Sub-Field. These 22 languages include
the following 20 languages from the 8th Schedule of Articles 344(1) and 351 of the Indian Constitution
along with English and Khasi:- (1) Assamese, (2) Bengali, (3) Bodo, (4) Dogri, (5) Gujarati, (6) Hindi, (7)
Kannada, (8) Kashmiri, (9) Konkani, (10) Maithili, (11) Malayalam, (12) Manipuri, (13) Marathi, (14) Oriya,
(15) Punjabi, (16) Sanskrit, (17) Sindhi (18) Tamil, (19) Telugu and (20) Urdu.
138. Who has become the first IAF pilot to complete wingsuit skydive jump?
[A] Mridula Garg
[B] Tarun Chaudhri
[C] Ramesh chandra Tomar
[D] Jainendra Kumar
Correct Answer: B [Tarun Chaudhri]
Notes:
Wing Commander Tarun Chaudhri has become the first Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot to perform a
wingsuit skydive jump. He achieved the feat on July 21 during the Kargil Diwas celebrations at Air Force
Station in Jodhpur. The jump was accomplished from a Mi-17 helicopter from an altitude of 8,500 feet.
This is the first IAF Wing Suit Skydive Jump by a pilot who has flown and captained the same type of
helicopter. The Kargil Diwas celebrations were held at Air Force Station in Jodhpur on July 21 and 22.
139. The Union Cabinet has approved the setting up of ISRO Technical Liaison Unit (ITLU) in
which city?
[A] Moscow
[B] Brasília
[C] Cayenne
[D] Buenos Aires
Correct Answer: A [Moscow ]
Notes:
The Union Cabinet has approved the setting up of ISRO Technical Liaison Unit (ITLU) at Moscow in
Russia eyeing Russian partnership for 2022 Gaganyaan Mission . The unit will enable effective technical
coordination for timely interventions on diversified matters with Russia and neighbouring countries for
realization of the programmatic targets of ISRO. The ITLU will also support the ongoing bilateral
programmes of cooperation in space technology and act on behalf of ISRO. The Cabinet has also
approved the signing of United Nations Convention on International Settlement Agreements (UNISA)
resulting from mediation by India. The move will send a positive signal to foreign investors about India’s
commitment to adhere to international practice on Alternative Dispute Resolution.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 118


Current Affairs [PDF] - July 16-31, 2019

140. Jerlin Anika, who won gold at the 2019 World Deaf Youth Badminton Championships, is from
which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Odisha
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: C [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
Tamil Nadu girl Jerlin Anika has won gold at the 2019 World Deaf Youth Badminton Championships in
Taipei, Taiwan. She has also bagged two silver and one bronze medal in the championship in the
Under-18 category. She is just 15 years old and a student of class 10 in a government school in Madurai.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 119

Anda mungkin juga menyukai