Last Six Months National State Current Affairs PDF

Last 6 Months National & State Current Affairs (Oct 2020 to Mar 2021)
Last 6 Months National & State Current Affairs
S. No Topics Page No
1. October 2020 – National & State Current Affairs 2
2. November 2020 – National & State Current Affairs 70
3. December 2020 – National & State Current Affairs 143
4. January 2021 – National & State Current Affairs 266
5. February 2021 – National & State Current Affairs 347
6. March 2021 – National & State Current Affairs 522
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October 2020 – National & State Current Affairs
National News
Rs 15,000 Cr Loan Sanctioned For Projects: Urban Affairs Ministry.
• Planning Board has sanctioned over Rs 15,000 crore loan for projects worth Rs 31,000 crore, a top
official of the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry said
• 265 projects worth over Rs 18,500 crore are complete and the rest are under construction.
• The Ministry also launched a portal – Project-Management Information System (P-MIS) of the National
Capital Regional Planning Board and said this a major step in using digital technology to improve
transparency and accountability in monitoring progress of projects and administering loan.
South Eastern Railway launches ‘Operation My Saheli’
• The South Eastern Railways (SER) has launched the project, “Operation my Saheli” to enhance the
security of women passengers in the train throughout the entire journey from the originating point to
their destinations.
• The pilot version of the project “Operation my Saheli” has been introduced in 3 trains: Howrah-
Yesvantpur Duronto Special, Howrah- Ahmedabad Special and Howrah-Mumbai Special.
• ”Operation my Saheli” is executed under the Framework of “Nirbhaya Fund” and no additional
expenditure is provided by the Head of Railways.
Thaawarchand Gehlot e-launches ASIIM initiative to support 1000 Start-ups of SC Youth over next 4
Years
• The Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot launched an
initiative called the “Ambedkar Social Innovation and Incubation Mission (ASIIM) through Video
Conferencing on 30 September 2020 in New Delhi.
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• The ASIIM initiative has been launched under the Venture Capital Fund for SCs to promote innovation
and enterprise among SC students studying in higher educational institutions.
• Under ASIIM, 1,000 SC youth would be identified in the next 4 years having start-up ideas through the
Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) in various higher educational institutions.
World’s longest highway tunnel ‘Atal Tunnel’ to be opened by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
• Prime Minister of India Shri. Narendra Modi will open World’s longest highway tunnel ‘Atal Tunnel’ on 3
October 2020.
• This Tunnel is named after former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
• This is 9.2 km long tunnel which is the longest highway tunnel in the world.
• This tunnel is connecting Manali to Lahaul-Spiti valley throughout the year.
• It reduces the road distance by 46 Kms between Manali and Leh and the time by about 4 to 5 hours.
India Post launched Picture Postcard on Sawantwadi Toy to mark the occasion of 151 Years of Postcard
• India Post launched Picture Postcard on Sawantwadi Toy to celebrate the occasion of 151 Years of
Postcard in India.
• A set of Post Cards on Traditional Toys of India is scheduled to be released Online from nine States at a
time on 01.10.2020 at 11.00 AM.
• The postcard, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech about the country’s ability to become
a “toy hub”.
Extra Shots:
India Post
• Parent Ministry: Ministry of Communications
• Headquarters: New Delhi
• Founded: 1 April 1854
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Ayush Ministry launched Regional Facilitation Centre for Medicinal Plants Sector in Pune
• Union Ayush Ministry launched Regional Facilitation Centre for Medicinal Plants Sector in Pune,
Maharashtra. Ministry of AYUSH, Secretary, Vaidya Rajesh initiated Regional Cum Facilitation Centre,
Western Region (RCFC) of the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) under the Ministry of AYUSH.
• This center facilitates the conservation and cultivation activities along with market up-linking through
different AYUSH pharmacies.
Extra Shots:
Ayush Ministry
• Minister of State: Shripad Yesso Naik
Sixth anniversary of Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban – ‘Swachhata Ke 6 Saal, Bemisaal’ on Gandhi Jayanti
• On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs has planned to organize a
webinar titled ‘Swachhata Ke 6 Saal, Bemisaal’.
• The year also marks the 151st birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Swachh Bharat Mission is a country-wide campaign initiated by the Government of India in 2014 to
eliminate open defecation and improve solid waste management.
• The event will be an opportunity for all stakeholders to learn from each other and envision the next
phase of the Mission.
Tribes India E-Marketplace – India’s Largest Market of Tribal Products
• Union Minister for Ministry of Tribal Affairs Shri Arjun Munda will launch – India’s Largest Market of
Tribal Products named Tribes India E-Marketplace on 02 October 2020, on the occasion of Gandhi
Jayanti.
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• This Tribes India e-Marketplace is an initiative of the government which aims to give platform for 5 lakh
tribal producers for sourcing of various handicraft, handloom, organic food products across the country
and brings the best of tribal produce.
Extra Shots:
Ministry of Tribal Affairs
• Union Minister: Arjun Munda
Govt sets up panel to screen all Chinese foreign investment proposals
• India has set up a screening panel to vet all Chinese foreign investment proposals and those considered
“non-controversial” could be approved.
• More than 100 proposals involving foreign direct investment (FDI) from China are pending.
• The screening panel is headed by the home secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and has the Department for
Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) secretary as a member.
Extra Shots:
DPIIT
• Founded: 1995
• Parent organization: Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Union Power Ministry Releases Draft Electricity (Change in Law, Must-run status and other matters)
Rules 2020
• Union Ministry of Power released the Draft Electricity Rules 2020.
• The rules issued by the ministry with an objective to bring in quick compensation to power plants.
• The draft also proposes to let trading licensees charge a weighted average tariff of all the renewable
energy bids.
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The draft rule now provides 75% of Power Purchase Agreement tariff, in case if compensation clauses
are not provided in the PPA.
Extra Shots:
Power Ministry
• Union Minister: Raj Kumar Singh
• Constituency: Arrah, Bihar
Arjun Munda E-Launches Tribal Entrepreneurship Development Programme of M/o Tribal Affairs in
Partenership with Assocham
• The Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Shri Arjun Munda inaugurated the Tribal Entrepreneurship
Development Programme on 2nd October 2020 through Video conference.
• The Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Tribal Entrepreneurship Development has been set up by apex
industry body Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) under its Centre
for Excellence Initiative
• The Tribal Entrepreneurship Development Programme is a three-year initiative that will be jointly
implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and ASSOCHAM.
• Through this Centre of Excellence, value addition, technology advance and marketing of tribal products
would be facilitated to the tribal communities in a more effective and efficient manner.
• The initiative will optimize the contribution of tribal population to the growing economy of the country
and support India’s vision of becoming Atmanirbhar.
Prime Minister Modi dedicates to the Nation the Atal Tunnel in Himachal Pradesh
• The Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation Atal Tunnel, on 3rd October
2020.
• Atal Tunnel is world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet from the Mean Sea Level (MSL).
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• The tunnel has been named after former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
• Atal tunnel has been built, by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), under the Rohtang Pass in the
eastern Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas on the Leh-Manali Highway in Himachal Pradesh.
• The total length of the tunnel is 9.02 km, and at an elevation of 3,100 metres (10,171 ft).
• The overall cost of completion of the project is around Rs. 3200 crore.
Extra Shots:
Himachal Pradesh:
• State formed on: 25 January 1971
• Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya
• Chief Minister: Jai Ram Thakur
• Official language: Hindi
• Literacy Rate: 83.78%
Govt of India launches 100-day campaign under Jal Jeevan Mission
• The government of India launched 100-day campaign under Jal Jeevan Mission to supply piped water
supply to schools and Anganwadi centres.
• This campaign was launched on the occasion of 151st birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
• Jal Jeevan Ministry also conferred Swachh Bharat Awards in which Gujarat state secured the top
position.
• The Main aim of this campaign is to provide potable piped water supply in Schools and Anganwadi
Centres.
• Through this campaign, the States and Union Territories will ensure that Gram Sabha are convened at
the earliest in order to pass the resolution to provide safe water in schools and Anganwadi centres.
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Extra Shots:
Jal Shakti Ministry
• Union Minister: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
• Minister of State: Rattan Lal Kataria
SAIL supplies more than 9000 tonnes of steel for the world’s longest tunnel ‘Atal tunnel’
• The Steel Authority of India (SAIL) has supplied 9,000 tonnes of steel required to build the tunnel.
• This includes 6,500 TMT (Thermo Mechanically Treated) bars, 1000 tonnes of steel plates and 1,500
tonnes of structural.
Extra Shots:
SAIL
• CEO: Anil Kumar Chaudhary
Puducherry airport becomes AAI’s first 100% solar-powered airport
• The Puducherry airport has become the first airport of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) which is
entirely solar-powered.
• The 500KWp ground-mounted solar power plant was commissioned on 2nd October 2020. The approx
cost of the plant is Rs 2.8 crore.
• With becoming absolutely power-neutral, the Puducherry airport will be able to meet its entire power
requirement through the solar power plant.
Extra Shots:
AAI
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Union Minister Harsh Vardhan digitally inaugurates Super Speciality Block dedicated to COVID at Motilal
Nehru Medical College, Prayagraj
• The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Dr. Harsh Vardhan and Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister
of Uttar Pradesh inaugurated the Super Speciality Block (SSB) at Motilal Nehru Medical College,
Prayagraj on 5 October 2020 via video conferencing.
• The Super Speciality Block (SSB) is a 220-bedded facility, dedicated as a COVID Hospital (DCH) to the
nation.
• It has been built with an investment of Rs 150 crores under the Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha
Yojana (PMSSY).
• Apart from this, the Union Health Minister also digitally inaugurated first high throughput COBAS 6800
machines.
• It is the first such machine in Uttar Pradesh, installed by ICMR.
• The COBAS 6800 is a fully automated, high end machine for performing real time PCR testing for
COVID-19 to provide quality, high-volume testing with a high throughput of around 1200 samples in 24
hours.
Extra Shots:
Uttar Pradesh:
• Statehood Day: January 26, 1950
• Capital: Lucknow
• Chief Minister: Yogi Adityanath
• Governor: Anandiben Patel
• Nation Park: Dudhwa National Park
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‘Sunidhi’ project launched to digitise Coal Mines Provident Fund Organisation services
• The government announced the launch of an ambitious information technology project ‘Sunidhi’ to
digitise all provident fund and pension related activities of the Coal Mines Provident Fund Organisation
(CMPFO).
• The Sunidhi module was inaugurated by settling the provident fund and pension dues of three retired
employees of Bharat Coking Coal Ltd (BCCL).
• This software application is running from its data centre at Hyderabad in sync with the Disaster
Recovery Centre at Bhubaneshwar.
• CMPFO, a statutory body under the coal ministry, administers different schemes of provident fund,
pension and deposit linked insurance for coal mine workers.
Indian Army constructs Memorial in Ladakh for soldiers martyred in Galwan Clash
• The Indian Army has constructed a memorial in Ladakh to pay tribute for the twenty soldiers who dies in
the Galwan Clash between Indian Army and Chinese Army in June 2020 in the Shyok-Daulat Beg Oldi
road.
• The memorial has the names of the soldiers who dies in the clash and the soldiers been mentioned as
“Gallants of Galwan”.
Extra Shots:
China (Capital/Currency): Beijing/ Renminbi
• President: Xi Jinping
‘Ayush Standard Treatment Protocol’ released by Harsh Vardhan
• ‘Ayush Standard Treatment Protocol’ released by Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan.
• Objective of the Protocol
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• The protocol has the details self-care guidelines for preventive health measures to help protect against
COVID-19 pandemic.
Extra Shots:
Ministry of Health
Union Health Minister: Harsh Vardhan
‘Kasturi Cotton’: The new Brand name of Indian Cotton
• The first ever Brand & Logo for Indian Cotton launched by the Union Minister of Textiles and Women &
Child Development, Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani through Video Conferencing.
• The launch took place on the occasion of the 2nd World Cotton Day on 7th October 2020.
• The brand name ‘Kasturi Cotton’ will represent Whiteness, Brightness, Softness, Purity, Luster,
Uniqueness and Indianness.
PM Modi launches “COVID-19 Appropriate Behaviour” Campaign
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Jan Andolan, a campaign for covid-19 appropriate behaviour.
• The campaign was launched by the Prime Minister in the social media platform Twitter.
Objective of the Campaign:
• To encourage people participation and provides key messages of following social distancing,
significance of mask wearing and hand hygiene.
India’s first advanced manufacturing hub: AMHUB
• AMHUB is Advanced Manufacturing hub and is first of its kind in the country.
• AMHUB is jointly established by the World Economic Forum and Guidance the state of Tamil Nadu.
Highlights:
• It will help the state in the sectors of solar energy, electronics, electric mobility and textiles.
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• It will help boost production sector of Tamil Nadu by identifying regional opportunities brought by Fourth
Industrial Revolution.
It focuses on the following:
• Addressing Regional Opportunities
• Engaging regional production
• Challenges brought by Fourth Industrial Revolution
Union Education Minister inaugurates four Newly Constructed Buildings of Kendriya Vidyalayas
• The newly constructed buildings of four Kendriya Vidyalayas through video conferencing is inaugurated
by the Union Minister for Education Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’.
• The four KV buildings inaugurated in three states are KV Nayagarh (Odisha), KV Mahuldiha, Rairangpur
(Odisha), KV Hanumangarh (Rajasthan) and KV No. 3 Faridabad (Haryana).
• The total cost of the construction is total cost of about Rs. 70 Crores.
Extra Shots:
Ministry of Education
• Union Minister for Education: Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’.
The Additional charge of Ministry of Consumer Affairs is given to Piyush Goyal
• The additional charge of Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has been given to
the Union Minister Piyush Goyal.
• He currently serving as the Union Minister of Railways and Minister of Commerce and Industry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will distribute property cards
• Under Svamitva scheme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will distribute property cards to rural land
owners.
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• The property cards are to be distributed to villages in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana,
Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka and Uttarakhand.
Svamitva Scheme:
• Svamitva is Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas to provide the
right to document residential properties to the rural population. It enables the rural population to use
property as a financial asset.
Objective of the Scheme:
• to survey lands in rural areas using Drone Technology and the survey is to be conducted over a period of
four years that is between 2020 and 2024.
Ministry of Coal launched a website for Coal sector
• A Website to promote R&D activities in coal sector is launched by the Secretary of Ministry of Cal sector
Anil Jain.
• The Website was developed by Coal India R&D arm, Central Mines Planning & Design Institute Limited
(CMPDI) has designed and developed this website.
• The website will provide the guidelines for implementing coal research project.
• To have transparency in the system, the website will contain a lists and outcomes of completed projects
and ongoing research projects.
Extra Shots:
Ministry of Coal
• Union Minister: Pralhad Joshi
PM Modi to release Rs 100 commemorative coin in honour of Vijaya Raje Scindia
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release a commemorative coin of 100 rupees in honour of Vijaya Raje
Scindia.
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• The coin is being released in celebration of birth centenary of Vijaya Raje Scindia.
• The special commemorative coin was minted by the Finance Ministry as a part of these celebrations.
• This coin will be released by the Prime Minister on her birth anniversary.
All eight beaches recommended by GoI gets coveted International Blueflag Certification
• The Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar has informed that all eight beaches recommended
by the Government of India has got the coveted International Blueflag Certification.
• India is the first nation to achieve such a feat, as no other Blueflag nation has ever been awarded for 8
beaches in a single attempt.
Extra Shots:
Environment Ministry
• Union Environment Minister: Prakash Javadekar
Dr Harsh Vardhan Inaugurates DBT-BIRAC Clean Tech Demo Park In Delhi
• Union Minister for Science and Technology Dr Harsh Vardhan inaugurated the “DBT-BIRAC Clean Tech
Demo Park” at Barapullah drain site, near Sundial Park, Sarai Kale Khan, New Delhi in a virtual event.
• Clean Tech Demo Park at Barapullah drain site is a Department of Biotechnology (DBT) initiative that
will demonstrate innovative waste-to-value technologies.
Health Ministry to conduct Feluda paper strip COVID-19 test
• Dr. Harsh Vardhan Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare announced that FELUDA paper-strip
test for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis will be begun in next few weeks.
• The paper-strip test is developed by CSIR-IGIB.
• The FNCAS9 Editor-Limited Uniform Detection Assay (FELUDA) test is a paper strip test, similar to a
pregnancy test, and has been approved by the Drug Controller General of India.
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PM Narendra Modi to release autobiography of Dr. Balasaheb Vikhe Patil
• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will release the autobiography of Dr. Balasaheb Vikhe Patil and
rename Pravara Rural Education Society as ‘Loknete Dr. Balasaheb Vikhe Patil Pravara Rural Education
Society’.
• Dr. Balasaheb Vikhe Patil served as Member of Lok Sabha for multiple terms.
• His autobiography is titled ‘Deh Vechwa Karani’ which means ‘dedicating one’s life for a noble cause’,
and is aptly named as he dedicated his entire life to the benefit of society through his path-breaking
work in various fields, including agriculture and cooperatives.
India Post to Launch Stamped Mask & Virtual i-Card on Philately Day
• Every year National Philately Day is celebrated on October 13.
• India Post also celebrated National Postal Week from 9 to15 October 2020.
• This year India Post Mumbai Division introduced Stamped Mask & Virtual i-Card on Philately Day.
Stamped Mask:
• The Stamped mask contains images of postage stamps imprinted on them.
• Objective: to make masks attractive and also drive home the importance of the role played by Masks
during the current Covid situation.
Virtual i-Card:
• This virtual card containing the name, beat number, area of service, contact number and photo of the
postman / postwoman, would be circulated to customers.
• Objective: will help them to know their postmen better and contact them directly in case of any
emergency.
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Extra Shots:
India Post:
• Parent Ministry: Ministry of Communications
ASI Trichy Circle to soon launch cultural campaign to make youth aware of country’s national heritage
• The newly formed Trichy Circle of the Archeological Survey of India (ASI) will soon launch a cultural
campaign to make youth aware of the country’s national heritage.
• school and college students will be involved in the campaign that will centre around heritage hotspots
like the Big Temple in Thanjavur.
Extra Shots:
ASI
• Founder: Alexander Cunningham
• Founded: 1861
Central Government allows 20 States to raise Rs 68,000 crore for revenue shortfall
• The Central Govt permitted 20 States to borrow Rs 68,825 crore open market borrowings for GST
Shortfall.
• The Central Government had given two options to the states —
• to either borrow Rs 97,000 crore from a special window that was facilitated by the RBI or
• to borrow Rs 2.35 lakh crore from the market.
• The projected total compensation shortfall in the current financial year stands at Rs 2.35 lakh crore.
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Kisan Rail Trains fruits and vegetables transportation subsidy increased by 50%
• The Ministry of Food Processing Industries have announced that the transportation subsidy of fruits and
vegetables through Kisan Rail Trains increased by 50%.
• Initially the Ministry will provide Rs 10 crores in the beginning in order to operate the scheme.
PM Modi to unveil commemorative coin of Rs 75 denomination
• To mark the 75th Anniversary of FAO (The Food and Agriculture Organization), our Prime Minister
Narendra Modi will release the commemorative coin of Rs 75 denomination.
Extra Shots:
FAO
• Headquarters: Rome, Italy
• Head: Qu Dongyu
First Ever Regional Raw Drug Repository launched in Country
• Ministry of Ayush (Ayurveda Yoga and Naturopathy Unani Sidda Homoeopathy) has initiated the
Regional Raw Drug Repository (RRDR) for Ayush systems of medicine at the National Institute of Siddha
in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
• This Repository will launch standard protocols for authentication of raw drugs.
• It will will play a major role in medicinal plant cultivation.
Objective:
• to promote AYUSH medical systems through cost effective AYUSH services, strengthening of
educational systems, facilitate the enforcement of quality control of Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani &
Homoeopathy (ASU &H) drugs.
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Extra Shots:
AYUSH Ministry
• Union Minister: Shripad Naik
India joined with six other countries for the campaign against encrypted social media messages
• India joined with six other countries for the campaign against encrypted social media messages.
• The campaign which is led by the United Kingdom is against end-to-end encryption of messages by
social media giants such as Facebook, which they say hinder law enforcement by blocking all access to
them.
• The other six countries are US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan.
Rajasthan Police Launches Drive for Women’s Safety and Security
• Rajasthan police launched a campaign with an aim to spread awareness among woman about the crime
against them and to educate them of their rights and ways to secure justice if they end up becoming its
victims.
• Named ‘AAWAJ’ — Action Against Women-related crime and Awareness for Justice the campaign was
launched by Civil Rights and Anti-Human Trafficking Unit of the police and will run across the state to
generate gender equality and curb crimes against women.
CBSE sets a new Guinness World Record, deliver online AI lesson to 13000 students in 24 hours
• Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has sets a new Guinness World Record for most users
taking an online artificial intelligence, AI lesson to 13,000 students from class 8 and above between
October 13-14 in 24 hours.
• The training was part of the ongoing AI for Youth Virtual Symposium organized by Intel and CBSE.
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Extra Shots:
CBSE
• Parent organization: Ministry of Education
• Chairperson: Manoj Ahuja, IAS
Jan Andolan campaign against COVID-19 launched in India
• The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) has launched
the Jan Andolan campaign against COVID-19.
• The Union government launched a public awareness drive as part of its fight against Covid-19.
• The network of about 750 AYUSH Medical Colleges with their communities of students and teachers will
also play an important role in this effort.
India’s Plan to store COVID-19 Vaccines
• The Government of India has started to identify private facilities and government facilities to create a
hub to store COVID-19 vaccines.
• India is under the plan of rolling out multiple vaccines for COVID-19.
• The Government of India is to use the Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network (EVIN) to store the
vaccine.
• The eVIN is used to monitor supply chain of COVID-19 response material.
• It was an indigenously developed system that is now being used to monitor supply chain of COVID-19
response material.
New passenger terminal building of Trichy airport to be functional from March 2022
• The new integrated passenger terminal building of AAI-run Trichy airport in Tamil Nadu, with enhanced
passenger handling capacity, will be functional from March 2022.
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• The existing integrated passenger terminal is in use for both international and domestic air traffic and
has exhausted its design capacity.
‘KAPILA’ Campaign on IP Literacy and Awareness
• The Union Education Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ has virtually launched the campaign
‘KAPILA’, which stands for Kalam Program for Intellectual Property Literacy and Awareness campaign
on 15th October 2020.
• The day was launched in honour of 89th birth anniversary celebration of former President Dr. APJ Abdul
Kalam.
Objective:
• to promote awareness in the field, the Ministry has decided to celebrate the week from 15 to 23 October
as ‘Intellectual Property Literacy Week’.
Extra Shots:
Education Ministry
• Union Minister: Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’
• Minister of State: Dhotre Sanjay Shamrao
India to hand over its kilo-class submarine INS Sindhuvir to Myanmar
• India has decided to hand over INS Sindhuvir, a Kilo class submarine to the Myanmar Navy by the end of
2020.
• This initiative has been launched under the vision SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), to
guarantee security for all maritime partners and is also in line with India’s commitment to build
capacities and self-reliance in all its neighbouring countries.
• It is currently being modernized by the Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Vizag, after which its
service life will be extended by 10-15 years.
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• It will then serve the Myanmar Navy till the 2030s.
Extra Shots:
Myanmar (Capital/Currency): Naypyitaw/ Burmese kyat
• President: Win Myint
Central Government declares Director-General Shipping as the National Authority for Ships Recycling
• The Union Minister of State for Shipping, Mansukh L Mandaviya has declared that Director-General
Shipping will be the final authority for various approvals that are required by the state governments and
ship-recycling yard-owners.
• The DG Shipping has been designated as the apex authority for the ship recycling industry of India
under Section 3 of the Recycling of Ships Act, 2019.
Extra Shots:
Ministry of Shipping
• Union Minister: Mansukh L. Mandaviya
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Australia for collaboration in making impact for sustainable
groundwater management
• Union Cabinet approved the MoU signed with Australia for the various purposes and it mainly focuses
on our sustainable growth.
• The MoU between India and Australia focuses on various fields like research and development, capacity
building and sustainable growth.
Extra Shots:
Australia (Capital/Currency): Canberra/ Australian dollar
• Prime Minister: Scott Morrison
Page 21 of 539
Nitin Gadkari laid foundation stones for 16 Highway projects in Andhra Pradesh
• Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways and Micro Small Medium Enterprises laid foundation stone
for 16 National Highway projects with a total length of 1411 kms worth Rs 15,592 crore in Andhra
Pradesh.
• In Andhra Pradesh 5000 Km of National Highways are being developed as a part of Bharatmala
Pariyojana and 400 Km of Port Connectivity Roads will also be developed under Bharatmala Pariyojana.
Dr. Jitendra Singh lays foundation stone of Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya Shiksha Bhawan in Jammu
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister in PMO, Dr. Jitendra Singh laid the
foundation stone of Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya Shiksha Bhawan at Central University of Jammu,
Rahya-Sucahni in district Samba in the presence of Vice chancellor Prof. Ashok Aima and others.
• The proposed building is being constructed with the financial assistance provided by the Ministry of
Education, Government of India, under Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya National Mission on Teachers and
Teaching (PMMMNMTT).
• The key objective of the scheme is to enhance the quality of teachers and teaching learning.
Extra Shots:
Jammu & Kashmir:
• Capitals- Jammu (Winter), Srinagar (Summer)
• Lt Governor- Manoj Sinha
• National Parks: City Forest (Salim Ali) National Park, Dachigam National Park, Hemis National Park,
Kishtwar National Park
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Baltal-Thajwas WLS, Changthang Cold Desert WLS, Gulmarg WLS, Jasrota WLS,
Karakoram (Nubra Shyok) WLS etc
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India Energy Forum to be inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi
• The 4th edition of India Energy Forum by CERAWeek, will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra
Modi.
• Objective: to enhance important dialogue on the nation’s new energy future.
• It will be schedule on October 26-28, by IHS Markit.
FSSAI to expand its new food safety compliance platform from 1st Nov
• The food regulator FSSAI has announced to extend its Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS) across
the entire country from November 1, 2020.
FoSCoS:
• FoSCoS is a cloud-based, upgraded new food safety compliance online platform of FSSAI.
• It can be accessed at https://foscos.fssai.gov.in.
• FoSCoS will provide one point stop for all engagement of a food business operator (FBO) with the
department, for any regulatory compliance transaction.
Extra Shots:
FSSAI
• Founded: August 2011
• Sector: Food safety
• Chairperson: Rita Teaotia
Indian Himalayas introduced Heeng Cultivation
• The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Institute of Himalayan bioresource Technology has
taken up Heeng cultivation in the Lahaul valley of Himachal Pradesh.
• Around 750 hectares are to be covered under Heeng cultivation.
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Environmental Clearance given to Kaleshwaram Project
• The National Green Tribunal granted environmental clearance to the Kaleshwaram irrigation project of
Telangana.
• The Tribunal has directed the Ministry of Environment and Forest to form a 7-member expert committee
to suggest rehabilitation and relief measures.
• The project will bring irrigation and drinking water to the backward areas of Telangana.
Union Minister N S Tomar unveils preparation framework for Block & District development plans
• Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar unveiled preparation framework
for Block and District development plans.
• This framework is a step-by-step guide for Block and District Panchayats to formulate plans and will
assist planners, concerned stakeholders at appropriate level.
• The framework will serve as an important tool for all resource persons, stakeholders associated with
decentralized planning in block and district panchayats and will play an important role in transforming
rural India.
Indigenous software solution for vessel traffic launched by Shipping Minister Mansukh Mandaviya
• Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has e-launched an indigenous software solution for Vessel traffic
services (VTS) and Vessels Traffic Monitoring Systems (VTMS).
• India has approximately 15 VTS systems operational along the Indian Coast and there is no uniformity of
VTS software as each system has its own VTS software.
• VTS and VTMS is a software which determines vessel positions, position of other traffic or
meteorological hazard warnings and extensive management of traffic within a port or waterway.
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Union Cabinet approves adoption of Jammu and Kashmir Panchayati Raj Act
• The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the adoption of Jammu and
Kashmir Panchayati Raj act.
• The adoption of Panchayati Raj act will now establish the three tier of Grass root level democracy in
Jammu and Kashmir.
Extra Shots:
Panchayati Raj system
• It is a rural local self-government. It was constitutionalised by the 73rd constitutional amendment act
1992.
India recorded the highest air pollution exposure
• The State of Global Air report 2020 was released.
• The report was released by US based institutes.
• These institutes were Health Effects Institute and Institute for Health metrics and evaluation.
• The report has been created based on data from ground monitors and satellites.
• According to the report, India recorded the highest PM 2.5 exposure in the world in 2019.
• India was followed by Nepal and Niger.
India's first-ever khadi fabric footwear launched
• Union Minister for MSME, Nitin Gadkari launched India’s first-ever high-quality Khadi Fabric Footwear,
designed by Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC).
• These footwears are made of Khadi fabric like Silk, Cotton and Wool.
• These footwears will bear paintings from across the country including the famous Madhubani painting.
• Mr Gadkari also launched the online sale of Khadi footwear through KVIC’s e-portal
www.khadiindia.gov.in.
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Extra Shots:
KVIC
• Founded: 1956
• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Chairperson: Vinai Kumar Saxena
SC Railway starts 3rd Kisan rail from Zone to reach Adarsh Nagar Station in New Delhi
• The South-Central Railway has started the third Kisan rail from the Zone to reach Adarsh Nagar Station
in New Delhi.
• This is the third Rail continuously starting from the district of Anantapur.
• A total of 242.6 tonnes of commodities have been transported by this train.
• The Government of India has started Kisan Rail concept to boost the income of farmers, while providing
a hassle-free, safe and fast transport services for the marketing of the agriculture sector.
Extra Shots:
South Central Railway zone
• Founded: 2 October 1966, Andhra Pradesh
• Jurisdiction: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana
PM Modi to launch several important projects in Gujarat on Oct 24
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually launch several important projects in Gujarat on 24th of
October.
• These projects include the launch of rope-way project of Girnar Hills and launch of Kisan Suryodaya
Yojna to provide electricity during daytime to farmers of Gir-Somnath, Patan and Dahod districts.
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• The Prime Minister will also launch 850 additional beds equipped with the latest equipment at the U.N.
Mehta Heart Research Institute and a separate hospital for children born with congenital heart diseases
in Civil Hospital campus in Ahmedabad.
Stanchart to set up its largest global campus in Chennai
• Standard Chartered GBS is leasing 7.7 lakh square feet at DLF Downtown in Chennai's Taramani to set
up its largest office establishment globally.
• The unique building design has a wide span of atriums, interconnecting internal staircases, terraces and
skylight for employees to connect and collaborate.
24th October Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated three key projects in Gujarat
• 24th October Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated three key projects in Gujarat
The Projects includes:
Kisan Suryodaya Yojna
• The ‘Kisan Suryodaya Yojna’ is an agri scheme which aims to provide power supply during daytime from
5am to 9pm (16 hours) for irrigation purposes to farmers.
• The state government has allocated a budget of Rs 3,500 crores for installing transmission infrastructure
under this scheme by 2023.
India’s biggest cardiac hospital in Ahmedabad
• The Paediatric Heart Hospital was inaugurated at U.N Mehta Institute of Cardiology and Research
Centre at Civil Hospital campus in Ahmedabad and a Mobile Application for tele-cardiology.
• The new facilities have been set up at the cost of Rs 470 crore, and will be India’s biggest hospital for
cardiology.
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World’s longest temple ropeway project at Girnar in Junagadh
• Girnar hill ropeway at Junagadh is Rs 130 crore project.
• It would attract more tourists and pilgrims to this historical place which will boost employment
opportunities.
• The 2,320 metres long ropeway has a capacity of carrying 1,000 passengers every hour.
Culture & Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel launches Life in Miniature project
• The Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism Shri Prahlad Singh Patel launched ‘Life in
Miniature’ project via video conferencing on 22 October 2020.
• The project is a collaboration between the National Museum, New Delhi, Ministry of Culture, and the
Google Arts and Culture.
• Under the ‘Life in Miniature’ project, various miniature paintings from the National Museum can be
viewed online on Google Arts and Culture by people around the world.
India gets Chairmanship of ILO Governing body
• India has assumed the Chairmanship of the Governing Body of International Labour Organization (ILO),
after a gap of 35 years.
• The Labour and Employment Secretary, Apurva Chandra, has been elected as the Chairperson of the
Governing Body of the ILO for the period October 2020- June 2021.
• Mr Chandra is a 1988 batch Indian Administrative Service officer of Maharashtra Cadre.
Extra Shots:
ILO
• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• Head: Guy Ryder
• Founder: Paris Peace Conference
Page 28 of 539
• Founded: 1919
• Formation: 11 April 1919
RPF launches ‘Meri Saheli’ initiative in Amaravathi Express between Vijayawada-Hubli
• As per the directives of Railway Board, the staff of Railway Protection Force in Vijayawada Division
launched ‘Meri Saheli’ initiative in Train No.07225 Amaravathi Express between Vijayawada-Hubli.
• The main motto of this ‘Meri Saheli’ initiative is to provide a safe and secure environment to lady
passengers travelling in trains throughout their journey.
Extra Shots:
RPF
• Founded: 27 July 1872
• Jurisdiction: India
• General nature: Federal law enforcement
Dept of Posts releases stamp on 75th anniversary of United Nations
• The Department of Posts released a commemorative postage stamp in the presence of External Affairs
Minister Dr S Jaishankar on the 75th anniversary of the United Nations.
• The Department of Posts has previously released similar such commemorative postage stamps on the
UN’s 9th, 40th and 50th Anniversaries in 1954, 1985 and 1995 respectively.
Extra shots:
United Nations
• Secretary general: António Guterres
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States
• Founded: 24 October 1945, San Francisco, California, United States
Page 29 of 539
National Coaching Camp for Table Tennis approved by Sports Authority of India
• The SAI has consented a national coaching camp for table tennis.
• It will be held from 28 October – 8 December 2020.
• The National Coaching camp has been allowed at an estimated cost of Rs 18 lakh (plus air travel and
medical expenses).
Extra Shots:
SAI
• Headquarters location: New Delhi
• Founder: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
• Founded: 1982
Ministry of Defence sets new rules for land transfer to reduce expenditure
• The Ministry of Defence recently approved the land transfer rules.
• Under the new rules the armed forces are allowed to receive infrastructure equivalent in value to the
land under their control. The land is to be used for public utilities.
• This will help reduce the defence forces’ expenditure.
Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) Celebrates 59th Raising Day
• The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) observed its 59th Raising Day on 24 October 2020.
• ITBP is India’s primary border patrol organization with its border with Tibet (China).
• It is one of the seven Central Armed Police Forces of India.
• ITBP was formed on 24 October 1962, under the CRPF Act, in the wake of the Sino-Indian War of 1962.
Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurates ‘Direct Port Entry Facility’ at V.O. Chidambaranar port
• The Union Minister of State for Shipping (I/C), Shri Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the ‘Direct Port
Entry (DPE) facility’ of V.O. Chidambaranar Port Trust in Tamil Nadu on 27 October 2020.
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• The state-of-the-art Direct Port Entry (DPE) facility would enable direct movement of containers from
factories, without intermediate handling at any Container Freight Station (CFS), thus facilitating the
shippers to Gate-In their factory stuffed exports directly to the Container Terminal on 24×7 basis.
• This will help in increasing Ease of Doing Business for the exporters, as the facility will bring efficiency
and reduce dwell time, lower tariff cost and improve the competitiveness of shipper in the international
trade.
Two Centers of Excellence for tribal welfare launched
• Two Centers of Excellence (CoE) for Tribal Welfare is launched by the Union Minister of Tribal Affairs,
Shri Arjun Munda.
• The centers launched in in a collaboration between Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) and Art of Living
(AoL).
• The first CoE has been launched in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra for training about 10000 tribal
farmers in the field of sustainable natural farming based on Go-Adharith farming techniques.
• The second CoE has been launched in Jharkhand in the field of ‘Strengthening PRIs’ in 5 districts of the
state covering 30 Gram Panchayats and 150 villages.
Deadline to payments under Vivad se Vishwas scheme extended
• The Government of India extended the deadline for making payment under the Vivad se Vishwas
scheme.
• The deadline has been extended to March 31, 2021.
• The deadline is being extended for the third time under this direct tax dispute settlement scheme.
• The last date for making declaration under the scheme has been extended to December 31 2020.
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PM inaugurates National Conference on Vigilance and Anti-Corruption
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the national conference on vigilance and anti-corruption on
October 27, 2020.
• The theme of this year conference is "vigilant India, prosperous India".
• The inaugural session of the conference will be live-streamed and available on 'pmindiawebcast.nic.in'
link.
• The conference would be focussed on vigilance issues aimed at raising awareness and reaffirming
India's commitment to the promotion of integrity and probity in public life through citizens' participation.
AIM Launches India-Australia Circular Economy Hackathon (I-ACE)
• AIM (Atal Innovation Mission), in association with Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial
Research Organisation (CSIRO), is organizing a two-day hackathon on the circular economy, ‘India–
Australia Circular Economy Hackathon (I-ACE)’, on 7 and 8 December.
• The idea of the hackathon (I-ACE) was conceived during a virtual summit on 4 June, between the Indian
and Australian prime ministers, exploring innovative ways to boost the circular economy in India &
Australia
Themes:
• Innovation in packaging reducing packaging waste
• Innovation in food supply chains avoiding waste
• Creating opportunities for plastic waste reduction
• Recycling critical energy metals and e-waste
Feni Bridge to be completed by December 2020
• The Feni bridge is 1.8 km long joining Sabrum in India with Ramgarh in Bangladesh.
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• The Government of India recently announced that the bridge construction is to be completed by
December 2020.
• The bridge is to be built over Feni river.
• It will link Tripura with Bangladesh
Single-use plastic to be banned in Ambala from 1 Nov
• Single-use plastic and polythene bags will remain prohibited in Ambala, with effect from November 1.
• Shopkeepers are being requested not to use polythene bags to give goods to customers.
PM two day visit to Gujarat
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day visit to Gujarat.
• He will pay tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at the 'Statue of Unity' near Kevadiya in Narmada
district on the occasion of his 145th birth anniversary.
• He will inaugurate Arogya Van and Arogya Kutir at Kevadia.
• He will inaugurate Ekta Mall Children Nutrition Park. Mr. Modi will then inaugurate Jungle Safari and
Geodesic Dome Aviary and lay the foundation stone for various projects before reaching the Statue of
Unity.
• He will also inaugurate Children Nutrition Park and Unity Glow Garden.
• Around 30 lakh LED lights have been used to illuminate the garden during the night.
• The Prime Minister will also inaugurate the illuminated Cactus Garden and Ekta Nursery.
Extra Shots:
Gujarat:
• Capital: Gandhinagar
• Chief Minister: Vijay Rupani
• Governor: Acharya Devvrat
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• State formed on: 1 May 1960
• National Park: Vansda NP, Blackbuck NP, Gir Forest NP, Marine NP, Gulf of Kutch
Health Ministry's telemedicine initiative ‘eSanjeevani’ completes 6 lakh tele consultations
• eSanjeevani, the Health Ministry’s telemedicine initiative has completed 6 lakh tele consultations.
• It took only 15 days to complete the last one lakh consultations.
• The eSanjeevani digital platform has proved its usefulness and easy access for the caregivers and the
medical community, and those seeking healthcare services in the times of COVID.
• eSanjeevani is accessible to the population in 27 States and Union Territories across the country.
• The digital platform provides eHealth services through more than 6000 doctors which man 217 online
OPDs in patient to doctor telemedicine model.
Union Health Minister launches 2nd phase of “Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojna”
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan virtually launched the second phase of “Thalassemia Bal
Sewa Yojna” for the underprivileged Thalassemic patients.
• Beneficiaries of the scheme had expressed their gratitude for this valuable support in midst of the gloom
in their lives.
• Thalassaemia is a blood disorder in which your body has less hemoglobin than normal.
• This disorder is passed down through families.
• Patients with thalassaemia suffer from anemia due to low levels of hemoglobin.
India designated Vice-Chair of OECD Working Group on GLP
India has been designated the Vice-Chair of Good Laboratory Practice, GLP Working Group of the Organisation
for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), recognising the contribution of the Indian GLP programme.
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• Good Laboratory Practice is a quality system, which has been evolved by OECD to ensure that safety data
generated on various chemicals like industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetic products and medical
devices can be relied upon by regulatory authorities.
• The Department of Science and Technology had established the National GLP Compliance Monitoring
Authority (NGCMA) with the approval of the Union Cabinet on April, 2002.
• The OECD is an intergovernmental economic organisation with 37 member countries, founded in 1961 to
stimulate economic progress and world trade.
• Headquarters: Paris, France
Dharmendra Pradhan launches trial run of Delhi's buses on Hydrogen-Blended CNG
Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Steel Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated Indian Oil's compact
reformer plant and launched the much-awaited trial run of Delhi's buses on Hydrogen-blended CNG (HCNG).
• It was launched at the Rajghat Bus Depot-I of Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC).
• H-CNG blends can be produced directly from CNG, bypassing the energy-intensive electrolysis process
and high-pressure blending costs.
• It provides a higher yield H-CNG mixture by up to 4% to 5% compared to CNG's input quantity.
• The cost of H-CNG production by the above process is about 22% cheaper than conventional physical
blending.
14 States report reduction in prevalence of parasitic intestinal worm infection 'Soil-Transmitted
Helminthiases'
The Health Ministry has said that 14 States have reported reduction in prevalence of parasitic intestinal worm
infection also known as Soil-Transmitted Helminthiases (STH).
• While 9 States have shown substantial reduction in worm prevalence in the STH follow up prevalence
survey.
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• These States are Chhattisgarh, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Telangana, Tripura, Rajasthan,
Madhya Pradesh and Bihar.
• Soil-Transmitted Helminthiases is a significant public health concern mostly in low resource settings.
• These are known to have detrimental effects on children’s physical growth and well being and can cause
anemia and under-nutrition.
• Since its launch in 2015, the National Deworming Day (10 February), a flagship program of the Ministry of
Health is run as a biannual single day programme implemented through the platforms of schools and
anganwadis.
Prahlad Singh Patel takes part in 77th Anniversary of formation of Azad Hind Government at Red Fort
Culture and Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel took part in the commemoration event of 77th Anniversary of
the Formation of Azad Hind Government at Red Fort in Delhi.
• Azad Hind Fauz veterans, 99-year old Naik Lalti Ram and 101- year old Sepoy Parmanand Yadav and
family Members of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose were also present on the occasion.
• Azad Hind was an Indian provisional government established in Japanese occupied Singapore during
World War II.
• On 21st October 1943, Subhash Chandra Bose announced the formation of the Provisional Government of
Azad Hind (Free India) in Singapore, with himself as the Head of State, Prime Minister and Minister of
War.
• He gave the famous battle cry ‘Chalo Dilli’. He promised independence to Indians saying, ‘tum mujhe
khoon do, main tumhe Azadi dunga’ (You give me blood, I will give you freedom).
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PM Modi Launches Physical Distribution of Property Cards Under SWAMITVA Scheme
PM Modi Launched a physical distribution of property cards, a legal document of owning their houses under the
Survey of villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas (SWAMITVA) scheme over a virtual
platform. This will support to make rural India self- sufficient.
Nirmala Sitharaman Announced Rs.73,000 crore stimulus to Boost Consumer Spending amid Covid-19
Lockdown
Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman announced measures of Rs.73,000 crore to
stimulate consumer spending before the end of this Financial year (FY21) to fight the COVID-19 Lockdown
induced slowdown, during a press conference in Delhi.
Union Minister Harsh Vardhan launches CuRED – website for information on CSIR partnered Clinical Trials
for COVID-19
Union Minsiter for Science & Tech Harsh Vardhan launched CuRED or CSIR Ushered Repurposed Drugs a website
for providing information on Repurposed Drugs for COVID-19.
State News
Uttar Pradesh
• National Park: Dudhwa National Park
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UP govt to launch special campaign on safety of women & girls during Navratri festival
• Uttar Pradesh government will launch a special campaign on the safety of women and girls during the
Navratri festival.
• State government will also identify the Hot spots where complaints of harassment are frequent and will
deploy extra force there.
• CM directed to run a special campaign in which a special police team will be deployed for the safety of
women.
UP govt launched ‘Mission Shakti’
• The Uttar Pradesh government has launched “Mission Shakti” program which will be dedicated to the
coming Navratra festival for women’s safety, dignity and empowerment.
• During Durga Puja various programmes will be organised from gram panchayats to industrial units.
PepsiCo plans to establish potato chips plant in Uttar Pradesh with Rs 814 crore outlay
• PepsiCo, which is an American multinational food, snack and beverage corporation has planned to
establish potato chips in Uttar Pradesh with Rs 814 crore investement.
• The unit is being set up in Kosi – Mathura on 35 acres of land provided by UP State Industrial
Development Authority (UPSIDA).
Naugarh Railway Station to be renamed as Siddharthnagar
• Railway Minister Piyush Goyal renamed Naugarh railway station to Siddharthnagar railway station which
is situated at Siddharthnagar district in Uttar Pradesh.
UP govt decides to set up women help desk in every police station of state
• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered to establish women help desks in each and
every police station of state.
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• The Mission Shakti to be launched for the women's safety and security on tomorrow, the first day of the
Navratri, the chief minister dedicated the upcoming Navratri days to women's and empowerment.
• Women police personnel will be given the charge of these women help desks so that every woman in
state can register her complain freely and fearlessly.
“hath dhona, roke corona” campaign launched by Uttar Pradesh
• With an aim to give the awareness of sanitation practices “hath dhona, roke corona” campaign on the
occasion of Global Handwashing Day of launched by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Women’s safety campaign ‘Safe City Project’ launched in Lucknow
• The Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel inaugurated the ‘Safe City Project’ on 19 October 2020 in
Lucknow.
• Under this 180-day-long campaign, the women police personnel will work towards strengthening
security of women in public places and inculcate a feeling of pride and safety among women in the city.
• For this programme, the central government has approved a total cost of Rs 194 crore.
• The total cost sanctioned for the project is Rs. 2919.55 crore, and will be implemented under Nirbhaya
Fund to strengthen the security of women in public places.
• The cost of the projects will be shared between the Centre and the state in the ratio of 60:40.
UP govt announces to provide assistance to labourers for historical & religious tour
• Uttar Pradesh Government has announced to provide financial assistance to labourers for historical and
religious tour in a unique step towards welfare of the labourers in state. Government will also provide
money to buy books for the study of their daughters.
• Government will give financial assistance of 12 thousand rupees to the labourers of state for the tour of
historical and religious sites under Swami Vivekananda Historical Tourism Scheme.
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• It was also decided to provide 7,500 rupees assistance for purchase of books under Mahadevi Verma
Book Purchase Financial Assistance Scheme.
• Government has also decided to provide money to encourage those children of the labourers who are
performing well in sports.
UP Govt to establish anti-human trafficking Police Stations in each and every district
• Uttar Pradesh Government has decided to establish anti-human trafficking Police Stations in each and
every district in a major step towards the security of women and children.
• These Police Stations will be given enough powers to register the case and investigate the matter
independently.
• State government is going to establish 40 new anti-trafficking units which will work like police stations
in districts and will conduct investigation after registering the cases.
• The new Police stations are being established after directives from women safety division of Union
Government. Union Government has also allocated funds for these units.
Gujarat
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Gujarat e-dedicates online e-Sanjeevani OPDs scheme
• Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani e-dedicated online e-Sanjeevani OPDs scheme across Gujarat
through video conferencing.
• e-Sanjeevani OPDs scheme is the central scheme and now the people of Gujarat will get its benefits.
Objective:
To provide medical facilities online to the patients for common diseases at their homes.
World’s biggest Zinc Smelter project in Dosawada in Tapi district
• The Memorandum of Understanding for this project was signed with Vedanta Group this evening.
Highlights of the Project:
• The proposed 300 KTPA production capacity project would provide big employment opportunities to the
local youths in this tribal area.
• The first phase of the proposed plant will be operational in 36 months.
• The project with the investment of Rs.10 thousand crore will also have a State-of-the-art Research and
Development Centre.
• The project will satisfy the domestic as well as global needs through exports.
Gujarat govt announces 25 % cut in school fees
• Gujarat Government has announced 25 percent cut in school fees for the current academic year.
• This decision is termed as a big relief for the parents in view of the Coronavirus pandemic.
• The decision was taken after the directions from the Gujarat High Court and consultations with
representatives of school managements and parents association.
• 25 percent cut in tution fees will be effective to all school boards including CBSE.
• There will be a 100 per cent fee waiver on all other activities including transportation, sports, library and
computer.
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• Those who have already paid full payment of fees will be offered adjustment by schools.
• Schools have been asked not to relieve any teacher from the job due to this relief.
Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Central Jail launches ‘Radio Prison’ on 151st Birth Anniversary of Father of the
Nation
• Sabarmati Central Jail in Ahmedabad has launched ‘Radio Prison’ on the occasion of the 151st Birth
Anniversary of the Father of the Nation.
• The Radio Prison- will offer educational, legal and health related details to prisoners within the jail
premises. It is operating from old Jail premises based on fibre cable network.
• This service will be extended to the women’s prison and then to the new jail premises in future.
Digital Seva Setu Programme for rural areas initiated by Gujarat govt
• Digital Seva Setu Programme for rural areas has been initiated by Gujarat government under the Bharat
Net Project.
• Objective of the program: the citizens will be able to get benefit from various public welfare services at
the Panchayat level
Surat’s BRTS becomes India’s Longest BRTS Network with a coverage of 108kms
CM of Gujarat Vijay Rupani inaugurated the newly expanded Bus Rapid Transit Systems (BRTS) route from
Kumbhariya to Kadodara, surat virtually from Gandhinagar.
Andhra Pradesh
• Capital: Amravati
• Chief Minister: Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy
• Governor: Biswabhusan Harichandan
• Literacy rate: 67.4%
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• National Park: Sri Venkateswara National Park, Sri Venkateswara National Park, Papikonda National
Park
Andhra Pradesh launched Jagananna Vidya Kanuka Scheme
• The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy has launched Jagan Anna Vidya kanuka
scheme.
• The total amount allocated by the State government for this scheme is allocated Rs 650 crores.
The Scheme highlights:
• Govt. will provide school kits to 43.32 to lakh government school students.
• It consists of one pair of shoes, three pairs of uniform, two pairs of socks, textbooks,
• The kits to be provided have been named Vidya Kanuka kits.
CM Jagan Mohan Reddy launches YSR Jala Kala scheme
• Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launched the YSR Jala Kala Scheme under which
free borewells will be drilled for the needy farmers in the state.
• The government said that about three lakh farmers will be profited from the scheme and will cover five
lakh acres of land under cultivation with an estimated cost of Rs 2,340 crore in four years.
• The eligible farmers can apply either online or through the village secretariats.
• The applications will be approved after hydrogeological and geophysical surveys.
Andhra CM Jagan Mohan Reddy along with Union ministers launch door delivery of fertilizers to farmers
• Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy along with Union Ministers launched the door
delivery of fertilisers to farmers, PoS (Point of sale) version, and SMS gateway from Rythu Bharosa
Kendras.
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• The State government introduced Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs) to assist farmers in every step from
the purchase of seed to sale of their produce, which acts as a one-stop destination to address all the
needs of farmers across the state.
‘YSR BIMA’ insurance scheme launched by Andhra Pradesh for BPL families
• ‘YSR Bima’ scheme is launched by Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy with an
aim to provide financial assistance through insurance cover to beneficiary in case of death or accident of
their families members.
• All families with white ration cards are eligible for YSR Bima scheme.
• Village/ward volunteers will visit the families and enrol the names of the primary householders.
• The scheme will benefit 1.41 crore BPL families of the state.
Maharashtra
• Capital: Mumbai
• Chief Minister: Uddhav Thackeray
• Governor: Bhagat Singh Koshyari
• National Parks: Chandoli National Park, Nawegaon National Park, Gugamal National Park, Pench
National Park, Sanjay Gandhi (Borivilli) National Park, Tadoba National Park
Maharashtra bans sale of loose cigarettes, beedis
• The Maharashtra government has banned the sale of loose cigarettes and beedis, making it the first
Indian state to so.
• The ban has been imposed to reduce the consumption of tobacco and to comply with the Cigarettes and
Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA) 2003.
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National Institute Of Naturopathy’s Tribal Unit set up in Pune
• A 20-bed tribal unit of the National Institute of Naturopathy was inaugurated in Pune’s Ambegaon tehsil
by Union AYUSH minister Shripad Naik.
• It would provide free clinical services to the tribal population in the area.
• A research unit on tribal practices for health maintenance had also been set up and it will be a
“repository of knowledge and will work in areas of education, nutrition and health problems of the tribal
population”.
Maharashtra becomes first state in country to cap prices of masks
• Maharashtra has become the first state in the country to cap the prices of masks.
• N95 masks will now be available at Rs 19 to Rs 49, while two-layer and three-layer masks will be
available for Rs 3 to 4.
• This maximum selling price limit will be applicable to all mask manufacturing companies / distributors /
retailers in the state
Bihar
• Capital: Patna
• Chief Minister: Nitish Kumar
• Governor: Phagu Chauhan
Devendra Fadnavis appointed as BJP’s Bihar Assembly Elections in-charge
• Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis has been appointed as the
party's Bihar Assembly Elections in-charge.
Uttarakhand
• Statehood Day: 9th November 2000
• Capital: Dehradun
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• Governor: Baby Rani maurya
• Chief Minister: Trivendra Singh Rawat
• National Park: Jim Corbett NP, Gangotri NP, Nanda Devi NP, Rajaji NP
Mukhya Mantri Saur Swarojgar Yojana launched in Uttarakhand
• Mukhyamantri Saur Swarojgar Yojana recently launched by the Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra
Singh Rawat which will promote self-employment of the youth. It also promotes production of green
energy.
• The beneficiaries of the scheme are to be allocated with solar power plants of 25 KW each.
• The scheme targets migrant workers and youth who have returned to their homes after leaving their jobs
in different parts of the country due to covid-19 lockdown.
Integrated Model Agricultural Village Scheme launched by Uttarakhand govt
• The Integrated Model Agricultural Village scheme (Ekikrit Adarsh Krishi Gram Yojana) launched by the
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat.
• The main aim of this scheme is to strengthen the economy of farmers and also help in doubling their
income.
• The initiative has been launched in partnership with National Bank for Agriculture and Rural
Development (NABARD).
Asan Conservation Reserve gets first Ramsar site tag from Uttarakhand
• The Asan Conservation Reserve in Uttarakhand has become the first Ramsar site in the state, giving it
the status of ‘Wetland of International Importance’.
• The Reserve is located near Dehradun district in Garhwal region of the Himalayan state on the banks of
Yamuna river.
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• Apart from this, Kabartal Wetland from Bihar is another new site to be recognised by Ramsar.
Goa
• Capital: Panaji
• Chief Minister: Pramod Sawant
First State to provide 100% Tap Water Connections is Goa
• Goa has become the first state in India to provide 100% tap water connections in rural areas under “Har
Ghar Jal State”.
• The State of Goa is now planning to install sensor-based service delivery monitoring system to monitor
the functionality of water supply.
• The Jal Jeevan Mission aims to provide 55 litres of tapped water per person per day to all the
households by 2024.
Goa partnered with India Post to get farmers enrolled in PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Scheme
• The Goa Agriculture department has collaborated with the Postal Department to enrol 11,000 farmers,
eligible to avail the benefit of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-KISAN), under which
small and marginal farmers get up to Rs 6,000 per year as minimum income support.
• Three equal instalments of Rs 2,000 every four months are transferred into the farmers’ account.
• The scheme defines family as husband, wife and minor children.
• Under this initiative, the postman will be utilized to benefit farmers. This is India’s First Such initiative
and a Unique drive
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To support farmers Goa Govt launched ‘Aatmanirbhar’ plan
• The Goa government released an action plan to support agriculture and animal husbandry under its
“Aatmanirbhar” programme.
Objective:
• To help farmers, crop insurance and fencing will be availed. Horticulture cultivation, procurement of
agricultural equipment, and sustainable harvesting of medical plants will also be assisted with it.
Delhi
Delhi government allows restaurants to open 24x7
• Delhi government announced that the city restaurants will now be allowed to open round the clock and
the requirement of tourism licenses will also be removed.
• The permission to the restaurants to operate 24x7 subjects to the condition that they will take care of
the health and security of the entire staff will help the industry in generating more employment.
First State/UT to launch Tree Transplantation Policy: Delhi
• With an aim to preserve trees for clean and green city, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has passed a
first-of-its-kind in India ‘Tree Transplantation Policy.
Policy Detail:
• The trees which needs be felled due to any circumstances, like for constructions and other development
projects, would not be cut but instead uprooted and transplanted somewhere else.
• The transplantation agency will need to ensure that 80 percent of transplanted trees survive.
Yudh Prasdushan Ke Virudh: Mega Anti-Pollution Campaign launched by Delhi CM
• The Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched a Mega Anti-Pollution Campaign, called “Yudh
Prasudushan ke Virudh”.
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• The campaign was launched to reduce pollution levels in Delhi.
• During the campaign, the Delhi Government will focus on technology developed by Pusa Agriculture
Institute to control stubble burning.
• Under the campaign, thirteen pollution hotspots were identified.
• A separate plan has been prepared for each hotspot based on their respective cause of pollution.
• A new policy and a new anti-dust campaign has been introduced.
• According to the new policy, an agency that cuts down trees in Delhi has to plant 80% of them in a new
spot.
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal launches campaign ‘Red light on, Gaadi off’ to tackle air pollution
• Chief Minister of Delhi, Shri Arvind Kejriwal launched ‘Red light on, Gaadi off’ campaign to fight air
pollution.
• The ‘Red Light on Gaadi Off’ campaign will aim to bring a behavioural change in that regard. It will help
reduce air pollution. This campaign will be another step towards reducing pollution.
Air quality in Delhi falls in very poor category
• The air quality in Delhi was recorded in the very poor category.
• According to air quality monitor, SAFAR, the national capital recorded an Air Quality Index of 343 this
morning which falls under the very poor category.
Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal launches Green Delhi app
• Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched the Green Delhi mobile application today, on October 29,
2020.
• The app can be used by citizens to bring pollution causing activities to the government's notice.
• The Green Delhi app aims to keep a check on rising air pollution in Delhi and bring pollution-causing
activities to the state government's notice.
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• People will be able to use the Green Delhi app to inform the government regarding complaints related to
burning waste, industrial pollution and dust in the National Capital
Sikkim
• Capital: Gangtok
• Governor: Ganga Prasad
• Chief Minister: Prem Singh Tamang
“Dalle Khursani” the famous chilli of Sikkim gets GI Tag
• The Union department of Industry promotion and internal trade has given the GI Tag recently to the
“Dalle Khursani” the famous chilli of Sikkim.
• A GI tag is a name given to certain products that have a specific geographical location or origin which
indicate that the crop will have global recognition and the marketing of the product will be beyond the
national borders.
IFFCO begins construction of Food Processing Units in Sikkim
• The Indian farmers fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) joint venture Sikkim IFFCO Organics Limited
recently has started the construction work of food processing units in Sikkim.
• The project is to be completed by 2021.
• These food processing units are to give a boost to the organic farming in Sikkim.
Assam
• Capital: Dispur
• Chief Minister: Sarbananda Sonowal
• Governor: Jagdish Mukhi
• National Park: Dibru-Saikhowa NP, Kaziranga NP, Manas NP, Nameri NP, Rajiv Gandhi Orang NP,
Dehing Patkai
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“Swa-nirbhar Naari: Atmanirbhar Asom” launched by Assam govt
• “Swa-nirbhar Naari: Atmanirbhar Asom” scheme is launched by Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda
Sonowal.
Aim:
• To empower the economically disadvantaged women of the State in a programme organized by
Panchayat & Rural Development Department at Chandrapur in Kamrup (Metro) district.
Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal launches Kritagyata portal for online pension submission and tracking
• Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched a web portal named ‘Kritagyata’ on 1st October
2020.
• Kritagyata is an online pension submission and tracking system launched to help the pensioners of the
state to dispose their pension related claims.
• The retired government employee can submit the pension related papers on line as well as check the
status of his pension.
• The portal has been created in line with the ‘Bhabhisya’ portal of Government of India.
• Initially, the Kritagyata portal has been launched as pilot project for the teachers and employees under
Inspector of Schools of Kamrup Metropolitan district,
• It will be replicated to all government employees of the state in all districts in phases.
Nitin Gadkari to lay foundation stone for country’s first-ever multi-modal logistic park in Assam
• Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari will virtually lay the foundation stone for
the first-ever multi-modal logistic park of the country in Assam.
• It will be developed under the Bharatmala Pariyojana of the Centre.
• The 694 crore rupees park at Bongaigaon district will provide direct connectivity to air, road, rail and
waterways to the people of Assam.
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• The fund for the multimodal logistics park would be spent in 3 components - road and railway
connectivity as well as building and infrastructure work. An MoU will also be signed to implement the
project.
Assam celebrated Kati Bihu festival
• Assam celebrated the Kati Bihu festival Locals in Bongaigaon celebrated in Assam.
• Kati Bihu is celebrated on the first day of ‘Kati’ month in Assamese calendar.
• People perform cultural dances and organise feasts.
Assam CM lays foundation stone of Assam Agar International Trade Centre at Golaghat
• Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation stone of Assam Agar International Trade
Centre at Golaghat.
• Objective: to promote the business potential of the farmers as well as entrepreneurs associated with
agarwood plantation and trade in the state.
• This trade centre is the first of its kind in the country.
Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh bags top position for implementation of PMGSY
• The Union Ministry of Rural Development has declared the list of tops performing 30 districts in the
country for implementing the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
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• The Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh has bagged top position in the list for successful
implementation of PMGSY programme.
• The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), was launched by the Union government to provide
all weather road connectivity to unconnected habitations, having population of more than 250 in the
state, as part of a poverty reduction strategy.
West Bengal
• Capital: Kolkata
• Chief Minister: Mamta Banerjee
• Governor: Jagdeep Dhankhar
• State Formed in: 1947
• National Park: Buxa National Park, Gorumara National Park, Neora Valley National Park, Sunderban
National Park, Jaldapara National Park
West Bengal Launches Pathashree Abhijan Scheme To Repair Roads In State
• West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has launched a new scheme called the Pathashree
Abhijan on 01 October 2020.
• Pathashree Abhijan is a road repair scheme, under which more than 7,000 stretches of roads comprising
12,000 kilometers across the state will be repaired in a mission mode and in a time-bound manner.
• The list of repairs has been prepared on the basis of all the road related complaints received by the
Chief Minister from different parts of the state through the ‘Didi Ke Bolo’ initiative of the state
government.
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Union Railway Minister inaugurated Phoolbagan Metro Station in Kolkata
• Union Minister for Railways Shri, Piyush Goyal inaugurated Phoolbagan Metro station of East-West
Metro.
• The inaugural function was conducted virtually through video conferencing.
• Total length of this project is 16.5 kms and the total estimated project cost is Rs. 98 Cr.
• This will connect Howrah on the West bank of the river Hooghly with Salt Lake City on its East bank.
• Phoolbagan Metro Station is a station of the Kolkata Metro in Phoolbagan, a north neighbourhood of
Kolkata, India.
West Bengal launches campaign to curb electrocution deaths of elephants
• To keep a check on the declining numbers of elephants in the state, the West Bengal government
launched marketing campaign to prevent deaths of elephants from electrocution.
• The campaign was launched in areas adjoining elephant habitats in the northern part of the state.
Arunachal Pradesh
• Capital: Itanagar
• Chief Minister: Pema Khandu
• Governor: B.D Mishra
Rajnath Singh inaugurates 44 bridges and lays foundation stone of Nechiphu tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated 44 bridges and laid the foundation stone of Nechiphu
tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh.
• These bridges will prove immensely beneficial in terms of military and civil transport in the western,
northern and north-eastern areas of the country.
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Madhya Pradesh
• Statehood Day: November 1, 1956
• Capital: Bhopal
• Chief Minister: Shivraj Singh Chauhan
• National Park: Bandhavgarh NP, Fossil NP, Kanha NP, Madhav NP, Panna NP, Pench NP, Sanjay NP,
Satpura NP
MP to invite investors to work on establishment of forest-based domestic industries
• The Forest Department of Madhya Pradesh will invite private investors to work on the establishment of
forest-based domestic industries.
• The Forest Department of Madhya Pradesh has prepared an idea paper for this. Recently, this paper
was discussed with Indian businessmen from home and abroad through webinar.
• 26 investors including the forest minister of the state took part in the discussion and showed
enthusiasm to invest in Yajna.
Objective:
• To reduce the country's dependence on imported forest produce under the Indo-Self-Reliant India
Campaign.
Atma-Nirbhar Bharat Training Center started in MP
• Atma-Nirbhar Bharat Training Center has been started in the state of Madhya Pradesh.
• Training in handicrafts, arts and culture-based skills will be imparted through this center to the women.
• The centre is operating through Lok Sanskriti Manch, was inaugurated by Indore MP Shankar Lalwani.
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Jammu and Kashmir
J&K LG Manoj Sinha inaugurates sports infrastructure worth Rs. 49.78 crore
• Manoj Sinha the Lieutenant Governor of J&K, inaugurated sports infrastructure worth Rs. 49.78 crore
and laid foundation of various projects costing Rs. 10.5 Crore across the Union Territory in a function
held at Pologround in Srinagar.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sanctioned Rs. 200 crore under the PM's Development Package for
upgradation of sports infrastructure and encouragement of budding talent in the field in J&K.
• Apart from the projects inaugurated today, 81 other projects are already completed with a cost of Rs.
108 crore.
• Another Rs. 30 crores have been released by the Government for construction of a playground in every
panchayat of the union territory.
“SAKHI” One-Stop Service Centre for women in Ramban district inauguratedin J&K
• In J&K, the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development, Dr. Jupaka Madhavi and Additional
Superintendent of Police, Ramban, Rajni Sharma inaugurated a “SAKHI” One-Stop Service Centre for
women in Ramban district.
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• The scheme aims to facilitate access to an integrated range of services including medical aid, police
assistance and legal aid or case management, psycho-social counselling and temporary support services
to women affected by violence.
Dr Jitendra Singh unveils 23 road & bridge projects in Jammu region
• Dr Jitendra Singh Minister of State in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh today unveiled 23 road and bridge projects
in Kathua, Doda, Udhampur and Reasi districts in the Jammu region.
• The projects included 15 roads built under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana for all weather
connectivity and 8 bridges for better connectivity to the people.
• The projects costing about 73 Crore rupees and having length of 111 kilometers will benefit more than
35 thousand people in the region.
Rs 520 crore package approved for J&K and Ladakh under NRLM
• Rs 520 crore a special package approved by the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi for J&K
and Ladakh under National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).
• This special package has been approved for a period of five years till the financial year 2023-24.
• The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM): ensure sufficient
funds to both the Union Territories with the aim to eliminate rural poverty and improved access to
financial services.
3rd World Statistics Day celebrated in Budgam
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the 3rd World Statistics Day on the theme ‘Connecting the
world with Data we can Trust’ was celebrated in Budgam.
• The event highlighted the importance of trustworthy data for the effective and result oriented policy
making and the need to fill the gap between the statisticians and policy makers.
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• On the occasion, the Evaluation Study Reports on National Rural Livelihood Mission and Janani
Surakhsha Yojna prepared by District Statistics and Evaluation Office Budgam were also released.
J&K Celebrates 74th Infantry Day
• Every year, October 27 is celebrated as Infantry Day by the Indian Army in Jammu & Kashmir (known by
nickname, Chinar Corps).
• The Chinar Corps celebrated the 74th Infantry Day on October 27, 2020, to honour the supreme sacrifice
of the gallant soldiers in fighting the Pakistani invaders, in Jammu and Kashmir, in 1947.
Govt all set to provide digital infrastructure with internet connectivity to all halqa panchayats, BDCs
• To transform the functioning of the Panchayati raj bodies of Jammu and Kashmir, the government is all
set to provide digital infrastructure with internet connectivity to all halqa panchayats and Block
Development Councils (BDCs).
• To transform the functioning of the Panchayati raj bodies of Jammu and Kashmir, the government is all
set to provide digital infrastructure with internet connectivity to all halqa panchayats and Block
Development Councils (BDCs).
Intellectual Property Facilitation Centre at Jammu, sub-centre at Srinagar
• In Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha virtually inaugurated Intellectual Property
Facilitation Centre (IPFC) at Jammu and Sub-Centre at Srinagar.
• The Lt Governor observed that the initiative is a move forward by the Government to promote awareness
and adoption of Intellectual Property Rights amongst entrepreneurs and MSMEs in J&K.
Nitin Gadkari to initiate simultaneous blasting for Zojila Tunnel in J&K, Ladakh
Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari initiated simultaneous blasting for Zojila Tunnel in Jammu
and Kashmir and Ladakh.
• The tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity between Srinagar valley and Leh on NH-1.
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• It involves construction of a 14.15-kilometre long tunnel at an altitude of about three thousand metres
under Zojila pass on NH-1 connecting Srinagar and Leh through Dras and Kargil.
• At a height of 3000 meters in the Peerpanjal mountain range, construction of Zojila tunnel is a historic
necessity to provide an all weather road connectivity between Ladakh and the rest of the world.
• Minister Nitin Gadkari also sets a target for the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation
Limited (NHIDCL) and the contractor to complete the construction before 2024.
J&K LG announces ‘My Town My Pride’ programme
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha has announced that the government is coming up with a
movement called ”My Town My Pride”.
• It aims to provide governance at the doorstep in urban areas on the pattern of the ‘Back2Village (B2V)’
programme.
• The program has three main objectives — public outreach in towns, strengthening grassroots democracy
and service delivery at doorsteps.
• The programme will also ensure on-the-spot grievance redressal, instant delivery of services to the
masses, and on the ground speedy execution of people-centric projects.
Tamil Nadu
• Capital: Chennai
• Chief Minister: Edappadi K.Palanisamy
• Governor: Banwarilal Purohit
• Chief Justice of Madras High Court: Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani
• National Park: Guindy NP,Gulf of Mannar Marine NP, Indira Gandhi (Annamalai) NP, Mudumalai NP,
Mukurthi NP.
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Madras High Court Chief Justice inaugurates integrated court complex in Karaikal
• The chief Justice of Madras High court shri. A.P Sahi inaugurated the Integrated court complex in
Karaikal.
• The Integrated court complex has been built at the cost of 19.61 crore rupees.
• There are 7 fully AC halls, a Free Legal Aid Centre, A conference hall, A video conference room,
Centralised record room and other sections has also been housed.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister signs 14 MoUs to generate employment
• Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Edappadi K. Palaniswami signed 14 Agreements worth Rs. 10, 055 crore
with potential to generate employment in the State.
• The Tamil Nadu State Government is also ranked first among Indian states in attracting investments
during the first six months of this year.
Tamil Nadu state government implements ‘One Nation One Ration Card’ scheme
• Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Edappadi Palaniswam has distributed One Nation One Ration Card
scheme.
• This scheme has come into force in 32 districts of Tamil Nadu.
• The remaining states/UTs are targeted to be integrated into the scheme by March 2021.
Extra Shots:
One Nation One Ration Card
• The scheme will allow ration card holders to receive their monthly entitlements from any public
distribution system (PDS) in the state
Tamil Nadu Government to implement Smart Black Board Scheme
• The Tamil Nadu State government is to implement the smart blackboard scheme in more than 80,000
Government schools.
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• This is to ensure better teaching environment.
• The smart blackboard scheme aims to use audio visual teaching material that can be integrated along
with digital classrooms.
• It will create materials that can be fed into computer screens using pen drives.
• The Tamil Nadu State government has also decided to reduce be syllabus of 2020-21 by 40 percentage.
Tamil Nadu govt implements Smart Black Board scheme in 80,000 govt schools
• Tamil Nadu government is implementing the Smart Black Board scheme in 80,000 government schools
to ensure better teaching environment.
• The Smart Black Board scheme envisages usage of audio-visual teaching material that can be fed into
the computer screens in classes using widely available pen drives.
Young Advocates Welfare Fund launched in Tamil Nadu
• The Young Advocates Welfare Fund has been launched in Tamil Nadu.
• The Young Advocates Welfare Scheme is aimed at helping such fresh candidates to withstand the initial
challenges.
• It provides monthly financial assistance of three thousand rupees each for two years to the lawyers who
just come out of law colleges.
Kerala
• Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
• Chief Minister: Pinarayi Vijayan
• Governor: Arif Mohammed Khan
• Festivals: Onam, Vishu, Thrissur Pooram, Nehru Trophy Boat Race
• National Parks: Anamudi Shola National Park, Eravikulam National Park, Mathikettan Shola National
Park, Pambadum Shola National Park, Periyar National Park,Silent Valley National Park
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• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Aralam WLS, Chimmony WLS, Idukki WLS, Periyar WLS, Wayanad WLS, Peppara
WLS, Neyyar WLS, Kurinjimala WLS, Malabar WLS etc
Kerala: First State to become Digital in Public Education
• The State of Kerala is the first state in the country to make public education completely digital.
• The state Government has achieved it at a cost of Rs 42.36 crores. The initiative was launched in 2018.
Karshaka Kshemanidhi Board launched by Kerala for Farmers
• Kerala Karshaka Kshemanidhi Board has been launched by Kerala State Government launched for
Welfare of Farmers in the State.
• By doing this, Kerala became the First State Government in India to launch this Welfare Fund Board for
upliftment of farmers.
Kerala’s first Mega Food Park inaugurated virtually
• Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, Agriculture and Farmers Welfare inaugurated Kerala’s
first and nation’s twentieth mega food park in Palakkad district.
• The inauguration was conducted virtually through video conferencing.
• The Park will also provide direct and indirect employment to 5,000 persons and benefit about 25,000
farmers
• This Mega Food Park has been set up in 79.42 acres of land at a project cost of Rs. 102.13 crore.
Kerala inaugurated India’s First Ever International Institute of Advanced Virology
• Country’s First International Institute of Advanced Virology inaugurated in Kerala.
• The State Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, inaugurated the operations of the first phase of the
International Institute of Advanced Virology at the Life Science Park at Thonakkal in
Thiruvananthapuram district.
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Kerala’s first water taxi service launches in backwaters of Alappuzha
• Kerala’s first water taxi service launched in the backwaters of Alappuzha. The water taxi is set to ferry
passengers.
• The water taxi, a catamaran diesel-powered craft with a seating capacity for 10 passengers, is 1st in a
series of 4 boats.
Kerala became the first Indian state to fix Minimum Support Price
• Kerala became the first Indian state to fix Minimum Support Price for sixteen agriculture items.
• It consists of vegetables, fruits and tubers.
• The scheme is to support farmers and increase agriculture sector.
Karnataka
Karnataka launched My Family, My Responsibility – COVID19 Awareness campaign in Udupi District
• Karnataka State Government has launched My Family, My Responsibility campaign in Udupi District.
• The objective of the campaign is to give a sense of responsibility among the family members to be
vigilant about the spread of Corona virus.
Karnataka govt proposes ban on government servants acting in films, TV programmes, accepting free
services
• The state government of Karnataka has proposed a ban on government servants acting in films and
television programmes.
• The new draft rules for government servants state that no government servant shall act in films and
television serials or associate himself with any activity related to such programmes unless permitted by
a competent authority.
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Rajasthan
• Statehood Day: 30 March 1949
• Capital: Jaipur
• Chief Minister: Ashok Gehlot
• Governor: Kalraj Mishra
Toll-free Helpline for Mental Health Services launched by Rajasthan
• A toll-free government helpline for mental health” Mann Samvad” was launched by Health Minister
Raghu Sharma in Rajasthan.
• The helpline 1800-180-0018 launched by the state government to continuously strengthening mental
health services during the coronavirus period.
• The facility of free tele-counselling is being provided to patients with mental health issues that through
the helpline.
Haryana
• Statehood day: 1 November 1966
• Capital: Chandigarh
• Chief Minister: Manohar Lal Khattar
• Governor: Satyadev Narayan Arya
Water Testing Lab on Wheels is launched by Haryana govt
• To determine the quality of potable water a state-of the art-Mobile-Water Testing Laboratory Van of Rs
99-lakh is launched by Haryana Chief Minister (CM) Manohar Lal Khattar.
• This initiative has been launched under the Jal Jeevan Mission for providing tap water connection to
every rural household.
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Objective:
• To provide easy access for water testing in remote locations of the state and also help identify the
water-quality problems on the spot.
About the Water Van
• The Mobile Water Testing Laboratory Van is fully equipped with multi-parameter system, capable of
measuring different water quality parameters like pH, alkalinity, TDS, hardness, residual chlorine, zinc,
nitrite, Fluoride, turbidity and micro-biological test of water samples.
• It is also GPS enabled for location tracking, and will help in quickly identifying the water quality problem
on the spot at site.
Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar launches Gram Darshan
• Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar digitally launched ‘Gram Darshan’, which will allow accessibility to
data of development projects of 6,197 gram panchayats of the state.
• With the launch of Gram Darshan, the details of the completed, ongoing and required development
projects of every village in Haryana will be digitally available.
Odisha
• Statehood Day: 1st April 1936
• Capital: Bhubaneswar
• Governor: Ganeshi Lal
• Chief Minister: Naveen Patnaik
‘Sujal’ Mission launched by Odisha government
• On 13th October, “Sujal”- ‘Drink from Tap Mission’ scheme is launched by Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik.
• Objective: to provide round the clock supply of quality tap drinking water in all urban areas of the state.
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• The state has set the target to provide piped water connections to all urban areas in the state by March
2022.
• The total amount allocated for the scheme is Rs 1300 crore.
Odisha CM Patnaik launches initiative to make Odisha ‘slum-free’ in next 3 years
• Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched a slum upgradation programme to make the state slum
free in three years.
• All slums in the state will be converted into model colonies in the next three years. The process will start
immediately in 1,000 slums and then it will be scaled up to cover each and every slum.
• The chief minister also dedicated 116 multi-purpose community centres in the slums which would act as
the social lifeline of people living there.
On World Postcard Day, picture postcard named “Jau Kandhei” released on theme ‘Traditional Toys of
India’ in Odisha
• On the occasion of World Postcard Day, the Chief Postmaster General, Odisha Circle, has released a
picture postcard named “Jau Kandhei” on the theme of ‘Traditional Toys of India’.
• Ten other postal circles across the country have also released similar postcards on the same theme. The
objective is to promote the artisans making traditional toys in Odisha and other parts of the country.
Centre allocates first tranche of more than Rs. one crore for paperless project of Odisha Vidhansabha
• The Centre has allocated the first tranche of more than Rs. one crore for the paperless project of Odisha
Vidhansabha.
• Odisha is one among the first states in the country to implement the National e-Vidhan Application
Project, NeVA, to make the state assemblies go digital.
• For the purpose, Centre has sanctioned a total of about Rs. 8 crore 52 lakh for Odisha.
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Mizoram
Mizoram to observe ‘COVID-19 – No Tolerance Fortnight’ from Oct 26
• In Mizoram, the state government has decided to observe ‘COVID-19 – No Tolerance Fortnight’
beginning from 26th October as a containment measure to flatten the curve of Covid-19 in the state.
• The state government has accorded zero tolerance policy to flouting any COVID-19 containment
measures being implemented and enforced.
Tripura
• Capital: Agartala
• Chief Minister: Biplab Kumar Deb
• Governor: Ramesh Bais
Nitin Gadkari to lay foundation stones of nine NH projects in Tripura
• Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari will lay the foundation stones of nine National
Highway projects in Tripura.
• The total length of these highways will be 262 kilometres which will provide faster and hassle-free inter-
state and international connectivity to Bangladesh.
• These highways will strengthen the tourism sector in the state by providing better connectivity, fast and
safe movement of traffic to various tourist, historical and religious places.
• It will also generate large number of employment and provide self-employment opportunities to the
unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled manpower of the region.
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Chattisgarh
‘Tech for Tribals’ scheme is recently launched by Chhattisgarh govt.
• The Tribal Affairs Ministry has launched an initiative named ‘Tech for Tribals’ with an aim to focus on
imparting entrepreneurship and business skills to tribals in Chhattisgarh.
• The Tech For Tribals scheme was launched in association with Chhattisgarh MFP Federation and IIT,
Kanpur.
• Under the programme, tribal beneficiaries across all districts of Chhattisgarh will be trained in various
facets of micro-enterprise creation, management and functioning till November 7.
‘Corona Intensive Community Survey Campaign’ begun in Chhattisgarh – A door-to-door survey
• Chhattisgarh State Government has organised Corona Intensive Community Survey Campaign.
• Through this campaign a door-to-door survey is being held to identify patients with COVID19 symptoms
infection in rural and urban areas of the state by October 12.
• The main aim of this Campaign is to identify Corona patients as soon as possible by conducting
intensive community survey in urban and rural areas.
CCEA approves demerger of Nagarnar Steel Plant from NMDC Limited
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its in-principle approval to the demerger of Nagarnar
Steel Plant (NSP) from National Minerals Development Corporation (NMDC) Limited.
• It has also approved the strategic disinvestment of the demerged company (NSP) by selling the entire
Government of India stake in it to a strategic buyer.
• NSP is a three million tonne per annum Integrated Steel Plant being set up by NMDC at Nagarnar in Bastar
District of Chhattisgarh in an area of 1980 acres at revised estimated cost of Rs. 23,140 crore.
• As on date NMDC has invested Rs. 17,186 crore in the project.
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Punjab
• Chief Minister: Captain Amarinder Singh
• Governor: V. P. Singh Badnore
Punjab govt launched Second Phase of Urban Environment Improvement Programme
• The phase-II of Rs. 11,000 crore Urban Environment Improvement Programme (UIEP) is virtually
launched by the Chief Minister of Punjab, Amarinder Singh.
• He has launched the programme from Bachat Bhawan, Ludhiana in Punjab.
• The project will focus on the development of the state’s urban infrastructure and well- organized service
delivery systems to the urban population.
Punjabi version of Age Appropriate Fitness Protocols launched
• Punjab Sports and NRI Affairs Minister, Shri Rana Gurmit Singh Sodhi launched Punjabi version of ‘Age
Appropriate Fitness Protocols’
• This protocol is for all age groups under fit India movement under the initiative of Sports Authority of
India (SAI) and National Institute of Sports (NIS) Patiala.
• It is a great initiative of Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYA&S) and today we are launching the
Punjabi version of these protocols.
Union Territory of Ladakh celebrating its first raising day
• Union Territory of Ladakh is celebrating its first raising day.
• It was on this day last year, Ladakh became a union territory.
• Ladakh is celebrating the Union Territory Foundation Day.
• With a theme of One year of Development, Prosperity and Empowerment the Union Territory
administration has planned the first-year anniversary celebrations across the region.
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• A series of foundation or dedication of programmes are planned in Leh and Kàrgil districts.
5 states to get conservation centres to protect vultures
• Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu will get a vulture conservation and
breeding centre each, according to the Action Plan for Vulture Conservation 2020-2025.
• The plan has also suggested that new veterinary non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) be
tested on vultures before their commercial release.
November 2020 – National & State Current Affairs
National News
GoI to set up 14 more Aerodromes
• The Ministry of Shipping recently announced that the government of India is to set up fourteen more
aerodromes in the country to develop sea plane tourism in the country.
• Recently, PM Modi inaugurated the seaplane service between Statue of Unity in Kevadia and Sabarmati
Riverfront in Ahmedabad.
• The PM inaugurated the service on the side lines of the celebration of Ekta Diwas.
• The 14 aerodromes are being planned under UDAN scheme.
• The Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airport Authority of India are to implement the project jointly.
“Strategic Policy and Facilitation Bureau”
• The Ministry of AYUSH and Invest India will set up “Strategic Policy and Facilitation Bureau” to facilitate
systematic growth of AYUSH sector.
• The Bureau will help to make AYUSH systems future ready.
• It will support in making initiatives under the ministry to its full potential.
• The Bureau will help to make AYUSH systems future ready. It will support in making initiatives under the
ministry to its full potential.

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• Also, it will help to initiate the growth and investment of the AYUSH sector.
Govt provides support of Rs 670 crore to Regional Rural Banks to meet regulatory capital
• The Central Government has provided support of Rs 670 crore to Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) operating
in the country to help them meet the regulatory capital requirement of 9%.
• At present 43 Regional Rural Banks are operating in the country. Around one-third of them are in loss
and considering their importance in agriculture finance during these difficult times it was important to
provide this support.
Ganga Utsav, 2020 begins
• The Ganga Utsav was begun virtually.
• The festival is to continue till November 4, 2020.
• The Ganga Task Force as a part of celebration conducted afforestation drives with NCC cadets.
• The Ganga Utsav is being organised by the National Mission for Clean Ganga celebrating the 12th
anniversary of declaring River Ganges as National river.
• The event was organised jointly by the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
GoI releases first instalment of Rs 2,200 crores to 15 states to improve Air Quality measures
• The Government of India released Rs 2,200 crores to 15 states to improve Air Quality Measures.
• The air quality improvement measures are to be executed in more than million plus cities.
• The amount was released based on the recommendations of the Fifteenth Finance Commission.
• The fund will help states undertake air quality measures and capacity building in local bodies. The
amount was released to states such as Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Jharkhand,
Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.
• Rs 396.5 crores has been released to Maharashtra, Rs 357 crores to UP, Rs 202.5 crores to Gujarat and
Rs 209.5 crores to West Bengal.
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Centre extends Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme till Nov 30
• Union Government has extended the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) by one month
till 30th of November or till an amount of Rs. three lakh crores are sanctioned under the scheme,
whichever is earlier.
• This has been done in view of the opening up of various sectors in the economy and the expected
increase in demand during the ongoing festive season.
Virtual court “Nyay Kaushal” inaugurated in Nagpur
• The Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sharad Arvind Bobde and Justice DY Chandrachud of the Supreme Court,
jointly inaugurated India’s first-ever E-resource centre and virtual court called “Nyay Kaushal” at Judicial
Officers Training Institute in Nagpur.
• The Nyay Kaushal will facilitate electronic-filling of cases in the Supreme Court, any High Court as well
as district courts across the country to enable speedy justice for litigants, by utilising technology.
• The virtual court will be working from Katol in Nagpur district of Maharashtra.
Fortification of Rice Scheme to be implemented in 15 states
• As of November 3, 2020, around 15 State Governments have identified districts to implement the
Fortification of Rice Scheme.
• The State Governments have identified the districts where the scheme is to be implemented and have
notified the same to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
• The Department of Food and Public Distribution, Government of India has been implementing the
“Centrally Sponsored Pilot Scheme on Fortification of Rice and its distribution through Public
Distribution System”.
• The scheme is to be implemented for a period of three years between 2019-20 and 2022-23. The total
estimated budget of the scheme is Rs 174.6 crores.
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• The scheme was launched to take the country towards nutritional security.
Rs 1810 crore Luhri Hydro Power Project approved
• The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approved the Rs 1810 crore investment proposal of 210 MW of
Luhri Stage I Hydro Power Project.
• The hydro power project is to be constructed on River Sutlej.
• The project will generate 758.2 million units of electricity annually.
• The project is to be implemented by the Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited.
• It is to be implemented in Build-Own-Operate-Maintain mode
Centre launches initiative to nurture family-friendly cities
• Union minister for housing and urban affairs Hardeep Singh Puri launched the Nurturing
Neighbourhoods Challenge, which focuses on shaping cities for young children and their families.
• It aimed at ensuring the development of common spaces along with the creation of data banks for better
planning in smart cities.
• Puri also launched the Data Maturity Assessment Framework (DMAF) to evaluate data ecosystems of
cities and an online training programme for city data officers of smart cities.
Cabinet approved MoU between India and Spain in Astronomy
• The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approved the Memorandum of Understanding signed between
India and Spain.
• The MoU will facilitate scientific and technical collaborations between the countries in the field of
Astronomy.
• The MoU was signed between the Instituto de Astrofiscia de Canarias of Spain and the Indian Institute
of Astrophysics.
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• The joint research training, projects, programmes, seminars and conferences are to be opened to all
scientists under the programme.
Extra Shots:
Spain (Capital/Currency): Madrid/Euro
• President: Pedro Sánchez
Cabinet approved MoU between India and UK in ICT
• The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approved the Memorandum of Understanding signed between
India and UK.
• The MoU was signed in the field of Information Communication Technologies and Telecommunications.
• The MoU was signed between Department of Digital, Media and sports of UK Government and Ministry
of Communications of India.
• It will strengthen bilateral cooperation between the countries in the field of telecommunications.
Extra Shots:
UK (Capital/Currency): London/Pound sterling
• Prime Minister: Boris Johnson
Cabinet approved MoU between India and UK in Medical Product Regulation
• The Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approved the MoU signed between India and UK in the field of
medical product regulation.
• The MoU was signed between United Kingdom Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
and Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).
• The MoU will help establish fruitful cooperation in matters relating to medical products registration.
Extra Shots:
UK (Capital/Currency): London/Pound sterling
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• Prime Minister: Boris Johnson
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)
• Union Cabinet Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers Shri D.V. Sadananda Gowda holds a review meeting
of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
Extra Shots:
• PMBJP (Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana) was launched in 2008 by the Department of
Pharmaceuticals under the Janaushadi Campaign, which was renamed as PMBJP in 2015-16..
Telemedicine service ‘eSanjeevani’ completes 7 lakh consultations
eSanjeevani, the national telemedicine service set up by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has
completed 7 lakh consultations.
• The last one lakh consultations have come up in 11 days.
• With over 10 thousand consultations being recorded on eSanjeevani per day, it is shaping into the largest
OPD services set up in the country.
• An innovative intervention to deliver health services, eSanjeevani has started making impact in smaller
towns and rural areas.
• eSanjeevani has removed the requirement of doctor to be at a specific location to provide services.
• Each online OPD consultation generates an ePreion which can be used to buy medicines or go for
diagnostic investigations.
GoI forms Committee to review Television Rating System
• The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is to set up a committee to review the existing guidelines
of Television Rating Agencies.
• The committee has been formed with four members under the chairmanship of CEO of Prasar Bharti
Sashi Shekar Vempati.
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• The other three members of the committee include Rajkumar Upadhyaya (Executive Director of C-Dot),
Dr Shalabh, Professor of Statistics from IIT Kanpur and Professor Pulak Ghosh of Decision Sciences
Centre for Public Policy.
PM Modi to launch development projects of more than Rs 600 Cr in Varanasi
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of various development
projects worth around 614 crores.
• Around 1500 people will participate in the program through video conferencing.
• There is an arrangement of live display of the program at 6 places in the city on big screens and through
5 LED mobile vans.
• The 16 projects which will be inaugurated include Sarnath Light and Sound show.
Dr Harsh Vardhan holds first of its kind policy consultations with Indian Diaspora on STIP-2020
• In a first of its kind policy consultation, Science and Technology Minister Harsh Vardhan interacted with
the highly-skilled Indian diaspora to facilitate channels for them to contribute to India’s Science
Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP) 2020.
• India aims to connect the diaspora with Indian scientific and economic ecosystem to accelerate the
growth in Science technology and innovation.
Atal Innovation Mission collaborates with Sirius (Russia) to launch ‘AIM–Sirius Innovation Programme 3.0’
• The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), a flagship initiative by the NITI Aayog, and Russia’s Sirius (Scientific
International Research in Unique Terrestrial Station) has jointly launched ‘AIM–Sirius Innovation
Programme 3.0’, a 14-day virtual programme for Indian and Russian schoolchildren.
• It is the first Indo-Russian bilateral youth innovation initiative, which seeks to develop technological
solutions, both web-based and mobile-based, for the two countries.
• The two-week programme will be held from 7–21 November 2020.
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Extra Shots:
NITI Aayog
• Formed: 1 January 2015
• Objectives: Foster involvement and participation in the economic policy-making process by the State
Governments of India
• Jurisdiction: Government of India
• Chairperson: Narendra Modi
Prasar Bharati CEO to head panel to look into TRP system
The Centre announced a four-member committee, to be headed by Prasar Bharati CEO Shashi Shekhar Vempati,
to look into the Television Rating Points (TRP) system and recommend any changes required to make it more
robust and transparent.
• The News Broadcasters Federation (NBF) wrote to the Prime Minister, seeking a “national-level
independent body” to “deal with misconduct by professional journalists”.
• The NBF is an industry body founded last year by Republic TV editor-in-chief Arnab Goswami.
• Incidentally, Republic TV is among media organisations being probed in a case of alleged ‘TRP scam’.
Dharmendra Pradhan invites OPEC member countries to invest in India
Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has invited OPEC member countries to invest in India.
• The minister co-chaired the 4th high-level meeting of the India-OPEC Energy Dialogue along with
Secretary-General of OPEC Secretariat Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo.
• The virtual meeting was also joined by OPEC Member countries, CMD and MDs of India's oil and gas
industry from both the public and the private sector.
• The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries is an intergovernmental organization of 13 nations.
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• These 13 countries accounted for an estimated 44 percent of global oil production and 81.5 percent of the
world's "proven" oil reserves
• Headquarters: Vienna, Austria
Centre Renames Ministry of Shipping as Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
• The Government of India has decided to rename the Ministry of Shipping as the Ministry of Ports,
Shipping and Waterways.
• This information was given by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 8 November 2020, during a launch
event of Ropax ferry service between Ghogha (Bhavnagar) and Hazira (near Surat) in Gujarat, which was
inaugurated via video-conferencing.
• The Ro-Pax Ferry Vessel ‘Voyage Symphony’ will reduce the nearly 370 km road distance between the
two places to 90 km by sea route.
• Mansukh L. Mandaviya, currently holds the portfolio as Minister of State (Independent Charge).
Indian Meteorological Department to provide predictions for Malaria from next monsoon
• The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) announced that it will start providing Malaria outbreak
forecast from next monsoon.
• Also, it announced that India is to ramp up its high performance computing facility. Under this the
existing capacity of 10 petaflop is to be increased to 40 petaflops.
• According to the recently released NCAER report titled “estimating the economic benefits of investment
in monsoon mission and high performance computing facilities“, the investment in high-performance
computing facilities is to bring 50 times benefits and profits.
Extra Shots:
IMD
• Headquarters: Mausam Bhavan, Lodhi Road, New Delhi
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• Founder: Government of India
• Founded: 1875
• Jurisdiction: India
Kottoor Elephant Rehabilitation Centre set to become largest care centre in the World
• The Elephant Rehabilitation Centre at Kottoor in Thiruvananthapuram is set to become the largest care
and cure centre for elephants in the world.
• The first phase of the Elephant Rehabilitation Centre will be commissioned in February 2021.
• The project is being implemented at a cost of Rs 108 crore with funding from Kerala Infrastructure
Investment Fund Board (KIIFB).
• The centre has facilities to accommodate 50 elephants including the existing 16 elephants.
Centre releases Rs 2,200 cr as first installment to 15 states for improvement of air quality
The Centre has released 2,200 crore rupees as the first installment to 15 states for the improvement of air quality
measures in their million-plus cities.
• The amount has been released based on the recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission.
• This will help the beneficiary states to undertake air quality measures, including capacity-building of the
local bodies within their million-plus cities.
• The states which have been given the amount include Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Karnataka,
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.
First Hyperloop Passenger ride successful
• The Virgin Hyperloop that plans to connect Mumbai and Pune in 25 minutes has conducted its first
successful passenger ride.
• The test was conducted in Las Vegas.
• The Hyperloop is a new mode of transport that speeds up to 1000 kilometres per hour.
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Pakke Tiger Reserve in Arunachal Pradesh to provide insurance cover against COVID-19 for it’s ‘Green
Soldiers’
• The Pakke Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Arunachal Pradesh has become the first reserve from the
Northeastern region to provide insurance cover against COVID-19 for its ‘Green Soldiers’.
• Covid-19 front line workers of the park are referred to as the Green Soldiers.
• 57 frontline staffs of the Park have been insured for nine months against health issues due to
coronavirus infection.
• The insurance amount has been paid by the ‘Wildlife Trust of India’ (WTI) with support from ‘Foundation
Serge’.
• Each of the worker will get an insurance coverage is of Rs 1 lakh; but a few who would be retiring soon
have been insured for Rs 50,000.
India is the only country to achieve 2°C goal under Paris Agreement among all G20 nations: Prakash
Javadekar
Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said India is the only country on track to achieve the 2°C goal under the Paris
Agreement among all the G20 nations.
• The 2°C goal aims to keep the global temperature rise below 2°C from pre-industrial levels by 2100.
• The Paris Agreement of 2016 is a historic international accord that brings almost 200 countries together
in setting a common target to reduce global greenhouse emissions in an effort to fight climate change.
• The pact seeks to keep global temperature rise to below 2 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels, and
to try and limit the temperature increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
National Cadet Corps 72nd Raising Day: 22 November 2020
National Cadet Corps (NCC), the largest uniformed youth organisation in the world, celebrated its 72nd Raising
Day on 22 November 2020.
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• The NCC cadets have contributed by participating selflessly during the COVID-19 pandemic as Corona
warriors to spread awareness about measures to fight against the pandemic.
• The cadets participated wholeheartedly in ‘Swachhta Abhiyan’, ‘Mega Pollution Pakhwada’ and played a
pivotal role in spreading awareness about various government initiatives like ‘Digital Literacy’,
‘International Day of Yoga’, ‘Tree Plantation’ and immunisation programs.
• The National Cadet Corps is the youth wing of the Armed Forces with its headquarters at New Delhi, Delhi,
India.
• It is open to school and college students on a voluntary basis.
Hardeep S. Puri inaugurates 13th Urban Mobility India Conference 2020
• The 13th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference was organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban
Affairs on 09 November 2020.
• It was inaugurated by Shri Hardeep S. Puri, Minister of State (IC) Housing and Urban Affairs.
• The day-long Conference was held via Video Conference on the theme “Emerging Trends in Urban
Mobility”.
• The conference focused on innovative measures taken at national and international level to address the
challenges posed by Covid-19 pandemic to provide accessible and convenient transport to the people.
The Communications Ministry has said all Fixed to Mobile calls will be dialled with prefix ‘0’ from 15th
January next year.
• There will be no change in dialing plan from fixed to fixed, mobile to fixed and mobile to mobile calls.
• The Department of Telecommunications has taken the decision of implementing this with the
consideration of TRAI Recommendation on “Ensuring Adequate Numbering Resources for Fixed Line and
Mobile Services”.
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• A total of approximately 2539 million numbering series is expected to be generated from this. This will
free up sufficient numbering resources for future use.
• The changes have been done in order to have minimum inconvenience to the subscribers and freeing up
essential numbering resources
First Anniversary of Kartarpur Corridor celebrated
• The Pakistan Gurudwara body, PSGPC (Pakistan Sikh Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee) is to
celebrate the first anniversary of the inauguration of Kartarpur Corridor.
• The Corridor connects Dera Baba Nanak in India with Gurudwara Darbar Sahib.
• The corridor is closed from Indian side due to COVID-19 pandemic.
• Every year, around 3000 people from India reach the site to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru
Nanak.
29 Projects approved to benefit Farmers
• Shri Narendra Singh Tomar chaired Inter-Ministerial Approval Committee meeting.
• The committee approved 29 projects leveraging investment of Rs 443 crores.
• Under the Scheme of Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition, Rs 189 crores were allocated. Rs 15
crores was allocated to the BFL scheme.
• BFL is creation of Backward and Forward Linkages.
FASTags made mandatory to all four wheelers from January 1, 2021
• The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has made FASTags mandatory for all four-
wheelers from January 1, 2021.
• The ministry released an official notification regarding this on November 6 and also clarified that it will
be applicable to old vehicles also.
• As per the notification, it is a major step towards online payment at toll centres.
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• The Road Transport and Highways Ministry has made the FASTags mandatory for all four-wheelers and
old vehicles- M and N class vehicles sold before December 1, 2017.
Digital/Online media now under govt regulation
• Digital/Online media has been brought under the purview of the Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting.
• Currently, there is no law or autonomous body governing digital content.
• The 2nd Schedule of the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules 1961 has been amended to
include following entries viz. Films and Audio-Visual programmes, News and current affairs content.
United Nations launches Food Coalition to prevent COVID-19 Food crisis
• The United Nations has created a new alliance to prevent COVID-19 food crisis.
• It was proposed by Italy and led by Food and Agriculture Organization.
• The coalition will mobilise resources, innovation and expertise.
• It will advocate for coordinated COVID-19 response
Extra Shots:
United Nations
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States
• Founded: 24 October 1945, San Francisco, California, United States
• Secretary general: António Guterres
PM to inaugurate new state-of-the-art complex of Income-tax Appellate Tribunal at Cuttack
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the state-of-the-art office-cum-residential complex of
Income Tax Appellate Tribunal, ITAT at Cuttack, Odisha.
• On this occasion, an e-Coffee Table Book on ITAT will also be released.
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Health Minister Harsh Vardhan addresses Boston Center of Excellence for Health & Human Development
Health Minister Harsh Vardhan addressed the Boston Center of Excellence for Health and Human Development
through a Video Conference.
• Saluting millions of front-line health workers who bravely carried on with their duty in spite of risk and
adversity, including professionals other than doctors and nurses, Dr. Vardhan elaborated India’s strategy
to contain COVID-19.
• He also congratulated the Boston Center of Excellence for Health and Human Development for bringing
together experts to research a better cure and better healthcare for all.
Fifth Narrow Gauge locomotive on Kalka-Shimla route manufactured by Central Railway
• In Maharashtra, the Central Railway workshop at Parel in Mumbai has manufactured a fifth Narrow
Gauge locomotive which will chug between Kalka to Shimla route.
• It is the fifth locomotive which has been manufactured in this workshop for the Northern Railway in one
of the most sought after hill stations in the country.
• It is the fifth Narrow Gauge engine that has been manufactured by the Central Railway which will run
between Kalka to Shimla, a UNESCO World Heritage Railway.
Amit Shah to inaugurate “Sarhad Vistar Vikasotsav 2020 “tomorrow in Gujarat
• Home Minister Amit Shah will inaugurate “Sarhad VistarVikasotsav 2020 “tomorrow at Dhordo village
situated in the forward borderarea in Kutch district of Gujarat.
• “Sarhad Vistar Vikasotsav 2020” is aimed to address theproblems relating to health, education and road
connectivity in remote and border villages, so that standard of living in such areas can be improved
considerably.
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Centre brings online news & other OTT Platforms like Netflix under purview of IB ministry
• The Government of India has issued an order on 11 November 2020, to bring video streaming over-the-
top (OTT) platforms such as online films, audio-visual programmes and online news and current affairs
content under the ambit of Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
• These platforms were so far under the purview of the Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology.
• Exercising the powers conferred by clause (3) of Article 77 of the Constitution, the President of India
called for amended to the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961.
• These rules may be called the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Three Hundred and Fifty-
Seventh Amendment Rules, 2020. They shall come into force at once.
Ministry of Textiles launches “Local4Diwali” campaign
• The Union Ministry of Textiles has launched a campaign for Diwali- “Local4Diwali”.
• The campaign has been launched to promote the Indian handicraft which is the cultural heritage of the
country and also a source of livelihood for many.
• The main aim of the #Local4Diwali campaign is to urge people to buy and gift Indian handicraft products
on this Diwali.
India received first shipment from Bangladesh through water route
• India has received the first commercial shipment from Bangladesh through water route on November 9,
2020.
• The shipment was received Assam’s Karimganj on the Protocol for Inland Water Trade and Transit
(PIWTT) route.
• This is a step towards utilizing the inland waterway connectivity for trade and prosperity between both
the countries.
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• India and Bangladesh have a Protocol on Trade and Transit through inland waterways.
• The protocol was first signed in 1972 and renewed in 2015.
Extra Shots:
Bangladesh (Capital/Currency): Dhaka /Bangladeshi taka
• President: Abdul Hamid
Hunar Haat resumes operation after 7 months gap due to COVID-19
• Hunar Haat has restarted from November 11 after a gap of around seven months due to the COVID-19
pandemic.
• To mark the beginning of operations, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi
inaugurated ‘Hunar Haat’ at Delhi Haat, Pitampura.
• The Hunar Haat is being organized by the IITF, Pragati Maidan from November 11 to 22. The theme of
this Hunar Haat is “Vocal for Local”.
• Naqvi also said that the Indian indigenous industry has seen an improvement PM Modi’s idea of “Vocal
for Local”.
• This is also helping to strengthen the mission of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Centre mandates e-invoicing system for firms with turnover of Rs 100 cr or more from January 2021
• The government has made it mandatory for companies with annual turnover of Rs 100 crore and above
to go for e-invoicing for business to companies (B2C) transactions.
• This new rule will be applicable from 01 January 2021.
• Currently, e-invoicing is mandatory for companies with annual turnover of at least Rs 500 crore.
• Under the system, companies will have to raise e-invoices through a unique invoice reference portal and
generate the IRN (invoice reference number).
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First Convergence Project of India to generate green energy
• The Energy Efficiency Services Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Department of
New and Renewable Energy, Goa.
• According to the agreement, the first convergence project of India to generate Green Energy for
agriculture and rural areas is to be set up in Goa.
• The project is to focus on energy solutions that are evolved based on the concepts that combine climate
change, renewable energy and Artificial Intelligence.
Four Indian Cities selected by World Economic Forum to pioneer roadmap for Smart Cities
• The World Economic Forum selected 36 cities from 22 countries for pioneering a policy road map for
smart cities.
• These smart cities are being developed under the G20 Global Smart Cities Alliance.
• Of the 36 cities selected, four are Indian cities.
• The four Indian cities selected are Bengaluru, Faridabad, Indore and Hyderabad.
Extra Shots:
World Economic Forum
• Headquarters: Cologny, Switzerland
• Founder: Klaus Schwab
• Founded: January 1971
• Leader: Klaus Schwab
Asia's first solar powered Textile Mill to come up in Maharashtra's Parbhani district
• The first solar powered Textile Mill in Asia will come up in Parbhani district, Maharashtra.
• The Jai Bhawani women's cooperative textile mill will become the first Solar Powered textile mill in Asia.
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Union Minister Narendra Singh inaugurates capacity building component of the PM-FME Scheme
• Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Shri Narendra Singh Tomar virtually inaugurated the
capacity building component of the Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro food processing Enterprises
scheme (PM-FME Scheme) on 18 November 2020.
• He also launched the GIS One District One Product (ODOP) digital map of India.
• Under the capacity building component of the PM-FME scheme, training would be given to the master
trainers through online mode, classroom lecture and demonstration, and self-paced online learning
material.
• The master trainers will then train the district-level trainers, who will eventually train the beneficiaries.
Ministry of New and Renewable Energy proposed to develop Wind-Solar Hybrid Parks
• The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has proposed a new scheme to develop Wind-Solar Hybrid
Parks.
• The scheme aims to address the key issues faced by renewable energy projects.
• The capacity of each park is expected to be 500 MW and more.
• The Wind-Solar Hybrid park will be a concentrated zone of power projects.
• It will provide an area with the required infrastructure.
Defence Minister launched portal for Land Management System
• The Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh launched a portal for defence land management system.
• The system will bring in transparency, speed and efficiency in dealing land management.
• The portal has been integrated with GIS (Geographical Information System) based tools.
• This will improve the decision-making process by removing unnecessary communication between the
stakeholders.
• Defence Land encroachment is the major issue in defence land management.
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Centre launches Safai Mitra Suraksha Challenge in 243 cities
• Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri launched the Safaimitra Suraksha Challenge, aimed to ensure that
no person needs to enter a sewer or septic tank, unless absolutely unavoidable in the interest of greater
public hygiene.
• The initiative, that promotes mechanized cleaning, also aims to ensure that no life of any sewer or septic
tank cleaner is ever lost again owing to the issue of 'hazardous' cleaning.
• The virtual event witnessed participation of representatives from 243 cities across the country, coming
together to take a pledge to mechanize all sewer and septic tank cleaning operations by 30th April 2021.
• The initiative was launched on the occasion of World Toilet Day.
Indian Railways rolls out double-decker coach which can run at 160 kmph speed
• Indian Railways' coach manufacturing unit, The Rail Coach Factory (RCF) Kapurthala has rolled out a
semi high-speed double-decker coach that can run at a top speed of up to 160 kilometres per hour
(kmph), according to the Railways.
• The RCF has developed the new double-decker coach that can carry more and more passengers in a
single train journey in shortest possible time.
PM Modi, Bhutanese PM jointly launch Rupay card Phase-2
• PM Narendra Modi, Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering jointly launched RuPay card Phase-II in
Bhutan via video conferencing.
• For this purpose, Bhutan's four space engineers will go to ISRO in December.
• The implementation of phase-1 of RuPay card enables Indian visitors to Bhutan to access ATMs and
point of sale terminals in Bhutan.
• The two PMs had launched phase-1 of the project during PM Modi's visit to Bhutan in August 2019.
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• The implementation of phase-1 of RuPay card enable Indian visitors to Bhutan to access ATMs and
point of sale terminals in Bhutan.
GoI releases Rs 3,971 crores for micro-irrigation projects
• Government of India sanctioned a loan of 3,971 crores of rupees for micro irrigation projects in Tamil
Nadu.
• This is one of the biggest loans being sanctioned for the state of Tamil Nadu.
• The loan has been sanctioned at subsidised interest rate under micro irrigation fund.
• The micro irrigation fund was created within the National bank for Agriculture and Rural Development,
NABARD.
• The micro irrigation funds are used only to implement micro irrigation projects
Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates Seismic Survey Campaign by Oil India Ltd
• Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the Seismic Survey
Campaign by Oil India Limited.
• The survey under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy, OALP, will be undertaken in 5 blocks of 8 districts
of Odisha in the Mahanadi basin and nearby areas.
• The commercial production of oil and gas from the Mahanadi basin will be a game changer in the socio-
economic development of Odisha.
PM Modi unveils Swami Vivekananda statue on JNU campus
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a statue of Swami Vivekananda in the JNU campus in New Delhi
• The statue is located about 300 metres from a statue of India’s first prime minister, the statue of Swami
Vivekananda is about three feet taller than that of Jawaharlal Nehru.
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PM lays the foundation stone of rural drinking water supply projects in Vindhyachal region of Uttar
Pradesh
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of rural drinking water supply projects in
Mirzapur and Sonbhadra districts of Vindhyachal region in Uttar Pradesh on 22 November 2020 via video
conference.
• The total estimated cost of the projects is around Rs 5,555.38 Crore.
• The projects are planned to be completed in 24 months.
• It will provide household tap water connections in all rural households of 2,995 villages and will benefit
about 42 lakh population of these districts.
GoI releases Rs 3,971 crores for micro-irrigation projects
• Government of India sanctioned a loan of 3,971 crores of rupees for micro irrigation projects in Tamil
Nadu.
• This is one of the biggest loans being sanctioned for the state of Tamil Nadu.
• The loan has been sanctioned at subsidised interest rate under micro irrigation fund.
• The micro irrigation fund was created within the National bank for Agriculture and Rural Development,
NABARD.
• The micro irrigation funds are used only to implement micro irrigation projects
India’s first ‘Moss Garden’ comes up in Nainital district
• The Uttarakhand forest department has dedicated the newly-built Moss Garden to the people, claiming
that it is the country’s first such garden, spread over 10 hectares in Kumaon’s Nainital district.
• The moss garden, which took nearly a year to build, was inaugurated by Water Man of India Rajendra
Singh.
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India’s first moss garden built in Nainital district of Uttarakhand
• India’s first Moss Garden has been unveiled at Khurpatal in Nainital district of Uttarakhand.
• The iconic garden, developed by the Uttarakhand forest department is spread over an area of 10
hectares.
• Moss Garden, Khurpatal houses around 30 different species of moss and certain other bryophyte
species.
Education Minister inaugurates 46 online ATAL Faculty Development Programmes
• Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' today inaugurated 46 online AICTE Training and
Learning (ATAL) Academy Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs) to train teachers of higher
education institutions.
• The FDPs will be conducted in 22 Indian states.
• The online Faculty Development Programmes will be conducted according to the new National
Education Policy -2020.
HM Amit Shah inaugurates mobile COVID-19 RT-PCR Lab at ICMR in New Delhi
• Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated a mobile COVID-19 RT-PCR Lab at the Indian Council of Medical
Research (ICMR) in New Delhi on Monday.
• It has been jointly developed by Spice Health and the ICMR.
• This testing lab and more such labs which are planned to be set up will help in adding more capacity to
COVID-19 testing.
• The lab is accredited by NABL and approved by the ICMR.
Deep Depression over South West Bay of Bengal intensifies into Cyclonic Storm ‘Nivar’
• The Deep Depression over the South West Bay of Bengal has intensified into the Cyclonic Storm “Nivar,”
on 24 November 2020.
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• The cyclone is currently located 410 km east-southeast of Puducherry and 450 km southeast of Chennai.
• As per the India Meteorological Department, Cyclone Nivar is very likely to intensify into a severe
cyclonic storm in the next 24-hours.
• The storm shall cross Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts between Karaikal and Mamallapuram around
Puducherry on November 25 evening.
• The impact of the Cyclone shall be faced by the governments of Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, Andhra
Pradesh, Telangana and Karnataka.
• Maximum hazard will be caused to Tamil Nadu, which has been placed under ‘red’ (take action) alert.
• The NDRF has formed 30 teams to launch rescue and relief operations in these states in view of the
cyclone ‘Nivar.’
Safaimitra Suraksha Challenge Launched for Many Cities
• The Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs launched the Safaimitra Suraksha Challenge in 243 cities.
Safaimitra Suraksha Challenge:
• The challenge is to prevent the “hazardous cleaning” of sewers and septic tanks and promote their
mechanized cleaning.
• The challenge will be broadly focused on raising citizens’ awareness of this key issue, as well as building
infrastructure for mechanized cleaning and labor capacity building.
• In addition, a special service hotline number has been set up to register complaints and provide real-
time solutions for sludge or sewer overflow.
• The actual field evaluation of participating cities will be conducted by an independent agency in May
2021, and the evaluation results will be announced on 15th August 2021.
• Cities will be divided into three sub-categories – Population exceeds 10 lakhs, 3-10 lakhs, Up to 3 lakhs.
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• The total prize money is 52 crore rupees and the prize money will be distributed to all categories of
winning cities.
Tenth edition of National Science Film Festival kicks off virtually
• The tenth edition of prestigious National science film festival kicked off on 24th November 2020 in a
virtual mode.
• The four-day long film festival has been jointly organized by Vigyan Prasar, an autonomous agency
under the Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of India and the Tripura State Council of
Science and Technology, Govt. of Tripura from 24 to 27 November 2020.
• A total of 372 films in different languages were received for participation, of which 115 films have been
shortlisted by the ten-member jury to be screened during the festival.
• These films are in Hindi, English, Urdu, Malayalam, Kashmiri, Bengali, Marathi, Punjabi and Tamil
languages.
• The science film festival offers a unique platform to showcase the science films made by professionals,
amateur and student filmmakers under various themes, to promote science films in India.
Capital Infusion of Rs 6,000 crores into NIIF approved
• The Union Cabinet approved Rs 6,000 crores of capital infusion into the National Infrastructure
Investment Fund.
• This is a part of the Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
• The move will leverage to create financial pipeline of Rs 1 lakh crore.
• The main objective of creating the fund was to increase the investment in Greenfield and brownfield
projects.
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SDG Investor Map for India launched by UNDP and Invest India
• The Invest India and the United Nations Development Programme has launched the sustainable
development goal investor map for India.
• It has laid out 18 Investment Opportunity Areas.
• This investment opportunity areas are in six critical sustainable development goals that were launched
by the United Nations.
• The map will enable the factors that will help India in achieving its sustainable development goals.
• It will help India understand how it can reduce the SDG financing gap in the country.
President Ram Nath Kovind boards Air India One for its inaugural flight
• President Ram Nath kovind boarded the Air India one-B777 aircraft.
• The president boarded the aircraft to visit Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh and offer prayers at the
Venkateshwara Swamy temple.
• The aircraft is carrying its first VVIP official.
• The Air India one will be a call sign for the VVIP.
• The aircraft is to be used by the president, vice president and prime minister of India.
Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurates Phagwara Mega Food Park in Punjab
• Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, the Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, Agriculture and Farmers
Welfare, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj virtually inaugurated the Mega Food Park (MFP) at
Phagwara in Kapurthala district of Punjab on 24 November 2020.
• The Phagwara Mega Food Park is built at a cost of Rs 107.83 crores.
• It is spread over land area of 55 acres.
• The park is expected to benefit about 25000 farmers and generate employment of about 5000 persons.
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PM Modi launches ‘Har Ghar Nal Yojna’, 3,000 villages in Uttar Pradesh to benefit
• Prime minister Narendra Modi launched ‘Har Ghar Nal Yojna’ (tap water to every household), for
Sonbhadra and Mirzapur in Vindhya region of Uttar Pradesh via video conference.
• The scheme worth Rs 5,555.38 crore is aimed at providing water to over 41 lakh villagers in two districts.
• The scheme will benefit 21,87,980 villagers in Mirzapur. In Sonbhadra, 19,53,458 families will be
benefitted by the scheme.
• The water of lakes and river will be purified and supplied to the families in Sonbhadra.
Tenth edition of National Science Film Festival kicks off virtually
• The tenth edition of prestigious National science film festival kicked off on 24th November 2020 in a
virtual mode.
• The four-day long film festival has been jointly organized by Vigyan Prasar, an autonomous agency
under the Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of India and the Tripura State Council of
Science and Technology, Govt. of Tripura from 24 to 27 November 2020.
• A total of 372 films in different languages were received for participation, of which 115 films have been
shortlisted by the ten-member jury to be screened during the festival.
• These films are in Hindi, English, Urdu, Malayalam, Kashmiri, Bengali, Marathi, Punjabi and Tamil
languages.
Thaawarchand Gehlot Virtually Launches ‘National Portal for Transgender Persons’
• The Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot virtually launched a
‘National Portal for Transgender Persons’ on 25 November 2020.
• Apart from this, the minister also e-inaugurated a ‘Garima Greh: A Shelter Home for Transgender
Persons’ in Vadodara, Gujarat.
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National Portal for Transgender Persons
• The portal is an end to end online process developed within 2 months of Notification of Transgender
Persons (Protection of Rights) Rules, 2020 on 29 September, 2020.
• It would help a transgender person to apply for a Certificate and Identity card digitally from anywhere in
the country without any physical interface.
Garima Greh
• ‘Garima Greh: A Shelter Home for Transgender Persons’ will be run in association with Lakshya Trust, a
Community based organisation entirely run by the Transgenders.
• It would provide shelter to Transgender persons, with basic amenities like shelter, food, medical care
and recreational facilities.
• It would also provide support for the capacity-building/skill development of persons in the Community,
which will enable them to lead a life of dignity and respect.
Indian Railway launches digitised online HR Management System
• Indian Railway has launched a completely digitised online Human Resource Management System
(HRMS).
• Railway Board Chairman and CEO Vinod Kumar Yadav launched the system for railway employees and
pensioners through video conferencing on November 26, 2020.
• The move is aimed at improving the efficiency and productivity of the Indian Railway system.
India extends suspension on international flights till December 31
• The Indian government on November 26, 2020, decided to extend the ban on the scheduled international
commercial passenger services till December 31, 2020, because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
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Centre issues draft Merchant Shipping Bill for public consultation
• The Ministry of Shipping announced on November 26, 2020, that it has issued a draft of the Merchant
Shipping Bill, 2020 for public consultation.
• The draft bill by the government aims to replace and revoke the Merchant Shipping Act of 1958.
• According to the statement by the Ministry, the bill has been drafted with an aim of promoting the Indian
Shipping Industry’s growth by incorporating the best practices that are adopted by other advanced
countries such as Japan, the US, Singapore, the UK, and Australia.
PM Modi unveils Rs 100 Coin, Postal Stamp to Mark Centennial Foundation Day of University of Lucknow
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled a commemorative Rs 100 coin of the centennial foundation day
of the University of Lucknow through a video conference.
• He also released a special commemorative postal stamp issued by India Post and its special cover
during the event.
Ayodhya Airport to be renamed as Maryada Purushottam Sri Ram Airport
• Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has cleared the proposal to rename the Ayodhya airport as Maryada Purushottam
Sri Ram Airport, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.
• The proposal for the same will be sent to the Ministry of Civil Aviation after it is passed by the state
Assembly.
India to build Shahtoot dam in Afghanistan
• The Union Minister of External Affairs Shri S Jaishankar recently announced at the Geneva Donors
conference that India is to construct the Shahtoot Dam across the Maidan river, a tributary of river
Kabul in Afghanistan.
• The negotiations to build the dam across the river began in 2016.
• In 2016, India had funded for the Salma dam across Hari river (Herat province) of Afghanistan.
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• The dam is also called the Afghan-India Friendship Dam.
Honey FPO Programme inaugurated by Agriculture Minister
• The Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar recently inaugurated a cooperative programme
for the beekeepers and honey collectors.
• The programme was launched in 5 states.
• Under the programme, five farmer producer organisations are to be set up in five states.
• They are to be established in East Champaran, Bihar; Bharatpur, Rajasthan; Morena Madhya Pradesh;
Mathura, Uttar Pradesh; and Sundarbans, West Bengal.
• The organisations are to be set up by NAFED, National agricultural Cooperative marketing federation of
India.
SpiceJet launches India’s first dedicated freighter services to Leh in Ladakh
• Low-cost domestic airline major SpiceJet launched its dedicated freighter services to Leh on 26
November 2020.
• It is the first-of-its-type service by any domestic airlines, and will boost connectivity to the area with the
rest of the country.
• The maiden freighter flight of the airline was launched from Delhi to Leh, carrying 13 tonnes of cargo
supplies.
• The flight was operated by SpiceXpress, the dedicated cargo arm of SpiceJet, whereas, a Boeing 737
freighter has been deployed on this route.
• The freighter services to Leh will ensure seamless and timely transportation of essential supplies such
as fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, perishables, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and other general
cargo to the region during the winter season, as surface transportation is disrupted owing to harsh
weather conditions
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Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar launches Honey FPO Programme in 5 states
• The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Shri Narendra Singh Tomar virtually inaugurated
Honey Farmer Producer Organisation (FPO) Programme in five states, for producing honey.
• The Honey FPO Programme aims to address the issues faced by beekeeping industry and also promote
honey production in the country. This will also help in achieving the goal of increasing farmer’s income.
• These 5 FPOs will be set up by the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India
Limited (NAFED).
• They will be set up at East Champaran (Bihar), Morena (Madhya Pradesh), Bharatpur (Rajasthan),
Mathura (Uttar Pradesh) and Sunderbans (West Bengal).
• The Honey FPO Programme has been launched under the Central Sector Scheme for Formation &
Promotion of new 10,000 FPOs.
• The Government has approved 2,200 FPOs for the current financial year 2020-21.
• The task of creating these FPOs has been given to Nabard (600 FPOs), Small Farmers’ Agribusiness
Consortium (500), National Cooperative Development Corporation (500) and NAFED which will support
50 commodities specific FPOs and some State level organisations.
Prakash Javadeker e-launches India Climate Change Knowledge Portal
• The Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Prakash Javadekar virtually
launched the web portal “India Climate Change Knowledge Portal” on 27 November 2020.
• The portal is a “single point Information resource” to provide information regarding major steps taken by
the Government at both national and international levels to address the climate change issues.
• The portal comprises of eight major components.
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High Commission of India organizes art exhibition in Dhaka to pay tribute to Bangabandhu Sheikh
Mujibur Rahman
• A group art-exhibition was inaugurated in Dhaka to pay tribute to the Bangladesh Father of Nation
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
• It has been organised by the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre of the High Commission of India in
association with the Bangladesh Shilpa Kala Academy.
• Education Minister Dipu Moni has inaugurated the exhibition as Chief Guest of the function.
PM Modi visits 3 cities to review coronavirus vaccine development
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a three-city visit on 28 November 2020, to personally
review the COVID-19 vaccine development and manufacturing process at facilities in these cities.
Facilities visited by PM Modi are:
• Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad,
• Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad
• Serum Institute of India in Pune
National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) Review By Union Health Minister
• Union Health Minister reviews implementation of the National Digital Health Mission and Ayushman
Bharat – PMJAY.
• The National Health Mission (NHM) was launched by the government of India in 2013.
National Health Mission:
• The National Health Mission (NHM) was launched by the government of India in 2013 subsuming the
National Rural Health Mission and National Urban Health Mission.
• Objectives of the National Digital Health Mission:
• Establishment of Digital Health Systems.
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• Creation of Registries
• Enforcement of adoption of open standards by all national digital health stakeholders
• Establishment of Standardized personal health records
E-Lok Adalats were Organized in 15 states
• E-Lok Adalats were organized in 15 states, handling more number of cases. From June to October, 27th
E-Lok Adalats were organized in 27 states, handling more than 250,000 cases.
• From June to October, 27th E-Lok Adalats were organized in 27 states, handling more than 250,000
cases.
• In November, this type of E-Lok Adalats was organized in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Telangana,
handling a total of approximately 12,600 cases.
Cabinet Secretary Chaired the Meeting of National Crisis Management Committee
• Union Cabinet Secretary Shri Rajiv Gauba chaired the meeting of the National Crisis Management
Committee (NCMC) today through a video with the chief secretaries of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and
Puducherry Meeting to review the situation of the upcoming cyclone.
• They also informed the coordination with NDRF and other agencies to meet this challenge.
• The NCMC was constituted under the Cabinet Secretariat for effective implementation of relief
measures in the wake of a natural calamity.
PM to inaugurate six-lane widening project of the Varanasi-Prayagraj section of NH-19 on 30 November
• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is set to visit his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi on 30 November
2020.
• Programmes to be attended by PM during the visit includes:
• Dedicate to the nation the six-lane widening project of the Handia (Prayagraj) – Rajatalab (Varanasi)
section of National Highway 19.
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• Total outlay of this 73 Km stretch of the newly widened and six laned NH19 is Rs 2447 crore. It is
expected to reduce the travel time between Prayagraj and Varanasi by one hour.
• Attend world famous festival of Dev Deepawali
• Dev Deepawali is celebrated on every Poornima of the Kartik month
• 11 lakh diyas will be lighted on both sides of River Ganges.
• Undertake a site visit of under construction Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor Project to review its
progress.
• Visit the Sarnath Archaeological Site to attend the Light and Sound show.
Mission COVID Suraksha launched
• The Government of India recently launched Mission COVID Suraksha to accelerate development of
vaccine in the country.
• It will ensure that the vaccines being developed are brought closer to the market.
• The mission was introduced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on November 12, 2020 as a part of
12 announcements made under Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan 3.0.
• The Finance Minister had allocated Rs 2.65 lakh crores under the fourth economic package. Of this, Rs
900 crores has been allocated to Department of Biotechnology to accelerate development of COVID-19
vaccine.
WHO to set up Global centre on Traditional Medicine in India
• World Health Organisation is establishing the WHO Global Centre on Traditional Medicine in India to
strengthen the research on traditional medicines
• This new centre will support WHO's efforts to implement the WHO traditional medicine strategy 2014-
2023 which aims to support countries in developing policies and action plans to strengthen the role of
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traditional medicine as a part of their journey to universal health coverage and a healthier, fairer and
safer world.
Ministry of Home Affairs approves Rs. 4382 crore as natural disaster assistance to six states
• Union Home Ministry approved Rs,4381.8 corores for relief and assistance under the National Disaster
Response Fund to six states after natural calamities caused widespread devastation
• Rs.2,707.77 crores- West Bengal
Rs.128.23 crore- For Cyclone Amphan in Odisha
Rs.268.59 – For Maharashtra
Rs.577.84 crores- Karnataka
Rs.611.61 crores- Madhya Pradesh
Rs.87.84 crores- Sikkim
Railway launches 7 academic programmes in core applied sector
• National Rail and Transportation Institute (NRTI) launched seven academic programmes aimed
toward creating ‘best skills sets’ in railway infrastructure management, systems and communication
engineering and transportation cum supply chain management.
• As per official release by the Railways, among the launched programmes, there are two B Tech
undergraduate programmes, two MBA, and three MSc programmes within the core applied sector.
• The two B Tech programs are focused on rail infrastructure, rail systems and communications
engineering, while the MBA programs are focused at transportation and provide chain management
which are of highest priority within the coming years, the MSc programmes are focused on the systems
engineering and integration, systems and analytics, policy and economics which are the core areas the
state is looking forward to.
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PM Modi Unveils Statue of Peace in Rajasthan
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (November 16, 2020) unveiled the 'Statue of Peace' in
Rajasthan to mark the 151st Birth Anniversary celebrations of Jainacharya Shree Vijay Vallabh Surishwer
Ji Maharaj
• PM Modi paid tribute to Jainacharya and the spiritual leaders present on the occasion
• The 151-inch tall statue has been made from Ashtadhatu ie 8 metals, with copper being the major
constituent.
L&T delivers first launch hardware for Gaganyaan Mission to ISRO
• In a major boost to India’s ambitious human space flight programme amid times of Covid-19 pandemic
infrastructure major Larsen & Toubro, delivered the first hardware - a booster segment - for the
Gaganyaan Launch Vehicle.
• L&T is playing a vital role in powering ISRO’s human space flight programme.
• A trusted partner of ISRO for almost five decades, L&T has been involved in the production of a range of
hardware for every mission of ISRO, including the acclaimed Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan missions.
The critical booster segment has a diameter of 3.2 metres, lengths of 8.5 metres, and weighs 5.5 tonnes
Sports Ministry announces new incentive structure to fund 500 private academies
• Ministry of Youth Affairs And Sports has introduced an incentivisation structure to extend monetary
support to 500 private academies, through the Khelo India Scheme over the next four years starting FY
2020-21.
• In this model, private academies shall be graded into different categories based on quality achievement
of players trained by the academy, level of coaches available at the academy, quality of the field of play
and allied infrastructure, availability of sports science facilities, and staff.
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• The 14 priority disciplines identified for excellence in the 2028 Olympics will be eligible for receiving
support in the first phase.
• This move aims to encourage all academies, especially the private academies to continue improving the
level of infrastructure, resources and sports science support so that athletes can get best in class
training.”
• There are a lot of small academies in various parts of the country that are doing very good work in
identifying and training athletes.
PM Modi and Bhutan PM Jointly launches Rupay Card Phase 2
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with his Bhutanese counterpart Lotay Tshering on Friday launched
RuPay card Phase-II that will allow Bhutanese card holders to access the RuPay network in India.
• The prime ministers of the two countries had jointly launched Phase-I of the project during Mr. Modi’s
state visit to Bhutan in August last year.
• The implementation of Phase-I of RuPay cards in Bhutan has enabled visitors from India to access
ATMs and Point of Sale (PoS) terminals across Bhutan. Phase-II will now allow Bhutanese card holders
to access RuPay network in India
• India and Bhutan share a special partnership, anchored in mutual understanding and respect, reinforced
by a shared cultural heritage and strong people to people links
Army gives specialised tank ammunition development project to private sector
• The project is being executed as per Make-II guidelines of defence procurement and the selection
process has been conducted over 3 years.
• With availability of superior technologies to protect tanks and armoured vehicles, the Depth of
Penetration (DoP) is a critical parameter to defect them.The 125mm APFSDS (Armour Piercing Fin
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Stabilised Discarding-Sabot) ammunition is the primary tank ammunition, utilised for destruction of
enemy tanks
• The project is being executed as per Make-II guidelines of defence procurement and the selection
process has been conducted over 3 years. With availability of superior technologies to protect tanks and
armoured vehicles, the Depth of Penetration (DoP) is a critical parameter to defect them.
Naveen Patnaik launched a mobile app “Secha Samadhan”
• Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has launched ‘Secha Samadhan’, a bilingual mobile application.
• It will address the irrigation problems faced by farmers without them having to visit the offices concerned.
• With the launching of the application, farmers need not run to the offices of the Water Resources
department and can send their grievances through photographs or videos.
• The farmers will be informed about the status of their complaints through SMS.
Ministry of Textiles launches “Local4Diwali” campaign
• The Union Ministry of Textiles has launched a campaign for Diwali- “Local4Diwali”.
• The campaign has been launched to promote the Indian handicraft which is the cultural heritage of the
country and also a source of livelihood for many.
• As per the available data, the handicrafts sector is a major sector of women empowerment as almost 55%
of the workers and artisans are women.
• The main aim of the #Local4Diwali campaign is to urge people to buy and gift Indian handicraft products
on this Diwali.
Navy's fifth Scorpene class submarine 'Vagir' launched at Mazagon Dock
• In yet another boost for the Indian Navy, it’s fifth Scorpene class submarine ’Vagir’ was launched at
Mumbai’s Mazagon Dock.
• Two Kalvari-class submarines are already operational in the Navy.
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• Vagir is part of the six Kalvari-class submarines being built in India.
• The submarines, designed by French naval defence and energy company DCNS, are being built as part of
Indian Navy’s Project-75.
• INS Kalvari, the first of the six Scorpene-class submarines, was launched in 2017, followed by Khanderi,
Karanj and Vela.
MoFPI has announced 50% air transportation subsidy for notified fruits and vegetables from North eastern
states
• Union ministry of food processing industries (MoFPI) has announced 50% air transportation subsidy for
41 notified fruits and vegetables from northeastern and Himalayan states to any place in India under
Operation Greens (TOP to TOTAL) Scheme as part of Aatma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan
• The subsidy was earlier extended under Operation Greens Scheme for Kisan Rail Scheme from October
12 by which railways charge only 50% of freight charges on the notified fruits and vegetables
Indian Oil Successfully tests Zero emission e mobility
• Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. has successfully conducted a ‘Proof of Concept’ feasibility study on ‘zero-
emission electric mobility’ at one of its fuel stations in Bengaluru.
• The EV charging system has been designed by Hygge Energy, a start-up incubated by Tech Mahindra,
and has three main features - EVs are charged using solar power, no upgrades are required in grid
infrastructure, and grid resilience is improved by the system’s architecture, especially in remote areas
• The technology enables intelligent electric-vehicle charging using “hybrid microgrids”.
Centre launches Safai Mitra Suraksha Challenge
• Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri recently launched the Safaimitra Suraksha Challenge, aimed to
ensure that no person needs to enter a sewer or septic tank, unless absolutely unavoidable in the
interest of greater public hygiene.
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• The initiative, that promotes mechanized cleaning, also aims to ensure that no life of any sewer or septic
tank cleaner is ever lost again owing to the issue of ‘hazardous’ cleaning.
• According to reports, India still continues to witness over hundred deaths per year due to manual
scavenging
• Cities will be awarded in three sub-categories – with a population of more than 10 lakhs, 3-10 lakhs and
upto 3 lakhs, with a total prize money of 52 crores to be given to winning cities across all categories.
• The challenge has been launched in 243 cities to mechanize all sewer and septic tank cleaning
operations by 30th April 2021.
• The challenge will focus extensively on creating citizen awareness on this critical issue along
with infrastructure creation for mechanized cleaning and capacity building of workforce.
NASSCOM launches Future Skills Prime digital learning platform
• National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) has launched a digital learning
platform called the Future Skills Prime to encourage remote and self-paced learning.
• The platform has been launched under a joint partnership between the Ministry of Electronics and
Information Technology, Government of India, Nasscom and IT industry.
• It will offer subsidised access to certified courses in 10 identified emerging technologies
• Future Skills Prime will serve as an online aggregator platform with expanded catalogues and multiple
skilling options, facilitating self-paced & continuous learning
India and Thailand navies jointly patrol to stop maritime terrorism
• Recently, the 30th edition of India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) has been concluded in
the Andaman Sea close to the Strait of Malacca.
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• The navies of India and Thailand carried out joint patrol for two days near the Andaman sea to prevent
illegal and unregulated fishing of aquatic species, drug trafficking, maritime terrorism, armed robbery
and piracy.
• Indian Naval Ship (INS) Karmuk, an indigenously built Missile Corvette and His Majesty's Thailand Ship
(HTMS) Kraburi, a Chao Phraya Class Frigate along with Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both the
navies participated in CORPAT.
24th Edition of Malabar Exercise concludes in the Arabian Sea
• The 24th edition of MALABAR maritime exercise, hosted by Indian Navy (IN) in two phases, concluded in
the Arabian Sea on 20 Nov 20
• Phase 1 of the exercise involving participation by Indian Navy (IN), United States Navy (USN), Japan
Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and Royal Australian Navy (RAN), was conducted off
Visakhapatnam in Bay of Bengal from 3-6 November 2020. The second phase was conducted in the
Arabian Sea from 17-20 November 2020
• During Phase 2 of Exercise MALABAR 2020, the four navies participated in joint operations centered on
the Vikramaditya Carrier Battle Group of the Indian Navy and Nimitz Carrier Strike Group of the US
Navy.
State News
Gujarat
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India’s first seaplane service inaugurated in Gujarat
• PM inaugurated the first of its kind Sea Plane service of the country in Gujarat.
• The Kevadia-Sabarmati water aerodromes and the seaplane service will connect the Statue of Unity in
Kevadia at Narmada district in Gujarat with the Sabarmati Rover Front in Ahmedabad.
• The 19-seater seaplane will be managed by private airline SpiceJet.
• The flight will be able to accommodate 12 passengers and tickets will cost Rs 4,800 per person.
• There will be four flights a day between Ahmedabad and Kevadia on each side, which means four
arrivals and four departures.
• The 2020 Rashtriya Ekta Diwas or National Unity Day marks the 145th birth anniversary of Sardar
Vallabhbhai Patel.
PM Modi to launch Ro-Pax Ferry Service in Gujarat
• PM Modi is to launch Ro-Pax ferry service between Ghogha and Hazira in Gujarat through video
conferencing.
• The Ro-Pax ferry vessel called the “Voyage Symphony” is a three-deck vessel. It has a load capacity to
load thirty trucks, 100 passenger cars and 500 passengers.
• The Ro-Pax terminal has a wide range of facilities such as parking area, office building, water tower and
a substation.
Madhya Pradesh
• Capital: Bhopal
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Satpura NP
Panna Tiger Reserve of Madhya Pradesh gets UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status
• The Panna Tiger Reserve of Madhya Pradesh has been included in the ‘World Network of Biosphere
Reserves’ list of the UNESCO.
• Currently, Panna Tiger Reserve is home to 54 tigers.
• This is the 12th biosphere reserve from India to be included in the ‘World Network of Biosphere
Reserves’, and third from Madhya Pradesh, after Pachmarhi and Amarkantak.
Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan announces ‘Gau Cabinet’ for protection of cows
• The Madhya Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has decided to set up a
‘Gau Cabinet’ for the protection, conservation and promotion of cows in the state.
• The Cabinet will comprise of the departments of animal husbandry, forests, panchayat and rural
development, revenue, home and farmers welfare.
• The first meeting of the Cabinet will be held at 12 pm on ‘Gopashtami’ on November 22 at the Cow
Sanctuary in Agar-Malwa district named ‘Kamdhenu Gau Abhyaranya’
• It is India’s first cow sanctuary which was set up by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Madhya
Pradesh government in September 2017.
Digital museum opens at Maharaj Bada in Gwalior, MP
• In Madhya Pradesh, a digital museum has been opened at Maharaj Bada in Gwalior for the public.
• The museum is developed by Gwalior Smart City and entry for the public is being made free for a few
days.
• It is the first center of its kind in Gwalior and Bundelkhand area and will play a role in educating school
students.
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• In the Digital Museum, the architectural styles, objects, costumes, lifestyle, musical instruments,
jewelry, handicrafts, cultural tradition, painting and many genres of paintings have been digitally
displayed in a modern way.
Kerala
Kerala best-governed state while Chandigarh top union territory: PAC Report
• Kerala has been adjudged the best-governed state in the country, while Chandigarh emerged the best-
governed union territory according to the Public Affairs Index-2020 released by the Public Affairs Centre.
• The Public Affairs Centre is a not-for-profit research think tank situated in Bengaluru, Karnataka. It
works at improving the quality of governance in India.
• In states, Uttar Pradesh has been ranked last. In the small state category, Goa has been ranked first.
8 states and 5 UTs observe foundation day on November 01
• On November 01, 2020, 8 states in India and 5 Union Territories observed their foundation day. These
states and Union Territories are as under:
• States– Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab and Tamil
Nadu.
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• Union Territories– Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Delhi, Lakshadweep and Puducherry.
India’s 1st solar-powered miniature train launched at Veli village, Kerala
• India’s first of its kind solar energy-driven miniature train was inaugurated at the Veli Tourist Village,
Kerala by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
• It is a Rs 10 crore project and covers a distance of 2.5 km with 3 bogies. It features a fully- equipped rail
system, including a tunnel, station and a ticket office.
Kerala launches ‘Parivarthanam’ scheme for better livelihood of Fishing Community
• The government of Kerala has launched a pioneering eco-sustainable programme called
‘Parivarthanam’, to improve the livelihood of the fishing community.
• Parivarthanam, which means change, will be headed by Kerala State Coastal Area Development
Corporation (KSCADC).
• Apart from this, the Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (CIFT) of Union governments will monitor
procurement and processing of fish besides ensuring its quality.
• The scheme aims at improving the livelihood skills of youngsters along the coastline and also enable
socio-economic uplift of the fishermen community.
• The scheme will promote processing and marketing of clean fish and its fresh products.
West Bengal
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• National Park: Buxa National Park, Gorumara National Park, Neora Valley National Park, Neora Valley
National Park, Sunderban National Park, Jaldapara National Park
India’s first ‘tyre park’ to come up in West Bengal
• In West Bengal, Kolkata will soon feature India’s first “Tyre Park”, where artworks made from scrap and
defective parts will be on display.
• The West Bengal Transport Corporation will launch this Tyre Park.
• The Tyre Park, which will come up at the Esplanade area, would have a small cafe where people can sit,
relax and enjoy the craftsmanship made from tyres.
West Bengal announces several initiatives for SC and ST people in the state
• The West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced a number of initiatives for the Scheduled
Caste, Scheduled Tribe and refugee population.
• This included land pattas and setting up of cultural and development boards.
• The initiatives have included all the refugees in the colonies spread across the state. Around 1,25,000
land pattas are to be provided.
• The State Government will also provide 25,000 land pattas to the refugees.
• Rs 10 cores has been allocated to the newly announced Matua Development Board. Matuas are Dalit
refuges from Bangladesh.
• They are spread over 50 Assembly seats in the State of West Bengal.
Mamata Banerjee launches “Government At Doorstep” scheme
• From December 1, West Bengal will launch an initiative to take government services to the doorsteps of
people. ‘Duare Duare Sarkar’ or government at the doorstep.
• To run until Gandhi Jayanti on January 30, the initiative will attempt to ship pending companies to folks.
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• From 11 am to 3 pm every day from December 1, government camps will be held in every block in the
state where people can come and demand any service they have not received yet.
Rajasthan
• Capital: Jaipur
Rajasthan to be first state to legalise mask-wearing
• Rajasthan government is planning to make a law on wearing face mask mandatory to prevent the spread
of coronavirus in the state.
• If the Bill gets the nod in the state assembly then Rajasthan will become the first state in the country to
enact a law for making masks mandatory.
• A new clause in Section 4 of the Rajasthan Epidemic Diseases Act, 2020 has been inserted, which
proposes to prohibit the movement of people at public places without properly covering mouth and nose
with a face mask or cover.
Rajasthan Govt to Give Rs 6,000 to Women Becoming Mothers for Second Time
• Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said Rs 6,000 will be given to women becoming mothers for the
second time under a new government scheme.
• On the birth anniversary of former prime minister Indira Gandhi, Gehlot launched Indira Gandhi Matritva
Poshan Yojana through a video conference.
Chattisgarh
Chhattisgarh launches Fortified Rice Distribution Scheme
• On the eve of Statehood Day celebrations, on November 1, 2020, the State Government of Chhattisgarh
launched Fortified Rice Distribution Scheme.
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• The scheme was launched to reduce malnutrition and anaemia. Under the scheme, fortified rice is
distributed through fair price shops.
• The fortified rice is a mixture of Vitamin-B12, iron and folic acid. It helps to control malnutrition and
anaemia.
27 Maoists surrender in Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh under ‘Lon Varratu’ campaign
In Chhattisgarh, 27 Maoists have surrendered in Dantewada district in tribal Bastar division.
• Five of these rebels carried rewards on their head.
• The surrendered Maoists were inspired by the ‘Lon Varratu’ campaign being carried out by the police in
the district.
• 'Lon Varratu' means 'Return Home' in the local tribal dialect Gondi. So far more than 170 Maoists have
surrendered under the ‘Lon Varratu’ campaign
Jammu & Kashmir
Mansar Lake Development Project of J&K
• The Union Minister of Development of the North Eastern Region Shri Jitendra Singh inaugurated the
Mansar Lake Development Plan in Jammu and Kashmir.
• The plan is to attract more than 20 lakh tourists every year. It is expected to generate employment of
1.15 crores of man-days.
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• In all, the project will generate Rs 800 crores of revenue.
Mahila Shakti Kendra, Rajouri launches Selfie with Daughter Campaign
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Mahila Shakti Kendra, Rajouri launched Selfie with
Daughter Campaign in the district to celebrate the pride of having daughters under the Ministry of
Women and Child Development.
• The aim of the campaign is to motivate the society to feel proud to be parents of a girl child which in
turn should help in improving the child sex ratio.
New land laws in J & K
• Government notifies new Land rules that allow any Indian citizen to buy land in Jammu & Kashmir.
Indian citizens can now buy land in J&K (Jammu and Kashmir).
• Union government notified new land laws for Jammu and Kashmir, ending the abrogated Article 370 and
presently, common people and investors outside Jammu & Kashmir can purchase land in the region of
J&K.
• This notification ended the exclusive rights of locals of Jammu and Kashmir over the land granted under
Article 370.
• The new Jammu and Kashmir Development Act rejected the ‘being a permanent resident of the State’ as
criteria to purchase land.
National Saffron Mission extended to North East
• Saffron Production under the National Saffron Mission that was so far confined to Kashmir is now to be
implemented in the North East.
• The plants are to be transported from Kashmir to Sikkim.
• The Kashmir Saffron received GI Tag in May 2020.
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Ladakh gets largest solar project at Leh Indian Air Force station
• The Union Territory of Ladakh has got the largest solar power project set up under the Centre’s ‘Make In
India’ initiative at Leh IAF station to provide sustainable energy alternative to fossil fuel and traditional
methods of energy generation.
• The project namely ‘Provision of Solar Photo Voltaic Powerplant 1.5 MW’ has been completed within 12
months well before the completion deadline of March 31, 2021.
Kanoor Renewable Village is the 1st Step towards PM’s Carbon Neutral Ladakh
The foundation stone of PM Narendra Modi’s Dream to Make Ladakh Carbon Neutral has been started from
Kanoor Village of Kargil which has been the first Renewable Village in Ladakh.
• This was stated by the MP Ladakh Jamyang Tsering Namgyail while inaugurating the 12 Solar Roof Top 5
Kw Power Plants in different hamlets of Kanoor Village.
• Carbon neutrality refers to achieving net zero carbon dioxide emissions by balancing carbon dioxide
emissions with removal or simply eliminating carbon dioxide emissions altogether.
Puducherry
Puducherry celebrates 66th Liberation Day
Union Territory of Puducherry celebrates its 66 th Liberation Day on 01 November.
• The celebrations are on a low-key in the wake of COVID 19 pandemic.
• It was on November 1,1954 the union territory was liberated from French colonialism following a
referendum in which all elected members from Puducherry voted against the French and preferred to
join India.
Punjab
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Punjab launches ‘Tobacco Free Workplace’ campaign on Punjab State No Tobacco Day
• Punjab Government initiated a drive to eradicate tobacco use to save children & youth as well as
tobacco free work place on the occasion of Punjab State No Tobacco Day.
• The theme of campaign is “Tobacco Free Workplaces”.
Punjab withdraws general consent to CBI
• Punjab had revoked/withdrawn the general consent to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
• From now, CBI will have to take permission from the state government to investigate any case.
• This comes within a week after Jharkhand and Kerala decided to withdraw the general consent to CBI.
Extra Shots:
CBI
Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurates Phagwara Mega Food Park in Punjab
• Union Food Processing Industries Minister Narendra Singh Tomar virtually inaugurated the Rs 107.83
crore mega food park at Phagwara in Kapurthala district of Punjab which is likely to generate 5,000 jobs.
• The mega food park, spread over 55 acres of land and that will benefit 25,000 farmers, is equipped with
warehouses in 3,944 square meter, silos with 20,000 tonne capacity, cold storage with 3,000 tonne
capacity as well as individually quick-frozen and deep freezer units and other facilities.
• So far, 37 mega food parks have been sanctioned across the country, of which 20 have started
functioning.
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Jharkhand
Jharkhand Foundation Day: 15 November
Jharkhand, the ‘Land of Forest’ celebrates its State Formation Day on November 15 every year.
• The state was carved out of Bihar in 2000 after the Parliament passed the Bihar Reorganization Act, 2000.
• The state’s foundation day was made to coincide with the birth anniversary of tribal leader Birsa Munda,
who played an important part in the history of the Indian independence movement.
• Birsa Munda About was an Indian tribal freedom fighter, religious leader, and folk hero who belonged to
the Munda tribe.
Uttar Pradesh
Products of Mirzapur To Be Displayed on Global Platform
• Mirzapur city of Uttar Pradesh is all set to make the state proud across the globe as the ‘Japan Carpet
Fair’ will be exhibiting the world-famous foot-mats and wall hangings.
PM Modi launches “Har Ghar Nal Yojana” in Uttar Pradesh
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, November 22, launched the ‘Har Ghar Nal Yojana’ (Tap Water
to Every Household) for the residents of Uttar Pradesh’s Sonbhadra and Mirzapur district.
• Government was committed to solving the water scarcity problem and hence the scheme of worth
₹5,555 crores was launched in the state.
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• The scheme was launched to provide tap water to every Household.
• The main objective of the scheme is to provide tap water for every household.
Nitin Gadkari inaugurates Highway projects worth Rs 7477 Cr in Uttar Pradesh
• Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated and laid the foundation stones of 16 National Highway
projects in Uttar Pradesh on 26 November 2020.
• The construction cost of these infra projects is estimated to be around Rs 7477 crore.
• These highway projects include a road length of 505 kilometers and will provide better connectivity,
convenience to the public as well as lead to economic growth in the state.
UP CM launches special campaign to identify people suffering from TB
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a special 10-day campaign to identify people suffering
from tuberculosis (TB) in the state.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to make India TB-free by 2025.
• Under the door-to-door campaign, which will end on November 11, health workers will reach out to 81
lakh people, identify those suffering from TB, screen them and help them avail treatment at no cost.
UP govt to hold grand annual Deepotsav celebrations in Ayodhya on Diwali
Uttar Pradesh government will celebrate the annual Deepotsav in Ayodhya on Diwali in a grand manner and this
time it is planning to break its own last year record by lighting around 6 lakh diyas, earthen lamps on the ghats
of Saryu.
• The celebration will not be scaled down due to the coronavirus pandemic, even though there will be
minimal public participation.
• The deepotsav will be celebrated from 11 to 13 november and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will also
take part in it.
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• Around 10 thousand volunteers of Ram Manohar Lohiya Swasth University will be involved in the attempt
of another world record of lighting 6 lakh earthen lamps.
• These diyaas will be lit on 24 Ghats of holy river Saryu.
UP to develop Vindhyavasini Temple Corridor in Vindhyachal
The Uttar Pradesh (UP) government has decided to develop the Vindhyavasini Mandir Corridor at Vindhyachal in
Mirzapur district.
• The Vindhyavasini corridor is modelled on the lines of Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi.
• It will have a 50-feet wide parikrama path, or circumambulation route, around the shrine of Goddess
Vindhyavasini.
• The UP cabinet had on October 30 approved the decision to develop the religious corridor.
• The Yogi Adityanath-led government seeks to develop religious tourism in the eastern UP region.
• The Vindhyavasini temple is surrounded by buildings and narrow lanes and pilgrims have to walk through
them while circumambulating the temple.
Uttar Pradesh government imposes ESMA for six months
Uttar Pradesh government has imposed Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA) in the state.
• The order released in this regard says that the act will be imposed for 6 months.
• As per the U.P ESMA, the state government now has the power to prohibit strikes in workplaces for the
next six months, after which it may be extended for another six months.
• Last time the act was imposed in the state on 22nd May this year and the time period of six months has
expired.
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UP govt passes ordinance to ban unlawful religious conversions for marriage
The Uttar Pradesh government has passed an ordinance to ban unlawful religious conversions for marriage.
• Unlawful conversion for the sake of getting married through force, deceit, undue pressure or by way of
alluring into marriage will come into the category of non-bailable offence and can lead to imprisonment of
a maximum of 10 years and penalty of 50 thousand rupees.
• The jail sentence for the offence would be 3-10 years if the woman is from the Scheduled cast, Scheduled
Tribe community or is seen as part of mass conversion.
• Any marriage entered into after such a conversion can be declared null and void.
• If any couple wants to perform marriage after converting into any other religion, they need to take
permission from the relevant district magistrate two months before the marriage.
• He claimed that over 100 incidents of forceful religious conversions were noticed in state.
Assam
• Capital: Dispur
Dehing Patkai
Assam CM Sarbananda Sonowal lays foundation stone of Indo-Israeli Centre of Excellence for Vegetables
Protected Cultivation at Khetri near Guwahati
• The Chief Minister of Assam Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation stone of Indo-Israeli Centre of
Excellence for Vegetables Protected Cultivation at Khetri on the outskirts of Guwahati on 2nd November
2020.
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• The Indo-Israeli Centre of Excellence for Vegetables Protected Cultivation is estimated to be set up at
an investment of Rs 10.33 Crore.
Assam Education Dept launches toll free tele-education helpline number for govt school students
• In Assam, the Education department has launched a toll free tele education helpline number for
government school students.
• Principal Secretary of the department B Kalyan Chakravarthy said the helpline number is to guide 6th to
10th standard students on subject matters and psycho-social aspects.
• The tollfree no is - 18003453578. Mr. Chakravarthy said that it would work on all 6 days in week except
Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm.
Assam govt to start Aadhaar enrolment drive for 70 lakh students
• In Assam, the Education department will start an Aadhaar enrolment drive for nearly 70 lakh students.
• The drive will cover all government and private school students aged between 6 to 18 years.
• All the Deputy Commissioners will launch the free Aadhaar enrolment drive today in their respective
districts.
• The drive is expected to be completed by March next year.
Tezpur Litchi gets GI tag
• The Agriculture and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) has announced
that Assam’s Tezpur Litchi has been given the geographical indication (GI) tag.
• The application for GI tagging was made on 28th August 2013 by North Eastern Regional Agricultural
Marketing Corporation Ltd (NERAMAC).
Rupsi Airport at Kokrajhar all set to start commercial operation by January 2021
In Assam, Rupsi Airport at Kokrajhar district is all set to start commercial operation under Regional Connectivity
Scheme.
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• The airport has been re-developed at an estimated cost of 69 crore rupees and has also received its
license by Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
• Spread across 337 acres of land, the newly developed airport has a terminal building with an area of 3,500
sqm.
• Equipped with 10 check-in counters, the terminal is designed to process 200 passengers during peak
hours.
Baghjan oil well fire in Assam still raging after five months
It has been five months and the Baghjan oil well is still burning in the Tinsukia district of Assam.
• Now, a committee set up by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has reported that the Baghjan oil well and
26 others were being operated illegally in Assam.
• The NGT is headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice AK Goel.
• The blowout site is located next to the Dibru Saikhowa National Park (DSNP) in Tinsukia district.
• The blowout site at the Baghjan oil field has been burning for 160 days which is the longest in India.
First cow hospital of Northeast inaugurated in Assam’s Dibrugarh
A cow shelter in Assam’s Dibrugarh inaugurated Northeast’s first-ever cow hospital.
• The hospital, Surbhi Aarogyashala, is set up by Shree Gopal Gaushala at a cost of Rs 17 lakh.
• The hospital will provide services in a 30 km radius.
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu government rolls out 100% tax exemption for e-vehicles
In a major boost to the adoption of electric vehicles in the State, the Tamil Nadu government has passed an order
for 100 per cent exemption of motor vehicle tax for battery-operated vehicles (BOVs).
• The State government had earlier issued orders for a 50 per cent concessional rate of lifetime tax in
respect of battery-operated two-wheelers and four-wheelers of non-transport vehicles.
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• After establishing itself as a hub for automotive manufacturing, the Tamil Nadu government has been
making several efforts to emerge as an attractive centre for electric mobility.
• Delhi has announced an exemption of road tax on all EVs or BOVs while States like Telangana, which
recently announced a new EV policy, offer 100 per cent exemption in road tax and registration fees for
early adopters in different EV segments.
IIT Madras developes “IITM COVID Game” to create awareness
Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) said its researchers have developed a digital game 'IITM Covid
Game' to create awareness about Covid-19 virus among the general public, particularly children.
• This game is browser-based and can be played on any device including Personal Computers, laptops,
tablets and mobile phones, among others.
• The game takes inspiration from the famous 'Super Mario' game and consists of a character who
encounters various right things, like masks, washing hands and also encounters things to be avoided, like
hugs, handshakes.
Maharashtra
• Capital: Mumbai
• Wildlife Sanctuaries: Amba Barwa WLS, Bor WLS, Great Indian Bustard WLS,
Lonar WLS, Melghat WLS, Gangewadi New Great Indian Bustard WLS, etc.
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Maharashtra releases Rs. 57 crores for ASHA workers
• The Health Minister of Maharashtra, Rajesh Tope on November 3, 2020, announced that Rs. 57 crores
have been released by the state government for ASHA workers.
• The amount is provided towards the payment of an increase in the allowance ASHA workers under the
National Rural Health Mission.
• The amount will be disbursed to some 70,000 ASHA workers in Maharashtra who are the backbone of
the Health Mission.
Extra Shots:
• ASHA- Accredited Social Health Activists are a key component for the implementation of the National
Rural Health Mission.
• These activists also work as an interface between the community and the public health system.
Maharashtra to observe National Unity Week from Nov 19 to 25
• Maharashtra will observe the National Unity Week from 19th to 25th of November.
• In order to increase social harmony in the state, everyone should participate in this programme.
• instructions have been given to all the government agencies including all the Divisional Commissioners,
Collectors, Chief Executive Officers of Zilla Parishads to conduct various programs with due care to
prevent spread of corona infection.
Maha Awas Yojana launched in Maharashtra
• Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddav Thackeray launched “Maha Awas Yojana”.
• The project aims to build 8.82 lakhs of rural houses in 100 days.
• The project includes construction of toilets as well. The cost of the project has been estimated as Rs
4,000 crores.
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• The Government of India recently announced Affordable housing Scheme for the migrant workers
affected by COVID-19.
• This was launched under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
• The main objective of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana is to help rural people Below the Poverty Line in
construction of dwelling units.
Lonar Lake in Maharashtra Chosen as Ramsar Site
• The Lonar Lake in Maharashtra's Buldhana district has been chosen as a wetland site of international
importance under the Ramsar conservation treaty
• The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat could
be a treaty for conservation and sustainable use of such sites.
• Lonar Lake was formed by the impact of a meteorite on basalt bedrock several thousand years ago.
• An area of 365 hectares round the lake, which itself is cover 77.69 hectares, was declared a wildlife
sanctuary in June, 2000, as per a state forest department release.
First solar power enabled textile mill in Asia to come up in Parbhani district
• The Jai Bhawani women’s cooperative factory are going to be the primary in Asia that may treat solar
energy. Spread across thirty acres of land the mill will process cotton to cloth.
• Parbhani is that the leading cotton producing district in Maharashtra.
• Producing cotton is seen as a profitable investment thanks to which majority farmers grow the crop.
• Ginning, pressing, weaving and spinning of cotton are going to be wiped out the mill.
• The cost of the project is 100 crore rupees and with the operationalization of the mill it'll certainly give
momentum to the commercial sector within the district.
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Mumbai becomes the 1st Indian city with designated infrastructure for women in its urban plan
• Mumbai becomes the first Indian city with designated infrastructure for women in its urban plan
• Mumbai has become the primary city in India to style a concept for development of designated spaces
for women’s needs.
• The city has designed an urban plan with gender-focus on reserving physical and social
infrastructure for women.
• The plan provides about 90 land reservations to deal with women’s needs including education, health,
housing and safety. it's been designed under the Revised Draft Development Plan 2034.
• The plan proposed departure from gender blindness to gender mainstreaming
• This venture will push Mumbai into becoming a prominent women friendly city
Fifth Narrow Gauge locomotive on Kalka-Shimla route manufactured by Central Railway
In Maharashtra, the Central Railway workshop at Parel in Mumbai has manufactured a fifth Narrow Gauge
locomotive which will chug between Kalka to Shimla route.
• It is the fifth Narrow Gauge engine that has been manufactured by the Central Railway which will run
between Kalka to Shimla, a UNESCO World Heritage Railway.
• A total of 12 locomotives will be produced by Central Railway. Although small in size the engine is strong
enough to face the extreme cold conditions in the Sub-Himalayan region.
Telangana
• Statehood day:2 June 2014
• Capital:Hyderabad
• Chief Minister: Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao
• Governor: Tamilisai Soundararajan
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Telangana CM K. Chandrasekhar Rao inaugurates state’s 1st Rythu Vedika
• Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao inaugurated the State’s first Rythu Vedika in Jangaon
agriculture cluster.
• The farmers’ centre was built at a cost of ₹22 lakh.
• Each of the clusters would be managed by an agriculture extension officer, and the centres would soon
be equipped with audio-visual system and manned with required staff.
• The state government intends to set up 2,601 Rythu Vedika platforms across Telangana and has set
aside a budget of Rs 572.22 crore for the same.
Telangana High court bans sale and use of fire crackers ahead of Diwali
• Telangana has banned the employment of firecrackers with immediate effect prior Diwali following
a state supreme court directive to the regime, joining an inventory of states that have taken an
identical step citing COVID-19 pandemic.
• The tribunal directed the state to instantly ban the sale and use of fireworks and organisations and
immediately throttle and shut shops which are selling them.
Uttarakhand
November 9 observed on Uttarakhand Day
• Every year on November 9, the Uttarakhand Day is celebrated.
• It is also called as Uttarakhand Divas or Uttarakhand State Foundation Day.
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• In 2020, the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Rawat is to inaugurate hot air balloon festival in Mussorie.
• Apart from the hot air balloon celebrations, the state is also organizing Majestic Uttarakhand photo
exhibitions and ‘Heal with Wheels’.
Dehradun Municipal Corporation launched Plastic Lao MASK LE JAO initiative
• In Dehradun, the Municipal Corporation has launched an initiative named Plastic Lao MASK LE JAO to
fight against the menace of plastic waste and contain the spread of Covid-19.
• It has distributed Five thousand face masks in exchange for plastic waste.
India’s longest motorable suspension bridge inaugurated in Uttarakhand’s Tehri-Garhwal district
• India’s longest single-lane motorable suspension bridge has been inaugurated in Tehri-Garhwal district
of Uttarakhand.
• The Dobra-Chanti Jhula (suspension) bridge, was inaugurated by the Chief minister Trivendra Singh
Rawat to mark the 21st foundation day of the state on 8th November 2020.
• The bridge is 725-metre long and has been built in 14 years over the Tehri lake with a cost of Rs. 2.95
crore.
• It will cut travel time between Tehri and Pratapnagar from 5 to 1.5 hours.
Kumbh Mela to be held in its divine form at Haridwar in 2021
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has asserted that Kumbh Mela will be held in its divine form
at Haridwar in 2021 despite the practical problems arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Kumbh Mela works are being reviewed periodically and efforts of the state government will be to ensure
that the devotees do not face any inconvenience.
• 35 to 50 lakh people are expected to take the holy dip in Ganga daily during the Kumbh Mela 2021.
• Kumbh Mela is a major pilgrimage and festival in Hinduism.
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• It is celebrated in a cycle of approximately 12 years at four river-bank pilgrimage sites: the Prayagraj
(Ganges-Yamuna Saraswati rivers confluence), Haridwar (Ganges), Nashik (Godavari), and Ujjain
(Shipra).
Meghalaya
• Capital: Shillong
• Chief Minister: Conrad Sangma.
• Governor: Satya Pal Malik
ADB approves USD 132.8 mn loan to improve power distribution network in Meghalaya
• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved USD 132.8 million loan to Meghalaya, to improve and
upgrade the power distribution network in the state.
• The fund will help in improving the distribution system & financial sustainability of the Meghalaya Power
Distribution Corporation Limited (MePDCL).
• The MePDCL has a huge outstanding against the power purchased from central power generating
stations and to the Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL).
• The loan loan will support in clearing the power outstanding dues.
ADB
• Headquarters: Mandaluyong, Philippines
• President: Masatsugu Asakawa
• Founded: 19 December 1966
• Purpose: Economic development
• Membership: 68 countries
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India-International Cherry Blossom Festival of Shillong cancelled
• Every year the cherry blossom festival is hosted by Meghalaya in the starting of November. This year the
festival has been cancelled due to covid-19.
• It is the only Cherry festival being conducted in India.
• The India International Cherry blossom festival is organised by the Government of Meghalaya every year.
• The festival hosts live music, stalls showcasing the cuisine, beauty pageants, etc.
• Cherry blossom festival is a national festival of Michigan.
• It is celebrated in Japan as well.
Andhra Pradesh
“Go Electric” campaign was launched by Bureau of Energy Efficiency
• The “Go Electric” campaign was launched by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in coordination with the
Andhra Pradesh State Energy Conservation Mission.
• The Andhra Pradesh State Government is to set up 400 Electric Vehicle charging vehicles all over the
state to promote the usage of electric vehicles.
• This is to be achieved in coordination with the “Go Electric” campaign of BEE.
• The main of the step is to attract investment in the EV sector by setting up charging stations and
electric vehicle infrastructure.
Extra Shots:
BEE
• Founded: 1 March 2002
• Organization type: Government Agency
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Andhra Pradesh marks formation day on Nov 1
Andhra Pradesh celebrated its Formation Day on 01 November with chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy
unfurling the national flag at his official residence.
• After becoming the first Chief Minister of a truncated Andhra Pradesh in 2014, Chandrababu Naidu had
decided to celebrate its Formation Day on June 2.
• The Jagan government, however, reverted to the November 1 date to celebrate the Foundation Day.
• Andhra Pradesh is the first state to be formed on a linguistic basis in India on 1 October 1953.
• On 1 November 1956, the States Reorganisation Act combined Andhra Pradesh by merging Andhra State
with the Telugu-speaking areas of the already existing Hyderabad State.
Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh CM launches website of Atal Medical and Research University
• Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur launched the website of Atal Medical and Research University, Ner
Chowk Mandi through video conferencing from Shimla.
• The main objective of setting up of this University was to provide quality health care and education, to
produce the best health care personnel, provide single platform for health educationists of the state and
to improve and standardize health education in the process of teaching, learning and evaluation system
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Himachal Pradesh Government Launches ‘Him Suraksha Abhiyan’
• Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jairam Thakur launched ‘Him Suraksha Abhiyan’ on 24 November
2020.
• The Him Suraksha campaign aims at sensitizing the people regarding Covid-19 pandemic and also to
collect information regarding symptoms of other diseases like TB, Leprosy, sugar and blood pressure.
• They would carry on door to door campaign for data collection of health parameters of the people,
including both, symptomatic patients with probable Covid-19 as well as patients with other ailments.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Andaman and Nicobar Command carries out joint tri-services exercise code ‘Bull Strike’ at Teressa Island
• The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) conducted a joint tri-service exercise code-named ‘Bull
Strike’ from 03 to 05 November 2020, at the remotely located Teressa Island, in the strategically
important Nicobar group of Islands.
• All the three Services components of ANC, including the Army, Navy and Air Force, got together for the
war games for enhancing interoperability and test synergy among the three Services, to maximise
combat potential.
• In addition, Search and Rescue (SAR) and Medical Evacuation procedures were practiced by
participating troops.
Arunachal Pradesh
• Capital: Itanagar
• Chief Minister: Pema Khandu
• Governor: B. D. Mishra
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India’s first solar-based Integrated Multi-Village Water Supply Project launched in Arunachal Pradesh
• The Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launched India’s first solar-based Integrated
Multi-Village Water Supply Project (IMVWSP) in Arunachal Pradesh.
• The solar-based lift water supply project is ‘first of its kind’ in the country, and has been commissioned
at a cost of Rs 28.50 crore. However, such projects will be carried out in other parts of the country too.
• The project would provide drinking water to 17,480 people in 39 villages of Lower Dibang Valley district
in Arunachal Pradesh.
Arunachal records best sex ratio, Manipur the worst
• Arunachal Pradesh recorded the best sex ratio in India with 1,085 females born per thousand males,
followed by Kerala at 963 and Karnataka at 957.
• The report was released by the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner.
• A 2018 report on the ‘vital statistics on India based on the Civil Registration System‘ has revealed this.
Arunachal Pradesh records the best sex ratio in the country
• Arunachal Pradesh recorded the best sex ratio in the country compared to other states, according to the
2018 report on "vital statistics of India based on the Civil Registration System."
• Arunachal Pradesh recorded 1,084 females born per thousand males, followed by Nagaland (965),
Mizoram (964), Kerala (963) and Karnataka (957)
• The worst was reported in Manipur (757), Lakshadweep (839) and Daman & Diu (877), Punjab (896)
and Gujarat (896), while states such as Delhi recorded a sex ratio of 929, Haryana 914 and Jammu and
Kashmir 952.
• The report was released by the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, Ministry of
Home Affairs, GOI and sex ratio was determined on the basis of data provided by 30 states and Union
Territories.
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Nagaland
• Capital: Kohima
• Chief Minister: Neiphiu Rio
• Governor: RN Ravi
Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival to be celebrated virtually
• Nagaland govt decides to celebrate Hornbill Festival virtually this year.
• This festival is also called the Festival of Festivals.
• It is held every year from December 1 to 10, showcases the culture, heritage, food and customs of Naga
tribes.
• 16 tribes come together to celebrate their traditions with dance performances. Tourists from across the
globe attend the 10-day gala.
North Police Station in Kohima receives an ISO certification
• A first of its kind in the state, North Police Station Kohima in Nagaland has been awarded an ISO
certification.
• The Police station is located in the heart of Kohima Town which was the first established police station
under Naga Hills district by the British Regime in the year 1933.
• The whole process of online application, process, upgradation, documentation and online auditing was
completed in a span of 30 days.
KSCDL declared winner at ET Govt Global Smart Cities Forum 2020
In Nagaland, Kohima Smart City Development Limited, KSCDL has been declared Winner at the ET Government
Global Smart Cities Forum 2020 under the category Best Digital Initiative of the Year (Technology) for Kohima
City Wifi Phase-I Project.
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• The main objective is to provide internet access for the masses in public locations at a cheaper cost and
instant access to data for emergency services with real-time s with better coverage for emergency
services.
• IT infrastructure will enable the Internet of Things and establish a platform for smart city with innovative
smart solutions such as pan-city fire emergency solutions, smart offices, entertainment, smart street
lighting, smart Kiosks, smart traffic management and others.
• KSCDL has activated Wi-Fi Hotspots in 51 locations of Kohima along with two smart Kiosks as part of the
Kohima Wi-Fi Phase 1 Project.
Odisha
CM Naveen Patnaik launched a mobile app “Secha Samadhan”
• Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has launched ‘Secha Samadhan’, a bilingual mobile application, to
address the irrigation problems faced by farmers without them having to visit the offices concerned.
• He also launched four other online services to resolve the issue of water distribution for industries,
commercial establishments and other institutions.
Bhubaneswar becomes first city to get ISO certification for FSSM Services
• Bhubaneswar becomes the 1st city in the entire country to receive the ISO-9001:2015 certification for
effective Faecal Sludge & Septage Management FSSM services.
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• The City becomes totally sanitized, healthy and liveable and ensure sustenance of good sanitation
habits with improved Onsite Sanitation Services together with faecal sludge and septage management
to achieve optimum public health and maintain environment integrity with a special focus on the poor.
• The state government has taken steps to implement septage treatment plant in order to treat and
thereafter safely dispose or reuse the faecal waste. This is being covered under the AMRUT scheme.
The treatment plant is designed such that it has capacity to handle faecal waste generated for next 7
years.
Objective of FSSM:
The key objective of the urban FSSM Policy is to set the context, priorities, and direction for, and to facilitate,
citywide implementation of FSSM services such that safe and sustainable sanitation becomes a reality for all in
each and every household, street, town and city.
Odisha Assembly passes ‘Odisha Essential Services (Maintenance) Amendment Bill-2020’
Odisha Essential Services (Maintenance) Amendment Bill-2020 was passed by the state assembly.
• The bill seeks to amend the existing Act of 1988 to prohibit strikes by employees of essential services in
the state.
• Expanding the ambit of essential services, the bill includes services like fire service, excise, forest, prison
reforms, electronics and Information and Communication departments.
• According to the provisions of the amended bill, persons resorting to or found instigating or funding illegal
strikes may face imprisonment upto one year or a fine upto Rs five thousand or both.
• Trade unions too have opposed it as a ploy to divest the workers of their democratic right to protest.
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Karnataka
Vijayanagara becomes 31st District of Karnataka, carved out of Ballari district
• The Karnataka Government has approved to carve out Vijayanagara as new district of the state.
• Vijayanagara will be the 31st district of the State.
• The new district would be carved out of Ballari and named after the Vijayanagara empire that ruled from
this region.
Bengaluru’s Bowring Medical College named after Atal Bihari Vajpayee
• The Bowring and Lady Curzon Medical College and Research Institute in Bengaluru have been named
after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
• The institute was set up in 2018-19 on the campus of Bowring and Lady Curzon Hospital in Shivajinagar
in the heart of Bengaluru.
• Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the first leader from the Bharatiya Janata Party to become the Prime Minister.
• He served as Prime Minister thrice — briefly in 1996, from 1998 to 1999, and then for a full five-year
term between 1999 and 2004.
Karnataka Governor presents Doctor of Science honorary doctorate upon ISRO Chairman
Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala presented Doctor of Science honorary doctorate upon ISRO Chairman K Sivan.
• The Visvesvaraya Technological University has conferred the doctorate to him.
• The Governor highly praised the role of ISRO in defining our Space programme and the social role that it
has played in the country.
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Delhi
NITI Aayog forms panel to study feasibility of Hyperloop technology in India
• Government think-tank NITI Aayog has formed a high-level panel to explore the technological and
commercial viability of the Virgin Hyperloop technology for ultrahigh speed travel in India, weeks after its
first test was completed with humans on board.
• The committee has NITI Aayog member V.K. Saraswat as its Chairman and Adviser (Infrastructure
Connectivity, NITI Aayog) Sudhendu Jyoti Sinha as its convener.
• Its other members are Railway Board Chairman & CEO V.K. Yadav, the secretaries of the ministries of
Housing and Urban Affairs, Road Transport and Highways, and the Maharashtra government’s Transport
Secretary.
• The Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Chairman, the Delhi Metro’s Managing Director,
the IIT-Delhi Director and the Chairman (Technology Information) of the forecasting and assessment
council are also its members.
Delhi to adopt Dungarpur’s model of rainwater harvesting
The Delhi government will adopt the cost-effective model of rainwater harvesting currently being implemented
in the tribal-dominated Dungarpur district of Rajasthan.
• A seven-member delegation was on an official visit to witness the rainwater-harvesting system that costs
just Rs 16,000 as compared to the conventional one, which costs between Rs 50,000 and Rs one lakh per
household.
• Dungarpur model was an innovative idea that was centred on routing the rainwater to a bore well, instead
of a regular rainwater-harvesting pit.
• The rainwater collected on the rooftop is being routed to the casing of already existing bore wells in
households. They have created sand filters in the conduit pipe itself and included a way of backwash too.
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Goa
Goa Government to install statue of Football Great Late Diego Maradona
• The Goa government will install the life-size statue of late Argentine football legend Diego Maradona in
the coastal belt of North district by early next year.
• The statue would be installed somewhere at Candolim or Calangute to inspire the football playing youth.
• 350-kg statue, an actual-size statue as tall as late Maradona is part of the state government’s initiative
to encourage football culture
December 2020 – National & State Current Affairs
National News
Arjun Munda to launch 10-day-long Áadi Mahotsav’ on 1st Dec
• The 10-day-long Áadi Mahotsav’, a festival of tribes will be launched today by Union Minister for Tribal
Affairs Arjun Munda in a virtual format.
• The TRIFED has decided to organise its annual event Aadi Mahotsav-2020 in an online mode.
• At the festival, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs Renuka Singh, Minister for Tribal Development,
Madhya Pradesh Meena Singh and TRIFED chairman Ramesh Chand Meena would be the guests of
honour for this online inauguration.
• The Aadi Mahotsav is a unique celebration of the spirit of tribal culture, crafts, cuisine and commerce.
• It commenced in 2017.
• The festival is an attempt to familiarize the people with the rich and diverse craft and culture of the
tribal communities across the country, in one place.
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Piyush Goyal inaugurates newly electrified Dhigawara-Bandikui section of North Western Railway
• The Union Minister of Railways Shri Piyush Goyal inaugurated newly electrified Dhigawara-Bandikui
section of North Western Railway (NWR) in the state of Rajasthan.
• The Minister also flagged off first train on this newly electrified route.
• The Dhigawara-Bandikui section is on Delhi-Ajmer route via Jaipur.
• The Railways has set the target to electrify the entire percentage of railway lines across the country in
phased manner.
• Once these electrified trains starts running, the trains that run on diesel will be stopped.
• This will eliminate pollution and also, the dependence on the fuel imported from outside.
• The electrified trains will run from the electricity produced in India, which is expected to save significant
revenue.
• Piyush Goyal is in charge of the Ministry of Railways, Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food
and Public Distribution.
Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar Launches Sahakar Pragya initiative with 45 new training modules
for cooperative sector
• The Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, recently unveiled a new initiative called Sahakar Pragya.
• Sahakar Pragya is an initiative of National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), to help in
capacity development of cooperative sector in India, through training programme.
• Under this initiative, 45 new training modules have been developed for the farmers and would be
imparted to primary cooperative societies in rural areas of the country by NCDC.
• Narendra Singh Tomar is the Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Rural Development,
Panchayat Raj and Food Processing Industries.
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Piyush Goyal inaugurates Dhigawara-Bandikui section of NWR
• The Union Minister of Railways, Piyush Goyal has inaugurated newly electrified Dhigawara-Bandikui
section of North Western Railway (NWR) in the state of Rajasthan. The Minister also flagged off the first
train on this newly electrified route. The Dhigawara-Bandikui section is on Delhi-Ajmer route via Jaipur.
• The Railways has set the target to electrify the entire percentage of railway lines across the country in a
phased manner.
• Once these electrified trains start running, the trains that run on diesel will be stopped.
Ministry of I&B release booklet on birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
• A booklet titled ‘PM Modi and his Government’s special relationship with Sikhs’ was released, on the
occasion of birth anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
• It has been produced by Bureau of Outreach Communication under Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting and is released in three languages Hindi, Punjabi and English.
• The booklet was jointly inaugurated by the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shri
Prakash Javadekar and Union Minister for Civil Aviation and Housing and Urban Affairs Shri Hardeep
Singh Puri.
PM Inaugurates Six-Lane Widening Project of The Varanasi-Prayagraj Section Of NH-19
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the opening ceremony of the NH-19 Varanasi-Prayagraj part
of the six-lane expansion project in Varanasi.
• The newly widened and six-lane NH-19 has a total length of 73 kilometres and a total investment of Rs
24.47 billion, which is expected to reduce the travel time between Prayagraj and Varanasi by one hour.
• Dev Deepawali has become the "world-famous light and passion" festival in Varanasi, and is celebrated
every Poornima in Kartik month.
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• PM Modi will also attend 'Dev Deepawali', undertake a site visit of Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor
Project and also visit the Sarnath Archaeological Site.
India Become Pharmacy Of The World
• India is seeking its own development and production self-reliance.
• While there are at least five pharmaceutical companies in India engaged in vaccine development, the
Pune Serological Institute has been selected as a mass producer of the
• The government has activated a strong Covid-19 vaccine production and delivery ecosystem to meet
demand.
Govt. announces Rs 900 crore package for COVID-19 Vaccine Development Mission
• The Centre has announced the third stimulus package of Rs 900 crore for the Mission COVID Suraksha-
The Indian COVID-19 Vaccine Development Mission.
• This grant will be provided to the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) for Research and Development of
Indian COVID-19 vaccines with end-to-end focus from preclinical development through clinical
development and manufacturing and regulatory facilitation for deployment.
• It would consolidate all available and funded resources towards an accelerated product development.
• The Ministry of Science and Technology said that this will help accelerate development of approximately
5 to 6 vaccine candidates.
India contributes USD 2 million to UNRWA
India has contributed US$ 2 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the
Near East (UNRWA), in support of the Agency’s programmes and services, including education, health care, relief,
and social services for Palestine refugees.
• With this contribution, India provided a total of US$ 5 million to the Agency in 2020.
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• It is worth noting that India has increased its annual financial contribution to UNRWA from US$ 1.25
million in 2017 to US$ 5 million in 2018, 2019 and 2020.
• UNRWA is the main provider of essential humanitarian assistance and critical services, such as health
and education, to this vulnerable community in a volatile region.
“Child-friendly” police station launched in Pune
• The city’s first “child-friendly” police station was inaugurated at the cantonment police station in Pune,
premises by Abhay Karandikar, director, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).
• This police station will work towards character building among children and will also work in changing
the notion that police are not enemies but friends of people.
• The child friendly police station houses books and and toys and will also work towards character
building among children.
Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar launches “Sahakar Pragya” initiative
• The Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar recently unveiled a new initiative called Sahakar Pragya.
• Sahakar Pragya is an initiative of National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), to help in
capacity development of the cooperative sector in India, through the training programme.
• Under this initiative, 45 new training modules have been developed for the farmers and would be
imparted to primary cooperative societies in rural areas of the country by NCDC.
UN CND removes Cannabis from “Most Dangerous Drug” Category
• In the Ongoing 63rd session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (UN-CND), Cannabis
has been removed from the “Most Dangerous Drug” category.It is removed after UNCND voted to
remove cannabis and cannabis resin from Schedule IV of the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs,
decades after they were first placed on the list.
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• Out of the 53-member CND, 27 member states voted in favour including India, US and most of European
Nations and 25 members against.
IOCL launches India’s first 100 Octane Premium Petrol
• The Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Steel Shri Dharmendra Pradhan launched India’s
first indigenously developed ‘100 Octane premium petrol’ through video conferencing on 1st December
2020.
• The high-octane premium grade petrol will be marketed under the brand ‘XP-100’.
• It has been developed by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) at its Mathura refinery in Uttar Pradesh.
• XP-100 will be made available in phased manner across the country and in the first phase, it will be
made available in 10 cities.
• The cities are Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Agra, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Mumbai, Pune and
Ahmedabad.
Cyclonic Storm ‘Burevi’ lay centered over southwest Bay of Bengal
• The Deep Depression formed over the southeast and adjoining southwest Bay of Bengal has intensified
into a Cyclonic Storm ‘Burevi’ over southwest Bay of Bengal.
• It is about 240 km east-southeast of Trincomalee (Sri Lanka), 470 km east-southeast of Pamban (Tamil
Nadu) and 650 km nearly east-northeast of Kanniyakumari (Tamil Nadu).
• The name of Cyclone ‘Burevi’ (बरु े वि), has been contributed by the Maldives.
• This is the second cyclone formed in the southwest region of the Bay of Bengal within a week.
• Cyclone Alert have been issued for South Tamilnadu and South Kerala coasts by the India
Meteorological Department (IMD).
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UK PM Boris Johnson expected to be Chief Guest at Republic Day 2021
• India has reportedly invited UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to be the Chief Guest at Republic Day
2021.
• The invite was reportedly extended to the UK PM during his phone call with Prime Minister Narendra
Modi last week.
• PM Modi had held a phone call with Boris Johnson on November 27 to discuss issues regarding the
COVID-19 pandemic, climate change among other things.
Draft National Unmanned Aircraft Traffic Management Policy
• The draft National Unmanned Aircraft Traffic Management Policy aims to use drones to fly alongside
manned aircrafts (scheduled and non-scheduled aircrafts).
• The proposed policy comes in the backdrop of several instances shutting down of airports’ operations
soon after the sighting of drones.
• The policy aims to integrate drone operations in current Air Traffic Management System while ensuring
maintenance of high levels of aviation safety.
Skill India establishes first Centre of Excellence for Skill Development in Power Sector
Skill India has established the first Centre of Excellence for Skill Development in the Power Sector in the campus
of National Institute of Solar Energy, Gurugram Haryana.
• India's partnership with the Government of France for instituting the Centre of Excellence is a shining
example of cooperation between the countries to achieve their long-terms energy goals.
• The Centre of Excellence will focus on creating a pool of highly skilled trainers and assessors for further
training to increase employability of candidates in the field of Electricity, Automation and Solar Energy
Sectors.
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Mumbai Trans Harbour Link project likely to be completed by 2022
• Mumbai Trans Harbour Link project likely to be completed by 2022
• The project aims to facilitate decongestion of the island city by improving connectivity between island
city and the navi mumbai and development of navi-mumbai region
• Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has undertaken the implementation of
the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link Project, Connecting Sewri on Mumbai side to Chirle on Navi Mumbai
side.
Extra Shots:
Maharashtra CM: Uddhav Thackarey
Governor: Bhagat Singh Koshyari
Cyclone Burevi 'practically stationary' over Rameswaram for 30 hrs, likely to weaken in 12 hrs
• Cyclone Burevi continued to hover over the Gulf of Mannar near the Ramanathan district coast
• The depression is likely to remain in the same state over the region and weaken into a well-marked low
pressure area in 12 hrs
• Severe waterlogging in various parts of Tamil Nadu's Rameshwaram and Pondicherry witnessed
following heavy rainfall in the region
Extra Shots:
Tamil Nadu CM: Edappadi K Palanisamy
Governor: Banwarilal Purohit
“JSA II: Catch the Rain” Awareness Generation Campaign Launched by NWM & NYKS
• On December 21, 2020, National Water Mission (NWM), Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) in collaboration
with Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MoYAS) launched the
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“JSA II: Catch the Rain” Awareness Generation Campaign in New Delhi. JSA stands for Jal Shakti
Abhiyan.
Power Minister RK Singh Launches ‘Green Charcoal Hackathon’
• On December 1, 2020, Minister of State (MoS) (Independent Charge) for Power and New & Renewable
Energy, Raj Kumar Singh virtually launched ‘Green Charcoal Hackathon’ to deliberate on technology to
convert Farm Residue into Green Charcoal.
• The hackathon has been organised by Energy Efficiency Service Limited (EESL) & NVVN (NTPC
(National Thermal Power Corporation Limited) Vidyut Vyapar Nigam). The Hackathon has been
launched to reduce India’s Carbon footprint.
Newly built Majerhat Bridge in Kolkata Renamed as “Jai Hind Bridge” to Commemorate 125th Birth
Anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee inaugurated the newly-built Majerhat bridge in Kolkata on 3rd
December 2020.
• However, the bridge has been renamed as “Jai Hind” bridge to pay tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra
Bose on the occasion of his 125th birth anniversary commemoration (23 January).
• The 650-meter-long new bridge has been built in the place of an old 2-lane bridge that collapsed in
September 2018.
• The cost of developing the bridge is around Rs 311.76 crore
• The new bridge is a four lane cable stayed rail over bridge with double capacity, having a weight capacity
of 385 metric tonnes
• The bridge lies on the arterial Diamond Harbour Road, and will connect the central part of the city to the
soutwestern suburbs of Behala and beyond.
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NHPC to commission 2, 000 MW Hydropower project on Subansiri River by March 2022
• Public Sector Undertaking NHPC stated that the 2, 000-Megawatt (MW) Hydropower Project on Subansiri
River would be commissioned by March 2022.
• The project is located near North Lakhimpur on the border of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. The project
was delayed due protests by Many groups in Assam.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar holds virtual conversation with Foreign Minister of Dominican
Republic
• External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar held a virtual conversation with Roberto Alvarez, Foreign Minister
of Dominican Republic.
• They discussed expanding business, increasing capacity building and training and working on health and
digital cooperation.
Extra Shots:
Dominican Republic Capital: Santo Domingo
President: Luis Abinader
Directorate of Revenue Intelligence celebrates its 63rd Founding Day on 4 th December 2020
• Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) celebrated its 63rd Founding Day on 4th december.
• In view of the COVID-19 pandemic, this time the celebration will be done virtually in the presence of
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman along with Minister of State for Finance Anurag Thakur.
• As part of this year’s Founding Day celebrations, a panel discussion on Trade Based Money Laundering
is also being organised through video conferencing.
Ladakh LG virtually inaugurates second edition of Ladakh Literature Festival 2020
Ladakh Lieutenant Governor R K Mathur virtually inaugurated the second edition of Ladakh Literature Festival,
2020, in Leh.
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• The three Day festival will host a series of talks, importance of the region, ancient knowledge of Ladakh,
Folk music, cultural Dance, geology and wildlife of Himalayas and several interesting topics on YouTube
and Facebook streaming.
• Ladakh and its rich culture have generated a vast and reassuring interest among the literature enthusiasts
all over the world.
Nitin Gadkari inaugurates three lane 1.5 km long Koilwar bridge over Sone river in Bihar
Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the three lane 1.5 km long Koilwar bridge over
Sone river in Bihar through Video Conferencing.
• A sum of 266 crore rupees has been spent on the bridge.
• The existing two lane bridge for both rail and road traffic is 138 years old.
• The bridge is a major road for transport between Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
Extra Shots
• Capital: Patna
India’s 1st Maritime Theatre Command to get its final shape in 2021
• India’s 1st Maritime Theatre Command (MTC) will get its final shape in 2021 and its headquarters will
be set up at Karwar Naval Base, Karnataka. It will be the first new “Geographical” Theatre command to
be created as part of military restructuring plans.
PM Modi to lay foundation stone for new Parliament building on December 10
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone for the new Parliament building on
December 10, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced in New Delhi , minutes after he met the PM to
formally invite him.
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• The 64,500 sq m new building will replace the 93 years old existing parliament house and will be
constructed at an estimated cost of ₹971 crore, dubbing the proposed complex as a prime example of
“Atmanirbhar Bharat” -- a flagship initiative of the Modi government .
• The Speaker and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party-led government is hopeful to inaugurate the building
in 2022 when the India celebrates its 75th year of Independence.
Central Zoo Authority grants recognition to New Zoos at Bihar & Uttar Pradesh
• On December 7, 2020, 37th General Body meeting of Central Zoo Authority (CZA) chaired by Union
Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Prakash Javadekar granted recognition
to 2 New Zoos – Rajgir Zoo Safari in Nalanda, Bihar & Shaheed Ashfaque Ullah Khan Prani Udyaan in
Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Prakash Javadekar stated that an Investors Summit will be held in 2021 to
raise funds and take forward the Modernization agenda.
New farm Acts aim to transform agriculture sector & raise farmers’ income
• The Narendra Modi government has taken several measures with an aim to transform the
agriculture sector in the country and raise farmers’ income.
• The government has recently implemented new farm Acts in this direction which include
Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020 and the Farmers
(Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020.
• The key objective of Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion & Facilitation) Act of
2020 is to eliminate middlemen who pocketed most of the farmers’ productive incomes.
• It also aims at ending the monopoly of buyers’ cartels that fleeced farmers’ income in the
mandis.Through the path breaking historic reforms, the farmers in the country have been for the
first time, given the freedom to sell their produce wherever they co uld demand a better price.
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• The three crucial farmer-oriented and progressive legislations allow farmers to trade their
produce online. Above all, the new legislations do not change the existing system of MSP and
Mandis in any way, leaving the prerogative of choice solely on the farmers.
• Setting up of APMCs are controlled by the State Governments and the new Central legislations
only give the farmers free and viable options to market and sell their produce.
• And all this comes with an added advantage of sufficient safeguard mechanism which can be
accessed by the farmers right at the sub divisional level ensuring dispute resolution both
accessible and cost effective.
Rohingya refugees arrive at the relocation facility in Bhashan char
The government of Bangladesh sent a batch of 1642 Rohingyas to the newly developed facility at Bhashan char.
• The refugees were taken to Chattogram from Cox’s Bazar camps from where they were transported to the
Bhashan char under the supervision of the Bangladesh navy.
• Another 3500 Rohingyas will be sent to the Bhashan char this week and the relocation will be completed
within a week.
• 22 NGOs have started work at the Bhashan char to provide cooked food to the refugees. Food items have
been stored for 3 months for the refugees.
Bharti Infratel gets RoC nod for change of name to Indus Towers
Bharti Infratel has received approval from the Registrar of Companies for changing its name to Indus Towers,
following the recent merger of the two companies to create a mega tower entity.
• The company has initiated due process for final approval from stock exchanges for updating the name
change.
• The merger of Bharti Infratel and Indus Towers to create a mega tower company was completed last
month.
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• The debt-ridden Vodafone Idea had received about Rs 3,760 crore cash for its 11.15 per cent holding in
Indus Towers.
Extra Shots:
Bharti Infratel HQ: Gurgaon, Delhi
India invites CLMV countries to join the International Solar Alliance
India invited the CLMV countries of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam to join the International Solar Alliance
as well as the Resilient Supply Chain Initiative by India.
• The invitation was extended at the sixth India-CLMV Business Conclave 2020.
• During the conclave, India mentioned that it is ready to share COVID-19 vaccine with the CLMV countries.
• The CLMV countries are Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.
• The countries act as a gateway for the market access to European Union and China and also other markets
due to various trade agreements.
ADB launches $9bn Covid-19 vaccine initiative for APAC members
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched a $9-billion initiative that will offer support to its developing
member economies to procure and deliver Covid-19 vaccines.
• ADB has launched a $9-billion vaccine initiative, the Asia-Pacific Vaccine Access Facility (APVAX),
offering support to its developing members as they procure and deliver vaccines for Covid-19.
• It will support developing countries in Asia and will put in efforts to procure vaccines against deadly virus.
• The financing of vaccines by ADB will also be in close coordination with other development partners
including World Health Organisation, World Bank Group, GAVI, COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access Facility-
COVAX and bilateral and multilateral partners.
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Extra Shots:
ADB
India, ADB sign 4.21 million dollar PRF facility for preparation of infrastructure development projects
The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a 4.21 million dollar project readiness
financing (PRF) facility for the preparation of infrastructure development projects to improve urban amenities
and develop tourism infrastructure in Tripura.
• This is ADB’s first PRF facility for a state in the northeastern region of India.
• The facility will support Tripura Government's priorities of improving urban services and tourism
infrastructure that will help boost economic development.
Extra Shots:
ADB
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India, UK to Set Up Joint Task Force for Mutual Recognition of Academic Qualifications
• On December 16, 2020, During the bilateral meeting between Union Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal
‘Nishank’, Ministry of Education (MoE) and Foreign Secretary of United Kingdom (UK) Dominic Raab, in
New Delhi stated that India and the UK agreed to set up a joint task force consisting of designated
higher education organisations from both the countries to work towards mutual recognition of academic
qualifications over the next year.
Phase 8 of the Vande Bharat Mission extended till 31st December
Phase 8 of the Vande Bharat Mission has been operational since the first of November. This Phase has now been
extended until the 31st of December.
• Under this extended phase called Phase 8 Plus, 897 international flights have been scheduled to operate
from 15 countries with a capacity to repatriate an estimated 1.5 lakh people.
• In addition to this, flights operated under the bilateral air bubble arrangements with 18 countries are
progressing smoothly.
• As of today, 34.1 lakh Indians have been repatriated through different modes.
All India Radio's weekly magazine 'Sanskrit Saptahiki' airs its 25th episode
All India Radio's weekly magazine 'Sanskrit Saptahiki' aired its 25th episode.
• 'Sanskrit Saptahiki', which started on 4th of July this year, will complete 25 episodes of its telecast.
• This 20-minute Radio Sanskrit program concludes with 'Anveekshkee' under which the remarkable works
of the great personalities of the country, Birth Day and Martyrs Day are remembered throughout the
week.
Govt is Committed to strengthening science and technology education in the country
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, the government is committed to strengthen science and
technology education in the country.
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• Delivering his Keynote address at IIT 2020 Global Summit organised by PanIIT USA, Mr Modi
said, in recent times, a culture of hackathons is developing in India and in these, young minds
are giving outstanding solutions to national and global problems.
• The government has been working with various countries in South East Asia and Europe in this
area
• The aim is to ensure that youngsters get an international platform to showcase their skills and
learn from best practices globally.
Cabinet approves setting up of public WiFi networks under ‘PM-WANI’
Union Cabinet has approved Atmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana at an expenditure of Rs 1,584 crore for the current
financial year.
• An amount of Rs 20,810 crore has been approved for the entire Scheme period 2020-2023.
• Under the scheme, the government will provide subsidy for two years in respect of new employees
engaged on or after 1st October, 2020 and upto 30th June, 2021.
• The government will pay both 12 per cent employees' contribution and 12 per cent employers' contribution
that is 24 percent of wages towards EPF in respect of new employees in establishments employing upto
1,000 employees.
India to have 350mn 5G connections by 2026: “The Ericsson Mobility Report 2020”
• Sweden based networking and communication company Ericsson released a report “The Ericsson Mobility
Report 2020” which estimated India’s 5G connection to surpass 350 million, accounting 27% of all mobile
subscriptions by 2026. The report also notified India’s first 5G connection to be rolled out by 2021.
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As per ICMR directives, REME - PHI technology successfully tested: capable of combating SARS CoV-2
virus
• In the battle against the ongoing pandemic, ZECO Aircon Limited, a leading Indian manufacturer of air
management systems, in collaboration with RGF Environmental Group, a US-based environmental
design and manufacturing company, has successfully tested its REME along with PHI technology with
CCMB-CSIR laboratory, as per ICMR directives
• The technology was found capable of neutralizing active SARS-CoV-2 virus by 97.48% at 15 minutes of
activation of REME -PHI Cell on surfaces.
• The test was performed in short intervals of 15 minutes each and the same viral reduction was observed
by the laboratory for up to 60 minutes. The experiment was completed in duplicates and the values were
averaged to calculate % viral reduction.
Extra Shots
ICMR HQ: New Delhi
PM virtually inaugurates construction of Agra Metro project in UP
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the phase one of construction of the Agra metro
project via videoconferencing on 7 th dec.
• Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandi Ben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath marked their virtual
presence on the occasion.
• The Agra metro project comprises two corridors with a total length of 29.4 km and will connect major
tourist attractions like Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Sikandra with railway stations and bus stands.
• The estimated cost of the construction of the project is Rs 8,379.62 crore and it will be completed in five
years, an official stated.
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• The project will benefit Agra’s population of 26 lakh and also cater to more than 60 lakh tourists who
visit the historic city every year. It will provide an environment-friendly mass rapid transit system to
Agra.
Extra Shots:
CinemaSCOpe – India’s exclusive movie series for members of SCO Organisation
• Indian Embassy in Beijing, China has launched “CinemaSCOpe” exclusively for the members of the
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), more than a 2 dozen Indian films will be dubbed in Russian.
• Screenings will continue till India’s Chairmanship of the SCO ‘Council of Heads of State’ meeting in
2023.
• The movie series will coincide with “SCO Year of Culture” in 2021.
The ICAR Wins King Bhumibol World Soil Day Award 2020
• The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), has bagged the prestigious International King
Bhumibol World Soil Day Award conferred by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Rome.
• The announcement to this effect was made on a virtual function by the FAO on the World Soil Day 5th
December 2020 Through Video Conferencing.
• The prestigious global award was conferred to the ICAR for its commitment to raising awareness of the
importance of healthy soils.
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• The World Soil Day Award was conferred to the ICAR for last year's World Soil Day celebration, which
addressed soil erosion under the motto "Stop soil erosion, save our future".
• ICAR organised "Soil Health Awareness Week" during 1-7 December 2019 with participation of more
than 13 000 people, including scientists, government institutions, officials, students, farmers and the
general public, in the social media campaign "SOIL – Our Mother Earth" on 5 December 2019.
• Her Royal Highness, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand, will give the award to the ICAR in an
official ceremony that will take place in Bangkok in January 2021.
About ICAR
• Founded: 16 July 1929
• President : Narendra Singh Tomar
• Director : Trilochan Mohapatra
eSanjeevani telemedicine service of the Health Ministry crosses 10 lakh tele-consultations
• eSanjeevani telemedicine service of the Health Ministry crossed 10 lakh tele-consultations.
• Telemedicine entails delivery of health services from a distance using the internet and it not only extends
the reach of health services but also improves quality of health services besides saving time and money.
• The roll out of eSanjeevani is supposedly the first of its kind of digital transformation in the delivery of
health services at national scale by a developing country.
• Over 10 per cent of the users of eSanjeevani are aged 60 and above.
PM Modi to share his thoughts in 'Mann Ki Baat' programme on Dec 27
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will share his thoughts with the people in the country and abroad in the
'Mann Ki Baat' programme on All India Radio at 11 AM on 27th of this month. It will be the 19th edition
of Prime Minister's Mann ki Baat 2.0.
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• The programme will be broadcast on the entire network of AIR and Doordarshan and also on AIR News
website www.newsonair.com and newsonair Mobile App. It will also be streamed live on the YouTube
channels of AIR, DD News, PMO and Information and Broadcasting Ministry.
• AIR will broadcast the programme in regional languages immediately after the Hindi broadcast. Citizens
can share their suggestions and ideas for the upcoming Mann ki Baat programme through Namo App,
MyGov Forum or through toll free number 1800-11-7800.
Extra Shots:
Mann Ki Baat started in: 2014
No of episodes: 72 as on 27 December 2020
PM Modi to inaugurate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention on 9th of Jan'21
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention on 9th of Jan
2021 in virtual format.
• President Ram Nath Kovind will deliver the Valedictory address to the diaspora.
• The website for the 16th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2021 was inaugurated by the Minister of State for
External Affairs, V. Muraleedharan.
• Theme - Contributing to Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards will also be announced to honour eminent overseas Indians for
their contributions to various fields both in India and abroad.
Government announces CO-WIN mobile app for COVID-19 vaccine delivery
• The central government has introduced a new digital platform called CO-WIN for COVID-19 vaccine
delivery.
• There will be a new mobile app that will allow people to register for the vaccine.
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• CO-WIN app is set to be available for smartphone users and will be publicly available as soon as
possible.
• The platform will be used for recording vaccine data and will form a database of healthcare workers.
• The app will have separate modules for administrator, registration, vaccination, beneficiary
acknowledgement and reports.
ISRO to open Regional Academic Centre for Space at IIT Varanasi
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will establish a Regional Academic Centre for Space at IIT-
Varanasi to facilitate short and long term projects at the institute.
• Under this agreement, ISRO-IIT (BHU) will open the Regional Academic Center for Space (RAC-S) in the
institute.
• Short-term projects for B-Tech and M-Tech students from the institute and associate institutes will also
be included in this sequence.
Extra Shots:
ISRO:
• Headquarters: Bengaluru
• Founded: 15 August 1969
• Director: Kailasavadivoo Sivan
Health Ministry and MeitY launch Grand Challenge for strengthening COVID Vaccine Intelligence Network
Health Ministry along with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, MeitY has launched a Grand
Challenge for strengthening the COVID Vaccine Intelligence Network, CoWIN.
• CoWIN system is a digitalised platform to be used to effectively roll out and scale up the mechanism for
COVID Vaccine Distribution System, nationally.
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• The IT Minister invited innovators and startups for the grand challenge to strengthen the CoWIN platform
for roll out of COVID-19 vaccination programme across India.
Extra Shots:
MeitY Minister: Ravi Shankar Prasad
Constituency: Patna Sahib
Health Minister: Dr Harsh Vardhan
Constituency: Chandni Chowk, Delhi
PM Modi delivers keynote address at ASSOCHAM Foundation Week 2020
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the keynote address at ASSOCHAM Foundation Week 2020.
• The Prime Minister presented the ASSOCHAM Enterprise of the Century Award to Mr Ratan Tata to
receive the award on behalf of the TATA Group.
• ASSOCHAM was established in 1920 by promoter Chambers representing all regions of India.
• ASSOCHAM has emerged as the fountainhead of knowledge for Indian industry.
India contributes $1 million to WADA to support anti-doping research
India has pledged a sum of $1 million to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) towards its scientific research
budget to ensure an atmosphere of Clean Sport globally.
• This aid will allow the global agency to develop innovative anti-doping testing and detection methods.
• The money will also be used to further strengthen WADA's independent investigations and intelligence
department.
• India's contribution of $1 million is the highest among contributions made by other world governments,
including China, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
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WADA:
WADA Headquarters: Montreal, Canada
Head: Witold Banka
India-Russia annual summit postponed for 1st time in two decades due to Covid
India and Russia has been cancelled this year for the first time in two decades due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
• The two countries dismissed a report that their annual summit wasn’t held this year because of purported
differences over the Indo-Pacific and Quad.
• The Russian Embassy is in close touch with the Indian friends to work out new dates for the summit
postponed due to epidemiological reasons.
• The envoy had said Russia now expects the summit “to be held in 2021 along with other important high-
level events, including civil and defence inter-governmental commissions”.
Extra Shots:
Russia Capital: Moscow
President: Vladimir Putin
Cabinet clears Rs 3500 crore sugar export subsidy
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved a Rs 3,500 crore subsidy to export sugar.
• A farmer-friendly move through which India is set to offer sugar export subsidies for a third year in a row
to pare surplus stocks and ensure domestic prices don’t crash.
• Cabinet has taken the decision to help farmers directly by depositing money or subsidies into their
accounts.
• The subsidy will be given on 60 lakh tonnes of sugar exports at the rate of Rs 6,000 per tonne.
• Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka are among the three largest cane-producing states.
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• India is the world’s largest sugar consumer, but 90% of the country’s output goes into commercial food
products while 10% is bought by household consumers.
Extra Shots:
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs Chaired by: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
PM Modi to address International Bharati Festival 2020 On Dec 11
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the International Bharati Festival, 2020 on Dec 11 at 4:30 pm
via video conferencing.
• This year the festival is being organised in virtual mode and will see participation of several national and
international poets and artists.
• The festival is being organised by Vanavil Cultural Centre to celebrate the 138th birth anniversary of
Mahakavi Subramanya Bharati.
PM Modi to lay foundation stone of new Parliament House building On Dec 10
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of the New Parliament Building at Sansad
Marg in Parliament Complex.
• The new building is an intrinsic part of the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• It will be a landmark opportunity to build peoples’ Parliament for the first time after independence.
• The new Parliament building will match the needs and aspirations of New India in the 75th anniversary
of independence in 2022.
• The new Building is being constructed at a cost of 971 crore rupees which will house more Committee
Rooms and Political Parties offices than the existing Parliament House.
• The proposal for the New Parliament Building was made by Rajya Sabha Chairman M. Venkaiah Naidu
and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, during the proceedings of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, on 5th August
last year.
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New School Bag Policy 2020 Proposed By Union Education Ministry
• The Union Education Minister proposed a new School Bag Policy 2020 and recommends that weight of
the school bag needs to be monitored on a regular basis as per NCERT recommendation.
• As per the new School Bag Policy 2020 proposed by the Education Ministry, the maximum weight of the
school bags has been not more than 10% of the student’s weight.
• In addition to this, the new policy also proposed that students below Class 2 will not be given any
homework as per the proposal of the new policy.
• The NEP 2020 proposes that the weight of the school bag should be in the ratio of 1:10 with the body
weight and in accordance with this the New School Bag Policy caps the max weight to 10% of the
student’s weight.
About NCERT
• NCERT - National Council of Educational Research and Training
• Director - Hrushikesh Senapaty
• President - Ramesh Pokhriyal ( Minister of Education )
• Headquarters - New Delhi
Cabinet Approves PM- WANI Scheme
• The Central government's scheme is called the Prime Minister Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-
WANI) on 9th December 2020, and is being seen as an attempt by the government to elevate
wireless internet connectivity in the country.
• It aims to promote the growth of public wi-fi networks in the country.
• The scheme would enable our small shopkeepers to provide Wi-Fi service. This will boost incomes
as well as ensure our youth gets seamless internet connectivity.
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• Salient Features: This Public Wi-Fi Access Network Interface will be known as PM-WANI. PM-WANI
ecosystem will be operated by different players as described herein under:
• Public Data Office (PDO): It will establish, maintain, and operate only WANI compliant Wi-Fi Access
Points and deliver broadband services to subscribers.
• Public Data Office Aggregator (PDOA): It will be an aggregator of PDOs and perform the functions
relating to Authorization and Accounting.
• App Provider: It will develop an App to register users and discover WANI compliant Wi-Fi hotspots in
the nearby area and display the same within the App for accessing the internet service.
• Central Registry: It will maintain the details of App Providers, PDOAs, and PDOs. To begin with, the
Central Registry will be maintained by C-DoT.
Registration of PDOs, PDOAs :
• While no registration would be required for PDOs, PDOAs and App Providers will get themselves
registered with DoT through an online registration portal (SARALSANCHAR;
https://saralsanchar.gov.in) of DoT, without paying any registration fee.
• Registration shall be granted within 7 days of the application.
Cabinet approves Atmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given its approval for Atmanirbhar
Bharat Rojgar Yojana (ABRY).
• Aim: To incentivise the creation of new employment opportunities.
• ABRY will also incentivize creation of new employment opportunities under Atmanirbhar Bharat Package
3.0.
• Cabinet has approved an expenditure of Rs 1,584 crore for the current financial year and Rs 22,810 crore
for the entire Scheme period i.e. 2020-2023.
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Salient features of the Scheme are as under:
• Government of India will provide subsidy for two years in respect of new employees engaged on or after
1st October 2020 and up to 30th June 2021
• Government of India will pay both 12% employees' contribution and 12% employers' contribution i.e. 24%
of wages towards EPF in respect of new employees in establishments employing up to 1000 employees
for two years
• The Government of India will pay only employees' share of EPF contribution i.e. 12% of wages in respect
of new employees in establishments employing more than 1000 employees for two years.
Ministry of AYUSH, AIIMS to set up Department of Integrative Medicine
• The Ministry of AYUSH and AIIMS have decided to initiate work on setting up a Department of
Integrative Medicine at AIIMS.
• This was decided in a joint visit and review by Secretary, AYUSH Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha and
Director, AIIMS, New Delhi Dr. Randeep Guleria.
• CIMR receives notable support through the Centre of Excellence Scheme of the Ministry of AYUSH.
• It was decided that the Centre for Integrative Medicine and Research (CIMR) AIIMS may develop an
integrated protocol with Ayurveda and Yoga for study on Post COVID treatment.
Extra Shots:
Minister of AYUSH: Shripad Yesso Naik
Constituency: North Goa
PM inaugurates India International Science Festival 2020
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the inaugural address at the India International Science Festival (IISF)
2020 through video conferencing.
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• To promote scientific temper in society, Ministries of Science and Technology and Earth Sciences in
association with Vijnana Bharati conceptualized the IISF.
• Launched in 2015, IISF is a celebration to promote science and technology.
• The aim is to engage the public with science, celebrate the joy of science and show how Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics can provide solutions to improve lives.
• A long-term objective is to encourage students to study and work in scientific fields.
Leopard population increases by 60 per cent in the country
Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar released the Status of Leopard in India 2018 report.
• India now has 12,852 leopards.
• More than 60 per cent increase has been recorded in the leopard population over the previous estimate
which was conducted in 2014.
• The increase in Tiger, Lion and Leopards numbers over the last few years is a testimony to the
conservation efforts and of the fledgling wildlife and biodiversity of the country.
5th India Water Impact Summit begins
• The 5th India Water Impact Summit (IWIS) began on 10th December 2020 virtually. The five day
programme will conclude on 15 December 2020.
• Theme - Arth Ganga - river conservation synchronised development.
• Objective of IWIS 2020 is Comprehensive Analysis and Holistic Management of Rivers and Water Bodies.
• The conference will have comprehensive analysis and review of river rejuvenation and local river. It will
also have deliberation about Arth Ganga, i.e. how river conservation synchronised development can take
place.
• It is being organised virtually by the NMCG and the Centre for Ganga River Basin Management and
Studies (cGanga).
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• Ratan Lal Kataria, Minister of State in the Jal Shakti Ministry, inaugurated this summit.
Extra Shots:
About National Mission for Clean Ganga
• The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) is the implementation wing of National Ganga Council
which was set up in October 2016 under the River Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection and Management)
Authorities order 2016. The aim is to clean the Ganges and its tributaries in a comprehensive manner.
PM to deliver inaugural address at FICCI’s 93rd Annual General Meeting and Annual Convention
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will deliver the inaugural address at FICCI’s 93rd Annual General Meeting
and Annual Convention via video conferencing and also inaugurate the virtual FICCI Annual Expo 2020.
• FICCI's Annual Convention is being held virtually on 11th, 12th and 14th December.
• The virtual expo will provide an opportunity to exhibitors from across the globe to showcase their
products and advance their business prospects.
• The theme of this year’s Annual Convention is “Inspired India”
• The convention will witness various stakeholders deliberating on the implications of Covid-19 on the
economy, reforms being undertaken by the government and the way forward for the Indian economy.
Extra Shots:
FICCI- Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry ( FICCI )
Headquarters: New Delhi
BSE Launches e- agricultural spot market platform
• BSE (earlier known as Bombay Stock Exchange) has launched an electronic spot platform for
agricultural commodities through its subsidiary BSE Investments Ltd.
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• BSE E-Agricultural Markets Ltd (BEAM) will function as a national level, institutionalised, electronic,
transparent commodity spot trading platform in line with the Prime Minister's vision to create a single
market, BSE stated.
• Importance of BEAM : With the help of BEAM, farmers in one state will be able to reach out tomarkets
in other states and auction their produce.
• BEAM has leveraged on modern technology to offer customised solutions to farmers, traders, and
stakeholders to facilitate risk-free and hassle-free purchase and sale of various agri commodities.
Extra Shots:
About BSE :
• Located at : Mumbai, India
• Founded : 9 July 1875
• Chairman : Vikramajit Sen
• MD & CEO : Ashish Chauhan
Indian Railway Launches Hospital Management Information System
• Indian Railways has launched the Hospital Management Information System (HMIS) to provide better
health care facilities to its work force with the help of information technology.
• The HMIS Trial Project has been launched over South Central Railway.
• The HMIS has been developed by Indian Railways in coordination with RailTel Corporation Limited.
• Presently, three modules of HMIS – Registration, OPD doctor desk, and pharmacy – are being taken up
implemented.
• Objective : The objective of the HMIS is to provide a single-window of clearance of hospital
administration activity such as clinical, diagnostics, pharmacy, examinations, industrial health etc.
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Extra Shots:
About Indian Railway :
• Indian Railway Minister – Piyush Goyal
• Ministry – Ministry of Railways
• Headquarters – New Delhi
• Founded – 16 April, 1853
NITI Aayog releases a white paper Vision 2035 - Public Health Surveillance in India
• The white paper lays out India’s vision for public health surveillance through the integration of the
three-tiered public health system into Ayushman Bharat.
• It also spells out the need for expanded referral networks and enhanced labo ratory capacity.
• The white paper was released by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar, Member (Health) Dr
Vinod K Paul and CEO Amitabh Kant.
• Vision : The vision of this white paper is to make India’s public health surveillance system more
responsive and predictive to enhance preparedness for action at all levels.
• Citizen-friendly public health surveillance system will ensure individual privacy and confidentiality,
enabled with a client feedback mechanism
Extra Shots:
About NITI Aayog
• Chairperson : Narendra Modi
• Headquarters- New Delhi
• Formed – 1st January 2015
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Handicraft and GI Toys exempted from Quality Control Order
• Centre has exempted Handicraft and Geographical Indications toys from Quality Control Order. Order
will come into effect from 1st January next year.
• Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade mentioned this exemption in Toys (Quality
Control) Second Amendment Order, 2020.
• Aim : This order aims to bring forward the synergized efforts of the centre, states and the
stakeholders to promote ‘Team up for toys’ vision keeping quality standards of the indigenous toys
as the priority.
About Quality Control Order :
• Quality control order was issued by the Department for standardization and quality adherence of
Toys.
Health minister releases 5th National Family Health Survey for 17 states & 5 Uts
• Health minister Harsh Vardhan released the 5th National Family Health Survey (NFHS) which contains
detailed information on population, health and nutrition for India and its states and UTs.
• In Phase I results Show the status of 17 States and 5 UTs.
• Phase II covering the remaining 12 States and 2 UTs and is expected to be completed by May 2021.
Goal of the Survey:
• To provide essential data on health and family welfare needed by the Ministry
of Health and Family Welfare and other agencies for policy and programme purposes.
• To provide information on important emerging health and family welfare issues.
About National Family Health Survey
• The National Family Health Survey (NFHS) is a large-scale, multi-round survey conducted in a
representative sample of households throughout India.
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• The survey collected extensive information on population, health, and nutrition, with an emphasis on
women and young children.
British PM Boris Johnson to be Chief Guest at Republic Day Of India
• The United Kingdom has confirmed that Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be the chief
guest at Republic Day Parade in January 2021.
• This was confirmed by British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, on 14 December 2020.
• And also Prime Minister Boris Johnson has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to join the UK-hosted
G7 summit next year
• India will be observing 72nd Republic Day on 26 January 2021.
About British PM Boris Johnson:
• Boris Johnson is the sixth from the UK to be Republic Day chief guest.
• He will also be the first British PM since John Major in 1993 to be chief guest at the celebrations.
PM Modi Inaugurates World's Largest Renewable Energy Park Opens in Kutch
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the world's largest renewable solar and wind
energy 30,000 megawatts (MW) Ultra Mega Hybrid Park in Gujarat's Kutch.
• It will be the largest renewable energy park of its kind in the world.
• The vast project in western Gujarat's Kutch region spread over 1,80,000 acres
• The energy project in PM Modi's home state will account for a large chunk of India's ambitious target of
generating 175 GW in renewable energy by 2022 and 450 GW by 2030.
• The desalination plant will be able to process 100 million litres of water a day for 8 lakh people living in
the arid region.
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• PM Modi also laid the foundation stone for the Rs 129-crore fully automated dairy plant under the Centre's
Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana. As the then CM, Modi had set up the district's first dairy plant with 2 lakh
litre processing capacity in 2013-14.
Key features of the renewable energy park
• The park is being constructed between Khawda and Vighakhot villages near India-Pakistan border.
• The renewable park will have two dedicated zones, one each for wind energy and solar energy.
• It will be spread over 72,600 hectares of waste land, including 49,600 hectares for solar project and
23,000 hectares of land for wind power.
Extra Shots:
Gujarat Capital: Gandhinagar
Chief Minister: Vijay Rupani
Governor: Shri ACharya Dev Vrat
ISRO sets up dedicated control centre for Space Situational Awareness
• The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has set up a dedicated Space Situational Awareness
(SSA) Control Centre, at its ISTRAC campus at Peenya, Bangalore.
• The control centre was formally inaugurated by Chairman, ISRO and Secretary, Department of Space K
Sivan on December 14.
• According to ISRO, the Network for space object Tracking and Analysis (NETRA) project is initiated as a
first step towards meeting this goal, its main elements being a radar, an optical telescope facility, and a
control centre.
About SSA :
• It is Science of tracking objects (man made and natural) in orbit.
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• Only the US, Russia, and Europe have similar facilities in place to track space objects and share collision
warnings.
About NETRA :
• NETRA is to protect Indian Space Assets from space debris close approaches and collisions.
• Network for space object Tracking and Analysis (NETRA) project is initiated as a first step towards
meeting this goal, its main elements being a radar, an optical telescope facility, and a control centre.
About ISRO
• Chairman : K.Shivan
• Headquarters : Bangalore, Karnataka
Cabinet approves assistance of Rs 3,500 crore for sugarcane farmers
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi has approved
assistance of about Rs. 3,500 crore (US$ 476.10 million) for sugarcane farmers (Ganna Kisan).
• This subsidy aims at covering expenses on marketing costs including handling, upgrading and other
processing costs and costs of international and internal transport and freight charges on export of up to
60 LMT of sugar limited to Maximum Admissible Export Quota (MAEQ) allocated to sugar mills for sugar
season 2020-21.
QCI Launches Recognition Scheme for Hygiene Rating Audit Agencies
• Quality Council of India (QCI) at the behest of the FSSAI has come out with a Scheme for approval of
Hygiene Rating Audit Agencies to scale up Hygiene Rating by increasing the number of recognised
Hygiene Rating Audit Agencies in the country.
• This rating will be in the form of smileys (1 up to 5) and the certificate should be displayed prominently
in the consumer facing area.
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• Aim : To help consumers take informed decisions regarding food outlets where they prefer to eat by
encouraging businesses to improve hygiene and safety standards, the Commerce and Industry
Ministry. The recognised agency will verify compliance with food hygiene and safety procedures laid
down by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
• FSSAI's initiative of 'Food Hygiene Rating Scheme' is a certification system for food businesses
supplying food directly to consumers, either on or off premise, the ministry said in a statement.
About Quality Council of India:
• Purpose: To establish and promote quality standards across all social and economic sectors.
• Headquarters : New Delhi
About FSSAI
• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India is an autonomous body established under the Ministry of
Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
• The FSSAI has been established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• Chairperson : Rita Teaotia
• CEO : Arun Singhal
India and Bangladesh to reopen Chilahati-Haldibari rail link after nearly 55 years
• India and Bangladesh reopened the 55 years old Chilahati-Haldibari rail link between the two nations. The
inauguration took place during a virtual bilateral summit between PM Modi and PM Sheikh Hasina on
December 17, 2020.
Significance:
• The inauguration of the railway link will help in enhancing connectivity to West Bengal and Assam from
Bangladesh.
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• It will enhance the railway network accessibility and will also give a boost to the economic development
and bilateral trade in the region.
About Bangladesh:
• Bangladesh Prime Minister - Sheikh Hasina
• 1971 - the birth of Bangladesh,
• Sheikh Hasina - Longest Prime Minister For 10 years
CEA approves revised cost of Rs 6.7k cr for power transmission project
• CCEA (Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has
approved the Revised Cost Estimate (RCE) of North Eastern Region Power System Improvement Project
(NERPSIP) at an estimated cost of Rs 6,700 crore
• The central government approved the revised cost estimate of Rs 6,700 crore for North Eastern Region
Power System Improvement Project for six states to strengthen intra-state transmission and distribution
systems.
• six beneficiary the north-eastern states – Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura,
and are targeted to be commissioned by December 2021.
• The main objective of the project is the government commitment for the total economic development of
the North Eastern Region and to strengthen the intra-state transmission and distribution infrastructure
in the region.
• The scheme will also increase the per capita power consumption of these states, and contribute to the
total economic development of the region.
• The scheme was initially approved in December 2014 as a Central Sector Plan Scheme of Ministry of
Power and is being funded with the assistance of World Bank fund and by the government through the
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Budget support of the ministry on 50:50 basis (World Bank: Gol) except for the capacity building
component for Rs 89 crore, which will be entirely funded by the Centre.
British PM invites Prime Minister Modi to attend UK hosted G-7 summit next year
• British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has invited India to attend the G7 Summit next year.
• Mr Johnson has sent a letter inviting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the summit. UK Foreign Secretary
Dominic Raab called on Mr Modi and handed over the letter in New Delhi.
• Mr Johnson’s ambition to work with a group of like-minded democracies to advance shared interests
and tackle common challenges.
• This year, the G7 grouping will also reportedly witness an expansion and will include ten democracies,
naming it D10.
About G7 Summit:
• The G7 (or Group of Seven) is an organisation made up of the world's seven largest so-called advanced
economies: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States.
• The group regards itself as a community of values with freedom and human rights, democracy and the
rule of law, and prosperity and sustainable development as its key principles.
• The initial group of six first met in 1975 to exchange ideas on possible solutions to a global economic
crisis. Canada joined the following year.
About Britain :
• Britain Prime Minister - Boris Johnson
• Foreign secretary - Dominic Raab
• G7 Countries - US, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Italy and Japan.
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India and Bangladesh sign 7 MoUs, agreements
• India and Bangladesh signed seven MoUs and agreements during the virtual summit between Prime
Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
• The agreements and MoUs were signed in Dhaka by the High Commissioner of India Vikram Doraiswami
on behalf of India and officials of Bangladesh.
• The agreements include a framework of understanding in Hydrocarbon sector, framework agreement on
High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP), protocol on transborder elephant conservation,
an MoU on the supply of equipment and improvement of Garbage and solid waste disposal, MoU in the
field of agriculture, an MoU between National Museum Delhi and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
Memorial museum, Dhaka and terms of reference for India Bangladesh CEO forum.
About Bangladesh:
• Prime Minister : Sheikh Hasina
• Capital : Dhaka
• Currency : Bangladeshi taka
EAM S Jaishankar launches economic diplomacy website
• External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar launched a dedicated economic diplomacy website.
• Aim : To provide critical and relevant information on major economic indicators, central and state
government policy updates as well as the latest business news and trade data.
• The website www.indbiz.gov.in will act as a two-way funnel connecting Indian nationals' businesses and
states globally for enhancing exports, exploring employment opportunities.
• The website also includes information on global mineral resource endowments, opportunities for
agricultural exports, and employment abroad for Indian nationals and businesses, he said at the virtual
launch event.
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• It has been launched to showcase India’s economic, sectoral and state-wise trends that make for an
attractive economic partnership.
India signs one billion dollar loan agreement with NDB for Aatma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan
• The Government of India and New Development Bank signed a loan agreement for one thousand million
dollars to provide support to Aatma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan through MGNREGA Scheme.
Significance of the Scheme:
• It will support the Government in mitigating the adverse economic impact of COVID-19 pandemic and
enable economic recovery in the rural areas through Natural Resource Management (NRM) works.
• This will facilitate economic activity and employment generation to stimulate rural demand, to combat
the decline in economic activity due to outbreak of COVID-19.
• The programme proposes creation of durable rural infrastructure assets relating to NRM and generation
of employment opportunities for rural poor, especially migrant workers who have returned from urban
areas and have lost their livelihoods due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
About NDB:
• The New Development Bank (NDB), formerly referred to as the BRICS Development Bank, is a
multilateral development bank established by the BRICS states (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South
Africa)
• Headquarters : Shanghai, China
• President : Marcos Prado Troyjo
• First President : K. V. Kamath
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Rashtriya Loktantrik party announces split from NDA
Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) convenor and Nagaur MP Hanuman Beniwal announced a split from the BJP-
led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) over the Centre's new farm laws.
• Beniwal had announced a march to Delhi in support of farmers organisations holding a protest against
the contentious laws.
• Farmers from Rajasthan have been protesting in Shahjahanpur near the Rajasthan-Haryana border on the
Jaipur-Delhi highway for 14 days.
Extra Shots:
NDA- National Democratic Alliance
Defence Acquisition Council approves proposals worth Rs 27,000 crore to procure equipment from
domestic industry
• Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting, headed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved
proposals to procure equipment worth Rs 27,000 crore from the domestic industry.
• DAC approved Capital Acquisition proposals of various weapons, platforms, equipment and systems
required by the Indian Army, the Navy and Air Force at an approximate overall cost of Rs 28,000 crore.
• AIR Correspondent reports, this was the first meeting of the Council under the new regime of Defence
Acquisition Procedure 2020 and this will give a boost to the Make in India and Atma Nirbhar Bharat
initiatives of the Government.
Government Finalises GPS based Technology toll collection across India
• Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways and MSMEs Nitin Gadkari has stated that the
Government has finalised GPS-based(Global Positioning System) technology toll collection to ensure
seamless movement of vehicles across the country.
• That will ensure India becomes ‘toll booth free’ in the next two years.
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• In this, the toll amount will be deducted directly from the bank account based on the movement of
vehicles.
• And then the Government will come up with some plan to install GPS technology in old vehicles.
Extra Shots:
About MSME:
• MSME : Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
• Founded : 2007
• The Micro Small and Medium Enterprises have been defined under MSME Act, 2006. According to the Act,
MSME have been broadly classified in two categories:
1. Enterprises engaged in the manufacturing and production of goods pertaining to any industry;
2. Enterprises engaged in providing or rendering services
Nehru Zoo gets ISO certification from UK
• The Nehru Zoological Park in Hyderabad has become the first zoo in the country to receive the ISO
9001:2015 Quality Management Standards Certification from the Accreditation Services for Certification
Bodies (ASCB), UK.
• In this achievement, the Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad has also become the first zoo in the country
to get this certificate.
• This was presented to Telangana Forests Minister A. Indra Karan Reddy.
• HYM International Certifications, Accredited by ASCB(UK) recently conducted assessment of the Zoo for
ISO 9001:2015 Certifications, and expressed satisfaction and happiness in the standards being followed
in Nehru Zoological Park in the area of sanitation, food processing, animal breeding, Zoo Hospital,
animal care, hygiene maintenance and establishment.
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Extra SHots
About ASCB:
• ASCB is an international accrediting organisation that assesses and verifies Certification and Inspection
Bodies to perform their QA activities. ASCB operates in 35 countries.
New electricity rules give consumers across India the right to 24x7 supply
• Government Notifies New Electricity Rights of Consumers Rules, 2020 to give consumers the right to
24×7 supply.
• Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power and New and Renewable Energy R K Singh on 21
December 2020 stated, Power distribution companies (discoms) across the country are monopolies
whether government or private and the consumer has no alternative.
• These rules provide for rights of consumers and obligations of distribution licensees, release of new
connection and modification in existing connection, metering arrangement, billing and payment.
• The distribution licensee shall supply 24x7 power to all consumers. However, the commission may
specify lower hours of supply for some categories of consumers like agriculture.
• According to Union Power Secretary Sanjiv N Sahai, this relaxation has been allowed since pumps do
need to be run 24x7 for supplying water to fields.
Union environment Minister releases Status of Leopards in India 2018 report
• The Union environment minister Shri Prakash Javadekar released a report of the Status of Leopard in
India 2018.
• The population of leopards in India has increased by 60 percent, according to a report released by the
government.
• As per report,India now has 12,852 leopards.
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• More than 60 per cent increase in population has been recorded over the previous estimate which was
conducted in 2014.
• To the States of Madhya Pradesh (3,421), Karnataka(1783) and Maharashtra(1690) who have recorded
the highest leopard estimates.
About Leopards :
• Leopards are among the most adaptable carnivores, and are known to exist very close to human
habitations.
• This year had found four distinct sub-populations of leopards in India with high genetic variations -
leopards of the Western Ghats, the Deccan Plateau semi-arid region, the Shivalik mountains, and the
Terai region in North India.
8th North East Festival 2020 Held in Guwahati
• On Dec 19 to 20, 2020, The 8th North East Festival (NEF) was held at Radisson Blu Hotel in Guwahati,
Assam.
• This is the first time that Guwahati hosted this annual two day event.
• Due to COVID-19, this year the festival will be organized with minimum human presence and
broadcasted on all over the globe through digital platforms.
• The Inaugural Session on Development Agenda for North East will be about highlighting the positive
works done by the various Chief Ministers of the region in the presence of Union DoNER Minister, Dr.
Jitendra Singh.
• This festival mainly focuses on the Growth Agenda for North East Post COVID-19.
Extra Shots
About Assam :
• Capital : Dispur
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• Chief Minister : Sarbananda Sonowal
UP launches P2P trading platform for rooftop solar power in Lucknow
• Uttar Pradesh has become the first in India and South Asia to launch the block chain-enabled peer to
peer (P2P) trading platform for rooftop solar power producers.
• The Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) and Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy
Development Agency (UPNEDA) are hosting the first-of-its-kind pilot project involving energy generated
from solar rooftop systems installed on buildings in Lucknow.
• The Project is being implemented by Indian Smart Grid Forum (ISGF)
• This pilot project will demonstrate the feasibility of rooftop solar energy trading through smart contracts
on the blockchain platform between prosumers with their neighbouring households.
About India Smart Grid Forum (ISGF) :
• ISGF is a public private partnership initiative of Govt. of India with the mandate of accelerating smart grid
deployments across the country.
• President : Reji Kumar Pillai
About Uttar Pradesh :
• Chief Minister : Yogi Adityanath
• Governor : Anandiben Patel
Dharmendra Pradhan Dedicates Bengal's First Oil And Gas Reserve To Nation
• Union Petroleum & Natural Gas Minister, dedicated West Bengal’s first oil and gas reserve, Bengal
Basin, to the nation.
• He stated production from the petroleum reserve in Ashoknagar, about 47 km from Kolkata, has started
with the extracted oil being sent to Haldia refinery of Indian Oil Corporation (IOC).
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• The Bengal Basin is explored and owned by Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), and It is the eight
producing basin of India by ONGC.
• ONGC Limited commenced the production of crude oil from the Asokenagar-1 well, Bengal Basin in 24
Paragana district of the state on 20 December 2020.
• The first proven reserve of oil and gas in the state was discovered in 2018.
The other seven are :
• Krishna-Godavari (KG),
• Mumbai Offshore,
• Assam Shelf,
• Rajasthan,
• Cauvery,
• Assam-Arakan Fold Belt
• Cambay
About ONGC:
• Headquarters : Delhi
• CEO : Shashi Shanker
• Founded : 14 August 1956
ONGC opens 8th hydrocarbon producing basin of India
State-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) opened India’s eighth hydrocarbon producing basin when
it started oil flow from a well in the Bengal basin.
• Oil production commenced from the well Asokenagar-1 in 24 Pargana district.
• With this ONGC has discovered and put to production seven out of the eight hydrocarbon producing basins
of India, covering 83 percent of established oil and gas reserves.
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• ONGC is India’s largest oil and gas producer contributing 72 per cent of the country’s hydrocarbon
production.
• The Bengal basin is spread across nearly 1.22 lakh square kilometres, with nearly two-third of it falling
under the waters of the Bay of Bengal.
Extra Shots:
ONGC HQ: New Delhi
World heritage site Mahavihara in Bodhgaya, Bihar opens
In Bihar, the world heritage site Mahavihara in Bodhgaya has been opened as per normal schedule from 5 am to
9 pm.
• The 80-feet Buddha statue in the heritage town has also been opened for visitors.
• The monasteries were closed since March 23 due to Covid -19 pandemic.
• The Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bodh Gaya, marking the location where the
Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment.
• The site contains a descendant of the Bodhi Tree under which Buddha gained enlightenment.
Extra Shots:
• Capital: Patna
Centre and WB sign USD 500 million project to build Green National Highway Corridors
• The Centre and the World Bank signed a USD 500 million project to build safe and green national
highway corridors in Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh.
• The project will also enhance the capacity of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in
mainstreaming safety and green technologies.
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About the Project :
• The Green National Highways Corridors Project will support the Road Transport and Highways Ministry
to construct 783 kilometres of highways in various geographies by integrating safe and green technology
designs such as local and marginal materials, industrial byproducts and other bioengineering solutions.
• The project will help reduce GHG emissions in the construction and maintenance of highways.
• Dr C S Mohapatra, Additional Secretary in Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance stated
that this project will set new standards in the construction of safe motorable roads.
• The selected stretches in the States of Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Himachal
Pradesh will also help improve connectivity and promote economic development.
• The Government of India has launched many investment programmes in road infrastructure to
strengthen and improve logistics performance.
Extra Shots:
About World Bank :
• President : David Malpass
• Headquarters : Washington, D.C
• Founded : July, 1944
Govt decides to constitute High Level Committee to commemorate 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas
Chandra Bose
• Government has decided to constitute a High Level Committee to commemorate the 125th Birth
Anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
• The Committee will decide on the activities for a one year long commemoration starting 23rd January,
2021.
• The High Level Committee will be headed by Home Minister Amit Shah.
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• The Commemoration is being held as a tribute and as a mark of gratitude to the colossal contribution
Netaji made to India’s freedom struggle.
• And also this Committee will include the members of experts, historians, authors, family members of
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, as well as eminent persons associated with Azad Hind Fauj-INA.
IMD releases End of the Season Report for Southwest Monsoon 2020
• National Weather Forecasting Centre of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), has released the
End of the SeasonSouthwest Monsoon 2020 report.
Features :
• The report noted that seasonal (June-September) rainfall over the country as a whole was 109% of its
Long Period Average (LPA) in 2020. It was the third highest after 112% of LPA in 1994 and 110 % of LPA
in 2019.
• Southwest monsoon current reached the south Andaman Sea and Nicobar Islands on 17th May 2020 (5
days ahead of its normal date), but further advance was sluggish. It set in over Kerala on 1st June
coinciding with its normal date for onset over Kerala; Monsoon covered the entire country on 26th June
2020; 12 days before its normal date (8th July).
• Monsoon started withdrawing from western parts of northwest India on 28th September 2020 against
the normal date of 17th September 2020 with a delay of around 11 days. The Southwest Monsoon
withdrew from the entire country on 28th October 2020.
• During the season, one Severe Cyclonic Storm NISARGA formed during 1st to 4th June.
• This year also witnessed absence of monsoon depression during the season.
Extra Shots:
Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) :
• It Comes Under Ministry Of Earth Science
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• Founded : 1875
NITI Aayog launches india’s first indigenous digital storage platform Digiboxx
• NITI Aayog’s CEO Amitabh Kant has virtually launched India’s first digital asset management and storage
platform DigiBoxx.
• Kant also signed up for an account, making him the first user of an Indian digital file storage, sharing and
management SaaS product that provides storage options for business as well as individual users.
• The platform provides an easy and secure way to store all the files in one centralised location.
• DigiBoxx has free 2GB storage space and the file shared stays for 45 days.
Extra Shots:
NITI Aayog
• Formed: 1 January 2015
• Chairperson: Narendra Modi
Cabinet gives nod to merger of 4 Film Media Units with NFDC
• The Cabinet approved the merger of Films Division, Directorate of Film Festivals, National Film Archives
of India, and Children's Film Society, India with National Film Development Corporation.
• The Cabinet also approved revision in guidelines for providing DTH services in India.
• Under the DTH licence will be issued for 20 years in place of present 10 years.
• Guidelines have been amended to allow 100 percent FDI in DTH services.
• And also the Cabinet approved an ordinance for extending National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws
(Special Provisions) Act for another 3 years, giving protection to unauthorised colonies from punitive
action in Delhi.
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• The Cabinet also gave its nod for signing the revised Air Services Agreement between India and
Philippines. It also gave its approval for signing the revised Air Services Agreement between India and
Afghanistan.
Ministry of Environment rolls out Firefly bird diverter initiative
• The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) along with the Wildlife Conservation
Society (WCS) India has come up with a unique initiative of a firefly bird diverter for overhead power lines
in areas where Great Indian Bustard (GIB) populations are found in the wild.
• Firefly bird diverters are flaps installed on power lines. They work as reflectors for bird species like the
GIB. Birds can spot them from a distance of about 50 meters and change their path of flight to avoid
collision with power lines.
About GIB:
• GIB is one of the most critically threatened species in India, with less than 150 birds in the wild.
Adityanath Das Appointed as the next new chief Secretary of AP
• Senior IAS officer Aditya Nath Das has been appointed Chief Secretary to the Government of Andhra
Pradesh.
• Incumbent Nilam Sawhney, who is due to retire from service on December 31, has been appointed
Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister in the rank of a Cabinet Minister.
• Das, a 1987 batch IAS officer, currently the Special Chief Secretary, Water Resources and Environment,
Forest, Science and Technology departments, will take charge as the Chief Secretary after the incumbent
Sawhney retires from service.
• The order of the appointment was issued by Praveen Prakash, on 22nd December 2020.
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About Adityanath Das:
• Das worked as Collector of Warangal in 1999 in the erstwhile undivided AP.
• He worked as the Additional Commissioner of AP Bhavan in Delhi and also as the Director of North Eastern
Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS) on deputation to the
Centre.
• He also worked as Commissioner and Director Municipal Administration Department.
• He also worked as Special Chief Secretary of the School Education and Higher Education departments.
Extra Shots:
Park
PM Narendra Modi Releases Postal Stamp To Mark Centenary Celebrations Of AMU
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a special postal stamp to mark the centenary celebrations of the
Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
• This is the first time in five decades that a prime minister has attended an AMU event as the chief guest.
Prime Minister Modi attended the event via video conferencing.
• Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank also Participated in the event.
• Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank recalled the achievements of the AMU over the century and contributions of
its alumni.
• The last time a prime minister attended an event at AMU was Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1964.
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• Before him, prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru had visited the AMU four times.
About AMU :
• Located : Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh
• Founded : Sir Syed Ahmad Khan.
PM Modi to release Rs. 18,000 crore under PM-Kisan scheme to more than 9 crore farmers
• Prime Minister Modi will release Rs. 18,000 crore for the next instalment of financial benefit under the
PM-Kisan scheme to more than 9 crore farmers through video conference.
• Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar will also be present during the programme.
• Under the PM-KISAN Scheme, a financial benefit of Rs. 6,000 per year is provided to small and marginal
farmers, payable in three equal 4-monthly installments of Rs. 2,000 each.
• The fund is transferred directly to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.
Cabinet approves post matric scholarship scheme for more than four crore SC students
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has also approved Rs. 59,048 Crore post matric
scholarship scheme for more than 4 Crore Scheduled Castes students in 5 years.
• Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thawarchand Gehlot stated, the Central Government will spend
Rs. 35,534 Crore for it which is 60 percent and the balance 40 per cent will be spent by the State
Governments.
• It is estimated that 1.36 Crore such poorest students, who are currently not continuing their education
beyond 10th standard would be brought into the higher education system in the next 5 years.
India’s largest hockey stadium to be set up at Rourkela, will host 2023 World Cup Games
• Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced that India’s biggest hockey stadium will come up at
Rourkela and the 20,000-capacity facility will host matches of FIH men’s World Cup in 2023.
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• Spread over 15 acres of land, the stadium will be constructed in the Biju Patnaik University of Technology
campus in Rourkela.
• The tournament will be organised both in the capital city Bhubaneswar and Rourkela in Sundargarh
district.
• Once operational, the Rourkela city stadium would be the biggest hockey stadium in India.
Extra Shots:
About International Federation of Hockey (FIH):
• President : Narinder Batra
• Headquarters : Lausanne, Switzerland
• CEO : Thierry Weil
• Founder : Paul Leautey
• Founded: 7 Jan 1924.
About Odisha:
• Capital : Bhubaneswar
• Governor : Ganeshi Lal
• Chief Minister : Naveen Patnaik
US financial body to invest USD 54 mn in India to support critical infrastructure projects
• The US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) has announced to invest USD 54 million
in India to support the development of critical infrastructure projects in the country in the wake of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
• The DFC will invest USD 54 million in equity for the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)
in India to support the development of critical infrastructure projects.
Extra Shots:
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About NIIF:
• National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) is India’s first infrastructure specific investment fund
or a sovereign wealth fund that was set up by the Government of India in February 2015. The objective
behind creating this fund was to maximize economic impact mainly through infrastructure investment in
commercially viable projects, both Greenfield and Brownfield.
• Headquarters : Mumbai
• Founded : February 2015
• NIIF will work to mobilise capital to support economic growth and address critical development challenges
in the country.
About US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) :
• Chief Executive Officer : Adam S. Boehler
• Headquarters : Washington D.C
• Founded : 20 December 2019
• DFC is the development finance institution of the United States federal government, primarily responsible
for providing and facilitating the financing of private development projects in lower- and middle-income
countries.
India successfully test-fires medium range surface-to air missile off Odisha coast
• India successfully test-fired a medium range surface-to-air missile (MRSAM) from Odisha coast on
December 23, 2020.
• An unmanned air vehicle (UAV), ‘Banshee’, was first flown into the air, which was hit by the MRSAM.
• The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has jointly developed the missile in
collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries.
• The MRSAM has been manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Ltd.
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• The missile will significantly enhance the combat effectiveness of the defence forces.
Extra Shots:
About MRSAM:
• The Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) was developed by India's Defence Research and
Development Organization (DRDO) in collaboration with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
• The missile is designed to provide the armed forces with air defence capability against a variety of aerial
threats at medium ranges.
About DRDO:
• Founded : 1958
Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar launches DGNCC Digital Forum in New Delhi
• The Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar launched the DGNCC Digital Forum in New Delhi On December 24,
2020.
• This Digital Forum hosted on the DGNCC website, will provide a platform to National Cadet Corps cadets
all over the country to share their experiences of various NCC activities.
• This forum will help NCC cadets to share their opinions and suggestions on NCC training, Social Service
and Community Development and a host of other issues related to National Security, National Integration
and National Building.
Union Minister Thaawarchand Gehlot Launches Swachhata Abhiyan
• Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot launched a Mobile
Application Swachhata Abhiyan in the presence of Ministers of State for Social Justice and Empowerment
Shri Ram Das Athawale and Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar in New Delhi.
• It Provides the authorities concerned details of any insanitary latrine or manual scavenger.
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• This would help in rehabilitating all manual scavengers and replace insanitary with sanitary ones.
• As per the 2011 census, insanitary latrines is the main reason for manual scavenging.
FASTag to be mandatory for all vehicles in country from new year
• Road Transport & Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced that FASTag is being made mandatory
for all vehicles in the country from new year.
• FASTag will be enforced from 1st of January, 2021. Enumerating its benefits,it is useful for the commuters
as they will not need to stop at toll plazas for cash payments.
• It will also save time and fuel.
• FASTag was launched in 2016.
• The Ministry had issued a notification last month making FASTag mandatory by 1st of January 2021 in
old vehicles also sold before 1st December, 2017.
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri launches E-Sampada web portal and mobile app
• Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri launched E-Sampada, a new web portal and
mobile app on Good Governance Day.
• The new application provides a single window for all the services including allotment for over one lakh
government residential accommodations, office space allotment to government organisations in 45 office
complexes in 28 cities and booking of 1,176 holiday home rooms.
About E-Sampada Portal :
• The portal provides online facility to users across India to lodge complaints, submit documents and appear
for virtual hearing.
• This is a significant step towards promotion of e-governance to enhance transparency and accountability
in providing various estate services like allotment, retention, regularisation and no dues certificate
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• The real time information on utilisation of assets and delivery of service will facilitate optimum utilisation
of resources.
• The automated processes will minimize human intervention and will lead to greater transparency.
India’s 1st tiger reserve hot air balloon safari launched in Madhya Pradesh
• India’s first hot air balloon wildlife safari in a tiger reserve was launched in the world famous
Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve by Madhya Pradesh forest minister Vijay Shah.
• The activity will be restricted to the buffer area and people can watch tigers, leopards, Indian sloth bears
and other wild animals from a height.
• It is the first in any tiger reserve in the country.
• The service is being operated by Jaipur-based Sky Waltz.
About MP:
• Capital : Bhopal
• Chief Minister : Shivraj Singh Chouhan
MoRTH extends validity of vehicular documents till 31st March 2021
• Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has extended the validity of vehicular documents such as
driving licenses (DLs), registration certificates (RCs) and Permits till 31st of March 2021 in the light of
need to prevent the spread of Covid-19 Pandemic.
• The Ministry had earlier issued advisories on 30th March, 9th June and 24th August this year regarding
extension of validity of documents related to Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and Central Motor Vehicle Rules,
1989.
• It was advised that the validity of Fitness, Permit (all types), License, Registration or any other
concerned documents may be treated to be valid till 31st of December this year.
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• It is further advised that the validity of all of the above referred documents may be treated to be valid till
31st March 2021.
• This covers all documents whose validity has expired since 1st Feb, 2020 or would expire by 31st March
2021.
About Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways :
• Union Minister :Nitin Gadkari
• Minister of State : Mansukh Mandaviya
• Founded : July, 1942
Rajya Sabha MP RCP Singh unanimously elected as National President of JD (U)
• Rajya Sabha MP RCP Singh was unanimously elected as the national president of the Janata Dal.
• This decision was taken at the party's national executive meeting in Patna .
• The 62-year-old leader from Bihar’s Nalanda took over from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar who was re-
elected as the JD(U) president in 2019 for three years.
• Outgoing President Nitish Kumar proposed the name of RCP Singh and members of the Executive
Committee supported the proposal. Mr. Singh was holding the post of General Secretary of the party.
Home Minister Amit Shah to lay foundation stone for 7 major projects in Manipur
• On December 27, 2020, Union Home Minister Amit Shah will lay the foundation stone for seven major
projects while two other projects will be inaugurated.
• The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Dr.
Jitendra Singh will also attend the function.
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• The convention was organised by the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), which
was formed to spearhead public movement against any outcome of the Indo-Naga peace talks that
could potentially disintegrate Manipur.
• Shah will address a public gathering at Hapta Kangjeibung ground before inaugurating Thoubal
multipurpose project worth Rs 1,998.99 crores and Bishnupur-Tupul-Thoubal-Kasom Khullen road worth
Rs 475.68 crore.
• The seven major projects, including the Churachandpur Medical College estimated to cost Rs 325 crore,
IIIT worth Rs 128 crore, IT SEZ worth Rs 950 crore, and State Government Guest House worth Rs 237.49
crore, among others.
About Manipur:
• Capital : Imphal
• Governor : Najma Heptulla
Jai Ram unveils Vajpayee’s statue at Ridge
• Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur unveiled an 18 feet statue of former prime minister
Atal Bihari Vajpayee at the historic Ridge Maidan here on his 96th birth anniversary.
• The statue has been built at a cost of Rs 1.08 crore. The Ridge Maidan also houses statues of Mahatma
Gandhi and former prime minister Indira Gandhi.
• December 25 is also marked as Good Governance Day, which was established in 2014 to honour
Vajpayee by fostering awareness on accountability in government among the people.
About HP:
• Chief Minister : Jairam Thakur
• Governor : Bandaru Dattatraya
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PM Modi flags off 100th run of Kisan Rail in Maharashtra
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the 100th run of Kisan Rail in Maharashtra On December 28,
2020.
• The move is a big step toward empowering farmers of the country.
• The 100th run of the Kisan Rail was flagged off from Sangola in Maharashtra to Shalimar in West Bengal
virtually.
• Union ministers Narendra Singh Tomar and Piyush Goyal were also present at the event.
• More than 80 per cent of the small and marginal farmers of the country have got great power through
Kisan Rail, PM Modi stated.
• The first Kisan Rail train service of Indian Railways was launched on 7 August 2020, from Devlali to
Danapur, which was further extended up to Muzaffarpur.
• Kisan Rail train service will carry and transport vegetables such as cauliflower, chillies, onion, cabbage,
capsicum, drumsticks, as well as fruits such as bananas, grapes, pomegranate, custard apple, oranges,
etc.
PM Modi flags off India’s first driverless train on Delhi Metro’s Magenta Line
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the country’s first ever fully-automated driverless train service
on the Magenta Line of the Delhi Metro.
• With the commencement of these new-generation trains, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has entered
the elite league of “seven per cent of world’s Metro networks” which can operate services without
drivers, according to DMRC.
• PM also launched a fully operational National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) on the Airport Express
Line of Delhi Metro, to connect DMRC with the NCMC service.
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• NCMC, dubbed as ‘One Nation One Card’, is an inter-operable transport card that allows the holders to
also pay for their bus travel, toll taxes, parking charges, retail shopping and even withdraw money.
About National Common Mobility Card:
• Launched : 4 March 2019
• Comes Under Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
About Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs:
• Ministry Executive : Durga Shanker Mishra
• Founded : 1952
Skyroot Aerospace successfully test fire solid-fueled rocket engine
• Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad based start-up in the space sector, has successfully test-fired a solid
propulsion rocket engine named Kalam-5.
• It is the country’s first private sector company to successfully test-fire a solid propulsion rocket stage
engine.
• The company's first launch vehicle ‘Vikram-I’ is under active manufacturing and targeting launch in Dec
2021 with the help of ISRO.
• Kalam is a series of five solid-fueled rocket engines with a thrust ranging from 5kN to 1000kN (approx
100Tons).
• The remaining four motors are in various stages of manufacturing and will be tested in 2021.
About Skyroot Aerospace:
• Co-founder & CEO : Pawan Kumar Chandana
• Founded : June 12, 2018
• Headquarters : Hyderabad, Telangana
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• Co-founder & COO : Naga Bharath Daka
About ISRO:
• Director : Kailasavadivoo Sivan
• Founder : Vikram Saravhai
• Founded : 15 August 1969
Home Secretary and Secretary DoPT, A K Bhalla releases progress report of e-HRMS
• Home Secretary and Secretary DoPT, A K Bhalla released the progress report of e-HRMS (Electronic-
Human Resource Management System).
About e-HRMS:
• e-HRMS was launched by Minister for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Dr Jitendra Singh on
25th December, 2017.
• It had 25 applications of 5 modules of the system.
• It is a Standard ICT Solution for the Government Sector, addressing maximum requirements of State
Government personnel Management.
PM Modi dedicates to nation section of Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor in UP
• On December 29, 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation the ambitious New
Bhaupur-New Khurja section of Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor in Uttar Pradesh through video
conference.
• Governor of Uttar Pradesh Anandiben Patel also attended the function through video conferencing.
• The 351-kilometre New Bhaupur- New Khurja section of EDFC is built at a cost of Rs. 5,750 crore and
most of its part passes through Uttar Pradesh.
• The section will decongest the existing Kanpur-Delhi main line and will enable Indian Railways to run
faster trains.
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• The Prime Minister also inaugurated Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor’s Operation Control Centre at
Prayagraj.
• This will act as the command centre for the entire route length of the EDFC.
About UP:
• Capital : Lucknow
• Chief Minister : Barasingha
Dr Harsh Vardhan issue a report – Action Agenda
• Science and Technology Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan releases report - Action Agenda for an Atma Nirbhar
Bharat prepared by Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council, TIFAC in New Delhi.
• TIFAC’s White Paper on Focused Interventions for Make in India: post COVID -19 which was released
earlier in July this year.
• The Minister said, a roadmap should be drawn for implementing the key suggestions in the report by 15th
August, 2022 when India turns 75 years old.
National commission for welfare of scheduled caste students: Thawarchand Gehlot
• Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thawarchand Gehlot announced, the Central government is
committed for the welfare of scheduled caste students as it has made a historic change in the scholarship
available to students of this community pursuing higher education.
• He explains about the commission in a meeting which is held in Newdelhi, the government has approved
Rs. 59,048 Crore post matric scholarship scheme for over four crore SC students for the next five years.
• Mr. Gehlot said, Central Government will spend 60 per cent of the scholarship amount and remaining 40
per cent will be spent by the State governments.
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• Mr Gehlot said, it is estimated that 1.36 Crore SC students, who are currently not continuing their education
beyond 10th standards would be brought into the higher education system through this initiative.
• The Minister said the money will be released through DBT(Direct Benefit Transfer) mode into the bank
accounts of the students.
• Mr. Gehlot added that the list with the account number of the students will be sought from the state
governments.
Make sure all last mile connectivity in DFC- Shri Piyush Goyal
• Union Minister for Railways and Commerce & Industry and Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution
Shri Piyush Goyal reviews the progress of upcoming DFC.
• It may be noted that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is going to inaugurate the 351 km long ‘New
Bhaupur- New Khurja section’ of Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (EDFC) in Uttar Pradesh.
• During the event, Prime Minister will also inaugurate EDFC’s Operation Control Centre (OCC) at Prayagraj
as well.
• Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India is constructing the Western DFC, 1504 Route kilometer
and Eastern DFC, 1856 route kilometer including Sonnagar-Dankuni PPP Section.
Union Minister Harsh Vardhan launches Ocean Data Management ‘Digital Ocean’ developed by INCOIS
• Union Minister for Science and Technology Harshvardhan launched the ‘Digital Ocean’ platform on
December 29, 2020.
• It is developed by Indian National Centre for Oceanic Information Services (INCOIS).
About Digital Ocean App :
• Digital Ocean is the one stop-solution for all data related needs of a wide range of users, including
research institutions, operational agencies, strategic users, academic community, maritime industry, and
the public.
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• It can be accessed at www.do.incois.gov.in. website.
• It will play a central role in sustainable management of our oceans.
• This first of its kind platform for ocean data management has a set of applications that present
heterogeneous oceanographic data with geospatial technology.
• It will facilitate an online interactive web based environment for data integration, 3D and 4D data
visualization, data analysis to assess the evolution of oceanographic features obtained from multiple
sources like on site monitoring devices, remote sensing and model data.
About INCOIS:
• Founded : 1998
• Director : T. Srinivasa Kumar
• Headquarters : Pragathi Nagar, Hyderabad
• INCOIS provides ocean information and advisory services to various stakeholders in the country,
including Potential Fishing Zone (PFZ) advisories, Ocean State Forecast (OSF), high wave alerts,
tsunami early warnings, storm surge and oil-spill advisories, among others., using state-of-the-art
technologies and tools to get real time information on oceanographic and marine meteorological data.
• The institute has been serving as the National Argo Data Centre and Regional Argo Data Centre of the
International Argo Programme.
Centre sets up panel to work out common entrance test for UG Admission
• The UGC set up a seven-member committee , headed by Vice-Chancellor of Central University of Punjab
R P Tiwari, to consider the issue holding common entrance tests at undergraduate level only from the
next academic year in central universities to provide a single platform for admission.
• This is the first attempt, after the introduction of the new National Education Policy,
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• The new NEP, released in July this year, advocates reducing the number of entrance tests to eliminate
the need for taking coaching for these exams
• The National Testing Agency will be tasked to conduct a common aptitude test as well as specialised
common exams for different disciplines at least twice a year.
About UGC :
• Objective : It provides recognition to universities in India, and disburses funds to such recognized
universities and colleges.
• Founded : 1956
• First Executive : Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar
Union Health Minister Launched India’s first indigenous pneumonia vaccine, developed by SII
• On 28th December 2020, Harsh Vardhan, Union health minister, launched Pneumosil, India's first
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV).
• The Pneumosil’ has been developed by Serum Institute of India in collaboration with the Bill and
Melinda Gates Foundation.
• Pneumosil has been extensively evaluated in 5 randomized controlled clinical trials and has
demonstrated comparable safety and immunogenicity
• Pneumosil was found to be safe and effective in preventing Pneumonia disease during the clinical trials
and it is available at an affordable price in single dose and Multidose.
About Vaccine :
• The Vaccine Will Provide Protection against 10 Variants of pneumococcus bacteria that causes
pneumonia, meningitis, ear and blood infections in Children.
• Pneumococcal disease is the largest contributor to under-five mortality rate worldwide.
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About SII :
• Chairman : Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla
• Chief Executive Officer : Adar Poonawalla
• Founded : 1996
• Headquarters : Pune
President Ram Nath Kovind to be on a four days visit to Diu
• President Ram Nath Kovind will be on a four days visit to Diu in the UT of Dadra and Nagar Haveli &
Daman and Diu starting from December 25 to 28, 2020 .
• In this Visit, He will inaugurate the Jalandhar Circuit House in Diu.
• The President will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for various developmental projects in Diu
such as inauguration of first academic session of IIIT Vadodara-International Campus Diu, improvement
of 1.3 kilometre heritage walk-way on Diu City Wall and upgradation of fruits and vegetable market at
Fort Road.
• Mr Kovind will also inaugurate the INS Khukhri Memorial
Indian Railways launches HMIS for UMID
• The Indian Railways has launched the recently integrated Hospital Management Information System
(HMIS) and a mobile application for downloading Unique Medical Identity Card (UMID).
• The HMIS project has accordingly been launched with four modules in five units at Central Hospital,
Lallaguda and health units located at Chilkalguda, Moulali, Kacheguda and Nampally and 2 units at
Northern Railways.
• The HMIS in Railways has been developed by Indian Railways in coordination with RailTel Corporation
Limited.
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• The objective of the HMIS is to provide a single window of clearance of hospital administration activity
such as clinical, diagnostics, pharmacy, examinations and industrial health.
• A mobile application has also been launched for downloading UMID cards through mobile phone for
enhancing the integration of UMID with HMIS and also to facilitate the railway employees for
conveniently using UMID cards while accessing their health care services.
About Indian Railways :
• Chairman & CEO : Vinod Kumar Yadav
State News
Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana Participates in 7th WASH Conclave
• A 3 day virtual 7th edition of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene conclave 2020 started in Hyderabad from
Dec 2 to Dec 4.
• Theme - Hygiene Matters
• Andhra Pradesh Governor Biswa Bhusan Harichandan participated as Chief Guest of seventh WASH
Conclave organised by UNICEF and the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj
(NIRDPR).
• Target - It should be ensured to achieve the target to provide access to and use of safe and
adequate drinking water to all households within premises by 2024.”
Extra Shots:

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About UNICEF :
Headquarters - New York
Executive Director - Henrietta H. Fore
IIT Bombay Releases Urban Quality of Life Index: Mumbai Bagged the 1 st Place
• IIT-Bombay researchers have come up with an urban quality of life index tailored to the reality of life in
India.
• The first time, they have factored in gender parity
• Chennai, it turns out, is the most women-friendly and Patna the least.
• Overall, Mumbai tops the list of 14, followed closely by Delhi, Kolkata and Chennai.
• The study found that Jaipur has the highest crime rate against women, Chennai has the lowest .
Extra Shots:
Maharashtra:
• Capital: Mumbai
About IIT- Bombay
• Established in 1958
• Located in Powai, Mumbai
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Gwalior, Orchha in UNESCO world heritage cities list: MP Govt
• The historical fort cities of Gwalior and Orchha in Madhya Pradesh have been included in the list of
UNESCO's world heritage cities under its urban landscape city programme, according to the state
government.
• Under the plan UNESCO will suggest best measures and resources for the development of these
places under the Historic Urban Landscape recommendations, the official said.
Extra Shots:
About Gwalior and Orchha
• Gwalior was established in the 9th century and ruled by Gurjar Pratihar Rajvansh, Tomar, Baghel
Kachvaho and Scindias.
• Orchha is popular for its temples and palaces and was the capital of the Bundela kingdom in the
16th century.
About UNESCO
Headquarters - Paris, France
Head - Audrey Azoulay
Founded - 16 November 1945, London
Punjab agricultural scientist declines award
• Varinderpal Singh, an agricultural scientist with the Punjab agricultural University, refused to accept an
award being presented to him by a Union Minister to express his solidarity with the farmers agitating
against the Centre's farm laws.
• Dr. Singh, a principal soil chemist on the PAU in Ludhiana, Punjab, was chosen for the ‘FAI Golden
Jubilee Award for Excellence’ for finest work executed in plant vitamins.
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Extra Shots:
Odisha approves unified emergency helpline number 112
The Odisha Government approved the unified emergency helpline number 112 to provide all forms of police
assistance to people in distress.
• The consolidated helpline number would enable police to rush services to people in an efficient manner.
• The helpline number 112 subsumes the earlier segregated helpline numbers like 100,101,108 and other
for emergency services like police, fire and ambulance.
• These multiple helplines have been clubbed together into the single toll free number under a centre-
sponsored scheme that is already functional in several States.
• The 112 single Pan India helpline number had been launched by the centre in February last year to trigger
emergency response to distress calls.
Extra Shots:
G Kishan Reddy inaugurates National Centre for Divyang Empowerment in Telangana
• Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy inaugurated National Centre for Divyang
Empowerment (NCDE) at the CRPF Group Centre in Hakimpet near Hyderabad in Telangana on 10th
December 2020.
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• This is a centre to skill and re-skill the specially-abled people who suffered disability while serving the
nation.
• NCDE aims to provide the soldiers who suffered and sustained grievous injuries during operational
duties and rendered physically challenged, a chance to enhance and train them for various fields of work
including Information Technology and para-athletes.
Extra Shots:
About CRPF
Formed - 27th July 1939
Headquarters - New Delhi
Founder - Parliament of India
Telangana:
• Statehood day:2 June 2014
• Capital:Hyderabad
• Chief Minister: Kalvakuntla Chandrashekhar Rao
UP Renames Dandupur Railway Station as Maa Barahi Devi Dham
• The Government of India consented to change the name of Dandupur railway station located between
Pratapgarh and Badshahpur on the Varanasi railway section, Uttar Pradesh(UP) as “Maa Barahi Devi
Dham”.
• Following the consent of the central government Chief Minister (CM) Yogi Adityanath also approved the
name change.The official notification for the name change will be issued after the approval of the Chief
Minister.
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Lakshadweep declared first UT to become 100% organic
• The Ministry of Agriculture has declared Lakshadweep as India’s first Union Territory to become 100%
organic.
• Earlier in 2016, Sikkim was declared as the first organic farming state in India.
• The success of acquiring a certification of being 100% organic was achieved with the help of the central
government’s Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana and the financial assistance earmarked for the UT
under the scheme.
About Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana
• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana” is an elaborated component of Soil Health Management (SHM) of
major project National Mission of Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
• Launched in 2015.
• Aim : To support and Promote Organic Farming, in turn resulting in improvement of soil health.
Karnataka Assembly adopts Bill against cow slaughter
• The Karnataka Legislative Assembly passed the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of
Cattle Bill-2020.
• The Bill was moved by Animal Husbandry Minister Prabhu Chavan, which calls for a blanket ban on
cattle slaughter and stringent punishment to those indulging in these activities.
• The new act defines "cattle" as including cows, calves, bulls, bullocks, and male and female buffalos
below 13 years. "Beef" is defined as the flesh of cattle in any form.
• Slaughter of cattle as per the new Bill will be a cognisable offence and will attract three to seven years
imprisonment and a fine that shall not be less than ₹50,000 extendable to ₹5 lakh.
• The minister stated the new Bill will repeal the Karnataka Prevention of Cow Slaughter and Cattle
Preservation Act, 1964 (Karnataka Act 35 of 1964) to prohibit the slaughter of cattle and for the
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preservation of improvement of the breeds of cattle and to endeavour to organise agriculture and animal
husbandry in terms of Article 48 of the Constitution of India, by enacting a comprehensive legislation.
Extra Shots:
Karnataka Capital: Bengaluru
Cm:B.S Yediyurappa
Governor: Vajubhai Vala
GRSE Kolkata launches ‘Himgiri’, its 1st Ship of Project 17A
• Himgiri, which is the first of the three Project 17A ships being built at Garden Reach Shipbuilders
and Engineers Limited (GRSE), Kolkata was launched on December 14.
• P17A ships are the first gas turbine propulsion and largest combat platforms ever built at GRSE.
• Project 17A has upheld India’s vision for Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• Under the Project 17A program, a total of seven ships, four at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
(MDL) and three ships at GRSE are being built with enhanced stealth features, advanced
indigenous weapon and sensor fit along with several other improvements.
Extra shots:
About GRSE:
• Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd, abbreviated as GRSE, is one of India's leading shipyards,
located in Kolkata, West Bengal. It builds and repairs commercial and naval vessels.
• Presently GRSE has also started building export ships in a mission to expand its business.
• Headquarters : India
West Bengal:
Page 218 of 539

Handicrafts exhibition ‘Raag-Bhopali’ being organized from 26 to 30 Dec in Bhopal
In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Vocal for Local mantra, Madhya Pradesh government has decided to
introduce a new brand named Raag-Bhopali to give a new international identity to Bhopal's handicrafts.
• Bhopal is popular for its zari , zardozi and Jute work.
• Now this initiative is being taken to make this work available at international level.
• MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan has directed to take such initiative to make every district self-
reliant.
• An exhibition called Raag-Bhopali is also being organized from 26 to 30 December in Gauhar Mahal,
Bhopal.
• In which goods of Zari, Zardozi and Jute will be displayed in the presence of exporters of various cities
including Delhi and Mumbai.
Extra Shots:
Madhya Pradesh
• Capital: Bhopal
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Satpura NP
On 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Ministry dedicates a Museum in Kolkata
• To commemorate Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s 125th birth anniversary on 23rd January, the Union
Culture Ministry was planning a museum in Kolkata.
• The government has also decided to expand the current museum of Netaji at Red Fort in Delhi.
• Centre is considering reprinting books written by Subash Chandrs Bose, along with fellowships for
students.
• Historical documents, clippings, photos, videos, memorabilia and other material is available with the
families of Bose as well as those of INA members which would be brought together at one place for
display and dissemination.
About Union Culture Ministry:
• Minister of Culture : Prahlad Singh Patel
West Bengal
Page 220 of 539

Ladakh celebrates New Year 'Losar'
People in Ladakh region are celebrating Ladakhi New Year, Losar.
• Due to considerable Covid19 cases in Leh and strict SOPs in place, this year Losar is observed in a low
key.
• Symbolic Losar celebrations and special prayers are held at Chokanga Vihara in Leh.
• The Losar festival marks the beginning of New year in Ladakh and Tibet region and falls in December.
• Losar is Tibetan word for ‘new year’.
• It is considered to be the most important festival of the region.
Maharashtra becomes first state in India to get dedicated action plan to protect pangolins
The Maharashtra forest department is set to be the first state in India to have a dedicated action plan for
conservation of pangolins.
• Pangolins are the world’s most trafficked animal.
• Pangolins are listed in Schedule I of India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, implying the highest degree of
protection.
• In February, a study by the South China Agricultural University identified pangolins as the potential
intermediate host of the novel coronavirus (Covid-19).
Extra Shots:
Maharashtra
• Capital: Mumbai
Page 221 of 539

UP Govt launches ‘Varasat’ campaign to curb property & land-related disputes in rural areas
In Uttar Pradesh,the government has launched a special campaign 'Varasat' to curb property & land-related
disputes in rural areas.
• This is a first of its kind campaign to end the nagging land-related issues in the rural areas.
• It is aimed at eradicating the exploitation of the villagers in the name of 'Varasat' of land and property.
• 'Varasat' will not only end the long pending land disputes, but will also put a check on the land mafia who
generally target disputed lands especially in the rural areas.
• After the 'Varasaat' exercise people will get proper paper documents of their land property and could
also get loans from banks.
Extra Shots:
Uttar Pradesh
International Gita Mahotsav 2020 begins in Haryana’s Kurukshetra
• The International Gita Mahotsav 2020(17 to 25 December) commenced in Kurukshetra, Haryana. Jai
Ram Thakur, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Haryana Tourism and Education Minister Kanwar Pal,
Kurukshetra MP Nayab Singh Saini among the others inaugurated the festival.
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• The highlight of the day is when 55,000 school students will collectively recite 19 verses from the
Bhagavad Gita on the concluding day.The international festival is held every year, where about 9,000
students will be from Kurukshetra and the remain will be from the rest of 21 districts in the state.
Nagaland government totally banned use of flex banners, boards and posters
Nagaland Government has totally banned the use of flex banners, boards and posters by departments, institutions
and agencies during functions or programmes in government offices with immediate effect.
• Flex banners/ boards/ posters are made up of Poly-Vinyl-Chlorides (PVC), a plastic polymer, which is a
non-biodegradable material.
• If it is burned, it releases harmful toxins and gets bio-accumulated in the food chain of the ecosystem
causing serious hazards to human health and the environment.
• The use of eco-friendly materials such as cloth banners, lightweight textile fabrics, wrinkle resistant wrap
knit and particle boards may be encouraged to combat plastic pollution in the State.
Extra Shots:
Nagaland
• Capital: Kohima
Odisha CM launches Pareshram portal
• Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched ‘Pareshram’ Portal along with 22 online services of Labour and
Employees State Insurance Department.
• The Chief Minister hoped that the portal and the online services shall be helpful in ease of doing
business and contribute significantly to the industrial development of the state.
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Key features of ‘PAReSHRAM’ Portal
• The ‘PAReSHRAM’ portal is the foundation of the 5-T initiative and this will have all the information
regarding different labour laws, to help the industries, commercial organisations, small entrepreneurs
and the general public.
• Portal will provide 52 types of services
Extra Shots:
About Odisha :
• Capital : Bhubaneswar.
‘Ramayan Cruise Service,’ Becomes India’s 1st Luxury Cruise Service on Saryu River in
Ayodhya, UP
• The ‘Ramayan Cruise Service’ is to be launched on Saryu river (Ghagra/National Waterways-40) in
Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.
• It is India’s 1st luxury Cruise service on the Saryu river. It aims to give an attractive experience to
devotees with one-of-its-kind spiritual journeys while cruising through the famous ghats of the holy river
Saryu.
• On the basis of the theme of Ramcharitmanas, the interiors of the cruise and the boarding point is
designed.
Nitin Gadkari to inaugurate and lay foundation stone for 33 highway projects in Karnataka
• Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for 33
highway projects in Karnataka.
• The project worth 11 thousand crore rupees, has a road length of nearly 1200 kilometers.
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• Paving the way for development of Karnataka, these roads will enhance better connectivity, convenience
and economic growth in the State.
Extra Shots:
About Karnataka:
• Chief Minister : B. S. Yediyurappa
• Capital : Bangalore
• Governor : Vajubhai Vala
Rajasthan becomes 6th State to complete ease of doing business reforms
Rajasthan has become the 6th State in the country to successfully undertake “Ease of Doing Business” reform
stipulated by the Finance Ministry.
• The State has now become eligible to mobilise additional financial resources of 2 thousand 731 crore
rupees through Open Market Borrowings.
• In addition to Rajasthan five other States namely, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil
Nadu and Telangana have already achieved this feat.
• On completion of reforms facilitating ease of doing business, these six States have been granted additional
borrowing permission of 19 thousand 459 crore rupees.
• The Centre had decided in May this year to link grant of additional borrowing permissions to States who
undertake the reforms to facilitate ease of doing business.
Extra Shots:
Rajasthan
• Capital: Jaipur
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UP Govt to include history of Sikh gurus in school curriculum
The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to include the history of Sikh gurus in the school curriculum in the
state.
• Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also announced that 27th of December will be celebrated every year as
Sahibzada Diwas in all schools of state.
• 'Sahibzada Diwas', marks the martyrdom of four 'Sahibzada' of Sikh guru Guru Gobind Singh and his
mother Mata Gujri.
Extra Shots:
Uttar Pradesh
Jawhar earns tag of mini-Mahabaleshwar for cultivating strawberry
In Maharashtra, the predominantly tribal areas of Jawhar and Mokhada are known for issues such as malnutrition
among children, unemployment and illiteracy, among others.
• As part of traditional farming, the farmers have been engaged in producing Paddy and Ragi or the foxtail
millet.
• Moving away from producing these crops, the farmers have now started cultivating strawberry, which is
mainly grown in Mahabaleshwar, a famous hill station in the state.
• With cultivation of strawberry, Jawhar has earned the tag of being called as mini-Mahabaleshwar.
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ADB, India sign 50 million loan to boost West Bengal’s digital platforms for public finance reforms
• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India signed a $50 million policy-based loan
to improve financial management procedures and operational efficiencies aimed at achieving more fiscal
savings, promote informed decision making, and improve service delivery in the state of West Bengal.
• The loan builds up on past ADB policy-based programmes in 2012 and 2017, supporting the Government
of West Bengal on sustainable public financial management reforms.
• The loan is proposed to be supplemented by a $350,000 technical assistance grant for capacity building,
monitoring of IFMS reforms, and strengthening the integration of social and gender aspects in reform
areas.
Extra Shots:
West Bengal
Asian Development Bank
Page 227 of 539

ADB Approves $190 Million Loan to Upgrade Power Distribution System in Bengaluru
• The Manila-based Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a loan of $190 million (approx Rs 1,400
crore) to modernize and upgrade the power distribution system in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• The financial-assistance by ADB will be used for the Bengaluru Smart Energy Efficient Power Distribution
Project.
• The $190 million loan includes a $100 million sovereign loan and a $90 million non-sovereign guarantee
loan to Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM).
• BESCOM is one of five state-owned distribution utilities and the largest in Karnataka.
• This combination of sovereign and non-sovereign loans is being deployed by ADB in India on a pilot basis
for the first time.
Extra Shots:
Asian Development Bank
Red alert for all Rajasthan reserves, sanctuaries
The Forest department of the Rajasthan government sounded a 'Red Alert' at all reserves, sanctuaries and parks
in the state as incidents of hunting, poaching and animal traps have come to the fore.
• The order comes against the backdrop of a camera trap footage showing a Ranthambore tiger, T-108, with
a wire snare around its neck.
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• Under the 'Red Alert', all forest officials have been directed to intensify search operations and seek local
police assistance to nab hunters and criminals.
• The state has three tiger reserves, Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Sariska Tiger Reserve and Mukundra Hills
Tiger Reserve.
UP govt to launch ‘Kisan Kalyan Mission’ to double the income of farmers
Uttar Pradesh government will launch a special program to double the income of farmers.
• The program named as Kisan Kalyan Mission will cover all assembly constituencies of the state.
• Under the Kisan Kalyan mission various programs will be organised across the state.
• Exhibitions of agriculture and Associate sectors will be organised which will include the products of MSME
sector units and livelihood missions.
• Farmer meetings will also be organised in which progressive farmers, scientist and workers associated
with the Agriculture Department will explain the scientific farming and provide information about the
schemes of government.
Extra Shots:
Uttar Pradesh
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World's tallest rail bridge on Chenab in J&K likely to be completed by 2021
The world's tallest rail bridge on the Chenab in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory is expected
to be completed by next year.
• The 1,315-metre-long bridge between Bakkal and Kauri villages of Reasi is coming up at a height of 359
metres.
• The arched structure will connect Baramulla to Jammu via Udhampur, Katra and Qazigund with a travel
time of six and a half hours.
Maharashtra CM announces, Rs 25 crore to be provided for development of Dajipur Sanctuary in 1st phase
Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray announced that 25 crore rupees will be provided in the first phase
for the development of Dajipur Sanctuary, which is part of the Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary in Kolhapur district.
• The priority will be given to create tourism facilities in order to provide employment to the local youth.
• The resort at the Dajipur Sanctuary should be repaired and upgraded through Maharashtra Tourism
Development Corporation (MTDC).
• Dajipur Wildlife Sanctuary, now known as Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary, was declared as the 1st wildlife
sanctuary in Maharashtra in 1958.
Extra Shots:
Maharashtra
• Capital: Mumbai
Page 230 of 539

Maharashtra govt all set to launch 'MahaSharad' platform
Maharashtra’s Department of Social Justice is all set to launch an ambitious scheme for distribution of assistive
devices to lakhs of persons with disabilities through MahaSharad Digital Platform.
• It will be available on Play Store by March 2021.
• Maharashtra System for Health and Rehabilitation Assistance” or MahaSharad platform has been created
to provide various devices to persons with disabilities free of cost through the Commissionerate for
persons with Disability.
• Modern equipment and devices help divyang to lead life like normal individuals.
Extra Shots:
Maharashtra
• Capital: Mumbai
Maharashtra’s new bill on sexual crimes under ‘Shakti act’ to have death penalty
In a bid to curb crimes against women and children in Maharashtra, the state cabinet has approved a draft bill
called the Shakti act.
• The act has provisions for stern punishment, including the death penalty, life sentence, and hefty fines
against perpetrators.
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• The Shakti act is modelled on the lines of Andhra Pradesh’s Disha act, which was brought last year.
• The draft bill will come up for discussion and approval in both houses of the legislature.
• After getting the house nod, the bill will be sent to the central government for approval and presidential
assent.
Extra Shots:
Maharashtra
• Capital: Mumbai
Maharashtra Government introduces Unified Development Control Rules
• The government of Maharashtra’s Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR)
are expected to bolster real estate development.
• This Uniform set of Regulations will specify height of buildings to the width of roads and the size of
amenity spaces.
• The new regulation will also help developers manage their finances better.
About Maharashtra
• Chief Minister : Uddhav Thackeray
• Governor : Bhagat Singh Koshyari
Page 232 of 539

Music Festival Tansen Samaroh commences with restrictions of COVID-19 protocols in Gwalior
In Madhya Pradesh the Music Festival Tansen Samaroh commenced with restrictions of COVID-19 protocols in
Gwalior.
• The festival would conclude on December 30 at Behat village, the birthplace of the music maestro Tansen.
• The festival is held every year to pay tributes to one of the greatest musicians in Indian history of classical
music, Tansen.
• This event is the 96th edition of the Tansen music festival.
Extra Shots:
Madhya Pradesh
• Capital: Bhopal
Satpura NP
16th Tsunami anniversary observed in Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, the 16th Tsunami anniversary was observed on 26 December.
• On December 26, 2004, a massive tsunami triggered by an undersea earthquake in Indonesia struck the
South Indian coast on a Sunday morning.
• Giant waves swallowed many, with Cuddalore and Nagapattinam districts bearing the brunt, even as
thousands were killed in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
• The anniversary of the deadly Tsunami that swept away more than 8000 lives is being observed by silent
rallies, special prayers, and lighting candles.
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• The massive tsunami claimed precious lives and devastated the coastal districts of Chennai, Cuddalore,
Nagapattinam and Kanyakumari, besides leaving traumatic memories.
Extra Shots
Tamil Nadu
• National Park: Guindy NP,Gulf of Mannar Marine NP, Indira Gandhi (Annamalai) NP, Mudumalai NP,
Mukurthi NP.
Madhya Pradesh cabinet approves Dharma Swatantrya (Religious Freedom) Bill 2020
The Madhya Pradesh cabinet approved the Dharma Swatantrya (Religious Freedom) Bill 2020.
• Under the provisions of the bill, forced conversion of a woman will be punishable for a term up to 10 years
and minimum fine of Rs 50,000.
• Specific provisions are also made in the cases of religious conversion of minors, groups, or of those
belonging to scheduled castes and scheduled tribes.
• Blood relatives, including parents of victims of such religious conversion, can file complaints under the
proposed Act
Extra Shots:
Madhya Pradesh
• Capital: Bhopal
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Satpura NP
Nagaland celebrates its 58th Statehood day on 1st Dec
• Nagaland celebrates its 58th Statehood day today on 1st December.
• It became the 16th State of the Union of India on 1st December 1,963.
• The formal inauguration of the state was done by the then President Dr. S. Radhakrishnan.
Extra Shots:
Nagaland
• Capital: Kohima
‘Learning Management System’ for Government colleges launched by Karnataka CM
• Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa launched a Learning Management System based on Digital
technology for Government colleges.
• The Learning Management System, LMS will be implemented in 430 Government First Grade Colleges,
87 Polytechnics and 14 Government Engineering Colleges during this academic year.
Gujarat’s PPP project in Leopard rescue and rehabilitation
• The Gujarat forest department has transferred 12 leopards to a private rescue and Rehabilitation centre
in Jamnagar.
• These leopards were captured from the wild after they encountered conflicts with humans. The project
is first of its kind in the state.
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• Project is implemented under public private partnership between the Reliance Industries Limited and
the state government.
• The Leopards have been transferred from the Sakkar Baug Zoological Park in Junagadh to the Greens
Zoological Rescue and Rehabilitation kingdom located in Jamnagar.
Extra Shots:
Gujarat
Assam govt launched Orundoi Scheme
• The scheme is to be launched by the Assam government in 29 districts across the state. Through this
scheme, the government seeks to empower women by transferring a minimum amount of Rs.830 each
month directly to the bank accounts of the nominated female head of the household.
• More than 18 lakh beneficiaries have already been selected by the government under this scheme.
• This number is expected to reach 22 lakh after the inclusion of districts in the Bodoland Territorial Area.
• The scheme was announced during the state budget 2020-21. It is to be implemented at an annual
budget of 2400 crores of Rupees.
• According to the state government of Assam the scheme will suffice the basic requirement of Health
and nutrition of a household.
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• It will support the family to buy by 4 kg of pulses worth 200 rupees, medicines worth 400 rupees per
month, sugar for 80 Rupees and fruits and vegetables for 150 Rupees.
Extra Shots:
Assam
• Capital: Dispur
Dehing Patkai
Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat Inaugurates Suryadhar Lake in Dehradun
• Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat inaugurated the Suryadhar lake at Doiwala in
Dehradun on 29 November 2020.
• The Suryadhar lake is located at the trijunction of Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun, and has been built
at a cost of Rs 50.25 crore.
• It is 550 metres long, 28 metres wide and 10 metres deep with a capacity of 77,000 cubic metres.
Extra Shots:
Uttarakhand
Page 237 of 539

Odisha tops Urban Governance Index 2020
Odisha has topped all Indian states in urban governance, according to an annual index prepared by a non-partisan
body that called for greater reforms and empowerment of city governments.
• Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Kerala and Madhya Pradesh followed Odisha to round up the top five.
• Jharkhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Manipur scored the lowest to rank just above Nagaland.
• The National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi ranked 13th.
Extra Shots:
Odisha
Tamil Nadu govt. grants permission to hold jallikattu next year with certain restrictions
The Tamil Nadu government has granted permission to hold jallikattu, the popular bull taming sport, next year
with certain restrictions.
• Bull taming sports like jallikattu, manjuvirattu and vadamadu would be permitted with a maximum of 300
tamers.
• A maximum of 150 racers will be allowed in the traditional bull race of erudhu vidum vizha across the
State.
• The traditional events are held between January and May.
Extra Shots:
Tamil Nadu
Page 238 of 539

• National Park: Guindy NP, Gulf of Mannar Marine NP, Indira Gandhi (Annamalai) NP, Mudumalai NP,
Mukurthi NP.
UN Women and Kerala government collaborate for India's first Gender Data Hub
The Kerala government and UN Women have collaborated to establish India's first Gender Data Hub.
• A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in this regard in the presence of Kerala Chief Minister
Pinarayi Vijayan.
• The Gender Hub builds on the goals established through the International Conference on Gender Equality
held in November 2015, to collect, analyse and use more nuanced data and inform policy formulation in a
manner that centre-stage women’s rights.
• This collaboration will broaden and deepen various pioneering initiatives for gender equality and women
empowerment launched by the Social Justice Department of Kerala through The Gender Park.
Odisha tourism launches its flagship Eco-Retreat program at 5 locations
Odisha Tourism launched its flagship Eco-Retreat program at 5 locations in the State.
• The event aims at boosting tourism in the State.
• The five locations, namely Konark, Satakosia, Bhitarkanika, Daringibadi and Hirakud under the scheme
are open to the tourists till February next year.
• Under the programme, accommodation facilities and services will be provided to tourists in luxury cottages
in the identified locations.
Extra Shots:
Odisha
Page 239 of 539

Union Minister Arjun Munda e-launches first-ever Virtual Aadi Mahotsav with focus on Madhya Pradesh
• The Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda, launched the first-ever virtual edition of Aadi
Mahotsav – Madhya Pradesh on 01 December 2020.
• The 10-day long festival, will begin from December 1, 2020.
• It is being hosted on the Tribes India website – www.tribesindia.com.
• The main focus of the first virtual Aadi Mahotsav is on the tribal craft and culture of Madhya Pradesh.
• The next focus state of the programme would be Gujarat (from 11th December 2020), followed by West
Bengal from the 21st December, 2020.
Extra Shots:
Madhya Pradesh
• Capital: Bhopal
Satpura NP
Page 240 of 539

Reliance to build ‘largest zoo in world’ in Gujarat
Reliance Industries Ltd will build what it claims to be the world’s largest zoo in Gujarat’s Jamnagar.
• The zoo will house close to 100 different species of animals, birds and reptiles from India and across the
world.
• A pet project of Anant Ambani, RIL chairman Mukesh Ambani’s youngest son, the zoo will be built on
about 280 acres of land close to the company’s refinery project at Moti Khavdi near Jamnagar.
• It will be called ‘Greens Zoological, Rescue & Rehabilitation Kingdom’.
• The zoo will have sections like ‘Forest of India’, ‘Frog House’, ‘Insect Life’, ‘Dragon’s Land’, ‘Exotic Island’,
‘Wild Trail of Gujarat’ and ‘Aquatic Kingdom’.
Extra Shots:
Gujarat
BJP MP Gautam Gambhir inaugurates ‘Jan Rasoi’ canteen in East Delhi
East Delhi BJP MP Gautam Gambhir inaugurated a ‘Jan Rasoi’ canteen at Gandhi Nagar market in his
constituency to feed the needy at Rs 1 per plate.
• Five to six more such canteens will be opened in different parts of East Delhi.
• “The ‘Jan Rasoi’ will serve nutritious, hygienic food to the needy people at Rs 1 per plate.
• A total of 500 persons will be provided food each day and second serving will also be allowed.
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• The token amount of Rs 1 is meant to pay wages to those staff members who will run the kitchen.
Sandeep Kataria becomes first Indian to be appointed as global CEO of Bata
• Footwear major Bata Shoe Organization has appointed Sandeep Kataria as the new global Chief
Executive Officer (CEO) on 30 November 2020, with immediate effect.
• Kataria is the first Indian to be appointed to the global role of Bata (Headquarter-Lausanne,
Switzerland).
• He takes over from Alexis Nasard, who has stepped down after almost five years in the role.
• Before this, Kataria was the CEO of Bata India since 2017.
• Under Kataria, Bata India managed to transform into the largest footwear retailer in India within a
relatively short span.
Five-star village postal scheme launched in Uttarakhand
• The Union Minister of State for Communication Sanjay Dhotre launched five-star village postal scheme
to ensure the universal coverage of flagship postal schemes in Dehradun for rural areas of Uttarakhand.
• He also distributed Sukanya Samridhi Yojana passbooks, checkbooks, ATM Cards and saving bank
passbooks to the beneficiaries of senior citizens welfare fund schemes.
Extra Shots:
Uttarakhand
Page 242 of 539

Madhya Pradesh Aims to completely eliminate AIDS by 2030
• Madhya Pradesh did not see a significant increase in the number of HIV patients in the last two years.
• As per Union health ministry report issued this September 20, the state reported 0.59 lakh patients in
2018 and the government aims to completely eliminate AIDS by 2030
• The highest number 12 thousand 773 patients reported in Indore.
• Bhopal is at number two with more than 7 thousand patients. Jabalpur has around 6 thousand patients
while Gwalior has more than 3 thousand HIV patients.
• The highest 68 percent HIV infected people belong to the age group of 25 to 49 years.
Extra Shots:
Madhya Pradesh
• Capital: Bhopal
Satpura NP
Karnataka’s first 11.5 megawatt power plant run on municipal waste being set up at Bidadi
• In Karnataka, Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa laid the foundation stone for a 11.5 megawatt power plant
based on municipal waste in Bidadi, a town in Bengaluru.
• It is first of its kind power plant in the state being set up by the Karnataka Power Corporation Limited
(KPCL) and will help in converting 600 tonnes of municipal waste into 11.5 megawatt energy.
• This power plant will add 80.59 million units of power to the existing power grid.
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• The power plant project is being constructed at a cost of Rs. 260 crore and is likely to be operational by
2022.
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath rings bell at BSE for listing Lucknow Municipal Corporation bonds
• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath rang the bell at the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), on 2nd
December 2020, to mark the listing of bonds of Lucknow Municipal Corporation on the exchange.
• The bonds of LMC were launched on November 13, with coupon rate of 8.5 percent and had tenure of 10
years. The issuance had garnered 4.5 times subscription.
• Lucknow is the ninth city in India and first from UP, to to have raised municipal bonds for fund raising.
• It is also the first city to issue municipal bond after the launch of Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and
Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme.
• Also Lucknow Municipal Corporation is the first civic body from North India to issue bond on BSE.
• The funds raised through the bond will be invested in various infrastructure schemes, being
implemented under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) Scheme, in
Lucknow.
• Ghaziabad will be the next city of the state to issue a municipal bond and it will be followed by
Pragyaraj, Varanasi, Agra and Kanpur.
Extra Shots:
Uttar Pradesh
Page 244 of 539

UP Govt to set up India's first leather park in Kanpur
The Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government is set to establish India’s first mega leather park in Kanpur.
• The project is expected to generate around 50,000 employment opportunities and indirectly provide
livelihood to almost 1,50,000 individuals.
• The leather cluster will be built in Kanpur's Ramaipur village across 235 acres at a cost of Rs 5,850 crore.
• Moreover, the project is expected to attract further investments worth Rs 13,000 crore.
• The plan is to build a hub of leather products right from purses, jackets, shoes to other items that will be
exported to the international markets.
Extra Shots:
Uttar Pradesh
51st DG level talks between BSF India and BGB begins in Guwahati
Fifty first DG level talks between Border Security Force India and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) began in
Guwahati.
• It is for the first time that the bi-annual talks between the two Border Guarding Forces is taking place in
Assam.
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• The delegation of Border Guard Bangladesh is led by the DG BGB Maj Gen Shafeenul Islam while BSF
delegation is headed by the DG Rakesh Asthana.
• They will discuss various aspects and issues related to Border Management.
Extra Shots
Assam
• Capital: Dispur
Dehing Patkai
Assam set to get its sixth national park
• An Assam reserve forest, ravaged by militancy, is set to become the state’s sixth national park.
• The state government has proposed to upgrade the 422-sq km Ripu Reserve Forest in Kokrajhar
district.
• The area of proposed Raimona National Park lies within the Ripu Reserve Forest that has a history of
one of the best scientifically-managed forests in the country during the late 19th century.
• The area comprises the highest biodiverse floristic composition of the state wherein as many as 11
different forest types and sub-types could be classified.
Extra Shots
Assam
• Capital: Dispur
Page 246 of 539

Dehing Patkai
West Bengal Public Finance Management Investment Programme
• The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank have recently signed an agreement under
which the bank will provide 50 million USD of loan.
• It is a policy-based loan.
• The loan is to be utilised to improve financial management procedures, promote informed decision
making, improve operational efficiencies that aim at achieving more fiscal savings and improve service
delivery in the state of West Bengal.
• Basically, the funding is to be used to implement West Bengal Public Finance Management Investment
Programme.
• The programme will integrate the financial information systems of the state.
• This will help to improve delivery of public services and generate physical savings. Ultimately the
integration will help the state to augment its finances.
• The programme will provide support to interoperable government platforms.
Andhra Pradesh passes bill banning online games
• The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on December 1, 2020 passed the AP Gaming (Amendment)
Bill 2020 through voice vote, banning online gaming in the state.
• the bill was brought in after some youngsters in the state committed suicide after being pushed into
debts by playing online games.
• The state's Home Minister M Sucharita informed that the AP Gaming Act, 1974 was being amended to
bring online gaming into its purview.
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Ninth edition of International Sand Art Festival & Konark Festival 2020 begins in Odisha
• The 9th edition of the International Sand Art Festival and the 31st edition of the Konark Festival, has
kicked-off in Odisha. The five days event has been organised from 01 December 2020 till 05 December
2020.
• International Sand Art Festival is being held at the Chandrabhaga Beach of Konark in Puri district of
Odisha.
• About 70 artists from across the country are taking part in the festival.
• The world-renowned sand artist and Padmashree Awardee, Sudarsan Pattnaik, has been appointed as
Chief Curator of the festival.
Swasthya Sathi Scheme of West Bengal
• Swasthya Sathi scheme is a health insurance scheme of the West Bengal government.
• It was launched in 2016 and it has now been expanded to cover the state’s entire population. It provides
basic health cover for secondary and tertiary care up to 5 lakh INR per annum per family.
• Both state-run and private hospitals are part of the scheme.
• The card under the scheme is issued to the female guardians of the families.
• Every citizen and every family in the state are to be included in the scheme irrespective of their age
group.
• The scheme is to be completely funded by the state government of West Bengal.
• The scheme will provide a smart card to each and every family of the state to avail the benefits under
the scheme.
• The Smart Cards are to be issued in the names of the women members of the family.
Page 248 of 539

West Bengal Public Finance Management Investment Programme
• The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank have recently signed an agreement under
which the bank will provide 50 million USD of loan.
• It is a policy-based loan.
• The loan is to be utilised to improve financial management procedures, promote informed decision
making, improve operational efficiencies that aim at achieving more fiscal savings and improve service
delivery in the state of West Bengal. Basically, the funding is to be used to implement West Bengal
Public Finance Management Investment Programme.
Karnataka govt to bring bills against 'love jihad', cow slaughter
• Karnataka government is in process of bringing bills against "love jihad and cow slaughter.
• Many states have already brought in the bills.
• Karnataka are also in the process of bringing bills against 'love jihad' and to impose a ban on cow
slaughter.
• The issue of "love jihad" has been on the boil after the death of a 21-year-old college student\ who was
shot point-blank outside her college allegedly by a stalker and his friend in Ballabgarh in October.
Extra Shots
Karnataka CM: B.SYediyurappa
Governor: Vajubhai Vala
Two weeks after getting first Covaxin trial shot in Haryana, Anil Vij tests positive for COVID-19
• Anil Vij had volunteered to participate in the Covaxin vaccine’s human phase trials, in which over 25,000
persons were administered trial doses.
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• On November 20, Vij was the first in Haryana to participate in Covaxin’s trials. Besides Vij, over 400
persons from Haryana, including Rohtak PGIMS’ Vice Chancellor Dr. OP Kalra, too participated in the
third phase human trials and took the vaccine shot.
• A team of Rohtak Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences had administered the vaccine to Vij at
Ambala Cantonment’s civil hospital
• He was stated to be the first cabinet minister of any state government who has volunteered to take
the trial dose of a potential vaccine against COVID-19.
Extra Shots:
Haryana
• Statehood day: 1 November 1966
• Chief Minister: Manohar Lal Khattar
Dharma Swatantrya Bill is MP's beti bachao abhiyan: CM Chouhan
• Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said Dharma Swatantrya (Religious Freedom)
Bill 2020 (the bill against love jihad) is the state's Beti Bachao Abhiyan.
• It is easy to mislead young girls with malicious intent.Later, their life becomes hell.
• Dharma Swatantrya (Religious Freedom) Bill 2020 is our beti bachao abhiyan.
• The Bill will ensure that no religious conversion is carried out forcefully, or by tempting someone or
through marriage.
• Religious conversion after hiding one's own religion will attract 3-10 years of imprisonment and a
minimum Rs 50,000 fine. Mass religious conversion (2 or more people) will attract 5-10 years of
imprisonment and a minimum fine of Rs 1 Lakh.
Page 250 of 539

Extra Shots
Madhya Pradesh CM: Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Governor: Anandiben Patel
Mumbai:'Swarnim Vijay Varsh' celebrations inaugurated on Navy Day
• Every year, India celebrates December 4 as Navy Day to commemorate Operation Trident – a key
offensive during the 1971 India-Pakistan War, when the Indian Navy inflicted heavy damage on Pakistani
vessels in Karachi harbour. The same day also marks the end of Navy Week, which, too, is celebrated
annually.
• The Navy plans to celebrate 2021 as ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh’ as part of commemorating the 50th
anniversary of the victory in the 1971 War.
• On December 4, under Operation Trident, the Indian Navy sank three vessels near the Pakistani port city
of Karachi. The stars of the mission were the then-recently acquired Soviet Osa missile boats, fitted
with 4 SS-N-2 (P-15) Styx missiles.
Jharkhand joins ‘Option 1’ to bridge GST Compensation Shortfall; Now all 28 States and 3 Union
Territories with legislature on board to go for Option-1
• Jharkhand has become the latest state to go for Option-1 to meet the revenue shortfall arising out
of the GST implementation.
• Jharkhand will get 1,689 crore rupees through a special borrowing window to meet the GST
implementation shortfall.
• Permission to raise additional 1,765 crore rupees through borrowings has also been issued to
Jharkhand. With this, all the 28 States and three Union Territories with legislature have decided
to go for Option-1
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• Under the terms of Option-1, states and Union territories will get the facility of a special window
for borrowings to meet the shortfall arising out of GST implementation and a re entitled to get
unconditional permission to borrow the final instalment of 0.50 percent of Gross State Domestic
Product (GSDP) out of the 2 percent additional borrowings permitted by the government under
Aatmanirbhar Abhiyaan in May this year.
Extra shots:
Jharkhand CM: Hemant SOren
Governor: Draupadi Murmu
SIDBI inks MoU with Assam government to develop MSME ecosystem
• Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU)
with the Assam government to develop the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) ecosystem in
the State.
• The MoU was signed by the commissioner and secretary of industries and commerce department, K K
Dwivedi and SIDBI general manager RK Singh in the presence of minister Chandra Mohan Patowary.
• As per the MoU, a Project Management Unit will be set up by SIDBI in Assam.
• The PMU will support the state government in making necessary interventions for enhancing efficacy of
MSMEs in the state.
About SIDBI:
• Headquarters : Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
• Founded : 2nd April, 1990
• Deputy Managing Director : Manoj Mittai
Page 252 of 539

UN Women signs pact with Kerala govt's Gender Park
• On December 21, 2020 UN Women, the United Nations entity working for the empowerment of women,
entered into an agreement with the Kerala government's Gender Park that has been initiating gender
equality activities.
• UN Women will be offering project development and capacity building for the Gender Park for the
empowerment of women in South Asia.
• Gender Park will be developed into a South Asia hub for gender-related activities.
• A Gender Data Centre at Kozhikode campus is one of the highlights of the tie-up with UN Women.
• UN Women Deputy Country Representative Nishtha Satyam and Gender Park Chief Executive Officer P
T M Sunish signed the MoU in the presence of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Health and
Social Justice Minister K K Shailaja.
• Satyam lauded various women empowerment initiatives of Kerala like She Taxi, jobs for transgender
persons and stress management amid the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.
About Gender Park :
• Gender Park, an initiative of the Department of women and child development, Government of Kerala
was established in 2013.
• It is the first space of its kind in the world.
• Headquarters : Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
• Chairperson : K K Shailaja, Minister for health, Social Justice and Women & Child Development.
Kerala
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MPEDA launches India’s first aquaframers call centre
• The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), headquartered in Kochi, has launched a
multilingual call centre for aquafarmers at Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh.
• MPEDA will address their technical issues and impart knowledge about efficient farming methods.
• The call centre can also handle calls in English and Hindi.
• The call centre primarily caters to aqua farmers of Andhra Pradesh, the state that contributes more than
60 percent of the country’s marine products export basket.
About MPEDA :
• Headquarters : Kochi, Kerala
• Director : Karthikeyan
• Chairman : K S Srinivas
Haryana Government Signs MoU with India Accelerator to build Startup Ecosystem
• Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communication and Government of Haryana has
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India Accelerator (IA) to build a strong startup
ecosystem in Haryana.
• India Accelerator will provide support to the startups through Knowledge sharing & free of cost services
to high potential startups.
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• The MoU will help in bridging the gap between Industry & Startups.
About DITECH :
• Special Secretary : Rajnarayan Kaushi
• Chief Technology Officer : Nitin Bansal
About Haryana :
• Capital : Chandigarh
• Governor : Satyadev Narayan Arya
• Chief Minister : Manohar Lal Khattar
Government of Karnataka Inaugurated 1st Fruits Portal
• On 22 December 2022 , the FRUITS (Farmer Registration and Unified Beneficiary Information System)
Portal, a project of e-Governance, Government of Karnataka was inaugurated with BHOOMI Package of
Karnataka state to fetch and validate land details.
• Canara Bank also will take the project on a pilot basis.
• It is the first kind of technology adopted by the government of Karnataka, to combine 70 lakh farmers with
land and other details under a single platform.
About Canara Bank
• Founded : July 1906
• Founder : Shri Ammembal Subba Rao Pai
• Headquarters : Bangalore
• MD & CEO : L.V Prabhakar
Himachal Pradesh government to frame integrated Drug Prevention Policy
• The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to frame an integrated Drug Prevention Policy including
Drug Prevention, Treatment, Management and Rehabilitation Programme.
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• This integrated Drug Prevention Policy mainly for better coordination between the Police, Media and the
Nasha Nivaran Board is vital for curbing the menace of drug abuse in the State.
• The state government has decided to introduce a chapter on ill-effects of drug abuse in the syllabus of
government schools to sensitize the students.
• And also the State Government has decided to open six drug de-addiction centers in the State
India adds Tso Kar Wetland Complex in Ladakh as its 42nd Ramsar site
• India has added Tso Kar Wetland Complex in Ladakh as its 42nd Ramsar site, which is a second one in
the Union Territory of Ladakh.
• Aim : The aim of the Ramsar list is to develop and maintain an international network of wetlands which
are important for the conservation of global biological diversity and for sustaining human life through the
maintenance of their ecosystem components, processes and benefits.
• Tso Kar Basin : High-altitude wetland complex, consisting of two principal waterbodies, Startsapuk Tso,
a freshwater lake of about 438 hectares to the south, and Tso Kar itself, a hypersaline lake of 1800
hectares to the north, situated in the Changthang region of Ladakh.
About Ramsar Convention :
• Secretary General : Martha Rojas Urrego
• Secretariat : Gland, Switzerland
Odisha launches career portal for students in collaboration with UNICEF
• The Department of School and Mass Education, Government of Odisha in collaboration with UNICEF has
launched a career portal for Secondary and Higher Secondary students to help them with expert advice
on their future careers.
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• Samir Ranjan Dash, Odisha’s School and Mass Education Launched the Odisha Career Portal on 24th
December 2020.
• The portal can be accessed through the website www.odishacareerportal.com with the student login ID
and password.
• The portal will provide easy access to information on different careers and will give students an
opportunity to interact with teachers. Students will also be able to access career guidance services
through a mobile friendly app created specifically for the portal.
About Department of School and mass Education :
• Principal secretary : Satyabrata Sahu
• Minister : Samir Ranjan Dash
About Odisha :
About UNICEF :
• Headquarters : New York
• Head : Henrietta H.Fore
Amarinder Singh Launches Digital ‘PR Insight’ Mobile App And Web Portal Platform
• Punjab, Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh launched Mobile Application and web portal ‘PR Insight’
to monitor the feedback and subsequently improve the delivery of citizen centric services to ensure
responsive and transparent administration in the State.
• It has been developed by the Directorate of Information & Public Relations Department, Punjab.
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• It is mainly for the application to restructure the existing schemes & Programmes after analyzing the
feedback received from people.
• As many as 31 leading Newspaper agencies/portals have been integrated online with PR Insight
application & portal and all the State Departments’ news articles are fetched from these newspaper
agencies on a real time basis.
• The app will help the Government in identifying best practices from positively perceived programmes.
About Punjab :
• Governor : V.P. Singh Badnore
• Chief Minister : Amarinder Singh
Gujarat: State to host India’s first Lithium refinery
• India’s first Lithium refinery which will process Lithium ore to produce battery-grade material will be set
up in Gujarat.
• Manikaran Power Limited, one of the country’s largest power trading and renewable energy companies
will be investing over Rs 1,000 crore to set up this refinery.
• The company will be importing Lithium ore from Australia and will be processing in Gujarat.
• Last year, Manikaran Power had collaborated with Australian firm Neometals to tap the Mount Marion
Lithium mine in Western Australia.
• The proposed project is expected to help Gujarat secure the raw material supply for domestic
manufacturing of Lithium batteries as it looks to promote electric vehicles.
Page 258 of 539

PM Modi to inaugurate New Bhaupur-New Khurja section of EDFC
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the New Bhaupur-New Khurja section of Eastern
Dedicated Freight Corridor, EDFC through video conferencing.
• The 351-kilometre New Bhaupur- New Khurja section of EDFC is situated in Uttar Pradesh and is built
at a cost of Rs. 5,750 crore.
• The section will open new vistas of opportunity for the local industries such as aluminium industry in
Kanpur Dehat district, dairy sector in Auraiya, textile production in Etawah, glassware industry in
Firozabad and locks and hardware in Aligarh district.
• The section will also decongest the existing Kanpur-Delhi main line and will enable Indian Railways to
run faster trains.
• The Prime Minister will also inaugurate EDFC’s Operation Control Centre (OCC) at Prayagraj, This will
act as the command centre for the entire route length of the EDFC.
• The Centre is one of the largest structures of its type globally, with modern interiors, ergonomic design
and best-in-class acoustics.
About EDFC :
• The EDFC (1,856 kms) starts from Sahnewal near Ludhiana in Punjab and will pass through the states
of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand to terminate at Dankuni in West Bengal.
• It is being constructed by the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL), that
has been set up as a special purpose vehicle to build and operate dedicated freight corridors.
• The DFCCIL is also constructing the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (1,504 route km) that connects
Dadri in Uttar Pradesh to the Jawaharlal Nehru Port in Mumbai and will traverse through the states of
Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Maharashtra,
Page 259 of 539

Madhya Pradesh cabinet approves Dharma Swatantrya (Religious Freedom) Bill 2020
• The Madhya Pradesh cabinet approved the Dharma Swatantrya (Religious Freedom) Bill 2020 .
• Under the provisions of the bill, forced conversion of a woman will be punishable for a term up to 10
years and minimum fine of Rs 50,000.
• Specific provisions are also made in the cases of religious conversion of minors, groups, or of those
belonging to scheduled castes and scheduled tribes.
• Blood relatives, including parents of victims of such religious conversion, can file complaints under the
proposed Act.
Indian Institute of Skill invites applications for its first batch
• The first batch of training at the Tata-Indian Institute of Skills, Mumbai was launched to provide an
impetus to Skill India programme through private sector participation.
• The institute is a joint initiative between the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
(MSDE), Government of India and Tata-Indian Institute of Skills (Tata-IIS).
• A formal agreement for setting up the institute has been signed between MSDE and Tata-IIS on
November 11, 2020.
• The institute will also offer scholarships to the first 100 students along with attractive fee options during
this initial launch phase.
About Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) :
• Minister : Mahendra Nath Pandey
• Founder : GoI
• Founded : 9 November 2014
Page 260 of 539

Amit Shah lays foundation stone of medical college, law colleges in Assam
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation stone of a medical college and nine law institutes,
besides launching two other projects in Assam.
• The Union home minister laid the foundation stone of Guwahati's second medical college and hospital
which will be set up by amalgamating the Mahendra Mohan Choudhury Hospital and the Lokpriya
Gopinath Bordoloi Chest Hospital at an estimated amount of Rs 755 crore.
The Nine law colleges to be set up at
• Diphu,
• Silchar,
• Dhubri,
• Dibrugarh,
• North Lakhimpur,
• Jorhat,
• Nalbari,
• Rangia and Raha.
• Under Asom Darshan '' scheme the Union Minister distributed financial grants to 8000 Namghars
(Traditional Vaisnative monasteries of Assam ).
About Namghars :
• Namghars literally Prayer House are places for congregational worship associated with the entire
Assamese community and the Ekasarana sect of Hinduism.
About Assam :
• Chief Minister : sarbananda Sonowal
Page 261 of 539

Kerala’s 21-yr-old Arya Rajendran elected as Thiruvananthapuram Mayor
• Arya Rajendran, the 21-year-old college student, has been elected as the new mayor of
Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation, of Kerala.
• The Communist Party of India (CPI) Marxist leader, Arya is the youngest person in India to occupy the
post of mayor anywhere in the country.
• She won 54 votes out of 99 votes cast in the civic body polls in Kerala.
• Arya is also the state president of Balasangam, the children’s wing of the CPI(M).
• Arya is a second-year student of Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Mathematics at the All Saints College
About Kerala :
• Chief Minister : Pinarayi Vijayan
• Capital : Thiruvananthapuram
Rajasthan CM inaugurates India’s first “Organ donor Memorial”
• On 27th November, 2020 in the occasion of 11th National Organ Donation Day celebration at Jaipur,
Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot inaugurated virtually the first of its kind “Organ Donor Memorial” in the
country.
• The organ donor memorial has been built near SMS Hospital by the Mohan Foundation Jaipur
Citizens Forum and the Jaipur Municipal Corporation.
Ladakh UT to get its own Meteorological Centre
• On December 29, 2020, Union Earth Sciences Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, will virtually inaugurate the
newly established Indian Meteorological Department for Ladakh.
• The IMD will have four Automatic Weather Stations (AWS) operating in Leh, Kargil, Drass and Stakna.
• It will Provide :
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• Real time weather information from these stations will be available online for every fifteen minutes and
hourly basis through the IMD website.
• The new Met centre will provide all information relating to weather and climate for the entire Ladakh
region including far-off places like Changthag, Nubra, Zanskar, Zojila and Drass.
About Ladak :
• Governor : RK Mathur
• Capital : Leh
Gujarat govt announces its new Solar Power Policy-2021
• The Gujarat government announced a new solar power policy comprising provisions to encourage small
and medium scale solar projects on residential, commercial and industrial premises.
• Under the new policy, the state government has scrapped the condition that the installed capacity of a
solar project needs to be 50 per cent of the sanction load or contract demand.
• Now, an individual or industry can produce solar power in their premises as per their requirements and
without any limit on the capacity, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said, while unveiling the "Gujarat Solar Power
Policy 2021".
• According to the policy, the power consumers will be able to set up solar projects on their rooftop or vacant
place.
• They can also offer their space to third party for power generation and utilization.
• This policy will bring down power cost to industry from Rs. 8 per unit to around Rs. 4.50.
• It will reduce the production cost, which will help the state manufacturers to be globally competitive.
• Security deposit given to power companies has been cut from Rs. 25 lakh per MW to Rs. 5 lakh per MW.
New solar power policy will remain effective for the next five years.
About Gujarat:
Page 263 of 539

• Capital : Gandhinagar
PM Modi lay foundation stone of AIIMS at Rajkot, Gujarat
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of AIIMS at Rajkot, Gujarat through video
conferencing on Dec 31.
• For the project, 201 acres of land has been allotted.
• It will be built at an estimated cost Rs. 1195 crores, and is expected to be completed by mid of 2022.
• The state-of-the-art 750 bed hospital will also have a 30 bed AAYUSH block.
• It will have 125 MBBS seats and 60 nursing seats.
Odisha Govt school students to get quota for admission into medical & engineering colleges
• Students who studied in government schools in Odisha will now get the quota in admission into MBBS and
BTECH in colleges of the state.
• A decision to this effect was taken by the state cabinet.
• According to the decision, a high level committee under the chairmanship of a retired judge of the Odisha
High Court will be constituted to establish the modalities to implement the policy.
• The decision is consequent upon the realisation by the government that even meritorious students from
government schools are not adequately represented in the medical and engineering colleges of the state.
• The government felt that these students, particularly those of rural hinterland, fail to prove their talent in
All India Entrance Tests like JEE and NEET, for lack of exposure to specialised coaching due to both
geographical and economic constraints.
• The decision is an effort towards addressing such unequal competition thereby instilling a sense of self-
confidence in such deserving students to realise their dream of becoming a doctor or an engineer.
Page 264 of 539

About Odisha
• Capital: Bhubaneshwar
• Chief Minister: Naveen Ptnaik
Karnataka govt setup new building of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute in PPP mode
• Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa inaugurated the new building of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute
of Medical Sciences and Research Centre in Bengaluru.
• The 13 storey tall building will house 13 departments of medicine and a research centre for the medical
college students.
• The state health and medical education minister Dr. K Sudhakar informed that the Government is planning
to establish medical colleges in PPP mode.
• The minister said that the Gujarat model will be adopted to set up medical colleges with private
participation to reduce the financial burden on the government.
• Saying that the Central Government has a vision to set up 22 AIIMS across the country.
• Dr. Sudhakar said that efforts are on to get one for the state of Karnataka.
• He also added that a new health and medical education policy will be introduced in the state based on the
national health policy introduced in 2017.
About Karnataka
• Capital : Bengaluru
• Chief Minister :B S Yediyurappa
Page 265 of 539

21st edition of Hornbill festival 2020 celebrated virtually First time in Nagaland
• On 1st December, 2020 Nagaland started celebrating the 21st edition of Hornbill festival 2020 from 1st-
5th of December organised virtually for the first time due to the pandemic.
• Hornbill festival known as “Festival of Festivals” is organised by the state tourism of arts and culture
department of Nagaland at the Naga Heritage Village of Kisama, Kohima.It is a 10-day event.
January 2021 – National & State Current Affairs
National News
Government Extends Income Tax Returns Filing Date To January 10
• The government extended the deadline to file income tax return (ITR) for individuals by 10 days to
January 10, 2021.
• Prior to that the deadline was December 31, 2020
• This is the third time that the government has extended the deadline to file ITR first from the normal
deadline of July 31 to November 30, 2020, and then to December 31, 2020.
• The last date for filing ITR has been extended for those taxpayers whose filings using ITR-1 and ITR-4
forms are not required to be audited.
About Income Tax :
• Founded : 1860
• Responsible Minister : Nirmala Sitharaman
Government extends deadline for FASTag till February 15, 2021
• The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has extended the deadline for FASTags for all vehicles
in India till February 15, 2021.
• Earlier, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had announced to completely do away with
cash transactions for paying toll charges from January 1.
• The new deadline for FASTags to be made mandatory to cross a toll plaza has been set on February 15,
2021.
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• The compulsory use of FASTags will help vehicles pass through the toll plazas swiftly, preventing long
queues.
About FASTag :
• A FASTag is an electronic toll collection system in India, operated by National Highways Authority of
India (NHAI).
• It was launched in 2016 for all four-wheelers and uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology
for toll collection.
• It has now become mandatory for M and N class four-wheelers sold before December 1, 2017, under the
Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
• FASTag is a simple to use, reloadable tag which enables automatic deduction of toll charges and lets you
pass through the toll plaza without stopping for the cash transaction.
• FASTag is linked to a prepaid account from which the applicable toll amount is deducted.
• The tag employs Radio-frequency Identification (RFID) technology and is affixed on the vehicle's
windscreen after the tag account is active.
Union Cabinet approves Multi-Modal Logistics Hub & Multi-Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) at Greater Noida
• The government approved a multi-modal logistics and transport hub (MMTH) at Greater Noida in Uttar
Pradesh.
• For a view to making India a strong player in the global value chain. The Union Cabinet also approved a
proposal to set up industrial corridor nodes at Krishnapatnam and Tumakuru under CBIC.
• The proposals have a total estimated cost of Rs 7,725 crore and an estimated employment generation of
more than 2.8 lakh persons
• The Union Cabinet has approved proposals of Department of Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade
(DPIIT) for construction of of various trunk infrastructure components, which includes:
• Krishnapatnam Industrial Area in Andhra Pradesh (estimated cost of the project of Rs. 2,139.44 crore)
• Tumakuru Industrial Area in Karnataka (estimated cost of Rs. 1,701.81 crore)
• Multi Modal Logistics Hub (MMLH) and Multi Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) at Greater Noida in Uttar
Pradesh (estimated cost of Rs. 3,883.80 crore)
About Department of Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT) :
• Founded : 1995
• Comes Under Ministry of Commerce and Industry
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About UP :
DRDO Celebrates 63rd Foundation Day of its establishment on January 01, 2021
1. The DRDO observed the 63rd Foundation Day of its establishment on January 01, 2021.
2. DRDO was established in 1958 with just 10 laboratories to enhance the research work in the Defence
sector.
3. It was tasked with designing and developing cutting edge defence technologies for Indian Armed Forces.
4. DRDO is working in multiple cutting edge military technology areas, which include aeronautics,
armaments, combat vehicles, electronics, instrumentation, engineering systems, missiles, materials,
naval systems, advanced computing, simulation, cyber, life sciences and other technologies for defence.
About DRDO :
• Founded : 1958
• Chairman : Dr G Satheesh Reddy
Govt launches Global Pravasi Rishta portal & mobile App to connect with Indian Diaspora across the world
• Minister of State for External Affairs V. Muraleedharan launched the Global Pravasi Rishta portal and
mobile App, to connect with Indian Diaspora across the world.
About the Portal :
• The portal will act as a dynamic communication platform between our pravasis, the Ministry of External
Affairs and missions abroad and will help in engaging Indian diaspora more intensively.
• The portal will also assist the Indian overseas during any crisis management and will also lend a helping
hand.
• The portal will also contain useful information for the Indian diaspora such as information on passport,
visa, and other consular services. It will also have the details about various events that are organized by
the missions and the invites will be sent to diaspora members for greater participation.
• The dynamic nature of the portal and the app will also allow the ministry to take useful opinions of the
Indian diaspora on policy issues, conducting surveys, sharing e-newsletters, etc.
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• Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated on 9th January every year to mark the contribution of the
Overseas Indian Community in the development of India.
PM Modi lays foundation stone of Light House projects (LHPs) across six states
• On 1st January Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of Light House projects
(LHPs) under Global Housing Technology Challenge (GHTC)- at six sites across six States, through
video conference.
• The projects are being undertaken under the Global Housing Technology Challenge (GHTC).
• The LightHouse Projects will be undertaken at Rajkot in Gujarat, Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh, Indore in
Madhya Pradesh, Ranchi in Jharkhand, Chennai in Tamil Nadu and Agartala in Tripura.
• The project will comprise around 1000 houses at each location along with allied infrastructure facilities.
• It will mainly aim to deliver ready to live houses at a fastened pace within twelve months.
• The Chief Ministers of all six states took part in the foundation laying ceremony.
• It has been conceptualised by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• The LightHouse Projects will showcase the best use of new-age alternate global technologies,
processes and materials in the construction sector at such a large scale for the first time in the country.
• These houses will be more economical, sustainable, durable and of high quality in comparison to the
conventional brick and mortar construction.
Indian Army Chief MM Naravane receives Guard of Honour at ROK Army Headquarters
• Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane has received a Guard of Honour at Republic of Korea Army
Headquarters at Gyeryong.
• He called on General Nam Yeong shin, Chief of Staff of Korean Army and discussed issues of bilateral
defence cooperation.
• The Army chief visited the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) near the border with North Korea. General
Naravane visited the 30th Armoured Brigade and DMZ.
• During his three day visit, he met senior military and civilian leadership of the Republic of Korea and
discussed avenues for enhancing defence relations between the two countries.
About Indian Army :
• Commander in Chief : Ram Nath Kovind
• Founded : 1 April, 1985
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Prime Minister lays Foundation stone of AIIMS at Rajkot in Gujarat

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences
(AIIMS) at Rajkot in Gujarat today through video conferencing.
• Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan and Union Minister of
State for Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey were also present on the occasion.
• AIIMS will play a big role in ensuring the modern health care facility reaches to the last mile in the State.
• Under AIIMS project, 201 acres of land has been allotted near Rajkot.
• It will be built at an estimated cost of Rs 1,195 crore and is expected to be completed by mid of 2022.
• The state-of-the-art 750-bed hospital will also have a 30-bed AAYUSH block.
• It will have 125 MBBS seats and 60 nursing seats.
About Gujarat:
• Governor : Acharya Devvrat
• Chief Minister : Vijay Rupani
PM Modi inaugurate permanent campus of IIM Sambalpur in Odisha
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of the permanent campus of the Indian
Institute of Management (IIM), Sambalpur, on January 2 via video-conferencing.
• Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik along with Union Ministers
Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank', Dharmendra Pradhan and Pratap Chandra Sarangi will also be present
on the occasion.
• The ceremony will be virtually attended by more than 5,000 invitees, including officials, industry leaders,
academicians and students, alumni and faculty of IIM, Sambalpur.
• The institute also outscored all other IIMs in terms of highest gender diversity with 49 per cent girl
students in the MBA batch of 2019-21 and 43 per cent in the 2020-22 MBA batch.
• The proposed campus of IIM Sambalpur will be equipped with State-of-the-art infrastructure with energy
efficient green features as per GRIHA standards.
• It will be a green campus with maximum usage of renewable energy.
• The project is scheduled to be completed by April 2022.
About Odisha:
• Capital : Bhubaneshwar
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“Disability Compensation” for serving employees, if they get disabled in line of duty : Dr Jitendra Singh
• In a significant New Year announcement, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of
North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and
Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh informed of the government decision to extend "Disability Compensation" for
all serving employees, if they get disabled in the line of duty while performing their service and are
retained in service in spite of such disablement.
• The order will particularly provide a huge relief to young Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel
like CRPF, BSF, CISF, etc since disability in performance of duties is generally reported in their case due
to constraints of job requirement as well as hostile or difficult work - environment.
• Pertinent to mention that this new order will remove an anomaly in service rules, considering the hardship
faced by the employees, since as per the earlier OM dated 5/5/2009, the provisions of disability benefits
under Central Civil Services(CCS) (EOP) Rules did not provide such compensation to those government
servants who were appointed on or after 1.1.2004 and covered under National Pension System (NPS).
• However, with the new order issued by the Department of Pensions in the Ministry of Personnel, the
employees covered under NPS will also get benefits under Rule (9) of Extra Ordinary Pension (EOP).
• Accordingly, Rule 38 of CCS (Pension) Rules was amended to provide Invalid Pension at 50% of the last
pay, even if the employee had not completed minimum qualifying service of 10 years.
• In addition to above, in yet another reform in the Pension Rules, a decision was also taken to amend the
rule and provide pension at enhanced rate to the family of an employee who died during service before
completing the requisite service of minimum 7 years.
• As a result, now the family pension of 50% of the last pay is also admissible to the family of employees
who die even before completing 7 years of service.
About Dr. Jitendra Singh:
• He is the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern
Region and Minister of State for Prime Minister's Office; Personnel, Public Grievances and
Pensions; Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space.
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Petroleum Minister launches missed call facility for LPG consumers in Bhubaneswar
• Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Steel Dharmendra Pradhan launched the missed
call facility for LPG consumers in Bhubaneswar.
• Indian Oil LPG customers can now give a missed call to 8454955555 for refill booking for all India and for
new connection for Bhubaneswar city.
• The Minister also rolled out the second phase of the world class octane 100 premium grade petrol, under
the brand XP 100.
• The Petroleum Minister said that while about 13 crore people were given LPG connection between 1955
and 2014, now it is about to reach 30 crore, representing a quantum jump there by empowering Indian
women.
• Rolling out the Indian Oil's branded XP 100 to seven more cities including Bhubaneswar, Mr Pradhan said
it epitomizes the Prime Minister's vision of Purvoday.
• "In the line Modi’s vision for a Digital India, the missed call facility will play a crucial role in making LPG
more easily accessible to the consumers.
• The Petroleum Ministry has always strived to improve customer convenience and this facility by IndianOil
will play a crucial role in making LPG more easily accessible.
‘Davai bhi, kadaai bhi’ - modi gives new mantra in New Year
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of All India Institute of Medical Sciences
(AIIMS) at Rajkot in Gujarat through video conferencing.
• Addressing the occasion, the Prime Minister said if 2020 was the year of health challenges, 2021 is going
to become the year of health solutions.
• He stressed, India will play a major role in the health solutions as it played in meeting the challenges of
2020.
• PM Modi said that the new year is "coming with the hope of treatment" He said he used to say ‘jab tak
davai nahi dhilai nahi’ but now the mantra for 2021 should be: ‘Davai bhi, kadaai bhi’.
• Mr Modi said, his government started working holistically in the health sector focusing on preventive care
as well as modern treatment facilities.
• He said, over Rs 30,000 crore of poor‘s money has been saved due to Ayushman Bharat Yojana.
• This scheme has freed the people from the struggles of good treatment due to lack of money.
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Agriculture Minister inaugurates - Virtual Agri-hackathon 2020

• Virtual Agri-hackathon Atmanirbhar Krishi inaugurated To make Agriculture profitable and attract youth
towards agriculture are challenges of the Agri-hackathon
• Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Shri Narendra Singh Tomar said Agri-Startups can
help improve the lot of farmers
• Building Smart India with Self-Reliant Agriculture.
• The application of the hackathon was made live on mygov.in and will remain open till 20 January, 2021.
• The hackathon will happen in 3 elimination rounds and the final 24 winners will get a cash prize of INR
1,00,000 along with incubation support, tech & business mentoring and various other benefits.
• The hackathon will accept innovations & ideas on farm mechanization, precision agriculture, supply chain
& food technology, waste to wealth, green energy, etc.
• Narendra Singh Tomar said “In the light of Prime Minister’s vision to introduce new-age technology
and innovations in agriculture, the Agri India Hackathon is being organised.
• It is a proud moment for all of us where young minds will discuss, collaborate, and create some of the best
ideas & solutions which will guide us for years to come.
• Agriculture is the backbone of our country and plans are afoot to strengthen this backbone with youth
engagement, employment generation, technology & digitization".
IAF Chief, Air Marshal launches IAF e-Governance (e-Office) portal
• Indian Air Force Chief, Air Marshal R K S Bhadauria launched the IAF e-Governance (e-Office) portal
in New Delhi.
• Bhadauria launched the portal at Vayu Bhawan
• The launch of the portal is part of Digital India and e-governance initiative that will transform the entire
Indian Air Force into a paperless office workflow.
• It marks a major shift from the current method of correspondence, filing and documentation to a digital
one.
• The platform will ensure enhanced transparency, improved efficiency, increased accountability, assured
data integrity and rapidly accessible archives along with a major reduction in the use of paper.
• This project started in April and was to be completed by January 1, 2021
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Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) launched

• The Central government has formed a genomic surveillance consortium for laboratory and
epidemiological surveillance of circulating strains of the SARS-CoV-2 in India.
• The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortia (INSACOG) has been launched. Coordinated by the
Department of Biotechnology (DBT) along with MoH&FW, ICMR, and CSIR , the strategy and roadmap
of the National SARS CoV2 Genome Sequencing Consortium (INSACOG) has been prepared.
• The genomic surveillance consortium, INSACOG, has been formed under the leadership of the National
Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), New Delhi.
• Aim : To monitor the genomic variations in the SARS-CoV-2 on a regular basis through a multi-laboratory
network. This vital research consortium will also assist in developing potential vaccines in the future.
About INSACOG :
• The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) will monitor the genomic variations on a
regular basis through the multi-laboratory network.
• Knowledge generated through this vital research consortium will also assist in developing diagnostics and
potential therapeutics and vaccines in the future.
• INSACOG is a consortium of 10 labs namely
• DBT-NIBMG Kalyani,
• DBT-ILS Bhubaneswar,
• ICMR-NIV Pune,
• DBT-NCCS Pune,
• CSIR-CCMB Hyderabad,
• DBT-CDFD Hyderabad,
• DBT-InSTEM/ NCBS Bengaluru,
• NIMHANS Bengaluru,
• CSIR-IGIB Delhi,
• NCDC Delhi.
About Department of Biotechnology :
• Founded : 1986
• Secretary : Dr. Renu Swarup
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• Comes Under Ministry of Science and Technology

Govt extends benefit of RoDTEP scheme to all export goods to boost export
• Government has decided to extend the benefit of the scheme for Remission of Duties and Taxes on
Exported Products (RoDTEP) to all export goods to boost exports.
• The scheme will refund to exporters the embedded Central, State and local taxes that were so far not
being given rebate or refunded.
• The refund will be credited in the exporter's ledger account with Customs and used to pay Basic Customs
duty on imported goods.
• The RoDTEP rates will be notified shortly by the Department of Commerce, based on the recommendation
of a Committee chaired by former Commerce and Home Secretary Dr. G.K. Pillai
Drug regulator gives final approval for Covid-19 vaccines of SII, Bharat Biotech
• The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has formally announced the final approval for Oxford-
AstraZeneca and Bharat Biotech vaccines against the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) for emergency
use.
• CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation) accepts the subject expert committee reform
rations on Serum and Bharat Biotech Covid vaccines.
About Covishield :
• The subject expert committee (SEC) under CDSCO had recommended Oxford-AstraZeneca’s vaccine,
which is being manufactured by the Serum Institute of India (SII) as Covishield, for emergency use and
Covaxin for restricted use.
About Covaxin :
• Covaxin is the indigenous vaccine being developed by Bharat Biotech in collaboration with the Indian
Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
About Serum Institute :
• CEO : Adar Poonawalla
• Founder : Cyrus S. Poonawalla
• Founded : 1966
• Headquarters : Pune
Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D) releases Data on Police Organizations
• The Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D) released Data on Police Organizations.
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• The BPR&D has been publishing the Data on Police Organizations (DoPO), annually, since the year 1986.
• DoPO as on 01.01.2019 was released by the Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, on 29th January, 2020.
• This is for the first time in the history of BPR&D that DoPO for a particular year has been released during
the year itself.
• The number of people getting police protection across India stood at 19,467 in 2019 and 21,300 in 2018 a
reduction of 1,833 (or 8.7 percent).
• The number of police personnel put on protection duty in 2018 and 2019 for ministers, MPs, MLAs, judges,
bureaucrats, etc., outnumbered their sanctioned strength for the job by around 35 percent.
• West Bengal had the maximum of 3,142 people under police protection in 2019, followed by Punjab
(2,594), Bihar (2,347) and Jammu and Kashmir (1,184).
About Bureau of Police Research & Development :
• Founded :28 August 1970
• Comes Under Ministry of Home Affairs
Amit Shah releases ‘National Police K-9 Journal’
• Home Minister Amit Shah released the inaugural issue of the National Police K-9 Journal in New Delhi.
• It is the first such publication in the country on the subject of Police Service K9s, Police Dogs.
• This is a unique initiative that will further enrich the subjects related to Police Service Dog, K-9, PSK
teams in the country.
• The event was attended by Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla, Directors General of Central Armed Police Forces
and senior ranking Police Officers of the Forces, while CAPF personnel from all over the country attended
through virtual conference.
About Police K9 Cell :
• A special Police K9 Cell was established in November last year under the Police Modernization Division
of the Ministry of Home Affairs with the mandate of Mainstreaming and Augmentation of Police Service
K9s in the country.
• The publication of the Police K9 Journal is another step in creating an ecosystem in the country to train
and learn on augmenting this vital resource.
• The journal comprises different sections in Hindi and English.
• It is a biannual journal which will be released in April and October every year.
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FSSAI slashes limit for trans fat levels in foods

• The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has capped the amount of trans fatty acids
(TFA) in oils and fats to 3% for 2021 and 2% by 2022 from the current permissible limit of 5%.
• This Regulation through an amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on
Sales) Regulations.
• The revised regulation applies to edible refined oils, vanaspati (partially hydrogenated oils), margarine,
bakery shortenings, and other mediums of cooking such as vegetable fat spreads and mixed fat spreads.
• India first passed the TFA limit of 10% in oils and fats in 2011.
What is Trans Fat :
• According to the World Health Organisation, trans fat, or trans-fatty acids, are unsaturated fatty acids that
come from either natural or industrial sources. Naturally occurring trans fat comes from cows and sheep
whereas industrially produced trans fat is formed in an industrial process that adds hydrogen to vegetable
oil, converting the liquid into a solid, resulting in ‘partially hydrogenated oil’.
About FSSAI :
• FSSAI has been created for laying down science based standards for articles of food and to regulate their
manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for
human consumption.
• Founded : August 2011
• Comes under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Indian Railways to start train service connecting international airport
• Indian Railways' South Western Railway zone will start operating train services from Bengaluru city
station to the newly built KIA, Devanahalli Railway halt station.
• According to South Western Railway, three pairs of DEMU services would be introduced from the
Bengaluru area to the Kempegowda International Airport (KIAD) Halt Station from January 4.
• The new railway halt station is bound to benefit thousands of commuters daily
About Indian Railway:
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• Comes Under Ministry of Railways

• Railway Minister : Piyush Goyal
PM Modi to inaugurate Kochi-Mangaluru natural gas pipeline
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate the Kochi - Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline to the nation
through video conference.
• The ‘futuristic project’, PM Modi said, will positively impact many people.
• Modi said that it is a landmark day in India’s quest for Urja Aatmanirbharta.
• He said, this is a futuristic project that will positively impact many people.
• The event marks an important milestone towards the creation of One Nation One Gas Grid.
• The 450 kilometre long pipeline has been built by GAIL (India) Limited.
• It has a transportation capacity of 12 Million Metric Standard Cubic Metres per day.
• It will carry natural gas from the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Regasification Terminal at Kochi, Kerala to
Mangaluru, Karnataka, while passing through Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode,
Kannur and Kasaragod districts.
• The total cost of the project was about Rs.3000 crore and its construction created over 12 lakh man-days
of employment.
• Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyoorappa and Union Minister
for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan will participate in the inaugural function.
India begins 40th Scientific Expedition to Antarctica

• India launched the 40th Scientific Expedition to Antarctica.
• This Indian expedition marks four decades of the country's scientific endeavour to the southern white
continent.
• The 40th expedition journey will be flagged off from Goa with 43 members onboard.
• The chartered ice-class vessel MV Vasiliy Golovnin will make this journey and will reach Antarctica in
30 days.
• After leaving behind a team of 40 members, it would return to India in April.
• On return, it will also bring back the winter team of the preceding trip.
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Denmark's Oscar nominee 'Another Round' to be opening movie at 51st IFFI in Goa
• The 51st International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will open on 16th January, with the Indian premiere
of the movie ‘Another Round’ by Thomas Vinterberg.
• The movie starring Cannes Best Actor Award winner Mads Mikkelsen is among a star-studded line up of
movies being showcased at IFFI. The movie is also Denmark’s official entry to the Oscars.
• The festival will also witness the World Premier of ‘Mehrunisa’. The film by Sandeep Kumar will premier
mid-fest.
About the Festival :
• The festival will close on 24th January with the India Premier of the historical drama Wife of a Spy by
Kiyoshi Kurosawa.
• The 51st IFFI is being organised from 16th to 24th January in Goa.
• This edition is being organised in a hybrid mode for the first time and will comprise both online and in-
person experience. The festival will be loaded with a line-up of famous movies with a total of 224 films
from across the globe.
• This includes 21 non-feature films and 26 feature films under the Indian Panorama section. Media
registration for the festival has opened recently and is available till 10th January.
Delhi government sets up Tamil Academy
• Delhi Government Department of Art, Culture, and Language has set up a Tamil Academy to Promote
the language and culture of the southern state of Tamil Nadu.
• The Delhi government has appointed former municipal councillor and current member of Delhi Tamil
Sangam N Raja as the vice-chairman of the academy.
• The Department of Art, Culture and Language of the Delhi government has decided that the new academy
will introduce various awards to promote and reward the good works of people in Tamil language and
culture.
• The government will also provide language courses through this academy.
• It will also celebrate and organise cultural festivals for the people of Tamil Nadu.
About Delhi:
• Chief Minister : Arvind Kejriwal
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5-day national folk dance festival to start in Jammu

• North Zone Cultural Centre, Patiala (Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India) and Jammu & Kashmir Academy
of Art, Culture & Languages, Jammu is jointly organizing National Folk Dance Festival from December
26-28.
• The festival is of five days and for three days it will be organised at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu.
• Artists from Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab,Assam,
Tripura,Maharashtra, Telangana and Haryana, will participate in it.
• The festival is part of our efforts to bring together tribal artists from different regions of the country.
Encourage them and ensure that arts forms are showcased to the people. It’s a way to preserve the great
cultural traditions of India.
• This Festival was inaugurated by Former Deputy CM, Kevinder Gupta, S D Singh Jamwal and senior
Journalist Sohail Kazmi was also Present.
Udyog Manthan being organized from Jan 4 to March 2
• Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade is organizing Udyog Manthan - a marathon
of focused sector-specific webinars for promoting Quality and Productivity in Indian Industry.
• It got underway Jan 4 and will go on till 2nd of March.
• Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will chair the session.
• The webinar series comprising 45 sessions will cover various major sectors in manufacturing and services.
Each webinar will be a two-hour session involving discussions led by sectoral and industry experts in a
particular sector.
• Participants will include representatives from industry, testing and standardization bodies.
Prasar Bharati digital channels grow 100% in 2020
• Digital channels of Prasar Bharati have registered more than 100 percent growth in 2020, with Pakistan
being the second highest digital audience for Doordarshan (DD) and All India Radio (AIR).
• The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting stated the channels across Doordarshan and Akashvani
clocked over a billion digital views and over six billion digital watch minutes in the year.
• During 2020, Pakistan accounted for the second highest digital audience for DD and AIR content after
domestic audience.
• During 2020, Prasar Bharati's mobile application 'NewsOnAir' added more than 2.5 million users with the
platform registering over 300 million views.
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• Prasar Bharati Archives and DD Kisan have been steady digital performers featuring in top 10.
About Pakistan :
• Capital : Islamabad
• President : Arif Alvi
• Currency : Pakistani rupee
Toycathon 2021 launched to promote manufacturing of indigenous toys
• Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ and Union Minister for Textiles and Women &
Child Development Smriti Zubin Irani jointly launched the Toycathon 2021.
• Aim : This Toycathon is aimed to conceptualize innovative toys based on the Indian value system which
will inculcate the positive behaviour and good value among the children.
• The Toycathon will majorly focus on conceptualizing new and innovative toys using local material which
are economical, affordable, safe and environment friendly.
• The grand finale of the event will be organized from 23rd to 25th of February.
• There will be two categories for the Toycathon, one is for online toys and another for physical toys.
• The ‘Toycathon' will have three variants of tracks Junior Level, Senior Level and Startup Level and will
allow participation of students and teachers from schools, colleges and universities, apart from start-ups
and toy experts.
And then The Toycathon will be based on Nine themes :
• Indian culture, history, knowledge of India and ethos
• Learning, education and schooling
• Social and human values
• Occupations & specific fields
• Environment;
• Divyang
• Fitness and sport
• Out of the box, creative and logical thinking
• Rediscovering/redesigning traditional Indian toys.
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India sets up high-level group for South Asia energy security

• The government has set up a high-level group headed by former Union power secretary Ram Vinay
Shahi and tasked it with helping build a South Asia-focused energy security architecture.
• The high-level group, named the South Asia Group for Energy (SAGE), has been set up under the
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)-run think tank Research and Information System for Developing
Countries (RIS).
• The objective is to achieve a balanced and optimal development of energy infrastructure through mutual
understanding and cooperation. SAGE will have the role of promoting, initiating and facilitating effective
policy dialogue and capacity building on bilateral, sub-regional and regional basis for energy and related
issues, among South Asian countries."
The other members of SAGE :
• Amar Sinha, former economic relations secretary in the MEA and India’s former ambassador to
Afghanistan
• Preeti Saran, former secretary east in MEA
• Chandan Kumar Mondol, director commercial at NTPC Ltd, India’s largest power generation utility
• Rakesh Nath, former chairman of Central Electricity Authority, the apex power sector planning body
• Anil Sardana, managing director, Adani Power
• Deepak Amitabh, chairman and managing director, PTC India Ltd, the country’s largest electricity trader.
Railway Minister Piyush Goyal launches Freight Business Development Portal
• Railway Minister Piyush Goyal launched a Freight Business Development Portal as a one stop
solution for all the needs of freight customers.
• The new portal will be a game changer in ensuring ease of doing business with Railways.
• The portal will ensure that best services are available to the clients.
• The portal has been designed to replace physical processes with online ones to minimize the need of
human to human interaction.
• The portal can be accessed by logging on to Indian Railways web site https://indianrailways.gov.in/ or
https://www.fois.indianrail.gov.in/RailSAHAY
Maitre Setu to open up new scope of development in Tripura
• The bridge over the River Feni, called the Maitre Setu, which connects South Tripura with Ramgarh of
Bangladesh, is getting access to the Chittagong seaport, is now all ready to be open in a few months
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following the confirmation of the schedule from the Prime Ministers of both the countries, India and
Bangladesh, respectively.
• With the sanctioned cost of Rs 128.69 crores, the 1.9 KM long international standard bridge was started
in the year 2017. However, the construction got delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
• The Maitre Setu will connect Tripura with Southeast Asia, and also boost the bilateral trades between
the countries. Tripura will also become a trade hub and an investment centre for the Southeast Asian
countries.
Karnataka CM launches Krishi Sanjeevani vans to test soil, water & suggest remedies for pest control
• On January 07, 2021, Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa launched Krishi Sanjeevani vans in
Bengaluru.
• This is Mainly for to help farmers in their own backyards.
• As part of this scheme, 40 mobile agro clinics were rolled from outside the Vidhana Soudha.
• The main objective of this project is to reduce the cost of production.
• In addition to that to provide farmers with accurate information on improved agriculture production
technologies, supply of quality agricultural tools and adequate use of recommended fertilisers, pest and
disease management, and nutrients available in the soil.
• This initiative is part of the National Agricultural Development Scheme 2020-21. These labs will also help
the government conduct surveys at all stages of crop production and inform the farmers about the possible
pest attacks, disease and weed management practices.
• The state government has rolled out 40 labs, each lab for 31 districts, while some big districts like Mysuru,
Bengaluru Rural and Shivamogga will get two labs.
About Karnataka :
India to chair three-key subsidiary committees of UNSC
• Permanent Representative of India at the United Nations Security Council, TS Tirumurti announced,
India will be chairing three-key subsidiary bodies of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
• The panels are: Counter-Terrorism Committee (for 2022), Taliban Sanctions Committee, and Libya
Sanctions committee.
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• India will chair the Counter-Terrorism Committee of UNSC in 2022.

• Mr Tirumurti said, chairing of this committee has a special resonance for India which has not only been
at the forefront of fighting terrorism especially cross border terrorism but has also been one of its biggest
victims.
• He said, Taliban Sanctions Committee has always been a high priority for India keeping in minds its strong
interest and commitment to peace, security, development, and progress of Afghanistan.
• Mr Tirumurti said, India will be assuming the chair of the Libya Sanctions Committee at a critical juncture
when there is an international focus on Libya and on the peace process.
About UNSC:
• Headquarters: New York, United States
• Secretary General: António Guterres
EAM conclude his three-day visit to Sri Lanka
• External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar has concluded his three-day visit to Sri Lanka.
• The Indian Embassy in Sri Lanka thanked the Foreign Minister of the Island Nation, Dinesh Gunawardena
for making the visit a huge success.
• Dr. Jaishankar held a productive meeting with Fisheries Minister Douglas Devananda.
• The External Affairs Minister said, they reviewed cooperation in fisheries after the recent Joint Working
Group session and added that they look forward to working with him closely.
• Dr. Jaishankar also met the Tamil National Alliance and the Tamil Progressive Alliance delegations.
• He discussed issues pertaining to development and devolution and the role of Provincial Councils.
• The Minister also interacted with business leaders of Lanka and appreciated their insights and
suggestions on economic cooperation.
About Sri Lanka:
• Capitals: Colombo, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte
• Currency: Sri Lankan rupee
• President: Gotabaya Rajapaksa
• Prime minister: Mahinda Rajapaksa
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Centre says, over 3 crore new connections grant under Jal Jeevan Mission
• Central govt. has said that over three crore new connections have been provided under Jal Jeevan
Mission.
• On reviewing a Flagship programme of jal jevan mission, Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Rattanlal
Kataria informed that since Independence till August 2019, a total of 3.23 Crore rural households out of
18.93 crore rural households had tap water connections.
• Jal Jeevan mission has set an ambitious yet achievable target of giving piped water connections to each
and every rural household with an approach ensuring - ‘No one is left out’.
• Mr Kataria informed that Goa is the first State to provide 100 per cent piped connection.
• He said, so far 27 Districts, 458 blocks, 33,516 Gram Panchayats, 66,210 villages have been declared
to have achieved ‘Har Ghar Jal’.
• Recently, Kurukshetra became the 27th District in India and 3rd in Haryana to have achieved this target.
• Telangana, Gujarat, Haryana, and Puducherry are close to achieving 100 per cent coverage.
• He credited the success primarily to the people of these villages, Gram Panchayats, Paani Samitis, public
health authorities and other stakeholders, Uttarakhand, Manipur, Mizoram, UT of Andaman and Nicobar.
Education Minister states that NEP-2020 is revolutionary in all aspects
• Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ has emphasized that the National Education Policy,
NEP-2020, is revolutionary in all aspects.
• The Education Minister said this while inaugurating the two-day Virtual International Akhand
Conference ‘EDUCON 2020’ through video conferencing.
• It focuses on multiple aspects of promoting mother language at primary level education, imparting
vocational skills training for students at the secondary level and other innovative reforms.
• He further stated that NEP emphasizes on the inter-disciplinary studies and integrated course curriculum
in higher education for wider learning opportunities, with an aim to provide value-based holistic education,
development of scientific temper and imparting skill training to youngsters.
Rs 69,000 crore allocated for SC students
• Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale has said that the NDA
government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has allocated Rs.69,000 crore for the Post Matric
scholarship of SC students for the next five years.
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• 1 crore 30 lakh SC students will be enrolled for higher education and skill training under this scheme in
the next five years.
• He said, Modi government is planning to give overseas scholarships to 100 SC students every year, whose
annual family income is below 8 lakh rupees.
• Mr Athvale said that the Modi government is also running various schemes for 2 crore 67 lakh Divyang
people including 32 lakh in Gujarat under the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan.
Rastriya Kamdhenu Aayog announces Kamdhenu Gau-Vigyan Prachar-Prasar Exam
• Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA), the government body set up for cow welfare has announced that it
will hold a countrywide online examination on ‘gau vigyan’ (cow science) on February 25.
• There will be no fee for the examination.
• The exam will be held in 12 regional languages apart from Hindi and English.
• The duration will be one hour and there will be 4 categories :
• Primary level up to 8th standard,
• Secondary level from class 9th to class 12th,
• College level after 12th+
• For the general public.
• RKA comes under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
• It was set up by the Centre in February 2019, and is aimed at “conservation, protection and development
of cows and their progeny”.
Sagarmala Seaplane Project Services Commenced
• The Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways has recently started the operations of the seaplane services,
on several routes.
• It is being implemented under a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) framework through prospective airline
operators.
• The implementation and execution of the "Sagarmala Seaplane Services (SSPS)" would be through the
SPV with the Sagarmala Development Company Ltd, SDCL, under the control of the Ministry of Shipping.
• The proposed Origin-Destination pairs under Hub and Spoke model include various islands of Andaman
& Nicobar and Lakshadweep, the Guwahati Riverfront & Umranso Reservoir in Assam, Yamuna
Riverfront/Delhi (as Hub) to Ayodhaya, Tehri, Srinagar (Uttrakhand), Chandigarh and many other tourist
places of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.
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• One such Seaplane Service is already in operation between Kevadia and Sabarmati Riverfront in
Ahmedabad, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 31, 2020.
I&B Minister launches Diary App
• Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar launched the Government's Digital
Calendar and Diary App in New Delhi.
• Mr Javadekar said, paperless governance has come to offices and files are now moving as e-files.
• The digital calendar inaugurated and available in Hindi and English, but it will be available in 11
languages from 15th January 2021.
• He said, the calendar has a theme for every month and it will also have all information of 100
revolutionary programmes of the government.
• The GOI Calendar and the Diary App is available for download on both Google Play store and iOS App
Store.
• The app has been designed and developed by the Bureau of Outreach and Communication, Ministry
of Information and Broadcasting.
• The app will do away with the need for a new calendar every year.
World's largest repatriation exercise Vande Bharat Mission made operational
• The World's largest repatriation exercise Vande Bharat Mission has brought back more than 44.7 lakh
people since May 2020.
• The Phase-9 of Vande Bharat Mission has been made operational from 1st January and 1,495 international
flights have been scheduled which will be operated from 24 countries.
• Ministry of External Affairs Spokesman Anurag Srivastava said, it will facilitate the return of 2.8 lakh
people.
• He announced 261 of these flights have been operated and facilitated the return of 49 thousand people
from 19 countries.
NIXI provides free Domain in any Indian languages
• The National Internet Exchange of India, NIXI has announced that it will offer a free Internationalized
Domain Name, IDN in any of the preferred 22 official Indian language along with every IN domain
booked by the registrant.
• Applicant will also get a free email in local language.
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• This offer has been created to stimulate the adoption of IDN domain name and proliferation of local
language content.
• This offer is valid for new .in users who register up to 31st of January.
• This offer is also extended to those existing in users who renew their domain in the month of January
2021.
Centre merges J&K cadre officers with AGMUT
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Central govt. has merged J&K cadre for all India Services
- IAS, IPS and IFS officers with that of Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram and Union Territory (AGMUT),
also called the Union Territory cadre, through an ordinance.
• It says officers “so borne or allocated” on AGMUT cadre shall function in accordance with rules framed
by the Centre.
• Sub-Section (2) of Section 88 of the Act stated that members of IAS, IPS and IFS cadres “for the existing
State of Jammu and Kashmir, on and from the appointed day, shall continue to function on the existing
cadres.”
• The ordinance has also made an addition in Section 13, inserting the words “or any other article containing
reference to elected members of the Legislative Assembly of the State” after “in Article 239A”.
PM Modi to head panel to commemorate 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
• On Jan 09, 2021, A high-level committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was formed to
commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
• The members include 10 Union ministers and seven chief ministers who will decide on the activities to be
undertaken for the year-long commemoration planned by the government.
• The committee will decide on the activities for a year-long commemoration, beginning on January 23,
2021.
• The committee will lend guidance to the commemoration activities in Delhi, Kolkata and other places
associated with Netaji and the Azad Hind Fauj, both in India as well as overseas.
• The members of the committee include distinguished citizens, historians, authors, experts, family
members of Subhas Chandra Bose, as well as eminent persons associated with the Azad Hind Fauj (INA).
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Centre provide guidelines - Migrant Children

• The Education Ministry has issued guidelines for identification, admission and continued education of
migrant children.
• The guidelines highlight for continuation of non-residential training for identified out of school children
through volunteers, local teachers and community participation.
• States and UTs to carry out proper identification of OoSC for 6 to 18 years age group through a
comprehensive door to door survey and prepare action plan for their enrolment.
• It also stressed to undertake awareness generation among parents and community for enrolling and
attendance of children.
• The main features of the guidelines are identifying out of school children, continued education for out
of school children (OoSC) and children with special needs and enrolment drives and awareness
generation.
• Union education minister: Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank'
Javadekar says nearly Rs1,200 cr to be spent for safe movement of wildlife on National Highway
• Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar has said that over Rs.1,200 crore will be spent by the Road
Transport and Highways Ministry to create infrastructure for safe movement of wildlife on the National
Highway.
• This includes construction of underpasses on the Nagpur-Jabalpur National Highway which passes
through the Pench National Park and also at highways including Gadchiroli-Chandrapur and Chimur-
Vadodara.
National Youth Parliament Festival 2021
• National Youth Parliament Festival, 2021 will be held in the Central Hall of Parliament.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the Valedictory Function of second National Youth
Parliament Festival, 2021 through video conferencing.
• The first three winners will get an opportunity to speak before the Prime Minister.
• The Prime Minister will also interact with the youth on the occasion.
• 84 winners from States and Union Territories will get an opportunity to be present in the Central Hall
of Parliament before the Lok Sabha Speaker, Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha along with Youth Affairs
and Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju and other dignitaries.
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• 29 National winners will get an opportunity to speak before the National Jury comprising of Rajya Sabha
MP Roopa Ganguly, Lok Sabha MP Parvesh Sahib Singh and eminent journalist Prafulla Ketkar.
Govt issues guidelines for renewal of International Driving License while travelling abroad
• The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued a notification to facilitate the issuance of
International Driving Permit (IDP) for Indian citizens whose IDP has expired while they are abroad.
• There was no mechanism for its renewal while citizens were abroad and their IDP expired.
• After this amendment, Indian citizens can apply for renewal through Indian Embassies and Missions
abroad, from where these applications will move to the VAHAN portal in India, to be considered by the
concerned Road Transport Officers (RTOs).
• The International Driving Permit will be couriered to the citizen at his or her address abroad by the
respective RTOs.
• The Ministry said that the notification also removes the conditions of a Medical Certificate and a valid visa
at the time of making the request for the IDP in India.
• The idea is that a citizen who has a valid driving license should not have a requirement for another medical
certificate.
• Further, there are countries where the Visa is issued on arrival or Visa is issued at the last moment and
in such cases, VISA is not available when applying for the IDP in India before travel.
• Therefore, IDP applications can now be made without VISA.
India: Second largest manufacturer of PPE kits and suits
• Union Minister for textile and women and child development Smriti Irani has said that India has
become the second largest manufacturer of PPE kits and suits in the world in record three months’
time during the corona virus induced lockdown in March 2020.
• She was speaking after inaugurating - Surat International Textile Expo -SITEX at Surat, the Gujarat’s
first physical exhibition after Covid19.
• Speaking on this occasion, the Union Minister of state for women and child welfare Debasree
Chaudhuri has said that industrial revolution can be brought in West Bengal, if it follows the Gujarat
model.
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Indian Railways attains a train speed of 130 kmph on Golden Quadrilateral - Golden Diagonal route
• Indian Railways has started the New Year by achieving a landmark to enhance the maximum speed to 130
kmph for 1,280 km length out of 1,612 Km in Golden Quadrilateral - Golden Diagonal route.
• This covers the entire GQ-GD route over South Central Railway, except Vijayawada - Duvvada section,
where signaling up gradation work is in progress.
• This included heavier rails, laying of 260 meters long welded rail panels, improvement of curves and
gradients among others.
• Piyush Goyal is the Union minister for Railways and Minister of Railways and Minister of Commerce &
Industry in the Government of India.
Health Minister dedicates coastal research vessel to Nation
• Union Health Minister Dr.Harsh Vardhan dedicates coastal research vessel to Nation at Chennai Port
Trust and said that the Central Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has
been creating milestones in every field.
• Speaking at the Sagar Anveshika dedication at the Chennai Port Trust he said that Prime Minister's
Atma Nirbhar schemes have helped Indian scientists to formulate research activity in deep ocean
research.
• SAGAR ANVESHIKA, a very complex platform which will enable scientists to conduct various
oceanographic research missions aboard, will house state of the art laboratories equipped with modern
scientific instruments.
• Indian scientists were the first in the world to isolate the Corona virus and begin genome sequencing of
the virus braving the fight against Covid in an intelligent manner.
Preeti Pant Panel to Study NFHS-5 Findings
• The Health and Family Welfare Ministry has set up a technical expert group to examine the adverse
findings from the National Family Health Survey-5.
• The Union Ministry has set up the technical committee of medicine and nutrition experts under the
leadership of Joint Secretary Preeti Pant.
• The expert group also includes State programme officers from Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and
Karnataka.
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• The technical committee will examine the findings of the National Family Health Survey-5 as well as
suggest policies and courses of action to improve on indicators related to anemia, malnutrition, C-
section, and stunting.
• The newly formed technical expert group will conduct meetings regularly and will provide its
recommendations soon.
• As of now, no meeting has been held and no date has been finalized for the first meeting.
About Ministry of Health and Family Welfare :
• Founded : 1976
• Minister : Harsh Vardhan
• Minister of State : Faggan Singh Kulaste
Japan Commits Rs 2113 Crore Support for COVID relief efforts
• Japan has committed Official Development Assistance (ODA) loan of an amount of JPY 30 billion
(about ₹2,113 crore) to support India’s efforts at providing social assistance to the poor and vulnerable
households severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
• This programme loan aims to support India’s efforts to provide coordinated and adequate social
protection to the poor and vulnerable across the country against the severe impact of Covid-19
pandemic.
• India and Japan have had a long history of bilateral development cooperation since 1958.
• In the last few years, the economic cooperation between India and Japan has grown into strategic
partnership.
About Japan :
• Capital : Tokyo
• Currency : Japanese Yen
• Prime Minister : Yoshihide Suga
Home Minister Amit Shah launches 'Single Window Clearance System' for coal mines
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the 'Single Window Clearance System', an online platform
to obtain clearances for smooth operationalisation of coal mines.
• It will be an online platform to obtain clearances for smooth operationalisation of coal mines.
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• The Coal Sector has the potential to be the biggest contributor towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s
Vision of making India a 5 trillion dollar economy by 2024.
• This will give the states an estimated revenue of about Rs 6500 crore per year and will also create more
than 70,000 Jobs.
RS Sharma, former Trai chief, to head empowered panel for Covid-19 vaccine
• The Union government has appointed RS Sharma, former Trai chief, as the chairperson of an
empowered committee for administration of Covid-19 vaccine.
• This has come days ahead of the mega vaccination drive to start in India.
• A ten member team has been constituted to be headed by Sharma.
• The panel can invite eminent persons as and when required to ensure delivery of the vaccine through
the Co-Win technology platform
• It must be noted that Sharma is also a member of the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration
of Covid-19 that was formed in August 2020 and is headed by Niti Aayog member, VK Paul.
• Sharma was the first person to officially initiate a discussion on vaccination delivery in the government
in the summer of 2020 when Covid-19 cases peaked.
About TRAI:
• Telecom Regulatory Authority of India
• Founded : 20 Feb 1997
• Chairperson : Ram Sewak Sharma
• Secretary : Sunil K. Gupta
Two-day coastal defence drill ‘Sea Vigil-21’ kicks off
• The second edition of the biennial pan-India coastal defence exercise ‘Sea Vigil-21’ will be conducted
on 12-13 January 2021.
• It will involve all the 13 coastal states and Union Territories along with other maritime stakeholders.
• And That will cover the country's 7,516 km coastline and exclusive economic zone.
• The exercise is being coordinated by the Indian Navy.
• The entire coastal security set up was reorganised after the 26/11 Terror attack at Mumbai which was
launched via the sea route.
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• SEA VIGIL 21’ will provide a realistic assessment of our strengths and weaknesses and thus will help in
further strengthening maritime and national security.
• The exercise is a build up towards the major Theatre level exercise TROPEX [Theatre-level Readiness
Operational Exercise] which Indian Navy conducts every two years.
About Indian Navy :
• Founded : 26 January, 1950
• Vice Chief of the Naval Staff : Vice Admiral G. Ashok Kumar
• Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff : Vice Admiral M.S. Pawar
• Chief of the Naval Staff : Admiral Karambir Singh
Tesla Sets up India subsidiary in Bangalore
• Elon Musk-owned electric vehicle (EV) company Tesla has registered a fully-owned subsidiary in
Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• The firm is looking at setting up an R&D facility and eventually an assembly plant.
• Tesla’s global senior director David Jon Feinstein, chief accounting officer Vaibhav Taneja and Bengaluru-
based entrepreneur Venkatrangam Sreeram are on the board of the India unit, Tesla India Motors and
Energy Pvt Ltd.
• The total paid up capital of the company is Rs 1,00,000 and authorised share capital is Rs 15 lakhs.
About Tesla:
• CEO : Elon Musk
• Founded : 1 July, 2003
• Headquarters : Palo Alto, California, United States
Aviation services launched between Chandigarh and Hisar
• Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar launched an air taxi service between Chandigarh and
Hisar from the Chandigarh International Airport under the UDAN scheme of the central government.
• The airline Aviation Connectivity & Infrastructure Developers Pvt. Ltd (Air Taxi) was awarded the Hisar –
Chandigarh – Hisar route under the UDAN 4 bidding process.
• The airline has become the first startup airline of the country to assist the nation with Air Taxi services.
• These UDAN flights will reduce the journey time between Hisar to Chandigarh from 4.50 hours to a
comfortable 45 minutes journey that too at an affordable fare since financial incentives in the form of
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Viability Gap Funding (VGF) is being provided from the Centre, State governments & airport operators
to selected airlines to encourage operations from unserved and underserved airports under the scheme.
• The air service will start from Hisar to Dehradun on January 18 and from Hisar to Dharamshala on January
23.
Rajnath Singh unveils India’s first indigenously developed driverless metro car
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the country’s first indigenously designed and developed
Driverless Metro Car at the BEML manufacturing facility in Bengaluru.
• The indigenously designed & developed state-of-the-art Driverless Metro trains are being manufactured
at BEML Bangalore manufacturing facility, for Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority
(MMRDA).
• BEML bagged a total order of 576 cars for Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority
(MMRDA)’s MRS1 project and the supply is scheduled progressively up to January 2024.
• BEML recently opened its Depot office at Charkop Metro Depot, MMRDA, Mumbai for commissioning,
testing and round-the-clock services for Driverless Metro cars.
PM Modi rolls out world’s largest vaccination drive for COVID-19
• India launched the much awaited, world’s largest COVID-19 vaccination programme.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the programme through video conferencing.
• A total of 3006 session sites across all states and union territories will be virtually connected during the
launch.
• In the first phase government and private sector health care workers, including Integrated Child
Development Services (ICDS) workers, will receive the vaccine.
• The drive aims to first inoculate millions of its healthcare and frontline workers and reach an estimated 3
crore people by the end of its first phase.
NIC and CBSE to jointly launch CollabCAD Software
• National Informatics Centre and Central Board of Secondary Education, CBSE will jointly launch
CollabCAD Software to provide a total engineering solution for students and Faculty of Engineering
Graphics Curriculum.
• Aim : To provide a great platform to students across the country to create and modify 3D digital designs
with a free flow of creativity and imagination.
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• This software will also enable students to collaborate over designs across the network and concurrently
access the same design data for storage and visualization.
• National Informatics Centre, NIC, CBSE, and Atal Innovation Mission will also jointly release a
comprehensive e-book on CollabCAD 3D modeling.
About National Informatics Centre :
• Comes Under Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
• Founded : 1976
• Director General : Neeta Verma
About CBSE :
• Founded : 1962
Dr. Harsh Vardhan dedicates an Innovation Portal developed By NIF
• The Union Minister for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, Health & Family Welfare Dr. Harsh
Vardhan dedicated an Innovation Portal, developed by National Innovation Foundation (NIF) India, an
autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, to the
nation, in New Delhi.
• The National Innovation Portal(NIP) is currently home to about 1.15 lakh innovations scouted from
common people of the country, covering Engineering, Agriculture, Veterinary and Human Health.
• Innovation Portal is a step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat and an excellent resource for students,
entrepreneurs, MSME’s, Technology Business Incubators (TBI’s) and common people engaged in a
variety of occupations.
• This Innovation Portal will help institutionalise new ideas by common people towards finding solutions to
local problems.
About National Innovation Foundation :
• Founded : March 2000
• Comes Under Department of Science and Technology
• Established : 2000
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Country celebrates Harvest festivals

• On Jan 14, 2021, Harvest Festival Makar Sankranti is being celebrated.
• The festival is seen as a celebration of the end of the winter solstice month and also marks the end of
the winter harvest.
• The harvest festival is referred to by different names in different parts of the country such as
• Pongal in Tamil Nadu,
• Makara Sankranti in Gujarat, West Bengal, and Karnataka
• Bihu in Assam,
• Paush Parbon in Bengal
• Lohri in Punjab and Jammu
• Saen-Kraat in Kashmir
• Sukaraat in MP
• Khichdi Parw in Bihar, Jharkhand, UP
Union Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurates the Prarambh Startup India International Summit
• The two day ‘Prarambh’, Startup India International Summit began in New Delhi, with members of
BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) countries
participating in the inaugural event.
• It was inaugurated by the union minister for railways, consumer affairs, commerce and industry
Piyush Goyal.
About the Summit :
• The Summit is being organized by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, M/o
Commerce & Industry, as a follow up of the announcement made by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra
Modi at the 4th BIMSTEC Summit held in Kathmandu in August, 2018.
• The ‘Prarambh’ Summit will provide a platform to the startups and young minds from around the world to
come together and collaborate to work collectively to come with new ideas, innovation and invention.
• The focus of the Summit will be on enhancing multilateral cooperation and engagement with countries
from around the globe to collectively develop and strengthen the startup ecosystems.
• The Summit marks the fifth anniversary of the Startup India initiative, launched by the Prime Minister on
16 January, 2016.
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Due to Covid-19 situation, no foreign leader as chief guest on Republic Day

• The ministry of external affairs confirmed that there will be no foreign head of state or government as
the chief guest for the Republic Day event on January 26.
• This will be the first time in over five decades that the Republic Day celebrations would not have a
foreign dignitary as the chief guest.
• Earlier, United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson had accepted India's invitation to attend the
Republic Day event as the chief guest. However, the Britain PM cancelled his visit after the spread of the
new contagious mutant strain of the novel coronavirus in his country.
• Following Johnson's decision to call off his visit, reports had started doing rounds that said that Indian-
origin President of Republic of Suriname, Chandrikapersad Santokhi, would be invited as the chief guest
at India's Republic Day parade this year.
PM announces Rs 1,000-crore 'Startup India Seed Fund'
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the launch of Rs 1,000-crore 'Startup India Seed Fund' to
support startups and help budding entrepreneurs pursue innovative ideas.
• Modi stated in 2014 there were only four startups in the unicorn club, but today there are more than 30.
• This initiative will help in building up new startups and promote their growth.
• The action plan of this initiative is focussing on three areas:
• Simplification and Handholding.
• Funding Support and Incentives.
• Industry-Academia Partnership and Incubation.
Petroleum & Natural Gas Ministry launches SAKSHAM campaign to spread awareness about green energy
• The Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry launched a month-long mass awareness campaign
'SAKSHAM' to spread awareness about green and clean energy.
• The Secretary Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Chairman, PCRA Shri TarunKapoor launched
the campaign.
• The campaign through various pan-India activities such as cyclothon, farmer workshops, seminars,
painting competition, CNG vehicle driving contest, etc will spread awareness among masses about the
advantages of using clean fuels.
• The campaign will also spread awareness about 7 key drivers mentioned by Prime Minister Narendra
Modi, to help India move towards cleaner energy. These are:
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• moving towards a gas-based economy,

• cleaner use of fossil fuels,
• greater reliance on domestic sources to drive biofuels,
• achieving renewable targets with the set deadlines,
• increased use of electric vehicles to decarbonize mobility,
• increased use of cleaner fuels like Hydrogen, and
• digital innovation across all energy systems.
• A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between PCRA and EESL for promotion of Energy
Efficient PNG Stove on the occasion.
PM flags off 8 trains to boost connectivity to Statue of Unity
• On Jan 17, 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off eight trains connecting different regions of
the country to Kevadiya with an aim to facilitate seamless connectivity to the Statue of Unity in Gujarat.
• Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani and Union railways minister Piyush Goyal were also present on the
occasion.
• These trains will connect Kevadia to Varanasi, Dadar, Ahmedabad, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Rewa, Chennai
and Pratapnagar.
• PM Modi also inaugurated the Dabhoi Chandod converted broad gauge railway line, Chandod Kevadia
new broad gauge rail line, newly electrified Pratapnagar Kevadia section and the new station buildings of
Dabhoi, Chandod and Kevadia.
Purpose :
• This connectivity will be beneficial for tourists coming to see the Statue of Unity but it will also help in
changing the lives of the tribal community of Kevadiya.
• It will bring new opportunities for jobs and self-employment.
• These trains will help boost tourism in the tribal region and increase connectivity to the world's tallest
statue, the Statue of Unity, which he inaugurated in October 2018 on the occasion of Sardar Vallabhbhai
Patel's 143rd birth anniversary.
Nitin Gadkari inaugurates Road Safety Month
• Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated Road Safety Month where
he highlighted the Central Government's commitment towards safety.
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• National Road Safety Month to be held from January 18 to February 17, 2021 and India accounts for 11
percent of accident-related fatalities worldwide
• The function was launched by Union Minister for Defence, Rajnath Singh and Union Minister for Road
Transport and Highways & MSME, Nitin Gadkari. The Minister of State for RTH, Gen (Retd) VK Singh and
CEO, NITI Aayog, Amitabh Kant also participated.
• The initiative aims to build awareness about road safety and reduce road accidents in the country. It will
be held till 17 February 2021.
• Globally India is one of the worst-hit nations when it comes to road accidents. India accounts for about 5
lakh road accidents annually, one of the highest in the world, in which about 1.5 lakh people die and
another 3 lakh become crippled.
• Centre is also taking several measures to reduce road accidents by Restructuring and Strengthening 4E’s
of Road safety, which are:
• Engineering
• Education
• Enforcement
• Emergency care Services
DRDO hands over MotorBike Ambulance Rakshita to CRPF
• Defence Research and Development Organisation handed over MotorBike Ambulance Rakshita to
the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
• Director General of CRPF Dr A P Maheshwari flagged off the contingent of 21 bikes on the occasion.
• It is a bike-based casualty transport emergency vehicle.
• It was Developed by DRDO lab Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS) in New
Delhi.
• Rakshita is fitted with a customized reclining Casualty Evacuation Seat (CES), which can be fitted in
and taken out as per requirement.
• Other major features are the head immobilizer, safety harness jacket, hand and foot straps for safety,
adjustable footrest, physiological parameter measuring equipment with wireless monitoring capability
and auto warning system for the driver.
Purpose :
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• The bike ambulance will help in overcoming the problems faced by Indian security forces and emergency
health care providers. The bike ambulances will provide life-saving aid for evacuation of injured patients
from low intensity conflict areas.
About DRDO :
• Founded : 1958
• Chairman : Dr G. Satheesh Reddy
About CRPF :
• Formed : 27 July, 1939
• Minister : Amit Shah
• Comes under Ministry of Home Affairs
• Director General : Dr A P Maheshwari
Defence Secretary inaugurates Swachhata Pakhwada organised by NCC at India Gate
• Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar inaugurated Swachhata Pakhwada organised by National Cadet
Corps, NCC at India Gate.
• The theme of this Swachhata Pakhwada is 'Clean India, Green India, Yeh Hai Mera Dream India'.
• It has contributed immensely towards nation building, through activities such as 'Ek Bharat, Shrestha
Bharat' and Special National Integration Camps, Leadership and Personality Development and
Swachhata Abhiyan Programmes.
• During the Swachhata Pakhwada the NCC cadets will keep Rajpath clean for the Republic Day Parade -
2021 by spreading awareness through displaying banners, distribution of pamphlets and showcasing
Swachhata through Nukkad Nataks
About National Cadet Corps :
• Founder : Government of United Kingdom
• Director General : Lt. Gen. Tarun Kumar Aich
• Motto : Unity and Discipline
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Union Minister Kiren Rijiju assigned additional charge of Ministry of AYUSH

• Union Minister Kiren Rijiju has been assigned the additional charge of the Ministry of AYUSH.
• During the hospitalization and treatment of AYUSH Minister Shripad Naik following a road accident
• The President has directed that this arrangement may continue till Mr Naik resumes his work related to
the Ministry of AYUSH.
• The President of India, as advised by the Prime Minister, has directed that during the hospitalization and
treatment of Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga
and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH); and Minister of State in Ministry of Defence,
following a road accident, his portfolio related to Ministry of AYUSH, be temporarily assigned to Kiren
Rijiju, Minister of State (Independent Charge) in addition to his existing portfolios."
About AYUSH :
• Office Holder : Shripad Naik
• Founded : 9 November, 2014
MoRTH notifies Inter Country Transport Vehicles Rules 2021
• The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has notified Inter Country Transport Vehicles Rules,
2021 which would facilitate and regulate the movement of passenger and goods vehicles between
India and neighbouring countries.
• As per the rules, the State Transport Authority has been given the power to grant the Inter Country
Transport Permit after thoroughly examining the application.
• The permit will remain valid for a period of one year from the date of its issue and it will be renewable
for a period of five years on a yearly basis.
• The State Transport Department will take care of formalities like provisioning of tickets, debugging of bus,
frisking or checking of passengers, handling of luggage before departure from the designated place. The
frequency can be reviewed by the State Transport Department and it can be increased as per the demand.
• The decision has been taken considering the requests made by the Ministry of Road Transport and
Highways to notify rules under provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act 1988 to facilitate movement of
vehicles carrying goods and passengers between India and neighbouring countries.
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About Ministry of Road Transport and Highways :

• Minister of State : Mansukh L. Mandaviya
• Union Minister : Nitin Gadkari
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates LNG truck-loading unit of Shell India in Gujarat
• Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated the LNG truck-loading unit of
Shell India at Hazira, Gujarat.
• The unit will boost availability of natural gas in off-grid areas where there are no gas pipelines. It will
also promote the use of LNG in long-haul trucking.
• Increasing competition in the LNG sector will help in emergence of new markets, creating new
employment opportunities, ensure cleaner fuels for industries and facilitate environment conservation.
• This is another big step towards a cleaner and greener future for India.
• The LNG sector will help in the emergence of new markets, create new employment opportunities, ensure
cleaner fuels for industries and facilitate environment conservation.
Bhawana Kanth to become the 1st woman fighter pilot to take part in R Day parade
• Flight lieutenant Bhawana Kanth is set to become the first woman fighter pilot to take part in the
Republic Day parade.
• She will be a part of the Indian Air Force's (IAF's) tableau that will showcase mock-ups of the light
combat aircraft, light combat helicopter and the Sukhoi-30 fighter plane.
• She is currently posted at an airbase in Rajasthan where she flies the MiG-21 Bison fighter plane.
• Kanth is also one of the first women fighter pilots in the IAF.
• She, along with Avani Chaturvedi and Mohana Singh, was inducted into the IAF as the first women fighter
pilots in 2016.
• Ten women have been commissioned as fighter pilots after an experimental scheme for their induction
into the IAF’s combat stream was introduced in 2015.
India's 2021 Republic Day parade
• The newly inducted Rafale fighter aircraft will feature in India's Republic Day parade on January 26 and
culminate the flypast by carrying out the 'Vertical Charlie' formation.
• A total of 38 IAF aircraft and four planes of the Indian Army will participate in the flypast on January 26,
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• The flypast will be divided into two blocks

• In the first block, there will be three formations. The first will be the 'Nishan' formation consisting of four
Mi17V5 aircraft that will carry the national flag and logos of all three services.
About Indian Air Force :
• Founded : 8 October 1932
28 non-official members nominated to startup council
• The government has nominated 28 non-official members on the National Startup Advisory Council.
• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) had set up the National Startup
Advisory Council a year back to advise the government on measures needed to build an ecosystem for
nurturing innovation and startups in the country.
• The term of the non-official members of the council is for a period of two years.
The Nominated members:
• Byju Raveendran (Founder of Byju’s)
• Lizzie Chapman (ZestMoney Co-founder)
• Kris Gopalkrishnan (Axilor Ventures founder)
About DPIIT :
• Founded : 1995
NITI AAYOG RELEASES REPORT ON FAECAL SLUDGE AND SEPTAGE MANAGEMENT IN URBAN AREAS
• NITI Aayog released a book on faecal sludge and septage management in urban areas.
• It is Jointly developed with National Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (NFSSM) Alliance.
• The book presents 27 case studies across 10 states and various service and business models adopted
by Indian cities while implementing faecal sludge and septage management (FSSM) initiatives.
• The book was released by NITI Aayog CEO Mr Amitabh Kant, MoHUA Secretary Mr Durga Shankar Mishra,
and NITI Aayog Additional Secretary Dr K. Rajeswara Rao in a virtual event.
• The target of open-defecation-free, India has now moved towards becoming ODF+ and ODF++
• This book provides a timely repository of FSSM best practices that can be adapted and replicated
appropriately across the country.
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About NITI Aayog :

• Formed : 1 January 2015
• Chairperson : Narendra Modi
• CEO : Mr Amitabh Kant
• Additional Secretary : Dr K Rajeswara Rao
DRDO and Road Transport and Highways Ministry sign MoU for technical exchange on sustainable geo-
hazard management
• Road Transport and Highways Ministry and Defence Research and Development Organisation, DRDO
signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen collaboration in the field of technical exchange
and co-operation on sustainable geo-hazard management.
• The MoU was signed by Secretary Ministry of Road and Transport Giridhar Aramane and Secretary DRDO
Dr Satieesh Reddy.
• It has been agreed that both will cooperate in the areas of mutual benefit including, conceptual planning
of integrated avalanche and landslide protection schemes for all weather connectivity in snow bound areas
of the country.
• This initiative will ensure safety of road users on National Highways in the country and safeguard them
from the adverse effects of landslides and other natural calamities.
About Ministry of Road Transport and Highways :
• Minister of State : Mansukh L. Mandaviya
• Union Minister : Nitin Gadkari
About DRDO :
• Founded : 1958
Cabinet approval - Ratle Hydro Power Project in J&K
• The Cabinet has given its approval for the investment of over Rs.5200 crore for 850 MW Ratle Hydro
Electric (HE) Project located on river Chenab, in Kishtwar in the Union Territory of Jammu and
Kashmir.
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• This will be a new Joint Venture Company (JVC) of National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC)
and Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation Ltd (JKSPDC) with equity
contribution of 51 per cent and 49 per cent respectively.
• The construction activities of the Project will provide direct and indirect employment to around 4000
persons and will contribute immensely in the overall socio-economic development of Jammu and Kashmir.
About Jammu & Kashmir:
• Capital: Jammu (winter), Srinagar (summer)
• Lieutenant Governor: Manoj Sinha
PM Modi releases financial assistance for UP under PMAY-G
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi released financial assistance of around Rs 2,691 crore to over six lakh
beneficiaries in Uttar Pradesh under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Gramin (PMAY-G), through video
conferencing.
• The financial assistance includes release of first installment to 5.30 lakh beneficiaries and second
installment to 80 thousand beneficiaries who have already availed first installment of assistance under
PMAY-G.
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna has moved rapidly under the present government and has helped the
poorest of the poor in Uttar Pradesh.
• He stressed on the aspect of women empowerment in the scheme as these units are mostly in the name
of women of the family.
About Uttar Pradesh:
• Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath
Meghalaya, Manipur & Tripura observes Statehood Day
• President, Vice President and Prime Minister have greeted the people of Meghalaya, Manipur and
Tripura on the occasion of their Statehood Day on January 21, 2021.
• President Ram Nath Kovind said, blessed with immense natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture,
these states are fascinating.
• He extended his warm wishes as they continue to move ahead on the path of multi-faceted development.
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• Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, the culture and warm-hearted nature of the people of Tripura is
admired across India.
• The state has achieved outstanding progress in various fields.
• He said, India is proud of Manipur’s contribution to national development.
• Manipur is a powerhouse of innovation and sporting talent.
• Mr Modi said, Meghalaya is known for its remarkable kindness and spirit of brotherhood.
• Youngsters from Meghalaya are creative and enterprising.
About Meghalaya:
• Chief minister: Conrad Sangma
About Manipur:
• Capital: Imphal
• Governor: Najma Heptulla
• Chief minister: N. Biren Singh
About Tripura:
• Chief Minister: Biplab Kumar Deb
Indian Railways renames iconic Howrah-Kalka Mail as 'Netaji Express'
• Indian Railways in a tribute to freedom fighter Subhas Chandra Bose who is also known as 'Netaji' has
decided to rename the Howrah-Kalka Mail as 'Netaji Express'
• The train first operated in the year 1866 and it has been in service of the nation for more than 150 years.
• The Howrah-Kalka Mail is one of the oldest running trains at present in the Indian Railways network.
• The Howrah-Kalka Mail runs between Howrah (Eastern Railway) and Kalka (Northern Railway) via Delhi.
• Founded : 16 April 1853
• Railway Minister : Piyush Goyal
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India’s longest Road Arch Bridge inaugurated in Meghalaya

• Meghalaya chief minister Conrad K Sangma inaugurated India’s longest road arch bridge, the Wahrew
Bridge at Sohbar in East Khasi Hills district.
• The bridge has been constructed at a cost of Rs 49.395 crore under Non Lapsable Central Pool of
Resources (NLCPR) of the DoNER ministry.
• The bridge connects Bholaganj and Sohbar to Nongjri in East Khasi Hills, bordering Bangladesh.
• The 169 metre Wahrew suspension bridge connects Bholaganj and Sohbar to Nongjri. The project was
sanctioned in 2013 while work started the following year and was completed in December, 2018.
About Meghalaya :
• Capital : Shillong
• Governor : Satya Pal Malik
• CM : Conrad Sangma
SC upholds IBC’s Section 32A
• The Supreme Court held that the successful bidders for a corporate debtor under the Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Code (IBC) would be immune from any investigations being conducted either by any
investigating agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED) or other statutory bodies such as
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
• Successful bidders for corporate debtors under IBC would be immune from any investigations being
conducted by any investigating agencies or Enforcement Directorate (ED).
DPIIT launches regulatory compliance portal
• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has launched a regulatory
compliance portal that will act as a bridge between citizens, industries and the government to minimise
burdensome compliances.
• It will also act as a first-of-its-kind central online repository of all central and state-level compliances
• Objective : The objective of this portal is to act as a bridge between citizens, industries and the
Government in order to minimize burdensome compliances.
About Regulatory Compliance Portal :
• The Regulatory Compliance Portal will be instrumental in achieving the vision of a truly Atmanirbhar
Bharat and help usher ease of doing business for industry and ease of living for Indian citizens.
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About DPIIT :
• Founded : 1995
Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the new 4-lane Thaltej-Shilaj-Rancharda railway overbridge in
Ahmedabad
• The Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah inaugurated the new 4-lane Thaltej-Shilaj-Rancharda railway
overbridge, in Ahmedabad city of Gujarat through video conferencing from New Delhi.
• It has been built at a cost of Rs 55 crore.
• Several dignitaries including Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Shri Nitin Patel were present at the
programme
About Ahmedabad :
• Founder : Ahmad Shah I
Modi address the inaugural function of Parakram Diwas in Kolkata
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit West Bengal to address the inaugural function of the ‘Parakram
Diwas’ celebrations at Victoria Memorial in Kolkata.
• The Prime Minister said, among the various programmes being organised across the nation, one special
programme is being held at Haripura in Gujarat.
• He said, Haripura has a special relation with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
• It was at the historic Haripura Session of 1938 that Netaji Bose took up the Presidentship of the Congress
Party.
About West Bengal:
• Chief minister: Mamata Banerjee
PM interact with Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awardees
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will interact with Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar awardees
• 32 children have been awarded the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar this year.
• Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani will also be present on the occasion.
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• The Government has been conferring the Bal Shakti Puraskar under Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal
Puraskar to the children with exceptional abilities and outstanding achievement in the fields of
innovation, sports, arts and culture, social service and bravery.
• The awardees are from 32 districts of 21 States and Union territories.
Center extends Ayushman Bharat health scheme to CAPF
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched the Ayushman CAPF health scheme in Guwahati for about
28 lakh Central Armed Police Forces and their families in all the states where Ayushman Bharat-
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana is operational.
• Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, MoS Home Nityananda Rai, Assam Finance Minister Himanta
Biswa Sarma, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla were also present on this occasion.
• Mr. Shah paid triunites to Netaji Subhash Bose.
• He said it was a great occasion coinciding with the Parakram Diwas to start Ayushman Bharat scheme
for the Central Armed Police Forces.
Amit Shah attends first BTR Accord Day celebration
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said that due to the efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a new
era of development and peace has prevailed in Bodoland Territorial Region.
• Addressing the the opening ceremony of the 1st BTR ( Bodoland Territorial Region) Accord Day
celebration at Kokrajhar in Assam.
• Mr. Modi is committed for the development of North East and also did all measures to put an end to the
era of violence in the region.
• He said that a peaceful region is required for development.
• The Home Minister mentioned that Mr. Modi took step to step terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.
• He said that Rs.500 crore have been sanctioned for the road development in BTR .
Home Minister Chair the Plenary session of North Eastern Council Meeting
• Union Home Minister Amit Shah is visiting Shillong to chair the 69th Plenary Meeting of the North
Eastern Council (NEC).
• The meeting would be attended by the MoS (Independent Charge), Ministry of Development of North-
Eastern Region (DoNER) and Vice-Chairman, Dr Jitender Singh and members of the NEC comprising
Governors and Chief Ministers of the eight north-eastern States.
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• Senior officials from north-eastern States and Central Government Ministries are also expected to be
present.
• Mr. Shah will also launch the Ayushman Bharat programme for central armed police forces at Guwahati
in Assam this evening.
• Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan will also attend the programme.
• Mr Shah will also attend the opening ceremony of the first anniversary of the BTR Accord at Kokrajhar.
UP becomes first state to have 2 airstrips on expressways for landing, take-off of fighter planes
• In UP, a new 3300 meter long airstrip has been constructed near Kurebhar On Purvanchal Expressway.
• Uttar Pradesh has become the first state in the country with two airstrips on expressways to facilitate
emergency landing and take-off of fighter planes.
• Airstrips on expressways are designed to facilitate emergency landing and take-off of fighter planes.
• One airstrip is on Lucknow-Agra Expressway while the other is on Purvanchal Expressway.
About UP :
• Founded : 24 January 1950
• Chief Minister : You Adityanath
Indian Railways' longest freight train 'Vasuki' sets a new record
• Indian Railways' South Eastern Central Railway(SECR) zone has created another record when it
operated the longest freight train on the Indian Railways network.
• The total length of the freight train was around 3.5 kilometers after joining the five rakes and it was
named 'Vasuki'.
• The distance between Bhilai to Korba is 224 kilometers and the long-haul freight train named 'Vasuki'
covered the whole distance with five rakes of a freight train.
• SECR on 22 January operated the long haul rake of five freight trains named 'Vasuki' With the help of one
loco pilot, one assistant loco pilot, and one guard.
• The train took around seven hours to cover the distance from Bhilai D cabin to Korba railway station.
• The Vasuki, comprising 300 wagons of long haul rakes of five goods trains, ran with the help of one pilot,
one assistant Loco pilot and a guard.
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About South Eastern Central Railway :
• Founded : 20 September 1998
• Headquarters : Bilaspur Junction
Bharat Parv begins on virtual platform showcasing glory of nation
• Bharat Parv 2021, a festival to celebrate the spirit of India has begun on Jan 26, 2021.
• The festival is being organised on a virtual platform www.bharatparv2021.com this year from Jan 26 to
till 31st of January.
• The mega event envisages generating patriotic fervour and showcases the rich and varied cultural
diversity of the country.
• The Ministry of Tourism organizes Bharat Parv every year since 2016 in front of the ramparts of the Red
Fort on the occasion of Republic Day Celebrations.
• Prasar Bharati has set up its virtual stall which will showcase its efforts towards promoting Ek Bharat-
Shrestha Bharat.
India pledges $150,000 for UN Peacebuilding Fund for 2021
• India has announced a pledge of $150,000 to activities of the Peacebuilding Fund this year and said that
2021 provides the international community with an opportunity to look at peace-building in a more focused
manner.
• India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti.
• The Peacebuilding Fund has put forth a comprehensive scenario covering a horizon of five years. The
Fund requires 1.5 billion dollars for 2020-2024.
• The recently concluded 2020 review of the UN peacebuilding architecture provides a framework to
strengthen peace building collectively.
PM chairs meeting of PRAGATI
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the meeting of 35th edition of PRAGATI, the ICT based multi-
modal platform for Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation, involving Central and State
governments.
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• In the meeting, ten agenda items were taken for review including nine projects and one program.
• Among the nine projects, three projects were from the Ministry of Railways, three from Ministry of Road
Transport and Highways and one project each from Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal
Trade, Power Ministry and Ministry of External Affairs.
• These nine projects have a cumulative cost of 54 thousand 675 crore rupees concerning the 15 States.
• The States are Odisha, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Jharkhand, Bihar,
Telangana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, West Bengal, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh.
Prime Minister marks NCC rally in New Delhi
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the rally of the National Cadet Corps at Cariappa Ground in
Delhi.
• Defence Minister, Chief of Defence Staff and the three armed services Chiefs will also be present on the
occasion.
• The Prime Minister will inspect the Guard of Honour, review March Past by NCC contingents and witness
cultural performance during the event.
NSA Ajit Doval speaks with US counterpart
• National Security Adviser Ajit Doval had a telephone call with his US counterpart, Jake Sullivan.
• The External Affairs Ministry said NSA Doval conveyed his best wishes to NSA Sullivan on his
appointment as National Security Advisor.
• Mr. Doval underscored that as leading democracies, with an abiding faith in an open and inclusive world
order, India and the US were uniquely positioned to work closely on regional and international issues.
• These issues include combating the scourge of terrorism, maritime security, cyber security and peace and
stability in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
Finance Minister inaugurates Chennai Bench of NCLAT
• Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Chennai
Bench of National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) through virtual mode.
• The inaugural ceremony was held in the presence of Shri. Justice Bansi Lal Bhat, Acting Chairperson,
NCLAT, Shri Rajesh Verma, Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs, other members of NCLAT and the
National Company Law Tribunals, officers of Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Ministry of Finance as well as
members of the Bar.
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• The New Delhi Bench of NCLAT is the Principal Bench of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal
established in 2016.
• Five new Benches of NCLT have been announced at Jaipur, Cuttack, Kochi, Indore and Amaravati,
bringing the total number of Benches to 16 (including the Principal Bench). The NCLAT now functions at
a strength of 5 courts, 4 at the Principal Bench in New Delhi and the 5th at NCLAT, Chennai.
• The Chennai Bench of NCLAT shall have jurisdiction to hear the Appeals arising out of the orders passed
by the benches of NCLT having jurisdiction of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh,
Lakshadweep and Puducherry.
• Two Members of NCLAT, New Delhi, Hon’ble Shri. Balvinder Singh, Member (Technical) and Hon’ble. Shri.
Justice Venugopal M. have taken charge of the newly constituted Chennai Bench of the NCLAT.
Conservationist joins SC panel on elephant corridor case
• The Supreme Court on January 27 appointed conservationist Nandita Hazarika as Member of a Technical
Committee constituted by it on October 14 last year to hear complaints by landowners against the action
taken by the Nilgris Collector, which included sealing of their buildings and allegations about the “arbitrary
variance in acreage of the elephant corridor.”
• On October 14, the top court upheld the Tamil Nadu government’s authority to notify an ‘elephant corridor’
and protect the migratory path of the animals through the Nilgiri biosphere reserve.
• The corridor is situated in the ecologically fragile Sigur plateau, which connects the Western and the
Eastern Ghats and sustains elephant populations and their genetic diversity.
EC rolls out digital voter I-cards
• The Election Commission rolled out the electronic version of the voters' photo identity card on the
National Voters' Day.
• The electronic voter ID cards can be stored on mobile phones and downloaded on personal computers.
• The e-voter card, available in the PDF format which cannot be edited, can be self-printed and laminated
by the voter when required.
• With its formal launch, electors in poll-bound West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry
can use e-voter cards on polling days. Elections are due in these states and the union territory in April-
May.
• The e-elector photo identity card is a non-editable digital version of the elector photo identity card and
can be saved in facilities such as a digital locker as well as can be printed in the PDF format.
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• The physical card takes time to print and reach the voter, and the idea is to provide faster delivery and
easy accessibility to the document.
• Apart from voter ID cards, Aadhaar card, permanent account number (PAN) card and driving licence are
also available in digital mode.
About Election Commission :
• Chief Election Commissioner : Sunil Arora
Cabinet approves MSP of copra at Rs 10,335 per quintal for 2021 season
• Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved Minimum Support Price (MSP) of copra at Rs
10,335 per quintal for 2021 season which is an increase of Rs 375 over 2020 rates.
• The approval is based on recommendations of the CACP.
• Briefing the media in Delhi, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said this will benefit millions of farmers
engaged in copra farming and impact the farmers of 12 coastal states.
• The MSP for ball copra has increased by Rs.300, to Rs. 10,600 per quintal for the 2021 season from 10,300
per quintal in 2020.
About CACP :
• Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices
• Chairman : Vijay Paul Sharma
• First Executive : M L Dantwala
National Marine Turtle Action Plan launched.
• A conservation paradigm for marine mega fauna and marine turtles, the Ministry of Environment
Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has released ‘Marine MegaFauna Stranding Guidelines’ and
‘National Marine Turtle Action Plan’ in New Delhi.
• The documents launched contain ways and means to not only promote inter-sectoral action for
conservation but also guide improved coordination amongst the government, civil society and all relevant
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stakeholders on the response to cases of stranding, entanglement, injury or mortality of marine mammals
and also conservation of marine turtles.
• These two documents highlight actions to be taken for handling stranded animals on shore, stranded or
entangled animals in the sea or on a boat, management actions for improved coordination, reducing
threats to marine species and their habitats, rehabilitation of degraded habitats, enhancing people’s
participation, advance scientific research and exchange of information on marine mammals and marine
turtles and their habitats.
State News
Assam assembly passes Bill to abolish all government-run Madrassas
• The Assam Legislative Assembly passed the repeal provincialisation of Madrassa Bill, 2020 to abolish
all government-run Madrassas in the state and convert them to general schools.
• The new act will come into effect from April 1, 2021. The Bill was tabled in the assembly by the state
government on December 28, 2020.
• Assam, the state government has decided to make 'education secular' and 198 high madrasas and 542
other madrasas in the state will operate as any other general educational institute and will not give
admission to students for theological studies.
About Assam :
Madhya Pradesh Exhibition Raag-Bhopali being organized to promote Zari-Zardozi crafts of Bhopal
• Madhya Pradesh Government is Organizing an exhibition called Raag-Bhopali is being organized to
promote Zari-Zardozi crafts of Bhopal.
• The exhibition is being organised till 30 December in Gauhar Mahal, Bhopal. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh
Chouhan while inaugurating the exhibition on that fading art of Zari-Zardozi will be revived.
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Different kinds of zari work
• Zardozi: This is a heavy and more elaborate embroidery work which uses varieties of gold threads,
spangles, beads and gota.
• It is used to embellish wedding outfits, heavy coats, cushions, curtains etc.
• Kamdani : This is a lighter needlework which is done on lighter material like scarves, veils, and caps.
• Mina Work: This is thus called owing to its resemblance with enamel work. The embroidery is done in
gold.
India and ADB sign USD 231 million loan to augment electricity generation capacity in Assam
• India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a USD 231 million loan to augment electricity
generation capacity in the State of Assam through construction of a 120 MegaWatts hydroelectric power
plant that will enhance availability of electricity for households.
• This is the third tranche loan for the ongoing Assam Power Sector Investment Programme that was
approved by the ADB Board in July 2014.
• The programme, including its two previous tranches, focuses on enhancing capacity and efficiency of the
energy generation and distribution systems in Assam to improve electricity service to end users.
About ADB :
• Headquarters : Mandaluyong, Philippines
• President : Masatsugu Asakawa
About Assam :
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Jharkhand Launches Crop Relief Scheme - Kisan Fasal Rahat Yojana
• Jharkhand is set to replace the Prime Minister’s insurance scheme for farmers with its own crop relief
scheme - Kisan Fasal Rahat Yojana.
• To be launched on December 29, the scheme will take three months to come into effect.
What is Jharkhand’s Kisan Fasal Rahat Yojana?
• It is a compensation scheme aimed at providing security cover to Jharkhand farmers in case of crop
damage due to natural calamity.
• It will cover both land owning and landless farmers. The Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry
and Co-operative will be the implementing agency and it will work in association with a project
management unit, which will be a consultancy firm that will take care of technical requirements.
• Food safety, crop diversification, rapid development in agriculture and paving the way for competition, are
among the aims of the scheme. It is not an insurance scheme where premiums are paid.
Why does the government want to replace the PM insurance scheme?
• Every year a large amount is paid as premium to the insurance companies. Jharkhand paid a total of Rs
512.55 crore in the last three years while the compensation claim settlement was only Rs 82.86 crore,
which was only 16 per cent of the total premium.
• The number of farmers benefited as compared to the actual cover is also hugely disproportionate. In the
last three years, out of a total of 33.79 lakh registered farmers, only 2.25 lakh farmers have benefited from
the scheme. The Jharkhand government says that since the state pays half the insurance premium, it
would rather use that amount for direct compensation.
About Jharkhand :
• Governor : Draupadi Murmu
• Chief Minister : Hemant Soren
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• Capital : Ranchi
Chief of Naval Staff visits INS Dwarka in Gujarat
• Admiral Karambir Singh, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) visited INS Dwarka, Indian Navy’s forward
operating base at Okha, Gujarat, on new year’s eve.
• The CNS was briefed by the Flag Officer Commanding Gujarat, Daman and Diu on maritime operations
and security aspects relevant to Gujarat, Daman & Diu (GD&D) Naval Area.
• He also took stock of coastal surveillance initiatives by GD&D Area and interacted with personnel from
Naval Station Okha and other units.
• Appreciating the quality work put in by the station, he encouraged the personnel to keep up the good work
as INS Dwarka enters its golden jubilee year.
• The CNS also wished all personnel and families at GD&D Area the very best for the new year.
About Gujarat :
Karnataka Government Permitted all shops to remain open for 24x7
• All shops and commercial establishments employing ten or more people in Karnataka are now allowed to
operate on a 24x7 basis, the state government.
• The move is aimed at generating employment and accelerating economic growth.
• The permission is subject to the establishments which employ ten or more people.
• The state government also mandated that no employee will be made to work more than eight hours and
in case of overtime the working hours should exceed ten hours a day and 48 hours in a week.
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About Karnataka :
Petroleum Minister Inaugurates Migrant Worker Cell in Surat
• Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has inaugurated a migrant worker cell of Surat Municipal
Corporation (SMC) at Udhna based iLab in Surat.
• Mr. Pradhan said that the migrant workers cell with linkage with the city livelihood centre will help extend
all kinds of assistance and government-led benefits to them.
• Migrant workers' Cell has been created by Surat Municipal Corporation for the first time in the Country
under the ‘National Urban Livelihood Mission Scheme’.
• The city has a presence of over 15 lakh migrant workers.
• He said that this cell will do a detailed mapping of migrant workers and classify them according to their
skill.
• This will help in connecting ‘Shramshakti’ to relevant industries and boost their livelihood and also ensure
their dignity.
About Gujarat :
• Chief minister: Vijay Rupani
Madhya Pradesh introduces 'Launch Pad Scheme' for unemployed youths
• In Madhya Pradesh, 'Launch Pad Scheme' is being started for boys and girls coming out of child care
institutions and having completed 18 years of age.
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• Objective: Women and Child Development Department is to provide such a platform to these youth,
through which they will be able to become self-reliant by continuing their education and training.
• Under the launch pad scheme, 52 districts of the state have been divided into 5 clusters.
• Five divisional headquarters are being started in Indore, Sagar, Gwalior, Jabalpur and Bhopal.
• An amount of Rs 6 lakh will be provided by the Women and Child Development Department for the
installation of each launch pad.
• These launch pads will be operated through non-governmental organizations.
About Madhya Pradesh:
• Capital: Bhopal
• Chief minister: Shivraj Singh Chouhan
UP Govt Launches 'Kisan Kalyan Mission'; Invokes Campaign To Double Farmers' Income
• On January 6, 2021, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath's government will launch an initiative named
‘Kisan Kalyan Mission’
• This is mainly for double the income of farmers of the state.
• The 3-week long campaign for the welfare of farmers will be organised in every development block of all
75 districts.
• Under the mission to be launched by the Uttar Pradesh government, many departments of the state
government such as Horticulture, Mandi Parishad, animal husbandry, sugarcane food and supply,
fisheries, and Panchayati Raj will be working together.
• It will help the farmers in getting benefit from the various schemes of the centre such as PM Kisan
Samman Nidhi, Kisan Credit Cards, and PM Fasal Bima Yojana.
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About UP :
Home Minister Amit Shah sleet CCEA approval
• Home Minister Amit Shah has hailed the CCEA approval to the Central Sector Scheme for Industrial
Development of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Mr Shah said, Prime Minister has started development in Jammu and Kashmir by ridding it of terrorism
and separatism.
• The approval of the Rs 28,400 crore central Sector Scheme for the industrial development of Jammu and
Kashmir by the Cabinet illustrates the special place that Jammu and Kashmir holds in the heart of the
Prime Minister.
• Mr. Shah said this scheme will prove to be a boon for cottage industry, handicrafts, micro, small and
medium industries of Jammu and Kashmir.
• It will spur the setting up of new MSME units in the manufacturing and services sector, as well as
encourage the expansion of existing units.
About J&K:
• Capital: Jammu (winter), Srinagar (summer)
• Lieutenant Governor : Manoj Sinha
Manoj Sinha unveils Mobile Application 'Satark Nagrik' and Departmental Vigilance Officers Portal
• In Jammu and Kashmir, LG, Manoj Sinha launched Mobile Application ‘Satark Nagrik’ and
Departmental Vigilance Officers Portal of J&K Anti Corruption Bureau at Civil Secretariat, Jammu.
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• Speaking on the occasion, the LG observed that UT Government is taking comprehensive measures for
ensuring transparent, accountable and responsive governance.
• The mobile application has been developed with a purpose to facilitate seamless flow of information about
corruption and enable citizens to submit their grievances with ease and mobility.
• The LG remarked that the most effective antidote to corruption is an active, involved, and empowered
citizenry.
• The Departmental Vigilance Officers (DVO) Portal has been designed to enable an online
communication channel with the DVOs of various departments and the portal will help in quick disposal
of complaints and will help to redress grievances in a systematic manner by enabling monitoring of the
status of DVO matters and Citizens Grievances assigned to DVOs at ACB Central Office.
Telangana becomes 3rd State to complete ULB reform
• Telangana has become the 3rd State in the country to successfully undertake Urban Local Bodies, ULB
reform stipulated by the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.
• The State has become eligible to mobilize additional financial resources of Rs 2,508 crore through Open
Market Borrowings.
• Permission for the same was issued by the Department of Expenditure.
• Telangana has now joined the two other States Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, who have
completed this reform.
• On completion of urban local bodies reform, these three States have been granted additional borrowing
permission of Rs 7,406 crore.
About Telangana:
• Capital: Hyderabad
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• Chief minister: K. Chandrashekar Rao
J&K LG declare Rs 28,400 cr mega Industrial Development Package
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced the
Government of India's approval for a mega Industrial Development Package worth Rs.28,400 crore.
• While addressing a press conference in Jammu, the LG Sinha said that the Union Cabinet sanctioned the
huge Industrial Development Package-2021 for J&K’s industrial sector that has been craving for the strong
support from the Centre.
• The LG said that the package aims at providing a huge boost to the existing industrial sector, setting up
new units, creating 4.5 lakh jobs and at least investments of Rs.20,000 crore.
• The package will remain in force for 17 years i.e. till 2037.
Gujarat CM announces to create new Bagasara Prant in Amreli district
• Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has decided to create a new Bagasara Prant in Amreli district.
• This will take the state’s revenue services nearer to the people and provide services faster.
• The newly created Bagasara Prant would come into effect on 26th January, which includes Bagasara and
Vadiya talukas in it.
• Since the districts with larger geographical areas cause inconvenience to the people, the state government
has been reorganizing smaller districts and talukas for administrative convenience, faster development,
reducing workload as well as saving the people's time.
• Now, the state government has taken up the reorganization of Prants.
About Gujarat:
Page 324 of 539

World's largest Floating Solar Plant at Omkareshwar Dam, Madhya Pradesh
• The World's largest Floating solar energy project is to be constructed at Omkareshwar dam on
Narmada river and will be operational by 2023 and an estimated cost of INR30 billion ($409.8m).
About the Solar Plant :
• It would be a 600 MW plant based on utilising solar energy
• The plant would be located on Omkareshwar dam in Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh
• The project is likely to begin generation of power by 2022-23
• That electricity will be produced by installing solar panels in a 2,000 hectares area of water.
• The International Finance Corporation, World Bank and Power Grid have agreed in principle to support
the project development.
• The Madhya Pradesh power management company has signed an agreement to buy 400MW power from
the project.
About International Finance Corporation :
• Headquarters : Washington DC, US
• Founded : 20 july, 1956
• CEO : Philippe Le Houerou
About MP :
Delhi - Varanasi High Speed Rail Corridor begins from Greater Noida
• The aerial ground survey for Delhi - Varanasi High Speed Rail Corridor began from Greater Noida.
• Railway Ministry said, a helicopter fitted with state of art Aerial LiDAR and imagery sensors took the
first flight and captured the data related to ground survey.
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• The Ministry said LiDAR technology provides all the ground details and data in 3 to 4 months wherein this
process normally takes 10 to 12 months.
• This technique uses a combination of Laser data, GPS data, flight parameters and actual photographs
to give accurate survey data.
Maharashtra: "Period Room" set up at a public toilet
• In a bid to help the women, residing in congested slums, during their menstruation days, a ‘period room’
has been set up for women at a public toilet in Maharashtra's Thane city.
• The civic body had been aided by NGO Muse Foundation in this initiative, and now, the NGO would be
taking up the task of informing the women of the slum about the existence of such a room when they hold
one of their regular sessions on menstrual hygiene.
• Equipped with several basic facilities, the period room aims to facilitate menstrual hygiene among women
dwelling in slums.
• The much-needed facility has been set up by the Thane Municipal Corporation in collaboration with an
NGO, at a slum in Shanti Nagar locality of Wagle Estate area in Thane.
About Maharashtra:
• Capital: Mumbai
• Chief minister: Uddhav Thackeray
Govt reduces age limit of J&K Administrative Services Exam aspirants
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the government has reduced the age limit of the aspirants
of Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services Exam from 37 years to 32 years.
• J&K Public Service Commission (J&KPSC) has announced that the vacancies will be filled up in
accordance with the provisions contained in J&K Combined Competitive Exam Rules 2018 (SRO-103).
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• J&K PSC, the recruiting agency, earlier notified that the combined competitive preliminary exam KAS-2021
will be held for 257 posts referred by the government.
• SRO 103 reduces the age of open merit aspirants from 37 to 32 years.
About J& K:
• Capital: Jammu (Winter), Srinagar(Summer)
Mamata Inaugurates 26th Kolkata International Film Festival
• West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee virtually inaugurated the 26th Kolkata International Film
Festival (KIFF).
• The inaugural ceremony was also virtually attended by Bollywood superstar and West Bengal's brand
ambassador Shah Rukh Khan from Mumbai.
• Legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray's classic 'Apur Sansar' will be the inaugural film of the festival in which
131 movies from 45 countries will be screened till January 13.
• Films will be screened at Rabindra Sadan, Nandan, Sisir Mancha and Rabindra Okakura Bhavan in Salt
Lake.
• Six films by Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini and movies on sitarist Ravi Shankar, singer Hemanta
Mukherjee and flicks of comedian Bhanu Bandyopadhyay will be screened.
About West Bengal :
• Governor : Jagdeep Dhankhar
• Chief Minister : Mamata Banerjee
• Capital : Kolkata
Page 327 of 539

India’s first Fire Park comes up in Odisha
• Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the ‘Fire Park’, a first of its kind initiative in the country, to
bring awareness on fire safety measures.
• This Will Facilitate Demonstrations on use of first aid fire-fighting equipment, rescue and disaster
operations, visit to exhibition hall, screening of films and distribution of leaflets on fire safety will be part
of the activities. Students from schools and colleges will be the focus group.
• He also launched a dynamic online portal, ‘AgnishamaSeva’ of Odisha Fire Service on virtual platform.
What’s On Show
• Demonstrations on use of first aid fire-fighting equipment
• Demo on rescue and disaster operations
• Visit to exhibition hall
• Screening of films and distribution of leaflets on fire safety
• The Fire Park will be opened to public on every Saturday from 3.30 pm to 5.30 pm
About Odisha :
• Capital: Bhubaneswar.
Cherry Blossom Mao Festival held in Manipur
• In Manipur, the Cherry Blossom Mao Festival was held at Senapati district marking the beginning of
pink season in the district.
• Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh graced the function virtually due to the pandemic.
• The Manipur government started organizing the festival every year from 2017 onward.
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• The virtual festival featured the picturesque landscape of Mao adorned with beautiful cherry trees, which
are laden with pink flowers which have traditionally attracted visitors from across the world.
• The virtual Cherry Blossom Festival at Mao, Manipur was jointly organised by the Department of Tourism
and Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), Shillong in association with the Organising Committee
Flower Festival, Mao.
Kerala, MP change MoU on Responsible Tourism
• Madhya Pradesh signed a memorandum of understanding with Kerala for replicating the latter’s
pioneering Responsible Tourism (RT) initiative.
• The States signed a joint declaration underneath which Kerala will prolong a sequence of companies
underneath a 16-point programme.
• The MoU was exchanged by Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran and his Madhya Pradesh
counterpart Usha Thakur.
• Next week, a 13-member staff from Bhopal, led by Ms Thakur, will tour totally different elements of Kerala
to assemble first-hand information about RT within the State.
About MP :
India’s first Labour Movement museum to come up in Kerala
• The country’s first Labour Movement Museum, showcasing the history of world labour movement,
would be launched in Kerala’s houseboat tourism hub, Alappuzha.
• The museum will feature a huge repository of documents and exhibits that shaped the labour movements
across the continents and impacted Alappuzha, the cradle of the labour movement in the country.
• The museum would be launched as part of the LDF government’s second 100-day programme.
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• The New Model Cooperative Society Limited, previously run by the Bombay Company, has been
converted into the Labour Movement Museum.
• It will portray, through pictures, documents and other exhibits, the growth of the world labour movement
and the history of Keralas labour movement”
About Kerala :
• CM : Pinarayi Vijayan
• Governor : Arif Mohammad Khan
Kerala becomes 8th State to complete ease of doing business reforms
• Kerala has become the 8th State in the country to successfully undertake Ease of Doing Business reform
stipulated by the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.
• The State has become eligible to mobilise additional financial resources of Rs.2,373 crore through Open
Market Borrowings.
• Permission for the same was issued by the Department of Expenditure, on 12th January 2021,
• Kerala has now joined the seven other States namely, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh,
Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, who have completed this reform. On completion of
reforms facilitating ease of doing business, these eight States have been granted additional borrowing
permission of Rs 23,149 crore.
About ease of doing business :
• The ease of doing business is an important indicator of the investment-friendly business climate in the
country. Improvements in the ease of doing business will enable faster future growth of the state economy.
• Therefore, the government of India had in May 2020, decided to link grant of additional borrowing
permissions to States who undertake the reforms to facilitate ease of doing business.
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Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani announces ‘Horticulture Development Mission’
• In Gujarat, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced the ‘Horticulture Development Mission’ (Bagayat
Vikas Mission).
• Aim : this mission is to double the income of farmers involved in medicinal and horticulture farming.
• Under this mission, the waste land of the government will be given on 30-year lease for farming of
horticulture and medicinal crops.
• As per an estimate, the government has about 50,000 non-cultivated land waste lands. The government
intends to convert this land into cultivation.
• A list of land blocks for land allotment in transparent manner will be released on I-Khedut portal. The
government will also offer priority assistance to lease owners for drip-sprinkler fountains.
• Surendranagar, Patan, Sabarkantha and Banaskantha districts in the first phase.
About the Mission :
• Under this mission, a tax on land conversion will be waived off. Lease amount applicable will be Rs 100 to
Rs 500 per year per acre during 6th to 30th year.
• Lease holders will be able to set up solar panel, windmills to generate energy for their own use, but will
not be allowed to sell it.
• If land is returned before the end of the lease period, no compensation will be payable. Final decision on
land allotment will be taken by a high power committee chaired by the Chief Minister.
About Gujarat :
Page 331 of 539

Nagpur’s Gorewada Zoo renamed as Balasaheb Thackeray Zoological Park
• The Maharashtra government renamed Nagpur’s Gorewada International Zoo as Balasaheb
Thackeray Zoological Park .
• The zoological park, spread over 1,900 hectares, will be inaugurated on January 26 by Chief Minister
Uddhav Thackeray.
• Three special 40-seat capacity vehicles and an online ticket booking facility will be made available to the
people as soon after the Indian safari is inaugurated,
• Aim : to protect forests and promote tourism, Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister for Environment, Forest
and Climate Change (MoEFCC), had announced the setting up of the ‘international-standard’ bio park in
August 2019.
• The task was entrusted to the Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra Ltd.
About Maharashtra :
• Chief Minister : Uddhav Thackeray
• Capital : Mumbai
Gujarat govt to renames dragon fruit as kamalam
• Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has proposed to rename dragon fruit as ‘Kamalam.
• The dragon fruit has been renamed Kamalam because of the shape of the fruit.
• This was announced at the launch of the Chief Minister Horticulture Development Mission.
• The Horticulture Development Mission, a new scheme to promote horticulture in the State’s unproductive
land parcels.
About Dragon Fruit :
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• Dragon fruit is the fruit of a species of wild cactus indigenous to South and Central America, where it is
called pitaya or pitahaya.
• The world’s largest producer and exporter of dragon fruit is Vietnam, where the plant was brought by the
French in the 19th century.
• Dragon fruit is also cultivated in apart from its native Latin America Thailand, Taiwan, China, Australia,
Israel, and Sri Lanka.
About Gujarat :
• CM : Vijay Rupani
CM Thakur launches HP''s first online youth radio station
• Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur launched Himachal Pradesh''s first online youth radio station ''Radio
Hills-Youngistan Ka Dil.
• The chief minister appreciated the efforts of the young entrepreneurs and said the online radio station
would go a long way in promoting culture and traditions of the state besides providing an opportunity to
the youth to exhibit their talents.
• Deepika and Saurabh, co-founders of the online radio station, informed Thakur that it would also be
available on Apple and Android mobile phones.
• Developers of the online radio station Karan, Radio Jockeys Palak, Rahul and Nidhi were also present on
the occasion.
• The online radio would go a long way in promoting the culture and traditions of the state, besides providing
an opportunity to the youth to exhibit their talents.
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Andhra Pradesh CM flagged off Door to door Delivery Vehicles
• In Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy flagged off Mobile Dispensing Units/ Door
to door Delivery Vehicles in Vijayawada.
• As many as 9,260 of such vehicles will supply ration with quality rice at the door steps of ration card
beneficiaries across the state.
• The State Government has come forward with the door delivery programme with a view to supply quality
rice and also other essential commodities.
• As promised in his Padayatra, Mr Reddy has taken up this initiative to supply quality rice to the BPL
people.
• The mobile vehicles were purchased at a cost of Rs 539 crore and these vehicles were provided by the
government at 60% subsidy to eligible beneficiaries through various corporations under the Employment
Guarantee Scheme for unemployed youth.
• The value of each vehicle is Rs 5,81,000, of which Rs 3,48,600 was provided as subsidy from various
Corporations and Civil Supplies Corporation.
About Andhra Pradesh:
• Chief minister: YS Jagan Mohan Reddy
• Capitals:
• Amaravati is the legislative Capital
• Visakhapatnam is the executive capital
• Kurnool is the judicial capital
Page 334 of 539

Ministry of Minority Affairs organise Hunar Haat in Lucknow
• Ministry of Minority Affairs will organise the 24th Hunar Haat at Avadh Shilpgram, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
from 22nd January to 4th February with the theme of Vocal for Local.
• Artisans and craftsmen from 31 States and Union Territories of the country will participate in the Hunar
Haat.
• About 500 artisans, craftsmen and culinary experts from different States including Andhra Pradesh,
Assam, Bihar, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Chattisgarh, Jammu-Kashmir, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala,
Ladakh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal will display and sell
their exquisite handmade products.
• The Ministry said, renowned artists of the country will perform cultural events on the theme of Atma
Nirbhar Bharat every day at Hunar Haat.
Karnataka CM launches Avalokana software
• In Karnataka, Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa launched Avolokana software that will enable the
government to access data on sanctions and expenditures incurred by 39 departments on 1,800
programmes implemented by them.
• District Deputy Commissioners and Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officers in Bengaluru, the Chief
Minister also unveiled Karnataka statistics on Development programmes for the year 2019-20.
About Karnataka:
• Capital: Bengaluru
• Governor: Vajubhai Vala
• Chief minister: B. S. Yediyurappa
Page 335 of 539

Ladakh administration organises Opening Ceremony of Archery Competition
• Archery has always been a part of every Ladakhi society.
• Nowadays, Ladakhi youth are seen focusing more on modern archery along with traditional one.
• Under the Khelo India Ladakh Winter Games, the Union Territory Administration has organised the
Opening Ceremony of Archery Competition at Leh.
• Union Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs Kiren Rijiju inaugurated the competition.
• In the Leh district of UT of Ladakh, Union Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs Kiren Rijiju
inaugurated Archery Competition-2021 under First Khelo India Ladakh Winter Games at NDS Sports
Stadium.
About Ladakh:
• Capitals: Leh, Kargil
• Lieutenant Governor: Shri Radha Krishna Mathur
Golden jubilee statehood day celebrated by Himachal Pradesh
• Himachal Pradesh is celebrating its golden jubilee statehood day (Jan 25th) with full zeal across the state.
• It was on this day in 1971 Himachal Pradesh became the 18th state of India.
• Chief Minister Jairam Thakur stated that the ‘golden jubilee’ of the statehood of Himachal Pradesh would
be celebrated round the year by organizing 51 programs in various parts of the state.
• ‘Swarnim Rath Yatra’ will also be carried out to showcase the development journey of the hill state as a
part of golden jubilee celebrations during the year.
• A special postal stamp would also be released to mark the occasion.
About Himachal Pradesh:
• Capitals: Shimla(summer) , Dharamshala(winter)
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New scheme initiated in Rajasthan
• A new scheme has been initiated in Sirohi district, Rajasthan to make people aware about the importance
of nourishment of pregnant women and children.
• The scheme called Ek Paudha Suposhit Beti Ke Naam or A plant on the name of a well nourished
daughter' has been started under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme of the union government.
• Under this Scheme on the birth of a girl child a drumstick plant is being distributed by district
administration this nutritional plant is taken care of by family members of girl child.
Tourism Minister inaugurates IISM branch in Kargil
• In Kargil of Ladakh Union territory, the Union Tourism Minister Mr Prahlad Singh Patel has inaugurated
a branch of Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM).
• The Minister participated in various events to celebrate the National Tourism Day with National Events
of Adventure Tourism, (NEAT) in Kargil district.
• Minister Prahlad Singh said, the Union Government is taking all measures to encourage adventure sports
and snow based winter games in the region.
• He said, till now outside sportspersons who are using the natural advantages are supporting local talent.
About Ladakh:
• Capitals: Leh, Kargil
• Lieutenant Governor: Shri Radha Krishna Mathur
Madhya Pradesh - first state to get additional funds for capital projects
• Madhya Pradesh has become the first state to get additional funds for capital projects for successfully
carrying out reforms in various citizen-centric areas.
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• The Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance has allocated additional Rs.660 crore to the state for
capital expenditure for undertaking the One Nation, One Ration Card Reforms, Ease of Doing Business
Reforms, and Urban Local Bodies Reforms.
• The scheme of “Special Assistance to States for capital expenditure” was announced by the Finance
Minister on 12th October last year under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat package.
• Capital: Bhopal
WIPRO group - knowledge partner of Madhya Pradesh govt.
• In Madhya Pradesh, WIPRO group is all set to act as knowledge partner of the State Government.
• Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, while holding a discussion with Mr Azim Premji of WIPRO through
video conference, informed that the company has taken initiative for establishment of a university in the
State.
• For this purpose, the State Government will extend all possible support to the Foundation.
• The Wipro Group will also set up a Software Development Centre in Bhopal.
• The Chief Minister said, such centers will go a long way in providing more opportunities to the youth in
the Information Technology sector.
Gujarat govt. announces to set up new industrial estates
• In Gujarat, the State Government has announced to set up new industrial estates under the Gujarat
Industrial Development Corporation-GIDC.
• It will be set up over 987 hectares of land across eight districts.
• Among these new estates, Jalotra in Banaskantha district will cover the marble cutting and polishing
industry.
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• Shekhpat in Jamnagar district will house brass and ceramic units, while Kadjodra in Gandhinagar district
will cover food and agro industry.
• Patan will have auto ancillary units, while Nagalpar in Rajkot district will cover the medical devices
industry.
• Anand and Mahisagar districts will have industrial estates for engineering industries.
• According to official sources, the new GIDC estates will provide 2,570 plots of 500 to 2,000 square meters
to the MSME sector and 337 plots of 10,000 to 50,000 square metres to large industries.
• The new GIDC estates will generate nearly 20,000 employments after its complete set up.
About Gujarat:
Tamil Nadu: Union Minister Giriraj Singh disburses subsidy amount
• In Tamil Nadu, Union Minister for fisheries Giriraj Singh disbursed subsidy amounts to three boat building
yards for construction of deep sea fishing boats scheme worth
• Rs. One crore 64 lakhs under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sambadha Yojana at Kunthakkal Harbour
Ramanathapuram.
• The Minister said that the Government has invested 20 thousand fifty crore for fisheries development
throughout the Country.
• He said that the Centre would take up the fishermen issues with the neighbouring Srilankan Government
which will provide a solution to make their livelihood a success.
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In UP Yogi Adityanath launches Udyam Sarathi app for youth to explore self-employment
• For the 71st foundation day of Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched 'Udyam Sarathi'
app to help youth to explore self-employment opportunities.
About the app :
• This application will provide all information related to self-employment and the job industry at one click.
• The app, prepared under the ODOP scheme and considered to be a master-key for exploring self-
employment opportunities to the youth.
• Through the Udyam Sarathi app, youth would easily be able to get a varied range of business
opportunities in different departments and sectors of the state and the Central government.
• Under the vision of 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas and Sabka Vishwas', this App is poised to benefit the
women and farmers looking for avenues of self-employment.
• It has been launched under the One District One Product (ODOP) scheme.
• The Uttar Pradesh Day celebration will run from 24 January to 26 January, 2021.
• The theme of Uttar Pradesh Day 2021 is ‘Respect for self-reliant Uttar Pradesh, women young farmers,
development of all’.
• Uttar Pradesh was recognised as a state of India on January 24, 1950.
About UP :
• CM : Yogi Adityanath
20-year-old Shrishti Goswami is Uttarakhand CM for a day
• To mark the National Girl Child Day, Haridwar teenager Srishti Goswami will take charge as the chief
minister of Uttarakhand for one day.
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• She will take part in the child assembly session in Dehradun.
• Goswami, a student of BSc Agriculture, lives in Daulatpur village of the district.
• For the first time in the history of Uttarakhand, a girl will become the state’s chief minister.
• It has received a nod from the incumbent chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat.
• The one-day chief minister will administer from Gairsain, the summer capital of the state, and will review
various schemes run by the state government that include Atal Ayushman Scheme, Smart City project,
Homestay Scheme by the tourism department, and other development projects.
About Uttarakhand :
• Chief Minister : Trivendra Singh Rawat
• Governor : Baby Rani Maurya
Odisha’s famous ‘Toshali National Crafts Mela’ begins
• The 15th edition of the famous ‘Toshali National Crafts Mela’ began in Odisha’s Bhubaneswar on
January 21.
• Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the grand mela through video conferencing.
• This year, around 250 stalls have been opened at the mela.
• Mela has become one of the most popular handlooms and handicrafts fairs in Eastern India.
• On the occasion, the Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Minister Padmini Dian felicitated three artisans
with State Handicrafts Award- 2019.
• Three winners are Dilip Kumar Swain (palm leaf engraving), Divyajyoti Dehera (stone sculpting), and
Priyanka Patra (terracotta).
About Odisha :
• CM : Naveen Patnaik
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Andaman Lt Governor flags off electric buses
• D K Joshi, the Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands flagged-off a fleet of electric
buses.
• The project for 40 electric buses is being executed by NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited(NVVN
Limited), a 100% subsidiary of NTPC Limited, a PSU under the Ministry of Power, Government of India.
• The introduction of electric buses in the Island union territory will help cut down tailpipe emissions as well
as provide comfortable public transport.
• These buses will provide last mile connectivity to NAMMA Metro network.
About NVVN :
• NVVN is developing and providing a complete range of zero emission mobility solutions for various vehicle
segments. In order to encourage faster migration to electric vehicles, NVVN is also developing charging
infrastructure in multiple cities across the country.
• Founded : 2002
About Ministry of Power :
• Office holder : R K Singh
Uddhav Thackeray inaugurates Zoological Park in Nagpur
• In Maharashtra, Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray inaugurated Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada
International Zoological Park in Nagpur.
• The park has been developed by the State Forest Department and Forest Development Corporation.
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• It is spread across an area of 1,914 hectares and includes a wildlife sanctuary, Indian safari, African safari
biodiversity park and night safari.
• The park has been opened for the Indian safari.
• Registration can be done on the website www.wildgorewada.com.
About Maharashtra:
• Governor: Bhagat Singh Koshyari Trending
• Capital: Mumbai
• Chief minister: Uddhav Thackeray
Meghalaya selected for Special Award
• The Office of the Chief Electoral Officer, Meghalaya was selected for a Special Award for Information
Technology applications in Elections by the Election Commission of India (ECI), in the National Best
Electoral Practices Awards-2020.
• President Ram Nath Kovind virtually conferred the award to Meghalaya CEO F.R. Kharkongor at the
National Voters' Day Award function held in New Delhi, a statement from the CEO’s office informed.
About Meghalaya:
• Chief minister: Conrad Sangma
Maharashtra launches jail tourism initiative
• Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray launched a ‘jail tourism’ initiative of the state
government from Pune’s Yerawada prison, in a move to help students learn about historical
experiences.
• The initiative was launched on January 26 via video conferencing.
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• Yerawada jail is 150-years-old where several freedom fighters, including Mahatma Gandhi, Lokmanya
Tilak, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Sarojini Naidu and Subhas Chandra Bose had
been imprisoned under the British rule.
• The 'jail tourism' was started to make students aware of the history.
• The jail has witnessed many historical events like the Pune-pact that was signed within the premises of
this jail.
• In recent times the accused of 26/11 Mumbai blasts Ajmal Kasab was hanged here on November 21,
2012."
About Maharashtra :
• CM : Uddhav Thackeray
Tamil Nadu CM inaugurates Jayalalithaa Memorial
• Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi Palanisamy inaugurated Jayalalithaa Memorial at Chennai.
• The 79 crore worth grand memorial is built on a nine acre land situated on the shores of the Marina
Beach.
• The phoenix shaped memorial has a statue of Jayalalithaa and MGR with an artificial waterfall.
• The building was completed within a record period of 30 months.
• Scores of AIADMK workers from all districts thronged the city to witness the event.
About Tamil Nadu:
• Chief minister: Edappadi K. Palaniswami
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Expansion of NALCO plant in Odisha
• Union Minister of Coal and Mines Pralhad Joshi has assured that the proposed brownfield expansion of
National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO)'s smelter plant at Angul is very much on track and will
be executed on priority.
• The Navaratna PSU has planned to invest around Rs 30,000 crore by 2027-28 on expansion and
diversification.
• Around Rs 22,000 crore will be invested on the expansion of the company's aluminium smelter unit from
0.46 million tonne per annum (MTPA) to 1 MTPA and construction of a 1400-MW feeder captive power
plant (CPP) in Angul.
About Odisha:
• Chief minister: Naveen Patnaik
UP govt to set up India's first leather park in Kanpur
• Uttar Pradesh government will establish the first leather park of the country in Kanpur district.
• The park is expected to provide employment to 50 thousand people directly and more than 1 lakh 50
thousand people indirectly.
• The project will be established in 268 areas of land in Ramaipur village of Kanpur district and is expected
to attract an investment of more than 5850 crores.
• The leather park will also have an effluent treatment plant of 20 million litre per day capacity so that it will
not pollute the Ganga river.
• The establishment of leather park Kanpur City will be able to strengthen its position among the 10 big
leather manufacturing states of the country.
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• The leather park will have all the facilities for production as well as exhibition of leather products.
• It will also have fooding and lodging arrangements for the investors who will come here from all over the
world.
About UP
Karnataka puts pension payments on auto-pilot
• The Karnataka government launched a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country to automatically select
beneficiaries for old-age pensions that will be paid through the direct benefit transfer (DBT) mode.
• This model was piloted in Udupi and Ballari districts where officials enrolled beneficiaries for old-age
pensions using the 'Navodaya' app.
• All persons above 60 years will be automatically selected as beneficiaries of old-age pension based on
their annual income.
• The government will make use of the Aadhaar and income certificates database in selecting beneficiaries.
• Purpose : To enable beneficiaries to get the pension without the need of middlemen.
About Karnataka :
• CM :Yediyurappa
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February 2021 – National & State Current Affairs
National News
Govt. nods release of Rs 1,751 cr to Assam, Arunachal, Odisha, Telangana & UP
• The High-Level Committee under the Chairmanship of Home Minister Amit Shah approved Additional
Central Assistance of over one thousand seven hundred 51 crore rupees under the National Disaster
Response Fund, NDRF to five states, which were affected by floods, landslides during South-West
Monsoon-2020 and hailstorm during Rabi 2019-20.
• While approving the Additional Central Assistance, Mr Shah said, the Union Government under the
leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has resolved to help people of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh,
Odisha, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh who braved these natural disasters.
External affairs Minister discuss his US counterpart
• External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has had a telephonic conversation with US Secretary of State
Antony J. Blinken.
• Dr Jaishankar warmly congratulated Secretary Blinken on his appointment and wished him success in
his new responsibilities.
• Both leaders expressed their commitment to consolidate and expand the multi-faceted strategic
partnership.
• They appreciated the robust defence and security ties, growing economic engagement, productive health-
care collaboration and strong people-to-people linkages as its important pillars.
India's GDP - 11 per cent next fiscal - V-Shaped recovery
• The government has said that the country is witnessing a V-Shaped Economic Recovery which is a
testimony to the resilience and intrinsic strength of its economy.
• It happened due to Mega Vaccination Drive, Robust Recovery in the Services Sector and Robust Growth
in Consumption and Investment.
• The Economic Survey tabled in the Parliament projects India’s real GDP to record an 11 per cent
growth in Financial Year 2021-22 and nominal GDP to grow by 15.4 per cent, the highest since
independence.
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Uttarakhand Sets up Shivalik arboretum

• An arboretum showcasing the floral diversity of the Shivalik hills was inaugurated at Jeolikot in
Nainital district.
• It is Mainly for conserving over 210 species of trees found in the Shivalik range of Himalayas.
• One of the unique features of the "Shivalik Arboretum" inaugurated by noted environmental activist Ajay
Rawat is that the trees standing there introduce themselves to visitors.
• Shivalik Arboretum aims to spread nature education among people so that they are able to feel an
emotional connection with the trees, and make them more active towards conservation.
• The facility will showcase information like scientific information about particular species, cultural
significance, medicinal use, country of origin, type of habitat in which it is found and all possible uses
including timber, dyes or any other peculiar use.
• The tree species include Kaphal (myrica esculenta), Toon (toona ciliata), Tejpat (cinamomum tamala),
Banj oak (quercus leucotrichophora) and Buransh (rhododendron arboreum).
• Some exotic tree species like Queensland Kauri Pine (agathis robusta), Atlas Cider (cedrus Atlantica)
and Montezuma Cypress also stand at the arboretum. PTI ALM HDA
About Uttarakhand :
5. Governor : Baby Rani Maurya
6. CM : Trivendra Singh Rawat
Venkaiah Naidu to inaugurate National Tribal Festival ‘Aadi Mahotsav’
• Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will inaugurate Aadi Mahotsav, a National Tribal Festival at Dilli
Haat in INA in the National Capital.
• It will continue till 15th Feb.
• The Tribal Affairs Ministry said, the Aadi Mahotsav - A Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Culture, Crafts,
Cuisine and Commerce is a successful annual initiative that was commenced in 2017.
• The festival was an attempt to familiarise the people with the rich and diverse craft, culture of the tribal
communities across the country, in one place.
Smriti Irani inaugurates India International Silk Fair
• Textiles Minister Smriti Irani inaugurated the 8th India International Silk Fair on Virtual Portal.
• India has long history of silk production and is the 2nd largest producer of Silk.
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• India is the only country in the world which produces all the four major varieties of silk - Mulberry, Eri,
Tassar, and Muga.
• The fair is considered to be India’s biggest silk fair, being held under one roof on Indian Silk Export
Promotion Council’s virtual platform.
• The five days event is being held virtually due to COVID-19 pandemic.
• Mrs Irani said that more than 200 overseas buyers have already registered and equal number of their
representatives in India will be interacting with more than 100 renowned and big Indian companies
manufacturing and trading silk and silk blended products.
• She called upon the exhibitors and overseas buyers to take part in this initiative to celebrate the beauty
and vibrancy of Indian silk.
Cabinet approves Budget for fiscal year 2021-22
• The Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the Budget for the fiscal year 2021-
22.
• Earlier, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman called on President Ram Nath Kovind before presenting
the Union Budget 2021-22 in Parliament.
• MoS Finance Anurag Thakur and senior officials of the Ministry of Finance also were present during the
meeting.
• Traditionally, copies of the Budget are brought to the Parliament complex before the Finance Minister
arrives, this year no document has been printed following the COVID-19 protocol.
• The Budget copies will be disseminated electronically, with documents being uploaded on the
government website as well as being made available on a special app developed for the same.
Insurance stocks advance after FM proposes higher FDI limit
• In the Union Budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed to amend Insurance Act, 1938 to
increase FDI limit from 49% to 74% in insurance companies, and allow foreign ownership and control
with safeguards.
• Shares of six insurance companies added 3% to 5% after the central government proposed to amend
Insurance Act to allow higher foreign direct investment (FDI) in insurance companies.
• ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company (up 5.86%), General Insurance Corporation of India (up 5.41%),
The New India Assurance Company (up 5.16%), HDFC Life Insurance Company (up 4.46%), ICICI
Lombard General Insurance Company (up 3.68%), SBI Life Insurance Company (up 3.49%) advanced.
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About FDI :
• Foreign direct investment (FDI) is when a company takes controlling ownership in a business entity in
another country. With FDI, foreign companies are directly involved with day-to-day operations in the
other country. This means they aren't just bringing money with them, but also knowledge, skills and
technology.
Union Ministers jointly launch unified web portal for monitoring progress of GOBARDHAN activities
• Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Animal Husbandry
Minister Giriraj Singh, Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Minister of State for Jal Shakti
Rattan Lal Kataria jointly launched a unified web portal for monitoring the progress of GOBARDHAN
activities across the nation.
• Gobardhan is an important component of Swachh Bharat Mission Phase-2 for organic solid waste
management.
• The Gobardhan scheme aims at supporting villages effectively to manage their cattle dung and other
organic waste.
• The Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation will work with all the other stakeholders to implement
Gobardhan, a unified approach across villages.
• Gobardhan pilot project will prove to be an important and useful step in cleanliness
• Through this will get ethanol, bio-diesel and compressed bio-fuel in the coming years.
Policy of Strategic Disinvestment announced
• Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting the
Union Budget FY 2021-22 in Parliament announced that the government has approved a policy of
strategic disinvestment of public sector enterprises
• That will provide a clear roadmap for disinvestment in all non-strategic and strategic sectors.
• The government aims at making use of disinvestment proceeds to finance various social sector and
developmental programmes and also to infuse private capital, technology and best management
practices in Central Government Public Sector Enterprises
• Two fold classification of Sectors to be disinvested :
• Strategic Sector : Bare minimum presence of the public sector enterprises and remaining to be
privatised or merged or subsidiarized with other CPSEs or closed.
• Non- Strategic Sector : In this sector, CPSEs will be privatised, otherwise shall be closed.
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• Following 4 sectors to come under it :

• Atomic energy, Space and Defence
• Transport and Telecommunications
• Power, Petroleum, Coal and other minerals
• Banking, Insurance and financial services
• Recognising that Idle assets will not contribute to AtmaNirbhar Bharat and the non-core assets largely
consist of surplus land with government Ministries/Departments and Public Sector Enterprises, the
Minister proposed to use a Special Purpose Vehicle in the form of a company to carry out monetization
of idle land.
• This can either be by way of direct sale or concession or by similar means.
• Smt. Sitharaman also proposed to introduce a revised mechanism that will ensure timely closure of sick
or loss making CPSEs.
About CPSEs :
• Central public sector enterprises (CPSEs) are those companies in which the direct holding of the
Central Government or other CPSEs is 51% or more.
• As on 31.3.2015 there were 298 CPSEs wherein, 63 enterprises are yet to commence commercial
operation.
Tax holiday for start ups extended for another year till March 2022
• To help India's startups amid the COVID-19 pandemic, tax holidays for these businesses have been
extended by one year till March 31, 2022, said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman while presenting
the Union Budget 2021-22
• The government has also proposed to incentivise incorporation of one-person companies (OPCs).
The move is likely to help smaller startups and innovators.
• The Government has increased the FDI limit from 49 to 74 percent in Insurance Companies and
allowed foreign ownership and control with safeguards.
• The Government has proposed to infuse 20 thousand crore rupees to re-capitalized Public Sector
Banks.
About FDI :
• Foreign direct investment (FDI) is when a company takes controlling ownership in a business entity in
another country. With FDI, foreign companies are directly involved with day-to-day operations in the
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other country. This means they aren't just bringing money with them, but also knowledge, skills and
technology.
India gets its first Centre for Wetland Conservation and Management in Chennai
• Sh. Babul Supriyo announced the establishment of a Centre for Wetland Conservation and
Management (CWCM), as a part of the National Centre for Sustainable Coastal
Management(NCSCM), Chennai, an institution under the Ministry.
• On the occasion of the World Wetland Day and as a part of its commitment towards conservation,
restoration and management of India’s wetlands, the Minister of State for Environment, Forest and
Climate Change.
• The event was attended virtually by NCSCM, State Wetland Authorities and the knowledge partners of
the Wetland Division.
• India has nearly 4.6% of its land as wetlands, covering an area of 15.26 million hectares and has 42
sites designated as Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Sites), with a surface area of 1.08
million hectares.
• The year 2021 also commemorates the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Ramsar Convention on
Wetlands on 2 February 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, celebrated annually as World Wetlands Day.
• The Minister also released publications relating to Faunal Diversity of all the Ramsar sites in the country
and a brochure on Designation of Ramsar sites.
About the Wetland Conservation and Management :
• The dedicated CWCM Centre would address specific research needs and knowledge gaps, give a fillip
to capacity development and cutting-edge research on wetlands of India, as well as aid in the
application of integrated approaches for conservation, management and wise use of the wetlands.
India's First Amputee Clinic Launched In Chandigarh
• An 'amputee clinic', the first of its kind in India, with the aim of improving amputation patient care by
providing a collection of services under one roof with significant coordination was launched in
Chandigarh.
• The clinic was formally inaugurated by the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and
Research (PGIMER) Director Prof Jagat Ram.
• The basic intent of this initiative is to bring an Amputee as a near-normal functional human being in
society.
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• This initiative will attempt to provide appropriate management to amputees to guide them in their path
to rehabilitation in society and will support patients with counseling and medical facilities during their
treatment and recovery.
‘Atmanirbharta’ named Oxford Hindi word of 2020
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi pushed for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) an Oxford panel
has now chosen 'Atmanirbharta' in Hindi word of 2020.
• The advisory panel of language experts Kritika Agrawal, Poonam Nigam Sahay and Imogen Foxell stated
that "it validated the day-to-day achievements of the countless Indians who dealt with and survived the
perils of a pandemic”.
• The Oxford Hindi word of the year is a word or expression that is chosen to reflect the ethos, mood, or
preoccupations of the passing year, and have lasting potential as a term of cultural significance.
• The usage of the word 'Aatmanirbharta' after Prime Minister Modi's address has increased significantly.
• There was a massive increase in the usage of aatmanirbharta following the prime minister's address,
highlighting its increased prominence as a phrase and concept in the public lexicon of India
• Previous Hindi words of the year are Aadhar (2017), Nari Shakti (2018) and Samvidhaan (2019).
PM Modi to inaugurate Chauri Chaura centenary celebrations
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Chauri Chaura centenary celebrations at Chauri
Chaura in Uttar Pradesh on February 4 via video conferencing.
• Mr Modi will also release a postal stamp dedicated to the Chauri Chaura incident.
• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will also be present on the occasion.
• February 4 marks the centenary of a landmark event in the freedom struggle that took place at Chauri
Chaura village in Gorakhpur district of Uttar Pradesh, known as United Province in British India, when a
large group of protesters participating in Mahatma Gandhi’s non-cooperation movement clashed with
the police, who opened fire.
About UP :
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Budget 2021-22 proposes setting up of 100 new Sainik Schools in country

• Union Budget for Financial Year 2021-22 has proposed to set up 100 new Sainik Schools in the
country, in partnership with NGOs, private schools and State-owned schools.
• The endeavor is to provide schooling opportunities in ‘CBSE Plus’ type of educational environment by
involving desirous government, private schools and NGOs to partner in establishing their system with
Sainik Schools’ ethos, value system and national pride.
• The aim of establishing Sainik Schools is to prepare children academically, physically and mentally for
entry into the National Defence Academy and to develop qualities of body, mind and character which will
enable the young boys to become good and useful citizens.
• From the academic session 2021-22, girl candidates are also eligible for admission to Class 6th in all 33
Sainik Schools.
Kashmir's 25-yr-old Ayesha Aziz becomes India's youngest female pilot
• Ayesha Aziz, the 25-year-old from Kashmir who is the youngest female pilot in the country, acts as a
source of inspiration and a beacon of empowerment for numerous Kashmiri women.
• In the year 2011, Aziz became the youngest student pilot to get a license at the age of 15 and underwent
training to fly a MIG-29 jet at Russia's Sokol airbase the following year.
• She later graduated in aviation from the Bombay Flying Club (BFC) and obtained a commercial license
in 2017.
MCA amends One Person Companies (OPCs) rules
• The Ministry of corporate affairs (MCA) amended the Companies Rules to revise the definition of a
small company and to allow non-resident Indians (NRIs) to incorporate one person companies (OPCs)
in India.
• Previously NRIs were not allowed to incorporate OPCs. Now any natural person, who is an Indian citizen,
whether resident in India or otherwise would be allowed to form an OPC.
• For being considered as a resident in India, the residency period has been proposed to be reduced to 120
days from 182 days for NRIs.
• Amendments to the Act in 2018, contained provisions for increasing the paid up capital and turnover
thresholds for small companies up to Rs 10 crore and Rs 100 crore, respectively.
• The move is expected to lighten the compliance burden of about 200,000 companies
About Ministry of corporate affairs :
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• Minister : P.P. Chaudhary

HAL to launch unmanned fighter jet
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited NSE 3.79 % (HAL) unveiled a leap in technology of teaming up
unmanned aircraft and vehicles with manned jets similar to the US project of skyborg.
• It will enhance Indian military strike capabilities
• The technology named Combined Air Teaming System (CATS) will have a mother ship, operating from
faraway, and four autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles known as CATS Warrior.
• HAL is also developing a high-altitude satellite system. It will be solar energised.
• This asset will be flying unmanned around 70,000 feet height for around two to three months and will be
taking all the information.
• HAL is also developing a high altitude asset with long endurance. It will be flying 50,000 feet for 24
hours and it is also part of CATS programme.
About CATS :
• CATS Warrior with a capacity to carry out strikes stealthily entering 700 kilometres inside enemy
territory.
• These unmanned aerial vehicles are capable of autonomous functions and will also have all the
manoeuvring capabilities.
About HAL :
• Founder : Walchand Hirachand
• Founded : 23 December 1940, Bangalore
J&K Reorganisation Amendment Bill introduced in Rajya Sabha
• Minister of State for Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy introduced the Jammu and Kashmir
Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2021 in the Rajya Sabha.
• The bill will replace Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Ordinance of 2021 which merged
the J & K cadre of the Indian Administrative Service, Indian Police Service, and Indian Forest Service
with the Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Mizoram, and Union Territory cadre, also known as AGMUT cadre.
• The President had promulgated the ordinance last month to amend the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019.
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President Kovind Inaugurates General KS Thimayya Museum In Karnataka

• On Feb 06, 2021, President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated a museum, dedicated to the life of former
Army Chief General Kodandera Subayya Thimayya, in Karnataka.
• Sunny Side, the erstwhile ancestral house of General Thimayya, who served as the Chief of Army Staff
from 1957 to 1961, has been renovated and converted into a museum.
• General Thimayya is the pride of Kodagu and the memorial museum aims to retell the life-story of the
General in an inspiring manner.
• A statue of the General from Kodagu in uniform greets as one enters the museum, which also
showcases a slice of Indian military history.
• The museum also acknowledges the contribution of General Thimayya's siblings, including two of his
brothers, who too were Army officers, and his wife Nina, who was bestowed with ''Kaiser-e-Hind'' award
in recognition of her work in public service.
About Karnataka :
• CM : Yediyurappa
GMR Group inks MoU with Airbus for aircraft maintenance & other airport services
• GMR Group has signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus (a leading manufacturer of
commercial aircrafts) to explore collaboration opportunities across aviation services, technologies and
innovation.
• The MoU was signed at Aero India 2021, Bangalore.
• As part of the MoU, GMR Group and Airbus will collaborate to explore a broad scope of aviation services,
both for commercial and military aircraft to benefit the entire aerospace ecosystem in the country.
• The main objective of this partnership will be to explore potential synergies in several strategic areas of
aviation services like maintenance, components, training, digital.
About GMR Group :
• Founded: 1978
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India’s First Thunderstorm Research Testbed to be established at Balasore in Odisha

• Odisha's Balasore will get the country's first thunderstorm research testbed, the India Meteorological
Department (IMD).
• The objective of setting up the thunderstorm testbed is to minimize human fatalities and loss of
property due to lightning strikes.
• The thunderstorm testbed will be established in a collaboration between the Ministry of Earth Sciences,
IMD, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO).
• IMD Director-General Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, while speaking with a private television channel, also
revealed that a first-of-its-kind monsoon testbed is also being planned near Bhopal.
• Both the projects are in the planning stage and detailed project reports are being made.
About Odisha :
About IMD :
• Founded : 1875
• Comes Under Ministry of Earth Sciences
UP Government Announces 16-Digit Unicode To Identify Landholdings
• The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced a system of issuing a unique 16-digit Unicode to mark
all kinds of landholdings in the state.
About the 16 Digit Unicode :
• The Unicode number of the land will be 16 digits with the first six digits based on the population of the
land, the next 4 digits determining the unique identity of the land.
• The digits from 11 to 14 will be the number of the division of the land.
• The last 2 digits will have the details of the category, through which, the agricultural, residential and
commercial land will be identified.
Purpose of the Digit Unicode :
• The Unicode will put an end to fake registries of disputed land and the scheme is being implemented
across the state.
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• The work has started in most of the districts.

• Every piece of land in the state will have its own unique identity from now onwards that would check
cases of land disputes and save people from falling into the trap of fraudsters.
• While the Unicode assessment for plots has started in all revenue villages, the work of marking the
disputed plots in the computerised management system is being done by the revenue courts
About UP :
Skyroot, Bellatrix signs MoU to use latter's orbital transfer vehicle
• Skyroot Aerospace and Bellatrix Aerospace have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to
use the Orbital Transfer Vehicle being developed by Bellatrix Aerospace in the upper stage of Vikram
series of launch vehicles being developed by Skyroot.
• Skyroot and Bellatrix plan to have the first mission of a Vikram launcher with an Orbital Transfer
Vehicle by 2023.
• The vehicle is expected to help global operators reduce time and costs for launching communication and
earth observation satellites.
About OTV :
• An Orbital Transfer Vehicle is a spacecraft that can perform various in-orbit operations including
deployment of customer payload to precise orbits, allowing a launch vehicle to deliver satellites to more
orbits than what was conventionally possible.
• In simple terms, it is like a taxi in space to take satellites to their operational orbits.
About Skyroot Aerospace :
• Skyroot Aerospace, founded in 2018, is a National Award winning startup building space launch vehicles.
It is founded by former ISRO scientists and plans their first launch to Space in 2021.
• Last year Skyroot successfully tested their upper stage engine Raman and Solid fuel demonstrator
Kalam-5.
About Bellatrix Aerospace :
• Bellatrix Aerospace, an IP driven space tech company founded in 2015, is a full-suite solution provider of
spacecraft propulsion systems offering both chemical and electric propulsion technologies.
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Tamil Nadu set to create state’s 5th tiger reserve

• With the Centre’s approval, Tamil Nadu government passed an order for creating the fifth tiger reserve
in the state and the 51st in the country.
• The Srivilliputhur Megamalai Tiger Reserve will span the forests of Megamalai wildlife sanctuary and
Srivilliputhur grizzled squirrel wildlife sanctuary spread across the districts of Theni, Virudhunagar and
Madurai.
• The 100,000-hectare area is home to a range of mammals and bird species and more than a dozen tigers
• Fourteen tigers have so far been identified in Meghamalai and Srivilliputhur sanctuaries following scat
analysis between 2017 and 2018.
• Meghamalai is home to a large population of hoofed animals, spotted deers, Indian gaurs, etc. while
Sriviliputhur has Nilgiri tahrs, Sambars, elephants, and bird species among others.
• The first tiger reserve in Tamil Nadu – Kalakkad Mundanthurai – was formed around 1988-89, which was
followed by Anamalai and Mudumalai in 2008 and 2009. The fourth reserve – Sathyamangalam was
created around 2013-14.
About Tamil Nadu :
• CM : Edappadi K Palaniswami
• Governor : Banwarilal Purohit
• Capital : Chennai
FSSAI notified regulations to limit trans fat in food items
• Packaged food companies said the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s (FSSAI) move to
reduce trans-fat in food items which use edible oil as an ingredient to 2% from 2022.
• An FSSAI notification dated February 2 said the latest amendment of the Food Safety and Standards
(Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations, 2011 will come into effect from January 1, 2022.
• It is consumer friendly and will not put burden on the industry as most companies are already working
on reducing trans-fat in their products
• The permissible limit for trans fats in food products in 2021 is 3 percent, cut down from the previous limit
of 5 per cent.
• Food products that incorporate edible oils and fats as ingredients, including edible refined oils,
vanaspati/partially hydrogenated oils, margarine, vegetable fat spreads, mixed fat spreads, bakery
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shortenings, fall under the ambit of the newly issued Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and
Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2021.
• The World Health Organization (WHO), which has launched a major campaign to eliminate industrially-
produced trans fat from national food supplies by 2023, says trans fat intake is responsible for
approximately 500,000 premature deaths from coronary heart disease each year around the world.
About Industrial Trans Fatty Acids :
• Industrial Trans Fatty Acids, a subcategory of unsaturated fatty acids, are processed artificially via a
method known as hydrogenation.
• Unrestricted intake of this type of fat is linked to some very serious health hazards, as they disrupt the
balance between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterols in the body.
• Intake of dietary trans fats often results in coronary heart diseases, heart attacks and type 2 diabetes
along with several other associated risks.
About FSSAI :
• Founded : August 2011
• Comes Under Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
National Horticulture Fair 2021 Begins in Bengaluru
• The five-day National Horticulture Fair 2021 has started in Bengaluru on 8 February.
• The fair is organized by the Indian Institute of Horticulture Research (IIHR) at the Institute’s
Hessarghatta campus on the outskirts of Bengaluru city.
• This is the first time when the Horticulture Fair is organized in both physical and virtual ways. Cutting
edge technologies, crop varieties, pest and disease management practices, and processing methods will
be demonstrated.
• The theme of NHF 2021 is ‘Horticulture for Start-Up and Stand-Up India’.
• Virtual preparations have been made across the country to webcast the program in the premises of KVK,
FPO, SSIAT centres of art of living foundation, agricultural training centres of respective state
governments.
• Interested farmers, entrepreneurs, and other stakeholders are requested to register in the NHF 2021 to
participate through virtual mode.
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About National Horticulture Fair :

• The fair will showcase live demonstrations of improved varieties and technologies, and farmer-
entrepreneur-scientist interactions.
• There will be the sale of seeds, planting materials, and products from ICAR-IIHR and other public and
private firms for the benefit of end-users.
• There will be stalls of both public and private sectors.
About IIHR :
• Founder : Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR)
• Founded : 1967
• Responsible Officer : Dr. M. R. Dinesh
Govt brings bill to replace ordinance facilitating regularisation of unauthorised colonies in Delhi
• The government introduced a bill in the Rajya Sabha, which seeks to replace the National Capital
Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020.
• The ordinance was promulgated by President Ram Nath Kovind on December 30, 2020. It amended the
National Capital Territory of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second Act, 2011.
• The 2011 Act was valid till December 31, 2020. The Ordinance extended the deadline to December 31,
2023.
• The 2011 Act provided for the regularisation of the unauthorised colonies that existed in the national
capital as on March 31, 2002 and where construction took place till June 1, 2014.
• Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri introduced the National Capital Territory
of Delhi Laws (Special Provisions) Second (Amendment) Bill, 2021
Govt. launches website - India Toy Fair- 2021
• The government will launch the website of the India Toy Fair- 2021.
• The website will be launched jointly by Minister of Textiles Smriti Irani, Commerce and Industry Minister
Piyush Goyal and Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank in New Delhi.
Govt. launches new Scheme - 'Formation and Promotion of 10,000 FPOs
• The Ministry of Agriculture has said that the government has launched a new Central Sector Scheme
titled 'Formation and Promotion of 10,000 Farmer Produce Organizations (FPOs)' and it has committed
resources in this regard with a budgetary provision of Rs 6,865 crore.
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• The Ministry in a statement said that FPOs are to be developed to produce clusters, wherein agricultural
and horticultural products are grown for leveraging economies of scale and improving market access for
members.
• It said, under this Central Sector Scheme with funding from Government of India, formation and
Promotion of FPOs are to be done through implementing agencies and at present, nine such agencies
have been finalized.
PM inaugurates World Sustainable Development Summit 2021
• Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the World Sustainable Development Summit 2021 via
video conferencing.
• The theme of the Summit is ‘Redefining our common future: Safe and secure environment for all’.
• The 20th edition of The Energy and Resources Institute's (TERI) flagship event, the World Sustainable
Development Summit, will be held online from February 10 to February 12 and will bring together a wide
number of governments, business leaders, academicians, climate scientists, youth, and the civil society in
the fight against climate change.
• India's Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy and
Ministry of Earth Sciences are key partners of the Summit.
• The Summit series brings together governments, business leaders, academicians, climate scientists,
youth, and the civil society in the fight against climate change
About The Energy and Resources Institute :
• Founder : Darbari S Seth
• Founded : 1974, Mithapur
• Director General : Dr. Ajay Mathur
Rajya Sabha passes Major Port Authorities Bill 2020
• Rajya Sabha passed the Major Port Authorities Bill, 2020.
• The Bill was put to Division Voting wherein 84 members supported the bill and 44 voted against it.
• The bill seeks to provide for regulation, operation and planning of major ports in the country and provide
greater autonomy to these ports.
• It seeks to replace the Major Port Trusts Act, 1963.
• The legislation provides for the creation of a Board of Major Port Authority for each major port.
• These Boards will replace the existing Port Trusts.
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• Union Shipping Minister Mansukh Mandaviya while replying after the discussion on the bill said that it
will make the major ports in the country more autonomous and provide major thrust in the maritime sector.
60 km area of India-Bangladesh border cannot be fenced
• Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai said, there are 60 kilometres area in India Bangladesh border
which cannot be fenced, making it prone to infiltration.
• Replying to a question in the Rajya Sabha, Mr Rai said due to rivers in the area the fencing is difficult.
• He said, 33 land acquisition proposals are pending with the West Bengal government.
India’s first ever CNG Tractor to be launched
• Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari will formally launch India's first-ever
diesel tractor converted into a CNG tractor on February 12.
• This conversion is jointly done by Rawmatt Techno Solutions and Tomasetto Achille India.
• The CNG tractor will help farmers to increase their income, by lowering costs and help to create job
opportunities in rural India.
• This will help them to improve their livelihood.
• The farmers can save up to 50 per cent on the fuel cost as the current Diesel prices are around 77
rupees per litre whereas CNG is only 42 rupees per kilogram
• The conversion from diesel to CNG will be beneficial as it is a clean fuel with lowest carbon and
pollutant content. It is also economical as it has zero lead and is non-corrosive, non-dilutive and non-
contaminating which helps in increasing the life of the engine.
Over 1 crore MSMEs registered in country - period of 5 years
• Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Ministry has informed that more than one crore two lakh MSMEs
were registered in the country within five years.
• Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Minister Nitin Gadkari said that as per Udyog Aadhaar Portal a
total of one crore two lakh 32 thousand 468 MSMEs were registered between 2015 to June 2020.
• He said, MSME Ministry has implemented various other schemes for the growth and development of
MSME sector in the country.
• He added that the government has taken a number of initiatives under Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan to
support the MSME sector in the country especially in Covid-19 pandemic.
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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurates 'Jala Abhishekam' campaign

• Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated more than 57,000 water structures
constructed in Madhya Pradesh under the 'Jala Abhishekam' campaign from New Delhi.
• Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar also attended the program virtually organised in the presence of
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan at Bhopal.
• Defence Minister Mr Rajnath singh while inaugurating water structures virtually under 'Jala Abhishekam'
campaign said that Water conservation work being done by the Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan
with public participation will be helpful in achieving the goal of water conservation and building self-reliant
Madhya Pradesh.
Indian Army - Centre for Land Warfare Studies organises National Seminar-cum-Webinar, named Divya-
Drishti 2021
• Indian Army National Seminar-cum-Webinar, named as Divya-Drishti 2021 on Multi-Domain
Operations: Future of Conflicts was organised by Centre for Land Warfare Studies, CLAWS.
• Divya-Drishti 2021, meaning divine or cognitive perception required for an informed vision, aimed to bring
together national and international experts and practitioners to deliberate on the complex and emerging
subject on multi-domain operations.
• The webinar was attended virtually by Army Chief General MM Naravane, Vice Chief of Army Lieutenant
General CP Mohanty, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Army Training Command Lieutenant
General Raj Shukla, along with other dignitaries from the Ministry of Defence, three Services, former
Chiefs of the Army Staff and leading security Think Tanks in the country and members of the media.
1st India Toy Fair - Minister of Women and Child Development Smriti Irani
• The Government is organising the first ever India Toy Fair from 27th February to 2nd March.
• Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Zubin Irani, Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal
Nishank and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal jointly inaugurated the website of The
India Toy Fair-2021 in New Delhi.
• Speaking on the occasion, Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Zubin Irani said, to achieve
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat, to strengthen toy manufacturing industry
in the country and to connect children with toys from a learning-perspective, Government had organized
the 1st Toycathon last month.
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Four more states complete ease of doing business reforms

• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), added four more states have
completed the reforms in the ‘Ease of Doing Business’, as stipulated by the Department of Expenditure,
Ministry of Finance as per recent data.
• Four more States are Assam, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab .
• These States have become eligible to mobilise additional financial resources and have been granted
permission to raise additional Rs 5,034 crore through Open Market Borrowings.
• The total number of states that have undertaken the stipulated reforms to facilitate ease of doing business
has gone up to 12.
• Earlier, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and
Telangana have also reported completion of this reform.
• On completion of reforms facilitating ease of doing business, these twelve states have been granted
additional borrowing permission of Rs 28,183 crore.
• The ease of doing business is an important indicator of the investment friendly business climate in the
country. Improvements in the ease of doing business will enable faster future growth of the state economy,
• In May 2020, the government had decided to link the grant of additional borrowing permissions to states
that will undertake the reforms to facilitate ease of doing business
• The four citizen-centric areas for reforms identified were as follows:
• The implementation of the One Nation One Ration Card System
• Ease of doing business reform
• Urban local body or utility reforms
• Power sector reforms
• Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh became the first state to complete three out of four citizen-centric reforms
and received additional funds for capital projects. The Department of Expenditure allocated an additional
Rs.660 crore to Madhya Pradesh for capital expenditure.
About DPIIT :
• Founded : 1995
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PM dedicates to nation projects worth Rs 4,700 cr at Haldia in West Bengal

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation four projects related to oil, gas and road sector
worth rupees four thousand and seven hundred crores at Haldia in West Bengal.
• The Prime Minister inaugurated three projects, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited BPCL’s LPG Import
Terminal at Haldia, GAIL’s Dobhi-Durgapur Natural Gas Pipeline and NHAI’s four lane ROB cum flyover at
Ranichak.
• Union ministers Dharmendra Singh , Debasree Chaudhary, Governor of West Bengal Jagdeep Dhankhar
were also present on the occasion.
About West Bengal :
• Governor : Jagdeep Dhankhar
• Capital : Kolkata
Uttarakhand glacier burst
• A major accident occurred in Chamoli in Uttarakhand due to the breaking of the glacier
• The glacier burst took place at the Rishiganga power project after a portion of Nanda Devi glacier
broke off in Tapovan area of Joshimath in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district and damaged the Rishiganga
dam on Alaknanda river.
• The 13.2 MW Rishiganga hydropower project near Jashimath was completely washed away; the 520 MW
NTPC hydro project on the Dhauliganga river near Raini was partially damaged and at least five bridges
were impacted by the surge of water that was unleashed, cutting access to a number of villages in the
area.
• A multi-agency rescue operation including — Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and National Disaster
Response Force (NDRF) — is in full swing to release people still stuck in the tunnels. The forces have
cleared 90 meter stretch of debris in the big tunnel at Tapovan till now, with about 100 meters of clearing
still left to do.
About ITBP :
• Founded : 24 October 1962
About Uttarakhand :
• CM : Trivendra Singh Rawat
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• Governor : Baby Rani Maurya

Budget 2021: Agricultural credit target set at Rs. 16.5 lakh crore for FY22
• With the aim of doubling farmers’ income by 2022, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced
that the agricultural credit target was set at Rs.16.5 lakh crore for FY22, during Union Budget 2021.
• It is an increase of 10 percent over the previous year Rs 15 Lakh Crore
• She also announced that the micro irrigation fund would be doubled by Rs.5,000 crore. Operation green
scheme will be expanded to include 22 perishable schemes.
• Agriculture infra fund to be increased to Rs.40,000 crore and this will be available to APMCs.
• 1,000 more mandis will be integrated with the electronic national market (e-NAM) to enhance the
infrastructure of APMCs.
About APMC :
• Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMC) is the marketing board established by the state
governments in order to eliminate the exploitation incidences of the farmers by the intermediaries, where
they are forced to sell their produce at extremely low prices.
• These markets geographically divide the state.
PM Modi addresses on 'Samarpan Diwas' to commemorate contributions of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing the party MPs on the occasion of 'Samarpan Diwas' to
commemorate the contributions of his party's founder leader Deen Dayal Upadhyay on his death
anniversary.
• He is addressing BJP MPs at Ambedkar International Center, Janpath.
• Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay was a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) thinker and former leader of
the political party Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the forerunner of Bharatiya Janata Party.
• Deen Dayal Ji was behind the ‘vision of building a self-reliant India’. He said that we need to build an
India that is self-reliant not just in agriculture, but also in defence and weaponry.
Skills development ministry launches Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship in partnership with IIMs
• To strengthen skills training at district level, the skills development ministry launched the Mahatma
Gandhi National Fellowship (MGNF) programme nationwide in partnership with nine Indian Institutes
of Management across India.
• The programme has been launched under the World Bank loan assisted programme SANKALP (Skills
Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion).
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• The two-year academic programme will have an in-built component of on-ground practical experience
with the district administration.
• The nine IIMs include the IIM Bangalore, IIM Ahmedabad, IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode, IIM
Visakhapatnam, IIM-Udaipur, IIM Nagpur, IIM Ranchi and IIM-Jammu.
• Selected fellows will be given a stipend of about Rs 50,000 per month during the first year and Rs
60,000 per month during the second year of the fellowship programme.
• The fellows will be imparted training by the nine top IIMs of the country and in the later phase of the
fellowship, the fellows will work on strengthening the District Skill Committees and the District Skill
administration.
Madhya Pradesh: Mandu festival starts
• In Madhya Pradesh, the three-day Mandu Festival began at Mandu in the historic town of Dhar
district.
• State culture and tourism minister Usha Thakur inaugurated the mandu festival.
• Handicrafts related to handmade art are also being displayed in the Mandu Utsav to encourage vocals
for locals.
• Dino Adventure Park & Fossils Museum also inaugurated by the state culture and tourism minister.
• The State Minister informed that the Dinosaur Park is the country's first modern fossil park which
has 24 eggs and other fossils of dinosaurs on display.
• The park also provides information related to the life of dinosaurs.
• Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla said that Such events will not
only familiarize people around the world with the special culture of rural Madhya Pradesh but will also
help in realizing the dream of Atmanirbhar Madhya Pradesh by creating new employment opportunities.
• Capital: Bhopal
Isro tests satellites developed by private sector for the first time
• The first time in its history, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has opened its UR Rao
Satellite Centre in Bengaluru for testing satellites developed by the private sector.
• Two satellites by Indian startups SpaceKidz India and Pixxel (incorporated as Sygyzy) were tested at
the UR Rao Satellite Centre.
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• Isro helped these two companies fix problems with the solar panels on their respective satellites.
• This is a first for the space agency, which so far has only taken help in manufacturing and fabrication of
various parts of satellites and rockets from the Indian industry.
• Two firms will also test their engines at Sriharikota spaceport and Thiruvananthapuram rocket centre.
• A satellite designed by students from SpaceKidz had been launched by ISRO as an experiment in
January 2019 using the fourth stage of the PSLV as the platform for the KalamSat.
About ISRO :
• Founder : Vikram Sarabhai
• Director : Kailasavadivoo Sivan
FinMin to infuse Rs 3,000 cr in state-owned general insurers this quarter
• The Finance Ministry will infuse Rs 3,000 crore capital into state-owned general insurance companies
during the current quarter in a bid to improve their financial health.
• The Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi cleared proposals to provide capital
support to National Insurance, Oriental Insurance and United India Insurance.
• The cabinet had also decided to increase the authorised share capital of National Insurance Company
Limited (NICL) to Rs 7,500 crore and that of United India Insurance Company Limited (UIICL) and
Oriental Insurance Company Limited (OICL) to Rs 5,000 crore each to give effect to the capital
infusion decision.
• The capital infusion will enable the three public sector general insurance companies to improve their
financial and solvency position, meet the insurance needs of the economy, absorb changes and enhance
the capacity to raise resources and improve risk management.
About NICL :
• Founder : Gordhan Das Dutia
• Founded : 1906
Lok Sabha Passes Arbitration & Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2021
• The Lok Sabha passed the Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2021 by voice vote.
• The Bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on February 4, 2021 by Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.
• It is already in force by way of an Ordinance promul
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• It seeks to amend the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 so as to (i) enable automatic stay on awards
in certain cases and (ii) specify by regulat
PM to lay foundation stone of Maharaja Suheldev Memorial
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of Maharaja Suheldev Memorial and
development work of Chittaura Lake in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh through video conferencing.
• The event marks the birth anniversary of Maharaja Suheldev.
• UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will also be present on the occasion.
• The complete project will include installation of an equestrian statue of Maharaja Suheldev and
development of various tourist amenities like cafeteria, guest house and a children’s park
Minority Affairs Ministry organized 26th Hunar Haat in New Delhi
• Minority Affairs Ministry is organising 26th Hunar Haat of indigenous artisans and craftsmen from
across the country at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.
• More than 600 artisans and craftsmen, including a large number of women artisans, from more than
31 States and Union Territories will participate in the event.
• The Hunar Haat will be organised with the theme of Vocal for Local from 20th February to 1st
March this year.
• Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi has said that the Hunar Haat is a perfect platform to
promote indigenous products of artisans and craftsmen from across the country.
• He said, it has provided employment and employment opportunities to more than five lakh artisans,
craftsmen and artists yet.
India to fund USD 50M for restoration of 3 cultural heritage projects in Nepal
• India will provide Nepalese Rupees(NR) 142 million to Nepal for the restoration and conservation of
three cultural heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley.
• The three sites are part of cultural heritage projects being taken up by India for post-earthquake
conservation and restoration under an MoU signed between the two countries.
• The projects are being implemented under USD 50 million grant assistance committed by India for post-
earthquake reconstruction of the cultural heritage sites across eight districts of Nepal.
• The agreements were signed by the Project Director of CLPIU (Building) of National Reconstruction
Authority and Contractors for conservation and retrofitting of Seto Machindranath Temple ( Total Cost -
NRs 626 million ), construction of Dharamshala at Budhaneelkantha ( Total Cost NRs - 334 million ) and
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conservation and development of Kumari Home in Lalitpur district ( Total Cost NRs - 456 million ),
according to a press release issued by the Indian Embassy.
About Nepal :
• Capital : Kathmandu
• President : Bidya Devi Bhandari
• PM : K.P. Sharma Oli
ISRO and MapmyIndia collaborate to bring India made rival to Google Maps
• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and MapmyIndia, the navigation solutions provider, have
joined hands to offer an indigenous mapping solution to take on Google Maps.
• According to MapmyIndia CEO and Executive Director, Rohan Verma, the services will combine the
power of the company’s digital maps and technologies with ISRO's catalogue of satellite imagery and
earth observation data.
• The collaboration will enable them to jointly identify and build a holistic geospatial portal utilising earth
observation datasets, 'NavIC', Web Services and APIs (application programming interface) available in
MapmyIndia, ISRO said in a statement adding that the geospatial portals will be called 'Bhuvan', 'VEDAS'
and 'MOSDAC'.
• Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System also known as NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation),
is an indigenous navigation system, developed by ISRO.
• Bhuvan is the national geo-portal developed and hosted by ISRO comprising geospatial data, services,
and tools for analysis.
• The collaboration will use ISRO’s database of satellite images and MapmyIndia’s digital map platform to
develop the new app.
About MapmyIndia :
• COO : Sapna Ahuja
• CFO : Anuj Jain
• Founders : Rakesh Verma, Rashmi Verma
• CEO : Rohan Verma
About ISRO :
• Director: Kailasavadivoo Sivan
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• Headquarters : bangalore
• Founder : Vikram Sarabhai
IIT Bombay launches fundraising campaign ‘Cherish IIT Bombay 2021’
• IIT Bombay launched its first-ever annual fundraising campaign in India, Cherish IIT Bombay 2021.
• The funds will be used for the creation of world-class laboratory complexes, modernization of lecture
halls and continuation of awards to attract and retain faculty.
• Donations made to IIT Bombay by corporate bodies and individuals are 100% tax-deductible under
section 80G of the Indian Income Tax Act.
PM Modi to address NASSCOM Technology and Leadership Forum
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the NASSCOM Technology and Leadership Forum (NTLF)
via video conferencing.
• The three-day 29th edition of NTLF is being organized till 19th of February.
• It is a flagship event of the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM).
• The theme of this year's event is 'Shaping the future towards a better normal'.
• The event will host 1,600 participants from more than 30 countries.
• Over 30 products will be showcased during the talks.
Defence Minister presents Best Marching Contingent award of Republic Day parade 2021
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said that unity in diversity is the beauty of Indian democracy and
this unique feature is only visible in India.
• He said, India is the largest democracy in the world and diversity plays an important role in strengthening
the democracy.
• While giving away the Best Marching Contingent Award of Republic Day Parade 2021, Mr. Singh
appreciated the efforts of armed forces and central armed police forces.
• He said, Republic Day is a national festival and it gives a glimpse of our progress in military prowess to
the world.
• He praised the efforts and role played by the Delhi Police in controlling several nefarious acts.
India Accounts for 11 % of Global death in Road Accidents - World Bank
• The World Bank has released a comprehensive report titled ‘Traffic Crash Injuries and Disabilities:
The Burden on Indian Society’ in association with the SaveLife Foundation.
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About SaveLife Foundation :

• It is an independent, non-profit, non-governmental organization committed to improving road safety and
emergency medical care across India.
• On Feb 13, 2021 a report was released by Union transport minister, Nitin Gadkari.
• As per report "India tops the world in road crash deaths and injuries. It has 1 percent of the world's
vehicles but accounts for 11 per cent of all road crash deaths, witnessing 53 road crashes every hour;
killing 1 person every 4 minutes.
• A recent study commissioned by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) estimates the
socio-economic costs of road crashes at Rs 1,47,114 crore in India, which is equivalent to 0.77 per cent
of the country's GDP.
• 70 percent of the fatalities are the age group of 18 to 45 years, impacting the country as a whole.
About World Bank :
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., United States
• President: David Malpass
• Parent organization: World Bank Group
• Founded: July 1944, United States
• Founders: John Maynard Keynes, Harry Dexter White
Government makes FASTag mandatory on all National Highways
• Government has made FASTag mandatory on the National Highways. All lanes in the fee plazas on
National Highways were declared as FASTag lanes.
• As per NH Fee Rules 2008, any vehicle not fitted with FASTag or vehicle without valid, functional
FASTag, entering into the FASTag lane of the fee plaza will have to pay a fee equivalent to two times of
the fee applicable to that category.
• FASTags will prove to be beneficial both to the passengers as well as to the toll management
authorities.
• FASTag is a RFID tag which is linked with a payment instrument and can be easily affixed on the
windscreen of any vehicle.
About FASTag :
• Comes Under Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
• Founded : November 4, 2014
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• Headquarters : Delhi
Govt increases budget of Dept of Science and Technology and Ministry of Earth Sciences by 30 per cent
• The Union Government has increased the budget of Department of Science and Technology and
Ministry of Earth Sciences by 30 per cent as compared to the revised estimate of 2020-21.
• An allocation of Rs 16,695 crore has been given for the two ministries which will add thrust to India's
remarkable, accelerated growth in the fields of Science and Technology.
• Rs 50 thousand crore have been allocated for the National Research Foundation.
• The Minister informed that the National Research Foundation (NRF) will be an independent society and
it will build on existing national strengths in research and innovation. It will fill gaps in the current research
and education ecosystem to augment India’s research and innovation achievements.
Nitin Gadkari says, Tamil Nadu has become reducing road accidents by 50 per cent
• Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said that Tamil Nadu has become a
pioneer in reducing road accidents by fifty per cent.
• Inaugurating Road Safety Schemes in Chennai, the Minister told that all other states should follow
Tamil Nadu model for road safety.
• He said that there was a need to increase the width of the roads in the country, identify the black spots
and follow excellent road engineering methods.
President inaugurates Rashtrapati Bhavan Krida Sthal in President’s Estate
• President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated the Rashtrapati Bhavan Krida Sthal in the President’s Estate
which includes renovated Football Ground and Basketball Court.
• On the occasion, an exhibition football match was played between the children of My Angels Academy, a
trust working for the cause of underprivileged children.
• These state-of-art sports facilities are developed with the aim to cater to the needs of the employees of
Rashtrapati Bhavan and their families.
• An inter-departmental football tournament with five teams namely - President’s Secretariat Heroes,
Household Youngs, PBG Warriors, Army Guard Daredevils and Delhi Police Stalwarts starts to
encourage the employees and their family members to take part in the sports activities
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs unveils Pilot Pey Jal Survekshan
• Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has launched a Pilot Pey Jal Survekshan under Jal Jeevan
Mission- Urban, JJM-U.
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• Secretary Housing and Urban Affairs Durga Shanker Mishra informed that it will be conducted in
cities to ascertain equitable distribution of water, reuse of wastewater and mapping of water bodies with
respect to quantity and quality of water through a challenge process.
• He said, as a first step, the Ministry has decided to launch the Survekshan in 10 cities- Agra, Badlapur,
Bhubaneswar, Churu, Kochi, Madurai, Patiala, Rohtak, Surat and Tumkur.
Defence Minister launches e-Chhawani portal
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched e-Chhawani portal.
• Launching the portal, Mr Singh said, residents of Cantonment areas can register their complaints
regarding civic issues and resolve them while sitting at home.
• The minister said, government is committed to refine the system and improve the Ease of Living for
people.
• Mr Singh said, e-Chhawani project aims to provide online municipal services to more than 20 lakh
citizens across 62 Cantonment Boards through a multi-tenancy central platform.
• Through this portal, online application for renewal of leases, online registration of births and deaths
and online application for water and sewerage connection will be very simpler.
• CDS General Bipin Rawat was also present at the event.
PM Modi unveils several development projects in Assam
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the Mahabahu-Brahmaputra initiative, lay the foundation
stone of Dhubri-Phulbari Bridge and perform Bhoomi Poojan for construction of Majuli Bridge Assam
• Mr Modi said it is a landmark day for Assam’s development journey as the Mahabahu-Brahmaputra
initiative will be launched.
• Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Ports, Shipping and
Waterways Mansukh Mandaviya, DoNER minister Dr. Jitendra Singh and Chief Minister of Assam
Sarbananda Sonowal, Chief Minister of Meghalaya Conrad K Sangma will be present on the occasion.
Amazon announces first device manufacturing line in India
• E-commerce giant Amazon has announced its plans to begin manufacturing devices in India.
• This is the first Amazon manufacturing line in India and reiterates the firm’s commitment to the
government’s “Make in India'' for an Atma Nirbhar Bharat.
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• Amazon will commence manufacturing with contract manufacturer Cloud Network Technology, a
subsidiary of Foxconn, in Chennai, and start production later this year.
• The programme will churn out hundreds of thousands of Fire TV Stick devices every year. Amazon will
evaluate scaling capacity to additional marketplaces and cities, depending on the domestic demand.
• In 2020 Amazon announced “Local Shops on Amazon”, a programme that retailers and local shops be
self-dependent, and benefit from selling online.
• It now has over 22,000 neighbourhood stores registered across the country, gathering additional footfalls
through their online presence and furthering their earning potential by acting as pickup points, logistics
partners, and experience centres for e-commerce.
About Amazon :
• CEO : Jeff Bezos
• Headquarters : Washington, United States
IIT Madras-incubated Pi Beam launches PiMo e-bike
• IIT Madras-incubated startup Pi Beam has launched an electric two-wheeler, PiMo, for Rs 30,000.
• The utility e-bike, which is targeted at personal and commercial applications, has a range of 50 km.
• The e-bike does not require a license or registration and has localised most of the components including
the lithium-ion batteries and controllers.
• The company aims to sell 10,000 units by the end of next financial year (2021-22).
• PiMo is a vehicle that’s between an electric bicycle and entry-level electric scooter.
• Pi Beam is an incubated company at IIT-M to bring electric mobility in India.
PM Modi to inaugurate key projects of Kerala virtually
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of key projects of power and
urban sector in Kerala through video conferencing.
• He will inaugurate the 320 KV Pugalur - Thrissur Power Transmission Project.
• It is a Voltage Source Inverter based High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Project and has India's first
HVDC link featuring state-of-the-art VSC technology.
• Built at a cost of Rs 5070 crore, it will facilitate transfer of 2000 MW power from the western region and
help meet the growth in load for the people of Kerala.
• The Prime Minister will also dedicate to the nation the 50 MW Kasaragod Solar Power Project.
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• It has been developed under the National Solar Energy Mission.

Union Cabinet approves production-linked incentive scheme - telecom sector
• The Union Cabinet approved a production-linked incentive scheme for the telecom sector.
• Briefing reporters after the cabinet meeting, Electronic and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, the
production-linked incentive worth Rs 12,195 Crore has been cleared for the telecom sector.
• He said this will create 40 thousand direct and indirect employment.
• Production Linked Incentive Scheme intends to promote manufacture of Telecom and Networking
Products in India and proposes a financial incentive to boost domestic manufacturing and attract
investments in the target segments of telecom and networking products in order to encourage make in
India.
• The scheme will also encourage exports of telecom and networking products 'Made in India'.
• Support under the Scheme will be provided to companies and entities engaged in manufacturing of
specified telecom and networking products in India.
Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot to Virtually Release 3rd Edition of Indian Sign Language dictionary
• Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot will virtually release the
3rd edition of the Indian Sign Language (ISL) Dictionary with 10,000 terms (including 6,000 earlier
terms) on 17th February 2021 in a virtual programme.
• The programme will be webcast live at the following link: https://webcast.gov.in/msje/
• The Dictionary has been brought out by the Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre
(ISLRTC), an autonomous Institute under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
(Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.
• The 1st edition of the ISL Dictionary was launched on 23rd March 2018 with 3000 terms and the 2nd
edition with 6000 terms (including earlier 3000 terms) was launched on 27th February 2019.
• The 3rd edition of the ISL Dictionary contains a total 10,000 terms of everyday use, academic terms, legal
& administrative terms, medical terms, technical terms and agricultural terms.
About ISLRTC :
• The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment approved the establishment of the Indian Sign Language
Research and Training Center (ISLRTC) as an autonomous center of the Indira Gandhi National Open
University (IGNOU), Delhi.
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Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs launches Pilot Pey Jal Survekshan
• Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has launched a Pilot Pey Jal Survekshan under Jal Jeevan
Mission- Urban.
• It will be conducted in cities to ascertain equitable distribution of water, reuse of wastewater and mapping
of water bodies with respect to quantity and quality of water through a challenge process.
• As a first step, the Ministry has decided to launch the Survekshan in 10 cities- Agra, Badlapur,
Bhubaneswar, Churu, Kochi, Madurai, Patiala, Rohtak, Surat and Tumkur
• Jal Jeevan Mission Urban is designed to provide universal coverage of water supply to all households
through functional taps in all 4,378 statutory towns in accordance with Sustainable Development Goal -
6.
• The total outlay proposed for JJM (U) is 2 lakh 87 thousand crore rupees which includes 10 thousand crore
rupees for continuing financial support to AMRUT Mission.
PM Modi to launch Mahabahu-Brahmaputra initiative in Assam
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi would launch the Mahabahu-Brahmaputra initiative and lay the
foundation stones of one bridge and perform a ground-breaking ceremony (bhumi pujan) of another in
Assam via video conferencing.
• Aim : To improve connectivity in the eastern states, will be marked by the inauguration of the Ro-Pax
vessel operations between Neamati-Majuli Island, North Guwahati-South Guwahati and Dhubri-
Hatsingimari.
• Foundation stone of Inland Water Transport Terminal at Jogighopa and various tourist jetties on
Brahmaputra and launch of digital solutions for Ease-of-Doing-Business will also be a part of the
initiative.
• The PM will lay the foundation stone for a four lane bridge over the Brahmaputra between Dhubri (on
North Bank) and Phulbari (on South Bank).
About Assam :
• CM : Sarbananda Sonowal
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Indian Government Launches Sandes, a Whatsapp Like Instant Messaging App For Government
Employees
• The National Informatics Centre (NIC) of India has launched an instant messaging app just like
WhatsApp for government employees called Sandes.
• The government is currently asking employees to use the GIMS/Sandes app. There is still no word if this
app will ever be available for all users in the future.
• Just like WhatsApp, one can share images, videos, voice messages, create groups on the app. Users can
also set up their profile pictures and status.
• Notably, this app is an upgrade to NIC's existing Government Instant Messaging System (GIMS) app.
• While the Sandes app allows users to backup chat histories to a registered email, it does not allow users
to change their mobile number or email address registered with the app
Labour Minister Santosh Gangwar launches applications for five pan-India surveys
• The importance of accurate data for policy making, Labour Minister Santosh Gangwar launched
software applications for five pan-India surveys, including on migrant and domestic workers.
• The minister also released instruction manuals with questionnaires for the five pan-India surveys being
conducted by the Labour Bureau.
• These five surveys being undertaken by the Labour Bureau are -- All-India Survey on Migrant
workers, All-India Survey on Domestic Workers, All-India Survey on Employment Generated by
Professionals, All-India Survey on Employment Generated in Transport Sector, and All-India
Quarterly Establishment based Employment Survey.
• The objectives of the all-India survey on employment generated by professionals are essentially two-
fold, firstly to estimate the total number of active professionals in the country and secondly to capture
the employment generated by these professionals.
PM Modi inaugurates oil and gas sector projects in Tamil Nadu
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for key oil and gas sector projects in Tamil
Nadu via video conferencing.
• During his address, the Prime Minister said, Indian Oil’s 143-km-long pipeline from Ramanathapuram
to Thoothukudi will monetise the gas from ONG gas fields.
• This is a part of a larger national gas pipeline project being developed at a cost of Rs.4,500 crore.
• It will benefit Ennore, Thiruvallur, Bengaluru, Puducherry, Nagapattinam, Madurai and Thoothukudi.”
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• He will also lay the foundation stone of Cauvery Basin Refinery at Nagapattinam.
• These projects will result in substantial socio-economic benefits and will boost the country's march
towards Urja Aatmanirbharta.
About TamilNadu :
• CM : Edappadi K Palanisamy
• Capital : Chennai
• Governor : Banwarilal Purohit
India joins Russia-Iran’s two-day naval exercise
• India has joined Iran and Russia in a two-day navy exercise dubbed "Iran-Russia Maritime Security
Belt 2021" in the northern part of the Indian Ocean.
About the drill :
• The drill will cover an area of 17,000 square kilometres (6,500 square miles).
• It will include shooting at sea and air targets and liberating hijacked ships, as well as search and rescue
and anti-piracy operations, Al Jazeera reported.
About Russia :
• Capital : Moscow
• Currency : Russian ruble
• President : Vladimir Putin
About Iran :
• President : Hassan Rouhani
• Currency :Iranian rial
• Capital : Tehran
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Birth Anniversary - Prime Minister pays rich tribute
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid rich tributes to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on the occasion of his
Birth Anniversary.
• Remembering Chhatrapati Shivaji as an immortal son of Mother India, Mr. Modi said that the saga of
indomitable courage, valour and intelligence of the great Maratha ruler will keep inspiring countrymen for
ages.
• Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar remembered Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
as a great warrior and strategist of India.
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2020 Tree City of the World - Hyderabad got recognition

• The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and the Arbor Day Foundation have recognized
Hyderabad as a 2020 Tree City of World, for its commitment to growing and maintaining urban forests.
• Officials said the recognition was a testament to the city’s sustained and institutional efforts to plant,
nurture and celebrate trees, development of urban and peri-urban forestry actions, projects and strategic
planning and commitment to building a healthy city.
• Most of the other cities were from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.
Foreign Ministers of Quad countries demand promoting freedom of navigation in Indo-Pacific region
• Foreign Ministers of Quad countries - India, Australia, Japan and US - discussed the necessity to
promote freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region.
• External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar represented India at the Third Quad Ministerial Meeting.
• The Foreign Ministers emphasized their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order,
underpinned by respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, rule of law, transparency, and freedom of
navigation in the international seas and peaceful resolution of disputes.
• It was noted that the Indo-Pacific concept had gathered growing international support, including in
Europe.
PM calls for special visa for Doctors and Nurses for South Asia to tackle any medical emergency
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that India is working towards a healthy and COVID-19 free
neighbourhood.
• Addressing a Workshop on COVID-19 Management-Experience, Good Practices and Way Forward with
nearly ten neighboring countries virtually, Mr Modi said all countries have learned from each other from
best practices.
• The Prime Minister said India has achieved the lowest fatality rate globally.
• Mr Modi said all countries should maintain collaborative spirit during the vaccination.
• Mr Modi suggested that there should be special visas for medical professionals and arrangement for
special Air ambulance.
• Prime minister said, India's Ayushman Bharat can be a case study for all the regional countries for
healthcare.
• The Prime Minister insisted that a regional platform may be created for studies on forecasting future
pandemics.
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'Pariksha Pe Charcha' programme with Prime Minister to be held online

• Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has announced that the fourth edition of Prime
Minister’s Interaction Programme with school students, teachers and parents - Pariksha Pe Charcha
will be held next month.
• Mr Nishank also said that the registration process for the forthcoming 'Pariksha Pe Charcha' programme
has begun which will be open till 14th of March.
• He informed me that this time the programme will be held virtually.
• He said the participants of this programme will be selected through an online competition which will be
organised on MyGov platform.
• Mr Nishank also informed that the portal for online creative writing competition will remain open till 14th
of March.
Intensified Mission Indradhanush 3.0 launched to expand immunization coverage across country
• Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan launched Intensified Mission Indradhanush
3.0, (IMI 3.0) to expand immunization coverage across the country.
• It will have two rounds starting from the 22nd of this month and the 22nd of March this year and will
be conducted in pre-identified 250 districts and urban areas across 29 States and UTs in the country.
• Both rounds will be for 15 days each.
• A portal of IMI 3.0 has also been launched besides releasing the Operational Guidelines and the
awareness material of the campaign.
• The focus of the Intensified Mission Indradhanush 3.0 will be the children and pregnant women who
have missed their vaccine doses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• They will be identified and vaccinated during the two rounds.
• Beneficiaries from migration areas and hard to reach areas will be targeted as they may have missed
their vaccine doses during COVID19.
Hyderabad gets recognition as 2020 Tree City of the World
• The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization and the Arbor Day Foundation have
recognized Hyderabad as a 2020 Tree City of World, for its commitment to growing and maintaining
urban forests.
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• Hyderabad earned recognition in the Foundation’s second year of the programme along with 51 other
cities globally (120 cities from 63 countries assessed) and the only city in India to get this recognition
so far.
• List of Five Factors to be Eligible for ‘Tree City’
• To be eligible for Tree City, the city must affirm its five requirements, include
• Defining responsibility (the declaration written by civic representatives to assign the responsibility for
trees)
• Setting down the rules (the law or official policy that regulates forest and tree management)
• Knowing what you have (an updated inventory or assessment of the local tree resources)
• Allocate funds (a dedicated annual tree management plan routine budget)
• Celebrate achievements (an annual celebration of trees to raise awareness).
About Food and Agriculture Organization :
• Headquarters : Rome, Italy
• Founded : 16 October, 1945
• Head : Qu Dongyu
About Arbor Day Foundation :
• Founded : John Rosenow
• Founded : 1972, Nebraska, United States
Centre kicks off 'Go Electric' campaign to promote e-mobility
• The Union government launched the 'Go Electric' campaign to spread awareness about the benefits
of e-mobility and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in India.
• The campaign was launched in the presence of Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and
Highways, Micro, Small, Medium Enterprise and R K Singh, MoS (IC) Power and New & Renewable
Energy, MoS Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
• Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), under the aegis of the Ministry of Power, is mandated to undertake
an awareness drive for promoting public charging, e-mobility and its ecosystem
• To implement the Go Electric campaign at the national and state levels, BEE will extend technical
support to the State Designated Agencies (SDAs) and other partners to ensure uniformity of
information.
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• State agencies are expected to support BEE in consumer awareness initiatives to accelerate the
deployment of EV charging infrastructure and electric mobility ecosystem at the state level.
India, Maldives sign five pacts to boost infrastructure projects
• India and its Southern neighbour Maldives signed five agreements that would boost infrastructure in
the island nation.
• The pacts that were signed during Foreign Minister S Jaishankar’s visit.
• India has offered a standalone Line of Credit of $40 million for sports infrastructure in the Maldives.
• Jaishankar, who arrived here on the first leg of his two-nation tour that will also take him to Mauritius,
handed over 100,000 additional doses of COVID-19 vaccine to the Foreign Minister and Health Minister
Kerafa Naseem.
• Apart from this, five pacts were signed between India and Maldives to boost infrastructure in the island
nation.
1. Amendatory Agreement to repurpose an older EXIM Bank of India Line of Credit of USD 25 million for
Road Devt
2. Letter of Intent between EXIM Bank and local authorities for financing a housing project of 2000 units
in Hulhumale.
3. MoU on grant funding USD 0.5 million for a fish processing plant in Kendhikulhudhoo in the northern
Maldives.
4. MoU on capacity building and exchange of content and expertise between Prasar Bharati and Public
State Media, Maldives.
5. MoU on sustainable urban development between MoHUA and Ministry of national planning, housing
and infrastructure, Maldives.
About Maldives :
• Capital : Male
• Currency : Maldivian rufiyaa
• President : Ibrahim Mohamed Solih
Tourism Minister to inaugurate Incredible India Mega Homestay Development
• Culture and Tourism Minister Prahlad Singh Patel will inaugurate the three day Incredible India Mega
Homestay Development and Training Workshop in Darjeeling.
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• The concept of Homestay is getting popular in Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts of Northern part of West
Bengal.
• The involvement of the local community is more than ever in this Homestay Tourism at one of the most
favoured hill stations for domestic and inbound tourists.
• The Tourism Ministry said, a total of 450 homestay owners will be trained in the workshop where IIAS
School of Management will train them free of cost in different spheres of Hospitality.
• The aim of this robust hospitality training workshop is to upgrade the hospitality skills of local community
stakeholders by capacity building.
National Toy Fair to be organized from Feb 27
• The first-ever National Toy Fair will be organized from 27th February to 2nd March through a virtual
medium.
• IIT Gandhinagar based Centre for Creative Learning (CCL) will showcase its unique 75 toy creations in
the fair.
• IIT Gandhinagar is the only IIT in the country which is running such a centre for creative learning.
• The centre is inculcating scientific temperament among students and teachers by developing a range of
scientific and educational toys.
• Founder of CCL, Manish Jain said education is supposed to ignite the brains of the children and for this
to happen, it is important the children find education interesting
Several projects to be launched by PM Modi in Assam, West Bengal
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Assam and West Bengal.
• In Assam, Mr Modi will dedicate important projects of the oil and gas sector to the nation at Silapathar
in Dhemaji district.
• The Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation the INDMAX Unit at Indian Oil’s Bongaigaon Refinery, Oil
India Limited's Secondary Tank Farm at Madhuban, Dibrugarh and a Gas Compressor Station at Hebeda
Village, Makum, Tinsukia.
• He will also inaugurate the Dhemaji Engineering College and lay the foundation stone for Sualkuchi
Engineering College.
• These projects will usher in an era of energy security and prosperity, and open bright avenues of
opportunity for local youth.
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• They are in line with the Prime Minister's vision of Purvodaya to drive Eastern India's socio-economic
growth.
Prakash Javadekar inaugurates Atal Paryavaran Bhavan in Lakshadweep
• Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar, inaugurated the Atal
Paryavaran Bhavan at Lakshadweep on Feb 19, 2021.
• Prakash Javadekar is on a four day official visit to Lakshadweep from February 19 to 22, 2021.
• The minister attended high level meetings with the Secretaries of various departments in UT’s
administration.
• The Minister is to attend programmes at Suheli, Kadmat and Bangaram islands and evaluate major
innovative initiatives of the Forest and Environment Department of the Union Territory.
• Suheli Par is an oval-shaped and 17 km long coral atoll in Lakshadweep, that is surrounded by a zone
of rich marine fauna.
• It is located in the South-West of Kavaratti and 76 km to the south of Agatti.
• The Nine Degree channel in the Indian Ocean, is located between the Islands of Kalpeni and Suheli Par,
and Maliku Atoll.
• He will also evaluate the major innovative initiatives of the Union Territory's Forest and Environment
Department.
Assam CM Sonowal lays foundation of first skill university of eastern India
• Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation of the first skill university of eastern
India in Darrang district, aimed at imparting training to over 10,000 students in 12 disciplines.
• The varsity would be built with a financial outlay of Rs.1,000 crore.
• It is expected to be completed by 2026, and will have understandings with countries like Germany, Taiwan,
South Korea, Israel, Japan, England.
• Skill, Employment and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary termed the day
as historic, as the process has been initiated for setting up the third skill university in India.
About Assam :
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PM Modi to address 66th annual convocation of IIT Kharagpur

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the 66th annual convocation of IIT Kharagpur via video
conferencing.
• The institute is organizing its convocation in virtual mode, keeping in view the safety measures during the
post pandemic situation.
• Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank and Minister of State for Education Sanjay
Dhotre will also attend the convocation.
• As many as 75 students including nine Institute Gold medal winners and 66 Institute Silver medal
winners have been invited to receive the awards in person.
• More than 2,800 students will be awarded degrees in online mode.
• The Institute will also confer DSc, IIT Kharagpur Life Fellow Award and distinguished Alumnus Award to
27 achievers for their contribution to academics and research, social service and public welfare.
Govt sanctions over 56 thousand more houses - PMAY (Urban)
• Government has sanctioned over 56 thousand more houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
(Urban).
• The Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee has approved them.
• Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said, out of the total validated demand of one
crore 12 lakh houses by 2022, nearly one crore 11 lakh homes are now sanctioned.
• He informed that over 73 lakh houses have now been grounded.
• The Minister said, 42 lakh 70 thousand houses have been handed over to the beneficiaries.
Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy Resigns
• Puducherry chief minister V Narayanasamy, has submitted the letter of his resignation and his council
of ministers on February 22, 2021 to the Lieutenant Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan.
• The decision was taken as the Congress-led Government in the UT lost its majority in the House,
which is 14.
• Following a series of resignations, the ruling government was reduced to a strength of 12. Two MLA
resigned in January 2021 while 2 resigned in February 2021.
• Lt. Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan has forwarded the resignation letter of Mr. Narayanasamy and a
report on the Assembly proceedings to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs for its consideration.
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DRDO conducts two successful launches of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile
• Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has conducted two successful launches
of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM).
• The launches were carried out from a static vertical launcher from Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off
the coast of Odisha.
• Indigenously designed and developed by the DRDO for Indian Navy, VL-SRSAM is meant for
neutralizing various aerial threats at close ranges including sea-skimming targets.
• The launches were monitored by senior scientists from various DRDO labs involved in the design and
development of the system.
• During the test launches, flight path and vehicle performance parameters were monitored using flight
data, captured by various Range instruments.
About DRDO :
• Founded : 1958
Nitin Gadkari inaugurates 50 artisan-based SFURTI clusters
• Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Minister Nitin Gadkari has inaugurated 50 artisan-based
SFURTI clusters spread over 18 States.
• In these clusters, over 42 thousand artisans have been supported in the traditional segments of muslin,
khadi, coir, handicraft, handlooms, wood craft, leather, pottery, carpet weaving, bamboo, agro processing,
tea and others.
• These clusters have been inaugurated in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh,
Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Nagaland,
Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.
• The MSME Ministry has funded 85 crore rupees for development of these SFURTI clusters.
• The Center is implementing the Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries
(SFURTI) to organize traditional industries and artisans into clusters to make them competitive and
increase their income.
India becomes 1st country in world - identify need for action for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
• Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said that India has become the first country in the world to identify
the need for action for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.
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• He said this while launching the operational guidelines for integration of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
with the National Programme for Prevention & Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and
Stroke.
88 Railway projects dedicated to nation
• Railways Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated and dedicated a host of infrastructure projects and projects
related to passenger amenities at various railway stations in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh and
Karnataka through video conferencing.
• 88 Railway projects were dedicated to the nation worth over one thousand crore rupees making Indian
Railways future ready.
• Inaugurating the rail projects in Kerala, Mr Goyal said that it is important to improve connectivity in the
state which is a keeper of Indian Heritage and for the railway passengers using the various amenities in
the state.
President Ram Nath Kovind to inaugurate Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Cricket Stadium
• President Ram Nath Kovind will formally inaugurate the world's largest Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Cricket Stadium at Motera in Ahmedabad Gujarat.
• The President Kovind is expected to watch the third cricket test match between India and England for
some time with the Union Home Minister Amit Shah soon after the inauguration ceremony.
• Sardar Patel Cricket Stadium at Motera in Ahmedabad is all set to make history by hosting the day-night
pink ball test match between India and England.
Home Minister releases book 'Rashtra Pratham - 82 varshon ki Swarnim Gatha'
• Home Minister Amit Shah released a book 'Rashtra Pratham - 82 varshon ki Swarnim Gatha' in New
Delhi.
• The book chronicles the glorious history of CRPF since its raising in 1939 and it has detailed and
thoroughly researched accounts of CRPF's journey, challenges, successes, and sacrifices.
• The Home Minister said, The Government is working on a scheme that all CAPF jawans should remain
at least 100 days out of 365 days with their family members.
• The CRPF celebrated its first-ever Veterans Day on February 19, 2021, which was on Friday.
• From now on every third Friday of February will be celebrated as the Veterans Day of the CRPF every
year.
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Nitin Gadkari inaugurates 50 artisan-based SFURTI clusters spread over 18 states

• Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Minister Nitin Gadkari has inaugurated 50 artisan-based
SFURTI clusters spread over 18 States.
• In these clusters, over 42 thousand artisans have been supported in the traditional segments of muslin,
khadi, coir, handicraft, handlooms, wood craft, leather, pottery, carpet weaving, bamboo, agro
processing, tea and others.
• These clusters have been inaugurated in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh,
Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Nagaland,
Odisha, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.
• The MSME Ministry has funded 85 crore rupees for development of these SFURTI clusters.
• The Center is implementing the Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries
(SFURTI) to organize traditional industries and artisans into clusters to make them competitive and
increase their income.
About MSME :
• Founded : 2007
• Joint Secretary : Ateesh Kumar Singh
Sardar Patel Cricket Stadium In Motera Renamed Narendra Modi Stadium
• President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated the newly revamped Motera cricket stadium in
Ahmedabad, which has been renamed the Narendra Modi Stadium.
• The ground, which was earlier named the Sardar Patel Stadium, and more popularly known as the
Motera stadium, has been renamed after the Prime Minister, who was also formerly a president of the
Gujarat Cricket Association.
• The Narendra Modi Stadium, which is the world's largest cricket stadium with a capacity of 1,10,000
spectators, will host the first international match since the stadium was revamped.
• Home Minister Amit Shah and Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju, along with the Board of Control for Cricket
in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah, were also present at the event.
• The Narendra Modi Stadium, the largest cricket ground in the world will host its first international match
on Wednesday, when India will take on England in the Day-Night Test.
• The stadium will be a part of the planned Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in the city.
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• The stadium is spread across 63 acres of land and has three entry points. It has a seating capacity of
1,32,000 people.
PM KISAN scheme completes two years
• Feb 24 is the second anniversary of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, PM KISAN.
• The Scheme was formally launched on 24th February in the year 2019 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
at a function at Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh.
• PM KISAN was started with a view to augment the income of the farmers by providing income support to
all landholding farmers’ families across the country.
• Under the PM KISAN Scheme, an amount of 6000 rupees per year is transferred in three installments of
2000 rupees directly into the bank accounts of the farmers.
Kushinagar Airport in Uttar Pradesh Gets International Airport License From DGCA
• The under-construction Kushinagar Airport in Uttar Pradesh has received the International Airport
license from Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
• Once operational, this will be the third international airport in UP after Lucknow and Varanasi.
• With this, UP is set to become the state with the highest number of airports after the upcoming Ayodhya
Airport also joins the list.
• That will boost tourism in the region & facilitate travel on Buddhist circuit by providing direct aviation
connectivity to the city.
• Currently the other two international airports functional in Uttar Pradesh are Chaudhary Charan Singh
International Airport at Lucknow and Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport at Varanasi.
• Chitrakoot will be the first airport in Uttar Pradesh with ‘Table Top’ runway.
About Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) :
• Minister : Suresh Prabhu
• Comes Under Ministry of Civil Aviation
About UP :
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Karnataka set to add value to its flower power

• The Horticulture Department, in collaboration with the International Flower Auction Bangalore
(IFAB), is setting up a flower processing centre to convert unsold flowers into various useful products.
• This incubation centre will process flowers and convert them to value-added products such as natural
dyes, floral papers, incense sticks, flower petal powder for cosmetic usage, floral embedded works, floral
arts, and silica-stored flowers.
• A facility was needed as flower farmers have been suffering huge losses whenever there is a glut or
market disruption. Growers can learn the art of flower processing from the centre.
About Karnataka :
• Governor : Vajubhai Vala.
Centre Launches National Urban Digital Mission For Creating Digital Infra For Cities
• The Central government launched 'National Urban Digital Mission'' to create a digital infrastructure
for cities in the country.
• The Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry (MoHUA) said the move will institutionalise a citizen-
centric and ecosystem-driven approach to urban governance and service delivery in cities by 2022, and
across all cities and towns by 2024.
• Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Minister of Electronics and IT Ravi
Shankar Prasad launched the 'National Urban Digital Mission' (NUDM) at a virtual event.
• The mission has three pillars – people, process, and platform.
About NUDM :
• The National Urban Digital Mission (NUDM) will create a shared digital infrastructure for urban India,
working across the three pillars of people, process, and platform to provide holistic support to cities
and towns. It will institutionalise a citizen-centric and ecosystem-driven approach to urban governance
and service delivery in 2022 cities by 2022, and across all cities and towns in India by 2024.
• NUDM will create a shared digital infrastructure that can consolidate and cross-leverage the various
digital initiatives of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, enabling cities and towns across India to
benefit from holistic and diverse forms of support, in keeping with their needs and local challenges.
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• Apart from this, several other digital initiatives of MoHUA were also launched which includes: India
Urban Data Exchange (IUDX), SmartCode platform, Smart Cities 2.0 website, and Geospatial
Management Information System (GMIS).
About IUDX :
• IUDX serves as a seamless interface for data providers and data users, including ULBs, to share,
request, and access datasets related to cities, urban governance, and urban service delivery
• IUDX is an open-source software platform which facilitates secure, authenticated, and managed
exchange of data amongst various data platforms, third party authenticated and authorised applications,
and other sources.
Several development projects launched by PM Modi in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a day's visit to Tamil Nadu and Puducherry to inaugurate and
lay the foundation for several developmental projects.
• Mr.Modi will depart from Chennai to Coimbatore after his visit to Puducherry.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of multiple infrastructure projects worth over
12 thousand 400 crore rupees in Coimbatore, the manchester of South India.
• Mr. Modi will dedicate the Neyveli New Thermal Power project, 709 MegaWatt Solar Power Project and
the 8-laning of Korampallam Bridge and Rail Over Bridge built V.O.Chidambaranar Port, Tuticorin.
• Mr.Modi will inaugurate over 4000 tenements constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
scheme.
• Mr.Modi will lay the foundation stone for the extension, renovation and modernization of Lower Bhavani
Project.
• He will also lay the foundation for the development of Integrated Command and Control Centers.
Center approves PLI Scheme for IT Hardware and Pharmaceuticals
• Union Cabinet approved Production Linked Incentive Scheme for IT Hardware.
• The scheme proposes incentives to boost domestic manufacturing and attract large investments in the
value chain of IT Hardware.
• Communication and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, the target segments of the scheme include
laptops, tablets, all-in-one PCs and servers.
• Mr Prasad said, the total cost of the proposed scheme is around Rs 7,350 crore over four years.
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• Mr. Prasad added that the scheme has direct and indirect employment generation potential of over one
lakh 80 thousand.
• The Union Cabinet also approved Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Pharmaceuticals over
a period of Financial Year 2020-21 to 2028-29.
• The Scheme will benefit domestic manufacturers, help in creating employment and is expected to
contribute to the availability of a wider range of affordable medicines for consumers.
2nd edition of Maritime India Summit 2021 inaugurated by PM Modi
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 2nd edition of the Maritime India Summit 2021.
• The summit will be organised virtually between 2nd to 4th March 2021.
• First summit was organised in 2016 in Mumbai.
• Rajiv Jalota, Chairman, Mumbai Port Trust informed that the MIS 2021 will provide a unique platform
where various stakeholders in the maritime sectors such as Senior Government Officials, Domestic and
International Investors, Shipping Line Owners, Representatives of Major Ports from across the world as
well as the Governments of Maritime States in India will participate.
• The Summit will also include an exclusive CEOs’ forum with the Minister of State (I/c) of Ports, Shipping
& Waterways.
PM Modi inaugurates and lays foundation stone of various development projects in Coimbatore
• On February 25, 2021, Prime Minister visited Tamil Nadu to dedicate to the nation and lay the
foundation stone of multiple infrastructure projects in Coimbatore.
The Projects are :
• 1000 MW Neyveli New Thermal Power Project
• 709 MW Solar Power Project of NLCIL
• He laid the foundation stone for design, supply, installation and commissioning of a 5MW grid connected
ground based solar power plant at V.O.Chidambaranar Port and for the extension, renovation and
modernisation of Lower Bhavani Project System.
• He also laid the foundation stone for development of Integrated Command and Control Centers
(ICCC) in nine Smart Cities including Coimbatore, Madurai, Salem, Thanjavur, Vellore, Tiruchirappalli,
Tiruppur, Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi.
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• He inaugurated the 8-laning of Korampallam Bridge and Rail Over Bridge (ROB) at
V.O.Chidambaranar Port and the tenements constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
(Urban) scheme.
• The Prime Minister said that the modernization of Bhawani Sagar Dam will irrigate over 2 lakh acres of
land and farmers of several districts will benefit from this project
Governor, Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and Union Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi
were present on the occasion.
PM Modi will address Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University's 33rd convocation
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the 33rd Convocation of the Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical
University through video conferencing.
• A total of 17 thousand five hundred 91 candidates will be conferred with Degrees and Diplomas in the
Convocation.
• Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit will be present on the occasion.
• The University is named after the former Chief Minister Dr. M. G. Ramachandran.
• It has a total of 686 affiliated institutions under its umbrella, encompassing the disciplines of Medicine,
Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, AYUSH, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Allied Health Sciences.
• These institutions are spread across the length and breadth of the state, including 41 Medical Colleges,
19 Dental Colleges, 48 AYUSH Colleges, 199 Nursing Colleges, 81 Pharmacy Colleges and the rest
being specialty post-doctoral medical and allied health institutions.
President's Rule imposed in Puducherry
• Puducherry has been placed under the President's rule days after the Congress-led Government
collapsed after several resignations.
• The Home Ministry issued a notification of imposing the President's rule in the Union Territory.
• President Ram Nath Kovind suspended the Puducherry Assembly as well.
• The Legislative Assembly of the Union territory is now placed under suspended animation.
• The Assembly polls are due in the Union Territory shortly.
2nd edition of Global Bio-India - organised from 1st to 3rd March
• To showcase the strength and opportunities of the India’s biotechnology sector at national level and to
the global community, the second edition of Global Bio-India will be organized from 1st to 3rd March.
• The theme for this year is transforming lives and tag line is Biosciences to Bio economy.
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• Science and Technology Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan will inaugurate the event virtually.
• Global Bio-India is one of the largest biotechnology stakeholders’ conglomerates that is being co-
organized by the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology along with its Public
Sector Undertaking, Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council, BIRAC in partnership with
industry association CII, Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises and Invest India.
Indian Railways to reactivate facility of UTS ON MOBILE App
• Indian Railways has decided to reactivate the facility of UTS ON MOBILE App in zones where
unreserved train services are reintroduced.
• To decongest ticket booking counters and to ensure smooth compliance of social distancing norms, the
facility to book unreserved tickets through UTS ON MOBILE app is being reactivated by Indian Railways.
• The Railways Ministry said, it has been decided that in addition to UTS ON MOBILE App facility available
on suburban sections, this facility may also be reintroduced on non-suburban sections of zonal Railways.
The India Toy Fair 2021 inaugurate by PM Modi
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the India Toy Fair 2021 through video conferencing.
• Toys play a significant part in the development of a child’s mind and also help improve psychomotor and
cognitive skills in children.
• The Fair aims to provide an impetus to the underlying themes of Atmanirbhar Bharat and vocal for local
campaigns, launched by the Government to promote indigenous industries.
• It also aims to leverage the potential of toys in making learning joyful across all ages in education.
• The four-day event aims to bring together all stakeholders including buyers, sellers, students, teachers
and designers on a virtual platform to create sustainable linkages and encourage dialogue for the overall
development of the industry.
• Over one thousand exhibitors from across 30 States and Union Territories will display their products
in e-commerce enabled virtual exhibitions.
• It will showcase traditional Indian toys as well as modern toys including electronic toys, plush toys, puzzles
and games.
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State News
Farooq Khan reviews functioning of One-Stop-Centres for women
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Adviser to Lieutenant Governor Farooq Khan reviewed the
functioning of One-Stop-Centres for women in the UT during a meeting at Civil Secretariat, Jammu.
• The Mission Director of Integrated Child Protection Services (ICPS) gave a detailed powerpoint
presentation and apprised the Adviser about the working of the centres as well difficulties being faced by
them while performing their duties.
• Aim: To help the women affected by violence in private and public spaces, within the family, community
or at the workplace.
• Main objective of One-Stop-Centres: To facilitate immediate, emergency and non-emergency access to
a range of services including medical, legal, psychological and counseling support under one roof to fight
against any forms of violence against women.
About J&K:
• Capital: Jammu(winter) , Srinagar(summer)
• Lieutenant governor: Manoj Sinha
J&K: Over 22 lakh people applied for golden card
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, over 22 lakh people have so far applied for the golden card
under newly launched Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPMJAY) SEHAT
scheme in various districts across the Union Territory.
• Before the launching of SEHAT scheme, only people in the deprived category under the socio-economic
census could have availed the facility, however, under SEHAT scheme every J&K resident is being covered
under Rs 5 lakh health insurance.
India’s First ‘Gender Park’ inaugurated in Kozhikode, Kerala
• The Kerala government’s Gender Park in Kozhikode will become functional from next month,
coinciding with the second edition of the International Conference on Gender Equality (ICGE-II).
• Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the February 11-13 IGCE-II and the Gender Park.
• He will also lay the foundation of the International Women’s Trade and Research Centre (IWTRC) that
envisages a secure and sustained ecosystem for women entrepreneurs and a space for them to market
products.
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• Along with this Park, a Gender Museum, Gender Library, Convention Centre and an Amphitheatre will also
be launched at the event.
About the Gender Park :
• It is the first space of its kind in the world.
• Currently working under the Department of Women and Child Development, it aims to become a premier
convergence point for gender-related activities,” the website mentions.
• Built with an aim to establish an ecosystem for women entrepreneurs, the Gender Park will also see the
launch of a Gender museum, Gender library, a convention centre and an amphitheatre which, according
to KK Shailaja, will form the first phase of the park.
• The overall cost of establishing the park is around Rs 300 crore. spread over 24 acre land.
About Kerala :
Andaman and Nicobar Islands becomes first Union Territory to be corona free
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands has become the first state or Union territory in the country to become
Covid-19 free with active cases falling to zero in the islands.
• Health ministry’s website reported that the last four infected persons in Andaman and Nicobar Islands have
been declared cured.
• The UT had reported a total of 4,932 cases and 62 deaths from the virus.
• The share of Kerala in India’s daily cases crossed 50 percent for the first time
• There were 11,024 fresh cases in the country out of which Kerala alone reported 5,716, 51.8 percent of the
total.
• The state also has the highest count of active cases at 69,157, out of around 1 lakh 61 thousand in the
country.
About Andaman and Nicobar :
• Capital : Port Blair
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Punjab CM launches 'Har Ghar Pani, Har Ghar Safai' mission

• Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh virtually launched the 'Har Ghar Pani, Har Ghar Safai'
mission as part of the government's campaign to accomplish the goal of 100 per cent potable piped
water supply in all rural households by March next year.
• The Chief Minister also inaugurated one Mega Surface Water Supply Scheme covering 85 villages in
the Moga district, 144 new water supply schemes for 172 villages, 121 Arsenic, and Iron removal plants.
• The scheme will benefit more than 1.6 lakh residents from 155 villages in Amritsar, Tarn Taran, and
Gurdaspur districts by helping replace groundwater with surface water supply for drinking, besides
resolving the problem of arsenic affected habitations.
• The scheme is being funded by the World Bank, Jal Jeevan Mission of GoI, NABARD, and State Budget.
• The Chief Minister also formally launched 10 new large multi-village surface water supply schemes at a
cost of Rs.1,020 Crore. The scheme will cover 1,018 villages in the water quality affected areas of districts
Patiala, Fatehgarh Sahib, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, and Tarn Taran.
About Punjab :
• CM : Amarinder Singh
• Governor : VP Singh Badnore
SEC launches its own poll app, eWatch, in Andhra Pradesh
• State Election Commissioner N. Ramesh Kumar launched a software application called ‘eWatch’ to keep
tabs on poll-related irregularities.
• It was an in-house software application developed at the request of the State Election Commission by
Reliance Jio for use in the ensuing gram panchayat elections.
• Developed exclusively for the election watch, the app comes with features that enable people to interact
with the SEC about everything related to the panchayat polls being held in the state after a prolonged
conflict between the SEC and the government.
• The e-watch app will be available on Google Play Store from Thursday, he added and called upon people
to use their franchise with enthusiasm.
• Ramesh Kumar also inaugurated a call center exclusively set up for receiving and resolving election related
complaints.
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About AP :
• Governor : Biswabhusan Harichandran
• CM : YS Jagan Mohan Reddy
Arvind Kejriwal launches ‘Switch Delhi’ campaign to promote electric vehicles
• Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched the ‘Switch Delhi’ campaign to promote electric vehicles
and appealed to people to buy such vehicles to combat pollution in the city.
• Kejriwal said his government will hire only electric vehicles for various purposes in the next six weeks.
• In the ‘Switch Delhi’ campaign, awareness will be created about the benefits of electric vehicles and how
it can contribute to making Delhi clean and pollution free.
• Under its electric vehicle policy, the Delhi government has planned extensive subsidies on purchase of
electric two-wheelers and four-wheelers, besides waiving road tax and registration charges
• More than 6,000 electric vehicles have been purchased since the policy launch in August 2020. The
government has also issued tenders for setting up 100 charging stations across the city,
• The government has fixed an ambitious target of 25 per cent electric vehicles among total vehicle
registrations in Delhi by 2024
About Delhi :
• CM : Arvind Kejriwal
Kerala to gets its first human milk bank
• The southern state of Kerala will get its first human milk bank. The state-of-the-art facility will be
inaugurated by health minister K K Shailaja at state-owned Ernakulam general hospital in Kochi.
• It is being set up in partnership with Rotary Club of Cochin Global.
• The facility will provide breast milk to newborn babies who are deprived of it because of various issues,
including the sickness of their mothers.
• According to the state government, 3,600 babies are born in the general hospital a year and out of
those, 600 to 1,000 sick babies are admitted into the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
• A similar milk bank - the Northeast's first - opened at Guwahati's Satribari Christian Hospital in
December last year.
• It was the 15th milk bank in the entire country.
About Kerala :
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About NICU :
• A neonatal intensive care unit, also known as an intensive care nursery, is an intensive care unit
specializing in the care of ill or premature newborn infants.
• Neonatal refers to the first 28 days of life. Neonatal care, as known as specialized nurseries or intensive
care, has been around since the 1960s
CM Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurates first heliport of Assam in Majuli
• Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the first heliport of the state in Majuli
district.
• The heliport having facility for simultaneous landing of three helicopters was constructed at an
expenditure of Rs 50 lakh.
• The heliport was built with an aim to boost tourism in Majuli, which has a distinct identity as the world's
largest river island.
• The state government has also undertaken several projects to strengthen road infrastructure in the river
island, and steps are being taken for construction of the bridge connecting Majuli with Jorhat.
• The Assam government made dedicated efforts to put Majuli as an important tourist destination of the
world.
• The new heliport would significantly facilitate tourist flow to Majuli.
• The chief minister also laid the foundation for the infrastructure improvement project of Sankarjyoti
High School with a financial outlay of Rs 25 lakh.
About Assam :
Manipur chief minister launches organic products and Loumiconnect App
• Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh launched a new range of packaged organic products and
Loumi Connect App apart from distributing Bolero Camper vehicles and nurseries to seven Farmers
Producer Companies (FPCs).
• A function organized jointly by Directorate of Horticulture and Soil Conservation and Eastern Border
Areas Development Authority (EBADA) at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat in Imphal.
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• He also launched Loumi Connect App which would enable connect farmers with Horticulture and
Agriculture experts.
• The chief minister also released Illustrative guide booklets on organic farming and Mission Organic
Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER).
• The chief minister also informed that Food Park, Nilakuthi, will have a packaging facility soon. He also
informed that the state government has already submitted a INR400 crore project proposal for bamboo
to the union government.
About Manipur :
• Capital : Imphal
• Governor : Najma Heptulla
• CM : N. Biren Singh
FM Nirmala Sitharaman Initiates 3rd Phase of Chah Bagicha Dhan Puraskar Mela in Guwahati
• Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 6, initiated the ceremonial distribution
ceremony of Chah Bagicha Dhan Puraskar Mela in Guwahati.
• It is to be mentioned that as many as 7,46,667 beneficiaries of tea gardens were covered under the
scheme. Notably, the scheme was launched in Financial Year (FY) 2017-18.
• The main objective of the scheme is to incentivize and strengthen the efforts of financial inclusion of
the tea tribe community.
• Further, in the 1st phase of the scheme, Rs. 2500 was credited to 6,33,411 bank accounts of tea garden
workers in FY 2017-18 through Direct Benefit Transfer.
• In phase 2, an additional amount of Rs. 2500 was credited to 7,15,979 bank accounts of tea garden
workers in FY 2018-19.
• At the phase, Rs.3000 will be credited to 7,46,667 beneficiaries of tea garden workers.
About Assam :
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Vijayanagara becomes Karnataka's 31st district

• The Karnataka government issued an official notification announcing Vijayanagara as the state's 31st
district, which was carved out of the ore-rich Ballari district.
• Vijayanagara will have six taluks namely Hosapete, Kudligi, Hagaribommanahalli, Kotturu, Hoovina
Hadagali and Harapanahalli.
• Hosapete is the headquarters of the new Vijayanagara district.
• The Yediyurappa government's plan to create Vijayanagara district had run into opposition, especially
from within the ruling BJP.
• Undivided Ballari was politically significant, comprising nine Assembly constituencies of which the
Congress represents five and the BJP four.
• Minister for Infrastructure Development, Haj and Wakf, Anand Singh, who is also the Ballari district in-
charge, had anchored the efforts for the new district.
About Karnataka :
Kaziranga National Park records 93 thousand 491 birds
• In Assam, the Kaziranga national park has recorded a total of 93 thousand 491 birds as per the latest
census.
• There are 112 bird species and 22 families found during the enumeration.
• The recent bird census has witnessed an increase of over 59 thousand birds in the Kaziranga national
park.
• The park authority has recently conducted a 2 day census where 35 teams were involved.
• Last year, the figure stood at 34 thousand 284.
About Assam :
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Madhya Pradesh launches 'SAANS' campaign to reduce infant mortality

• The health department in Madhya Pradesh has launched the Social Awareness and Action to
Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully (‘SAANS’) campaign with the aim of reducing infant mortality due
to pneumonia.
Purpose :
• To reduce the death rate due to pneumonia among infants a strategy is being chalked out under the
Social awareness campaign in which medical staff is being trained.
• Training will be imparted at the community and primary health centres.
• Around 4,000 Health and Wellness Centres have been set up in Madhya Pradesh for this purpose.
• The State government has also developed training modules in partnership with PGIMER, Chandigarh, and
UNICEF, which will be used to enhance the skills of health workers, including doctors and paramedical
staff .
About Madhya Pradesh :
• CM : Shivraj Singh Chouhan
Jammu and Kashmir govt restores 4G mobile Internet service in entire Union Territory
• The high speed mobile data services have been restored in Jammu and Kashmir, bringing respite to
people affected by the ban, especially students, working professionals and business community.
• The services were suspended on August 5, 2019 when the central government abrogated the special
status of J&K and bifurcated the erstwhile State into two Union Territories.
• The 2G service on mobile phones was restored across J&K in January 2020.
• The high speed mobile data services were restored in twin J&K districts including Ganderbal in Kashmir
and Udhampur in Jammu division on a trial basis on August 16, 2020, as part of calibrated easing of
restrictions.
• The pre-paid SIM card holder will be given access to internet connectivity only after verification as per
norms applicable to postpaid connections.
MSME wing of GoI to cooperate in setting up industries up to 20 crore rupees in Dhanbad
• In Jharkhand, the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, MSME wing of the Government of India will
cooperate in setting up industries up to 20 crore rupees in Dhanbad.
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• The central government will give 70 percent amount, while the remaining 30 percent is to be borne by
the state government and industrialists.
• The Central Government has taken initiatives to set up integrated industries, including the automobile
section, tools room, and other subsidiary industries in Dhanbad for Rs 20 crore and more.
• This amount will be received by industrialists through clusters. Director MSME D K Sahu in Dhanbad has
assured the industrialists to resolve the above issues and problems, and focus upon Prime Minister’s
vision of Vocal for Local.
About MSME :
• Founded : 2007
• Joint Secretary : Ateesh Kumar Singh
About Jharkhand :
• Capital : Ranchi
• CM : Hemant Soren
India's first geothermal power project to be established at Puga village of eastern Ladakh
• India's first geothermal power project will be established at Puga village of eastern Ladakh. Puga has
been identified as the hotspot of geothermal energy in the country by the scientists.
• In the first phase of the pilot project, one megawatt (MW) power generation capacity will be generated.
• A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for establishment and implementation of the first phase
was signed.
• India's first ever geothermal power project, known as Geothermal Field Development Project is planned
to commission by the end of 2022. The tripartite MOU was signed between ONGC Energy, LAHDC, Leh
and the Power Department of UT Ladakh.
• In the first phase, the pilot project implemented by the ONGC-OEC will explore within the depth of 500
metres and it is planned to supply 24 hours free power to 10 neighbouring villages which are not connected
with the northern grid for power supply.
• The second Phase is proposed for deeper and lateral exploration of geothermal reservoirs by drilling
optimal number of wells and setting up of a higher capacity demo plant in Ladakh. The second phase will
be the Research and Development stage or demonstration of the project.
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• In the third phase, it is planned to promote joint ventures and commercial projects. Puga is a place where
it is uncovered with a potential of more than 100 mw of geothermal energies.
About Ladak :
• Capital : Leh, Kargil
PM to lay foundation stone of various development projects in Assam
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone of various development projects at
Dhekiajuli in Sonitpur district in Assam.
• The Prime Minister will launch ‘Asom Mala’, aimed at helping improve state highways and major
district roads networks in the state.
• The programme is unique for its emphasis on effective maintenance through continuous field data
collection and its linkage with the Road Asset Management System.
• Asom Mala’ will provide quality inter-linkage roads between the National Highways and the rural roads
network as well as facilitate seamless multi-modal transportation.
• In addition to that, the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone of two medical colleges and
hospitals, which are being set up at Biswanath and Charaideo, at a total estimated project cost of
over 1100 crore rupees.
About Assam :
Himachal Pradesh becomes first State to implement e-cabinet
• Himachal Pradesh has become the first State in the country to make the end to end processing of the
cabinet paperless by implementing e-cabinet application.
• Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur inaugurated the first e-cabinet at Shimla.
• The entire process from initiation of a cabinet memo, approval of the cabinet memo through concerned
Secretary, Chief Secretary, concerned Minister and finally by Chief Minister to place in the cabinet has
been made online.
• It will also be possible to monitor the status of implementation of cabinet decisions more effectively
through this application.
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• The e-cabinet provides for generation of automatic s through SMS on real time basis for various stages
involved in processing cabinet issues like receipt of cabinet memo, finalization of cabinet meeting, advice
received on cabinet memo for various levels like Secretaries and Ministers.
• The e-cabinet application is also available as a Mobile App on android devices .
• The new system will bring greater efficiency in the overall process of conducting a cabinet meeting by
removing dependencies which arise due to the physical movement of cabinet memos.
Gujarat govt to set up Indian Institute of Skills in Gandhinagar
• In Gujarat, the State Government has asked the Tata group to start the work on setting up Indian
Institute of Skills- IIS.
• This was conveyed during a meeting between the high powered team from Tata Group and senior officials
of Gujarat Government held in Gandhinagar.
• IIS is being set up by the Labour and Employment Department of Gujarat along with Tata Group at Nasmed
village of Gandhinagar.
• The State Government has allotted around 20 acres of land for Tatas to start Indian Institute of Skills.
• The foundation stone for the proposed IIS at Nasmed was performed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah
who is also Lok Sabha Member from Gandhiagar constituency in Gujarat. Proposed IIS at Nasmed is
located in Gandhinagar Lok Sabha constituency.
• The institute is being developed on a Not-for-profit Public Private Partnership mode by the Tata Group
along with the state’s Labour and Employment Department.
About Gujarat :
• CM : Vijay Rupani
Kerala Knowledge Mission launched
• The state government has launched Kerala Knowledge Mission which aims to transform the state to
a knowledge economy.
• Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the project at an event held at Mascot Hotel,
Thiruvananthapuram.
• The mission will promote innovative ideas, coordinate knowledge initiatives and equip young people with
updated skills.
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• The initiative is a comprehensive digital platform for educated youngsters which would help them
upskill, enhance knowledge and empower them to face the challenges of ever-changing job market.
• This digital platform will create a great opportunity for those who took a break from work and jobless to
connect with global employers.
• They can upskill and earn more knowledge preferred by the employers. This will create at least three
lakh jobs in a year and Kerala government also provides benefits such as insurance and loan assistance
for the entrepreneurs through this platform.
• The digital platform was developed in collaboration with the Kerala University of Digital Sciences,
Innovation and Technology.
• It will provide timely and professional training in diverse and most demanding areas such as data
analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence, robotic process automation, full stack development,
cyber security, digital content creation, media, synthetic biology, genetic engineering, and agricultural
consulting. Trained and educated youth can register on the portal after meeting the criteria.
• It will also provide job training to unemployed educated youth on the basis of their skills and demands
from companies.
About Kerala :
• CM : Pinarayi Vjayan
• Governor : Arif Mohammed Khan
Coast Guard conducts Pollution Response Workshop and Mock Drill - 2021 in Gujarat
• In Gujarat, the Coast Guard District Headquarters Number-1 conducted the district-level Pollution
Response Workshop and Mock Drill - 2021 at Porbandar.
• It was conducted to revalidate the response mechanism for oil pollution incidents and enable the Indian
Coast Guard to fine tune the Regional and National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan.
• According to official sources, the workshop was inaugurated by Deputy Inspector General S.K. Verghese,
the Commander of District HQs Number-1.
• The workshop was conducted in two phases.
• The First Phase consisted of Table-top Exercise simulating oil spill while the practical demonstration of
oil spill equipment on-board ICGS Samudra Pavak for containment and recovery of oil spill was covered
in the Second Phase.
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About Gujarat:
West Bengal: Amit Shah to flag off BJP's Parivartan Yatra
• Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah will be visiting West Bengal.
• He is scheduled to flag off BJP's Parivartan Yatra from Cooch Behar in North Bengal before addressing
a public meeting at Bangaon Thakurnagar in North 24 Parganas.
• Earlier, Mr Shah's two day visit to the state in the last week of January had been postponed.
About West Bengal:
Citizen-centric on-line services of State Transport department launched by Odisha
• Odisha launched various citizen-centric on-line services of the State Transport department.
• On the occasion, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said that the digital initiative will allow freedom to the
vehicle owners to choose any transport office of the state for vehicle related services.
• The state road transport offices going paperless and contactless, long queues in front of the transport
offices across the state will soon be a thing of the past-said the chief minister while rolling out the
services.
• While the chief minister described the initiative as a kind of liberation for thousands of people, an official
release to this effect says that Odisha is the first state in the country to introduce document upload
through digital signature, using the NIC platform.
• The state rolled out as many as nine online services that include vehicle registration and ownership
transfer.
About Odisha:
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Maharashtra govt signs MoU with Flipkart to promote wooden toys, local artifacts, handicrafts
• To promote wooden toys, local artifacts, handicrafts Maharashtra Small Industries Development
Corporation and Maharashtra State Khadi & Village Industries Board have signed a Memorandum of
Understanding with Flipkart.
• This MoU will enable artisans, weavers, craftsmen & MSMEs from Maharashtra to showcase their
products to millions of customers in India.
• Flipkart will provide free training for packaging and branding to all these manufacturers.
• Also, product photography will also be done by the company.
About Maharashtra :
• CM : Uddhav Thackeray
About Flipkart :
• Founded : October 2007, Bangalore
• Founders : Sachin Bansal, Binny Bansal
Manoj Sinha inaugurates General Bus Stand cum Shopping complex Cum Multi Level Parking in Jammu
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the state
of the art General Bus Stand cum Shopping complex Cum Multi Level Parking constructed at the cost
of Rs. 213 Crore in Jammu.
• The LG urged the people of Jammu to take care of the assets in Jammu city and every single resident must
shoulder responsibility of building safe & clean Jammu.
• The LG also said that the multi-level parking cum shopping complex will help thousands of pilgrims who
come for the journey of Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine and this will help address the problem of Jammu people
and largely help them address the traffic congestion being faced by them.
• The LG added that Jammu is the only place across the country where there is IIM, AIIMS and IIT.
About Jammu & Kashmir:
• Capital: Jammu(winter) Srinagar(summer)
• Lieutenant Governor: Manoj sinha
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Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike launches Swach Sarvekshan Abhiyan

• The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has launched Swach Sarvekshan Abhiyan in Bengaluru to
educate citizens about solid waste management.
• The Special Commissioner in the Municipal Corporation, Randeep Dev informed that Bengaluru received
214 marks in Sarvekshan last year.
• To gain a higher rank, he informed that 40 percent of waste is segregated and 18,000 municipal
workers, 8000 drivers are pressed into garbage collection work every day in the city.
About Karnataka:
Goa becomes 6th State to successfully undertake ULB reforms
• Goa has become the 6th State in the country to successfully undertake Urban Local Bodies reforms
stipulated by the Department of Expenditure.
• Finance Ministry said, the state has now become eligible to mobilise additional financial resources of
223 crore rupees through Open Market Borrowings.
• Goa has joined five other states - Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Manipur, Rajasthan and
Telangana, who have completed Urban Local Bodies reforms.
About Goa:
• Capital: Panaji
• Chief minister: Pramod Sawant
Puducherry launches a campaign to become Covid-free by February 28
• In Puducherry, a campaign has been launched titled “Zero Covid by Feb28” to ensure that there are no
COVID-19 cases by the end of February 2021.
• Under the "Zero Covid by Feb 28" campaign, all those who had come into contact with people infected
with coronavirus would be identified and provided treatment, so that the further spread of the
pathogen could be prevented
About Puducherry :
• CM : V. Narayanasamy
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PM Modi unveils several development projects in Kerala

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled several key development projects worth 6,100 crore rupees at
INS Garuda Naval Air Station at Kochi in Kerala.
• The Prime Minister said, the projects inaugurated will energize the growth trajectory of India.
• The Prime Minister said, Indians can do wonders in achieving the target of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
• The Prime Minister said, India has the ability to rise to the occasion and contribute to the global good.
• The Prime Minister also inaugurated the country's first full-fledged international cruise terminal,
Sagarika at Cochin Port and Marine Engineering Training Institute of Cochin Shipyard Ltd.
• Among the projects unveiled by the Prime Minister include the Propylene Derivative Petrochemical
Project of Bharat Petroleum Corporation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveils several developmental projects at Chennai in Tamil Nadu
• The Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of several developmental projects worth
over 8000 crore rupees at Chennai in Tamil Nadu.
• The Prime Minister asserted, these projects are symbols of Innovation and Indigenous development.
• The Prime Minister said, India has the ability to rise to the occasion and contribute to the global good.
• The Prime Minister also handed over the indigenously designed and manufactured Arjun Main Battle
Tank (MK-1A) to the Army.
• The Prime Minister asserted, these projects are symbols of Innovation and Indigenous development.
• He stated that the projects will further the growth of Tamil Nadu.
• Prime Minister said, Thanjavur and Pudukkottai will be specially benefited after the foundation for
the extension, renovation and modernization of six hundred and thirty six kilometre long Grand Anicut
Canal System was laid.
• It will improve irrigation facilities for 2.27 lakh acres of land in the delta districts.
• The Prime Minister lauded the farmers of Tamil Nadu for record food grain production and good use of
water resources.
• He emphasized the need to remember the mantra of Per Drop More Crop.
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Annual Convention of Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India concluded

• The Annual Convention of Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI) concluded at
Kevadia in Gujarat.
• The convention was jointly organized by the Ministry of Tourism and ADTOI with support from Gujarat
Tourism.
• It aimed at building public confidence to travel for the revival of domestic tourism in the country.
• The conference was attended by around 400 delegates comprising ADTOI members from across India,
hoteliers, airlines representatives, senior government officials, media-persons among other stakeholders
of the tourism industry.
About Gujarat:
West Bengal: Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav - 14th to 28th Feb
• The 11th Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav is being held between 14th to 28th February at Cooch Behar,
Darjeeling and Murshidabad in West Bengal.
• The inaugural programme is going to take place at Coochbehar.
• Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar and Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism Prahlad Singh Patel
will be present in the inauguration.
• All arrangements are in place for hosting the Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav at Coochbehar Palace.
About West Bengal:
Robotic Spa’ facility inaugurated in Visakhapatnam railway station
• Waltair Division, in its efforts to enhance the passenger amenities at Railway stations, has
commissioned another innovative facility called Robotic Spa under Non-fare revenue here at
Visakhapatnam railway station.
• The first of its kind facility at Railway station in East Coast Railway was inaugurated by Divisional
Railway Manager, Waltair Chetan Kumar Shrivastava.
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• The Robotic Spa comprising Relaxing Chair, Foot massager and Fish pedicure spa gives a pleasant
experience to the Rail Customers waiting at Visakhapatnam railway station.
• The motto behind such an innovative model is to facilitate the esteemed rail customers to spend quality
time while waiting for trains.
Capitals:
• Visakhapatnam (executive)
• Amaravati (legislative)
• Kurnool (judicial)
Punjab becomes 13th State to complete ONOR Card
• Punjab has become the 13th State in the country to successfully undertake “One Nation One Ration
Card system” reform.
• The State has become eligible to mobilise additional financial resources of one thousand five hundred
and sixteen crore rupees through Open Market Borrowings.
• 12 other States which have completed this reform are Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana,
Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and Uttar Pradesh.
• The implementation of One Nation One Ration Card System ensures availability of ration to
beneficiaries under National Food Security Act and other welfare schemes at any Fair Price Shop
across the country.
About Punjab:
• Chief minister: Amarinder Singh
UP CM Yogi Adityanath to inaugurate Abhyudaya Yojana
• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will inaugurate the Mukhyamantri Abhyudaya Yojana, a
free coaching program meant for students preparing for competitive exams, on Feb 15, 2021
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• Under the Abhyudaya Scheme, those students who want to prepare for competitive exams such as IAS,
IPS, PCS, NDS, CDS, NEET and JEE but are unable to do it because of lack of resources, would be
provided free coaching.
• Initially, the coaching will begin at the divisional level. This will be followed by district-level coaching
centres.
• A 12-member committee headed by a divisional commissioner will make arrangements for guest
lectures, motivational speakers, the supply of study material and other resources.
About UP :
Tribal painter Bhuri Bai of MP invited as Chief Guest
• The tribal painter Bhuri Bai of Madhya Pradesh was invited as the Chief Guest at the Foundation Day
celebrations of Bharat Bhavan.
• The motivational thing is that when the construction of this building started, she used to work as a
labourer.
• The journey of a woman tribal artist from labourer at Bharat Bhavan to Chief Guest on the occasion of
Foundation Day of Bharat Bhavan is inspirational to many.
• When the construction of this building started, she used to work here as a labourer on a daily wage of Rs
six.
• She never expected that she would become the Chief Guest in this Bharat Bhavan.
IIT Bombay launches fundraising campaign ‘Cherish IIT Bombay 2021’
• IIT Bombay launched its first-ever annual fundraising campaign in India, Cherish IIT Bombay 2021.
• As per information shared by the IIT, the funds will be used for the creation of world-class laboratory
complexes, modernization of lecture halls and continuation of awards to attract and retain faculty.
• It says, donations made to IIT Bombay by corporate bodies and individuals are 100% tax-deductible under
section 80G of the Indian Income Tax Act.
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PM Narendra Modi to lay foundation stone for Maharaja Suheldev Memorial in Uttar Pradesh
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of Maharaja Suheldev Memorial and
Maharaja Suheldev Development project and dedicated it to the public Maharaja Suheldev State
Medical College (Baharaich) via video conferencing.
• The project includes the installation of a horse-riding statue of Maharaja Suheldev, separate tourist
facilities such as a cafeteria, guest house, and children's park.
• The Prime Minister will also address a webinar for consultation on the roadmap for effective
implementation of Union Budget 2021-22 in the infrastructure sector.
About UP :
PM Modi unveils several key projects of oil & gas sector in Tamil Nadu
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will dedicate to the nation and lay the foundation of key projects of the
oil and gas sector in Tamil Nadu through video conferencing.
• Mr Modi will dedicate to the nation the Ramanathapuram -Thoothukudi natural gas pipeline and the
Gasoline Desulphurisation Unit at Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited, Manali.
• He will also lay the foundation stone of Cauvery Basin Refinery at Nagapattinam.
• These projects will bring in substantial socio-economic benefits and will boost the country’s march
towards Urja Aatmanirbharta.
Kiran Bedi removed as Puducherry LG
• Dr. Kiran Bedi has been removed from the post of Puducherry Lieutenant Governor.
• In a press communiqué, Rashtrapati Bhawan said, Telangana Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan
has been given additional charge as Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry.
15 states successfully attain Ease of Doing Business reforms
• The number of states successfully completing the Ease of Doing Business reforms has increased to
15.
• The Finance Ministry has said that three more states - Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand have
completed Ease of Doing Business reforms.
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• On receipt of recommendation from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, the
Department of Expenditure has granted permission to these three states to raise additional financial
resources of nine thousand 905 crore rupees through Open Market Borrowings.
• The Ministry said, earlier, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala,
Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Telangana had also reported
completion of this reform.
• On completion of reforms facilitating ease of doing business, these 15 states have been granted additional
borrowing permission of over 38 thousand crore rupees.
Odisha Govt announced Rs 200 crore Development Package for Maa Samaleswari Temple
• Patnaik announced a Rs 200-crore package for the development of the 16th-century shrine of Maa
Samaleswari, the presiding deity of western Odisha.
• The SAMALEI (Samaleswari Temple Area Management and Local Economy Initiatives) project will be
implemented during the 2021-22 fiscal.
• Launching the Samaleswari Temple Area Management and Local Economy Initiative (SAMALEI), the
Chief Minister said the government will spend Rs 200 crore in 2021-22 to develop an area of 108
acres around the temple.
• Unveiling a slew of measures, the Chief Minister said gates will be erected on the four sides of the
temple to facilitate smooth entry and exit of devotees. The temple office, an interpretation centre
and other facilities will be developed at the main gate for convenience of the visitors and smooth
darshan of the presiding deity.
• The temple, situated on a 12-acre land on the bank of Mahanadi river, will have adequate facilities
for religious functions, a bhoga mandap and rest rooms for sevayats.
• Housing will be developed for servitors and a 30- metre-wide road will be constructed from the
temple to the Mahanadi Gate Road.
About Odisha :
• CM : Naveen Patnaik
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‘Free Gift Milk to Girl Students of Sikkim’ initiative at Gangtok

• Sikkim Chief Minister P. S. Tamang launched the ‘Free Gift Milk to Girl Students of Sikkim’ initiative
at Gangtok.
• The initiative will benefit around 1,500 students who would be provided 200 mls of milk every day.
• Mr Tamang called the initiative a step towards eradicating malnutrition and other health problems among
the young generation.
• He said that the State Government is planning to extend it on a larger scale.
• He said that proper nutrition is the foundation of a healthy mind and body, and this should be emphasized
in educational institutions.
About Sikkim:
• Capital: Gangtok
• Governor: Ganga Prasad
• Chief minister: Prem Singh Tamang
Civil Aviation Ministry allows - drones to Kochi Metro Rail Ltd
1. Civil Aviation Ministry and Directorate General of Civil Aviation have granted permission for usage of
drones to Kochi Metro Rail Limited, Kerala.
2. The Remotely Piloted Aircraft System is to be used for Integrated Urban Regeneration & Water Transport
System Project.
3. The permission is valid till 31st December 2021 from the date of issue of the letter or until the full
operationalization of Digital Sky Platform (Phase-1), whichever is earlier.
4. This permission shall be valid only if all conditions and limitations specified are strictly adhered to.
5. In case of violation of any condition, the permission shall become null and void.
About Kerala:
• Governor: Arif Mohammad Khan
• Chief minister: Pinarayi Vijayan
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Dharmendra Pradhan urges Centre to set up Centre of Excellence on Maritime Biotechnology in

Bhubaneswar
• Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has urged the Centre to set up a Centre of Excellence on Maritime
Biotechnology in Bhubaneswar in Odisha.
• In his letter to the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Earth Sciences and Science and
Technology, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Mr. Pradhan said that in order to strike a balance between Odisha's
delicate maritime ecosystems and the growth of its blue economy, there is a need for enhanced focus on
scientific research, which can be ensured by the setting up of the Centre of Excellence on Maritime
Biotechnology at the Institute of Life Sciences in Bhubaneswar.
About Odisha:
2,500 classrooms at higher education level to be converted into smart classrooms - Karnataka Deputy CM
• Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister Dr. C. N. Ashwath Narayana, who holds the Higher Education
portfolio, has informed that 2,500 classrooms at the higher education level will be converted into smart
classrooms in the next two months.
• At the Government Arts College in Bengaluru, he said that Integrated Learning Management System
with high speed internet and the state of the art tabs will be available in the smart classrooms.
• The Learning Management System will make the learning process more accessible and enable teachers
to track the learning level of students.
About Karnataka:
Two new grants announced by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio
• Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio announced two new grants, namely, the Chief Minister's Grant
for Journalism and the Chief Minister's Research Grant.
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• Delivering the Budget Speech at the ongoing Budget Session, Mr Rio said, the journalism grant will support
the strengthening of democracy and thereby positively impact good governance as it is an endeavor to
empower a vibrant fourth estate.
• He said, the research grant will support advancement of science and extend funding to research and
research scholars.
About Nagaland:
• Capital: Kohima
• Chief minister: Neiphiu Rio
Janaushadhi Kendra inaugurated by Union Minister D. V. Sadananda Gowda in Bengaluru
• All the government hospitals in the country will have Janaushadhi Kendras that sell affordable generic
medicines to the common man.
• Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers D. V. Sadananda Gowda informed this during the
inauguration of a Janaushadhi Kendra in Bengaluru.
• He appealed to all the doctors in government hospitals to prescribe generic medicines.
• There are 7,500 Janaushadhi Kendras in the country and Karnataka alone has 850 such shops.
• The Janaushadhi shops provide BP tablets at a price of 250 to 300 rupees as against 2,500 to 3,000
rupees charged for the branded medicines.
Hyd-based Recykal becomes first Indian startup in WEF accelerator program
• Recykal, a digital ‘waste commerce’ solutions provider, has been selected as the first member from
India for the World Economic Forum’s Circulars Accelerator programme 2021.
• This programme is led by Accenture along with Ecolab, Schneider Electric and the World Economic
Forum, and will connect industry leaders with 17 circular economy entrepreneurs.
• The aim of this programme is to recognise individuals and companies that are making a notable
contribution to the circular economy.
About Recykal :
• Founder : Abhay Deshpande
• Head Office : Hyderabad Telangana
• Recykal is India’s first digital waste-commerce company that connects waste generators with waste
processors, recyclers and brand owners to ensure efficient waste management.
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• The company’s solutions ensure higher rates of waste collection and recycling and in doing so, Recykal
has saved significant amounts of water, oil, landfill spaces and trees.
• According to a statement issued by the company, Recykal is channelling over 10,000 metric tons of
waste every month and plans to increase this to 2 million metric tons annually by 2025.
• The waste collected from various groups like consumers, businesses, aggregators, and the informal
sector are channelised to co-processors, cement kilns and recyclers.
Kerala CM launches KFON to provide free internet connectivity to Poor families
• Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON) project
intended to provide free internet connections to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families in the state.
• The first phase of the project, which will also help connect users in schools, hospitals, offices and
houses, was launched in Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, Kollam and
Thiruvananthapuram districts.
• In Kerala, which became the first state that declared access to internet as a basic human right, private
sector Vodafone-Idea is a leading service provider with 51.9% market share, Reliance Jio has 22.6%
market share, while public sector BSNL’s share is 12.6%.
• The KFON project is a mega infrastructure project that aims to build a high-speed, reliable and scalable
fibre network across the state to provide connectivity to 30,000 government institutions and 20 lakh
households through the transmission and distribution facility of the Kerala State Electricity Board
(KSEB).
• Both the KSEB and the Kerala State Information Technology Infrastructure Limited (KSITIL) have 50%
shares each in KFON. The 52,746 km-long fibre optic cables are being laid using the poles of KSEB.
About Kerala :
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Snakepedia' mobile app launched in Kerala to help people, doctors treat snake bites
• A team of scientists, nature lovers and doctors have come up with a mobile application 'Snakepedia'
on snakes in Kerala to help the public as well as doctors to treat snake bites.
• Snakepedia is a comprehensive android mobile application that documents information on snakes
with the help of pictures, infographics and podcasts and analyses its first aid, treatment, myths and
superstitions.
• The main aim of the app is to help the public identify snakes, avail proper treatment on time for
snakebites
• There are about 3,600 species of snakes known so far in the world and over 300 species are found in
India.
• Snakepedia was developed as an answer to the question of how to find a useful way for the general
public to identify snakes.
About Kerala :
• Capital : Thirivanathapuram
J&K: 7-day long exhibition of NSSH scheme concluded
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, a seven day long exhibition of National Scheduled Caste
and Scheduled Tribe Hub (NSSH) scheme concluded at ITI, Ground in Rajouri.
• The valedictory function of the exhibition was attended by Vice Chairperson, Khadi and Village
Industries Board (KVIB), Dr. Hina Shafi, DDC, Rajouri, Rajesh Shavan besides officers of KVIB.
• Dr. Hina while speaking on the occasion said that the Government has taken slew of measures to ensure
the upliftment of SC and ST communities and such awareness camps and exhibitions are organised for
that purpose.
• She added that under NSSH many such exhibitions will be conducted on a regular basis across the Union
Territory.
About Jammu and Kashmir:
• Capital: Jammu (winter) Kashmir (summer)
• Governor: Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha
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Kerala govt sanctions Rs.9 crore to build 'smart' anganwadis

• The Kerala government has sanctioned Rs.9 crore to convert the conventional anganwadis into "smart"
structures with better amenities.
• Under the Smart Anganwadi scheme, the Department of Women and Child Development has granted 48
anganwadis in the state to construct new buildings.
• To provide early childhood care, the Kerala government has decided to build 'smart anganwadis' in a
phased manner. The aim is to make the facility more child-friendly to nurture the mental and physical
development of children.
• The smart anganwadis are being designed and constructed as part of the Integrated Child Development
Scheme (ICDS).
• It is expected to have various amenities, ranging from study hall, kitchen, dining area, store room, creative
zone, garden to swimming pool and outdoor play area as per the availability of land.
About Kerala :
Karnataka to host second Khelo India University Games this year
• Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju has announced that the second Khelo India University Games will be
hosted by Karnataka.
• Bengaluru along with Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, Mr Rijiju said that the largest University games in
the country scheduled later this year will be held in Bengaluru in partnership with Association of Indian
Universities.
• Over 4,000 sportsmen under the age of 25 will compete with an opportunity to be selected for the
national teams.
• The first edition of University games was held in Bhubaneswar.
About Karnataka:
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First paperless budget to be presented in Uttar Pradesh Assembly

• The first paperless budget will be presented in Uttar Pradesh Assembly.
• UP will be the first state in the country to table a paperless budget.
• The State Finance Minister Suresh Khanna will present the first paperless budget in the history of the
State.
• All members of the State Legislature have been provided iPads to view the budget highlights which will
also be available on two big screens put up in the House.
• The 2021-2022 budgets will also be available on an App which can be downloaded from Google Play Store
with the name 'Uttar Pradesh Sarkar Ka Budget'.
Uttar Pradesh govt to develop Jewar Airport as Asia's biggest airport
• Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government plans to develop Jewar Airport as Asia's biggest airport
with six runways.
• The state government has to set aside 2,000 crore for Jewar Airport in its budget for 2021-22 presenting
in the Assembly.
• The state government has also increased the number of runways of the Jewar Airport to six, from two
proposed earlier.
• The under construction airport in Ayodhya will be named as Maryada Purushottam Sriram Airport.
• A provision of 101 crore rupees has been made for it in the budget.
• Ayodhya airport will also be subsequently made an international airport.
Mehbooba Mufti re-elected as President of PDP
• Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Mehbooba Mufti has been re-elected as President of
Peoples’ Democratic Party.
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• The party announced through its official twitter handle that Ms Mehbooba Mufti was unanimously re-
elected as JK-PDP President for a period of three years.
• Party members and leaders from both Jammu and Kashmir participated in the election process.
About Jammu and Kashmir:
• Capital: Jammu (winter) Kashmir (summer)
• Governor: Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha
Chandigarh became the first state or Union Territory in India to launch Carbon Watch
• Chandigarh became the first state or Union Territory in India to launch Carbon Watch, a mobile
application to assess the carbon footprint of an individual.
• Although the app can be accessed by everyone, it has specific options for the residents of Chandigarh to
compile a detailed study.
• The application can be downloaded through a QR code in Android supported smart cell phones.
• Carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases-especially carbon dioxide-released into the
atmosphere by a particular human activity
About the Carbon Watch Mobile app :
• As a person downloads the application, they will need to fill details in four parts Water, Energy, Waste
Generation and Transport (Vehicular movement).
• In the category of Water, the person will be required to inform about the consumption of water.
• In the Energy category, the details regarding the electricity units consumed every month at the house,
monthly bill etc and usage of solar energy will have to be furnished.
• In the Waste category, the individual will need to inform about the waste generation on their part and their
family. In the transport section, the individual will have to inform them about the mode of transport used
by them- four wheeler, two-wheeler or bicycle.
• With the mentioned information, the mobile application will automatically calculate the carbon footprint
of the individual. The application will also provide information such as the national and world average of
the emission, and the individual’s level of emission generation.
• The mobile application will suggest methods to reduce the carbon footprints. The application will suggest
ways as per the information furnished by the individuals.
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Assam govt hikes daily wage of tea garden workers by Rs 50

• The Assam cabinet, chaired by Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, approved a proposal to
increase the daily wage of tea garden workers to Rs 217, a hike from Rs 167.
• Assam Transport Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary said the decision was taken by the Assam cabinet
after talks between tea garden owners, workers' union and the sub-committee of the state government.
• The Assam cabinet also gave its nod to a proposal seeking the constitution of a one-member committee
for fixing an equal wage of small tea garden workers.
• According to the proposal, the labour department's principal secretary JB Ekka will be the only member of
the panel.
• The tea tribe community comprising 17% of the state’s population is a deciding factor in almost 40
Assam Assembly seats out of the 126.
About Assam :
UP govt presents biggest ever budget of around Rs 5,50,270 crores to make self-reliant state
• Uttar Pradesh Government presented the biggest ever budget to the tune of around Rs 5,50,270 crores
to make Atma Nirbhar or self-reliant Uttar Pradesh.
• The budget presented by Finance Minister Suresh Khanna in the State Assembly was also the first
paperless budget of any state in the country.
• The budget focuses on farmers' welfare, women empowerment and health sector along with the
development projects.
• Atmanirbhar Krishak Samanvit Vikas Yojna has been launched for the welfare of the farmers of the
state.
• Seven hundred crores have been allocated for free irrigation to the farmers
• The State Government also focused on heritage tourism in the state and particularly the overall
development of Ayodhya.
• To improve the tourism in Ayodhya city, Rs 101 crore have been allocated in the budget for development
of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram Airport.
• Yogi Adityanath Government has also announced to provide financial help to destitute women under
Mahila Samarthya Yojana till they get alimony from the Court.
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• The State Government will provide free tablets to the eligible students under Abhyudaya Scheme.
About UP :
e-Kuber payments system launched in J&K
• Jammu and Kashmir formally rolled out e-Kuber payments system of Reserve Bank of India.
• J&K is the first Union Territory to implement version 2.9 of e-Kuber payments system
• e-Kuber would be implemented in the Civil Secretariat treasury on pilot basis and rollout of this system
for other treasuries shall follow shortly.
• The system is capable of making 50,000 transactions at a time, while all government-related financial
transactions would be dealt directly with RBI, without any intermediary bank.
• The system would also overcome payment delays and eliminate risk of paper vouchers being lost in
transit
Punjab Cabinet approves mission ‘Lal Lakir’ in all villages
• The Punjab Cabinet approved implementation of mission ‘Lal Lakir’
• It aimed at facilitating villagers to monetise property rights and availing benefits provided by
government departments, institutions and banks in all villages across the state.
• ‘Lal Lakir’ refers to land that is part of the village ‘abaadi’ (habitation) and is used for non-agriculture
purposes only.
• Under the mission, the right of record of properties within ‘Lal Lakir’ in the villages of the state will be
prepared with the cooperation of the government of India under the SVAMITVA (Survey of Villages and
Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas) scheme.
• This will enable mapping the land, households, habitation and all other areas falling within ‘Lal Lakir’.
About Punjab :
• Governor : V P Singh Badnore
• CM : Amarinder Singh
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Union Minister Kiren Rijiju inaugurates state of the art training facilities – Bengaluru
• Union Minister of State for Sports and Youth Affairs Kiren Rijiju inaugurated gym complex and modern
change room and laid the foundation stone for 330-bedded hostel, upgradation of kitchen and dining hall
and synthetic athletics track in the Bengaluru campus of Sports Authority of India.
• He said that sportsmen who bring laurels to the country are our heroes and they deserve the best state
of the art training facilities, hostels and nutritious food.
About Karnataka:
47th Khajuraho Dance Festival begins in MP
• The week-long 47th Khajuraho Dance Festival began in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh which is based
on the Indian classical dance tradition.
• The festival is being organized by the Culture Department through Ustad Alauddin Khan Music and
Arts Academy Bhopal. Director of the Academy,
• Festival will give the audience a chance to watch the performance of the dancers amid the aura of the
temple as the event is being held once again in the temple complex of the Western Temple Group of
Khajuraho after a gap of 44 years.
Aim :
• The festival aims to promote and encourage dance, artists, culture and heritage of India through several
Indian classical dance forms like Kathak, Odissi, Manipuri, Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniattam.
• The first day event is dedicated to Bharatanatyam performance by Geeta Chandran and her troupe and
Kathak performance by Deepak Maharaj.
About MP :
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Rajnath Singh inaugurates DRDO Skill Development Centre for Fire Safety Training
• Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has inaugurated Skill Development Centre (SDC) for Fire Safety
Training of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) at Pilkhuwa in Uttar Pradesh
through virtual mode on February 22, 2021
• The facility, created by Delhi based DRDO laboratory Centre for Fire, Explosive and Environment
Safety (CFEES)
• Aim : At developing trained human resources, fire safety technology and products to save precious
human lives and valued assets.
About CFEES :
• Director : Rajiv Narang
• Founded : 1992
About DRDO :
• Founded : 1958
• Chairman : Dr G. Satheesh Reddy
Ramky Enviro contract with Chennai for waste management
• Ramky Enviro Engineers Ltd (REEL), a leading waste management company, announced that it has
entered into a seven-year contract with the Greater Chennai Corporation to design and implement an
IOT-enabled solid waste collection programme.
• The Hyderabad-based company said it will cover four zones in Chennai including Tiruvottriyur (Zone
1), Manali (Zone 2), Madhavaram (Zone 3), and Ambattur (Zone 7).
• The programme which has been launched by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, will
involve 100 per cent waste segregation at source across all the households in the four zones within one
year and sustain these efforts consistently.
Modi inaugurates Railway projects in West Bengal
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi harped on the importance of infrastructure projects as a development
index for West Bengal.
• While he said infra development was the priority for his government, Modi pulled up the ruling Trinamool
Congress for tardy execution of development work.
• Syndicates, extortion and cut-money have been a recurring poll theme in Bengal.
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Desi cloud storage platform DigiBoxx launched in Tamil Nadu

1. DigiBoxx, India’s first digital asset management platform has launched its services in the Tamil Nadu
market.
2. State Industries Minister MC Sampath inaugurated the service.
3. Digiboxx is an Indian digital file storage, sharing and management SaaS (Software as a Service) product
that provides storage options for businesses as well as individual users to store all files in one centralised
location.
4. As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, NITI Aayog first launched the indigenously developed
platform on December 22, 2020, to provide affordable storage services to individuals and businesses and
most importantly to store user data within India.
Hoshangabad in MP to be renamed as Narmadapuram
• Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has announced that Hoshangabad city in the
state would be renamed as Narmadapuram.
• He made the announcement during the Narmada Jayanti programme held in Hoshangabad.
• Narmada is the lifeline of Madhya Pradesh.
• The city is famous for its beautiful ghats along the banks of the Narmada river.
• Hoshangabad was so far named after an attacker Hoshang Shah, but will be known after the lifeline
Maa Narmada, which is a matter of happiness.
About MP :
Manipur CM N Biren Singh launched PM FME Scheme
• In Manipur, the State Chief Minister N. Biren Singh launched the Prime Minister Formalization of Micro
Food Processing Enterprises (PM FME) Scheme.
• The launching of the Scheme was done during the inaugural function of Conference Cum Buyer Meet at
Hotel Imphal.
• The PM FME Scheme aims to provide financial, technical and business support to micro food processing
units, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Self Help Groups (SHGs).
• The Scheme will also promote One District One Product to reap the benefit of scales in terms of
procurement of inputs, availing common services and marketing of products.
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JP Nadda to participate in series of programmes in Kolkata, West Bengal

• BJP national president JP Nadda will participate in a series of programmes in Kolkata and North 24
Parganas in West Bengal.
• Mr Nadda will launch Lokkho Sonar Bangla manifesto crowdsourcing campaign in Kolkata in the morning
before visiting Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay's residence and museum in Naihati.
• The BJP president will have lunch at a jute mill worker's household in Gouripur and visit Anandpuri Kalibari
Temple, Barrackpore.
• He will visit Mangal Pandey Memorial before addressing Poriborton Yatra - Nabadwip zone culmination
rally in Anandapuri Khelar Math.
• Later in Kolkata, Mr Nadda is scheduled to begin the Lokkho Sonar Bangla intellectuals meeting in Science
City.
Kerala Governor Inaugurates India’s First Digital University
• Digital University has been set up in Kerala’s Technocity, Mangalapuram. The Governor of Kerala
Arif Mohammed Khan has inaugurated the country’s first Digital University in the state.
• Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology (Digital University) is established by
upgrading the two-decade old state government’s Indian Institute of Information Technology and
Management Kerala (IIITM-K).
• The university is formed with a vision of creating a futuristic institution of higher learning, aspiring to set
a global benchmark in Digital technologies and its management
• The launch of the first Digital University in the country will open tremendous opportunities for
youngsters.
• India’s first Digital University will focus on postgraduate programmes and research along with building
strong industry-academic and academic-academic linkages with leading institutions in India and abroad.
Developed on a 10-acre campus in Technocity, the university will provide education to 12,000 residential
scholars on the campus and many technology-linked learners outside.
• The university seeks to lead the Digital Transformation Initiatives announced by the Kerala Government
in the Budget 2021.
• India’s first Digital University has been started with five schools
• School of Computer Science and Engineering;
• School of Digital Sciences;
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• School of Electronic Systems and Automation;

• School of Informatics;
• School of Digital Humanities and Liberal Arts, covering science, technology and humanities aspects of
the Digital world
About Kerala :
Maharashtra’s New Agriculture Pump Power Connection scheme bags good response
• In Maharashtra, the State Government's New Agriculture Pump Power Connection scheme has been
receiving a good response.
• The scheme announced in October 2020 has provided various relaxations to farmers to pay their pending
dues.
• Since the scheme was announced, as many as three lakh 42 thousand farmers have paid dues to the tune
of 312 crore 41 lakh rupees.
• In a bid to provide more relief to the farmers' the State Government has waived-off pending dues of 15
thousand crore rupees, an official press statement said.
• Farmers who will pay their Agri pumps dues in the first year will get 50 per cent relaxation on their actual
dues.
• Besides, the interest and late fees will also be waived off completely.
• This apart, farmers who will pay their total dues will be given nearly 66 per cent concession.
‘E-Parivahan Vyavstha’ launched by Himachal Pradesh CM Jai Ram Thakur
• Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur launched ‘e-Parivahan Vyavstha’ of the State
Transport Department to provide faceless services to the people of the State regarding Driving
Licence/Registration Certificates/Permits etc.
• The Chief Minister said stress must be laid on educating the people to avail this facility.
• He said the success of this system would largely depend on how better and easily the people adopt this
service.
• Jairam said credit of this goes to the officers and employees of the State.
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• He said the State Government first started e-Vidhan Sabha, then e-Budget and now it has started e-
cabinet.
• He said the e-Parivahan was a step forward in this direction.
Retirement age raised to 60 years for Tamil Nadu govt. employees
• In Tamil Nadu, Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palananiswami announced that the retirement age of State
Government employees has been increased from 59 to 60 years.
• Making a suo motu statement in the Legislative Assembly, he said, the order would be applicable to
employees of the government and government-aided schools, legal and constitutional bodies, government
sectors, local bodies, commissions, boards and unions.
• He said, all those who were in service and those who would retire on 31st of May this year would be
covered under the announcement.
39th Agartala International Book Fair started at Tripura
• In Tripura, the 39th Agartala International Book Fair with the theme “Ek Tripura, Shrestha Tripura”
has begun at Agartala.
• State Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb inaugurated the fair in presence of Bangladesh Assistant High
Commissioner Md. Jobayed Hossain and other state cabinet ministers and MLAs.
• The Chief Minister said a book fair helps in building a positive mindset among people and that ensures a
positive approach for overall progress in society.
• Cultural troops coming from Bangladesh, Northeastern States including Sikkim will be performing various
cultural events on each day as part of the fair.
March 2021 – National & State Current Affairs
National News
City Innovation Exchange (CiX) Launched for Fostering Innovation in Urban Ecosystem
• The City Innovation Exchange (CiX) platform was launched by Shri Durga Shanker Mishra, Secretary,
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs at an online event.
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• The platform will be a significant addition to the growing innovation ecosystem of India and focuses
on fostering innovative practices in cities.
• The City Innovation Exchange (CiX) will connect cities to innovators across the national ecosystem to
design innovative solutions for their pressing challenges.
• The platform will ease the discovery, design & validation of solutions through a robust, transparent and
user centric process that will reduce barriers for innovators and cities to discover fitting solutions.
• The Platform has more than 400 start-ups, 100 smart cities, more than 150 challenges statements and
over 215 solutions at the time of launch.
Jal Shakti Ministry announces 12 iconic sites for transforming them into Swachh Tourist Destinations
• Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti has announced the selection of
twelve iconic sites under Phase IV of Swachh Iconic Places.
• These sites include Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra, Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh, Kumbhalgarh Fort,
Jaisalmer Fort and Ramdevra in Rajasthan, Golconda Fort in Telangana and Konark Sun Temple in Odisha.
• Chandigarh's Rock Garden, Jammu and Kashmir's Dal Lake, Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura, Agra Fort
in Uttar Pradesh and Kalighat Temple in West Bengal are the other sites.
• The initiative aims at enhancing the experience of both domestic and foreign visitors by improving the
sanitation and cleanliness standards at and around the sites.
Khadi, Village Industry Commission's e-Market Portal registers over one crore turnover in eight months
• Khadi and Village Industry Commission’s e-Market Portal has registered a gross turnover of over one
crore 10 lakh rupees in just eight months of its launch.
• Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Nitin Gadkari lauded Khadi’s successful e-commerce
venture.
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• This portal has provided a wide marketing platform for various Khadi and village industry products to a
larger population.
• Online orders have been received from all 31 States and Union Territories including the far-flung Andaman
and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir among others.
About KVIC :
• Founded : 1956
• Chairperson : Vinai Kumar Saxena
• Comes under Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
Dr. Harsh Vardhan mark National Science Day function
• Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Harsh Vardhan highlighted how science technology and
innovation (STI) would impact our future in education, skills and functioning in the post-pandemic world.
• He was addressing the National Science Day (NSD) function through video-conferencing from Imphal,
Manipur.
• Awards to science communicators and women scientists were also conferred on the occasion.
• National Science Day is celebrated to commemorate the discovery of Raman Effect on this day every
year.
• Dr Vardhan said that 30 percent increase in this year's budget of Ministry of Science and Technology
and Earth Sciences put together for the year 2021-22 would provide stimulus to Science and Technology
infrastructure resources in the country.
• He said, in view of last year's challenges thrown by the COVID-19 pandemic, the theme of the National
Science Day 2021, ‘Future of STI: Impacts on Education, Skills, and Work,’ becomes all the more
important.
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PM highlights need to take science forward with mantra of 'Lab to Land'
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that there is a lot of contribution of the power of science in the
‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Campaign’.
• He emphasized that the nation has to move science forward with the mantra of ‘Lab to Land’.
• He cited the example of Chintala Venkat Reddy from Hyderabad who developed breeds of wheat and rice
that specially contained vitamin D. Mr Modi also mentioned Urugen Futsog of Ladakh who is growing
about 20 crops organically there.
• The Prime Minister also touched upon the subject of examinations.
• He said like every year, this year too there will be a 'Pariksha Pe Charcha’ in March.
• He requested all exam warriors, parents and teachers to share their experiences and tips on MyGov
platform and Narendra Modi app
Consumer Affairs Ministry had launched Mobile App, and now it’s step up
• Government has said that monitoring and predictive analysis of prices of essential commodities has taken
a giant step forward in India Mobile App for price monitoring of 22 essential commodities.
• The Consumer Affairs Ministry had launched this Mobile App last month to improve the quality of prices
data for reporting daily prices by the price reporting centers.
• The App is providing effective real time information about retail and wholesale prices from 127 locations
across the country.
• The Ministry said, price reporting through Mobile App ensures reporting from the market location as data
are geo-tagged thereby displaying the location from where price data are reported.
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Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh begins first academic session of MBBS at GMC, Doda
• Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the first
academic session of MBBS students at Government Medical College, Doda in Jammu division of
Jammu and Kashmir for the 2020-21 batch.
• Congratulating the students of the first batch of MBBS starting at GMC, Doda, the Minister described it
as a historic moment and welcomed development.
• He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan for the initiative
to set up world class health infrastructure in the Union Territory by building five new Medical colleges.
• Dr. Singh said, Udhampur-Doda is the only parliamentary constituency in India which has three
Government Medical Colleges.
Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) Celebrates its 9th Foundation Day
• The Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) celebrated its 9th Foundation Day on 01 March 2021.
• The event also included special addresses through virtual conferences by the High Commissioner of India
to Bangladesh, Shri Vikram Kumar Doraiswami and other senior officers from the Government of India
and the Asian Development Bank.
• The LPAI website, Newsletter and News Journal were also launched during the Foundation Day
event.
• The event concluded with a virtual panel discussion on the subject “Facilitating Regional Trade and
Connectivity through Land Route”, which was attended by various eminent scholars and persons from
India, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal.
About LPAI :
• Founded : 1 March 2012
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• The Land Ports Authority of India or LPAI is a statutory body working under the Ministry of Home Affairs,
Government of India is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining and managing border
infrastructure in India.
• It manages several Integrated Check Posts all across Borders of India.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal take the chair 3rd GCM of BIS
• Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal virtually presided the Third Governing Council Meeting of the
Bureau of Indian Standards.
• He reviewed the process of making Indian Standards and their implementation with BIS officials, senior
officials from different Ministries or Regulators.
• Mr Goyal said, there is a need to change the approach of the country towards standardization.
• He said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the three Mantras for faster economic development
SPEED, SKILL and SCALE.
• Mr Goyal said, now it is time to add the fourth dimension of STANDARD into this.
• The meeting was attended by the Minister of State for Consumer Affairs Raosaheb Patil Danve, MP
Rajya Sabha Mahesh Poddar, Secretary, Consumer Affairs Leena Nandan, DG, BIS P.K. Tiwari, Chairman
of Quality Council of India Adil Zainulbhai and other senior officials of the Ministry and Bureau of Indian
Standards.
Real-Time Monitoring System of Toll Plazas launched by Union minister Nitin Gadkari
• Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari launched the Real-Time Monitoring
System of Toll Plazas at a function in New Delhi.
• Speaking on the occasion, Mr Gadkari said that implementation of FASTag at toll plazas has improved
electronic toll collections and facilitated ease of doing business.
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• He said it also saves time and fuel.
• The government has made FASTag mandatory from the 15th February midnight and any vehicle not
fitted with it will be charged double the toll at electronic toll plazas across the country.
• Mr Gadkari said the government is also working on ways to reduce the number of road accidents in the
country by half up to 2025.
• Mr Gadkari said, over eleven thousand kilometres of National Highways were constructed in the 11
months of this financial year and the per day road construction has reached 33 kilometres.
Field assessment of Swachh Survekshan -2021 launched by Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry
• Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry launched the field assessment of Swachh Survekshan -2021 at a
web event in New Delhi.
• This will be the sixth edition of the annual cleanliness survey.
• Swachh Survekshan was introduced in 2016 as a competitive framework to encourage cities to improve
the status of urban sanitation while encouraging large scale citizen participation.
• Secretary of Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry Durga Shankar Mishra said, the survey has led to a
spirit of healthy competition among cities and towns.
• The journey that started in 2016 with only 73 cities with a million plus population has grown manifold, with
434 cities in 2017, 4,203 cities in 2018, 4,237 cities in 2019 and 4,242 cities in 2020.
• Cities have been regularly filling in their data, updating their progress in the MIS along with running several
citizen centric campaigns in preparation of Swachh Survekshan-2021.
Sugamya Bharat App & handbook entitled “Access - The Photo Digest” launched by Union minister
Thaawarchand Gehlot
• Minister for Social justice and Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot will virtually launch “Sugamya
Bharat App” and a handbook entitled “Access - The Photo Digest”.
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• Sugamya Bharat App is a means for sensitising and enhancing accessibility.
• It provides for five main features of which four are directly related to enhancing accessibility.
• They include registration of complaints of inaccessibility across the broad pillars of built environment,
transportation sector and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) ecosystem, positive
feedback of examples and best practices worth emulating being shared by people as jan-bhagidhari;
Departmental updates; and guidelines and circulars related to accessibility.
• The fifth feature is a special feature meant only for Divyangjan for COVID related issues.
PM Modi initiate Maritime India Summit-2021
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Maritime India Summit-2021 through video conferencing.
• The three-day Summit will be held till 4th of March.
• The three-day Maritime India Summit -2021 is being organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and
Waterways on a virtual platform www.maritime india summit.in.
• The Summit will visualize a roadmap for India's Maritime sector for next decade and will work to propel
India to the forefront of the Global Maritime Sector.
• Eminent speakers from several countries are expected to attend the Summit and explore the potential
business opportunities and investments in Indian Maritime domain.
• Denmark is the partner country for the three-day summit.
PM Modi salutes all those working towards wildlife protection- World Wildlife Day
• On World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has saluted all those working towards wildlife
protection.
• He said, be it lions, tigers and leopards, India is seeing a steady rise in the population of various animals.
• Mr Modi added that people should do everything possible to ensure protection of the country's forests
and safe habitats for animals.
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India Sending Humanitarian Assistance To Drought-Hit Madagascar: S Jaishankar
• India announced it will send a consignment of 1,000 metric tonnes of rice and 100,000 tablets of
Hydroxychloroquine to drought-hit Madagascar.
• The humanitarian assistance will be delivered onboard the Indian Naval Ship Jalashwa. The ship will leave
with food and medical assistance on March 3 and is expected to reach the Port of Ehoala in Madagascar
between March 21 and 24.
• The Indian assistance was conveyed to the Madagascar government during External Affairs Minister S
Jaishankar's phone call with his Madagascar counterpart Tehindrazanarivelo Djacoba A.S Oliv.
• Indian naval training team will also be deployed in Madagascar for capacity building and training of the
Malagasy Special Forces for two weeks.
• Besides Madagascar , INS Jalashwa will also visit Port Anjoun in the Republic of Comoros to deliver a
consignment of 1,000 metric tonnes of Indian rice, following a commitment made by Vice President M
Venkaiah Naidu during his visit to Comoros in October 2019.
• The supply of this food assistance was announced by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu during his visit
to Comoros in October 2019.
• The supplies of food assistance and support for capacity building to the friendly countries of Madagascar
and Comoros is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of SAGAR and India's time-tested role
as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region.
Union Cabinet apprised of the signing of MoU between India, French Republic in field of renewable energy
cooperation
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi was apprised of the signing of
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and French Republic in the field of renewable
energy cooperation.
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• The MoU was signed in January this year.
• The objective of the MoU is to establish the basis for promotion of bilateral cooperation in the field of
new and renewable energy on the basis of mutual benefit, equality and reciprocity.
• It covers technologies relating to solar, wind, hydrogen and biomass energy. The MoU entails exchange
and training of scientific and technical personnel; exchange of scientific and technological information
and data; organization of workshops and seminars; transfer of equipment, know-how and technology and
development of joint research and technological projects.
• The MoU will help in the development of technological know-how in the field of Renewable Energy and
will aid the process of attaining the target of 450 GW of installed Renewable Energy capacity by 2030.
PM Modi to Mark the inaugural session on 'Harnessing Education, Research and Skill Development for
Atmanirbhar Bharat'
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the inaugural session on 'Harnessing Education, Research
and Skill Development for an Atmanirbhar Bharat'.
• Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank will address valedictory session.
Education Minister releases study material of Indian Knowledge Tradition courses of NIOS
• Union Minister of Education Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ released the study material of Indian
Knowledge Tradition courses of National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
• Mr Pokhriyal said, NIOS is already making efforts to spread the Indian knowledge tradition within the
country and abroad.
• He informed, Vedic studies, Sanskrit grammar, Indian philosophy, Sanskrit literature and Sanskrit
language courses have been prepared for Secondary and Senior Secondary level by NIOS.
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Government amends Insurance Ombudsman Rules, 2017
• Government on 2nd March 2021 notified comprehensive amendments to the Insurance Ombudsman
Rules, 2017, with a view to improve the working of the Insurance Ombudsman mechanism to facilitate
resolution of complaints regarding deficiencies in insurance services in a timely, cost-effective and
impartial manner.
About the amendments :
• The Ombudsman mechanism was administered by the Executive Council of Insurers, which has now been
renamed as the Council for Insurance Ombudsman
• Earlier, the scope of complaints to the Ombudsman was limited to only disputes, but now it has been
enlarged to include deficiencies in service on the part of insurers, agents, brokers and other
intermediaries.
• The amended rules have also enlarged the scope of complaints to the Ombudsman and insurance brokers
have been brought within the ambit of the redressal mechanism.
• To strengthen the timeliness and cost-effectiveness of the mechanism, policyholders will now be enabled
for making complaints electronically to the Ombudsman.
• The new rules notified through an official gazette also pave way for setting up a complaints management
system to enable policyholders track the status of their complaints online.
• Further, the Ombudsman may use video-conferencing for hearings.
Indigenously designed and developed Spectrograph, commissioned in Nainital
• The ‘Made in India’ optical spectrograph named as Aries-Devasthal Faint Object Spectrograph &
Camera (ADFOSC) is indigenously designed and developed by Aryabhatta Research Institute of
observational sciences (ARIES), Nainital.
About the Spectrograph :
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• The spectrograph is presently being used by astronomers from India and abroad to study distant quasars
and galaxies in a very young universe, regions around supermassive black-holes around the galaxies,
cosmic explosions like supernovae and highly energetic Gamma-ray bursts, young and massive stars, and
faint dwarf galaxies.
• It is about 2.5 times less costly compared to the imported ones and can locate sources of light with a
photon-rate as low as about 1 photon per second.
• This low-cost optical spectrograph can locate sources of faint light from distant quasars and galaxies in
a very young universe, regions around supermassive black-holes around the galaxies, and cosmic
explosions. The total cost of this instrument is nearly Rs. 4 Crore.
• The spectroscope, the largest of its kind among the existing astronomical spectrographs in the country,
has been successfully commissioned on the 3.6-m Devasthal Optical Telescope (DOT), the largest in the
country and in Asia, near Nainital, Uttarakhand.
About ADFOSC :
• It is an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
• The ADFOSC spectrograph can locate sources of faint light from distant quasars and galaxies in a very
young universe, regions around supermassive black-holes around the galaxies, and cosmic explosions
About Aryabhatta Research Institute of observational sciences :
Nag River Pollution Abatement Project approved at a cost of over Rs 2,117
• Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that the Nag River Pollution Abatement Project has been
approved at a cost of over Rs 2,117 crore.
• The river which flows through Nagpur city thus giving its name to the city is now a highly polluted water
channel of sewage and industrial waste.
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• It will reduce the pollution level in terms of untreated sewage, flowing solid waste and other impurities
flowing into the Nag river and its tributaries.
• The project approved under the National River Conservation Plan will be implemented by the National
River Conservation Directorate.
Wipro joins World Economic Forum initiative to advance racial justice, social equality
• Wipro has joined the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) ‘Partnering for Racial Justice in Business’
initiative to promote a culture of diversity, inclusion, equity and justice for people of all racial
backgrounds in the workplace.
• The initiative is aimed towards driving action and accountability for companies to confront racism at a
systemic level, set new global standards for racial justice in business and accomplish necessary policy
changes for inclusion and advancement of professionals with under-represented racial and ethnic
identities, said the company in a press release.
About Wipro :
• CEO: Thierry Delaporte
• Founder: M.H. Hasham Premji
• Founded: 29 December 1945, India
• Owner: Azim Premji
I&B Minister Holds meeting with OTT industry representatives
• Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar held a meeting with representatives of Over
the Top, OTT industry and explained to them the provisions of the new OTT rules.
• The Minister mentioned that the Government has done several rounds of consultation with the OTT
players in the past and stressed the need for self-regulation.
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• Informing them about the provisions of the rules, Mr. Javadekar said, it merely requires them to disclose
information and that there is no requirement of registration of any kind with the Ministry.
• He added that a form for this will be ready soon.
• It was highlighted that the rules focus on self classification of content instead of any form of censorship.
PM Modi pays tributes to 105th Birth Anniversary of former Odisha CM Biju Patnaik
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to former Chief Minister of Odisha Biju Patnaik on his
105th Birth Anniversary(5th March).
• Mr Modi said, Biju Babu's futuristic vision for India, emphasis on human empowerment as well as social
justice inspires us all.
• He said, the nation is proud of his efforts for Odisha’s progress.
PM Modi to hold virtual summit with Swedish counterpart
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a virtual summit with his Swedish counterpart Stefan Löfven.
• This will be the fifth interaction between the two leaders since 2015.
• India and Sweden have warm and friendly relations based on shared values of democracy, freedom,
pluralism and rules-based international order.
• During the Summit, the two leaders will hold comprehensive discussions on the entire spectrum of the
bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and global issues including further strengthening of
cooperation in the post-COVID era.
• Around 250 Swedish companies are actively operating in India in various sectors such as health and life
sciences, auto industry, clean technology, defence, heavy machinery and equipment. Around 75 Indian
companies are also active in Sweden.
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Union Education Minister announces opening of 2 new KVs in Punjab and Karnataka
• Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ announced opening of two new Kendriya Vidyalayas
in Karnataka and Punjab.
• KV Sadalaga, Belagavi, in Karnataka and KV IIT Ropar in Punjab will be two new additions to Kendriya
Vidyalaya Sangathan.
• With this, the total number of KVs across the country will rise to 1247.
• Initially, these two Vidyalayas will function with classes I to V and grow consequentially upto class XII.
• When these Vidyalayas start functioning in full capacity, around 1000 students of the area will be benefited
in each school.
• The Admission process in both the Vidyalayas will start in the academic session 2021-22.
Combined Commanders' Conference starts at Kevadiya in Gujarat
• A three-day Combined Commanders' Conference will begin at Kevadia in Gujarat.
• Theaterisation of armed forces, self-reliance in the defence sector and evolving threats in the region will
be the focus areas during the three-day annual event.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will address the top commanders of the Indian Army, Navy and Air
Force.
• During the conference, the setting up a new air defence command and maritime command is likely to be
discussed at length.
• Implementation of the air defence command timeline is also likely to come up for discussion.
• The formation of theatre commands will synergise the capabilities and combat potential of the three forces
during war and peace
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IMPCL decided to sell products on Government e-Market portal
• Indian Medicines Pharmaceutical Corporation Limited (IMPCL) will sell products on the Government
e-Market (GeM) portal.
• The IMPCL and GeM has finalised a deal in this regard and now the Ayurvedic and Unani medicines of
IMPCL will figure on the GeM portal to hundreds of government sector buyers.
• This will facilitate quick procurement of these medicines by Central and State Government institutions for
their healthcare programmes.
• It will also help to streamline the procurement and distribution of Ayurvedic and Unani medicines by State
Units.
• The thousands of patients and other clients who visit Government Ayush hospitals every day stand to gain
because of this increased availability of such medicines even in far-flung Ayush Hospitals and Clinics.
• The GeM has created 31 categories covering 311 medicines which live in the marketplace and IMPCL
can now upload these medicines on GeM Portal.
• IMPCL, the 100 crore rupees turnover PSU of the Ministry of AYUSH, is one of the most trusted
manufacturers of Ayush medicines in the country and is known for the authenticity of its formulations.
PM Modi inaugurates 7500th Janaushadhi Kendra at NEIGRIHMS, Shillong
• On March 07, 2021,Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the ‘Janaushadhi Diwas’ celebrations via
video conferencing.
• The last day of the week which falls on 7th March is celebrated as ‘Janaushadhi Diwas’.
• The theme of Janaushadhi Diwas 2021 is “Jan Aushadhi – Seva bhi, Rozgar bhi”.
• The Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation the 7500th Janaushadhi Kendra at North Eastern Indira
Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), Shillong during the event.
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• The celebrations are organised by the Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI), the implementing agency
• In 2021, third Janaushadhi Diwas is being celebrated.
About PMBJP:
• Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana is a campaign launched by the Department of
Pharmaceuticals, Government of India, to provide quality medicines at affordable prices to the masses
through special kendras known as Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Kendra.
India Science Research Fellowship (ISRF) 2021 Announced; 40 Scholars From Six Countries Awarded
• Forty scholars from six countries have been awarded with Indian Science Research Fellowship (ISRF)
2021.
• The forty scholars will now have the opportunity to carry out their research in Indian institutes and
universities.
• These scholars have been selected based on research proposal, experience, academic merit and
publication record and recommended for the award of ISRF 2021.
About ISRF:
• ISRF programme has provided an opportunity to the young researchers from neighbouring countries to get
access to the state of art facilities available in the Indian institutes/universities.
• This fellowship is a platform to establish research cooperation with neighbouring countries of India, which
is one of the mandates of DST’s International Science and Technology Cooperation.
• The initiative was launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in 2015 for
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand.
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• It has been implemented since 2015, and as of now, 5 calls have been announced in this programme with
participation of young researchers from these countries. About 128 fellows from these countries have
been awarded fellowship under this programme.
National Committee to commemorate 75 years of India’s Independence to hold its first meeting
• The National Committee set up to commemorate 75 years of India’s Independence will hold its first
meeting to discuss modalities relating to preparatory activities.
• The 259 member committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet virtually.
• The committee includes Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, Governors as well as leaders of different
political parties including BJP President JP Nadda and Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi.
• The Government has decided to commemorate 75 years of India’s Independence in a befitting manner at
National and International level in the form of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
• The National Committee includes dignitaries and eminent citizens from all walks of life including Artists,
Sportspersons, Business leaders, Gandhians and media persons.
• The committee will provide policy direction and guidelines for formulation of programs for the
commemoration.
• The 75 years of India’s Independence falls on 15th August next year.
• The celebrations are proposed to be launched 75 weeks prior to this date on 12th of this month.
• 12th March is the 91st anniversary of the historic Salt Satyagraha led by Mahatma Gandhi.
Smriti Irani says India will be fully Aatmanirbhar in Silk production in next two years
• Textiles Minister Smriti Irani has said that India will be fully Aatmanirbhar in Silk production in the
next two years.
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• Addressing the National level programme on convergence of Agro-Sericulture and eradication of Thigh
reeling in New Delhi, Mrs Irani said that raw silk production in the country has increased 35 per cent in
the last six years.
• She informed that more than 90 lakh people have got employment in raw silk production.
• On the eve of International Women’s Day, the Textiles Ministry distributed Buniyaad Reeling Machines to
Women Silk Reelers to eradicate Unhygienic and Obsolete Thigh Reeling Practice.
• Mrs Irani said eight thousand women thigh reelers were identified for providing Buniyaad machines and
five thousand women have already been supported under Silk Samagra Phase -1.
• She said that for the remaining three thousand thigh reelers, fund provision has been made.
All Helpline numbers of Railways merged into single number
• Indian Railway has integrated all railway help lines into single number 139 which is Rail Madad Helpline
for quick grievance redressal and enquiry during the journey.
• As the new helpline number 139 will take over all the existing helpline numbers, it will be easy for the
passengers to remember this number and connect with Railways for all their needs during the
travel.
• The Ministry of Railways in a statement said that various Railway grievances helplines were discontinued
last year and now, Helpline number 182 would also be discontinued from 1st of April, 2021 and will
be merged into 139.
• The Helpline 139 will be available in twelve languages and passengers can opt for Interactive Voice
Response System- IVRS or directly connect to call-centre executives by pressing the asterisk button.
• There is no need for a smart phone to call on 139.
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‘Maitri Setu’ connecting India and Bangladesh – inaugurated by PM Modi
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Maitri Setu between India and Bangladesh through video
conferencing.
• Mr Modi will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of multiple infrastructure projects in Tripura
during the event.
• The bridge Maitri Setu has been built over Feni River which flows between Indian boundary in Tripura
State and Bangladesh.
• The name Maitri Setu symbolizes growing bilateral relations and friendly ties between India and
Bangladesh.
• The construction was taken up by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation
Limited at a project cost of 133 Crore rupees.
• The 1.9 Kilometres long bridge joins Sabroom in India with Ramgarh in Bangladesh.
• It is poised to herald a new chapter for trade and people to people movement between India and
Bangladesh.
• With this inauguration, Tripura is set to become the Gateway of North East with access to Chittagong Port
of Bangladesh, which is just 80 Kilometres from Sabroom.
India’s first-ever transgender community desk in Cyberabad
• The Cyberabad Police launched India's first-ever 'Transgender Community Desk' at the Gachibowli
Police Station in Hyderabad.
• This desk is the first-of-its-kind gender-inclusive community policing initiatives in the country.
• The desk was formally inaugurated by Cyberabad Police chief VC Sajjanar in a ceremony that was
attended by over 200 transgender people.
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• It is the world's first-ever help desk for the transgender community and it will be managed by a Police
Liaison Officer and a member of the transgender community who is designated as a community
coordinator.
• It will also be the focal point for all grievance redressal among the transgender community in Cyberabad
Commissionerate.
• Earlier in 2014, the Supreme Court recognised the transgender community as a third gender along with
male and female and ruled that they have equal privilege over the fundamental rights enshrined in the
Indian Constitution.
About transgender community desk:
• The transgender desk will provide support to file cases in offences related to violence or
discrimination against any transgender person.
• Among other services, the desk will also provide counselling, legal aid, life-skills, soft skills training, job
placements, and referral linkages to welfare schemes in partnership with the Department of Women &
Child Welfare and District Legal Services Authority.
• The desk has been set up by the Cyberabad Commissionerate in collaboration with Society for Cyberabad
Security Council and Prajwala.
About Telangana:
• CM : K Chandrasekhar Rao
• Governor : Tamilisai Soundararajan
India Inc's Business Confidence highest in decade: FICCI Survey
• FICCI's Overall Business Confidence Index has witnessed a decadal high of 74.2 in the current round
on account of improvement in present conditions as well as expectations.
• The Index had stood at 70.9 in the previous survey and 59
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• It revealed recovery of demand conditions, improved capacity utilisation and a promising outlook on
various operational parameters.
• Improved economic conditions and greater pricing power are likely to drive profits of corporate India over
the next two quarters.
• The percentage of participants citing higher profits over next six months increased to 36 per cent in
the latest survey from 33 per cent respondents stating likewise in the previous round, the survey
showed.
About FICCI:
• Founded: 1927
• Secretary General: Dilip Chenoy
• Founders: Purshottamdas Thakurdas, Ghanshyam Das Birla
BEL pays interim dividend of 140 % on its paid-up capital to Govt for 2020-21
• Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking Bharat Electronics Limited, BEL paid interim dividend
of 140 percent on its paid-up capital to the Government for financial year 2020-21.
• The Interim Dividend cheque of 174 crore 43 lakh 63 thousand 5 hundred 69 rupees payable on the
shares held by the President of India, to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi.
• The BEL has declared 140 per cent as interim dividend to its shareholders for the financial year 2020-21.
• This is the 18th consecutive year that BEL is paying interim dividend.
• It had paid a total dividend of 280 per cent on its paid-up capital for the financial year 2019-20.
About BEL:
• Chairman & MD : M V Gowtama
• Headquarters: Bengaluru
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• Founded: 1954
Two of Passport Seva Kendras to be transformed as All Women PSKs
• On the occasion of International Women’s Day, Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan
unveiled two of the Passport Seva Kendras, PSKs to be transformed as All Women PSKs.
• One PSK is at RK Puram, Bhikaji Cama Place in New Delhi and another at Tripunithura in Cochin, Kerala.
• The Minister expressed that the Government is continuously working to create a balance between both
men and women in various spheres of lives, be it professional or personal.
PM lists five pillars - to celebrate 75 years of Independence
• Chairing the first meeting of the National Committee to commemorate 75 years of independence, Azadi
Ka Amrit Mahotsav virtually, Prime Minister Narendra Modi informed that 5 pillars have been decided for
the celebration of the 75 years.
• These are Freedom Struggle, Ideas at 75, and Achievements at 75, Actions at 75 and Resolve at 75.
• All these should include the ideas and feelings of the 130 crore indians.
• The Prime Minister said this historical festival is about fulfilling the dreams of the freedom fighters, an
attempt to elevate India to the height which they had wished.
• He asserted that the country is achieving things which were unthinkable a few years ago.
• He added that the celebration will be in accordance with the historical glory of India.
Union Minister Sanjay Dhotre inaugurates MEMP 2021
• Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology, Sanjay Dhotre inaugurated the
International Conference on Multifunctional Electronic Materials and Processing (MEMP 2021)
virtually on the occasion of 30th foundation day of Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology.
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• Mr Dhotre said that the domestic production of electronic items has increased from over one lakh 90
thousand crore rupees in 2014-15 to over five lakh 33 thousand crore rupees in 2019-20 at a Compounded
Annual Growth Rate of 23 per cent.
• He said, India's share in global electronics manufacturing has grown from 1.3 per cent in 2012 to 3.6 per
cent in 2019, as per industry estimates.
Centre announces More than 81 % accounts under Stand Up India Scheme belong to women entrepreneurs
• Government has said that more than 81 percent accounts under Stand up India Scheme and about 68
percent of loan accounts under MUDRA scheme belong to women entrepreneurs.
• The Finance Ministry said, out of the total of over 41 crore accounts opened under Pradhan Mantri Jan-
Dhan Yojana, over 23 crore accounts belong to women.
• The Ministry said, these Schemes have financially empowered women to lead a better life and chase their
dreams of being an entrepreneur.
Govt declares 122 NACs identified under National Clean Air Programme
• The Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ministry has said that a total of 122 non attainment
cities, NACs have been identified under the National Clean Air Programme.
• In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change
said that city specific clean air action plans have been prepared and approved for 111 NACs.
• He informed that the government is taking several steps to curb the air pollution level in the country by
cutting down vehicular and industrial pollution.
• He said, more than two thousand 200 crore rupees have been released in the financial year 2020-21 to
tackle the problem of air pollution.
• He added that an amount of two thousand 217 crore rupees have been allocated for 42 urban centres
for improvement of air quality.
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Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav: Several events to be held across country
• Maharashtra government will be holding various programmes related to Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav.
• Chief Minister Uddhav Thackray will flag-off Freedom Heritage walk from August Kranti Maidan in
Mumbai.
• Freedom fighters will also be felicitated in the programme.
• The Uttar Pradesh government is holding a series of events and activities as a part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrut
Mahotsav’ to mark the beginning of nationwide celebrations of the 75th anniversary of India's
independence.
• Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will take part in an event at Kakori Shaheed Smarak in Lucknow while
Governor Anandi Ben Patel will be present in Ballia.
• In Madhya Pradesh, Azadi ka Amrut Mahotsav to mark 75 years of India's Independence is being launched
in a grand manner.
Centre noted Digital News Publishers Association expresses satisfaction over Digital Media Ethics code
• Digital News Publishers Association has welcomed the Information Technology (Guidelines for
Intermediaries and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules of 2021.
• Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar, the Association members expressed
satisfaction over the Digital Media Ethics code notified by the Government on 25th of last month.
• Mr. Javadekar informed that few suggestions offered by the Digital News Publishers Association members
during the meet have been duly noted.
Govt. Announced Apple's plan to produce I-phone 12 smartphones in India will create large numbers of
jobs
• IT and Communication Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said Apple's plan to produce I-phone 12
Smartphones in India will create jobs in large numbers.
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• Appreciating the plan, Mr Prasad said the government's effort to make India a big hub of mobile and its
components manufacturing is attracting global attention.
• Apple said that it is going to start I-phone 12 in India.
• The tech giant, which started manufacturing I-phones in India in 2017, has been shifting some of its
productions from China to India.
• According to experts, shifting some of the production to India is not only in the interest of Apple, but also
the Indian economy.
Labour Minister launches ESI Scheme with Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY in 113 districts
• Union Minister for Labour and Employment Santosh Kumar Gangwar launched the convergence of
ESI Scheme with Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, PM-JAY in 113 districts
of Chhatisgarh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
• It was launched on the culmination day of Employees' State Insurance Corporation, ESIC, and Special
Services Fortnight at New Delhi.
• The convergence will ensure that 1.35 crore ESI beneficiaries in such districts avail cashless medical
services through empanelled hospitals of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY without any need of referral.
• To avail medical care, the Insured Worker or the beneficiary need to carry an ESIC e-pehchan card or
Health Passbook and Aadhar Card with them.
• The list of districts and empaneled hospitals are available at www.esic.nic.in/ab-pm-jay.
Govt disband claims about Post offices charging Rs. 25 for cash withdrawal
• Government has dismissed a claim made on social media that from 1st of next month, Post offices will
charge Rs. 25 on every cash withdrawal from its account.
• The Press Information Bureau has termed the claim as fake.
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• It clarified that India Post has not announced any such charge on the withdrawal of money by account
holders.
PM unveils Kindle version of Swami Chidbhavanandaji’s Bhagavad Gita
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch the Kindle version of Swami Chidbhavanandaji’s Bhagavad
Gita and also address the occasion through virtual mode.
• The event has been organised to commemorate the sale of over five lakh copies of the Swami
Chidbhavanandaji’s Bhagavad Gita.
• Swami Chidbhavanandaji is the founder of Sri Ramakrishna Tapovanam Ashram at
Thirupparaithurai, Tiruchirapalli in Tamil Nadu.
• Swamiji has authored 186 books and all genres of literary composition.
• His scholarly work on the Gita is one of the most extensive books on the subject.
• Tamil version of the Gita with his commentaries was published in 1951 followed by the English in 1965.
• Its translations into Telugu, Odia, German and Japanese were undertaken by devotees.
Centre announces new scheme for tourist vehicle operators
• The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced a new scheme for tourist vehicle
operators.
• Any tourist vehicle operator may apply for an All India tourist authorization and permit through online
mode.
• It will be issued, after relevant documents are submitted and fees deposited, within 30 days of
submission of such applications.
About the new scheme:
• The new set of rules, to be known as, All India Tourist Vehicles Authorization and Permit Rules, 2021,
will be applicable from 1st April this year.
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• All existing permits shall continue to be in force during their validity.
• The new rules for permits are expected to go a long way in promoting tourism across the states.
• It will also consolidate a central database and fees of all such authorization which might give a sense of
tourist movements, scope for improvement and promotion of tourism.
Govt announces linking of OTPRMS certificates with DigiLocker
• Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has announced linking of Online Teacher Pupil
Registration Management System, OTPRMS certificates with DigiLocker.
• This has been done in order to ensure hassle free access to verified OTPRMS Certificates.
• The issued certificates will automatically be transferred to DigiLocker and the same may be traced at
the website of National Council for Teacher Education and DigiLocker.
• The Minister also informed that the registration fee of 200 rupees payable for obtaining OTPRMS
Certificates, issued by NCTE has been waived off.
• This will enable all stakeholders across India to be digitally empowered facilitating ease of doing
business.
I&B Minister inaugurates Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav exhibitions at 6 places
• Information and Broadcasting Minister, Prakash Javadekar inaugurated the exhibition to
commemorate 75 years of India's Independence, Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav at six places in the country
virtually.
• The six places where Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav exhibitions were inaugurated are Jammu, Imphal, Patna,
Bhubaneshwar, Pune and Bengaluru.
About Exhibition:
• Mr. Javadekar said, Independence was achieved after a lot of sacrifices by the freedom fighters.
• He said through exhibition people will come to know about the freedom struggle.
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• He also said that the basis of the objective to celebrate Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav by the Prime Minister
is to connect people and make them aware of the freedom struggle.
• Secretary Information and Broadcasting, Mr. Amit Khare, Principal Director General of Bureau of
Outreach, Mr. Satyendra Prakash, and Principal Director General of PIB, Mr. Jaideep Bhatnagar and other
senior officials were present on the occasion.
India’s first centralised AC railway terminal in Bengaluru to operational soon
• India’s first centralised air-conditioned (AC) railway terminal has been built at Baiyappanahalli in
Bengaluru.
• Named after ‘Bharat Ratna Sir M Visvesvaraya’ one of the foremost civil engineers, the AC railway
terminal is set to become operational soon.
• It has been built at an estimated cost of Rs 314 crore.
• The Byappanahalli terminal is the third coach terminal named after Bharat Ratna Sir M Visvesvaraya,
sanctioned in 2015-16.
WCD Ministry organises seminar with District Officers
• The Ministry of Women and Child Development organized a seminar with District Officers from
Aspirational Districts and Districts with high rates of crime against women and children.
• Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani addressed the seminar.
• Later talking to reporters, Ms Irani said, during the seminar discussions were held on important umbrella
schemes Poshan Abhiyaan, Mission Shakti and Mission Vatsalya.
• She said, discussions were also held on ways to provide mobile Creches in rural areas for women engaged
in the construction and agriculture sector.
• The Minister said, her Ministry is also considering integrating the Women and Child helplines for quick
assistance to distressed women and children and also for better redressal of grievances.
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• District Officers from 112 Aspirational Districts and officials from 100 Districts with high rates of crime
against women and children attended the seminar.
Govt notify that LIC is not being privatized in Lok Sabha
• The Government said that Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has not been privatized.
• Replying to a supplementary question during the Question Hour in Lok Sabha, Minister of State for
Finance, Anurag Thakur mentioned, the government is bringing in the IPO to usher in transparency and
valuation.
• He said, the IPO will increase the investment in LIC.
• He said the decision on percentage for shareholders will be taken later.
• Mr. Thakur said, the IPO will benefit the country and shareholders as well.
About LIC:
• Life Insurance Corporation of India is an Indian government owned insurance and Investment
Corporation.
• The Life insurance Corporation of India was established on September 1, 1956, when the Parliament of
India passed the Life Insurance of India Act that nationalized the insurance industry in India.
• Chairperson: M R Kumar
• Founded: 1 September 1956
• Headquarters: Mumbai
In Lok Sabha Mines & Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill 2021 introduced
• The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill 2021 was introduced in the
Lok Sabha.
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• Coal Minister Pralhad Joshi introduced the Bill which amends the Minerals (Development and
Regulation) Act 1957.
• The legislation seeks to remove the distinction between captive and merchant mines.
• The Bill empowers the Central Government to issue directions regarding composition and utilisation of
funds maintained by the District Mineral Foundation.
• The Bill aims at fully harnessing the potential of the mineral sector, increasing employment and
investment in the mining sector.
• This will also help in increasing the revenue of the States.
• The legislation will also help in increasing the production and time bound operationalization of mines in
the country.
In Lok Sabha Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Bill 2021 introduced
• Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Bill 2021 was introduced in the Lok
Sabha.
• Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani introduced the Bill that seeks to amend the Juvenile
Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015.
• The amendments include authorizing District Magistrate including Additional District Magistrate to issue
adoption orders to ensure speedy disposal of cases and enhance accountability.
• Defining eligibility parameters for appointment of Child Welfare Committee members and categorizing
previously undefined offences as serious offences are some of the other aspects of the Bill.
• The Marine Aids to Navigation Bill 2021 was also introduced in the House.
• The Bill provides for the development, maintenance and management of aids to navigation in India for
training and certification of operators of aids to navigation.
• The Bill was introduced by Minister of State for Ports and Shipping Manshukh Mandaviya.
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• The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill 2021, the Mines and
Minerals (Development and Regulation) Amendment Bill 2021 and the National Institute of
Pharmaceutical Education and Research (Amendment) Bill 2021 were also introduced in the Lok
Sabha.
Chemicals & Fertilizer Minister to inaugurate 11th edition of India Chem-2021
• Chemicals and Fertilizer Minister Sadananda Gowda will inaugurate the 11th edition of India Chem-
2021.
• The theme is - “India: Global Manufacturing Hub for Chemicals and Petrochemicals”.
• Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, in association with FICCI, is organizing the 3 day India
Chem in New Delhi.
• Events such as Global CEOs Round Table, and Conclave on Global Chemical Industry will be organised
during India Chem.
• This event will highlight the investment potential in Indian Chemicals and Petrochemicals Industry.
About India Chem-2021:
• "India Chem is one of the largest composite events of the chemical and petrochemical sector in the
Asia-Pacific Region.
• Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, in association with FICCI, is organizing the 11th edition of
India Chem- 2021 during March 17-19th in New Delhi," read a release by the ministry.
CCEA approves Revised Cost Estimate of Scheme for Distribution of power in Arunachal Pradesh and
Sikkim
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the Revised Cost Estimate of
Comprehensive Scheme for Strengthening of Transmission and Distribution of power in Arunachal
Pradesh and Sikkim.
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• It has been approved at an estimated cost of over 9 thousand 129 crore rupees.
Main objective of the scheme:
• The Government commitment for the total economic development of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim and
to strengthen the Intra-State Transmission and Distribution Infrastructure in the states by providing
grid connectivity to remote distant locations.
• The scheme is being implemented through POWERGRID, a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under
Ministry of Power in association with Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.
• It is targeted to be commissioned in phased manner by December 2021.
Cabinet approves bill to set up Development Finance Institution (DFI) with initial capital of Rs 20 thousand
crore
• The Union Cabinet has approved a bill to set up Development Finance Institution (DFI) with an initial
capital infusion of 20 thousand crore rupees.
• The bill will be tabled in Parliament during the current Budget Session.
• DFI is expected to raise long-term funds for infrastructure development projects in the country.
• Briefing reporters after the Cabinet meeting, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the initial grant
to the DFI will be 5 thousand crore rupees and additional increments of grants will be made within the
limit of 5 thousand crore rupees.
About Development Finance Institution:
• A Development Financial institution (DFi) is defined as “an institution endorsed or supported by
Government of India primarily to provide development/Project finance to one or more sectors or sub-
sectors of the economy.
• These DFis are also known as Development banks.
Development financial institutions are:
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• National Development Banks such as IDBI, SIDBI, ICICI, IFCI, IRBI, and IDFC.
• Sector-specific financial institutions such as TFCI, EXIM Bank, NABARD, HDFC, and NHB.
• Investment Institutions such as LIC, GIC and UTI.
• State-level institutions such as State Finance Corporations and SIDCs.
Cabinet passes bill - outer limit of 24 weeks for Medical Termination of Pregnancy
• Parliament has passed the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020 with the Rajya
Sabha approving.
• The Lok Sabha had passed the bill in March last year.
• The Bill provides for an outer limit of 24 weeks for medical termination of pregnancy.
• The limit is in sync with the advancements in medical technology that allows for the removal of fetuses
at a relatively advanced stage of pregnancy.
Medical Termination of Pregnancy:
• Medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) or medical abortion is the use of abortion pills
for terminating a pregnancy.
• MTP is feasible only up to 9 weeks of pregnancy, and after that surgical termination takes over.
• MTP is one of the safest methods of terminating an unwanted pregnancy.
Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act 1971:
• The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971.
• An Act to provide for the termination of certain pregnancies by registered Medical Practitioners and for
matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
National Telemedicine Service – eSanjeevani make huge consultation
• National Telemedicine Service - eSanjeevani has completed 30 lakh consultations.
• Over 35,000 patients are using this service daily to seek health services.
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• Currently, the National Telemedicine Service is operational in 31 States and Union Territories.
• Leading 10 States in terms of number of consultations are Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra
Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Maharashtra, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
• Female patients have outnumbered male patients on eSanjeevani OPD.
• As per Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the National Telemedicine Service is plugging the digital
health divide that exists in urban and rural India.
• It is also addressing the shortage of doctors and specialists at ground level while reducing the burden on
secondary and tertiary level hospitals.
• In line with the National Digital Health Mission eSanjeevani is also boosting the digital health
ecosystem in the country.
• The National Telemedicine Service comprises two variants of eSanjeevani namely - doctor to doctor
telemedicine platform, and patient to doctor telemedicine platform which provides outpatient services to
the citizens in the confines of their homes.
PM Modi initiate the International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be speaking at the International Conference on Disaster Resilient
Infrastructure.
• Mr. Modi noted that this is an important conference which will deliberate on a subject that is of great
concern for the entire humanity.
About ICDRI:
• The International Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (ICDRI 2021) is an interactive virtual
conference which follows International Workshops on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (IWDRI) held
in 2018 and 2019.
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• ICDRI is the annual international conference of the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI)
in partnership with member countries, organizations and institutions to strengthen the global discourse
on disaster and climate resilient infrastructure.
\Nitin Gadkari to make statement regarding ‘Vehicles Scrapping Policy’
• Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari will make a statement regarding
‘Vehicles Scrapping Policy’ in both the Houses of Parliament.
• Besides it, in business of the Lok Sabha, Appropriation Bill, 2021, Discussion and Voting on Demands
for Grants in respect of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir for 2021-22 and Demands for Grants
on Account in respect of the Union Territory of Puducherry for 2021-22 and the Constitution (Scheduled
Castes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2021 are listed.
• In the business schedule of Rajya Sabha, the Insurance (Amendment) Bill, 2021 and Discussion on the
working of Ministry of Tourism and Ministry of Food Processing Industries are listed.
Vehicle scrappage policy in India:
• The vehicle scrappage policy has been devised to promote sales of new vehicles with improved fuel
efficiency and low pollution levels, as well as to slash India's Rs 10 lakh crore expenditure on crude
imports.
• Around 1 crore aging vehicles are set to be scrapped once the policy is implemented, according to
Gadkari.
Kuwait Foreign Affairs Minister Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Sabah make two day visit to India
• Foreign Affairs Minister of Kuwait Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Sabah arrived in New Delhi
for a two-day visit to India.
• He will meet External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar.
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About Kuwait:
• Capital: Kuwait City
• Currency: Kuwaiti dinar
Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Italian Ambassador Vincenzo De Luca meet for ISA
• Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla met Italian Ambassador Vincenzo De Luca and welcomed
Italy’s accession to International Solar Alliance.
• They also discussed Italy’s G20 Presidency and Vaccine Maitri.
About International Solar Alliance:
• The International Solar Alliance is an alliance of 121 countries initiated by India, most of them being
sunshine countries, which lie either completely or partly between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of
Capricorn.
Purpose of ISA:
• The goal of the ISA is to set the ground rules, norms and standards for solar energy, in order to obtain a
rapid and massive deployment in countries that are rich in solar resources but where the risks are still
seen as high.
• Headquarters : Gurugram
• Founded: 30 November 2015
• Founded at: Paris, France
• Membership: 121 members of UN
• Director General: Ajay Mathur
• Founders: Narendra Modi, François Hollande
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Cabinet nods to shut down Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corporation
6. The Union cabinet gave its nod to shut down loss-making Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corp. of
India Ltd (HHEC), and to offer voluntary retirement to all its 65 employees.The corporation has been
continuously incurring losses since 2015-16 and not earning sufficient income to meet its running
expenses.
About Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corporation:
• Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corporation of India is an agency of Ministry of
Textiles, Government of India established in 1958 with main objectives to undertake exports
of handicrafts, handlooms products, khadi and products of village industries from India and to undertake
special promotional measures.
• On the 17th of March 2021, the Government of India approved the closure of Handicrafts and Handlooms
Export Corporation of India.
US Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin visit to India
• US Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin will arrive in India.
• During the visit, he will meet Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and other senior dignitaries of the
government to discuss deepening the India US Major Defense Partnership.
• They will also discuss advancing cooperation for a free, prosperous and open Indo-Pacific Region.
• Discussions regarding defence cooperation would also focus on how both countries could consolidate
military to military cooperation and defence trade and industry cooperation.
• Mr Austin's visit to India as part of his first overseas travel emphasizes the strength of the India-US
strategic partnership.
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About Defence cooperation:
• Defence cooperation is an ideal tool to advance the national foreign policy objectives by building
bridges of friendship, preventing conflicts, building mutual trust and capacities on a global basis.
• As India grows in stature, it needs to utilize defence diplomacy to the fullest extent to enhance its national
interest.
Insurance Amendment Bill, 2021 passed in Rajya Sabha - FDI limit increased
• The Rajya Sabha has passed the Insurance (Amendment) Bill, 2021.
• It seeks to amend the Insurance Act, 1938 which will increase the limit of foreign investment allowed in
Indian insurance companies.
• The Bill provides to increase the foreign direct investment limit from existing 49 percent to 74 percent.
• It also has a provision for removal of restrictions on ownership and control of the insurance companies.
• Replying to a discussion, Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman said, that a higher FDI limit of 74 per
cent is not a compulsion for every insurance company, as it sets only an upper limit.
• She clarified that increasing the limit does not mean automatic foreign investment to that level to all
companies, and each and every company will decide the limit of investment.
• Responding to members' questions with regard to reservation policy, the minister assured the House that
the Government is fully committed to social justice and existing reservation policy will continue in the
insurance sector.
AIM, NITI Aayog, AWS announce new initiatives in india
• Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog, and Amazon Web Services announced new initiatives to
strengthen the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in India.
• This will be done by empowering school students with cloud computing skills, and enabling entrepreneurs
to build innovative education technology solutions on the cloud.
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• A Statement of Intent was signed between NITI Aayog and Amazon Internet Services Private Limited,
which undertakes the resale and marketing of Amazon Web Services Cloud services in India.
• Innovation Mission will leverage Amazon Web Services Educate, which is Amazon’s global program that
provides resources for students and educators to accelerate cloud-related learning.
New Nagar Van Scheme to develop Urban forests in cities: Environment Minister
• Union Environment and Information & Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar has said that the
new Nagar Van Scheme will help in creation of Urban forests in the cities.
• Mr. Javadekar noted, the scheme will also fill the gap between the cities and villages in terms of having
their own forest cover.
• He cited India's age old tradition of developing and caring for village forests in the vicinity of almost every
rural patch.
• Under the Nagar Van Scheme, Urban forests will be developed in 200 cities in its first phase.
• The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21st March as the International Day of Forests in
2012.
• The Day celebrates and raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests.
About Nagar Van scheme:
• On the occasion of World Environment Day, the government announced implementation of the Nagar van
scheme to develop 200 Urban Forests across the country in next five years with a renewed focus on
people’s participation and collaboration between the Forest Department, Municipal bodies, NGOs,
Corporates and local citizens.
• World Environment Day (WED) is celebrated on 5th June every year.
• The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change celebrates WED focusing on the theme declared
by the United Nation’s Environment Programme (UNEP) and organizes several events.
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• This year’s theme is ‘Biodiversity’.
Dr. Harsh Vardhan inaugurates Advanced High Resolution Microscopy Facility
• Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Science & technology Dr. Harsh Vardhan inaugurated the
new Advanced High Resolution Microscopy Facility at National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute
(NABI) and Unveiled the 4 Star GRIHA Certification of Center of Innovative and Applied
Bioprocessing (CIAB) Lab and Admin Building at Mohali in Punjab.
• Both NABI & CIAB are autonomous institutes under Dept. of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science &
Technology.
• Following the gathering Dr. Harsh Vardhan urged both the institutes to address the problems of hunger
& malnutrition and to bring nutritional revolution in the country.
• Minister emphasized that with government impetus on doubling the farmer’s income by 2022-23, NABI
and CIAB’s roles are crucial to achieve this ambitious goal.
PM Modi to launch Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain campaign
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually launch Jal Shakti Abhiyan : Catch the Rain campaign on
the occasion of World Water Day.
• The theme of the campaign is ‘Catch the rain, where it falls, when it falls’.
• In the presence of the Prime Minister, the signing of the historic Memorandum of Agreement between
the Minister of Jal Shakti and the Chief Ministers of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh to implement
the Ken Betwa Link Project will also take place.
• This is the first project of the National Perspective Plan for interlinking of rivers.
• This project involves transfer of water from the Ken to the Betwa River through the construction of
Daudhan Dam and a canal linking the two rivers.
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• It will provide annual irrigation of 10.62 lakh hactare, drinking water supply to about 62 lakh people and
also generate 103 MegaWatt of hydropower.
• The Project will be of immense benefit to the water starved region of Bundelkhand, especially to the
districts of Panna, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Sagar, Damoh, Datia, Vidisha, Shivpuri and Raisen of Madhya
Pradesh and Banda, Mahoba, Jhansi and Lalitpur of Uttar Pradesh.
Govt. launches ‘Gram Ujala Scheme’ to offer LED bulbs in rural areas
• The Government of India has launched an ambitious scheme called “Gram Ujala” under which high
quality energy efficient LED bulbs will be given for just Rs 10 per piece in rural areas.
• This scheme is in line with the government’s climate change strategy and further strengthening its self-
reliance credentials.
• The Gram Ujala programme was launched by Power & New and Renewable Energy Minister R K
Singh in Bihar.
• The scheme will be implemented in phased manner. In the first phase, 15 million LED bulbs will be
distributed across certain villages of 5 states.
• These include: Arrah (Bihar), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Vijaywada (Andhra Pradesh), Nagpur
(Maharashtra), and western Gujarat.
Department of Posts conducts Universal Postal Union 2021 - International Letter Writing Competition
• Department of Posts is organizing Universal Postal Union 2021 International Letter Writing
Competition for Young People in all States of the country through the Postal Circle Offices.
• The subject for the Competition is “Write a letter to a family member about your experience with
COVID-19.
• It will be open to school going children up-to the age of 15 years.
• The Competition will be conducted in the Schools and Centres by the concerned Postal Circle of the State.
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• The candidates are also given the option for participating in the Competition at their home without their
physical appearance at the Schools.
• Candidates who wish to participate from home must send their entries through the mode of Speed Post
to the designated Nodal Officer of the concerned Postal Circle Office along with credentials.
INS Jalashwa with 1000 MT rice, one lakh Hydroxychloroquine tablets Reached Madagascar's Port Ehoala
• As part of Mission Sagar - IV, Indian Naval Ship Jalashwa arrived at Port Ehoala, Madagascar
to deliver a consignment of one thousand Metric Tonne of rice and one lakh Hydroxychloroquine
tablets in response to an appeal made by Madagascar for assistance to deal with natural calamities.
• An official ceremony for handing over the aid from the Government of India to the Government of
Madagascar was held.
• The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister of Madagascar Christian Ntsay while the Indian side
was represented by Mr Abhay Kumar, Ambassador of India to Madagascar and Captain Pankaj
Chauhan, Commanding Officer INS Jalashwa.
• The Ministry of Defence in a statement said that this is the second visit of an Indian Navy ship to the
island country within a span of one year.
• Earlier, as part of Mission Sagar-I, In May-June 2020, the Indian Navy had delivered essential medicines
to the nation.
India appreciate initiative announced by Saudi Arabia - fostering peace in Yemen
• India has welcomed the initiative announced by Saudi Arabia for fostering peace in Yemen.
• In response to a question on the announcement of peace initiative by Saudi Arabia for Yemen, External
Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said that India has noted that the initiative inter alia
proposes a comprehensive ceasefire across Yemen under the supervision of the United Nations as well
as consultations between the Yemeni parties to reach a political resolution under the auspices of the UN.
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• He said, India supports all efforts to find a political solution to the Yemeni crisis.
• India has hoped that all parties in Yemen would be able to come together to the negotiating table soon to
end the conflict.
Indian Railways: massive drive against smoking and carriage of inflammable launched
• Indian Railways have launched a massive drive against smoking and carriage of inflammable material
through Railways in the view of incidents of fire resulting in loss of property and danger to life in various
Zonal Railways.
• The drive has been launched with legal action from 31st of this month.
• It may be continued till 30th April.
• The drive is aimed to educate all the stakeholders about precautions to be taken against fire incidents
like enforcing “No Smoking”, and preventing carriage of inflammable material through rail.
• The message is being imparted through direct interaction, distribution of leaflets, pamphlets, pasting of
stickers, conducting Nukkad Nataks, announcement through PA system at stations, and advertisement
in print, electronic and social media.
Parliament passes Finance Bill 2021
• Parliament has passed the Finance Bill, 2021 with the Rajya Sabha returning it to Lok Sabha.
• With this, Parliament has completed all the budgetary exercise.
• For tax exemption raised on interest earned on PF contribution from 2.5 lakh to 5 lakh rupees per
annum
• Replying to a discussion on the Finance Bill, 2021, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the NDA
rule has provided corruption free governance and brought Indian economy out of policy paralysis and
fragile five.
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• She alleged that the economy was mismanaged under UPA rule and the Narendra Modi government
had got a legacy of high inflation which has been checked.
• Mrs Sitharaman also said NPA has brought down to around 8 lakh 99 thousand crore rupees by March
2020.
• Talking about GST, the Minister said GST compensation due to states prior to COVID has all been paid.
• She informed that 30 thousand crore rupees of GST compensation will be released to states this month.
• She also elaborated several measures taken to provide relief to the common man during the COVI-19
pandemic.
• When the Finance Minister alleged that the West Bengal government has deprived farmers of benefits
under the central government’s PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, the House witnessed heated
arguments between the treasury bench and TMC members.
NHAI to develop world class ‘Wayside Amenities’ - more than 600 locations
• In a major move to improve commuters’ experience on National Highways for both passengers and
truckers, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will develop world class ‘Wayside Amenities’
at more than 600 locations across 22 states in the next five years.
• Out of these, 130 are targeted for development in 2021-22.
• NHAI has already invited bids to develop 120 such wayside amenities.
• As per plan, wayside amenities will be developed every 30 to 50 kilometer along the current and
upcoming Highways and Expressways.
• The amenities will include numerous facilities for passengers such as Fuel Station, Electric Charging
Facilities, Food Court, Retail Shops, ATM, and Toilets with shower facility, Children Playing Area, Clinic,
Village Haat for local handicrafts etc.
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• Keeping in view the specific requirements of truckers, separate ‘Truckers Blocks’ will be developed at
large amenities that will include Truck and Trailer Parking, Auto Workshop, Truckers Dormitory, Cooking
and Washing area, Toilets with showers, Clinic, Eateries and Retail shops .
In Lok Sabha - Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (Amendment) Bill 2021 introduced
• Civil Aviation minister Hardeep Singh Puri introduced the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of
India (Amendment) Bill 2021 in the Lok Sabha.
• The Bill proposes to amend the definition of major airport so as to extend its scope to determine the tariff
for a group of airports.
• It will encourage development of smaller airports.
Swarna Jayanti scholarship for youths of Bangladesh announced
• Prime Minister Modi announced Swarna Jayanti scholarship for youths of Bangladesh.
• The Swarna Jayanti Fellowship is a research fellowship awarded annually by the Department of Science
and Technology of India.
• It is given for the notable and outstanding research by young scientists, applied or fundamental, in biology,
chemistry, environmental science, engineering, mathematics, medicine and physics.
• Referring to the completion of 50 years of diplomatic relationship between India and Bangladesh, Mr.
Modi also announced to invite 50 entrepreneurs of Bangladesh to visit India and join start-up initiatives
and meet Indian venture capitalists.
• Remembering the struggle of Independence by Bangladeshi people, Prime Minister Modi also shared his
personal contribution during that struggle.
• He said that the struggle for independence of Bangladesh was one of the first movements that he
participated in.
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• He said that he was 20 or 22 years old when he and his colleagues had organized Satyagraha for
Bangladesh's freedom.
Hyderabad-based Maithri Aquatech made-up ‘World’s First Mobile Water from Air Kiosk’ at Vizag Smart
City
• Hyderabad-based startup, Maithri Aquatech has set up the world’s first mobile water from air kiosk
and water knowledge centre in the smart city of Visakhapatnam, in Andhra Pradesh.
• This innovative water kiosk is such that the potable water is harvested from the air instead of depending
on scarce groundwater and surface water resources.
• This initiative is supported by Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation and project SEWAH
(Sustainable Enterprises for Water and Health), an alliance between USAID and SWN (Safe Water
Network).
• The kiosk will provide clean, mineral-enriched potable water harvested from the air by making use of
Maithri Aquatech’s own Meghdoot solution as a source to generate water.
• Apart from this, the kiosk will also function as a Water Knowledge Resource Centre by creating
awareness and imparting necessary information to members of the local underserved communities as
well as nearby schools on the benefits of good water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) practices.
Health Minister unveiled 'Tribal TB Initiative' in pursuit of TB Mukt Bharat
• Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan launched 'Tribal TB Initiative' in pursuit of TB Mukt Bharat.
• He said that the government accords top priority to ensuring Universal Access to free treatment and care
for TB across the country.
• The Minister said, over ten crore tribal population is living with a huge diversity in their population
dynamics.
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• He said, the government has already increased the Budget allocation for TB in India four-fold in the last
five years.
• Dr Harsh Vardhan said, the Union Territories of Lakshadweep and district of Badgam in Jammu and
Kashmir have been declared TB Free on World TB Day this year.
• During the function, Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda was also present.
IIT Kharagpur team bagged CoreNet Global Academic Challenge 6.0
• A team of four undergraduate students from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IIT-K) has
achieved historic win as they emerged as winners at the CoreNet Global Academic Challenge 6.0,
sponsored by Cushman and Wakefield, KI and IA: Interior Architects.
• It is for the first time that a squad from India has emerged as winners in the CoreNet Global Academic
Challenge since the inception of the competition in 2015.
• The members of the team comprised of Siddhant Samarth (3rd year, Department of Civil Engineering),
Pratim Majumdar (3rd year, Department of Chemical Engineering), Rishita Raj (2nd year, Department of
Mechanical Engineering) and Utkarsh Agrawal (3rd year, Department of Manufacturing Science and
Engineering), and were guided by Prof. Jenia Mukherjee (Department of Humanities and Social
Sciences).
• The IIT Kharagpur team was one of the four teams to enter into the final round out of 1,300 teams from
all over the world.
Skill Development Ministry invites Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship applications till 27th March
• Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship in association with 9 IIMS has invited applications
for Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship till 27th of this month.
• The fellowship is a two-year blended program consisting of classroom sessions at IIMs and a unique
opportunity to promote skill planning and development in district economies.
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• Following the success of the pilot cohort, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship announced
the launch of ‘Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship’ (MGNF) 2021-23 in collaboration with IIM
Ahmedabad, IIM Bangalore, IIM-Jammu, IIM Kozhikode, IIM Lucknow, IIM Nagpur, IIM Ranchi, IIM
Udaipur and IIM Visakhapatnam.
• It is a unique opportunity for young, dynamic individuals to combine classroom sessions at IIM with
engagement in the district economies to promote skill development and skill planning.
• Launched last year, the implementation of the programme has been a great success and has garnered
appreciation from various stakeholders.
• The Fellowship, 2021-23, has been rolled out nationally in more than 660 districts across India.
‘Two Mobile Medical Vans’ - Centre, Maharashtra Public Health Dept dedicate it to the nation
• Public Health Department, Maharashtra and National Health Mission, government of India
dedicated ‘Two air conditioned Mobile Medical Vans’ to the nation in Jalna district of
Maharashtra.
• The program was inaugurated by State Health Minister Rajesh Tope with a green flag.
• Rs 20 lakh cost van will be used to provide health facilities and state-of-the-art clinics in remote
areas of the district.
• The van will provide information on health schemes of the Central and State Governments and
all types of check-ups, obstetrics, other treatments etc.
• Health Minister Rajesh Tope has said that 20 districts have been selected under this national
campaign and this will make it easier to implement the national health campaign in rural areas.
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• He further said that two air-conditioned vehicles have been provided for Jalna district, through
which the poorer will be given 100 percent free treatment.
• It has been ensured that 60 patients will be examined.
• Daily efforts will be made to improve the quality of health services under the National Health
Mission.
• Former Minister Arjun Khotkar, MLA Kailash Gorantyal, Zilla Parishad Chief Executive Officer
Pratap Sawade, District Surgeon Archana Bhosale were present on the occasion.
Prasar Bharati run DD Free Dish touches 40 million subscribers
• Prasar Bharati CEO, Shashi Shekhar Vempati has expressed happiness that the public
broadcaster-run Direct to Home (DTH) platform DD Free Dish has crossed 40 million
subscribers.
• According to FICCI-EY Media Entertainment Annual Report for 2021, DD Free Dish has an
estimated base of more than 40 million households.
• The growth has been attributed to less expensive television sets, economic issues, launch of the
DD Retro Channel and return of big broadcasters to the Free Dish platform.
• DD Free Dish has also become a second set top box within the home, used when there are no
large events on television in some cases.
• Free Dish distributors have mentioned year on year growth in sales as well as the inability to
keep up with demand due to a shortage of China-manufactured chipsets.
• Television households will continue to grow at over 5 percent till 2025, driven by connected TVs
which could cross 40 million by 2025 and DD Free Dish could cross 50 million.
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• DD Free Dish, is a multi-channel Free-To-Air Direct to Home service of Prasar Bharati.
Inauguration of new building of Bombay High Court in Goa - addresses by
Union Law Minister
• Union Minister of Law and Justice Ravi Shankar Prasad has said that whenever various types
of challenges arose in India, Judiciary always came with an apt and competent answer to it.
• He was speaking in the event of inauguration of a new building of the Bombay High Court at
Goa in Porvorim near Panaji.
• Digital technology did a stellar performance during Covid pandemic in as much as 82 lakh cases
were heard virtually in various courts, Minister Prasad added further.
• There has to be a robust answer on the claims regarding environment and development, he
added.
• Chief Justice of India Sharad Bobde after inaugurating the building said that the bench at Goa
always maintained the highest standards and made significant contribution to development of
law.
• New building is a sign of a new time, he added.
EAM S Jaishankar meets Afghanistan Prez Ashraf Ghani
• External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani and had a
discussion on the Afghan peace process.
• Dr Jaishankar and Mr Ghani are in Dushanbe to attend the ninth Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process
conference.
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• Tajikistan is hosting the conference which is focused on strengthening a regional and
international consensus for Afghan peace.
• Afghan Foreign Minister Haneef Atmar visited India and held-back-to-back talks with Dr
Jaishankar and NSA Ajit Doval.
• In New Delhi, the Afghan Foreign Minister during his meeting with Dr Jaishankar on the peace
process, the two sides reviewed the Troika Peace Meeting in Moscow and assessed the final
declaration of the meeting as positive for strengthening and advancing the peace process.
EAM attend 9th Ministerial Conference of 'Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process on Afghanistan' in Tajikistan
• External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will attend the 9th Ministerial Conference of Heart
of Asia - Istanbul Process on Afghanistan at Dushanbe in Tajikistan.
• Dr Jaishankar reached Dushanbe on a three day visit.
• He called on President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani before the commencement of the Heart of
Asia Conference.
• Mr Ghani and Dr Jaishankar shared the perspectives on the peace process.
• As the lead country for Trade, Commerce and Investment Confidence Building Measure under
Heart of Asia - Istanbul Process, India has made concerted efforts for strengthening regional
connectivity for the greater economic integration of Afghanistan with the region.
• A dedicated Air Freight Corridor between cities of India and Afghanistan and operationalisation
of Chabahar Port in Iran are steps in that direction.
• India, as an important stakeholder for peace, prosperity and stability in Afghanistan has played
a constructive role in the international processes on Afghanistan.
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• India has engaged regional and international stakeholders on Afghanistan.
• The visit will further enhance the outreach to Central Asian countries with a special focus on
Afghanistan.
PM Modi launches new version of 'Exam Warriors'
• The new version of Exam Warriors written by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is now
available with many new mantras for students as well as parents.
• It is available at retail stores as well as online.
• The Exam Warriors module is also available on the NaMo App.
• Mr Modi said, the new edition of the book has been enriched with valuable inputs from students,
parents and teachers.
• Substantive new parts have been added that would especially interest the parents and teachers.
• He said the book reaffirms the need to remain stress free before an exam.
• The Prime Minister added that it has many interactive activities for students and parents.
Jal Jeevan Mission achieves new milestone - tap water to over 4 crore rural households
• Jal Jeevan Mission has achieved a new milestone of providing over 4 Crore rural households
with tap water supply.
• The mission was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 15th August, 2019, with the
aim to provide tap water supply to every rural home by 2024.
• Now, 7.24 Crore, more than 1/3rd of rural households are getting potable water through
taps.
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• Goa has become the first State in the country to provide 100 percent tap water supply followed
by Telangana and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• The untiring efforts of States and UTs have helped Jal Jeevan Mission provide assured tap
water supply to every family living in 56 districts and over 86 thousand villages.
• States and UTs are now competing with each other and focusing on the target to ensure that
every household in the country gets safe drinking water, so that no one is left out.
Education Minister inaugurates Anandam The Center for Happiness in IIM Jammu
• Union Minister of Education Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ inaugurated “Ānandam: The
Center for Happiness” virtually on March 30, 2021 at Indian Institute of Management (IIM)
Jammu.
• The name ‘Ānandam’ is taken from the Indian wisdom tradition where the pure consciousness is
known as “anandam”.
• The Centre will work for the well-being of all by incorporating happiness in the academic
curriculum of students, which includes knowing the truth, doing well and enjoying the beauty
around.
• Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Founder of Art of Living Foundation, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
also virtually graced the occasion.
• Pokhriyal congratulated IIM Jammu for the new venture and defined the need for Ānandam.
• He said that incorporating happiness in the academic curriculum of students is a very crucial
step towards empowering the nation.
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I&B Minister flagged off DEMU train from Phaltan to Pune
• Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar flagged off DEMU train from
Phaltan to Pune via Lonand through video conferencing.
• The new train will provide better transport facilities to the people of the region.
• Mr Javadekar mentioned, Railway has taken several measures to provide better facilities to
commuters.
• This includes introduction of Bio-toilets, wifi facility and simplified reservation on IRCTC.
• He said more than five thousand Railway stations have been provided with Wi-Fi which enable
passengers to access the World Wide Web and opened their horizon of knowledge.
Govt make 22 new routes in operational in last three days under UDAN scheme
• Government has operationalised 22 new routes in the last three days under the UDAN
scheme.
• This is part of Endeavour to connect the unconnected regions.
• Out of these new routes, six routes have been operationalised in North-East India.
• The Regional Connectivity Scheme - Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik, UDAN is a flagship scheme of
the Ministry of Civil Aviation envisaged to make air travel affordable and widespread in the
country.
• The scheme intends to boost inclusive national economic growth, employment opportunities and
air transport infrastructure development across the nation.
• Till date, 347 routes have been operationalised under the UDAN scheme.
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• The Civil Aviation Ministry said the first direct flight from Shillong, Meghalaya to Agartala in
Tripura under the UDAN scheme was flagged off.
• The flight operation on Shillong - Silchar route was successfully commenced.
State News
J&K: 2-day long 6th Technology Exhibition cum Seed Sale Mela Inaugurated by LG Manoj Sinha
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha who is also the
Chancellor of Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agriculture Science and Technology Kashmir (SKUAST-
Kashmir) inaugurated a 2-day long 6th Technology Exhibition cum Seed Sale Mela on the theme “Shaping
the Future Farming for Better Returns” at Shalimar campus of the University in Srinagar.
• The Lt. Governor inspected around 200 stalls showcasing a variety of products and technologies
developed in the field of Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Husbandry, Fisheries, Agroforestry, Agri-
Engineering, and other related fields.
Dr. Harsh Vardhan inaugurated major healthcare projects in Imphal
• The Union Minister of Health Dr. Harsh Vardhan arrived in Manipur.
• The Minister will also attend the National Science Day Celebration to be held at Imphal.
• Union Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan who arrived in Imphal is going to inaugurate major healthcare projects
taken up at Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) Imphal.
• These projects include a new 3 Tesla MRI Machine in the newly constructed MRI Block, a 100 bedded
capacity PG ladies Hostel, a new Neuro-Surgery ICU and a new block of College of Nursing.
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PM Jan Aushadhi Kendra inaugurated at District Hospital, Kargil
• In Ladakh, Councillor (Town) LAHDC, Kargil Haji Mohammad Abass Adulpa inaugurated a Pradhan
Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra at District Hospital, Kargil to celebrate the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi
Diwas-2021.
• Haji Abass purchased medicine from the centre in which all types of Generic Medicines will be available
at lesser price.
• Haji Abass said that considerable progress has been made, but a lot more needs to be done for improving
facilities for patients in government hospitals.
• He said that these stores would have a great impact on the lives of people by providing them quality
medicines at affordable prices.
• RMO Dr Shabir Hussain briefed about the importance for the Scheme and urged the people to take
maximum benefits from the Jan Aushadhi Store.
• A free Medical Check-up Camp was also organised at this juncture.
Ladakh villages: Merak and Khakted get mobile connectivity
• In the eastern Ladakh region, zero border villages are now getting better connectivity by all means.
• Opposite to much discussed finger four, Merak and Khakted villages on the southern side of
Pangong Tso got mobile connectivity.
• As things are easing, under operation Sadbhavana, the Army laid OFC cable to fulfill the decades dream
of the villagers to have mobile connectivity.
• As BSNL provided the equipment and Chuchul Councillor Konchok Stanzin provided solar power systems
to the project.
• Konchok Stanzin said army and border villagers are symbiotic and complement each other in need.
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• Moreover as the situation is easing with disengagement at Line of Actual Control and with vaccination
program on covid pandemic front, the stalled developmental activities are expected to take off this season
in Chuchul and Changthang regions.
Nagaland launches its first air cargo services from Dimapur airport
• Nagaland launched its first air cargo services from Dimapur airport.
• Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio officially flagged off the service, a joint initiative of Department of Horticulture,
Nagaland and Airport Authority of India with Air India and Indigo as airline partners.
• The introduction of air cargo service is a long felt need for the state as many of the products from the
state go wasted.
• AAI is planning to construct a new terminal building including cargo service terminal at Dimapur with all
modern facilities.
About Nagaland :
• Capital : Kohima
• Governor : RN Ravi
• CM : Neiphiu Rio
Fire spreading in forest areas of Similipal, Odisha
• Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Pratap Chandra Sarangi have expressed concern over the
fire spreading in the forest areas of Similipal in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, which is a Tiger
Reserve and also an important biosphere reserve of the country.
• Describing the situation as alarming, Union minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Steel Mr. Pradhan
has sought the urgent attention of the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Prakash Javadekar and Chief Minister Naveen Pattnaik.
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• Union Minister of State for Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries and MSME Sarangi has described
the forest fires in Similipal as not being a good sign for Asia.
Madhya Pradesh: 2-day national seminar on NEP and its Implementation concluded
• A two-day national seminar on National Education Policy and its Implementation, organised by Makhanlal
Chaturvedi National University of Journalism and Communication, Bhopal, NITI Aayog and Bharatiya
Shikshan Mandal concluded.
• State Higher Education Minister Dr Mohan Yadav said that Universities in Madhya Pradesh will execute
NEP from next academic session.
• General Secretary of Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal Dr Umashankar Pachauri said that education should
unfold the inner knowledge and skills of students.
• The NEP followed this concept.Vice Chancellor Prof. K.G. Suresh said, Indian culture is education and
teacher-centric.
• National Education Policy focused on teachers.
• Prof Suresh announced establishment of Human Resource Development Centre (HRDC) in the university
and said, MCU will implement the policy from next academic session
Separate cell for National Commission for Women commissioned in Ladakh, J&K
• Newly formed Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir Union Territories will have a separate cell in National
Commission for Women (NCW).
• The Commission's Chairperson Rekha Sharma said that by the end of this month, separate cells for the
new UTs will be created.
• Four days ahead of International Women's Day, Ladakh became the launching pad for the first-ever online
training programme Empowering Women through Entrepreneurship.
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• In collaboration with IIM, Bangalore and India SME Forum, the Commission is providing online training
to five thousand women entrepreneurs from across the country.
• Chairperson Rekha Sharma said that NCW chose Ladakh for the occasion, to involve the women in the
journey of development.
Karnataka CM admires Bengaluru for its model of citizen centric initiatives development
• Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has tweeted that Bengaluru has emerged as the most livable
city in India in the Ease of living Survey conducted by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• He has said that the Bengaluru model of development of citizen centric initiatives and delivery of services
have ensured this top ranking.
Karnataka launches engineering research policy
• The Karnataka government has launched the country’s maiden Engineering Research & Development
(ER&D) Policy to raise its contribution to the sector in the country to 45% in the next five years.
• The new policy envisages creation of an additional 50,000 jobs.
• According to industry apex body Nasscom, ER&D has the potential to become a $100-billion industry in
the country in the next five years.
• The new policy, drafted jointly by the Department of Electronics, IT, Biotechnology and Science and
Technology, Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society, and Nasscom in consultation with industry
stakeholders
• It has identified five key focus sectors such as
• aerospace and defence;
• auto, auto components and EV;
• biotechnology, pharma and medical devices;
• semiconductors, telecom, ESDM;
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• software products.
• The policy will also support industrial application of academic research, spend ₹10,000 per student on
training and certification as provide grants to universities to set up laboratories.
About Karnataka :
• CM : BS Yediyurappa
Udaipur Science Centre inaugurated at Udaipur , Tripura
• The Udaipur Science Centre, at Udaipur, Tripura was dedicated to the people by the Governor of
Tripura, Shri Ramesh Bais on 28th February 2021.
• The Udaipur Science Centre has been developed at a cost of Rs 6 crore funded jointly by the Ministry of
Culture, Government of India and Department of Science, Technology and Environment, Tripura
Government and with this; National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) has now set-up science
centres in all the north eastern states
• It is the 22nd Science Centre which has been developed by NCSM and handed over to the State
Governments under the Ministry of Culture’s Scheme for Promotion of Culture of Science
• It is funded jointly by the Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India and Dept. of Science, Technology &
Environment, Government of Tripura and with this; NCSM has now set-up science centres in all the north
eastern states.
About National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) :
• Headquarters: Kolkata
• Director General: Shri A. D. Choudhury
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About Tripura :
Mumbai's CSMT becomes first railway station to get IGBC Gold Certification
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Railway Station of Central Railway is the first railway station
in Maharashtra to be awarded with Gold certification as per CII’s Indian Green Building Council (IGBC)
ratings.
• The rating system gives impetus to the national priorities like energy efficiency, water conservation,
handling of waste measures and motivates the adoption of green standards for buildings and its
environment.
• Central Railway has implemented various green initiatives across its zone, with plantations creating green
areas, installation of solar panels, customer-friendly initiatives at many stations, LED bulbs and lights etc.
About Indian Green Building Council :
• Founded: 2001
• Headquarters : Hyderabad
Indian Army launches Community Radio Station
• The first of its kind in North Kashmir, Community Radio Station with the tagline “Radio Chinar 90.4, Har
Dil Ki Dhadkan” was inaugurated 04 Mar 2021 by the Indian Army for the Awam in Mazbugh, Sopore.
• The Radio Station was inaugurated by Lt Gen BS Raju, General Officer Commanding Chinar Corps in
presence of Maj Gen HS Sahi, General Officer Commanding Kilo Force and various Army and civil
dignitaries.
• The reach of the Community Radio Station will be Sopore, Bandipora and Baramulla Districts.
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• This Community Radio Station has been started with an aim to revitalize the connection within different
segments of the community.
• This will provide a good platform for a community dialogue, sharing of information, art & culture.
• It will build a community environment, which is better connected with issues which are local and important
to the community.
Meghalaya: State Govt launches online registration portal for migrant workers
• In Meghalaya, the State Government launched the online registration portal for migrant workers under
the Meghalaya Identification Registration (Safety and Security) of Migrant Workers Act 2020, in a
function organized by the Labour Department in Shillong.
• Launching the portal, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong said, the online portal will improve the
ease of doing business.
• He urged all stakeholders to utilize the portal so that a record of genuine migrant labourers or workers is
maintained in the State.
• He said, this move is crucial for the development of the State as labour forces from other parts of the
country are required to complete projects of different departments.
• He reiterated that only those migrant workers/labourers who fulfil various criteria stated under the Act,
will be issued with a labour license.
Digital platform 'Jagrut Tripura' launched to boost e-governance
• The Tripura government has come up with a digital platform to help people get benefits from various
schemes of the Centre and the state government.
• The project was developed by EasyGov, a Jio Group company, and it will be available to all the residents
of Tripura.
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• It will have At least 102 schemes of various departments of both the governments available on the
platform.
• The digital platform is one of the many proactive initiatives undertaken by the state government to spur
a technology-led innovation ecosystem to make 'Atmanirbhar' (self-reliant) Tripura.
• "With 'Jagrut', we want to empower people to get the benefits they deserve, and the focus is on building
a family- centric, progressive model having 'one data one source' and privacy at the core.
About Tripura :
• CM : Biplab Kumar Deb
India’s biggest Kidney Dialysis Hospital inaugurated in Delhi at Balasahib Gurudwara
• India’s biggest Kidney Dialysis Hospital was inaugurated at Balasahib Gurudwara in Delhi.
• The Guru Harikshan Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Kidney Dialysis Hospital has been
opened by Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee.
• The 100 bedded hospital is equipped with most technically advanced medical facilities where services
will be provided free of cost to the patients.
• There will also be no billing counter at the hospital.
Uttarakhand CM declares ten thousand each for ASHA, Anganwadi volunteers
• Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has announced Rs Ten thousand each for ASHA and
Anganwadi volunteers, who had worked during the Covid 19 phase on the occasion of International
Women Day.
• He also announced Rs. 15000 for each of the Mahila Mangal Dal and women self-help groups.
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• The Chief Minister virtually attended the function and addressed the gathering in Gairsain in Chamoli
district and said that empowerment of women is extremely important for the all-around development of
the society and the state.
• The Chief Minister said that during his four years in power, he had taken several steps for the welfare of
women.
About Uttarakhand:
• Chief minister: Trivendra Singh Rawat
• Governor: Baby Rani Maurya
Uttar Pradesh govt launches 2nd phase of Mission Shakti
• Uttar Pradesh government launched the second phase of Mission Shakti on the occasion of
International women's day.
• It will become a milestone in women empowerment.
• In addition to that First commercial flight from Bareily also started On March 08.
• The flight was operated by all women crew members’ carrying 60 passengers to Delhi.
• With this flight Bareily became 8th city in state with flight services on 4 days in a week to delhi within
2000 rupees.
• Many discussions, pink marathons, competitions and other events were organized to mark the occasion.
• Under Mission Shakti campaign Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath inaugurated women special Police stations
in 18 districts along with pink booths and pink toilets.
• On the occasion of International Women's Day, the ‘First Adarsh Mahila Barrack’ in Mahila Thana,
Muzaffarnagar was also inaugurated .
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• Like the first Adarsh Barrack, it has all the basic facilities and amenities and in addition has Dressing
Area, Lockers and attached Washrooms for the female police personnel.
About UP :
Manipur: Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana becomes changing factor for lives of tribal women
• There are a number of tribes across the country and the government has been implementing many welfare
schemes and programs just to improve their income through various means.
• One such initiative is Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana which was launched in 2018 by the Ministry of
Tribal Affairs and Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India with an intention to
improve the tribal income through value addition of tribal products.
• The scheme has become a changing factor for the lives of many tribal women in Manipur.
• Manipur has 77 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras comprising 1,995 Self Help Groups (SHGs) and around
25,000 beneficiaries.
• Registration of another 100 Kendras are under process and TRIFED has agreed to do funding for making
storage and construction of hut bazaars for the products produced by SHGs.
About Manipur:
• Capital: Imphal
• Governor: Najma Heptulla
• Chief minister: N. Biren Singh
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Himachal Pradesh police to organize ‘All Women Parade' for International Women's Day
• On the occasion of International Women's Day, Himachal Pradesh Police Department will organize ‘All
Woman Parade' at the historic Ridge Grounds in Shimla, aimed at increasing the strength of women in
the police force.
• The state police will celebrate the Day in two sessions.
• State governor Bandaru Dattatreya will be the chief guest in the first session during which the Parade
will be held on the Ridge, while the chief minister Jai Ram Thakur will be the chief guest during the
second session.
• Himachal Pradesh DGP Sanjay Kundu said the state Police will hold a series of events on Women's Day.
• On the occasion, 26 women cop will perform daring bike stunts and musketry drills, which will be a major
attraction in the first season.
• An exhibition on the theme, 'Women in HP Police in 50 Years' would be displayed at Gaiety Theatre at
six pm followed by a cultural program during the second session.
• The exhibition will continue till March 14.
About Himachal Pradesh:
• Capital: Shimla
J&K: 5500 hectares of high-density plantation scheme in horticulture sector
• The Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Council under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor
Manoj Sinha has approved the implementation of high-density plantation scheme in the horticulture
sector with the support of National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd
(NAFED).
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• The step will go a long way in enhancing the quality and quantity of horticulture produce and doubling the
farmer’s income.
• The farmer-centric scheme will be implemented for apple, walnut, almond, cherry, litchi, and olive among
others over an estimated area of 5500 hectares of suitable agro-climatic zones for 6 years with effect
from March 2021 to March 2026.
About the scheme:
• The new scheme has provisions to provide 50 percent subsidy to orchardists for the establishment of
high-density orchards accompanied by a loan facility for raising 40 percent of remaining capital.
• Besides, the scheme will also provide subsidies to growers on account of expenditure related to micro-
irrigation, plant material, and anti-hail nets.
• Under the scheme, preference will be given to farmers with landholdings of less than 4 kanal.
Shri Kedarnath Dham temple Portals to open on May 17
• The Portals of Shri Kedarnath Dham temple will open on May 17 this year.
• Shri Kedar Nath moving Deity will depart from Omkareshwar Temple Ukhimath to Kedarnath Dham on
14 May.
• On the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri, after the PANCHANG calculation, the date for opening
of the portals of Kedar Nath temple was decided at Sri Omkareshwar Temple in Ukhimath.
Tirath Singh Rawat takes oath as Uttarakhand CM
• In Uttarakhand, Tirath Singh Rawat was sworn-in as the new chief minister.
• He was administered the oath of office by Uttarakhand Governor Baby Rani Maurya at Raj Bhawan in
Dehradun.
• Senior BJP leaders, Central observer and former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Dr. Raman Singh along with
state BJP in-charge Dushyant Kumar were present on this occasion.
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• Dr. Raman Singh told the media that the name of the cabinet ministers will be announced soon.
• Mr. Tirath Singh Rawat, Lok Sabha MP from Garhwal and former state BJP chief is the 10th Chief Minister
of the Uttarakhand.
• His name was announced by the outgoing chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat after the legislature
party meeting, which lasted around 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, Haryana's BJP-JJP government won the trust vote in the house of state Assembly.
• The 55 votes were polled against the No Confidence Motion while 32 votes were polled in favour of
motion.
J&K govt sanctions interest-free loan worth two lakh rupees for PMAY-U beneficiaries
• Jammu and Kashmir government has approved a proposal to provide interest-free loan up to 2 lakh
rupees to the urban homeless economically weaker section beneficiaries under Beneficiary Led
Construction (BLC) component of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U).
• J&K Administrative Council, which met under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha,
approved the proposal of the Housing and Urban Development Department.
• The beneficiaries under the BLC component of PMAY-U have experienced the difficulty in mobilising their
contribution as they come from economically weaker sections.
• As a result of which the construction of dwelling units under this component of PMAY-U could not achieve
the desired targets.
• The beneficiaries of this component have demanded enhancement of assistance in their favour so that
they can complete their houses within the targeted date of the mission.
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About The scheme PMAY-U:
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana is an initiative by the Government of India in which affordable housing will
be provided to the urban poor with a target of building 20 million affordable houses by 31 March 2022.
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U), a flagship Mission of Government of India being
implemented by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), was launched on 25th June 2015.
• The Mission addresses urban housing shortage among the EWS/LIG and MIG categories including the
slum dwellers by ensuring a pucca house to all eligible urban households by the year 2022, when Nation
completes 75 years of its Independence.
Covid Tracker helpline launched in Mumbai
• The coronavirus cases in Maharashtra including Mumbai have been witnessing a sharp spike since last
few days.
• In order to make the testing convenient for citizens, the Covid Tracker helpline is enabling Mumbaikars
to do Covid testing at home without going to the hospital.
• 'Covid Tracker' helpline has been launched for the citizens of Mumbai.
About the helpline:
• Through this helpline, citizens are being provided guidance on Covid -19 and various tests are being made
available at home.
• Citizens are getting advice from expert doctors by contacting the helpline.
• Further tests, medications and treatments are also being provided at the patient's home if required.
• Critically ill patients are being assisted through government agencies for further treatment.
• All these facilities are being provided at government rates and as per the standards of the World Health
Organization.
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• This initiative by the Udan Foundation is expected to reduce the stress on the government medical
system to some extent.
Mizoram paired with Bihar through Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat campaign
• A country wide Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat campaign, which highlights the age-old tradition of our
country - unity in diversity.
• The campaign portrays the very common principle of cultural harmony of the people though we are living
in different geographical areas with diversity of language, food, custom and costumes.
• Exchange of different languages, food habits, and similarly paying respect to others’ culture, music,
dances and customs are in fact the mantra of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat.
• Under this Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat campaign, each state is paired with another state and highlights
the milieu of mutual exchange of cultures.
• Mizoram is paired with Bihar on Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat campaign.
• Mizoram is endowed with serene landscape and rich natural resources.
• Many people from other states frequently visit Mizoram for occupational and travel purposes.
• Many of them talk about the culture, peaceful behaviour and law-abiding nature of the Mizo people.
• Also, many Mizo people who have visited Bihar still remember their good experiences.
• Recalling the ethos of culture, customs and heritage of Bihar, many people of Mizoram observed that
Bihari people are very cooperative and they live a simple life.
• According to them, Bihar is a mix of Hindu, Islam, Buddha, Jain and Christians.
• A Sizable population belongs to tribal communities.
• Terming the Holi in Bihar as very joyous, they also found that Chhath festival is indigenous to people of
Bihar.
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Development of Sewage Treatment Plants in UP’s Moradabad – Agreement signed
• A tripartite Concession Agreement has been signed between the National Mission for Clean Ganga
(NMCG), Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam and GA Infra Private Limited-Lahoti Buildcon Limited for
development of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) for Moradabad.
• The contract was awarded at a total cost of 99.68 crore rupees.
• Ministry of Jal Shakti said that the project is aimed at eliminating flow of untreated sewage from
Moradabad city into the River Ganga thereby reducing pollution load in the river.
• The NMCG approved the project for construction of the 25 Million Litre per Day (MLD) Sewage
Treatment Plant, developing Interception and Diversion structures and Sewage Pumping Stations
including Operation.
• This project also aims to take care of the existing sewerage problems in the town and the resultant sewage
pollution in the Ram Ganga.
• The lending for these projects is already offered by SBI Capital.
About Sewage Treatment Plants:
• Wastewater and sewage, usually from a number of properties, are fed into the primary settlement tank
where solids and liquids separate and the liquor flows into the biozone chamber.
• In the chamber, a pump aerates the waste and encourages good bacteria to digest the organic matter,
breaking it down and purifying it.
• In much sewage, plastic media are submerged within the aeration tank so that bacteria may attach and
grow faster, these days attached growth is considered modern development.
• Submerged Aerated Filter, Submerged Aerated Fixed Film, Rotating Biological Contact Filter are some
variants of attached growth process.
• Sewage treatment generally involves three stages, called primary, secondary and tertiary treatment.
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Agriculture Dept of J&K organizes Kisan Mela in Kupwara district
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Agriculture Department organized a day-long Kisan
Mela at the Agriculture Complex in Kupwara district.
• The Agriculture department and allied departments installed their stalls to showcase machinery and high
yielding variety seeds.
• The Mela was organized as a part of ‘Aazadi Ka Amrit Mahotsov’ and was attended by hundreds of
progressive farmers of the district.
• The District Development Commissioner Kupwara, Imam Din in his address said that the objective of
holding such a farmer awareness programme is to transform the knowledge bank of agriculture scientists
and farm experts to the field so that the ambitious programme of Government of India to double the
income of farmer community is achieved by the target period of 2022.
• The DDC directed the Agriculture Department to hold such programmes in every part of the district
and simultaneously advised farmers to take advantage of the new and innovative techniques of
Agriculture Farming to yield better results at ground level
About Kisan Mela:
• Krishi Unnati Mela is a three-day event launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 19 March 2016 in
Delhi.
• Objective: The objective of the fair is to create awareness among farmers about the latest agriculture-
related technological developments.
• Kisan mela is organized twice in every year by State/Central Agricultural Universities, one each in
Kharif and Rabi season.
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Urban Forest Division of Srinagar observes Chinar Day
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Urban Forest Division Srinagar organized a
programme to observe Chinar Day at Shuhama Campus of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural
Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) where the Chinar saplings were planted within the premises.
• Conservator of Forests Srinagar, Zubair Ahmad Shah said that we have assembled to celebrate Chinar
Day and exchange the ideas about this Heritage Tree.
• Without Chinar, the landscape of Kashmir is incomplete.
• While divulging into the details, he said that the department currently is planting about 2000 Chinar
saplings besides twelve thousand five hundred more Chinar saplings shall be planted during the year.
• Mr Shah added that it is our conscious effort to preserve this heritage and shall grow more and more
Chinars as it enhances the beauty of Kashmir besides providing gallons of oxygen to our atmosphere and
helping in the maintenance of the environment.
About Chinar:
• There botanical name is Platanus orientalis.
• They have been an important part of Kashmiri tradition, in that, a Chinar tree is found in almost every
village in Kashmir.
• These trees have survived for ages, because Chinar is basically a long-living tree.
• Platanus orientalis, the Old World sycamore or Oriental plane, is a large, deciduous tree of the
Platanaceae family, growing to 30 m or more, and known for its longevity and spreading crown.
• In fall its deep green leaves may change to blood red, amber, and yellow.
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J&K: "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan" programme held at Budgam
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, a day-long "Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan" programme
was held at Budgam.
• The event was inaugurated by District Development Commissioner Shahbaz Ahmad Mirza and was
jointly organized by the Social Welfare Department and District Administration in collaboration with
the Department of Health and many NGOs.
• The DDC noted that relentless efforts and commitment is required to take the Nasha Mukt Bharat
Abhiyan, a result oriented campaign.
• He said rigorous mass awareness at all levels to spread the message among common people is needed
for the hour, as this is a complicated problem which requires serious steps at the right time to curb it.
• He said drug addiction has the capacity of devastating the future of our young generation.
• He said that we jointly have to share the responsibility in keeping vigil at our wards and their close ones
to prevent them from getting into this menace.
Corporate sector is invited to utilize its CSR funds: Karnataka Health Minister
• Karnataka Health and Medical Education Minister, Dr. K Sudhakar has informed that the corporate
sector is invited to utilize its CSR funds towards upgrading 2500 Primary Health Centres in the state.
• He said that a favourable window is created by the Central Government by enforcing a policy to spend 25
percent of CSR funds in the health sector.
• He said that IT companies that have major presence in the state will be approached to mobilise CSR funds
towards upgradation of the Primary Health Centres in the state.
• On measures to contain the pandemic, the minister said that awareness programmes will be planned,
testing and vaccination will be increased and strict vigil will be kept on social gatherings especially in
closed environments.
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About CSR funds:
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is the funding and grants process under which Non-Profit
Organisations (NGOs) can get financial and other support from the corporate sector.
• Under the Companies Act, 2013 it is a mandatory provision to provide a contribution of 2 percent of the
average net profits of companies.
About Karnataka:
J&K: LG Manoj Sinha inaugurates project “Awaam Ki Baat”
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, initiated the project
“Awaam Ki Baat” - a Radio program by launching its website at Raj Bhavan, Jammu.
• The half-an-hour long Radio program to be aired every third Sunday of the month (to start from April),
is one of the many sequential steps of broader program aimed at disseminating the progressive steps
taken by the government and providing the public with a platform to speak, write and interact with the
administration, thereby voicing their suggestions, ideas and creative proposals.
About Awaam Ki Baat:
• Awaam Ki Baat is the novel initiative of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, Jammu and Kashmir
which aims at disseminating the progressive steps taken by the administration and seeks public feedback
to make the process interactive, participative and people centric.
• The platform appreciates the heterogeneity of our Union Territory.
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About J&K:
• Capital: Summer: Srinagar Winter:Jammu
Maitri Cycle Rally reaches at its last stop at Silkore border
• Giving a fillip to the Indo-Bangla friendship, the Maitri Cycle Rally, organised by BSF, completed its
journey and reached its last stop at Silkore border outpost in Mizoram.
• Director-General of BSF Rakesh Asthana extended greetings to the people of Bangladesh on the
occasion of the 101th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujubur Rahman.
• He wished that India and Bangladesh maintain their peaceful relations in the coming days too.
• A delegation of Border Guard Bangladesh was also present there to mark the program.
• During the over two months cycle rally, 12 BSF riders toured bordering areas of West Bengal, Assam,
Tripura, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram.
• The rally was started from Panitar BoP in 24 North Pargana of West Bengal on 10th of January.
• Maitri Cycle Rally is also a mark of paying tribute to the birth anniversary of the Father of Bangladesh,
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
• The rally is also aimed at enhancing the friendship between BSF and BGB.
• The rally is hoped to bolster the better management of the Indo-Bangla borders, supplement mutual
cooperation, coordination and spirit of true friendship.
About Mizoram:
• Capital: Aizawl
• Chief minister: Zoramthanga
• Governor: P. S. Sreedharan Pillai
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Govt College for Women at Salaheri renamed as Shaheed Lieutenant Kiran Shekhawat Government College
for Women in Haryana
• In Haryana, Government College for Women at Salaheri in Nuh district has been renamed as Shaheed
Lieutenant Kiran Shekhawat Government College for Women, Salaheri.
• This was informed by Haryana Education Minister, Kanwar Pal during the Question Hour during the
Budget session of the Vidhan Sabha.
• He further added that Yasin Meo Degree College in Nuh has 1,108 students.
About Haryana:
• Chief minister: Manohar Lal Khattar
Madhya Pradesh CM along with Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar launched Mission Gramodaya
• In Madhya Pradesh, Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar and Chief Minister Shivraj
Singh Chouhan have launched the Mission Gramodaya in the state.
• Under the Gramodaya mission, besides providing housing facilities in rural areas, basic and fundamental
infrastructure will also be expanded.
• Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar while addressing the state-level programme of Gramodaya Mission
virtually said that rural development schemes, especially Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna and Pradhan
Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana are being effectively implemented in Madhya Pradesh.
• Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana construction of 3 lakh
houses was completed under the adverse circumstances of the Corona period.
• About 1 lakh 25 thousand beneficiary families of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana were given houses during
the programme.
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‘Swarnim Vijay Mashaal’ stick out ‘Akashvani Bhawan’ in Kolkata
• The golden jubilee celebrations of the 1971 war across the nation continue with the Victory flame
reaching the Akashvani Bhawan in Kolkata.
• The head of office of All India Radio Kolkata, Deputy Director General Anima Das Debnath received
the Swarnim Vijay Mashal.
• Celebration of the ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh’ had been launched on 1st March from Delhi by lighting up the
‘Swarnim Vijay Mashaal’ from the Eternal Flame of National War Memorial.
• Four ‘Vijay Mashaals’ were further lit from it and sent to various parts of the country.
• The victory flame started its journey in Kolkata from Netaji Bhawan, the house of the great freedom fighter
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and later travelled to places including Science city, Victoria Memorial and
Akashvani Bhawan, Kolkata.
Punjab govt to create integrated technology solution for DBT schemes
• Punjab Government has decided to create a robust and integrated technology solution to implement
and review the progress of the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes in the state to ensure
accountability, transparency, and responsiveness.
• An in-principle approval to this project was accorded at the maiden meeting of the Advisory Board of the
Punjab State DBT Cell, chaired by the Chief Secretary, Ms Vini Mahajan, at Chandigarh.
• The Board also decided to ensure that the financial requirements for the development of such a system
will be taken care of by the government.
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‘Kaushal Mela’ organized by Dept of Technical Education & Skill development in Kargil
• In Kargil the department of Technical Education and Skill development is organizing Kaushal Mela as
part of the skill development programme of the government of India.
• This Kaushal Mehla will be organized under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) on March
24 and in Leh on 27th of March.
About Kaushal & Rozgar Mela:
• Social and community mobilisation is extremely critical for the success of PMKVY.
• Active participation of the community ensures transparency and accountability and helps in leveraging
the cumulative knowledge of the community for better functioning.
Haryana CM dedicates various development projects to people
• Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal inaugurated and dedicated various development projects worth
Rs. 1411 crore to the people of the State through video conference from Chandigarh.
• CM in a state level virtual programme inaugurated and laid foundation stones of as many as 163 projects
pertaining to Education, Health, Sports, Roads Water, Power etc. in 22 districts.
• This includes inauguration of 80 projects worth Rs. 475 crore and laying foundation stones of 83 projects
worth Rs. 935 crore.
Bihar - first state to have Ethanol Promotion Policy
• Bihar has become the first state of the country to have its own ethanol policy called Ethanol Production
Promotion Policy, 2021.
• The Policy was approved by the Central government in December 2020 in consonance with National Policy
of Biofuels, 2018 and subsequently by National Biofuel Co-ordination Committee.
• The ethanol promotion policy would pave the way for making Bihar an ethanol hub and investors’ coveted
destination.
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• The policy would allow investors to directly make ethanol from maize, molasses, broken rice and rotten
grains, which was restricted to sugarcane till now.
Jal Jeevan Mission: Andaman & Nicobar achieved 100% Functional Household Tap Connection coverage
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands Lt. Governor Admiral D K Joshi declared that the UT achieved 100
percent Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) coverage in Islands.
• He said that in a function at Raj Niwas in Port Blair on World water day.
• With this, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands becomes the third state/UT in the country to achieve the
target after Goa and Telangana under Jal Jeevan Mission.
• The connections were provided at 266 villages located in 9 blocks in all the three districts.
• All the schools, Anganwadi centers and sub-centers have also been covered under this.
• The Chief Secretary Jitendra Narain said that this achievement is the result of contribution and co-
ordination of various departments of A&N Administration working under the mission.
• He also informed that administration is also planning to transform Jal Shakti Mission into a People's
Mission.
• Under the mission, the administration is planning to have a pond with a fish at every household in the
islands besides water harvesting.
Nagaland Health Minister launches 'i-Learn'
• Nagaland Health and Family Welfare Minister S Pangnyu Phom launched i-Learn, a capacity building
and performance tracking application for Community Health Officers, CHOs in the state at his office
chamber in Kohima.
• The state government launched an i-Learn application in partnership with USAID-NISHTHA/Jgpiego
which will cater across the 189 Health & Wellness centers in the state.
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• i-Learn is a learning management system for CHOs with self facilitated learning for improving and learning
new skills in clinical and non clinical areas.
• The Health Minister said, like any other states in the country, Nagaland has been impacted with COVID.
• He however said the state is committed to defeat the pandemic and as such it has rolled out several
interventions including digital technology like the Naga Tele health services.
Himachal Pradesh CM inaugurates multiple services: e-Office, e-Heli Service, e-Aagman, e-Lahaul for
Lahaul-Spiti district
• Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur virtually launched e-Office, e-Heli Service, e-
Aagman and e-Lahaul for Lahaul-Spiti district from Shimla.
• Chief Minister said that all these services would go a long way in providing people friendly services to the
people of Lahaul-Spiti district on click of button.
• He said that these initiatives were the best examples of optimum use of Information Technology for good
governance.
• Information Technology Minister Dr. Ram Lal Markanda noted that Lahaul-Spiti would become the first
district of the State in effective adopting of e-office in the State.
• It may be recalled that district administration Lahaul & Spiti with the help of Department of Information
Technology has been working on many IT initiatives to provide citizen services digitally to the people of
tribal district.
GRAM UJALA programme launched in Varanasi
• The Union Minister of State (I/C) for Power & New and Renewable Energy, RK Singh, launched the
GRAM UJALA programme in Varanasi of Uttar Pradesh.
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• Under this program Convergence Energy Services Limited, CESL, a wholly owned subsidiary of Energy
Efficiency Services Limited -EESL, will distribute high quality LED bulbs, at an affordable cost in rural
areas.
• Under the scheme One crore 50 lakh LED bulbs will be distributed in phase 1 resulting in energy savings
of 2025 million KWh/year and CO2 reductions of 1.65 million T CO2/year.
• He said, the scheme has crossed 6,150 distribution mark in Arrah, Bihar within 2 days of launch of
scheme.
• The Power Minister said that India is leading in energy transition as well as energy efficiency.
• This scheme is designed specifically for rural homes keeping affordability in mind and it will also result in
energy savings as a 12 Watt LED bulb gives equivalent light as a 100 watt incandescent bulb.
Asia's largest Tulip Garden in Kashmir opened
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, Asia's largest Tulip Garden in Srinagar is scheduled to
be opened for the general public and tourists.
• The Tulip Garden in Srinagar is a spectrum of colours featuring lakhs of tulips which have blossomed in
the lap of Zabarwan Hills along the banks of world famous Dal Lake in Srinagar city.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his tweet has urged the people to visit Jammu and Kashmir and enjoy
the scenic Tulip Garden Festival in Srinagar where 15 lakh flowers of more than 64 varieties are in
full bloom nowadays.
• Mr Modi has also not missed to convey the hospitality of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Ladakh LG launches first Solar Lift Irrigation Scheme of KREDA at Latoo Village
• Ladakh Lieutenant Governor R K Mathur has inaugurated the first Solar Lift Irrigation Scheme of
Kargil Renewable Energy Development Agency (KREDA) at Latoo Village.
• This is the last Village on the LOC.
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• The project is inspired by the Vision of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi for solarising Ladakh as a
model region by making it fully solarised and Carbon Neutral.
• The agency has successfully installed and Commissioned a 41 Hp Submersible Pump backed with 50
Kw Solar Photovoltaic Plant making the first prototype of the Solar Lift Irrigation System in Ladakh in
coloration with Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council Kargil.
• Mr.Mathur said, after preliminary analyses which will be completed in a week, it will be a model and it
can be replicated in most parts of Ladakh without any running cost.
73 AYUSH Health & Wellness Centres e-inaugurates in J&K by Lieutenant Governor
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, with the aim of promoting good health and expanding the
outreach of comprehensive primary healthcare services to the people of J&K, Lieutenant Governor,
Manoj Sinha e-inaugurated as many as 73 AYUSH Health & Wellness Centres under Ayushman Bharat
across the UT.
• The LG observed that healthcare services in J&K witnessed a revolutionary transformation in the past
several months and unprecedented work is being done for advancement and upgradation of medical
facilities for ensuring quality and affordable healthcare services in the UT.
Principal Secretary initiates ‘Pashudhan Mela’ in Kathua
• In Jammu and Kashmir, Principal Secretary Animal & Sheep Husbandry Department, Naveen Kumar
Chaudhary has inaugurated ‘Pashudhan Mela’ in Kathua.
• A variety of breeds of cattle and buffalo from the neighboring state of Punjab including breeds from
Kashmir were put on display.
• The Principal Secretary said the ‘Pashudhan Mela’ is the first of its kind Mela held in the Union Territory
organized with the objective to educate farmers about the latest cattle breeds.
• He said Cattle Mela will be a regular affair in J&K covering each district in a phased manner.
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• He said the Department of Animal Husbandry has taken a series of steps to empower farmers and
livestock owners to adopt dairy which have huge market demand.
• He appealed to youth to come forward to start their units in dairy farming under Integrated Dairy
Development Scheme (IDDS) which provides expertise and necessary machinery at subsidized rates.
Regional SARAS Fair 2021 : Kohima Local Ground
• The Regional SARAS Fair 2021, an initiative of Ministry of Rural Development, to promote rural
products and build capacities of Self Help Groups, SHGs got underway at Kohima Local Ground
Launching the SARAS fair, Advisor Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Dr. Neikiesalie (Nicky)
Kire emphasised on the need for more participation of SHGs in such exhibitions and not to confine to
their own self.
• He said this will help the members to exhibit their products, learn from each other but also gain experience
in the field of marketing.
• Mission Director Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission, NSRLM Imtimenla said the main objective
is to bring the local artisans and Self Help Groups to promote and sale their products as well as get
exposure in a bigger entrepreneurial platform.
Andhra Pradesh CM unveiled Kurnool Airport
• The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister, Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has inaugurated the Kurnool Airport
located at Orvakal and named it after the first ever freedom fighter of the country, Uyyalavada
Narasimha Reddy, as a tribute to him.
• While addressing the gathering at Kurnool, the CM has said that the flight operations from the airport
will commence from March, 28th servicing to Bengaluru,Visakhapatnam, and Chennai routes.
• He stated that the Airport is equipped with all the latest technology, fine infrastructure which can facilitate
parking for four aircrafts at the same time.
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• Stating that this will be the sixth civilian airport in the State after Visakhapatnam, Tirupati, Vijayawada,
Rajahmundry and Kadapa.
• Jagan Mohan Reddy also said that the airport has been set up in the judicial Capital of Andhra Pradesh,
connecting to other States.
• He later said that the airport will make the judicial capital stand on par with other States.
Capital: Visakhapatnam - executive capital
Amaravati - legislative capital
Kurnool - judicial capital
Bihar: 10 croreth Ayushman card handed over to a beneficiary
• Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana has registered a landmark achievement with the
issuing of ten crore cards to a resident of Bihar.
• A 25 year old Irfan Ali from Gopalganj district has received this card.
• This landmark achievement is a result of the Aapke Dwar Ayushman campaign which was launched to
spread awareness among the beneficiaries.
• Under the scheme, any family can avail free medical benefits upto 5 lakh rupees per year.
• CEO of Ayushman Bharat, Dr. Ram Sewak Sharma termed this a great achievement saying that 10th
crore Ayushman card has been issued to a beneficiary in Gopalganj district in Bihar.
• He expressed happiness over the adding of lakhs of new beneficiaries under AapkeDwarAyushman
initiative.
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• He said targets have been set to take the number of identified beneficiaries to at least 20 crore next
financial year.
About Bihar:
• Capital: Patna
• Chief minister: Nitish Kumar
Ministry of Tourism inaugurated Chhatrasal Convention Centre developed under Swadesh Darshan
Scheme at Khajuraho
• Union Minister of State for Tourism and Culture (Independent Charge) Prahlad Singh Patel and Chief
Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the ‘Chhatrasal Convention Centre
at Khajuraho.
• Union minister Prahlad Singh Patel mentioned that we have to develop the iconic tourism places in
various States of India but simultaneously we will have to conserve our ancient old culture also.
• Central government and state government have to work together to develop these new iconic tourism
places.
• We all will have to realise our responsibility towards our tourism places accordingly.
• Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan assured full cooperation of the state government in developing all
tourism places in the state with the help of the Central Government.
• He also said that under the table guidance of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi development of many
tourism places are undergoing in the state.
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UP CM grand initiate Shaheed Ashfaq Ulla Khan Zoological Park in Gorakhpur
• Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated Shaheed Ashfaq Ulla Khan
Zoological Park in Gorakhpur.
• This is the first zoo in Purvanchal and the third in the state.
• In his address, the Chief Minister said the construction of the zoo has been completed in a
record time of four years.
• He added that the zoo will not only provide entertainment and learning to the people but it has
also opened the possibilities of tourism in the region.
• The Chief Minister said the zoo has been named after great freedom fighter Shaheed Ashfaq
Ullah Khan.
• He said that the nation is celebrating the 75th anniversary of its Independence as Azadi Ka
Amit Mahotsav this year, and it is a tribute to the great freedom fighter.
• The foundation of the Gorakhpur zoo was laid a decade ago in May 2011 but its construction
gained momentum after the year 2017.
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat: Goa paired with Jharkhand
• Under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat State of Goa is paired with Jharkhand.
• During this COVID Pandemic period, various educational institutions carried out online and
offline activities.
• Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' campaign has been launched to promote cultural unity among
various states of the country.
• Coastal State Goa has got rich cultural heritage.
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• Before this Pandemic Goa students had visited Jharkhand for a cultural Exchange Programme.
Cyber criminals attack MIDC computer systems last week in Maharashtra
• In Maharashtra, cyber criminals attacked Maharashtra's Industrial Development Corporation’s
(MIDC) computer systems last week.
• MIDC, in a statement said, cyber attackers have sent an email asking ransom.
• All the systems of MIDC are hosted on private and local servers and it uses Trend Micro
antivirus.
• Infected computers were immediately disconnected from the network to minimize the impact.
• But the virus has affected works at regional offices of MIDC.
• The corporation has registered a complaint with Mumbai Police’s cyber unit and various
measures are being taken up to minimize the impact of attack and to further enhance systems.
J&K govt assemble one day awareness programme for farmers
• In the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, as part of Azadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav
celebrations, a one-day awareness programme for farmers was organized by the Revenue
Department at Revenue Training Complex, Jammu.
• A detailed presentation was given by Regional Director Surveys & Land Records, through which
the farmers were informed about the Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme,
(DILRMP) under which, an Integrated Land Information Management System is being
developed across the country, which includes geo-mapping of land and digitization of revenue
records.
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March 2021 – National & State Current Affairs
National News
City Innovation Exchange (CiX) Launched for Fostering Innovation in Urban Ecosystem
• The City Innovation Exchange (CiX) platform was launched by Shri Durga Shanker Mishra, Secretary,
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs at an online event.
• The platform will be a significant addition to the growing innovation ecosystem of India and focuses
on fostering innovative practices in cities.
• The City Innovation Exchange (CiX) will connect cities to innovators across the national ecosystem to
design innovative solutions for their pressing challenges.
• The platform will ease the discovery, design & validation of solutions through a robust, transparent and
user centric process that will reduce barriers for innovators and cities to discover fitting solutions.
• The Platform has more than 400 start-ups, 100 smart cities, more than 150 challenges statements and
over 215 solutions at the time of launch.
Jal Shakti Ministry announces 12 iconic sites for transforming them into Swachh Tourist Destinations
• Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Jal Shakti has announced the selection of
twelve iconic sites under Phase IV of Swachh Iconic Places.
• These sites include Ajanta Caves in Maharashtra, Sanchi Stupa in Madhya Pradesh, Kumbhalgarh Fort,
Jaisalmer Fort and Ramdevra in Rajasthan, Golconda Fort in Telangana and Konark Sun Temple in Odisha.
• Chandigarh's Rock Garden, Jammu and Kashmir's Dal Lake, Banke Bihari Temple in Mathura, Agra Fort
in Uttar Pradesh and Kalighat Temple in West Bengal are the other sites.
• The initiative aims at enhancing the experience of both domestic and foreign visitors by improving the
sanitation and cleanliness standards at and around the sites.
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Khadi, Village Industry Commission's e-Market Portal registers over one crore turnover in eight months
• Khadi and Village Industry Commission’s e-Market Portal has registered a gross turnover of over one
crore 10 lakh rupees in just eight months of its launch.
• Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Nitin Gadkari lauded Khadi’s successful e-commerce
venture.
• This portal has provided a wide marketing platform for various Khadi and village industry products to a
larger population.
• Online orders have been received from all 31 States and Union Territories including the far-flung Andaman
and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir among others.
About KVIC :
• Founded : 1956
• Chairperson : Vinai Kumar Saxena
• Comes under Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
Dr. Harsh Vardhan mark National Science Day function
• Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Harsh Vardhan highlighted how science technology and
innovation (STI) would impact our future in education, skills and functioning in the post-pandemic world.
• He was addressing the National Science Day (NSD) function through video-conferencing from Imphal,
Manipur.
• Awards to science communicators and women scientists were also conferred on the occasion.
• National Science Day is celebrated to commemorate the discovery of Raman Effect on this day every
year.
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• Dr Vardhan said that 30 percent increase in this year's budget of Ministry of Science and Technology
and Earth Sciences put together for the year 2021-22 would provide stimulus to Science and Technology
infrastructure resources in the country.
• He said, in view of last year's challenges thrown by the COVID-19 pandemic, the theme of the National
Science Day 2021, ‘Future of STI: Impacts on Education, Skills, and Work,’ becomes all the more
important.
PM highlights need to take science forward with mantra of 'Lab to Land'
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that there is a lot of contribution of the power of science in the
‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Campaign’.
• He emphasized that the nation has to move science forward with the mantra of ‘Lab to Land’.
• He cited the example of Chintala Venkat Reddy from Hyderabad who developed breeds of wheat and rice
that specially contained vitamin D. Mr Modi also mentioned Urugen Futsog of Ladakh who is growing
about 20 crops organically there.
• The Prime Minister also touched upon the subject of examinations.
• He said like every year, this year too there will be a 'Pariksha Pe Charcha’ in March.
• He requested all exam warriors, parents and teachers to share their experiences and tips on MyGov
platform and Narendra Modi app
Consumer Affairs Ministry had launched Mobile App, and now it’s step up
• Government has said that monitoring and predictive analysis of prices of essential commodities has taken
a giant step forward in India Mobile App for price monitoring of 22 essential commodities.
• The Consumer Affairs Ministry had launched this Mobile App last month to improve the quality of prices
data for reporting daily prices by the price reporting centers.
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• The App is providing effective real time information about retail and wholesale prices from 127 locations
across the country.
• The Ministry said, price reporting through Mobile App ensures reporting from the market location as data
are geo-tagged thereby displaying the location from where price data are reported.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh begins first academic session of MBBS at GMC, Doda
• Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the first
academic session of MBBS students at Government Medical College, Doda in Jammu division of
Jammu and Kashmir for the 2020-21 batch.
• Congratulating the students of the first batch of MBBS starting at GMC, Doda, the Minister described it
as a historic moment and welcomed development.
• He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan for the initiative
to set up world class health infrastructure in the Union Territory by building five new Medical colleges.
• Dr. Singh said, Udhampur-Doda is the only parliamentary constituency in India which has three
Government Medical Colleges.
Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) Celebrates its 9th Foundation Day
• The Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) celebrated its 9th Foundation Day on 01 March 2021.
• The event also included special addresses through virtual conferences by the High Commissioner of India
to Bangladesh, Shri Vikram Kumar Doraiswami and other senior officers from the Government of India
and the Asian Development Bank.
• The LPAI website, Newsletter and News Journal were also launched during the Foundation Day
event.
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• The event concluded with a virtual panel discussion on the subject “Facilitating Regional Trade and
Connectivity through Land Route”, which was attended by various eminent scholars and persons from
India, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal.
About LPAI :
• Founded : 1 March 2012
• The Land Ports Authority of India or LPAI is a statutory body working under the Ministry of Home Affairs,
Government of India is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining and managing border
infrastructure in India.
• It manages several Integrated Check Posts all across Borders of India.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal take the chair 3rd GCM of BIS
• Consumer Affairs Minister Piyush Goyal virtually presided the Third Governing Council Meeting of the
Bureau of Indian Standards.
• He reviewed the process of making Indian Standards and their implementation with BIS officials, senior
officials from different Ministries or Regulators.
• Mr Goyal said, there is a need to change the approach of the country towards standardization.
• He said, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given the three Mantras for faster economic development
SPEED, SKILL and SCALE.
• Mr Goyal said, now it is time to add the fourth dimension of STANDARD into this.
• The meeting was attended by the Minister of State for Consumer Affairs Raosaheb Patil Danve, MP
Rajya Sabha Mahesh Poddar, Secretary, Consumer Affairs Leena Nandan, DG, BIS P.K. Tiwari, Chairman
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of Quality Council of India Adil Zainulbhai and other senior officials of the Ministry and Bureau of Indian
Standards.
Real-Time Monitoring System of Toll Plazas launched by Union minister Nitin Gadkari
• Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari launched the Real-Time Monitoring
System of Toll Plazas at a function in New Delhi.
• Speaking on the occasion, Mr Gadkari said that implementation of FASTag at toll plazas has improved
electronic toll collections and facilitated ease of doing business.
• He said it also saves time and fuel.
• The government has made FASTag mandatory from the 15th February midnight and any vehicle not
fitted with it will be charged double the toll at electronic toll plazas across the country.
• Mr Gadkari said the government is also working on ways to reduce the number of road accidents in the
country by half up to 2025.
• Mr Gadkari said, over eleven thousand kilometres of National Highways were constructed in the 11
months of this financial year and the per day road construction has reached 33 kilometres.
Field assessment of Swachh Survekshan -2021 launched by Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry
• Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry launched the field assessment of Swachh Survekshan -2021 at a
web event in New Delhi.
• This will be the sixth edition of the annual cleanliness survey.
• Swachh Survekshan was introduced in 2016 as a competitive framework to encourage cities to improve
the status of urban sanitation while encouraging large scale citizen participation.
• Secretary of Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry Durga Shankar Mishra said, the survey has led to a
spirit of healthy competition among cities and towns.
Page 527 of 539

• The journey that started in 2016 with only 73 cities with a million plus population has grown manifold, with
434 cities in 2017, 4,203 cities in 2018, 4,237 cities in 2019 and 4,242 cities in 2020.
• Cities have been regularly filling in their data, updating their progress in the MIS along with running several
citizen centric campaigns in preparation of Swachh Survekshan-2021.
Sugamya Bharat App & handbook entitled “Access - The Photo Digest” launched by Union minister
Thaawarchand Gehlot
• Minister for Social justice and Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot will virtually launch “Sugamya
Bharat App” and a handbook entitled “Access - The Photo Digest”.
• Sugamya Bharat App is a means for sensitising and enhancing accessibility.
• It provides for five main features of which four are directly related to enhancing accessibility.
• They include registration of complaints of inaccessibility across the broad pillars of built environment,
transportation sector and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) ecosystem, positive
feedback of examples and best practices worth emulating being shared by people as jan-bhagidhari;
Departmental updates; and guidelines and circulars related to accessibility.
• The fifth feature is a special feature meant only for Divyangjan for COVID related issues.
PM Modi initiate Maritime India Summit-2021
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate Maritime India Summit-2021 through video conferencing.
• The three-day Summit will be held till 4th of March.
• The three-day Maritime India Summit -2021 is being organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and
Waterways on a virtual platform www.maritime india summit.in.
• The Summit will visualize a roadmap for India's Maritime sector for next decade and will work to propel
India to the forefront of the Global Maritime Sector.
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• Eminent speakers from several countries are expected to attend the Summit and explore the potential
business opportunities and investments in Indian Maritime domain.
• Denmark is the partner country for the three-day summit.
PM Modi salutes all those working towards wildlife protection- World Wildlife Day
• On World Wildlife Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has saluted all those working towards wildlife
protection.
• He said, be it lions, tigers and leopards, India is seeing a steady rise in the population of various animals.
• Mr Modi added that people should do everything possible to ensure protection of the country's forests
and safe habitats for animals.
India Sending Humanitarian Assistance To Drought-Hit Madagascar: S Jaishankar
• India announced it will send a consignment of 1,000 metric tonnes of rice and 100,000 tablets of
Hydroxychloroquine to drought-hit Madagascar.
• The humanitarian assistance will be delivered onboard the Indian Naval Ship Jalashwa. The ship will leave
with food and medical assistance on March 3 and is expected to reach the Port of Ehoala in Madagascar
between March 21 and 24.
• The Indian assistance was conveyed to the Madagascar government during External Affairs Minister S
Jaishankar's phone call with his Madagascar counterpart Tehindrazanarivelo Djacoba A.S Oliv.
• Indian naval training team will also be deployed in Madagascar for capacity building and training of the
Malagasy Special Forces for two weeks.
• Besides Madagascar , INS Jalashwa will also visit Port Anjoun in the Republic of Comoros to deliver a
consignment of 1,000 metric tonnes of Indian rice, following a commitment made by Vice President M
Venkaiah Naidu during his visit to Comoros in October 2019.
Page 529 of 539

• The supply of this food assistance was announced by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu during his visit
to Comoros in October 2019.
• The supplies of food assistance and support for capacity building to the friendly countries of Madagascar
and Comoros is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of SAGAR and India's time-tested role
as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region.
Union Cabinet apprised of the signing of MoU between India, French Republic in field of renewable energy
cooperation
• The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi was apprised of the signing of
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and French Republic in the field of renewable
energy cooperation.
• The MoU was signed in January this year.
• The objective of the MoU is to establish the basis for promotion of bilateral cooperation in the field of
new and renewable energy on the basis of mutual benefit, equality and reciprocity.
• It covers technologies relating to solar, wind, hydrogen and biomass energy. The MoU entails exchange
and training of scientific and technical personnel; exchange of scientific and technological information
and data; organization of workshops and seminars; transfer of equipment, know-how and technology and
development of joint research and technological projects.
• The MoU will help in the development of technological know-how in the field of Renewable Energy and
will aid the process of attaining the target of 450 GW of installed Renewable Energy capacity by 2030.
Page 530 of 539

PM Modi to Mark the inaugural session on 'Harnessing Education, Research and Skill Development for
Atmanirbhar Bharat'
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the inaugural session on 'Harnessing Education, Research
and Skill Development for an Atmanirbhar Bharat'.
• Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank will address valedictory session.
Education Minister releases study material of Indian Knowledge Tradition courses of NIOS
• Union Minister of Education Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ released the study material of Indian
Knowledge Tradition courses of National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
• Mr Pokhriyal said, NIOS is already making efforts to spread the Indian knowledge tradition within the
country and abroad.
• He informed, Vedic studies, Sanskrit grammar, Indian philosophy, Sanskrit literature and Sanskrit
language courses have been prepared for Secondary and Senior Secondary level by NIOS.
Government amends Insurance Ombudsman Rules, 2017
• Government on 2nd March 2021 notified comprehensive amendments to the Insurance Ombudsman
Rules, 2017, with a view to improve the working of the Insurance Ombudsman mechanism to facilitate
resolution of complaints regarding deficiencies in insurance services in a timely, cost-effective and
impartial manner.
About the amendments :
• The Ombudsman mechanism was administered by the Executive Council of Insurers, which has now been
renamed as the Council for Insurance Ombudsman
• Earlier, the scope of complaints to the Ombudsman was limited to only disputes, but now it has been
enlarged to include deficiencies in service on the part of insurers, agents, brokers and other
intermediaries.
Page 531 of 539

• The amended rules have also enlarged the scope of complaints to the Ombudsman and insurance brokers
have been brought within the ambit of the redressal mechanism.
• To strengthen the timeliness and cost-effectiveness of the mechanism, policyholders will now be enabled
for making complaints electronically to the Ombudsman.
• The new rules notified through an official gazette also pave way for setting up a complaints management
system to enable policyholders track the status of their complaints online.
• Further, the Ombudsman may use video-conferencing for hearings.
Indigenously designed and developed Spectrograph, commissioned in Nainital
• The ‘Made in India’ optical spectrograph named as Aries-Devasthal Faint Object Spectrograph &
Camera (ADFOSC) is indigenously designed and developed by Aryabhatta Research Institute of
observational sciences (ARIES), Nainital.
About the Spectrograph :
• The spectrograph is presently being used by astronomers from India and abroad to study distant quasars
and galaxies in a very young universe, regions around supermassive black-holes around the galaxies,
cosmic explosions like supernovae and highly energetic Gamma-ray bursts, young and massive stars, and
faint dwarf galaxies.
• It is about 2.5 times less costly compared to the imported ones and can locate sources of light with a
photon-rate as low as about 1 photon per second.
• This low-cost optical spectrograph can locate sources of faint light from distant quasars and galaxies in
a very young universe, regions around supermassive black-holes around the galaxies, and cosmic
explosions. The total cost of this instrument is nearly Rs. 4 Crore.
Page 532 of 539

• The spectroscope, the largest of its kind among the existing astronomical spectrographs in the country,
has been successfully commissioned on the 3.6-m Devasthal Optical Telescope (DOT), the largest in the
country and in Asia, near Nainital, Uttarakhand.
About ADFOSC :
• It is an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.
• The ADFOSC spectrograph can locate sources of faint light from distant quasars and galaxies in a very
young universe, regions around supermassive black-holes around the galaxies, and cosmic explosions
About Aryabhatta Research Institute of observational sciences :
Nag River Pollution Abatement Project approved at a cost of over Rs 2,117
• Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that the Nag River Pollution Abatement Project has been
approved at a cost of over Rs 2,117 crore.
• The river which flows through Nagpur city thus giving its name to the city is now a highly polluted water
channel of sewage and industrial waste.
• It will reduce the pollution level in terms of untreated sewage, flowing solid waste and other impurities
flowing into the Nag river and its tributaries.
• The project approved under the National River Conservation Plan will be implemented by the National
River Conservation Directorate.
Wipro joins World Economic Forum initiative to advance racial justice, social equality
• Wipro has joined the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) ‘Partnering for Racial Justice in Business’
initiative to promote a culture of diversity, inclusion, equity and justice for people of all racial
backgrounds in the workplace.
Page 533 of 539

• The initiative is aimed towards driving action and accountability for companies to confront racism at a
systemic level, set new global standards for racial justice in business and accomplish necessary policy
changes for inclusion and advancement of professionals with under-represented racial and ethnic
identities, said the company in a press release.
About Wipro :
• CEO: Thierry Delaporte
• Founder: M.H. Hasham Premji
• Founded: 29 December 1945, India
• Owner: Azim Premji
I&B Minister Holds meeting with OTT industry representatives
• Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar held a meeting with representatives of Over
the Top, OTT industry and explained to them the provisions of the new OTT rules.
• The Minister mentioned that the Government has done several rounds of consultation with the OTT
players in the past and stressed the need for self-regulation.
• Informing them about the provisions of the rules, Mr. Javadekar said, it merely requires them to disclose
information and that there is no requirement of registration of any kind with the Ministry.
• He added that a form for this will be ready soon.
• It was highlighted that the rules focus on self classification of content instead of any form of censorship.
Page 534 of 539

PM Modi pays tributes to 105th Birth Anniversary of former Odisha CM Biju Patnaik
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to former Chief Minister of Odisha Biju Patnaik on his
105th Birth Anniversary(5th March).
• Mr Modi said, Biju Babu's futuristic vision for India, emphasis on human empowerment as well as social
justice inspires us all.
• He said, the nation is proud of his efforts for Odisha’s progress.
PM Modi to hold virtual summit with Swedish counterpart
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a virtual summit with his Swedish counterpart Stefan Löfven.
• This will be the fifth interaction between the two leaders since 2015.
• India and Sweden have warm and friendly relations based on shared values of democracy, freedom,
pluralism and rules-based international order.
• During the Summit, the two leaders will hold comprehensive discussions on the entire spectrum of the
bilateral relations and exchange views on regional and global issues including further strengthening of
cooperation in the post-COVID era.
• Around 250 Swedish companies are actively operating in India in various sectors such as health and life
sciences, auto industry, clean technology, defence, heavy machinery and equipment. Around 75 Indian
companies are also active in Sweden.
Union Education Minister announces opening of 2 new KVs in Punjab and Karnataka
• Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ announced opening of two new Kendriya Vidyalayas
in Karnataka and Punjab.
• KV Sadalaga, Belagavi, in Karnataka and KV IIT Ropar in Punjab will be two new additions to Kendriya
Vidyalaya Sangathan.
• With this, the total number of KVs across the country will rise to 1247.
Page 535 of 539

• Initially, these two Vidyalayas will function with classes I to V and grow consequentially upto class XII.
• When these Vidyalayas start functioning in full capacity, around 1000 students of the area will be benefited
in each school.
• The Admission process in both the Vidyalayas will start in the academic session 2021-22.
Combined Commanders' Conference starts at Kevadiya in Gujarat
• A three-day Combined Commanders' Conference will begin at Kevadia in Gujarat.
• Theaterisation of armed forces, self-reliance in the defence sector and evolving threats in the region will
be the focus areas during the three-day annual event.
• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will address the top commanders of the Indian Army, Navy and Air
Force.
• During the conference, the setting up a new air defence command and maritime command is likely to be
discussed at length.
• Implementation of the air defence command timeline is also likely to come up for discussion.
• The formation of theatre commands will synergise the capabilities and combat potential of the three forces
during war and peace
IMPCL decided to sell products on Government e-Market portal
• Indian Medicines Pharmaceutical Corporation Limited (IMPCL) will sell products on the Government
e-Market (GeM) portal.
• The IMPCL and GeM has finalised a deal in this regard and now the Ayurvedic and Unani medicines of
IMPCL will figure on the GeM portal to hundreds of government sector buyers.
• This will facilitate quick procurement of these medicines by Central and State Government institutions for
their healthcare programmes.
Page 536 of 539

• It will also help to streamline the procurement and distribution of Ayurvedic and Unani medicines by State
Units.
• The thousands of patients and other clients who visit Government Ayush hospitals every day stand to gain
because of this increased availability of such medicines even in far-flung Ayush Hospitals and Clinics.
• The GeM has created 31 categories covering 311 medicines which live in the marketplace and IMPCL
can now upload these medicines on GeM Portal.
• IMPCL, the 100 crore rupees turnover PSU of the Ministry of AYUSH, is one of the most trusted
manufacturers of Ayush medicines in the country and is known for the authenticity of its formulations.
PM Modi inaugurates 7500th Janaushadhi Kendra at NEIGRIHMS, Shillong
• On March 07, 2021,Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the ‘Janaushadhi Diwas’ celebrations via
video conferencing.
• The last day of the week which falls on 7th March is celebrated as ‘Janaushadhi Diwas’.
• The theme of Janaushadhi Diwas 2021 is “Jan Aushadhi – Seva bhi, Rozgar bhi”.
• The Prime Minister will dedicate to the nation the 7500th Janaushadhi Kendra at North Eastern Indira
Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences (NEIGRIHMS), Shillong during the event.
• The celebrations are organised by the Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI), the implementing agency
• In 2021, third Janaushadhi Diwas is being celebrated.
About PMBJP:
• Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana is a campaign launched by the Department of
Pharmaceuticals, Government of India, to provide quality medicines at affordable prices to the masses
through special kendras known as Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Kendra.
Page 537 of 539

India Science Research Fellowship (ISRF) 2021 Announced; 40 Scholars From Six Countries Awarded
• Forty scholars from six countries have been awarded with Indian Science Research Fellowship (ISRF)
2021.
• The forty scholars will now have the opportunity to carry out their research in Indian institutes and
universities.
• These scholars have been selected based on research proposal, experience, academic merit and
publication record and recommended for the award of ISRF 2021.
About ISRF:
• ISRF programme has provided an opportunity to the young researchers from neighbouring countries to get
access to the state of art facilities available in the Indian institutes/universities.
• This fellowship is a platform to establish research cooperation with neighbouring countries of India, which
is one of the mandates of DST’s International Science and Technology Cooperation.
• The initiative was launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) in 2015 for
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand.
• It has been implemented since 2015, and as of now, 5 calls have been announced in this programme with
participation of young researchers from these countries. About 128 fellows from these countries have
been awarded fellowship under this programme.
National Committee to commemorate 75 years of India’s Independence to hold its first meeting
• The National Committee set up to commemorate 75 years of India’s Independence will hold its first
meeting to discuss modalities relating to preparatory activities.
• The 259 member committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will meet virtually.
• The committee includes Union Ministers, Chief Ministers, Governors as well as leaders of different
political parties including BJP President JP Nadda and Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi.
Page 538 of 539

• The Government has decided to commemorate 75 years of India’s Independence in a befitting manner at
National and International level in the form of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
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Last 6 Months National & State Current Affairs (Oct 2020 to Mar 2021)

Last 6 Months National & State Current Affairs

1. October 2020 – National & State Current Affairs 2

2. November 2020 – National & State Current Affairs 70

3. December 2020 – National & State Current Affairs 143

4. January 2021 – National & State Current Affairs 266

5. February 2021 – National & State Current Affairs 347

6. March 2021 – National & State Current Affairs 522

October 2020 – National & State Current Affairs

Rs 15,000 Cr Loan Sanctioned For Projects: Urban Affairs Ministry.

official of the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry said

transparency and accountability in monitoring progress of projects and administering loan.

South Eastern Railway launches ‘Operation My Saheli’

Yesvantpur Duronto Special, Howrah- Ahmedabad Special and Howrah-Mumbai Special.

expenditure is provided by the Head of Railways.

Conferencing on 30 September 2020 in New Delhi.

and enterprise among SC students studying in higher educational institutions.

Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) in various higher educational institutions.

• This tunnel is connecting Manali to Lahaul-Spiti valley throughout the year.

time on 01.10.2020 at 11.00 AM.

• Parent Ministry: Ministry of Communications

• Headquarters: New Delhi

• Founded: 1 April 1854

different AYUSH pharmacies.

• Minister of State: Shripad Yesso Naik

webinar titled ‘Swachhata Ke 6 Saal, Bemisaal’.

eliminate open defecation and improve solid waste management.

phase of the Mission.

Tribes India E-Marketplace – India’s Largest Market of Tribal Products

and brings the best of tribal produce.

Ministry of Tribal Affairs

• Union Minister: Arjun Munda

Govt sets up panel to screen all Chinese foreign investment proposals

“non-controversial” could be approved.

Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) secretary as a member.

• Parent organization: Ministry of Commerce and Industry

• Union Ministry of Power released the Draft Electricity Rules 2020.

are not provided in the PPA.

• Union Minister: Raj Kumar Singh

• Constituency: Arrah, Bihar

Partenership with Assocham

Development Programme on 2nd October 2020 through Video conference.

for Excellence Initiative

implemented by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and ASSOCHAM.

and support India’s vision of becoming Atmanirbhar.

• State formed on: 25 January 1971

• Governor: Bandaru Dattatreya

• Chief Minister: Jai Ram Thakur

• Official language: Hindi

• Literacy Rate: 83.78%

Govt of India launches 100-day campaign under Jal Jeevan Mission

supply to schools and Anganwadi centres.

Jal Shakti Ministry

• Union Minister: Gajendra Singh Shekhawat

• Minister of State: Rattan Lal Kataria

• CEO: Anil Kumar Chaudhary

• Headquarters: New Delhi

Puducherry airport becomes AAI’s first 100% solar-powered airport