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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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.
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:
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
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
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 Number 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
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)
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
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.
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
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).
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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).
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
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
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
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
[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
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”?
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
[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
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
[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
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
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).
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
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.
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:
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
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
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
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
[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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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)
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
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
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
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
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
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
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).
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
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
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.
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
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.
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
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
‘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.
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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).
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
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-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
(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.
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]
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
[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
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?
[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
[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
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
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?
[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
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
[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
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?
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]
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?
[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
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:
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.
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
[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
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
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
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]
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.
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.