CURRENT AFFAIRS DECEMBER 2017
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1 | P a g e Day Today GK CURRENT AFFAIRS DECEMBER 2017
AWARDS AND HONOURS NAME OF THE AWARD AWARD WINNER KEY POINTS TO NOTE Miss Supranational 2017 Jenny Kim She is from South Korea Children’s Peace Prize Mohamad Al Jounde He is Sixteen-year-old Best Asian Film award Dangal At Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) Awards Trans-Saharan International Pihu Held in Zagora, Morocco Film Fest award Atibadi Jagannath Das Rabi Singh He is an Odia poet Samman ‘Companion of Honour’ by JK Rowling She is Harry Potter author UK royals Mother Teresa Memorial Priyanka Chopra She is an Actress Award Mr India 2017 Jitesh Singh Deo He is a footballer 31st Moortidevi Award Joy Goswami He is Bengali poet National Design Award Satheesh Reddy Scientific Adviser ‘National Gaurav Award Dr. Gaurav Nigam Educationist, paediatrician, 2017’ founder and CEO of iCare BBC Sports Personality of the Mo Farah He is a four-time Olympic Year award champion 2017 Innovative Young Pranita P Sarangi He is a professor of Biotechnologist Award Biotechnology at IIT, Roorkee PETA person of the year Anushka Sharma Bollywood superstar and vegetarian
APPOINTMENTS NAME FIELD Hello Kitty UNWTO’s Special Ambassador Salil Parekh CEO and Managing Director of Infosys Anshu Prakash Delhi Chief Secretary D K Sarraf Chairman Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Rahul Singh National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) A. Surya Prakash Chief of Prasar Bharati
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Vijay Shekhar Sharma UN Environment’s ‘Patron for Clean Air’. Ellie Goulding UN Environment Global Goodwill Ambassador Nitin Gupta CEO of Ola Money Sarvesh Tiwari President of Para Sports Foundation Ragul Gandhi President of Indian National Congress Nakul Chopra BARC India chairman Vikas Singh President of the Supreme Court Bar Association Rashesh Shah President of FICCI Narinder Batra Chief of International Hockey Federation Sebastián Piñera President of chile Michel Coulomb Head of Apple, India Justice Umesh Dattatraya Salvi Chairperson of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) Subbarayudu Ambassador of India to the Republic of Peru Professor Dhirendra Pal Singh Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Henrietta H Fore UNICEF head Dominique Mineur 1st Female Belgium ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Prof Ishan Kumar Patro Vice-Chancellor of Ravenshaw Universityz Saba Karim General Manager (Cricket Operations) of the BCCI Jairam Thakur Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister NC Goel Chief Secretary of Rajasthan G Rajesham Goud Head of Telangana State Finance Commission Prince Harry President of African Conservation Group Abdoulaye Idrissa Maiga Prime Minister of Mali Vineet Chowdhary chief secretary to the Himachal Pradesh
NATIONAL AFFAIRS
India re-elected as Member of International Maritime Council for two years (2018-19)
India has been re-elected to the Council of the International Maritime Organization [IMO] under Category “B” at the 30th session of the Assembly of the IMO held in London on 01 December, 2017.
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The IMO Council consists of 40 member countries. In Categories “A” and “B” there are 10 members each and in Cateogary “C” 20 members, who are elected by the IMO Assembly.
Centre Increases Agricultural Education Budget by 47.4 Percent
Government of India has started celebrating many National and International Days related to agriculture for its integrated and rapid development. It was stated by Radha Mohan Singh.
Government of India decided to celebrate National Agricultural Education Day on December 3 because it is the birthday of our first Union Agriculture Minister and Former President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad Ji.
IRFC issues green bond on London Stock Exchange’s ISM
The Indian Railway Finance Corporation’s (IRFC) has issued a USD 500 million green bond with a yield of 3.835 per cent which is listed on the London Stock Exchange’s new International Securities Market (ISM).
The ten year dated bond was more than three times oversubscribed and has received strong international investor support.
Center Enhances Monetary Allowances for Gallantry Award Winners
The Government has enhanced the monetary allowances for the Gallantry Award winners vide notification dated 04 December 2017. This will come into effect from the 01 August 2017.
The enhancement is for the recipients of post-independence Gallantry Award, pre- independence Gallantry Award and the monetary allowance attached to ‘Jangi Inam’, a pre- independence Gallantry Award.
Kumbh Mela in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list
India’s Kumbh Mela joined UNESCO’s list of “intangible heritage”, securing the coveted status alongside a host of cultural treasures including Naples’ pizza twirling.
Kumbh Mela was given the nod by the UN cultural body’s World Heritage Committee, which met on the South Korean island of Jeju.
India to Achieve ‘Electricity for all’ by Early 2020s: IEA
Half a billion people have gained access to electricity in India since 2000, almost doubling the country’s electrification rate, according to the World Energy Access report released by the International Energy Agency (IEA).
This “remarkable” growth puts India on course to achieving access to electricity for all in the early 2020s.
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India now free of infective trachoma
Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda has declared India free of Infective Trachoma, which has been a leading cause of infectious blindness among children.
The survey findings indicate that the active trachoma infection has been eliminated among children in all the survey districts with overall prevalence of only 0.7 per cent.
Taj Mahal Named Second-Best UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Taj Mahal, India’s iconic ivory-white marble mausoleum in Agra, is the second best UNESCO world heritage site in the world, according to a new survey.
With over 8 million visitors per year, the monument of love built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, is rated after Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.
International Conference on Groundwater Organized
An International conference is being organized on the Ground water issues in the country with a theme of “Ground water Vision 2030- Water Security, Challenges and Climate Change Adaptation” from December 11 to 13, 2017.
The conference has been organized by the National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), Roorkee and Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) under the aegis of Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Government of India.
Ravi Shankar Prasad launches first NIC CERT
Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister of Law & Justice and Electronics & Information Technology inaugurated the “NIC-CERT”, a setup of National Informatics Centre, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on 11th December 2017.
NIC-CERT has been setup with the objective of creating a comprehensive framework that integrates world class security components and inbuilt threat intelligence for detection, prevention and incident response.
J P Nadda launches new initiatives on Universal Health Coverage Day, 2017
The Union Health Minister and MoS (Finance) launched “LaQshya| लक्ष्य’’ – Labour Room Quality Improvement Initiative, a Safe Delivery Mobile Application for health workers who manage normal and complicated deliveries in the peripheral areas, and also released the Operational Guidelines for Obstetric High Dependency Units (HDUs) and Intensive Care Units (ICUs).
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India to host 2-day Connectivity Summit with ASEAN countries
Keeping with Indias initiative of connectivity with southeast Asia under its Act East Policy, New Delhi will host an Asean-India Connectivity Summit (AICS) on December 11-12 on the theme “Powering Digital and Physical Linkages for Asia in the 21st Century.
India’s economy to grow at 7.2 percent in 2018; 7.4 in 2019: UN
India’s economy is projected to grow at 7.2 per cent in 2018 and 7.4 per cent in 2019, despite a slowdown observed this year and the lingering effects from the demonetisation, the UN.
“GDP growth for India is projected to accelerate from 6.7 per cent in 2017 to 7.2 per cent in 2018 and 7.4 per cent in 2019,” the UN said in its report ‘World Economic Situation Prospects’ (WESP 2018), released at the UN headquarters in New York.
India to Host 3rd Annual Meeting of Board of Governors of AIIB
India will host the 3rd annual meeting of the Board of Governors of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) at Mumbai on June 25-26 next year.
The theme of the meeting will be ‘Mobilizing Finance for Infrastructure: Innovation and Collaboration.
Petition website for Aadhaar-linking complaints launched
Activists against the Aadhaar-linking drive have started a website called Speakforme.in to help frustrated citizens.
People can file complaints against being continuously pestered via calls and texts about linking their Aadhaar numbers with various services.
IT-ITeS SSC NASSCOM inks MoU to launch employability enhancement programs
In a bid to enhance skills and employment in the IT sector in India, IT-ITeS Sector Skills Council NASSCOM (SSC NASSCOM) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam University (AKTU) to launch Employability Enhancement Programs (EEP).
Bill to amend Payment of Gratuity Act provisions
The government has introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha that will allow it to notify the period of maternity leave and gratuity that can be availed by employees under a central law.
The Payment of Gratuity Act 1972 was enacted to provide for gratuity payment to employees engaged in factories, mines, oilfields, plantations, ports, railway companies, shops or other establishments.
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Bharat Jal launches its Maiden Water ATM’s – India’s gateway to clean drinking water
‘Clean Drinking Water’ was declared as a Human Right by the UNO in the year 2010 and yet, the WHO lists it as one of the Top 10 Global Needs.
India has more people in rural areas – approximately 63.4 million – living without access to clean water more than any other country, according to Wild Water, State of the World’s Water 2017.
Parliament passes Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2017
The Parliament has passed the Companies (Amendment) Bill. The bill intends to strengthen corporate governance standards, initiate strict action against defaulting companies and help improve ease of doing business.
It provides for more than 40 amendments to the Companies Act, 2013, which was passed during the previous UPA regime.
National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities 3 D Project
National Mission on Monuments & Antiquities (NMMA) gets the documentation done through various Data Resource Centers viz. Universities, Institutions, Museums, State Archaeology Departments, Circles of ASI.
The Government of Tamil Nadu has allotted 2 Acres of land to ASI to establish a site museum at Keezhadi.
DARPAN─ Launched For Financial Inclusion Of Rural Population
The Minister of Communications Manoj Sinha has launched DARPAN – “Digital Advancement of Rural Post Office for A New India” Project to improve the quality of service, add value to services and achieve “financial inclusion” of un-banked rural population.
The 43,171 Branch Post Offices have migrated under the “DARPAN” project with the aim of financial inclusion to rural population and it is targeted to complete the project by March, 2018.
India International Coffee Festival to be held from Jan 16
India Coffee Trust in association with Coffee Board has announced the seventh edition of India International Coffee Festival (IICF) in Bengaluru from January 16 to January 19.
India would host in 2020 the International Coffee Organisation’s World Conference for the first time.
‘Ganga Gram’ project for villages to be launched
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The Union government has launched the ‘Ganga Gram’ project as part of its clean Ganga mission, named Namami Gange, for holistic sanitation development in villages on the banks of the Ganges.
In August, the Centre declared all 4,470 villages on the banks of the Ganges, located in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal, open defecation-free (ODF).
Environment ministry launches pilot project for beach clean-up
To enhance standards of cleanliness on beaches, the environment ministry has launched a pilot project for its clean-up and development.
Under the project, each state or union territory has been asked to nominate a beach which will be funded through the ongoing Integrated Coastal Management Programme.
India to get 1st runway on sea bridge at Lakshadweep airport
India is all set to get its first runway on a ‘sea bridge’ soon, as the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has been given a nod to extend Lakshadweep’s Agatti Airport.
The task will be carried out by building an RCC platform on the beach and shallow area which will allow bigger ATRs to operate to the island.
Dr Jitendra Singh launches electronic-Human Resource Management System (e-HRMS) on Good Governance Day
Dr Jitendra Singh launched the electronic-Human Resource Management System (e-HRMS). He launched it during the observance of Good Governance Day by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
The Minister launched the 25 applications of 5 modules of the system. The e-service book launched for DoPT during March this year will also be integrated into the e-HRMS.
NEWS IN STATES
DELHI
Prime Minister inaugurates Dr. Ambedkar International Centre
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the “Dr. Ambedkar International Centre” at 15, Janpath, New Delhi.
Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC) has been constructed at an estimated cost of Rs. 195 crores. Scheduled for completion in January, 2018, the project has been completed well in advance of the scheduled date of completion.
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Bodhi Parva: BIMSTEC Festival of Buddhist Heritage
Dr. Mahesh Sharma has inaugurated the three days ‘Bodhi Parva: BIMSTEC Festival of Buddhist Heritage’ in New Delhi on December 08, 2017.
‘Bodhi Parva’ has entwined various threads of the Buddhist heritage into a beautiful mélange including an exhibition of international and Indian Buddhist art and architecture.
These will help in building an awareness of BIMSTEC’s rich and common heritage.
South Delhi civic body bags National Energy Conservation Award
The South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) was presented the National Energy Conservation Award by President Ram Nath Kovind for its LED replacement project.
SDMC Commissioner Punit Goel received the first prize for conservation of energy through LED replacement in municipal sector.
SDMC launches Atal Jan Aahar Yojana to provide meal at Rs 10
The South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) has launched a new scheme for the poor that will allow them to buy meal for Rs 10 from the civic body’s kiosks during the day.
Te Atal Jan Aahar Yojana has been started to make a nutritious full meal accessible to the needy, in a phased manner. The scheme was started at kiosks in five different locations of south Delhi.
Delhi transport dept may use QR codes to track autos, cabs
With an aim to boost passenger safety, the Delhi Transport department is working on a QR code based system to keep a tab on the autorickshaws and cabs plying on city roads.
The department would set up a control room at its headquarters in Civil Lines, so that autorickshaws and cabs could be tracked while ferrying passengers.
ANDHRA PRADESH
APSSDC inks MOU with Udacity to skill engineering students
Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation (APSSDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Udacity to upskill engineering students in the state.
The tie up covers five Udacity Nanodegrees for Andhra Pradesh students to help equip them for better opportunities in the future.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister launches test flight of sea planes on Krishna
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Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu launched test flight of sea plane (amphibian flight) on Krishna River in Vijayawada.
With a long coastline, rivers and reservoirs Andhra Pradesh has great potential for developing tourism by introducing sea planes.
Andhra Cabinet approves pension, house plot for transgenders
The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has approved a scheme to provide a pension of Rs 1500 to transgenders above 18 years of age in the state.
Under this scheme the transgenders will be provided ration cards, plots and scholarships, also skill development for financial stability.
After Kerala and Odisha, Andhra Pradesh becomes the next state to sanction pension scheme for the transgender community.
President Kovind to inaugurate AP Fibre Grid
President Ram Nath Kovind will inaugurate on 27 December 2017, the Andhra Pradesh Fibre Grid project, aimed at providing high-speed internet service to every household in the state at a nominal rate.
The project also aims to ensure every household in the state has access to cable television and telephone connections.
UTTAR PRADESH
UP becomes 1st state to endorse Triple Talaq draft bill
Uttar Pradesh regime has become the first state government to endorse the Modi government’s draft bill that makes instant triple talaq a cognisable and non-bailable offence.
The draft law, which provides for three years in prison and a fine for a Muslim man trying to divorce his wife by uttering “talaq” three times, got the UP government’s approval.
Institute to study ‘Bhagavad Gita’ to be set up in UP
A research institute for the study of the ‘Bhagavad Gita’ will be soon set up by the Uttar Pradesh government in this temple town.
The Gita Research Institute has been proposed by the Yogi Adityanath government. For research on Gayan (singing), Vadan (the art of music) and Nratya (dance) of the Krishna age, the government is setting up the institute.
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Uttar Pradesh government opens its first infertility clinic
UP state’s first infertility clinic at a government hospital was launched in Lucknow at Dr Ram Manohar Lohia hospital by health minister Siddharthnath Singh.
Along with the infertility clinic that will provide treatment to both male and female patients free of cost, a 6-bed cardiac unit was also dedicated to public by the minister.
UP govt to celebrate Ch Charan Singh’s birthday as ‘Kisan Samman Diwas’
The Uttar Pradesh government will celebrate the birthday of late Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh on December 23 as ‘Kisaan Samman Diwas’.
Singh was born on December 23, 1902 in Noorpur in Meerut district of Uttar Pradesh. Influenced by Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violence, Singh entered the Independence movement. After Independence, he associated himself with socialism in rural areas.
Bill to set up Prayagraj Mela Authority passed in UP Assembly
Days after the UNESCO declared the Kumbh a world heritage, the Uttar Pradesh Assembly has passed a bill to set up Prayagraj Mela Authority for the Kumbh Mela scheduled to be held in Allahabad in January 2019.
The UNESCO recently recognised the Kumbh Mela as an “intangible cultural heritage of humanity” and held it as the world’s largest peaceful gathering of pilgrims.
NAGALAND
Prez Kovind inaugurates Hornbill Festival in Nagaland
President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated the 18th edition of the Hornbill Festival at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama.
Hornbill Festival and the Hornbill International Rock Contest are perfect platforms to showcase Naga culture and tradition.
TELANGANA
WE-Hub for women in Telangana
The Telangana Government announced a move to set up an exclusive innovation hub on the lines of T-Hub for women called WE-Hub, backing it with an exclusive Rs. 15-crore fund.
NITI Aayog announced it will back the proposed WE-Hub with funds under the Atal Innovation Mission.
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Global Network for Entrepreneurs launched to assist budding entrepreneurs
The Global Network for entrepreneurs was launched during the Global Entrepreneurship Summit GES 2017 in Hyderabad aiming at providing a one-stop solution for assisting start-ups and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to set their feet.
With an aim to accelerate the entrepreneurial journey, the Global Network for Entrepreneurs’ is unique in a two-fold manner.
Special child-friendly court to come up in Hyderabad
The city police’s ‘Bharosa’ support centre for women and children will soon have a designated children’s court to try cases of sexual offences against the minors.
The police is hopeful that the court will conduct speedy trials to ensure justice to the children.
Telangana develops app to provide jobs to technicians, workers
The Telangana government has developed a mobile application that will help citizens in urban areas across the state find trained and certified technicians and workers, who will provide household services at the press of a button.
Officials at Mission for Elimination of Poverty in Municipal Areas (MEPMA) said Android- based Urban Genie will be available in 73 municipal towns and cities, barring Hyderabad.
International cyber-security meet opens on December 14
The Global Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is going to be a key issue when global cyber security experts will gather on December 14 and 15 for the Cyber Security Conference in Hyderabad.
Besides GDPR compliance, the conference would also focus on protecting critical infrastructure and digital economy, cyber defence, capacity building and incident response.
VP to inaugurate World Telugu Conference in Hyderabad
The city is all set to host the World Telugu Conference (WTC) being organised by the Telangana government.
The World Telugu Conference-2017 (WTC), the festival of Telugu language and culture, which would be inaugurated by Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu at Lal Bahadur Stadium.
Mahatma Gandhi digital museum store inaugurated in Hyderabad
Mahatma Gandhi Digital Museum Store to be first of its kind in the country was inaugurated.
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The mobile store at Bapu Ghat, Langar Houz, has over 100 souvenirs, ranging from apparel, books, bags, desktop accessories, figurines, personal accessories, time pieces and writing instruments.
Kaleshwaram irrigation project gets environmental nod
The Expert Appraisal Committee of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has accorded environmental clearance for the Kaleshwaram irrigation project in Telangana.
The project is estimated to cost about ₹80,499.7 crore and proposed to be completed in three years.
GUJARAT
PM Modi Inaugurated Unique World-Class Hospital in Ahmedabad
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a unique world-class hospital at the Swaminarayan Gurukul Vidyapeeth Pratisthanam in Ahmedabad
This world-class hospital aims at providing top of the line medical and health care on subsidised rates. What sets it apart is that it fuses the best of traditional and modern medicine. It offers holistic care using Ayurveda, Yoga and allopathy.
MAHARASHTRA
IIT-Bombay, Canada varsity to use AI to make Pune smart city
Artificial intelligence (AI) will be deployed as part of a collaboration involving the University of Toronto and IIT-Bombay to make Pune a truly smart city.
This will be among the first of the projects to be tackled under a recent memorandum of understanding signed by the Pune Smart City Development Corporation Ltd, IIT-Bombay and University of Toronto (UofT).
Maha govt grants approval for Versova-Bandra sea link
The Maharashtra government has accorded administrative approval to the Versova-Bandra sea link (VBSL) project, eight years after the state cabinet committee on Infrastructure (SCCI) cleared it.
The SCCI had cleared the project on August 18, 2009. However, it took another four years, for the government to get the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) and environment clearance from the Centre which was given in January 2013.
ASSAM
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6th International Tourism Mart to Begin in Guwahati
“6th International Tourism Mart” (ITM) will begin in Guwahati, Assam. Jagdish Mukhi, Governor of Assam will inaugurate the Mart.
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in association with the North Eastern States is organizing this Mart from 5-7 December, 2017.
Sonowal announces cabinet sub-committees for tribes
Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has announced setting up a cabinet sub-committee to carry out feasibility study for inclusion of Rabha, Tiwa and Mising tribes under sixth schedule of the Constitution.
The implementation of the State Capital Region Authority would catapult progress of the areas within its jurisdiction and there is no cause to worry for the Rabha and Tiwa people as their rights would be fully protected.
Sambhaji Shahu Chhatrapati to head Raigad development body
The Maharashtra government has set up a 17-member development authority for the Raigad fort, capital of warrior king Shivaji, which would be headed by Rajya Sabha member Sambhaji Shahu Chhatrapati.
The state government, in June 2016, had sanctioned a Rs 500-crore development plan for the 17th century fort, situated in neighbouring Raigad district.
Mumbai to start building city’s 1st textile museum in Feb
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) will start building the city’s first textile museum at the defunct United Mill compound in Kalachowki in Chinchpokli.
The museum — which will document, archive and represent Mumbai’s textile legacy — will be spread over 16.3 acres of land. 14 acres will be used for construction, and the rest for beautification.
Dabur opens skill development centre for women in Assam
Dabur India Ltd has inaugurated a skill development centre for women, as part of the company’s CSR campaign.
The vocational training centre, set up at Dhekidol Village in Sonitpur district, will start with a six-month course on stitching and tailoring.
KERALA
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Kerala launches India’s largest floating solar power plant
The largest-ever floating solar power plant in India will be operational in Kerala. State power minister MM Mani will inaugurate the plant at the Banasura Sagar dam in Wayanad.
The solar power plant that floats on the surface of water has a capacity of 500 kilowatts (KW). This is the country’s largest floating solar plant.
Kerala to host petrochemical meet on December 18
The Kerala Government is organising a Petrochemical Investor Meet 18 at Crowne Plaza to highlight the opportunities being opened up by the new Petrochemical Park.
The objective of setting up the park is to assist downstream units that can utilize the niche petrochemical products from BPCL Kochi Refinery for manufacturing number of products like adhesives, plasticisers, water based chemicals, sealants etc
RAJASTHAN
Rajasthan government to start ‘Guru-Shishya’ programme
The Rajasthan government will soon introduce ‘Guru-Shishya’ programme in all districts, under which college students can raise discuss with their teachers the issues and problems related to their institutes.
The programme will be held in one nodal college in each district where students selected on merit and elected members of students union would participate.
Hamesha Vijayee’ exercise in Rajasthan
The Indian Army’s Southern Command, conducting exercise ‘Hamesha Vijayee’, is out in the deserts of Rajasthan to evaluate the capability of the armed forces to strike deep into the enemy territory in an integrated air-land battle.
The military exercise, which started from December 16 till December 22, is being carried in the general area of Barmer and Jaisalmer, and aimed at fine tuning surveillance and destruction mechanisms to support precision strikes and manoeuvres by network enabled forces.
ODISHA
Patnaik inaugurates Purvasha Folk & Tribal Art Museum
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has inaugurated Purvasha Folk and Tribal Art Museum set up at Barkul near Chilika through video conferencing. The chief minister also launched the website of ODIART Centre.
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The Society for Development of Rural Literature has been set up to promote the cultural heritage of Odisha. The museum will preserve, protect and also project the rich cultural heritage for the posterity.
‘Heritage Cabinet’ to be set up in Odisha
The Odisha government has decided to set up a unique ‘Heritage Cabinet’ and an Odia Language Commission as part of its move to preserve the relics and monuments in the state and enrich its rich culture and language.
Tourism and Culture Minister Ashok Chandra Panda said the ‘Heritage Cabinet’ would be headed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
It would aim to protect ancient monuments, temples and archaeological sites in Odisha, and take steps to preserve the state’s culture, language and literature.
GOA
India’s first-ever mobile food testing laboratory launched
Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar has launched country’s first-ever mobile food testing laboratory.
Parrikar unveiled the vehicle, worth Rs 41 lakh, in presence of Goa Food and Drugs Administration minister Vishwajit Rane.
JAMMU & KASHMIR
J&K government launches SAUBHAGYA
The Jammu and Kashmir government has launched SAUBHAGYA (Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojna) with an aim to provide free electricity connections to poor people in the state.
SAUBHAGYA, an initiative taken by the prime minister, seeks to provide electricity to 4 crore families across the country by December 2018.
BIHAR
Nitish embarks on ‘Vikas Samiksha Yatra’ in Bihar
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has embarked on a statewide “Vikas Samiksha Yatra” to take stock of the developmental schemes of his government on the ground.
The chief minister is scheduled to review the development of eight districts during the first phase of his “yatra” over the next five days.
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Bihar approves scholarships for meritorious madrasa students
The Bihar government has decided to introduce scholarships for meritorious madrasa students in the state.
Both boys and girls securing first division in Fauqania (Class 10) exams conducted by the Bihar State Madrasa Education Board will be included in the Mukhyamantri Vidyarthi Protsahan Yojana (Chief Minister students’ incentive scheme).
Vikas Samiksha Yatra
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has laid foundation stones for more than 100 projects worth Rs 700 crore in Nalanda district as part of his state-wide “Vikas Samiksha Yatra”.
At Chamera village in Ekangarsarai block, the Kumar dedicated to the public 132 projects worth Rs 97.63 crore in addition to the 114, worth Rs 698.65 crore, for which foundation stones were laid.
KARNATAKA
AIIB approves 335-mln-USD loan for Bangalore metro
China-sponsored Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank has approved a USD 335 million loan for an electric metro project in Bangalore.
The investment in the Bangalore Metro Rail Project-Reach 6 (R6) is the AIIB’s first metro project and its first joint financing partnership with the European Investment Bank, which is the project’s lead financier with 500 million euros in funding.
Bengaluru becomes first Indian city to have its own logo
The official logo for Bengaluru city is out. The logo, which was chosen by a panel of experts, was unveiled at the Namma Bengaluru Habba at the Vidhana Soudha by the state tourism minister Priyank Kharge.
The red and black logo is part English and part Kannada. With this, Namma Bengaluru joins a select group of global cities like New York City, Melbourne and Singapore to have a tourism logo of its own.
HARYANA
Haryana govt to conduct mega mock drill on Dec 21
To increase earthquake preparedness capacity of Haryana, the state government has decided to conduct a mega mock exercise in all the districts of the state on December 21.
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Additional Chief Secretary and Financial Commissioner, Revenue and Disaster Management Department, Keshni Anand Arora directed all the deputy commissioners to make elaborate arrangements for the mega mock drill, in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in their respective districts.
Haryana to set up organ, tissue transplant organisation
To promote organ donation in Haryana, the state government would establish a organ and tissue transplant organisation at the Pt. Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences (PGIMS) in Rohtak.
Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has approved a proposal to set up the state organ and tissue transplant organisation (SOTTO) and directed officers to establish it by January 31.
Chandigarh launches smart city cards to aid utility payments
Chandigarh administrator VP Singh Badnore has launched Chandigarh smart city cards. While registrations begin, the software launch will take place on Good Governance Day on December 25.
The Chandigarh smart city card is a personalised card with the photograph and other details of the user.
India’s First design University Opens in Haryana
India’s first and only design university, World University of Deisgn opened it campus at Sonipat, Haryana.
Promoted by Om Parkash Bansal Educational and Social Welfare Trust of Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab, having more than two decades of presence in higher education, the university is currently located in a sprawling lush green picturesque campus with the state-of-the-art infrastructure and world class facilities.
MADHYA PRADESH
International herbal fair in Bhopal from Dec 14
Some rare medicinal herbs would be on display during the seven-day International Herbal Fair being organised in Bhopal from December 14.
Union Minister for Environment, Forests and Climate Change Dr Harsh Vardhan will inaugurate this fair at the Lal Parade Ground.
Chouhan lays foundation of Rewa Ultra Mega Solar project
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Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has laid foundation stone of 750 MW Ultra Mega Solar Project at Rewa in Madhya Pradesh.
The transaction structure of Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Project has been awarded World Bank Groups President award for Innovation and Excellence.
MEGHALAYA
Meghalaya launches India’s first social audit law
Meghalaya was became the first state in India to operationalise a law that makes social audit of government programmes and schemes a part of government practice.
Chief Minister Mukul Sangma launched ‘The Meghalaya Community Participation and Public Services Social Audit Act, 2017’, at a national convention in Shillong.
JHARKHAND
Jharkhand to establish world-class skill development centre
Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das government will establish a world-class skill development centre at Ranchi at the cost of Rs 60 crore. The skill development centre will be developed with the help of a Singapore-based company ITE.
The children of Jharkhand will make their mark at the international level after going through skill training in the modern centre.
CM launches programme to provide electricity to all villages
Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das has launched “Saubhagya Yojana”, a programme that would provide electricity to all the 29,376 villages in the state.
Launching the “Saubhagya Yojana” here, Das said only 38 lakh households out of 68 lakh households in the state could get electricity in 67 years.
WEST BENGAL
Bengal govt to give 74pc of Tajpur port to Centre for bridge
The West Bengal government will give away 74 per cent share to the Centre to build a new major port in Tajpur as it will build a bridge over the Muriganga river to help pilgrims visiting Sagar Island.
Annually around 20-30 lakh pilgrims pay a visit to the Sagar Island to take a holy dip in the confluence of the Ganga and Bay of Bengal.
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ARUNACHAL PRADESH
Arunachal Pradesh declared Open Defecation Free
Arunachal Pradesh has emerged as the second state in the Northeast, after Sikkim, to be declared Open Defecation Free. The three remaining districts – Upper Subansiri, Siang and Changlang — were declared Open Defecation Free (ODF) officially.
Arunachal has 21 districts and the state attained the feat much before the national deadline of October 2, 2019. The state government also launched Swachh Arunachal Mission on October 2 this year at Tawang which envisaged the Swachh Protocol (Cleanliness Protocol) aimed at ensuring sustainability of assets created under SBM (Gramin).
CABINET APPROVALS
Cabinet approves setting up of National Nutrition Mission
The Union Cabinet has approved setting up of National Nutrition Mission (NNM) with a three year budget of Rs 9046.17 crore commencing from 2017-18. The National Nutrition Mission will create synergy to achieve the common goal through a robust convergence mechanism.
The NNM will be an apex body, which will monitor, supervise, fix targets and guide the nutrition related interventions across various Ministries.
Cabinet approves 1st National Rail and Transport University
The Union Cabinet has approved the Ministry of Railways’ initiative to set up the first ever National Rail and Transport University (NRTU) in Vadodara to skill its human resources and build capability.
This idea, according to a statement from the union government, will be a catalyst for transformation of rail and transport sector towards New India.
The National Rail and Transportation University will be set up as a Deemed to Be University under de novo category as per the UGC [Institutions Deemed to be Universities] Regulations, 2016.
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Cuba on cooperation in the field of Health and Medicine
The Union Cabinet has given its ex-post-facto approval for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Cuba on cooperation in the field of Health and Medicine. The MoU was signed on 06th December, 2017 in New Delhi.
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A Joint Working Group (JWG) will be set up to further elaborate the details of cooperation and to oversee the implementation of this MoU.
BANKING AND FINANCE
Corporation Bank launches RuPay Credit Cards
Corporation Bank has launched its RuPay Select and RuPay Platinum credit cards. A press release said here that Corporation Bank’s RuPay credit cards are accepted at all RuPay-enabled 1.5 million plus PoS terminals and 80,000 plus e-commerce merchants in India and all ICS Partner acceptance points (POS, e-commerce merchants) globally.
HDFC ERGO launches solar energy shortfall insurance policy
Non-life insurance provider HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company has announced the launch of the solar energy shortfall insurance policy to account for non-traditional and non- physical damage related risks that solar projects regularly face.
The policy will cover utility-scale solar farms, green fields across India, portfolios of rooftop installations for commercial and residential builds, among others.
India INX Gets SEBI go-ahead for Listing of Debt Securities
BSE’s India International Exchange (India INX) has received approval from the capital market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) on the framework for listing of debt securities.
The move will enable Indian and foreign issuers to issue masala bonds, eurobonds and foreign currency bonds from India INX at International Financial Service Centre (IFSC) at Gujarat International Finance Tech (GIFT) for the first time.
World Bank to stop funding oil, gas projects after 2019
The World Bank will no longer finance upstream oil and gas projects after 2019, apart from certain gas projects in the poorest countries in exceptional circumstances.
Stephen Kretzmann, of the Oil Change International advocacy group, said it was time for all of the institutions, countries, investors and individuals who are still in the Paris Agreement to stop funding fossil fuels.
Yes Bank partners Pantomath Advisory for MSME sector
Private sector Yes Bank has partnered advisory services firm Pantomath Advisory to develop a MSME ecosystem focused for Maharashtra and Gujarat.
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The collaboration, part of Yes Bank’s ‘Alliance, Relationships & Technology (ART)’ aims to enable better access to capital, knowledge and skills to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to scale for a multiplier effect for the overall economy.
RBI imposes Rs 3 cr penalty on IndusInd Bank
The Reserve Bank has imposed a penalty of Rs 3 crore on IndusInd Bank for deficiencies in regulatory compliance.
A monetary penalty of Rs 30 million on IndusInd Bank” has been imposed for non-compliance with the directions on Income Recognition and Asset Classification (IRAC) norms and contravention of regulatory restrictions pertaining to non- fund based (NFB) facilities.
India Signs Loan Agreement with World Bank for US$ 250 Million SANKALP Project
A Financing Agreement for IBRD loan of USD 250 million (equivalent) for the “Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) Project” was signed with the World Bank.
The Objective of the project is to enhance institutional mechanisms for skills development and increase access to quality and market-relevant training for the work force.
ADB lowers India’s GDP forecast for FY18 to 6.7%
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has lowered India’s GDP forecast for the current fiscal by 0.3% to 6.7 %, attributing it to tepid growth in the first half, demonetisation and transitory challenges of tax sector reforms.
It has also revised downward the gross domestic product (GDP) outlook for next fiscal beginning from March 2018 to 7.3% from 7.4% mainly due to rising global crude oil prices and soft growth in private sector investment.
J&K Bank launches finance scheme for journalists
Jammu and Kashmir Bank has launched a finance scheme tailored for media fraternity in the state wherein a loan of up to Rs three lakh can be availed by journalists and employees of media houses in the state.
The scheme “J-K Bank sahafat finance scheme” was launched by the bank s chairman and chief executive officer Parvez Ahmad.
FundsIndia, YES BANK partner to launch UPI on mobile for faster, easier payments
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FundsIndia.com, India’s premier investment platform for mutual funds and equities, has partnered with YES BANK to launch Unified Payments Interface (UPI) on their Android app for mutual fund payments.
Powered by YES BANK, FundsIndia becomes the first online mutual fund distributor to support UPI for client payments.
Axis Bank to launch ‘Axis Start-up Social’
Axis Bank, India’s third largest private sector bank is launching an exclusive networking property, Axis Start-up Social, at a ‘one-of-its-kind’ event aimed at supporting the country’s start-up ecosystem.
‘Axis Start-up Social’ will go ‘live’ at a gathering of the country’s leading start-up players at ‘WeWork’ a leading co-working place in Bengaluru.
YES Bank, EIB to co-finance $400 mn for clean power projects
YES Bank and the European Investment Bank will co-finance $400-million funding for renewable power generation in the country.
The new financing programme will streamline financing for a range of renewable energy projects being built and operated by leading Indian corporations and private sector developers.
RBI announces additional actions under PCA for UBI
The RBI has initiated additional actions under the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework for city-based United Bank of India in view of the high net NPA, low leverage ratio and the need to raise capital based on the bank’s position as on March 31, 2017.
United Bank of India said in a regulatory filing to the BSE that the apex bank had issued these actions in a letter dated December 19, 2017.
World Bank provides loans of $125 mn for STRIVE project
World Bank has committed USD 125 million (around Rs 800 crore) loan to India for the STRIVE project for skill development.
The objective of the operation (‘Skills Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement) is to improve access to quality and market-driven vocational training as well as apprenticeships.
Yes Bank sets up MTN programme to raise $1 bn
Private sector lender Yes Bank has established a Medium Term Note programme to raise $1 billion (over 6,400 crore) by issuing debt securities on private placement basis.
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The Bank has, on December 22, 2017, established a Medium Term Note programme for an amount of $1 billion, in order to enable the bank to issue debt instruments in the international capital markets, to eligible investors, from time to time, in one or more tranches and/or series.
World Bank signs USD 318 mn loan agreement to support climate resilient agriculture
The Government of India, along with the Government of Tamil Nadu signed a USD 318 million loan agreement with the World Bank, for the Tamil Nadu Irrigated Agriculture Modernization Project to promote climate resilient agriculture technologies, improve water management practices, and increase market opportunities for small and marginal farmers.
SLCM ties up with HDFC Bank, IndusInd Bank for collateral mgmt
Sohan Lal Commodity Management (SLCM) has tied up with HDFC Bank and IndusInd Bank to provide collateral management services.
This tie-up will help improve the farmers’ access to post-harvest credits at affordable interest rates and also provide easy access to scientific storage facilities leading to a fair price discovery of their produce in the market.
Govt cuts small savings interest rate by 0.2 percentage points
The government has cut the interest rate on small savings schemes, including public provident fund (PPF), national savings certificate (NSC) and Kisan Vikas Patra, by 0.2 percentage points for the January-March quarter, a move that will prompt banks to lower deposit rates.
Interest rates in the five-year Senior Citizens Savings Scheme, however has been retained at 8.3%. The interest rate on the senior citizens’ scheme is paid quarterly.
KKR Gets RBI Nod to Start India’s 1st Foreign-Owned ARC
US buyout giant KKR & Co has become the first foreign investor to fully own an asset reconstruction company (ARC) in India as it received approval from the Reserve Bank of India at a time when lenders are fighting with a pile of bad loans that have crippled their businesses.
KKR, one of the most aggressive investors in financial services, plans to deploy a major chunk from its record Asia fund for buying troubled assets in the country .
IndoSolar board okays 20.7 cr shares allotment to Union Bank
IndoSolar has approved allotment of 20.70 crore preference shares to Union Bank of India (UBI) against part of settlement amount pursuant to the “One Time Settlement Scheme”.
The board has alloted 52,05,499 equity shares of Rs 10 each issued at par of the company to Greenlite Lighting Corporation, a promoter group.
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Allahabad Bank ties up with NeSL
Allahabad Bank has entered into an agreement with state-run National e-Governance Services Limited (NeSL) for utilizing the latter’s Information Utility Services envisaged under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
Bank of India gets Rs 2,257 crore from govt
State-run Bank of India has received capital infusion of Rs 2,257 crore from the government.
The bank has on December 29 received infusion of Rs 2257 crore from the Government of India, in form of Common Equity Tier-1 Capital, which is being kept as Share Application money and would be alloted after due procedure/conditions for allotment.
NeSL, owned by the government, is the first Information Utility entity registered by Insolvency and bankruptcy Board of India under IBBI (IU) Regulations, 2017.
Dena Bank gets Rs 243 crore from govt
State-run Dena Bank has received capital infusion of Rs 243 crore from the government. The bank has on December 29 received infusion of Rs 243 crore from the Government of India, towards contribution of central government in the preferential allotment of equity shares.
The amount has been kept as share application money and would be issued after necessary approval/permissions.
MERGERS AND ACQUISITION
Bharti Airtel to acquire Millicom’s operations in Rwanda
Bharti Airtel has signed a definitive agreement with Millicom International Cellular S.A., under which its subsidiary Airtel Rwanda will acquire the entire stake in Tigo Rwanda.
The acquisition will consolidate the Rwandan telecom market and position Airtel as a strong number two operator in Rwanda.
MTV acquires broadcast, digital rights of Super Fight League
Youth television brand MTV will bring the second season of Super Fight League (SFL), the world’s first mixed martial arts tournament.
SFL will be exclusively aired from February on MTV, which has acquired the broadcast and digital rights for the league.
FOREIGN RELATIONS
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Iranian President Inaugurates First Phase of Chabahar Port
The first phase of Chabahar port, which will open up a new strategic transit route among Iran, India and Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan, will be inaugurated.
The port, located in Iran's southeastern Sistan- Baluchestan Province, is scheduled to be inaugurated by Iranian President Hassan Rouhani in presence of representatives from India, Afghanistan and several other countries of the region.
The first phase of the Chabahar port project is known as the Shahid Beheshti port.
India, Germany sign agreement to formalise EUR 200 million for financial cooperation
The Government to Government Umbrella Agreement between the Government of India and the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany concerning Financial Cooperation in 2016 (II) under the Indo-German Development Cooperation.
The Agreement was signed to formalize an amount up to Euro 200 million for the Financial Cooperation in form of loan for the project ‘Climate Friendly Urban Mobility III’ and Euro 11 million Accompanying measures in form of grant for four projects.
3rd DRC-NITI Aayog Dialogue Held in China
The 3rd edition of the Dialogue between the NITI Aayog and the Development Research Council of China, the DRC- NITI Aayog Dialogue was held in Beijing. The meeting was co- chaired by Vice Chairman NITI Aayog, Dr. Rajiv Kumar, and Mr Li Wei, President (Minister), DRC.
The DRC-NITI Dialogue provides an important platform for both sides to discuss key macro- economic issues impacting both countries and areas of mutual interest.
Indian and Italy sign a new MoU for cooperation in Agriculture and Phytosanitary issues
India and Italy Ministers signed a new MoU for cooperation in Agriculture and Phytosanitary issues that will replace the one signed in 2008. The MOU provides a good framework for cooperation in this field.
India has always had an active association with IFAD ever since it was set up in 1977 as the 13th specialized agency of the United Nations. India is a founder member of IFAD.
India and Cuba sign MoU for enhanced cooperation in the health sector
India and Cuba signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for enhanced cooperation in the health sector.
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The relations between Cuba and India are historical and based on shared values of equality and justice, common aspirations and convergence of interests on global issues.
India, Japan to form working group on civil nuke deal
India and Japan will soon form a joint working group (JWG) that will identify the location, create joint ventures and establish a roadmap for building nuclear reactors in the country.
The JWG will comprise representatives from both private and public sectors of both countries. It will have representatives from Toshiba, Hitachi and Mitsubishi, among others, that are interested in building nuclear reactors in India.
Russia-India-China Foreign Ministers Meet Begins in Delhi
India, Australia, the US and Japan sat down for talks on cooperation in the “Indo-Pacific”—seen as a possible security framework among the four against a rising China—Indian foreign minister Sushma Swaraj will meet her counterparts from Russia and China for discussions on deepening coordination in the Asia-Pacific region.
India-assisted emergency ambulance service to expand in Lanka
The India-assisted emergency ambulance service in Sri Lanka would be further expanded in seven more provinces, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has proposed to the Cabinet.
India launched the emergency ambulance service in July, 2016 for western and southern provinces of Sri Lanka through an outright grant of USD 7.6 million to uplift and improve medical facilities in the island.
India, Morocco sign pact to boost cooperation in health sector
India and Morocco have signed a pact to enhance cooperation in several areas of health sector, including non-communicable diseases and maternal, child and neonatal health.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by India’s Health Minister J P Nadda and Abdelkader Amara, Ministry of Health, Kingdom of Morocco.
India-Switzerland Deal Inked for Information Exchange
India signed an agreement with Switzerland would allow automatic sharing of tax- related information from January 1 next year
With the completion of the parliamentary procedure in Switzerland and signing of mutual agreement, India and Switzerland are set for automatic exchange of information for the period beginning from January 1, 2018.
UP Government Signs MoU with South Korea
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The Uttar Pradesh government has signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea to enhance cooperation in the field of tourism, skill development, culture and farming.
An MoU was signed for giving a new dimension to cooperation in the field of tourism, skill development, culture and farming, which will provide more employment opportunities and development.
Air corridor linking Mumbai to Kabul inaugurated
The second India-Afghanistan air cargo route linking Kabul to Mumbai was officially at the launched, with officials saying it is expected to boost the export of fresh fruits and medicinal plants from Afghanistan.
The second route follows the success of the Kabul-New Delhi air corridor that was inaugurated by President Ashraf Ghani in mid-June.
INDEX AND RANKING
Global Hunger Index 2017
As per 2017 Global Hunger Index (GHI) Report, published by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), India ranks 100 out 119 countries.
The Global Hunger Index is a tool designed to comprehensively measure and track hunger at the global, regional, and national levels. The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) calculates GHI scores each year to assess progress and setbacks in combating hunger.
India tops list of migrants living abroad at 17 million: UN
India has topped the list of people living abroad at 17 million with about 5 million Indians residing in the Gulf region alone, according to a new UN report.
Mexico, Russia, China, Bangladesh, Syria, Pakistan and Ukraine also have large migrant populations living abroad, ranging from 6 to 11 million each.
India is the 5th most vacation deprived country globally’
Globally India has been ranked as the fifth most vacation deprived country due to heavy work schedule, according to a survey.
India ranks as the fifth most vacation deprived country globally with 60 per cent respondents corroborating with the view, Expedia Vacation Deprivation Report 2017.
UK tops Forbes’ list of best countries for business in 2018
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Britain has been crowned the world’s best country in which to do business in a major vote of confidence ahead of Brexit.
It is the first time this country has taken the top spot in the Forbes annual survey after rising from fifth last year.
The US was ranked 12th, Germany 13th and France 22nd in the table of Best Countries for Business.
Salman Khan tops Forbes India Celebrity 100 list for second straight year
Bollywood star Salman Khan has been ranked numero uno on the sixth Forbes India Celebrity 100 List. Shah Rukh Khan and India’s cricket captain Virat Kohli took the second and third spot respectively, with actor Priyanka Chopra the only female celebrity in the top 10 list.
The 2017 Forbes India Celebrity 100 List rankings are based on estimates of entertainment- related earnings of celebrities. The period under consideration is October 1, 2016 to September 30, 2017.
Indian economy to be 5th largest in 2018: World Economic League
India’s economy is expected to overtake that of Britain and France to become the world’s fifth largest in dollar terms in 2018 and third largest in 2032, the World Economic League Table (WELT).
It would be the first time when the Indian economy will overtake the UK and France in real money dollar terms, the ninth-edition of the report released by London-based Centre for Economics and Business Research showed.
India Ranks 5th in List of Countries with Highest NPA Levels
India has the highest level of non-performing assets (NPA) among BRICS countries and is ranked fifth on a list of countries with the highest levels of NPAs, a report by CARE Ratings.
The only countries ranked higher than India on the list are Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Ireland. All these countries, along with Spain, are commonly referred to as PIIGS, and have been victims of sovereign debt crises in recent years.
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
US Ends Participation in UN’s Global Compact on Migration
The United States has announced that it will not participate in the United Nations’ Global Compact on Migration as it does not meet the policies and principles of the Trump administration.
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The US participation in the Compact process began in 2016, following the Obama Administration’s decision to join the UN’s New York Declaration on migration.
International Conference on Climate Change Begins in Nepal
Nepal will hold an international conference to draw attention on climate change and its adverse effects on people in the Hindu Kush mountain range.
President Bidya Devi Bhandari will inaugurate the four-day long conference aimed at developing solutions for a sustainable future for Asia that could withstand the impacts of climate change.
Venezuela to launch oil-backed cryptocurrency ‘Petro’
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro looked to the world of digital currency to circumvent U.S.-led financial sanctions, announcing the launch of the “petro” backed by oil reserves to shore up a collapsed economy.
Ironically, Venezuela’s currency controls in recent years have spurred a bitcoin fad among tech- savvy Venezuelans looking to bypass controls to obtain dollars or make internet purchases.
Australian Government Passes Marriage Equality Law
The Australian Parliament voted to allow same-sex marriage across the nation, following a bitter and divisive debate settled by the government polling voters in a much-criticised ballot survey that strongly endorsed change.
The public gallery of the House of Representatives erupted with applause when the bill passed to change the definition of marriage from solely between a man and a woman to “a union of two people” excluding all others.
China launches Algeria’s first communication satellite
China has successfully launched Algeria’s first communication satellite, the first project in aerospace industry between the North African nation and Beijing.
The Alcomsat-1 was launched into a present orbit from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in the southwestern province of Sichuan.
China Starts World’s Biggest Floating Solar Project
A unit of China Three Gorges Corp. is building a floating solar power plant, the world’s biggest, at a cost of 1 billion yuan ($151 million) in the nation’s eastern province of Anhui.
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The project features panels fixed to floats on the surface of a lake, which formed after a coal mine collapsed, according to the unit. The entire facility is expected to come on stream by May 2018.
Sri Lanka formally hands over Hambantota Port to China
Sri Lanka was formally handed over the strategic southern port of Hambantota to China on a 99- year lease, in a deal dubbed by the opposition as a sell-out.
Two Chinese firms — Hambantota International Port Group (HIPG) and Hambantota International Port Services (HIPS) managed by the China Merchants Port Holdings Company (CMPort) and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority will own the port and the investment zone around it.
Lanka becomes 163rd nation to accede to landmine ban treaty
Sri Lanka has become the 163rd nation to accede to the anti-personnel mine ban convention, fulfilling the pledge it made last year to join the international community in supporting the ongoing landmine clearance programme.
The treaty, which came into force on March 1, 1999, prohibits the use, stockpiling, production and transfer of antipersonnel mines.
Norway becomes 1st nation to shut national broadcasts on FM
Norway has completed its transition to digital radio, becoming the first country in the world to shut down national broadcasts of its FM network.
The country’s most northern regions and the Svalbard archipelago in the Arctic switched to digital audio broadcasting (DAB) as scheduled.
Houston wins bid to host World Petroleum Congress in 2020
The prestigious World Petroleum Congress (WPC) will be returning to the US after a gap of over three decades, with Houston winning the bid for hosting the mega event in 2020.
The World Petroleum Council selected Houston, America’s energy capital, as the host for the 23rd edition of the WPC which will run from December 6-10 in 2020.
Russia to build Egypt’s first nuclear power plant
Moscow and Cairo have signed an agreement to construct Egypt’s first nuclear plant. The project will cost $21 billion and is due to be finished by 2028-2029.
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The preliminary agreement between the countries was signed in 2015. A loan from Russia would cover 85 percent of the construction costs, and Russia’s Rosatom would service the plant’s four reactors for 60 years.
Britain gets new tallest peak in British Antarctic Territory
A new mountain has claimed the title of highest peak on UK territory after satellite data revealed land surveys by polar explorers were nearly 400 metres (1,300 ft) out.
Mount Hope in the British Antarctic Territory was recently remeasured and found to be 377 metres (1,237 ft) taller than thought.
WHO Certifies Gabon as Polio Free
The World Health Organisation has declared Gabon a “polio-free country”, given the lack of new reported or suspected cases in the central African country.
According to a WHO statement obtained by AFP, the UN health agency nonetheless recommended taking the necessary steps to continue monitoring for possible signs of the disease.
France passes law to ban all oil and gas production by 2040
France’s parliament has approved a law banning all exploration and production of oil and natural gas by 2040 within the country and its overseas territories.
The French government claims the ban is a world first. However, it is largely symbolic since oil and gas produced in France accounts for just 1 percent of domestic consumption.
China plans world’s biggest carbon market to curb emissions
The world’s biggest emitter of greenhouse gases, China, has launched the world’s biggest ever mechanism to reduce carbon, in the form of an emissions trading system.
China’s top governmental bodies gave their approval to plans for a carbon trading system that will initially cover the country’s heavily polluting power generation plants, and then expand to take in most of the economy.
Russia to build nuclear power station in sudan
Russia has agreed a deal to build a nuclear power station in Sudan, weeks after President al- Bashir, who is wanted by the International Criminal Court, visited President Putin.
The deal comes despite Mr Bashir facing charges of genocide and war crimes at the court in the Hague, which has hampered his engagement with the outside world, and the US accusing Sudan of being a sponsor of terrorism.
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China successfully launches remote sensing satellites
China has successfully launched remote sensing satellites to conduct electromagnetic environmental probes.
The satellites were launched on a Long March-2C carrier rocket from Xichang Satellite launch center in the southwest Sichuan province.
As the third batch of the Yaogan-30 project, the satellites will conduct electromagnetic environmental probes and other experiments.
China, Pakistan offer to include Afghanistan in CPEC
China and Pakistan will look at extending their $57 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor to Afghanistan. China has tried to position itself as a helpful party to promote talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan, both uneasy neighbors ever since Pakistan’s independence in 1947.
Their ties have been poisoned in recent years by Afghan accusations that Pakistan is supporting Taliban insurgents fighting the U.S.-backed Kabul in order to limit the influence of its old rival, India, in Afghanistan.
Turkey, Russia sign deal on supply of S-400 missiles
Turkey and Russia have signed an accord for Moscow to supply Ankara with S-400 surface-to- air missile batteries, Turkish authorities said, finalizing a deal set to deepen military ties between NATO member Turkey and the Kremlin.
The S-400 deal, reportedly worth some $2.5 billion and in the works for more than a year, has worried the West because the system cannot be integrated into NATO’s military architecture.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Google, Tata Trusts to expand Internet Saathi programme
Google will expand its Internet Saathi programme in India — run in partnership with Tata Trusts — to create “digitally-enabled livelihood opportunities” for women.
Launched in July 2015, Internet Saathi programme aims to facilitate digital literacy among women in rural India. It has so far, trained 30,000 Internet Saathis, who have in turn influenced 12 million women in the country.
MIT engineers create plants that glow
Roads of the future could be lit by glowing trees instead of streetlamps, thanks to a breakthrough in creating bioluminescent plants.
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To create their glowing plants, engineers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) turned to an enzyme called luciferase. Luciferase acts on a molecule called luciferin, causing it to emit light.
DEFENCE NEWS
Indo-UK Army Exercise – Ajeya Warrior 2017
Exercise Ajeya Warrior-2017’, a 14-day training exercise of the Indian and British armies, kicked off at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges near the Sriganganagar-Bikaner highway.
The training contingent comprises one company (about 120 personnel) each from the 20th Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles and the 1st Battalion of the Royal Anglian Regiment.
South Korea, U.S. kick off large-scale air exercise
South Korea and U.S. kick off large-scale air exercise. The annual U.S.-South Korean drill called Vigilant Ace, with six F-22 Raptor stealth fighters to be deployed among the more than 230 aircraft taking part.
The joint exercise is designed to enhance readiness and operational capability and to ensure peace and security on the Korean peninsula, the U.S. military had said before the drills began.
Successful Launch of Akash Missile
The Surface to Air Missile AKASH with indigenous radio frequency seeker against target Banshee, has been successfully launched from the Launch Complex-III at ITR Chandipur.
This missile is being inducted into Army as Short Range Surface to Air Missile (SRSAM).
US, Japan, South Korea conduct joint missile tracking drill
The US, South Korea and Japan started joint exercises to track missiles from North Korea, following the nuclear-armed Pyongyang’s longest-range test launch to date.
The trilateral drill comes less than two weeks after Pyongyang test-fired a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) and declared it had achieved nuclear statehood, escalating global alarm over its weapons push.
INS Kalvari Inducted Into Indian Navy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has dedicated submarine INS Kalvari to the nation. The submarine was built in India with co-operation from France.
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INS Kalvari is named after Tiger Shark. It is a conventional submarine whose main power source is diesel and electricity.
Indo-Maldives joint military exercise in Karna
The two-week long eighth edition of the Indo-Maldives joint military exercise, ‘Ekuverin’, will be conducted from 15 December 2017 at Belagavi, Bengaluru.
The bilateral annual exercise is a 14-day joint military training between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), which is held alternatively in India and Maldives since 2009.
‘Ekuverin’ means ‘friends’ in the Maldivian language.
BOOKS AND AUTHOR BOOK NAME AUTHOR NAME My Golden Days Gurbux Singh Trivendra Ek Zindaginama – Khairasain ka Nandan Singh Bisht Sooraj
SPORTS
WINNER TITLE SPORT/ VENUE
Shiva Keshavan Gold medal at Asian Luge Altenberg, Germany Championships
Deepika Kumari Indoor Archery World Cup Won bronze medal
Afghanistan ICC Intercontinental Cup Defeating United Arab champions Emirates
Kanchanmala Pande Gold at World Para Mexico Swimming Championship
Cristiano Ronaldo Ballon d’Or─ UEFA Champions League
Mehuli Ghosh 8 Gold Medals in National She hails from Bengal Shooting C’ship
PV Sindhu Silver medal in World Superseries Finals
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Sushil Kumar, Sakshi Malik Gold at Commonwealth Johannesburg South Africa Wrestling C’ship
Anisa Sayyed 61st National Shooting Haryana shooter Championship Competitions (61st NSCC)
Shiv Kapur Royal Cup(Golf)
India to host 2023 Cricket World Cup, 2021 Champions Trophy
India is all set to host the 2023 World Cup, the global cricketing event’s 13th edition, after the BCCI confirmed the host nation in its SGM, held on December 11. India will also host the upcoming Champions Trophy in 2021.
Indore to host Ranji Trophy finals 2017-18
The Holkar Stadium in Indore is all set to host the final of the Ranji Trophy of the 2017-18 season.
The final will be played between December 29 and January 2. The semi-final matches of the Paytm Ranji Trophy 2017-18 will be played from December 17-21.
2002 World Cup Winner Kaka Retires from Football
Former AC Milan and Real Madrid midfielder Kaka announced that he is retiring from football.
Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite commonly known as Kaká or Ricardo Kaká, is a Brazilian former professional footballer who played as an attacking midfielder.
India win 10 medals in Wushu Sanda Asian Cup
India bagged as many as 10 medals in the first Wushu Sanda Asian Cup that concluded in Guangzhou, China.
Praveen (48kg), Mukesh Chaoudhary (70kg), Rajender Singh (90kg), Arunpama Devi (60kg) and Vishakhaptnam Malik (70kg) won five silver medals for India.
Birmingham named as 2022 Commonwealth Games host city
The English city of Birmingham was today confirmed as the host of the 2022 Commonwealth Games after a troubled bidding process.
The English city of Birmingham was confirmed as the host of the 2022 Commonwealth Games after a troubled bidding process.
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OBITUARY
NAME OF THE PERSON PERSON RELATED TO FIELD
Manirul Islam Sarkar Meghalaya Politician
Shashi Kapoor Bollywood Actor
Johnny Hallyday French singer
Adithan South Indian music director
Dr Lalji Singh Father of DNA fingerprinting in India
Sukharanjan Sengupta Journalist
Neeraj Vora Actor-writer
Banwari Lal Joshi Rajasthan Politician
Bruce McCandless NASA astronaut
Jatileswar Mukhopadhyay Bengali singer
Partha Mukherjee Bengali actor
Bob Givens Animator
M V Pylee Educationist
IMPORTANT DAYS
DATE DAY THEME
December 01 World AIDS day Right to health
December 03 International Day of Disabled Transformation towards Persons sustainable and resilient society for all
December 04 Indian Navy day To commemorates the launch of Operation Trident
December 05 World Soil day Caring for the Planet starts from the Ground
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December 07 Armed Forces Flag Day
December 10 Human Rights day Let’s stand up for equality, justice and human dignity
December 11 International Mountain Day Mountains Under Pressure: Climate, Hunger, Migration
December 14 National Energy Conservation To demonstrate India’s Day achievements in energy efficiency and conservation
December 15 International Tea day To improve the condition of tea growers and labourers.
December 16 Vijay Diwas
December 17 International day Against Right to Health Violent against sex workers
December 18 International Migrants day Safe Migration in a World on The Move
December 20 International Human to celebrate unity in diversity Solidarity day
December 22 National Mathematics Day. Birth anniversary of the famous mathematician Sir Srinivasa Ramanujan
December 23 Kisan Divas (India) Honor of the former Prime Minister of India Chaudhary Charan Singh
December 24 National Consumer Day On this day the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 had received the assent of the President.
December 25 Good governance Day Birth anniversary of former- Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee
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