VETRII IAS STUDY CIRCLE TNPSC Current Affairs JANUARY - 2021
An ISO 9001 : 2015 Institution | Providing Excellence Since 2011 Head Office Old No.52, New No.1, 9th Street, F Block, 1st Avenue Main Road, (Near Istha siddhi Vinayakar Temple), Anna Nagar East – 600102. Phone: 044-2626 5326 | 98844 72636 | 98844 21666 | 98844 32666
Branches
SALEM KOVAI No.189/1, Meyanoor Road, Near ARRS Multiplex, (Near Salem New No.347, D.S.Complex (3rd floor), Nehru Street,Near Gandhipuram bus Stand), Opp. Venkateshwara Complex, Salem - 636004. Central Bus Stand, Ramnagar, Kovai - 9 0427-2330307 | 95001 22022 75021 65390 Educarreerr Location Vivekanandha Educational Institutions for Women, Elayampalayam, Tiruchengode - TK Namakkal District - 637 205. 04288 - 234670 | 91 94437 34670 Patrician College of Arts and Science, 3, Canal Bank Rd, Gandhi Nagar, Opposite to Kotturpuram Railway Station, Adyar, Chennai - 600020. 044 - 24401362 | 044 - 24426913
Sree Saraswathi Thyagaraja College Palani Road, Thippampatti, Pollachi - 642 107 73737 66550 | 94432 66008 | 90951 66009
www.vetriias.com My Dear Aspirants, Greetings to all of you! “What we think we become” Gautama Buddha. We all have dreams. To make dreams come into reality it takes a lot of determination, dedication, self discipline and continuous effort. We at VETRII IAS Study Circle are committed to provide the right guidance, quality coaching and help every aspirants to achieve his or her life’s cherished goal of becoming a civil servant. The class room coaching at VETRII IAS Study Circle is meticulously planned to equip the aspirants with all the relevant facts and fundamentals of the subjects. Further the VETRII IAS Study Circle Study materials aim to support the candidate by providing the most relevant study material in a comprehensive manner.
Wishing You All The Very Best !!
DIRECTOR
(M.Shunmugam) Vetrii IAS Study Circle.
Published by VETRII IAS STUDY CIRCLE F Block New No. 1, 9th Street, 1st Avenue main Road, Chinthamani, Anna Nagar (E), Chennai – 102. Phone: 044 – 26265326 / 9600124042 / 9840097666 www.vetriias.com E-Mail: [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected] Feedback: [email protected]
© All rights reserved with the publisher. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmit- ted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the written permission of the publisher, will be responsible for the loss and may be punished for compensation under copyright act. INDEX
01 - 17 HISTORY 01 . Important Days . Defence National Security and Terrorism . World Organisations – Pacts and Summits . Eminent Persons . Sports and Games . Books & Authors . Awards & Honours . Cultural Panaroma . India & its Neighbours . Latest Terminology . Appointments – Who is who? 18 18 POLITICAL SCIENCE
.Govt – Welfare oriented Govt schemes, their utility
19 - 20 GEOGRAPHY 19 .Policy on Environment and Ecology
21 - 22 ECONOMICS .New Economic Policy & Govt. Sector 21 23 23 - 28 SCIENCE .Latest Inventions in Science & Technology . Latest Discoveries on Health Science . Mass Media & Communication
29 29 NATIONAL – DIARY OF EVENTS
39 39 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
41 TAMIL NADU AFFAIRS 41 Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Important Days History
1.1 Important Days
Date Day Theme / Remark
To observe in the memory of late journalist Balshastri Jambhekar. Balshastri Jambhekar is also known as ‘The Father of Marathi Journalism’, for his efforts in starting journalism in Marathi language, in the form of first Journalist Day Observed 6-01-2021 Marathi newspaper and first Marathi in Maharashtra monthly. The first newspaper in the Marathi language named ‘Darpan’, was published on January 6, 1832, the date which also marks the birth anniversary of Balshastri Jambhekar.
NRI Day is celebrated every year on January 9 to mark the contribution of the overseas Indian community in the development of India. The day is celebrated every year to mark the 09-01-2021 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas contribution of the overseas Indian community in the development of India. The theme of 16th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2021 is “Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 1 Important Days Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
The World Hindi Day is celebrated annually on January 10 since 2006 to promote the language at the global stage. The day marks the anniversary of first World Hindi Conference which was inaugurated on January 10, 1975 by the 10-01-2021 World Hindi Day then prime minister Indira Gandhi. However, the celebration of first World Hindi Day was commenced on 10 January 2006 by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. It must be noted that the National Hindi Day is celebrated in India on September 14 every year.
National Youth Day is celebrated in India every year on 12 January to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. The day was declared by the Government of India in 1984 while the 12-01-2021 National Youth Day event was first celebrated in 1985. In 2021, we are observing 158th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekanand (12 January 1863). The theme for National Youth Day 2021 is ‘Channelizing Youth Power for Nation Building‘.
2 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Important Days
In India, the Armed Forces Veterans Day is observed each year on 14 January since 2017 to acknowledge and honour the selfless devotion and sacrifice of our veterans in the service of the nation. Armed Forces Veterans The day is observed as a mark of respect 14-01-2021 Day and recognition of the services rendered by Field Marshal KM Cariappa OBE, the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces who retired on 14 January 1953. 2021 marks the 5th Armed Forces Veterans Day.
Army Day is observed on January 15 every year because it was this day in 15-01-2021 Indian Army Day 1949 when General KM Cariappa took over the charge of Indian Army from British General Sir Francis Butcher.
Tamil Nadu celebrates Thiruvalluvar Day on the 2nd day of the Thai month in honour of the Saint Poet Thiruvalluvar. Valluvar’s epic work, Thirukkural, Tamil Nadu celebrates which consists of 1330 kurals or 15-01-2021 Thiruvalluvar Day couplets is translated into many international and Indian languages. Russian Writer Leo Tolstoy was greatly inspired by Thirukkural and so was Mahatma Gandhi.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 3 Important Days Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways observes the National Road 18-01-2021 Safety Week every year in the second National Road Safety to 17-02- week of January. Month 2021 In 2021, Government has decided to observe National Road Safety Month instead of National Road Safety Week.
4 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Defence, National Security and Terrorism 1.2 Defence, National Security MK IV class vessel ‘IN LCU L-58’ (Yard 2099) to the Indian Navy. and Terrorism LCU L-58 is the final ship in the series of 8 LCUs being manufactured by GRSE for Navy, DRDO conduct a maiden trial of the Indian Navy. air-dropped container ‘SAHAYAK-NG’ DRDO Biodigester Mk II technology Defence Research and Development in metro rail Organisation (DRDO) along with the Government of India’s premier Indian Navy conducted the successful research agency Defence Research and maiden test trial of ‘SAHAYAK-NG’ Development Organisation (DRDO) India’s first indigenously designed and will install its eco-friendly bio-digester developed Air Dropped Container from units across the facilities operated by IL 38SD aircraft (Indian Navy) off the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation coast of Goa. (MAHA–METRO), which help conserve The trial was conducted by the Indian water and protect the environment. Navy to enhance its operational DRDO will provide technical support logistics capabilities and provide critical for the implementation of its advanced engineering stores to ships that are bio-digester Mk-II technology for the deployed more than 2000 kilometres treatment of human waste (night soil) in from the coast. the metro rail network. SAHAYAK-NG is an advanced version of SAHAYAK Mk I. Pan-India Coastal Defence exercise ‘SEA VIGIL-21’ from Jan 12 DRDO Celebrates 63rd Foundation Day on 1st January 2021 The second edition of the biennial pan- India coastal defence exercise ‘Sea The Defence Research and Development Vigil-21’ will be conducted between Organisation (DRDO) observed the 63rd January 12 and 13. Foundation Day of its establishment on The exercise, inaugural edition of which January 01, 2021. was conducted in January 2019: will be DRDO was established in 1958 with just undertaken along the entire 7516 km 10 laboratories to enhance the research coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone work in Defence sector. of India and will involve all the 13 coastal GRSE delivers 8th landing craft utility States and Union Territories along with ship to Indian Navy other maritime stakeholders, including the fishing and coastal communities. Kolkata-based Garden Reach Exercise ‘SEA VIGIL 21’ which is being Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) has coordinated by the Indian Navy, will delivered the Landing Craft Utility (LCU) provide a realistic assessment of our
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 5 World Organisations – Pacts and Summits Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 strengths and weaknesses and thus will 1.3 World Organisations – held in further strengthening maritime and national security. Pacts and Summits The entire coastal security set up was reorganised after the 26/11 Terror attack at Mumbai which was launched via the FSCA becomes Associate Member of sea route. IOSCO The International Financial Services 13th India-Vietnam Defence Security Centres Authority (IFSCA) has become Dialogue an Associate Member of the International The 13th India-Vietnam Defence Security Organization of Securities Commissions Dialogue was held on 12 January 2021 in (IOSCO). The Headquarter of IOSCO is virtual format. at Madrid, Spain. The virtual event was co-chaired by The IOSCO is the international Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar along organization of the world’s securities with Vietnamese Sr Lt Gen Nguyen Chi regulators, covering more than 95% of the Vinh, Deputy Defence Minister, Socialist world’s securities markets, and is also the Republic of Vietnam. global standard setter for the securities sector. The body has its headquarter in Gandhinagar in Gujarat.
India set to begin tenure as non- permanent member of UN Security Council India is set to begin its two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The event will be marked by the installation of the Indian tricolour at the stakeout during a special ceremony. Apart from India, Norway, Kenya, Ireland and Mexico are also poised to join the UNSC as non-permanent members. Other non-permanent members of the key UN body include Estonia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia and Vietnam. The UNSC has five permanent members, namely China, Russia, France,
6 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 World Organisations – Pacts and Summits the UK and the US. India to chair 3 important committees Since the presidency of the UNSC is held of UNSC by each of the members in turn for one India has been asked to chair three month, India will preside over the council important committees of the United as UNSC President in August 2021 and Nations Security Council (UNSC). again in 2022. India began its eighth term as a non- permanent member of the UNSC with WHO designates 2020 as the “Year of the stated objective of raising its voice the Nurse and Midwife” against terrorism, speaking for the World Health Organisation (WHO) developing world and bringing human- selected the year 2020 as the “Year of the centric inclusive solutions to matters of Nurse and Midwife”. global peace and security. It was decided in the honor of 200th India will also chair the Counterterrorism birthday of Florence Nightingale. WHO Committee in 2022, which coincides said that nurses and midwives are the with the 75th Anniversary of India’s people who devote their lives to caring Independence. It was formed in for children and mothers, looking after September 2001 soon after the tragic senior citizens and giving lifesaving terrorist attack of 9/11 in New York. immunizations. India had chaired this committee in the World Health Organisation will also Security Council in 2011-12. launch the world’s first State of the World’s Nursing report in 2020. India to get UN tag of international disaster response force for NDRF WTO members commend India for India could soon be a part of the United improving trade, economic policies Nations (UN) mandated international The members of the World Trade disaster rescue operations as the country’s Organization (WTO) have commended federal contingency force, NDRF, is India for the steps it has taken to improve expected to obtain a globally recognised trade and economic policies to make standardisation later this year. more inclusive and sustainable. The authorisation will be done by the The members relayed the same during Switzerland-headquartered INSARAG India’s seventh Trade Policy Review (or the International Search and Rescue (TPR) that was conducted at the WTO’s Advisory Group) which is a network of headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. more than 90 countries and organisations The Indian delegation for the review under the UN umbrella to deal with was headed by Commerce Secretary, Dr urban search and rescue related issues. Anup Wadhawan. India’s last TPR took The National Disaster Response Force was place in 2015. raised in 2006 to undertake specific tasks of relief and rescue during natural and
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 7 Eminent Persons Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 manmade disasters or life-threatening 1.4 Eminent Persons situations. It has 12 operational battalions comprising more than 15,000 personnel based across the country at present while four more battalions are taking shape. Veteran broadcaster Indira Joseph Venniyoor passes away at 94 Renowned broadcaster, Indira Joseph Venniyoor, has passed away. She was 94. The Kerala-based veteran was the first English news announcer of Travancore Radio, when its English service started in 1949. She had a distinguished career with the All India Radio (AIR).
Data firm puts Narendra Modi’s net approval at 55% A data firm tracking the approval ratings of world leaders has put the net approval for Prime Minister Narendra Modi at a high of 55%. The similar figure for German Chancellor Angela Merkel is 24% while it is in the negative for U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson as more people disapprove of his work than those who approve it.
Writer Ilavenil passed away Tamil director and writer Ilavenil passed away in Chennai. He was in his 70s. The director is known for his film Uliyin Osai, which was written by Karunanidhi, and produced by S.P.Murugesan. The film released on th4 July, 2008.
Ace mountaineer Colonel Narendra ‘Bull’ Kumar passes away at 87 Ace mountaineer Colonel Narendra ‘Bull’ Kumar, who played iconic role to
8 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Eminent Persons
help India secure the Siachen Glacier, has He was aged 100 years and 250 day. passed away due to age-related illness. Burgess was a right-hand batsman and He was 87. left-arm spinner. He played overall 14 He is known as ‘Siachen saviour’ first-class games between 1940-41 and because it was he who first detected the 1951-52, of which 11 first-class matches cartographic aggression of Pakistan in were played for Canterbury. the Siachen glacier area. He was a tank driver in World War II. He was the first Indian to climb Mount Nanda Devi. Kamala Harris appoints Indian- He was nickname ‘Bull’ for relentlessly American as her press secretary charging into everything. Senator Kamala Harris has roped in Col Kumar was the recipient of various Indian-American Sabrina Singh, who awards such as the Kirti Chakra, Padma previously was the spokeswoman of two Shri, Arjun award and the McGregor Democratic presidential candidates, as medal. press secretary for her Democratic vice- Tamil writer A Madhavan passes presidential campaign. Singh, 32, previously headed the press away shop of two Democratic presidential Tamil writer and Kendra Sahitya candidates - New Jersey Senator Cory Akademi Award recipient A Madhavan, Booker and former New York mayor 87, passed away due to age-related Mike Bloomberg. ailments. Born to Chellammal and Avudainayagam, who belonged to Cholai Sundaraperumal passed away Kanyakumari district, Madhavan was Writer from Lower Tanjore District brought up in Thiruvananthapuram. Cholai Sundaraperumal passed away
He was selected for the Kendra Sahitya due to poor health. He was a left-wing Akademi award in 2015 for his collection creator who continued to write in order of essays Ilakkiya Chuvadukal. He was to establish the traditional genre of also a recipient of Kalai Mamani Award sedimentary literature in the area covering in 2009, the highest recognition bestowed the districts of Tanjore, Thiruvarur and on writers and artists by the Tamil Nadu Nagai, as well as the famous Karisal Government. literature in southern Tamil Nadu. Oldest living first-class cricketer, Alan Burgess, of New Zealand and World War II veteran, passes away at 100 Alan Burgess, the world’s oldest living first-class cricketer, from New Zealand has passed away in his sleep.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 9 Sports and Games Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 1.5 Sports and Games World Cup winning hockey player Michael Kindo passes away at 73 World Cup winner and Olympic Goa’s 14-year old Leon Mendonca medallist in Hockey, Michael Kondo has th becomes India’s 67 Chess passed away due to age-related ailments. Grandmaster He was 73, 14-year-old Leon Mendonca from Goa Michael Kondo was the member of the became India’s 67th Chess Grandmaster Indian teams which won the 1975 hockey (GM) after winning his third & Final norm World Cup in Kuala Lumpur and 1972 at the Vergani Cup, Italy. Mendonca is Olympics bronze in Munich. only the 2nd GM from Goa. He became the 29th Youngest GM in the Khelo India Ice Hockey tournament world. Sergey Karjakin of Russia holds begins in Chiktan, Kargil the record for the World’s Youngest ever In Kargil Ladakh, Khelo India Ice GM having qualified for the title at the Hockey Tournament is being organised age of 12 years and 7 months (achieved at Chiktan by Zonal Physical Education the title in 2003). Officer Chiktan. st The 1 GM form Goa is Ivana Maria For the first time the women team of Furtado, she achieved it in 2011. Chiktan also participated in the Khelo GM is a title awareded by FIDE India Games in Kargil district. There (International Chess Federation), it is the are 13 teams from different villages of highest title a chess player can obtain Chiktan participating in the tournament, apart from World Champion. which include 11 men’s teams and 2 women’s teams. Sanjay Kapoor elected All India Chess Federation president Oldest living Olympic champion Sanjay Kapoor was elected president of Agnes Keleti turns 100 the All India Chess Federation (AICF) The oldest surviving Olympic champion, while Bharat Singh Chauhan retained the Ágnes Keleti, celebrates her 100th secretary’s post. birthday. She is one of her country’s most Kapoor, representing Uttar Pradesh successful Olympians, having won 10 Chess Association, defeated incumbent medals for Hungary in gymnastics, at PR Venketrama Raja in a close contest. the Olympic Games Helsinki 1952 and Kapoor received 33 votes as against 31 Melbourne 1956. of Raja. Chauhan beat Ravindra Dongre Her haul included five golds. Keleti 35-29. Apart from the president, secretary won the floor event in Finland before and treasurer, six vice-presidents and six producing an astonishing display in joint secretaries were also elected. Australia, winning four golds – in the uneven bars, balance beam, floor, and
10 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Books & Authors team event. At 35, she became the oldest female gymnast to win an Olympic title. 1.6 Books & Authors
Odisha to host memorable 2023 Publication of the book ‘Wetlands of Hockey World Cup Tamil Nadu ‘ Hockey India and the Odisha government Chief Secretary K.Shanmugam released are gearing up to host the FIH Men’s a book titles “Wetlands of Tamil Nadu Hockey World Cup in 2023 for a record written by the Chief Forest Officer of fourth time since the inception of the the Tamil Nadu Forest Department tournament in 1971. P.Thurairasu. The 2023 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup Kerala Governor releases book on is scheduled to be held in Bhubaneswar Sabarimala and Rourkela in Odisha from January 13- 29, 2023. Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan The hosting of the tournament in 2023 released ”Sabarimala Vijnaanakosham,” holds great significance, as India will be a book written by KS Vijayanath. The completing 75 years of independence in Governor also presented a Limca Book 2023. of World Records certificate to Swami Maheswaranandu for erecting a 111 feet Shiv Linga sthoopa at the Shiva Paravarthy temple premises at Chenkal in Thiruvananthapuram.
Pranab Mukherjee’s Book In ‘The Presidential Years, 2012-2017’, Pranab Mukherjee talks about seeing a lack of extraordinary leaders that reduced the establishment to a “government of averages”. Pranab Mukherjee, who passed away in 2020 after a surgery and Covid-19 complications, wrote the last book before his death.
RBI officer R. Giridharan authors debut novel ‘Right Under our Nose’ R Giridharan, a general manager at RBI has come out with his debut novel titled “Right Under our Nose”.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 11 Books & Authors Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
The book revolves around murder and of Prime Minister Narendra Modi politics, wherein, a murderer eliminates captured during his “107 overseas and scientists right under the nose of the bilateral visits”. police and leaves forensics baffled. The book is the idea of BJP leader Vijay Jolly and it was released by Adesh Gupta, Book ‘India’s 71-Year Test: The the Delhi BJP president. Journey to Triumph in Australia’ The book has been published by Maneesh released Media and has 450 pages containing thousands of photographs of the PM Former Indian all-rounder and current Modi. head coach Ravi Shastri launched a new book by the Bradman Museum called Book titled “The Population Myth: ‘India’s 71-Year Test: The Journey to Islam, Family Planning and Politics in Triumph in Australia’, at the Sydney India”, authored by former CEC ‘S Y Cricket Ground. Quraishi’ to hit stands on February 15 The book, authored by cricket journalist R Kaushik, describes India’s first 12 tours Former chief election commissioner to Australia, uncovering the shaping up (CEC) S Y Quraishi has come out with his of the rivalry between the two nations book titled “The Population Myth: Islam, which was majorly dominated by the Family Planning and Politics in India”. hosts. The book will hit the stands on February 15, 2021. It has been published by Lt. Gen. Konsam Himalay Singh HarperCollins India. Authored a Book Titled ‘Making of a The book evaluates India’s demographics General – A Himalayan Echo’ from a religious perspective and seeks to demolish two basic myths that ‘Islam is Dr Najma Heptulla, Govermor of against family planning’ and ”Muslim Manipur released a book titled ‘Making rate of growth” is linked to capture of a General – A Himalayan Echo’ political power. through a virtual mode at Durbar Hall of Raj Bhavan, Imphal, Manipur. The book “Gazing Eastwards: Of Buddhist is authored by (Redt) Lt. Gen. Konsam Monks and Revolutionaries in China” Himalay Singh and ispublished by Book by Romila Thapar Konark Publishers Pvt Ltd. The book titled “Gazing Eastwards: Of “Modi India Calling – 2021” Book Buddhist Monks and Revolutionaries in Released China” by renowned Indian historian Romila Thapar is set to be released soon. A coffee table book named “Modi India
Calling – 2021” has been released on the Gazing Eastwards is a lively and arresting occasion of 16th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. account of Romila Thapar’s first visit to China in 1957. She went as a research The book contains various photographs
12 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Awards & Honours assistant to the Sri Lankan art historian 1.7 Awards & Honours Anil de Silva, and worked on two major Buddhist sites in Maijishan and Dunhuang. It was a period of deceptive calm in the country, just prior to traumatic ‘Art Sculptor’ Award for Painting and events such as the Cultural Revolution Sculpture Award and the Great Leap Forward that churned The Government of Tamil Nadu has and transformed Chinese society. announced an increase of Rs. 1 lakh . The order also said that the number of Najma Heptulla Releases book titled awardees would be increased from 2 to 6. Making of a General-A Himalayan In this regard, the Government of Tamil Echo Nadu on Thursday announced that the Manipur Governor Dr Najma Heptulla Department of Arts and Culture of the released a book titled “Making of a State of Tamil Nadu will present an General-A Himalayan Echo” virtually on annual award to an artist in the traditional January 8, 2021. category and an artist in the modern The book has been authored by (Retd) style category in recognition of the rare Lt General Konsam Himalay Singh, in achievements of the renowned artists in which he has conveyed his dreams and the field of traditional and modern art views as well as also highlighted about in the fields of painting and sculpture in Manipur, the “Land of Emeralds”. Tamil Nadu.
‘Unscripted’: Filmmaker Vidhu Vinod 65-year-old bedridden man’s house Chopra pens book on his life, role of in Jammu and Kashmir wins ‘best cinema construction award’ under PMAY Filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra will A 65-year-old man from Bhadarwah come out with a book titled “Unscripted: in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district Conversations on Life and Cinema”. was among three residents of the Union The book is scheduled to be released on Territory who recently received the ‘best January 25. construction award’ under the Pradhan The book provides a “glimpse into the Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). mind, method and madness of one Modi proclaimed about the scheme that of contemporary Hindi cinema’s best started in June 2015 and the number of filmmakers”. beneficiaries from poor and middle-class families. Out of total 88 beneficiaries selected for the best construction award from
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 13 Awards & Honours Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 the country, three belonged to Jammu to the development of the country. Six and Kashmir -- one each from Samba, years later, the concept of Overseas Ramgarh, and Bhadarwah. Citizen of India (OCI) was launched to help which aims to allow people of Indian MP’s novel gets award from literary origin and their spouses to live and work forum in Malaysia in India indefinitely. Noted author and Madurai MP’s novel ‘Veerayuga Nayagan Velpaari’ has Indian Railways bags 13 prizes at bagged the best international Tamil work National Energy Conservation Awards award constituted by Malaysia-based 2020 Tan Sri K.R. Soma Language and Literary The Indian Railways bagged 13 prizes Foundation. at the National Energy Conservation The biennial award carries a citation and Awards, 2020, which are given by the a purse of US$ 10,000. The novel, based Bureau of Energy Efficiency to those on Tamil Sangam literature, revolves organisations that put in special efforts to around a tribal king, popularly known as reduce energy consumption. ‘Mullaikku Ther kodutha Paari.’ The 13 prizes were awarded to multiple zones and workshops of the national Suriname President, Curacao PM, NZ transporter. minister among 30 Pravasi Bharatiya In the ‘transport category’, the Western Samman awardees Railway got the first prize, the Eastern The award is the highest honour Railway received the second prize, and conferred by the President of India as the North Eastern Railway and the South part of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Central Railway received Certificate of Conventions on a Non-Resident Indian Merit. (NRI), Person of Indian Origin (PIO), and organisation or institution established Lifetime Achievement Award for and run by NRIs or PIOs. Southern Railway Basketball Player Suriname President Chandrikapersad She received a Life Time Achievement Santokhi, Curacao Prime Minister Award Received From Chief Minister of Eugene Rhuggenaath and New Zealand Tamil Nadu in January 12, 2021. minister Priyanca Radhakrishnan were Anitha Pauldurai (born 22 June 1985, among 30 NRIs, and Indian-origin people Chennai, Tamil Nadu) is an Indian and organisations who were conferred basketball player who has been the the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award. captain of the Indian Women’s National The first Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was basketball team. 18 years played for Indian observed in 2003 and Pravasi Bharatiya Women National team (2000 to 2017). Samman Award was given to those Anitha is the first only Indian woman overseas Indians who were contributing to have played nine Asian Basketball
14 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Awards & Honours
Confederation (ABC) championships Chief Kamarasar Award - Dr. Ch. Devaraj continuously representing the national Mahakavi Bharathiar Award - Poet squad. Anitha has a record of 30 Medals Poovai Senkuttuvan in National Championship. Bavender Bharathidasan Award - Arivumathi (A) Mathiyalakan Dr. Harsh Vardhan felicitates Thamizh Thendral Thiru .Vi.Ka Award Kayakalp award to Public and Private - V.N. God Health Facilities Muthamilk Police K.A.P. Viswanathan Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Award -Dr. Chethuramalingam Health and family Welfare inaugurated Best Translator Award: Cho. Sesachalam, the 5th National Kayakalp Awards along Dr. Rama. Kurunathan, p. Gunasekar, with Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey Dr. Padmavathi Vivekanandan, through a video conference. Su. Jyotirlatha Kirija, Jr.; Ramki (A) Dr Harsh Vardhan reminded “Swachh Ramakiruttinan, Swami Vimurthanandar, Bharat Mission’s (SBM) foundation was Meera Ravishankar, Thilagavathi, laid down on 2nd October 2014. Swachh Kiruttina Prasad. Bharat Mission in its eighth year of Madurai, World Tamil Association Awards: implementation has become a National Literary Award for 2020 - Dr. Alexis Movement which has been able to evoke Thevarassenmark from France a sense of responsibility and pride in the Grammar Award - Prof. Arunachalam citizens of country. Shanmugadasu from Sri Lanka Linguistics Award from Dr. Suba, Si.Pa.Adithyanar gets Dhinamani Singapore. Award The Government of Tamil Nadu has AIIMS Bhubaneswar receives instituted various awards in the name of Kayakalp Award for 3rd time Tamil scholars and selfless leaders who The All India Institutes of Medical have contributed to the development of Sciences (AIIMS) in Bhubaneswar the Tamil language and literature and has proved its mettle once again for the upliftment of the Tamil community. promoting cleanliness, hygiene and Chief Minister Edappadi Palanisamy creating sustainable practices in public has announced the winners of the health facilities by winning the Kayakalp Thiruvalluvar Thirunal Awards and the Award Scheme. Chithirai Tamil New Year Awards. AIIMS Bhubaneswar will get an award
Annal Ambedkar Award - Varakur A. of Rs 2 crore for the performance. The Arunachal Pradesh, institute has been adjudged as the best
Grandfather Anna Award - Mr. Amarar. central government hospital under Kadampur MR Janarthanan B category for cleanliness for a third consecutive year.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 15 Cultural Panorama Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 It had earlier received the award in 2018 1.8 Cultural Panorama as well as in 2019 for becoming second cleanest hospital in the country among category B hospitals (less than 1000 beds) and received Rs one crore as prize money. Pt Satish Vyas conferred Tansen Samman at the World Music Festival In Madhya Pradesh, 96th Tansen Music Festival began in Gwalior with strict COVID-19 guidelines in place. In the inaugural ceremony renowned santoor player, Pandit Satish Vyas was conferred upon the prestigious Tansen Samman. Bhopal-based institution Abhinav Kala Parishad was honoured with Raja Mansingh Tomar award. The festival pays tribute to Tansen, one of 9 gems in Akbar’s court.
Discovery Of Sangam age Borewell Near Villupuram A Sangam age cover well has been found near Villupuram. Near Villupuram is the village of Vedampattu. It was then discovered that there was a borehole in the area. This borehole is found with six layers. There are also brick structures in the area. Villages near Villupuram, including Viratikkuppam, Alathur, Nannadu and Perumbakkam, are of historical significance. Historical traces from various periods beginning with the New Stone Age have already been discovered. The area pretended to be in that category is now of historical significance. Many more historical traces may be available if excavated in this area.
16 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 India and its Neighbours Cherry Blossom Mao Festival held in 1.9 India and its Neighbours Manipur In Manipur, the Cherry Blossom Mao Festival was held at Senapati district U.S. Congress passes ‘Malala marking the beginning of pink season in Yousafzai Scholarship Act’ for the district. Pakistani women The Mao area of Senapati district in On January 01, 2021, the U.S. Congress Manipur is known for Cherry Blossom, has passed the ‘Malala Yousafzai a plant which is popularly known as Scholarship Act’ to increase the number Sakura in Japan. of scholarships for Pakistani women 12 Tamil literatures, including in higher education under a merit and Thirukkural, in 10 languages, needs-based programme. including Hindi The bill requires the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) The Central Institute of Classical Tamil to award at least 50% of scholarships Studies, started by former chief minister under a Pakistan-based higher education Karunanidhi. scholarship programme to Pakistani Professor Ira Chandrasekaran was women, from 2020 to 2022, across a range appointed to this post last February after of academic disciplines and in accordance 13 years. Yet the Presidential Award and with existing eligibility criteria. Artist Award on behalf of the Classical Institute have not been presented for many years. The company has been paralyzed for about 9 years without publishing editions of 12 Tamil literatures in 10 languages, including Hindi and Telugu, and Tolkappiyam and Silappathikaram.
Telangana celebrates festival of cattle ‘Kanuma’ In Telangana, people are celebrating Kanuma, the festival of cattle, on the third day of Sankranti festival. On the occasion, the people especially in rural areas, worship cattle and agriculture tools. Rural craftsmen and artisans who help farmers in their daily chores are specially honoured.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 17 Appointments – Who is who? Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
The Appointments Committee of the 1.11 Appointments – Who is Cabinet cleared the extension in the term who? of reemployment of Sinha as deputy election commissioner on contract basis for a period of six months beyond Retired judge named to head SHRC December 31, 2020. The State has named retired High Court judge S. Baskaran as the Chairperson Governor administers oath of office of the Tamil Nadu State Human Rights to Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee Commission. Governor Banwarilal Purohit The order from Governor Banwarilal administered the oath of office to Madras Purohit said he would head the body for High Court’s 42nd Chief Justice Sanjib three years or till he attained 70 years of Banerjee at the Raj Bhavan and handed age. over a warrant of appointment issued by President Ram Nath Kovind. Sanjib Banerjee appointed for High Court of Madras Hima Kohli Appointed as First Woman The Central Government has cleared the Chief Justice of Telangana High Court appointment of three new Chief Justices The senior-most judge of Delhi High to helm the High Courts of Orissa, Court, Justice Hima Kohli has been Telangana and Madras. appointed as the new Chief Justice of Justice Sanjib Banerjee, a judge of the Telangana High Court. Calcutta High Court, has been appointed She is the first woman to be sworn in as as the next Chief Justice of Madras High CJ of Telangana HC. Court. Justice Banerjee enrolled as an Justice Kohli was administered the oath advocate in the year 1990 and practiced of office by Telangana Governor Dr mainly in Calcutta High Court. He was Tamilisai Soundararajan on January 07, appointed permanent judge of that High 2021. Court in 2006. She replaces CJ Raghvendra Singh Chauhan, who has been appointed as the Umesh Sinha named deputy election CJ of Uttarakhand HC. commissioner Umesh Sinha has been named as the Indian-American Raj Iyer takes deputy election commissioner in the charge as US Army’s first Chief Election Commission of India. Information Officer Sinha, a 1986-batch IAS officer (retired) is Indian-American Dr Raj Iyer has been at present serving as secretary-general in appointed as the first Chief Information the commission. Officer (CIO) of the US Army, since the
18 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Appointments – Who is who? creation of the position by the Pentagon in July 2020. Iyer currently serves as the principal advisor to the Secretary of the Army. He will supervise an annual budget of USD 16 billion for the US Army’s IT operations.
Jay Shah named BCCI’s Official Representative on ICC Board Jay Shah has been named as the official representative of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the International Cricket Council (ICC) Board meetings. Shah is the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He will replace BCCI president Sourav Ganguly, who was currently representing India at the ICC Board.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 19 Govt – Welfare oriented... Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 POLITICAL 2. SCIENCE
2.1 Latest Court Verdicts an aim to double farmers income. The program will cover all the farmers of all the assembly constituencies. Jharkhand launches crop relief scheme ‘Kisan Fasal Rahat Yojana’ Supreme Court okays Central Vista Jharkhand launches its own crop relief and new Parliament projects in two scheme to replace the Prime Minister’s to one majority insurance scheme. India’s supreme court has given approval It is a compensation scheme aimed at for a new parliament building that critics providing security cover to Jharkhand have called an “expensive vanity project” farmers in case of crop damage due to for the prime minister, Narendra Modi. natural calamity. It will cover both land Under the $3bn development project, owning and landless farmers. Delhi’s iconic central vista at the heart The Department of Agriculture, Animal of the capital, home to its parliament Husbandry and Co-operative will be the and the famous India Gate monument, implementing agency and it will work in will be transformed by a new triangular association with a project management parliament building, government and unit, which will be a consultancy firm that legislature offices and a new home for the will take care of technical requirements. prime minister. The government plans to have the new Prayas Scheme parliament building ready by India’s The central government has introduced 75th Independence Day in August 2022, a scheme called ‘Prayas’. Under this but was forced to halt c¬onstruction scheme, the Employees Provident in December after a legal challenge in Fund Scheme will be paid on the day India’s highest court over allegations it of retirement of the employees who are had violated environmental and land use members in 1995. laws. The vista is the only area in India designated Grade I heritage status. Uttar Pradesh to launch ‘Kisan Kalyan Mission’ The Uttar Pradesh Government will launch the ‘Kisan Kalyan Mission’ with
20 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Policy on Environment and Ecology 3. GEOGRAPHY 3.1 Policy on Environment and Ecology
India becomes co-chair of Asia Bird flu outbreak: From Kerala to Protected Areas Partnership (APAP), Rajasthan, list of affected states in a regional forum to conserve wildlife India India has been chosen as the co-chair As India continues the downward trend of the IUCN-supported Asia Protected for fresh Covid-19 infections, another Areas Partnership (APAP) for a period of pressing matter appears to have left three years till November 2023. several states baffled as hundreds of The APAP is chaired by IUCN ( birds have died due to bird flu across the International Union for Conservation of country. Nature) Asia and co-chaired by an APAP Bird flu, also called avian influenza, has nation member on rotational basis. come as a double whammy for Kerala, India will replace South Korea ,which Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, held the post for 3 years until November, Rajasthan, Haryana and Gujarat that 2020. are already fighting their biggest battle As a co-chair, India would be responsible against the novel coronavirus pandemic. to assist other Asian countries in The district administrations of Alappuzha managing their protected areas. and Kottayam have begun the culling of poultry, a day after bird flu was detected Highest rainfall Chennai received in in certain parts of the districts. last 100 years’ With the Northeast monsoon yet to 2020 was 8th warmest year in India withdraw, several parts of the State are on record since 1901: IMD witnessing moderate to heavy rainfall, The India Meteorological Department which is unusual in January. (IMD) issued a statement on Indian This is among the highest rainfall the Climate during 2020. The IMD’s Climate city has experienced in the last 100 years, Research and Services (CRS) revealed announced ‘Tamil Nadu Weatherman’ that the 2020 was the eighth warmest Pradeep John on his blog. The city year in India on record since 1901. The received 145 mm of rainfall in a 15-hour main contributors to this warming were window. the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 21 New Economic Policy & Govt. Sector Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
4. ECONOMICS 4.1 New Economic Policy & Govt. Sector
GST collections at all-time high of states of Punjab and Haryana and border over Rs 1.15 lakh cr in Dec areas of National capital Delhi. GST collections touched a record high World Bank approves $105 million of over Rs 1.15 lakh crore in December, loan to improve Waterways in West reflecting festive demand and reflating Bengal economy. The gross GST revenue collected in the The World Bank has signed a $105 million month of December 2020 is Rs 1,15,174 project with the Government of India crore and is the highest since the and the Government of West Bengal introduction of Goods and Services Tax to improve the inland water transport from July 1, 2017. infrastructure in Kolkata, West Bengal. “This is the highest growth in monthly The West Bengal Inland Water Transport, revenues for the last 21 months. Logistics and Spatial Development Project will improve passenger and Over Rs 70,000 crore economic loss freight movement across the Hooghly in Q3 due to farmers’ agitation river as well as improve accessibility in The farmers’ agitation against new agri the Kolkata Metropolitan Area, enhance laws will lead to economic loss of over the quality of life of its residents and Rs 70,000 crore in the December quarter contribute to the growth of the state’s owing to supply chain disruptions, logistics sector. particularly in Punjab, Haryana and World Bank Projects Indian Economy border areas of Delhi. The chamber’s to Contract By 9.6% in 2020-21; President Sanjay Aggarwal said “the 36 global economy to expand by 4% in days farm agitation so far will have more than Rs 70,000 crore economic loss in 2021 the Q3 FY 2020-21 due to disruption in World Bank has projected the Indian supply chains and day-to-day economic economy to contract by 9.6 percent in the activities particularly in the progressive fiscal year 2020-21, in its Global Economic Prospects report.
22 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 New Economic Policy & Govt. Sector
World Bank estimates Growth to recover beginning April 2021 after economic to 5.4 percent in 2021. activity showed significant improvement The global economy is estimated to in the last quarter. The National Statistical expand by 4 percent in 2021 by World Organisation (NSO) predicted that the Bank. economy will contract 7.7 per cent in the According to the report, global growth current financial year ending in March, is projected to moderate to 3.8 percent in the worst performance in four decades. 2022. The Indian economy suffered a severe recession in 2020,”. National Statistical Office (NSO) The worst contraction occurred during the Projects India’s GDP to contract period from March until August, with the 7.7% in FY21 economy having shown a strong rebound The GDP of India is expected to contract by in economic activity since September. 7.7 percent in the current fiscal year 2020- The GDP contracted by a record 23.9 per 21, as per the first advanced estimates cent in the April-June quarter following a released by the National Statistical Office national lockdown to prevent the spread (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and of the coronavirus. The contraction came Programme Implementation (MOSPI). down to 7.5 per cent in the September The first advance estimates of GDP of quarter. a financial year are released before the Union Budget. This data helps in the Bandhan Bank unveils account for budget-making process. army personnel Private lender Bandhan Bank has signed Indian economy likely to rebound an agreement with the Indian Army to with 8.9% growth in FY22: IHS provide banking services to the personnel Markit of the force. London-based financial services company The bank got the mandate to maintain IHS Markit has projected the Indian and a Bank Shaurya Salary Account of the economy to rebound by 8.9 percent in the Army personnel. Bandhan Bank Shaurya fiscal year 2021-22, beginning April 2021. Salary Account will have a zero balance This upward estimate is based on the facility. The Shaurya Salary Account also backdrop of the significant improvement offers protection for self and assets. in domestic economic activity in the They will be offered other preferential fourth quarter of 2020 by India. services such as six per cent interest on balance over Rs one lakh, unlimited Indian economy to rebound with free ATM transactions across ATMs, 8.9% growth in FY22 waiver of issuance and annual charge on Indian economy is likely to rebound with Shaurya Visa Platinum Debit Card and an 8.9 per cent growth in the fiscal year unlimited free NEFT/RTGS/IMPS/DD
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 23 New Economic Policy & Govt. Sector Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
transactions. 11 Indian companies find place among Hurun Global 500 for 2020 India’s 7th Trade Policy Review (TPR) Total 11 private Indian firms have made it at WTO to the list of 500 most valuable companies The second session of the 7th Trade Policy across the world, and the country is Review (TPR) of India concluded at the ranked 10th on the chart. The total value World Trade Organization (WTO). of these 11 companies grew 14 per cent This was the final session of the 7th trade and has been pegged at $805 billion or policy review. Trade Policy Review is a nearly a third of the Indian GDP. key mechanism under the monitoring The list of 500 is led by consumer function of WTO. technology major Apple with a valuation of $2.1 trillion and is followed by First time in history, Union Budget Microsoft and Amazon at $1.6 trillion. 2021 to be paperless The US accounted for nearly half of the Union Budget 2021, slated to be presented enterprises with 242 of the 500 entries, on February 1, is going to be completely followed by China at 51 and Japan at 30 paperless in the wake of the ongoing companies. coronavirus pandemic. As per the Hurun Global 500 This will be the first time since report,Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance independence that the budget papers will Industries leads among the local not be printed. The Centre has received enterprises with a 20.5 per cent jump in permission for the same from both houses valuation to $168.8 billion as of December of parliament. 1 and is ranked 54th globally, as per the The decision has been taken as several list. Tata Consultancy Services’ ranked people (approximately 100) would be 73rd globally and making it the second required to stay at the printing press for most valuable Indian firm. around a fortnight amid the COVID-19 fear. The budget papers are usually printed at the ministry’s in-house printing press in the North Block. This year’s budget may reportedly witness several conventions being broken as the traditional ‘Halwa’ ceremony, which is a given every year is also not likely to take place, or a low-key function may be held.
24 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Latest Inventions on Science & Technology 5. SCIENCE
5.1 Latest Inventions on Science & Technology
ISRO Chairman K Sivan gets one year BARC Develops India’s First extension up to January 14, 2022 Ruthenium 106 Plaque For Effective The Central Government has approved Eye Cancer Treatment the extension of the term of ISRO Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC)- Chairman K Sivan, for a period of one developed eye cancer therapy has been year. successfully used for the first time for the He was due to retire on January 14, 2021. treatment of patients with ocular tumours Sivan will now continue as ISRO chairman in AIIMS-Delhi and the results of using and Secretary, Department of Space up to Ruthenium 106 plaque for treatment of January 14, 2022. a patient with choroidal hemangioma (benign tumour in blood vessels) have Brian Pinker, 82, becomes first person been found to be satisfactory. to receive Oxford vaccine in UK Ruthenium plaque therapy involves In the fight against the novel coronavirus placing a radioactive source like pandemic, Britain took another giant step Ruthenium-106 (a radioisotope) in on Monday, ramping up its immunisation contact with the surface of the eyeball for programme by giving the first shots in cancer therapy. the world from the vaccine created by Ru-106 is recovered from radioactive Oxford University and pharmaceutical waste and has a simple and slim design. giant AstraZeneca. One plaque can treat about 50 patients Britain has become the first country to roll and its usable life is one year. out the low cost and easily transportable AstraZeneca and Oxford University WHO approves Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine against the novel coronavirus, vaccine in breakthrough for another step forward in the global developing nations response to the pandemic. The World Health Organization has approved the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for emergency use, paving the way for lower and middle-income countries to
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 25 Latest Inventions on Science & Technology Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
begin immunizing their populations It can hit targets up to a range of 140 km. against Covid-19. The vaccine was first approved in the UK India places order for 11 million on December 8 for emergency use within Covishield doses with Serum Institute the country, with the US, Canada and The Indian government placed an order European Union following soon after. All with Serum Institute of India (SII) to have begun their own vaccination drives. purchase the first tranche of 11 million doses of the Covishield vaccine at 210 World’s first wooden satellite to be rupees each. launched by Japan in 2023 to reduce The transportation of the first space Junk consignment of the vaccine, developed by Japan’s Sumitomo Forestry company Oxford University and British-Swedish and Kyoto University of Japan is all set pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca. to launch the world’s first wood-based According to the Indian government’s space satellite by 2023 to combat the each dose of the vaccine has been priced problem of space junk. In this regard, at 200 rupees and a Goods and Services several wooden materials are being tested tax of 10 rupees will be added for a total by the research team to find a suitable one price of 210 rupees. for space missions. According to the European Space Agency UK begins major trial for new inhaler- (ESA) statistical model, there are more based coronavirus treatment than 130 million pieces of anthropogenic A new potentially life-saving inhaler- space debris due to human activities. ESA based treatment which is hoped will is also planning to launch a mission to protect COVID-19 patients from collect space debris in 2025. developing severe illness has begun a The debris can travel at a speed of more major trial at UK hospitals. than 22<300 mph and can impact other It involves inhaling a protein called satellites. interferon beta-1a (SNG001), which the body produces when it gets a viral Pakistan Successfully Test Fires infection, and the hope is it will stimulate Indigenously Developed Rocket the body’s immune system and prime System, Fatah-1 cells to be ready to fight off viruses. The Pakistan Army successfully conducted the test flight of an indigenously developed Guided Multi Launch Rocket System, Fatah-1, on January 07, 2021. Fatah-1 weapon system is capable of precisely delivering conventional warheads deep into “enemy territory.”
26 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Mass Media & Communication 5.2 Latest Discoveries in 5.3 Mass Media & Health Science Communication
Preeti Pant Panel to study adverse Indian Air Force chief Bhadauria findings of NFHS-5 launches e-governance portal The Health and Family Welfare Ministry Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria has recently formed a technical expert launched an e-governance portal for group to study the adverse findings from the Indian Air Force (IAF) in order to the National Family Health Survey-5. promote a paperless office. The Ministry has set up the technical The launch of e-governance in IAF committee of medicine and nutrition marks a paradigm shift from the current experts under the leadership of Joint method of correspondence, filing and Secretary Preeti Pant. documentation to a digital one. The committee will examine the findings The implementation undertaken as of the National Family Health Survey-5 part of Digital India and e-governance as well as suggest policies and courses of initiative will transform the entire Indian action to improve on indicators related Air Force to a ‘paperless office’ workflow. to anaemia, malnutrition, C-section, and stunting. J&K LG, Manoj Sinha launches Mobile Application ‘Satark Nagrik’ and Departmental Vigilance Officers Portal Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, launched Mobile Application ‘Satark Nagrik’ and Departmental Vigilance Officers (DVO) Portal of J&K Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) recently. Satark Nagrik App This app has been developed to facilitate seamless flow of information about corruption and enable citizens to submit their grievances with ease and mobility.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 27 Mass Media & Communication Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 CoWIN app Two Covid-19 vaccines have been approved by the Drug Control General of India (DCGI)’s approval for restricted emergency use. Serum Institute of India and Bharat Biotech are ready to supply vaccines for the first phase of the vaccination which will include frontline workers followed by people who are above 50 years old. For further vaccination process, the central government has introduced an application named CoWIN (Covid Vaccine Intelligence Work).
28 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 National – Diary of Event 6. NATIONAL – DIARY OF EVENT
India’s first Pollinator Park require large and early investments by the inaugurated in Haldwani, Uttarakhand government with a substantial gestation India’s first pollinator park has been period of outcomes and involve various developed at Haldwani in Nainital, of the kinds of risks. state of Uttarakhand. The new Pollinator Park was inaugurated Chhattisgarh signs MoU to set up on 29 December 2020 by renowned India’s 1st ethanol plant under PPP butterfly expert Peter Smetacek. model
The colourful park has been developed Chhattisgarh government signed by the research wing of the Uttarakhand a contract execution (MoU) for the Forest Department over four acres of country’s first ethanol plant to be set land. up in the state under the public-private
There are over 40 species of butterflies, partnership (PPP) model. honeybees, birds and insects in the park. The contract was signed by Bhoramdev Cooperative Sugar Factory Kawardha UNDP and Pimpri Chinchwad and Chhattisgarh Distillery Limited’s Municipal Corporation to co-create subsidiary NKJ Biofuel for a period of 30 India’s first Social Impact Bond years. Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal The establishment of the ethanol plant will Corporation (PCMC) recently signed generate direct and indirect employment an MoU with UNDP India to co-create opportunities and will form the basis for India’s first Social Impact Bond (SIB). economic prosperity in the region. This SIB will support the PCMC in improving healthcare services for its PM Modi lays foundation stone of citizens, especially with respect to the Light House projects (LHPs) across pandemic while incurring minimum six states investment risks. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid
This is the first time that a government the foundation stone of Light House body will act as the ‘Outcome Funder’ projects (LHPs) at six sites across six in a bond, whereas traditionally most States through video conference on 1st government-funded public projects January 2021.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 29 National – Diary of Event Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
The LHPs will be implemented at PM Modi to lay foundation of IIM- Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Rajkot Sambalpur (Gujarat), Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Ranchi Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay (Jharkhand), Agartala (Tripura) and the foundation stone of the permanent Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh). campus of IIM Sambalpur, Odisha, via The project is being constructed under video conferencing. Global Housing Technology Challenge IIM Sambalpur is the first IIM to (GHTC)-India. It has been conceptualised implement the idea of ‘flipped by the Union Ministry of Housing and classrooms’, according to the PMO. Urban Affairs. The institute also romped ahead of all GHTC-India envisages to provide an other IIMs in terms of highest gender ecosystem for adoption of innovative diversity with 49% girl students in MBA technologies in the housing construction (2019-21) batch and 43% in MBA (2020- sector in a holistic manner. 22) batch. Under the programme, over 1,000 houses would be build in each of the six cities in Delhi government sets up Tamil 12 months along with allied infrastructure Academy facilities. An academy has been set up by the Delhi PM Modi lays foundation of Light government to promote Tamil language and culture. House Project The Tamil Academy under the the The foundation stone of Light House Department of Art, Culture and Projects under the Global Housing Language of the city government, under Technology Challenge-India (GHTC- the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister India) was laid by Prime Minister Manish Sisodia. Narendra Modi at six sites across six The Delhi government has appointed states. The GHTC-India is a programme former municipal councillor and current that seeks to construct over 1,000 houses member of Delhi Tamil Sangam N Raja as each in these cities in a span of 12 months. the vice-chairman of the academy. The project involves the construction of around 1,000 houses each with PM Modi to inaugurate Kochi- allied infrastructure facilities within Mangaluru natural gas pipeline a year using new-age alternate global Prime Minister Narendra Modi will technologies, materials, and processes dedicate the Kochi-Mangaluru natural in Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Rajkot gas pipeline to the nation via video (Gujarat), Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Ranchi conferencing. (Jharkhand), Agartala (Tripura) and The event will mark an important Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh). milestone towards the creation of ‘one nation, one gas grid.
30 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 National – Diary of Event
The 450-km-long pipeline has been built organised by the Council of Scientific and by Gail (India) Ltd. Industrial Research-National Physical It has transportation capacity of 12 Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), New Delhi, to million metric standard cubic metres per mark its 75th year of inception. day and will carry natural gas from the PM Modi also dedicated ‘National liquefied natural gas (LNG) regasification Atomic Timescale’, and ‘Bhartiya terminal in Kochi to Mangaluru, passing Nirdeshak Dravya’ to the nation, and through Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, laid the foundation stone of the ‘National Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Environmental Standards Laboratory’. Kasaragod districts. Karnataka’s Hubballi railway station Oscar nominee ‘Another Round’ to be to get World Longest Railway opening movie at 51st IFFI Platform The 51st International Film Festival of Karnataka’s Hubballi Railway Station India (IFFI) will open on 16th January, officially Shree Siddharoodha Swamiji with the Indian premiere of the movie railway station is set to get the “world’s ‘Another Round’ by Thomas Vinterberg. longest railway platform” of 1500 plus The movie starring Cannes Best Actor meter’s length and 10 meters width. The Award winner Mads Mikkelsen is among platform will be inaugurated in March a star-studded line up of movies being 2021. showcased at IFFI. About the Project: The movie is also Denmark’s official The construction of the platform is done entry to the Oscars. The festival will with an expenditure of Rs.90 core for also witness the World Premiere of remodeling of wards, building work, ‘Mehrunisa’. The film by Sandeep Kumar signaling, third entrance construction, will premier mid-fest. electrical and other related works. The festival will close on 24th January with This project is a part of doubling between the India Premiere of the historical drama Hubbali and Bengaluru which is ‘Wife of a Spy’ by Kiyoshi Kurosawa. underway since November 2019. PM Modi inaugurates National Kerala to host 4th Global Ayurveda Metrology Conclave 2021 organised Festival 2021: March 12th to 19th by CSIR V Muraleedharan, Union Minister of State Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for External Affairs and the chairman of addressed the National Metrology Global Ayurveda Festival announced Conclave, via video conferencing. that the 4th Global Ayurveda Festival 2021 Theme: ‘Metrology for the Inclusive (GAF2021), world’s largest festival of Growth of the Nation’. Ayurveda community will be organized National Metrology Conclave 2021 was in a high end virtual space from 12th to
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 31 National – Diary of Event Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
19th March 2021 in Kerala. The festival The biomethane powered train does is organized by Centre for Innovation not release any toxic fumes in the air in Science and Social Action (CISSA), like nitrogen dioxide. And even though the Ayurveda Medical Association of biomethane is known to be stinky, India (AMAI), the Ayurveda Hospital the fumes that are released are almost Management Association, in collaboration odourless. Moreover, The capacity of the with various departments of the central BioUltra car’s tanks will offer a maximum and state government. range of around 2,000 miles between refuelling stations. Delhi govt. sets up academy to promote Tamil culture Govt implementing Rs 320-cr project The Department of Art, Culture and for 5 ports to enable digital ecosystem Language of the Delhi government set The government is implementing a Rs up a Tamil academy to promote the 320-crore project for five major ports in South Indian language and culture in order to provide a digital port ecosystem, the Capital. It also appointed former according to the Ministry of Ports, municipal councillor and member of Shipping and Waterways. the Delhi Tamil Sangam N. Raja as vice- These ports are Mumbai, Chennai, chairman of the academy. Deendayal, Paradip and Kolkata The academy will introduce various (including Haldia). awards to promote and reward the works The system will adopt international best of people in Tamil language and culture. practices without losing its alignment to existing local needs. This Train Turns Methane From In addition, a centralised web-based Human Waste Into Electricity As Eco- port community system (PCS) has Friendly Fuel been operationalised across all major The newly developed railcar is called ports which enables seamless data flow BioUltra and it converts biomethane between various stakeholders through gas into electricity, which charges the common interface. batteries and helps it move. The novel railcar has been developed by engineers Bajaj, India becomes world’s most with the Worcester-based Ultra-Light valuable two-wheeler company Rail Partners. Indian multinational two-wheeler and The railcar originally is going to be three-wheeler manufacturing company, roughly 20 metres long with a top speed Bajaj Auto announced that it becomes the of 50 miles per hour. To showcase the first two-wheeler company globally to technology, engineers developed a demo cross a market capitalization of INR one train which was roughly 10 metres long, trillion. weighing around 12 tonnes. The share price of Bajaj Auto Ltd, closed
32 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 National – Diary of Event
at INR 3,479 per share on NSE making its 40th Indian Scientific Expedition to market capitalization Rs 100,6.70 billion Antarctica flagged off from Mormugao at this price. Port, Goa The 40th Indian Scientific Expedition to Toycathon-2021 and Toycathon Antarctica was flagged off on January 05, Portal jointly launched by Union 2021, from Mormugao Port, Goa. Education Minister and Union Minister The chartered ice-class vessel MV WCD Vasiliy Golovnin has been chosen for The Union Education Minister Shri the prestigious 40th Indian Scientific Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ and Expedition to Antarctica (ISEA) mission Union Minister WCD and Textiles Smt. journey and will reach Antarctica in 30 Smriti Zubin Irani jointly launched days. Toycathon-2021 and the Toycathon Portal The expedition journey has 43 members on January 05, 2021. onboard. Toycathon is being organized to develop India’s major fuel supplier, Indian Oil India as the global Toy manufacturing Corporation Ltd. (IOCL) has supplied Jet hub. A1 fuel, lubes and Marine Gas Oil (MGO) Toycathon will provide a platform to for the mission. conceptualize innovative toys based on the Indian value system which will Centre constitutes high-level group inculcate the positive behaviour and for South Asia energy security good value among the children. The Central Government has set up a The Toycathon will be based on nine high-level group to build a South Asia- themes: focused energy security architecture Indian Culture, History, Knowledge of The high-level group, named the South India and Ethos; Asia Group for Energy (SAGE), will be Learning, Education and Schooling; headed by former Union Power Secretary Social and human values; Ram Vinay Shahi. Occupations & specific fields; SAGE has been set up under the Ministry Environment; of External Affairs (MEA)-run think tank Divyang ; Research and Information System for Fitness and sport; Developing Countries (RIS). Out of the box, creative and logical thinking and Madhya Pradesh Government Rediscovering/redesigning traditional launches ‘Launch Pad Scheme’ to Indian toys. make youth self-reliant The government of Madhya Pradesh has launched a ‘Launch Pad Scheme’ for the boys and girls coming out of child care
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 33 National – Diary of Event Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 institutions and having completed 18 by Hon’ble Minister of Education Dr. years of age. Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’. The Chief This scheme has been launched by Guest of Valedictory Ceremony will be the Women and Child Development Prof. Dhirendra Pal Singh, Chairman, Department of the state with the objective UGC, New Delhi. to provide a platform to these youth, through which they will be able to become World’s first Double Stack Long Haul self-reliant by continuing their education Container Train and training. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Under the scheme, the District dedicated to the nation the 306 km long Administration will provide space to New Rewari – New Madar Section of these youths for opening of coffee shops, the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor stationery, photocopying, computer (WDFC), through video conference on typing and DTP work. January 07, 2021. The New Rewari-New Madar section of Union Education Minister Shri the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor Ramesh Pokhriyal to inaugurate is situated in Haryana and Rajasthan. ‘EDUCON-2020’ He also flagged off the Double Stack Long Union Education Minister Dr. Ramesh Haul Container Train on the same route. Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ will inaugurate the This 1.5 km long train is the first double two-day Virtual International Akhand stacked container freight train. It will Conference ‘EDUCON 2020’ through a run from New Ateli in Haryana to New video the conferencing platform on 7th Kishanganj in Rajasthan, January, 2021. This two-day International The freight trains will rum at the Conference is being organized by Central maximum speed of 100 km per hour as University of Punjab, Bathinda (CUPB) in against the current maximum speed of 75 collaboration with the Global Education kmph on Indian Railway tracks. Research Association (GERA) under the patronage of Prof. (Dr.) Raghavendra Centre approves Rs 28,000-crore P. Tiwari, Vice Chancellor, CUPB plan to draw industries in J&K & Padma Shri Dr. Mahendra Sodha The Centre on Wednesday approved (Patron, GERA). The focal theme of a Rs 28,400-crore new industrial EDUCON-2020 is Envisioning education developmental scheme, paving the path for Transforming Youth to Restore Global for attracting investments and creating Peace. This International Conference will jobs for the youth in the militancy-hit commence with the Inaugural address
34 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 National – Diary of Event
Jammu and Kashmir. control, fertility of the soil, weeds and The Cabinet Committee on Economic suitable crops in the existing conditions, Affairs (CCEA), headed by the Prime so that farmers get support for their Minister, on Wednesday approved the farming techniques. proposal of Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade for Centre plans to form committee, Central Sector Scheme for Industrial headed by MoS for Home G Kishan Development of Jammu & Kashmir. Reddy, to protect language, culture & land of Ladakh 10,000 Govt offices to be declared The Central Government has decided to green in Kerala on January 26 form a committee to protect the unique A total of 10,000 state Government offices language, cultural identity and land of and public sector undertakings in Kerala Ladakh. will be declared “green” on January 26, The Committee will be headed by the the Republic Day. After the declaration, Minister of State for Home G Kishan functions would be held in various offices Reddy. across the state in which the certificate This committee will also ensure citizen’s for the compliance of the green protocol participation in the development of the would be submitted to its heads by the Union Territory. chairpersons of the local self-government The other members of the committee institutions or jointly by the ward will include elected representatives member/councillor and a member of the from Ladakh, Ladakh Autonomous green action force. Hill Development Council, central government, and the Ladakh Karnataka Government launches administration. Krishi Sanjeevani Vans to test soil, water & suggest remedies for pest PNB Collaborates with IIT Kanpur to control set up Fintech Innovation Centre The Chief Minister of Karnataka , Shri Punjab National Bank has partnered B.S. Yediyurappa flagged off 40 Krishi with IIT Kanpur and the Foundation Sanjeevani vans in Bengaluru on January for Innovation & Research in Science & 07, 2021. Technology (FIRST) to set up a ‘Fintech These vans have been launched by state Innovation Centre (FIC)’ at the institute’s Agriculture Department with Central campus. assistance under National Krishi Vikas PNB and IIT Kanpur will jointly work Yojana to take up this novel programme. to set up this innovation centre as a Objective: to take labs to the agriculture vehicle for research and development of fields, study the conditions and address technological solutions, with the help of the needs of the farmers about pest FIRST, to address challenges and explore
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 35 National – Diary of Event Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
opportunities in the BFSI space. Indian Institutes of Delhi, IIT Bombay and the Bengaluru-based Indian Institute World’s largest floating solar project of Science (IISc) were awarded the IoE to start in MP by 2023: State Govt status in the public sector, and Manipal The world’s largest floating 600 MW Academy of Higher Education and BITS solar energy project to be constructed at Pilani in the private sector, while the Jio Omkareshwar dam on Narmada river in Institute by Reliance Foundation was Khandwa district of Madhya Pradesh will given the tag in Greenfield category. begin power generation by year 2022-23. The estimated investment in this project Indian Railways enhances its stands at Rs 3,000 crore. The International maximum speed to 130 kmph Finance Corporation, World Bank and Indian Railways enhanced the maximum Power Grid have granted in-principle speed to 130 kmph for 1,280 km length consent for providing aid for the said out of 1,612 Km in Golden Quadrilateral project development. - Golden Diagonal (GQ-GD) route. This The project will have floating solar panels covers the entire GQ-GD route over South of 600 MW power generation capacity in Central Railway, except Vijayawada - the backwaters of Omkareshwar dam. Duvvada section, where signaling up- Electricity will be produced in about gradation work is in progress. 2000-hectare water area by installing The enhanced speed limits could be solar panels in the dam. Solar panels will achieved due to the systematic and float on the surface of the water in the planned strengthening of track & its reservoir. infrastructure by removing bottlenecks in these sections on a fast pace. High Level Committee for 125th birth This included heavier rails, laying of anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose 260 meters Long welded rail panels, set up improvement of curves and gradients Indian universities and colleges with the among others Institutions of Eminence (IOEs) tag, which ccordingly, the South-Central Railway include several IITs, will now be able to zone has received sanction to enhance set up campuses in foreign countries with the maximum speed limits to 130 kmph the University Grants Commission (UGC) along the following routes: issuing fresh guidelines on the same. Golden Diagonal (Grand Trunk) Route: The Education Ministry had launched 744 Route Km the IoE scheme in 2018 as per which 20 ff Ballarshah to Kazipet – 234 Rkm institutions were to be selected -- 10 public ff Kazipet-Vijayawada-Gudur – 510 and 10 private ones -- that would enjoy Rkm complete academic and administrative Golden Quadrilateral Route (Chennai autonomy. -Mumbai section): 536 Route Km
36 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 National – Diary of Event
ff Renigunta to Gooty - 281 Rkm is also extended to those existing in users ff Gooty to Wadi - 255Rkm who renew their domain in the month of Already, the maximum speed limits January 2021. in the High-Density Network (HDN) between Secunderabad – Kazipet (132 Bureau of Indian Standards Kms distance) had been enhanced to 130 Celebrates its Anniversary kmph. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) celebrates its 74th anniversary. BIS Two Made-In-India Covid Vaccines (Bureau of Indian Standards) is that Ready to Save Humanity: PM Modi the National Standards Body of India Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected established under the “Bureau of Indian upon India’s transformation from a Standards Act” of 2016. country that till recently imported Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) : medical devices and equipment to one BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) is that is ready to “save humanity” with that the National Standards Body of two Made-In-India vaccines to fight India established under the “Bureau of coronavirus. Indian Standards Act” of 2016, going to And also he quotes a tirukkural coordinate the event of standardization, “ Kedariyaa ketta idathum valamkundra marking and quality certification activities and related problems with Naadenba naatin thalai”for Indians living commodities. in abroad GoI sanctions INR 37.8 Crores for NIXI offers free Domain in local Developing Parashuram Kund in Indian languages Arunachal Pradesh The National Internet Exchange of India, Government of India (GoI) has sanctioned NIXI has announced that it will offer a INR 37.8 Crores for the Developing free Internationalized Domain Name, Parshuram Kund Pilgrimage Site at Lohit IDN in any of the preferred 22 official district, Arunachal Pradesh. It is one of Indian language along with every IN the most sacred places in India and is domain booked by the registrant. visited by a large number of pilgrims Applicant will also get a free email during Makar Sankranti. in local language. This offer has been Thousands of Devotees take holy dip in created to stimulate the adoption of भारत the Lohit River. IDN domain name and proliferation of It is expected to boost the livelihood of local language content. the locals & socio-economic development This offer is valid for new .in users who of the area. register up to 31st of January. This offer
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 37 National – Diary of Event Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Manipur launches ‘COSFOM’ website skill development, bringing investment for Community Forest Management in employment intensive segments and Awangbow Newbai, Minister of Forest, other policy interventions. Environment & Climate Change, Manipur PM Modi encourages youth to take launched a website for Community- part in Prarambh ‘ on January 15-16 based Sustainable Forest Management for Water Resource Conservation in Manipur Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the (COSFOM) – www.cosfom.mn.gov.in at youth of India on January 11, 2021 to be the Forest Headquarters, Sanjenthong, a part of the Start-Up India International Manipur. Summit ‘Prarambh’ on January 15-16. COSFOM is a component under Indo- The Prime Minister highlighted that German Programme ‘Climate Change virtual events have given a great Adaption in the Himalaya’. opportunity to the youth to be a part of It is a project of the Government of India many domestic and global forums and supported by the Federal Government one such opportunity is the Start-Up of Germany through KfW, a German India International Summit. development bank. The summit seeks to bring together the Manipur Forest Department is the best minds from industry, investment, implementing agency and it is managed academia, banking, finance and young by Community Forestry and Water start-up leaders. Conservation Society-Manipur (CF & Suriname President to be Republic Day WCS). 2021 Chief Guest Indian-origin President of Suriname, Labour Ministry likely to shape Chandrikapersad Santokhi will attend the National Employment Policy by Republic Day Parade 2021 as a chief guest December 2021 on January 26, 2021. President Santokhi NEP would take a shape based on the was also the Chief Guest at the Pravasi data inputs of these four surveys, says Bharatiya Divas Convention. Earlier, UK Director General of Labour Bureau Prime Minister Boris Johnson was likely The Ministry of Labour and Employment to attend the event. However, the PM is likely to shape the National Johnson cancelled his visit to India. Employment Policy (NEP) by December this year following the implementation of West Bengal CM Inaugurates 26th four labour codes and completion of four Kolkata International Film Festival major surveys, including one one migrant West Bengal CM, Mamata Banerjee workers. has inaugurated the 26th Kolkata The NEP will draw a broad road map International Film Festival (KIFF). for improving job opportunities in the The inaugural ceremony was also virtually country, mainly by various initiatives like attended by Bollywood superstar and
38 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 National – Diary of Event West Bengal’s brand ambassador Shah is set up under the chairmanship of Rukh Khan from Mumbai. Additional Secretary, Ministry of Urban Legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray’s Affairs under the provisions of Section 23 classic ‘Apur Sansar’ will be the inaugural in Delhi Building Byelaws, 1983 to protect film of the festival in which 131 movies heritage buildings. Only buildings in and from 45 countries will be screened till around Delhi are governed by these laws. January 13. Similar conservation committees are set up at state levels as well. Union Minister Harsh Vardhan The local authority should consult the inaugurates Coastal Research Vessel Heritage Conservation Committee ‘Sagar Anveshika’ before granting permission. The The Union Science and Technology heritage buildings are graded by the Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan launched Heritage Conservation Committee for state-of-the-art vessel ‘Sagar Avneshika’ developmental activities. on 9 January 2021, at Chennai Port Trust in Chennai. Arunachal Pradesh to be India’s The vessel ‘Sagar Avneshika’ will enable prime Vanadium producer the scientists to launch deep ocean Arunachal Pradesh is expected to become mission for ocean exploration. the prime producer of Vanadium in India. The research ship ‘Sagar Avneshika’ has Vanadium is a high-value metal that is been developed by the Titagarh Marine used to strengthen titanium and steel. Limited, Kolkata for the National Institute During an exploration by the Geological of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai. Survey of India, Arunachal Pradesh was The research vessel can accommodate placed on the vanadium map and it is about 15-20 scientists for research purposes likely that the geologists will soon find a and has advanced navigation systems as deposit. well as well equipped laboratories with research and exploration apparatus for Nitin Gadkari to launch “Khadi taking up scientific explorations. Prakritik Paint” developed by KVIC Union Road Transport and Highways Heritage Conservation Committee Minister Nitin Gadkari will be launching The Supreme Court recently cleared the an innovative new paint developed Central Vista Project that covers a three by Khadi and Village Industries kilo metre stretch between the Rashtrapati Commission. Bhavan and India Gate. Following this, The eco-friendly, non-toxic paint, called the Heritage Conservation Committee “Khadi Prakritik Paint” is a first-of-its- has approved the construction of a new kind product, with anti-fungal, anti- parliament. bacterial properties. The Heritage Conservation Committee
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 39 National – Diary of Event Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
Based on cow dung as its main ingredient, the world, for third consecutive year. the paint is cost-effective and odourless Japanese citizens can travel to as many as and has been certified by the Bureau of 191 countries visa-free. Indian Standards. Singapore is in second place (190) and South Korea ties with Germany in third “Period Room” set up for women at a place (189). public toilet in Maharashtra Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan are the In a bid to help the women, residing countries with the worst passport, in congested slums, during their with a passport score of 29, 28 and 26 menstruation days, a ‘period room’ respectively. has been set up at a public toilet in Maharashtra’s Thane city. India’s first ‘eco-friendly’ cow dung Equipped with several basic facilities, the paint launched period room aims to facilitate menstrual India has its own cow dung paint. hygiene among women dwelling in Among the country’s several innovative slums. inventions, this unique paint certainly The much-needed facility has been set takes the cake. According to the Press up by the Thane Municipal Corporation Information Bureau, Nitin Gadkari, the in collaboration with an NGO, at a slum Union Minister for Road Transport & in Shanti Nagar locality of Wagle Estate Highways and MSME, launched the new area in Thane. paint, the country’s first, on January 12. The paint has been developed by the India Ranks 85 in Henley Passport Khadi and Village Industries Commission Index 2021; Japan Tops at his residence. The Henley Passport Index 2021 has been released by Henley & Partners, based on First ever Ice climbing festival the exclusive data from the International celebrated in Nubra valley Air Transport Association (IATA). In Leh, the first ever Ice climbing festival The index presents the original ranking was celebrated in Nubra valley. The of the world’s most powerful passports, Seven Day event was organized by Nubra according to the number of destinations Adventure Club. their holders can access without a prior To promote winter tourism in Nubra visa. valley, Nubra Adventure Club, with As per the latest report, India has been the help of Social activist Dr. Nordan ranked 85th among 110 countries, in the Otzer, has organized the Seven Day Ice Henley Passport Index for 2021, with a Climbing festival. visa-free score of 58. Japan has once again topped the list of being the most powerful passport in
40 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 National – Diary of Event
Naveen Patnaik inaugurates India’s This is the third tunnel unearthed by alert first ‘Fire Park’ in Bhubaneswar border guards along the IB in the twin The Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen districts of Samba and Kathua in Jammu Patnaik virtually inaugurated a first of region over the past six months and ninth its kind ‘Fire Park’, to educate and bring in the past decade. awareness on basic fire safety measures “A nearly 150-m-long tunnel was among the people, particularly the detected by a BSF patrol party during students. an anti-tunnelling operation in Bobiyaan The ‘Fire Park’ is located inside the village of Hirnagar sector this morning,” premises of the Odisha Fire and Disaster Inspector General of BSF, Jammu frontier, Academy in Bhubaneswar. N S Jamwal told reporters at the scene. The minister also launched an online He along with other senior officers rushed portal, ‘AgnishamaSeva’ of Odisha Fire to Bobiyaan soon after the detection of Service. the tunnel. The fire park will facilitate demonstrations on use of first aid fire-fighting equipment, Working Women Should Register rescue and disaster operations, visit to Themselves With Police exhibition hall, screening of films and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj distribution of leaflets on fire safety. Singh Chouhan has announced a new system where a woman going out of home Bhopal Issues ID Cards for Third for work will have to register herself at Gender the police station, and the police will then In a first for India, the local administration track her for her safety. Inaugurating an in Bhopal has started issuing ID cards awareness programme on crime against to people from the third gender to women called “Samman”, CM Chouhan help them avail the benefits of the state said that a helpline number will be given government’s welfare schemes. Through to these women, which will help them the ID cards, the third gender would be call for help when in distress. eligible for the schemes that are run by the social justice department in the state. Tesla sets up India subsidiary in Bengaluru 150-m cross-border tunnel detected Elon Musk-owned electric vehicle by BSF along IB in JK (EV) company Tesla has registered a A 150-m tunnel constructed along the fully-owned subsidiary in Bengaluru, International Border (IB) to facilitate Karnataka. infiltration of terrorists into Jammu and Tesla, the world’s most valued carmaker Kashmir from Pakistan was detected by has incorporated a fully owned subsidiary Border Security Force (BSF) personnel in ahead as a first step to set up an R&D unit Hiranagar sector of Kathua district. and a manufacturing plant for its electric
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 41 National – Diary of Event Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
vehicles in the country. The office, situated on Lavelle Road in Bengaluru, is registered with a total paid- up capital of Rs 1,00,000 and authorised share capital of Rs 15 lakh.
Rajnath Singh unveils India’s first indigenously developed driverless metro car Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the country’s first indigenously designed and developed Driverless Metro Car at the BEML manufacturing facility in Bengaluru. According to BEML, state-of-the-art driverless metro cars, being manufactured at the company’s Bangalore Complex, are made up of stainless-steel body with a capacity of carrying 2280 passengers in six-cars Metro train-set.
42 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 International Affairs 7. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Vijay Shankar to be a judge in Nigeria (21,439), Pakistan (14,161), Supreme Court Indonesia (12,336), Ethiopia (12,006), Indian-origin advocate Vijay Shanker will the United States (10,312), Egypt (9,455), become a judge in the Supreme Court of Bangladesh (9,236) and the Democratic the US capital, Washington DC, after the Republic of the Congo (8,640). Senate approval of President Donald Trump’s decision. China holds third South Asia Trump has nominated advocate Vijay multilateral meet in new push Shankar as an associate judge in the China has held its third multilateral District Court of Appeals in Columbia. dialogue with countries from South His term will be for 15 years after Senate Asia to take forward closer cooperation approval on the appointment of Advocate on fighting COVID-19 and coordinating Vijay Shankar. Vijay Shankar will replace their economic agendas, reflecting a new the recently retired John R. Fisher. The approach in Beijing’s outreach to the District Court of Appeals of Columbia is region. the highest court in Washington DC. The third dialogue, held virtually on January 6, brought together every country 60,000! India records the highest in the region barring India, Bhutan and number of babies born on New Year’s the Maldives, and was aimed at “anti- Day epidemic cooperation and poverty More than 371,500 babies were born reduction cooperation. worldwide on New Year’s Day and India is estimated to have recorded the highest Air India’s All-Women Cockpit Crew number of births at around 60,000, Completes Historic 17-Hour Flight To according to the UN’s children’s agency. Bengaluru Fiji in the Pacific was projected to have An all-women cockpit crew operating welcomed 2021’s first baby while the Air India’s inaugural San Francisco- United States would welcome its last. Bengaluru flight arrived in Karnataka’s Globally, over half of these births are capital after flying over the North Pole estimated to have taken place in 10 and covering a distance of about 16,000 countries: India (59,995), China (35,615), kilometres.
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 43 International Affairs Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
The flight number AI176 left San to rising CO2 emissions and sea levels,” Francisco on Saturday at 8.30 PM (local said Mohammed bin Salman, Crown time) and arrived in Bengaluru at 3.45 Prince and NEOM’s Chairman. AM according to Air India sources. France hosts 4th One Planet Summit Bangladesh Declared as ‘Country in in cooperation with UN and World Focus’ for 51st IFFI Bank Bangladesh has been chosen as The Government of France organised the ‘Country in Focus’ for the 51st the fourth ‘One Planet Summit’ on 11 International Film Festival of India (IFFI). January 2021, through videoconferencing, The festival will be held at Goa from which aimed at protecting the world’s January 16 to January 24, 2021. biodiversity. The Country in Focus is a special segment The theme of the Summit was “Let’s act that recognizes the cinematic excellence together for nature!” and contributions of the country. This The Summit was organised in cooperation section at the 51st IFFI will showcase four with the United Nations and the World films from Bangladesh. Bank. It was inaugurated by the Secretary- Saudi Arabia’s public investment fund General of the United Nations António to invest in a city without cars Guterres, French President Emmanuel NEOM, part of Saudi Arabia’s public Macron, and President of the World Bank investment fund, will start construction Group David Malpass. of THE LINE, a 170km belt of hyper- connected future communities, without Archaeologists Find Oldest Painting cars and roads and built around nature, in Indonesian Cave Painted At least in Q1 of 2021. 4,500 Years Ago One of the largest sovereign wealth funds Archaeologists have discovered the in the world, NEOM, expects the project world’s oldest known cave art, a life-sized will create 380,000 jobs and contribute picture of a wild pig that was painted at SAR 180bn ($48bn) to GDP by 2030. least 45,500 years ago in Indonesia. Throughout history, cities were built to The cave painting uncovered in South protect their citizens. After the Industrial Sulawesi consists of a figurative depiction Revolution, cities prioritized machines, of a warty pig, a wild boar that is endemic cars and factories over people. In cities to this Indonesian island. that are viewed as the world’s most The Sulawesi warty pig painting, dated advanced, people spend years of their to at least 45,500 years ago, is part of a lives commuting. By 2050, commute rock art panel located above a high ledge durations will double. By 2050, one along the rear wall of Leang Tedongnge. billion people will have to relocate due
44 Vetrii IAS Study Circle Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021 Tamilnadu Affairs 8. TAMILNADU AFFAIRS
Cauvery-Gundar river in 1999. Cauvery-Gundar river linking project was Amma Call Centre fully implemented, Ramanathapuram would be the biggest beneficiary, with Amma Call Centre 24/7 is a single about one lakh acres of land getting window IT enabled facility of government irrigated. The three-phase project of Tamilnadu that acts as an intermediary involved an outlay of `14,000 crore, and between citizens and governement to `700 had been allotted this year. enable expeditous disposal of grievances of Citizens through toll free number 1100. ‘P.H. Pandian’s legal battle in SC for irrigation projects laudable Third Eye Project Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, ATGP AK Viswanathan the ‘Third Eye’ who inaugurated a memorial for former surveillance camera project was only Tamil Nadu Assembly Speaker P.H. possible with the full cooperation of the Pandian at his native village Govindaperi public . near Cheranmahadevi on his first death SurfShark surveyed 138 countries around anniversary on Monday, recalled the world for surveillance cameras. the development works executed in SurfShark can provide cyber security. Cheranmahadevi constituency at his The company was launched in 2018 to initiative. provide solutions for cyber privacy and Born on February 27, 1945, Pandian security. The company is headquartered became the member of the AIADMK on the island of Tardola in the British immediately after it was founded by late Virgin Islands off the Caribbean. The M.G. Ramachandran. He was elected to company has released a map of which Tamil Nadu Assembly from erstwhile cities in the world have the most CCTV Cheranmahadevi constituency in 1977, surveillance. 1980 and 1984, and served as the Speaker Chennai tops the list with 657 surveillance from 1985 to 1989. cameras per square kilometer. Currently, He was elected to the Lok Sabha from there are 2 lakh 80 thousand surveillance Tirunelveli Parliamentary constituency cameras in Chennai . Hyderabad is
Vetrii IAS Study Circle 45 Tamilnadu Affairs Vetrii's Current Affairs, January - 2021
ranked 2nd with 480 cameras and Delhi Community library opens in Trichy, is ranked 3rd with 289 cameras. first under govt scheme
London, the only non-Asian city, is District collector S Sivarasu inaugurated ranked 4th with 399 cameras. The next the state’s first community library 6 places are occupied by cities in China. launched under the state government The Chinese capital Beijing ranks 10th scheme announced last year, at Rohini on the list, but Beijing ranks first in the Garden enclaves ‘C’ block. As the name world with a total number of 11 lakh suggests, it is managed by the community surveillance cameras. and will be attached to the central library in the district. Tamil Nadu Government to provide 2GB Data free to College students for NCM V Chairperson appreciates Tamil 4 months for online classes Nadu for being pioneer in working for Tamil Nadu Government would be uplift of minorities providing 2 GB free data per day to college In Tamil Nadu, The Vice Chairperson students from January 2021 to April 2021. of National Commission for Minorities, In order to enable the students as colleges Atif Rasheed has appreciated the state for remain closed and largely depended on being a pioneer in working for the uplift online teaching, the government has of minorities in educational, social and announced the plan to provide free data economic sectors. package for students. As many as 9.69 Speaking to media on his two day lakh students would benefit from the visit to Chennai, he said that the State scheme. Government had utilised 100 percent Students enrolled in government and financial target for unique scholarship government aided arts and science and had formed a dedicated IT cell colleges, polytechnic colleges, engineering to address issues being faced by the colleges as well as scholarship funded minority students. private colleges are eligible for the scheme. Under the same, a 2 GB per day limit would be applicable for the first four months of the year. Colleges in Tamil Nadu had reopened from December 2, 2020 for final year post- graduate students. Medical Colleges for both undergraduate and postgraduate students also reopened from December 7. As per the notice, the college for final year undergraduate degree courses would begin from February 1, 2021.
46 Vetrii IAS Study Circle