GK Today Nov (16-30) 2019 PDF

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Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019
Last Updated: December 8, 2019

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Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019
Tarun Singh | datarun92@gmail.com |
Contents
......................... _ _ ..... .... .. ...................................................................
News Headlines: November 16-30, 2019 ................................................................................................................................................. 3
Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 16, 2019 .............................................................................................................. 3
Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 20, 2019 ............................................................................................................. 6
Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 24, 2019 ............................................................................................................ 10
Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 25, 2019 ............................................................................................................. 11
November 16, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Regional Conference on ‘Replication of Good Governance Practices in J&K, Ladakh’ ........................................................ 16
WTO Panel rejects India’s claims on Steel issues with the US ................................................................................................... 16
National Mission ‘NISHTHA’ launched in J&K .............................................................................................................................. 17
European Investment Bank to stop Fossil Fuel Funding by 2021 .............................................................................................. 17
Aadi Mahotsav: Fortnight long Tribal Festival being held in New Delhi ................................................................................. 17
Defence Minister inaugurates Sisseri River Bridge in East Siang ............................................................................................... 18
GoI: Consumer Expenditure Survey, 2017-18 not to be released due to quality issues ....................................................... 18
Trace Bribery Risk Matrix 2019 ........................................................................................................................................................ 19
NDRF: New unit to save heritage structures .................................................................................................................................. 19
OCSAE: On-line Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Prevention Unit set up by CBI ........................................................ 20
BIS: Water Quality Report for state Capitals and New Delhi released .................................................................................... 20
November 17, 2019 ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
India completes Agni II test fire successfully .................................................................................................................................. 21
AIIB to invest 100 million USD in solar and wind projects in India ......................................................................................... 21
DPIIT establishes Development Council for Bicycle .................................................................................................................... 22
Home Ministry, UN Women Launches Campaign to End Violence Against Women .......................................................... 22
Darjeeling Green Tea & White Tea receive GI Tag ..................................................................................................................... 23
Health Ministry launches ‘SAANS’ campaign ................................................................................................................................ 23
India International Cherry Blossom Festival celebrated in Shillong .......................................................................................... 24
GoI conducts first ever National Agro Chemicals Congress in New Delhi ............................................................................ 24
International Conference on Yoga held in Mysuru ...................................................................................................................... 25
Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik-The first Indian to win Italian Golden Sand Art Award ...................................................... 25
Hayabusa2: Japanese spacecraft starts year-long journey home from asteroid ..................................................................... 26
November 18, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Special Winter Grade Fuel launched for Ladakh Region ............................................................................................................ 26
Sri Lanka Election: Gotbaya Rajapaksa to be sworn in as new President ............................................................................... 27
World Bank’s 300 million USD plan to Develop Kolkata .......................................................................................................... 27
17 November: World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims ................................................................................... 27
Harmeet Desai wins men’s singles title at ITTF Challenge Table Tennis tournament ........................................................ 28
Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan sworn in as 13th Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court .................................................................. 28
GoI merges three Insurance PSUs ................................................................................................................................................... 29
8th International Conference on Agricultural Statistics organized in New Delhi ................................................................. 29
Report: India-2nd largest in sending students to US ................................................................................................................... 29
India extends Visa-on-Arrival facility to UAE nationals ............................................................................................................... 30
Indian Army conducts Sindhu Sudarshan exercise in Barmer, Rajasthan ............................................................................... 30
Government to set up FACT Check Module to curb fake news .............................................................................................. 31
ICMR inks agreement with NIAD and Gates Foundation for healthcare research collaboration ...................................... 31
Pakistan-First Country to introduce WHO approved India made Typhoid Vaccine ............................................................. 32
Thailand hosts 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus .................................................................................................... 33
Roar of the sea: Naval Exercise between Qatar and India .......................................................................................................... 33
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 2
November 19, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 34
November 19: World Toilet Day ...................................................................................................................................................... 34
NITI Aayog Report: Health Reforms ............................................................................................................................................... 34
Indian boxer Sarita Devi elected to AIBA first Athletes Commission ...................................................................................... 34
Initiatives of GoI to promote Fit India Movement in schools .................................................................................................... 35
Health Ministry sign MoC with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for technical support .................................................... 35
India to host the Kimberely Process Certification Scheme ......................................................................................................... 36
12th Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2019 held in Lucknow ............................................................................... 37
Grassroot Olympic- Mission Talent Hunt launched in Assam to groom talent .................................................................... 37
India and ADB sign 91 million USD to improve water resources in Karnataka ................................................................... 37
ISRO to Launch 13 satellites and Cartosat-3 .................................................................................................................................. 38
Pakistan successfully test fires Shaheen-1 surface-to-surface ballistic missile ......................................................................... 38
Implementation Updates: National Biofuel Policy ......................................................................................................................... 39
Centre bans Meghalaya-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council ............................................... 39
Committee on Companies Act, 2013 submits its report to Finance Ministry ........................................................................ 40
India ranks 59th in 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking ............................................................................................................... 40
November 20, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
DRDO to double ASTRA’s range ..................................................................................................................................................... 41
IRCTC Revenue doubles; 14% increase in profits ......................................................................................................................... 41
2020 Hockey Pro League: Bhubaneswar to host India’s home matches ................................................................................ 42
Haryana Government sets up new Foreign Cooperation Department .................................................................................... 42
IRCTC signs an MoU with KSTDC to run the Golden Chariot Train ................................................................................... 42
Kolkata becomes first City to Install ‘Third Umpire’ RT-PCR Machines in India ................................................................. 43
Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for 2019: David Attenborough ........................................................................................................ 43
2nd South Asia Safety Summit held in New Delhi ...................................................................................................................... 44
India initiates New Visa exemption for foreigners seeking medical treatment ...................................................................... 44
India hosts World Customs Organization RCP meeting of Asia Pacific .................................................................................. 45
2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products held in New Delhi ........................................................................ 45
International Energy Agency releases World Energy Outlook, 2019 ....................................................................................... 45
India-ASEAN Inno Tech Summit 2019 .......................................................................................................................................... 46
Parliament passes Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 ................................................................ 46
November 21, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 47
November 20: World COPD Day-marked by WHO .................................................................................................................. 47
GoI to expand WHO’s 3S programme in the country ................................................................................................................ 47
NITI Aayog’s concerns on Vehicle Scrappage Policy .................................................................................................................. 48
World Children’s Day observed on November 20 ....................................................................................................................... 48
Annual Report on Road Accidents in India released .................................................................................................................... 49
Cabinet approves Recycling of Ships bill, 2019 ............................................................................................................................ 49
Cabinet approves Patent Prosecution Highway programme ..................................................................................................... 49
Strategic Disinvestment of BPCL and 4 other PSUs .................................................................................................................... 50
5th India – Europe 29 Business Forum held in New Delhi ....................................................................................................... 50
National Intelligence Grid will begin operating from December 31, 2020 ............................................................................. 51
NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 to be held in Manesar, Haryana ............................................................................................... 51
Prithvi-2 missile successfully test fired ............................................................................................................................................. 52
President’s Colour awarded to Indian Naval Academy ................................................................................................................ 52
Cabinet approves establishment of National Institute of Sowa Rigpa at Leh ......................................................................... 53
November 22, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 53
DRDO offers free access to its 450 patents .................................................................................................................................. 53
NIA hosts the first counter terrorism exercise for Quad Countries ......................................................................................... 54
Cabinet approves Industrial Relations Code, 2019 ....................................................................................................................... 54
Assam Government to launch Arundhati Swarna Yojana ........................................................................................................... 55
Microsoft launches K-12 Education Transformation Framework ............................................................................................. 55
Lieutenant Shivangi: 1st woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval operations ..................................................................... 55
Avian Botulism-Reason behind birds’ death in Sambhar Lake .................................................................................................. 55
Government to launch first fixed income ETF of bluechip PSUs ............................................................................................. 56
CIC Annual Report tabled in Lok Sabha ........................................................................................................................................ 57
US approves sale of 13 MK45 Naval gun worth $1 billion to India ......................................................................................... 57
India for Humanity-Jaipur Foot event organised at US Capitol building ................................................................................ 57

November 23, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 58
Indian Railways: North East State capitals linking, Act East policy and Electrification ......................................................... 58
National Policy to speed up Gas Infrastructure ............................................................................................................................. 59
Tourism Ministry organising 8th International Tourism Mart 2019 ....................................................................................... 59
WHO study on physical activity-India ranks 8th .......................................................................................................................... 60
J&K achieves highest road length in country under PMGSY in 2019 ..................................................................................... 60
GoI new scheme: Rs 400 crores for testing MSME Defense products ................................................................................... 61
50th Governors Conference inaugurated in Rashtrapathi Bhavan ............................................................................................ 61
Internet Connections to 2 lakh Gram Panchayat by 2020 ......................................................................................................... 61
November 24, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 62
Mine Counter Measure Exercise-first time between India and Japan ...................................................................................... 62
Destination North East Festival held in Varanasi ........................................................................................................................... 62
RBI enhances scope of Special Non-Resident Rupee accounts .................................................................................................. 63
November 23: Poonch Link up Day celebrated by Indian Army .............................................................................................. 63
AIIA signs MoU with Western Sydney University to promote Ayurveda ............................................................................... 63
ETVAX: Potential Diarrhea vaccine developed in Sweden ......................................................................................................... 64
Global Bio-India Summit: India’s first largest biotechnology conference ............................................................................... 64
Researcher finds Earth’s Most Uninhabitable Place ...................................................................................................................... 65
Secretagogin: Protein that helps regulate blood sugar levels identified Indian scientists ..................................................... 65
China warns cattle imports as India notifies OIE about cattle disease in Odisha .................................................................. 66
Madhya Pradesh: Sportspersons will get 5% reservation in government jobs ...................................................................... 66
CBDT inaugurates Web Portal for exchange of information on Income Tax ....................................................................... 67
MoSPI: Unemployment rates fall in second quarter .................................................................................................................... 67
November 25, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 68
NSO report: Rural India yet to become Open Defecation Free ................................................................................................ 68
NSS releases report on disability ...................................................................................................................................................... 68
Manipur Sangai Festival 2019 being organised in Imphal ......................................................................................................... 69
NSO Survey on Household Health Expenditure ........................................................................................................................... 69
Etawah Lion Safari inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh ........................................................................................................................ 69
Fadnavis sworn in as Maharashtra CM: SC’s concept of fast Floor Tests ............................................................................. 70
National Tribal Craft Mela- 2019 being held in Bhubaneswar ................................................................................................. 70
Bill to merge UTs Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu ............................................................................................ 71
25 November: International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women ................................................................ 71
71st raising Day celebrated by NCC ................................................................................................................................................ 71
Centre extends ban on Assam-based NDFB by another 5 years .............................................................................................. 72
PM Modi launches Fit India School grading system in schools across India ......................................................................... 72
November 26, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 73
Guru Ghasidas National Park to become Chhattisgarh’s 4th tiger reserve .......................................................................... 73
Indian Railways sets up Institute of Financial Management in Hyderabad ............................................................................ 73
Milan 2020: Indian Navy to host multi-nation military drill in March .................................................................................... 74
CLAP: Credit-linked Subsidy Services Awas Portal launched by governmnet ...................................................................... 74
India attends WATEC Conference in Israel ................................................................................................................................... 74
26 November 2019: 70th Constitution Day ................................................................................................................................. 75
India-Netherland: “Water 4 change”, an urban water management system ......................................................................... 75
13th Asia Pacific Screen Awards ...................................................................................................................................................... 76
UP launches Filaria Campaign .......................................................................................................................................................... 76
Food Processing Scheme: 271 crores cleared by IMAC ............................................................................................................. 76
26 November: National Milk Day ................................................................................................................................................... 77
Sumatran Rhinos go extinct in Malaysia ........................................................................................................................................ 77
CRY Report on Crime against Children in India .......................................................................................................................... 78
November 27, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 78
DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy awarded honorary fellowship by Royal Aeronautical Society of UK ................... 78
DEFCOM INDIA 2019 seminar being held in New Delhi ........................................................................................................ 79
Global Exhibition on Services-2019 organised in Bengaluru ..................................................................................................... 79
RBI raises concerns over bad loans from Mudra Yojana ........................................................................................................... 80
HRD Ministry launches Kartavya Portal ......................................................................................................................................... 81
Lokpal Logo & Motto launched ......................................................................................................................................................... 81
Cabinet approves India-Saudi Arabia Agreement on Strategic Partnership Council ............................................................ 82
Parliament passes Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019 ............................................................................. 82
Parliament passes National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill ........................................................................................... 83
November 28, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 83
Cabinet approves Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement between India-Chile .................................................................. 83
India-Myanmar MoU on bilateral cooperation for Prevention of Trafficking in Persons ................................................... 84
Cabinet approves loan waiver of worth Rs.4 Cr against Sikkim Mining Corporation ........................................................ 84
Cabinet approves MoUs with Saudi Arabia to combat smuggling of narcotic drugs .......................................................... 85
Authorised capital of Food Corporation of India increased to Rs.10000 cr from Rs.3500 cr .......................................... 85
NuGen Mobility Summit-2019 being held in Haryana ............................................................................................................... 86
Cabinet approves extension of norms for mandatory packaging in jute materials ............................................................... 86
Global Diplomacy Index 2019 .......................................................................................................................................................... 87
November 29, 2019 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 88
Shipping Ministry approves Loktak Inland Waterways Project in Manipur ........................................................................... 88
1st International Conference on Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience ............................................................................ 88
NIFTEM to conduct National Organic Festival of Women Entrepreneurs ............................................................................ 89
Govt propose to set up new rocket launch pad near Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu ................................................ 89
ADB, India sign $451 million loan to strengthen Power Connectivity in Tamil Nadu ........................................................ 90
Govt. constitutes committee for reviewing draft of National Code for Good Governance in Sports .............................. 90
NDTV wins International Press Institute India award for Excellence in Journalism .............................................................. 91
Indian Army successfully test-fires Spike LR missile .................................................................................................................... 91
November 30, 2019 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 91
Indian Navy test-fires Brahmos supersonic cruise missile .......................................................................................................... 92
UNDP launches Accelerator Lab in New Delhi ............................................................................................................................ 92
Former RBI deputy governor H R Khan to chair Micro-Finance panel .................................................................................. 92
Aditya Birla Finance becomes first company to list commercial papers on stock exchanges ............................................ 93
All India Police Science Congress organised in Lucknow ........................................................................................................... 93
India Corruption Survey 2019 .......................................................................................................................................................... 93
Malayalam poet Akkitham wins 55th Jnanpith Award ............................................................................................................... 94
DHFL becomes 1st financial services firm to be taken to NCLT .............................................................................................. 95
UKIBC sets up Aerospace and Defence Industry Group ............................................................................................................ 95
UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2019 .................................................................................................................................................. 96
Multiple Choice Questions ......................................................................................................................................................................... 96

News Headlines: November 16-30, 2019
Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 16, 2019
India
Defence Minister inaugurates 200-m long Sisseri River bridge at Lower Dibang Valley in Arunachal
Pradesh
AYUSH Ministry organising International Conference on Yoga in Mysuru on Nov 15-16; theme: ‘Yoga
for Heart Care’
Delhi govt. signs MoU with J-PAL (Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab), co-founded by 2019 Nobel
laureate Abhijit Banerjee, to conduct real-time monitoring of its public services
Punjab govt. gives Rs 2,500 per acre as compensation to small and marginal farmers for not burning
paddy straw
India ranks second in govt requests for user data from Facebook in first half of 2019; US tops
Govt asks airlines to have Swachh Bharat-themed cover page for in-flight magazines
Home Ministry and UN Women launch awareness campaign to end violence against women
Ramesh Hospitals Vijayawada sets Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of cardiac
surgery patients at one place
Agriculture Ministry to hold International Conference on Agricultural Statistics in New Delhi on Nov
18-21
Economy & Corporate
Foreign exchange reserves touch a new high of USD 447.81 billion in the week to November 8
Govt won’t release Consumer Expenditure Survey results of 2017-2018 due to data quality issues
DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) establishes Development Council for
Bicycle
‘Titan’s watch brand Sonata launches smartwatches – Stride and Stride Pro from Rs. 2995
Mahindra Group subsidiary Classic Legends launches Jawa Perak motorcycle at Rs 1.94 lakh
Vodafone Idea reports a loss of Rs 50,921 crore for July-September quarter, highest ever for any
Indian company
World
India pledges to contribute $13.5 mn for UN development activities for 2020
Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is 2020 Republic Day chief guest
BRICS Summit held in Brasilia on November 13-14; theme ‘BRICS: Economic Growth for an Innovative
Future’
Swedish PEN’s Tucholsky Prize awarded to detained Chinese-Swedish book publisher Gui Minhai
Branko Lustig, producer of ‘Schindler’s List’ and ‘Gladiator’, dies art 87
Sports
Sharad Kumar and Mariyappan Thangavelu win silver and bronze respectively in high-jump at World
Para-Athletics
India successfully conducts night trial of 2,000-km range surface-to-surface Agni II missile
Health Ministry launches ‘SAANS’ campaign aimed at reducing child mortality due to pneumonia
SAANS is Social Awareness and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia
EC to establish chair in honour of former CEC TN Seshan at IIIDEM ((India International Institute of
Democracy and Election Management)), New Delhi
Mumbai tops the tap water quality ranking released by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
National Press Day celebrated on November 16; marks the foundation of Press Council of India in

1966
National Tribal Festival ‘Aadi Mahotsav’ being held in New Delhi from November 16 to 30
International Cherry Blossom Festival celebrated in Shillong from November 13 to 16
Infosys Foundation chairman Sudha Murty launches her new book ‘The Daughter from a Wishing Tree:
Unusual Tales about Women in Mythology’
ITAT (Income Tax Appellate Tribunal) orders withdrawal of income tax exemption to Congress-
controlled Young Indian
Students in Kerala’s Ernakulum district set a new Guinness World Record for holding the largest
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training on a single day
Goa’s Director General of Police Pranab Nanda dies at 57 in New Delhi
Economy & Corporate
SC paves way for ArcelorMittal’s takeover of Essar Steel in ₹42,000 crore deal
Darjeeling’s green and white tea registered as geographical indication (GI) products
World
International Day for Tolerance observed on November 16
US Senate unanimously passes resolution honouring Sikh Community
Bangladesh’s Rabindra Sangeet exponent Rezwana Choudhury Bannya conferred the ICCR (Indira
Gandhi Cultural Centre) distinguished alumni award in Dhaka
Sports
Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) President Rajat Sharma resigns
India beat Bangladesh by an innings and 130-run victory in the first Test at Indore
India
Indian Army conducting Sindhu Sudarshan exercise in Barmer, Rajasthan from Nov 16 to Dec 5
ICMR inks agreement with NIAD of US and Gates Foundation for healthcare research collaboration
ICMR: Indian Council of Medical Research, NIAD: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Justice Ravi Ranjan sworn in as new chief justice of the Jharkhand High Court in Ranchi
India extends Visa-on-Arrival facility to nationals of the United Arab Emirates
Economy & Corporate
PSU Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) starts supplying a special winter-grade diesel to Ladakh
NCAER pegs India’s GDP growth for 2019-20 at 4.9% in its mid-year review
World
SLPP (Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna) candidate Gotabaya Rajapaksa wins Presidential election in Sri
Lanka
World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims observed on November 17
Sports
India’s Purav Raja and Ramkumar Ramanathan win men’s doubles title at KPIT MSLTA Challenger
tennis in Pune
Hong Kong Open Badminton: Honk Kong’s Lee Cheuk Yiu (men’s) and China’s Chen Yu Fei (women’s)
win singles titles
India’s Harmeet Desai wins men’s singles title at the ITTF Challenge Indonesia Open Table Tennis
tournament
India
Justice R. Banumathi to become part of SC collegium, which comprises five senior-most judges, with
the retirement of CJI Ranjan Gogoi
Rajya Sabha begins its historic 250th Session
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar holds talks with his Bhutanese counterpart Lyonpo Tandi Dorji
in Delhi
AP CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launches toll-free number 14500 to report incidents of sand
smuggling
Health Ministry sign Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
(BMGF) for technical support
12th Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2019 organised in Lucknow
Home Ministry bans Meghalaya-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council
(HNLC)
IMD World Talent Ranking
India was ranked 59th (53rd in 2019) among 63 countries in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking that
was topped by Switzerland.
The ranking is based on the performance in three main categories — investment & development,
appeal and readiness
IMD (International Institute for Management Development) is a business school based in Switzerland.
BPKK
Union WCD Minister Smriti Irani along with Bill Gates, co-chair of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation,
launched the Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK) in New Delhi
BPKK is a repository of diverse crops across 128 agro-climatic zones in India
It has been launched to provide insights on traditional crop varieties and promote dietary diversity.
ICMR AWARDS
Bill Gates presented lifetime achievement awards of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in
New Delhi on Nov 17
The awards were given to Dr Cyrus S. Poonawalla, CMD, Serum Institute of India, Kiran Mazumdar-
Shaw, CMD, Biocon India and Dr Prakash Baba Amte, Director, Lok Biradari Prakalp
Economy & Corporate
ADB to provide $91 million loan to modernize the Vijayanagara Channel irrigation systems in
Karnataka
World
India-Qatar maritime exercise Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea) being held in Doha from Nov 17 to 21
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attends 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) in
Bangkok; ‘Sustainable Security’ was theme of the meeting
India, France to carry out joint patrolling in Indian Ocean Region in 2020: French Navy Chief Admiral
Christophe Prazuck
Pakistan successfully test fires 650-km range Shaheen-1 surface-to-surface ballistic missile that is
capable of delivering all types of warheads
Sports
Hosts Brazil defeat Mexico in final 2-1 at Estádio Bezerrão, Gama to lift Men’s FIFA Under-17 World
Cup trophy
Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece wins men’s singles title at ATP Finals in Milan, Italy
Red Bull driver Max Verstappen wins Formula One Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos, Sao Paulo
South Korea’s Kim Joo Hyung wins the Panasonic Open golf tournament in Gurugram
Assam Olympic Association (AOA) to launch ‘Grassroot Olympic – Mission Talent Hunt’ to identify
the sports talent

JALLIANWALA BILL
Parliament passes Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill 2019
The bill removes the provision of having the Congress president as a permanent member in the trust
that runs the Memorial
India
Avalanche hits Army patrol in Siachen Glacier; 4 soldiers, 2 porters killed
NIA (National Investigation Agency) hosting first ‘CT-TTX’ (counter-terrorism table-top exercise) for
the ‘Quad’ countries (India, the US, Japan and Australia) in New Delhi on November 21-22
Google removes secessionist mobile application ‘2020 Sikh Referendum’ from its Play Store
British naturalist & broadcaster Sir David Attenborough wins 2019 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace,
Disarmament and Development
AP govt. hikes financial assistance to Christians for undertaking pilgrimage to Jerusalem and other
Biblical places
Economy & Corporate
owned banks reported frauds of over Rs 95,700 crore in the first 6 months of 2019-20: Finance
Minister
GRSE (Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers) delivers FPV (Fast Patrol Vessel) ICGS ‘Amrit Kaur’
to Indian Coast Guard
IRCTC, Karnataka sign agreement to restart Golden Chariot luxury train from March 2020
Lenovo launches ThinkBook laptops for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs)
Infosys tops Rs 10,000-crore exports in 2018-19, recognised as IT Ratna of Karnataka by Software
Technology Parks of India (STPI)
Visakhapatnam Police launch robot CYBIRA that can automatically take complaints
Second edition of South Asia Safety Summit held in New Delhi
World
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pays floral tributes to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose at the Indian
National Army (INA) Memorial in Singapore
US backs Israel’s right to build settlements in occupied West Bank in the Palestinian territories
Pakistan lifts ban on the postal mail services with India that were imposed in August
World Toilet Day observed on November 19, 2019 with its theme as ‘Leaving No One Behind’
Sports
ITF announces Kazakhstan’s capital Nur-Sultan as venue for India-Pakistan Asia/Oceania Group 1 Tie
of Davis Cup tennis on November 29-30
India
Nuclear capable Prithvi-2 missile of 350-km range successfully testfired from a mobile launcher from
the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha at night
President’s Colour awarded to Indian Naval Academy (INA) at Ezhimala, Kerala
Home Ministry cancels citizenship of Telangana MLA Ramesh Chennamaneni for concealing facts
about his visits abroad
Arunachal Pradesh: First Hindi newspaper ‘Aruna Bhoomi’ launched
Tripura govt. to elevate the status of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC)
into a ‘Territorial Council’ to provide more autonomy and financial grants to it
Uzbekistan’s Internal Affairs Minister Pulat Bobojonov visits India
Union Cabinet approves a bill to grant ownership rights to residents of Delhi’s unauthorised colonies
CHIT FUNDS BILL
The Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed by the Lok Sabha on November 20, 2019
The Bill raises the monetary limits for chit funds by three times
The maximum chit amount raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 3 lakh for those managed by individuals or
less than four partners, and from Rs 6 lakh to Rs 18 lakh for firms with four or more partners.
The maximum commission for the person managing the fund raised to 7% from the current 5%.
The bill removes the limit of Rs 100, and allows the state governments to specify the base amount
over which the provisions of the Act would apply
Economy & Corporate
RBI supersedes Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Limited (DHFL) board, to initiate insolvency
proceedings because of governance concerns and payment defaults
India – Europe 29 Business Forum organized by External Affairs Ministry and CII in New Delhi
Europe 29 region refers to the 29 countries in Central, Eastern and Northern Europe
International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) organising NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 in
Manesar on Nov 27-29
World
Defence Ministers Rajnath Singh and NG Eng Hen co-chair the Singapore-India Defence Ministers’
Dialogue in Singapore
Indian Defence Minister visits Kranji War Memorial in Singapore; pays tributes to martyrs of World
War-II
Sri Lanka: President Gotabaya names brother Mahinda Rajapaksa as Prime Minister
Microsoft’s India-born CEO Satya Nadella tops Fortune’s Businessperson of the Year 2019 list
NASA scientists detect water vapour above the surface of Jupiter’s moon Europa for the first time
Africa Industrialization Day observed November 20; theme: ‘Positioning African Industry to Supply the
AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Agreement) Market’
World Children’s Day observed on November 20
Sports
Virat Kohli named as the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India’s Person of the
Year 2019
ACC Emerging Cup: India lose to Pakistan by three runs in semifinal
India
PM unveils statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the CAG office premises in New Delhi
India to buy 13 MK45 Naval guns made by BAE Systems in US for $1.02 billion
‘India for Humanity-Jaipur Foot’ event organised at US Capitol building jointly by Indian Embassy and
Jaipur Foot USA
‘World Conference on Access to Medical Products: Achieving the SDGs 2030’ organised in Delhi from
November 19 to 21
All iconic tourist sites to have rooms dedicated for mothers visiting with young children: Culture
Minister Prahlad Patel
Lieutenant Shivangi, first woman pilot of Indian Navy, to join Naval operations in Kochi on Dec 2
Microsoft launches ‘K-12 Education Transformation Framework’ to facilitate digital transformation of
schools
Chandrayaan-2’s Vikram lander hard-landed within 500 metres of the designated landing site: Govt.
Assam govt. to gift 10 grams of gold to every bride (family’s annual income not more than Rs. 5 lakh)
under its ‘Arundhati Gold Scheme’ from January 1, 2020
SEBI ORDER ON DISCLOSING DEFAULTS
SEBI has made it mandatory for all listed companies to make public disclosures on loans defaults.
Any default of payments of interest or principal on loans taken from financial institutions, including
banks, will have to be disclosed if it continues beyond 30 days.
DISINVESTMENT
CCEA approves strategic disinvestment of the Centre’s entire stake in BPCL, Shipping Corporation of
India, THDC India (Tehri Hydro Development Corporation India Limited), and NEEPCO (North Eastern
Electric Power Corporation Limited), and most of its stake in Container Corporation of India (CCI),
while giving up management control in these companies.
Privatisation of BPCL will be without the company’s equity shareholding of 61.65% in Numaligarh
Refinery in Assam
Economy & Corporate
Vehicles without tag using FASTag lane at toll plazas will have to pay double toll from Dec 1
The Union Cabinet decided to defer spectrum payments dues of the telecom companies for 2020-21
and 2021-22
India and Japan ink agreement for expeditious grant of patents to Indian entities and individuals
AP Govt. signs agreement with IIM-Ahmedabad which will undertake a study to identify corruption in
administration
Women allowed to work in night shifts in all factories (registered under the factories act) in
Karnataka
MP Govt. decides to legalise cultivation of cannabis for medical and industrial purpose
GLOBAL TERRORISM INDEX
2019 Global Terrorism Index: India 7th in the list of countries most affected by terrorism
The 2019 Global Terrorism Index was released by the Sydney-based Institute for Economics and
Peace (IEP)
The Index ranks 163 countries according to the impact of terrorism, based on factors such as the
number of attacks, fatalities, injuries and the extent of property damage.
The country most affected by terrorism in 2018 was Afghanistan (7,379 killed)
World
NASA unveils its first electric airplane, the X-57 Maxwell
Russia passes bill allowing govt. to register bloggers, journalists and social media users as foreign
agents
World Fisheries Day celebrated on November 21
World Television Day celebrated on November 21; the date on which the first World Television Forum
was held in 1996
World Philosophy Day celebrated by UNESCO on November 21; is celebrated every year on third
Thursday of November
Sports
India women team win final match at the Providence Stadium in Georgetown, Guyana; complete 5-0
sweep of T20I series
33-year old Chitharesh Natesan becomes the first Indian to be crowned Mr Universe 2019 at the 11th
World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship (WBPF) in South Korea
ISSF WORLD CUP
Indian shooters won three gold medals at the ISSF World Cup Finals in Putian, China
Winners were Manu Bhaker: women’s 10m air pistol, Elavenil Valarivan: women’s 10m air rifle and
Divyansh Panwar: men’s 10 air rifle
India
Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ holds talks with Australian counterpart Dan Tehan in
Delhi
India and China to jointly hold 70 celebratory activities in 2020 to mark 70th anniversary of the
establishment of diplomatic ties
J&K achieves highest road length in country under PMGSY (Pradhan Mantri Grameen Sadak Yojana)
in 2019, 11,400 km construction completed so far
Nilkanth Khadilkar, the editor of Marathi newspaper Navakal, dies at 85 in Mumbai
SNRR ACCOUNTS
The RBI has expanded the scope of Special Non-Resident Rupee (SNRR) Accounts
Non-residents permitted to open such accounts for rupee denominated overseas borrowings, trade
credit and trade invoicing for popularising cross-border transactions in the domestic currency.
DHFL crisis
The Reserve Bank has constituted a three-member panel to advise the administrator of DHFL
IDFC First Bank’s Non-Executive Chairman Rajiv Lall, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance’s MD & CEO N. S.
Kannan, and AMFI’s Chief Executive N S Venkatesh would be part of the panel
Indian Overseas Bank’s ex-MD R. Subramaniakumar was appointed as the administrator
Earlier, RBI superseded DHFL’s board and placed the company under an administrator in the wake of
governance issues and defaults.
Economy & Corporate
India’s foreign exchange reserves at a fresh lifetime high of USD 448.249 billion in the week to
November 15
CBDT Chairman P.C. Mody inaugurates Web Portal for exchange of information on Income Tax
Muthoot Finance Ltd to acquire IDBI Mutual Fund
Tourism Ministry organising ‘International Tourism Mart’ at Imphal from November 23 to 25
Karnataka: Kalaburagi Airport starts operations with flight to Bengaluru
National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) directed to issue free FASTags at toll booths until Dec 1
Wipro Chairman Azim Premji receives MMA Amalgamations Business Leadership Award 2019 in
Chennai
Amazon launches Echo Flex smart speaker at Rs. 2999
ASIA PACIFIC SCREEN AWARDS
Manoj Bajpayee won the award for Best Actor for his role in ‘Bhonsle’ directed by Devashish Makhija
Ridham Janve won the Young Cinema Award for his directorial debut film ‘The Gold-Laden Sheep and
the Sacred Mountain’.
SCO S&T MEETING
The 5th Meeting of SCO Member States’ Heads of Ministries and Departments of Science and
Technology held in Moscow
Secretary, DSIR (Department for Scientific & Industrial Research) & DG, CSIR, Dr. Shekhar C. Mande,
led the Indian delegation.
India will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Forum of Young Scientists and
Innovators in 2020.
World
Four Indian-origin lawmakers among 36 ministers inducted into Canadian PM Justin Trudeau’s new
Cabinet; includes Harjit Sajjan as Defence Minister

Sports
Wriddhiman Saha becomes fifth Indian wicket-keeper to affect 100 dismissals in test cricket after M.
S. Dhoni, Syed Kirmani, Kiran More and Nayan Mongia
India
BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis sworn in as CM of Maharashtra; NCP’s Ajit Pawar as Deputy CM
Poonch Link Up Day celebrated by Indian Army on Nov 23
50th Conference of Governors and Lt. Governors being organised at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi
from Nov 22 to 23
‘Destination North East’ festival being held in Varanasi from Nov 23 to 26
Veteran actor Shaukat Kaifi dies in Mumbai at the age of 91
DRINKING WATER
Results of National Sample Survey (NSS) on drinking water, sanitation, hygiene and housing condition
released
5% families in rural areas and 97.5% in cities used ‘improved drinking water’ during July-December
2018 from sources including tube wells, tankers and piped supply.
DISABILITIES
Results of National Sample Survey (NSS) on Persons with Disabilities were released.
Overall percentage of persons with disability in the population was 2.2% during July-December 2018
Among males, prevalence of disability was 2.4%, while it was 1.9% among females
The figure was 2.3% in rural and 2% in urban areas
LITERACY RATE
Results of National Sample Survey (NSS) on literacy were released
Literacy rate among those in the age group of seven years and above was 77.7% during July 2017-
June 2018.
Literacy rate was 73.5% in rural and 87.7% in urban areas
Economy & Corporate
Global Bio-India Summit 2019 organised in New Delhi by the Department of Biotechnology,
Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), CII, Association of Biotechnology Led
Enterprises (ABLE) and Invest India
All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) signs MoU with Western Sydney University for collaboration in
research
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released its Quarterly Bulletin on
employment
The urban unemployment rate fell to 9.3% during January-March 2019 from 9.8% in April-June 2018.
Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for all ages is estimated as 36% in the urban areas during
January-March 2019 as compared to 35.6% during April- June 2018.
SENSEX REJIG
YES Bank, Vedanta, Tata Motors and Tata Motors DVR will exit benchmark Sensex to make way for
Titan Company, UltraTech and Nestle India.
The changes will be effective December 23.
Sports
Madhya Pradesh: Sportspersons will get 5% reservation in government jobs
India’s Fouaad Mirza secures an Olympic quota in men’s Equestrian

India
Manipur Sangai Festival being organised in Imphal from November 24 to 30
Lachit Divas celebrated in Assam on November 24 in memory general Lachit Borphukan (17th
century) of Ahom kingdom
Centre extends ban on Assam-based National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) by another five
years
Etawah Lion Safari inaugurated in Etawah, Uttar Pradesh
BJP leader Kailash Chandra Joshi, MP’s first non-Congress CM in 1977-78, dies in Bhopal at 90
Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) leader and former West Bengal minister Kshiti Goswami dies at 77
National Tribal Craft Mela – 2019 being held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha from November 23 to 29
Economy & Corporate
Media firm Amar Ujala acquires majority stake in Cygnus Medicare, which operates a chain of super
specialty hospitals
World
Bolivia’s Congress passes law for new elections without former President Evo Morales
FIT INDIA SCHOOLS
PM launches the Fit India School grading system in schools across the country.
The grading will be in 3 categories — The Fit India Schools, which is the first level of ranking, Fit India
School (3 star) and Fit India School (5 star).
Sports
Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge (men’s marathon) and USA’s Dalilah Muhammad (women’s 400 m hurdles)
win World Athlete of the Year awards
India beat Bangladesh by an innings and 46 runs in the Day and Night Pink ball Test at the Eden
Gardens in Kolkata to win the 2-test series 2-0
Pakistan beat hosts Bangladesh by 77 runs in final at Mirpur to win ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup
‘Finding the Gaps’, book written by Australian cricket umpire Simon Taufel, released
BADMINTON
Winners of Infosys Foundation-India International Challenge badminton organised in Mumbai:
Xiaodong Sheng (Canada): Men’s Singles
Manu Attri and Sumeeth Reddy (India): Men’s Doubles
Porntip Buranaprasertsuk (Thailand): Women’s Singles
Tan Pearly Koong Lee and Thinaah Muralitharan (Malaysia): Women’s Doubles
Hoo Pang Ron and Cheah Yee See (Malaysia): Mixed Doubles
express@hotmail.com
24/11/2019, 22:39 – Gk Express: <Media omitted>
25/11/2019, 23:18 – Gk Express: NEWS HEADLINES: November 26
10th Commonwealth Youth Parliament being held at the Delhi Assembly from November 25 to 27
‘Hemant Karkare: A Daughters Memoir’, book written by Jui Karkare Navare, released
AP govt. launches citizen helpline 14400 for corruption-related complaints
Guru Ghasidas National Park to become Chhattisgarh’s fourth ‘tiger reserve’ after Achanakmar,
Udanti-Sitanadi and Indravati: CM Bhupesh Baghel
Indian Navy to host multi-nation military drill ‘Milan 2020’ in March: MoS for Defence Shripad Naik
Army Chief General Bipin Rawat meets Vietnam’s Chief of the General Staff General Phan Van Giang
in Delhi
The Indian Railways Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) inaugurated in Hyderabad
CLSS AWAS PORTAL
Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri launches CLSS (Credit Link Subsidy
Scheme) Awas Portal
This portal will enable people seeking to avail housing subsidy under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna
(PMAY)-Urban to track their applications.
Economy & Corporate
Public sector banks collected Rs 1,996.46 crore in minimum balance penalty in 2018-19: Govt.
Subhash Chandra resigns as chairman of Zee Entertainment Enterprises
Sundram Fasteners Chairman Suresh Krishna wins CII’s ‘Quality Ratna’ award
ASIA PACIFIC SCREEN AWARDS
The 13th Asia Pacific Screen Awards were awarded in Brisbane, Australia
Best Feature Film: ‘Parasite’, directed by South Korea’s Bong Joon-Ho
Best Performance by an Actress: Max Eigenmann in ‘Verdict’
Best Performance by an Actor: Manoj Bajpayee in ‘Bhonsle’
World
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women observed on November 25, theme:
‘Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape’
French luxury group LVMH to buy New York jeweller Tiffany & Co. for $16.2 billion; LVMH known for
its Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and Bulgari brands
Sports
Hosts Spain beat Canada 2-0 in final at Madrid to win 2019 Davis Cup Tennis title; Roberto Bautista
Agut and Rafael Nadal won singles matches
India’s Lakshya Sen wins men’s singles title at Scottish Open Badminton in Glasgow
Asian Archery Championships in Bangkok: India’s Deepika Kumari and Atanu Das win bronze in mixed
team recurve
India
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis resigns; Uddhav Thackeray of ‘Maha Vikas Aghadi’ (Congress,
NCP & Shiv Sena) to become new CM
Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019 passed by Parliament
Constitution Day celebrated on November 26, the day when India adopted its Constitution in 1949
– Defence Ministry organising DEFCOM INDIA 2019 seminar on Nov 26-27 in Delhi on theme: “Communications: A
Decisive Catalyst for Jointness”
DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy awarded honorary fellowship by the Royal Aeronautical Society of
UK
Renowned cartoonist Sudhir Dhar dies at the age of 87
Parliament passes National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill; NIDs at Amaravati (AP), Bhopal
(MP), Jorhat (Assam) and Kurukshetra (Haryana) declared as institutions of national importance
HRD Minister launches kartavya.ugc.ac.in portal on ‘Constitution Day’ for holding monthly essay
competitions for students
LOKPAL LOGO & MOTTO
The Chairman of Lokpal, Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose, launched the logo of Lokpal in New Delhi
Logo design of Prashant Mishra of Prayagraj (UP) was selected
The motto of Lokpal “मा गृधः कस्यस्विद्धनम् (Do not be greedy for anyone’s wealth) was also adopted.
PETROL PUMP NORMS
unveils norms for setting up petrol pumps
Non-oil companies can also set up petrol pumps
Any entity seeking authorisation for retail marketing only should have a minimum net worth of at least
Rs 250 crore
Licensees required to set up a minimum of 100 outlets with at least 5% of them in remote areas
Licensee would also be required to “install facilities for marketing at least one new generation
alternate fuels like CNG
MILK STATS
November 26, birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien (1921-2012), celebrated as National Milk Day
Data on milk production and availability in India announced by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal
Husbandry & Dairying Giriraj Singh
India is the largest milk producing country in the world
Milk production in India was 187.75 million tonnes in 2018-19
Per capita availability of milk was 394 grams in 2018-19
Economy & Corporate
CSB Bank IPO subscribed 87 times on final day of bidding
World
Pakistan’s Supreme Court suspends Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa’s three-year term
extension
Goar Vartanyan, Soviet spy who helped prevent a Nazi assassination of allied leaders in Tehran in
1943, dies at 93 in Moscow
Pre-dawn earthquake of 6.4 magnitude kills 16 in Albania
13 French soldiers killed in helicopter collision during an operation against militants in Mali
ARCHERY
Indian archers won three bronze medals at the ongoing Asian Championship in Bangkok.
Atanu das won in men’s recurve individual event
Atanu Das, Tarundeep Rai and Jayanta Talukdar won in men’s recurve team event
Deepika Kumari, Laishram Bombayla Devi and Ankita Bhakat won in women’s recurve team event
Sports
Norway’s Magnus Carlsen wins Tata Steel Chess Rapid and Blitz title in Kolkata
ISRO launches PSLV-C47 carrying Cartosat-3 and 13 nanosatellites from Sriharikota (AP)
Lok Sabha passes bill to merge Union Territories of Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli
Former Navy Chief Admiral Sushil Kumar (1998-2001) dies at the age of 79
Lok Sabha passes Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019
Union Cabinet approves MoUs with Saudi Arabia to combat smuggling of narcotic drugs
NDTV wins International Press Institute India award for excellence in journalism
4-day long MoEFCC and CMS Vatavaran-2019 Short Film Competition and Festival on Environment
begins in New Delhi
MoEFCC: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, CMS: Centre for Media Studies
Satoshi Suzuki appointed as new Ambassador of Japan of India
15th Higher Education Summit being organised by FICCI in New Delhi from November 27 to 29
Economy & Corporate
Authorised capital of Food Corporation of India (FCI) increased to Rs 10,000 crore from Rs 3,500
crore
Term of 15th Finance Commission extended by one-year to October 30, 2020
Finance Commission is to decide on division of tax and other resources between the centre and the
states
Union Cabinet approves signing of a double taxation avoidance agreement (DTAA) with Chile
Centre approves construction of 331,000 more houses Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), taking
the total number to 9.6 million
Tata Motors rolls out hatchback Altroz
World
At 276, China has highest number of diplomatic missions in the world: Sydney-based Lowy Institute
Pakistan: Rules amended to facilitate “extension in tenure” of Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa
Sri Lankan spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan appointed Governor of the country’s Tamil-dominated
Northern Province
National University of Singapore is No: 1 in Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Asia
Rankings 2020
Pro-democracy candidates win 389 out of 452 seats in District Council elections in Hong Kong
Sports
Asian Archery Championships in Bangkok: Abhishek Verma and Jyothi Surekha Vennam win India’s
only gold in compound mixed pair event
GOLDEN TARGET AWARD
Three India shooters selected for the Golden Target award by International Shooting Sport Federation
(ISSF) for finishing the season as the World No.1.
They are Elavenil Valarivan in Women’s 10m Air Rifle, Divyansh Singh Panwar in Men’s 10m Air Rifle
men and Saurabh Chaudhary in Men’s 10m Air Pistol
IFFI
50th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded in Goa on November 28
Golden Peacock Award: ‘Particles’ (French) directed by Blaise Harrison and produced by Estelle
Fialon
Best Director Award: Lijo Jose Pellissery for ‘Jallikattu’ (Malayalam)
Best Actor (Male) Award: Seu Jorge for his role in ‘Marighella’ (Portuguese)
Best Actor (Female) Award: Usha Jadhav for her role in ‘Mai Ghatt: Crime No. 103/2005’ (Marathi)
Special Jury Award: Pema Tseden for ‘Balloon’ (Chinese)
Centenary Award for ‘Best Debut Feature Film of a Director’: Won jointly by Amin Sidi Boumediene for
‘Abou Leila’ and Marius Olteanu for ‘Monsters’
ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal: ‘Rwanda’ (Italian)
India
Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray sworn in as 18th CM of Maharashtra
Maha Vikas Aghadi, an alliance of Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress, has formed the new government in
Maharashtra
Lok Sabha passes bill to provide ownership title to over 40 lakh people in unauthorised colonies in the
national capital
Lok Sabha passes Bill banning manufacture, import or sale of e-cigarettes in the country
UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) launches the country chapter of its Accelerator Lab
in New Delhi
All India Police Science Congress being organised in Lucknow on November 28-29, 2019.
Indian Navy test-fires Brahmos supersonic cruise missile of 290-km range
Indian Army test fires Spike anti-tank missiles of 4 km range

BJP wins Pithoragarh assembly seat in Uttarakhand in byelection
West Bengal: Trinamool Congress wins Kaliaganj, Kharagpur Sadar and Karimpur assembly seats in
byelections
India Corruption Survey
Transparency International India (TII) and LocalCircles conducted the ‘India Corruption Survey 2019’
in 20 states
Incidents of bribery in the country declined by 10% since last year
51 per cent Indians paid bribe in the last 12 months
Economy & Corporate
Grid connected solar power generation capacity at 31,696 Mega Watt (MW) till October 2019
Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Parliament; monetary limits for chit funds raised three-
fold
Aditya Birla Finance becomes first company to list commercial papers on stock exchanges
Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) becomes the first Indian company to cross Rs 10 lakh crore in market
capitalisation (m-cap)
BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty close at life-time highs of 41,130.17 (+109.56) and 12,151.15 (+50.45)
respectively
ADB to provide $451 million loan to strengthen power connectivity in Chennai-Kanyakumari Industrial
Corridor (CKIC)
World
Pakistan’s Supreme Court grants six-month conditional extension to Army chief Gen Qamar Javed
Bajwa
US President signs a bill that proposes to impose sanctions on officials targeting pro-democracy
supporters in Hong Kong
Clive James, Australian writer and broadcaster, dies at the age of 80 in London
Sports
Asian Archery Championships in Bangkok: India’s Deepika Kumari and Ankita Bhakat win gold and
silver respectively in the women’s individual recurve event
India
PM Modi announces financial assistance of USD 450 million to Sri Lanka after talks with newly
elected President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in New Delhi
Malayalam poet Akkitham wins 55th Jnanpith Award; had won Padma Shri and Sahitya Akademi
Award earlier
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh holds talks with his Mozambique counterpart Atanasio Salvador
M’Tumukeis in New Delhi
Economy & Corporate
India’s Q2 GDP growth dips to over 6-year low of 4.5%
India’s fiscal deficit hit 102.4% of 2019-20 Budget Estimate at Rs 7.2 lakh crore at the end of October
Foreign exchange reserves touch a new high of USD 448.6 billion in the week to November 22
RBI sends troubled mortgage lender Dewan Housing Finance (DHFL) for bankruptcy proceedings,
making it the first financial services player to go NCLT for a possible debt resolution
Former RBI deputy governor H R Khan appointed first chairman of the panel on the Code for
Responsible Lending (CRL) in micro-credit
Govt extends mandatory FASTag roll-out date for toll payments on National highways to Dec 15; free
FASTags till Dec 15
Zurich Airport International AG wins contract to develop the Jewar airport on the outskirts of Delhi
UK India Business Council (UKIBC) sets up Aerospace and Defence Industry Group
Centre to make hallmarking compulsory for gold jewellery from January 15, 2020: Union Minister for
Consumer Affairs Ram Vilas Paswan
World
Indo-Nepal joint military Exercise SURYA KIRAN – XIV to be held in Nepal from December 3 to 16
India to set up 12 hi-tech parks in Bangladesh at a cost of $193 million: High Commissioner of India
to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das
Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone (1982-87) dies at 101
International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People observed on November 29
Sports
India take 2-0 lead against Pakistan in Davis Cup tie at Nur-Sultan; Ramkumar Ramanathan and Sumit
Nagal win singles matches.
November 16, 2019
Regional Conference on ‘Replication of Good Governance Practices in J&K, Ladakh’
Centre is holding a two-day regional conference on theme- ‘Replication of Good Governance Practices in
Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh’ from 15-16 November 2019 in Jammu. It was
inaugurated by Minister of State for Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region Dr. Jitendra Singh.
Key Highlights of Conference
It is the first such conference being held in newly carved Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Delegates
from 19 states and 4 UTs are participating in the Conference. At the conference the states of Tamil Nadu,
Meghalaya and J&K will be sharing their experiences of grievance redressal.
The conference is being organised by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG)
in collaboration with government of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. As of now DARPG has organized 31
Regional Conferences.
Conference Objective: To bring national and state level organizations on the same platform to share best
practises. These include areas such as Digital Governance, Capacity Building, Aspirational Districts, Citizen
Centric Governance and Personnel Administration.
The pre-inaugural session was held on the topic ‘Public Policy and Governance’, which was chaired by J&K’s
Financial Commissioner Arun Kumar Mehta.
The ‘Sushasan Sankalp: Jammu Ghoshana’ resolution will be adopted in the final session of conference.
Significance: The conference is an effort to create a common platform to share experiences in formulation
and implementation of best practices in citizen-centric governance, improved public service delivery by e-
governance, accountable, transparent and citizen-friendly effective administration.
WTO Panel rejects India’s claims on Steel issues with the US
The World Trade Organization panel on November 15, 2019, rejected several claims of India against US on
steel duties. India earlier complained to the organization that the United States is breaching international
trade rules in 14 areas. Following which, WTO had faulted US decision over imposition of countervailing
duties on steel products from India. However, US failed to stick to the norms demanding more access to
Indian markets.
Background of the issue
In 2012, India filed the first complaint against US at the WTO. The complaint was that Washington is
imposing tariffs on nearly 300% imports that included steel, carbon-quality steel, etc. Later in 2014, the
global body ruled that the duties imposed by the US were a breach of global trade rules. When US failed to
comply the ruling, India took it to the WTO again.
WTO set a Dispute Settlement Body to sort out the issue. The Body has now rejected several charges filed
by India against US duties
Effect on Trade
Because of the duty imposed by the US, India’s steel export to the US declined by 49% in 2018. The export of
steel from India that was 372 million USD in 2012 declined to 221 million USD.
National Mission ‘NISHTHA’ launched in J&K
National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement (NISHTHA) was launched in
Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a pioneer scheme that was earlier launched across country by
HRD Ministry on August 2019. This National Mission aims at improving learning outcomes at Elementary
level through integrated Teacher Trainings.
About NISHTHA
Objective: Mission aims to build capacities of 42 lakh participants covering all teachers and Heads of
Schools at elementary level in all Government Schools across India as well as faculty members of State
Institute of Education (SIE)/ State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERTs), District Institute
of Education and Training (DIET) etc.
Features: The training will be conducted by 33120 Key Resource Persons (KRPs) and State Resource
Persons (SRPs) identified by respective States and UTs, who will be trained by 120 National Resource
Persons (NRPs) from NCERT, CBSE, NIEPA, NGOs, Navodaya Vidyala Samiti (NVS), Kendriya Vidyalaya
Sangathan (KVS), and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
Under the programme a total of 86000 Elementary teachers of Government Schools will be trained in J&K.
The First phase of training has been scheduled from 14 to 18 of November 2019 at University of Jammu, in
which a total of 354 resource persons will be trained by National Resource Group from NCERT/NIEPA.
European Investment Bank to stop Fossil Fuel Funding by 2021
The European Investment Bank is to stop funding oil and coal projects at the end of 2021. Since 2013, the
European Union through the bank has funded 13.4 billion Euros for fossil fuel projects. In 2018, it was
around 2 billion Euros. The Union has been reducing its funding to fossil fuel projects and is stopping by
2021.
Highlights
The EIB’s new policy demands that the energy projects applying for funding must prove that they can
produce 1 Kilo watt hour of energy emitting less than 250 grams of carbon dioxide.
The new rules being adopted are not applicable to gas-based energy projects. However, gas projects
should be based on the norms set by the bank for “new technologies”. The “new technologies”
include carbon capture, combining heat and power generation, mixing in renewable gases with fossil
fuels, etc.
The exemptions are made on gas projects as they are common in the EU member states. For the next
5 years, EU has over 200 billion USD worth projects planned.
EU aims to become first carbon-neutral continent by 2050.
Aadi Mahotsav: Fortnight long Tribal Festival being held in New Delhi
The annual Aadi Mahotsav- National Tribal Festival is being held at INA Dilli Haat in New Delhi. The 15 days
mega event which will be held from 16-30 November 2019 will celebrate and cherish the spirit of tribal
culture, craft, cuisine and commerce. It will be inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
About Aadi Mahotsav
The festival is being organized by Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs in association with TRIFED (Tribal
Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd.). TRIFED has planned to organize 26 such
festivals during the current financial year. 8 out of 26 festivals have been already organised at Leh-Ladakh,
Noida, Shimla, Ooty, Indore, Pune, Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam wherein about 900 tribal artisans
participated and realized sales of more than Rs.5 crore.
Theme of fortnight long Tribal Festival is ‘Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Crafts, Culture and Commerce’,
which represents basic ethos of tribal life.
Main attractions of event will be: The tribal textiles manufactured by master tribal craftsmen from Jammu &
Kashmir in North to Tamil Nadu in South and from Gujarat in West to Nagaland/Sikkim in East.
Nearly 1000 tribal artisans from 27 states, tribal chefs and cultural troupes are taking part in the Mahotsav.
The festival will feature exhibition-cum-sale of tribal handicrafts, art, paintings, fabric, jewellery and others
through 200 stalls to showcase the theme. Moreover, in line with national aspiration to go cashless, the
tribal merchandise stalls will be accepting payment through major credit/debit cards.
Tribes in India
In India, tribes constitute more than 8% of country’s population which corresponds to over 10 crore Indians.
The national objective of inclusive development also includes the development of tribes as an important
component and even Indian Constitution enjoins upon Government the responsibility of addressing special
needs of tribals.
Concept of organising Aadi Mahotsav in major cities has proved to be a boon for tribal artisans as this
eliminates the middle man and provides direct access to large markets, which are otherwise impossible to
reach for them.
NOTE: TRIFED is an organisation of Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs. TRIFED organizes “Aadi Mahotsav –
National Tribal Festival” to provide direct market access to the tribal master-craftsmen and women in large
metros and State capitals.
Defence Minister inaugurates Sisseri River Bridge in East Siang
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Sisseri River Bridge at Lower Dibang Valley in East
Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh. The bridge will play an important role in the overall development of the
area and will immensely contributes to the socio-economic development of the region.
About Sisseri River Bridge
It is a 200-metre long bridge between Jonai-Pasighat-Ranaghat-Roing road and would cut down the travel
time from Pasighat to Roing by about 5 hours. The bridge provides connectivity to Tinsukia via Dhola-Sadia
bridge. It will also provide connectivity between Dibang Valley and Siang to meet long-pending demand of
people of Arunachal Pradesh.
The Sisseri River bridge was constructed by Project Brahmank of Border Roads Organisation (BRO). BRO
has four projects in Arunachal Pradesh namely Arunank, Vartak, Brahmank and Udayak to maintain and
develop the difficult geographical terrain and strategically important area.
Importance: This bridge will be a part of Trans Arunachal Highway and is also strategically important from a
military viewpoint and moreover, infrastructural upgradation is necessary for the security of the North-East
as well as the entire country.
Other Infrastructure Projects undertaken by Centre in Arunachal Pradesh: operationalised Pasighat airport,
the proposed: Bhalukpong – Tenga – Tawang railway line, Hollongi airport and Sela Pass tunnel.
Government is also committed to establish strong and efficient roadways, railways, airways, waterways and
digital network in the region. Moreover, government’s Act East Policy would also open new doors of rapid
infrastructural development in North-East region of country, but especially in Arunachal Pradesh as it would
also act as a bridge between India and South-East Asian countries.
GoI: Consumer Expenditure Survey, 2017-18 not to be released due to quality issues
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme implementation said that it is not releasing Consumer
Expenditure Survey due to quality issues. The next Consumer Expenditure Survey is to be conducted in

2020-21 and 2021-22.
Highlights
According to the National Statistical Office (NSO) functioning under the Ministry, there was significant
increase in the divergence in the consumption pattern. Also there were noticeable direction of change in the
data as compared to the other administrative data sources like goods and services.
The Ministry is also looking ways to change the base year of the survey. Currently the base year of the
survey is 2011-12. It is considering options to change the base year to 2017-18.
Consumer Expenditure Survey
The survey is carried out by the NSO through out India on household consumption expenditure. The
survey is conducted in quinquennial intervals. Previously the survey was conducted in 2011-12.
The survey provides data on household Monthly Per Capita Consumer Expenditure (MPCE).
It also provides information on distribution of households
The survey generates estimates on persons over the MPCE classes.
The survey is designed to generate information about expenditure on consumption of goods and
services. It includes both and food and non-food products consumed in households.
The data released by the survey are also used in determining macro-economic indicators and for
rebasing of the GDP.
Trace Bribery Risk Matrix 2019
TRACE International, the world’s leading anti-bribery standard setting organization, has released the 2019
edition of Trace Bribery Risk Matrix (TRACE Matrix). TRACE Matrix is a global business bribery risk
assessment tool that measures business bribery risk in 200 countries, territories, and autonomous and
semi-autonomous regions.
About Trace Bribery Risk Matrix
Ranking Parameter: Trace provides a score from 1 to 100 to each country for each domain and if a country
gets a higher score it means it is in a higher risk of business bribery.
Score is based on Four Factors:
Business Interactions with Government
Anti-Bribery Deterrence and Enforcement
Government and Civil Service Transparency
Capacity for Civil Society Oversight, including the role of the media
Report Highlights
Lowest Bribery Risk: New Zealand, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Finland
Highest Bribery Risk: Somalia, South Sudan, North Korea, Yemen and Venezuela
With a total risk score of 48, India is ranked higher and has been placed in a better position than
neighbouring China whose score is 59. Other countries having a score of 48 in the matrix are: Azerbaijan,
Ghana, the Bahamas, Panama, Samoa and Thailand, also have.
Among BRICS nations, South Africa is ahead of other countries with a score of 42 while the scores of Brazil
and Russian Federation are 53 and 55, respectively.
Bangladesh is the highest risk country in terms of bribery in South Asia as its total risk score was 72 in this
index. Bangladesh was ranked 178 while India stands on 78th rank.
NDRF: New unit to save heritage structures
The National Disaster Response Force is to establish a specialized unit for heritage structures.
Highlights
The specialized unit is to be established in every battalion of the NDRF.
It will help preserve monuments and heritage structures that are damaged and battered by natural

disasters.
It will also hold the responsibility of rescue and restoration of the structure.
About the Unit
The plan is to form set of personnel in each battalion of NDRF. They will become trained professionals on
preserving heritage structures in pre and post disaster scenario.
Strategies of UNESCO: To preserve disaster prone Heritages
UNESCO believes that the Earthquake that occurred in Kathmandu in 2015 and the fire at the Royal Palaces
of Abomey, Benin are best examples of vulnerability of cultural heritages. In order to preserve them from
disasters, the following initiatives were taken by UNESCO
In 2002, the Budapest Declaration was signed on World Heritage. According to the Declaration it is
the responsibility of the “World Heritage Committee” to make sure the properties under World
Heritage List are passed on to generations of the future as their rightful inheritance
The United Nations General Assembly adopted the “Strategy for Risk Reduction at World Heritage
Properties” in 2007. It is being implemented by the World Heritage Committee
The “Sendai Framework” includes several references to culture and heritage under its “Disaster Risk
Reduction” framework
OCSAE: On-line Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Prevention Unit set up by CBI
Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has set up an On-line Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (OCSAE)
Prevention/Investigation Unit at New Delhi under its Special Crime Zone to tackle the menace of child porn
on the internet. This step has been taken after Germany Police provided information about 7 Indian
Nationals involved in International Child pornography.
About OCSAE Prevention/Investigation Unit
This newly specialized Unit of CBI will collect, collate and disseminate information regarding creation,
collection, publication, transmission, browsing, downloading, promoting, distribution of information relating
to On-line Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation as well as investigation of such offences.
The investigation of such offences covered under provisions of Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860, Protection of
Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012 and Information Technology (IT) Act 2000 and under
various Laws of the land, as applicable. The territorial jurisdiction of this unit of CBI will be throughout
India.
Need: The rapid growth of Internet and Information & Communication tools over past two decades has
created unparalleled opportunities for children and adults alike to learn and explore world around them.
Although these technologies are found everywhere, spread through every aspect of our lives personal,
professional, individual and social but they have simultaneously created new dimensions, wherein the
sexual exploitation of children can multiply, if unchecked. Thereby, Children, every day, all around the world
are prone to suffer On-line sexual abuse and exploitation.
INTERPOL and other National / International Organization also disseminate numerous references related to
CSAM (Child Sexual Abuse Material) globally to concerned authorities. This is because the incidence of On-
Line CSAM generally transcends International borders and the victims are mostly helpless innocent
children.
BIS: Water Quality Report for state Capitals and New Delhi released
The Water Quality Report was released by the Union Minister of Consumer Affairs Shri Ram Vilas Paswan.
The report is in line with the Jal Jeevan Mission that was launched to provide clean and safe drinking water
to all by 2024.
Water Quality Report
In order to make sure if clean and safe drinking water is provided to all, a study was conducted by the BIS

(Bureau of India Standards) to check on the quality of piped drinking water provided in the cities, especially
in the state capitals. The cities were then ranked based on the report.
Parameters
The study was conducted in two phases. In first phase, samples of drinking water were collected across
Delhi and in the second phase the samples were collected from several state capitals. The tests were
conducted on parameters such as Chemicals, Toxic substances, Organoleptic tests, Bacteriological tests
and physical tests.
Highlights of the report
In Delhi, out of 11 samples, 10 failed to comply the standards of Indian Standards
The best performing cities where almost all the samples were up to the standard were Ranchi, Shimla,
Bhubaneshwar, Amravati and Raipur.
The worst performing cities where only very few or none of the samples were under the Indian
Standards were Thiruvananthapuram. Chandigarh, Bhopal, Patna, Bengaluru, Gandhinagar, Lucknow,
Chennai, Dehradun, Kolkata and Jaipur
November 17, 2019
India completes Agni II test fire successfully
India on November 11, 2019, conducted its first night trial of AGNI II missile successfully. It is the first night
trial being tested by the country. The nuclear capable missile was tested at the Abdul Kalam Island of
Odisha Coast.
Highlights
The missile was developed by DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organization)
The surface-to-surface medium range nuclear capable missile was tested by the Strategic Forces of
the Indian Army.
The missile is capable of striking range of 2,000 km. It can carry payload of 1,000 kg and launch a
weight of 17 tonnes. It is 20 meters long and is a two-stage missile.
It is an IRBM (Integrated Range Ballistic Missile) and has already been inducted into the armed forces
AGNI Missile
Agni II missile is a part of series of Agni missile with a range of 2,000 km. The range of Agni I is 700 km,
Agni III is 3,000 km. The ranges of Agni IV and Agni V are longer
The first test firing of Agni II missile was done in 1999. In 2010, the first test fire of nuclear capable Agni II
ballistic missile was conducted successfully.
AIIB to invest 100 million USD in solar and wind projects in India
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) which is headquartered at Beijing expects an investment of
100 million USD in India in a year. The foreign investment is to enter India through the bank in Wind and
solar projects.
AIIB approves 500 million USD for MUTP 3
On November 16, 2019, the bank approved a loan of 500 million USD in three suburban rail
infrastructure projects.
The projects are being executed under MUTP-Mumbai Urban Transport Project
The project curbs trespass deaths by including mid-section trespasses. It is the first of its kind in the
country.
AIIB Investments in India
AIIB has so far invested 2.9 billion USD. It amounts to 30% of the total investment
India is the largest borrower of AIIB.
The bank is planning to increase its investments in the future. It has a long-term strategy framed for
the investments in India. In 2019-20, the plan is to invest around 4.5 billion USD. Next year the target
is to increase the investment to 5 billion USD. The plan is to reach 10 billion USD by 2025.
AIIB Projects
The ongoing key projects of AIIB includes the following
400 million USD has been invested by the bank in the rural water supply system of Karnataka
Around 1 billion USD is being spent on power distribution and transmission in the state of Assam.
800 million USD is to be invested in Chennai Metro.
DPIIT establishes Development Council for Bicycle
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under Union Ministry of Commerce and
Industry has set up a Development Council for Bicycle. The council has been constituted for a period of two
years. It will stimulate value chain and fuel accelerated demand growth of Make-in-India.
About Development Council for Bicycle
Mandate: It has been setup for vision planning in design, engineering as well as manufacturing bicycles
which are comparable with global standards for exports and domestic market.
Members: The 23-member Council will be headed by Secretary DPIIT and will have 9 ex-officio members
from DPIIT and Department of Commerce, Ministries of-Health and Family Welfare, Housing and Urban
Affairs, Road Transport and Highways, Environment Forest and Climate Change, Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It will
also have seven expert domain members and four nominated. The terms of ex-officio members shall be co-
terminus with their official posting while others members may be co-opted, as required, by Chairperson of
the Council.
Council Agendas:
Improving competitiveness and level of services. For this council will undertake measures to leverage
bicycle demand by ensuring enabling safe and segregated cycling infrastructure as well as transforming
Indian bicycle technology (and its value chain).
Undertaking continuous stakeholder persuasion as well as enhancing export competitiveness of bicycle.
This will be achieved through support of schemes and favourable trade policies to popularize benefits of
cycling via campaigns piloted by concerned ministries.
Developing medium and small industries along with growth of skilled human resources for bicycle
manufacturing and repair shops.
Identifying and studying best international practices to adopt for bicycle manufacturing, recycling and
infrastructure development in India.
Home Ministry, UN Women Launches Campaign to End Violence Against Women
Union Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with UN Women launched an awareness campaign to end
violence against women. As part of campaign a ‘UNiTE to End Violence Against Women’ Metro was flagged
of at the Sultanpur Metro station in New Delhi. The flag-off took place as part of 16 Days of Activism
‘Orange The World’ global campaign, which is being observed ahead of ‘International Day for the Elimination
of Violence Against Women’, marked annually on 25 November and will continue till International Day of
Human Rights on December 10.
Key Highlights
As part of campaign, people would be made aware about India’s single emergency helpline 112. It is an
internationally recognised emergency number used in several countries. Currently, the 112 services are
available in 27 States/Union Territories.
The 112 service can be reached through voice call, SMS, email, 112 India App, respective state’s 112
websites and with even the panic button on mobile phones.

Dialing the ‘112’ number will provide an IT-based response system for timely dispatch of 1st responders
(such as police, ambulance, fire etc.) to the location of distressed person, which is identified through Global
Positioning System (GPS) or location based services of mobile phone.
The 112 India App and the emergency response support system has been developed in-house by Centre for
Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC). The 112 India mobile app has a unique integrated ‘shout’
facility which allows immediate assistance from verified volunteers in proximity to distressed person.
About UN Women
It is the UN organisation dedicated to gender equality and empowerment of women. UN Women, a global
champion for women and girl was established in July 2010 and became operational in January 2011 to
accelerate progress on meeting their needs worldwide. It supports Member States of United Nations to set
global standards for achieving gender equality. It also works with governments and civil society to design
policies, laws, services, and programmes needed to ensure that standards are effectively implemented and
truly benefit women and girls worldwide.
Darjeeling Green Tea & White Tea receive GI Tag
On November 16, 2019, two tea varieties of Darjeeling were registered under “Geographical Indication of
Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999”. It includes Green Tea and White Tea of Darjeeling.
Darjeeling Tea
Darjeeling produces 85 lakh kilograms of tea. Of this Green Tea constitutes 10 lakh kilo grams and White
Tea constitutes 1 lakh kilo grams.
GI Tag
The Geographical Indication is used on products that correspond to a specific geographical location.
Darjeeling Tea was the first product in India to receive GI tag. The tag helps to get an identity in
international market. It will also help to boost the production.
The Geographical Indications are defined by the WTO’s TRIPS (Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual
Property Rights) Agreement. India enacted the GI of Goods act, 2009 as a member of WTO and as a
signatory of TRIPS agreement.
Green Tea
Green Tea is made from same tea leaves. However, it does not undergo the process of withering and
oxidation. Though Green Tea originated in China, it is spread all over Asia.
White Tea
White Tea is known as the most delicate tea varieties. This is because it is minimally processed. The leaves
are harvested before the leaves open completely.
Health Ministry launches ‘SAANS’ campaign
Union Ministry for Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) launched SAANS: ‘Social Awareness and Action to
Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully’ campaign to reduce child mortality due to pneumonia. Union Health
Minister Harsh Vardhan launched the campaign while inaugurating the 6th National Summit on Good,
Replicable Practices and Innovations.
About SAANS campaign
Objective:
To reduce child mortality due to pneumonia
To mobilise people to protect children from pneumonia
To train health personnel and other stakeholders to provide prioritised treatment to control the disease
Mandate: Under the campaign, a child suffering from pneumonia can be treated with-
Pre-referral dose of anti-biotic amoxicillin by Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers
Health and wellness centres will use Pulse Oximeter (a device to monitor oxygen saturation) to

identify low oxygen levels in blood of a child, and if required, treat him by use of oxygen cylinders.
Pneumonia contributes to around 15% deaths of children under five years of age annually, therefore, a mass
awareness campaign will also be launched about effective solutions for pneumonia prevention such as
breast feeding, and age appropriate complementary feeding. immunization, good quality air etc.
HMIS Data on Pneumonia
As per Health Management Information System (HMIS) data, a digital initiative by National Health Mission-
Under-five mortality rate in India is 37 per 1000 live births, of which 5.3 deaths are caused due to
pneumonia. However, the government aims to achieve a target of reducing pneumonia deaths among
children to less than three per 1,000 live births by 2025.
HMIS data for 2018-19 ranked Madhya Pradesh as most number of child deaths due to pneumonia which
was followed by Gujarat.
India International Cherry Blossom Festival celebrated in Shillong
The 4th edition of India International Cherry Blossom Festival, 2019 was celebrated in Shillong, Meghalaya
from 13 to 16 November 2019. It was inaugurated by Meghalaya Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma. The
festival is a great example of how natural resources and sustainable tourism can be utilised in an effective
manner and create value of something which already exists.
Why is it held? The festival celebrates the unique autumn flowering of Himalayan Cherry Blossoms with
several cultural events. With the annual festival the state government seeks to focus on Meghalaya’s
natural strength such environment and beautiful landscape to enhance the experience of tourists.
About India International Cherry Blossom Festival, 2019
It was organized to celebrate the mass flowering of autumn Himalayan Cherry Blossoms with several
cultural events in Shillong. This year the festival was held amid concern as blooming/flowering of Cherry
Blossom trees has not been consistent due to climate change. In 2018 the tress bloomed by late October,
but this year in November.
Dinabandhu Sahoo, the brain behind Cherry Blossom Festival however highlighted that with every edition of
the festival, the footfall of tourists visiting it has increased.
This year the Republic of Korea was the partner country in the festival. The festival was thus visited by
ambassador of South Korea and also showcased stalls with state’s food, wine and crafts alongside several
Korean Cultural events, including K-Pop concert and stalls featuring Korean Cuisine and Educational
Opportunities at South Korea.
GoI conducts first ever National Agro Chemicals Congress in New Delhi
The National Agro Chemical Congress was conducted for four days in New Delhi. The Ministry of Agriculture
and Farmers Welfare hosted the event. It was the first of its kind. It is to be conducted once in three years.
The Theme of the Congress was
Theme: Country’s Status on various fronts of Agro chemicals
Recommendations of the Congress
It is necessary to label the pesticides indicating their mode of action
The status of the country should be assessed in its preparedness in invasive exigencies
To rethink on restrictive banning of pesticides
Government has to bring in a policy regarding data protection of imported pesticides
Empowerment of farmers through training.
Policy to introduce safe nano-formulations
According to the Congress, the above factors are currently absent in the country. It believes that these
recommendations are essential to improve efficient use of pesticides.

Highlights of the event
The event outlined the importance of responsible use of agro Chemicals.
It also highlighted the precision technologies used to reduce wastage of applied chemicals
Various seminars and lectures were presented that focused on discouraging false claims about agro
chemicals and tackling the spread of wrong perception among the citizens about agro chemicals.
Significance
The aim of the congress is to highlight the role played by chemical pesticides in pest management. It
emphasized on target specific and environment friendly products
The Congress also focused on new concepts in human health, nanotechnology, crops, resource
management, smart formulations related sciences to help to boost agricultural productivity.
International Conference on Yoga held in Mysuru
Union Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa and Homoeopathy (AYUSH)
organized a two-day International Conference on Yoga at Mysuru, Karnataka from 15-16 November 2019.
During the Conference, the Minister of State for AYUSH Shripad Yesso Naik announced that the
International Yoga Day 2020 event will be held in Mysuru.
Key Highlights
Conference Theme: ‘Yoga for Heart Care’. The theme-based annual event largely focuses on research in
yoga with experts discussing and sharing their thoughts on the subject.
This year’s conference is 5th in series to commemorate unanimous adoption of Resolution by United
Nations General Assembly (UNGA) during its 69th session in 2014 for observing 21st June as International
Day of Yoga.
Since UN declaration of International Day of Yoga, overwhelming interest towards Yoga has been witnessed
from international communities globally. Thus, AYUSH Ministry has been organizing International Yoga
Conferences every year since 2015.
More than 700 national and international delegates participated in the conference spread over 10 technical
sessions involving 50 resource persons and experts. Technical sessions are being conducted on sub-
themes including– ‘Yoga for heart care; emerging trends and researches’, ‘Yoga for coronary artery disease’,
‘Role of Yoga in the management of Hypertension’ and ‘Role of Yoga in preventive cardiology’.
The discussion on the need to promote yoga as a sport was held with resource persons from India and
abroad.
Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik-The first Indian to win Italian Golden Sand Art Award
Sudarsan Pattnaik becomes the first Indian to win the Italian Golden Sand Art Award, 2019. He was
felicitated at the International Scorrna Sand Nativity Fete in Italy.
Highlights
Mr Pattnaik created a 10-foot-high sand sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi along with Russian artist Pavel
Minilkov. Around 8 sculptors from different countries participated in the event.
Sudarsan Pattnaik
Sudarsan Pattnaik was born in 1977 in Puri District of Odisha. He was born in a poor family. The Coastal
sea paved way for him to become a sand artist though he wanted to contribute in shaping the field of
education.
Sudarsan has participated in more than 60 international sand art festivals. He has so far won 27
championship prizes. He was awarded the Padma Shri by the Indian Government in 2014.
Prizes and Awards
He won the People’s Choice Prize in Bulgaria in 2016
In 2013, he won the International Sand Sculpture Competition in Russia

He also won the International Sand Competition Competition, Denmark
In 2008, he won the World Champion Title at USF World Sand Sculpture Championship. Berlin.
He has created records of winning the People’s Choice Award, Germany 5 times.
Hayabusa2: Japanese spacecraft starts year-long journey home from asteroid
Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) Hayabusa 2 probe is heading back to earth from its mission
of collecting samples from an asteroid called Ryugu, about 300 million kilometres from Earth. The
unmanned probe ‘Hayabusa 2’, named after a falcon is scheduled to return to Earth by the end of 2020.
Why Asteroid? Asteroids are believed to have formed at the dawn of solar system. Moreover, scientists
believe that asteroid Ryugu may contain organic matter that may have contributed to life on Earth.
About Japan’s Hayabusa 2
The spacecraft first touched down on the asteroid Ryugu in February 2019 with a mission to collect samples
that could provide clues to the origin of solar system as well as life on Earth. Scientists also hope that the
samples contain carbon and organic matter that could explain how they are related to Earth.
Mission: Mission of Spacecraft was to gather around 10g of dislodged debris. During sample collection, the
spacecraft approached 1km-wide asteroid with an instrument called the sampler horn and on touchdown, a
5g ‘bullet’ made of metal tantalum was fired into rocky surface at 300m/s.
The Hayabusa2 made two touchdowns on the asteroid and successfully collected data and samples during
its 1½-year mission since arriving there in June 2018. Any material thus collected will be stored onboard the
probe until its return to Earth. The mission costed nearly 29 billion yen (£205m).
The spacecraft is expected to return to Earth in late 2020 and drop a capsule containing the precious
samples in Australian desert. After dropping off a capsule containing the samples, the probe will not land
but rather will keep itself going on and fly away into space, thus finishing its 6-year mission.
If the return trip is completed successfully it will be the first time that samples from beneath an asteroid’s
surface have been brought back to Earth.
November 18, 2019
Special Winter Grade Fuel launched for Ladakh Region
Indian Oil Corporation on 17th November, 2019, launched special winter grade diesel that will remain
unfrozen even at -33 degree Celsius. This will help to provide continuous and year-round access to the
snow-covered regions.
Highlights
The fuel meets BIS specification of BS-VI grade
It was produced and certified at Panipat Refinery
The winter grade diesel is to be supplied to the region from Jalandar in Punjab.
Significance
The step will help to maintain continuous road connectivity to the region
Motorists in the region of Kaza, Ladakh, Kargil and Keylong always face the problem of diesel
freezing when their winter temperatures drop below -30 degree Celsius. The step will help solve the
problem.
The step will boost Government’s plan of Rs 50,000 crore investment in the territory in areas of
education, power, tourism and solar.
About winter Grade Fuel
Diesel Fuel is prone to waxing in cold weather. Below its Cloud Point, diesel begins to form wax particles.
Cloud Point refers to the temperature below which the fuel particles begin to cloud together and form
solidified waxes. The waxing in diesel fuel can be prevented by using certain additives

Sri Lanka Election: Gotbaya Rajapaksa to be sworn in as new President
The former wartime Defence Chief Gotabaya Rajpaksa of Sri Lanka has won the Presidential Election. He
took 52.25% of vote against his rival Sajith Premadasa. Mr Rajapaksa won in Sinhalese majority areas and
Mr Premadasa had scored in regions that were dominated by the Tamilians.
Highlights
National Security was seen as the dominant issue of the state as Islamic Group targeted churches
and hotels in the Island. More than 250 people were killed in the state in several bombings in April
2019.
Gotbaya is the brother of the former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa. In 2009, the brothers
spear headed the Tamil Tiger rebels where at least 100,000 were killed
The country recorded 83.7% of voters turn out.
Totally 35 candidates contested in the Presidential Election
India’s concerns
The previous Government had close ties with China. Political experts are worried about the ballooning debt
to Beijing. The regional powers especially India is concerned about the extent of Chinese influence in the
country. Rajapaksa has told the reporters that he is planning to restore the relations with China. On the
other hand, Mr Premadasa was leaning towards US and India.
Falling into debt trap, Sri Lanka has leased the Hambantota port to the Chinese for 99 years.
World Bank’s 300 million USD plan to Develop Kolkata
The World Bank has submitted a master plan to develop logistics infrastructure of Kolkata metropolitan
area. The bank is to invest 300 million USD in the project. The Government entities participating in the deal
includes CII and the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation.
The focus of the project is to be on construction of rail, road, industrial parks. The aim of the project is to
improve competitiveness, increase employment.
Recent Infrastructural Developments in the region
The West Bengal Government has increased its infrastructure spending by five times in 2019 as
compared to 2011.
The warehousing in the state has increased by 191%
The Inland Water Transport World Bank Project, Asian High way project, Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial
Corridor are the current prominent infrastructural developments in the region
Significance
Kolkata and West Bengal are strategically placed. It connects India and South East Asia in terms of
infrastructure. This will help to achieve India’s interests in the ASEAN countries and also its Act East
Policy.
Location of Kolkata also enables trade and commerce to neighboring countries like Bhutan, Nepal
and Bangladesh
Kolkata has the potential to become the hub of India’s north-eastern region.
17 November: World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims was observed on 17 November 2019. This day is
observed every year across the world on the third Sunday of November. It marks appropriate
acknowledgment of victims of road traffic crashes and their families. The theme (motto) of this year’s
World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims was “Life is not a car part”. It was based on Pillar 3 of
the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety – Safer vehicles.
Background
Road traffic crashes are major cause of death among all age groups and leading cause of death for children
and young adults aged 5–29 years. The risk of dying in road traffic crash is more than 3 times higher in low-
income countries than in high-income countries.
More than half of all road traffic deaths across the world are among vulnerable road users. Pedestrians,
cyclists, and riders of motorized 2- and 3-wheelers and their passengers are collectively known as
“vulnerable road users”. They account for half of all road traffic deaths around the world. According to UN
estismates, low-income countries record higher proportion of deaths of vulnerable road users as compared
to high-income countries.
About World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims
It was started in 1993 by Road Peace, a national charity for road crash victims in United Kingdom. Since
then it is observed and promoted worldwide by several Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs), including
European Federation of Road Traffic Victims (FEVR) and its associated organizations. Its observance on
every third Sunday in November each year was officially designated by United Nations General Assembly
(UNGA) on 26 October 2005 by adopting resolution 60/5. To commemorate this day, WHO and UN Road
Safety Collaboration encourage governments and NGOs around the world to.
Significance of this day: It has become an important tool in global efforts to reduce road casualties. It
offers opportunity for drawing attention to scale of economic and emotional devastation caused by road
crashes and also for giving recognition to suffering of road crash victims and work of support and rescue
services.
Harmeet Desai wins men’s singles title at ITTF Challenge Table Tennis tournament
Indian paddler Harmeet Desai won wins men’s singles title at International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF)
Challenge Indonesia Open 2019 Table Tennis tournament held at Batam, Indonesia. This was Harmeet’s
first title on foreign soil and overall second International title of the year, after he had won Commonwealth
championship in July 2019 held in Cuttack, Odisha.
ITTF Challenge Table Tennis tournament
In an all-Indian men’s singles final of ITTF Challenge Indonesia Open Table Tennis tournament, held in
Batam, Indonesia, Harmeet had defeated compatriot Amalraj Anthony by 11-9, 9-11, 11-9, 11-9, 10-12, 11-9
score. Earlier, he had defeated Yuto Kizikuri (Japan) and Siu Hang Lam (Hong Kong) by the same scoreline
of 4-2 in the quarters and semifinals respectively. In previous round of eight and four, Amalraj had recorded
identical 4-0 victories over Joao Monteiro (Portugal) and Ibrahima Diaw (Senegal).
Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan sworn in as 13th Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court
Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan was sworn in as the 13th Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court. He was
administered oath to office and secrecy under Article 219 of Constitution by Governor Draupadi Murmu at
the Raj Bhavan in Jharkhand’s capital Ranchi. The post of Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court was lying
vacant since early May 2019 after the elevation of former Jharkhand HC Chief Justice Aniruddha Bose to the
Supreme Court.
About Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan
Prior to his appointment as the Chief Justice of Jharkhand HC, Justice Ravi Ranjan was serving in the
Punjab and Haryana High Court. He was elevated to Additional Judge of Patna HC in July 2008. Later, he
was appointed as permanent judge in January 2010. He also served as Acting Chief Justice of the Patna HC
for a brief period in 2018.
Article 219 (Oath or affirmation by Judges of High Courts): According to it, every person appointed to be a
Judge of a High Court, before entering upon his office, make and subscribe before Governor of the State, or
some person appointed in that behalf by him. This oath or affirmation is according to the form set out for
the purpose in the Third Schedule of the Constitution.

GoI merges three Insurance PSUs
The GoI will merge 3 public Sector Insurance Companies as announced in budget 2019-20. The merger
includes United India Insurance Limited, National Insurance Co Limited and Oriental Insurance Company
Limited.
Highlights
The Budget 2019-2020 did not make provision of funds for insurers and the Department of Financial
Services. Therefore, the government institutions in the financial sector are forced to seek
supplementary demands to fulfil their purposes. The Budget allocated Rs 12,000 crore for this.
The General Insurance Companies have sought Rs 500 crore to Rs 3000 crore each to avoid falling
below solvency ratio. However, the three companies that are to be merged are struggling to maintain
minimum solvency ratio of 1.5
Laws on solvency Ratio
According to the Guidelines of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India, an insurance
company has to compulsorily maintain a minimum solvency ratio of 1.5.
The solvency ratio is calculated by dividing company’s tax net operating income by its total debt obligation.
The ratio indicates if the enterprise is able to meet its debt obligations. The lower the ratio, the greater is its
probability to default its debt obligations.
8th International Conference on Agricultural Statistics organized in New Delhi
The 8th International Conference on Agricultural Statistics (ICAS-VIII) will be held in New Delhi from 18-21
November 2019. It is organised by Union Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with Union Ministry of
Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoPSI), ISI-CAS, FAO, USDA, World Bank, Asian Development
Bank, Eurostat, AfDB (African Development Bank), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and various other
organizations. India is hosting this important conference in the field of agriculture statistics for first time.
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates will be Chief Guest of this conference.
About 8th International Conference on Agricultural Statistics (ICAS-VIII)
The theme of this year’s conference is ‘Statistics for Transformation of Agriculture to Achieve the
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)’. It is aimed at addressing various challenges faced in producing
data to report on SDGs and various leading research and also to deliberate and finalize best practises in the
field of agriculture statistics.
The agenda for this year’s conference covers domains of food and agricultural statistics, related
methodologies, technologies and processes. It will see participation of more than 600 delegates of which
200 delegates will be from 108 countries. It will host 5 plenary sessions and 44 technical sessions.
Background
International Conference on Agricultural Statistics (ICAS) is a series of conferences that was started in
1998 based on comprehensive need for agricultural data all across the world. It is conducted every three
years based on overarching need for agricultural data worldwide. It sponsored by United Nations-Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Bank (WB), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other
international development agencies.
Previsions ICAS: The last conference was held in Rome (Italy) in 2016. Before that, it was held in United
States, Italy, Mexico, China, Uganda and Brazil.
Report: India-2nd largest in sending students to US
On November 18, 2019, the “2019 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange” was released.
According to the report, India remained the largest source of foreign students to the US for the 10 th
consecutive year. This year alone, India has sent around 202,000 students to the US. It is the second largest
number of foreign students from a country to the US. The first largest source is China.
Key Findings of the Report
In 2019, the total number of international students in the US are 1,095,299. The number has raised by
0.05% as compared to 2018.
International students account to 5.5% of US higher education population. Of this, India and China
alone accounts to more than 50%
The other countries where majority of the students come from include South Korea (52,250), Saudi
Arabia (37,080) and Canada (26,122).
The number of students from countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria and Brazil have increased
as compared to the previous years.
For the US students, European countries are the popular destinations for their higher studies. Around
54.9% of US students choose Europe as their higher education destinies.
India extends Visa-on-Arrival facility to UAE nationals
India has now granted visa-on-arrival facility to the citizens of United Arab Emirates (UAE) with an aim to
enhance people to people contacts and trade relations as well as strengthen strategic ties between the two
countries. The move is a ‘special gesture’ for the UAE with whom India has a comprehensive strategic
partnership.
Key Highlights
The visa-on-arrival facility for the nationals of UAE will be available for a period of up to 60 days (2 months)
with double entry for tourism, business, medical purposes and conference. The facility came into effect on
16 November 2019.
This facility is available at six designated International Airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai,
Hyderabad and Kolkata.
Eligibility: The visa-on-arrival facility will be available only to those UAE nationals who have earlier obtained
an e-Visa or a normal paper visa for India. This eligibility condition is irrespective of whether person actually
visited India or not.
Those UAE nationals visiting India for first time are advised to apply for e-Visa or a normal paper visa.
Moreover, Pakistan Origin UAE nationals will not be eligible for Visa-on-Arrival Scheme.
NOTE: Japan and South Korea are the other two countries whose citizens are offered visa-on-arrival facility
by India. However, India extends e-Visa facility to around Citizens of 170 countries.
Indian Army conducts Sindhu Sudarshan exercise in Barmer, Rajasthan
The Strike Corps (also known as Sudarshan Chakra Corps) of Indian Army is conducting the annually held
exercise, dubbed Sindu Sudarshan-VII, in Barmer, Rajasthan. The annual exercise will test the operational
readiness and maneuver warfare capability of Indian Army’s 21 Corps, one of the service’s three so-called
Strike Corps. The Corps currently consists of 2 infantry divisions, 1 armored division, and 3 support
brigades.
About Sindhu Sudarshan Exercise
Exercise Objective: To validate battle readiness and operational effectiveness of Sudarshan Chakra Corps
in an Integrated Air-Land Battle scenario.
Participants: About 40,000 troops, 700 ‘A’ Vehicles and 300 Guns of Sudarshan Chakra Corps of Southern
Command. Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Army’s Army Aviation Corps (AAC) will participate in war
games with an undisclosed number of combat aircraft.
Exercise Part: The 1st part of Sindu Sudarshan-VII’ exercise was held in middle of October with fire power
demonstration in Pokhran. The second part of this exercise is being held from 13 to 18 November in
Jaisalmer-Barmer desert in Rajasthan and the 3rd part of exercise which will be held between 29 November
29 and 4 December 2019 will also include live firing exercise held in the Pokhran Field Firing Range,

Jaisalmer.
Key Component of War Games being conducted in open deserts of Rajasthan will be fast mobilization of
Corps, testing its ability to quickly strike deep into enemy terrain with ground forces supported by air power
as well as to hone Corps’ combat skills for executing a swift, intense and deep strike in deserts and semi-
developed terrain.
The exercise will showcase tanks and other armored vehicles duly supported by overwhelming land and air-
based fire power conducting fully integrated operational maneuvers.
Key Component of War Games being conducted in open deserts of Rajasthan will be fast mobilization of
Corps, testing its ability to quickly strike deep into enemy terrain with ground forces supported by air power
as well as to hone Corps’ combat skills for executing a swift, intense and deep strike in deserts and semi-
developed terrain.
The exercise will showcase tanks and other armored vehicles duly supported by overwhelming land and air-
based fire power conducting fully integrated operational maneuvers.
The exercise involved live fire drills conducted by: K-9 Vajra 155 mm/52 caliber self-propelled tracked
howitzers, Rudra advanced light helicopters and BM-21 Multiple Rocket Launch Systems, among others.
Government to set up FACT Check Module to curb fake news
Union Government has decided to set up FACT Check Module to identify incidences of fake news on social
media and digital platforms and take corrective action. It will be set up under Union Ministry of Information
and Broadcasting, the government’s public relations arm.
About FACT Check module
It is aimed at protecting and insulating the government and its agencies against fake news on social media
and digital platforms. It will largely focus on online and digital content for now and will be later expanded to
the electronic media later.
It will be initially manned by information service officers, who are also mandated to create appropriate
content to re-balance narrative and promote government’s official position. They will also target content to
ensure that government versions are visible and accessible to public
It will work on the four principles of find, assess, create and target (FACT), which involves round-the-clock
monitoring of online news sources and publicly available social media posts. It will also identify themes or
stories that promote false and misleading information relating to government and its agencies. It will also
assess scale of engagement with the risk identified and establish whether it is appropriate to respond to the
content.
Background
Government has decided to set up FACT Check module (mechanism) after taking serious note of rising
incidences of fake news on social media and digital platforms. This decision was triggered by a spate of
“fake” reports online, the latest being one in section of Bangladeshi media that claimed Prime Minister
Narendra Modi congratulated CJI Ranjan Gogoi over Ayodhya verdict. In this case, Government had quickly
clarified about this report as “malicious” and “fake”. But this matter led Prime Minister Office (PMO) and
I&B ministry to conclude that formal mechanism to tackle such fake news was needed urgently.
ICMR inks agreement with NIAD and Gates Foundation for healthcare research collaboration
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has inked declaration of intent with National Institute of
Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAD) of National Institutes of Health, USA and Bill and Melinda Gates
Foundation (BMGF). The declaration of intent between ICMR and NIAD was exchanged in the presence of
US Ambassador Kenneth I Juster and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation co-chair Bill Gates.
About ICMR, NIAD, Gates Foundation Collaboration
Its purpose is to take forward an ongoing collaborative healthcare research and training programme

between the two countries. It will establish a research fellowship programme for young scientists from
Untied States and India to expand healthcare research that will advance discovery to improve clinical
practice and benefit public health in both countries. Its initial focus is intended to engage scientists in
infectious disease and immunology research, with emphasis on diseases that affect women and children.
108th Foundation Day of ICMR
In event celebrating this foundation day, Bill Gates presented ICMR Lifetime Achievement Award for
Outstanding Achievement in Healthcare to three game-changers of country in field of health.
They are: Dr Cyrus S Poonawalla (Chairman and Managing Director, Serum Institute of India), Dr Kiran
Mazumdar-Shaw (Chairman and Managing Director, Biocon India) and Dr Prakash Baba Amte (Director, Lok
Biradari Prakalp).
They have been awarded in recognisation of their efforts in providing better health care to people in the
country and globally through innovative diagnostics, cost-effective life-saving tools and increasing access
to healthcare at the grassroots.
About Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
It is India’s apex scientific body for the formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research. It
was established in 1911 as Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA) and renamed to its present name in
1948. This makes it one of the oldest and largest medical research bodies in the world. It functions under
Department of Health Research, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is headquatered in New
Delhi.
Pakistan-First Country to introduce WHO approved India made Typhoid Vaccine
Pakistan becomes the first country to introduce WHO approved typhoid vaccine. The Vaccine is to be used
in southern Sindh province as more than 10,000 cases of Typhoid were documented since 2017.
Highlights
A four-week campaign will be conducted targeting 10 million children of age nine months to 15 years.
The campaign is launched with the support of Geneva based Gavi Vaccine alliance. The Gavi Vaccine
Alliance is backed by several global organization such as World Bank, WHO, UNICEF, Bill & Melinda
Gates Foundation to lower vaccine costs for poor countries.
In 2017 around 70% of deaths due to typhoid were among children. This is mainly because, Pakistan
spends meagre amount of its national resources on public health
Pakistan is suffering from drug-resistant typhoid fever since November 2016. The Salmonella Typhi
bacteria that causes Typhoid is called a super-bug in the country as it has developed resistance
towards old drugs.
Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine
The TCV was recommended by WHO in 2018 for infants and children over 6 months of age in typhoid-
endemic countries. As compared to earlier vaccines, TCV provides long-lasting protection and requires
fewer dosages.
The Vaccine is funded by the United Nations Children Fund (UNCF).
Typhoid
Typhoid impacts young children in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and Middle-East.
In these regions, the disease if caused due to unsafe water and sanitation systems and inadequate
drinking water.
India’s Contributions
Bharat Bio-Tech, an Indian Vaccines and Bio-therapeutics Manufacturer in 2018 received Pre-Qualification
tag from WHO for the TPV. Through the tag, the firm gained access to global public vaccination
programmes. In February 2019, the Pakistan Government approached the company through the GAVI

alliance. Under this, Pakistan is now receiving the vaccines.
Thailand hosts 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus
Thailand hosted the 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM)- Plus in its capital city Bangkok.
ADMM-Plus is key ministerial-level platforms in regional security architecture for promoting strategic
dialogue and practical cooperation between ASEAN and its 8 partner countries viz. India, China, Australia,
New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Russia and US.
Participants in this edition of ADMM-Plus included Defence Ministers from 17 countries of ADMM-Plus
group. Thereby, India was represented by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. As part of the agenda for
ADMM-Plus meeting, Defence Minister of India released ‘Handbook on Military Medicine for ASEAN’ along
with Defence Minister of Myanmar Lieutenant General Sein Win.
About Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
It is regional intergovernmental organisation comprising 10 Southeast Asian countries viz- Indonesia,
Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei and Laos. It promotes
intergovernmental cooperation as well as facilitates political, economic, sociocultural, educational, military
and security integration among its members and other Asian countries. It was founded on 8 August 1967. It
is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia. India is full dialogue partner of ASEAN.
About ADMM-Plus
It is platform for ASEAN and its eight dialogue partners (Australia,New Zealand, India, China, Russia, US,
Japan and South Korea) to strengthen security and defence co-operation for peace, stability, and
development in the region. It seeks to promote mutual trust and confidence between defence
establishments of ASEAN and its eight partner countries through greater dialogue and transparency. It was
established in 2010. It was held for first time in Hanoi, Vietnam in 2010, in which defence ministers of
participating countries had agreed on five areas of practical cooperation, including counter-terrorism,
maritime security, peacekeeping operations and humanitarian assistance.
Roar of the sea: Naval Exercise between Qatar and India
A three-day naval exercise, Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea) is being conducted between November 17 and
November 21, 2019 between the Indian and Qatar Naval Forces. The aim of the exercise is to enhance
interoperability between the naval forces.
Highlights
From the Indian side, the Missile Stealth Frigate INS Trikand and Patrol Aircraft P8-I along with Rafale
aircraft are to attend the exercise
The exercise is being held for the first time.
Both the P8 and Rafale are newly procured defense machines of India.
The exercise will include Air defense, Surface action, interdiction operation, maritime surveillance and
anti-terrorism
The Qatar Emiri Naval Forces participating in the exercise include Anti-Ship Missile equipped Barzan
Class Fast Attack craft and Rafale aircraft
Significance
The Geographical location of Qatar is significant for the country being located near the major petroleum
deposits in the Persian Gulf . Also, the joint exercises will help in adding protection to the Indian ships
sailing through the region. Around 110 billion USD of Indian trade happens through the region. As per 2018,
it includes 50 billion USD of imports and 60 billion USD of exports.
Defense Relations
The first diplomatic defense agreement between India and Qatar was signed in 2008. According to the
agreement the countries permit annual defense training. However, an exercise between the countries is

being conducted for the first time.
November 19, 2019
November 19: World Toilet Day
World Toilet Day is marked by the United Nations and its sister organizations every year on November 19
since 2013. In July 2013, the United Nations passed a resolution to mark the event by its member nations.
The objective is to bring behavioural changes and implementation of policies that will end open defecation
and increase access to sanitation among poor.
As human waste spreads diseases, it is essential to use toilets. This year their importance is spread under
the theme
Theme: Leaving No One Behind
Need
More than half of the global population are living without good sanitation
673 million people still follow open defecation world wide
297,000 children under five die each year of diarrheal problems that are caused due to unsafe
drinking water, hand hygiene and sanitation
Developing Countries are losing 5% of their GDP due to sanitation-related diseases
Sustainable Development Goals
The day helps in achieving the SDG 6 that promises sanitation for all by 2030. The SDG 6 Ensures Clean
Water and Sanitation for all. Improvement in sanitation facilities are predominantly required in Central Asia,
South-East Asia, East Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia.
NITI Aayog Report: Health Reforms
On November 18, 2019, NITI Aayog released a report on “Health Systems for a New India: Building Blocks-
Potential Pathways to reforms”. The report provides a framework to build a rigid health system for India.
Key findings of the Report
The report has identified 4 focus areas namely
To deliver on unfinished public health agenda
To change the health financing from out of pocket expenditures into large insurers.
To integrate health services with digitization
To empower citizens on becoming better health buyers
The report criticized the multiplicity of health schemes. The think tank believes that multiplicity
prevents standardization of purchasing procedures.
Recommendations of the report
The financing structure of the health care system in the country has to be changed. The out-of-pocket
expenditure should be reduced and the spending should be directed towards purchasing capabilities.
The report recommended the practices of Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust of Karnataka. It went on to
enroll hospitals from neighboring states. It has succeeded its implementation in the state and is now
targeting entire 6.4 crore population
It suggests to extend the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, the cashless insurance scheme to cover
entire country. The scheme is now focusing on 10 crore poor families
Indian boxer Sarita Devi elected to AIBA first Athletes Commission
Veteran Indian boxer L Sarita Devi was elected unopposed to International Boxing Association’s (AIBA) first-
ever Athletes Commission. She is among six boxers elected as members of the commission from 5
continents. She will be representing Asian bloc in this Commission. The election for members of this
commission was conducted during AIBA men’s and women’s Boxing Championships 2019 held in Russia.
Sarita Devi was sole candidate contesting for this position from Asian region.
About Laishram Sarita Devi
She was born on 1 March 1982 in Manipur. Sge had become a professional boxer in 2000. She is eight-time
Asian Championships medalist — five of them gold. She has been athletes representative in the executive
committee of Boxing Federation of India (BFI), which nominated her for the position in the world body. She
was awarded Arjuna award in 2009 by Central Government for her achievements. She is also DSP with
Manipur Police.
Asian Games 2014 Controversy: She had courted controversy in Asian Games in 2014 (held in Incheon,
South Korea,), when she had refused to accept her bronze medal at the prize distribution ceremony of the
57-60kg category. owever, she accepted the medal later. This was followed by one-year ban on her by the
AIBA.
About AIBA Athletes Commission
It was set up as a part of the reforms recommended by International Olympic Committee (IOC) for AIBA.
Background: IOC in May 2019 had stripped AIBA of its right to conduct boxing in the 2020 Olympic Games
due to alleged financial, ethics and administrative mismanagement and irregularities.
Members of Commission: It features one male and a female boxer from each of the five regional
confederations – Asia, Oceania, Africa, Americas and Europe.
Functions of Members: Its members are mandated to act as a bridge between AIBA and boxers to ensure
greater transparency and coordination in the formulation of rules and projects for the sport. They will also
be expected to work in tandem with the IOC to ensure that boxers are represented in its athletes’
commission.
Initiatives of GoI to promote Fit India Movement in schools
The Department of Higher Education operating under Ministry of Human Resource Development has
developed actions on Fit India Programme. The operations have been sent to all the Higher Education
Institutes.
The advisory has been circulated to Department of School Education and to Department of Sports at state
levels.
Operations
Implement practices that will encourage students and staffs to participate in health and wellness
activities
Pledging to maintain physical and mental fitness and to participate in sports activities regularly.
To encourage students and staffs to use bicycles inside the campus and to keep the campus clean.
Organize yoga and meditation events.
To organize regular heath-check up camps and medical fitness camps.
Abuse free Campus
To implement and tobacco free campus status
It is the responsibility of the educational institutes to bring in zero tolerance policy towards tobacco
and substance abuse
To provide counselling services for stress management and mental health.
Fit India Movement
The Fit India Movement was launched by PM Modi in august 2019. It encourages Indians to include fitness
activities in their daily lives. There is zero investment on the project. However, the reach and spread of the
movement is big. The UGC and the CBSE board have asked the schools to encourage students and staffs to
participate in the movement
Health Ministry sign MoC with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for technical support
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare signed memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with Bill & Melinda

Gates Foundation (BMGF) for technical support. Under this MoC, BMGF will provide technical, management
and program design support to Union Health Ministry through its grantees as well as other partners. The
special focus under MoC will be on innovation, best practices and enhancing performance management.
Highlights of MoC
BMGF will support Health Ministry’s work towards strengthening primary health aspects. This includes
reducing maternal mortality and child mortality, improving nutrition services as well as increasing
immunization reach.
It will also make efforts towards bolstering entire health system by-
Increasing access to family planning measures amongst younger women as well as reduce the burden of
select infectious diseases such as Tuberculosis (TB), Visceral Leishmaniasis (Black fever aka Kala Azar)
and Lymphatic Filariasis (commonly known as Elephantiasis).
Strengthening of supply chains and monitoring systems while focusing on budget utilization, management
as well as skills of human resources for health.
Significance
BMGF will support Union Ministry of Health’s ambitious vision to improve the primary healthcare system in
this country–especially for women and children. Thus, Union Ministry of Health will use support to achieve
the universal health coverage in the country with an effective and quality-driven primary healthcare system.
About Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF)
It is American private foundation founded by Microsoft Co-founder Bill and his wife Melinda Gates. It was
launched in 2000 and is based in Seattle, Washington. It is largest private foundation (philanthropic
organisation) in the world, holding $50.7 billion in assets. It is controlled by its three trustees: Bill and
Melinda Gates, and Warren Buffett (joined in 2006 with £30 billion pledge.)
It is guided by the belief that every life has equal value and works to help all people lead healthy, productive
lives. In developing countries, it focuses on improving people’s health and giving them chance to lift
themselves out of hunger and extreme poverty. In US, it seeks to ensure that all people—especially those
with fewest resources—have access to the opportunities they need to succeed in school and life.
India to host the Kimberely Process Certification Scheme
The Plenary meeting of Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is to be hosted by India between
November 18, 2019 and November 22, 2019. The event is hosted by Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
The meeting is held annually to make sure that the trade of diamonds is conflict free.
Highlights of the meeting
During the meeting three special forums are to be held. It includes adapting to changes in diamond industry,
financial inclusion and women empowerment in the diamond industry and origin and identification of
diamonds. Also, several meetings of the working groups and committees of Kimbereley Process
Certification Scheme.
Why is KPCS important for India?
Currently India is exporting 24 billion USD. In the coming years it is expected that the target will reach
1 trillion USD.
There are more than 1 million people employed in diamond industry in India.
About KPCS
India is one of the founding members of the KPCS
The Scheme outlines the rules that govern the trade of diamonds. The purpose of the scheme is to
prevent the flow of conflict diamonds. It is not an organization. There are no offices or headquarters
for KPCS. It cannot frame agreements. It simply relies on contributions of the participants, industries,
governments, civil society observers

The KPCS has been agreed by the United Nations and the World Diamond Council.
Working of KPCS
The scheme works on certain terms and conditions. The participating countries should implement national
legislation, export and import controls and should exchange statistical data. The countries should also be
transparent to the scheme meetings.
What are conflict diamonds?
Conflict diamonds are rough diamonds that are used by the rebel movements to finance wars, especially in
the third world countries
12th Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2019 held in Lucknow
The 12th edition of Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2019 was held in Uttar Pradesh’s capital city
Lucknow from 15th to 17th November 2019. It was organised by Institute of Urban Transport (IUT),
professional body under Union Ministry of Urban Development. The theme of this year’s conference was
“Accessible and liveable Cities”.
About Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference and Expo
It is an annual flagship event organised under the aegis of Union Ministry of Urban Development. Its genesis
is from the National Urban Transport Policy of the Government of India, 2006 (NUTP).
Primary objective: To disseminate information to the cities and to help them keep up-to-date with best
urban transport practices.
Other Objectives: To provide opportunity for key decision makers and delegates to interact with service
providers, civil society, academia, experts, professionals, industry, technology, as well as other stakeholders
in Urban Transport (both domestic and international) to develop urban transport along sustainable path. It
also serves as a forum to discuss key issues relevant to sector and suggest measures to address them.
Exhibition (expo): It is a special feature of UMI to disseminate and showcase latest developments in urban
transport technology, propagation of innovative ideas, implementation of best transport projects, good
urban transport initiatives and practices in the field.
Grassroot Olympic- Mission Talent Hunt launched in Assam to groom talent
Assam Olympic Association (AOA) has launched new programme- ‘Grassroot Olympic – Mission Talent
Hunt’ to identify and groom sports talent in the state. Its launch was annouced by Assam chief minister
Sarbananda Sonowal during the executive committee meeting of AOA. Sarbananda Sonowal is President of
AOA and minister of state (MoS) for health Pijush Hazarika is its vice-chairman.
Key decisions taken at Executive committee meeting of AOA
AOA constituted various sub-committees and commissions for the Khelo India Youth Games. The
tournament is scheduled to be held in Assam from January 10-22, 2020. It was decided that AOA will
organise sports events in 5 categories covering players from 10 to 60 years of age in the state.
It also constituted committee under the chairmanship of vice-chairman of AOA. This committee is
responsible for interacting with grassroot level sports organizations, clubs, sports organizers. It will prepare
a detailed action plan and connect with the field to spot the talented sportspersons.
India and ADB sign 91 million USD to improve water resources in Karnataka
On November 18, 2019, India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a 91 million USD agreement to
improve water security of Karnataka. The loan will help to modernize the Vijayanagara Channel irrigation
systems and also to increase the efficiency of Krishna river basin.
Highlights of the project
The Karnataka Government will strengthen the basin institutions for Integrated and Sustainable Water
Resources Management Investment Programme.
The Programme plans to modernize about 442 kilometers of main distributaries in the Vijayanagara
Channel network.
The programme has two project loans. It will help Karnataka water agencies to roll out efficient river
basin management plans.
The first project will modernize the irrigation system
The second project will strengthen water governance
Significance
The programme will help to save 1,700 million cubic metres that can be used on additional 160,000
hectares of farm land
The project will establish 30 water user cooperative societies. This will strengthen irrigation canals of
the farmers.
It will help to improve efficiency of 84% of state’s total water use.
Asian Development Bank
The Bank is on the foot steps of achieving prosperous, resilient, sustainable and inclusive Asia and Pacific.
Its goal is to eradicate poverty. In 2018 alone, the bank provided a loan of 21.8 billion USD funding several
projects in the region
ISRO to Launch 13 satellites and Cartosat-3
The Indian Space Research Organization will launch 13 commercial nano satellites of the United States
along with the imaging and mapping satellite Cartostat-3. The launch is scheduled on November 25, 2019.
Highlights
The satellites will be launched by PSLV-C47, a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle into Sun Synchronous Orbit
from Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota.
CartoSAT-3
Cartosat-3 is the third generation Earth observation satellite built by ISRO. It is one of the most advanced
imaging satellites built by the organization so far. It has the capability to produce high resolution aerial
images in the world. The features of the satellite include
Panchromatic-Captures all visible colors of light
Hyperspectral-Captures light from electromagnetic spectrum
Multispectral-Captures light within specific ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Till date, eight Cartosats have been launched.
13 commercial satellites
The 13 satellites are launched by the Luxembourg based space company Kleos, as a part of its multi-
satellite constellation mission called the Scouting Mission. The Scouting mission aims to provide a global
picture of unregistered marine activity and surveillance and intelligence capability to government and
commercial entities. The mission also has an Automatic Identification system that rectifies commonly
faced challenges of the surveillance mission.
Pakistan successfully test fires Shaheen-1 surface-to-surface ballistic missile
Pakistan conducted successful test launch of Shaheen-1 surface-to-surface ballistic missile. The test was
conducted part of a training exercise aimed at testing the operational readiness of Army Strategic Forces
Command for ensuring Pakistan’s credible minimum deterrence. The test come days after India conducted
the first night trial of Agni-II surface-to-surface medium range nuclear-capable missile having strike range of
2,000 km.
About Shaheen-1 missile
It is a land based supersonic short-range ballistic missile (SRBM). It has been jointly designed and
developed by joint venture of Pakistan’s National Engineering and Scientific Commission (NESCOM) and
National Defence Complex (NDC). Its design is reportedly based on Chinese M-9 missile. It was first tested

in April 1999.
It derives its name after a species of Falcon found in the mountains of Pakistan. It is also designated as
Hatf IV. It is capable of delivering all types of warheads (conventional as well as nuclear). It has strike range
of 650 KMs, bringing a number of Indian cities under its range. It is propelled by a two-stage solid-fuel
rocket motor.
Implementation Updates: National Biofuel Policy
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas notified a new National Policy on Biofuels in June 2018. On a
written reply at the opening session of Lok Sabha on November 18, 2019, the Ministry of Petroleum and
Natural Gas provided its implementation steps.
Government measures and achievements
The percentage of Ethanol in Ethanol blended petrol has been increased from 1.53% in 2013-14 to
4.22% in 2017-18
GoI has procured 180 crore litres of ethanol against the target of 225 crore litres for the year 2018-19
The total Ethanol production capacity of the country is 355 crore litres per annum.
Current Government schemes on Biofuels
The Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable scheme aims at establishing 5000 compressed bio
gas plants across the country by 2023.
The Oil Marketing Companies that are part of the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme can sell blended
petrol with maximum ethanol percentage of 10%.
Salient Features of the Policy
The Biofuels will be categorized as Basic Biofuels and Advanced Biofuels.
Government will provide incentives, viability gap funding and off-take insurance for advanced
biofuels. Advanced Biofuels are derived from non-food feedstocks. They are also known as second-
generation biofuels.
According to the new policy, B-molasses, damaged food grains, sugarcane juice and surplus food
grains can be used for ethanol production
A supply chain will be set up for the production of biodiesel. It is to be produced from non-edible oil
seeds, short gestation crops and used cooking oil
The Policy defines the roles and responsibilities of all the ministries and other concerned
departments that are involved in production and supply of Biodiesel.
Centre bans Meghalaya-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council
The central government has banned ‘Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council’ (HNLC), a Meghalaya-based
insurgent group, for its increased activities of violence and other insurgent acts. Centre also notified that
HNLC’s activities are detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India.
The central government declared the HNLC, along with all its factions, wings and front organisations as
unlawful association in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of Unlawful
Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. Earlier, the HNLC was declared a banned organisation on 16
November 2000 but the ban was later lifted.
Why is HNLC Banned?
Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) notified that HNLC along with all its factions, wings and frontal
organisations has been openly declaring secession of certain regions that are largely inhabited by Khasi and
Jaintia tribals in Meghalaya from Indian Union as its objective.
The group continues to bully and intimidate civilians to extort funds. It also maintains links with other
insurgent groups of Northeast region to carry out the acts of extortion and intimidation. HNLC maintains
camps in Bangladesh to give sanctuary and training to its cadre. If these activities are not immediately

curbed and controlled, the HNLC will regroup and rearm itself, expand its cadre base, procure sophisticated
weapons, thus cause loss of lives of civilians and security forces, as well as accelerate its anti-national
activities.
Recent Activities: The ministry also listed violence perpetrated by HNLC in recent past that include 4
incidents involving killing of 1 civilian, during the period from 1 January 2015, to 31 July 2019, arrest of 16
of its cadres, recovery of 4 weapons, surrender of 14 of its cadres and kidnapping of 4 persons.
Committee on Companies Act, 2013 submits its report to Finance Ministry
Ministry of Finance and Corporate Affairs constituted the Company Law Committee in September 2019. The
Committee submitted its report to the Finance Minister on November 18, 2019.
Objective of the Committee
The Committee was constituted to decriminalize the Companies Act, 2013. This is being done to provide
Ease of Living for Corporate in the country.
Recommendations of the Committee
The committee has recommended amendments to 46 penal provisions associated with the law. The
amendments are either to remove criminality or to allow rectification through alternate methods or to
restrict punishment only to fine. Bottom line, the committee suggests to lenient punishments
mentiones in the law
The Committee has recommended to provide further easing of living for law abiding corporate.
It also insisted on wider consultations during following decisions by the Ministry of finance
Permitting appeals in NCLT against the orders of Regional Directors
To review provisions on disqualification of directors
Reviewing provisions that debars audit firms.
Significance
With World Institutions decelerating growth rates of India, every step towards the financial flow in the
country is important. Though India is an agricultural Economy, majority of the contribution towards its GDP
is from the service sector. Therefore, it becomes important to provide Ease of Living for the corporates to
boost the growth rate.
India ranks 59th in 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking
India was ranked 59th among 63 countries in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking released by International
Institute for Management Development. This year, India slipped by 6 places as compared to 53rd rank in
2018 edition of this global annual list. India’s poor performance was on account of low quality of life and
expenditure on education.
IMD World Talent Ranking
It is released annually by International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Switzerland based
business school. It assesses the status and the development of competencies necessary for enterprises
and the economy to achieve long term value creation.
The ranking of countries is based on the performance in three main categories– investment & development,
appeal and readiness. These 3 categories assess how countries perform in wide range of areas such as
cost of living, quality of life, education, language skills, apprenticeships, workplace training, remuneration
and tax rates.
Highlights of 2019 Rankings
Top 10 Countries: Switzerland (1st), Denmark (2nd), Sweden (3rd), Austria (4th), Luxembourg (5th), Norway
(6th), Iceland (7th), Finland (8th), the Netherlands (9th) and Singapore (10th). These top countries share
strong levels of investment in education and a high quality of life. Moreover, Europe leads way in fostering
best conditions for competitiveness in a skills-scarce global economy.

Top Asian Countries: Singapore, along with Hong Kong SAR (15th position), followed by Taiwan (20th) lead
in terms of talent competitiveness due to the readiness of talent pool. In this edition of list, Singapore rose
from 13th to 10th position compared to last year, Hong Kong SAR from 18th to 15th, and Taiwan from 27th
to 20th.
BRICS countries: India is also lagging behind fellow BRICS countries – China ranked 42nd, Russia (47th)
and South Africa (50th).
India’s Performance: It also witnessed one of harpest declines among Asian economies owing to low
quality of life, negative impact of brain drain, and the low priority of its economy on attracting and retaining
talents.
China: It was ranked in the lower half of the index. This year its rank slipped by 3 places due to low ranking
on government expenditure per student, cost of living index and exposure to particle pollution.
November 20, 2019
DRDO to double ASTRA’s range
The DRDO Chief, Mr G Sateesh Reddy recently announced that DRDO (Defence Research Development
Organization) is to increase the range of ASTRA air-to-air missiles. India is one of the few countries to own
a successful BMD-Ballistic Missile Defence programme.
ASTRA
Astra (Sanskrit word for weapon) is an all-weather air-to-air missile developed completely by DRDO.
Currently, ASTRA is capable of engaging targets upto a distance of 110 km. The ASTRA missiles are
integrated with Sukhoi Su-30 MKI aircrafts of India.
Now, DRDO plans to increase the range of the missile to 160 km. Apart from this, it is also planning to
infuse technologies like solid fuel ramjet and dual pulse solid rocket motor. There are also plans to
integrate the missiles with other aircrafts like Dassault, MiG-29, HAL Tejas.
Ballistic Missile Defence Programme
The BMD is an initiative to develop multi-layered defence systems to protect India from missile attacks. The
programme was introduced in the light of threats from China and Pakistan. Prithvi and Ashwin are the two
most successful BMD missiles developed under the programme.
IRCTC Revenue doubles; 14% increase in profits
The earnings from internet ticketing services of IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation)
increased by 80.8% between the period April, 2019 and September, 2019. The earnings in the four-month
period is Rs 199.3 crores. It was Rs 199.3 crore before April, 2019. The revenue has almost doubled.
IRCTC is an exclusive e-ticketing partner of the Indian Railways. This is the first time IRCTC is releasing its
revenue after it entered the stock market in October, 14, 2019. Also, the sector has earned huge success in
India’s path of Digitization.
Audit report
The report was released by IRCTC after its audit by the Serva Associates, Charted Accountant, New Delhi.
The audit was conducted through the concerned auditor under Section 139 of Companies Act, 2013
Section 139 of Companies Act, 2013
The section deals with the appointment of auditors
The section under the act allows the public sector companies and other private companies to appoint
auditors at the first annual meeting.
IRCTC
The IRCTC is one of the Miniratna companies of India. It is a subsidiary of the Indian Railways.
A Miniratna status is provided to the Public Sector Undertakings that satisfy the following criteria
The PSU should have continuously made profit in the last 3 years or it should have earned Rs 30 crore
profit in one year
2020 Hockey Pro League: Bhubaneswar to host India’s home matches
International Hockey Federation (FIH), the sport’s governing body announced that Bhubaneswar will host
India’s home matches of 2020 Hockey Pro League. Odisha’s Capital Bhubaneswar has become a hockey
hub in India as it has been hosting a majority of tournaments. The city most recently hosted Olympic
qualifiers.
Key Highlights
The 2020 Hockey Pro League will be played between 11 January and 28 June 2020. It will feature 144
matches in the coming season.
The first match will feature the Netherlands and China on 11 January 2020 at the Wujin Hockey Stadium in
Changzhou, China.
The first team that India will host in second Hockey Pro League is the Netherlands on January 18.
Australia’s home matches will be played in Perth and Sydney and England will be playing its share in
London, UK.
THE VENUES:
ASIA: India: Bhubaneswar; China: Changzhou
EUROPE: Germany: Mengladbach, Hamburg, Berlin; Spain: Valencia; Great Britain: London; The Netherlands:
Utrecht, Rotterdam, Hertogenbosch, Amsterdam; Belgium: Antwerp
USA: North Carolina; Argentina: Buenos Aires, San Miguel de Tucuman
Australia: Perth, Sydney; New Zealand: Christchurch, Auckland
Haryana Government sets up new Foreign Cooperation Department
The Haryana Government has created a new department called Department of Foreign Cooperation. The aim
of the department is to focus on initiatives that are taken by the state that promotes welfare of non-
Resident Indians, investment and youth employment.
Key Features
The Foreign Cooperation Department will work to formulate country-wise strategies that will promote
employment and investment in the state
The Department will work closely with the ministry of External Affairs to improve the international
cooperation with the foreign provinces.
The Department will also help to increase engagement under twin city programmes of the Ministry of
External Affairs
Objectives
The Department will pursue issues that involves cooperation between public and private sectors.
The main aim of the Department will be to work with bilateral and multilateral groups to promote the
interest of the state in foreign countries.
It will focus on trade and investments predominantly
The Department will also maintain relations with Indian mission that are working abroad in matters
that are related to the state of Haryana.
IRCTC signs an MoU with KSTDC to run the Golden Chariot Train
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Indian Railway Catering and Tourism
Corporation Limited (IRCTC) and Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) to market, run
and operate the Golden Chariot train. The MoU is an important step towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s
vision to promote tourism in India as well as his clarion call to countrymen to visit at least 15 tourism spots
in India.

Key Highlights of MoU
KSTDC will soon hand over the reins of Golden Chariot train to IRCTC, the tourism arm of Indian Railways.
IRCTC is expected to carry out an internal refurbishment of the train and commence operations from March
2020.
IRCTC is also planning a revamp of train itineraries so as to add different flavours that Karnataka has to
offer. The Golden Chariot now covers tourist destinations in Karnataka, Kerala, Puducherry and other south
Indian states. The new itineraries shall be a mix of history, culture, wildlife and nature and proposed places
to be included in the itinerary include- Bandipur, Hampi, Mysore, Halebid, Chikmagalur, Goa and Bijapur.
IRCTC and KSDTC are also expected to keep the price of the tickets competitive so that the common people
can also avail the facility of this train. This step will also boost the tourism in Southern India.
About The Golden Chariot Train
It is a Government of Karnataka initiative in a joint venture with the Union Ministry of Railways. Government
of Karnataka and KSTDC have been operating and maintaining Golden Chariot since it commenced its
operations in 2008. The 18 coach long train has 44 guest rooms with a capacity of 84 guests. It covers
tourist attractions in the state of Karnataka and other south Indian states.
Golden Chariot is South India’s first and only luxury train but its services were, however, suspended by
Karnataka government temporarily on account of huge losses.
Kolkata becomes first City to Install ‘Third Umpire’ RT-PCR Machines in India
In a bid towards upholding state’s public health the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has installed first
of its kind high-end Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) Machines in India for quick
detection of diseases such as dengue, tuberculosis (TB) and swine flu.
About RT-PCR Machines
As the Kolkata city continues to record a sharp rise in cases of mosquito-borne diseases, the KMC aims to
identify the root causes of diseases such as dengue through RT-PCR Machines. The objective is to give
accurate DNA report on blood tests in order to ascertain the exact cause of illness.
These machines will serve as a ‘third umpire’ in situations when medical reports and blood tests reveal
contradictory results. The machine will provide the exact cause of illness without any room for doubts. The
tests conducted through these machines will be free of cost.
In the initial stages of project, four machines have been installed in Hatbagan in North Kolkata, Jadavpur,
Behala and at Haji Mohammad Mohsin Square in central part of city.
Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for 2019: David Attenborough
Renowned naturalist and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough will be conferred the Indira Gandhi Prize for
Peace, Disarmament and Development for the year 2019. He was selected for the 2019 prize by an
international jury chaired by former President Pranab Mukherjee. He is being awarded the prize for a
lifetime of doing more to reveal wonders of natural world to people than perhaps any other individual.
About David Attenborough
He has worked tirelessly to awaken humankind to the need to- preserve and protect biodiversity of the
planet, to live in a sustainable and harmonious way with all life. He also advocated for stopping what he has
called: ‘a plague on earth’.
His work, most of it for BBC, has received widespread recognition across the world. Apart from his
knighthood ‘Sir’, he has received awards from Royal Geographical Society, the Micheal Faraday Prize,
UNESCO’s Kalinga Prize, the Descartes Prize and Fellowship of the Royal Society, as well as several Emmy
and BAFTA awards.
About Indira Gandhi Peace Prize
It is annual prestigious award named after former prime minister Indira Gandhi. It is conferred every year by

Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust since 1986 and consists of and a citation and a monetary award of Rs.25 lakh.
The award recognizes creative efforts by individuals/organizations working towards creating new
international economic order, promoting international peace & development as well as ensuring that
scientific discoveries are used for larger good of humanity and enlarging the scope of freedom.
Earlier Recipients: First recipient: Parliamentarians for Global Action (1986); Others– UNICEF (1989), Rajiv
Gandhi (1991), M S Swaminathan (1999), Kofi Annan (2003), Angel Merkel (2013), Indian Space Research
Organization (ISRO) (2014) and UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHRC) (2015), Former Prime Minister
Manmohan Singh (2017) and Centre for Science and Environment (2018).
2nd South Asia Safety Summit held in New Delhi
The second edition of South Asia Safety Summit was recently held in New Delhi. It was orgnaised by Union
Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) and Facebook. It was organized to highlight issue of
safety while individuals and communities are connected on the digital platform.
Highlights of Summit
It saw participants from 125 civil society organizations from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and
Afghanistan who have expertise in running digital literacy programmes and creating tools for social-
emotional development of young people.
Comic series under #CreateCareConnect: It was launched during the summit with an aim to educate young
users about online safety in a simple and engaging way. It is illustrated by a young Delhi-based doodler,
@neha.doodles.
We Think Digital website: It was launched by Union Minister of WCD Srmiti Irani during the Summit. It is
online education portal with interactive tutorials aimed at helping people think critically and share
thoughtfully online. It covers topics like privacy, safety, security, digital discourse and knowing your digital
footprint.
India initiates New Visa exemption for foreigners seeking medical treatment
Following the implementation of a liberalised Medical Visa Policy, India has announced a set of new
exemptions for foreigners seeking medical treatment in India. Under the new visa exemptions, foreigners
seeking medical treatment in India will not have to get their primary visa converted in a medical visa.
This exemption will be applicable for foreigners obtaining indoor treatment up to 180 days (6 months) and
seeking admission to a hospital due to illness. However, the treatment of diseases requiring organ
transplant shall be permitted only on a Medical Visa.
New Visa Exemptions
A foreigner suffering from a minor medical condition which only needs OPD consultation or treatment may
take treatment at any treatment center or hospital on primary visa without converting it into a medical visa.
India has now permitted foreigners to take indoor medical treatment on the primary visa subject to certain
conditions. This will be allowed in cases where the required indoor medical treatment is for less than 180
days (6 months) or for the stay stipulation period which includes the stipulated time on the primary visa or
the duration of his/ her primary visa, whichever is earlier.
Medical Visa Exemption Rules/Conditions:
Such exemption is not permitted to a foreigner of Pakistani nationality.
The concerned authorities of hospital/treatment center must furnish the details of foreigner in a prescribed
format to concerned Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 24 hours after admission of
foreigner in hospital for such indoor medical treatment. This includes the details of indoor medical
treatment to be taken by the foreigner, duly certified by treating doctor.
It will also cover indoor medical treatment for diseases (if any) which foreigner may have been suffering
even before his entry into India, but which has come to notice of treating doctor during medical diagnosis.

India hosts World Customs Organization RCP meeting of Asia Pacific
India hosted the World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia Pacific Regional Contact Points (RCP) that was
held for 3 three days on Puducherry. The conference is being held for the fourth time in India. Previously it
was held in Jaipur and Cochin.
Highlights
International Organizations like UNCTAD, Global Alliance on Trade Facilitation (GATF) participated in
the conference. They presented the best practices that are involved in customs procedures.
The conference also discussed about the key focus areas of the Asia Pacific Region. It includes
security, enforcement, facilitation and capacity building.
World Customs Organization
The World Customs Organization is an inter-governmental Organization that is involved in setting up
principles and standards especially for cross border procedures and customs.
The headquarters of WCO is located in Brussels.
The Organization has divided the world into 6 regions to make the rules across borders of these
regions easier.
India is a member of the organization.
Significance
The Asia Pacific accounts to 37% of the world’s GDP.
Also, the region is important for India as it is trying to increase its trade and investment in the region.
India is achieving this through its Act East Policy.
The development of North East Region is also linked with India’s interests in Asia Pacific. India is
finding markets in the region for the export of goods from North East.
It is also essential for India to increase its presence in the region as China has larger interests in the
region especially in the markets of the region.
2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products held in New Delhi
Union Minister for Health Dr. Harsh Vardhan inaugurated ‘2019 World Conference on Access to Medical
Products: Achieving the SDGs 2030’ in New Delhi. It was jointly organized by Union Ministry of Health &
Family Welfare (MoHFW) and World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with Indian Council of
Medical Research (ICMR), Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) and Biotechnology
Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).
About Conference
It is a follow on from the “2017 and 2018 World Conference on Access to Medical Products” organized in
November 2017 and October 2018 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Objectives: (i) To explore new approaches in the innovation landscape in medical products for achieving
Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and SDG 2030 goals (ii) To Discuss the role of intellectual property to
promote access to medical products.
It provided platform to further the discussions for access to medical products on themes of ‘UHC and
innovation’, ‘legal landscape and trade-related aspects in the context of access to medical products’ and
‘regulation of medical products and access’.
International Energy Agency releases World Energy Outlook, 2019
The Paris based International Energy Agency recently released its report on World Energy Outlook. The
Agency has projected that the installed solar power in the world will increase by 3,142 GW by 2040.
According to the report, the currently the world uses 495 GW of installed solar power.
Oil demand will slow down after 2025 and the world will transit towards electric vehicles. However, the oil
demand for the next decade will keep increasing with 85% of increase coming from the US. In African
states, the gas and renewable sources will power the future energy. However, the demand for coal in these
countries are still raising
The report says that at present the energy demand in the world is growing at the rate of 2% per year.
Climate Scenarios
There are three climate scenarios projected by the report for the future. It includes the Current Policy
Scenario, Stated Policy Scenario and Sustainable Development Scenario.
According to Current Policy Scenario, the world will continue to function with the old regulations with
energy demand rising at the rate of 1.3% by 2040. The Stated Policy Scenario is New Policy Scenario. Under
this the report says that with the new policies that have been introduced by the governments, the energy
demand will increase by 1% per year.
The Sustainable Policy Scenario is the most ambitious of all the scenarios. Under this, the report says that
by aligning with Paris Agreement the global temperature will reduce by 1.5 degree Celsius.
IEA
IEA is an inter-governmental organization of OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and
Development). the World Economic Outlook is the flagship publication of the agency.
India-ASEAN Inno Tech Summit 2019
A Three day India ASEAN InnoTech Summit is to being held in Davao, Philippines. The Summit is organized
between 20 November, 2019 and 22 November, 2019. It focuses on innovative technologies, exhibitions,
and back to back meetings to accelerate innovative development.
Highlights of the summit
This is the second summit being organized. The previous summit was held in New Delhi. The ASEAN
members participating in the summit includes Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos,
Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. The summit is jointly organized by the FICCI (Federation of
Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) and DST (Department of Science and Technology).
India will exhibit its best innovative technologies in the summit. It will also include technologies with
potential implementation in the ASEAN region.
Objectives
The summit aims to explore new pathways for partnership between the countries and the Indian research
based enterprises. It will capture global trends in innovations and technologies. The summit will also
connect global research and development community with the local entities. It will also pave way for
industry-academia-government partnerships.
The summit will help India assess the needs of market and build capacities to rapidly commercialize
research and development. It will also help in policy frameworks, reforms and regulatory environment.
Parliament passes Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019
Parliament passed Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 after it was approved by
Rajya Sabha. The Bill seeks to amend Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951 to change provisions
related to composition of Trustees of memorial and termination of trustee. It was earlier passed in Lok
Sabha in August 2019.
Features of Bill
It seeks to make trust that runs Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial apolitical by removing the clause
pertaining to the President of Congress Party as a permanent member of the trust. It also amends provision
related to include Leader of Opposition recognised as such in the House of the People (Lok Sabha) or where
there is no such Leader of Opposition, then Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in that House as a
member of the trust. It also amends provisions related to termination of nominated trustee to allow his/her

termination before the expiry of the period of five years by the Central Government, without assigning any
reason.
Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951
It was enacted by Parliament to provide for the erection and management of National Memoraial to
prepetuate memory of those killed or wounded on the 13th day of April, 1919, in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar.
It provides for Trust for erection and management of the Memorial and also provided for composition of the
Trust with certain Trustees for life.
November 21, 2019
November 20: World COPD Day-marked by WHO
The WHO (World Health Organization) and Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD)
organizes World COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Day on the third Wednesday of November
every year. It was first launched in 1997 by WHO, GOLD and other institutes in the US. This year the day is
marked to create awareness in the
Theme: All Together to End COPD
Significance
COPD is currently the fourth major cause of death in the world. Diagnosing COPD condition is hard and is
considered of the majorly under-diagnosed disease. Often the disease is confused with Asthma.
With increasing pollution, it is essential to create awareness about COPD among the public. Experts believe
that COPD is likely to increase in the coming years with increasing pollution.
Creating awareness about the disease also becomes important as it is not curable but is preventable.
India
India has to increase its awareness campaign on COPD for two reasons namely pollution and smoking.
India is home to 3 of the 10 highly polluted cities in the world according to the Skymet report. It includes
Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. According to WHO, 12% of world smokers are from India.
In India the prevalence of the disease has increased by 29.2% between 1990 and 2016 according to the
International Journal of Pulmonary and Respiratory Sciences. The highest incidence of the disease in the
country is in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.
What is COPD?
COPD is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It causes severe breathlessness and predisposes to
exacerbations.
GoI to expand WHO’s 3S programme in the country
The Government of India will expand the 3S programme-Smart Safety Surveillance of WHO in the country.
The expansion is being done to make sure the vaccines distributed under universal immunization
programme are safe and also to optimize post-marketing surveillance of priority drugs.
3S Programme in India
The programme was introduced by WHO (World Health Organization) in India considering limited safety
data on vaccines in the country.
Under 3S programme, India is currently evaluating rotavirus vaccines. The Government is also planning to
collaborate the key stakeholders of the programme to ensure high levels of vigilance. The key stakeholders
of 3S programme include Ministry of Health and Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).
GoI will also expand the coverage of PCV (Pneumonal Conjugate Vaccine) to all states by 2022 under 3S
programme.
Significance
According to ministry of Health and Family Welfare, often new medical products that enter Indian markets
are with limited safety data from clinical trials. Also, they are pertinent to small controlled population and
therefore difficult to track. Hence, it becomes essential to monitor post-marketing of immunization
programmes.
The PCV project was launched in India in 2017. Even after 2 years, the Health ministry has not yet launched
an impact study about the programme. Such shortcomings are to be addressed under the new expansion
programme.
Also, it is essential to have impact evaluation of newly launched vaccines for further policy decisions.
NITI Aayog’s concerns on Vehicle Scrappage Policy
The Ministry of Road and Transport Highways recently released Draft Guidelines for Vehicle Scrapping
Facility. The guidelines include land requirements, scrapping procedures, criteria for scrapping of vehicles.
It applies to all automobile collection centers, vehicle owners, required audits and finances.
The federal policy think tank on November 21, 2019, raised concerns on implementation of the vehicle
scrappage policy.
The Concerns
The think tank’s major concern was over the life or age of vehicles that allows an owner to scrap them. The
policy offers that the vehicle can be scrapped if its registration certificate has not been renewed in 15 years
of time period. According to the think tank, this might fetch economic losses to the owners.
The think tank also fears that India might face the same fate as that of the US after implementing Cash for
Chunkers scheme. The scheme in the US provided financial incentives to the car owners who volunteered to
scrap their vehicles. However, the US economy failed to stimulate even after spending 3 billion USD.
Key Provisions of the policy
The policy offers rebates on road tax for owners with certificate of scrapping. It intends to set up vehicle
scrapping centers and also provides guidelines for the centers. The policy says that the vehicles can be
scrapped if they are abandoned or impounded by enforcement agencies, if their registration certificates are
not renewed for over 15 years, or if the vehicles are beyond repair and are damaged due to natural
calamities.
Significance
The GoI launched the policy to boost the automobile sector that is facing deceleration in its growth rates
lately. It believes that the policy will drive vehicle sales as it includes incentives. It also aims at protecting
the environment by backing the dismantling and scrapping industries.
World Children’s Day observed on November 20
The World Children’s Day also known as Universal Children’s Day is observed every year across the world on
20th November. The purpose of this day is to improve child welfare worldwide, promote and celebrate
children’s rights and promote togetherness and awareness amongst all children. This day is promoted and
coordinated by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) which works towards the improvement of
children’s welfare.
Background
The World Children’s Day celebrate on 20 November every year was first established as Universal Children’s
Day in 1954. Later it was officially adopted by United Nations General Assembly on 14 December 1954 by
adopting resolution 836 (IX). This resolution had recommended all the countries to institute a Universal
Children’s Day as a day of worldwide fraternity and understanding between children.
Why November 20? It is an important date as it is the date in 1959 when UNGA adopted Declaration of
Rights of the Child. It is also the date in 1989 when UNGA adopted the Convention on the Rights of the
Child. Since 1990, World Children’s Day also marks the anniversary of the date that UNGA adopted both the
Declaration and the Convention on children’s rights.

Annual Report on Road Accidents in India released
On November 20, 2019, the Ministry of road transport and highways released a report on “Road Accidents in
India, 2018”. According to the report, around 1,51,417 deaths occurred in India due to road accidents in
2018. It pointed out that road environment, human errors and vehicle conditions were the major reasons for
road accidents.
The reports said that the number of road accidents have increased by 2.4% as compared to 2017. Around
53 crashes and loss of 17 lives are occurring in India every hour.
Around 48% of road crash deaths were of persons in the age group between 18 years and 35 years. 6.6% of
persons who died in road accidents were minors.
According to the report, Tamil Nadu topped the country in terms of number of road crashes. The report also
said that many states failed to enact Motor Vehicles Amendment Act and also reduced the fines (Eg:
Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand)
Road Accident Deaths
The road accident deaths due to use of mobile phones accounted to 2.4%, drunken driving accounted to
2.8%. The deaths that occurred due to driving on the wrong sides of the road accounted to 5.8% and over-
speeding accident deaths accounted to 6.4%.
Cabinet approves Recycling of Ships bill, 2019
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The Union Cabinet on 20 November, 2019 approved the proposal for enactment of Recycling of Ships bill,
2019. It also nodded to the Hong Kong International Convention for safe and environment sound recycling
of ships.
Background
India is one of the leaders of ship recycling industry with a share of 30% of the market. According to
UNCTAD’s report on “Review of Maritime Transport, 2018”, in 2017 alone India has demolished 6323 tonnes
of known ship scrapping all over the world. Though the industry is labor intensive, it is susceptible to
concerns on environmental safety.
Salient Features
The bill is being enacted by GoI in order to regulate the recycling of ships. This is done by setting
international standards and laying down statutory mechanisms to enforce such standards.
The bill also accedes to the Hong Kong International Convention for safe and environment sound recycling
of ships, 2009. The convention aims to ensure that the ships after reaching the end of their operational lives
do not pose any threats to human and environment. It was organized by the IMO (International Maritime
Organization) in Hong Kong. The regulation includes facts that ships sent for scrapping may contain
environmentally hazardous substances like hydrocarbons, asbestos, ozone depleting substances and
others. It addresses the concerns around such factors.
Benefits
The bill restricts and prohibits the use of hazardous materials from the ships brought for recycling. For new
ships, such restrictions are already in place. However, this is not applied to war ships and non-commercial
ships. Under the bill, the ship recycling facilities need to get authorized.
Cabinet approves Patent Prosecution Highway programme
Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the proposal for adoption of Patent
Prosecution Highway (PPH) programme. It will be adopted by Indian Patent Office (IPO) under Controller
General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks, India (CGPDTM), Union Ministry of Commerce and Industries
with patent offices of various other interest countries or regions.

Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) programme
What is Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH)? It is set of initiatives for providing accelerated patent
prosecution procedures by sharing information between some patent offices. It also permits each
participating patent office to benefit from work previously done by other patent office, with goal of reducing
examination workload and improving patent quality.
PPH Programme: It will initially commence between Indian Patent Office (IPO) and Japan Patent Office
(JPO) on pilot basis for a period of three years only. Under it, IPO may receive patent applications on
certain specified technical fields only viz. Electronics, Computer Science, Electrical, Information Technology
(IT), Physics, Civil, Mechanical, Textiles, Metallurgy and Automobiles while JPO may receive applications in
all fields of technology.
Extension and Implementation: Its ambit may be extended in future, as decided by Union Commerce &
Industry Minister. The patent offices will frame their own guidelines for implementation of the programme.
Benefits of PPH programme for Indian IP office: (i) Reduce time to dispose patent applications. (ii) Reduce
pendency of patent applications. (iii) Improve quality of search and examination of patent applications. (iv)
Provide opportunity for Indian inventors including Start ups, MSMEs to get accelerated examination of their
patent applications in Japan.
Strategic Disinvestment of BPCL and 4 other PSUs
The Cabinet of PM Narendra Modi approved disinvestment of BPCL along with Shipping Corporation of India
(SCI), Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), Tehri Hydro Development Corporation India Limited
(THDCIL) and North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO). The GoI has agreed to sell its
stakes in the above PSUs
Highlights
The GoI plans to sell 53.3% of its stake of BPCL, 63.8% of SCI and 30.8% of CONCOR to strategic buyers.
74.2% of its stake with THDCIL and 100% of NEEPCO is to be sold to NTPC.
In the disinvestment process the Numaligarh Refinery Limited operating under BPCL is excluded.
Disinvestment plan
The Government had set a disinvestment target of 1.05 lakh crore rupees for the financial year 2019-20. So
far, it has collected 17,364 crores as on November 18, 2019. The plan was announced in the Budget session
of 2019.
Significance
Disinvestments are done to reduce the financial burdens on government due to inefficient PSUs. It helps to
improve public finances. It also introduces market disciplines and competition that will help in depoliticizing
non-essential services.
5th India – Europe 29 Business Forum held in New Delhi
The 5th edition of India-Europe 29 Business Forum was recently held at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New
Delhi from 20 to 21 November 2019. It was organized by industry body Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
and Union Ministry of External Affairs. It saw participation of some 400 delegates from 29 European
countries. The focus sectors for this edition of forum were Smart Cities, IT & ITES, Renewable Energy,
Pharma and Artificial Intelligence (AI). India-Europe 29 Business Forum is India’s largest European
Platform.
Background
Europe 29 region: It stretches from Switzerland in west to Turkey in the east and Norway in the north to
Cyprus in the south. It comprises following countries: Austria, Albania, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Bosnia &
Herzegovina, Croatia, Moldova, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Malta, Norway, Denmark, Poland, Estonia, Romania,
Finland, Serbia, Greece, Cyprus, Montenegro, Iceland, Sweden, Latvia, Czech Republic Slovak Republic,

Hungary, Slovenia, Switzerland and Turkey.
China’s “16+1″ mechanism
China is making inroads into this Europe 29 region with increased investments and joint ventures. In 2012, it
launched so called “16+1″ (i.e. China+16 European countries) mechanism to boost cooperation between the
two. The stated aim of this mechanism is to enhance and expand investment, financial, scientific,
transportation, educational and cultural cooperation between China and Central and East European (CEE)
countries. China has prioritized three areas of economic cooperation: high-technology, green technology
and infrastructure development under this mechanism. Most of the 16+1 countries are European Union (EU)
members, but the grouping also includes five non-EU states. According to some critics, there are major
misgivings in Europe over 16+1 format as in it seen in EU as an attempt by China to divide union by offering
investments to less-developed members of EU in exchange for political influence.
National Intelligence Grid will begin operating from December 31, 2020
On 20 November, 2019, it was announced in Lok Sabha that the ambitious National Intelligence Grid
(NATGRID) project will begin by December 31. 2020.
National Intelligence Grid
The NATGRID is a counter terrorism Programme. The grid connects databases of core security agencies of
India. It utilizes technologies like Big Data to study and analyze huge amounts of data from various
intelligence and enforcement agencies. It was first proposed after the Mumbai terror attacks in 2008.
Functions
The network collates data from various agencies and ministries of GoI. The data includes credit card
transactions, bank account details, tax details, visa, immigration records and air travel.
Implementations
NATGRID is being implemented in four phases. The first two phases were approved in 2011. However, their
implementation slowed down after 2012 due to political reasons. The third and fourth phases required
amendments of several laws and hence were delayed. In all, the NATGRID has never seen an effective
implementation so far. Unlike NCTC and NIA, the NATGRID will simply act as a tool to the security agencies.
It also faced several oppositions in terms of privacy and leakage of confidential personal information.
NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 to be held in Manesar, Haryana
The three-day NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 will be held in Manesar, Haryana from November 27 to 29, 2019.
It will be organized by International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), Manesar based on the theme
“Smart & Green Mobility” to find alternative mobility solutions to problems like pollution emanating from
vehicular emissions. It will be inaugurated by Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) Nitin
Gadkari.
About NuGen Mobility Summit, 2019
Organized by: International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) in association with SAENIS, SAE
INDIA, SAE International, NATRiP, DIMTS, Department of Heavy Industry, Ministry of Road Transport and
Highways, SIAM and ACMA.
Objective: To provide a platform for sharing new ideas, learnings, global experiences, innovations and
future technology trends for faster adoption, assimilation and development of advanced automotive
technologies for a smarter and greener future.
Key Features of Summit: It aims to bring together the automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers
(OEMs), professionals, researchers, academic experts, vehicle system suppliers, test equipment supplier,
quality managers, product planners, component developers, SAE members and students from all over the
world.
It will aim to identify trends and roadmap for the future of sustainable mobility in the country and to address

the challenges faced by various stakeholders. It seeks to build a platform for bringing together all
stakeholders in the automotive industry to understand global advancements in technologies.
Participation: More than 2,500 participants and over 250 exhibitors from 14 countries apart form India are
expected to take part in the summit.
About International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), Manesar
It is division of NATRIP Implementation Society (NATIS) under the Department of Heavy Industries,
Government of India. It was established in 2006 at Manesar, Haryana.
Mandate: (i) Provide leading world class services for testing, validation, design and homologation of all
categories of vehicles (ii) To assist the automotive industry in adopting cutting edge technologies in vehicle
evaluation and component development. (ii) To support automotive industries for ISO/IEC 17025:2005
implementation and NABL accreditation of their laboratories.
Prithvi-2 missile successfully test fired
India successfully test-fired two rounds of its indigenously developed nuclear-capable Prithvi-II missile at
night as part of a user trial by Indian Army. These test were conducted from a mobile launcher from Launch
Complex-3 of Chandipur Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Balasore district of Odisha. These were second
night trials of Prithvi-II missile.
About Prithvi-2 missile
It is surface-to-surface tactical missile with a strike range of 350 km. It is India’s first missile indigenously
developed by DRDO under prestigious Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP). It is
capable of carrying 500 to 1,000 kg of warheads, both conventional as well as nuclear.
The state-of-the-art missile is powered by liquid propulsion twin engines. It uses an advanced inertial
guidance system with maneuvering orbit to hit its target. It was inducted into armour of the defence forces
in 2003.
Previous Night Trials: The first night testfire of Prithvi-2 was conducted successfully from the ITR on
February 21, 2018.
President’s Colour awarded to Indian Naval Academy
President Ram Nath Kovind and Supreme Commander of Indian Armed Forces, awarded President’s Colour
to Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala at Kochi, Kerala. The President’s Colour is the highest honour
bestowed upon a military unit. It was awarded to INA in recognition of the yeoman service rendered by the
institution in training and shaping Indian Naval officers over the last 50 years at three different locations –
Goa, Kochi and Ezhimala. To commemorate this occasion, a special postal cover was also released by the
President.
Important Facts
Indian Navy was the first of the three armed forces (others being Army and Air Force) to be awarded the
President’s Colour on 27 May 1951 by then President of India Dr. Rajendra Prasad. Besides INA, Southern
Naval Command, Eastern Naval Command, Western Naval Command, Western & Eastern Fleet as well as
Submarine Arm are others units of Indian Navy to be awarded similarly.
About Indian Naval Academy
It was first established at a temporary location at Kochi, Kerala in 1969. With the increase in strength of the
trainees, it was relocated to INS Mandovi at Goa in 1986. Later INA found its permanent home at Ezhimala,
Kerala and was inaugurated on 8 January 2009.
Over a period of 10 years, INA, Ezhimala has commissioned 5930 officers into Indian Navy and Coast Guard
including 531 women officers. It has present strength of 963 trainees including 44 women trainees and 26
trainees from friendly foreign countries.

Cabinet approves establishment of National Institute of Sowa Rigpa at Leh
The Union Cabinet has approved establishment of National Institute for Sowa-Rigpa (NISR) in Leh, Union
Territory of Ladakh. It will be an autonomous National Institute under Union Ministry of AYUSH. It is
mandated to undertake interdisciplinary education and research programmes in Sowa-Rigpa system of
traditional medicine in collaboration with premier national and international Institutes and facilitate
integration of different systems of medicine.
About National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR)
It will be apex Institute for Sowa-Rigpa in the country. It is aimed at bringing a valid and useful synergy
between traditional wisdom of Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine and modern science, tools and technology.
Functions: It will help to promote interdisciplinary research & education of Sowa-Rigpa. It will facilitate
quality education, quality control & standardization, scientific validation and safety evaluation of Sowa-
Rigpa products, standardized Sowa-Rigpa based tertiary health delivery. It will identify best Sowa-Rigpa
treatment ithin the framework of its traditional principle and possible co-relation with bio-molecular western
medicine in providing health care facilities to the general public.
Benefits: It will provide an impetus for the revival of Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine in the Indian Sub-
continent. It will also provide multitude opportunities to students of Sowa-Rigpa from India and also from
other countries. It will establish synergy among existing Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh, Union
Territory of Ladakh and Sowa Rigpa Institutions – Central University of Tibetan Studies at Sarnath, Varanasi
(UP) – which are under the administrative control of Union Ministry of Culture.
About Sowa-Rigpa
It commonly known as Tibetan system of medicine. It is also dubbed as Science of healing. It is one of the
oldest, Living and well documented medical tradition of the world. It has been originated from Tibet and
popularly practice in India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Mongolia and Russia. In India, this system of traditional
medicine is widely practice in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Darjeeling (West Bengal), Dharamsala, Lahaul and
Spiti (Himachal Pradesh) and Ladakh (UT).
Yuthog Yonten Gonpo is believed to be the father of Sowa Rigpa. He had composed rGyud-bZhi (four tantra)
the fundamental text book of this medicine. rGyud-bZhi is based on indigenous medicine of Tibet enriched
with Ayurveda, Chinese and Greek Medicine.
November 22, 2019
DRDO offers free access to its 450 patents
The Defense Research and Defense Organization has allowed free access to its 450 patents. The
organization intends to provide a boost to domestic industries, especially startups and the strategic sector
that has a network of 50 national laboratories that are involved in research and development
Highlights
The DRDO operating under the Ministry of Defence will offer complete access to its patents without
charging royalty fees or licensing fees. It includes all the technologies related to life sciences, missiles,
naval systems, electronics and communications, combat engineering, aeronautics.
Following DRDO, other R&D bodies like CSIR (Council of Scientific Industrial Research), ICMR (Indian Council
of Medical Research), NRDC (National Research and Development Corporation) and ICAR (Indian Council of
Agricultural Research) will also portfolio their patents. However, they would charge licensing fees and
royalty.
DRDO Industry Synergy Summit
As a part of the new ToT policy of zero loyalty, a one-day DRDO-Industry Synergy Summit is to be
scheduled. The summit will discuss the required policy frameworks to be created to increase the success
rates of its implementation. Also, discussions on high technology collaborations and defence
manufacturing will be held.
Significance
The step is a great welcome to startups, industries and entrepreneurs. Also, this is the second time DRDO is
offering such free access to its patents. Initially it happened for the first time in 2000 when Dr APJ Abdul
Kalam was the principal scientific advisor. However, the access was restricted to CII (Confederation of
Indian Industry) members alone.
The move will also support Make in India, Transfer of Technology policy and Domestic Production Policy
that boosts domestic industries. Also, it will help India achieve the defense production target of Rs 90,000
crore set for the year 2019-20.
NIA hosts the first counter terrorism exercise for Quad Countries
The National Investigation Agency will host the first “Counter Terrorism Exercise” between November 21,
2019 and November 22, 2019. The CT-TTX, Counter Terrorism Table Top Exercise will exercise the Quad
countries namely India, Japan, US and Australia.
Highlights
The exercise will validate and assess the counter terrorism mechanisms and will provide opportunities to
explore areas of enhanced cooperation and will also share their best practices against emerging terrorism
threats. It will also enhance the cooperation between the countries in terms of counter terrorism.
Quad Countries
The dialogue between the four countries was initiated in 2007 by the Japanese President Shinzo Abe. The
first ministerial level negotiations of the grouping were held in September 2019, on the sidelines of the
United Nations General Assembly meeting.
The aim of the grouping is to share commitment towards countering terrorism, disaster relief, humanitarian
assistance, maritime cooperation and cyber security
The Quad Dialogue was revived in 2017 with tensions increased in South China Sea. The countries formed
new territorial ambitions especially focusing on China’s increasing influence in the South China sea and in
the Indian Ocean.
Significance
The Grouping is one of the best avenues for interaction between India, Japan, Australia and US in terms of
maritime security and domain awareness. It is the best platform for the countries to share notes and
collaborate on projects on mutual interest.
Cabinet approves Industrial Relations Code, 2019
On November 21, 2019, the Union Cabinet approved the introduction of Industrial Relations Code, 2019. This
is the third code under labor reforms. Under the new code, forty-four laws are to be amalgamated into four
codes. The four codes include wage rates, social security, industrial relations and industrial security and
labor welfare.
Features of the code
The code intends to simplify and rationalize the Trade Union Act, 1926, Industrial Disputes Act, 1947,
Industrial Employment Act, 1946. The code also features to set up a two-member tribunal to fasten the
disposal of cases.
The code allows the companies to hire fixed-term contract workers. It defines fixed-term employment as a
worker who can be hired for a duration of 3 months or 6 months or a year based on the season and orders.
Significance
With the amalgamation of the laws, the process of registration and filing of returns will get streamlined. The
process will help in improving ease of business and hence employments will increase. With the
amalgamation of labor laws, the GoI intends to bring maximum governance with minimum laws.

The Economic Survey, 2018 highlighted that the labor reforms in Rajasthan increased growth rates of firms.
The change was highly evident in firms that were employing more than 100 workers.
Assam Government to launch Arundhati Swarna Yojana
Assam Government has announced to launch ‘Arundhati Swarna Yojana’ on 1 January 2020. Under this
scheme, state government will give each beneficiary bride fixed amount to buy 10 grams (one tola) of gold
during her marriage if the marriage is registered. The scheme will cost around Rs 800 crore annually on the
state government exchequer.
About Arundhati Swarna Yojana
Objective: It is aimed to strengthen women empowerment and reduce child marriage.
Features: Under this scheme, State government will not give the gold directly to beneficiary bride but will
provide Rs. 30,000 to purchase 10 gms of gold. To avail this benefit, the eligible bride and bridegroom must
apply for the scheme before the date of their wedding.
Eligibility Criteria of the scheme: (i) The annual income of the bride’s family must be less than Rs. 5 lakh.
(ii) Minimum age should be 18 years and 21 years for the bride and bridegroom respectively. (iii) Bride
should have minimum education of 10th standard. However, this requirement of minimum educational
qualification criteria is not required for tribes and workers of tea gardens. (iv) Family has to register their
marriage under the Special Marriage (Assam) Rules, 1954.
Microsoft launches K-12 Education Transformation Framework
Software giant Microsoft has launched its “K-12 Education Transformation Framework” to facilitate
comprehensive digital transformation of schools in India. So far, this framework model has been adopted
by education leaders in more than 50 countries to help plan their learning strategies.
About K-12 Education Transformation Framework
Objective: It is aimed at providing education leadership, government decision makers, teachers and most
importantly learners, tools to achieve ambitious change many schools seek and to thoughtfully integrate
technology in powerful and productive ways.
Four Pillars: It comprises four pillars — leadership and policy, modern teaching and learning, intelligent
environments and technology blueprint.
Features: It provides holistic framework to facilitate a comprehensive digital transformation of schools. It is
a flexible platform based on latest research and input from hundreds of academics, experts, and
policymakers. To help school principals initiate their journey of digital transformation, this framework
programme offer them series of workshops based on each of the four pillars.
Lieutenant Shivangi: 1st woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval operations
Lieutenant Shivangi become first woman pilot of Indian Navy will join Naval operations. She will join after
naval operations on completion of operational training at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi, Kerala on
December 2, 2019 two days ahead of Navy Day (observed on December 4).
With this, she will graduate to become the first female Pilot of Indian Navy. On completion of training, she
will get authorization to fly dornier aircrafts. Prior to this, Aviation branch of Indian Navy had women
officers only operating as air traffic control (ATC) officers and as observers in the aircraft who are
responsible for communication and weapons.
About Lieutenant Shivangi
She hails from Muzzafarpur, Bihar. She had completed her schooling from DAV Public school, Muzzafarpur.
She was inducted into Indian Navy as Short Service Commission (SSC-Pilot) as part of 27 NOC course in
Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala. She was formally commissioned by Vice Admiral AK Chawla in June 2019.
Avian Botulism-Reason behind birds’ death in Sambhar Lake
The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) on November 21, 2019, confirmed that a neuro muscular
illness called Avian Botulism is the reason for mass mortality of migratory birds in Sambhar Lake in
Rajasthan. The doctors say that the birds were suffering from Avian Botulism that was caused due to a
toxin produced by bacterial strain.
On November 12, 2019, thousands of migratory birds died in Sambhar lake that sent shock waves
throughout the country.
Key Findings
The IVRI confirmed that the mass death was caused by the bacteria Clostriduim botulinum. The bacteria
affected the nervous system of the birds that led to flaccid paralysis in their wings and legs. Over 18,000
carcasses were removed from the lake. The samples had varied stages of maggots by which scientists
confirm that the mortality has occurred over a period of time.
Clostridium botulinum
According to WHO, Clostridium botulinum is the bacteria that produces dangerous toxins when the oxygen
conditions are low. They lead to muscular paralysis blocking nerve functions. The bacteria cause 4 types of
botulism namely infant botulism, wound botulism, foodborne botulism and inhalation botulism. Homemade,
fermented and preserved foods are common sources of foodborne botulism.
The bacteria are common in improperly processed foods. They are heat-resistant and germinate and grow in
the absence of oxygen and excrete toxins.
WHO on Botulism
The World Health Organization supports and strengthens national and international surveillance on the local
outbreak of the disease through the program INFOSAN. INFOSAM is International Network of Food Safety
Authorities. The organization links the food safety authorities at national level with FAO and WHO. It
includes actions against the spread of botulism as well.
Government to launch first fixed income ETF of bluechip PSUs
Union Government will launch India’s first fixed income Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) comprising debt
securities of large central public sector enterprises (PSUs) by mid-December 2019. It will comprise only
AAA-rated papers of the PSU companies. It is expected to have a size of Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore.
It is expected to improve liquidity in corporate bond market, smoothen borrowing plans of the participating
state-owned companies and enhance investor base.
About India’s 1st fixed income ETF
The proposed debt ETF will be first large fund in India that will provide retail investors convenience to invest
in fixed income product comprising a basket of securities, without need to study individual bond issues.
It may be comprising of corporate debt securities in the form of bonds, debentures, credit-linked note,
promissory notes as underlying instruments. Large PSUs are expected to participate in the maiden debt
ETF.
Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) has appointed Edelweiss Asset
Management as the asset manager for this proposed debt ETF. The tax treatment of this debt ETF will be
same as that of debt mutual funds.
Benefits of this debt ETF: It will provide safe investment option, alongside high liquidity. It will also help in
deepening the corporate bond market and will allow PSUs to borrow from the market. As these ETF units
will be listed on exchanges, it will provide new options to investors to own securities of government-owned
PSUs along with facility of overnight liquidity. Moreover, it will provide investors higher yield than on fixed
deposits. Compared with bank fixed deposits that generate a post-tax return of around 5.5%, this debt ETF
can provide return of over 7% for the investors.
Background
In the 2018-19 Union Budget, Union Government had announced that DIPAM is planning to come out with

debt ETF, which will help PSUs better plan their borrowing needs and capital expenditure. At present there
are number of gold and equity ETFs in markets, but there are no debt ETFs, barring two government
securities-based ETF that have not generated much investor interest. In 2018-19, Union Government had
launched Bharat-22 ETF and CPSE ETF comprising stake sale in a basket of 22 and 11 government
companies, respectively. These were used by government to divest its equity in state-owned companies. It
had helped government to raise Rs 10,000 crore through CPSE-ETF and another Rs 4,368 crore through
Bharat-22 ETF.
CIC Annual Report tabled in Lok Sabha
The Central Information Commission tabled its annual report for the year 2018-19 in Lok Sabha on 20 th
November, 2019. The same report was also tabled in Rajya Sabha on 21st November, 2019.
The report said that in the year 2018-19, around 13.70 lakh applications were received by the Central Public
Authorities of the commission. It says that the numbers are 11% more than the previous year 2017-18.
Out of applications received, only 4.7% were processed by the commission. This has come down from
5.13% as compared to the previous year 2017-18.
The highest number of applications were rejected by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It has rejected 26.5%. It
was followed by the Ministry of Home Affairs that rejected 16.41%.
In the period 2018-19, the CIC disposed around 17,188 second appeals and complaint cases.
Central Information Commission
The commission was set up under Right to Information Act in 2005. There are 10 Information
Commissioners and one Chief Information Commissioner. The commissioners are appointed by the
President of India. The President appoints the commissioners based on the recommendation of a
committee. The committee consists of Prime Minister, the opposition leader and a cabinet minister
nominated by the prime minister.
US approves sale of 13 MK45 Naval gun worth $1 billion to India
United States of America (USA) has approved Foreign Military Sale to India of 13 MK45 5 inch/62 caliber
(MOD 4) Naval guns and related equipment for an estimated cost of $1.0210 billion. The principal
contractor in this India-US defence deal will be BAE Systems Land and Armaments, Minneapolis, Minnesota
with gun manufacturing in Louisville, Kentucky.
Significance of sale to India
MK-45 Gun System will provide India Navy lethal capability to conduct anti-surface warfare and anti-air
defence missions. It will also enhance its interoperability with US and its other allied forces. It will be used
by India as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen its homeland defense. This proposed sale will
support US’s foreign policy and national security by improving the security of strategic regional partner.
Moreover, this proposed sale and support will also not alter the basic military balance in the region.
Background
The sale of these naval guns was approved based on India’s request to buy 13 such guns along with 3,500
D349 Projectile, 5″/54 MK 92 MOD 1 Ammunition including other ammunition, spare parts, personnel
training and equipment training, publications and technical data etc. With this, India has become one of
handful few countries that US decided to sell its latest version (Mod 4) of its naval guns. The other
countries to which US has sold MOD 4 naval guns so far are Australia, South Korea and Japan. It also has
given one to Thailand.
India for Humanity-Jaipur Foot event organised at US Capitol building
India for Humanity-Jaipur Foot event was recently organised at United States Capitol building to
commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. It was jointly by Indian Embassy and Jaipur
Foot USA.
About India for Humanity initiative
It was launched by Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in October 2018 to commemorate the 150th
birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and honour of his service to humanity. Under it, artificial limb fitment
camps are held across different countries identified through missions with financial support of Central
government (MEA).
Objective: To provide physical, socio-economic rehabilitation of differently-abled around world by helping
them regain their mobility and dignity to become self-respecting and productive members of society. It is
based Father of Nation-Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of compassion, caring and service to humanity.
Implementation: For this initiative, MEA has collaborated with renowned charitable organisation Bhagwan
Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), the parent body of Jaipur Foot. So far, BMVSS has conducted
78 camps in 33 countries under this programme, with the sanctions of the Government of India, fitting total
of 5152 limbs in these camps.
About Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS)
It is non-profit organization founded by Devendra Raj Mehta in 1975. It famously known by its trademark
limb ‘Jaipur Foot’. It is world’s largest non-profit organization for handicapped in terms of fitment of
artificial limb, calipers etc and providing ambulatory aids like wheel chairs, and other aids and appliances
totally free of cost without any geographical, gender or community bias. It has served more than 1.8 million
amputees in India and other parts of the world.
November 23, 2019
Indian Railways: North East State capitals linking, Act East policy and Electrification
Government of India has planned to link the capitals of North Eastern States with rail connectivity. This
plan, however, does not include Sikkim. The capitals of Assam, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh are already
connected through Broad Gauge rail network.
Along with this several other initiatives are being upgraded by the Indian Railways
Action Plan to Electrifying Broad Gauges
The Ministry of Railways has created a new action plan to electrify 37,237 km of broad-gauge routes. This is
57.91% of total railway network in India. The commissioning of the rail lines has been completed and the
works are to begin shortly. The details were given by Minister of Railways in his written reply to Lok Sabha.
The Government of India has set target of 100% electrification of the railways in 10 years. It was announced
in August 2019.
Act East Policy and Railways
To boost trade and investment with South East Asia through North Eastern region, India has taken up
railway projects with Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Nepal. Currently, there are two rail connectivity
projects connecting Indian cities Jogbani and Jayanagar with Nepal cities Biratnagar and Bardibas
respectively. In Bangladesh there are two ongoing projects that connects Agartala with Akhuara and
Hadibari with Chilhati.
There are no ongoing railway projects with Myanmar and Bhutan.
Adarsh Railway Station
The Adarsh Railway Station scheme was started in 2009-10 to modernize railway stations. So far, 1253
stations have been developed under the scheme. The scheme intends to provide developmental activities
that include retiring room, station building, waiting room for ladies, toilets, parking areas, foot over bridges,
etc.
There are no separate funds allocated to the scheme. The works are carried out under Passenger Amenities
plans.
National Policy to speed up Gas Infrastructure
A “high-level committee” has been set up by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory board (PNGRB) to
frame national policy on city gas distribution. The intention of the policy is to speed up development of
infrastructure of piped natural gas.
Highlights
The committee formed will perform a detailed review of the issues in the development of piped gas
network. The policy will also address issues like delay in getting approvals at state level. It will also identify
Geographical Areas that are facing difficulties in witnessing significant progress as compared to the other
regions.
The policy will include appointment of a nodal officer by the state governments to grant clearances that
includes land, environment, transport, etc in a time-bound manner. It will also include procedure for timely
allocation of government at concessional rates for creating City Gas Distribution infrastructure.
Progress so far
The number of Geographical Areas with good City Gas Distribution has increased from 78 in the end of 2017
to 229 in 2019 according to the Ministry of Petroleum.
Tourism Ministry organising 8th International Tourism Mart 2019
The 8th edition of ‘International Tourism Mart’ is being organized at Imphal, the capital city of Manipur from
23 to 25 November 2019. This annual event is organised in North Eastern region by Union Ministry of
Tourism in association with North Eastern States.
The theme for 8th International Tourism Mart is: ‘Sustainable Tourism an engine for Economic Growth and
Employment’. Manipur is hosting this mart for the second time. Earlier editions of this mart were held in
Guwahati, Tawang, Shillong, Gangtok, Agartala.
Key Highlights
The event will bring together the tourism business fraternity and entrepreneurs from the eight North Eastern
States. It will also facilitate interaction between buyers, sellers, media, Government agencies and other
stakeholders.
Besides deliberations on promotion of tourism in North East Region in general, the Mart will also give a
platform for promoting cultural ties, providing enhanced connectivity to States of North Eastern Region with
other countries in neighbourhood.
Participants: A total of 36 foreign buyer delegates from more than 19 countries namely- USA, Dubai, Oman,
Australia, Canada, Cambodia, Czech, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Myanmar,
Spain, Thailand, UK, Vietnam, Singapore are participating in the Mart. Other participants besides foreign
delegates include 49 domestic stakeholders in tourism sector from other parts of the country and 109
sellers from North Eastern States.
The State Government of Madhya Pradesh has also been invited to participate and give a presentation as it
is paired State with Manipur under the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative.
About International Tourism Mart
It is annual event organized in north-eastern region of India with the objective of highlighting tourism
potential of region in domestic as well as international markets. It is organized annually in North Eastern
States on rotation basis, thus providing platform to tourism business fraternity and entrepreneurs from 8
North Eastern States.
North East Region of India: It comprises of the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya,
Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. These are endowed with diverse tourist attractions and products.
The varied topography of region, its flora and fauna as well as the ethnic communities along with their rich
heritage of ancient traditions and lifestyles, festivals, arts and crafts thus makes it a holiday destination

waiting to be explored.
WHO study on physical activity-India ranks 8th
The World Health Organization on November 22, 2019 published its study about physical activity of
adolescents aged between 11 and 17 years. The study was conducted across 146 countries with the help of
data from 298 school-based surveys. The assessment included physical education, active play, recreation
and sports, walking, planned exercises and cycling.
Highlights: India
India was ranked eighth reporting lowest level of physical activity. Though, India was one of the top
performers around 74% of adolescents showed insufficient physical activity.
In India the overall insufficient physical activity in 2001 was 76.6% and has now decreased to 73.9% in
2016.
The lowest level of insufficient physical activity among girls was seen in India. It was potentially explained
by the social factors like increased domestic chores.
The improvements in India can very be linked with recent initiatives of the government towards physical
health. It includes Fit India Movement, plogging, a separate ministry for Sports, adopting yoga, etc.
Highlights: World
Bangladesh topped the list and the United States was ranked fourth. The study found that more than 80% of
school going adolescents did not meet WHO recommendation of at least one hour of physical activity per
day.
Philippines was the least performing among boys, with 93% of adolescents (boys) showed least interest
towards physical activities. Among girls, South Korea was the least performer with 97% of them reporting
physical inactivity.
The study says that globally four out of five schools were insufficiently physically active.
J&K achieves highest road length in country under PMGSY in 2019
During the current fiscal year so far, the Jammu and Kashmir has achieved the highest road length in
country under Centre’s rural roads’ programme of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), a centrally-
sponsored scheme under the Union Ministry of Rural Development. This significant accomplishment
involves completion of around 11,400 kilometres of different road projects covering 1,838 habitations
against the total sanctioned length of 19,700 kilometres against sanctioned 2,214 habitations.
About Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
It is Centre government’s mega flagship programme with the main objective of providing good all-weather
road connectivity to unconnected rural areas in the country. It is being implemented in J&K by Public Works
(Roads and Buildings) Department of the Union Territory.
Funds: Under the Central Road Fund, 88 schemes have been completed, including 22 bridges and 66 roads,
with a target set for completion of 25 such schemes for the current fiscal year. Under NABARD (National
Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) funding, a total of 518 works were approved out of which 147
have been completed while 34 works have been targeted for completion during current fiscal year. The
central government has released funds under the Prime Minister’s Development Programme (PMDP) for
vital health projects in UT.
Supplementary Schemes: In 2018 the government also launched an ambitious scheme called ‘Languishing
Programme’ to complete those projects that were stopped midway due to paucity of funds. The government
thus arranged special funds for the completion of such projects. Besides this, a Special Bridge Programme
funded under capital expenditure component of budget, a total number of 115 bridges have been taken up
for execution and out of this, 59 bridges are being targeted for completion during the current year and as of
now 46 bridges have been completed.

NOTE: Jammu and Kashmir, along with Ladakh, came into existence as Union Territories on 31 October
2019 after the Centre revoked Article 370 and passed a bill bifurcating the erstwhile state into two separate
UTs.
GoI new scheme: Rs 400 crores for testing MSME Defense products
The Government of India is planning to launch a new scheme to test defense products manufactured by
MSMEs. In order to achieve this, the Ministry of Defence has allocated Rs 400 crores.
Features of the scheme
The test units that are to function under the scheme will be installed in north and south defence corridors.
Under the scheme, 75% of the cost of equipment for the testing units will be provided by the Central
Government. The first test facility is to be launched for drones.
Significance
Government is working to increase its defence exports. This is being done to achieve the set target of Rs
90,000 crore by the end of 2019-20 financial year. To achieve this, several initiatives are being launched. To
mention some, recently DRDO offered free access to its 450 patents.
The launch of new scheme will help in achieving the target. It will also aid the startups entering defence
production.
The announcement was made in the Quality Assurance-Industry Conclave that was held in Chennai on
November 23, 2019. In the conclave, L&T was provided with the “Green Channel Status” under the Green
Channel Policy.
Green Channel Policy
The policy was launched by the Ministry of Defence. The policy provides eligibility criteria for firms to obtain
Green Channel Status. It also defines the constitution of green channel committee, defect investigation,
submission of bank Guarantee, etc.
The nodal agency implementing the policy is Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (DGS&D)
Under the policy, when a firm gains the “Green Channel status” it can self-certify its products for their
quality.
50th Governors Conference inaugurated in Rashtrapathi Bhavan
A two-day conference of governors is being held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. It was attended by
President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Narendra Modi and other ministers. The conference is being held between
23 November, 2019 and 24 November, 2019.
Highlights
The conference started with the inaugural address of President Ram Nath Kovind, followed by the address
of PM Modi. Around 17 first time governors and Lt. Governors are participating in the event. It includes the
governors of newly formed Ladakh and Kashmir regions as well.
Prime Minister Modi insisted the Governors to work in health, education and tourism sector.
President laid the importance of the roles of governors in empowerment of tribals. With their constitutional
powers, they can help improve their lives in terms of education, health, financial inclusion, etc.
Article 342
According to the article, the President after consulting the Governor, may specify the tribal communities or
groups to be scheduled in relation to that state or union territory. Such orders can be modified only by act of
Parliament. Hence, governors play significant role in lives of tribes.
Internet Connections to 2 lakh Gram Panchayat by 2020
Government of India has set a target of providing broad band connectivity to two lakh Gram Panchayats by
March 2020. So far (till 7th November, 2019) over 1,28,000 Gram Panchayats have already been connected.
The project is being implemented under the BharatNet Project.
Highlights
According to the Ministry of Electronic and Information Technology, Wi-Fi hotspots have been installed in
45,000 Gram Panchayats. Service is being provided to 16,000 Panchayats. The updates were presented by
the Electronics and Information Minister Shri Ravi Shankar in the Lok Sabha.
Bharat Net Project
The Bharat Net Project was launched in 2017. The main aim of the project is to provide affordable
broadband connectivity at a speed of 2 Mbps to 20 Mbps for all . The first phase of the project was
completed in December 2017 that provided broad band connectivity to 1 lakh Gram Panchayats. In its
second phase the project intended to connect the remaining 2,50,000 Gram Panchayats by March 2019.
OFC in the Project
The project uses underground Optic Fibre Cables (OFC) lines. It is a new element in the history of
connectivity of India. OFC has several advantages like low cost, easy maintenance, speed implementation,
etc.
November 24, 2019
Mine Counter Measure Exercise-first time between India and Japan
The Indian Naval Forces and the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) was held on November 23,
2019. This is the firs time an explosive ordance disposal and mine counter measure was held by Indian and
Japanese forces.
Mine Counter measure Vessels
The naval ships that are designed to locate and destruct the naval mines are called MCMVs. They play the
combined role of mine sweeper and mine hunter. A Naval Mine is an explosive device that is placed under
water to destroy submarines and surface ships. A minesweeper is a naval ship that is deployed in removing
naval mines. They do not detect them. On the other hand, a minehunter seeks, detects and destroys naval
mines
Naval Mines and Crimean War
The naval mines and naval mine sweeping was first practiced in the Crimean war. The Crimean war was
fought between October 1853 and February 1856 where the Russian Empire lost to an alliance of Ottoman
Empire, Britain, France and Sardina. The war was fought in the Crimean Peninsula, Blach sea, Balitc sea and
White sea.
Indian Minesweepers
There are three categories of minesweepers in Indian Navy. It includes Ham-class minesweepers of Indian
Navy, Pondicherry-class minesweepers, mahe-class minesweepers.
Destination North East Festival held in Varanasi
The Ministry of Development of North East Region conducted a four day long North East festival in
Varanasi. The festival is to be conducted between November 23, 2019 and November 26, 2019. It aims to
fuse the cultures of Ganga and Brahmaputra.
Highlights
A theme song of the festival was launched earlier. The previous editions of the event were held in
Chandigarh and Delhi. All the eight states are participating in the event with their exhibitions of handloom,
handicrafts, cultural troupes and organic products.
A business-to-business session is also planned under the event. This will act as a platform for the young
entrepreneurs looking for startup opportunities in the states.
Central Government Agencies like North East Regional Agricultural Marketing Cooperation Limited
(NERAMAC), North Eastern Region Community Resource Management Project (NERCORMP), International
Centre for Cultural Relations are participating in the event.
Significance
The event is being organized for three years now (2019). It helps to familiarize people of other parts of the
country with the rich unexplored potential of the North East. The event will also promote the tourism
potential of the North East region.
With Ganga and Brahmaputra basins offering similarities in terms of silk products, diverse handlooms and
ancient culture, Varanasi is a natural choice for the event.
RBI enhances scope of Special Non-Resident Rupee accounts
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has enhanced scope of ‘Special Non-resident Rupee’ (SNRR) by allowing
persons residing outside India to open such accounts for purposes such as- (a) external commercial
borrowing (ECB), (b) trade credit and and (c) Trade (Export/ Import) Invoicing, in domestic currency. The
step is taken to popularise cross-border transactions in Indian rupee (INR).
Key Highlights
Objective: The step is taken with a view to promote usage of INR products by persons’ resident outside
India. Other reasons for allowing such move includes export/ import invoicing and business related
transactions outside International Financial Service Centre, all in domestic currency of INR.
The apex bank, RBI in consultation with Government of India has been decided to expand the scope of SNRR
Account by permitting non-residents to open such accounts for rupee denominated overseas borrowings
and trade credit/ invoicing for popularising cross-border transactions in domestic currency.
Any person resident outside India, having a business interest in India, can open a non-interest bearing SNRR
account with a bank for bona fide transactions in INR. In addition to this, the RBI, in consultation with
government has decided to rationalise certain other provisions for SNRR Account such as removing the
restriction on tenure of SNRR account (which is currently 7 years) has for purposes given above.
November 23: Poonch Link up Day celebrated by Indian Army
Indian Army on November 23, 2019 commemorated the Poonch Link-up Day. The even was organized to pay
tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lived defending Poonch during the conflict in 1948
Highlights
The army laid its wreath at the War Memorial in the Poonch District. The event was conducted to mark
Operation Easy that was aimed to defend the Poonch district from the invading Pakistan. On the sidelines of
the commemoration, several welfare events were organized. The physically challenged people in the local
were provided with two wheelers and wheel chairs. As a part of the event, Volleyball championship and
hockey tournaments were also held.
Poonch District
The Poonch district is bounded by Line of Control on all three sides. In 1947-48 war, the district was divided
between India and Pakistan. A part of the district went to Pakistan and the other part became a part of the
then Indian state Jammu and Kashmir.
1947 war
The 1947 war also called the First Kashmir War was the first of the four wars fought between India and
Pakistan. Pakistan after a few weeks of its independence launched the Lashkar tribals with the intention of
capturing Kashmir. The then ruler of Kashmir, Maharaja Hari Singh requested India to help him. India
retaliated and won the war.
AIIA signs MoU with Western Sydney University to promote Ayurveda
The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Australia’s
Western Sydney University with aim to promote collaboration in research and developing guidelines for
integrating Ayurveda principles with modern medicine. The MoU was agreed and exchanged on the
occasion of event ‘India Australia International Education and Research Workshop’ at Ambedkar
International Center in New Delhi.
Both Institutions AIIIA and Western Sydney University are committed to take collaboration to the next Higher
Level by identifying specific areas for collaboration in education, research as well as practices of traditional
medicine while ensuring quality standards and also by encouraging investment in traditional medicine
related infrastructure.
Since India is a priority country among Australia’s international partnerships, thus signing of MoU is another
milestone in the history of health care industry.
Combining data-driven precision based technologies and Ayurvedic medicine will be a valuable contribution
to current goals for providing a better and safe health care system to Universe, specifically towards
developing a safe and effective integration of traditional and complementary medicine.
Significance: Complementing the Traditional Ayurveda Medicine along with conventional concepts of
Modern Medicine is expected in generating scientific evidences that could further help in contributing to
global healthcare.
ETVAX: Potential Diarrhea vaccine developed in Sweden
The researchers of University of Gothenburg in Sweden have developed a potential Diarrhea vaccine
candidate, named as ‘ETVAX’. This vaccine has been proved safe and effective in an early-stage clinical trial
in Bangladesh. The findings were published in Science journal, The Lancet.
Key Findings
Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) bacteria are primary cause of diarrhea. At present there is no ETEC vaccine
available on the market for use in children in the ETEC high-risk areas. But now, an oral ETEC vaccine
candidate, named ‘ETVAX’, was developed at University of Gothenburg in collaboration with Scandinavian
Biopharma, Stockholm. ETVAX consists of inactivated E. coli bacteria expressing high levels of protective
antigens as well as ETEC-based B subunit protein LCTBA.
The report stated that 80% to 100% of children aged 2 to 5 years and 50% to 80% of infants aged 6 to 11
months, selected for the study responded to all key immunity generating components of vaccine. The
vaccine has been proved safe and effective in an early-stage clinical trial in Bangladesh against
enterotoxigenic E. coli diarrhea in children from half year (6 months) to 5 years of age.
Diarrhea leads to substantial illness and death in children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). As
per the researchers, there is no vaccine yet for use for children and vaccine development for Diarrhea is a
World Health Organization (WHO) priority.
Global Bio-India Summit: India’s first largest biotechnology conference
India’s largest biotechnology conglomerate was held in New Delhi between 21 November, 2019 and 23
November, 2019. The event was organized by the Department of Bio Technology under Ministry of Science
and Technology along with BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) and CII.
Highlights
The summit provided opportunity to exhibit the bio technological advances in the country to the
international forum. The Minister of S&T, Earth Sciences and Health and Family Welfare released a report on
“Private Investment in Biotechnology” at the summit
Highlights of the Report
The report highlighted the need for the government to find why there is inadequate private investment in the
biotech research. It suggested the setting up of a single window system for approvals in the field of
biotechnology.
The GoI has set a target to make the biotechnology sector as a 100 billion USD industry. The report wanted
the government to encourage industry-academia linkages in order to achieve the target set

Significance
The Biotechnology sector is considered as the sunrise sector of an economy. In India, experts believe that it
is the key driver of the country’s economy and will play a major role in achieving India’s 5 trillion USD target
by 2025. This is because the sector has a potential of contributing 22% of 12 billion USD of Indian trade by
2025.
The summit acted as a platform to showcase the potential of India in the sector. The summit also helped to
identify key challenges in the areas of Bio-agri, bio-pharma, bio-industrial, bio-services and bio-energy.
Researcher finds Earth’s Most Uninhabitable Place
Researchers have found an aquatic environment on Earth with complete absence of any form of life. The
findings revealed that any form of microbial life was absent in the hot, saline, hyperacid ponds of Dallol
Geothermal Field in Ethiopia. The research was published in journal, ‘Nature Ecology and Evolution’.
Key Findings
The researchers verified that there is no microbial life in these salty, hot and hyperacid pools or in the
adjacent magnesium-rich brine lakes. The findings may lead to an improved understanding of limits of
habitability.
As per researchers, the study may lead to an improved understanding of limits of habitability and presents
evidence that there are places even on Earth’s surface which are sterile even though they contain liquid
water. The place was even proposed as a terrestrial analogue of early Mars.
Dallol’s landscape extends over a volcanic crater full of salt, constantly releasing toxic gases with water
boiling in middle of intense hydro thermal activity. It is one of the most torrid environments on planet with
daily temperatures in winter exceeding over 45 degrees Celsius or 113 Fahrenheit. The landscape had
abundant hyper saline and hyper acid pools, with pH — which is measured on a scale from 0 (very acidic) to
14 (very alkaline) even hitting the negative mark.
Earlier studies had pointed that certain microorganisms can develop in this multi-extreme environment but
now they have presented this place as an example of limits of conditions that can support life. Earlier
findings also included a great diversity of a type of primitive salt-loving microorganisms in desert, and the
saline canyons around hydro thermal site but not in hyper acid and hyper saline pools, nor in Black and
Yellow lakes of Dallol which are rich in magnesium (Mg). And all these findings are despite the fact that
microbial dispersion in this area, due to the wind and to human visitors, is intense.
About Dallol geothermal field
Dallol is a unique, terrestrial hydrothermal system located in Ethiopia, a country in East Africa. It lies in the
evaporitic plain of Danakil depression at Afar Triangle, in prolongation of Erta Ale basaltic volcanic range. It
is known for its unearthly colors and mineral patterns, as well as the very acidic fluids that are discharging
from its hydrothermal springs.
The wider area of Dallol is known as one of the driest and hottest places on planet Earth. It is also one of
the lowest land points, lying 125 m or 410 ft below mean sea level (MSL).
Secretagogin: Protein that helps regulate blood sugar levels identified Indian scientists
Scientists at the Hyderabad based Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Centre for Cellular
and Molecular Biology (CCMB) have demonstrated the role of a protein Secretagogin (SCGN) in increasing
insulin action in obesity-induced diabetes. Currently, the processes regulating insulin synthesis, secretion,
signalling and maturation in diabetes were not completely understood by scientists. These findings were
published in the latest issue of the journal iScience.
About Secretagogin
It is a protein that in humans is encoded by SCGN gene. The encoded protein is a secreted calcium-binding
protein which is found in cytoplasm. The findings shows that SCGN would soon become a diagnostic

marker, and one should check its potential in diabetes management.
Function: As per CCMB the findings have established SCGN as a functional insulin-binding protein with
therapeutic potential against diabetes. They show that SCGN binds to insulin and protects it from various
stresses, increases its stability as well as adds to its action.
Experiment: The scientists have also shown that injection of SCGN (found at lower levels in diabetic
patients) in obese diabetic mice clears excess insulin from circulation and reduces fat mass. CCMB release
also said that SCGN treated animals also had lower levels of harmful LDL-cholesterol and lower lipid
accumulation in liver cells.
Significance: The findings are significant as various kinds of cellular stresses can result in loss of structure
and function of insulin, ultimately leading to diabetes. Diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders like
dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are often linked with each other. SCGN is found in lower quantities in
brains of Alzheimer’s patients.
China warns cattle imports as India notifies OIE about cattle disease in Odisha
The Chinese Government has issued warnings against import of cattle and related products from India. The
warning comes after India submitted its notification about “lumpy skin disease” virus in cattle to the World
Organization of Animal Health (OIE).
China does not officially import buffalo meat from India. However, a large quantity of beef gets smuggled
into China through roads and ports.
Notification
India notified to OIE that the outbreak of disease was in August. Also, there were three cases and all three
were from the state of Odisha. The main purpose of the organization is to control epizootic diseases.
Epizootic is a disease that is prevalent in nonhuman animal population that is analogous to epidemic in
humans.
World Organization of Animal Health
OIE is an intergovernmental organization that supports, coordinates and promotes animal disease control.
The organization was formed in 1924 as Office International des Epizooties and hence the name OIE.
However, in 2003, it became the World Organization for Animal Health retaining its historical name.
Lumpy skin disease
It is an infectious disease in cattle that reduces milk production, causes infertility, poor growth and chronic
debility. The disease is caused by the virus Poxviridae. The virus is also called the Neethling virus. The
disease causes permanent damage to the skin of the animals and hence has great economic implications.
Madhya Pradesh: Sportspersons will get 5% reservation in government jobs
The state government of Madhya Pradesh has announced 5% reservation to national and international
medallists sportspersons in state government jobs. The announcement in this regard was made by Madhya
Pradesh Minister of Sports and Youth Welfare Jitu Patwari while inaugurating the Regional Olympic Games
at Kampoo sports complex in Gwalior.
Key Highlights
As per Chief Minister Kamal Nath’s recommendation, a draft of sports policy is being prepared by the state
government to include the 5% reservation in government jobs to sportsperson. However, it is yet to be
disclosed as what criteria will be considered to provide government jobs to players.
The reservation is being given with keeping in mind that sportsperson have to remain without jobs even
after winning medals at the national and international levels. The government will also promote public
participation to ensure expansion of sports facilities and creating a better environment for the sports in
state.
Other Benefits to sportsperson: Every year, the Madhya Pradesh government provides government jobs to

Vikram awardees. Vikram Award is the highest sports awards for players in state. Besides this national and
international medallists have quota in state police department.
Regional Olympic Games, Gwalior
These games are being held in Gwalior for all children of all Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)
affiliated schools along with government and private schools. The main objective of event is to identify
talented players and provide them with better training as well as facilities in sports. These games will cover
10 sports including basketball, hockey, football, volleyball, kho-kho and kabaddi. The under-16 zonal
Olympics will also be held in Madhya Pradesh to facilitate talented children as well as to encourage talents
at the school level.
CBDT inaugurates Web Portal for exchange of information on Income Tax
Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has inaugurated the Web Portal for Exchange of Information on
Income Tax which will consolidate all relevant Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) related
information at one place. This portal will help in convenient access by public, financial institutions as well
as departmental officers at large.
Web Portal for Exchange of Information on Income Tax
The Web Portal would be a repository of policy and technical circulars, guidance, notifications issued by the
CBDT. It would provide links to relevant circulars, guidance issued by regulatory authorities in India and
other international bodies.
The portal would not only be useful for domestic financial institutions but will also help foreign financial
institutions as well as tax authorities to get information about Indian laws, rules and procedures related to
AEOI under Common Reporting Standard (CRS).
Background
To implement the AEOI standard, necessary domestic legal framework was put in place in 2015. Later, on
August 2015 a comprehensive Guidance Note was released for providing guidance to financial institutions,
sectoral regulators as well as Income Tax (IT) Department officers for ensuring compliance with reporting
requirements under IT Act and Rules. Under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) on Automatic Exchange
of Information (AEOI), India is committed to exchange financial account information automatically from
2017. Also, financial institutions annually reports information which are then exchanged by India under the
standard.
Sectoral regulators have issued necessary notifications and circulars for compliance by financial
institutions. To educate financial institutions about their reporting obligations, CBDT also carries out
stakeholder consultations. Moreover, to reach out to financial institutions and account holders, CBDT has
also created an Exchange of Information portal on Income-tax Department website for dissemination of
information to all stakeholders.
MoSPI: Unemployment rates fall in second quarter
The National Statistics Office working under Ministry of Statistcs and Programme Implementation released
its Quarterly Bulletin on November 23, 2019. The report presented the unemployment status, Labor Force
Participation Rate,
The urban unemployment rate fell to the lowest in the last 4 quarters. It was 9.3% between January and
March, 2019 (2nd Quarter, Q2). In 2018, during the same quarter, the unemployment rate was 9.9%. The
report was published by the Ministry of Statistics
Highlights of the report (for Q2)
According to the report the joblessness among the youth between 15 years and 29 years account to over a
third of India’s population. The Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) among males is estimated to be
56.2% in urban area. It was 56% in April-June, 2018.
The LFPR among the female population is 15% as compared to 14.6% during April-June, 2018.
The Unemployment rate among males was 8.7% and among females were 11.6%.
November 25, 2019
NSO report: Rural India yet to become Open Defecation Free
The NSO under Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation conducted survey on drinking water,
hygiene, sanitation and housing condition between the period July 2018 and December 2018. According to
the survey one fourth of the households had no access to toilets.
The main objective of this survey was to gather information about sanitation along with housing facilities
available to the households and micro environment surrounding the houses. The survey is important as the
GoI is currently working on a set target of Drinking Water for all by 2024.
Highlights
The survey says that around 42.9% of the households in rural areas and around 40.9% households in urban
areas are still using hand pumps. About 80.7% in urban area and 58.2% in rural areas had drinking water
facilities within the household premises.
The survey reports that around 94.5% in rural and 97.4% in urban used improved water resources. Improved
water resources include piped water, hand pump, tube well, protected spring, private tanker truck, rain water
collection and bottled water.
Open Defecation
The Swacch Bharat Mission declared India open defecation free on October 2, 2019. However, according to
the survey 71.3% in rural and 96.2% in urban had no access to toilets. Proper drainage system was found
only in 61.1% of rural households and 92% of urban households.
Micro Environment
Around 48.3% of households in rural and 86.6% in urban used LPG as fuel. 48.1% of households in rural
areas and 71.1% of urban households disposed household waste water without treatment to drainage
system.
Under Swachh Bharat Mission, door step collection of garbage and segregated collection of garbage is
being implemented. However, the survey says that 70.3% of households urban and 72.4% of households in
rural still disposed garbage in community dumping spots, open land, waste land, etc.
NSS releases report on disability
The National Statistical Office conducted survey of Persons with disabilities in the country between the
period July 2018 and December 2018.
The main objective of the survey is to estimate indicators of incidence and prevalence of disability, facilities
available to persons with disability, age at onset of disability, arrangement of regular care giver, difficulties
faced by the persons with disabilities, out of pocket expenses.
The survey carried out in the year 2018 was the 76th round. It included all the disabilities that were included
in The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Highlights
The data was collected from 1,18,152 households. The prevalence of disability was 2.2%. Their contribution
to the population was 2.3% in rural and 2% in urban. Disability among males were higher than females. The
onset of disability in 365 days was 86 per 1,00,000 persons.
Around 52.2% were literate in the age group greater than 7 years. Between age group of 3 and 35 years,
10.1% attended pre-school.
The survey says that 21.8% of the disabled people in the country received aid from Government. Only 28%
had certificate of disability. The unemployment rate among persons with disability was 4.2% and the Labor
Force Participation Rate was 23.8%.
Manipur Sangai Festival 2019 being organised in Imphal
The 2019 edition of Manipur Sangai Festival is being organised from 24-30 November in Imphal. Every year
in November, Gateway of North-East region, Manipur celebrates the ‘Sangai Festival’, which was named
after the State animal, Sangai, the brow-antlered deer found only in Manipur.
About Manipur Sangai Festival
It is one of the largest Government-sponsored tourism fests. The Festival is all about unity in diversity and a
true reflection of Manipur’s saga.
It exhibits the best of Manipur, in terms of: art and culture, cuisines and music, scenic beauty of the land,
handloom and fine arts, indigenous sports, eco and adventure tourism activities such as trekking, white
water rafting and parasailing etc. along with its indigenous martial arts- Thang Ta (a combination Spear &
Sword skills), Yubi-Lakpi (a game played with greased coconut-like rugby), Mukna Kangjei (a game that
combines hockey and wrestling), and Sagol Kangjei– Modern Polo (believed to have evolved in Manipur).
Participants: This year more than 50,000 attendees including national leaders, policy makers, industry
experts, business delegates and exhibitors are expected to attend festival this year. Moreover 20 countries
inlucding Bhutan, Egypt, South Korea, Haiti, Myanmar, Japan, Cambodia, Laos, Maldives, Russia, Taiwan,
Turkey, U.A.E., Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, Thailand, etc. are also expected to participate this year.
Background
Manipur Sangai Festival was started in year 2010. Since then it has grown over the years into a big platform
for Manipur to showcase its rich tradition and culture to world. The festival is now labelled as the grandest
festival of Manipur and helps to promote Manipur as a world-class tourism destination. The past editions of
festival have been a huge success and brought a huge number of visitors from within and outside state. The
Manipur Sangai Festival 2018 was organized at different locations in Imphal and Bishnupur District. This
decision was made keeping in view, the increasing number of visitors to the state during festival.
NSO Survey on Household Health Expenditure
The National Statistical Office on November 23, 2019 released its survey on Household Social Consumption
related to health. The survey was conducted between July 2017 and June 2018. It was a part of the 75th
round of National Sample Survey.
The main objective of the survey was to collect data on expenditure on medicines, expenditure in
hospitalization, investigation, expenditure, maternity, childbirth, etc. The data for the survey was collected
from 1.13,823 households
Findings of the survey
Around 14% of rural population and 19% of urban population had their health expenditure covered. Only 1%
of urban population received health insurance from government health protection schemes.
The average medical expenditure that is being spent in rural India per hospitalization case is Rs 16,676 and
in urban India is Rs 26,475. The survey says that about 90% of rural childbirths and 96% of urban child births
were institutional.
In rural areas, around 97% of the children received vaccination. This includes all the 8 prescribed
vaccinations. Among them, 59% of boys and 60% of girls were completely immunized.
Ayushman Bharat
GoI is currently working under the scheme under the objective “health for all”. It is considered as one of the
world’s largest health coverage scheme. Around 100 million poor vulnerable families are included under the
scheme. They are listed under the scheme based on SECC 2011.
Etawah Lion Safari inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh
The Etawah Lion Safari, formally known as Etawah Safari Park was thrown open for public in Uttar Pradesh
on 24 November 2019 without the lion segment. It is a drive-through safari park located in Etawah, Uttar
Pradesh and is one of the biggest safari parks in Asia with an area of 350 hectares (860 acres).
About Etawah Lion Safari
Background: It was envisioned by then Chief Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav in 2005 and the permission to
establish a lion breeding centre and lion safari were obtained from Central government in 2013. In 2014, the
first pair of lions reached the safari and has now at least 18 lions roam in the premises. The wildlife
officials entrusted with this project visited England’s Longleat Safari Park for inspiration.
Purpose: It has been developed as an educative tourist destination for children as well as youths. The safari
is expected to attract tourist and make Etawah a major tourist centre in the country.
The park is officially categorised in Multiple Safari Park, Asiatic Lion Breeding Centre & Visitor Facilitation
Centre. Besides being the lion breeding centre, the facility is also equipped with hospital, staff quarters
backed by assured water and electric supply and is manned by trained staff.
Multiple Safari: The park will have a lion safari, a deer safari, an elephant safari, bear safari and a leopard
safari. Park also has a 4D theatre, which gives visitors a real closeups with wildlife.
Fadnavis sworn in as Maharashtra CM: SC’s concept of fast Floor Tests
On November 23, 2019, Mr Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The governor
has given him time till November 30, 2019 to prove his majority. This contradicts Supreme Court’s orders
that were passed in last two decades.
The Supreme Court in its previous judgements have pronounced that floor tests should follow within 24 to
48 hours of swearing-in. This is because, it will increase risks of horse trading and corruption.
S R Bommai Case
The concept of floor test was introduced by the SC’s judgement in 1994 in SR Bommai case. SC referred to
Article 164 of the constitution. SC interprets the article’s words “Council of ministers shall be collectively
responsible to the Legislative Assembly of the state” as the ultimate test of majority is not held in Raj
Bhavan but on the floors of the assembly.
Previous SC Judgements
In 2018, SC ordered a floor test within 24 hours after BJP leader Mr Yeddyurappa was sworn in as the CM of
Karnataka.
In 2005, SC ordered an immediate floor test to see which of the political alliances has majority in the house
of Jharkhand
In 1998, SC ordered for a floor test to be held within 48 hours to determine majority in the Uttar Pradesh
assembly.
National Tribal Craft Mela- 2019 being held in Bhubaneswar
Chief Minister of Odisha Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the 8th National Tribal Craft Mela at State Tribal
Museum Complex in Bhubaneswar. The seven-day long event will be opened for public from 2.00 PM to 8.00
PM every day from 23 to 29 November.
As a part of Odisha Government’s ‘5Ts’ initiative, (which is aimed at achieving progress through
Transparency, Teamwork, Technology, Time and Transformation) 45 Supplementary Readers prepared in 21
Tribal languages were released simultaneously by Chief Minister on the occasion of Tribal Mela. These
supplementary Readers will be used as Learning Materials for Multi-Lingual Education (MLE) of Scheduled
Tribe (ST) Students.
About National Tribal Craft Mela- 2019
Objective: The National Tribal Crafts Mela is held annually with an aim to preserve, promote and popularize
traditional tribal art and crafts and help the artisans to look for better opportunities to develop their skills
through cross-cultural interactions for the commercial viability of their products.
Participants: Over 240 tribal artisans from 18 States like Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh,

Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal, Manipur, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Telengana, Gujarat, Uttar
Pradesh, Assam, Nagaland, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand including Odisha are participating. Both
Government and Non- Government Organizations such as TRIFED, TDCC (Tribal Development Co-operative
Corporation), OTDC (Odisha Tourism Development Corporation), World Act, Anwesha, SCSTRTI (Scheduled
Castes and Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute) and ATLC are also participating in Mela.
Exhibit: Handicraft items, handloom products, iron, lacquer craft, tribal jewellery, dhokra, bamboo products,
puppets, sabai and siali crafts, tribal textiles and embroidery work, tribal paintings as well as many more
tribal products will be put on display by these tribal artisans.
Bill to merge UTs Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
The Government of India has planned to merge the Union Territories Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman
and Diu. The bill regarding the merging of the territories is to be tabled in Lok Sabha on November 29, 2019.
Highlights
The Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (Merger of Union Territories) Bill 2019 is being introduced
for better administration and to check on duplications of various works. Though the territories are 35 km
apart, they have had separate budgets and different secretariats.
The merged territory will be named Dadra, Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu. The headquarters of the territory is
to be located in Daman and Diu.
With the creation of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, there are nine UTs in India. With the new merger, the
count will come down to eight.
Constitutional provisions
Article 3 of Indian Constitution provides insights into formation of new states and Union Territories. It
includes increase in area, diminishing the area and altering the boundaries. The article allows the
parliament to legislate on state formation.
The bills on state formation can be introduced in either of the houses. However, President’s assent on the
bill is required before introduction.
25 November: International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
Every year 25 November is observed as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against
Women. The official Theme for 2019 it is “Orage the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape“.
International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
Objective: To raise awareness of the fact that women around the world are subject to rape, domestic
violence and other forms of violence as well as to highlight scale and true nature of issue is more often
hidden.
Why this date? Historically, the date 25 November is based on the date of 1960 assassination of 3 Mirabal
sisters, political activists in the Dominican Republic. The killings were ordered by then Dominican dictator
Rafael Trujillo (1930–1961). In 1981, the Latin American activists and Caribbean Feminist Encuentros
marked 25 November as a day to combat and raise awareness of violence against women more broadly.
Later on 17 December 1999, the date received its official designation by United Nations General Assembly
(UNGA) under its Resolution 54/134. Since the UN and Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) have encouraged
governments, international organizations and NGOs to organize activities to support day as an international
observance.
71st raising Day celebrated by NCC
On November 24, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) celebrated the 71st raising day. The day was embarked all
over the country.
2019 major contributions of NCC
In this current year, the NCC have contributed significantly to relief and recovery operations during floods in
Bihar, Maharashtra and Kerala. They have also been an active part of Swachhta Cycle rally, Swachh Bharat
Abhiyan, Mega Pollution Pakhwada. They have played a major role in Blood donation camps, digital literacy,
tree plantation, international Day of Yoga, immunization programmes, etc.
The girl cadets of NCC successfully climbed the Mount Tenchenkhang in Sikkim. The mountain is 6,010
metres high. They also summited Mount Tibba in Himachal Pradesh which is 5,982 metres high.
About NCC
The NCC has been active since 1948. It is a tr-service organization that comprises of Navy, Army and Air
Force. It is a voluntary organization in schools, colleges and universities. The cadets are given basic
preliminary training in small arms and parades.
Legislation
NCC was created under Indian Defence Act, 1917. The objective of the legislation was to make up shortage
in army. Under the act, University Corps were created
In 1948, the National Cadet Corps Act, was enacted to replace the University Corps with the National Cadet
Corps. Today NCCs function according to the norms in NCC act, 1948
Centre extends ban on Assam-based NDFB by another 5 years
The Centre has extended a ban on Assam-based Bodo insurgent group National Democratic Front of
Bodoland (NDFB) citing that the terrorist outfit has continued to indulge its involvement in violent activities
which includes killings, extortion and joining hands with anti-India forces. The NDFB was declared an
outlawed outfit in 1990s, the ban has been extended every five years since then.
Why is NDFB banned?
Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has extended ban on NDBF under provisions of sub-section (1) of
section 3 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. MHA also notified that NDFB was indulging in illegal
and violent activities intended to disrupt sovereignty and territorial integrity of India. This is in furtherance
of NDBF’s objective of achieving a separate Bodoland. The notification also pointed out that since January
2015, NDFB was involved in 62 violent incidents which resulted in killings of 19 civilians and 55 extremists,
besides arresting of 450 ultras and confiscation of 444 arms and weapons.
About NDBF
The NDFB, formed in 1986 to obtain a sovereign Boroland for the Bodo people. Since then NDFB has been
engaging in unlawful and violent activities thereby undermining the authority of Union Government as well
as Government of Assam. It has also been spreading terror and panic among people and continues to
indulge in extortion of money from various sections of society with a view to financing and executing its
plans for the creation of a separate Bodoland resulting in killings and destruction of properties of non-
Bodos, inhabiting the Bodo-dominated areas in Assam. Moreover, it still continues to embark on a
systematic drive for recruitment of fresh cadres with a view to continue its terrorist and insurgency
activities.
PM Modi launches Fit India School grading system in schools across India
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the Fit India School grading system in schools across the
country. The grading will be in 3 categories. During the launch PM Modi also appealed all schools to enroll
in Fit India raking system to make it a mass movement and spread awareness. He also urged students and
teachers to participate in ‘Fit India Week’ to be organized by as many as 22,000 Central Board of Secondary
Education (CBSE) schools across the country. The initiative taken by CBSE will include fitness programme
and indigenous games from every state and will be held in first week of December.
About Fit India School grading system
In Fit India Movement, schedules have been drawn for ranking schools in accordance with fitness and the
schools that achieve this ranking will also be able to use Fit India logo and flag.

Ranking system: Schools can declare themselves as fit by visiting the Fit India portal and the rankings will
be assigned after survey. Fit India School rankings are divided into 3 categories-
Fit India Schools, which is the first level of ranking
Fit India School three star (3 star)
Fit India School five star (5 star)
However, the level of rankings will depend on how much importance a school gives towards inculcating
fitness among its students as well as teachers.
November 26, 2019
Guru Ghasidas National Park to become Chhattisgarh’s 4th tiger reserve
Chhattisgarh government announced that the state is set to have Guru Ghasidas National Park in Kotiya
district as its fourth ‘tiger reserve’. This decision was taken in 11th meeting of Chhattisgarh State Wildlife
Board chaired by Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) had
approved to declare Guru Ghasidas National Park as a tiger reserve in 2014.
Key Highlights of Meet
Emphasis was laid on increasing number of tigers in Chhattisgarh and their safety measures like radio
collaring system for tiger safety as well as resettlement of more cheetahs from Barnavapara Sanctuary to
Guru Ghasi Das National Park and Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve.
Drafting of action plans for conservation of wild buffalo (wild animal of Chhattisgarh), hill myna (state bird
of Chhattisgarh) and vultures. At least 5 species of vultures are found in Achanakmar tiger reserve, Guru
Ghasidas National Park and Mainpat in Surguja.
The decision was also taken to develop water sources for wild animals in the state’s forests, construction
of large ponds in the forest villages and plantation of fruits and vegetables especially Narwali vegetables,
plantation of bamboo and banana so that these wild animals won’t have to wander here and there for food
and fodder.
Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh: At present there are three tiger reserves in state: Achanakmar Tiger Reserve
in Bilaspur, Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve in Gariaband and Indravati Tiger Reserve in Bijapur district.
Lemru Elephant Reserve: During the meet a notification regarding the formation of Lemru Elephant Reserve
was also made. It will come into existence soon by merging forest areas of Korba, Katghora, Dharamjigarh
and Surguja forest divisions of Korba, Raigad and Surguja districts. The total area records to be of about
1995 sq-km.
Indian Railways sets up Institute of Financial Management in Hyderabad
The Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) has been set up in Hyderabad, Telangana.
This new entity is set up to impart professional training in management of railway finances. The project was
conceived and constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) at a cost of Rs 85 crore.
About Indian Railways Institute of Financial Management
IRIFM institution is based on a 14-acre campus at Moula-Ali, Secunderabad. The institute has 10 different
functional blocks including academic block, hostel blocks, sports block, library and mess, can handle
around 150 trainees at a time. Institute has green building which is capable of generating 90% of its own
power needs with solar installations in the campus besides recycling 100% of the water consumed.
IIRFM marks an important addition to the list of premier professional institutions in country in the field of
financial management in Indian Railways.
The ensuing batch of probationers belonging to Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS) will be trained here.
IRIFM can handle about 150 trainees at a time. The world-class ambiance of IRIFM provides the right
environment for training.
It is important that Finance and Accounts Officers of Indian Railways who are known for their acumen to
continuously update their knowledge and skills to tap opportunities and strengthen the finances of the
organisation.
Milan 2020: Indian Navy to host multi-nation military drill in March
Indian Navy will be hosting military drill called ‘Milan 2020’ at Visakhapatnam in March 2020 which will
witness the participation of several countries. MILAN stands for ‘Multilateral Naval Exercise’. Apart from a
large number of ships, senior dignitaries are also expected to take part in various functions and visit naval
facilities during MILAN 2020.
About ‘Milan 2020’
The MILAN series of biennial exercises commenced in 1995. It was conducted at Andaman and Nicobar
Command (ANC) until last year, is being conducted for the first time on mainland at Eastern Naval
Command(ENC) with increased scope and complexity of the Exercise.
The government pursues cooperation initiatives with friendly foreign countries, including in Indian Ocean
Region (IOR), through structured interactions such as Empowered Steering Group and Staff Talks. The areas
of cooperation include capacity building, training, operational exercise marine domain awareness,
hydrography, technical assistance.
Invited Countries: 41 nations from South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe that share defence
cooperation with India have been invited for the drill. These include- Indonesia, Maldives, Australia, Somalia,
Kenya, Mozambique, Sudan, Qatar, Thailand, Malaysia, , Egypt, France, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Myanmar, New
Zealand, USA, Israel, Tanzania, Comoros, Seychelles Brunei, Philippines, Japan, UK, Madagascar, Saudi
Arabia, Oman, Mauritius, Cambodia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Kuwait, Iran, Russia, Djibouti,
Bahrain, UAE, Eritrea and Bangladesh.
CLAP: Credit-linked Subsidy Services Awas Portal launched by governmnet
Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri launched the Credit Link Subsidy Scheme
(CLSS) Awas Portal (CLAP). Along with portal, the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MHUA) also
launched Global Housing Technology Challenge (GHTC)-India to accomplish ‘Housing For All Mission’.
MHUA also signed agreements with certain state governments for the construction of LightHouse projects
under GHTC-India. GHTC-India seeks to get globally acclaimed, proven and alternate construction
technologies for speedier as well as cost-effective construction of affordable housing.
About CLSS Awas Portal (CLAP)
The CLAP aims to provide a transparent and robust real-time web-based monitoring system for the
beneficiaries of the Credit-linked Subsidy Services (CLSS) as through the portal people seeking to avail
housing subsidy under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna (PMAY)-Urban will be able to track their applications.
The CLSS Awas Portal also seeks to address grievances of beneficiaries in a much comprehensive and
organised manner as well as to help other stakeholders to work in synergy for release of subsidy to
beneficiaries on time. Under CLSS, the Centre provides interest subsidy of up to around Rs.2.67 lakh on
home loans to individuals, which reduces principal outstanding amount of loan.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban)
PMAY-Urban aims to address the housing needs of Urban population of country. The Credit-linked Subsidy
Services (CLSS) covers the MIG (middle income group) segment for first time. The mission is expected to
benefit young professionals having an income of up to Rs.18 lakh/annum. At present, among the 4 verticals
of PMAY(Urban), the government has managed to reach more than 8 lakh beneficiaries under CLSS.
India attends WATEC Conference in Israel
The Jal Shakti Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat represented India at the WATEC Conference that
was held in Israel. The Water Technology and Environment Control (WATEC) conference helps to get
updates on technologies related to water and environmental management. Several countries participated in
the conference showcasing their revolutionary technologies and solutions.
Significance
Israel is considered as world hero in terms of water management. The country treats and reuses 80% of its
sewage water for agriculture. Today Israel’s water demand outstrips its unconventional water resources.
With drip irrigation and sea water desalination, the country has become a global leader in agriculture.
Attending such conferences will help India learn technologies to conserve water and replicate.
Need
Today Agriculture sector consumes nearly 89% of water resources according to the “Dynamic Ground Water
Resources” of India report. The report also says that saving 10% of water will increase water availability by
50 years. It is essential for India to act upon quickly as the groundwater resources are depleting at faster
rate.
The water stressed states in India are Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Punjab and
Haryana.
26 November 2019: 70th Constitution Day
Every year India celebrates 26 November as Constitution Day also known as Samvidhan Divas. The day is
celebrated to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India on 26 November 1949 by Indian
Constituent Assembly. However, the Indian Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950 marking the
beginning of a new era in history of Indian Republic. The year 2019 marks the 70th Constitution Day.
Background
Since the year 2015 was 125th birth anniversary of B. R. Ambedkar, who is also known as drafter of Indian
constitution, the government of India officially announced celebration of 26 November as Constitution Day
on 19 November 2015 by a gazette notification. The day was chosen to spread importance of constitution
as well as to spread thoughts and ideas of Ambedkar.
Earlier on 11 October 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the declaration while laying the foundation
stone of the B. R. Ambedkar’s Statue of Equality memorial in Mumbai. BR Ambedkar had chaired the
drafting committee of Constituent Assembly and played a pivotal role in the drafting of constitution.
Previously 26 November was being celebrated as National Law Day.
India-Netherland: “Water 4 change”, an urban water management system
The Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), operating under the Government
of Kerala has launched the “Water 4 Change”. Under the project, six prominent institutions from Netherlands
will perform a long-term research and field level action on urban water management systems along with
Indian scientists.
Highlights
The project will bring solutions for water problems in the cities of Kozhikode, Shimla, Bhuj and Bhopal. The
project will address issues related to sanitary engineering, governance, urban planning, ecology, hydrology
and economics in water handling.
CWRDM
The CWRDM was established by the Government of Kerala to cater the needs of research and development
in water management of the state. The institution deals with environmental issues, drainage issues, water
quality management and wet land management in the state
Kerala water resources
The state of Kerala being fed by the South West Monsoon is rich in water. There are around 44 rivers in the
state. The average rainfall of the state is 3000 mm. However, due to poor water management the state
faces water scarcity in certain regions.
The forest cover in the state was 50% in 1900. It has now depleted to 27% in 2018. Several districts in

Kerala are facing water scarcity. It includes Kozhikode, Thiruvanathapuram. Also, the state fails to save
water during the flooding season (June-September).
13th Asia Pacific Screen Awards
The 13th Asia Pacific Screen Awards which are Asia Pacific’s highest accolade in film were awarded in
Brisbane, Australia. With films from nearly 70 countries and areas in region, APSA honours filmmaking that
best reflects its cultural origins and diversity of Asia Pacific.
Awardees 2019
Best Feature Film: ‘Parasite’, directed by South Korea’s Bong Joon-Ho
Best Performance by an Actress: Max Eigenmann in ‘Verdict’
Best Performance by an Actor: Manoj Bajpayee in ‘Bhonsle’
About Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA)
It is an international cultural initiative/program of Australia’s Brisbane City Council that honours as well as
promotes directors, films, actors, and cultures of Asia-Pacific region to a global audience. The award also
realises objectives of UNESCO to promote and preserve respective cultures through the influential medium
of film. The First edition of award was presented in 2007. Since then it is presented annually by UNESCO,
FIAPF (International Federation of Film Producers Associations) and Brisbane City Council, Australia.
UP launches Filaria Campaign
The Uttar Pradesh Government has launched a three-day campaign against Filaria as GoI has set a target of
eradicating Filaria completely by 2021. The campaign began on November 25, 2019 and is to run till
December 10, 2019.
Highlights
The campaign will cover 47 districts and will aim at eradicating Filaria from Uttar Pradesh. The campaigning
team will reach every door and provide medicines. The medicines include one tablet of DEC and one tablet
of Albendazole. All the age group from children to elderly are to be covered. The dosage of the medicines is
fixed according to the age of the persons.
The campaign will also provide special emphasis on mosquito free environment.
India’s status
According to WHO, Filaria is the second-largest disease that makes people handicapped on a large scale.
The organization says that around 65 million Indians are at the risk of the disease and 4.5 lakh are already
suffering from Filaria.
In India, most of the Filarial outbreaks are found in eastern Maharashtra and Malabar coasts.
Filaria
Filaria is spread through Culex fatigans female mosquito. The disease is caused by the Filarioidea type
roundworms.
Global alliance to eliminate Filariasis
In June 2018, India hosted the Global Alliance to eliminate Filariasis. The meeting was held in New Delhi.
The organization aims at bringing together public and private organizations to fight against the disease. It
also focuses on mobilization of political, technical and financial resources to eradicate the disease
completely.
Food Processing Scheme: 271 crores cleared by IMAC
The Inter-Ministerial Approval Committee chaired by Minister of Food Processing Shri Harsimrat Kaur has
sanctioned Rs 271 crores for the CEFPPC scheme (Creation/Expansion of Food Processing and
Preservation Capacities) scheme.
Highlights
The focus was given to projects that emphasized on linking agriculture and marketing food processing
technologies. During allocation, startups were given priorities according to the sources of Ministry of Food
Processing. Also, the projects were examined based on project cost, means of finance to avoid bankruptcy
in the future.
Significance
The aim of the scheme is to create direct employment that will help in achieving India’s goal of doubling
farmers income by 2022. It expected that the project would create 9000 employment.
It will also aid in implementing PM Krishi Sampada Yojana (PMKSY). The PMKSY aims at developing agro-
processing Clusters and agro-marine processing units. Under the scheme, subsidies are provided in terms
of grants-in-aid that ranges between 35% and 75% according to the project.
PMKSY is being implemented by the Ministry of Food Processing. It will work on implementing mega food
parks, value-addition infrastructure, creation of backward and forward linkages, food safety and quality
infrastructure.
26 November: National Milk Day
India National Milk Day is observed every year on 26 November to commemorate the birthday of Dr.
Verghese Kurien, the father of India’s White Revolution. However, World milk day is observed every year
across the world on 1 June by the United Nations.
About National Milk Day
The day is celebrated to promote benefits related to milk and milk industry and to create awareness among
people about importance of milk and milk products. This year India is celebrating 98th birth anniversary of
Dr. Kurien.
The first National Milk Day was celebrated on 26 November 2014 after the initiative taken by Indian Dairy
Association (IDA). In first National Milk Day various milk producers from 22 states participated.
About Dr. Verghese Kurien
He was born on 26 November 1921 in Kozhikode, Kerala and passed away on September 9, 2012, at the age
of 90. He is known as ‘Father of the White Revolution’ in India.
He was a well-known Indian social entrepreneur and is still famous for his ‘Operation Flood’ the world’s
largest agricultural development program. He established 30 institutions which are run by various farmers
and workers and played a key role in establishment and success of Amul brand.
Awards: He was awarded Ramon Magsaysay Award (1963) and World Food Prize (1989), Padma Shri
(1965), Padma Bhushan (1966) and Padma Vibhushan (1999). Due to the strenuous efforts of Dr. Verghese
Kurien, India became the largest producer of milk in 1998, surpassing the US.
Milk sector in India
The organized milk sector flourished in the Country after Independence due to efforts of Dr. Kurien.
Currently, India is world’s largest producer of milk as it contributes to about 22% of world’s total milk
production with over 187.7 million tonnes (MT) of milk production every year. India’s milk output surpasses
that of all European Union (EU) countries combined, which is followed by Unite States, China. Indian milk
production witnessed a growth of 6.28% during 2014 and 2016 and also, per capita, milk consumption
capacity increased from 307 gm/day (2013-14) to 340 gm/day (2015-16).
Sumatran Rhinos go extinct in Malaysia
The last surviving Sumatran Rhino in Malaysia, Iman, died in Borneo Rhino Sanctuary. The Rhino died of
cancer. With this Sumatran rhino have become extinct in Malaysia. Iman was captured in 2014 from Danum
Valley in Malaysia.
Sumatran Rhinos
The Sumatran Rhinos are the smallest of the five extant rhino species in the world. The other rhino species
include Black Rhinos, White Rhinos, Greater on-horned Rhinos and Javan Rhinos.

With the death of Iman, there are only 80 Sumatran Rhinos left in the world. All the 80 are currently in
Indonesia in the Indonesian part of Borneo and Sumatra Island. Poaching and loss of habitat are the main
reasons behind their extinction.
Sumatran Rhinos in India
In India the Sumatran Rhinos occurred in parts of Nagaland, Assam, Manipur, Tripura and Chittagong hills in
the 19th century. However, the last Sumatran Rhino of India was killed in 1967. The species is now extinct in
India.
IUCN Status
The International Union of Conservation of Nature Red List has put the Sumatran Rhinos in the Critically
Endangered category.
Sumatran Rhino Rescue
The Sumatran Rhino Rescue is an international project that intends to save the species. It is being
implemented by the World Wildlife Fund, National Geographic Society, Global Wildlife Conservation,
International Rhino Foundation and the IUCN Commission.
CRY Report on Crime against Children in India
The Child Rights and You recently released a report “How Vulnerable are Children in India to crime?” The
report was based on the analysis of National Crime Records Bureau for 2016-17. The report says that the
states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh topped the list of states for crimes against children. There
were over 19,000 cases in both the states.
Key Findings
The highest increase in crimes between the years 2016 and 2017 was seen in Jharkhand. The Child labor in
the country saw a substantial increase of 126%. The report says that in 2016 child labor was 204 and it
increased to 462 in 2017. As far as Child Marriage is concerned there was an increase of 21.17%. The
numbers were based on the cases registered under Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006.
Though the numbers in child labor and child marriage has increased, CRY considers it as a positive step.
This is because among all the other child crimes, these two are the most unreported.
Recommendations of the CRY
The organization suggests that there has to be increase in financial investments in child protection. The
focus should be on capacity building among officials working in child protection systems.
November 27, 2019
DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy awarded honorary fellowship by Royal Aeronautical Society of
UK
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) chairman G Satheesh Reddy was awarded
honorary fellowship by Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) of United Kingdom (UK) during the Medals and
Awards presentation ceremony in London. He is the first Indian recipient of the prestigious award in more
than 100 years.
About G Satheesh Reddy
Why was he awarded? Society’s highest award is bestowed in recognition of contributions of Reddy towards
indigenous design, development and deployment of diversified missile systems, guided weapons,
aerospace vehicles as well as avionics technologies in India over the past three decades. His pioneering
technological contributions has enabled the country to realise frontline military systems and world class
missile technologies.
His Contributions: He spearheaded Mission Shakti, India’s first Anti-Satellite Missile Test (ASAT) mission
which demonstrated an extremely high degree of precision and technological prowess, enabling India to join
a select group of 4 nations with such capability. He even bolstered Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD)
programme and successfully demonstrated missile interception capabilities at high altitudes.
He also led development of advanced avionics, the indigenous design, development and deployment of
state-of-the-art mission critical aerospace technologies and advanced missile systems as well as achieved
successful missions of long-range Agni 5 strategic missile. His Research & Development contributions have
made country self-reliant in Missiles and Avionics technologies. These cutting edge technologies have been
backbone for key strategic programmes and other defence applications in India.
He is famous among students as ‘Junior Kalam’ and ‘Next Generation Missile Man’ due to his talent on
advanced technologies.
Awards: He has received many awards such as- National Systems Gold Medal, AIAA Missile Systems
Award, National Design Award, National Aeronautical Prize, Homi J Bhabha Gold Medal, Technology
Leadership Award and IEI-IEEE (USA) award for engineering excellence.
About Honorary Fellowship by Royal Aeronautical Society
It is one of the world’s highest distinctions for aerospace achievement awarded for only most exceptional
contributions to the aerospace profession. It is considered as equivalent to Nobel Prize in the aerospace
domain.
The first Honorary Fellowship was awarded in year 1917. Eminent persons conferred with this award
includes doyens of Aerospace such as Orville Wright, aviation pioneer known for inventing airplane with his
brother, Wilbur.
DEFCOM INDIA 2019 seminar being held in New Delhi
A two-day seminar ‘DEFCOM INDIA 2019’ is being held at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi from 26-27
November 2019. The theme for seminar is – ‘Communications: A Decisive Catalyst for Jointness’. The
seminar is devoted to the seminal theme of leveraging communications for achieving jointness between
three services.
The prestigious DEFCOM journal was also released during the seminar. DEFCOM 2019 exhibition
showcased cutting edge communication solutions from industry and gave officers from three services an
opportunity to gain insights on technology and industry capabilities.
About DEFCOM Seminar
It is jointly organised by the Corps of Signals and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). Over the years the
seminar has evolved to become a landmark symposium for collaboration between Indian armed forces,
academia, research and development (R&D) organisations, and Industry on aspects pertaining to
Information and Communications Technology (ICT).
The seminar stresses on the need for three services (Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy) to be
able to seamlessly communicate with each other from the strategic to tactical level and apprised audience
on aspects that would be deliberated during seminar.
Significance: DEFCOM has played crucial role over the years in promoting collaboration between armed
forces and the industry in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) domain. He also encouraged
industry to actively participate in DEFCOM exhibition with their solutions and products to enhance defence
communications.
Global Exhibition on Services-2019 organised in Bengaluru
Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry & Railways inaugurated the Global Exhibition on
Services (GES) 2019 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The year 2019 is the 5th edition of GES. The inaugural
function was also attended by Chief Minister of Karnataka B. S. Yediyurappa.
About Global Exhibition on Services (GES)
GES is an annual event established by Department of Commerce, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry
in association with Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

This dedicated platform looks to enhance strategic cooperation and develop synergies to strengthen
multilateral relationships between all stake holders, tap the potential for services exports and increase FDI
(Foreign Direct Investment) inflow.
Global Exhibition on Services (GES)-2019
GES is an attempt towards escalating Indian services bar in global arena by exploring 12 Champion Services
Sectors (CSS), encompassing participation from 74 countries and hosting sector specific knowledge
sessions. India is looking to attract investments and partnerships in strategic areas such as aviation and
space programme, telecom projects, infrastructure, financial management and accounting, media
distribution and outsourcing publishing work, content, design, Intellectual Property management services
and environmental as well as social impact assessment (SIA).
Participants: More than 400 exhibitors and over 3000 delegates including 400 overseas delegates from 74
countries will be participating in GES 2019 which is spread across 19,000 square meters. There are also
Indian and foreign business leaders from services industry participating in over 4370 scheduled B2B
(Business to Business) meetings. GES will also see representation of public and private Sector, besides the
participation of 10 Ministries from Central Government and selected State Governments showcasing their
strengths in services sector.
Highlights:
During GES 2019, Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) is looking to promote eSports by organizing
Nations Cup (International eSports Championship) in association with Electronic Sports Federation of India
(ESFI). The Nations Cup will open up multiple avenues for services industry particularly in eSports, gaming
and animation.
This year in GES 2019Uttar Pradesh is the partnering state mainly to promote the tourism sector and will
have a separate state pavilion. India is also promoting niche tourism such as Buddhist circuit, adventure
and camping tourism.
Significance: Through GES, Union government seeks to engage industry and governments across world and
promote greater exchange of trade in services between India and rest of world.
What is SEPC?
It is an export promotion council set up by Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry in 2006. It is as an
apex trade body to facilitate service exporters of India. SEPC contributes to formulation of policies of Union
government and acts as an interface between services industry and Centre. It has a membership base of
about 4800 members from 14 service sectors.
RBI raises concerns over bad loans from Mudra Yojana
The Reserve Bank of India on November 27, 2019 raised concerns over increasing bad loans from the
Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana. RBI believes that there is an urgent need to monitor the loans sanctioned
under Mudra Yojana.
Concerns
According to RBI, the percentage of MUDRA loans were at 2.52% in 2017-18, It has now raised to 2.89% in
2018-19. It also says that the number of loans being sanctioned under the scheme has increased greatly.
In 2017 the loans provided under Shishu category were 83,892 and it increased to 1,39,652 in 2019. The
loans provided under Kishore category were 51,063 in 2017 and increased to 99,868 in 2019.
Also, RBI stated that out of 182 million MUDRA loans sanctioned, 3.63 million accounts were defaulted.
Consequences
The federal bank believes that if left unsolved, this may lead to unsustainable credit growth increasing
financial risks.
The Mudra loans are currently being given by regional, commercial, small finance, cooperative banks, NBFC

and micro finance banks. However, the stress of bad loans is increasing greatly on microfinance sector.
It is essential for the microfinance sector to adapt to the external developments, risks, income
inconsistencies and technological changes to reduce the raising numbers of bad loan.
Suggestions
RBI highlighted the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises run by SIDBI. The bank also
believes that small loans that are being provided under Shishu category would not contribute much towards
income generation.
HRD Ministry launches Kartavya Portal
On the occasion of 70th Constitution Day also known as Samvidhan Divas observed on 26 November 2019,
Union Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched the
kartavya.ugc.ac.in portal for holding monthly essay competitions for students. The portal was launched as
part of year long ‘Nagrik Kartavya Paalan Abhiyan’ being observed throughout the country.
Key Highlights
The portal will be used primarily for holding monthly essay competitions for students as well as other
activities including quizzes, poster making, debates pertaining to Nagrik Kartavya Paalan Abhiyan.
The Department of Higher Education under HRD Ministry will be holding 11 rounds of National Essay
Competitions during the year. The topics of the essay will be based on one Fundamental Duty every month.
National Essay Competition
Eligibility: The competition would be open for every student registered in any Higher Education Institution in
India. They should also register for the essay competitions on Kartavya Portal- kartavya.ugc.ac.in.
The competition will be held online through infrastructure and testing centres of National Testing Agency
(NTA). The online exam in designated centres will be held for 2 hours duration. The choice of centres for
writing essays will be made available to contestants when they do the online registration. Essays will also
be sent online and (blind) evaluated online by experts.
The essays can be written in Hindi or English (English can be written online, For Hindi paper will be provided
at exam centre, after writing essay will be scanned at exam centre and uploaded )
There shall be no costs for exam on the participants. There will be four prizes worth: Rs. 15,000, Rs. 12,000,
Rs. 10,000 and Rs 7500 along with certificates.
About Nagrik Kartavya Paalan Abhiyan
The year 2019 marks the 70th year of adoption of Indian Constitution. The Centre government thus decided
to run a Nagrik Kartavya Palan Abhiyan from 26 November 2019 to 26 November 2020, to create mass
awareness about Fundamental Duties as enshrined in our Constitution. This will give directions to the youth
of country and will make them aware that rights are automatically realized when we follow our duties
religiously. This principle will also help students to channelize their talents and capabilities in the right
direction which will help them realize their mission with ease.
Lokpal Logo & Motto launched
The Chairman of Lokpal, Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose launched the logo of Lokpal, at an event held in New
Delhi. The motto of Lokpal “मा गृधः कस्यस्विद्धनम्” (Do not be greedy for anyone’s wealth) was also adopted.
The Logo design of Prashant Mishra, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh was selected for adoption as Logo of Lokpal.
An open competition was conducted on Mygov portal (mygov.in), as well as through Lokpal registry mail, to
invite entries for Logo and Motto/Slogan for using the same as Logo and Motto/Slogan of Lokpal in
stationary, backdrop, and any other way that Lokpal deem fit. Through the Mygov portal, a total of 2236
entries received for Logo and total 4705 entries were received for Motto/Slogan from people of varied age
groups and from different parts of the country.

About Lokpal Logo & Motto
LOGO: The logo of Lokpal is based upon literal meaning of LOKPAL which means: LOK- meaning people and
PAL- meaning caretaker, i.e. ‘caretaker of people’. The logo is in tricolor representing the national essence
of LOKPAL and symbolizes how Lokpal protects and cares for people of India by establishing justice as per
law. It also symbolizes various essence of LOKPAL figuratively in shapes like- people (three human figures),
ombudsman (judges bench), vigilance (Ashok chakra forming eye–pupil), judicial (the tricolor two hands are
placed below forming a unique balance) and law (shape of book in orange).
MOTTO: However, none of the motto received through portal was found suitable and thus on 17 October
2019, the Lokpal in its full bench meeting based on their own inputs and discussion unanimously decided to
take one portion of the above 1st sloka of ‘Ishabasoupanishad’. The finally selected slogan/motto for office
of Lokpal is thus-“मा गृधः कस्यस्विद्धनम्”( Do not be greedy for anyone’s wealth), which in hindi means मा
गृधः= लोभ, मत करो, कस्यस्वित्=किसी के, धनम्=धन का i.e. किसी के धन का लोभ मत करो.
Cabinet approves India-Saudi Arabia Agreement on Strategic Partnership Council
Union Cabinet headed Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved Post Facto the Agreement signed by Prime
Minister for establishment of Strategic Partnership Council between India and Saudi Arabia. The agreement
was signed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on 29 October 2019
during former’s two-day visit to the Gulf Kingdom.
About India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council
The council will be headed by PM Modi and Crown Prince Mohammed and meet every 2 years. It will
coordinate decisions regarding strategically important issues.
Significance:
Strategic Partnership Council Agreement will significantly boost strategic ties between India and Saudi
Arabia and will open new avenues of partnership in strategic areas such as defence, counter-terrorism,
energy security as well as renewable energy.
The Agreement will enable leadership at highest-level in both India & Saudi Arabia to meet regularly as well
as monitor progress in ongoing initiatives/projects under strategic partnership. It will also help identify new
areas for forging strategic engagement and will define goals to be achieved and benefits to be derived. The
proposal aims to benefit citizens with improved economic and commercial linkages with Saudi Arabia
irrespective of any gender/class/income bias.
Parliament passes Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019
Parliament has passed the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill 2019 with the Rajya Sabha
approving it by a voice vote on 26 November 2019. The bill was already passed by the 17th Lok Sabha on 5
August 2019. The bill now awaits Presidential assent, after which it will become a law.
Key Provisions of Bill
The Bill defines a transgender as- ‘a person whose gender does not match the gender assigned at birth’. It
provides recognition of identity of Transgender Persons and to confer upon them right to self-perceived
gender identity.
It provides every transgender person a Right of Residence with parents and immediate family members and
be included in his household.
It prohibits discrimination against a transgender person including unfair treatment/ denial of service- in
employment, educational institutions, enjoyment of goods, healthcare services, other facilities,
opportunities available to public, right to reside/ movement among others. This implies that no
government/private entity can discriminate against a transgender person in matters related to employment
including recruitment and promotion.
It criminalizes denial of services or denial of use of public places to transgender persons and removal of

transgenders from a village or a household.
A grievance redressal mechanism has been set up for the issues related to transgender under which
National Council for Transgender Persons (NCTP) will advise, monitor and evaluate measures for the
protection of their rights.
It provides for formulation of welfare schemes and programmes for education, social security and health of
Transgender Persons.
Benefit of Bill
It will make all stakeholders responsive and accountable for upholding principles underlying the Bill and will
also bring greater accountability on part of Central Government and State Governments/Union Territories
(UTs) Administrations for issues concerning Transgender persons.
It will benefit a large number of transgender persons in mitigating the abuse, stigma and discrimination
against this marginalized section so as to bring them into the mainstream of society. It will also lead to
greater inclusiveness and will make the transgender persons productive members of society.
Way Forward
As per the present bill, the punishment for sexual abuses of transgenders is 6 months to 2 years, however,
many agree that the duration of punishment must be increased for sexual abuses. Moreover, the legislation
does not have adequate penal provisions on discrimination against transgender, and the definition of
transgenders is also being seemed controversial.
Parliament passes National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill
Parliament has passed National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill, 2019, with the Lok Sabha approving it
on 26 November 2019. The bill was already passed by Rajya Sabha on 6 August 2019. The Bill will now be
placed before President to seek his assent, before it becomes a law.
Key Provisions of Bill
The bill seeks to amend National Institute of Design Act, 2014 that declares National Institute of Design,
Ahmedabad as an institution of national importance. The bill will help fulfil the aspirations of a new and
modern India.
It also seeks to declare 4 National Institutes of Design (NID) as institutions of national importance. These
institutes are located at Kurukshetra in Haryana, Amaravati in Andhra Pradesh, Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh
and Jorhat in Assam. The four institutes will have the standards at par with the institute in Ahmedabad and
will impart quality education in the field of design.
At present, these institutes are registered as Societies under Societies Registration Act, 1860 and thus do
not have the power to grant degrees/diplomas. Once these four institutes are declared as institutions of
national importance, they be granted the power to grant degrees and diplomas.
November 28, 2019
Cabinet approves Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement between India-Chile
Union Cabinet has approved the signing of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and Protocol
between Republic of India and Republic of Chile. This will help in elimination of double taxation as well as
prevention of fiscal evasion and avoidance with respect to taxes on income.
Major impact of DTAA Agreement and Protocol
It will facilitate elimination of double taxation between two nations. Moreover, a clear allocation of taxing
rights between Contracting States by Agreement will provide tax certainty to investors and businesses of
both countries. This will also augment the flow of investment through fixing of fees for technical services,
royalties and the tax rates in source State on interest.
The Agreement and Protocol implements minimum standards and other recommendations of G-20 OECD
Base Erosion Profit Shifting (BEPS) Project (or BEPS Project). The Agreement includes provisions such as
a Principal Purpose Test, Preamble Text, a General Anti-Abuse provision along with a Simplified Limitation
of Benefits Clause (SLBC) as per BEPS Project. This will result in curbing of tax planning strategies which
exploit gaps and mismatches in tax rules.
Way Forward
The Implementation Strategy and Targets includes completing necessary formalities for bringing the
Agreement and Protocol into force after the Cabinet approval. Implementation would be watched and
reported by Union Ministry of Finance.
India-Myanmar MoU on bilateral cooperation for Prevention of Trafficking in Persons
Union Cabinet has approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Myanmar
on bilateral cooperation for Prevention of Trafficking in Persons; Rescue, Recovery, Repatriation and Re-
integration of victims of Trafficking. The cabinet was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Objective:
To increase bilateral cooperation on the issues of prevention, rescue, recovery and repatriation
related to victims of human Trafficking as well as to strengthen friendship bonds between India-
Myanmar
To strengthen cooperation for preventing all forms of human trafficking and protecting and assisting
victims of trafficking.
Provisions:
Prevent trafficking in persons by strengthening immigration and border controls cooperation and
implementation of strategies with relevant Ministries and Organizations of both the countries.
Set up Working Groups or Task Force to make efforts to prevent human trafficking as well as undertake
Capacity building programmes for the agencies concerned of both countries.
Developing and sharing database on traffickers and victims of trafficking in a safe and confidential manner
and exchanging information via designated focal points of India and Myanmar.
Formulating and adopting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Rescue, Recovery, Repatriation and
Integration of the victims of trafficking and at the same time ensuring speedy investigation and prosecution
of traffickers and organized crime syndicates in either country.
Background
Human Trafficking has national and international consequence therefore its complex nature calls for a
multidimensional strategy in tackling it at both domestic/regional/international level. Being global in scope,
international cooperation and collaboration is essential to check trafficking in persons.
Moreover, strengthening cooperation between India’s and Myanmar’s border control agencies as well as
establishing direct channels of communication can be an effective tool in countering trafficking in persons
and promoting cross-border and regional cooperation.
Cabinet approves loan waiver of worth Rs.4 Cr against Sikkim Mining Corporation
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved waiver of repayment of loan and interest
thereon, of nearly worth Rs.4 crore outstanding against Sikkim Mining Corporation (SMC) including interest
accrued on total amount from 1 April 2019, till this approval outstanding against SMC. CCEA is chaired by
Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Benefit: Further, accumulation of interest on principal loan will get extinguished and liquidation process of
Corporation will get completed.
About Sikkim Mining Corporation (SMC)
It was established on the 27 February 1960 as Joint Venture (JV) undertaking of Government of Sikkim and
Centre Government. SMC has been incurring losses every year since its inception.

Background: To optimise the financial health of SMC, a Consultant was engaged in 1999 which among
other things suggested diversification of Corporation’s activities and also strengthening of technical staff in
conjunction with cutting down of excess manpower at lower levels. However, in 2003, keeping in view the
recurring losses incurred by SMC, recommendation of Accountant General of Sikkim as well as advice
tendered by erstwhile Planning Commission both partners of JVC (State & Central Government) engaged a
Consultant to spell out a road map for SMC’s future. Then on the basis of Consultants’s report & 107th
Report of Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of State Legislative Assembly of Sikkim, State and Central
Governments decided to close down SMC’s mining operations and to settle all its dues and liabilities.
Consequently, SMC’s mining operations at Bhotang and Phachey Khani mines were closed down with effect
from 1 January 2007. Liabilities towards employees of corporation were settled from amount release by
erstwhile Planning Commission and Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region. Liabilities of the
Corporation towards State Government of Sikkim were waived off by State Government of Sikkim and
amount accrued from sale of scraps of machineries of corporation was returned to Government of India.
Cabinet approves MoUs with Saudi Arabia to combat smuggling of narcotic drugs
Union Cabinet has given ex-post facto approval for Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) between
Republic of India and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in field of combating illicit trafficking and smuggling of
Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Chemical Precursors.
Highlights of MoU
It will facilitate as well as enhance cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia in combating smuggling and
illicit trafficking of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) and Precursors Chemicals as
defined by United Nations (UN) International Drug Control Conventions of 1961, 1971 and 1988. These are
Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961; Convention on Psychotropic Substances, 1971; Convention
against the Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 1988.
MoU has a provision for exchange of relevant information and methods, identities and suspicious activities
of producers, smugglers and traffickers of narcotic drugs, details of trafficking of Narcotic Drugs and
Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) and Precursors Chemicals on requisitions and financial details of
traffickers arrested on drug related charges.
Details of arrested citizen of other Party will be notified for committing crime of illicit trafficking or
smuggling of NDPS and chemical precursors and consular access to arrested person to be granted.
Chemical reports/analysis of NDPS and Precursors Chemicals seized within territory of either party and
data/information about illegal laboratories of NDPS and Precursors Chemicals and their technical
specifications to be exchanged btween signatories.
Background
Trafficking or Illegal trade in Drug is a forbidden globally but, massive production and circulation of drugs
through many convenient routes especially via Afghanistan is paving ways for high consumption of drugs
amongst youth. This is thus creating a negative impact on public health and adding to criminalization of
society across the world. Drug trafficking has also provided funding for insurgency and terrorism in various
regions globally. Moreover, Narco-terrorists and international criminal organizations thriving on illegal drug
trade now threaten security of many nations.
Authorised capital of Food Corporation of India increased to Rs.10000 cr from Rs.3500 cr
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved increasing authorized capital of Food
Corporation of India (FCI) from existing Rs.3,500 crore to Rs.10,000 crore. CCEA was chaired by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi.
Key Highlights
FCI’s operations require maintaining perpetual stock of foodgrains which needs to be funded by government

of India through equity or via long term loan. Therefore, Centre government is providing equity to FCI for
maintaining stocks. As on 31 March 2019, the present authorized equity capital of FCI is Rs.3,500 crore and
paid up equity capital is Rs.3447.58 crore.
Significance: With the increase of authorized capital, additional equity capital can be infused in Food
Corporation of India (FCI) through Union Budget for funding foodgrains stock, perpetually held by FCI. This
will reduce thereby FCI’s borrowings, save FCI’s interest cost as well as reduce food subsidy in
consequence.
About Food Corporation of India (FCI)
It was constituted under Food Corporations Act, 1964, to implement the objectives of National Food Policy
of Government of India. FCI is a government-owned corporation under Department of Food and Public
Distribution of Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
FCI Objectives: to ensure food security of Nation; to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) to farmers; to
maintain buffer stock of foodgrains; distribution of foodgrains under National Food Security Act (NFSA); and
execution of government policies and welfare schemes.
NuGen Mobility Summit-2019 being held in Haryana
Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Shipping, Nitin Gadkari inaugurated NuGen Mobility
Summit-2019 at International Center of Automotive Technology (ICAT) in Manesar, Haryana. This three-day
conference will be held from 27 to 29 November 2019.
About NuGen Mobility Summit-2019
The conference is the largest automotive technology event in country so far. The event is being organized
by ICAT on relevant topics of Alternate Fuel Systems and e-Mobility. It is first in a series of conference
organized by ICAT.
Theme of event is setup around new generation topics like: e-mobility, Hydrogen Mobility, Connected
Vehicles and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). It focuses on developing new technological
solutions according to global requirements.
Participants: Automotive technology experts from 15 countries including India will be presenting more than
120 technical research papers in the event. Over 200 companies producing vehicles and components will
display their products.
Significance: The benefits of event will be found in finding suitable alternative to internal combustion
engine (ICE) running for about 125 years in country and world as well as emphasizing on New Generation
Mobility which shall be Green, safe and affordable.
About International Center of Automotive Technology (ICAT)
It is a division of NATRIP (National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project) Implementation
Society (NATIS) under Department of Heavy Industries of Union Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public
Enterprises. It has facilities for vehicle homologation and also testing laboratories for vibration, noise,
harshness and passive safety.
Cabinet approves extension of norms for mandatory packaging in jute materials
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has accorded its approval for mandatory packaging of
foodgrains and sugar in jute material for Jute Year 2019-20. The scope of mandatory packaging norms
under Jute Packaging Material (JPM) Act, 1987 has been retained by Union Government as per 2018.
Cabinet decision mandates that 100% of food grains and 20% of sugar shall be mandatorily packed in
diversified jute bags. The decision also mandates that initially 10% of indents of jute bags for packing
foodgrains would be placed through reverse auction on Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. The move
will gradually usher in a regime of price discovery.

Significance
The packaging of sugar in diversified jute bags will give an impetus to diversification of jute industry.
Moreover, the approval will benefit farmers and workers located in Eastern and North Eastern regions of
India particularly in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Bihar, Meghalaya, Tripura and Andhra Pradesh.
Jute Industry in India
About 3.7 lakh workers and several lakh farm families are dependent for their livelihood on jute sectors.
Thus government has been making efforts for development of jute sector; increasing quality and
productivity of raw jute, boosting/sustaining demand for jute products and diversification of jute sector.
Indian jute industry is predominantly dependent on Government sector which purchases jute bags of value
of over Rs.7,500 crore every year for packing food grains. This is also done in order to sustain core demand
for jute sector and to support livelihood of workers and farmers dependent on sector.
Government Support provided to Jute Sector:
To improve productivity and quality of raw jute government launched a carefully designed intervention,
called Jute ICARE (Jute Improved Cultivation and Advanced Retting Exercise) in January 2015. Under it
Government has supported about 3 lakh jute farmers by disseminating improved agronomic practices and
interventions, which have resulted in enhancing quality and productivity of raw jute and increasing income
of jute farmers by Rs.10,000/hectare.
To support jute farmers, a grant of subsidy of Rs. 100 crore for 2 years starting from 2018-19 has been
approved to enable Jute Corporation of India Limited (JCI) to conduct Minimum Support Price (MSP)
operations and ensure price stabilization in the jute sector. Moreover, JCI is transferring 100% funds to jute
farmers online for jute procurement under MSP and commercial operations.
To support diversification of jute sector, National Jute Board in collaboration with National Institute of
Design and has opened Jute Design Cell at Gandhinagar. The government has also taken up the promotion
of Jute Geo Textiles and Agro-Textiles with State Governments particularly those in North Eastern region
and also with departments like Ministry of Road Transport and Ministry of Water Resources.
To promote transparency in jute sector, government launched Jute SMART, an e-govt initiative in December
2016. It provides an integrated platform for procurement of B-Twill sacking by Government agencies.
Union Government has also imposed Definitive Anti-Dumping Duty on import of jute goods from
Bangladesh and Nepal with effect from 5 January 2017, to boost demand in the jute sector.
Global Diplomacy Index 2019
The 2019 Global Diplomacy Index was released by Sydney-based Lowy Institute. The index gives the latest
statistics and marking about how the world’s diplomatic networks are expanding and, in certain cases,
shrinking. The index ranked 61 countries across the world.
Key Highlights of Index
China now has more diplomatic posts across the world than United States in 2019. China has overtaken
United States with 276 embassies and consulates worldwide, which is 3 more than US (both countries have
an equal number of embassies but China has 3 more consulates). This signifies a marker of its growing
international clout and ambition.
Even though China’s diplomatic expansion has been rapid and overtook US. In 2016, China was in 3rd place
behind US and France, and by 2017 it had moved to second place ahead of France.
US still remains (by a wide margin) the most popular place for countries to maintain embassies and
consulates. US is home to about 342 posts belonging to 61 countries included in Index but China, with 256,
is a distant second.
After China and US next three spots are occupied by France, Japan, and Russia respectively.
India was ranked 12th among the 61 countries. As of 2019, India has 123 embassies and high commissions

and 54 consulates globally. However, the study shows that India too has expanded its diplomatic footprint:
In 2017, it had 120 embassies and 52 consulates.
Analysis of China’s Rise
China’s expansion in worldwide diplomatic presence has come partly at the expense of Taiwan, which is a
self-governing democracy, however as per China it is a breakaway province. China’s gain has mostly been a
direct result of Taiwan’s shrinking diplomatic presence as former intensified its ‘One China’ campaign.
Taiwan saw the biggest drop in diplomatic posts, down from 22 embassies in 2016 to 15 in 2019. Moreover,
China opened new embassies in The Gambia, Burkina Faso, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, São Tomé
and Príncipe which were all former diplomatic friends of Taipei.
China’s diplomatic push has been aided by its economic heft as under Chinese President Xi Jinping. Beijing
has pumped in billions of dollars into Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the intercontinental connectivity project
aimed primarily at building trading corridors connecting China.
Significance: Establishing a robust diplomatic infrastructure is 1st practical step towards bolstering a
country’s diplomatic influence. Similarly, China has also invested in its diplomatic infrastructure, which
serves as a telling metric of its international ambitions.
November 29, 2019
Shipping Ministry approves Loktak Inland Waterways Project in Manipur
Union Ministry of Shipping (MoS) has approved long pending demand of Government of Manipur for
development of Loktak Inland Waterways Project in the north eastern state. The request for development of
this project was made by L Susindro Meitei, Chairman of Loktak Development Authority and MLA Khurai in
Manipur.
Key Highlights
Government of India approved development of Loktak Inland Waterways improvement project under its
objective of promoting the beautiful region Northeast which holds a lot of opportunity for tourism purposes.
The project is approved under the Central Sector Scheme (CSS) at estimated cost of Rs.25.58 crore and will
give a boost to development of inland water transport connectivity in North-eastern states and will also
boost tourism sector there.
About Loktak Lake
It is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast. The lake is located at Moirang in Manipur. It is famous for
phumdis floating over it which are formed naturally. Located on this phumdi, Keibul Lamjao National Park is
the only floating national park in the world and is an integral part of Loktak Lake.
1st International Conference on Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience
The 1st International Conference on ‘Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience – 2019’ was held in New
Delhi. It was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, G. Kishan Reddy.
International Conference on Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience
Objective: To bring together all stakeholders including relevant ministries, organizations, departments,
universities, as well as experts to discuss/debate/disseminate practically useful knowledge, experiences,
information and innovations for landslides risk reduction and resilience at national and international levels.
The first of its kind conference was organized by National Institute of Disaster management (NIDM).
This international event will develop a road map towards landslide risk reduction and resilience via
networking, collaboration and coordination amongst different stakeholders. It would also be highly pertinent
to the disaster management in hill States.
Participants: Scientist, technologists, developers, engineer, planners, administrators, policy and decision
makers from different states of India as well as other countries.

About National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM)
It is a premier institute for trainings and capacity development in India and the region. It was constituted
under an Act of Parliament as National Centre for Disaster Management (NCDM) but in 1995 it gained
impetus with its redesignation as National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM).
Under Disaster Management Act 2005, NIDM has been assigned nodal responsibilities for research,
capacity building, human resource development (HRD), training, documentation and policy advocacy in field
of disaster management. NIDM provides Capacity Building support to various National and State level
agencies in field of Disaster Management & Disaster Risk Reduction (DM&DRR).
NIFTEM to conduct National Organic Festival of Women Entrepreneurs
Union Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and Union Ministry of Women and Child Development
(MoWCD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to organise ‘National Organic Festival of Women
Entrepreneurs’. The event will be planned and organized through National Institute of Food Technology
Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), Sonepat, Haryana. NIFTEM Vice Chancellor has agreed to
organize festival annually. NIFTEM is an academic institution under the administrative control of Union
Ministry of Food Processing Industries.
About National Organic Festival of Women Entrepreneurs
Objective:
To encourage Indian women entrepreneurs and farmers to connect with buyers as well as empower
Indian women through financial inclusion.
To promote organic food produce in India.
Women and Child Development Ministry will transfer funds to the Vice Chancellor of NIFTEM. The
agreement between two ministries calls upon NIFTEM Vice Chancellor to provide Utilisation Certificate at
the end of financial year against funds released by Union Ministry of Women and Child Development.
The Mela will promote both organic produce and women entrepreneurs and will also feature organic
produce, fabric, cosmetics, pesticides, fungicides and processed food, among other products. The festival
will strive towards providing linkages to women producers to market and supply chain, thereby facilitating
their financial inclusion.
MoU will start a new kind of agenda in India which is to promote healthy eating and organic eating. It is also
an effort to support women who are in business of organic farming and will benefit millions of women
across India.
Govt propose to set up new rocket launch pad near Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu
Union Government is planning to set up a new rocket launch pad near Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu. At
present, the Indian Space Research organisation (ISRO) has two launch pads at Satish Dhawan Space
Centre (SDCC) in Sriharikotta, Andhra Pradesh. The development comes on the backdrop of increasing
launches from India, both for domestic as well as international customers.
Key Highlights
The new launch pad is intended to be used for future Indian rockets including- Geosynchronous Satellite
Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mk III, Avatar Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV), Unified Modular Launch Vehicle
(UMLV), Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), and even older ones like Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle
(PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). However, the government did not elaborated
on Launchpad’s exact usage.
Rocket Launch from India
As per ISRO, its workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) has launched as many as 84 satellites
from 1994 to 2015, PSLV, of which 51 were for international customers. In 2018, the ISRO launched 17
missions but now number of launches every year by space agency has increased over 30.

Satish Dhawan Space Centre (or SHAR spaceport) at Sriharikotta is responsible for integration of launchers.
SDCC houses two operational launch pads from where all GSLV and PSLV flights take place. ISRO has
launched most of its customer satellites with its PSLV.
ADB, India sign $451 million loan to strengthen Power Connectivity in Tamil Nadu
Government of India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a $451 million loan for strengthening
power connectivity between northern and southern parts of Chennai–Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor
(CKIC) which is part of East Coast Economic Corridor (ECEC). ECEC is India’s first coastal economic
corridor.
Key Highlights of Project
It will help establish extra-high-voltage transmission link between Coimbatore and Virudhunagar. It will meet
increased power demand in CKIC by transfering additional generation capacity of 9,000 megawatt (MW),
including 6,000 MW from renewables by 2025. This will help reliably evacuate power from these new power
plants in southern CKIC.
It will also build operational capacity of TANTRANSCO (Tamil Nadu Transmission Corporation) by
supporting a financial restructuring plan and improved monitoring system for social and environmental
impacts. TANTRANSCO is state-owned company responsible for transmission.
It will help Tamil Nadu to meet increasing demand for power supply from industry and commercial
enterprises in State through transfer of power from new generation facilities, including renewable energy, in
southern CKIC to industrial hubs in northern region of state.
The project will provide an impetus to industrial development of CKIC, which ADB has been assisting
through strategic planning and investments in infrastructure while facilitating industrial investments.
About Chennai–Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor (CKIC)
East Coast Economic Corridor (ECEC) of which CKIC is a part, covers 2500km of India’s coastline. Asian
Development Bank (ADB) is lead partner of Government of India for developing ECEC and will invest $500
million in infrastructural development of the project.
Component corridors of ECEC includes 4 Corridors, which will be completed in 3 Phases-
Phase 1 covers Visakhapatnam–Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC) (it was approved by ADB board in
October 2016), it lies largely in Andhra Pradesh
Phase 2 involves Chennai–Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor (CKIC) in Tamil Nadu
Phase 3 supports Odisha Economic Corridor (OEC) and West Bengal Economic Corridor (WBEC)
Govt. constitutes committee for reviewing draft of National Code for Good Governance in Sports
Union Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYAS) has constituted a 13-member expert committee to review
the Draft National Code for Good Governance in Sports, 2017.
Key Highlights
Members: The committee will be chaired by Retired SC Justice Mukundakam Sharma and member includes
former Indian football team captain Baichung Bhutia, Pullela Gopichand, Anju Bobby George, Olympic
medalist Gagan Narang, among others. Moreover, Joint Secretary of Sports will act as coordinator in
committee.
Expert Committee: Terms of Reference
The committee will be required to suggest measures for making Draft National Code for Good Governance
in Sports, 2017 acceptable to all stakeholders so that a balance is struck between autonomy of National
Sports Federations (NSF).
Committee’s recommendations are needed for accountability and transparency and would also help bring
government as well as all stakeholders on the same page as far as code is concerned.
Committee will also examine comments received from Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and others on draft

of National Code for Good Governance in Sports, 2017 and will be required to review draft of national code
with present code.
NDTV wins International Press Institute India award for Excellence in Journalism
India’s private news channel NDTV has been awarded International Press Institute India award for
excellence in journalism by the India chapter of the Vienna-based International Press Institute. NDTV was
awarded for its ‘expose of the conspiracy to scuttle’ the Kathua rape and murder case probe.
Key Highlights
A jury of eminent editors headed by Soli Sorabjee, former Attorney General of India considered entries
received and unanimously selected NDTV for the prestigious award.
NDTV was awarded for the exposing the conspiracy to scuttle probe into heinous Kathua rape and murder,
and a strong expose of political hypocrisy across political spectrum which represented excellence in
journalism.
About International Press Institute India award for excellence in Journalism
The annual award was instituted by IPI India in 2003. It recognises and honours best work done by an
Indian media organization/ journalist in print, TV, radio and internet mediums in furtherance of public
interest, including safeguarding of freedom of press as well as other freedoms like human right.
The award comprises of a trophy, a citation and a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh. The first award for IPI India
Excellence in Journalism, 2003 was given to The Indian Express for its reporting of the Gujarat riots and its
aftermath. NDTV had also won the award in 2004 for its expose of baby-swapping racket in Hyderabad, and
corruption trail of Telgi stamp scam. Karan Thapar, Hindustan Times, Tehelka are among the other
awardees.
International Press Institute (IPI) was founded on October 1950, in New York, by a group of editors from 15
countries and has grown into a truly global organisation committed to furtherance of freedom of press. The
India chapter of IPI is an active forum of editors, publishers and senior executives of newspapers, news
agencies and magazines, all of whom are members of International Press Institute.
Indian Army successfully test-fires Spike LR missile
Indian Army has successfully test fired two Spike long- range Anti-Tank Missiles from an Infantry School at
Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. Indian Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat and several commanders witnessed the firing
of the newly acquired missiles which are expected to further boost Army’s combat prowess.
What is Spike LR missile?
Spike anti-tank missiles is a 4th generation missile which can engage any target with precision at ranges up
to 4 km. It is developed and designed by Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. The missile is man-
portable and has its own vehicle-launch and helicopter-launched variants. It will bolster Indian Army’s fire
power capability.
Background
For the nearly last three decades (30 years), the Indian Army has been using outdated 2nd generation
missiles. In 2011 a Request for Proposal (RFP) was floated for over 8000 missiles to Bharat Dynamics
Limited (BDL) and Spike missile was the only one to qualify after going through a complex procurement
process. Ministry of Defence completed negotiation in 2016 but programme did not see light of the day as
the government was in favour of indigenously developing the missiles through India’s DRDO. Later, to
overcome the critical capability void and to meet urgent operational requirement, Indian Army procured a
limited quantity of Spike LR missiles from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems of Israel. India thus became
33rd country in world to have Spike missile as a part of its inventory.
November 30, 2019

Indian Navy test-fires Brahmos supersonic cruise missile
Indian Navy test-fired the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, from the Navy’s stealth destroyer INS Kochi.
The supersonic missile successfully hit a decommissioned target ship in Arabian Sea. Moreover, the second
ship of Project 15-A ‘Kolkata-class’ guided missile destroyer test-fired advanced missile during a naval drill
in west coast.
Earlier the BrahMos missile has been successfully test fired twice from INS Kolkata, (one in June 2014 and
February 2015) and one successful test firing has been from INS Kochi in November 2015. The recent test
firing from INS Kochi has now re-validated ship’s precise strike capability.
About BRAHMOS Supersonic Cruise Missile
It has been jointly developed by India and Russia and has been in service with Indian Navy since 2005. It is
world’s fastest cruise missile and has a strike-range of over 290 km. It successfully hit decommissioned
target ship with high precision after performing extremely complex manoeuvres.
BRAHMOS missile have supersonic speed of Mach 2.8. It also has a very low-cruising altitude of 10 metres
at terminal phase and pin-point accuracy which has made the warship one of deadliest in Indian Navy fleet.
Significance: Brahmos as prime strike weapon will ensure Naval warship’s invincibility by engaging naval
surface targets at long ranges. This will thus make destroyer the another lethal platform of Indian Navy.
About INS Kochi
Indian Navy commissioned INS Kochi on 30 September 2015. It is a 7,500-ton warship which is indigenously
designed and constructed. It incorporates new design concepts for improved manoeuvrability, stealth,
survivability, and sea-keeping. Besides carrying other sophisticated weapons and sensors, the INS Kochi
warship has enhanced capability of carrying a total of 16 BRAHMOS missiles in two 8-cell vertical launch
systems.
UNDP launches Accelerator Lab in New Delhi
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched the India chapter of its new initiative,
Accelerator Lab in New Delhi. The objective behind launching lab is to address some of the most pressing
issues facing India, including air pollution, through innovation. To achieve its objectives, the UNDP has also
partnered with NITI Aayog ‘s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM).
About Accelerator Lab
The laboratory will be housed in UNDP’s office based in New Delhi. The vision behind setting up lab is to
make faster progress in meeting ambitious United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
At the Accelerator Lab innovators will seek to bring in their energy together to come up with solutions for
common problems facing the country. Issues that laboratory will seek to address through innovation
includes: air pollution, sustainable water management and client-resilient livelihoods.
The Indian lab will be among 60 global ones that will find, test and try to scale up innovative solutions
helpful in combating both climate change as well as social inequity.
Former RBI deputy governor H R Khan to chair Micro-Finance panel
H R Khan, former deputy governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been appointed as first chairman of
steering committee panel on Code for Responsible Lending (CRL) in Micro-Credit. Members of panel
include: P Satish of Sa-Dhan, Sonia Krishnankutty of L&T Finance, Harsh Shrivastava of MFIN and Srinivas
Bonam of IndusInd Bank among others.
About Code for Responsible Lending (CRL)
It is a self-regulatory step for micro-credit industry making diverse entities such as banks, Non-Banking
Financial Company – Micro Finance Institution (NBFC-MFI) and NBFCs, adhere to standards of customer
protection.
CRL was launched in September 2019 by Micro-finance Institutions Network (MFIN) and Sa-Dhan, an RBI-
recognised association of microfinance institutions (MFIs), along with Finance Industry Development
Council, an association of NBFCs. It was envisaged to be guided and supervised by a steering committee
representing banks, Small Finance Banks (SFBs), NBFC-MFIs, NBFCs and industry associations under an
eminent independent chair.
Aditya Birla Finance becomes first company to list commercial papers on stock exchanges
Aditya Birla Finance Ltd (ABFL), the Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) arm of Aditya Birla Capital, has
now become the first company to list its commercial papers (CPs) on stock exchanges. The move comes
after stock exchanges- the BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange) and NSE (National Stock Exchange), came out
with a framework for listing of commercial papers (CPs), in a bid to broaden investors’ participation in such
securities.
Key Highlights
Aditya Birla Finance is first company to list its commercial paper with value date of 28 November 2019 and
maturity date on 7 February 2020. ABFL is a well-diversified NBFC with a long-term credit rating of AAA
(stable) from both ICRA as well as India Ratings.
Listing of commercial papers is expected to lead to an efficient transmission of information regarding
corporate borrowings and liquidity positions to market participants. It will also contribute effectively
towards development of CP market and is expected to have a positive effect on debt capital market.
What is a Commercial paper?
It is an unsecured money market instrument which is issued in form of promissory notes that enables highly
rated corporate borrowers to diversify their sources of short-term borrowings. It also provides an additional
instrument to investors. CPs can be issued for maturities between a minimum of 7 days and a max of up to
1 year from date of issue. They are usually issued at a discount from face value and reflects prevailing
market interest rates.
All India Police Science Congress organised in Lucknow
The 47th All India Police Science Congress (AIPSC) was organised from 28-29 November 2019, at Police
Headquarters in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The chief guest for event was former cop and current Lieutenant
Governor of Puducherry Kiran Bedi.
Key Highlights
Top officials from police, security and investigation agencies from every Indian state participated in 47th All
India Police Science Congress. More than 120 teams participated from all states and Union Territories
(UTs). Apart from police, central agencies such as CBI, CRPF and BSF also participated.
The event was organised by Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D). Uttar Pradesh is
hosting this annual event after 22 years. The Congress focused on challenges in policing, and 5 other
related topics which are need of the hour.
The conference was also attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah who called for major changes in
penal acts like Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and Indian Penal Code (IPC), along with Arms Act and
Narcotics Acts to strengthen internal security. He also called upon Police officers to participate in this
process by giving their suggestions and seeking suggestions from junior personnel also who are going to
implement these rules.
India Corruption Survey 2019
As per the India Corruption Survey 2019, Rajasthan and Bihar fared the worst in country with 78% and 75%
of respondents admitting to paying bribes, while Telangana topped the list in south India. The survey was
carried out between October 2018 and November 2019 and was conducted by Local Circles, a social media
firm and the Transparency International India. It had a total of 1.9 lakh responses from nearly 81,000 unique
respondents in 248 districts across 20 Indian states.
As compared to 2018, India’s overall ranking in Corruption Perception Index has risen 3 places to 78 out of
180 countries. While an average of 56% of respondents admitted to paying bribes in 2018, the number has
come down to 51% in 2019.
Key Highlights of Survey
Most Corrupt States in India:
Rajasthan tops corruption chart in India. As per India Corruption Survey, 78% people in Rajasthan,
participating in survey, admitted to paying a bribe to get work done.
Bihar follows Rajasthan and was placed at second spot. In Bihar 75 % of citizens admitted to paying a bribe
to get their work done.
Uttar Pradesh was ranked third in list. In UP 74 % of citizens admitted to paying a bribe to get their work
done. Jharkhand shares 3rd spot with UP, where 74% citizens admitted to paying a bribe to get their work
done.
Telangana rounds off top 5 list of ‘Most Corrupt States in India’, with about 67% of citizens admitted to
paying bribes to get numerous pending work completed.
Punjab ranks sixth in list, where 63% citizens accepted to paying bribes to get their work done. Karnataka
shares the spot with Punjab.
Tamil Nadu ranks seventh in most corrupt state’s list. Around 62% of citizens admitted to paying bribes to
get their work done.
Least Corrupt States: According to the list, Kerala is one of the least corrupt states, where only 10% of
people admitted to paying a bribe to get their work done and all of them gave bribes several times (directly/
indirectly). Besides Kerala, Goa, Gujarat, Odisha, West Bengal, Haryana and Delhi are least corrupt states.
Malayalam poet Akkitham wins 55th Jnanpith Award
Eminent Malayalam poet Akkitham has been chosen for 55th Jnanpith Award for the year 2019. The
announcement in this regard was made by Jnanpith Selection Board chaired by novelist, scholar and
Jnanpith laureate Pratibha Ray.
About Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri
Born in 1926, he was popularly known as Akkitham. He is one of the most revered names in Malayalam
poetry. Apart from poetry, his literary excellence has footprints in genre such as drama, critical essays,
children literature, short stories, reminiscence and translations.
He is a poet of rare integrity, a creator of many works, all considered as classics. His poetry reflects
unfathomable compassion, imprints of Indian philosophical and moral values and a bridge between
tradition and modernity.
Akkitham’s Work: He has authored 55 books out of which 45 are collections of poems. This includes Katha
Kavyas, Charitha Kavyas, Khanda Kavyas and songs. His other celebrated creations include Akkitham
Kavithaka, Veeravadam, Nimisha Kshethram, Antimahakalam, Balidarsanam, Amrita Khatika, and Epic of
Twentieth Century. His works have also been translated into many Indian as well as foreign languages.
Awards: He has won Vayalar Award, Mathrubhumi Award, Kabir Samman Kerala, Padma Shri, Sahitya
Akademi Award (1973), Sahitya Akademi Award (1972 and 1988).
About Jnanpith Award
Instituted in 1961, the Jnanpith Award is India’s highest literary honour. With this award, the Bhartiya
Jnanpith trust recognises Indian litterateurs who write in one of 22 Indian languages listed in Schedule VIII
of Indian Constitution. The winners receive a cash prize of 11 lakh rupees, a citation and a bronze replica of
Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and wisdom. First winner of Jnanpith award was
famour Malyalam writer G.S. Kurup.

DHFL becomes 1st financial services firm to be taken to NCLT
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has referred Dewan Housing Finance Corp. Ltd (DHFL) to the National
Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for insolvency proceedings, making it the first financial services player to go
NCLT for a possible debt resolution. DHFL has a debt of Rrs.83,873 crore. As per the statutory inspection of
DHFL conducted by the National Housing Bank, the DHFL showed a serious deterioration in its finances. It
had public deposits of Rs.6,188 crore as on 6 July 2019, down from Rs.10,166.72 crore as on 31 March
2018.
Key Highlights
RBI has filed an application for initiation of corporate insolvency resolution process against DHFL under
Section 227 of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016 read with Rules 5 and 6 of Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Rules, 2019.
R. Subramaniakumar, the RBI-appointed administrator for DHFL, will take over lender’s affairs once his
appointment is approved by National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).
New Powers Granted to RBI
DHFL is first financial services firm to be sent to bankruptcy tribunal after government notified the rules for
referring financial services providers (FSPs) on 15 November 2019. Thereby now, unlike insolvency
proceedings for companies from other sectors, a Financial Services Providers (FSPs) creditor/debtor
cannot approach tribunal- the firm has to be referred by a regulator.
Under new powers granted to RBI in Union budget, the central bank can take over administration of
privately-held financial services companies. Moreover, RBI can also remove auditors, call for an audit of any
group company, and have a say on compensation of top management of an Non-Banking Financial
Companies (NBFCs). As per new FSP insolvency rules, an interim moratorium will start from the date of
filing of application till its admission/ rejection.
Way Forward: Most likely this model will be followed for other NBFC as well because currently there is a lot
of discussion about other NBFCs not being in a position to meet their debt servicing obligations. This could
also be a used as a tool for RBI to ensure timely resolution for large NBFCs with significant public
investments.
Code
UKIBC sets up Aerospace and Defence Industry Group
The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) announced the establishment of Aerospace and Defence Industry
Group to boost bilateral cooperation in the areas. The initiative demonstrates close ties between Indian and
United Kingdom’s aerospace and defence industry as well as recognises that UK-India relationship is at a
critical turning point.
Key Highlights
In 2019, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between UK and India on ‘Defence Technology
Industrial Capability Cooperation’, which highlighted UK government’s approach towards enhancing
cooperation with India. The collaboration besides advancing India’s defence acquisition process will also
foster long-term hardware and technology transfers.
Aerospace and Defence Industry Group will support and build on huge opportunities for collaboration that
exists between defence industries of India and UK. It has been formed after suggestions of Defence and
Security Organisation as well as with support of UK Defence Solutions Centre, the Department for
International Trade, ADS Group Ltd and industry. The group could contribute towards India’s continued
emphasis on defence modernization, Make in India initiative and sophisticated military capabilities, which
will be a win-win for both UK and India. Core members of group include: Rolls-Royce, BAE systems, Thales
UK, TVS Logistics, MBDA, Leonardo, PEXA, Pattonair and Cranfield University.

UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2019
Recently released United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Emissions Gap Report-2019 warns that
the Earth’s average temperature may rise by 3.2 degrees Celsius by 2100. Moreover, despite all scientific
warnings and political commitments emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) couldn’t decrease globally.
The report was released prior to United Nations Climate Conference (COP-25) to be held in Spain from 2
December 2019. It states that GHG emissions have increased by 1.5% since last decade and that carbon
dioxide (CO2) emissions have reached an all-time high figure of 55.3 gigatons.
Key Findings of UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2019
China, United States of America (USA), European Union (28) and India are among the top four greenhouse
gas emitters.
India: UNEP report highlights that India is regularly considering deadlines and targets to curb carbon
emissionAs per the report, India’s per capita emission is one of the lowest within G20 countries. Also, India
is one of the leading countries that are looking for electric vehicle development.
Globally:
The report suggested that only if Green House Gas (GHG) emissions are reduced by 7.6% every year during
2020 to 2030 period, only then the target of reducing global temperature can be achieved.
As per the report, the largest GHG contribution comes from energy sector and its fossil fuel emissions.
Thus to achieve the target of limiting temperature rise to no more than 1.5 ° C, all countries must reduce
GHG emissions by up to 5 times.
The report also highlights that if global temperature reaches at level of 1.5 degrees then coral reefs would
be reduced by 70-90%. It also clarifies that by 2100, the world would be warmer 3.2 degrees that pre-
industrial level.
Key Recommendations of Emissions Gap Report 2019
The report suggested that each country has own unique opportunities to protect livelihood, natural
resources and lives. Moreover, Complete de-carbonization of energy sector is possible and necessary. With
renewable energy electricity, the emission reduction can achieve a target of 12.1 gigatonnes (GT) by 2050.
Also, the electrification of transport can also help to reduce carbon emission up to 72% by 2050.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Which country’s President has been invited as the chief guest at the India’s 2020 Republic Day?
[A] Italy
[B] Brazil
[C] Portugal
[D] New Zealand
Answer: Brazil
The 11th BRICS Summit 2019 has been attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Brasilia.During the
summit, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro accepted Prime Minister Modi’s invitation to be the Chief
Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2020.
2. Which Indian personality has been named an honorary trustee of “The Metropolitan Museum of Art”?
[A] Nita Ambani
[B] Ratan Tata
[C] Amitabh Bachchan
[D] Priyanka Chopra
Answer: Nita Ambani
Nita Ambani, the founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, has been named an honorary
trustee of “The Metropolitan Museum of Art”. This decision was taken due to her commitment to
preserve and encourage Indian art and culture. She is the first Indian to be so honoured on the
museum’s Board of Trustees in its nearly 150-year history.
3. Who has been appointed as new CMD of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC)?
[A] Sudhir Kumar
[B] Payal Sharma
[C] Kamala Vardhana Rao
[D] Kirti Patel
Answer: Kamala Vardhana Rao
G Kamala Vardhana Rao, an IAS officer 1990 batch from Kerala Cadre, has been appointed as new CMD
of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC).The ITDC is a hospitality, retail and education
company owned by Government of India, under Ministry of Tourism. It came into existence in October
1966 and owns over 17 properties under the Ashok Group of Hotels brand across India.
4. The first-ever Indo-US tri-services ‘Tiger Triumph’ has started in which state?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Answer: Andhra Pradesh
The 9-day humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) exercise code-named ‘Tiger Triumph’ has
been started between armed forces of India and United States on the Eastern seaboard (at
Visakhapatnam and Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh). The aim of the first-ever tri-services exercise is to
develop inter-operability between the militaries of the two countries in HADR operations.
5. Which state government has decided to organize 2019 World Kabaddi Cup?
[A] Tripura
[B] Kerala
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Punjab
Answer: Punjab
The 2019 World Kabaddi Cup is being organized by the Punjab government i.e. scheduled to be held
from December 1 to 9. This year’s tournament would be dedicated to the 550th birth anniversary of Sikh
guru – Guru Nanak Dev ji. Nine teams — India, USA, Australia, England, Sri Lanka, Kenya, New Zealand,
Pakistan and Canada — are expected to take part in the tournament.
6. Suranga Bawadi, which has been selected as the World Monument Watch List for 2020, is located in
which state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Nagaland
[C] Karnataka
[D] Mizoram
Answer: Karnataka
The Suranga Bawadi is an integral part of the ancient Karez system of supplying water through
subterranean tunnels built during Adil Shahi era in Vijayapura, Karnataka. It is in news recently because
Bawadi has been selected as the World Monument Watch List for 2020 by the New York-based non-
governmental organisation under the category of “Ancient Water System of the Deccan Plateau” along
with 24 monuments across the world. Now, the unique underground water system in Vijayapura will
receive funds for restoration work. According to historians, the Karez system was built in the 16th
century by Ali Adil Shah–I & his successor Ibrahim Adil Shah–II brought in several changes by adding
more structures to strengthen it.
7. India is hosting the 19th Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of SCO 2020 in which city?
[A] Chennai
[B] New Delhi
[C] Pune
[D] Bangaluru
Answer: New Delhi
India will host the 19th Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organisation (SCO) 2020 in New Delhi. This will be first time that India is hosting a such high-level
meeting of China-led eight-member economic and security bloc after becoming full member of the
organisation in 2017. The latest Summit of heads of government was held in Tashkent in November
2019. The SCO is an influential regional security grouping which is seen as a counterweight to NATO.
The aim of the SCO is to maintain peace, stability and security of the region.
8. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Kindness Day (WKD) is celebrated?
[A] November 13
[B] November 14
[C] November 15
[D] November 16
Answer: November 13
The World Kindness Day (WKD) is celebrated every year on 13th of November to highlight good deeds in
the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness which binds us.
Kindness is a fundamental part of the human condition which bridges the divides of race religion,
politics, gender and zip codes. The day was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, a
coalition of nations’ kindness NGOs. The theme for 2019 edition is “Empathy, encouraging people
across the globe to better understand “the pains of others” and touch their lives “positively”.
9. Which Indian scholar has won the 2019 BRICS-Young Innovator Prize?
[A] Sunil Rajput
[B] Ravi Prakash
[C] Laxmi Jain
[D] Deepankar Kumar
Answer: Ravi Prakash
Ravi Prakash, a PhD scholar of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI- Bengaluru), has won the
$25,000 BRICS-Young Innovator Prize for inventing an affordable indigenous milk chilling unit for smaller
and marginal rural dairy farmers. Prakash was a part of 21-member delegation sent to Brazil by the
Department of Science and Technology (DST) for the 4th BRICS-Young Scientist Forum (YSF- 2019).
10. The 2019 International Lavi fair was held in which district of Himachal Pradesh?
[A] Shimla
[B] Hamirpur
[C] Kangra
[D] Kullu
Answer: Shimla
The 4-day-long International Lavi fair 2019 was held at Rampur in Shimla district. The main attraction
during the fair was the sale and purchase of Chamurthi horses — an endangered species known as the
‘ship of the cold desert’. The Lavi Fair is approximately 400 years old & dates back to the time when Raja
Kehari Singh of Rampur Bushahr state signed a treaty to promote trade with Tibet. Rampur was once a
major trade centre as it is located on the old silk route connecting Afghanistan, Tibet and Ladakh. The
traders from Tibet used to bring raw wool, herbs and leather products and take back wheat flour, rice,
spices, butter, farm implements and livestock.
11. What is the India’s rank at the 2019 Global Bribery Risk Index?
[A] 78th
[B] 93rd
[C] 102nd
[D] 55th
Answer: 78th
India has been ranked 78th among 178 nations in the 2019 Global Bribery Risk Index, which was
released by Trace Bribery Risk Matrix.The Matrix evaluates countries under four parameters which are
business interaction with the government, anti-bribery deterrence, transparency and civil society
oversight.TRACE is a US based organisation which provides ranking to various countries in terms of the
risk of bribery companies face in doing business in those countries.
12. Which state government has launched the ‘Nadu-Nedu’ programme?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Kerala
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Karnataka
The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jaganmohan Reddy has launched the ‘Nadu-Nedu’ programme to
introduce English medium from classes 1 to 6 in state-run schools.The scheme will be implemented in
15,715 schools in the first phase. It will cover all schools in three years’ time with a budget of Rs 12,000
crores.
13. Vashishtha Narayan Singh, who passed away recently, was the noted personality of which field?
[A] Maths
[B] Biology
[C] Chemistry
[D] Physics
Answer: Maths
Renowned mathematician Vashishtha Narayan Singh passed away in Patna on 14th November 2019.
Born in 1942 in Basantpur village of the Bhojpur district in Bihar, Singh became a legend as a student
when he was allowed by Patna University to appear in the two-year course of B.Sc (Hons) in
Mathematics in its very first year.
14. The Golden Leaf Awards are awarded for which sector?
[A] Tobacco
[B] Coffee
[C] Tea
[D] Jute
Answer: Tobacco
The Tobacco Board of India (Guntur) has been awarded the Golden Leaf Award at Tab Expo 2019 event
in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The award was given in the most impressive public service initiative
category for the year 2019 for its efforts to initiate various sustainability (green) initiatives in Flue-Cured
Virginia (FCV) tobacco cultivation in India.The Golden Leaf Awards are created to recognise
professional excellence and dedication in the tobacco industry by an international magazine Tobacco
Reporter.
15. Who has been named FIFA’s Chief of global football development?
[A] Robert Jerni
[B] Arsene Wenger
[C] Harendra Singh
[D] Igor Stimac
Answer: Arsene Wenger
Veteran coach Arsene Wenger has been named FIFA’s Chief of global football development. He would
be responsible for the growth of the game for both men and women around the world and would also be
the leading authority on technical matters, including potential changes to the sport’s laws.
16. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Press Day (NPD) is celebrated in India?
[A] November 16
[B] November 14
[C] November 17
[D] November 15
Answer: November 16
The National Press Day (NPD) is celebrated every year on 16th of November as symbolic of free and
responsible press in India.This was the day on which the Press Council of India (PCI) started functioning
as a moral watchdog to ensure that not only did the press maintain the high standards expected from
this powerful medium but also that it was not fettered by the influence or threats of any extraneous
factors.
17. Which union ministry has decided to launch Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK)?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Rural Development
[C] Ministry of Women and Child Development
[D] Ministry of HRD
Answer: Ministry of Women and Child Development
The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) and Textiles has decided to launch
Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK) on 18th November 2019 in New Delhi. The BPKK is the repository
of diverse crops across 128 agro-climatic zones in India for better nutritional outcomes.
18. Which Indian movie bagged the Best Director award at the 2019 Asian Film Festival Barcelona?
[A] Super 30
[B] War
[C] Bhonsle
[D] Panipat
Answer: Bhonsle
Manoj Bajpayee-starrer and critically acclaimed movie “Bhonsle”, directed by Devashish Makhija, has
won the prestigious awards at the 2019 Asian Film Festival Barcelona. The film bagged two awards in
the ‘Best Screenplay’ and ‘Best Director’ categories at the festival. The movie revolves around a police
constable, who tries to help in the struggles of migrants and their battles with the local politicians. It
also addresses the concerns of various ethnic groups and highlights the issues that they face in order to
survive in a city like Mumbai, away from their home.
19. Which movie bagged the Golden Royal Bengal Tiger Award for the Best Film at the 25th Kolkata
International Film Festival (KIFF)?
[A] Aga’s House
[B] The Painted Bird
[C] Run Kalyani
[D] The Weeping Woman
Answer: The Weeping Woman
Spanish movie ‘The Weeping Woman’ (La llorona) bagged the Golden Royal Bengal Tiger Award for the
Best Film in International Competition of the 25th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF).
20. The 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) was held in which city?
[A] Colombo
[B] New Delhi
[C] Hanoi
[D] Bangkok
Answer: Bangkok
The 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus-2019) has recently held in Bangkok,
Thailand on 18th November 2019. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh along with 17 other Defence Ministers
of ADMM-Plus countries attended the meeting. Its purpose was to seek collaborations in terms of
security with Ministry of Defence of countries outside the region.
21. Who has been sworn-in as new President of Sri Lanka?
[A] Gotabaya Rajapakasa
[B] Priyantha Sirisena
[C] Namal Rajapaksa
[D] Karu Jayasuriya
Answer: Gotabaya Rajapakasa
Gotabaya Rajapakasa, the controversial wartime defence secretary, has been sworn-in as 7th Executive
President of Sri Lanka at the Ruwanweli Seya in Anuradhapura on 18th November 2019. He succeeded
President Maithripala Sirisena for a 5-year term. Before the ceremony, the newly-elected president
worshipped at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree in the Mahamewna Gardens and Ruwanweli
Seya.
22. Which Indian boxer has been elected as a member of the first-ever international boxing body (AIBA)
athletes’ commission?
[A] Shiva Thapa
[B] Laishram Sarita Devi
[C] Mary Kom
[D] Vijender Singh
Answer: Laishram Sarita Devi
Indian boxer, Laishram Sarita Devi of Manipur has been elected unopposed as a member of the first-ever
international boxing body (AIBA) athletes’ commission. She was inspired by Muhammad Ali’s
achievements, and turned professional in boxing in the year 2000. She is DSP in Manipur Police. The
election of the Athletes Commission members was organized during AIBA Men and Women World
Boxing Championships 2019 in Russia. Boxers from all over the world voted for new members – one per
continent, except Europe which has two representatives.
23. Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, who has been sworn-in as the new Chief Justice of India (CJI), is a former
Chief Justice of which High Court?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Answer: Madhya Pradesh
Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, a former Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court, has recently
administered oath as the 47th Chief Justice of India (CJI) by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Durbar
Hall of Rashtrapati Bhawan. He will have a tenure of over 17 months as the CJI and is due to retire on
April 23, 2021. Justice Bobde has decided several key cases and was part of the recent historic Ayodhya
verdict. He also headed a 3-member in-house committee which gave a clean chit to CJI Gogoi on a
sexual harassment complaint against him by a former apex court staffer. Hailing from a family of
lawyers from Maharashtra, he is the son of eminent senior advocate Arvind Shriniwas Bobde.
24. The Andhra Pradesh government has selected which IIM to help curb corruption in the state
administration?
[A] IIM Calcutta
[B] IIM Indore
[C] IIM Ahmedabad
[D] IIM Bangalore
Answer: IIM Ahmedabad
The Andhra Pradesh government has selected IIM Ahmedabad to help curb corruption in the state
administration. The institute would study the structural issues in the government departments in relation
to corruption and come out with measures to tackle them. The focus would be on government
departments that have earned alleged notoriety for corruption. Based on the IIM-A report, it was
expected that the government may suitably amend the PC Act for a complete crackdown on corruption.
25. Which country has become the first country in the world to introduce WHO approved typhoid vaccine?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Pakistan
[C] India
[D] Bangladesh
Answer: Pakistan
Pakistan has become the first country in the world to introduce WHO-approved Typhoid Conjugate
Vaccine (TCV) into its routine immunisation programme through a campaign mode in Sindh. Its an
effort to combat a drug-resistant strain of the potentially fatal disease in the Sindh province. The two-
week campaign has been launched with the support of Geneva-based Gavi vaccine alliance. The TCV is a
one-dose vaccine, injected intramuscularly, that is lower in cost and has higher efficacy. It is expected to
provide long lasting immunity in adults, children and infants older than 9 months of age. Typhoid is a
highly contagious disease that spreads quickly when people live in crowded neighbourhoods with weak
water and sanitation infrastructure.
26. Which state government has launched virtual classes project?
[A] Chhattisgarh
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Bihar
Answer: Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has recently launched a project that will connect 500
government-run secondary schools to virtual classrooms in the state. The virtual classes are attended
through video conferences where students can meet the teacher on a real-time basis and ask questions.
Approx 1.90 lakh students of these schools will also benefit from the project.
27. The ‘SAANS’ campaign has been launched by which union ministry?
[A] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
[B] Ministry of Human Resource Development
[C] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
[D] Ministry of Jal Shakti
Answer: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Harsh Vardhan has launched a ‘SAANS (Social Awareness
and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully) campaign to curb pneumonia deaths among children.
Under the campaign, a child suffering from pneumonia can be treated with pre-referral dose of anti-
biotic amoxicillin by ASHA workers, and health and wellness centres can use pulse oximeter (device to
monitor oxygen saturation) to identify low oxygen levels in the blood of a child, and if required, treat him
by use of oxygen cylinders. The campaign will mobilize people to protect children from pneumonia, and
train health personnel and other stakeholders to provide prioritized treatment to control the disease.
28. Which state government has launched Mukhyamantri Septic Tank Safai Yojana?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Delhi
Answer: Delhi
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has launched a scheme — Mukhyamantri Septic Tank Safai Yojana –
to help people in waste management and to ensure the safety of sanitation workers. The government
has plans to achieve three objectives with the scheme viz. a collection of waste from septic tanks in the
colonies, ensuring safe disposal of the waste in sewage treatment plants, and deployment of trained
staff with safety equipment for cleaning septic tanks.
29. The first-ever National Agrochemicals Congress (NAC) was held in which city?
[A] Pune
[B] Bangaluru
[C] Chennai
[D] New Delhi
Answer: New Delhi
In New Delhi, the first-ever National Agrochemicals Congress (NAC) was conducted by Society of
Pesticide Science India at IARI, Pusa under the theme “Country’s Status on various fronts of Agro
chemicals”. The 4-day long Congress is conducted in view of the role chemical pesticides still continue
to play in pest management as more and more target specific and environment friendly products are
being introduced.
30. Which state government has decided to create new new Foreign Cooperation department?
[A] Odisha
[B] Haryana
[C] Karnataka
[D] Kerala
Answer: Haryana
The Haryana Government has decided to create a dedicated new department namely Department of
‘Foreign Cooperation’ to deal in formulation of country-wise strategies for promotion of investment,
employment in the state, education and skill development and promotion of Haryanavi culture and
welfare of Haryanavi diaspora. The Haryana Cabinet has also decided to revise the House Rent
Allowance admissible to the Ministers from Rs 50,000 to Rs 80,000 plus Rs 20,000 to cover electricity
and water charges that is totalling Rs 1 Lakh per month.
31. What is the India’s rank in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking?
[A] 62nd
[B] 43rd
[C] 59th
[D] 68th
Answer: 59th
Due to low quality of life and expenditure on education, India has been ranked 59th on a global annual
list of 63 countries in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking. The list was topped by Switzerland, followed
by Denmark, Sweden and Austria. The ranking is based on the performance in three main categories —
Investment & Development, Appeal and Readiness.
32. Which union ministry has launched Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK)?
[A] Ministry of Women and Child Development
[B] Ministry of Food Processing Industries
[C] Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
[D] Ministry of Rural Development
Answer: Ministry of Women and Child Development
The Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK) has been launched by Union Ministry of Women and Child
Development (WCD) in partnership with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in New Delhi. The BPKK is a
repository of diverse crops across 128 agro-climatic zones in India for better nutritional outcomes.
33. The bilateral maritime exercise “Roar of the Sea” has started between India & which country?
[A] Qatar
[B] Japan
[C] Afghanistan
[D] Saudi Arabia
Answer: Qatar
The first-ever joint naval exercise titled “Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea)” has started between Qatar &
India in Doha. The exercise would strengthen cooperation and increase interoperability between the two
navies.
34. Which state Olympic Association has decided to launch ‘Grassroot Olympic – Mission Talent Hunt’ to
groom talent?
[A] Odisha
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Punjab
[D] Assam
Answer: Assam
The Assam Olympic Association (AOA) has decided to launch a new programme – “Grassroot Olympic
– Mission Talent Hunt” – to identify the sports talent in the state and groom them. The AOA will
organize sports events in five categories covering players from 10 years to 60 years of age in the state.
35. Who is the author of the book “The Daughter from a Wishing Tree Unusual Tales about Women in
Mythology”?
[A] Sudha Chandran
[B] Sudha Murty
[C] Kiran Bedi
[D] Lakshmi Venu
Answer: Sudha Murty
The book “The Daughter from a Wishing Tree Unusual Tales about Women in Mythology” has been
authored by acclaimed author and Infosys Foundation chairman Sudha Murty. The book will tell
numerous untold tales of women in mythology. It will talk about the magic spell that can make a dead
person come alive, and the wishing tree that gives the wonderful gift of daughters. It will also answer
some very curiosity invoking questions like who the gods turn to for support when they are helpless.
36. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Epilepsy Day (NED) is observed?
[A] November 17
[B] November 18
[C] November 19
[D] November 20
Answer: November 17
In India, the National Epilepsy Day (NED) is observed every year on 17th of November to create
awareness about epilepsy. Epilepsy is a chronic disorder of brain characterized by recurrent ‘seizures’
or ‘fits’. The seizures are caused as a result of sudden, excessive electrical discharges in the neurons
(brain cells). The condition can affect people at any age and each age group has unique concerns and
problems.
37. What is the theme of the 2019 edition of World Toilet Day (WTD)?
[A] Toilets and Nutrition
[B] Follow the Flush
[C] When Nature Calls
[D] Leaving No One Behind
Answer: Leaving No One Behind
The World Toilet Day (WTD) is observed every year on 19th of November to draw attention to those
people being left behind without sanitation. The 2019 theme “Leaving No One Behind” aims to tackle the
global sanitation crisis. It means that a toilet is not just a toilet. It’s a life-saver, dignity-protector and
opportunity-maker. Whoever you are, wherever you are, sanitation is your human right.
38. Which company has launched 60 Starlink satellites for cheaper global Internet?
[A] SpaceX
[B] Blue Origin
[C] Virgin Galactic
[D] Boeing
Answer: SpaceX
Elon Musk-run SpaceX has recently launched 60 “Starlink” satellites into Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) from
Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida that will bring cheaper and reliable space-based internet
access to the world. The “Starlink” satellites will be deployed at an altitude of 280 km to beam
broadband Internet services. These satellites are part of the 2nd batch of SpaceXs broadband Internet
mega constellation. Enabled by a constellation of low Earth-orbit satellites, Starlink will provide fast,
reliable internet to populations with little or no connectivity, including those in rural communities and
places where existing services are too expensive or unreliable. The Starlink network is one of several
ongoing efforts to start beaming data signals from space, and also the most ambitious.
39. Jayakwadi Dam, sometimes seen in news, is located on which river?
[A] Krishna
[B] Kaveri
[C] Godavari
[D] Mahanadi
Answer: Godavari
The Jayakwadi Dam is located on Godavari river at the site of Jayakwadi village in Paithan taluka of
Aurangabad district in Maharashtra. It is in news because the seismometer , piezometer, earth pressure
cell, slope meter and several other key instruments installed at the dam have stopped functioning
properly. The seismometer was installed at the Jayakwadi dam after the devastating earthquake in
Killari in Latur district in 1993. This instrument is powerful as it has a range of 10,000 kms. In the past, it
has recorded the epicentres of earthquakes in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Nepal, etc.
40. The Union government has banned which state-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation
Council (HNLC)?
[A] Nagaland
[B] Tripura
[C] Mizoram
[D] Meghalaya
Answer: Meghalaya
The Central government has recently banned Meghalaya-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National
Liberation Council (HNLC) for its increased activities of violence and other subversive acts. The
government also declared HNLC and its factions, wings and front organisations as “unlawful
associations” by exercising powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities
(Prevention) Act of 1967.
41. Which state government has decided to start Arundhati gold scheme by January 2020?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] West Bengal
[C] Assam
[D] Kerala
Answer: Assam
The Assam government has decided to start Arundhati gold scheme by January 2020 for the registered
newly married couples. Under the scheme, an amount of 30 thousand rupees will be given to the bride to
purchase gold. The purpose of the scheme is to promote marriage registrations and prevent under-age
marriages in the state. To get the benefit, the annual income of the bride and her father should not be
more than 5 lakh rupees per year. As per the scheme, the minimum age of the bride and groom to be 18
and 21 years to avail the benefit.
42. Who has been named PETA India’s Person of the Year for 2019?
[A] KS Panicker Radhakrishnan
[B] Virat Kohli
[C] Shashi Tharoor
[D] R Madhavan
Answer: Virat Kohli
Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has been named People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
India’s ‘Person of the Year for 2019’ for his animal advocacy efforts. also reportedly visited an animal
shelter in Bengaluru to check on injured and formerly neglected dogs there, sending a message to his
fans to adopt animals rather than buying them. The PETA is an American animal rights organization
based in Norfolk, Virginia, and led by Ingrid Newkirk, its international president.
43. Who is the head of the panel on petrochemical investment?
[A] P Raghavendra Rao
[B] S Chaudhary
[C] Pradeep Sharma
[D] Rajat Bhargava
Answer: Rajat Bhargava
The Union Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals has appointed senior Andhra Pradesh
bureaucrat Rajat Bhargava as head of a high-level committee to suggest necessary policy initiatives for
attracting more investments into the Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemical Investment Regions
(PCPIR) in the country. This is the first time the Union government is seeking to amend the PCPIR Policy
after it was introduced. As per the PCPIR Policy, the Centre approved four PCPIRs at Dahej (Gujarat) on
the west coast and Visakhapatnam- Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh), Paradeep (Odisha) and Cuddalore-
Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu) on the east coast. The VK-PCPIR is the largest in the country spread over an
area of 640 sq km along the Bay of Bengal coast.
44. Which military unit has been honoured with President’s Colour award?
[A] Mahar Regiment
[B] Rajputana Rifles
[C] Indian Naval Academy
[D] The Garhwal Rifles
Answer: Indian Naval Academy
President Ram Nath Kovind presented the prestigious President’s Colour, to the Indian Naval Academy
at Ezhimala, Kerala. It is recognition of the yeoman service rendered by the institution in training and
shaping Indian Naval officers over the last 50 years at three different locations – Kochi, Goa and
Ezhimala. The President’s Colour is the highest honour that is bestowed upon a military unit.
45. What is the theme of the 2019 edition of World Children’s Day (WCD)?
[A] Protect Child, Protect World
[B] Children of today, our keepers tomorrow
[C] Children are taking over and turning the world blue
[D] Kids Take Over
Answer: Children of today, our keepers tomorrow
The World Children’s Day (WCD) is observed every year on 20th of November across the world to
promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s
welfare. The 2019 theme is “Children of today, our keepers tomorrow”. This year is special as it marks
30 years of the Convention on the Rights of the Child – 30 years of child rights that have helped

transform children’s lives around the world.
46. Which city has become the India’s first City to Install ‘Third Umpire’ RT-PCR Machines?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Chennai
[C] Kolkata
[D] Delhi
Answer: Kolkata
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has installed first of its kind high-end Reverse Transcription
Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) machines in India for quick detection of diseases like dengue,
tuberculosis and swine flu. These machines are to serve as a Third Umpire in situations when medical
reports and blood tests reveal contradictory results. The purpose of these machines is to give accurate
DNA report on blood tests in order to ascertain the exact cause of illness. Through these machines, the
tests will be conducted free of cost
47. IRCTC has signed pact with which state tourism to market & run Golden Chariot train?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Kerala
[D] Tamil Nadu
Answer: Karnataka
The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) to market and
operate the Golden Chariot train. IRCTC is expected to carry out an internal refurbishment of the train
and commence operations from March 2020. The new itineraries shall be a mix of history, culture,
wildlife and nature. It is proposed to include Bandipur, Mysore, Halebid, Chikmagalur, Hampi, Bijapur and
Goa in the itinerary. As per the pact, KSTDC will soon hand over the reins of the train to IRCTC.
48. NASA scientists have recently detected water vapor on which Jupiter’s moon?
[A] Ganymede
[B] Europa
[C] Callisto
[D] Io
Answer: Europa
For the first time, NASA scientists have discovered the presence of water vapor above the surface of
Jupiter’s icy moon Europa using the W. M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii. The researchers detected 5,202
pounds of water releasing from Europa per second, which could fill an Olympic-size swimming pool
within minutes.
49. Which country has declared that Israeli settlements on West Bank do not violate international laws?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] Russia
[C] United States
[D] France
Answer: United States
The United States has recently declared that Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land “West
Bank “ donot violate international laws. The US declaration marks the rejection of a 2016 UN Security
Council (UNSC) resolution that settlements on the West Bank are a “flagrant violation” of international
law and the US legal position on the issue since 1978. It is also a rejection of the Fourth Geneva
Convention of 1949, which outlaws transfers of population by an occupying power, and a new rift with
US allies in Europe and in the Islamic world.
50. Which Indian state has launched the first Hindi daily “Arun Bhoomi”?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Nagaland
[C] Tripura
[D] Mizoram
Answer: Arunachal Pradesh
Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu has recently launched the first Hindi daily Titled
‘Arun Bhoomi’ of the state to promote Hindi amongst the new generation of Arunachalees. The Hindi
daily will be published and edited by Takam Sonia. Takam also heads the Arunachal Hindi Sanstha, an
organization working for promotion and propagation of Hindi language in the state.
51. Which international organisation has released World Energy Outlook (WEO-2019)?
[A] IMF
[B] WHO
[C] IEA
[D] WB
Answer: IEA
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has recently released its latest World Energy Outlook (WEO)
report. In the 2019 edition, IEA projected a rapid increase in installed installed solar capacity by 2040,
from 495 GW now to 3,142 GW. Though, it expects (CO2) emissions to continue rising for decades
unless polices reflect greater ambition on climate change. This is primarily due to the longevity of the
existing stock of coal-based plants, which account for 30% of all energy-related emissions. IEA is an
inter-governmental organisation established in the framework of the Organisation for Economic Co-
operation and Development (OECD).
52. Which international organization has organized the 2019 World Conference on Access to Medical
Products – Achieving the SDGs 2030 in New Delhi?
[A] WHO
[B] UNICEF
[C] UNESCO
[D] IMF
Answer: WHO
The 2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products- Achieving the SDGs 2030 was held in New
Delhi from 19-21 November 2019. It was jointly organized by the Union Ministry of Health & Family
Welfare (MoHFW) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The conference provided a platform for
discussions focused on creating an enabling legal and trade environment for public health which are
critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 Agenda.
53. Who has been conferred the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2019?
[A] Angela Merkel
[B] Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
[C] David Attenborough
[D] Ela Bhatt
Answer: David Attenborough
Renowned naturalist and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough has been chosen for the Indira Gandhi
Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2019. He has been recognized for a lifetime of doing
more to reveal the wonders of the natural world to us than perhaps any other individual.
54. Which tech giant has organized the South Asia Safety Summit 2019?
[A] Microsoft
[B] Facebook
[C] Twitter
[D] Infosys
Answer: Facebook
The 2nd edition of South Asia Safety Summit 2019 was held in New Delhi to highlight the issue of safety
while individuals and communities are connected on the digital platform. It was organized by Union
Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) and Facebook. During the Summit, Union Minister
Smriti Zubin Irani launched “We Think Digital” website. The website is a four-part course designed to
empower students with the knowledge to use, understand, evaluate, communicate and create with
digital technologies. The programme will focus on online safety, privacy and misinformation.
55. The first-ever pink ball Test match is being held between India & which country?
[A] South Africa
[B] Bangladesh
[C] New Zealand
[D] England
Answer: Bangladesh
The first-ever pink ball Test match between India and Bangladesh is being held at the Eden Gardens in
Kolkata on 22nd November 2019. Pink balls will be used in place of red balls for better visibility under
lights. BCCI President Sourav Ganguly unveiled the official mascots of the event “Pinku-Tinku”. Its also
India’s first Day-Night Test against Bangladesh. The Eden Gardens has a capacity of 67,000.
56. Which state government has launched YSR Matsyakara Bharosa scheme for fishermen?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] West Bengal
[D] Kerala
On the occasion of World Fisheries Day (WFD-2019), Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan
Reddy has launched a welfare scheme – YSR Matsyakara Bharosa – for fishermen. Under this scheme,
1,32,332 fishermen in the 21-60 age group will get an enhanced monetary relief of Rs 10,000 each during
the marine ban and lean period every year between April and June. Also, the subsidy on diesel has been
increased from Rs 6.03 to Rs 9 per litre, applicable to the mechanised (3000 Ltrs) and motorized boats
(300 Ltrs) for 10 months every year.
57. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Fisheries Day (WFD) is observed?
[A] November 22
[B] November 21
[C] November 23
[D] November 20
Answer: November 21
The World Fisheries Day (WFD) is observed every year on 21st of November across the world by the
fisherfolk community to ensure sustainable stocks of fisheries and healthy oceans ecosystems.
Fisheries is an important sector in India that provides employment to millions of people apart from
contributing to the food security of the country. India has over 8,000 km of coastline, and an Exclusive
Economic Zone (EEZ) of over 2 million sq km, and extensive freshwater resources.
58. Which country is hosting the world’s first Muslim yoga camp?
[A] India
[B] Israel
[C] Bangladesh
[D] China
Answer: India
The world’s first Muslim yoga camp has started at Kanva Ashram in Kotdwar town of Uttarakhand on
20th November & will conclude on November 24. Approx 500 Muslim men and women from different
countries are participating in the event. The event will send a healthy message to the world that yoga
does not belong to a particular religion and is beneficial for entire humanity.
59. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Television Day (WTD) is observed?
[A] November 22
[B] November 20
[C] November 21
[D] November 23
Answer: November 21
The World Television Day (WTD) is observed every year on 21st of November across the world to
acknowledge the role of broadcast media. The day also marks the commitment of governments, news
organisations and individuals to deliver unbiased information in times when veracity of content on social
media is questionable.
60. Which tech giant has launched ‘K-12 Education Transformation Framework’ to facilitate digital
transformation of schools in India?
[A] Twitter
[B] Wipro
[C] Facebook
[D] Microsoft
Answer: Microsoft
Microsoft has launched its ‘K-12 Education Transformation Framework’ to facilitate comprehensive
digital transformation of schools in India. The framework consists of four pillars — Leadership and
policy, Modern teaching and learning, Intelligent environments and Technology blueprint. The purpose of
the framework is to provide education leadership, government decision-makers, teachers and most
importantly learners, tools to achieve the ambitious change many schools seek, and to thoughtfully
integrate technology in powerful and productive ways.
61. Which state government has decided to legalize the cultivation of cannabis in the state for medical and
industrial purpose?
[A] Haryana
[B] Karnataka
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Punjab
The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to legalize the cultivation of cannabis in the state for
medical and industrial purpose. It is clear that the farmers can only sell their produce to the government
and not to private buyers. The government will allow the farming of hemp (a type of marijuana) for
medical purposes like in the treatment of cancer. Hemp with a Tetra-Hydro-Cannabinol (THC) content of
0.3 to 1.5% can be used for industrial purposes like in the manufacturing of fiber.
62. Chitharesh Natesan, who became the first Indian to be crowned Mr Universe 2019, is from which state?
[A] Telangana
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Odisha
[D] Kerala
Answer: Kerala
Indian bodybuilder Chitharesh Natesan from Kerala has become the first Indian to be crowned Mr
Universe 2019 at the 11th World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship (WBPF) at the Island
city of Jeju in South Korea. He won the title in the 90 kg category in the WBPF 2019. Earlier, he also
bagged the Mr Asia 2019 title at the Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship (ABBF) held
in Thailand in October.
63. Which Indian organisation hosted the first-ever Counter Terrorism Table Top Exercise (CTTE) for the
Quad countries?
[A] BSF
[B] DRDO
[C] NIA
[D] Indian Army
Answer: NIA
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) hosted the first-ever Counter Terrorism Table Top Exercise
(CTTE) for the Quad countries at its headquarters in Delhi on November 21-22, 2019. The Quad countries
include the United States (US), India, Australia, and Japan. According to the NIA, the exercise was to
assess and validate Counter Terrorism (CT) response mechanisms in the light of emerging terrorist
threats. It also aims to provide opportunities to share the best practices and to explore areas for
enhanced cooperation amongst participating countries.
64. Which union ministry is organizing the Destination North East (NE) in Varanasi?
[A] Ministry of Home Affairs
[B] Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region
[C] Ministry of Finance
[D] Ministry of Defense
Answer: Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region
The Destination North East (NE) Festival is being organized by the Ministry of Development of North
Eastern Region (DoNER) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on 23rd November 2019. The 4-day festival will
showcase art, culture, cuisine, handicrafts and handlooms of the northeastern region. During the
festival, the visitors will have live experience of the artisans and artistes from the Northeast working on
their looms and crafts, performing their songs and dances in the open stage.
65. Which business tycoon has been conferred with Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian Council of
Medical Research (ICMR)?
[A] Azim Permji
[B] Mukesh Ambani
[C] Ratan Tata
[D] Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Answer: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, CMD of Biocon, has been conferred with Lifetime Achievement Award by the
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for her outstanding achievement in healthcare and
contribution to the society at large. She was also recognised for her philanthropic efforts and providing
better healthcare to people in India and globally through cost-effective life-saving therapies and
increasing access to healthcare at the grassroots. Bill Gates gave away this award to Mazumdar-Shaw in
New Delhi on Nov 17 at an event to mark the celebration of 108th Foundation Day of ICMR.
66. The NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 is being held in which village of Haryana?
[A] Badesra
[B] Nathuwas
[C] Chandeni
[D] Manesar
Answer: Manesar
In Haryana, the NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 is being organized by International Centre for Automotive
Technology (ICAT) in Manesar under the theme “Smart & Green Mobility”. It aims to find alternative
mobility solutions to problems like pollution emanating from vehicular emissions.
67. The Union Cabinet has recently approved establishment of the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa (NISR)
under which union ministry?
[A] Ministry of Home Affairs
[B] Ministry of Tribal Affairs
[C] Ministry of AYUSH
[D] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Answer: Ministry of AYUSH
The Union Cabinet has recently approved the establishment of the National Institute for Sowa-Rigpa in
Leh as an autonomous organization under the Ministry of AYUSH. The Sowa-Rigpa is a Traditional
Medical system of the Himalayan belt in India. It has been popularly practiced in Sikkim, Arunachal
Pradesh, Darjeeling (West Bengal), Himachal Pradesh, Union Territory of Ladakh and now all over India.
The Institute would provide an impetus for the revival of Sowa-Rigpa in the Indian Sub-continent. It will
also provide opportunities for students of Sowa-Rigpa not only in India but also from other countries.
68. Nilkanth Khadilkar, who passed away recently, was the noted personality of which field?
[A] Photography
[B] Journalism
[C] Politics
[D] Arts
Answer: Journalism
Nilkanth Khadilkar (85) , the noted editor of Marathi newspaper Navakal, has passed away in Mumbai,
Maharashtra on 22nd November 2019. He was the editor of the newspaper for 27 years and had gained
popularity for his hard-hitting editorials which became the daily’s popular feature. He was also author of
a few books, including “Practical Socialism: musings from a tour of Russia”.
69. Who is set to become the first woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval operations?
[A] Nikita Gupta
[B] Komal Sharma
[C] Divya Kumari
[D] Shivangi
Answer: Shivangi
Woman officer Sub Lt Shivangi is expected to become the first woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval
operations. She will join naval operations on completion of operational training at the Southern Naval
Command in Kochi, Kerala on December 2, 2019. She hails from Muzzafarpur, Bihar and completed her
schooling from DAV Public school, Muzzafarpur.
70. Shaukat Kaifi, who passed away recently, was the renowned actress of which cinema?
[A] Hindi
[B] Tamil
[C] Telugu
[D] Marathi
Answer: Hindi
Shaukat Kaifi (93), the veteran Bollywood actor and Shabana Azmi’s mother, has passed away in
Mumbai on 23rd November 2019. Kaifi’s husband “Kaifi Azmi” was the celebrated Urdu poet and film
lyricist. She and her husband were leading lights of the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA) and
the Progressive Writers Association (IWA), which were the cultural platforms of the Communist Party of
India (CPI). Also credited as Shaukat Azmi, Kaifi’s acting credits include ‘Bazaar’, ‘Umrao Jaan’ and Mira
Nair’s Oscar-nominated film ‘Salaam Bombay’. Her last film was Shaadi Ali’s ‘Saathiya’.
71. Who has been bestowed with the 28th Bihari Puraskar for 2018?
[A] Vijay Verma
[B] Satya Narayan
[C] Manisha Kulshreshtha
[D] Bhagwati Lal Vyas
Answer: Manisha Kulshreshtha
Manisha Kulshreshtha, the noted writer from Rajasthan, has been conferred the 28th Bihari Puraskar for
2018 for her novel ‘Swapnapash’. The award is presented by the KK Birla Foundation and is for writers of
Rajasthani origin. It is given annually to an outstanding work in Hindi or Rajasthani published in the past
10 years. The award is named after famous Hindi poet Bihari. It carries a cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh, a
citation, and a plaque.
72. Bougainville, which is in news recently, is the province of which country?
[A] Solomon Islands
[B] Fiji
[C] Kiribati
[D] Papua New Guinea
Answer: Papua New Guinea
The people of Bougainville have started casting vote in a referendum on independence from Papua New
Guinea (PNG). If the vote for independence passes, the autonomous province with 206,000 people could
become the world’s newest independent nation. The referendum is part of a peace deal in 2001 that
ended a bloody civil war between Bougainville and PNG. The referendum presents two options, either
greater autonomy from PNG, or complete independence. However, the referendum is nonbinding and a
vote for independence would require ratification from the Papuan Parliament. Bougainville is the small
archipelago of Pacific islands. Its history includes colonial exploitation, attempts at independence, a 9-
year war and a gradual peace process.

73. Living Root Bridges, sometimes seen in news, are associated to which state?
[A] Meghalaya
[B] Tripura
[C] Nagaland
[D] Mizoram
Answer: Meghalaya
The Living Root Bridges (LRB) (or jing kieng jri) are the aerial bridges built by weaving and manipulating
the roots of the Indian rubber tree. They have been serving as connectors for generations in Meghalaya.
These bridges spans between 15 and 250 feet and are built over centuries. Primarily, the bridges are a
means to cross streams and rivers & have also become world-famous tourist attractions. Now, new
research investigates these structures and proposes to integrate them in modern architecture around
the world, and potentially help make cities more environment-friendly.
74. Which oil company has rolled out special winter-grade diesel for Ladakh ?
[A] HP
[B] IOCL
[C] BPCL
[D] GAIL
Answer: IOCL
The Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) has launched a special winter-grade diesel for high altitude regions
such as Ladakh, Kargil, Kaza and Keylong. This unique winter-grade fuel has been engineered to perform
in extremely cold weather conditions. It will help provide year-round access to grueling regions and will
work as a catalyst in the country’s efforts to speed up strategic road connectivity. This special fuel
produced by Panipat refinery is capable of remaining unfrozen up to minus 33 degree Celsius. It also
meets BIS specification of BS-VI grade diesel.
75. Which state assembly is hosting the Commonwealth Youth Parliament (CYP-2019)?
[A] Delhi
[B] Telangana
[C] Kerala
[D] Punjab
Answer: Delhi
The Delhi Assembly along with the Lok Sabha will host a 3-day Commonwealth Youth Parliament (CYP)
from 25th November 2019. About 47 participants from 24 countries will participate in the event. The
CYP is an annual gathering hosted by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA). It brings
together young people aged 18–29 from across the Commonwealth of Nations to discuss issues of
democracy and governance.
76. Who is the author of the book “RN Kao: Gentle Spymaster”?
[A] S E Joshi
[B] Nitin A Gokhale
[C] K Sankaran Nair
[D] Girish Chandra Saxena
Answer: Nitin A Gokhale
The book “RN Kao: Gentle Spymaster” has been authored by security expert Nitin A Gokhale. It is on the
life and times of legendary spymaster Rameshwar Nath Kao, founding father of India’s external
intelligence agency Research & Analysis Wing (RAW). Kao’s legendary exploits include conducting

‘Kashmir Princess’ probe in the mid-1950s, his contributions in the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971 and
role in ensuring Sikkim’s merger with India.
77. Which state government has decided to constitute State Folk Art Council (SFAC)?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Chhattisgarh
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Answer: Chhattisgarh
The Chhattisgarh government has decided to constitute State Folk Art Council (SFAC) for preserving and
nurturing traditional art forms and artists. The council will also ensure registration of folk art troupes of
all kinds, enlist them and take necessary steps to provide certain assistance including musical
instruments and other materials required by them. It would promote folk arts of the state through
modern promotional mediums, organize festivals at archaeological and cultural heritage sites.
78. The 8th International Tourism Mart (ITM-2019) was held in which city?
[A] Imphal
[B] Guwahati
[C] Itanagar
[D] Kolkata
Answer: Imphal
The Ministry of Tourism is organizing the 8th International Tourism Mart in association with the North
Eastern States at Imphal, Manipur from 23rd to 25th November 2019. The event aims to highlight the
tourism potential of the region in the domestic and international markets. It brings together the tourism
business fraternity and entrepreneurs from the 8 North Eastern States.
79. Oxford Dictionaries has named which word as its 2019 Word of the Year?
[A] Climate action
[B] Climate denial
[C] Climate anxiety
[D] Climate emergency
Answer: Climate emergency
The Oxford Dictionaries has declared “climate emergency” as its 2019 Word of the Year. In 2019,
“climate” became the most common word associated with “emergency”. The Word of the Year citation
is intended to highlight a word or expression shown through usage evidence to reflect the ethos, mood,
or preoccupations of the passing year, and have a lasting potential as a term of cultural significance.
80. Which state government has decided to provide 5% reservation for its athletes in govt jobs?
[A] Haryana
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Punjab
[D] Madhya Pradesh
In Madhya Pradesh, the state government has decided to provide 5% reservation for national and
international medallists in government jobs. It was announced by Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Jitu
Patwari during the inauguration of Under 16 state-level Olympic Games at Kampoo sports complex in
Gwalior on 24th November 2019. He also announced that children from all CBSE, government and
private schools would be involved in the Olympics. At present, the competition is being organized for
children above 16 years of age. He said it includes 10 sports — hockey, basketball, football, volleyball,
kabaddi, kho-kho, athletics, wrestling, badminton and table tennis.
81. Kailash Joshi, who passed away recently, was the former CM of which country?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Chhattisgarh
Kailash Joshi (91), the former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh & BJP leader, has passed away in
Bhopal on 24th of November 2019. His last rites performed at his ancestral town Hatpipalya in Dewas
district. Born on 14th July 1929, Joshi was called as the ‘saint of politics’. He served as the state’s chief
minister from 1977 to 1978. He was MLA for 8 terms and also served as member of both the Rajya
Sabha and the Lok Sabha.
82. Who became the first Indian bowler to take five-wicket haul with a pink ball?
[A] Mohammed Shami
[B] Umesh Yadav
[C] Ishant Sharma
[D] Jasprit Bumrah
Answer: Ishant Sharma
Ishant Sharma has become the first Indian bowler to take five-wicket haul in the Day-night Pink ball Test
against Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Earlier, Mohammad Nisar was the first-ever Indian
bowler to take a five-wicket haul with the red ball against England at Lord’s in 1932. Interestingly, current
head-coach Ravi Shastri holds the record of first-ever five-wicket haul by an Indian with the white ball
when he took 5-wickets against Australia at WACA in 1991.
83. Which Indian Armed force has celebrated ‘Poonch Link Up Day’?
[A] Indian Army
[B] Indian Air Force
[C] Indian Navy
[D] Indian Coast Guard
Answer: Indian Army
On 23rd November 2019, Indian Army celebrated the historic Poonch Link-up Day with traditional gaiety
& fervour to mark the Operation Easy conducted by them in 1948 to defend the border district from the
invading Pakistani raiders. Poonch withstood a siege by the Pakistanis from November 1947 till relieved
by the Indian Army. The day marks the historic link up carried out by Brigadier Pritam Singh’s forces with
Brigadier Yadunath’s forces from Rajouri at Danna Ka Pir on 21 November 1948.
84. India’s first largest biotechnology stakeholders conglomerate – the Global Bio-India (GBI) Summit 2019
was held in which city?
[A] Chennai
[B] New Delhi
[C] Pune
[D] Kolkata
Answer: New Delhi
India’s first largest biotechnology stakeholders conglomerate – the Global Bio-India (GBI) Summit, 2019
was held in New Delhi on 24th November. The 3-day summit provided an opportunity to showcase the
potential of India’s biotech sector to the international community, identify, create opportunities and
deliberate on the key challenges in the areas of Bio-pharma, Bio-Agri, Bio-Industrial, Bio-Energy and Bio-
Services and allied sectors.
85. Which state government has launched immunisation campaign against Filaria?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Kerala
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a massive immunization campaign against the filariasis (or
Filaria) from 25th of November 2019. Under this campaign, more than 65 thousand teams of health
workers will distribute medicines to around 6.5 crore people till 10 December in 19 districts. The Central
government has set year 2021 as the deadline for complete eradication of filaria in country.
86. The Arcadia Education Project of which country has won 2019 Aga Khan Architecture Award?
[A] India
[B] Bangladesh
[C] Nepal
[D] Sri Lanka
Answer: Bangladesh
The Floating school named ‘The Arcadia Education Project’ has won the prestigious Aga Khan
Architecture Award 2019 in Kajan, republic of Tatarastan. The school is located in South Kanarchor of
Bangladesh. It is an innovative project for constructing a floating school for marginalized children in the
country. The architect of the project Saif Ul Haque designed a school which remains on the ground
during dry season and floats when the area is submerged in water during monsoon. He utilized only the
local material-bamboo, used tyres and steel drums for constructing the amphibious structure for school.
The workforce and artisans for the project were also drawn locally. The school also serves as a shelter,
a day care centre and a vocational training centre for the local people.
87. Which country’s team has won the 2019 Davis Cup title?
[A] Spain
[B] Canada
[C] Switzerland
[D] USA
Answer: Spain
In tennis, World No. 1 Rafael Nadal has clinched 6th Davis Cup title for Spain after beating Denis
Shapovalov of Canada in front of a jubilant home crowd in Madrid. Nadal defeated Shapovalov 6-3, 7-6
(9-7) to clinch Spain’s 2-0 win against Canada.
88. Simon Taufel, who launched his book “Finding The Gaps”, is the former cricket umpire of which country?
[A] South Africa
[B] New Zealand
[C] Australia
[D] Sri Lanka
Answer: Australia
The book “Finding The Gaps: Transferable Skills to Be the Best You Can Be” has been authored by
former Australian cricket umpire Simon Taufel. This book is a way of sharing those lessons and
transferable soft skills that can be applied to anyone or any vocation. Taufel is known for his accuracy
and extreme fitness & maintained immense respect from players up to his retirement from the
international game in 2012.
89. On which date, the 2019 edition of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is
observed?
[A] November 25
[B] November 26
[C] November 24
[D] November 23
Answer: November 25
The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed every year on 25th of
November to raise awareness of the fact that women around the world are subject to rape, domestic
violence and other forms of violence. The official theme for 2019 is “Orange the World: Generation
Equality Stands Against Rape”.
90. The 70th Constitution Day of India has celebrated on which date?
[A] November 25
[B] November 27
[C] November 28
[D] November 26
Answer: November 26
The 70th Constitution Day (or Samvidhan divas) is celebrated on 26th of November 2019 across the
country to mark the adopting of the Indian Constitution by the Constituent Assembly on this day in
1949. The constituent assembly took two years, 11 months and 17 days to accomplish the stupendous
task of drafting the historic document. It is the longest written constitution of any sovereign country in
the world. The Constitution declares India a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic, assuring
its citizens justice, equality and liberty and endeavours to promote fraternity. It came into force on 26th
January 1950 to marking the beginning of a new era in the history of Indian Republic.
91. Which state government has launched a citizen helpline No. 14400 for corruption-related complaints?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Rajasthan
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy has recently launched a citizen helpline number
– 14400 – to enable people to complain about graft in government departments. The citizens could
directly call the helpline and lodge a complaint against corruption in any government department. All
complaints would be investigated in 15 to 30 days and required action will be taken.
92. Which Indian armed force is set to host multi-nation military drill ‘Milan 2020’?
[A] Indian Air Force
[B] Indian Coast Guard
[C] Indian Navy
[D] Indian Army
Answer: Indian Navy
The Indian Navy will host multi-nation military drill ‘Milan 2020’ at Visakhapatnam in March 2020 & will
witness the participation of 41 nations from South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe. The areas of
cooperation include capacity building, marine domain awareness, training, hydrography, technical
assistance, operational exercise.
93. Sudhir Dhar, who passed away recently, was the renowned personality of which field?
[A] Painting
[B] Journalism
[C] Cartoon
[D] Poetry
Answer: Cartoon
Renowned cartoonist Sudhir Dhar (87) has passed away in Gurgaon on 26th of November 2019. His
works graced several newspapers in a career spanning 58 years. He began his career with The
Statesman in 1961 after which he moved to Hindustan Times. His cartoons have also appeared in The
Independent, The Pioneer, Delhi Times, New York Times, Washington Post and Saturday Review among
others.
94. The Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) has been set up in which city?
[A] Dehradun
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Pune
[D] Bangaluru
Answer: Hyderabad
In Telangana, the Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) has been set up in
Hyderabad to impart professional training in management of railway finances. The institution marks an
important addition to the list of premier professional institutions in the country in the field of financial
management. The IRIFM institution is based on a 14-acre campus at Moula-Ali, Secunderabad.
95. The Guru Ghasidas National Park is located in which district of Chhattisgarh?
[A] Korea
[B] Bilaspur
[C] Jashpur
[D] Mungeli
Answer: Korea
The Chhattisgarh government has decided to declare Guru Ghasidas National Park in the Korea district
as a tiger reserve. Presently the state has three tiger reserves viz. Indravati in Bijapur district, Udanti-
Sitanadi in Gariaband and Achanakmar in Bilaspur.
96. Which country has strongly criticized China’s lending practices under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?
[A] Russia
[B] United States
[C] France
[D] England
Top US diplomat Alice Wells has strongly criticized China’s international development projects and
lending practices under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He also questioned the China Pakistan
Economic Corridor (CPEC) on its commercial viability. China does not report on its overall lending
despite being the largest lender globally. Hence, neither rating agencies nor the Paris club nor IMF are
able to monitor those financial transactions. The lack of transparency was a means to hide risks to
countries that borrowed from China to finance the development projects. It leads to a surrender of
strategic assets and it diminishes sovereignty. The case of Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka and a runway
in the Maldives were among the projects cited as examples of China financing projects of questionable
commercial viability.
97. The Proposed Etalin Hydroelectric Project, sometimes seen in news, is associated to which state?
[A] Odisha
[B] Tripura
[C] Punjab
[D] Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: Arunachal Pradesh
The Union government has recommended a biodiversity study of the proposed 3,097 MW Etalin
Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh by a credible international institute since the current
environmental impact assessment was found to be completely inadequate. The project is estimated to
cost Rs 25,296.95 crore & is proposed to be completed in 7 years. But, the project would entail felling
2,80,677 trees and threatens the existence of 6 globally-endangered mammal species. The area also has
680 species of birds, which is about 56% of the total avian species found in India. The Forest Advisory
Committee of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has also advised
caution in pursuing the project since it falls under the richest bio-geographical province of the
Himalayan zone and would be located at the junction of the Palaearctic, Indo-Chinese and Indo-Malayan
bio-geographic regions.
98. Which state cabinet has approved the nomination of at least one differently abled member to each
panchayat?
[A] UP
[B] Odisha
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Chhattisgarh
Answer: Chhattisgarh
By amending the State Panchayati Raj Act of 1993, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet has made it mandatory the
presence of at least one differently-abled member to each panchayat. If differently abled members are
not elected through the electoral process, then one member – either male or female – would be
nominated as a panch. The state will now have 11,000 persons with disabilities as representatives at the
panchayat level. The state Cabinet also decided to drop the educational qualifications eligibility criterion
for contesting panchayat elections.
99. The Union government has decided to merge which of the following Union Territories (UTs)?
[A] Puducherry & Lakshadweep
[B] Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli
[C] A&N and Lakshadweep
[D] Chandigarh & Delhi
Answer: Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli
Union Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha to merge two Union
Territories — Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli – into one. The move comes after Jammu and
Kashmir (J&K) was divided into two UTs — J&K and Ladakh. Currently, India has 9 UTs after the creation
of the UTs of J&K and Ladakh.
100. Which university has become the first state university of Madhya Pradesh to be accorded A+ Grade
from National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)?
[A] Jiwaji University
[B] Maharaja Chhatrasal Bundelkhand University
[C] Devi Ahilya University
[D] Barkatullah University
Answer: Devi Ahilya University
The Indore-based Devi Ahilya University has become the first university of Madhya Pradesh to be
accorded A grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). Now, the Centre of
higher learning became entitled to several other facilities. It may introduce courses recognised by the
University Grants Commission (UGC) without the latter’s permission besides commencing open
distance-learning courses. The institute was established in 1964 by an Act of Legislature of Madhya
Pradesh.
101. The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to set up its 1st vulture conservation in which district?
[A] Lucknow
[B] Sitapur
[C] Maharajganj
[D] Raebareli
Answer: Maharajganj
In a bid to conserve the endangered vulture population, the Uttar Pradesh government has decided to set
up state’s first vulture conservation and breeding centre in farenda area of Maharajganj district. The new
centre would be set up in association with Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), a wildlife research
organization. It will be the first scientific assessment of vultures in the state to find out which species is
most threatened and the locations where these natural scavengers are thriving. It will be set up on the
lines of Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre at Pinjore in Haryana, which is also the first in the country.
102. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Milk Day (NMD) is celebrated in India?
[A] November 29
[B] November 26
[C] November 28
[D] November 27
Answer: November 26
The National Milk Day (NMD) is celebrated every year on 26th of November to commemorate the birth
anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the father of India’s White Revolution. The White Revolution (also
known as Operation Flood) was launched in 1970. It is considered to be world’s biggest dairy
development programme which transformed India from a milk deficient nation to the one of the largest
producers of milk in the world.
103. Which union ministry has launched Credit-linked Subsidy Services Awas Portal (CLAP)?
[A] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
[B] Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
[C] Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
[D] Ministry of Women and Child Development
Answer: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
The Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Singh Puri launched Credit-linked Subsidy
Services Awas Portal (CLAP) in New Delhi on 27th of November 2019. The portal provides a transparent

and robust real-time web-based monitoring system for credit-linked Subsidy Services, CLSS,
beneficiaries. Using the portal, a beneficiary can track his application status in real-time.
104. Which union ministry has launched Kartavya portal as part of nationwide Nagrik Kartavya Palan
Abhiyan?
[A] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
[B] Ministry of Human Resource Development
[C] Ministry of Home Affairs
[D] Ministry of Women and Child Development
Answer: Ministry of Human Resource Development
On the occasion of 70th Constitution Day, Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched the
kartavya.ugc.ac.in portal as a part of year long nationwide ‘Nagrik Kartavya Paalan Abhiyan’. The portal
will be used primarily for holding monthly essay competitions for students as well as other activities like
quizzes, debates, poster making etc pertaining to Abhiyan.
105. Which Indian scientist has been conferred the RAeS Honorary Fellowship of the Society 2019?
[A] Punit Goenka
[B] K Sivan
[C] G Satheesh Reddy
[D] Ram Sewak Sharma
Answer: G Satheesh Reddy
The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) London has conferred the Honorary Fellowship of the Society for
the year 2019 to G Satheesh Reddy, Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO. Reddy is
the first Indian recipient of this prestigious award in over 100 years. Honorary Fellowship from RAeS is
one of the world’s highest distinctions for aerospace achievement awarded for only the most
exceptional contributions to the aerospace profession. It is considered as equivalent to the Nobel Prize
in the aerospace domain.
106. Which state has topped the overall crimes against children, as per latest CRY Report?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Punjab
[C] Haryana
[D] Odisha
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
The Child Relief and You (CRY) has recently its report titled “How vulnerable are children in India to
crime?”, which is based on the latest National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for 2016-2017 data
released on 21st October 2019 after a gap of two years. The report reveals that crimes against children
rose by 20% higher than overall number of crimes which rose by 3.6%. As per CRY report, Uttar Pradesh
and Madhya Pradesh have topped the list of States for overall crimes against children. Both stood at
14.8% with over 19,000 cases. The highest increase in crimes against children was seen in Jharkhand at
73.9% while Manipur had a significant decline of 18.7% between 2016 and 2017.
107. Balasingh, who passed away recently, was the renowned actor of which regional cinema?
[A] Marathi
[B] Odia
[C] Telugu
[D] Tamil
Answer: Tamil
Balasingh (67), the noted Tamil actor and theatre artist, has passed away in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. His
notable performances include Kamal Haasan’s directorial venture ‘Virumandi’ and actor Dhanush’s
‘Puthupetta’, a gangster flick.
108. Madhu Shetye, who passed away recently, was the founding member of which press club?
[A] Kolkata Press Club
[B] Mumbai Press Club
[C] Press Club of India
[D] Chennai Press Club
Answer: Mumbai Press Club
Madhu Shetye (89), the senior journalist and activist, has passed away in Mumbai on 27th November
2019. He was a founding member of the Mumbai Press Club (MPC). He was a former corporator in the
Mumbai municipal corporation and had participated in the Samyukta Maharashtra and Goa liberation
movements.
109. Which state government has decided to launch project Shakti to alert the public about crimes?
[A] Kerala
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Rajasthan
The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to launch the project titled ‘Shakti’ to alert the public
through Short Message Service (SMS) system about crimes like abduction. The system will help prevent
such crimes and solve them too.
110. Who designed the logo for the apex anti-corruption ombudsman “Lokpal”?
[A] Nikhil Kumar
[B] Prashant Mishra
[C] Kanon Krishna
[D] Narayanan Krishnaswamy
Answer: Prashant Mishra
Lokpal Chairman Justice (retired) Pinaki Chandra Ghose launched the new logo for the apex anti-
corruption ombudsman. As per law, the logo symbolizes how Lokpal protects and cares for the people
of India by establishing justice. It is designed by Prashant Mishra, a resident of Prayagraj in Uttar
Pradesh. The logo symbolizes various essence of LOKPAL figuratively in shapes such as: ombudsman
(judges bench), people (three human figures), vigilance (Ashok chakra forming eye–pupil), law (shape of
book in orange) and judicial (the tricolor two hands are placed below forming a unique balance). The
logo is in tricolor representing the national essence of LOKPAL .A new motto titled “Ma Gridhah
Kasyasvidhanam (Do not be greedy for anyone’s wealth)” was also adopted.
111. Which Indian organization has revised the framework on currency swap arrangement for the SAARC
countries for 2019-2022?
[A] Finance Ministry
[B] RBI
[C] SEBI
[D] IRDA
Answer: RBI
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised the framework on currency swap arrangement for the South
Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries for 2019-2022. Under the framework for
2019-22, the RBI will continue to offer a swap arrangement within the overall corpus of $2 billion. The
drawals can be made in US dollar, euro or Indian rupee. The framework is valid from November 14, 2019
to November 13, 2022. The facility will be available to all SAARC member countries, subject to their
signing the bilateral swap agreements. The SAARC countries are — Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan,
India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
112. Which launch vehicle has successfully carried out remote sensing satellite Cartosat-3 into orbit?
[A] PSLV-44
[B] PSLV-49
[C] PSLV-48
[D] PSLV-47
Answer: PSLV-47
Through PSLV-47 vehicle, ISRO has successfully launched the India’s latest earth observation remote
sensing satellite Cartosat-3 into Sun Synchronous orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR,
Sriharikota. Cartosat-3 satellite is a third generation agile advanced satellite having high resolution
imaging capability. Beside this, 13 Commercial Nanosatellites from USA were also successfully injected
into designated orbit. These satellites were launched under commercial arrangement with NewSpace
India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO.
113. Which state Police has organized the 47th All India Police Science Congress (AIPSC)?
[A] Punjab
[B] MP
[C] UP
[D] Rajasthan
Answer: UP
Lieutenant Governor of Puducheri and retired IPS officer Kiran Bedi has inaugurated the 47th All India
Police Science Congress (AIPSC) at police headquarters in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The UP Police in
association with the home ministry and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) has
organised the 2-day event. During the event, there were discussions in 6 thematic sessions which
includes some very contemporary issues like Reforms in Policing, Role of social media in countering
radicalization and terrorism and Inculcating right kind of attitudes in police officers.
114. Who is the head of the expert committee to review Draft National Sports Code?
[A] Sudhanshu Mittal
[B] B P Baishya
[C] Adille Sumariwala
[D] Mukundakam Sharma
Answer: Mukundakam Sharma
The Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports has constituted a 13-member expert committee, headed by
former Supreme Court judge Justice Mukundakam Sharma, to review the Draft National Sports Code.
The committee has been formed to suggest measures to make the Sports Code acceptable to all the
stakeholders. It will try to strike a balance between the autonomy of National Sports Federations vis-a-
vis need for transparency and autonomy.
115. Who is the author of the book “Hemant Karkare: A Daughters Memoir”?
[A] S H Khan
[B] Bhagat Gupta
[C] Ajay Singh
[D] Jui Navare
Answer: Jui Navare
The book titled “Hemant Karkare: A Daughters Memoir” has been authored by his daughter Jui Karkare
Navare. The book portrays former Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare’s life as a father to
his daughter. Her father was gunned down by Pakistani ISI-backed terrorists who’d stormed Mumbai on
the night of 26 November 2008. Beside him, the 18 security personnel also lost their lives in the 26/11
terror attacks.
116. Which Indian news channel has won the 2019 IPI India Award for Excellence in Journalism for Kathua
coverage?
[A] NDTV India
[B] Aaj Tak
[C] Zee News
[D] News 24
Answer: NDTV India
The NDTV has won the 2019 IPI India Award for Excellence in Journalism 2019 for its coverage of the
conspiracy to scuttle probe into the heinous Kathua rape and murder case probe and a strong expose of
the political hypocrisy across the political spectrum. The story was anchored by senior journalist Nidhi
Razdan. The Indian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI) is an active forum of Editors,
Publishers and Senior Executives of newspapers, magazines and news agencies, all of whom are
members of the International Press Institute.
117. Clive James, who passed away recently, was the renowned writer & broadcaster of which country?
[A] South Africa
[B] Australia
[C] France
[D] United States
Answer: Australia
Australian writer and broadcaster, Clive James (80) has passed away in Cambridge, United Kingdom on
24th of November 2019. He was known around the world for his dry wit. Born in 1939, he moved to
England in 1961 and rose to prominence as a literary critic and TV columnist. He went on to deliver wry
commentary on international programming in such shows as Clive James On Television.
118. What is the theme of the 10th CMS VATAVARAN Environment and Wildlife Film Festival?
[A] Celebrating Indian Villages
[B] Celebrating Ganga
[C] Celebrating Indian Wildlife
[D] Celebrating Himalayas
Answer: Celebrating Himalayas
The 4-day long MoEF&CC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change) and Centre for Media
Studies (CMS) VATAVARAN-2019 Short Film Competition and Festival on Environment was held in New
Delhi. The festival is being organized, exclusively on Environment and Wildlife along with the 10th
Competitive edition of CMS VATAVARAN. This edition of the festival is focusing on theme “Celebrating
Himalayas” in an attempt to highlight the importance of the spectacular mountain ecosystem in the
current climate change discourse and action.
119. Which company has become the first Indian firm to hit Rs 10 lakh crore market valuation mark?
[A] Hindustan Unilever
[B] HDFC Bank
[C] Reliance Industries
[D] TCS
Answer: Reliance Industries
Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries (RIL) has become the first Indian firm to hit Rs 10 lakh crore
mark in market capitalization following a spike in its share price. The oil-to-telecom conglomerate’s
market capitalisation (m-cap) zoomed to Rs 10.02 lakh crore during morning trade on the BSE. TCS is
the India’s 2nd most valued firm with a market valuation of Rs 7,79,708.02 crore, followed by HDFC
Bank, Hindustan Unilever and HDFC. The m-cap figures of companies change daily with stock price
movement.
120. Which Indian archer has won gold in the women’s individual recurve event of the 21st Asian
Championships in Bangkok?
[A] Nisha Rani Dutta
[B] Trisha Deb
[C] Ankita Bhakat
[D] Deepika Kumari
Answer: Deepika Kumari
Indian archer Deepika Kumari won gold in the women’s individual recurve event of the 21st Asian
Championships in Bangkok. In the one-sided final, she defeated her compatriot Ankita Bhakat by 6-0.
Earlier, the duo had secured an individual Olympic quota for the country by storming into the semifinals
of the event.
121. The 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup is being hosted by which city?
[A] Jaipur
[B] New Delhi
[C] Bhubaneswar
[D] Gwalior
Answer: Bhubaneswar
The 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup will be held in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela from January 13 to 29. It
would the first time a country would be hosting successive editions of the premier tournament in the
sport but the same city hosting it twice makes it even special. However, this time, Bhubaneswar (which
hosted the 2018 WC) would share hosting rights with the Biju Patnaik Hockey Stadium in Rourkela.
122. Brad Gobright, who passed away recently, was the world-renowned rock climber of which country?
[A] Germany
[B] United States
[C] France
[D] Russia
The world-renowned US rock climber, Brad Gobright has fell to his death while climbing a sheer rock
face in northern Mexico on 29th of November 2019. He was best known for his gravity-defying solo
ascents with no ropes.
123. Which international organization has declared a global climate & environmental emergency?
[A] European Union
[B] BRICS
[C] WHO
[D] SAARC
Answer: European Union
The European Union (EU) has recently declared a global climate and environmental emergency in a
symbolic move aimed at increasing pressure on the incoming European Commission (EC) to take a
stronger stance on climate change. The climate declaration was passed in Strasbourg during a
European Parliament debate on the upcoming United Nations’ COP25 climate summit. The summit kicks
off on 2nd December in Madrid. The resolution calls on the EU to cut emissions by 55% by 2030 to
become climate neutral by 2050.
124. Which state government has decided to replicate Tamil Nadu model of Micro Composting Centre
(MCC)?
[A] Odisha
[B] Punjab
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Rajasthan
Answer: Odisha
As part of its ‘Swachha Odisha Sustha Odisha’ campaign, the Odisha Government has decided to
replicate Tamil Nadu model of Micro Composting Centre (MCC) for proper segregation and management
of wet waste. The Solid waste management is a cause of concern for urban local bodies (ULBs) due to a
rapid urbanisation.
125. Which state Government has decided to set up outdoor gyms at public places?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Odisha
[C] UP
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Answer: Himachal Pradesh
The Himachal Pradesh Government has decided to set up modern outdoor gyms at public places to
connect the masses with the Fit India Movement. As part of the state government’s initiative,
recreational equipment for children and modern outdoor gyms would be set up at identified parks and
public places of Dharamshala. The Fit India movement is a nationwide initiative to encourage people to
remain healthy by including physical activities and sports in their daily lives. It was launched by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi on National Sports Day (NSD-2019) in New Delhi.
126. The researchers of which IIT has decided to create Gandhipedia?
[A] IIT Kanpur
[B] IIT Delhi
[C] IIT Indore
[D] IIT Kharagpur
Answer: IIT Kharagpur
Two IITs (IIT Gandhinagar & IIT Kharagpur) and the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) have
joined hands to develop Gandhipedia to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary. The
Gandhipedia is an online repository of books, letters and speeches written by Mahatma Gandhi. Approx
100 works of Mahatma Gandhi such as his letters and speeches, would be uploaded in the portal. The
entire project will be done with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
127. What is the India’s rank in the Global Diplomacy Index 2019?
[A] 64th
[B] 25th
[C] 5th
[D] 12th
Answer: 12th
India has been ranked 12th out of 61 nations in the Global Diplomacy Index 2019, which is released by
the Sydney-based Lowy Institute. As of 2019, New Delhi has 123 embassies and high commissions and
54 consulates globally. The index gives the latest statistics & marks how the world’s diplomatic
networks are expanding and, in certain cases, shrinking. It is an analysis of the number of embassies
and consulates maintained by countries around the world. As per index, China has overtaken the United
States to become the world’s largest diplomatic network.
128. The Union Government has proposed to set up rocket launching pad near Kulasekarapattinam. The site
is located in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Karnataka
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Answer: Tamil Nadu
The Union Government has proposed to set up new rocket launch pad near Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil
Nadu.The development comes on the backdrop of increasing launches from India, both for domestic and
international customers. Currently, the ISRO has two operational launch pads at Sriharikotta from
where all GSLV and PSLV flights take place.
129. Which Union Ministry has collaborated with Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) to
organize National Organic Festival of Women Entrepreneurs?
[A] Ministry of Jal Shakti
[B] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
[C] Ministry of Food Processing Industries
[D] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Answer: Ministry of Food Processing Industries
The Union Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and Ministry of Women and Child
Development (MoWCD) has signed a pact to organize “National Organic Festival of Women
Entrepreneurs”. The event will be planned and organized through NIFTEM (National Institute of Food
Technology Entrepreneurship and Management), which is an academic institution under the
administrative control of MoFPI. The purpose of the festival is to encourage Indian women
entrepreneurs and farmers to connect with buyers and empower them through financial inclusion. The
fest will also promote organic food produce in India.
130. Election Commission of India (ECI) has recognized Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) as state party of which
state?
[A] Haryana
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Odisha
Answer: Haryana
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recently recognized the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) as

state party of Haryana and alloted the symbol of “key” for the party. The decision in this regard was
taken on the basis of the poll performance of the party in the recent 2019 Assembly elections in
Haryana. The JJP was formed in December 2018 by a breakaway faction of the Indian National Lok Dal
(INLD) & won 10 seats in the recently-held Haryana Assembly elections and formed the government with
the BJP.
131. Yasuhiro Nakasone, who passed away recently, was the former PM of which country?
[A] North Korea
[B] China
[C] South Korea
[D] Japan
Answer: Japan
In Japan, Yasuhiro Nakasone (101) has passed away at Tokyo on 29th November 2019. He was one of
the longest-reigning Prime Ministers and known for his friendship with Ronald Reagan. He also broke an
unwritten rule on limiting the annual defence budget to 1% of Gross National Product (GNP). In 1983, he
became the first Japanese Premier to officially visit South Korea & mended fences with a country that
Japan had brutally colonized from 1910 to 1945.
132. Angad Vir Singh Bajwa is associated to which sports?
[A] Chess
[B] Cricket
[C] Boxing
[D] Shooting
Answer: Shooting
In shooting, Angad Vir Singh Bajwa unofficially hit a world record score in the men’s skeet final at the
63rd National Shooting Championships for Shotgun events in New Delhi on 29th November 2019. He
defeated his senior and fellow Tokyo 2020 quota winner Mairaj Ahmad Khan of Uttar Pradesh. He also
equalled a record he jointly holds with skeet legend Vincent Hancock and two others.
133. Who has become fastest man to reach 7,000 Test runs?
[A] Virat Kohli
[B] Rohit Sharma
[C] Steve Smith
[D] Aaron Finch
Answer: Steve Smith
Steve Smith has become the fastest man to score 7,000 Test runs in the ongoing second Test against
Pakistan. He broke English great Wally Hammond’s record that had stood since 1946. Smith also passed
Bradman’s 6,996 Test runs. It took Smith 70 Tests to do so, while Bradman needed only 52.
134. Noted theatre artiste Paramananda Sahu, who passed away recently, was from which state?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Odisha
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Rajasthan
Answer: Odisha
Renowened theatre artiste of Odisha, Paramananda Sahu (72) has passed away in Balasore on 30th of
November . He had directed and acted in more than a hundred dramas, besides being an artiste in All
India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan.
135. Who is the author of the book “The Legacy of Militancy in Punjab: Long Road to Normalcy” ?
[A] Dona Suri
[B] Vikram Seth
[C] Arundhati Roy
[D] Vani Kaushal
Answer: Dona Suri
The book titled “The Legacy of Militancy in Punjab: Long Road to Normalcy” have been authored by civil
rights activist Inderjit Singh Jaijee and journalist Dona Suri. The book provide details how militancy in
Punjab affected judiciary by delaying trials, how it influenced the popular culture and how the youth
today are still responding to conditions in the northern state. It also aims at holding up a mirror to
developments in post-militancy Punjab regarding politics, government policies, and functioning of police
and courts among other things.
136. Schistura syngkai is the scientific name of which type of species?
[A] Elephant
[B] Fish
[C] Frog
[D] Tortoise
Answer: Fish
The fish species, that has a scientific name Schistura syngkai, has been discovered in West Khasi Hills
district of Meghalaya. It was discovered at Twahdidoh stream (a tributary of Wahblei river) by a team of
scientists led by Prof Khlur Mukhim of Shillong’s Lady Keane College. Both sexes of the fish have
golden-brown bodies with blackish lateral stripes and slightly emarginate tail fins. Earlier, Mukhim had
discovered a blind fish species that lives 1,600 feet inside a limestone cave in East Jaintia Hills district
of the state.
137. Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri, who has been chosen for the 55th Jnanpith Award, is associated to
which language?
[A] Kannada
[B] Tamil
[C] Malayalam
[D] Telugu
Answer: Malayalam
Eminent Malayalam poet Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri has been chosen as the recipient of the 55th
Jnanpith Award for the year 2019. Born in 1926, Akkitham is one of the most revered names in
Malayalam poetry. Apart from poetry, his literary excellence has footprints in genres like drama,
reminiscence, critical essays, children literature, short stories and translation. He has authored 55 books
out of which 45 are collections of poems including “Khanda Kavyas”, “Katha Kavyas”, “Charitha Kavyas”
and songs. His works have also been translated into many Indian and foreign languages.
138. The first-ever International Conference on “Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience” was held in
which city?
[A] Geneva
[B] London
[C] Paris
[D] New Delhi
Answer: New Delhi

Minister of State for Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy inaugurated the first-ever International Conference
on “Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience” in New Delhi. This first-of-its-kind conference aims to
bring together all the stakeholders including relevant Ministries and experts to discuss, debate and
disseminate information, experiences and innovations for landslides risk reduction and resilience at
national and international levels.
139. Who has been appointed as chairman of microfinance panel of the Code for Responsible Lending
(CRL)?
[A] H R Khan
[B] R Gandhi
[C] Mahesh Kumar Jain
[D] Anand Sinha
Answer: H R Khan
Former deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), H R Khan has been appointed as the first
chairman of the steering committee of the Code for Responsible Lending (CRL) in micro-credit. The CRL
is a self-regulatory step for the micro-credit industry making diverse entities like banks, NBFC-MFIs and
NBFCs adhere to standards of customer protection.

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