January 2014 Current Affairs Study Material
INTERNATIONAL
Colorado Becomes First US state To Allow Marijuana Sale Colorado has on 1 January become the first U.S. state to license the sale of the drug for recreational use. In November 2012, Colorado voters approved the sale of recreational marijuana, as did voters in Washington state. Under the new state law, residents are now able to buy marijuana like alcohol.
US Senate Passed USD 1.1 Trillion Spending Bill The US Senate has passed the USD 1.1 trillion omnibus spending bill that eliminates the threat of another government shutdown at least until October 2014 and puts conditions on Pakistan for continuation of aid. Passed by the House of Representatives on 16 January, the bill now goes to the White House for President Barack Obama to sign it into law, thus preventing another shutdown.
Bolivian President Evo Morales Assumes G77 Chairmanship Bolivian president Evo Morales has assumed the Chairmanship of the Group of 77 nations.Bolivia was chosen head of the G-77, which actually groups 133 developing nations, by consensus, and Morales was at the United nations on 8 January to take over the chairmanship from outgoing Fiji. The organization was created in June 1964 with the purpose of formulating and promoting the new economic interests of southern countries within the United Nations system.
South Sudan Government and Rebels Signed Ceasefire Agreement South Sudan‘s Government and Rebels have signed a ceasefire agreement .The agreement was signed in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa by representatives of South Sudan‘s President Salva Kiir and rebel delegates loyal to ousted vice president Riek Machar on 23 January . As per the deal, the government has agreed to release 11 officials close to Machar, who were detained after the fighting broke in the country.
INDIA & WORLD
India and Maldives Signed 3 MoUs India and the Maldives on 2 January agreed to amicably resolve all differences, including over cancellation of Indian company GMR‘s contract to run Male International Airport. Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen held talks in New Delhi with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the two sides signed three Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs).Two agreements are related to health and human resource development and one on the diplomatic front.
India and Canada Signed LOI for Co-operation in Iron and Steel Sector India and Canada have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for co-operation in Iron and Steel Sector. The letters were signed on 13 January in New Delhi by Beni Prasad Verma, the Union Minister of Steel and Minister of Natural Resources, Government of Canada, Joe Oliver.
India and South Korea Signed Nine Agreements India and South Korea have signed 9 agreements in different areas to boost bilateral ties between the two countries.The agreements were signed on 16 January after delegation level talks between Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister of India and Park Geun-hye, the President of South Korea in New Delhi.
India and Japan Signed 8 Agreements India and Japan have agreed to boost defence ties and signed eight agreements with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, pledging another tranche of infrastructure loans worth 200 billion yen, during his talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in New Delhi on 25 January. Pakistan and India Ranked 97th In Global Food Index 2014 According to the ‗ Global Food Index 2014 ‗ released on 17 January , Pakistan ranked 97th in a list of 125 countries with regard to availability, quality and affordability of food and dietary health.The listing means Pakistan is one of the countries with the most unhealthy and scarce food. India got the same rank as Pakistan.The Netherlands emerges as the country with the most nutritious, plentiful and healthy food leaving France and Switzerland behind at the joint second place.The Index namely ―Good Enough to Eat‖ has been compiled by the UK-based international relief and development organization ‗Oxfam‘.
NATIONAL
Government Launched India‟s First Comprehensive Adolescent Health Programme Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Ghulam Nabi Azad on 7 January launched the nation‘s first comprehensive adolescent health programme named ‖ Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK)‖ in New Delhi.The programme will include a sharp focus on adolescents‘ sexual health.The RKSK defines an adolescent as a person within 10-19 years of age, in urban and rural areas, includes both girls and boys, married and unmarried, poor and affluent, whether they are in school or out of school.
Government Notified New Natural Gas Pricing Formula The Government of India on 10 January notified the new natural gas pricing formula, which will be in effect from 1 April 2014. As per the newly issued notification, the rate of all domestically produced fuel will be almost doubled to 8.2 to 8.4 dollar per unit.
Government Grants CBI greater Financial Autonomy The Central Government on 14 January relaxed its control over the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and granted the CBI director a rank equal to a Secretary.
Ghulam Nabi Azad Launches National Urban Health Mission Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Ghulam Nabi Azad on 20 January launched the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) in Bangalore to provide timely quality health services to the urban poor.The scheme will now be introduced as a sub-mission under the National Health Mission (NHM).The mission will be implemented in 779 cities and towns, each with a population of more than 50,000, and cover over 7.75 crore people.
STATES
Manmohan Singh Launched Total E-literacy Project In Kerala Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has launched the total E-literacy project implemented by PN Panicker Vigyan Vikas Kendra in Thiruvanathpuram on 4 January.This would act as the corner-stone of the Kerala model of development.The programme was aimed at achieving total e-literacy in the state in 33 months, marching from total literacy to complete-literacy.
Maharashtra Govt. Launched Unique „ Blood On Call „ Scheme Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan on 7 January rolled out ―Jeevan Amrut Yojana‖ (blood- on-call scheme) across the state.The ambitious plan is aimed at facilitating blood supply to patients scheduled to undergo surgeries and medical procedures, at cheaper rate by dialling a dedicated helpline number ―104″. Under the scheme, the request for blood will have to be placed by hospitals.
Chhattisgarh Govt. Launched Toll Free Number 1100 For Graft Complaints Chhattisgarh government has on 7 January launched a toll free helpline number 1100 where people could lodge graft-related complaints against the state government officials.The facility will help provide better governance to the people.Now, the people can just dial 1100 to lodge complaints regarding corruption.
Anu Vidyut Pariyojana Launched In Haryana Prime Minister Manmohan Singh laid the foundation of 2,800 Megawatt nuclear power plant in Fatehabad district of Haryana on 13 January.The project named as Anu Vidyut Pariyojna, will have four units of 700 MWes each and it will be built at a cost 23502 crore rupees. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) will build these reactors. This is the first time Haryana will have a nuclear project.
CONFERENCES
12th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Held in New Delhi The 12th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) was held in New Delhi from 7 – 9 January 2014 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. The theme of the event was ‖ Engaging Diaspora – Connecting across Generations ―.The convention was inaugurated by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on 7 January. Malaysia‘s Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Y B Datuk Seri Palanivel ,was the Chief Guest. On 9 January President Pranab Mukherjee conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards and addressed the closing session of the Convention.
AWARDS & HONOURS
President Pranab Mukherjee Conferred Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards President Pranab Mukherjee conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards on 9 January during the 12th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD). Peace activist Ela Gandhi, who is a grand- daughter of Mahatma Gandhi, was among the 13 non-resident Indians (NRIs), persons of Indian origin (PIOs) and organizations honoured with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards. Ela Gandhi was given the award for public service and for enhancing India‘s image and for promoting ties between India and South Africa. Lisa Maria Singh is the first member of Australian Parliament of South Asian descent and has held several ministerial portfolios in the past. She is a senator from Tasmania. Singh was given the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman for public service and fostering friendly relations between India and Australia. Ramkrishna Mission, serving in Fiji since 1937, was honoured for community service and philanthropic activities and enhancing India‘s prestige abroad.
Three Security Personnel Selected For „ Kirti Chakra „ Award Three personnel of the armed forces have been selected for the year 2014 ‗ Kirti Chakra‘ award , the second highest peace time gallantry award, for their acts of bravery on the Line of Control (LoC), anti- maoist operation and relief operation in flood-hit Uttarakhand, respectively. The three are among 368 gallantry award winners this year including 10 Shaurya Chakra awardees.
Indian-American Wins Top US Teaching Award India-born Meera Chandrasekhar, professor of physics and astronomy and Curator‘s Teaching Professor of Physics at the University of Missouri, has on 18 January won Baylor University‘s ‖ 2014 Robert Foster Cherry Award ‖ for Great Teaching.
Mohinder Singh , Radhakrishnan Selected For Communal Harmony Awards National Communal Harmony Award for Mohinder Singh for his work done in restoring peace after the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and noted academician N Radhakrishnan for his promotion of Gandhian values were announced on 25 January. Singh, along with Gandhian Radhakrishnan of Kerala, have been selected for the coveted award in the individual category while the Centre for Study of Society and Secularism, Mumbai has been selected in the organisation category.
SPORTS & GAMES
Rafael Nadal Won Qatar ExxonMobil Open Title Rafael Nadal of Spain won the Qatar ExxonMobil Open title on 4 January.He defeated France‘s Gael Monfils in the Men‘s Singles final at Doha.It was his 61st ATP title.
Brisbane International Tennis Tournament Winners – 2014 Women‟s Singles :- Serena Williams of the U.S. on 4 January won the Brisbane International Tennis Tournament Women‘s Singles title after defeated Victoria Azarenka of Belarus in the final in Brisbane, Australia. Williams has now won 58 tour singles titles. Men‟s Singles :- Australia‘s Lleyton Hewitt won the Men‘s Singles Title. He defeated Roger Federer of Switzerland in the Brisbane International final. It was Hewitt‘s 29th title on the ATP tour but his first since 2010, when he also beat Federer in the final at Halle.
Ana Ivanovic Won Auckland Open Tennis Title Ana Ivanovic of Serbia won the Auckland Open Tennis Title on 4 January. She defeated Venus Williams (U.S) in the final at Auckland, New Zealand.It is the 12th title for the Ivanovic and second seed but her first success since victory in Bali in 2011.
Anju Bobby George Declared World Athletics Gold Medalist For 2005 Indian Long jumper Anju Bobby George on 13 January became the first Indian track and field athlete to win a gold medal in a major world event after international governing body International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) upgraded her second place finish at the 2005 Monaco World Athletics Championships final to the top spot , following a dope violation by a Russian competitor Tatyana Kotova.Anju‘s fifth place finish at the 2005 Helsinki World Championship‘s long jump event was also upgraded to fourth.
Netherlands Won Hockey World League 2014 The Netherlands on 18 January won the first ever Hockey World League final after defeating New Zealand by 7-2 in New Delhi. Belgium retained his fifth place , while India secured sixth place.
ECONOMY
Government Retains 100 Per cent FDI in Existing Pharma Units Government of India on 8 January decided to retain the policy of allowing 100 per cent foreign investments in the existing pharma firms, brushing aside concerns about non availability of affordable drugs in view of MNCs takeovers.India permits 100 per cent FDI in pharma through automatic approval route in the greenfield, or new projects.
India‟s Growth Projected To Rise To 7.1 Percent By 2016-17 According to the World Bank‘s Global Economic Prospects (GEP) report released on 16 January , India‘s growth is projected to rise to over six percent in fiscal 2014-15, increasing to 7.1 percent by fiscal 2016-17 with the world economy expected to strengthen this year.
Indian Economy Projected To Grow At 5.35% In 2014 According to the UN World Economic Situation and Prospects 2014 (WESP) report released on 24 January , India‘s economy is projected to grow at a slower-than-expected rate of 5.3 per cent in 2014. Full-year growth decelerated to 4.8 per cent in 2013 from 5.1 per cent in the calendar year 2012.
RBI raised Repo Rate By 25 Basis Points To 8 Percent Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raised the Repo rate under Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) by 25 basis points from 7.75 percent to 8 percent. Besides, it kept the cash reserve ratio (CRR) of scheduled banks unchanged at 4 percent of net demand and time liability (NDTL). The decision to raise the repo rate and keep the CRR unchanged was announced by the RBI in its Third Quarter Monetary Policy Review on 28 January. As a result, the reverse repo rate under the LAF stands adjusted at 7 percent, and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 9.0 percent.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
GSLV-D5 Rocket Carrying Communication Satellite GSAT-14 Successfully Launched Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 5 January successfully launched its heavy-duty rocket Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle-Development 5 (GSLV-D5) having indigeneous cryogenic engine that placed a 1,982 kg GSAT-14 communication satellite into the orbit. The 49.13- metre tall rocket GSLV-D5 lifted off from Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota , Andhra Pradesh .The launch vehicle successfully injected the GSAT-14 communication satellite into the intended orbit.With the successful launch of GSLV-D5 flight India has now become the sixth nation to possess the cryogenic engine technology, and has joined the elite club of the United States, Russia, France, Japan and China.
India Successfully Test Fired Nuclear Capable „ Prithvi – II „ Missile India on 7 January successfully test-fired its indigenously developed nuclear capable surface to surface Prithvi II missile , which is capable of carrying 500 kg to 1,000 kg of warheads and has a strike range of 350 km, from a test range at Chandipur near Balasore (Odisha).The launch was part of a user trial by the Army.Prithvi-II missile is already inducted into the Indian Armed forces.The last trial of Prithvi-II was successfully carried out from the same base on 3 December 2013.
Astronomers Discovered Two New Exoplanets In the month of January 2014 A team of Astronomers from Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA), have discovered two new extrasolar planets circling a dim, red dwarf star about 200 light-years away from our planet.One of the planets, dubbed KOI-314c, weighs the same as Earth, but around 60 percent larger in diameter.The second planet, named KOI-314b, is about the same size as KOI-314c but significantly denser, weighing about 4 times as much as Earth.The team discovered the planet using data from NASA‘s Kepler spacecraft.
World‟s Fastest Organic Transistor Developed In the month of January 2014 Scientists claim to have developed the world‘s fastest thin-film organic transistor that could operate more than five times faster than previous examples of this technology.Researchers from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) and Stanford University explained that this experimental technology has the potential to achieve the performance needed for high-resolution television screens and similar electronic devices. Engineers created the thin-film organic transistors that could operate more than five times faster than previous examples of this experimental technology.
PERSONS IN NEWS
A) APPOINTMENTS
R Chandrashekhar is new NASSCOM President Former Telecom Secretary (Government of India), R Chandrashekhar on 5 January took over as the President of Information Technology trade body Nasscom (National Association of Software and Services Companies).He succeeds Som Mittal, who served as President from 2007-2013.This is the first time that NASSCOM has appointed a former bureaucrat as the president. US Senate Confirmed Janet Yellen as new Federal Reserve Chairperson The US Senate has on 6 January confirmed Janet Yellen as new leader of the Federal Reserve. She is the first woman to lead the central bank in its 100-year history. She succeeds the Chairman Ben Bernanke as the next head of America‘s central bank.
Sheikh Hasina Sworn In As Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was on 12 January sworn in as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh for the third time. She had won an overwhelming majority in the Bangladesh general election held on 5 January 2014 by defeating opposition party, Jatiya party.The Awami League has secured absolute majority in the 10th Parliament elections by bagging 232 seats – 105 contested and 127 uncontested.
B)RESIGNS
Tunisia Prime Minister Ali Larayedh Resigned Tunisia‘s Islamist Prime Minister Ali Larayedh has resigned from his office on 9 January . With his resignation, the country will be led by the caretaker Government of technocrats led by led by new Prime Minister Mehdi Jomaa. He resigned following a deal between the Islamist Ennahda Party of Ali Larayedh and the secular opposition for a transition to the democracy in the country.
C)DEATHS
Israel‟s Former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon Died Israel‘s former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon died on 11 January .The former general of Israeli Army had been in coma since 4 January 2006. He served as the 11th Prime Minister of Israel until he was incapacitated by a stroke. Sharon was a commander in the Israeli Army from its creation in 1948.Nicknamed ‗The Bulldozer‘, the veteran soldier fought in all of Israel‘s major wars before beginning a turbulent political career in 1973.
D)VISITORS
Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Visited India Bhutan King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck Visited India from 6 – 10 January 2014. During his visit , Bhutan King held extensive talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in New Delhi. The two leaders exchanged views on bilateral relations and on regional and international issues of mutual interest. The prime minister and other Indian leaders reiterated their full commitment and support to Bhutan‘s socio-economic development and to further development of Bhutan‘s hydropower resources. This is King Wangchuck‘s second visit in 12 months. He was also the chief guest at India‘s Republic Day celebrations in January 2013.
E)MISCELLANEOUS
Sachin Tendulkar 5th Most Admired Person In The World Microsoft founder Bill Gates has been named as the most admired person on the planet with cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar fifth on a list of 30 people compiled after a poll in 13 countries, including India.The ‗World‘s most admired people poll‘ was conducted by YouGov for The Times by surveying almost 14,000 people.
PLACES IN NEWS
Odisha‟s Chilika Lagoon Named Destination Flyways By UNWTO Chilika lagoon in Odisha was named Destination Flyways by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) on 21 January .The lagoon was named so for its sustainable and resilient destination for migratory birds. Chilika is the only site to be selected from Asia by the UNWTO and was included in a list of eight such sites. The Destination Flyways initiative of UNWTO aims at promotion of sustainable tourism.
ABBREVIATIONS
GPS – Global Positioning System
TCS – Tata Consultancy Services
NASSCOM – National Association of Software and Services Companies
GSLV – Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle
FSLRC – Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission
NBFC – Non Banking Finance Companies
BOOKS IN NEWS
“ Incredible Opportunities Back Home ” Book Released The Prime Minister Manmohan Singh released the book entitled ―Incredible Opportunities Back Home‖ on 8 January during the 12th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in New Delhi .This book will provide access to credible information, essential for meaningful engagement.
COMMITTEES
Nachiket Mor Committee‟s Report on Financial Inclusion The committee constituted by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI‘s) on 23 September 2013 to suggest steps for promoting financial inclusion headed by veteran banker and ex-ICICI Bank executive director Nachiket Mor. The committee on 7 January 2014 suggested setting up of specialised banks to cater to low income households to ensure that all citizens have bank accounts by January 1, 2016.
IMPORTANT DAYS AND DATES
“World Braille Day” was Observed on 4th January ―World Braille Day‖ is celebrated today (4th January) across the world to observe the Birthday of Louis Braille. Louis Braille, born in 1809, was the inventor of braille, a system of reading and writing used by people who are blind or visually impaired. Braille became blind after an accident at the age of three. He created a language based on the patterns of raised dots on paper, which could be felt and one can read anything that is unable to see. He did this to have an access to works of literature.
National Girl Child Day Observed on 24 January National Girl Child Day observed on 24 January 2014 across India by the Government. This day is observed every year to raise awareness and consciousness of the society towards girl children. The day is being observed every year on 24 January since 2008. Government of India has started National Girl Child Day as a national girl‘s development mission. The mission raises the awareness among people all over the country about the importance of girls‘ promotion. It helps in enhancing girls‘ meaningful contribution in decision making processes by active support of the parents and the community members. February 2014 Current Affairs Study Material
INTERNATIONAL
Libya Destroyed All Chemical Weapons Libya has completely destroyed the chemical arsenal it inherited from Moamer Kadhafi, 10 years after the now slain dictator signed the Chemical Weapons Convention, Foreign Minister Mohamed Abdelaziz announced on 5 February.Now the Libya has become totally free of usable chemical weapons that might present a potential threat to the security of local communities, the environment and neighbouring areas.
Matteo Renzi Named new Italian Prime Minister The leader of Italy‘s centre-left Democratic Party (PD), Matteo Renzi, was appointed as the country‘s new prime minister on 17 February. Renzi, who at 39 would be the country‘s youngest-ever prime minister, was summoned by Italian President Giorgio Napolitano at Quirinale presidential palace and given a mandate to try to form a new cabinet after the resignation of Enrico Letta as prime minister on 14 February.
Ugandan President Signed Anti Gay Law Uganda‘s President Yoweri-Museveni has signed a controversial anti-gay bill on 24 February that allows harsh penalties for homosexual offences, calling them mercenaries and prostitutes.Yoweri Museveni signed the bill, which holds that homosexuals be jailed for long terms, outlaws the promotion of homosexuality and requires people to denounce gays.
Arseniy Yatsenyuk Elected As Ukrain Interim PM The Ukrainian parliament has on 27 February elected former opposition leader Arseniy Yatsenyuk as the country‘s Interim Prime Minister.He was backed by 371 of 417 participating deputies in the Parliament.
INDIA & WORLD
India and Germany Signed Two Agreements On Financial and Technical Co-operation India and Germany have signed two umbrella agreements for financial and technical co-operation under Indo German bilateral Development Cooperation framework.The Umbrella Agreements were signed by Finance Minister P Chidambaram and German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development Gerd Mueller during their bilateral meeting on 5 February in New Delhi.
India and China Held 17th Round Of Border Talks India and China held their 17th round of border talks on 10 – 11 February 2014 .Special representatives – National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon and Chinese State Councillor and top diplomat Yang Jiechi – met in New Delhi on 10 February and 11 February for talks on the boundary question.The talks between both sides have crossed the first stage – on agreeing to settlement of the boundary question. The second stage talks – on the framework for resolution of the boundary question – has been continuing for the past eight years.
India and Canada Signed Three MoUs India and Canada have signed three MoUs for cooperation in health sector, audio-visual co- production and skill development.The MoUs were signed after talks between Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and Govenor General of Canada David Johnston in New Delhi on 24 February.
India and Israel Signed Homeland Security Agreement India and Israel have on 27 February signed a slew of agreements on cooperation in legal assistance and public and homeland security.These agreements were signed by Additional Secretary (Home Ministry) Rajiv Sharma and Israeli Ambassador Alon Ushpiz.
NATIONAL
Union Cabinet Approved National Policy On Agroforestry The Union Cabinet on 6 February approved National Policy to promote Agroforestry by facilitating credit and insurance to farmers, besides strengthening market access.The national policy assumes importance as the sector is currently affected by adverse policies, legal constraints, inadequate investments, weak markets and a dearth of institutional finance.
„ Maulana Azad Taleem-e-Balighan‟ Scheme Launched Minister of State for HRD, Dr Shashi Tharoor on 18 February launched ‗Maulana Azad Taleem-e- Balighan‘ under Sakshar Bharat at New Delhi.The programme aims to impart functional literacy, vocational skill development and continuing education to one crore Muslim adults with an outlay of Rs 600 crore.
CCEA approved Green India Mission The National Mission for Green India has received approval from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on 20 February as a Centrally-sponsored scheme.The project, which has a planned investment of about Rs.13,000 crore during the 12th Plan Period.
Parliament Passed Whistleblower Protection Bill Whistleblower Protection Bill was passed by Parliament on 21 February.The bill aims to provide a regular mechanism to encourage persons to disclose information on corruption or willful misuse of power by public servants and ministers.The bill was passed by Lok Sabha in 2011 and was taken up by the Upper House in 2012 for consideration.
STATES
India‟s First Monorail Service Inaugurated In Mumbai India‘s first monorail service was inaugurated by the Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj chavan on 1 February in Mumbai.The monorail service that will link the city to major stations will begin its first phase of 8.93 km between Wadala and Chembur in the eastern fringes of the Commercial Capital.
Odisha Lokayukta Bill 2014 Passed In Assembly Odisha Legislative Assembly on 14 February passed the Odisha Lokayukta Bill 2014, with provision of keeping Chief Minister, ex-Chief Ministers, other ministers and public servants under the purview of a six-member anti-corruption panel. The Bill has provisions similar to that of the Central Act which was passed in Parliament in December, 2013.
President‟s Rule Imposed in Delhi President Pranab Mukherjee has imposed President‘s rule in Delhi and accepted the Arvind Kejriwal government‘s resignation.This information was on 17 February published in a press release by Lt Governor Najeeb Jung‘s office.With this imposition of the President Rule, the Delhi Assembly will be kept under suspended animation. Chhattisgarh Government To Set Up A Law Commission Raman Singh, the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh on 25 February announced that a new Law Commission will be set-up in the state to suggest changes in laws as per the geographical and social requirements of the state. This announcement was made in the state Assembly.
CONFERENCES
101st Session of Indian Science Congress 101st Session of Indian Science Congress (ISC) held at Jammu University, Jammu from 3-7 February 2014. The theme of ISC 2014 is ―Innovations in Science and Technology for Inclusive Development‖. Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh inaugurated the session on 3 February.This was the tenth time Manmohan Singh had the privilege to address the inaugural address at the Indian Science Congress.
AWARDS & HONOURS
Sachin Tendulkar and CNR Rao Received Bharat Ratna Renowned scientist C.N.R. Rao and former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar were on 4 February conferred the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award of the country for exceptional contribution in any field of human endeavour.The award was presented by President Pranab Mukherjee at a brief ceremony in the historic Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Malala Nominated For „Children‟s Nobel Prize‟ Pakistani teenage rights activist Malala Yousafzai is among three persons nominated for an award known as the ―Children‘s Nobel Prize‖.Malala Yousafzai has been nominated for the 2014 World‘s Children‘s Prize with John Wood from the US and Nepalese child rights worker Indira Ranamagar.
VV Dongre and Guocheng Zhang Won International Gandhi Award 2013 Pranab Mukherjee, the President of India on 15 February presented the International Gandhi Award for the year 2013 to Dr. Vijaykumar Vinayak Dongre (VV Dongre) and Prof. Guocheng Zhang at Rashtrapati Bhawan, New Delhi. They were awarded for making outstanding contributions in the field of leprosy to eradicate the disease through treatment, training and research.
Sikkim Won National Tourism Award 2012-13 Sikkim has been declared as best state in the country in implementation of Rural Tourism Projects by Ministry of Tourism Govt of India .Union Minister for Human Resource Development Dr. Shashi Tharoor,presented the National Tourism Award 2012-13 to Sikkim tourism minister Sh Bhim Dhungel in a function at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on 18 February.
SPORTS & GAMES
Vijay Amritraj Honoured with Davis Cup Commitment Award Vijay Amritraj, a former Indian tennis player was on 1 February presented the Davis Cup Commitment Award .Previously Four Indian tennis icons — Ramanathan Krishnan, Ramesh Krishnan, Anand Amritraj and Mahesh Bhupathi — were honoured with the Davis Cup Commitment awards.The award was instituted by the International Tennis Federation (ITF). Joshna Chinappa Won Winnipeg Open Title India‘s Squash player Joshna Chinappa won the Winnipeg Winter Club Open trophy on 3 February. She defeated Heba El Torky of Egypt in the final.The triumph of Chinappa marked the second consecutive year of an Indian winning the trophy with Dipika Pallikal being the first to clinch it before her in 2013.
Deepika Kumari Named FICCI „ Sportsperson Of The Year „ India‘s top archer Deepika Kumari was on 13 February named the ‗ Sportsperson of the Year ‗ at the India Sports Awards, presented by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). Former India captain Rahul Dravid was conferred with the Lifetime Achievement award. P.V Sindhu, bronze medallist at the badminton World Championships, was named the ‗ Breakthrough Sportsperson of the Year ‗, while cricketer Yuvraj Singh was named the ‗ Most Inspiring Sportsperson of the Year ‗.
Delhi Waveriders Won Hockey India League Title Delhi Waveriders defeated Jaypee Punjab Warriors in the penalty shoot-out to emerge as the champions in the second edition of Hero Hockey India League (HIL) at the packed Astroturf Hockey Stadium at Ranchi on 23 February.
Somdev Devvarman Won Delhi Open ATP Challenger Title India‘s Somdev Devvarman won his third ATP Challengers title as he defeated Aleksandr Nedovyesov of Russia in the Delhi Open ATP Challenger Men‘s singles final on 23 February at New Delhi .Somdev last won a Challenger level title in 2010 at the Izmir event in Turkey.
ECONOMY
Rajasthan Bans FDI in Multi-brand Retail Rajasthan on 1 February cancelled its approval for the foreign direct investment in multi-brand retailing.The approval was given earlier by the previous Congress state government led by former Chief Minister, Ashok Gehlot.With this decision of cancelling the approval over FDI made Rajasthan the second state after Delhi to withdraw approval for FDI in multi-brand retail.
Indian Economy To Grow At 4.9 Percent In 2013-14 Central Statistics Office (CSO) in its release on 7 February estimated that India‘s economic growth in the current (2013-14) fiscal will be 4.9 percent as compared to the growth rate of 4.5 percent in 2012- 13.The country‘s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) at factor cost at constant (2004-05) prices in 2013- 14 is likely to be Rs.57.5 lakh crore as compared to Rs.54.8 lakh crore in the previous year, registering year-on-year increase of 4.9 percent.
Tata Group India‟s Most Valuable Brand According to the list released on 18 February of world‘s 500 most valued brand, Brand Finance Global 500 , Tata group was declared India‘s most valuable brand with a value of US$ 21.1 billion, while US- based technology giant Apple has retained its top position globally with about US$ 105 billion.Apple is followed by Samsung (US$ 79 billion) at second place globally.Tata has retained its top place among Indian brands and its global ranking has also improved from 39th in 2013 to 34th now.
India‟s First Post Office Savings Bank ATM Inaugurated In Chennai Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram on 27 February inaugurated the country‘s first post office savings bank ATM at the Head Post Office in Thyagaraya Nagar in Chennai.The ATM was part of an Information Technology (IT) modernisation project of the Department of Posts.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY BrahMos Missile Successfully Test Fired In Salvo Mode The 290km-range BrahMos supersonic cruise missile was successfully fired on 6 February from a naval warship INS Trikand in salvo mode in the Arabian Sea.For the first time, the BrahMos cruise missile was fired in salvo mode off the Russian-built warship off the coast of Karnataka with an interval of three seconds off the coast of Goa.
Australian Astronomers Discovered Oldest Known Star In Universe A team of scientists at the Australian National University has on 11 February discovered the oldest known star in the Universe.The star known as SMSS J031300.36-670839.3, is in the Milky Way galaxy and some 6000 light years from the Earth. The star was formed shortly after the Big Bang 13.7 billion years ago.The star was discovered using the ANU SkyMapper telescope at the Siding Spring Observatory.
Indian-origin Boy Shubham Banerjee Invents Braille Printer Using Lego Set A 12-year-old boy of Indian Origin Shubham Banerjee has on 23 February designed a low-cost Braille printer using toy construction Lego pieces.Banerjee developed the Braille printer called Braigo, which is short for Braille with Lego.It was created from the Lego Mindstorms EV3 set, which retails for USD 349.
India Successfully Test Fired „ Akash „ Missile India on 26 February successfully test-fired its Akash medium-range surface-to-air missile from a defence base in Odisha, for the third time. Akash was earlier successfully tested from the same defence base on 21st and 24th February 2014. The indigenously-developed missile, with a 27-km range and an effective ceiling of 15 km, was test-fired from the Integrated Test Range of Chandipur in the coastal district of Balasore, 230 km from Bhubaneswar.
PERSONS IN NEWS
A) APPOINTMENTS
N. Ramachandran Elected IOA president World Squash Federation (WSF) chief N. Ramachandran was elected unopposed as the president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on 9 February.Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) president Rajeev Mehta and All India Tennis Association (AITA) president Anil Khanna were also elected unopposed respectively as the secretary general and treasurer.
R.K.Tiwari Appointed as new Chairman of CBDT R.K.Tiwari has been appointed as the as the new chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) on 9 February.He will succeed Chairperson Sudha Sharma who is scheduled to retire on 28 February 2014.Tiwari is a 1976-batch Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer. He is currently working as the Member of Legislation and Computerisation Department in the CBDT.
B)RESIGNS
Jammu and Kashmir Minister Shabir Ahmad Khan Resigned Jammu and Kashmir Minister of State for Health Shabir Ahmad Khan on 7 February resigned as Minister from the Omar Abdullah‘s cabinet in an alleged molestation case while the Governor N N Vohra has accepted the resignation.
C)DEATHS
Noted Hindi Writer Amar Kant Died Noted Hindi writer and Jnanpith Award winner Amar Kant died on 17 February .Kant‘s prominent novels are ‗Inhin Hathiyaron Se, Katili Raah ke Phool, Sookha Patta, Kale Ujle and ‗Beech ki Deewar‘.He received several awards, including Jnanpith award in 2009, Sahitya Acdemy Award in 2007, Uttar Pradesh Hindi Sansthan Award, Maithli Sharan Gupta Award, ‗Amarkant Keerti Samman‘ from Madhya Pradesh government among others.
D)VISITORS
Bahrain‟s King Hamad Al Khalifa Visited India The King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa visited India from 18 – 20 February 2014.During his three day visit, King Hamad met Indian President Pranab Mukherjee , Vice-president Hamid Ansari and held delegation-level discussions with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on bilateral, regional and global issues. After delegation-level talks between the two leaders , both nations signed three agreements to boost bilateral ties between the two countries.
E)MISCELLANEOUS
Indra Nooyi and Chanda Kochhar In Fortune‟s Most Powerful Businesswomen List PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi and ICICI Bank Managing Director Chanda Kochhar are among Fortune magazine‘s list of ‗50 most powerful women in business: Global edition‘.The list, which was released on 7 February, has been topped by General Motors CEO Mary Barra, the first woman to run a global automaker.
PLACES IN NEWS
Delhi Ranked 22nd In Global Fashion Capital List New York has topped the list of global fashion capitals leaving Paris and London behind. In an annual ranking survey report by Global Language Monitor (GLM) released on 19 February, Delhi stands at the 22th spot and Mumbai at 45th.
ABBREVIATIONS
ASEAN —- Association of South East Asian Nations
NAFDAC —– National Agency for Food & Drug Administration and Control
IAEA —— International Atomic Energy Agency
BCSBI —— Banking Codes and Standards Board of India
TARC —— Tax Administration Reform Commission
CBDT —— Central Board of Direct Taxes
BOOKS IN NEWS Penguin Decided To withdraw a Book entitled „ The Hindus: An Alternative History „ Penguin India, the publisher of book entitled ‖ The Hindus: An Alternative History ‖ on 11 February agreed to withdraw the book from the Indian market. This book is written by Wendy Doniger, an American Scholar and Indologist. The decision was made by the publisher following a legal wrangle against it.The decision was made between the publisher and Delhi based complainant organisation called Shiksha Bachao Andolan, who moved to court alleging distortion aimed at denigrating Hindu traditions. The organisation has found that the book is insulting Hindus.
COMMITTEES
Bimal Jalan Committee On Bank Licences Submits Recommendations To RBI The Bimal Jalan committee which is scrutinising applications for new bank licences submitted its report to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 25 February.The committee led by former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Dr Jalan held its third and final meeting before submitting its recommendations to the central bank.
IMPORTANT DAYS AND DATES
International Mother Language Day Observed Across The World International Mother Language Day (Bhasha Divas) was observed across the world, with Bangladesh leading on 21 February 2014. This day is observed with an aim to promote awareness of linguistic, multilingualism and cultural diversity.International Mother Language Day was announced by UNESCO on 17 November 1999 and was formally recognised by the United Nations General Assembly in its resolution establishing 2008 as the International Year of Languages.
National Science Day Observed Across India On 28 February India on 28 February 2014 observed National Science Day to mark the discovery of the Raman Effect by Indian physicist Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman (CV Raman).In 2014, the theme of the day is Fostering Scientific Temper and Energy conservation. This day is celebrated every year on this day to spread a message about the significance of scientific applications in the daily life of the people.The National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC) in 1986 asked the Government of India to designate 28 February as National Day. March 2014 Current Affairs Study Material
INTERNATIONAL
World Bank Pledges $3Bln Loan To Ukraine For Reforms The World Bank announced on 11 March that it will provide up to $3 billion to support reforms in Ukraine, which is struggling to put its economy back on track amid political turbulence.The lender explained that restoring economic stability, strengthening the banking sector, reforming the energy sector, tackling corruption, enhancing investment and improving social assistance were key priorities for Ukraine.The pledged assistance comes on top of existing cooperation between Ukraine and the bank.
Sanchez Ceren Elected As El Salvador‟s President Former leftist rebel commander Salvador Sanchez Ceren has won El Salvador‘s presidential election by a razor-thin margin. His conservative opponent, Norman Quijano, has vowed to challenge the official results.The El Salvador‘s Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) on 17 March 2014 officially declared Sanchez Ceren the winner of the Central American nation‘s presidential election by a margin of just 7,000 votes. He secured 50.1 percent of the ballot compared to 49.9 percent for Quijano.
Russia Recognizes Crimea As A Sovereign State President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on 17 March recognizing Crimea as a sovereign state after the Ukrainian region declared itself independent and applied to join Russia following a weekend referendum .The decree posted on the Kremlin‘s website appeared to be a first step toward integrating Crimea as a part of the Russian Federation.G-8 nations (Group of the eight Countries) on 18 March 2014 suspended Russia from elite club of world powers. It has been suspended amid heightened tensions over its incursion in Crimea of Ukraine.
EU signed Landmark Political Deal with Ukraine The European Union and Ukraine signed the core elements of a political association agreement on 21 March 2014.Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseny Yatseniuk, EU leaders Herman Van Rompuy and Jose Manuel Barroso, and the leaders of the bloc‘s 28 nations signed the core chapters of the Association Agreement on the sidelines of an EU summit in Brussels.
INDIA & WORLD
USAID To Provide USD 2.7 million For Clean Energy To India Nisha Desai Biswal, US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, on 4 March announced that the United States Agency for International Aid (USAID) will provide USD 2.7 million for increasing clean energy access to India. USAID awarded a USD 200,000 grant for SELCO Foundation to help establish six innovation labs that will develop and test sustainable energy solutions. The agency is also supporting a USD 2.5 million loan guarantee to Orb Energy, a clean energy service provider.
China And India Signed Agreement For Greater Cooperation In IT And Software India and China have signed an agreement to work together in software, information technology and infrastructure.The agreement was signed during the Strategic and Economic Dialogue in Beijing on 18 March.
India Abstains From Voting Against Sri Lanka at UNHRC India on 27 March abstained from voting on the US-backed resolution seeking probe into Sri Lankan war crimes at the UN Human Rights Council. Even as India refrained from voting against its neighbour, the resolution was passed with the support of 23 nations.
India Officially Declared „ Polio Free ‟ India was officially declared ‗Polio Free‘ by the World Health Organisation (WHO). India is one of the 11 countries in the South East Asian region which have been certified as being free of the wild polio virus.The Union Health Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad received the official certificate at a function in New Delhi on 27 March.
NATIONAL
Union Cabinet Cleared Reservation For Jats Under OBC category The Union Cabinet on 2 March cleared reservation for Jat community under the central list of OBC (other backward castes quota) category in nine northern states.The decision would pave the way for the community members to avail benefits of reservation in central government jobs and central education institutions as per the existing norms. Union Ministry of Minority Affairs Launched Maulana Azad Sehat Scheme Union Ministry of Minority Affairs launched a new initiative Maulana Azad Sehat Scheme on 4 March for the benefits and welfare of minorities of India.Under the scheme, Sehat Card will be issued to every student of the Institution financially aided by Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF).
EC creates Intelligence Grid To Curb Black Money In Polls The Election Commission has on 11 March created a multi-agency grid of revenue and security intelligence agencies to regularly update it about suspected financial movements as part of measures to curb use of blackmoney in Lok Sabha and assembly polls.
STATES
Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor Launched In UP The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Uttar Pradesh Government launched the Delhi- Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh on 2 March.With the launch of DMIC in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh is poised to go through a transformation in terms of industrialisation and generation of employment. This is because Uttar Pradesh is the meeting point of the Eastern and the Western Corridors.
Kerala Govt. Launched „ Dial a Doctor „ Project Kerala government on 3 March launched a novel scheme ‖ Dial a doctor‖ which will enable the public to seek health-related advice over phone round-the-clock from doctors by dialling a toll-free number.Under the programme, a person can dial 1056 and avail the advice of doctors especially regarding first aid, vaccination and health problems.
GVK‟s Srinagar Hydel Power Plant Inaugurated Akhilesh Yadav, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh on 4 March inaugurated the Srinagar hydroelectric power project of GVK Power & Infrastructure, in Uttarakhand.The project, with 330 MW capacity, has been developed across river Alaknanda in the Tehri Garhwal and Pauri Garhwal districts of Uttarakhand. The company has invested Rs 4,192 crore in the project.Of the total power generated from the project, 88 per cent will go to Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation (UPPCL), as per the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). The remaining 12 per cent is expected to be allotted to the government of Uttarakhand free of cost.
Arunachal Pradesh Assembly Passed Lokayukta Bill – 2014 The Arunachal Pradesh Assembly on 5 March passed the Lokayukta Bill – 2014 by voice vote after a long discussion, paving the way for constitution of Lokayukta on the lines of the Central Act, with the provision of keeping the Chief Minister, other Ministers, MLAs, heads of Panchayats and Municipalities, Trusts and public servants under the purview of a six-member anti-corruption panel.
CONFERENCES
Third BIMSTEC summit 2014 Held In Myanmar The Third BIMSTEC (Bay of Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical Economic Cooperation ) summit was held from 1 – 4 March 2014 in Nay Pyi Taw, capital of Myanmar.The Summit was attended by leaders of the BIMSTEC Member Countries, namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Special Envoy from Thailand.The Summit issued a five-page declaration, seeking cooperation and collaboration among themselves in the sectors of trade, energy, health, climate change among others.The declaration has noted that the Summit decided to move forward towards finalisation of the draft Agreement on Trade in Goods with agreed General Rules of Origin and Product Specific Rules.
AWARDS & HONOURS
86th Annual Academy Oscar Awards 2014 The 86th Annual Academy Oscar Awards 2014, presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), honored the actors, technical achievements, and films of 2013 and took place on 2 March 2014, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles. List of Winners at 86th annual Academy Awards :- Best Picture :- ―12 Years a Slave.‖ Best Actor :- Matthew McConaughey, ―Dallas Buyers Club.‖ Best Actress :- Cate Blanchett, ―Blue Jasmine.‖ Best Supporting Actor :- Jared Leto, ―Dallas Buyers Club.‖ Best Supporting Actress :- Lupita Nyong‘o, ―12 Years a Slave.‖ Best Directing :- Alfonso Cuaron, ―Gravity.‖ Best Foreign Language Film :- ―The Great Beauty,‖ Italy. Best Adapted Screenplay :- John Ridley, ―12 Years a Slave.‖ Best Original Screenplay :- Spike Jonze, ―Her.‖ Best Animated Feature Film :- ―Frozen.‖ Production Design :- ―The Great Gatsby.‖ Best Cinematography :- ―Gravity.‖ Best Sound Mixing :- ―Gravity.‖ Best Sound Editing :- ―Gravity.‖ Best Original Score :- ―Gravity,‖ Steven Price. Best Original Song :- ―Let It Go‖ from ―Frozen.‖ Best Costume :- ―The Great Gatsby.‖ Best Makeup and Hairstyling :- ―Dallas Buyers Club.‖ Best Animated Short Film :- ―Mr. Hublot.‖ Best Documentary Feature :- ―20 Feet from Stardom.‖ Best Documentary (short subject) :- ―The Lady in Number 6: Music Saved My Life.‖ Best Film Editing :- ―Gravity.‖ Best Live Action Short Film :- ―Helium.‖ Best Visual Effects :- ―Gravity.‖
Indian Author Pankaj Mishra Won Windham Campbell Literature Prize Award-winning Indian author Pankaj Mishra is among eight writers from seven countries who have won a $1,50,000 Yale University prize each in recognition of their literary achievements.Essayist and novelist Mishra has been selected on 9 March for the prestigious Windham Campbell Literature prize in the non-fiction category.
German Honours Three Indians with Cross of the Order of Merit Germany has conferred three Indians with its ‗Cross of the Order of Merit‘ award for their contribution in strengthening Indo-German relations over the past decades.The awards were bestowed on Anand Singh Bawa, Kalyan Sachdev and Syed Hasnain by German Ambassador Michael Steiner in New Delhi at a function on 11 March.
Tomas Halik Won 2014 Templeton Prize Tomas Halik, a Roman Catholic priest and philosopher, onetime Czech political activist and an advocate for religious freedom and interfaith dialogue, won the 2014 Templeton Prize on 13 March for religious and spiritual progress.The prize, valued at about $1.8 million, is one of the largest awards given annually to a single individual. Founded in 1972.
SPORTS & GAMES Mexican Open Tennis Tournament Winners – 2014 Women‟s Singles :- Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia won the Mexican Open Tennis tournament Women‘s Singles title.She defeated American Christina McHale in the final at Mexico on 1 March. It was her fourth career title and first since Stanford in 2013. Men‟s Singles :- Bulgaria‘s Grigor Dimitrov won the Men‘s Singles title after defeated South African Kevin Anderson in the final.
South Africa Captain Graeme Smith Announced Retirement South African captain Graeme Smith has announced on 4 March that he will retire from international cricket . Smith is the longest serving captain for South Africa in international cricket. He has played 117 test matches as an opener of which 109 was as a captain too. His total 109 test captaincies is 16 more than the previous record held by Allan Border of Australia.
Pankaj Advani Won National Snooker Title World champion Pankaj Advani (PSPB) won his sixth Men‘s National Snooker title after defeated Kamal Chawla of Railways in the 81st national snooker championship, in Lucknow on 7 March.This was Advani‘s overall 24th national snooker title.
Mizoram Won Santosh Trophy – 2014 Mizoram won the 68th edition of National Football Championship of Santosh Trophy after defeated Railways 3-0 in the final on 9 March in Siliguri, West Bengal.This is the maiden Santosh Trophy for Mizoram also this was the first appearance for them in the final match.
Nico Rosberg Won Australian Grand Prix Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg of Germany won the Australian Grand Prix on 16 March at Melbourne in Australia.Kevin Magnussen of Denmark (McLaren) was declared second after Red Bull‘s Daniel Ricciardo was disqualified after finishing second in the race. Ricciardo was disqualified for breach of fuel regulations. Jenson Button of Great Britain also representing McLaren finished the podium with third place.
ECONOMY
Mukesh Tops List of India‟s 70 Billionaires According to China-based research firm Hurun‘s 2014 global rich list released on 3 March, India is home to the fifth largest group of billionaires in the world and Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries , is the country‘s richest man with a personal fortune of $18 billion.Mukesh Ambani was ranked 41st in the list that was topped by Bill Gates, whose personal networth stood at a whopping $68 billion.In the global rich list, Bill Gates was followed by Berkshire Hathaway‘s Warren Buffett (2nd) with a personal wealth of $64 billion .
Bill Gates Tops Forbes Billionaire List Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has regained the title of the world‘s richest man in the Forbes magazine‘s annual billionaire list released on 3 March that includes 56 India based billionaires led by RIL chairman Mukesh Ambani.With a net worth of $76 billion, Bill Gates reclaimed the top spot after a four-year hiatus, toppling Mexico‘s telecommunications mogul Carlos Slim Helu, who placed second at $72 billion.With a networth of $18.6 billion, Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) chief Mukesh Ambani leads the pack of 56 billionaires based in India featured on the list.
India To Have 4th Highest Number Of Billionaires By 2023 According to the 2014 Wealth Report , an annual global perspective on prime property and wealth by property management firm Knight Frank released on 6 March, India is projected to be home to the fourth highest number of billionaires in the world by 2023.As per the report, projected that the number of billionaires in India will grow by an exponential 98 per cent to 119 in the year 2023 from 60 billionaires last year.India will rank fourth after US, China and Russia in 2023 and will have more billionaires than the UK, Germany and France. SBI Launches „ SBIePay „ To Facilitate Electronic Transactions State Bank of India (SBI), the largest bank in the country has on 13 March launched ‗ SBIePay ‗ a payment aggregator service to facilitate electronic (e-commerce /m-commerce) transactions between merchants, customers and various financial institutions in the country. India‘s largest lender is the first bank in India to start its own online aggregator services.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Indian Navy Inducted Offshore Patrol Vessel „ INS Sumedha „ The Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel ‗ INS Sumedha ‗ was formally commissioned into the Indian Navy at Goa on 7 March .Sumedha is the third ship of the indigenous Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV) Project to be inducted into the Indian Navy.The ship has been designed and built by Goa Shipyard Limited.
Astronomers Discovered Hypergiant Star 1300 Times The Size of Our Sun In the month of March 2014 A hypergaint star which is 1300 times wider than wider than the sun has discovered. This is the biggest yellow star ever spotted. It is named as HR 5171. This star is 12,000 light years away. The star was studied by a team lead by Oliver Chesneau of the Cote d‘Azur Observatory in Nice, France with the Very Large Telescope in Atacama, Chile. This star can be about one million times brighter than the Sun.
Ludhian and Kanpur Among World‟s Top 10 Most Polluted Cities According to a 2011 World Health Organisation (WHO) report on World‘ Most Polluted Cities, released on 17 March, Ludhiana and Kanpur are among the 10 most polluted cities in the world.Ludhiana made it to the fourth position along with Quetta in Pakistan.Kanpur made it to the ninth position. The most polluted city in the world was Ahvaz in Iran.
India Successfully Tested Nuclear Capable Prithvi-II Missile India successfully test-fired its nuclear-capable Prithvi-II surface-to-surface missile from a military base in Odisha on 28 March.The indigenously-developed ballistic missile with a maximum range of 350 km was fired from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in Balasore district, about 230 km from Bhubaneswar.The Strategic Forces Command (SFC) of the Indian Army conducted the test as part of a regular training exercise.Prithvi is India‘s first indigenously-built ballistic missile.
PERSONS IN NEWS
A) APPOINTMENTS
Sheila Dikshit Sworn In As Kerala Governor Veteran Congress leader and former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit was sworn in as Kerala Governor on 11 March. Kerala High Court Chief Justice Manjula Chellur administered the oath of office. She was appointed as the 22nd Governor of Kerala on 4 March. She has succeeded Nikhil Kumar, who in the past has served as the Police Chief of Delhi. Her appointment to the post came following resignation of Nikhil Kumar. Dikshit has served Delhi three times, as its Chief Minister from 1998 to 2013.She had represented the Kannauj Parliamentary Constituency of Uttar Pradesh during 1984 to 1989.
Former SC Judge Srikrishna Appointed as FPSB chairman Justice (Retd.) BN Srikrishna has been appointed as the Chairman of Financial Planning Standards Board India (FPSB) on 11 March. He takes over from Dhirendra Swarup, who was the chairman of the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA). B)RESIGNS
Nandan Nilekani Resigned as UIDAI chairman Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani resigned as Chairman of Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on 13 March. Nilekani joined the Congress Party on 10 March 2014 and he is contesting from the Bangalore South constituency in Lok Sabha polls. After his exit as CEO of Bangalore headquartered Infosys in 2007, Nilekani had taken charge as head of UIDAI, Aadhar programme.
C)DEATHS
Noted Indian Author Khushwant Singh Died Noted English author and journalist Khushwant Singh died on 20 March in New Delhi at the age of 99. He was the founder-editor of Yojana and editor of the Illustrated Weekly of India, the National Herald and the Hindustan Times. Khushwant Singh was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1974 but returned it in 1984 to protest the storming of the Golden Temple in Amritsar by the Indian Army. In 2007, he was awarded the Padma Vibhushan, the second highest Indian recognition.
D)VISITORS
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Visited Myanmar Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh visited Myanmar on 3 – 4 March 2014. During his two day visit, Manmohan Sing attended the third BIMSTEC summit in Nay Pyi-Taw, the capital of Myanmar. In the visit, Myanmar President U Thein Sein met with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the president office, agreeing further cooperation between the two countries.
E)MISCELLANEOUS
14 Indians In WEF‟s Young Global Leaders Class of 2014 World Economic Forum (WEF) on 11 March released Young Global Leader‘s 2014 list .The WEF recognised 214 Young Global Leaders (YGLs). Among them 109 are woman who were recognised for leadership and service to society.There were 17 young global leaders in South Asia, out of which 14 were from India.
PLACES IN NEWS
Tata HQ Becomes First Heritage Building To Get Gold Rating Bombay House, the Headquarters of the Tata group in Mumbai, has become India‘s first heritage building to get ―gold‖ rating by Indian Green Building Council(IGBC) on 3 March . Built in 1923, Bombay House has been given the rating for implementing measures for energy savings of over 20 per cent, use of renewable energy, occupant well being and comfort, use of car pools and public transport, and contribution to the maintenance of neighbouring areas.
ABBREVIATIONS
APEDA ——- Agricultural and Processed Food Products Exports Development Authority
BIMSTEC —– Bay of Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical Economic Cooperation
ECOWAS —— Economic Community of West African States FIFA ———– Federation Internationale de Football Association
CSIR ———- Council of Scientific and Industrial Research
BOOKS IN NEWS
Jaswant Singh Released His Book „ India at Risk „ Jaswant Singh, Former Minister in the NDA government on 3 March released a book entitled ‖ India at Risk ‖ – Mistakes Misconceptions and Misadventures of security policy. In his book, he had discussed the issues, the conflicts and the consequences of the security related policy of India.
COMMITTEES
Shyamala Gopinath Committee Recommendations The Union Government on 4 March 2014 decided to hike interest rates on fixed deposit schemes offered by post offices by up to 0.2 %. The decision to hike interest rates is taken on the recommendations of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor Shyamala Gopinath Committee.As per the Shyamala Gopinath Committee‘s recommendations - The interest rate on fixed deposits for one and two years has been increased to 8.4% from the present 8.2%. Fixed deposits of three and five years will earn 0.1% higher rate at 8.4% and 8.5%. The rate on National Savings Scheme (NSC) with 5 and 10 year maturities also remain unchanged at 8.5 % and 8.8 %. The new interest rates on small savings schemes will come into effect from April 1, 2014.
IMPORTANT DAYS AND DATES
World Poetry Day Observed Across The World World Poetry Day was observed across the world on 21 March 2014. The day was observed to support linguistic diversity through poetic expression and to offer endangered languages the opportunity to be heard within their communities.The decision to observe 21 March as World Poetry Day was adopted at the 30th session of UNESCO held in Paris in 1999.
World Water Day Observed Across The World World Water Day was observed on 22 March 2014 with the theme Water and Energy to raise awareness of the inter-linkages between water and energy. World Water Day is observed to preserve and ration consumption of water.The United Nation is observed annually on 22 March to draw attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of fresh water resources.
UN observed International Day of Forest International Day of Forests was observed across the world on 21 March 2014. The theme of the International Forest Day was Celebrating Forests for Sustainable Development. April 2014 Current Affairs Study Material
INTERNATIONAL Karim Massimov Named as new Prime-Minister of Kazakhstan Kazakhstan President Nursultan Nazarbayev named his chief of staff Karim Massimov as the new prime minister on 2 April. His appointment came following the resignation of Serik Akhmetov from the post, which was accepted by the President as per the Constitutional provision.
Viktor Orban Re-elected As Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orban was re-elected to a third term as Prime Minister of Hungary .The results of general elections were announced on 8 April 2014. The General parliamentary elections were held on 6 April 2014.Out of the total votes casted, Orban‘s Fidesz party won 133 of 199 parliament seats.
China Recruits „ Guardian Angels ‟ To Protect Embattled Doctors China‘s capital Beijing is on 9 April taking a novel approach to protecting doctors from growing levels of violence from angry patients: volunteer ―Guardian Angels‖.The campaign will recruit students, medical workers and other patients to act as middlemen between doctors and those in their care to defuse disagreements and smooth over tensions.
Sale of HIV Self-Testing Kits Legalised In The UK A new law legalizing sale of self-testing kits for HIV came into force in United Kingdom (UK) on 6 April 2014. The new law allows individuals to buy the self-testing kits available on shops and self-diagnose for HIV at home itself.
INDIA & WORLD
Bangladesh To Provide Transit Facility For Indian Power Line Bangladesh on 3 April agreed to provide transit facility for a 6000 megawatt Indian power transmission line. This decision was taken in a joint steering committee meeting on India-Bangladesh power sector cooperation.
Canada Suspends Voluntary Commonwealth Funds Over Sri Lanka Issue The Government of Canada on 14 April announced that the country will suspend its voluntary funds to the Commonwealth Secretariat and reallocate the funds for the next two years.The Commonwealth of Nations is an intergovernmental organisation of 53 member states that were mostly territories of the former British Empire. The most populous Commonwealth country is India, with nearly 1.1 billion people.
India and Bhutan Signed Agreement For Developing Hydropower Projects India and Bhutan on 22 April signed an agreement for the development of joint hydropower projects in a bid to further strengthen their bilateral strategic partnership.The framework Inter-Governmental Agreement between Bhutan and India for the development of Joint Venture Hydropower Projects through the Public Sector Undertakings of the two governments was signed in Thimphu, capital of Bhutan.
Indian-Americans Form 3rd Largest Asian Population In US According to the report on demographics of the Asian-American population released on 24 April by the Center for American Progress, Indian-Americans numbering 3.34 million is the third largest Asian community in the United States, after China and Philippines.The Indian-American population shot up 76 per cent in the first 12 years of the 21st century.While the Chinese-Americans form the largest group of Asian-American population with 4.
NATIONAL Women To Be Inducted As Officers In SSB for First Time The Union Home Ministry on 13 April for the first time approved the recruitment of young women as combat officers in Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). Young women under and up to the age of 25 years will be recruited as direct entry officers in the rank of assistant commandants (ACs). SSB is the second largest border guarding force.
IMA appeals Doctors To Give 25 per cent Discount On Fees For Voters The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has on 11 April appealed to its 2.75 lac doctor-members across India to give 25 per cent discount in doctor‘s fees for one week to all patients who visit them with their fingers bearing the voting ink mark.
India Supreme Court Recognizes Transgender As Third Gender India‘s Supreme Court in a landmark judgment on 15 April 2014, created the ―third gender‖ status for transgenders. In its judgment the Apex Court claimed transgenders as socially and economically backward.The court also directed union & states government to adopt measures for bringing the community into the mainstream by providing adequate healthcare, education and employment.
Election Commission Launched Online Media Channel The Election Commission has launched on 17 April its own internet-based media arm called ‗ Voter Education Channel ‗ for voter awareness . Numerous video clips featuring iconic personalities urging citizens to vote have been uploaded on the channel and can be viewed on social media platform ‗YouTube‘.This is the official channel of the Election Commission of India.
STATES
Shompens of A & N islands Casted Votes For The First Time For Lok Sabha Shompens of Andaman & Nicobar (A&N) islands for the first time casted their votes in Great Nicobar on 10 April. Shompens – one of the stone-age tribes – casted the votes for the Lok Sabha constituency of Bay Islands for Lok Sabaha election 2014.
Mizoram Government Refused To Repatriate Bru Refugees Within 3 Months Mizoram Government on 12 April refused to repatriate all the Bru refugees lodged in six Tripura relief camps within three months.Earlier on 8 April 2014, the state government had agreed to the demand of the NGO Coordination Committee to repatriate the Bru refugees within three month. It agreed that they would repatriate all the Bru refugees after the end of the ongoing election process. The Bru Refugees also called Reang refugees are the original inhabitants of Mammit Sub-Division of Aizawl District of Mizoram. They started arriving in North Tripura‘s Kanchanpur sub division since 29 October 1997.
High Content of Manganese Detected In Selaulim Reservoir of Goa High content of manganese was detected by the State Public Works Department (PWD) in Selaulin reservoir of Goa on 19 April .The level of manganese detected in the reservoir was 0.1 mg. This is less than the level of manganese content detected earlier and is within safe limit.The reservoir has production capacity of 214 MLD of water, which is supplied to entire South Goa and some parts of North district.
Supreme Court Lifts Mining Ban In Goa The Supreme Court (SC) on 21 April lifted a 19 month old ban on mining in Goa.The iron ore mining will be restricted to 20 million tonnes annually.The ban was imposed in September 2012 as part of a drive to curb illegal mining in Goa.
CONFERENCES World Green Economy Summit-2014 Held In Dubai The World Green Economy Summit (WGES) -2014 was held in Dubai from 15th and 16th of April 2014. The theme of the summit was ‖ Global Partnership, Sustainable Future ‖ .The World Green Economy Summit (―WGES‖), the first Summit focused on green business in the region, concluded on 16 April , with a closing session which provided a platform for determining the way for Dubai to become capital of the world‘s green economy in line with the goals of the UAE‘s Vision 2021.
AWARDS & HONOURS
Veteran Film Lyricist and Director Gulzar Selected For Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2013 Veteran film lyricist, director, screen writer, producer and poet Gulzar has been conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2013. He is the 45th Dada Saheb Phalke Award Winner.The ministry of information and broadcasting announced on 12 April. The Dadsaheb Phalke award is India‘s highest award for an individual for their contribution towards Indian cinema. It is annually given by the Government of India.He was born in 1934 in Punjab in pre-independence India. Sampooran Singh Kalra was his original name and he took the pen name of ‗Gulzar Deenvi‘ after becoming an author.
61st National Film Awards The 61st National Film Awards for 2013 was announced in New Delhi on 16 April by the Directorate of Film Festivals.‘ Ship of Theseus ‗ directed by Anand Gandhi has won the Golden Lotus for Best Feature Film. The Best Actor award is shared between Shahid star Rajkummar Rao and Malayalam actor Suraj Venjaramudu. Geetanjali Thapa won Best Actress for Liar‘s Dice. Following is the listing of Winners for important Categories :- * Best Feature Film – ‗ Ship of Theseus ‘ (Anand Gandhi) * Best Director – Hansal Mehta for ‗ Shahid ‘ * Best Actor – Raj Kumar for ‗ Shahid ‗ in hindi and Suraj Venjaramoodu for ‗ Perariyathavar ‗ in Malyalam * Best Actress – Geetanjali Thapa for Hindi film ‗ Liar‘s Dice ‘ * Best Non Feature Film – ‗ Rangbhoomi ‘ (Hindi film by Kamal Swaroop) * Best Film on Social Issues – ‗ Tuhya Dharma Koncha ‘ (Marathi) * Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration – ‗ Thalaimuraigal ‘ (Tamil) * Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film – Nagraj Manjule for ‗ Fandry ‘ (Marathi) * Best Non Feature Film on Social Issues – ‗ Gulabi Gang ‘ * Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment – ― Bhaag Milka Bhaag ‘ (Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra)
Indian-American Rajendra Singh Named White House‟s Solar Champions Of Change Indian-American professor Rajendra Singh was on 18 April named by the White House as the ‗Solar Champions of Change‘ in recognition of his immense contribution towards developing alternate source of energy and promoting solar deployment in residential, commercial and industrial sectors.
Indian Activist Honoured with Goldman Environmental Prize – 2014 Indian environment activist Ramesh Agrawal has on 28 April won the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize 2014 for helping villagers fight coal mining in Chhattisgarh and success in shutting down one of the largest planned coal mines in the area.
SPORTS & GAMES
MS Dhoni Won United Kingdom‟s 2014 Asian Award Indian Cricket Captain MS Dhoni has won United Kingdom‘s 2014 Asian award for outstanding achievement in sports.The award was announced on 4 April at London‘s at The Grosvenor House Hotel.Dhoni is widely regarded as one of the greatest finishers in limited over cricket tournament and in 2013 he emerged as the first captain to win all three ICC trophies.
Punjab Won Junior National Hockey Title 2014 Punjab won the 4th Hockey India Junior Men National Championship 2014 (Division A) by defeating Hockey Odisha 6-2 in the finals on 6 April at Chennai, Tamil Nadu.With this win, Punjab had retained the championship title.
Sri Lanka Won ICC Twenty20 World Cup – 2014 Sri Lanka won the fifth edition of the ICC Twenty20 World Cup 2014 title after defeated India by six wickets in the finals on 6 April at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka. Earlier, Sri Lanka last won the first world title in the World Cup (50-over tournament) in 1996.
Andrea Petkovic Won Family Circle Cup Title Andrea Petkovic of Germay won the Family Circle Cup tennis tournament title.She defeated Jana Cepelova (Slovakia) in the final on 6 April in Charleston, United States.It was her first WTA title in last three years.Overall, this is the third WTA title for Petkovic and first since her come back from the string of injuries in recent years. Petkovic last won in Strasbourg in 2011 and her first title came in 2009 in Bad Gastein.
Nour El Sherbini Won Texas Open Squash Title India‘s Dipika Pallikal was defeated by Egyptian Nour El Sherbini in the title clash of the Women‘s Champion Fiberlass Texas Open squash tournament on 14 April at Houston, United States.
ECONOMY
Election Commission Allows RBI to Issue new Bank Licences The Election Commission (EC) on 1 April allowed the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to issue licences for setting up new banks.The approval came after the RBI missed the March-end deadline for issuing the first bank licence in almost a decade.The RBI on 12 March 2014 approached the Election Commission (EC) seeking its approval for granting bank lincences as the model code of conduct had come in place after the general elections announcement on 5 March 2014.
RBI‟s First Bi-monthly Monetary Policy Statement 2014-15 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 1 April released it first Bi-monthly Monetary Policy statement 2014-15 .According to the statement , RBI has kept the policy repo rate unchanged at 8.0%.Other policy instruments such as cash reserve ratio (CRR) also remain unchanged at 4%.
RBI grants in-principle Approval To IDFC, Bandhan For Bank Licences The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 2 April granted in-principle approvals to IDFC Ltd and Bandhan Financial Services Pvt. Ltd to start new banks in India.These approvals have been granted under the guidelines on licensing of new banks in the private sector. The two have been granted the permission to set-up banks from a field of 25 aspirants.
Dilip Shanghvi Among Asia‟s Top 10 Richest Self-made Billionaires The ‗ Wealth-X ‗ Asia‘s top ten wealthiest self-made billionaires list released on 30 April. According to the list, Dilip Shanghvi, founder and managing director of Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries, has been named in the list , topped by Hong Kong business tycoon Li Ka-Shing. Shanghvi, ranked seventh, is the only Indian on the list with a net worth of $13.5 billion, while Li Ka-Shing topped the chart with a fortune of $29.4 billion.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
ISRO‟s PSLV-C24 Successfully Launched India‟s Second Navigation Satellite IRNSS-1B Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched India‘s second navigation satellite, Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System – 1B ( IRNSS-1B), into the space. The satellite was launched through ISRO‘s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle-C24 (PSLV-C24) rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh on 4 April 2014. PSLV-C24 injected the IRNSS-1B into a preliminary orbit.
Scientists Discovered Gene Behind Brain Development Key gene for the development of human brain has been discovered by Scientists from the University of Adelaide on 6 April.The study shows how mutations in the gene called ‖ USP9X ‖ are linked to intellectual disability.
Solar Impulse 2 Plane Unveiled In Switzerland The upgraded solar-powered plane Solar Impulse 2 was unveiled on 13 April at Payerne Air Force Base of Switzerland. The solar plane can fly around the world for five consecutive days without using any fuel. Swiss pilots Andre Borschberg and Bertrand Piccard have developed the solar powered aircraft
Unique Pair of Super-Massive Black Holes Found Scientists have discovered on 23 April the first pair of super-massive black holes in orbit around one another in a non-active galaxy. The European Space Agency‘s X-ray Multi Mirror Mission, XMM Newton had discovered these black holes.
PERSONS IN NEWS
A) APPOINTMENTS
N B Singh Assumes Charge As BDL director Air Vice Marshal N B Singh, AVSM, VSM (retd) on 1 April assumed charge as Director (technical) of Bharat Dynamics Limited, a Hyderabad-based Mini-ratna category-1 company under the Ministry of Defence.Prior to this appointment, AVM Singh served as Assistant Chief of Air Staff (communication) in the Indian Air Force.
Justice RM Lodha Sworn In As 41st Chief Justice of India Justice Rajendra Mal Lodh was on 27 April sworn in as the 41st Chief Justice of India (CJI) on 27 April. He was administered the oath of office by President Pranab Mukherjee.Chief Justice Lodha succeeds Chief Justice P Sathasivam who demitted office on completion of his term on 26 April 2014.Justice Lodha will have a brief tenure of five months as the Chief Justice as he will retire on 27 September 2014.
Former IAF chief Appointed India‟s Ambassador To Norway Former Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Norman Anil Kumar Browne has been appointed India‘s next Ambassador to Norway on 29 April.He will succeed R. K. Tyagi as India‘s envoy in Norway.Browne had served as IAF chief between 31 July 2011 and 31 December 2013.
B)RESIGNS
Kazakhstan Prime-Minister Serik Akhmetov Resigned Kazakhstan‘s Prime Minister Serik Akhmetov, has announced his resignation on 2 April, a development that will lead to the dissolution of the government.The resignation was accepted by the President as per the Constitutional provision.Akhmetov was appointed as the Prime Minister of Kazakhstan in September 2012.
C)DEATHS
Renowned Cinematographer VK Murthy Died Renowned cinematographer and Dada Saheb Phalke awardee V K Murthy,died on 7 April in Shankarapuram. He was 91 and was famous for his camera work in Guru Dutt‘s classics like Pyaasa and Sahib, Bibi Aur Ghulam. He was the first cinematographer to be chosen for the prestigious Dada Saheb Phalke award for 2008. He received the hounour on 19 January 2010. For his contribution to Indian cinema, he received the International Indian Film Academy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005.In 1959, he won the Filmfare Best Cinematographer award.
D)VISITORS
U.S. Vice President Joe Biden Visited Ukraine U.S. Vice President Joe Biden visited Ukraine on 21 – 22 April 2014. In the most high-level visit of a U.S. official since crisis erupted in Ukraine, Biden met privately with acting Ukrainian Prime Minister Yatsenyuk and acting Ukrainian President Oleksandr Turchynov, as well as with democracy activists.In the visit, Biden also announced the United States will provide an additional $50 million to help Ukraine‘s beleaguered government with political and economic reforms.
E)MISCELLANEOUS
Koyal Rana Won Miss India 2014 Title Koyal Rana was crowned as the new Miss India in the 51st Femina Miss India 2014 contest on 5 April at Mumbai.The winner will represent India at Miss World 2014 while 19 year old Jhataleka Malhotra was first runner up who will represent India at Miss Earth and second runner up Gail Nicole Da Silva at Miss Supranational.
PLACES IN NEWS
Google Launches 360 Degree Online View Of Angkor Wat In Cambodia Google on 3 April launched 360 degree online view of Angkor Wat in Cambodia under Streetview project. The Angkor Wat project was developed with the help of the Apsara Authority of the Kingdom of Cambodia. APSARA National Authority is an organisation created for the protection and maintenance of Angkor. In Angkor Wat, arguably the largest temple complex in the world, Streetview has been used to patch together over 90,000 high resolution 360-degree images of the monument.
ABBREVIATIONS
IABF —- Indian Amatuer Boxing Federation
NATO —– North Atlantic Treaty Organization
BSF ——– Border Security Force
IMF ——– International Monetary Fund IRNSS —– Indian Regional Navigational Satellite System
CITU —— Centre of Indian Trade Unions
BOOKS IN NEWS
„ The Accidental Prime Minister – The Making and Unmaking Of Manmohan Singh „ Book Released A book entitled ‗ The Accidental Prime Minister – The Making and Unmaking Of Manmohan Singh ‗ written by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh‘s former media advisor Sanjaya Baru was released on 11 April .
COMMITTEES
Anand Sinha Committee Recommends Benchmark For Floating Interest Rate A Reserve Bank of India (RBI) committee headed by former RBI Deputy Governor Anand Sinha suggested a benchmark floating interest rate, especially for home loans, to bring greater transparency in the pricing of credit.The committee on 10 April released Draft Report on ‗Working Group on Pricing of Credit‘. As per the report, the Indian Banks Association (IBA) may develop a new benchmark for floating interest rate products, namely, the Indian Banks Base Rate (IBBR), which may be collated and published by IBA on a periodic basis.
IMPORTANT DAYS AND DATES
World Health Day 2014 Observed Across The World World Health Day 2014World Health Day 2014 was observed across the world on 7 April 2014. The day provides an opportunity for individuals to get involved in activities that can lead to better health. The theme for World Health Day 2014 is vector-borne diseases. World Health Organisation (WHO) is highlighting the serious and increasing threat of vector-borne diseases with the slogan Small bite, big threat.
World Malaria Day Observed Across The World World Malaria Day (WMD) was observed on 25 April 2014 across the world. The day was observed to highlight the need for continued investment and sustained political commitment for malaria prevention and control.The theme for 2013-2015 is: Invest in the future. Defeat malaria.