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Daily Current Events DECEMBER 2017
Contents
EDUCATION
01. SDG4-Education 2030: 39th General Conference of UNESCO in Paris ........................................................ 4
02. Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan (VVM) is a nationwide science talent search examination organized by
Vigyan Prasar ................................................................................................................................................................ 5
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03. Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana launched to promote philately.......................................................................... 5
BUSINESS & ECONOMY

01. Skill India partners with Airbnb to Upskill Hospitality Entrepreneurs ............................................................. 6
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02. Launch of Food Regulatory Portal Announced – World Food India 2017...................................................... 7
03.South Asia Regional Training and Technical Assistance Center (SARTTAC)- IMF ....................................... 9
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04. Global Entrepreneurship Summit 2017 .............................................................................................................. 10
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05. India jumps 30 places, breaks into top 100 of World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business............................ 11
06. Banaganapalle mangoes get GI tag {Socio- Economic}................................................................................. 12
07. Telangana leads state-wise ease of doing business ranking ........................................................................ 13

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08. Rasogolla hits sweet spot, gets GI tag ............................................................................................................ 14
09. Economy gets Moody’s thumbs up ................................................................................................................... 14

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10. After Moody’s, all eyes on S&P, Fitch Ratings ............................................................................................... 16
AGRICULTURE
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01. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).............................................................................................................. 17
02. Various schemes and programs initiated by the Government to achieve the target of Doubling of
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Farmers’ Income by 2022 .......................................................................................................................................... 18

03. Private sector must invest more in contract farming: PM ............................................................................. 18
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HEALTH ISSUE
01. International Conference – ‘FIPSPHYSIOCON 2017’ ....................................................................................... 19
02. Moscow declaration ............................................................................................................................................. 21

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03. The lowdown on the dengue epidemic ............................................................................................................. 21
04. WTO: India resolute on food security ............................................................................................................... 23
SOCIAL ISSUE
01. SHe-Box Online Complaint Management System ........................................................................................... 23
02. Cabinet approves Continuation of sub-schemes under Umbrella Scheme “Integrated Child Development
Services (ICDS)” for the period till November, 2018 ............................................................................................. 24
03. Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) ............................................................................ 25
04. WEF Gender Gap index 2017 ............................................................................................................................ 26
www.currentaffairsonly.com
05. All unwelcome physical contact not sexual harassment’................................................................................ 26
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

01. India to Host Global Conference on Cyber Space 2017: A Giant Leap Towards a Secure and Inclusive
Cyberspace .................................................................................................................................................................. 27
02. CZT Imager of AstroSat measures first phase resolved X-ray polarisation of Crab pulsar ..................... 28
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03.India’s Second Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC) ............................................................... 29
04.Phone App for cancer study ................................................................................................................................ 30
05.Meisenheimer complex .......................................................................................................................................... 31
06. IIT Guwahati uses superhydrophobic cotton to remove oil-spill.................................................................... 31
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07. PSLV built by domestic industry by 2020’ ....................................................................................................... 32
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08. Govt. unveils draft of law to regulate space sector ....................................................................................... 33
09. Earthworms may grow in Martian soil, says study ......................................................................................... 33
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INFRASTRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT
01. 2nd meeting of Island Development Agency (IDA) ......................................................................................... 34
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02. India Youth Development Index and Report 2017 .......................................................................................... 35
0.3 Logistics Sector granted Infrastructure Status ................................................................................................. 36
04. Coastal Berth Scheme ........................................................................................................................................ 37

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05. VNR Compilation Highlights National SDG Progress and Challenges ......................................................... 38
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06. Railways to start 9-month ‘upskilling’ exercise for employees ...................................................................... 38
07. North East Development Summit....................................................................................................................... 39

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8. Indian Railways Unveils New ‘Swarn’ Rajdhani Coaches ................................................................................ 40
ART & CULTURE

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01. AADI MAHOTSAV Festival ................................................................................................................................. 40
02. Manipur Sangai Festival 2017 ............................................................................................................................ 42
03. Odisha to renovate Bezbaroa’s house .............................................................................................................. 43

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04.Chennai is now part of UNESCO’s ‘creative cities network............................................................................ 43
05. Allow Kambala races minus the cruelty: Centre tells Supreme Court ......................................................... 44
06. Tholpava Koothu .................................................................................................................................................. 44
07. Glory of Kakatiya-era temple unveiled .............................................................................................................. 45
08. Mamallapuram Stone Sculptures........................................................................................................................ 45
09. Strings attached ................................................................................................................................................... 46
GOVERNANCE
01. Hunar Haats.......................................................................................................................................................... 46
02. National Law Day................................................................................................................................................. 47
03. Delhi LG cannot sit on govt. schemes: SC ..................................................................................................... 48
04.‘Article 35A is not part of the Constitution of India’......................................................................................... 49
CYBER SECURITY
01. 300 Cyber security experts to attend first ever Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response Team
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(Apcert) Conference.................................................................................................................................................... 50
02. Asia Pacific Cert (APCERT) Discuss Building Trust in Digital Economy .................................................... 51
ENERGY
01. ‘Saubhagya’ Web-Portal – a Platform for Monitoring Universal Household Electrification ......................... 52
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02. 7th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable in Bangkok – INTERNATIONAL ENERGY FORUM .................. 53
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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
01. Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra' ................................................................. Error! Bookmark not defined.
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03. Program to train Elected Women Representatives of PRIs........................................................................... 56
DEFENCE
01. Brahmos Flight test from IAF’s Su-30MKI fighter aircraft .............................................................................. 57
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02. India’s indigenous subsonic cruise missile Nirbhay set for fifth trial ........................................................... 58
03. DRDO successfully tests guided bomb............................................................................................................. 58

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04. INSV Tarini on second leg of circumnavigation .............................................................................................. 59
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
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01. INSPIRE 2017....................................................................................................................................................... 60
02. International Multilateral Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (IMMSAREX) .......................................... 60
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03. Conference of Parties (Cop23) – Bonn ............................................................................................................. 61
04. Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) ........................................................................................................... 62

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05. Navigation rights figure in first Quadrilateral talks .......................................................................................... 63
06. Chabahar port ready, next stage for India....................................................................................................... 64
DIGITALIZATION
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01. Crypto currencies, ICOs under SEBI lens ........................................................................................................ 65
02. Government launches Food Regulatory Portal and Nivesh Bandhu Portal ................................................. 66
03. India hosts first APCERT conference ............................................................................................................... 66
ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY

01. Hotspots of rattan found in Western Ghats ..................................................................................................... 68
02. New ant species discovered in the Western Ghats ....................................................................................... 69
03.Edible wild banana species discovered, the second such on the island in two years............................... 69
04. Green trickster ...................................................................................................................................................... 70
05. Warm water........................................................................................................................................................... 70
06. First fauna survey begins in Krishna sanctuary .............................................................................................. 71
07. M-STRIPES ........................................................................................................................................................... 73
08. Indian Emerald Dragonfly.................................................................................................................................... 73
09. Worldwide increase in methane bubbles due to climate change ................................................................. 74
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10.Turning CO2 emissions into fuel ......................................................................................................................... 74
11. Indians willing to pay $220b to avoid pollution mortality ............................................................................... 75
12. 2017 is set to be in top three hottest years: WMO ....................................................................................... 76
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13. Olive Ridleys keep date with Odisha coast, arrive in large numbers .......................................................... 77
14. Winged guests flock to Chilika .......................................................................................................................... 77
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15. Centre to launch BS-VI fuel in Delhi from 2018 to battle smog .................................................................. 79
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16. How succulents survive without water decoded .............................................................................................. 81
17. Drought, heat-waves increasing in frequency .................................................................................................. 82
18. Coral transplant raises Barrier Reef survival hopes ....................................................................................... 82

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INDIAN JUDICIARY
01. Speed up trial of politicians, says SC .............................................................................................................. 84
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02. No fresh polls if NOTA votes exceed candidates’ .......................................................................................... 85
KURUKSHETRA .......................................................................................................................................................... 86
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Yojana .......................................................................................................................................................................... 91
Cabinet approves setting up of the 15th Finance Commission ........................................................................... 94

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Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 ....................................................................... 95
Expert Committee releases white paper on a data protection framework for India ......................................... 96
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Draft regulations on civil use of drones released by DGCA................................................................................ 97
Cabinet approves establishment of the National Anti-Profiteering Authority ...................................................... 98
TRAI releases recommendations on Net Neutrality ............................................................................................... 99

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Cabinet approves creation of an agency to conduct all entrance examinations for higher educational
institutions .................................................................................................................................................................. 101
E DUCATION
01. SDG4-Education 2030: 39th General Conference of UNESCO in Paris
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Highlights In news
The latest Global Education Monitoring
Report released recently points out
It involves accountability in financing of education on the part
that “at the global level, international
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of both the development partners and individual countries.
commitments to finance the education
Accountability on the part of development partners relates to
sector, remains weak”. The Report
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the commitment to enhance funding that is needed to
indicates that “only 6 of 28 OECD-
implement SDG4-Education 2030 agenda.
DAC countries met their commitment
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The latest Global Education Monitoring Report released recently to allocate 0.7% of national income to
points out that “at the global level, international commitments to aid.” Therefore, OECD developed
finance the education sector,”. countries must fulfil their commitment.
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Accountability on the part of individual countries relate to the Ultimately, investing in education is
commitment to set nationally appropriate spending targets for investing in peace and sustainable
education, mobilising financial resources and achieving in a future.
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progressive manner the international benchmarks of allocating at least 4% to 6% of gross domestic
product (GDP) to education; and/or allocating at least 15% to 20% of public expenditure to education.
Accountability on the part of individual countries also relates to efforts aimed at ensuring that the available
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funds are used efficiently and effectively.
Significance
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The Government of India recognises that achieving the education development goals and targets set in
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the context of SDG4-Education 2030 agenda requires increased and well-targeted financing and effective
and efficient utilisation of allocated funds.
Government of India is investing nearly 4.5 % of GDP on education, despite competing demands on
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resources.
The Central and State/ UT governments have been making efforts to provide adequate and equitable
financing to educational priorities. There has been a broad consensus that investment on education be
gradually increased to reach a level of six per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Efforts are being made to step up the outlay on education by facilitating substantial increase in both public
and private sector investment in education.
Furthermore, improved coordination, monitoring and evaluation processes have been attempted to ensure
that the available funds are used efficiently and effectively, and with measurable education outcomes and
impacts for children and youth, especially in terms of attainment of expected learning outcomes.
02. Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan (VVM) is a nationwide science talent

search examination organized by Vigyan Prasar
Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan (VVM)

It is an initiation of Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA), in
. collaboration with National Council of Education
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Research and Training, an institution under the Ministry
of Human Resources and Development and Vigyan
Prasar, an autonomous organization under the
Department of Science and Technology, Government of
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India.
VVM is a National program for educating and
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popularizing science among school students of VI to XI
Objectives standards. VVM aims to identify and nurture the bright
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To conduct an annual talent search exam at
minds among the student community, who are keen on
the national level to identify students who
subjects related to science
have a scientific bent of mind.
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To provide the winning students with
mentors to enrich science learning experience to carry forward their science education at higher levels.
To organise exposure visits for the winners to various R&D institutions in the country.
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To identify successful students at the State and National levels and felicitate them with prizes and
certificates.
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To create interest among students in science.
To educate school children about India’s contributions to the world of science and technology, both
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traditional and modern.
To provide hands-on training to students through workshops and other events.

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03. Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana launched to promote philately

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Key points In news

Minister of Communications Shri Manoj Sinha today
Under the scheme of SPARSH (Scholarship
launched a Pan India scholarship program for
for Promotion of Aptitude & Research in Stamps
school children called Deen Dayal
as a Hobby), it is proposed to award annual
SPARSH Yojana to increase the reach of Philately.
scholarships to children of Standard VI to IX
having good academic record and also pursuing
Philately as a hobby through a competitive selection process in all postal circles.
It is proposed to award 920 scholarships to students pursuing Philately as a hobby.
Every Postal Circle will select a maximum of 40 scholarships representing 10 students each from
Standard VI, VII, VIII & IX. The amount of Scholarship will be Rs. 6000/- per annum @ Rs. 500/- per
month.
To avail this scholarship, a child must be a student of a recognized school within India and the concerned
school should have a Philately Club and the candidate should be a member of the Club.
Philately
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It is the hobby of collection and study of Postage stamps.
It also entails the collection, appreciation and research activities on stamps and other related philatelic products.
The hobby of collecting Stamps includes seeking, locating, acquiring, organizing, cataloguing, displaying, storing, and
maintaining the stamps or related products on thematic areas.
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Philately is called the king of hobbies because Stamp collection as a hobby has lot of educational benefits – it
teaches a lot about the socio economic political reality of the period in which the stamp is issued or the theme on
which it is issued.
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B USINESS & ECONOMY
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01. Skill India partners with Airbnb to Upskill Hospitality Entrepreneurs

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In news
The MoU will provide hospitality skills training to hospitality micro-
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entrepreneurs in India. The MoU signed aims to empower more A tripartite Memorandum of
citizens, including those in rural and underserved areas to join the Understanding (MoU) was signed
‘alternate accommodation’ sector and pursue new livelihood here today between National Skill
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opportunities by sharing their homes. Development Corporation (NSDC)

and Tourism and Hospitality Sector
Under the terms of the MoU, the parties Skill Council (THSC) with Airbnb,
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agree to the world’s leading community-

driven hospitality company.
ESTABLISH occupation standards and competency matrices for
job roles and develop the courses for hospitality entrepreneurs offering homestay and facilities, other
unique accommodations and local experiences for travellers;
CREATE standards for certification and accreditation as per the requirements and global benchmarks of
Tourism and Hospitality industry for hospitality entrepreneurs offering homestay facilities, other unique
accommodations and local experiences for travellers;
SET the framework for long-term Council-Industry partnership;
STRENGTHEN the Skilled Labour Pool required by Tourism and Hospitality industry.
Scope for Growth
By bringing in global best practices for the training of small hospitality entrepreneurs the domestic tourism
has immense potential in India and this partnership will benefit the ecosystem by creating opportunities for
women and youth. We will extend all possible cooperation to make India a tourism hotspot.
This partnership will help to create more skilled, digitally-literate hospitality entrepreneurs – especially
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among the women and those in underserved areas – who can create a homestay in every home, offer
authentic experiences in every Indian locality and help spread the benefits of tourism.
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02. Launch of Food Regulatory Portal Announced – World Food India
2017
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As global and Indian food companies prepare to explore business In news
opportunities in India at World Food India 2017, MoFPI and FSSAI, the
apex Regulatory body for Food Safety in India announced a powerful World Food India 2017
new tool called ‘the Food Regulatory Portal.’
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Expo, as India gets ready to
Planned as a single interface for food businesses to cater to both host its biggest food event
domestic operations and food imports, this portal would be a game aiming to transform the food
changer for effective and transparent implementation of the food safety
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economy and double
laws in the country. farmers’ income.
Aiming to create an enabling environment for businesses to operate, the
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portal is strategically aligned with Government’s mission of One Nation,

One Food Law.
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World Food India 2017

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What would government do with investments?
The government is planning to reduce agricultural waste by revolutionising the food processing industry over a
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period of India.
The country wasted food worth Rs 92,000 crore every year, which makes up about 40% of total production.
What food processing is?
Food processing istransforming cooked or perishable food ingredients, by physical or chemical

processes, to make it marketable and for longer usage.
Food processing makes the food into products that easily prepared and served by the consumer. Food
processing typically involves activities such as mincing and macerating, liquefaction, emulsification, cooking,
pickling, pasteurization, preservation and canning.
How it will help India?
India allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in food processing industry. Of the expected $10
billion investment, Rs 65,000 crore private investment has already been committed.
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The investments will be used to build food processing industries in the country, which will subsequently
build synergy between farmer, consumer and industry.
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About World Food India
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A global event to facilitate partnerships between Indian and international businesses and investors, World
Food India (WFI) is a gateway to the Indian food economy and an opportunity to showcase, connect, and
collaborate.
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Organized by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, WFI will be the largest
gathering of investors, manufacturers, producers, food processors, policy makers, and organizations from the
global food ecosystem.
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Why INDIA?
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It aims to provides opportunities for both investment and trade in the food processing sector for leading Indian
and international companies. Encompassing the entire food spectrum from production to consumption, WFI is
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looking at creating a better sourcing environment, thereby enabling higher returns for farmers, creating
employment, and fostering entrepreneurship.
With a massive food market that is fast-expanding, exciting growth in the retail sector, and attractive economic
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policies and fiscal incentives, India’s food ecosystem is the place to be in.
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Advantage India
Among fastest growing economies in the world.

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Largest producer of several agricultural commodities.

3 Billion consumers with increasing demand for branded food.
4th largest economy in terms of purchasing parity.
Proactive government policies with attractive fiscal incentives.
Significant investments in world class ports, logistics and supply chain infrastructure.
Rich demographic dividend with high focus on skill development, availability of skilled personnel.
Opportunity for investors across the food processing supply chain.
A favourable economic and business environment
India’s GDP growth in 2016 stood at 7.6%. 100% FDI in retail marketing, including through
Large skilled workforce. e-commerce, of food products that are
100% FDI through automatic route in food produced and / or manufactured in India.
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processing. Proactive policy support.
Single-window clearance.
The advantage of Food Processing Sector in India
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India ranks 2nd in terms of total food production globally
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Indian ranks 1st in the world in terms of production of milk, bananas, mangoes, guavas, papayas, ginger
and okra
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India ranks 2nd in the world in production of green peas, potatoes, tea, tomato, sesame and many other
key commodities
The food processing sector ranks 1st in terms of employment and number of factories in operation and
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3rd in terms of output
The industry has witnessed a growth 7.1% during 2013-14, much higher that the growth in agriculture
sector and at par with the manufacturing sector
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Strategic geographic location and proximity to food-importing nations makes India favorable for the export
of processed foods
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The sector has a total of 37,175 registered units with fixed capital of nearly USD 24 Billion and aggregate
output of around USD 114 Billion. Major industries constituting the food processing sector are grains, sugar,
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edible oils, beverages and dairy products

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03.South Asia Regional Training and Technical Assistance Center

(SARTTAC)- IMF
In news
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An Interim Meeting of the Steering Committee of the International Monetary Fund (IMF)’s South Asia Regional
Training and Technical Assistance Centre (SARTTAC) was held here today in national capital to assess the
Centre’s activities since its inauguration in February 2017 and to review the Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan.
SARTTAC is expected to become the focal point for the delivery of IMF capacity development services to
South Asia
Mission
SARTTAC’s goal is to help its six-member countries strengthen their capacity to design and implement
policies that promote macroeconomic stability, sustainable growth, and poverty reduction in line with the
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
SARTTAC provides hands-on technical advice in a range of macroeconomic and financial areas and
training to strengthen the skills of officials to formulate and manage effective macroeconomic and financial
policies.
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It is the IMF’s newest capacity development center and the first of the 14 regional centers to fully
integrate technical assistance and training activities.
SARTTAC
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South Asia Regional Training and Technical Assistance Center (SARTTAC) is a collaborative venture between
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the IMF, the member countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka), and development
partners.
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SARTTAC, the newest addition to the IMF’s global network of fourteen regional centers, is a new kind
of capacity development institution, fully integrating customized hands-on training with targeted technical
advice in a range of macroeconomic and financial areas, and generating synergies between the two. It
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was inaugurated at Delhi in February 2017.
SARTTAC is financed mainly by its six-member countries — Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal,
and Sri Lanka — with additional support from Australia, the Republic of Korea, the European Union and
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the United Kingdom.
04. Global Entrepreneurship Summit 2017

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The Global Entrepreneurship Summit is being held for the first time in
In news
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South Asia in Hyderabad, India, from November 28-30 2017.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and
US President Donald Trump’s
With the theme of “Women First, Prosperity for All,” this will be the
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advisor and daughter Ivanka Trump

first GES in which women are the majority, over 52.5 per cent, of
the participants. jointly inaugurated 8th
annual Global Entrepreneurship
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This year’s summit theme demonstrates the commitment of the U.S. Summit (GES 2017) in Hyderabad,
and Indian governments to the principle that when women are Telangana. The mega event was
economically empowered, their communities and countries co-hosted by National Institution for
thrive. Women entrepreneurs help drive innovation and job creation, Transforming India (NITI) Aayog
as well as address the world’s greatest and most critical challenges. and US Government n partnership
with Telangana Government.
About GES
GES is preeminent annual entrepreneurship gathering that convenes over one thousand emerging
entrepreneurs, investors, and supporters from around the It is organized annually since 2010.
GES 2017 aims to empower Indian entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas, build partnerships, secure funding,
and create innovative products and services that will transform societies for better future.
It will not only bring global best practices to India, but also create irreplaceable place for India in global
entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The four primary focus areas of GES 2017 are Digital Economy and Financial Technology, Health Care
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and Life Sciences, Energy and Infrastructure, and Media and Entertainment. The summit will deliberate on four
key sectors, focus on critical aspects of entrepreneurship and host interactive sessions between panelists and
audience15th finance commission
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05. India jumps 30 places, breaks into top 100 of World Bank’s Ease of
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Doing Business
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India is the only large country this year to have achieved such a significant In news
shift. On the “distance to frontier metric,” one of the key indicators in the India has jumped 30
survey, India’s score went from 56.05 in Doing Business 2017 to 60.76 in places to rank 100th in
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Doing Business 2018 the World Bank’s ‘ease of
In its annual report ‘Doing Business 2018: Reforming to Create doing business’ ranking,
helped by a slew of
Jobs’, the World Bank said that India’s ranking reflects nearly
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reforms in taxation,
half of the 37 reforms, adopted since 2003, implemented in the
licensing, investor
last four years.
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protection and bankruptcy

resolution.
Highlights
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New Zealand is the easiest place on the planet to do business, followed by Singapore, Denmark, South Korea
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and Hong Kong. The US and the UK are ranked 6th and 7th on the list.
Among BRICS countries, Russia tops the list with 35th position, followed by China which has retained its
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ranking at the 78th place for the second consecutive year.
Areas where India lags
Starting a business, enforcing contracts and

dealing with construction permits.
It takes 30 days now to register a new
business, down from 127 days 15 years ago, but “the
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number of procedures is still cumbersome for local
entrepreneurs who still need to go through 12
procedures
Ease of doing business index
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The ease of doing business index is an index
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created by the World Bank Group.
Higher rankings (a low numerical value) indicate
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better, usually simpler, regulations for businesses and
stronger protections of property rights. Empirical
research funded by the World Bank to justify their work show that the economic growth impact of improving
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these regulations is strong.
06. Banaganapalle mangoes get GI tag {Socio- Economic}

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A GI is primarily an agricultural, natural or a manufactured In news

The famous Banaganapalle mangoes of
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product (handicrafts and industrial goods) originating from

a definite geographical territory. Andhra Pradesh and Tulaipanji rice of
West Bengalare among the seven
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commodities that have been granted

GI Tag: Intellectual Property Rights
Geographical Indication (GI) this fiscal year
by the Indian patent office.
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Geographical Indications of Goods are defined as that

aspect of industrial property which refer to the
geographical indication referring to a country or to a place situated therein as being the country or place
of origin of that product.
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Typically, such a name conveys an assurance of quality and distinctiveness which is essentially attributable
to the fact of its origin in that defined geographical locality, region or country.
Under Articles 1 (2) and 10 of the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property,
geographical indications are covered as an element of IPR.
They are also covered under Articles 22 to 24 of the Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property
Rights (TRIPS) Agreement, which was part of the Agreements concluding the Uruguay Round of GATT
negotiations.
India, as a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO), enacted the Geographical Indications of
Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999has come into force with effect from 15th September 2003.
Darjeeling tea, Tirupati laddu, Kangra

paintings, Nagpur orange and Kashmir
pashmina are among the registered GIs
in India.
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The other five products
which have received the GI
tag this year include
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Pochampally Ikat of Telangana;
Gobindobhog rice of West Bengal;
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Durgi stone carvings and Etikoppaka
toys of Andhra Pradesh; and
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Chakshesang shawl of Nagaland,
according to the Indian patent office
website.
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In 2016-17, as many as 33 items got GI
registration.
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Experts said that this tag gave protection to the producer of these genuine products, which commanded
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premium pricing in the markets, both domestic and international.

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07. Telangana leads state-wise ease of doing business ranking

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Telangana is currently a top the yearly state-wise ranking on assessment of implementation of the
‘Business Reforms Action Plan’ (BRAP) in 2017
Telangana (with an implementation score of 61.83%) is followed by Haryana (54.03%), Odisha (45.70%),
Chhattisgarh (45.43%), and West Bengal (44.35%) — completing the top five. However, the ranking is
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dynamic and till they are frozen, these positions could change due to intense competition between States.
Telangana was the joint topper with Andhra Pradesh, in the ranking last year. However, Andhra Pradesh
(score of 18.01%) is currently ranked 14th. Gujarat, ranked third last year, is now number eight with a
score of 41.94% while Madhya Pradesh, which was fifth last year, is now 22nd with a score of 10.22%.
In the recently released World Bank Group’s Doing Business report that assessed reforms implemented in
190 countries from June 2, 2016 to June 1, 2017, India was ranked 100th among 190 countries, up from
130th last year.
08. Rasogolla hits sweet spot, gets GI tag
Tamil Nadu in its application stated that the sculptures from In news
Mamallapuram were known to be carved in stone with The Geographical Indication (GI)
characteristics of intricate designing chiselled finely, keeping with Registry and Intellectual Property
the spirit of the surrounding Pallava art and architecture. India presented the Geographical
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Indication Tag status to Banglar
The description includes cave architecture, rock architecture,
Rasogolla of West Bengal and
structural temples, open sculptures, relief sculptures and
Mamallapuram stone sculptures of
painting/portrait sculptures.
Tamil Nadu.
West Bengal was involved in a lengthy battle with Odisha, which
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too had claimed Rasogolla as its invention.
History
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West Bengal believes that the Rasogolla was invented in Calcutta by confectioner Nabin Chandra Das. West
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Bengal in its application had provided proof of origin — historical records dating back to 1896.
Odisha says it was invented in the holy city of Puri in the 13th century.
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09. Economy gets Moody’s thumbs up
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Context
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Moody’s upgrades sovereign rating, expects high growth to continue as a result of ongoing reforms
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Main inference: The continued progress on economic and institutional

reforms will, over time, enhance India’s high growth potential and its
In news
large and stable financing base for government debt, and will likely
contribute to a gradual decline in the general government debt burden Global credit rating agency
over the medium term. Moody’s Investors Services
raised India’s sovereign rating
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for the first time in 13 years,
Upgrade
citing the country’s high growth
potential in the years to come,
The Indian government’s rating as a local and foreign currency issuer
thanks to economic and
from Baa3 with a positive outlook to Baa2 with a stable outlook.
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institutional reforms.
Borrowing obligations rated Baa2 are subject to moderate credit risk.
They are considered medium grade and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.
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Baa3, by contrast, was the lowest investment grade rating.
On debt-to-GDP ratio
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Moody’s expects India’s debt-to-GDP ratio to rise by about one percentage point this fiscal year to 69% of
GDP
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Other comments by the rating agency
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The rating agency agreed that a lot remains to be done such as fixing the GST’s implementation
challenges, weak private sector investment and the slow resolution of banking bad loans
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Moody’s said it expects at least some of these issues to be addressed over time and will help further
improve the Indian government’s effectiveness and overall institutional framework
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Basic Information
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Moody’s Investors Service
Moody’s Investors Service, often referred to as Moody’s, is the bond credit rating business of Moody’s
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Corporation, representing the company’s traditional line of business and its historical name
Moody’s Investors Service provides international financial research on bonds issued by commercial and
government entities
Moody’s, along with Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Group, is considered one of the Big Three credit rating
agencies
The company ranks the creditworthiness of borrowers using a standardized ratings scale which measures
expected investor loss in the event of default. Moody’s Investors Service rates debt securities in several
bond market segments
These include government, municipal and corporate bonds; managed investments such as money market
funds and fixed-income funds; financial institutions including banks and non-bank finance companies; and
asset classes in structured finance
In Moody’s Investors Service’s ratings system, securities are assigned a rating from Aaa to C, with Aaa
being the highest quality and C the lowest quality.
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10. After Moody’s, all eyes on S&P, Fitch Ratings
The attention is now on the other two global rating agencies, Standard & In news
Poor’s and Fitch Ratings Rating agency Moody’s
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upgraded India’s sovereign
Chief Economic Advisor’s views
rating after a gap of almost
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14 years
Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian hopes that rating agencies
might not be inconsistent amongst each other
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Subramanian had earlier observed that ratings agencies followed inconsistent policies while rating India as
opposed to awarding ratings to China
S&P’s view about the upgrade

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In October, S&P had said the country needed to improve its fiscal position for a rating upgrade
For an upgrade, India would have to address its weak fiscal balance sheet and weak fiscal performance
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India has one of the highest general government debt-to-GDP levels (68%) among emerging market
sovereigns
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A potential rating upgrade is likely to come from improved fiscal performanc

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Government’s limitations
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Year after year, the fiscal deficit remains relatively large with the interest burden and subsidies taking a big
chunk of government spending
So, there’s not a lot of room for the government to maneuver, despite pressing infrastructure needs
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A GRICULTURE
01. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)
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In news
Now, the scheme has been rebranded as RKVY-Remunerative To make farming a remunerative
Approaches for Agriculture and Allied sector Rejuvenation profession, the government on
Wednesday approved changes to
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(RAFTAAR) to be implemented for three years till 2019-20.
ongoing central scheme Rashtriya Krishi
Vikas Yojana (RKVY) with a focus on
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Highlights
value chain, post-harvest infrastructure
and agri-entrepreneur development,
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RKVY is a continuing scheme under implementation from XI
among others.
Five Year Plan.
RKVY – RAFTAAR scheme will incentivize States in
enhancing more allocation to Agriculture and Allied Sectors.
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It will provide considerable flexibility and autonomy to states in planning and executing programmes for
investment in agriculture and allied sectors.
The funds would be provided to the States as 60:40 grants between Centre and States (90:10 for North
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Eastern States and Himalayan States).

It will also strengthen farmer’s efforts through creation of agriculture infrastructure that help in supply of
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quality inputs, market facilities etc.

It will further promote agri-entrepreneurship and support business models that maximize returns to farmers.
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Innovation and agri-entrepreneur development through creating end-to-end solution, skill development and
financial support for setting up the agri-enterprise -10% of annual outlay including 2% of administrative
costs.
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RKVY-RAFTAAR funds would be provided to the States as 60:40 grants between Centre and States (90:10
for North Eastern States and Himalayan States) through the following streams
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Way ahead
During XI Plan and XII Plan, States have taken over 13,000 projects in agriculture and allied sector
through State Agriculture Department as Nodal Implementing Agency.
The interim report of RKVY evaluation done by Institute of Economic Growth summarizes that the income
emanating from agriculture measured as the agricultural state domestic product (AGSDP) is higher in the
post-RKVY period than in the pre-RKVY period.
Further, almost all the states registered higher value of output from agriculture and allied activities in the
post-RKVY period. Continuation of RKVY-RAFTAAR will therefore keep the momentum of agriculture and
allied sector growth.
Government tweaks RKVY scheme to make farming remunerative
To make farming a remunerative profession, the government on Wednesday approved changes to ongoing
central scheme Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) with a focus on value chain, post-harvest infrastructure
and agri-entrepreneur development, among others.
Now, the scheme has been rebranded as RKVY-Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied sector
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Rejuvenation (RAFTAAR) to be implemented for three years till 2019-20.
02. Various schemes and programs initiated by the Government to

achieve the target of Doubling of Farmers’ Income by 2022
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`
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The Ministry is working towards achieving the goal. And to achieve this target, the Prime Minister has
advocated a seven-point strategy
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Special focus on irrigation with sufficient budget, with the aim of “Per Drop More Crop”.
Large investments in Warehousing and Cold Chains to prevent post-harvest crop losses.
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Promotion of value addition through food processing.
Creation of a National Farm Market, removing distortions and e-platform across 585 Stations.
Introduction of a New Crop Insurance Scheme to mitigate risks at an affordable cost.
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Promotion of ancillary activities like poultry, beekeeping, and fisheries.
Government’s schemes and programs to Double Farmers’ Income

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•
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana,
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana,

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Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana,
Soil Health Card,

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Neem-Coated Urea and
e-NAM Schemes are few of our flagship programs that aim to improve the productivity and earnings of our
farmers.
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03. Private sector must invest more in contract farming: PM
Key Points
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday asked the private sector to invest more in contract farming, raw
material-sourcing and creating agri-linkages.
Besides, he suggested that aerated drinks manufacturers consider blending 5% fruit juice in their
products, and said such a procedure has
major potential since fruit-juice based drinks
are an intrinsic part of Indian food habits.
In addition, he pitched for a venture based
on ‘nutrition-rich and climate-smart crops’ to
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boost production and supply of India’s
coarse grains and millets that ‘not only have
high nutritional value.
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WFI
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It is a three-day mega-event being attended by Source: slideshare.net
about 2,000 participants, more than 200
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companies from 30 countries, 18 ministerial and business delegations, close to 50 global CEOs
Sweet, blue revolutions

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On sub-sectors of the Indian food industry that have the potential to increase farmers’ incomes, Mr. Modi
said the government aims to take the dairy sector, which is a vital area for the rural economy, to the
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‘next level’ by increasing production levels of multiple products based on milk.

Referring to honey, where India currently ranks sixth in production and export, Mr. Modi said “India is
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now ripe for a ‘sweet revolution’.
H
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EALTH ISSUE
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01. International Conference – ‘FIPSPHYSIOCON 2017’

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Objective
In news
“FIPSPHYSIOCON 2017”, Conference on Human Physiology – VII
To update the scientific community
Congress of Federation of Indian Physiological Societies (FIPS)
about most recent advances in human
along with XXIX Annual Conference of the Physiological Society
Physiology in extreme environments,
of India (PSI) organised by Defence Institute of Physiology and
Neuroscience, Yoga, Sport Physiology
Allied Science (DIPAS) of DRDO was inaugurated at Vallabhbhai
and translational research.
Patel Chest Institute (VPCI), University of Delhi.
Highlights
Integrating Physiological and Biomedical Science Approaches to Improve Performance, Health and Safety.
Environmental Physiology (High altitude, desert, Biochemistry, Pharmacology and Immunology

underwater space etc) Molecular biology and omic sciences
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Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiology Complementary & alternative approaches, Yoga
Exercise and Sports physiology for healthy living
Nutritional, Metabolism and Lifestyle Biomedical instrumentation: Health monitoring
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Neurophysiology and Endocrinology Occupational health and Ergonomics
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About DIPAS
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Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences (DIPAS), a DRDO life sciences establishment under Ministry
of Defence is immensely contributing for improving the performance and habitability of Armed Forces
Personnel in extreme hot & humid areas, high and extreme altitude areas, under water and closed
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environment operations.
Mission Vision
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Optimization of human performance in different occupational Be a centre of excellence in
environment conditions using physiological, biochemical, nutritional the field of environmental
and ergonomic approach. physiology and human factor
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research
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It was officially established on 20th September 1962. In India, research in military physiology was initiated in
the year 1950 through a small group of scientists and medical physiologists within the realm of Defence
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Science Laboratory, Delhi. In 1962, with the thrust area identification of high altitude physiology, nutrition and
biochemistry of human in severe stress environment and also with the urgent need felt for ergonomic
assessment of workstations and man-machine interface, a full-fledged laboratory was established.
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About FIPS
The FIPS is a scientific federation of all the physiologists of this country.

It is affiliated to the Federation of Asian and Oceanian Physiological Societies.
The Association of Physiologists and Pharmacologists of India (APPI), Physiologists Society of India (PSI),
Indian Society for Comparative Animal Physiology (ISCAP) and Society for Animal Physiologists of India
(SAPI) are its constituent’s societies.
02. Moscow declaration
Objective In news
Health ministers, NGOs, and private sector
The Moscow declaration emphasised the need for fixing representatives from 120 countries adopted
multisectoral responsibility towards ending TB by 2035, the
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the Moscow Declaration, committing
global target. themselves to eliminating additional deaths
from HIV co-infection by 2020 and achieving
What was the needs? synergy in coordinated action against TB
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and non-communicable diseases.
Global efforts to combat TB have saved an estimated 53 A co-infection is when a person suffers from
two infections at the same time.
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million lives since 2000 and reduced the TB mortality rate
by 37%. However, progress in many countries has stalled,
on
global targets are off-track, and persistent gaps remain in TB care and prevention.
Significance irs
Move rapidly to achieve universal health coverage by strengthening health systems and improving access
to people-centered TB prevention and care, ensuring no one is left behind.
Mobilize sufficient and sustainable financing through increased domestic and international investments to
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close gaps in implementation and research.
Advance research and development of new tools to diagnose, treat, and prevent TB.
Build accountability through a framework to track and review progress on ending TB, including multi-
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sectoral approaches.
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03. The lowdown on the dengue epidemic

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What is it?
The National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) records show that 1,29,329 people fell
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sick with dengue this year, while 200 died. India’s official numbers are well known to be gross
underestimates, with private hospitals often not reporting the disease.
Reasons behind it
First, India is getting better each year at reporting dengue, leading to more cases being counted.
Second, dengue itself is becoming more endemic due to urbanisation.
The dengue mosquito thrives in urban habitats, in water pooled under a flower pot for example. As
population explodes in rural areas, what was initially an urban disease has moved to these regions too, .
Third, dengue epidemics follow a natural cycle as population immunity waxes and wanes. But given our
patchy data collection, it has been hard to glean out such cycles.
How did it come about?
As dengue burden rises in the country, says Mr. Arunkumar, the likelihood of more people becoming severely
ill grows. This is because more infections raise the chances of the virus mutating to a more virulent form. It
also raises the risk of a phenomenon called antibody-dependent enhancement.
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The dengue virus has four serotypes, or types that are classified by the type of antigen (a molecule on the
viral surface which human antibodies recognise) they have.
These serotypes are DENV-1, DENV2, DENV-3 and DENV-4. When a person is affected by one dengue
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serotype, she develops antibodies against it, which protect her for the rest of her life. If the same person is
then infected by a different serotype, she is likely to develop severe disease.
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This is because, in some cases, antibodies against the first serotype worsen the second infection, instead of
on
protecting against it. This phenomenon is called antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) and results in a more
dangerous illness called dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF).
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Why does it matter?
Severe dengue haemorrhagic fever causes blood vessels to leak, which leads to a loss of blood pressure. If
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this isn’t treated quickly by replacing bodily fluids, the person can go into shock and can die.
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But treating a patient of DHF is a delicate balance, and hard to do in the high-pressure environment of an
outbreak.
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First, doctors must learn to spot severe cases and avoid indiscriminate admission of mild cases. For this, they
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need to look beyond easily-measured parameters like platelet counts, to symptoms that need careful
observation. Haemorrhagic fever shows up as a puffy face, loss of blood pressure, low pulse rate and a
range of other symptoms. Once it develops, fluids need to be given with care.
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What next?
Given the burden of dengue, the economic cost for India is huge. One calculation based on data from
Madurai estimated the 2012 medical cost of dengue for India to be $548 million. According to the study, a
hospitalised person spent an average of $235.20, usually out of her own pocket. Costs like this are a
blow to daily-wage earners, because hospitalisation also means a loss of income.
The good news is that, across the world, early treatment keeps mortality levels as low as 2%. India is still
pondering over introducing the world’s first dengue vaccine, Dengvaxia, and for good reason. Studies show
that people who have never been exposed to dengue can develop severe disease if they get dengue a
few years after vaccination. This is thought to be due to ADE.
So, for vaccination to be helpful, between 50 and 70% of the population needs to have been exposed to
the virus. India is conducting seroprevalence studies to calculate exposure rates before it takes a call.
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04. WTO: India resolute on food security
In news
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Peace Clause
It is available to developing nations, including India, till a At the upcoming meeting of the World
permanent solution is found to public stockholding for food Trade Organisation’s (WTO) highest
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security purposes. decision-making body, India will not agree to
‘Peace Clause’ can be used only for public stockholding severe restrictions on its right to give price
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programmes that have been in existence on the date at subsidies to farmers through the Minimum
which it was agreed upon at the Bali Ministerial Conference Support Price (MSP) to procure grains from
in December 2013, and not for new programmes on public them for food security purposes.
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stockholding for food security purposes.
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S OCIAL ISSUE
af
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01. SHe-Box Online Complaint Management System

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In news
What is ‘SHe-box’?
WCD Minister launched a

It is a comprehensive online complaint Management System for
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comprehensive SHe-Box online

women working in both public and private organizations to lodge
complaint Management System
complaints of sexual harassment at workplace.
for women working in both public
Launched by Ministry of Women and Child Development
and private organizations to
lodge complaints of sexual
Objectives
harassment at workplace.
To provide platform to aggrieved women to make their
complaints directly so that suitable action is taken to redress their grievances. These complaints will
be monitored by the WCD Ministry
It ensure the effective implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention,
Prohibition and Redressal) Act (the SH Act), 2013.
SHe-Box portal is an effort to provide speedier remedy to women facing sexual harassment at workplace.
The portal also provides information on 112 institutions empaneled by MWCD to conduct
training/workshops on the issue of sexual harassment at the workplace.
It is an effort to utilise the digital space to enable speedier response to the complaints of women against
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sexual harassment at workplace.
Background
This is a proactive step taken by MWCD in the wake of the worldwide social media campaign #MeToo, where
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women have related their experience of facing sexual harassment and abuse
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02. Cabinet approves Continuation of sub-schemes under Umbrella
Scheme “Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)” for the period
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till November, 2018
These are the sub-schemes under Umbrella Scheme “Integrated Child

In news
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Development Services (ICDS)”.
The Cabinet Committee on
Features
Economic Affairs has given its
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The approved Schemes include
approval for continuation of
1. Anganwadi Services Anganwadi Services, Scheme for
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2. Scheme for Adolescent Girls Adolescent Girls, Child Protection

3. Child Protection Services Services and National Crèche
Scheme till 30.11.2018 with an
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4. National Crèche Scheme

outlay of over Rs. 41,000 crores.
• The decision also provides for conversion of National Crèche
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Scheme from Central Sector to Centrally Sponsored Scheme with

the revised cost sharing between Centre and States as 60:40 for all States and UTs with legislature, 90:10
for NER and Himalayan States and 100% for UTs without legislature and implementation of the Scheme
through States/UTs instead of existing implementation agencies.
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Background
The aims of these schemes are as under

Anganwadi Services (ICDS) aims at holistic development of children under the age of six years and its
beneficiaries are children of this age group and Pregnant Women & Lactating Mothers.
The objective of the Scheme for Adolescent Girls is to facilitate, educate and empower Adolescent Girls
so as to enable them to become self-reliant and aware citizens through improved nutrition and health
status, promoting awareness about health, hygiene, nutrition, mainstreaming out of school AGs into
formal/non-formal education and providing information/guidance about existing public services.
The objectives of Child Protection Services are to provide safe and secure environment for children in
conflict with law and children in need of care and protection, reduce vulnerabilities through a wide range
of social protection measures, prevent actions that lead to abuse, neglect, exploitation, abandonment and
separation of children from families etc., bring focus on non-institutional care, develop a platform for
partnership between Government & Civil Society and establish convergence of child related social
protection services.
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National Creche Scheme aims at providing a safe place for mothers to leave their children while they are
at work, and thus, is a measure for empowering women as it enables them to take up employment. At the
same time, it is also an intervention towards protection and development of children in the age group of 6
months to 6 years.
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Impact
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The sub-schemes listed above are not new schemes but are continuing from the XII Five Year Plan. The
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programme through targeted interventions will strive to reduce the level of malnutrition, anaemia and low birth
weight babies, ensure empowerment of adolescent girls, provide protection to the children who are in conflict
with law, provide safe place for day-care to the children of working mothers, create synergy, ensure better
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monitoring, issue negative alerts for timely action, encourage States/UTs to perform, guide and supervise the
line Ministries and States/UTs to achieve the targeted goals and bring more transparency.
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03. Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY)

af
Recently PMKKKY was in news

nt
PMKKKY
The programme is meant to provide for the welfare of areas and people affected by mining related
operations, using the funds generated by District Mineral Foundations (DMFs).
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Objectives of the scheme
To implement various developmental and welfare projects/programs in mining affected areas that
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complement the existing ongoing schemes/projects of State and Central Government.

To minimize/mitigate the adverse impacts, during and after mining, on the environment, health and socio-
economics of people in mining districts.
To ensure long-term sustainable livelihoods for the affected people in mining areas.
High priority areas like drinking water supply, health care, sanitation, education, skill development, women
and child care, welfare of aged and disabled people, skill development and environment conservation will
get at least 60 % share of the funds.
For creating a supportive and conducive living environment, balance funds will be spent on making roads,
bridges, railways, waterways projects, irrigation and alternative energy sources.
District Mineral Foundations (DMFs)
The Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Amendment Act, 2015, mandated the setting up of
District Mineral Foundations (DMFs) in all districts in the country affected by mining related operations.
In case of all mining leases executed before 12th January, 2015 (the date of coming into force of the
Amendment Act) miners will have to contribute an amount equal to 30% of the royalty payable by them to
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the DMFs.
04. WEF Gender Gap index 2017
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India slipped 21 places on the World Economic Forum’s In news
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(WEF) Global Gender Gap index to 108, behind neighbours India moves to 108th place, behind
China and Bangladesh, primarily due to less participation of neighbours China and Bangladesh,
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women in the economy and low wages. primarily due to less participation of
According to the WEF Global Gender Gap Report 2017, India women in the economy and low wages.
has closed 67% of its gender gap
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WEF measures the gap across four pillars
health, the workplace
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education, political representation
At the top of the Global Gender Gap Index is Iceland. The country has closed nearly 88% of its gap. It has
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been the world’s most gender-equal country for nine years.

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Others in the top 10 include Norway (2nd), Finland (3rd), Rwanda (4) and Sweden (5), Nicaragua (6) and
Slovenia (7), Ireland (8), New Zealand (9) and the Philippines (10).
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On a positive note, India succeeded in fully closing its primary and secondary education enrolment
gender gaps for the second year running and for the first time has nearly closed its tertiary education
gender gap.
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However, it continues to rank fourth-lowest in the world on health and survival, remaining the world’s least-
improved country on this sub-index over the past decade, the WEF stated
05. All unwelcome physical contact not sexual harassment’
All unwelcome physical contact cannot be called sexual harassment unless it is in the nature of a sexually-
oriented behaviour, the Delhi High Court has said.
Why this observation by Delhi High Court?
The observations by the Bench came during the hearing of an appeal by a Central Road Research Institute
(CRRI) scientist challenging the clean chit given by the complaints committee and disciplinary authority to her
former senior colleague, whom she had accused of sexual harassment.
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Background
The allegation pertained to an incident on April 2005 when the man had entered the laboratory where the
woman was working and had snatched samples from her hand, thrown the materials and pushed her out
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of the room.
The woman had contended that any unwelcome physical contact amounted to sexual harassment.
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The Complaints Committee had also said that while there was evidence of physical contact by the
S on
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CIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
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01. India to Host Global Conference on Cyber Space 2017: A Giant Leap
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Towards a Secure and Inclusive Cyberspace

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• Incepted in 2011 in London, second GCCS was held In news

in2012 in Budapest with focus on relationship between
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internet rights and internet security.

India, for the first time ever, is going to host
• The third edition of GCCS was held in 2013
the Global Conference on Cyber Space
in Seoul with commitment to Open and Secure
(GCCS), one of the world’s largest conferences
Cyberspace.
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in the field of Cyber Space and related issues,

• The fourth version GCCS 2015 was held on April 16-
on 23 & 24 November 2017, at Aerocity, New
17, 2015 in The Hague, Netherlands.
Delhi.
Themed on Cyber4All: A Secure and Inclusive

Cyberspace for Sustainable Development
This is the fifth edition of GCCS wherein international leaders, policymakers, industry experts, think tanks and
cyber experts will gather to deliberate on issues and challenges for optimally using cyber space.
The overall goals of GCCS 2017
To promote the importance of inclusiveness and human rights in global cyber policy,
To defend the status quo of an open, interoperable and unregimented cyberspace,
To create political commitment for capacity building initiatives to address the digital divide and assist countries,
and to develop security solutions in a balanced fashion that duly acknowledge the importance of the private
sector and technical community.
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02. CZT Imager of AstroSat measures first phase resolved X-ray
polarisation of Crab pulsar
.
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In news
AstroSat, India’s multi-wavelength space
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telescope, has successfully accomplished the
extremely difficult task of measuring X-ray
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polarisation
In a paper published in ‘Nature Astronomy’, the

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team has documented the results of their
eighteen-month study of the Crab pulsar in the
Taurus Constellation and measured the variations
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of polarisation as this highly magnetised object spins around 30 times every second.
This landmark measurement puts up a strong challenge to prevailing theories of high energy X-ray
emission from pulsars.
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About AstroSat
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AstroSat is the first dedicated Indian astronomy mission aimed at studying celestial sources in X-ray, optical
and UV spectral bands simultaneously.
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The scientific objectives of ASTROSAT mission

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To understand high energy processes in binary star systems containing neutron stars and black holes
Estimate magnetic fields of neutron stars
Study star birth regions and high energy processes in star systems lying beyond our galaxy
Detect new briefly bright X-ray sources in the sky
Perform a limited deep field survey of the Universe in the Ultraviolet region.
Payloads of ASTROSAT
The Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT), capable of observing the sky in the Visible, Near Ultraviolet and
Far Ultraviolet regions of the electromagnetic spectrum
Large Area X-ray Proportional Counter (LAXPC), is designed for study the variations in the emission of X-
rays from sources like X-ray binaries, Active Galactic Nuclei and other cosmic sources.
Soft X-ray Telescope (SXT) is designed for studying how the X-ray spectrum of 0.3-8 keV range coming
from distant celestial bodies varies with time.
Cadmium Zinc Telluride Imager (CZTI), functioning in the X-ray region, extends the capability of the
satellite to sense X-rays of high energy in 10-100 keV range.
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Scanning Sky Monitor(SSM), is intended to scan the sky for long term monitoring of bright X-ray sources
in binary stars, and for the detection and location of sources that become bright in X-rays for a short
duration of time.
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03.India’s Second Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC)
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In news
About TISC
on
The Department of Industrial Policy and
These centres will be set up under WIPO’s Technology
Promotion (DIPP), Union Ministry of
and Innovation Support Centers (TISC) program.
Commerce and Industry, has signed an
The programme provides innovators in developing
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Institutional agreement with Anna University
countries with access to locally based, high quality
to establish India’s second Technology and
technology information and related services, helping them
Innovation Support Centre (TISC).
to exploit their innovative potential and to create, protect,
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and manage their intellectual property (IP) rights.

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Objective of the TISC

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To stimulate a dynamic, vibrant and balanced Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) system in India to foster
creativity and innovation, thereby promoting entrepreneurship and enhancing social, economic and cultural
development by establishing a network of TISCs in India.
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The Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM) is designated as the National Focal point for the
TISC national network.
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As the national focal point, CIPAM will identify potential host institutions, assess their capacities and
support them in joining the TISC project.
CIPAM will also act as the main intermediary between WIPO and TISC host institutions and coordinate all
the activities of the national TISC network.
Services offered by TISC’s
Access to online patent and non-patent (scientific and technical) resources and IP-related publications.
Assistance in searching and retrieving technology information.
Training in database search.

On-demand searches (novelty, state-of-the-art and infringement).
Monitoring technology and competitors.
Basic information on industrial property laws, management and strategy, and technology commercialization
and marketing.
About WIPO
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The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is one of the 17 specialized agencies of the United
Nations.
WIPO was created in 1967 “to encourage creative activity, to promote the protection of intellectual
property throughout the world”.
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WIPO currently has 189 member states, administers 26 international treaties, and is headquartered in Geneva,
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Switzerland. The current Director-General of WIPO is Francis Gurry, who took office on 1 October 2008. 186
of the UN Members as well as the Cook Islands, Holy See and Niue are Members of WIPO. Non-members
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are the states of Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Solomon Islands, South
Sudan and East Timor. The Palestinians have observer status
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04.Phone App for cancer study
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Highlights In news
A new smartphone App, SmartIHC-
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The App analyses the expression of a protein marker (Ki-67) for Analyser, developed by researchers
determining an increase in cancer cells. The App, now available for at the Indian Institute of Technology
Android phones, analyses microscopic images of stained cancer (IIT) Kharagpur can now help in
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tissue and in less than a minute tells if there is progression or faster and more accurate evaluation
regression of cancer cells post treatment. of cancer after treatment.

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The smart phone is fitted to the eye-piece of the microscope using a

specially designed 3D-printed holder to take microscopic images of the cancer cells.
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Traditional method of cancer study
In the manual method, pathologists observe these colours using the naked eye and count the cells. This
method is time-consuming and technician-dependent. The new App takes pictures and counts the differently
stained cells and gives the proliferation index in less than a minute.
“The proliferation index tells us the rate at which the cells are dividing or how fast the tumour is growing
during the progress of cancer and helps in deciding future therapy. In manual counting, pathologists observe
only two to four different areas of the tissue and give a mean score.
05.Meisenheimer complex
In news
Key Points
A chemical compound (Meisenheimer
The compound repels water by nature.
complex) synthesised through a simple,
A polystyrene sponge that absorbs water became a single-step process of mixing two chemicals
water-repelling material when coated with the
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at room temperature has been found to be
compound and was able to absorb a wide variety of highly effective in removing fluoride and
oils and organic solvents from water. metal ions such as lead, mercury, cadmium,
The compound has negative and positive charged parts copper, and iron from drinking water.
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and this helps it absorb metal ion pollutants and
fluoride from water
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One gram of the compound was able to remove a large amount of lead (817 mg) and mercury (830
mg) from water and nearly half its weight of copper (451 mg) and iron (511 mg),
on
In the case of fluoride, water with a high concentration of fluoride (10 ppm) was treated with the
compound. After 10 minutes of treatment, the fluoride concentration dropped to 10 ppb.
How Minerals Affect Water Supplies

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High concentrations of total dissolved solids can cause water to taste bad, forcing consumers to use other
water sources. Highly mineralized water also deteriorates plumbing and appliances.
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Waters containing more than 500 milligrams per liter (mg/l) of dissolved solids should not be used if other
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less mineralized supplies are available. This does not mean that any water in excess of 500 mg/l is
unusable.
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Arsenic and fluoride: Two major ground water pollutants

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06. IIT Guwahati uses superhydrophobic cotton to remove oil-spill
The researchers turned the medical cotton, which is extremely water

In news
A team of researchers led by Dr.
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absorbing, into a super hydrophobic (water contact angle of 157

Uttam Manna from the Department
degrees) material and used it for absorbing oil both in air and under
of Chemistry at the Indian Institute
water.
of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have
developed medical cotton than can
Characteristics of this cotton absorb oil and repel water.
The efficiency of absorption is very high — above 2,000 weight

percentage for both heavy and light oils. This translates to one gram of the super hydrophobic cotton
absorbing 20 grams of either heavy or light oils.
The absorbed oil can be recovered through physical compression. The super hydrophobicity remained intact
even when the cotton was manually compressed up to 1,000 times and subjected to other physical
manipulations.
The other important characteristic is its ability to absorb oil from three complex phases
light oil that floats in the air water interface, sediment oil that settles at the bottom as it is heavy, from water-
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in-oil emulsion
Limitations
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Cotton is able to efficiently absorb oil from water-in-oil emulsion, it is inherently incapable of removing oil from
oil-in-water emulsion.
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In the case of oil-in-water emulsion there is very little of oil present. “Since there is more water present, the
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super hydrophobic material does not come in contact with oil and so will be unable to remove oil efficiently
from oil-in-water emulsion
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07. PSLV built by domestic industry by 2020’
In news
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Contributions of Private Industry in
The Indian Space Research Organisation
ISRO’s missions (ISRO) is preparing to hand over the entire
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gamut of launch vehicle manufacture to

Until now, public and private industries have only
domestic industry by 2020.
supplied devices, components and sub-systems for
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Efforts are on to set up a consortium of

ISRO’s launch vehicles, including the PSLV and the
companies for the purpose
GSLV. Our effort is to give a push to industry for
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production of end-to-end systems. By 2020, we hope to have the first completely industry-built PSLV
ISRO already has a partnership with private industry to produce satellites. The IRNSS-1H communication
satellite aboard the ill-fated PSLV C-39 was the first to be produced by a consortium of six companies.
About 80% of the cost of launch vehicles and 40% of satellites are handled by these industries.
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Expectations
ISRO stressed on the need for industry to reduce the manufacturing and material cost without
compromising on quality to bring down the launch cost
ISRO had tightened tolerance to error following the failure of the PSLV- C39 mission
08. Govt. unveils draft of law to regulate space sector
Context: Space Activities Bill, 2017. In News

• The draft of the country’s first Space Law, stipulates
licences for all space-related players and activities.
New body proposed
• The draft also sets out penalties of ₹1 crore and above and
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All persons or entities engaged in jail terms for violations.
space will now need a licence • The proposed bill, also seeks to keep the government out of
The government will form a new any liability arising out of harm that these commercial
authorised body for the purpose of activities may cause — to people, environment, other
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issuing license. countries or outer space.
So far, the national space agency
The draft Bill defines objects, people and geography that will
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•
Indian Space Research Organisation’s
come under the future law.
major works have related to satellites,
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• The Centre will keep a registry of all space objects.
launchers and applications. These were
governed by the Satellite Communication Policy, 2000; the Remote Sensing Data Policy, 2011; and
international treaty obligations on outer space activities as mandated by the UN Committee on Peaceful
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Uses of Outer Space or UNCOPUOS.
Why such a law is needed?

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Increasing applications of Space-based solutions have meant an increased participation of private sector
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industry and startups.
Commercial opportunities in space activities and services, nationally and internationally, demand a higher
order of participation by private sector agencies. This situation demands a necessary legal environment for
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orderly performance and growth of space sector

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09. Earthworms may grow in Martian soil, says study

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Scientists show that worms crucial to healthy crops can reproduce in Martian soil
Scientists have successfully grown earthworms in a Mars soil simulant, an advance that points to the
possibility of life and future human colonies on the red planet.
The two young worms are the first offspring in a Mars soil experiment at Wageningen University &
Research Centre in The Netherlands.
The experiments are crucial in the study that aims to determine whether people can keep themselves
alive on the red planet by growing their own crops on Mars soils.
“To feed future humans on Mars, a sustainable closed agricultural ecosystem is a necessity. Worms will
play a crucial role in this system as they break down and recycle dead organic matter,” researchers
said.
Researchers observed the growth of rucola plants in Mars soil simulant provided by NASA, and added
worms and pig slurry.
“Clearly the manure stimulated growth, especially in the Mars soil simulant, and we saw that the worms
were active,” said Wieger Wamelink of Wageningen University & Research. “However, the best surprise
came at the end of the experiment when we found two young worms in the Mars soil simulant,” said
Wamelink.
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Worms are very important for a healthy soil, not only on Earth but also in future indoor gardens on
Mars or the Moon.
They thrive on dead organic matter such as old plant remains, which they eat, chew and mix with soil.
By digging burrows, the worms also aerate and improve the structure of the soil, making watering the
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plants more effective.
The latter proved to be very important in earlier experiments where water would not easily penetrate the
soil. The application of worms will solve this problem, Wamelink said.
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However, further research would be required to understand the growth of such life forms in low gravity
conditions.
I NFRASTRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT

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01. 2nd meeting of Island Development Agency (IDA)
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In news
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Objective
The Island Development
The project being steered by NITI Aayog aims at promoting and
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Agency reviewed the concept

implementing development based on sustainable approach to building a
development plans and
thriving maritime economy of the project islands.
detailed master plans for
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holistic development of 09
IDA islands – four in A&N Islands
The IDA was set up on June 1 this year following Prime Minister Narendra i.e. Smith, Ross, Long, Avis
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Modi’s review meeting for the development of islands. The meetings of the and five in Lakshadweep i.e.
agency are chaired by the Union Home Minister. Minicoy, Bangaram,
Thinnakara, Cheriyam, Suheli.
Members of the IDA include cabinet secretary, home secretary, secretary

(environment, forests and climate change), secretary (tourism) and secretary
(tribal welfare).
02. India Youth Development Index and Report 2017
In news
Objective
Union Minister of State for Youth
To track the trends in Youth Development across the States. The
Affairs and Sports (Independent
Index enables recognizing the high and low performing states,
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Charge) Col. Rajyavardhan Rathore
identifies the weak domains and informs the policy makers the
here today released the India Youth
priority areas of intervention for youth development in the states.
Development Index and Report 2017.
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Youth Development Index
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The index tracks the trends in Youth Development across the States. The Index enables recognizing the
high and low performing states, identifies the weak domains and informs the policy makers the priority
on
areas of intervention for youth development in the states.
This report is of immense value to enable comparisons across geographical areas and categories, as
human development index has done in comparing the development situation across regions, nations and
localities.
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The index also measures the achievements made besides serving as an advocacy tool for youth
development and facilitates to identify priority areas for development of Policy and Interventions.
As an effective decision – support tool, the YDI-2017 will enable the policy makers track the national and
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the regional progress as well setbacks in youth development policies, planning, priority identification and
implementation strategies. Besides providing insights to suggest alternatives and options, it also aids in
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judicious allocation of resources.

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How is India Youth Development Index different from Global YDI?

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In the India Youth Development Index 2017, the first five dimensions are retained same as that of
Global YDI. The indicators and weights have been modified based on the availability of data at sub-
national level and the importance of the indicators in explaining Youth Development with the aim of
capturing the multidimensional properties that indicate progress in youth development at the sub-national
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level i.e., state level.

Global YDI is different from YDI constructed for India in one unique way; YDI for India adds a new
domain, social inclusion, to assess the inclusiveness of societal progress as structural inequalities persist
in Indian society.
This construction helps to identify the gaps that require intensification of policy intervention.
Youth are defined as those aged 15 to 29 in the national youth policy (2014). This age-group
constitutes 27.5% of India’s population.
0.3 Logistics Sector granted Infrastructure Status
In news
The government has defined “logistics infrastructure” to include a
The Logistics Sector has
multimodal logistics Park comprising an Inland Container Depot
been granted Infrastructure status
(ICD) with a minimum investment of Rs50 crore and minimum area of
10 acre, a cold chain facility with a minimum investment of Rs15 crore
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and minimum area of 20,000 sq. ft and a warehousing facility with a minimum investment of Rs25 crore and
a minimum area of 100,000 sq ft.
What are ‘Logistics’?
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Logistics is the general management of how resources are acquired, stored and transported to their final
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destination
“Logistics” was initially a military-based term used in reference to how military personnel obtained, stored
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and moved equipment and supplies. Since its initial use, “logistics” is used widely in the business sector
to refer to how resources are handled and moved along the supply chain.
In simple terms, “logistics” means having the right amount of a good at the right time, getting it to the
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appropriate location in proper condition and delivering it to the correct customer.
Logistics is a web that links to businesses in every industry sector. The goal is to manage the
fulfillment of each customer, moving quickly and efficiently from one section of the supply chain to the
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next.
Primary Functions of a Logistician

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The tasks for which a logistician is responsible vary depending on the business. Primary responsibilities
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include overseeing and managing inventory, arranging for appropriate transportation, and establishing adequate
storage for the inventory. A qualified logistician plans out all of these and other aspects, coordinating the
steps as inventory moves along the supply chain. The logistician is also responsible for consultations with
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potential and existing clients as well as the companies that are transporting and storing resources.
Why it is needed?
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Development of logistics would give a boost to both domestic and external demand thereby encouraging
manufacturing and ‘job creation’.
This will in turn be instrumental in improving country’s GDP. Therefore, the need for integrated Logistics
sector development has been felt for quite some time in view of the fact that the logistics cost in India is
very high compared to developed countries. High logistics cost reduces the competitiveness of Indian
goods both in domestic as well as export market.
Infrastructure status will enable the Logistics Sector to avail infrastructure lending at easier terms with
enhanced limits, access to larger amounts of funds as External Commercial Borrowings (ECB), access to
longer tenor funds from insurance companies and pension funds and be eligible to borrow from India
Infrastructure Financing Company Limited (IIFCL).
Infrastructure status for cold chains and warehousing facilities will provide a big boost to attracting private
investment in this sector.
Background
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In 2017, India’s logistics performance improved from 54 to 35 under World Bank Logistics Performance
Index (LPI). The government expects the Indian logistics sector to grow to $360 billion by 2032 from the
current $115 billion.
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04. Coastal Berth Scheme
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The Ministry, after due appraisal in consultation with NITI
In news
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Aayog and Department of Expenditure, has extended the
period of the scheme for three years, upto 31st March, 2020 The Ministry of Shipping has taken up
and expanded its scope to cover capital dredging at Major projects worth Rs 2,302 crore for financial
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Ports and preparation of DPR for coastal berth project. assistance under the Coastal Berth Scheme
of the flagship Sagarmala Programme.
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Highlights
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The Coastal Berth Scheme aims to

provide financial support to ports or state
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governments for creation of infrastructure for

movement of cargo and passenger by sea or
national waterways.
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Once completed, the projects will

help to promote coastal shipping and increase
its share in domestic cargo movement in
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India.
Better infrastructure for coastal
shipping will decongest rail and road network
besides ensuring cost competitive and
effective multi-modal transportation solution.
The country has high potential to
use coastal shipping for its internal cargo
movement given its 7500 kms long coastline.
05. VNR Compilation Highlights National SDG Progress and Challenges
Based on the 43 Voluntary National Reviews (VNRs) presented during the 2017 HLPF, the UN Secretariat
has compiled countries’ initiatives to implement the SDGs and the progress they have made, along with
challenges facing each government.
The VNRs are part of the follow-up and review process for the 2030 Agenda, and focus on sharing national-
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level implementation experiences.
High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development

The United Nations High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development or HLPF replaced the
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Commission on Sustainable Development on the 24 September 2013
It meets both under the General Assembly every four years and the ECOSOC in other years with
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technical, ministerial and high level segments. Its meetings are held in July.
It adopts negotiated declarations, reviews commitment and the progress of the 2030 Agenda for
on
Sustainable Development.
The HLPF was part of the agreement following the United Nations Conference on Sustainable
Development or Rio+20 with the aim to strengthen Sustainable Development governance at the United
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Nations
United Nations Economic and Social Council

One of the six principal organs of the United Nations, responsible for coordinating the economic, social,
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and related work of 15 UN specialised agencies, their functional commissions and five regional
commissions.
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The ECOSOC has 54 members. It holds one four-week session each year in July, and since 1998, it
has also held an annual meeting in April with finance ministers heading key committees of the World
Bank and the International Monetary Fun
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CSD: The United Nations Commission on Sustainable Development (CSD) was established by the UN
General Assembly in December 1992 to ensure effective follow-up of Earth Summit
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06. Railways to start 9-month ‘upskilling’ exercise for employees

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Project Saksham
It aims to upgrade the skillsets of its 13 lakh-strong workforces with a single drive spanning nine months.
The nature of the short-duration training will range from refresher courses, with an eye on evolved global
practices in the respective areas, to skills in the existing lining of functioning.
The nature of the short-duration training will range from refresher courses, with an eye on evolved global
practices in the respective areas, to skills in the existing lining of functioning, sources said
Groups of railway officers are going to Japan to train in various processes of the Shinkansen bullet train and
heavy haul technologies.
Employees from the rank of a peon to the Railway Board Members and everyone in between will undergo the
training.
07. North East Development Summit
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In News
North East Development Summit
Highlights Manipur is hosting the first
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ever North-East Development
It was aimed to boost trade and investment in underdeveloped Summit (NEDS) 2017 in Imphal
region of North East and at building confidence and altering
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from November 21.
perception among visiting delegates and investors
Various international finance agencies laid down their plan for development in the region
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Around 36 companies/firms from India participated in addition to associations like FICCI, CII,
NASSCOM, Border Trade Moreh, Myanmar India Business Chamber, India Bangladesh Chamber of
Commerce etc.
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Agreements signed
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The state forest department signed four MoUs -- two with the HSMM Group of Laos for Agarwood
plantation and production of essential oil and commercial production of orchids, one with NLR of
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Netherland for production of bio-fuels from bamboo and one with the Tribal Cooperative Marketing
Development Federation of India for minimum support prices for minor forest produces
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For setting up a private university in Manipur the state's higher education department signed an MoU
with Unesco Centre, UK
With the aim of attracting investment in trade and tourism the finance department signed an MoU with
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the Indo-Swiss Centre, Switzerland

The agriculture department signed a MoU with MSTC, a government of India undertaking, for e-
marketing of agricultural produce from Manipur
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The state tourism department signed a MoU with the Lao Peoples Democratic Republic for development
of tourism and another with Star Track Business House Pvt Ltd, Mumbai, for Rs 50-crore infrastructure
development project
The Manipur Police Housing Corporation signed an MoU with Fitzroy Salai Holdings, Calcutta, for a
cable car project in the state.
8. Indian Railways Unveils New ‘Swarn’ Rajdhani Coaches
In news
Highlights It was launched by the Railway
Under the project, the Indian Railways will focus attention on 10
Ministry to renovate India’s
key areas — punctuality, cleanliness, linen, coach interiors, toilets,
premium trains including Rajdhani
catering, staff behaviour, security, entertainment, housekeeping and
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and Shatabdi. The first revamped
regular feedback.
rake of Rajdhani under the project
The plan will be upgraded in future with services like Wi-
was launched recently
Fi, infotainment screens (that were first provided in Tejas Express)
and coffee vending machines.
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The modified trains will also have improved coach interiors, better furnishing and new comfortable seats.
Trolley service for catering, uniformed staff, and on-board entertainment are some of the changes slated to
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be introduced in Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains from October this year.
Targeting the festive season which begins from October, railways have launched a three-month
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programme under Project Swarn (gold) to refurbish coach interiors, improving toilets and cleanliness in
coaches.
A
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RT & CULTURE
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01. AADI MAHOTSAV Festival

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The Mahotsav: Showcasing Tribal In news

Ministry of Tribal Affairs along with Tribal
Culture, Commerce & Cuisine
Cooperative Marketing Development
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Federation Ltd (TRIFED), is organizing “AADI

The festival will run for a fortnight through MAHOTSAV” a celebration of the spirit of
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30th November 2017. The theme of the festival is: A Tribal Culture, Cuisine and Commerce.
Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Culture, Cuisine and
Commerce. The festival will feature exhibition-cum-sale
of tribal handicrafts, art, paintings, fabric, jewelry and much more through about 200 stalls.
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Over 750 tribal artisans and artists from over 25 States will be participating in the festival. A special
feature of the festival is Tribal India cuisine, recreated and presented in delectable forms to suit urban
tastes by special tribal chefs.
Background
MSP for MFP Scheme for providing a fair and equitable deal to the tribals.
Minor Forest Produce (MFP) is a major source of livelihood for tribals who belong to the poorest of the
poor section of society.
The importance of MFPs for this section of the society can be gauged from the fact that around 100
million forest dwellers depend on MFPs for food, shelter, medicines and income.
It provides them critical subsistence during the lean seasons, particularly for primitive tribal groups such as
hunter gatherers, and the landless. Tribals derive 20-40% of their annual income from MFP.
This activity has strong linkage to women’s financial empowerment as most of the MFPs are collected and
used /sold by women. MFP sector has the potential to create about 10 million workdays annually in the
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country.
The scheme was ready for implementation in March 2014 after a series of studies conducted by the
Planning Commission since 2007 (Haque Committee & Sudha Pillai Committee) the recommendation of
which supports providing support price to MFP gatherers, enhance their income level and ensure
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sustainable harvesting of MFPs. The MSP scheme seeks to establish a framework to ensure fair prices for
the produce collected by them, assurance of buying at a particular price, primary processing, storage,
transportation etc.
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nt
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Other schemes
Government of India has taken a number of initiatives for socio economic development of tribals like
introduction Forest Rights Act, 2006 (Section- 3), PESA Act, 1996 (Section -4), and has been
implementing schemes for development of MFP by providing financial support to State TDCCs and
TRIFED for market development of MFPs.
Recognizing the critical importance which MFPs hold for tribals and the potential to generate large scale
employment opportunities empowering the tribals, Government of India introduced an ambitious scheme
of providing fair price for the MFP collected by tribals through Minimum Support Price (MSP).
“Young Entrepreneur Development Programme”
Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development of India Ltd., TRIFED plans to expand sale operations by
empaneling young and smart sales boys/girls for undertaking house to house campaign for sale of our tribal
products.
These young sales boys/girls shall be known as “Young Entrepreneurs of TRIFED (YET)”. Under this
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programme, young boys and girls fulfilling the prescribed basic criteria shall be registered as Entrepreneur of
TRIFED for a period of 1 year, which will be renewed depending upon the performance of the YET.
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02. Manipur Sangai Festival 2017
In news
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Sangai festival
Every year the State of
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The ‘Festival’ is named after the State animal, Sangai, the brow-antlered deer
Manipur celebrates the
found only in Manipur.
“Manipur Sangai
Festival” from 21st to
It started in the year 2010 and has grown over the years into a big platform
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30th November.
for Manipur to showcase its rich tradition and culture to the world.
The festival is labeled as the grandest festival of the State today and helps promote Manipur as a world
class tourism destination.
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Every edition of the festival showcases the tourism potential of the state in the field of Arts & Culture,
Handloom, Handicrafts, Indigenous Sports, Cuisine, Music and Adventure sports of the state etc.
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The festival will reflect the State’s proud cultural

heritage and the love for art which is inherent
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amongst various tribes inhabiting the State of

Manipur. The State’s classical dance form, ‘Ras
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Leela’ is quite famous all over the world for its

distinctiveness from any other dance forms in India.
The other folk dance performances like the Kabui
Naga dance, Bamboo dance, Maibi dance, Lai
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Haraoba dance, Khamba Thoibi dance etc. which

will be showcased at the festival.
Indigenous sports will also be a major highlight of

the State’s biggest tourism festival this year.
Manipur’s famous martial arts
• Thang Ta (a combination Spear & Sword skills), Yubi-Lakpi (a game played with greased coconut like
rugby), Mukna Kangjei (a game that combines hockey and wrestling), and Sagol Kangjei- Modern Polo
(believed to have evolved in Manipur) will all form part of the festival.
03. Odisha to renovate Bezbaroa’s house
In news
The Odisha government has announced that it
will renovate the house of the doyen of
Assamese literature Lakhminath Bezbaroa at
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Sambalpur and turn it into a memorial.
One of the pioneers of modern Assamese literature
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He was a great poet, writer, satirist, playwright and children’s literature writer.
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It is Lakshminath Bezbarua who wrote the state anthem of Assam – O Mur Apunar Dekh. He is best
known in Assam as the Sahityarathi (meaning Charioteer of Literature in English) and Rasaraaj (King
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of humor). irs
04.Chennai is now part of UNESCO’s ‘creative cities network
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Highlights In news
Chennai has been included
in the UNESCO Creative
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Including Chennai, a total of 64 cities from 44 countries have joined

the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. Jaipur and Varanasi are the Cities Network for its rich
other Indian cities that feature on the list. musical tradition.

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Gastronomy, music, crafts and folk art, media arts, design, film and
literature are the seven fields of creativity highlighted by the network
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The UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN)

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It was created in 2004 to promote cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity
as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development.
The 180 cities which currently make up this network work together towards a common objective.
Placing creativity and cultural industries at the heart of their development plans at the local level and
cooperating actively at the international level.
The Network covers seven creative fields: Crafts and Folk Arts, Media Arts, Film, Design, Gastronomy,
Literature and Music.
05. Allow Kambala races minus the cruelty: Centre tells Supreme Court
In news
The Attorney General invited the court
to lay down objective conditions so that
there is no unnecessary pain or
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suffering caused to the bulls
Kambala
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In its traditional form is non-competitive
with buffalo pairs made to race one
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after another in paddy fields, which is considered a thanksgiving to the Gods for protecting the animals
from diseases.
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It is an annual buffalo race conducted in Coastal belt of Karnataka.
It is a traditional bull sport similar to Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu.
The ‘track’ used for Kambala is a slushy paddy field.
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It is conducted in both competitive and non-competitive manner.
The Kambala season generally starts in November and lasts till March in the following year.
Judicial issue
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Supreme Court in 2014 had banned Kambala based on a petition filed by various animal rights
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organisations.
Following the massive protest against the ban, Karnataka government passed “The Prevention of Cruelty
to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Ordinance 2017” to legalize the bull sport.
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Recently, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) have challenged the ordinance but SC
refuses to stay ordinance.
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06. Tholpava Koothu

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Tholpava koothu, the unique shadow puppet theatre form of

Kerala, South India, is preserved as a family tradition by the
Pulavars.
It is an ancient peculiar ritualistic art form dedicated to
Bhagavati, worshiped by the people of Kerala as the Mother
Goddess.
It is performed using leather puppets at the specially
constructed theatre called Koothu Madam in front of the
Bhagavati temple.
It is believed to have originated in the ninth century AD.
It uses Tamil epic “Kamba Ramayana” as its basic text.

The language used is a dialect of Tamil with an admixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam words.
It is a fine example of the integration of Aryan and Dravidian cultures.
07. Glory of Kakatiya-era temple unveiled
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The 800 year old Sri Kasi Visweswara Temple, belongs
to the kakatiya period, is located in Medak district in
Telangana.
The capital of kakatiya dynasty is Warangal.
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Eastern Chalukyas preceded kakatiyas and Bahmani
sultanate succeeded it which was subsequently
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conquered by Vijayanagar Empire and Delhi Sultanate
in the later period.
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Rudrama Devi of this dynasty reigned around 1262–1289
CE.
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The archaeological department has excavated the parts of the temple that remained buried.
Temple has been a site of religious significance, place to worship the presiding deity, Lord Shiva.
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08. Mamallapuram Stone Sculptures

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In news
Mamallapuram, some 60 km from Highlights
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Chennai, a living testimony to the

creativity of Pallava-era sculptors, The exquisite rock-sculpting techniques exhibited in Mamallapuram
date back to early 7th century CE.
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remains an abode of artists who

work their magic in stone. The Pallava dynasty, which ruled the area between 6 and 9th
Recently, their work got the centuries A.D., is responsible for the development of port town as a
Geographical Indication tag for its centre of art and architecture.

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intricate designing and fine Mahendravarman (AD 580-630), his son Narasimhavarman I
chiselling. Mamalla (AD 630-668), Paramesvaravarman (A.D. 672-700) and

Narasimhavarman II Rajasimha (A.D. 700-728) had contributed the
most of sculptures.
Mamallapuram was named after the king Narasimhavarma Pallava, who was also known as Mamallan
(great wrestler).
Sculptors use blue metal for stone sculptors instead of granite which has high density and very costly.
09. Strings attached
Context
This article discusses about the regional practice of depicting the tale of Ramayana in a temple.
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Aryankavu temple
It is an ancient temple in Shoranur provides a perfect

backdrop for Tholpavakoothu, a 2,000-year-old puppet
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art form practised in Thrissur, Palakkad and
Malappuram districts of Kerala.
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The temple owned by a family is, perhaps, the only
venue where all episodes (Kandams ) of the Kamba
on
Ramayana are staged.
Nearly 200 puppets for the 21-day show is used,
each representing a character in sitting, standing,
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walking or fighting posture.
Story behind it
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Legend has it that as Bhagavathy, or the Mother Goddess, was fighting the demon Darika, she could not
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watch the Rama-Ravana war.

So the Ramayana is staged for her. In most temples, the idol of the goddess is placed on a pedestal and
Tholpavakoothu is staged in front of the deity.
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The Koothu is performed on a stage called Koothumadam, and many temples have such permanent
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structure
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OVERNANCE
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01. Hunar Haats
The fourth Hunar Haat exhibition was recently organised by the Ministry of Minority Affairs at India
International Trade Fair (IITF) at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.
Hunar Haats
Hunar Haats are organised by Ministry of Minority Affairs under USTTAD (Upgrading the Skills & Training
in Traditional Arts/Crafts for Development) scheme.
The USTTAD scheme aims at preserving & promoting the rich heritage of the traditional arts & crafts of
the Minority communities. This is one of the flagship programs of the Ministry.
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Key facts
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Hunar Haats have become a successful mission to provide employment and income generation
opportunities with platforms for marketing the products of master artisans, craftsmen and culinary experts
belonging to the minority communities.
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It envisages at boosting the skill of craftsmen, weavers and artisans who are already engaged in the
traditional ancestral work.
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02. National Law Day
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November 26 is regarded as the second Constitution Day in the modern history of India. It is also celebrated
as the National Law Day.
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This year, the National Law Day was celebrated jointly by the Law Commission of India and NITI Aayog.
Day is an occasion to pay homage to the makers of the Constitution.

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National Law Day

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Sixty-eight years ago on November 26, the Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituency
Assembly. However, the Constitution was only partially adopted that day. The full adoption came two months
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later on January 26, 1950 – the day is celebrated as the Republic Day to mark the anniversary of occasion.
Constitution Day or National Law Day

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The government in October 2015 decided that November 26 would be celebrated as the Constitution Day in
the memory of Dr BR Ambedkar. On November 19 that year, the government issued a gazette notification
declaring that November 26 as the Constitution Day.
Facts about constitution
The Constitution was prepared over 2 years, 11 months and 17 days. The session of the Constituent
Assembly was held on December 9, 1946.
A total of 11 sessions of the Constituent Assembly was held including those by the drafting committee
under the chairmanship of BR Ambedkar.
The drafting committee was one of the 17 such bodied set up under the Constituent Assembly.
Dr Rajendra Prasad, who went on to become the first President of India, was the chairman of the
Constituent Assembly. The Constitution making committees held meetings on 165 days to hold
deliberations and debate provisions to be incorporated.
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There were 299 members, including 15 women, of the Constituent Assembly. Of them 284 members finally
signed the Constitution, when it was adopted in 1949.
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03. Delhi LG cannot sit on govt. schemes: SC
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Context
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Five-judge Constitution Bench hearing a batch of nine appeals filed by the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam
Aadmi Party government against an August 4, 2016 judgment of the Delhi High Court.
Controversy : proviso to Article 239AA (4), which mandates that in case of a difference of opinion
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between the LG and the
Council of Ministers, the
former has to refer the
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issue to the President. In

the meanwhile, while that
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decision is pending before

the President, the LG, if
the matter is urgent, can
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use his discretion to take

immediate action.
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High Court order

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It declared the LG to
have “complete control of all matters regarding National Capital Territory of Delhi, and nothing will happen
without the concurrence of the LG.”
LG has special powers greater than the President, greater than other Governors of States.
What the government is expecting?
The Kejriwal government wants the Supreme Court to lay down the law on whether the LG can unilaterally
administer the National Capital without being bound by the “aid and advice” of the elected government.
In news
Justice D.Y. Chandrachud oral observations regarding the role of The Lieutenant Governor
The Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Delhi cannot stultify proposals or schemes forwarded by the Council of
Ministers to him by simply sitting on them.
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The LG is bound to pass the difference of opinions [between the LG and the Delhi Council of Ministers]
to the President for early resolution.
Constitutional Status
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The 69th Amendment of the Constitution in 1992 gave the National Capital of Delhi special status with
its own democratically elected government and legislative assembly.
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Sub-section (4) of Article 239AA mandates that a Council of Ministers shall aid and advice the LG in his
functions regarding laws made by the Legislative Assembly.
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Various opinions
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The Constitution Bench, led by Chief Justice Dipak Misra, prima facie said that the Delhi government’s
ability to “aid and advice” the LG is limited to subjects other than public order, police and land in the
National Capital. It said that the proviso to Article 239AA (4), on plain reading, seems to give primacy to
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the LG.
Justice Ashok Bhushan remarked that the LG is entitled to take a different view and is not bound by the
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aid and advice of the Delhi Cabinet.
Counter arguments
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Subramanium alleged that the LG has misused the discretion in this proviso to block governance to such
an extent that decisions from appointment of teachers in municipal schools to opening of mohalla clinics
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have been pending for over a year.

The Chief Secretary and other officers, without applying their minds to the various welfare proposals and
schemes, simply forward the files to the LG, where it remains indeterminately.
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The “extraordinary discretion” of the LG is confined to special circumstances and not in everything.
04.‘Article 35A is not part of the Constitution of India’
Why in news?
Jammu & Kashmir Advocate-General Jehangir Iqbal Ganai on Friday said Article 35A, which is being
contested in the Supreme Court through a number of petitions, “is not part of the Indian Constitution”.
Argument of the Advocate
➢ The President has no powers to amend the Constitution. The fact of the matter is Article 35A is not part
of the Constitution of India. It’s a part of the Constitution only applicable to J&K. There is a difference. So
there is no requirement of Parliament amending it,
➢ He said Parliament as such had no powers to add any article of the J&K Constitution except to Article 370.
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➢ In Article 370, the President has been given powers to amend, alter or modify any article viz-a-viz J&K,
with exceptions and modifications.
➢ Referring to the 1954 presidential order on Article 35A, which grants special rights to citizens of J&K over
property and jobs, the Article related to fundamental rights was in “desirable” and not “essential” list.
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Article 35A in brief
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Article 35A is a provision incorporated in the Constitution giving the Jammu and Kashmir Legislature a carte
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blanche to decide who all are ‘permanent residents’ of the State and confer on them special rights and
privileges in public sector jobs, acquisition of property in the State, scholarships and other public aid and
welfare.
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The provision mandates that no act of the legislature coming under it can be challenged for violating the
Constitution or any other law of the land.
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C YBER SECURITY
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01. 300 Cyber security experts to attend first ever Asia Pacific Computer
Emergency Response Team (Apcert) Conference
In news
This is the 15th Conference of APCERT and first ever
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conference in India and South Asia and is expected to

be attended by 21 economies. The Indian Computer Emergency Response
The conference theme is “Building Trust in the Digital Team (CERT-In) under the aegis of Ministry of
Economy” Electronics & Information Technology organizing

the Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response
Team (APCERT) Conference.
CERT-In
CERT-In is operational since January 2004. The constituency of CERT-In is the Indian Cyber Community.
CERT-In is the national nodal agency for responding to computer security incidents as and when they occur.
In the recent Information Technology Amendment Act 2008, CERT-In has been designated to serve as the
national agency to perform the following functions in the area of cyber security:
Collection, analysis and dissemination of information on cyber incidents.
Forecast and alerts of cyber security incidents
Emergency measures for handling cyber security incidents
Coordination of cyber incident response activities.
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Issue guidelines, advisories, vulnerability notes and whitepapers relating to information security practices,
procedures, prevention, response and reporting of cyber incidents.
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02. Asia Pacific Cert (APCERT) Discuss Building Trust in Digital Economy
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Innovation in cyber security is a big focus of the Government. In news
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Key facts First ever Asia Pacific
Computer Emergency
Response Team (APCERT)
There are more than 100 cyber security product companies in India and
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Open Conference in India
it was proposed that in furtherance of the Public Procurement
and the first in South Asia.
(Preference to Make in India) preference shall be provided by all
procuring entities in the government to domestically manufactured /
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produced Cyber Security Products.

India was selected to be part of the steering committee of APCERT along with 6 (Australia, China,
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Japan, Korea, Malaysia and Taiwan) other countries to shape the agenda for the next 2 years across
the region.
In India, cyber security professionals got an opportunity to attend a highly content rich technical
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conference, interact with the Asia Pacific incident response leaders in cyber security and the International
community got to see the skills and depth of some of the cyber security start-ups from India.
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The spectrum of topics covered included setting up sectoral CSIRTS, Nation State exploits, vulnerabilities
of block chain, secure communication in industrial internet, cyber-crime in financial technology ecosystem,
building a sharing economy, machine learning, malicious behavior in encrypted traffic, mobile security and
Artificial Intelligence.
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Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response Team
With the rapid development of the Internet, many Asia Pacific economies are now increasingly dependent
on public network applications such as online banking, online stock trading, e-business, e-government and
e-customs.
The protection of the various national information infrastructures that make up this new and emerging Asia
Pacific e-economy is critical to the region’s political and economic stability and security. The need to
protect these critical national information infrastructures is also urgent.
This growing threat in the Asia Pacific region requires a collaborative approach with the various CERT and
CSIRT organizations taking the lead role with full support from their respective governments.
E NERGY
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01. ‘Saubhagya’ Web-Portal – a Platform for Monitoring Universal
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Household Electrification
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In News
Benefits of this portal
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Minister of Power and New &
The Saubhagya Dashboard is a platform for monitoring household
Renewable Energy, launched
electrification progress, which would disseminate information on
the Pradhan Mantri Sahaj
Household Electrification Status (State, District, village-wise), Household
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Bijli Har Ghar Yojana –
Progress on live basis, State-wise Target vs Achievement, Monthly
‘Saubhagya’ Web Portal .
Electrification Progress, etc.
The portal can be accessed
The Ministry has directed NTPC to mix straw/ crop residue pellets with
at http://saubhagya.gov.in.
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coal, upto 10%, for power generation in all of its Thermal Power
Plants. This step would reduce crop residue burning in agriculture dominated States like Punjab,
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Haryana etc. and hence reduce air pollution that is currently being experienced.
Background of SAUBHAGYA SCHEME

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‘Saubhagya’ scheme was launched by Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi on 25th September,
2017 . Under Saubhagya scheme, all willing households in rural areas and poor families in urban
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areas are given free electricity connections.

There are around 4 Crore un-electrified households in the country and they are targeted for providing
electricity connections by December 2018.
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Till recently, the focus of electrification has been on village electrification through creation of village
electricity infrastructure for all households and providing free electricity connections to poor household
families in rural areas.
Now, Saubhagya has come into existence for providing free electricity connections to all
households (both APL and poor families) in rural areas and poor families in urban areas.
Rural Electrification Corporation Limited (REC) is the Nodal Agency for the operationalization of the
scheme throughout the country.
02. 7th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable in Bangkok –

INTERNATIONAL ENERGY FORUM
In news
In AMER7 Ministers will not only consider the benefits of
embracing energy efficiency measures along the entire
The 7th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable
energy value chain, but also discuss the practical
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(AMER7) took place in Bangkok, Thailand
implications that energy transition pathways may have for
from 1-3 November 2017.
a healthy and stable development of oil and gas markets
The Government of Thailand hosted this
The programme of AMER7 is structured around three key
prestigious biennial event, which is a key
sessions that aim to focus on today’s most pertinent
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feature of the global energy dialogue
questions for energy security:
promoted under the neutral banner of
the International Energy Forum.
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What potential impacts may step-changes in technology
and shifts in transition policy have on upstream
on
investment in the short and longer-term; not only for unconventional and conventional resources, but also
for oil market stability more broadly?
To what extent can gas suppliers rely on policy and market levers to facilitate the role of gas as the fuel
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of choice in support of emerging clean energy technologies that in conjunction with other technologies, are
expected to underpin sustainable growth and development in Asia and other regions?
How can long-term policy and technology cooperation help foster efficiency and productivity improvements
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to natural resource management and use, and shape supply chainsthat are fit the future?
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Currently in India
Coming to India, our gas uptake is less 6.5% of India’s primary energy basket against a global average
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of more than 24%. Government of India has envisioned to increase the share of natural gas in India’s
energy mix to 15% by 2030
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India is currently the world’s fourth-largest importer of LNG, behind Japan, South Korea and China
Last year, India imported approximately 19 Million metric tons of LNG, an increase of around 15% over
the previous year. India also has domestic gas production of almost the same amount. Fertilizer, Power &
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City Gas Distribution are the three main sectors which contribute to the natural gas demand in India.
In coming years, industrial sectors such as refinery and petrochemicals, ceramics and glass, cement, steel
and sponge iron, paints and dyes, chemicals and auto manufacturing are expected to give a boost to
natural gas demand in the country
India to increase domestic production of gas and also to promote the usage of gas
Introduced pricing and marketing freedom for gas producers in future exploration bidding rounds.
India is developing a Natural Gas Trading Exchange where both imported LNG and domestically produced
gas can be traded.
Some of the schemes followed by India to distribution of Gas
Under a scheme called Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, we have distributed 30 million LPG cooking gas
connections to poor households with government subsidy.
Multilateral organizations like the UN Women, the World Bank and others have shown great interest in our
LPG schemes and delegations from several countries have approached us to know about our experience
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and initiatives.
An initiative called Gas4Indiain collaboration with industry bodies.
Natural gas is the natural choice for green economy, and will complement our huge program of 175
Gigawatts of solar, wind and other renewable energy.
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Gas4India
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Gas4India is a unified cross-country, multimedia, multi-event campaign aimed at promoting the use of
natural gas in the country in order to move towards a gas-based economy.
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It will communicate the national, social, economic and ecological benefits of using natural gas as the fuel
of choice to every citizen.
Public and private sector companies working in the sector will promote the natural gas sector under this
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campaign
7TH ASIAN MINISTERIAL ENERGY ROUNDTABLE- INTERNATIONAL ENERGY

FORUM
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India is the current Chair of the IEF which is the largest inter-governmental organisation in the field of oil and
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gas comprising 72 member countries, accounting for 90% of global supply and demand of oil and gas.
Members include developing, developed, OPEC, Non-OPEC and G20 countries. 18 of the G20 countries are
members of IEF.
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• The Government of Thailand will host this prestigious biennial event, which is a key feature of the global
energy dialogue promoted under the neutral banner of the International Energy Forum.
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Background
In previous AMER events, IEF Ministers have recognised their interdependence and placed an emphasis
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on the need for trust and dialogue in building and sustaining partnerships.
AMER6 was convened between the adoption of the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda
(UNSDA) 2030 and the Paris Agreement in 2015 to discuss Asian energy market dynamics.
This culminated in the endorsement of a proposal by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to establish an Asian
Energy Efficiency Knowledge Sharing Framework under the IEF that has since been adopted by the 2nd
G20 Energy Ministers Meeting (Beijing, June 2016) and the IEF15 Ministerial (Algiers, September 2016).
AMER7 will build upon these outcomes to strengthen established partnerships and forge new bonds
accordingly. This event shall ultimately underpin the development of the increasingly complex and dynamic
relationships between energy producers and consumers in Asia and beyond.
W OMEN EMPOWERMENT
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01.‘ Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra’
CCEA has also given approval to the new scheme called ‘Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra’, which
will empower rural women through community participation to create an environmentin which they realize
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their full potential.
Expansion under Beti Bachao Beti Padhaohas also been approved based on the successful implementation in
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161 districts.
In news
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Benefits of the Scheme
The Cabinet Committee on Economic
The approved sub-schemes are social sector welfare Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister has
given its approval for expansion of the
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schemes especially for care, protection and development
of women. schemes of Ministry of Women and Child
It will also aim at improvement in declining Child Sex Development under Umbrella
Scheme “Mission for Protection and
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Ratio; ensuring survival. & protection of the girl child;
ensuring her education, and empowering her to fulfil her Empowerment for Women” for a period
potential. 2017-18 to 2019-20.

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It will provide an interface for rural women to approach the government for availing their entitlements and
for empowering them through training and capacity building.
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Student volunteers will encourage the spirit of voluntary community service and gender equality.
These students will serve “agents of change” and have a lasting impact on their communities and the
nation.
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PMMSK
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The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs a new scheme called ‘Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra’,
which aims at empowering rural women through community participation to create an environment in which
they realise their full potential.
The new scheme “Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra (PMMSK)” is envisaged to work at various levels.
While, National level (domain based knowledge support) and State level (State Resource Centre for
Women) structures will provide technical support to the respective government on issues related to women,
the District and Block level Centres will provide support to PMMSK and also give a foothold to BBBP in
640 districts to be covered in a phased manner.
To provide comprehensive support to women affected by violence, One Stop Centres (OSCs) will be
established in 150 additional districts during the period. These one stop Centres will be linked with
women helpline and will provide 24-hour emergency and non-emergency response to women affected by
violence both in public and private space across the country.
Monitoring and Evaluation of the Scheme
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One common Task Force shall be created at National, State and district level for planning, reviewing and
monitoring all the sub-schemes in this Umbrella, with the objective of ensuring convergence of action and
cost efficiency.
Every scheme shall have a set of clear, focussed target set forth in the guidelines, aligned with SDGs.
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Mechanism for monitoring of outcome based indicators for all the sub-schemes as suggested by NITI
Aayog will be put in place.
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The schemes will be implemented through the States/UTs and Implementing Agencies. All the sub-
schemes have inbuilt monitoring structure at the Central Level, State, District and Block level.
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BBBP
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The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister has given its approval for
expansion of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao for a Pan India reach covering all the 640 districts (as per census
2011) of the Country to have a deeper positive impact on Child Sex Ratio. Expansion under BBBP has
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been approved based on the successful implementation in 161 districts.
The Government recognized the challenge of declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR), as a telling indicator of
gender discrimination towards girl child, requiring immediate attention and action and launched BBBP
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scheme in 2015.
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02. Program to train Elected Women Representatives of PRIs

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In news
Key facts
The government has launched an intensive
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This capacity building program is being organized by training program for Elected Women
National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Representatives (EWRs) of Panchayati Raj
Development (NIPCCD) of the WCD Ministry which will Institutions and Master Trainers, in New Delhi.
ultimately train approximately twenty thousand EWRs
covering nearly 50 EWRs from each district by March, 2018.
Training two lakh women sarpanches across the country will help bring following important changes:
It will help to create model villages.

It will help prepare women as political leaders of the future.
Objectives
Build capacities of Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) for effective functioning and setting of
women’s agenda.
Institutionalize mechanisms to strengthen capacity building of EWRs to better understand and perform their
functions.
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Mobilize community and strengthen processes of constituency building to enable women to articulate their
voices and participate in the electoral process.
The project activities were implemented through Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to harness their
expertise in mobilizing women and creating awareness of issues at the grassroots level. For each of the
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10 states, one CSO was identified based on the demonstrated work experience on local governance
issues in that area. The capacity-building project focused on EWRs and panchayat functionaries.
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Background
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A million women have been elected at the village, block and district levels, following the landmark 73rd
Amendment to the Constitution of India (1992), reserving 33 percent of the seats in Panchayati Raj Institutions
for women.
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The process of decentralization has provided representation but representation does not necessarily lead
to participation.
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Women still face a number of challenges for their engagement in political spaces such as inadequate
education, lack of financial independence, burden of productive and reproductive roles and opposition
stemming from entrenched patriarchal views. Training, therefore, has emerged as a critical concern for
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facilitating their effective participation.

The 73rd and 74th Amendments to the Constitution of India provide the legal basis for direct
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democracy at the local-level, both in rural and urban areas.

The amendments stress the need to bring people belonging to marginalized groups into the political
process by reserving seats for women and for people belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SC)1 and
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Scheduled Tribes (ST)2.

It is envisaged that by mandating not less than one-third of the seats for women in local government
bodies, the governance process at the local government level will reflect the voices of women and the
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concerns and issues that confront them.
D EFENCE
01. Brahmos Flight test from IAF’s Su-30MKI fighter aircraft
In a first, air-launched Brahmos missile test-fired
Highlights
Brahmos, the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missilecreated history on 22nd Nov 2017 after it was
successfully flight-tested first time from the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) frontline fighter aircraft Sukhoi-30MKI
against a sea based target in the Bay of Bengal.
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The missile was gravity dropped from the Su-30 from fuselage, and the two-stage missile’s engine fired
up and straightway propelled towards the intended target at the sea in Bay of Bengal.
In a major milestone, the Brahmos supersonic cruise
In news
missile has been successfully test fired for the first time from
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Defence Research and Development
the Indian Air Force’s frontline Sukhoi-30 MKI combat jet,
Organisation (DRDO) achieved yet
significantly bolstering the country’s aerial prowess.
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another feat on 7th November with the
Brahmos ALCM weighing 2.5 ton is the heaviest weapon
successful test flight of ‘NIRBHAY
to be deployed on India’s Su-30 fighter aircraft modified by HAL
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to carry weapons.
Brahmos, the world-class weapon with multi-platform, multi-mission role is now capable of being
launched from Land, Sea and Air, completing the tactical cruise missile triad for India.
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Brahmos is a joint venture between DRDO of India and NPOM of Russia.
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02. India’s indigenous subsonic cruise missile Nirbhay set for fifth trial
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Features of the missile

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Nirbhay is an all-weather low-cost long-range

cruise missile with stealth and high accuracy.
The missile has a range of more than 1000
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km.
Indigenously designed
The missile has the capability to loiter and
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cruise at 0.7 Mach, at altitudes as low as 100

m.
Its relatively slow flight speed allows it to navigate its way precisely to the target.
The Nirbhay cruise missile is an Indian version of the American Tomahawk.
The missile is capable of being launched from multiple platforms on land, sea and air.
Can carry both Conventional and nuclear warhead.
03. DRDO successfully tests guided bomb
➢ light weight glide bomb,
➢ Smart Anti Airfield Weapon (SAAW),
which can target large enemy
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infrastructure, like airfields.
“The guided bomb released from an
Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft and
guided through precision navigation
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system, reached the targets at
greater than 70 km range with high accuracies
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Smart Anti Airfield Weapon
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The SAAW is a lightweight high precision guided bomb designed to destroy ground targets, such
as runways, bunkers, aircraft hangers and other reinforced structures.Weighing 120 kg (260 lb), it has deep
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penetration capabilities, carries a high explosive warhead
04. INSV Tarini on second leg of circumnavigation

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➢ Indian Navy Sailing Vessel Tarini set sail from Fremantle, Australia, on the second leg of its global
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circumnavigation expedition with an all-woman crew of six.

➢ The vessel had reached Fremantle on October 23 after completion of the first leg of its maiden voyage and
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is now headed to Lyttelton, New Zealand.
➢ The crew interacted with a cross section of policy makers, political leaders, parliamentarians and military
officers.
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➢ The voyage titled Navika Sagar Parikrama began from Goa in September 2017 and is to be completed
in March 2018.
➢ The distance will be covered in five legs, with stopovers at four ports —
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In news Fremantle (Australia), Lyttelton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falklands) and
The Defence Research and Cape Town (South Africa).
Development Organisation
➢ The 55-foot sailing vessel, INSV Tarini, built indigenously, was
(DRDO) has successfully inducted in the Navy early in 2017.
tested an indigenously
developed
I NTERNATIONAL RELARIONS
01. INSPIRE 2017
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The first edition of the International Symposium to Promote Innovation & Research in Energy Efficiency
(INSPIRE 2017) was kicked off in Jaipur recently.
About INSPIRE 2017
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INSPIRE 2017 is an International Conference that brings together various stakeholders such as policy
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makers, innovators, financiers, influencers to showcase best practices in the sector.
It provides a platform for energy efficiency community to discuss energy efficiency policies, market
transformation strategies, emerging technologies, delivery and business-model driven transformations.
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The event is further designed to provide global and national thought-leaders and implementers to expand
perspectives on energy efficiency and spur ideas and solutions that will help leverage the full potential of
energy efficiency and bring its multiple co-benefits to the fore.
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Policy makers and experts from Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), The World Bank Group, The Energy
Institute (TERI), International Energy Agency (IEA), Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), USA and
representatives of the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) will take part in the event. Several global
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organizations like the Asian Development Bank, African Development Bank, Asian Infrastructure Investment
Bank, International Finance Corporation, International Energy Agency will also share their perspectives at
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INSPIRE.
Other programmes of Government

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Through an innovative market-led approach towards energy efficiency, India has charted its progress towards
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being a low-carbon economy, through implementation of large scale zero subsidy initiatives like Unnat Jyoti
by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA), Street lighting National Programme, Electric vehicles, Smart Meter
programme, Solar Rooftop projects etc.
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Way ahead
Energy efficiency is the winning strategy to simultaneously address a variety of policy objectives, including
security of supply, climate change, competitiveness, balance of trade, reduced investment need and
environmental protection.
02. International Multilateral Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise

(IMMSAREX)
In news
Highlights
Chief of the Naval Staff Sunil Lanba has
This is the first ever operational exercise held under the
embarked on a two-day visit to
aegis of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) in
Bangladesh to participate in an
Bangladesh.
International Multilateral Maritime Search
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The Exercise comprised drills related to fire-fighting, sea
and Rescue Exercise (IMMSAREX) being
accidents and rescue, as well as deep sea searches for
from November 26 to November 28
missing ships, searches for missing aircraft, and other
under the aegis of Indian Ocean Naval
emergency rescue operations.
Symposium (IONS).
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IONS: Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS)is a
multilateral maritime security initiative undertaken in 2008. In the broader perspective it was initiated taking
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all the littoral countries of the Indian Ocean (IO) onboard to promote friendly relationship and build
professional cooperation among the IOR littorals.
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Objective
To promote measures and mechanisms of constructive engagement that bear upon issues of regional
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maritime security and cooperation in the maritime domain. Over a very short span of time IONS has
emerged as one of the largest alliance of navies and maritime security agencies of the world.
In-addition to the conduct of the exercise, an ‘Extraordinary Conclave of Chiefs (ECoC)’ meeting of IONS
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is also scheduled on 28 November 2017, at Cox Bazar, which would also be attended by the Chiefs of
the Navy.
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03. Conference of Parties (Cop23) – Bonn
In news
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What is ‘Transport Decarbonisation • It is alliance that has been declared

Alliance’? at the current Bonn session– which
It is alliance that has been declared at the current Bonn intends to facilitate a shift to
session– which intends to facilitate a shift to sustainable
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sustainable fuels.
fuels.
• Notably, India is systematically
This envisions a framework for getting cities to commit to
replacing its public buses with an
eco-friendly mobility.
electric fleet and plans to go electric
This will also improve the quality of urban life for citizens.
for all vehicles by 2030.
Notably, India is systematically replacing its public buses with
an electric fleet and plans to go electric for all vehicles by • Laws to raise the energy efficiency of
2030. vehicles would work well if supported

with financial incentives.
Such measures will have a beneficial effect not just on transport choices, but on public health through
pollution abatement.
Laws to raise the energy efficiency of vehicles would work well if supported with financial incentives.
India’s advances towards its targets?
India’s pledged to reduce the intensity of its greenhouse gas emissions per unit of GDP by 20-25% from
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2005 levels by 2020.
This commitment was made in Copenhagen in 2009 and has been progressing positively.
The pledges made in the Paris pact of 2015 are also proceeding according to the envisioned targets.
40% share of renewable energy is targeted by 2030 – which would be in line with emission intensity for
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GDP growth of 7% or less.
Notably, generating 175 gigawatts of renewable power by 2022 is already underway.
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India could further raise its ambition in the use of green technologies, which would mark it as a global
climate leader.
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Challenges
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The impact of extreme weather events such as droughts and floods on economic growth hasn’t been
enumerated.
In this context, the rich countries must give up their rigid approach towards the demands of low and
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middle-income countries.
There is also some worry that an increase in coal, oil and gas production could negate some of the gains
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made.
Opportunities
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The climate question presents a leapfrog era for ushering in a new era of innovation and growth.
Hence, projects have to be decisively pursued and barriers for wider adoption of renewable need to be
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taken down.
04. Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES)

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It is the preeminent annual entrepreneurship gathering that convenes emerging entrepreneurs, investors and
supporters from around the world. GES 2017 will create an environment that empowers innovators, particularly
women, to take their ideas to the next level.
Through two and a half days of networking, mentoring, and workshops, GES empowers entrepreneurs to pitch
their ideas, build partnerships, secure funding, innovate, and find their target customers creating new goods
and services that will transform societies.
Background
It was started by U.S. government in 2010.

It serves as a vital link between governments and the private sector and convenes global participants to
showcase projects, network, exchange ideas and champion new opportunities for investment.
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GES-2017, Hyderabad
In partnership with the Government of the United States of America, NITI Aayog was proud to host the eighth
annual Global Entrepreneurship Summit in India from November 28-30, 2017.
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It is the eighth annual GES summit.
It is the first GES summit being held in South Asia.
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Since 2010, it has been hosted by Kenya, Morocco, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia and last
year it was held in Silicon Valley in the US.
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THIS YEAR’S THEME: WOMEN FIRST, PROSPERITY FOR ALL
The main focus will be on supporting women entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth globally.
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Areas of focus
Energy and Infrastructure

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Healthcare and Life Sciences

Financial Technology and Digital Economy
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Media and Entertainment

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05. Navigation rights figure in first Quadrilateral talks

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Beginning a new diplomatic initiative, India participated in the first formal official-level discussions
conducted under the recently mooted regional coalition known as the ‘Quad’, the quadrilateral formation
that includes Japan, India, the United States and Australia, on the sidelines of the 31st ASEAN and the
12th East Asia summits in Manila, Philippines.
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“The discussions focussed on cooperation based on their converging vision and values for promotion of
peace, stability and prosperity in an increasingly inter-connected region that they share with each other
and with other partners. They agreed that a free, open, prosperous and inclusive Indo-Pacific region
serves the long-term interests of all countries in the region and of the world at large,” the Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement on the quadrilateral.
Indicating the simmering regional tension with China and Beijing’s assertiveness over the South China
Sea issue, a statement from the Australian Foreign Ministry informed that freedom of navigation figured at
the ‘Quad.’ It said, “upholding the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific and respect for international
law, freedom of navigation and overflight; increase(d) connectivity; challenges of countering terrorism
and upholding maritime security in the Indo-Pacific” were also discussed.
Official sources emphasised that the quadrilateral was not aimed at any other country, and said India was
also involved in other similar groupings in the region to deal with security and political issues
06. Chabahar port ready, next stage for India
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Objective
In news It will enhance trade in the
region. With a final aim to
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Iranian President Hassan Rouhaniwill inaugurate the first phase of
the Chabahar port development project on Sunday, with senior
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Afghan and Iranian media quoted President Rouhani
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connect not just to Afghanistan via rail but also to the 7,200-km International North-South Transport Corridor
to Russia.
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Present Scenario
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At present, India is using the port’s existing commercial route to transport more than 1.1 million tonnes of
wheat to Afghanistan, of which the first consignment of 15,000 tonnes from the Kandla port came to Zaranj,
via Chabahar.
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Way ahead
The inauguration of the port will effectively pave the way for India to carry forward the next phase of
construction and development of two berths for its use, particularly for trade with Afghanistan.
Next, the government, which has committed $500 million to the port project, will develop a free-trade area
around the port, and finally will complete the loop with a $1.6-billion railway line to Zahedan.
India has already completed the Zaranj-Delaram highway in Afghanistan, which would facilitate the trade to
Kabul and eventually beyond to Central Asia. Mr. Gadkari said the first part of India’s construction would be
finished in 2018.
Chabahar Port
It is a seaport in Chabahar located in southeastern Iran, on the Gulf of Oman. It serves as Iran’s only
oceanic port, and consists of two separate ports named Shahid Kalantari and Shahid Beheshti, each of which
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have five berths.
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IGITALIZATION
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01. Crypto currencies, ICOs under SEBI lens
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The rising popularity of crypto
currencies and the increasing
number of entities looking at
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raising funds through Initial
Coin Offerings (ICO), SEBI is
evaluating whether such
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instruments and offerings can

be brought under its regulatory
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purview.
Securities and Exchange
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Board of India (SEBI) is

mulling whether an ICO can
be regulated under the
existing legal framework or
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certain amendments would be

required in case the
government wants the capital
market watchdog to be the
regulatory authority for such
issuances.
Concerns
Unlike an IPO, which is governed by SEBI regulations, there is no regulatory body for ICOs in India.
According to data (from UK-based CoinDesk), nearly $2.7 billion has been raised globally through ICOs
since 2014.
Concerns related to ICOs can be gauged from the fact that ICOs are considered as illegal public
finance mechanism used for issue of securities and money laundering.
According to a recent study, more than 2,500 Indians invest in bitcoin daily.
While crypto currencies and ICOs have risks and involve pooling of money, it cannot be regulated by
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SEBI unless it is relatable to the securities market.
Bitcoins are neither ‘commodities derivatives’ nor ‘securities’ under Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act,
1956 and this would require amendments and addressing of other related issues.
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02. Government launches Food Regulatory Portal and Nivesh Bandhu
Portal
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To mark the historic World Food
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Convention hosted for the first time by
India, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
launched – Nivesh Bandhu
– ( http://foodprocessingindia.co.in/)
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The unique portal or “investor’s friend”. The
portal will help bring together information on
central and state government policies, and
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incentives provided for the food-processing

sector.
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Nivesh Bandhu
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NiveshBandhu is an investor facilitation

portal which will be launched by the
Ministry of Food Processing during
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World Food India Expo 2017.

Its objective is to assist investors to
make informed investment decisions.
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The portal would provide information on Central and State Governments’ investor friendly policies, agro-
producing clusters, infrastructure, and potential areas of investment in the food processing sector.
World Food India 2017 will provide global businesses a platform to explore Indian market across the value
chain in food processing and food retail.
It brings together global & Indian leaders across the food value chain for possible partnerships and
facilitates investment flow in the food processing sector
03. India hosts first APCERT conference
Context
The Indian Computer Emergency Response

Team (CERT-In) under the aegis of Ministry of
Electronics & Information Technology organizing the
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Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response
Team (APCERT) Conference from November 12-15, 2017 in New Delhi.
This is the 15th Conference of APCERT and first ever conference in India and South Asia and will be
attended by 21 economies.
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Key Points
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This conference would cover contemporary topics around strategies of CERTs, Technology and Instruments for
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building trust in digitally evolving economies and best practices for handling cyber security in mobile and
social media.
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The conference theme is “Building Trust in the Digital Economy”.
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About APCERT
What is it?
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APCERT (Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response Team) is a coalition of CSIRTs (Computer Security
Incident Response Teams), from 13 economies across the Asia Pacific region. APCERT organizes an annual
meeting called APSIRC conference, and the first conference was held in March 2002, Tokyo, Japan.
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Membership: Any CSIRT from Asia Pacific Region, who is interested to furthering the objectives of APCERT,
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will be allowed to join as APCERT members after meeting all member accreditation requirements.
APCERT membership model has 2 levels

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Full members
Full Members are CSIRTs/CERTs in the Asia Pacific region, who have the right to vote on APCERT issues,
as well as to stand for election to the APCERT Steering Committee. All Founding Members are Full Members.
General Members
Any CSIRTs/CERTs in the Asia Pacific region with an interest in incident response and IT security, can join
APCERT as a General Member. General Members are not eligible to vote nor to stand for election to the
APCERT Steering Committee.
An applicant is required to join APCERT as a General Member first. After applicants obtain a General
Member status, they can later apply to upgrade their membership to a Full Member status. General
Membership is a pre-requisite to become a Full Member.
CERT-In (the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team)
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It is a government-mandated information technology (IT) security organization. CERT-In was created by the
Indian Department of Information Technology in 2004 and operates under the auspices of that department.
It’s purpose
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The purpose of CERT-In is to respond to computer security incidents, report on vulnerabilities and promote
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effective IT security practices throughout the country. According to the provisions of the Information
Technology Amendment Act 2008, CERT-In is responsible for overseeing administration of the Act.
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NVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY on
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01. Hotspots of rattan found in Western Ghats
In news
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Scientists have discovered that non-

protected areas near the
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Agastyamalai Biosphere Reserve,

Silent Valley-Mukurthi National Parks
and Coorg-Wayanad in the Western
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Ghats are hotspots of rattan or cane

(light, flexible climbing palms) species.
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Urgent conservation attention in the face

of threats including habitat loss and
excessive harvesting would be critical here.
What is rattan?
Rattans are spiny climbing palms used in making cane furniture and mats, an industry that is growing at
US$4 billion trade per year.
Genomics were useful in phylogeny reconstruction of Calamodeae, and the molecular taxonomy
of Calamus and related genera is an important research
In news
focus. Rattans are harvested from forests that require conservation
Researchers have discovered a new
efforts.
species of ant in the Western Ghats,
recognised as one of the world’s
02. New ant species discovered in the
‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity.
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Western Ghats
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The new species was found in the Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Belonging to Tyrannomyrmex, a rare tropical genus of ants, the species was discovered by the team from
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the Vallakadavu range
Paying tribute to their mentor and eminent myrmecologist Musthak Ali, who is regarded as the country’s
‘ant man’, the authors of the study have named the new species Tyrannomyrmex alii (or T. alii) Sadasivan
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and Kripakaran 2017.
Tyrannomyrmex is a rare myrmicine (subfamily of ants) ant genus that is distributed in the Indomalayan
bio-region that extends from southern India and Sri Lanka to southeast Asia.
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The particular genus had been erected in 2003 with the discovery of the species, Tyrannomyrmex rex
Fernández, in Pasoh Forest Reserve, Malaysia. Later, two more species that were under the same genus
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had been discovered
Periyar National Park

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Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (PNP) is a protected area near Thekkady in the districts of
Idukki, Kottayam and Pathanamthitta in Kerala.
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It is located high in the Cardamom Hillsand Pandalam Hillsof the south Western Ghats along the border
with Tamil Nadu
It is an important tiger and elephant reserve.
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The park is a repository of rare, endemic and endangered flora and fauna and forms the major watershed
of two important rivers of Kerala, the Periyar and the Pamba.
The park is often called the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary or Thekkady. It is located high in the Cardamom
Hills and Pandalam Hills of the south Western Ghats along the border with Tamil Nadu.
The first official action towards the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity in Kerala was taken in 1934 by
the Maharaja of Travancore, Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, by declaring the forests around Periyar
lake as a private game reserve to stop the encroachment of tea plantations
03.Edible wild banana species discovered, the second such on the island
in two years
Wild banana named Musa paramjitiana: Critically endangered, grow

over 9 meter
In 2014, he discovered Musa indandamanensis, another wild

banana, in a remote tropical rain forest on the Little Andaman
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island. It has dark green cylindrical flower bud.
“These discoveries present a great opportunity for plant breeders
and horticulture experts to improve the existing banana crop.
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04. Green trickster
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Carnivorous plants usually grow in places where the soil is thin or poor in nutrients, especially nitrogen.
Thus, these plants derive some or most of their nutrients (but not energy) from trapping and consuming
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animals or protozoans, typically insects and other arthropods.
They trap the insects by employing a variety of techniques like nectar, smell, colour and ultraviolet
fluorescence to capture the prey.
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The Nepenthes genus carnivorous plants capture insects through their leaf-evolved pitchers which act as
biological traps.
According to a recent study, carnivorous plants use carbon dioxide (co2) to attract insects and ants to
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their traps.
It is found that the Indian Pitcher Plant (Nepenthes Khasiana) uses the gas both to attract the prey and to
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aid the digestive process.

The high CO2 inside the pitchers is produced by the respiration of tissues within the cavity.
The CO2 release and prey capture triggers the release of anti-fungal compounds, preventing infections
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from prey.
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05. Warm water
Rising seawater temperature as a result of climate change is one of the most serious causes of stress to
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corals throughout the world.

When temperature is too high, the relationship between corals and their symbiotic microalgae breaks
down.
The algae are what give corals some of their bright colours (red,orange,yellow etc) so when this happens,
corals appear white or bleached.
Just one degree above the typical summer temperature is enough to bleach many corals.
High temperature allows corals to become sick more easily, a sick coral’s appearance, like black band,
white band, white spots.
Ocean
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Acidification
Carbon dioxide (CO2) also has adverse effects on the oceans.

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Recently, ocean acidification has emerged as another potential serious threat to coral reefs. Seawater
absorbs some of the excess CO2 from the atmosphere, causing the oceans to become more acidic.
These acidic conditions dissolve coral skeletons, which make up the structure of the reef and make it
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more difficult for corals to grow.
Overfishing
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Fishing using cyanide and dynamite

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Pollution from sewage and agriculture

Massive outbreaks of predatory starfish and invasive species
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Sedimentation from poor land use practices.
06. First fauna survey begins in Krishna sanctuary

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It is a wildlife sanctuary located in Andhra Pradesh.

It falls in Krishna and Guntur districts.
With an area of 194.8 km, it lies between the Bay of Bengal and the Krishna river.
It is one of the rarest eco-regions in the world because it harbours vast tracts of pristine mangrove forest.
In 1998, it was declared as wildlife sanctuary and since then no survey on the fauna had been carried
out.
In 2014-16, a pilot project was carried out in which 15 fishing cats were recorded.
Population of fishing cat has increased in KWS due to the conservation of the mangroves.
As per the Forest Report 2015, there has been a net increase of 17 sq. km. of mangrove forest cover in
Krishna district since 2013.
Status Survey
To have an authentic data on presence of the wildlife is the need of an hour to prepare conservation
strategies.
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Thus, a six-month status survey is being carried out by installing camera traps in the most strategic 20
wildlife grids.
The survey will proceed by carrying out Fishing Cat census.
It also includes geo-tagging of the wildlife, particularly the fishing cat
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Fishing Cat (Prionailurus viverrinus)
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It is a feline with a powerful build and stocky
legs.
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It is about twice the size of a typical house cat
and is nocturnal in nature.
It is an adept swimmer and enters water
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frequently to prey on fish.
Apart from fish, it also preys on frogs,
crustaceans, snakes, birds and scavenges on
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carcasses of larger animals.
Habitat
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Wetlands are the favourite habitats of the fishing cats.

In India, fishing cats are mainly found in the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans, on the foothills of the
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Himalayas along the Ganga and Brahmaputra river valleys and in the Western Ghats.
It is a state animal of West Bengal.
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Threats
Some of the threats faced by the fishing cats are

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Destruction of wetlands
Depletion of its main prey-fish due to unsustainable fishing practices
Poaching (for its skin)
Indiscriminate trapping, snaring and poisoning
Current Status
On IUCN red list, it is classified as ‘Vulnerable’.

On Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) lists, it is placed in Appendix II
part of Article IV.
In India,it is included in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 and thereby protected from
hunting.
07. M-STRIPES
Recently M-STRIPS has been in news because the Chief conservator of forests, Sanjeev Gaur, on Tuesday
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suspended forester ST Uikey on charges of corruption in the case related to the poisoning of two tigers.
M-STRiPES (Monitoring System For Tigers-Intensive Protection and Ecological Status) is an app
developed by Wildlife Institute of India.
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The app will be used for the first time in All India Tiger estimation.
It is already in place in some national parks but it has been made mandatory for the fourth All-India Tiger
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estimation.
It is expected that the app would ensure more robust estimate by eliminating human errors in the survey.
The system consists of two components
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Field based protocols for patrolling, law enforcement, recording wildlife crimes and ecological monitoring,
A customized software for storage, retrieval, analysis and reporting. Currently law enforcement and
ecological monitoring are being done, but the information generated is ad hoc and rarely available in a
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format for informed decision making.
How it works?
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MSTrIPES produces easily interpretable reports and maps that are useful for management and policy
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decisions. If implemented as designed, the system reduces the response time to detrimental events like
poaching or habitat degradation and becomes a comprehensive tool to keep the pulse of a tiger reserve
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08. Indian Emerald Dragonfly

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It is a rare variety of dragonfly known to

exist only in the Travancore hills of Kerala.
It made a dramatic reappearance 83 years,

as it was sighted in the Periyar Tiger Reserve
(PTR) during an odonata survey.
Odonata is an order of carnivorous insects
that includes dragonflies and damselflies.
It lives around forest streams and micro habitat near high altitude areas.
It is easy to spot because it flies irregularly over the water body for nearly an hour
Thus it acts as an indicator of the health of water bodies inside sanctuaries and reserves.
If a particular habitat is disturbed by pollution, the species won’t be able to survive.
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09. Worldwide increase in methane bubbles due to climate change
Shallow lakes, ponds, rivers and wetlands are relevant in the context of climate change.
They are responsible for much of global greenhouse gas emissions.
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An important part of these emissions is caused by bubbles filled with methane gas that develop in the
sediment at the bottom of these water bodies.
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When the bubbles reach the surface, the gas enters the atmosphere.
Nutrient-rich sediments produce more methane than nutrient-poor sediments.
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Solution
One possibility for reducing methane production is therefore to make sure that sediments have fewer nutrients,
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which means using less fertilizer
In news
Researchers at Massachusetts
If we emit less greenhouse gas and the temperature drops, we gain Institute of Technology (MIT) have
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a bonus in the form of less methane production. This bonus from developed a new system that could
nature should be our motivation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions potentially be used for converting
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even further. power plant emissions of carbon

dioxide (CO2) into useful fuel for
cars, trucks and planes.
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10.Turning CO2 emissions into fuel

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Technology
Made of lanthanum, calcium, and iron oxide, the membrane is designed to separate out oxygen from carbon
dioxide, leaving behind carbon monoxide that can then be turned into a variety of useful fuels.
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Carbon monoxide produced during this process can be used as a fuel by itself or combined with hydrogen
and/or water to make many other liquid hydrocarbon fuels as well as chemicals including methanol (used as
an automotive fuel), syngas, and so on.
Why it was required?
With concentrations of CO2 at their highest in the last 400,000 years, the world needs to remove the
greenhouse gas from the atmosphere – as well as cut emissions – if we are to avoid catastrophic climate
change.
Although nature has been recycling carbon dioxide for millions of years. Photosynthesis turns sunlight, carbon
dioxide and water into sugars which fuel plants, which provide us with food, wood and complex sugars for
fuel. But most plants turn less than 1% of the solar energy they receive into useful energy-rich compounds.
Highlights
The separation is driven by temperatures of up to 990 degrees Celsius, and the key to making the process
work is to keep the oxygen that separates from carbon dioxide flowing through the membrane until it reaches
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the other side.
This could be done by creating a vacuum on side of the membrane opposite the carbon dioxide stream, but
that would require a lot of energy to maintain.
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In news
India’s estimated cost of health In place of a vacuum, the researchers use a stream of fuel such as
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impact due to air pollution is a hydrogen or methane. These materials are so readily oxidized that they
staggering $220 billion (Rs will actually draw the oxygen atoms through the membrane without
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1417k crore) – one of the requiring a pressure difference.
highest in the world, said a
new UN report.
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11. Indians willing to pay $220b to avoid
pollution mortality
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The theme of the 2017 UN Environment Assembly is ‘Towards a Pollution-Free Planet’.

In line with this theme, UNEP has prepared an official report on pollution.
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The background report was released during the first Conference of Parties for the Minamata
Convention (held in September this year) and ahead of the annual U.N. Environment Assembly (to be
held in early December).
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Findings of the report

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Rise in global mortality cost: The global mortality costs from outdoor air pollution are projected to
rise to about $25 trillion by 2060 in the absence of more stringent measures..
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Countries with highest share: In 2016, at regional and national scale, China’s welfare costs from
mortality were the highest at nearly $1 trillion followed by the Organisation for Economic Corporation
and Development (OECD) countries with a combined total of $730 billion.
Take-make-dispose: If consumption and production patterns continue as they are, the linear economic
model of ‘take-make-dispose’ will seriously burden an already-polluted planet, affecting current and
future generations.
Reduction in certain forms of pollution: Certain forms of pollution have been reduced as technologies
and management strategies have got advanced but there is a need to do more.
India specific findings
As per the report, India had the highest share of welfare costs (or a loss of income from labour) of
about $220 billion in South and South-East Asia from mortality due to air pollution.
Combined total cost of South and South-East Asia is of $380 billion
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12. 2017 is set to be in top three hottest years: WMO
Year 2017 will be one of the three hottest years on record, with many high-impact events, including
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catastrophic hurricanes and floods, debilitating heat waves and drought, says a provisional statement on the
State of the Climate released by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
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Key facts
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The average global temperature from January to September 2017 was approximately 1.1°C above the
pre-industrial era.
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As a result of a powerful El Niño, 2016 is likely to remain the warmest year on record, with 2017 and
2015 being second or third.
Extreme events due to climate change have affected the food security of millions of people, with
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agriculture accounting for 26% of all the damage and loss associated with medium to large scale storms,
floods and drought, says the statement, citing an FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) assessment.
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Further, between 2000 and 2016, the number of vulnerable people exposed to heatwave events increased
by approximately 125 million.
In 2016, 23.5 million people were displaced during weather-related disasters. In Somalia, more than 7, 60,
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000 internal displacements have been reported by UN agencies.

All-India rainfall for the 2017 monsoon season (June to September) was 5% below average. However,
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above average rainfall in the Northeast and adjacent countries led to significant flooding. Many parts of the
Indian subcontinent were affected by monsoonal flooding. The most serious flooding occurred in mid-
August in eastern Nepal, northern Bangladesh and nearby northern India. Mawsynram (India) received
more than 1400 mm from August 9 to 12.
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Three major and high-impact hurricanes occurred in the North Atlantic in rapid succession, with Harvey in
August, followed by Irma and Maria in September.
Sea level stable
The global mean sea level (GMSL) has been relatively stable in 2017 to date, similar to levels first reached
in late 2015.
This is because the temporary influence of the 2015-16 El Niño continues to unwind and GMSL is reverting to
values closer to the long-term trend. However, preliminary data shows that a rise in GMSL may have started
to resume from July-August 2017 onwards
13. Olive Ridleys keep date with Odisha coast, arrive in large numbers
Olive Ridley turtles have kept their date with Gahirmatha beach in Odisha’s Kendrapara district, known
as world’s largest rookery of this endangered species, arriving just offshore for mating in large numbers.
To ensure safe mating, day and night patrolling has been intensified so that fishing attempts can be
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checked
Olive Ridley Turtles
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The Olive ridley turtles are the smallest and
most abundant of all sea turtles found in the
world, inhabiting warm waters of the Pacific,
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Atlantic and Indian oceans.
These turtles, along with their cousin the
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Kemps ridley turtle, are best known for their
unique mass nesting called Arribada, where
thousands of females come together on the
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same beach to lay eggs.
Though found in abundance, their numbers
have been declining over the past few years, and the species is recognized as Vulnerable by the IUCN
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Red list.
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Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary
It is a marine wildlife sanctuary located in Odisha

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It extends from Dhamra River mouth in the north to Brahmani river mouth in the south.
It is very famous for its nesting beach for olive ridley sea turtles. It is the one of world’s most important
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nesting beach for turtles.

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14. Winged guests flock to Chilika
With winter setting in, migratory

birds have started to arrive at
Odisha’s Chilika Lake, the largest
brackish water lagoon in the
country.
According to forest officials, at least
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one lakh migratory avian guests have
arrived at the lake so far, comprising
around 50 species of migratory
birds.
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Avian guests from north, central and
east Siberia, China, Mongolia, west
Asian countries and the Himalayan
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region of India reach Chilika every
year during winter months.
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As many as 19 bird-protection camps have been set up by the Forest Department at Nalabana sanctuary
and other areas around Chilika Lake.
Delayed arrival
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This year, the arrival of migratory birds was slightly delayed due to climatic conditions. Usually the birds
arrive at the lake in the second fortnight of October, but this year they started flocking in the beginning of
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November.
Fall in atmospheric temperature was slightly late in this part of the country.
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Added to that, sporadic rainfall that continued till October kept high patches and vegetation of the lake
submerged.
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Where are they dispersed?
At present, the migratory birds are perching in areas where the water level is comparatively low and mud
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patches are visible.

Birds like waders are mostly seen at mud patches, while ducks are being sighted in areas of shallow
water.
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The other bird varieties that are being sighted in large numbers in the lake include pintails, gadwals,
shovellers, rudy shelducks and pratincoles among others.
Bird-protection camps
As many as 19 bird-protection camps have been set up by the Forest Department at Nalabana sanctuary
and other areas around Chilika Lake.
Around 30 former bird poachers, were arrested by the Forest Department in the past, are part of these
bird-protection camps.
No boats, except for two power boats of the Forest Department, are being allowed to enter the sanctuary
area.
In news
The world’s cleanest fuel will be introduced in Nalbana Bird Sanctuary

the national capital two years earlier than
planned, the Union government said on Nalbana Bird Sanctuary or Nalbana Island is the
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Wednesday as it seeks to reduce vehicular core area of the Ramsar designated wetlands of Chilika
pollution. Lake.
It was declared a bird sanctuary under the Wildlife
Protection Act in 1973
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Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) fuel will now be
In the heart of the park, one can see thousands of
available with effect from 1 April 2018 in
birds descending during the migratory season. The island
Delhi, the petroleum ministry said, and added
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disappears during monsoon season due to inundation only
that it is examining the possibility of
to emerge again in post-monsoon.
introducing BS-VI fuel across the national
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Nalbana means a weed covered island In the Odia
capital region by 1 April 2019.
language.
Nalbana was notified in 1987 and declared a bird
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sanctuary in 1973 under the Wildlife Protection Act
In 2002, The Bombay Natural History Society survey recorded 540 nests of the Indian river tern at the
island, the largest nesting colony in the southeast Asia.
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15. Centre to launch BS-VI fuel in Delhi from 2018 to battle smog
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Why?
Taking into account the serious pollution levels in Delhi and adjoining areas.
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Limitation
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A BS-VI engine can only operate on BS-VI fuel. If you allow BS-VI engine to operate on BS-IV fuel then the
engine will get damaged. If you allow a BS-IV engine to operate on BS-VI fuel, the benefit of reduced
pollution will largely be lost.
What are Bharat Stage Emission Standards?
Bharat Stage emission standards, introduced in 2000, are emission standards that have been set up by
the Central government to regulate the output of air pollutants from internal combustion engine equipment,
including motor vehicles.
The different norms are brought into force in accordance with the timeline and standards set up by the
Central Pollution Control Board which comes under the Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate
Change.
What is the benefit of these norms?
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Bharat stage emission standard regulates the
output of air pollutants from internal combustion
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engine equipment, including motor vehicles.
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Why BS is in news?
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Government is aiming to implement
introduction of the cleaner Bharat Stage- VI
fuel in the country by 2020. It intends to skip
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BS-V.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
has set a deadline of 2017 by which time all
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the vehicles in the country must be BS-IV-compliant and 2020 for the rollout of BS-VI fuel.
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BS VI fuel specifications
BS-VI standards will limit the level of sulphur in fuels. It was 100 ppm (parts per million) under BS-III, halved
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to 50 ppm under BS-IV and with BS-VI it will be 10 ppm.

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16. How succulents survive without water decoded
Drought-resistant plants such as cacti and

succulents, make use of an enhanced form of
photosynthesis to minimise water loss.
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The research, published in journal The Plant
Cell, could be used to help produce new crops
that can thrive in previously inhospitable, hot
and dry regions across the world.
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Photosynthesis involves taking carbon dioxide
from the atmosphere to convert into sugars using
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sunlight.
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Scientists at the University of Liverpool in the
U.K. found that these drought-resistant plants,
such as cacti, agaves and succulents, make use
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of an enhanced form of photosynthesis known as
crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM).
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Unlike other plants, CAM plants are able to take up CO2 during the cooler night, which reduces water loss,
and store captured CO2 as malic acid inside the cell, allowing its use for photosynthesis without water loss
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during the next day.

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CAM photosynthesis is regulated by the plant’s internal circadian clock, which allows plants to differentiate and
pre-empt day and night and adjust their metabolism accordingly.
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However, relatively little is known about the exact molecular processes that underpin the optimal timing of
CO2 being stored and released in this unique way. Researchers looked at an enzyme called PPCK that is
involved in controlling the conversion of CO2 to its overnight stored form.
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They wanted to know if PPCK is a necessary component for engineering CAM photosynthesis and tested this
by switching the PPCK gene off in the succulent CAM plant Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi. They found that, for
CAM to work properly, the cells must switch on PPCK each night driven by internal circadian clock.
17. Drought, heat-waves increasing in frequency
Heat-waves
While heat-waves (or, a prolonged period when

temperatures approach record extremes) and
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droughts are destructive even when occurring in
In news
Analysing rainfall and temperature data of
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50 years, researchers from Indian Institute
of Science (IISc) have found that the
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frequency of heat waves accompanied by
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drought has increased not only in
magnitude but in area too over the past separate events, their concurrence is far more serious.
three decades – particularly in Gujarat and
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Central India.
Analysis
Researchers calculated the Heatwave Magnitude Index daily (HWMId) — which combines duration and
magnitude of heatwaves — and the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), which defines meteorological
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drought from 1951 to 1981.

Using that as the base, they compared it with the HWMId and SPI between 1981 and 2010. In all
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combinations of drought (moderate or severe) and heatwaves (3.5 and 10-day events) that were analysed,
the percentage increase in frequency was most significant in parts of Maharashtra and Southern Gujarat,
Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.
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This could be due to the intricate relationship of land surface processes, soil moisture, evapo-transpiration
and local climate. (Evapo-transpiration is the sum of evaporation and plant transpiration from the Earth’s
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land and ocean surface to the atmosphere).
Way forward
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Next step would be to factor in soil moisture along with the data to develop models that could predict where
the extreme events could occur.
18. Coral transplant raises Barrier Reef survival hopes
The experiment
In a trial at the reef’s Heron Island off Australia’s east coast, the researchers
In news
collected large amount of coral spawn and eggs late last year, grew them into
larvae and then transplanted them into areas of damaged reef.
Researchers converted
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species’ eggs into
When they returned eight months later, they found juvenile coral that had survived
larvae for method.
and grown, aided by underwater mesh tanks.
“The success of this new research not only applies to the Great Barrier Reef but has potential global
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significance
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Benefits
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Larval-restoration approach contrasts with the current “coral gardening” method of breaking up healthy
coral and sticking healthy branches on reefs in the hope they will regrow, or growing coral in nurseries
before transplantation
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The results are very promising and our work shows that adding higher densities of coral larvae leads to
higher numbers of successful coral recruits. The Great Barrier Reef is reeling from an unprecedented
second-straight year of coral bleaching because of warming sea temperatures linked to climate change.
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What is coral bleaching?

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When corals are stressed by changes in conditions such as temperature, light, or nutrients, they expel the
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symbiotic algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn completely white.
Warmer water temperatures can result in coral bleaching. When water is too warm, corals will expel the algae
(zooxanthellae) living in their tissues causing the coral to turn completely white. This is called coral bleaching.
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Great Barrier Reef

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The Great Barrier Reef, off the coast of Queensland in northeastern Australia, is the largest living thing on
Earth, and even visible from outer space. The 2,300km-long ecosystem comprises thousands of reefs and
hundreds of islands made of over 600 types of hard and soft coral. It’s home to countless species of colourful
fish, molluscs and starfish, plus turtles, dolphins and sharks.
I NDIAN JUDICIARY
01. Speed up trial of politicians, says SC
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In news Why special courts are required?
The Supreme Court asked the In a determined effort to cleanse politics of criminality and corruption,
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government to frame a central the apex court said it takes years, probably decades, to complete the
scheme for setting up special trial against a politician.

By this time, he or she would have served as a minister or legislator
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courts across the country to
exclusively try criminal cases several times over.
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involving ‘political persons.’
Center’s argument
Countering the Centre’s argument that setting up such courts would depend on the availability of funds with
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the States, the apex court said “the problem can be resolved by having a central scheme for setting up of
courts exclusively to deal with criminal cases involving political persons on the lines of the fast track courts.”
The Bench ordered the government to place the scheme before it on December 13, the next date of hearing.
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Highlights
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It said the
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scheme should
provide details of
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the funds
required to set
up such courts.
The Bench said
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the Supreme
Court would
directly interact
with the State
governments on
issues like the
appointment of
judicial officers,
public
prosecutors, court staff and other requirements of manpower and infrastructure for the special courts.
Giving no quarter, the apex court directed the Centre to submit a report card by December 13 on the
status of the 1,581 criminal cases pending against Members of Parliament and State Legislative
Assemblies at the time of the 2014 elections.
The court said it wanted to know whether its March 10, 2014 order to complete the trial in all these
cases within a year’s time had been complied with or not.
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The Bench agreed to examine the issue raised whether such a lifetime ban would be discriminatory and a
violation of Article 14 (right to equality), especially when such a disqualification has not been provided
either under the Constitution or The Representation of the People Act of 1951.
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Additional Solicitor General response
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The Centre was not averse to the setting up of special courts to exclusively try political persons.
There was no room for a second opinion that corruption and criminality should be wiped out of politics.
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The government would support any move for the “utmost expeditious disposal” of criminal cases involving
political persons. irs
02. No fresh polls if NOTA votes exceed candidates’
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In news Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra’s Observation

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Chief Justice of India Holding elections in our country costs money.

rejected a public interest The court said a voter had the right to express his dissent by
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litigation petition suggesting staying at home.

fresh elections whenever the
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public chose overwhelmingly Supreme Court advocate Ashiwni Upadhyay

the “None of the Above” opinion
(NOTA) option.
If NOTA got the highest number of votes, it would amount to an
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expression of public dissatisfaction with the candidates in the fray.

If this happened, the result should have to be nullified by the Election Commission.
His petition had even sought a ban on the parties and their candidates who failed to NOTA in the first
election from contesting the fresh polls.
NOTA option
“None Of The Above”, or NOTA for short, also known as “against all” or a “scratch” vote, is a ballot
option in some jurisdictions or organizations, designed to allow the voter to indicate disapproval of all of
the candidates in a voting system
It is based on the principle that consent requires the ability to withhold consent in an election, just as they
can by voting “No” on ballot questions
When “None of the Above” is listed on a ballot, there is the possibility of NOTA receiving a majority or
plurality of the vote, and so “winning” the election
In such a case, a variety of formal procedures may be invoked, including having the office remain vacant,
having the office filled by appointment, re-opening nominations or holding another election (in a body
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operating under parliamentary procedure), or it may have no effect whatsoever, as in India.
KURUKSHETRA
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Theme: Rural Tourism
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Tourism is the practice of travelling for pleasure especially on one’s holidays. It is an organized journey
during which several places are visited.
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Motives/Purposes behind of Tourism
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It causes us to go to near or distant places, to see things with our eyes, and to fulfill our curiosity.
It satisfies our hunger for natural-beauty. A beautiful mountain scene, a lovely beach, or an exquisite
sculptural work, casts an irresistible charm on our mind, and tourism lets us enjoy it to the full.
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It makes us tolerant and broadminded so as to appreciate different people, their speech and dress,
their manners and customs, their social and economic conditions.
It encourages intercultural contacts and intercultural activities.
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Any form of tourism that showcases the rural life, art, culture and heritage at rural locations, thereby
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benefiting the local community economically and socially as well as enabling interaction between the
tourism and the locals for a more enriching tourism experience can be termed as rural tourism.
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Rural tourism is essentially an activity which takes place in the countryside
Impact of rural tourism

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Positive Negative
Create employment especially for the The rural people can be exploited.
rural youth. The rural people have to depend
Income level will rise. on the urban entrepreneur, so the
Generate foreign exchange. benefit may not reach them.
Demand for other goods and The urban investor will take away
services will increase. most of the profit.
Improvement in the public services. Rural people may be under paid
Generate revenue or the Local artisan may not get

government. benefited.
Modernization of agriculture and Due to competition the local
other rural activities. handicraft and farm produce
Local small businessman will be products will be sold at lower
benefited. price.
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Major Tourist Spots in India
There are a few countries which can compete with India in respect of worth-seeding tourists’ spots.
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Hill stations: India has such hill stations as Darjeeling, Shillong, Gangtok, Manali, Shimla and
Kashmir, Ooty and Panchmari.
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Sea beaches: India has magnificent sea beaches at Puri and Pandicherri, Kovalam and Goa.
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Architectural beauty: Sculptural marvels like the Taj Mahal, Khajuraho and Konark, temples
like Meenakshi and Kanyakumari, caves liked Ajanta and Ellora, forts like Agra and Lalkilla.
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Forests: Forests like the Sunderbans, and sanctuaries like Kaziranga and Jaldapara, are important
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tourist destinations.
Religious places: Places of worship like Sringeri Math and Vaishno Devi for the Hindus, Pawapuri
and Dilwara for the Jains, and Jama Masjid and Khaja Baba Mosque for the Muslims.
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Metropolitan cities: Metropolitan cities liked Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai add to the
unending list of her marvelous tourist spots.
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Major types of Rural Tourism in India
Agriculture Tourism: To explore more about the agricultural industry and how farmers work with
crops.
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Cultural Tourism: To allow tourists to be immersed in local culture related activities, like rituals and
festivals.
Nature Tourism: Responsible travel to natural areas, which conserves the environment and improves
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the welfare of local people.
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Adventure Tourism: Any constructive activity which tests the endurance of both a person and his
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equipment to its extreme limits is termed as Adventure.
Community Eco-tourism: When tourism is for a purpose. It is a rather responsible travel to natural
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areas that conserve the environment and improves the well-being of local people
Positive effects from Economic point of view

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Rural tourism causes to make various occupations, economic resources and much more tax.
Tourism cause to capital injection, especially foreign capitals and foreign exchange to the village
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economy. It causes to increase to increase in income.

Growth and preserving industries specially handicraft and cottage industry.
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Many parts of the society through economic point of view will be benefited from tourism. In a rural
tourism project, the works would be undertaken by different parts of the society. Some people can be
responsible for tourist guiding, through ecotourism, some other sell handicrafts and etc bears the most
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value in rural tourism.

It will reduce the villager’s dependence to agricultural activities and single aspect economy through
long term.
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Tourism industry, at the beginning, in comparison with other industry costs less.
In order to meet tourist’s needs, villagers can very their own products and even their products could
be sold more.
At last, tourism economy effects can help to set the village economic security, so that it leads to
preservation of natural qualities of the vicinity of cities by the local people that this is one of the village tourism
purposes.
Positive effects from Social point of View

With assistant of tourism development and by emphasizing on local culture, we would strengthen the
sense of being proud of our possessions and nation culture.
Rural tourism will cause to introduce the national heritage, culture of art of the state and region to other
nations and region.
Preserving natural resources and ecology of the region by villagers and local people are the positive effect
of rural tourism. When the villagers realize that the tourist might come there in order to see the virgin
nature, the culture local people and purchase handicrafts product at the same place, they will try to
preserve these values.
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Positive effects from the physical point of View
By organizing and renovating the artificial and natural places of the village, the quality of landscape of the
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village will be improved.
Through basic investments in rural development, drinking water and health local people will benefited from
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stable development.
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Negative effect from Economic point of View
Rural Tourism industry is extremely provisional and seasonal economic activity.

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Tourism industry may risk.
Tourism industry is resulted in price increment.
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How to improve rural tourism
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Advertising
Paid form of non-personal product presentation.

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Some of the following might be used: catalogues, printed and broadcast advertising in different
media, internet sites, promotional material, posters, leaflets, postcards, phone books, symbols,
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logos etc.
Sales support
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Sales support can be realized through using methods of special communications and so called
specialised offers, represented for example by coupons (i.e. as proof that the given customer is
entitled to reduced price of listed services), reduction of price e.g. when introducing new
services, also competitions, games, presentation of tourism entities and their services at fairs,
exhibitions, seminars etc.
Its part can also be an offer of samples (e.g. tastings of various meals), services of the "higher
level for free" type, whereby the clients have the possibility to use a higher level of services
than they paid for.
Personal selling
It is represented by direct personal communication with one or several potential customers with the
aim of sales realization. Within personal selling, the participants can mutually react to their
behaviour, explain and answer questions.
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Direct marketing
It means an immediate conveying of messages and gaining direct answers from certain customers
and a survey of their opinions. This form of sale includes all activities representing a direct contact
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with target groups of customers.
The main tools of direct marketing are catalogue marketing, mail order service, telemarketing and
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internet marketing etc.
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YOJANA
Consumer Awareness (Jago-Grahak-Jago)

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We are the consumer?

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Any individual who purchases products or services for his personal use and not for manufacturing or resale is
called a consumer. A consumer is one who is the decision maker whether or not to buy an item at the store,
or someone who is influenced by advertisement and marketing.
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Who is not a Consumer?

Consumer awareness
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A person is not a consumer if

he/she: In this age of capitalism and globalization, the main objective
Purchases any goods or avails any of each producer is to maximize his profit.
service free of charge.
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In each and every possible way the producers are trying to

Purchases a good or hires a
increase the sale of their products. Therefore, in fulfillment of
service for commercial purpose.
their aim they forget the interests of consumer s and start
Avails any service under contract
exploiting them for example –overcharging, under weighing,
of service
selling of adulterated and poor-quality goods, misleading the
consumers by giving false advertisement etc.
Thus in order to save himself from being cheated, it is necessary for a consumer to be aware. In this
way, consumer awareness means creating awareness of a consumer towards his rights and duties.
Need and importance of consumer awareness
To achieve maximum satisfaction: Consumer should get the goods which are measured appropriately and he
should not be cheated in any way.
Protection against exploitation: Producers and sellers exploit the consumers in many ways as underweighting,
taking more price than the market price, selling duplicate goods etc. Big companies through their
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advertisement also mislead the consumers
Control over consumption of Harmful goods: There are several such goods available in market which cause
harm to some consumers. For example, we can take goods like cigarette, tobacco, liquor etc. The consumer
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education and awareness motivate people not to purchase such goods which are very harmful for them.
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Motivation for saving: The awareness controls people from wastage of money and extravagancy and inspire
them to take right decision. Such consumers are not attracted by sale, concession, free gifts, attractive
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packing etc due to which people can use their income in a right way and can save money.
Knowledge regarding solution of problems: The consumers are cheated due to illiteracy, innocence and lack of
information. Therefore, it becomes necessary that the information about their rights should be provided to them
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so that they cannot be cheated by producers and sellers.
Construction of healthy society : Every member of the society is a consumer. So, if the consumer is aware
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and rationale, then complete society becomes healthy and alert towards their rights.
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Basic rights of consumers include
Right to be protected against marketing of goods and services which are hazardous to life and
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property.
Right to be informed about the quality, quantity, standard and price of goods or services so as to
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protect the consumer against unfair trade practices.

Right to be assured, wherever possible, access to variety of goods and services at competitive prices.
Right to be heard and to be assured that consumers interests will receive due consideration at
appropriate forums.
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Right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices.

Right to consumer education
Who can file a complaint?

A consumer. Any State Government.
Any voluntary consumer association A legal heir or representative of a
registered under the Companies Act, deceased consumer.
1956 or any other law. for the time
being enforced.
The Central Government.
Ground of filing a complaint
Section 2(c) of the Act defines the meaning of the term complaint and it requires to have minimum one of the
following allegations:
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Unfair trade practice or a restrictive trade practice by the trader
Defect in the product
Deficiency in Service
Offering goods which are hazardous to life
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Selling the goods in excess of the fixed price.
Where to file a complaint?
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Procedure of filing a compliant
How to file a Complaint?

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The complaint can be filed on a plain paper.

Stamp paper is not required for declaration.
It should contain the details of the complainant and the opposite party.
Complaint can be registered, in person, by the complainant or through his authorized agent or by post
addressed to the Redressal Agency.
It is not compulsory to engage a lawyer to file a case.
The fees charged are very nominal according to the value of the claim.
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PRS
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Cabinet approves setting up of the 15th Finance Commission

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What is finance commission?
The Finance Commission was established by the President of India in 1951 under Article 280 of the Indian Constitution.
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It was formed to define the financial relations between the central government of India and the individual state
governments.
The Finance Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act of 1951 additionally defines the terms of qualification,
appointment and disqualification, the term, eligibility and powers of the Finance Commission. As per the Constitution,
the Commission is appointed every five years and consists of a chairman and four other members
Background
The Finance Commission was established in 1951 by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the then-incumbent Law Minister, to address
vertical and horizontal fiscal imbalances.
Responsibilities of a Finance Commission
❖ Distribution of net proceeds of taxes between Center and the States, to be divided as per their respective
contributions to the taxes.
❖ Determine factors governing Grants-in Aid to the states and the magnitude of the same.
❖ To make recommendations to president as to the measures needed to augment the Fund of a State to
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supplement the resources of the panchayats and municipalities in the state on the basis of the
recommendations made by the Finance Commission of the state.
❖ any other matter related to it by the president in the interest of sound finance
❖ finance commission is autonomous body which is governed by the government of India
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Members of 15th Finance commission
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The Commission will be chaired by Mr. N. K. Singh (former MP and Secretary, Government of India)
Other four members
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❖ Shaktikanta Das (former Secretary, ❖ Ashok Lahiri (Chairman, Bandhan Bank)
Government of India) ❖ Ramesh Chand (Member, NITI Aayog)
❖ Anoop Singh (Adjunct Professor, Georgetown
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University)
Recommendation
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The Commission will make recommendations for the five-year period from 2020 to 2025 on subjects including
❖ Sharing of central taxes with the states.

❖ Principles which govern the distribution of central grants to states.
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❖ Measures to improve the financial position of states in order to supplement the resources of panchayats and
municipalities.
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The Commission will also study the impact of the Goods and Services Tax on the finances of the central and
state governments, among others. The Commission will submit its report by October 30, 2019.
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Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017

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The President gave his assent to the Ordinance approved by the Union Cabinet to amend the Insolvency
and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) 2016, to strengthen the regime.
Objective of amendment
To put safeguards in place by prohibiting wilful defaulters, those associated with non-performing assets (NPAs), and the
habitually non-compliant, from regaining control of the defaulting company/stressed assets through the backdoor in the
garb of a ‘resolution applicant
Highlights
Key features of the Ordinance include
Resolution applicant: The Code defines a resolution applicant as a person who submits a resolution plan to an
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insolvency professional. (A resolution plan specifies the details of how the debt of a defaulting debtor can be
restructured.) The Ordinance amends this provision to define a resolution applicant as a person who submits a
resolution plan after receiving an invite by the professional to do so.
Ineligibility to be a resolution applicant: The Ordinance inserts a provision prohibiting certain persons from being a
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resolution applicant and submitting a resolution plan.
Undischarged insolvents (individuals unable to repay their debt),
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Wilful defaulters
A person whose account has been identified as a non-performing asset for more than a year,
A person convicted of an offence punishable with two or more years of imprisonment,
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A person disqualified as a director under the Companies Act, 2013.
Anyone connected to a person mentioned above (including promoters or people in control of the defaulting firm
during the implementation of the resolution plan).
irs
Liquidation: The Ordinance prohibits the insolvency professional from selling the property of the defaulter to any
such persons during liquidation.
fa
2 new section would be added
Section 29A
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“Section 29A is a new section that makes certain persons ineligible to be a resolution applicant. Those being made
ineligible inter alia include willful defaulters; those who have their accounts classified as non-performing assets for one
nt
year or more
Section 235A
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This new section provides for “punishment for contravention of the provisions where no specific penalty or punishment
is provided. The punishment is fine which shall not be less than Rs 1 lakh but which may extend to Rs 2 crore.
cu
Expert Committee releases white paper on a data protection framework

for India
In news
The Committee of Experts on a Data Protection Framework for India (Chair: Justice B. N. Srikrishna) released a white
paper.
The Committee was constituted in August 2017 to examine issues related to data protection, recommend methods to
address them, and draft a data protection law.
Objective
“Ensure growth of the digital economy while keeping personal data of citizens secure and protected”
The Committee suggested that a framework to protect data in the
country should be based on seven principles
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Law should be flexible to take into account changing technologies.
Law must apply to both government and private sector entities.
Consent should be genuine, informed and meaningful.
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Processing of data should be minimal and only for the purpose for which it is sought.
Entities controlling the data should be accountable for any data processing.
Enforcement of the data protection framework should be by a high-powered statutory authority.
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Penalties should be adequate to discourage any wrongful acts.
The Committee also raised some questions related to the data
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protection framework. These questions are related to
Scope and exemptions under the framework

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Grounds for data processing, obligation on entities and rights of individuals
Regulation and enforcement of the framework.
The Committee has invited comments on the white paper till December 31, 2017
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Draft regulations on civil use of drones released by DGCA

nt
In news
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The government has issued draft regulations for drone operations that could be used for anything from e-commerce
deliveries to photography.
The drone industry offers many advantages and can help development in several sectors such as agriculture, oil and
gas
The newly drafted policy allows unfettered use of drones while taking care of the unique security challenges they
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pose.
Draft policy
The draft regulations, which will be finalised by December 31 this year, envisage a virtually unregulated flightat
heights up to 50 feet for nano drones that weigh 250 grams or lower.
All drones will have to operate within a visual line of sight, will be allowed only during day time and below 200 feet.
Barring the nano drones that could also be used indoors, all drones will have to register with the Director General of
Civil Aviation.
Dropping human payload, animals or hazardous material will not be permitted,
It would also be possible to imagine air rickshaw drones that could ferry passengers.
The other classifications of drones, officially termed unmanned aircraft systems, are Micro (250 gm to 2 kg), Mini
(more than 2 kg to 25 kg), Small (more than 25 kg till 150 kg) and Larger (over 150 kg).
Operations
Irrespective of height, operation of RPA in the mini and above categories will be conducted only after filing flight plan
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and obtaining necessary clearances. RPAs must be operated only during daylight.
Cabinet approves establishment of the National Anti-Profiteering
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Authority
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In news
on
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval for the creation of the posts of
Chairman and Technical Members of the National Anti-profiteering Authority (NAA) under GST, following up
immediately after the sharp reduction in the GST rates of a large number of items of mass consumption.
irs
Highlights
The approval paves the way for the immediate establishment of the apex body NAA, which is mandated to ensure
fa
that the benefits of the reduction in GST rates on goods or services are passed on to the ultimate consumers by way
of a reduction in prices.
The establishment of the NAA, to be headed by a senior officer of the level of Secretary to the Government of India
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with four Technical Members from the Centre and/or the States, is one more measure aimed at reassuring
consumers that Government is fully committed to take all possible steps to ensure the benefits of implementation of
GST in terms of lower prices of the goods and services reach them.
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The “anti-profiteering” measures enshrined in the GST law provide an institutional mechanism to ensure that the full
benefits of input tax credits and reduced GST rates on supply of goods or services flow to the consumers.
This institutional framework comprises the NAA, a Standing Committee, Screening Committees in every State and
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the Directorate General of Safeguards in the Central Board of Excise & Customs (CBEC).
Background
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It may be recalled that effective from midnight of 14th November, 2017 the GST rate has been slashed from 28% to
18% on goods falling under 178 headings.
There are now only 50 items which attract the GST rate of 28%. Likewise, a large number of items have witnessed a
reduction in GST rates from 18% to 12% and so on and some goods have been completely exempt from GST.
Working
Affected consumers who feel the benefit of commensurate reduction in prices is not being passed on when they
purchase any goods or services may apply for relief to the Screening Committee in the particular State.
However, in case the incident of profiteering relates to an item of mass impact with ‘All India’ ramification, the
application may be directly made to the Standing Committee.
After forming a prima facie view that there is an element of profiteering, the Standing Committee shall refer the
matter for detailed investigation to the Director General of Safeguards, CBEC, which shall report its findings to the
NAA.
In the event the NAA confirms there is a necessity to apply anti-profiteering measures, it has the authority to order
the supplier / business concerned to reduce its prices or return the undue benefit availed by it along with interest to
the recipient of the goods or services.
om
If the undue benefit cannot be passed on to the recipient, it can be ordered to be deposited in the Consumer
Welfare Fund. In extreme cases, the NAA can impose a penalty on the defaulting business entity and even order the
cancellation of its registration under GST. The constitution of the NAA shall bolster confidence of consumers as they
reap the benefits of the recent reduction in GST rates, in particular, and of GST, in general.
.c
TRAI releases recommendations on Net Neutrality
ly
on
In news
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released recommendations on Net Neutrality.
irs
Recommendations
Violations of the net neutrality principle will be punishable by penalties that apply to breach of licensing conditions,
fa
which will be suitably amended, Sharma said.
Net neutrality implies that telecom service providers must treat all internet traffic equally, without any regard to
the type, origin or destination of the content or the means of its transmission.
af
Trai’s recommendations will now be vetted by the department of telecommunications (DoT)and after its approval,
changes with effect to the licence agreements of telecom firms will be made to accommodate net neutrality.
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What is Net Neutrality?
The original meaning of net neutrality says that all the Internet traffic (data) should be treated as equal and no data
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packets of a certain origin should be favored over other data traveling on the Internet. In other words, all the websites
on the Internet should be working at the same average speed provided by your ISP.
History
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It began as an academic subject with a wonky name — network neutrality
The word Net neutrality was used after 2000
2003 — The term “net neutrality” is coined by law professor Tim Wu. It is the idea that Internet service providers should
treat all Internet traffic equally
Pros of Net Neutrality
It creates an equal playing field
With net neutrality in place, internet service providers have little say on what passes through the mechanisms that are
used by customers to access the internet. An ISP under net neutrality cannot block access, change services, or alter the
flow of data simply because there is something that goes on which they don’t like.
It protects innovation
om
Innovation is protected with the internet remains neutral. Big companies still have the same access as SMBs or
freelancers and this allows everyone to earn a comfortable living or offer information in a way that best suits them.
It provides everyone with a freedom of expression
.c
Blogs, services, businesses, and any website that can operate legally is able to do so and be available because of net
neutrality. Without this freedom of expression, it could become easier for illegal content, such as child pornography, to
become more available. If a small ISP blocked access to all and approved of such a thing, it could hamper keeping our
ly
communities safe.
on
Illegal activities are still monitored
The goal of net neutrality is to provide every person with an experience that is optimal. This means illegal activities are
still prevented, including illegal file sharing, due to the fact that each ISP would be treated as a regulated common
irs
carrier.
U.S. Federal Communications Commission repeals net neutrality rules

Cons of Net Neutrality
fa
Enormous amounts of data are consumed without compensation

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Today, there are real-time video calls. Companies like Netflix providing legal streaming. There is illegal streaming as well.
These services are provided for free on the infrastructure of the internet service provider.
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Reduced income from internet uses limits infrastructure improvements

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There are certain businesses and high-use individuals who consume large amounts of bandwidth every month. If net
neutrality was removed, these high-level consumers would be asked to pay more for what they consume. This added
income could then be used to upgrade the infrastructure of each internet service provider, making it possible for
advanced fiber networks to be installed in many communities.
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Free internet access would likely go away
When the internet becomes a place where profitability is the primary concern, the idea of providing free internet
access to those who cannot afford it goes away. Providers could charge whatever they wanted and restrict access to
whomever they please. This could lead to demographic discrimination, socioeconomic discrimination, or prioritize
content to the wealthiest who are willing to pay high prices for the fastest data streams.
Public utilities have plenty of problems that many just overlook
Many utilities face a slowing consumer base, so they raise prices to compensate. That eventually means everyone pays
more for the same service without any innovation.
The pros and cons of net neutrality will continue to be debated, especially in terms of cost and access.
When each key point is carefully considered and debated, together we can come up with a reasonable
solution that will benefit all of us.
Over the top (OTT)
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It is a media distribution practice that allows a streaming content provider to sell audio, video, and other
media services directly to the consumer over the internet via streaming media as a television service
provider that traditionally act as a controller or distributor of such content.
.c
Monitoring and enforcement
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The Department of Telecommunications can establish a multi-stakeholder body which will be
responsible for
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Enforcing the principle of non-discriminatory treatment
Monitoring internet traffic management principles.
Members of the body should include
Internet service providers,
Telecom service providers,
irs
Content providers,
Research and academia,
Consumer.
fa
af
Cabinet approves creation of an agency to conduct all entrance

examinations for higher educational institutions
nt
In news
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved creation of National
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Testing Agency (NTA) as a Society registered under the Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860, and an
autonomous and self-sustained premier testing organization to conduct entrance examinations for
higher educational institutions.
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Features
The NTA would initially conduct those entrance examinations which are currently being conducted
by the CBSE.
Other examinations will be taken up gradually after NTA is fully geared up.
The entrance examinations will be conducted in online mode at least twice a year, thereby giving
adequate opportunity to candidates to bring out their best.
In order to serve the requirements of the rural students, it would locate the centres at sub-
district/district level and as far as possible would undertake hands-on training to the students.
Constitution
NTA will be chaired by an eminent educationist appointed by MHRD.

The CEO will be the Director General to be appointed by the Government.
There will be a Board of Governors comprising members from user institutions.
om
The Director General will be assisted by 9 verticals headed by academicians/ experts.
Finances
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NTA will be given a one-time grant of Rs.25 crore from the Government of India to start its operation in
the first year. Thereafter, it will be financially self-sustainable.
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Impact
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Establishment of NTA will benefit about 40 lakh students appearing in various entrance examinations. It
will relieve CBSE, AICTE and other agencies from responsibility of conducting these entrance
examinations, and also bring in high reliability, standardized difficulty level for assessing the aptitude,
intelligence and problem-solving abilities of the students.
irs
Background
fa
In view of the need to have a specialized body in India like the most advanced countries, the
Finance Minister in the Budget speech of 2017-18 had announced setting up of a National
Testing Agency (NTA) as an autonomous and self-sustained premier testing organization to
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conduct all entrance examinations for higher educational institutions

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o m
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i rs
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Current Affairs ONLY

▪ Editor-in-Chief Sandeep Sajwan

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

06. Banaganapalle mangoes get GI tag {Socio- Economic}................................................................................. 12

07. Telangana leads state-wise ease of doing business ranking ........................................................................ 13

09. Economy gets Moody’s thumbs up ................................................................................................................... 14

01. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).............................................................................................................. 17

Farmers’ Income by 2022 .......................................................................................................................................... 18

02. Moscow declaration ............................................................................................................................................. 21

03. The lowdown on the dengue epidemic ............................................................................................................. 21

04. WTO: India resolute on food security ............................................................................................................... 23

01. SHe-Box Online Complaint Management System ........................................................................................... 23

03. Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) ............................................................................ 25

04. WEF Gender Gap index 2017 ............................................................................................................................ 26

05. All unwelcome physical contact not sexual harassment’................................................................................ 26

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

04.Phone App for cancer study ................................................................................................................................ 30

05.Meisenheimer complex .......................................................................................................................................... 31

06. IIT Guwahati uses superhydrophobic cotton to remove oil-spill.................................................................... 31

09. Earthworms may grow in Martian soil, says study ......................................................................................... 33

0.3 Logistics Sector granted Infrastructure Status ................................................................................................. 36

04. Coastal Berth Scheme ........................................................................................................................................ 37

06. Railways to start 9-month ‘upskilling’ exercise for employees ...................................................................... 38

07. North East Development Summit....................................................................................................................... 39

8. Indian Railways Unveils New ‘Swarn’ Rajdhani Coaches ................................................................................ 40

ART & CULTURE

01. AADI MAHOTSAV Festival ................................................................................................................................. 40

02. Manipur Sangai Festival 2017 ............................................................................................................................ 42

03. Odisha to renovate Bezbaroa’s house .............................................................................................................. 43

04.Chennai is now part of UNESCO’s ‘creative cities network............................................................................ 43

06. Tholpava Koothu .................................................................................................................................................. 44

07. Glory of Kakatiya-era temple unveiled .............................................................................................................. 45

08. Mamallapuram Stone Sculptures........................................................................................................................ 45

09. Strings attached ................................................................................................................................................... 46

02. National Law Day................................................................................................................................................. 47

03. Delhi LG cannot sit on govt. schemes: SC ..................................................................................................... 48

04.‘Article 35A is not part of the Constitution of India’......................................................................................... 49

03. DRDO successfully tests guided bomb............................................................................................................. 58

01. INSPIRE 2017....................................................................................................................................................... 60

03. Conference of Parties (Cop23) – Bonn ............................................................................................................. 61

04. Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) ........................................................................................................... 62

05. Navigation rights figure in first Quadrilateral talks .......................................................................................... 63

06. Chabahar port ready, next stage for India....................................................................................................... 64

01. Crypto currencies, ICOs under SEBI lens ........................................................................................................ 65

03. India hosts first APCERT conference ............................................................................................................... 66

ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY

02. New ant species discovered in the Western Ghats ....................................................................................... 69

04. Green trickster ...................................................................................................................................................... 70

05. Warm water........................................................................................................................................................... 70

06. First fauna survey begins in Krishna sanctuary .............................................................................................. 71

07. M-STRIPES ........................................................................................................................................................... 73

08. Indian Emerald Dragonfly.................................................................................................................................... 73

09. Worldwide increase in methane bubbles due to climate change ................................................................. 74

11. Indians willing to pay $220b to avoid pollution mortality ............................................................................... 75

12. 2017 is set to be in top three hottest years: WMO ....................................................................................... 76

14. Winged guests flock to Chilika .......................................................................................................................... 77

17. Drought, heat-waves increasing in frequency .................................................................................................. 82

18. Coral transplant raises Barrier Reef survival hopes ....................................................................................... 82