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Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15,2019 2019

This is a dynamic PDF E-book by GKToday. The latest version of this book can be downloaded from this link Published by: GKTODAY.IN GKToday © 2019 | All Rights Reserved

The authors and publisher have made every effort to ensure that the information in this E-book is correct. However, GKToday does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability to any party for any loss, damage, or disruption caused by errors or omissions, whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. This document is a property of GKToday. Unauthorized Duplication is not allowed. Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 Multiple Choice Questions 1. Which state government has decided to partner with MIT-based Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL)? [A] West Bengal [B] Kerala [C] Odisha [D] Sikkim Answer: Odisha The Odisha government has decided to partner with Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) for targeted intervention in a set of social sectors including poorest of the poor through policy formulation and evaluations based on experimental research. The co-founders of J-PAL are Nobel laureates Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo. The Massachusettes Institute of Technology (MIT)-based J-PAL is known for its experimental research studies or randomized controlled trials. It has worked extensively in Africa as well India and its evaluations have helped improve outcomes of social sector initiatives. 2. What is the theme of 2019 edition of World Cities Day (WCD)? [A] Designed to Live Together [B] Inclusive Cities, Shared Development [C] Changing the world [D] Promoting a better urban future Answer: Changing the world The World Cities Day (WCD) is observed every year on 31 October to promote the international community’s interest in global urbanization, push forward cooperation among countries in meeting opportunities and addressing challenges of urbanization, and contributing to sustainable urban development around the world. The 2019 theme “Changing the world: innovations and a better life for future generations” discusses how urbanization can be used to achieve sustainable development. 3. Which golfer has won the 2019 Zozo Championship in Japan? [A] Anirban Lahiri [B] Jyoti Randhawa [C] Gaganjeet Bhullar [D] Tiger Woods Answer: Tiger Woods Tiger Woods made history after he won the 2019 Zozo Championship in Japan for his 82nd US PGA Tour victory. according to the World Golf Hall of Fame, Woods equals legendary golfer Sam Snead 54-year-old record, who won 82 titles throughout his career. 4. Which state government has launched a new initiative “Meal in exchange for plastic waste”? [A] Tamil Nadu [B] Odisha [C] Jharkhand [D] West Bengal Answer: Odisha In an effort to raise awareness about the perils of using plastic, the Kotpad Notified Area Council (NAC) in Koraput district of Odisha is providing free meals to the poor in exchange for a kilogram of plastic waste. The new initiative is being carried out under the State government’s ‘Aahar’ scheme. The programme entails a meal for anyone who brings a kilogram of used polythene bags, plastic bottles and cups. Under the Aahar scheme, poor people in urban areas of the state are provided a meal comprising rice and ‘dalma’ (lentils with vegetable) at a cost of Rs 5. 5. John Witherspoon, who passed away recently, was the noted actor and comedian of which country? [A] United States [B] France [C] Japan [D] China

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 87 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 Answer: United States John Witherspoon, the US actor and comedian, has passed way . He was best known for his role as rapper Ice Cube’s father in the comedy trilogy Friday. He made his film debut in the 1980 ‘The Jazz Singer’ and appeared in Hollywood Shuffle, Boomerang, Vampire in Brooklyn and The Ladies Man 6. Saint Kittis and Nevis, which recently signed ISA Framework Agreement, is an island country of which ocean? [A] Pacific Ocean [B] Indian Ocean [C] Arctic Ocean [D] Atlantic Ocean Answer: Atlantic Ocean India hosted the 2nd International Solar Alliance (ISA) assembly in New Delhi on 30th-31st October 2019. In it, two countries – Eritrea and Saint Kittis and Nevis – have signed the ISA’s Framework Agreement and took the total number of signatories to 83. The ISA was jointly launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then French President Francois Hollande at the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris in November 2015. It is a major global initiative for contributing to the implementation of the Paris Climate Agreement through rapid and massive deployment of solar energy. The Saint Kittis and Nevis is an island country in the West Indies, which is the region of the North Atlantic Ocean. 7. Girija Kir, who passed away recently, was the noted author of which language? [A] Marathi [B] Tamil [C] Telugu [D] Odia Answer: Marathi Girija Kir (86), the noted Marathi author, has passed away in Bandra, Maharashtra on 31st October 2019. Kir has written dozens of novels, stories, travelogues and children’s books. She also worked as an assistant editor of ‘Anuradha’ magazine for 10 years from 1968 to 1978. Kir has won several awards for her writings, which largely originated from her on-field experiences in labour colonies, residences of patients suffering from leprosy and tribal areas. Her recent book ‘Janmathep’ was based on her study of inmates at Pune’s Yerawada jail. 8. UNESCO has designated which Indian city as Creative City of Gastronomy? [A] Mumbai [B] Chennai [C] Hyderabad [D] Varanasi Answer: Hyderabad On the occasion of World Cities Day (WCD-2019), UNESCO has announced that Mumbai and Hyderabad have been designated as Creative City of Films and Creative City of Gastronomy, respectively. By joining the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), the cities pledge to share their best practices and develop partnerships involving public and private sectors as well as civil society to strengthen creation, production, distribution and dissemination of cultural activities, goods and services. Beside this, Chennai and Varanasi are designated as UNESCO cities of music while Jaipur is the City of Crafts and Folk Arts. 9. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Thrift Day (WTD) is observed in India? [A] October 31 [B] October 30 [C] October 29 [D] October 28 Answer: October 31 The World Thrift Day (WTD) is celebrated every year on 31st October worldwide to promote savings and financial security of individual and nation as a whole. In India, due to death of late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on the same day in 1984 this day is being celebrated on 30th October. The day was established to inform people all around the world about the idea of saving their money in a bank rather than keeping it

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 88 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 under their mattress or at home. 10. Who is leading the Indian delegation at the 35th ASEAN Summit? [A] Ram Nath Kovind [B] Venkaiah Naidu [C] Narendra Modi [D] Rajnath Singh Answer: Narendra Modi The 35th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit 2019 has started in Bangkok, Thailand on 1st of November with theme ‘Advancing Partnership for sustainability’. During 5-days summit East Asia summit (EAS) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Summit (RCEP) will be also held. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend this summit on 3rd and 4th November. The ASEAN is a group of 10 member countries that encourages political,economic and social co-operation in the region. The summit would discuss comprehensive and sustainable ASEAN economic development and s on negotiations related to the RCEP including market opening. The RCEP is a proposed Free Trade Agreement ( FTA) between the 10 members state of ASEAN and its partner countries. 11. Which IIT has decided to set up space technology cell in collaboration with ISRO? [A] IIT Delhi [B] IIT Kanpur [C] IIT Bombay [D] IIT Madras Answer: IIT Delhi IIT Delhi has decided to set up a space technology cell in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). The cell would work for carrying out focused research projects in the space technology domain with specific deliverables. It is also proposed that IIT Delhi as an institute becomes academic partner of ISRO in research areas such as or example AI Artificial Intelligence, Nano- technology, functional textiles and smart manufacturing or any area of joint interest. 12. India’s first-ever Arts Exposition for talents with intellectual challenges “eCAPA 2019” has started in which city? [A] Kanpur [B] Kochi [C] Dehradun [D] New Delhi Answer: New Delhi India’s first-ever Arts Exposition for Artists blessed with Down Syndrome, Autism, Mental Retardation, Seizure Disorder and Dyslexia has started in New Delhi on 3rd November 2019. The “eCAPA 2019 – Art from the Heart” is a unique nationwide platform-cum social venture for such artists to showcase their visual and performing arts. The aim of this exposition is to create an exclusive platform to showcase the visual and performing art talents of young adults with intellectual challenges. It will also provide Divyang artists with opportunities to find mentors in the visiting artists and eminent masters of different crafts. This exposition will continue till 14th November at STIR Gallery, Chattarpur Farms. 13. Which city is hosting the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 25) after Chile withdraws? [A] New York [B] Paris [C] Madrid [D] New Delhi Answer: Madrid The Spanish capital city of Madrid will host the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 25) from 2nd to 13th December 2019. The decision was taken after Chile withdrew as host for the event due to the ongoing street protests in the South American country. The annual Conference of the Parties (COP) summit is a key event which allows representatives from around 200 nations to monitor and discuss the current situation of the world’s warming climate. 14. Which country will be the partner country at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI-2019)?

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 89 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 [A] Afghanistan [B] China [C] Japan [D] Russia Answer: Russia Russia will be the partner country at the Golden Jubilee of International Film Festival of India (IFFI-2019) in Goa. It will be held from November 20 to 28 with close to 250 films from various countries being screened. The fest will honour superstar Rajinikanth with a special ‘Icon of Golden Jubilee’ award presented in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema. The Life Time Achievement (LTA) award for a Foreign Artiste will be conferred on French Actress Isabelle Hupert. During the 50th IFFI, 50 films of women directors will be showcased. 15. Which noted philanthropist has won the 2019 Sasthaaram Award? [A] M Padmakuma [B] K P Nandakumar [C] V A Shrikumar Menon [D] Unni Menon Answer: K P Nandakumar Dr K.P. Nandakumar, the noted Homoeopathic doctor and philanthropist, has won the 2019 Sasthaaram Award for his contributions to the art and socio-cultural realms. The award was instituted by the Thamarakkulam Sri Sabarimala Ayyappa Swami temple of Vadakkanthra in 2015 with the intention of honouring those who contributed to the art and socio-cultural fields in Palakkad. It consists of Rs 25,000, a citation and a plaque, and would be presented at a function to be held on December 22. 16. Which Indian sand artist has been selected for Italian Golden Sand Art Award 2019? [A] Manisha Swarnkar [B] Dhanraj Shelke [C] Sudarsan Pattnaik [D] Nitish Bharti Answer: Sudarsan Pattnaik Internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has been selected for the prestigious Italian Golden Sand Art Award 2019. He will be felicitated during the International Scorrana Sand Nativity in Italy, which is going to held from 13th to 18th Nov. He will also represent India in this fest. 17. Which IIT has launched the Rs 250 crore Global Alumni Endowment Fund? [A] IIT Delhi [B] IIT Kharagpur [C] IIT Bombay [D] IIT Kanpur Answer: IIT Delhi President Ram Nath Kovind has recently launched the IIT Delhi global alumni endowment fund at Rashtrapati Bhavan that will have an initial commitment of more than Rs 250 crore. As per the scheme, the student will receive an aid of $10,000 from the alumni endowment fund. The aim of the endowment model is to achieve a target corpus of USD 1 billion over a period of 7 years. This first-of-its-kind fund in India will work towards the development of the University, nurturing innovation, and keeping alive the entrepreneurial spirit among the youth of India. 18. The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to set up Sikh museum and research centre in which city? [A] Bhopal [B] Jabalpur [C] Indore [D] Gwalior Answer: Jabalpur To mark the 550th ‘Prakash Parv’ of Guru Nanak Dev, the Madhya Pradesh government has decided to

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 90 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 set up Sikh museum and research centre in Jabalpur at the cost of Rs 20 crore. Chief Minister Kamal Nath hasalso decided to develop six Sikh places associated with the founder of Sikhism in the state as religious tourist spots. These centres are: Tekri Sahib (Bhopal), Imli Sahib and Betma Sahib (Indore), Gurdwara (Omkareshwar), Gurunanak Ghat Gurudwara (Ujjain) and Gwari Ghat Gurudwara (Jabalpur). 19. The Indo-French exercise ‘Shakti-2019’ has started at which region? [A] Udaipur [B] Jodhpur [C] Bikaner [D] Jaipur Answer: Bikaner The 14-day long joint Indo-French exercise ‘Shakti-2019’ has started at the Mahajan field firing ranges in Bikaner, Rajasthan. The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability between the two armies and further strengthening the military relations between them. The exercise will facilitate both the armies to know each other better, share their operational experience and enhance awareness through information exchange. 20. The 2019 meeting of Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of SCO was held in which city? [A] Tashkent [B] Bishkek [C] Ashgabat [D] Baku Answer: Tashkent Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has represented India at a meeting of Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Tashkent on November 1-2. It was the 3rd CHG meeting of the SCO after India became the member of the grouping in 2017.The SCO is an influential regional security grouping which is seen as a counterweight to NATO. The aim of the SCO is to maintain peace, stability and security of the region. The SCO represents over 40% of humanity and nearly 20% of the global GDP. 21. The 1st-ever India-Uzbekistan joint military exercise “Dustlik-2019” has started in which region? [A] Bukhara [B] Shahrisabz [C] Samarkand [D] Tashkent Answer: Tashkent The first-ever India-Uzbekistan joint military exercise titled “Dustlik-2019” has started at Chirchiq Training Area near Tashkent on 4th November. During the 9-day exercise, an Indian Army contingent will train along with Uzbekistan Army. The exercise will enable sharing of best practices and experiences between the Armed Forces of the two countries and will lead to greater operational effectiveness. 22. Which country has won the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan? [A] Japan [B] England [C] South Africa [D] Singapore Answer: South Africa The South African team “Springboks” has won the 3rd edition of Rugby World Cup 2019. In the final, they defeated England at International Yokohama Stadium in Yokohama, Japan. With this win, Springboks became the 2nd team after New Zealand to win three World Cup titles. 23. Which Indian sportsperson has won the 2019 SaarLorLux Open badminton tournament in Germany? [A] Srikanth Kidambi [B] Lakshya Sen [C] Parupalli Kashyap [D] B Sai Praneeth

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 91 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 Answer: Lakshya Sen Lakshya Sen from Uttarakhand has won the 2019 SaarLorLux Open badminton tournament at Saarbrücken in Germany. He defeated Sen Weng Hong Yang of China in an exciting final on 3rd November. 24. Which Indian organization is hosting the 2019 SCO Joint Exercise on Earthquake Rescue? [A] NDRF [B] CISF [C] CRPF [D] BSF Answer: NDRF On 4th November 2019, the Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Joint Exercise on Urban Earthquake Search and Rescue in New Delhi. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is hosting the event which will continue till 7th of this month. The purpose of the exercise is to rehearse the disaster response mechanism, share knowledge, experience and technology for mutual coordination. This simulation exercise will also provide an opportunity to enhance the coordination and co-operation involving multi-agency operations in an earthquake scenario. 25. The biennial Commonwealth Law Ministers’ Conference has recently begun in which city? [A] New Delhi [B] Colombo [C] Tokyo [D] Male Answer: Colombo In Sri Lanka, the biennial Commonwealth Law Ministers’ Conference has recently begun in Colombo under the theme Equal Access to Justice and the Rule of Law. In the 4-day conference participated by Law Ministers and Attorney Generals from Commonwealth countries seeks to address challenges faced by millions of people seeking to resolve legal problems or disputes. Union Minister for Law and Justice Ravi Shankar Prasad isrepresenting India at the conference. 26. The Asia Pacific Golf Summit (APGS) has started in which city? [A] Dehradun [B] Shimla [C] Gurugram [D] Lucknow Answer: Gurugram The 13th edition of the Asia Pacific Golf Summit (APGS) has started in Gurugram at the DLF Golf & Country Club till November 6. It is for the first time India is hosting the summit with theme “A 5G Mindset For Golf’s Future In Asia”. The summit is supported by the Union Ministry of Tourism & will see international speakers discuss various operational and business aspects of golf in the context of the summit. 27. The ‘Red Atlas Action Plan Map’ has been launched by which union ministry? [A] Ministry of Defence [B] Ministry of Earth Sciences [C] Ministry of External Affairs [D] Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change Answer: Ministry of Earth Sciences The first-of-its-kind-ready-reckoner ‘Red Atlas Action Plan Map’ has been launched by Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu along with the ‘Coastal Flood Warning System App (CFLOWS-Chennai). The ‘Red Atlas Map’ is prepared by the Union Ministry of Earth Sciences to aid Tamil Nadu government in effective flood mitigation in Chennai which witnessed the worst deluge in 2015. The purpose of the atlas is to flood mitigation, preparedness, operations and management aspects. The CFLOWS-Chennai is a complete webGIS-based decision support system that can be used both for mitigation planning operations before flooding and in real time to for aspects like relief work. 28. Which Indian author has won the JCB Prize for Literature 2019?

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 92 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 [A] Madhuri Vijay [B] Pradip Krishen [C] Anjum Hasan [D] KR Meera Answer: Madhuri Vijay US based-Indian author Madhuri Vijay has won the JCB Prize for Literature 2019 for her debut novel ‘The Far Field’ at Rambagh Palace in Jaipur. It is the most expensive Indian award for writing. She also received a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh, along with a sculpture by Delhi artist duo Thukral & Tagra entitled ‘Mirror Melting’. 29. Pooja Gehlot has won India’s 2nd silver in Under-23 World Wrestling Championships in which category? [A] 57kg [B] 53kg [C] 63kg [D] 65kg Answer: 53kg Pooja Gehlot (53kg) has won India’s 2nd silver at the 2019 U-23 World Wrestling Championships in Budapest, Hungary. In the final, she defeated by Japan’s Haruna Okuno by in the finals of championships. India’s first silver was won by Ravinder (61kg). 30. The documentary of which Indian Football league has won the ‘BAFTA Scotland’ Awards 2019 in the ‘Single Documentary’ category? [A] Churchill Brothers [B] Lonestar Kashmir [C] Real Kashmir [D] Madhya Bharat Answer: Real Kashmir The documentary on Real Kashmir Football Club has bagged the prestigious British Academy of Film and Television Awards (BAFTA) and Scotland Awards 2019 at a glittering ceremony in Glasgow, Scotland. The documentary narrates the journey of former Rangers ace David Robertson as the coach of Real Kashmir FC, which is currently India’s second tier football league. The hour-long film won in the ‘Single Documentary’ category. 31. The National Tribal Festival (NTF-2019) is being held in which city? [A] Kanpur [B] Patna [C] Mumbai [D] New Delhi Answer: New Delhi The 15-day National Tribal festival (or Aadi Mahotsav ) will be held in New Delhi from 16th of November 2019. The theme of the festival is a celebration of the spirit of tribal culture, craft, cuisine and commerce. The festival will feature exhibition-cum-sale of tribal handicrafts, art, paintings, fabric, jewellery and much more through two hundred stalls. Approx 1000 tribal artisans from 27 states will participate in the event. 32. What is the theme of the 5th India International Science Festival (IISF)? [A] Science for Transformation [B] Science for New India [C] RISEN India [D] Boost New India Answer: RISEN India On 5th November 2019, the 5th edition of India International Science Festival (IISF) inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with theme “RISEN India – Research, Innovation and Science Empowering the Nation” at Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Kolkata through video conference. The prime objective of

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 93 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 the 4-day fest is to instil scientific temper among the masses. The event will showcase India’s contribution in the field of science and technology over the years and encourage translation of its benefits to people. It also aims to build a strategy for inclusive advancement of Science and Technology. 33. Who is leading Indian delegation at the 15th meeting of the Governing Council of SACEP? [A] Narendra Modi [B] Om Birla [C] Prakash Javadekar [D] Ram Nath Kovind Answer: Prakash Javadekar The 15th meeting of the Governing Council of South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) is being held in Dhaka, Bangladesh. In it, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar is leading the Indian delegation. The SACEP is an inter-governmental organization established in 1982 by the South Asian governments to promote and support protection, management and enhancement of the environment in the region. Its member countries are – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. 34. Which country has decided not to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) deal? [A] India [B] United States [C] New Zealand [D] United Kingdom Answer: India During the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) summit in Bangkok, India has decided not to join the RCEP deal as negotiations failed to address New Delhi’s outstanding issues and concerns. The summit included China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and the 10-nation ASEAN grouping. The RCEP negotiations were meant to create the world’s biggest free trade region that represented half the world’s population and one-third of the global GDP. Beside, RCEP summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part in 16th India-ASEAN summit and 14th East Asia summit. 35. Who has been selected for 27th Ezhuthachan Puraskaram 2019? [A] M Mukundan [B] Anand [C] K Jayakumar [D] Rani George Answer: Anand Noted writer Anand has been selected for the 27th Ezhuthachan Puraskaram for his overall contributions to Malayalam language and Literature. It is the highest literary honour of the Kerala government. The prize is named after Ezhuthachan, the father of Malayalam language. It consists of a purse of Rs 5 lakh and a citation. 36. Which Indian-origin researcher has won the Australian government’s ‘Early career researcher of the year 2019’ award? [A] K S Mukherjee [B] Nishant Patil [C] M K Sanoo [D] Neeraj Sharma Answer: Neeraj Sharma Indian-origin researcher, Dr Neeraj Sharma has won the Australian government’s ‘Early Career Researcher of the Year (Physical Sciences)’ for developing next-generation battery systems such as sodium-ion battery that will leave minimal environmental impact. The awarded research explores inherently safe solid-state batteries, energy-dense lithium-sulfur batteries, dual function solar batteries and methods for recycling. DR. Sharma is researcher at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) of Sydney. 37. Which IIT has launched ‘Arise-A Standing Wheelchair’ for disabled?

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 94 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 [A] IIT Madras [B] IIT Bombay [C] IIT Indore [D] IIT Kanpur Answer: IIT Madras The IIT Madras has launched the newly designed ‘Arise-A Standing Wheelchair’ standing wheelchair for disabled at IIT Madras Research Park. The standing wheelchair is designed by TTK Center for Rehabilitation Research & Device Development (R2D2). The purpose of this wheelchair is that it will help a person in a wheelchair to stand without any help. 38. Which team has clinched the 2019 Deodhar Trophy? [A] India C [B] India B [C] India A [D] India E Answer: India B Parthiv Patel-led India B has clinched the 47th edition of the Deodhar Trophy 2019 with a comprehensive 51-run win over India C in the final at JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi,Jharkhand. 39. Who has been appointed as the chairman of the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI)? [A] Virat Singh [B] Nitish Rana [C] Aditya Mishra [D] Ishan Porel Answer: Aditya Mishra Aditya Mishra, a 1989 batch IPS officer of Uttar Pradesh cadre, has been appointed as the chairman of the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) for a period of 5 years. The LPAI is a statutory body that works under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining and managing border infrastructure in India. It manages several Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) all across Borders of India. 40. Which IT initiative has recently launched as an Ease of Doing Business (EODB) monitoring dashboard of the Indian Customs? [A] TECHDASH [B] CUSTOMDASH [C] ICEDASH [D] PORTDASH Answer: ICEDASH Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has recently launched two new IT Initiatives – ICEDASH and ATITHI – for improved monitoring and pace of customs clearance of imported goods and facilitating arriving international passengers. ICEDASH is an Ease of Doing Business (EODB) monitoring dashboard of the Indian Customs that allows public see and compare import clearance times at all ports and airports across India. The ATITHI app will facilitate hassle-free and faster clearance by Indian Customs at the airports and increase the experience of international tourists and other visitors at the airports. 41. Who led Indian parliamentary delegation at the 6th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit? [A] S Jaishankar [B] Om Birla [C] Piyush Goyal [D] Nitin Gadkari Answer: Om Birla Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla represented the Indian parliamentary delegation at the 6th Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit of the G20 Countries in Tokyo, Japan. The purpose of the summit is to strengthen the role of legislatures in global affairs. The Parliamentary summit is unofficially called P20, which is jointly organized by House of Councillors of National Diet of Japan and Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU).

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 95 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 42. The students of which city has created Guinness World Records with largest astrophysics assemble? [A] Kolkata [B] Mysuru [C] Pune [D] New Delhi Answer: Kolkata On the first day of India International Science Festival (IISF- 2019), the Guinness World Records for the largest astrophysics lesson (45 minutes) and assembly of spectroscopes was successfully achieved at the Science City in Kolkata with the participation of over 1,598 students. A small personal model of advanced spectroscopes can easily be made by anyone using a box made of cardboard that has a very narrow window used to channel light into the spectroscope. A piece of a Compact Disc (CD) is used to split the light by a process called diffraction. This attempt is dedicated to Meghnad Saha and Sir C V Raman. The astronomers use spectroscopes to know details like temperature, chemical composition, etc. of celestial objects hundreds or millions of light years away from us. 43. DRDO Igniter Complex has come up in which DRDO’s laboratory? [A] Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (CAIR) [B] Defence Research & Development Establishment (DRDE) [C] Armaments Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) [D] High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) Answer: High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) Igniter Complex has recently inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik at High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) in Pune, Maharashtra. The purpose of the laboratory is to design & develop any kind of ignition systems for key DRDO projects. Ignition is a crucial and highly critical phenomenon in the ignition chain of Rocket motor. The Ignition system for Agni, Prithvi, Akash, Nag, Pinaka, Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM), etc. have been designed and developed in HEMRL. The technology for AKASH, Nag missiles and Pinaka Mk-I Rocket has been transferred to Ordnance Factory, Dehu Road, Pune and private industries. 44. Which union ministry has released 5th edition of Wastelands Atlas 2019? [A] Ministry of Rural development [B] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change [C] Ministry of Jal Shakti [D] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Answer: Ministry of Rural development In an effort to productively use India’s wastelands, the Union Ministry of Rural development has released with the 5th edition of Wasteland Atlas -2019 that provides State and district wise distribution of different categories of wastelands area in the country and will be helpful in addressing land degradation. This is significant as it also takes into account 12.08 MHa of unmapped area of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) for the first time. The changes in wastelands between 2008-09 and 2015-16 have been presented in the Atlas. The new wastelands mapping exercise was carried out by National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) using the Indian Remote Sensing Satellite (IRSS) data. It is helpful in rolling back the wastelands for productive use through various land development programmes and schemes. The last edition was published in 2011. 45. Sara Damnjanovic, who won the Miss Asia Global Title 2019, is from which country? [A] France [B] Vietnam [C] Serbia [D] Spain Answer: Serbia Sara Damnjanovic from Serbia has won the 5th edition of Miss Asia Global Title 2019’ at Gokulam Convention centre in Kochi, Kerala. The title is given to the winner from Asian region. Nguyen Thi Yen Trang from Vietnam was awarded Miss Asia title i.e. given to the winner from the rest of the world. Samiksha Singh from India won the sub-title of ‘Miss Beautiful Face’ Title. The Next ‘Miss Asia Global

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 96 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 Title 2020’ will be held in Malaysia. 46. The Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has launched the Skills Build platform in collaboration with which company? [A] Microsoft [B] Infosys [C] Facebook [D] IBM Answer: IBM The Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has recently launched the SkillsBuild platform in collaboration with IBM to offer digital learning content from IBM and partners such as CodeDoor, Coorpacademy and Skillsoft. This initiative is part of IBM’s global commitment to create a job- ready workforce and to build the next generation of skills needed for new collar careers. As part of the programme, a two-year advanced diploma in IT, networking and cloud computing, co-created and designed by IBM, will be offered at the Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) & National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs). 47. The International Conference on Soil and Water Resources Management for Climate has started in which city? [A] Paris [B] Colombo [C] Kathmandu [D] New Delhi Answer: New Delhi In New Delhi, the International Conference on Soil and Water Resources Management for Climate has been organized jointly by the Soil Conservation Society of India in association with World Association of Soil and Water Conservation (WASWAC), China and International Soil Conservation Organization (ISCO), USA on November 6, 2019. The aim of the 5-day long conference is to deliberate upon the various issues and challenges of soil and water conservation. Over 400 national and international experts are expected to share effective cutting-edge technological breakthroughs in ensuring global food security. 48. CARAT- 2019 is the biggest Naval Exercise between which of the following countries? [A] France & India [B] India & Sri Lanka [C] United States & Bangladesh [D] Sri Lanka & Bangladesh Answer: United States & Bangladesh The 2nd phase of the biggest US- Bangladesh Navy exercise titled ‘Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT)- 2019’ is conducted in Chattogram from 4 to 7 November with different subject-based training and exercise. The exercise provides an opportunity to gain a better understanding of the operational activities of the Navies of two countries and to get acquainted with advanced technology through various theoretical and practical trainings. 49. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Tsunami Awareness Day (WTAD) is observed? [A] November 5 [B] November 4 [C] November 6 [D] November 7 Answer: November 5 The World Tsunami Awareness Day (WTAD) is observed every year on 5th of November to spread awareness about precautionary measures against tsunami and share innovative approaches to risk reduction. In 2019, the day promotes Target (d) of the “Sendai Seven Campaign,” which focuses on reducing disaster damage to critical infrastructure and disruption of basic services. 50. Danakil Depression, which is in news recently, is associated to which African country? [A] Morocco

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 97 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 [B] Ethiopia [C] Algeria [D] Kenya Answer: Ethiopia The Danakil Depression is the northern part of the Afar Triangle or Afar Depression in Ethiopia. It is one of the world’s hottest as well as lowest places on Earth (100 m below sea level). The hot springs in Danakil Depression offer a research opportunity for studying extremophile microbes. It is in news recently because according to new study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, active and naturally occurring life cannot be sustained at Danakil. It identifies two barriers: a) magnesium-dominated brines that cause cells to break down; and b) an environment having simultaneously very low pH and high salt. Hence, the combination of both barriers makes adaptation highly difficult. 51. Which country has banned the Islamist outfit ‘Allar Dol’? [A] India [B] Bangladesh [C] Pakistan [D] Sri Lanka Answer: Bangladesh The Government of Bangladesh has banned the Islamist outfit ‘Allar Dol’ because it poses threat to public safety and security. It is the 9th Islamist group to be banned for extremism and militancy in Bangladesh.The Allah’r Dol was formed in 1995 with the aim to establish Caliphate through armed struggle. In 2004, it merged with banned militant organisation Jama’atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). After arrest of leaders of JMB following serial blasts of 2005, some of its leaders left it to re-organise Allar Dol. 52. Which country has recently approved the world’s first drug for Alzheimer’s Disease “GV-971”? [A] China [B] India [C] United States [D] France Answer: China The world’s first multi-targeting and carbohydrate-based drug “GV-971” for Alzheimer’s disease is extracted from brown algae. Recently, China has approved this home-grown seaweed-based drug to potentially cure disease. The drug is the only Alzheimer’s medicine out of more than 320 developed by pharmaceutical companies around the globe to survive clinical trials. The orally taken drug can treat mild to moderate forms of the disease and improve cognition. The Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible and progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory, thinking ability and the capability to carry out simple tasks. 53. India’s CO2 emissions growth poised to slow sharply by what % in 2019, according to an analysis published in Carbon Brief? [A] 3% [B] 1% [C] 4% [D] 2% Answer: 2% According to an analysis published in Carbon Brief, India’s Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions growth is expected to slow down by 2% in 2019. The emissions are lower than the annual increase seen in any year since 2001 due to a slower growth in coal-based power generation and rise in renewable power generation. The Oil demand growth slowed to 2.6% in the first eight months of 2019, compared with 4.6% in 2018, and 5% on average over the past 10 years. Carbon Brief is a site that tracks emission and CO2 trends. 54. Which Indian leader co-chaired IRIGC-M&MTC meeting in Moscow? [A] Piyush Goyal [B] Venkaiah Naidu

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 98 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 [C] Rajnath Singh [D] Narendra Modi Answer: Rajnath Singh In Moscow, the 19th India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) meeting has been co-chaired by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh and Russian Defence Minister General Sergey Shoigu. Both sides agree to constitute specific working groups for after- sales support of key defence platforms. The Russian Defence Minister assured robust Russian participation in DefExpo 2020 i.e. scheduled to be held in Uttar Pradesh capital Lucknow between February 5-8. Russia also assures full support in increasing India’s defence capabilities under ‘Make in India’ initiative. 55. Which state / UT government is organizing the theater festival “Mohan Rakesh Natya evam Samman Samaroh”? [A] MP [B] Punjab [C] UP [D] Delhi Answer: Delhi To pay tribute to legendary playwright Mohan Rakesh, the 4-day festival titled “Mohan Rakesh Natya evam Samman Samaroh” is being organized by the Delhi government’s art and culture wing “Sahitya Kala Parishad” held at the Kamani Auditorium from November 11, 2019. The purpose of the event is to provide a platform to the upcoming talents in the field of theatre. Rakesh was widely-known as one of the brains behind the ‘Nai Kahani’ (New Short Story) literary movement of Hindi literature in the 1950s & also wrote the first modern Hindi play titled “Ashadh Ka Ek Din” in 1958. 56. The Union Ministry of Shipping is hosting the first-ever BIMSTEC Ports’ Conclave in which city? [A] Kochi [B] Visakhapatnam [C] Mumbai [D] Kolkata Answer: Visakhapatnam The first-ever ‘BIMSTEC Ports’ Conclave’ is has been inaugurated by Union Shipping Minister Mansukh Mandaviya at Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh on 7th November 2019. The 2-day Ports’ conclave of BIMSTEC nations is expected to explore the possibility of increasing economic cooperation by furthering EXIM trade and coastal shipping. The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is an International Organization of 7 nations of South Asia and South East Asia. Its member states are Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. 57. The first-ever tri-services exercise “Tiger TRIUMPH” is being conducted between India & which country? [A] United States [B] France [C] Germany [D] Spain Answer: United States The first-ever tri-services India-US amphibious exercise titled “Tiger TRIUMPH” is being conducted from November 13 to 21 near Visakhapatnam and Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh. Approx 1,200 Indian soldiers, sailors and airmen and 500 US marines, sailors and airmen will participate in the 9-day exercise. The training pertains to developing either counter-terrorism or humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities. 58. Who has been chosen for the Tata Literature Live! Lifetime Achievement Award for 2019? [A] Shanta Gokhale [B] Arun Kolatkar [C] K Satchidanandan [D] Bhau Panchbhai

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 99 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 Answer: Shanta Gokhale The 10th edition of Tata Literature Live! The Mumbai LitFest will be held from 14-17 November 2019. In it, noted Marathi literature Shanta Gokhale will be conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award for 2019. While, a pioneer of modernism in Malayalam poetry K Satchidanandan will receive the Poet Laureate for 2019. Both the awards will be conferred for their work which has made a significant impact in the Indian literary field. 59. Which noted journalist has been chosen for the 2019 Raja Ram Mohan Roy Award? [A] Akhil E S [B] Saurabh Duggal [C] P G Unnikrishnan [D] Gulab Kothari Answer: Gulab Kothari Rajasthan Patrika group chairman Gulab Kothari has been chosen for the prestigious 2019 Raja Ram Mohan Roy Award for his outstanding contribution towards journalism. The award will be presented by the Press Council of India (PCI) on the occasion of the National Press Day (NPD). 60. Harmonized System (HS) code, which is in news recently, is associated to which field? [A] Insurance [B] Rural Banking [C] Khadi [D] Medical Answer: Khadi In order to exclusively categorize Khadi products in exports, the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued a Harmonized System (HS) code to separate Khadi from the general textile products in India. The HS code is a 6-digit identification code developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and is used by customs officers to allow products to cross international borders. It is an international nomenclature for the classification of products. It allows participating countries to classify traded goods on a common basis for customs purposes. The code follows from the Kyoto Convention of 1974 and is used by over 200 countries. 61. Abhisek Sarkar, who won award at 2019 Dhaka Lit-fest, is from which state? [A] West Bengal [B] Maharashtra [C] Bihar [D] Jharkhand Answer: West Bengal On 7th November, the 9th edition of the Dhaka Lit-fest has started with a galaxy of writers and book lovers thronging the venue ground at the Bangla Academy. The special focus of this year’s lit-fest is on Indigenous Languages as the UNESCO has marked 2019 as the year of Indigenous Language Protection. On the first day of the event, West Bengal-based writer Abhisek Sarkar and Bangladeshi poet Rofiquzzaman Rony were given the Gemcon Young Literature Award and Gemcon Young Poetry Award for their manus, “Nishiddho” and “Dhoashar Tamate Rong,” respectively. 62. Who has become the first Indian man cricketer to complete 100 T-20 Internationals? [A] Ravindra Jadeja [B] Virat Kohli [C] Rohit Sharma [D] Dinesh Karthik Answer: Rohit Sharma Stand-in skipper Rohit Sharma has become the first Indian man and second in world cricket to complete 100 T-20 Internationals. He reached the milestone when he led the team in the 2nd match against Bangladesh at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Shoaib Malik with 111 games from Pakistan is the only player to have played more than 100 T20 Internationals. Rohit is currently the top-scorer in T20 format with 2452 runs at a strike-rate of 136.67 with 4 hundreds and 17 half-centuries. 63. Which country has protested over the inclusion of the region of Kalapani in the new political map of

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 100 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 India? [A] Pakistan [B] Bhutan [C] Nepal [D] Bangladesh Answer: Nepal Nepal has recently formally protested over the inclusion of the disputed area of Kalapani on the fringes of Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand as part of Indian Territory in the new political map of India. Kalapani is claimed by Nepal as a part of its Darchula district. It has been controlled by India’s Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) since the 1962 war with China. 64. Nabaneeta Dev Sen, who passed away recently, was the renowned poet of which language? [A] Odia [B] Marathi [C] Bengali [D] Tamil Answer: Bengali Legendary Bengali poet-novelist, Nabaneeta Dev Sen (81) has passed away in Kolkata on 7th of November. Besides a poet, novelist, columnist and writer of short stories and travelogues, Dev Sen was also known for her research on the Ramayana. She worked as a teacher at the Oxford University and the Colorado College in the US. She also taught Comparative Literature at Jadavpur University. She married Nobel laureate economist Amartya Sen in 1958. They got divorced in 1976. She won the Sahitya Akademi award in 1999 for her book ‘Naba-Nita’, and was also the recipient of the Padma Shri in 2000. 65. Which Indian armed force has conducted ReSAREX – 19 off Goa coast? [A] Indian Air Force [B] Indian Navy [C] Indian Army [D] Indian Coast Guard Answer: Indian Coast Guard The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has recently conducted a 2-day rescue exercise, the Regional Level Search and Rescue Workshop and Exercise 2019 (ReSAREX- 19) off Goa shore, Panaji. The event was organized by the Coast Guard District Headquarters-11 (Goa) and comprised search and rescue workshops with table top exercises. 66. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has been elected as the new President of which country? [A] Turkmenistan [B] Afghanistan [C] Kazakhstan [D] UAE Answer: UAE The UAE Supreme Council has re-elected His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan as President of the UAE for a fourth five-year term. He was first elected President on 3rd November 2004, following the death of his father Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The President of UAE is the head of state of the country. 67. The National Cancer Awareness Day (NCAD) is observed on the birth anniversary of which noted scientist? [A] Satyendra Nath Bose [B] C V Raman [C] Har Gobind Khorana [D] Madame Curie Answer: Madame Curie In India, the National Cancer Awareness Day (NCAD) is observed every year on 7th of November to spread awareness about cancer prevention and early detection for the general public. The day also

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 101 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 coincides with the birth anniversary of the eminent scientist Madame Curie, who is remembered for her discovery of radium and polonium, and her huge contribution to the fight against cancer. Her work led to the development of nuclear energy and radiotherapy for the treatment of cancer. 68. Who has become the first Indian to be appointed as General Vice President (GVP) of IODA? [A] Rajesh Reddy [B] Vinaya Shetty [C] Mohit Kumar [D] Nidhi Sharma Answer: Vinaya Shetty Dr Vinaya Shetty from Mumbai has become the first Indian and Asian to be elected to the position of General Vice President (GVP) of International Organisation Development Association (IODA) since its inception in 1986. The IODA is a non-profit association & has members from 50 countries that are initiating and supporting organizational and societal change processes all over the world. IODA is a community as well as a platform for OD (Organisational Development) professionals to connect, share and exchange ideas. 69. Indian Navy conducted the bilateral maritime Ex Samudra Shakti-19 with which country? [A] Vietnam [B] Malaysia [C] Indonesia [D] Maldivies Answer: Indonesia The bilateral naval exercise named “Samudra Shakti-2019” has been conducted between the Indian and the Indonesian Navies in the Bay of Bengal from 06 Nov to 07 Nov 19. The joint exercises include manoeuvres, Surface Warfare exercises, Air Defence exercises, Weapon firing drills, Helicopter Operations and Boarding Operations. 70. The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has partnered with which bank for payment related services? [A] BoB [B] SBI [C] Central Bank of India [D] Dena Bank Answer: Central Bank of India The Government e-Marketplace (GeM) has partnered with Central Bank of India (CBI) for payment related services. Through this partnership, CBI will be able to offer an array of services including transfer of funds through GeM Pool Accounts (GPA), advising of electronic Performance Bank Guarantees (e-PBG) and Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) to the registered users on the portal. The GeM is an initiative of the Government of India which offers a one stop platform for facilitating online procurement of goods and services by Central and State government organizations. It provides tools for Direct Purchase, bidding and reverse auction for ensuring transparent and efficient procurement. 71. Spain and which country have been named co-hosts of the 2022 Women’s Hockey World Cup? [A] Italy [B] France [C] Poland [D] Netherlands Answer: Netherlands India will host the 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup from 13th to 29th of January. While, Spain and the Netherlands have been named as the co-hosts of the 2022 Women’s World Cup scheduled to be held from 1st to 22nd of July.The decisions were made during FIH’s Executive Board Meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland on 9th November 2019. 72. Who has been named country manager at Google India? [A] Sanjay Gupta [B] Jay Kumar [C] Ajay Jain

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 102 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 [D] Rushiraj Pawar Answer: Sanjay Gupta Sanjay Gupta, the former Star and Disney India managing director, has been appointed new country manager and vice-president of sales and operations for Google India. He will take his new role in 2020 and will be based in Mumbai. At Star and Disney, Gupta played an important role in making it the India’s largest media company and increased its digital footprint with Hotstar, which is India’s largest OTT platform. He also built Star’s sports business through acquisitions of cricketing properties and launch of the Pro-Kabaddi League (PKL) and football league – Indian Super League (ISL). 73. Which American University has collaborated with AIIMS on genetic testing? [A] Harvard University [B] Stanford University [C] Michigan University [D] Yale university Answer: Michigan University The University of Michigan in partnership with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi and the Kasturba Medical College in Manipal on genetic testing in India. The $2.3 million grant from the National Institute of Health over 5 years will help the University of Michigan and Indian geneticists identify and confirm genetic changes that are the basis of developmental disorders. 74. Which state has topped India’s first-ever ranking of states on justice delivery? [A] Kerala [B] Tamil Nadu [C] Maharashtra [D] Haryana Answer: Maharashtra Maharashtra has topped the list of 18 large-medium States in the overall first-ever ranking of Indian States on justice deliver to its citizens. Kerala acquired 2nd position followed by Tamil Nadu, Punjab and Haryana. The ranking is part of the India Justice Report(IJR) 2019. It is an initiative of Tata Trusts in collaboration with Centre for Social Justice, Common Cause, Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative, DAKSH, TISS- Prayas and Vidhi Centre for Legal Policy.The report has been prepared based on publicly available data of different government entities on the four pillars of justice delivery — police, judiciary, prisons and legal aid.The report highlights the fact that even the best performing States scored less than 60% in their performance on capacity across the police, judiciary, prisons and legal aid. 75. Which city hosted the 2019 conference of the ‘No Money For Terror’? [A] Melbourne [B] New Delhi [C] Paris [D] New York Answer: Melbourne India will host the 3rd edition of the conference of the “No Money For Terror” in 2020, which is the ministerial-level grouping of 70 countries that focuses on countering terror financing, terror and radicalisation. The decision was announced during the 2nd ‘No Money For Terror’ Conference in Melbourne on 7th November 2019. The conference is organised by Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) of over 100 countries, jointly called The Egmont Group. The group was set up in 2018 & is a much smaller version of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) that has a single-point agenda to crack down on terror financing. 76. Which country has assumed the Chairship of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) for 2019-2021? [A] Israel [B] UAE [C] India [D] South Africa Answer: UAE The 19th IOCR-COM (Council of Ministers) meeting was held in Abu Dhabi under the theme of

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 103 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 “Promoting a Shared Destiny and Path to Prosperity in the Indian Ocean” from 5-7 November 2019. In it, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) assumed the Chairship of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) for 2019-2021. IORA is the most innovative, unique and broad-based platform for inter-regional partnership, connecting through the seas the world’s most dynamic regions of South, South-East and West Asia, Oceania and Africa. India is the largest contributor to the IORA Special Fund. Recently, it made a fresh contribution of $1 million to the fund. 77. The 10th Asian Conference of Emergency Medicine (ACEM) was held in which city? [A] Mumbai [B] Chennai [C] Bangaluru [D] New Delhi Answer: New Delhi The 10th Asian Conference of Emergency Medicine (ACEM) has recently inaugurated by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu in New Delhi. The aim of the conference is to develop programs and manuals to train citizens in emergency first aid procedures such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation as it will help in saving a life while waiting for emergency services. It must be noted that the Government of India (GoI) has made it mandatory for all medical college hospitals to have full-fledged Emergency Departments by 2022 to improve trauma care. 78. India’s first air pollution web repository “IndAIR” has been launched by which organisation? [A] BARC [B] CSIR [C] DRDO [D] ISRO Answer: CSIR India’s first air pollution web repository – IndAIR – have been launched by National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) along with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) that documents air quality studies done in the last 60 years. The aim of the project is to make air quality research available to everyone. The Indian Air quality Interactive Repository (IndAIR) has archived approximately 700 scanned materials from pre-Internet era (1950-1999), 1,215 research articles, 170 reports and case studies and 100 cases, to provide the history of air pollution research and legislation. Such a repository on air pollution is one of the first in the world. 79. Special Protection Group (SPG) Act, sometimes seen in news, was enacted by Parliament of India in which year? [A] 1988 [B] 1987 [C] 1986 [D] 1984 Answer: 1988 The Special Protection Group (SPG) is an armed force of India for providing proximate security to the Prime Minister of India and former Prime Ministers of India and members of their immediate families wherever in the world they are. It was formed in 1988 by an act of the Parliament of India. It is in news recently because the Central Government has decided to withdraw SPG security cover to the Congress president Sonia Gandhi, Lok Sabha member Rahul Gandhi and Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. They will now be protected with Z-plus security by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The decision to withdraw the SPG cover given to the family of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was taken after a detailed security assessment 80. The Sanskrit Bharati Vishwa Sammelan has started in which city? [A] Shimla [B] Pune [C] Ranchi [D] New Delhi Answer: New Delhi The Sanskrit Bharati Vishwa Sammelan has started in New Delhi on 9th of November 2019. Thousands of

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 104 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 Sanskrit lovers from 17 countries are attending the 3-day mega event. 81. Which Indian personality has been conferred 2019 ABLF Global Asian award? [A] Mukesh Ambani [B] Gautam Adani [C] Azim Premji [D] Kumar Mangalam Birla Answer: Kumar Mangalam Birla Kumar Mangalam Birla, the chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, has been conferred the ABLF Global Asian Award for powerful individuals whose business footprint and commitment to excellence have engaged international interest and attention. The Asia Business Leadership Forum (ABLF) is backed by the UAE government, and currently runs in three forms- talks, awards and publications. 82. Legendary poll reformer TN Seshan, who passed away recently, hold the post of CEC for how many years? [A] 5 [B] 4 [C] 6 [D] 7 Answer: 6 Former Chief Election Commissioner Tirunellai Narayanaiyer Seshan has passed away in Chennai on 10th of November 2019. He was known for cracking the whip on money and muscle power in elections, and proved to be a nemesis for political parties. His work as CEC got an international recognition when he was given the Ramon Magsaysay award for 1996. He was the only one to hold the post of CEC for 6 years from 1990 to 1996 in the last 50 years. 83. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has proposed to merge which Central paramilitary force with ITBP? [A] BSF [B] Assam Rifles [C] CISF [D] SSB Answer: Assam Rifles The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has proposed to merge Assam Rifles with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and to serve under the operational control of the MHA. At present, the Assam Rifles (a Central paramilitary force) is under the administrative control of the MHA and operational control of the Army, i.e. the Ministry of Defence. The Army is opposed to this proposal. 84. Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant (FFEP), sometimes seen in news, is associated to which country? [A] Iran [B] Afghanistan [C] Russia [D] United States Answer: Iran Iran has recently restarted enriching uranium to 5% at its Fordow underground mountain nuclear plant in a new departure from its commitments under a landmark international 2015 nuclear pact. Iran’s latest move comes after the passing of a deadline it set for the remaining parties to the 2015 pact to come up with a mechanism that would allow foreign firms to continue doing business with Iran without incurring US penalties. 85. Which state assembly has passed resolution demanding lifting of traffic restrictions on NH 766? [A] Karnataka [B] Tamil Nadu [C] Kerala [D] Andhra Pradesh

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 105 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 Answer: Kerala The Kerala Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution demanding the Union government to lift the travel restrictions on National Highway-766 (NH-766)to safeguard the right of the people of north Kerala to move freely. The resolution pointed out that the NH 766 is a survival route for the people of Wayanad which lacks rail and connectivity and water routes. The NH-766, which links Kerala & Karnataka through the Bandipur forest, is also an important route for the transportation of vegetables, grain and construction materials between the two States. The night travel (9pm-6 am) on the forest stretch of NH-766 had been banned since 2009 in the name of protecting wildlife. 86. Ramakant Gundecha, who passed away recently, was the renowned maestro of which classical Hindustani musical form? [A] Dhrupad [B] Khyal [C] Tarana [D] Ghazal Answer: Dhrupad Ramakant Gundecha (56), the Padma Shri-awardee Dhrupad vocalist, has passed away in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh on 9th November 2019. He was the younger one among the famous Gundecha brothers (Umakant-Ramakan).They were the founders of the Gurukul Drupad Sansthan in Bhopal. 87. Shafali Verma, who has become the youngest Indian cricketer to international fifty, is from which state? [A] Haryana [B] Odisha [C] UP [D] Rajasthan Answer: Haryana The 15 year-old Shafali Verma from Haryana has become the youngest Indian cricketer to score a half- century in international 50 & surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s 30-year-old record.She achieved this feat by scoring 73 runs off 49 balls in the first T20I against West Indies at the Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in Saint Lucia. 88. The 50th WEF annual Meeting 2020 is being held in which city? [A] New Delhi [B] Paris [C] Davos [D] New York Answer: Davos In Switzerland, the 50th anniversary of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting is being held in Davos in January. Over 100 Indian CEOs, several political leaders and many Bollywood stars are expected to participate in the meeting. The annual meeting of rich and powerful from across the world is expected to be even a bigger affair this time because it would be its 50th anniversary. 89. Brazil is hosting the 2019 BRICS summit under which theme? [A] BRICS: 4th Industrial Revolution [B] BRICS: Economic Growth for an Innovative Future [C] BRICS: Unite for Climate Awareness [D] BRICS: Nature & Future Answer: BRICS: Economic Growth for an Innovative Future Brazil is hosting 11th edition of BRICS summit 2019 in its capital Brasilia from 13th to 14th November under the theme ‘BRICS: Economic Growth for an Innovative Future’. The BRICS counties – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – contains 23% of the global GDP and around 17% of the share in world trade. It started off primarily with an economic aspect but has now actually diversified into the political, security issues, socio-economic issues, and also people-to-people connections. 90. What is the theme of 2019 edition of International Day of Radiology (IDoR) ?

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 106 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 [A] Cardiac Imaging [B] Sports Imaging [C] Emergency Imaging [D] Brain Imaging Answer: Sports Imaging The International Day of Radiology (IDoR) is observed every year on 8th of November to promote the role of medical imaging in modern healthcare. The day coincides with the anniversary of the discovery of x- rays. The 2019 theme ‘Sports Imaging’ , focuses on musculoskeletal radiology which plays a crucial role of imaging in the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of sports injuries. 91. The world’s first CNG port terminal is scheduled to be built in which Indian city? [A] Bhavnagar [B] Chennai [C] Pune [D] Dehradun Answer: Bhavnagar The Gujarat Government has recently given its nod to the world’s first Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) terminal at Bhavnagar with a proposed investment of ₹1,900 crore. It will be developed jointly by U.K.- headquartered Foresight Group and Mumbai-based Padmanabh Mafatlal Group.The proposed CNG port terminal will have a capacity to handle 1.5 Million Metric Tonne Per annum (MMTPA). 92. On which date, the 2019 edition of Public Service Broadcasting Day (PSBD) is celebrated in India? [A] November 13 [B] November 11 [C] November 12 [D] November 10 Answer: November 12 The Public Service Broadcasting Day (PSBD) is celebrated every year on 12th of November to commemorate the first and last visit of the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi to the studio of All India Radio (AIR – Delhi) in 1947. The Father of the Nation addressed the displaced people, who had temporarily settled at Kurukshetra in Haryana after partition. 93. Sundar Singh Gurjar is is an Indian Paralympic javelin thrower in which category? [A] F57 [B] F46 [C] F45 [D] F48 Answer: F46 Sundar Singh Gurjar from Jaipur has defended World Para Athletics Championships title in the men’s F46 javelin throw event. He has also secured Tokyo Paralympic Games quota, along with the bronze winner Ajeet Singh and Rinku in Dubai.Gurjar not only defended his London Worlds 2017 title but also became the only 2nd Indian to have clinched two World Championships medals after Devendra Jhajharia’s gold and silver in 2013 Lyon and 2015 Doha Championships.The F46 category athletes have a single below or above the elbow amputation. 94. Who has become the first Indian bowler to take a hat-trick in Men’s T20 match? [A] R Ashwin [B] Jasprit Bumrah [C] Deepak Chahar [D] Mohammed Siraj Answer: Deepak Chahar Deepak Chahar has become the first Indian male cricketer to take a hat-trick in T20Is. He achieved this feat against Bangladesh at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur & also took his first 5-wicket haul in T20Is. With the victory at Nagpur, India won the three-match bilateral series 2-1. Here, Chahar won the Player of the match award for the final match and also the Player of the series award. Earlier, in

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 107 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 2012, Ekta Bisht became the first Indian (Man/Woman) to take a hat-trick in T20Is. 95. What is the theme of 2019 edition of World Science Day for Peace and Development (WSDPD) ? [A] Science, a Human Right [B] Science for Global Understanding [C] Celebrating Science Centres and Science Museums [D] Open science, leaving no one behind Answer: Open science, leaving no one behind The World Science Day for Peace and Development (WSDPD) is celebrated every year on 10 November to highlight the significant role of science in society and the need to engage the wider public in debates on emerging scientific issues.It also underlines the importance and relevance of science in our daily lives. The 2019 theme is “Open science, leaving no one behind”. 96. Which country has discovered a new oil field in Khuzestan with 53 billion barrels reserve? [A] Saudi Arabia [B] Iran [C] Turkmenistan [D] Uzbekistan Answer: Iran Iran has recently discovered a new 80m deep oil field in its southwestern province of Khuzestan with over 50 billion barrels of crude.The new oil field stretches nearly 200km from Khuzestan’s border with Iraq to the city of Omidiyeh. It could become Iran’s second-largest field after one containing 65 billion barrels in Ahvaz. Though, out of the amount at the new site, only a tenth – 2.2 billion barrels can be extracted due to technological limitations. 97. Pliosaurs, which are in news recently, are known from which geologic period? [A] Pleistocene [B] Oligocene [C] Jurassic [D] Carboniferous Answer: Jurassic Paleontologists have recently discovered the rare bones of huge Jurassic sea predator “Pliosaurs” in a cornfield in the village of Krzyzanowice in Poland. The remains of pliosaurs are rare in Europe. The ancient sea monster measured up 30 feet long and lived about 150 million years ago. They had powerful, large skulls and massive jaws with large, sharp teeth. Their limbs were in the form of fins and were mostly found in the prehistoric seas that covered modern-day Europe. 98. Which Indian wildlife biologist has been conferred the George Schaller lifetime award? [A] Latika Nath [B] Biju Das [C] Purnima Sharma [D] K Ullas Karanth Answer: K Ullas Karanth Wildlife biologist Dr. K Ullas Karanth has been conferred the George Schaller Lifetime Award in Wildlife Conservation Science for his contribution to the field of conservation. He is the first recipient of the award instituted by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) of New York in honour of Dr. George Schaller, who is considered one of the greatest wildlife scientists and conservationists globally. Dr.Karanth is the Director of Centre for Wildlife Studies (Bengaluru). His area of research and study focused on the ecology of tigers, sympatric predators and other large mammals, predator-prey population ecology, and mitigation of human-wildlife conflicts. 99. Thomas Dennerby, who has taken charge as Indian Head Coach of Indian Women’s U-17 team, is from which country? [A] Denmark [B] Portugal [C] Sweden

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 108 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 [D] Spain Answer: Sweden Thomas Dennerby from Sweden has taken charge as Head Coach of Indian Women’s U-17 team for the FIFA U-17 World Cup. He has rich coaching experience of 30 years in which he guided Sweden women’s national team to a 3rd-place finish in the FIFA World Cup in 2011, and a quarterfinal spot in the 2012 London Olympics. 100. What is the theme of 2019 edition of World Pneumonia Day (WPD)? [A] Healthy Lungs for all [B] Every Breath Counts: Stop Pneumonia Now [C] Innovate to End Child Pneumonia [D] Universal access to pneumonia prevention and care Answer: Healthy Lungs for all The World Pneumonia Day (WPD)?is observed every year on 12th of November to raise awareness about pneumonia, the world’s leading infectious killer of children under the age of 5. The 2019 theme is “Healthy Lungs for all” to raise awareness, promote prevention and treatment and produce action to combat the disease. 101. Which space agency has detected huge X-ray burst from outer space? [A] NASA [B] ISRO [C] JAXA [D] Roscosmos Answer: NASA According to NASA Scientists, they have detected a massive thermonuclear X-ray explosion from outer space through their Neutron Star Interior Composition Explorer (NICER) telescope on the International Space Station (ISS).The explosion released as much energy in 20 seconds as the Sun does in nearly 10 days. The X-ray burst has came from an object named “J1808” i.e., located about 11,000 light-years away in the constellation Sagittarius. NASA spotted the burst because it sent out an intense beam of x-rays that got picked up by its orbital observatory NICER. 102. Which space agency has launched first all-electric experimental aircraft ” X-57 Maxwell”? [A] LAPAN [B] JAXA [C] CNES [D] NASA Answer: NASA NASA has recently launched its first all-electric experimental aircraft (or X-plane). The aircraft has been designated as X-57, and will be known as “Maxwell” for short. The aircraft is expected to take its first test flight by late 2020 from Edwards Air Force Base in the desert of southern California. 103. Who has been sworn-in as the new Prime Minister of Mauritius? [A] Navin Ramgoolam [B] Nando Bodha [C] Ameenah Gurib [D] Pravind Jugnauth Answer: Pravind Jugnauth Pravind Jugnauth has been sworn-in as new Prime Minister of Mauritius for a 5-year term after elections in which his coalition consolidated its grip on parliament. His swearing-in took place at the residence of President Barlen Vyapoory. 104. How many times the President’s rule has been imposed in Maharashtra? [A] 6 [B] 3 [C] 4

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 109 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 [D] 5 Answer: 3 As per Article 356 (1) of the Constitution,President Ram Nath Kovind approved a proclamation imposing President’s Rule in Maharashtra, following a recommendation from Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. It has been imposed in Maharashtra for 6 months due to inability of political parties to form a government after 2019 assembly election.The Assembly will be kept under suspended animation.The President’s Rule can be revoked before the 6-month period if a situation emerges for formation of a stable government, If political parties fail to form a government within 6 months, Maharashtra will have to go for another election. However, this is the 3rd instance when President’s Rule has been imposed in the 59-year-old history of the state. The present-day Maharashtra came into existence on 1st May 1960. 105. The 7th edition of North East Festival (NEF-2019) was held in which city? [A] Lucknow [B] Laddakh [C] New Delhi [D] Guwahati Answer: New Delhi The 7th edition of the North East Festival (NEF-2019) was held at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) in New Delhi on 11th November. The aim of the 3-day fest is to showcase and create awareness about India’s North-East, and to promote entrepreneurship and tourism. The festival was an attempt to bring the best of the region under one roof and build bridges. 106. India’s first elephant memorial has come up in which city? [A] Agra [B] Kanpur [C] Lucknow [D] Mathura Answer: Mathura To honour elephants that passed away due to trafficking & abuse, India’s first elephant memorial has been launched by India-based conservation charity Wildlife SOS in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. The memorial symbolizes the sacrifice of these gentle giants who lost their lives while suffering brutality at the hands of humans. It highlights 5 rescued elephants whose lives represent plight of captive elephants & why it is critical to ensure others do not suffer a similar fate. The memorial has been set up with the support of UP forest department. 107. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Legal Services Day (NLSD) is celebrated? [A] November 11 [B] November 9 [C] November 10 [D] November 8 Answer: November 9 In India, the National Legal Services Day (NLSD) is celebrated every year on 9th of November to make people aware of the various provisions under the Legal Services Authorities Act (LSAA) of 1987 and the right of the litigants. The act was enacted with effect from 9th November 1987. Hence, to commemorate the occasion, the day of enactment was first celebrated in 1995 as NLSD. 108. Which union ministry has launched ‘Swachh- Nirmal Tat Abhiyaan’? [A] Ministry of Jal Shakti [B] Ministry of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries [C] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change [D] Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Answer: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has launched a mass cleanliness-cum-awareness drive in 50 identified beaches under the programme called ‘Swachh- Nirmal Tat Abhiyaan’ from 11 -17 November 2019. The purpose of the initiative is to strive to make coastal areas across the country clean and to create awareness amongst citizens about the importance of coastal

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 110 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 ecosystems so as to save marine creatures from plastic waste, industrial effluents and other harmful substances. The identified beaches are in 10 coastal States/ UTs viz. Gujarat, Daman & Diu, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. 109. Which state government has decided to institute Suraj award to promote organ donation? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Gujarat [C] Rajasthan [D] Odisha Answer: Odisha To encourage organ donation, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has announced an annual award in the name of Suraj Sethi, whose organs were transplanted in six persons following hisdeath in a road accident on October 29.He was a resident of Bhanjanagar in Ganjam district & was working at Surat. 110. Which state government has decided to launch Sishu Suraksha app to help report child rights violations? [A] Nagaland [B] Assam [C] Tripura [D] Karnataka Answer: Assam The Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has decided to launch a mobile app “Sishu Suraksha” on the occasion of National Children’s Day. The purpose of the app is to empower citizens to take moral responsibility of protecting future generations. The app can be used by anyone in the state to lodge a complaint which will be directly registered at Commission. 111. Which state government has launched e-Ganna App for sugarcane farmers? [A] Chhattisgarh [B] Uttar Pradesh [C] Maharashtra [D] Gujarat Answer: Uttar Pradesh The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a dedicated web portal and a mobile application “e-Ganna App” for sugarcane farmers of the state. Now, the ane supply slip will be issued to the farmers by sugar mills online. The portal and the App will ensure transparency in the process of getting slips, and facilitate sugarcane supply by farmers to mills and check irregularities. It will also help in eradicating cane mafia and middleman and strengthen cane development societies. 112. Which country is the focus country at the 39th India International Trade Fair (IITF)? [A] South Africa [B] South Korea [C] Vietnam [D] Malaysia Answer: South Korea The 39th edition of India International Trade Fair (IITF-2019) has started at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi with theme ‘Ease of Doing Business’. In the 14-day Trade Fair, the status of ‘Partner Country’ has been accorded to Afghanistan and South Korea is the Focus Country. Bihar and Jharkhand are the focus states. 113. Which Indian sprinter has been listed in the TIME 100 Next? [A] Dutee Chand [B] Hima Das [C] Sarita Gayakwad [D] Sathi Geetha Answer: Dutee Chand

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 111 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 Indian sprinter Dutee Chand has been named in the TIME 100 Next i.e., an expansion of the TIME 100 list of the most influential persons in the world. The list is an initiative of TIME magazine. It highlights 100 rising stars who are shaping the future of business, entertainment, sports, politics, health, science, activism etc. Dutee had won two silver medals — 100m, 200m — at Jakarta Asian Games and became the first Indian sprinter to win the 100-m at the World University Games. 114. The Good Air Summit (GAS-2019) has been organized under which theme? [A] Making India Responsible [B] Making India Breathe [C] Making India Clean [D] Making India Green Answer: Making India Breathe In New Delhi, the Good Air Summit (GAS-2019) has been organized by the Integrated Health and Wellbeing Council (IHWC) under the theme ‘Making India Breathe’. Over 2,000 students took the pledge to make environment greener and pollution-free at the summit. The purpose of the summit is to make the young children and citizens take responsibility for Good Air and bringing changes in the behaviour of individuals towards keeping society clean of pollutions. Here, the students joined the nationwide drive ‘Good Air Movement’ that aims to cover Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Ahmedabad to Aizawl by 2025 to create mass awareness and mobilize public action towards good air goals as well as engage and educate 50 crore people. 115. The UN Women has proposed to partner with which state’s gender park? [A] Andhra Pradesh [B] Karnataka [C] Tamil Nadu [D] Kerala Answer: Kerala The UN Women has proposed to partner with Kerala’s Gender Park to take forward projects and campaigns aimed at securing gender parity in South Asia. The aim of partnership is to make The Gender Park (a gender equity and empowerment initiative) as the South Asian hub of UN Women. The 3-key areas of co-operation of the partnership will be setting up of the Gender Data Centre at The Gender Park in Kozhikode, holding events during the 64th session of Commission on Status of Women (CSW64) in March 2020 and 75th session of UN General Assembly in September 2020 and launch of a focused campaign called 16 Days of Activism in Kerala from November 25 to December 10, 2019. This partnership marks recognition of Kerala’s long and hard campaigns and policy initiatives to achieve gender justice and parity. 116. The 7th edition of IUCN Asia Regional Conservation Forum 2019 was held in which city? [A] Beijing [B] Colombo [C] Islamabad [D] New Delhi Answer: Islamabad The 7th edition of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Asia Regional Conservation Forum was held in Islamabad, Pakistan. During the summit, experts said that the rapid melting of glaciers and reduced snowfall in the Himalayas due to climate change will cause water and food shortage for more than 8 hundred million people inhabiting the region if effective adaptation and mitigation measures are not implemented before 2030. The Himalayan mountain range is 2,500Km long with an average width of around 300 kilometers spanning China, Pakistan, India, Nepal and Bhutan. It is home to around 15,000 glaciers, holding around 600 billion tonnes of ice, which feed major perennial river systems including the Indus and Mekong, and sustain 1.65 billion people. 117. India has partnered with which countries to explore an alternative to SWIFT? [A] South Africa & Maldives [B] Bangladesh & Sri Lanka [C] Russia & China [D] France & Japan

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 112 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 1-15, 2019 Answer: Russia & China India, Russia and China have decided to explore an alternative to the US-dominated Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) payment mechanism to smoothen trade with countries facing American sanctions. The new system is expected to work as a gateway model when messages on payments are trans-coded in accordance with a certain financial system. They will connect their financial messaging systems to bypass the SWIFT international money transfer network. In it, Russia’s financial messaging system SPFS will be linked with China’s CIPS (China International Payments System). Since, India does not have a domestic financial messaging system, it plans to link the Central Bank of Russia’s platform with a service that is under development. 118. Which tech giant has introduced ‘Project Zero’ in India to remove counterfeit products? [A] Paytm [B] Amazon [C] Flipkart [D] Indiamart Answer: Amazon E-commerce major Amazon has rolled out ‘Project Zero’ in India that will provide brands with additional tools to identify and remove counterfeits from its platform. The Project Zero features three tools viz. ‘automated protections’, ‘self-service counterfeit removal tool’ and ‘product serialization’. The brands will have to sign up for the initiative to access the tools. 119. Who led Indian delegation at the 8th Session of Governing Body of Seed Treaty in Rome? [A] Parsottambhai Rupala [B] Abhishek Singh Chauhan [C] Krishna Raj [D] Narendra Singh Tomar Answer: Narendra Singh Tomar Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar has attended the 8th session of the Governing Body of International Treaty of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) at FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy. The ITPGRFA (also known as Seed Treaty) is a comprehensive international agreement for ensuring food security through the conservation, exchange and sustainable use of the world’s plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA), as well as the fair and equitable benefit sharing arising from its use. It also recognizes farmers’ rights, subject to national laws. 120. Which country has become the first South Asian nation to criminalize offences related to match- fixing & sports betting? [A] Bangladesh [B] Pakistan [C] Sri Lanka [D] India Answer: Sri Lanka Sri Lanka has become the first South Asian nation to criminalize several offences related to match-fixing after it passed a bill labelled “Prevention of Offences Related to Sports” in which offences related to corruption in sports will carry a prison term of up to 10 years, as well as various fines. The legislation not only seeks to punish any person related to a sport who is directly involved in fixing, but also those who provide inside information. If a curator prepares a pitch to benefit betting operators or any other ground staff or support staff receives money or any other reward to disclose the condition of the playing surface comes under the ambit of a criminal offence.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 113 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 warnings and political commitments emissionsrakesh dash of | [email protected] gases | (GHG) couldn’t decrease globally. The report was released prior to United Nations Climate Conference (COP-25) to be held in Spain from 2 December 2019. It states that GHG emissions have increased by 1.5% since last decade and that carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions have reached an all-time high figure of 55.3 gigatons. Key Findings of UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2019 China, United States of America (USA), European Union (28) and India are among the top four greenhouse gas emitters. India: UNEP report highlights that India is regularly considering deadlines and targets to curb carbon emissionAs per the report, India’s per capita emission is one of the lowest within G20 countries. Also, India is one of the leading countries that are looking for electric vehicle development. Globally: The report suggested that only if Green House Gas (GHG) emissions are reduced by 7.6% every year during 2020 to 2030 period, only then the target of reducing global temperature can be achieved. As per the report, the largest GHG contribution comes from energy sector and its fossil fuel emissions. Thus to achieve the target of limiting temperature rise to no more than 1.5 ° C, all countries must reduce GHG emissions by up to 5 times. The report also highlights that if global temperature reaches at level of 1.5 degrees then coral reefs would be reduced by 70-90%. It also clarifies that by 2100, the world would be warmer 3.2 degrees that pre- industrial level. Key Recommendations of Emissions Gap Report 2019 The report suggested that each country has own unique opportunities to protect livelihood, natural resources and lives. Moreover, Complete de-carbonization of energy sector is possible and necessary. With renewable energy electricity, the emission reduction can achieve a target of 12.1 gigatonnes (GT) by 2050. Also, the electrification of transport can also help to reduce carbon emission up to 72% by 2050. Multiple Choice Questions 1. Which country’s President has been invited as the chief guest at the India’s 2020 Republic Day? [A] Italy [B] Brazil [C] Portugal [D] New Zealand Answer: Brazil The 11th BRICS Summit 2019 has been attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Brasilia.During the summit, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro accepted Prime Minister Modi’s invitation to be the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2020. 2. Which Indian personality has been named an honorary trustee of “The Metropolitan Museum of Art”? [A] Nita Ambani [B] Ratan Tata [C] Amitabh Bachchan [D] Priyanka Chopra Answer: Nita Ambani Nita Ambani, the founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, has been named an honorary trustee of “The Metropolitan Museum of Art”. This decision was taken due to her commitment to preserve and encourage Indian art and culture. She is the first Indian to be so honoured on the museum’s Board of Trustees in its nearly 150-year history. 3. Who has been appointed as new CMD of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC)? [A] Sudhir Kumar [B] Payal Sharma [C] Kamala Vardhana Rao [D] Kirti Patel

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 92 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

Answer: Kamala Vardhana Rao rakesh dash | [email protected] | G Kamala Vardhana Rao, an IAS officer 1990 batch from Kerala Cadre, has been appointed as new CMD of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC).The ITDC is a hospitality, retail and education company owned by Government of India, under Ministry of Tourism. It came into existence in October 1966 and owns over 17 properties under the Ashok Group of Hotels brand across India. 4. The first-ever Indo-US tri-services ‘Tiger Triumph’ has started in which state? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Andhra Pradesh [C] Himachal Pradesh [D] Uttar Pradesh Answer: Andhra Pradesh The 9-day humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) exercise code-named ‘Tiger Triumph’ has been started between armed forces of India and United States on the Eastern seaboard (at Visakhapatnam and Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh). The aim of the first-ever tri- services exercise is to develop inter-operability between the militaries of the two countries in HADR operations. 5. Which state government has decided to organize 2019 World Kabaddi Cup? [A] Tripura [B] Kerala [C] Tamil Nadu [D] Punjab Answer: Punjab The 2019 World Kabaddi Cup is being organized by the Punjab government i.e. scheduled to be held from December 1 to 9. This year’s tournament would be dedicated to the 550th birth anniversary of Sikh guru – Guru Nanak Dev ji. Nine teams — India, USA, Australia, England, Sri Lanka, Kenya, New Zealand, Pakistan and Canada — are expected to take part in the tournament. 6. Suranga Bawadi, which has been selected as the World Monument Watch List for 2020, is located in which state? [A] Andhra Pradesh [B] Nagaland [C] Karnataka [D] Mizoram Answer: Karnataka The Suranga Bawadi is an integral part of the ancient Karez system of supplying water through subterranean tunnels built during Adil Shahi era in Vijayapura, Karnataka. It is in news recently because Bawadi has been selected as the World Monument Watch List for 2020 by the New York-based non-governmental organisation under the category of “Ancient Water System of the Deccan Plateau” along with 24 monuments across the world. Now, the unique underground water system in Vijayapura will receive funds for restoration work. According to historians, the Karez system was built in the 16th century by Ali Adil Shah–I & his successor Ibrahim Adil Shah–II brought in several changes by adding more structures to strengthen it. 7. India is hosting the 19th Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of SCO 2020 in which city? [A] Chennai [B] New Delhi [C] Pune [D] Bangaluru Answer: New Delhi India will host the 19th Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) 2020 in New Delhi. This will be first time that India is hosting a such high-level meeting of China-led eight-member economic and security bloc

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 93 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 after becoming full member of the rakeshorganisation dash | [email protected] in 2017. | The latest Summit of heads of government was held in Tashkent in November 2019. The SCO is an influential regional security grouping which is seen as a counterweight to NATO. The aim of the SCO is to maintain peace, stability and security of the region. 8. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Kindness Day (WKD) is celebrated? [A] November 13 [B] November 14 [C] November 15 [D] November 16 Answer: November 13 The World Kindness Day (WKD) is celebrated every year on 13th of November to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness which binds us. Kindness is a fundamental part of the human condition which bridges the divides of race religion, politics, gender and zip codes. The day was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, a coalition of nations’ kindness NGOs. The theme for 2019 edition is “Empathy, encouraging people across the globe to better understand “the pains of others” and touch their lives “positively”. 9. Which Indian scholar has won the 2019 BRICS-Young Innovator Prize? [A] Sunil Rajput [B] Ravi Prakash [C] Laxmi Jain [D] Deepankar Kumar Answer: Ravi Prakash Ravi Prakash, a PhD scholar of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI- Bengaluru), has won the $25,000 BRICS-Young Innovator Prize for inventing an affordable indigenous milk chilling unit for smaller and marginal rural dairy farmers. Prakash was a part of 21- member delegation sent to Brazil by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) for the 4th BRICS-Young Scientist Forum (YSF- 2019). 10. The 2019 International Lavi fair was held in which district of Himachal Pradesh? [A] Shimla [B] Hamirpur [C] Kangra [D] Kullu Answer: Shimla The 4-day-long International Lavi fair 2019 was held at Rampur in Shimla district. The main attraction during the fair was the sale and purchase of Chamurthi horses — an endangered species known as the ‘ship of the cold desert’. The Lavi Fair is approximately 400 years old & dates back to the time when Raja Kehari Singh of Rampur Bushahr state signed a treaty to promote trade with Tibet. Rampur was once a major trade centre as it is located on the old silk route connecting Afghanistan, Tibet and Ladakh. The traders from Tibet used to bring raw wool, herbs and leather products and take back wheat flour, rice, spices, butter, farm implements and livestock. 11. What is the India’s rank at the 2019 Global Bribery Risk Index? [A] 78th [B] 93rd [C] 102nd [D] 55th Answer: 78th India has been ranked 78th among 178 nations in the 2019 Global Bribery Risk Index, which was released by Trace Bribery Risk Matrix.The Matrix evaluates countries under four parameters which are business interaction with the government, anti-bribery deterrence, transparency and civil society oversight.TRACE is a US based organisation which provides ranking to various countries in terms of the risk of bribery companies face in doing business in those countries.

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12. Which state government has launched therakesh ‘Nadu-Nedu’ dash | [email protected] programme? | [A] Andhra Pradesh [B] Kerala [C] Tamil Nadu [D] Karnataka Answer: Andhra Pradesh The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jaganmohan Reddy has launched the ‘Nadu-Nedu’ programme to introduce English medium from classes 1 to 6 in state-run schools.The scheme will be implemented in 15,715 schools in the first phase. It will cover all schools in three years’ time with a budget of Rs 12,000 crores. 13. Vashishtha Narayan Singh, who passed away recently, was the noted personality of which field? [A] Maths [B] Biology [C] Chemistry [D] Physics Answer: Maths Renowned mathematician Vashishtha Narayan Singh passed away in Patna on 14th November 2019. Born in 1942 in Basantpur village of the Bhojpur district in Bihar, Singh became a legend as a student when he was allowed by Patna University to appear in the two-year course of B.Sc (Hons) in Mathematics in its very first year. 14. The Golden Leaf Awards are awarded for which sector? [A] Tobacco [B] Coffee [C] Tea [D] Jute Answer: Tobacco The Tobacco Board of India (Guntur) has been awarded the Golden Leaf Award at Tab Expo 2019 event in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The award was given in the most impressive public service initiative category for the year 2019 for its efforts to initiate various sustainability (green) initiatives in Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco cultivation in India.The Golden Leaf Awards are created to recognise professional excellence and dedication in the tobacco industry by an international magazine Tobacco Reporter. 15. Who has been named FIFA’s Chief of global football development? [A] Robert Jerni [B] Arsene Wenger [C] Harendra Singh [D] Igor Stimac Answer: Arsene Wenger Veteran coach Arsene Wenger has been named FIFA’s Chief of global football development. He would be responsible for the growth of the game for both men and women around the world and would also be the leading authority on technical matters, including potential changes to the sport’s laws. 16. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Press Day (NPD) is celebrated in India? [A] November 16 [B] November 14 [C] November 17 [D] November 15 Answer: November 16 The National Press Day (NPD) is celebrated every year on 16th of November as symbolic of free and responsible press in India.This was the day on which the Press Council of India (PCI) started functioning as a moral watchdog to ensure that not only did the press maintain the high standards expected from this powerful medium but also that it was not

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 95 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 fettered by the influence or threats ofrakesh any dash |extraneous [email protected] factors. | 17. Which union ministry has decided to launch Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK)? [A] Ministry of Finance [B] Ministry of Rural Development [C] Ministry of Women and Child Development [D] Ministry of HRD Answer: Ministry of Women and Child Development The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) and Textiles has decided to launch Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK) on 18th November 2019 in New Delhi. The BPKK is the repository of diverse crops across 128 agro-climatic zones in India for better nutritional outcomes. 18. Which Indian movie bagged the Best Director award at the 2019 Asian Film Festival Barcelona? [A] Super 30 [B] War [C] Bhonsle [D] Panipat Answer: Bhonsle Manoj Bajpayee-starrer and critically acclaimed movie “Bhonsle”, directed by Devashish Makhija, has won the prestigious awards at the 2019 Asian Film Festival Barcelona. The film bagged two awards in the ‘Best Screenplay’ and ‘Best Director’ categories at the festival. The movie revolves around a police constable, who tries to help in the struggles of migrants and their battles with the local politicians. It also addresses the concerns of various ethnic groups and highlights the issues that they face in order to survive in a city like Mumbai, away from their home. 19. Which movie bagged the Golden Royal Bengal Tiger Award for the Best Film at the 25th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF)? [A] Aga’s House [B] The Painted Bird [C] Run Kalyani [D] The Weeping Woman Answer: The Weeping Woman Spanish movie ‘The Weeping Woman’ (La llorona) bagged the Golden Royal Bengal Tiger Award for the Best Film in International Competition of the 25th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF). 20. The 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) was held in which city? [A] Colombo [B] New Delhi [C] Hanoi [D] Bangkok Answer: Bangkok The 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus-2019) has recently held in Bangkok, Thailand on 18th November 2019. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh along with 17 other Defence Ministers of ADMM-Plus countries attended the meeting. Its purpose was to seek collaborations in terms of security with Ministry of Defence of countries outside the region. 21. Who has been sworn-in as new President of Sri Lanka? [A] Gotabaya Rajapakasa [B] Priyantha Sirisena [C] Namal Rajapaksa [D] Karu Jayasuriya Answer: Gotabaya Rajapakasa Gotabaya Rajapakasa, the controversial wartime defence secretary, has been sworn-in as © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 96 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 7th Executive President of Sri Lankarakesh dashat | [email protected] Ruwanweli | Seya in Anuradhapura on 18th November 2019. He succeeded President Maithripala Sirisena for a 5-year term. Before the ceremony, the newly-elected president worshipped at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree in the Mahamewna Gardens and Ruwanweli Seya. 22. Which Indian boxer has been elected as a member of the first-ever international boxing body (AIBA) athletes’ commission? [A] Shiva Thapa [B] Laishram Sarita Devi [C] Mary Kom [D] Vijender Singh Answer: Laishram Sarita Devi Indian boxer, Laishram Sarita Devi of Manipur has been elected unopposed as a member of the first-ever international boxing body (AIBA) athletes’ commission. She was inspired by Muhammad Ali’s achievements, and turned professional in boxing in the year 2000. She is DSP in Manipur Police. The election of the Athletes Commission members was organized during AIBA Men and Women World Boxing Championships 2019 in Russia. Boxers from all over the world voted for new members – one per continent, except Europe which has two representatives. 23. Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, who has been sworn-in as the new Chief Justice of India (CJI), is a former Chief Justice of which High Court? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Rajasthan [C] Maharashtra [D] Uttar Pradesh Answer: Madhya Pradesh Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, a former Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court, has recently administered oath as the 47th Chief Justice of India (CJI) by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhawan. He will have a tenure of over 17 months as the CJI and is due to retire on April 23, 2021. Justice Bobde has decided several key cases and was part of the recent historic Ayodhya verdict. He also headed a 3-member in- house committee which gave a clean chit to CJI Gogoi on a sexual harassment complaint against him by a former apex court staffer. Hailing from a family of lawyers from Maharashtra, he is the son of eminent senior advocate Arvind Shriniwas Bobde. 24. The Andhra Pradesh government has selected which IIM to help curb corruption in the state administration? [A] IIM Calcutta [B] IIM Indore [C] IIM Ahmedabad [D] IIM Bangalore Answer: IIM Ahmedabad The Andhra Pradesh government has selected IIM Ahmedabad to help curb corruption in the state administration. The institute would study the structural issues in the government departments in relation to corruption and come out with measures to tackle them. The focus would be on government departments that have earned alleged notoriety for corruption. Based on the IIM-A report, it was expected that the government may suitably amend the PC Act for a complete crackdown on corruption. 25. Which country has become the first country in the world to introduce WHO approved typhoid vaccine? [A] Sri Lanka [B] Pakistan [C] India [D] Bangladesh Answer: Pakistan Pakistan has become the first country in the world to introduce WHO-approved Typhoid

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 97 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) into its routinerakesh dash | [email protected] immunisation | programme through a campaign mode in Sindh. Its an effort to combat a drug-resistant strain of the potentially fatal disease in the Sindh province. The two-week campaign has been launched with the support of Geneva-based Gavi vaccine alliance. The TCV is a one-dose vaccine, injected intramuscularly, that is lower in cost and has higher efficacy. It is expected to provide long lasting immunity in adults, children and infants older than 9 months of age. Typhoid is a highly contagious disease that spreads quickly when people live in crowded neighbourhoods with weak water and sanitation infrastructure. 26. Which state government has launched virtual classes project? [A] Chhattisgarh [B] Jharkhand [C] Uttarakhand [D] Bihar Answer: Uttarakhand Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has recently launched a project that will connect 500 government-run secondary schools to virtual classrooms in the state. The virtual classes are attended through video conferences where students can meet the teacher on a real-time basis and ask questions. Approx 1.90 lakh students of these schools will also benefit from the project. 27. The ‘SAANS’ campaign has been launched by which union ministry? [A] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change [B] Ministry of Human Resource Development [C] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare [D] Ministry of Jal Shakti Answer: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Harsh Vardhan has launched a ‘SAANS (Social Awareness and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully) campaign to curb pneumonia deaths among children. Under the campaign, a child suffering from pneumonia can be treated with pre-referral dose of anti-biotic amoxicillin by ASHA workers, and health and wellness centres can use pulse oximeter (device to monitor oxygen saturation) to identify low oxygen levels in the blood of a child, and if required, treat him by use of oxygen cylinders. The campaign will mobilize people to protect children from pneumonia, and train health personnel and other stakeholders to provide prioritized treatment to control the disease. 28. Which state government has launched Mukhyamantri Septic Tank Safai Yojana? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Uttar Pradesh [C] Rajasthan [D] Delhi Answer: Delhi Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has launched a scheme — Mukhyamantri Septic Tank Safai Yojana – to help people in waste management and to ensure the safety of sanitation workers. The government has plans to achieve three objectives with the scheme viz. a collection of waste from septic tanks in the colonies, ensuring safe disposal of the waste in sewage treatment plants, and deployment of trained staff with safety equipment for cleaning septic tanks. 29. The first-ever National Agrochemicals Congress (NAC) was held in which city? [A] Pune [B] Bangaluru [C] Chennai [D] New Delhi Answer: New Delhi In New Delhi, the first-ever National Agrochemicals Congress (NAC) was conducted by Society of Pesticide Science India at IARI, Pusa under the theme “Country’s Status on

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 98 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 various fronts of Agro chemicals”. Therakesh 4-day dash | [email protected] long Congress | is conducted in view of the role chemical pesticides still continue to play in pest management as more and more target specific and environment friendly products are being introduced. 30. Which state government has decided to create new new Foreign Cooperation department? [A] Odisha [B] Haryana [C] Karnataka [D] Kerala Answer: Haryana The Haryana Government has decided to create a dedicated new department namely Department of ‘Foreign Cooperation’ to deal in formulation of country-wise strategies for promotion of investment, employment in the state, education and skill development and promotion of Haryanavi culture and welfare of Haryanavi diaspora. The Haryana Cabinet has also decided to revise the House Rent Allowance admissible to the Ministers from Rs 50,000 to Rs 80,000 plus Rs 20,000 to cover electricity and water charges that is totalling Rs 1 Lakh per month. 31. What is the India’s rank in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking? [A] 62nd [B] 43rd [C] 59th [D] 68th Answer: 59th Due to low quality of life and expenditure on education, India has been ranked 59th on a global annual list of 63 countries in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking. The list was topped by Switzerland, followed by Denmark, Sweden and Austria. The ranking is based on the performance in three main categories — Investment & Development, Appeal and Readiness. 32. Which union ministry has launched Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK)? [A] Ministry of Women and Child Development [B] Ministry of Food Processing Industries [C] Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare [D] Ministry of Rural Development Answer: Ministry of Women and Child Development The Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK) has been launched by Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) in partnership with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in New Delhi. The BPKK is a repository of diverse crops across 128 agro-climatic zones in India for better nutritional outcomes. 33. The bilateral maritime exercise “Roar of the Sea” has started between India & which country? [A] Qatar [B] Japan [C] Afghanistan [D] Saudi Arabia Answer: Qatar The first-ever joint naval exercise titled “Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea)” has started between Qatar & India in Doha. The exercise would strengthen cooperation and increase interoperability between the two navies. 34. Which state Olympic Association has decided to launch ‘Grassroot Olympic – Mission Talent Hunt’ to groom talent? [A] Odisha [B] Rajasthan [C] Punjab [D] Assam

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Answer: Assam rakesh dash | [email protected] | The Assam Olympic Association (AOA) has decided to launch a new programme – “Grassroot Olympic – Mission Talent Hunt” – to identify the sports talent in the state and groom them. The AOA will organize sports events in five categories covering players from 10 years to 60 years of age in the state. 35. Who is the author of the book “The Daughter from a Wishing Tree Unusual Tales about Women in Mythology”? [A] Sudha Chandran [B] Sudha Murty [C] Kiran Bedi [D] Lakshmi Venu Answer: Sudha Murty The book “The Daughter from a Wishing Tree Unusual Tales about Women in Mythology” has been authored by acclaimed author and Infosys Foundation chairman Sudha Murty. The book will tell numerous untold tales of women in mythology. It will talk about the magic spell that can make a dead person come alive, and the wishing tree that gives the wonderful gift of daughters. It will also answer some very curiosity invoking questions like who the gods turn to for support when they are helpless. 36. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Epilepsy Day (NED) is observed? [A] November 17 [B] November 18 [C] November 19 [D] November 20 Answer: November 17 In India, the National Epilepsy Day (NED) is observed every year on 17th of November to create awareness about epilepsy. Epilepsy is a chronic disorder of brain characterized by recurrent ‘seizures’ or ‘fits’. The seizures are caused as a result of sudden, excessive electrical discharges in the neurons (brain cells). The condition can affect people at any age and each age group has unique concerns and problems. 37. What is the theme of the 2019 edition of World Toilet Day (WTD)? [A] Toilets and Nutrition [B] Follow the Flush [C] When Nature Calls [D] Leaving No One Behind Answer: Leaving No One Behind The World Toilet Day (WTD) is observed every year on 19th of November to draw attention to those people being left behind without sanitation. The 2019 theme “Leaving No One Behind” aims to tackle the global sanitation crisis. It means that a toilet is not just a toilet. It’s a life-saver, dignity-protector and opportunity-maker. Whoever you are, wherever you are, sanitation is your human right. 38. Which company has launched 60 Starlink satellites for cheaper global Internet? [A] SpaceX [B] Blue Origin [C] Virgin Galactic [D] Boeing Answer: SpaceX Elon Musk-run SpaceX has recently launched 60 “Starlink” satellites into Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida that will bring cheaper and reliable space-based internet access to the world. The “Starlink” satellites will be deployed at an altitude of 280 km to beam broadband Internet services. These satellites are part of the 2nd batch of SpaceXs broadband Internet mega constellation. Enabled by a constellation of low Earth-orbit satellites, Starlink will provide fast, reliable internet to populations with little or no connectivity, including those in rural communities and places where existing

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 100 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 services are too expensive or unreliable.rakesh dash | [email protected] The Starlink | network is one of several ongoing efforts to start beaming data signals from space, and also the most ambitious. 39. Jayakwadi Dam, sometimes seen in news, is located on which river? [A] Krishna [B] Kaveri [C] Godavari [D] Mahanadi Answer: Godavari The Jayakwadi Dam is located on Godavari river at the site of Jayakwadi village in Paithan taluka of Aurangabad district in Maharashtra. It is in news because the seismometer , piezometer, earth pressure cell, slope meter and several other key instruments installed at the dam have stopped functioning properly. The seismometer was installed at the Jayakwadi dam after the devastating earthquake in Killari in Latur district in 1993. This instrument is powerful as it has a range of 10,000 kms. In the past, it has recorded the epicentres of earthquakes in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Nepal, etc. 40. The Union government has banned which state-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC)? [A] Nagaland [B] Tripura [C] Mizoram [D] Meghalaya Answer: Meghalaya The Central government has recently banned Meghalaya-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) for its increased activities of violence and other subversive acts. The government also declared HNLC and its factions, wings and front organisations as “unlawful associations” by exercising powers conferred by sub- section (1) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967. 41. Which state government has decided to start Arundhati gold scheme by January 2020? [A] Tamil Nadu [B] West Bengal [C] Assam [D] Kerala Answer: Assam The Assam government has decided to start Arundhati gold scheme by January 2020 for the registered newly married couples. Under the scheme, an amount of 30 thousand rupees will be given to the bride to purchase gold. The purpose of the scheme is to promote marriage registrations and prevent under-age marriages in the state. To get the benefit, the annual income of the bride and her father should not be more than 5 lakh rupees per year. As per the scheme, the minimum age of the bride and groom to be 18 and 21 years to avail the benefit. 42. Who has been named PETA India’s Person of the Year for 2019? [A] KS Panicker Radhakrishnan [B] Virat Kohli [C] Shashi Tharoor [D] R Madhavan Answer: Virat Kohli Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has been named People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India’s ‘Person of the Year for 2019’ for his animal advocacy efforts. also reportedly visited an animal shelter in Bengaluru to check on injured and formerly neglected dogs there, sending a message to his fans to adopt animals rather than buying them. The PETA is an American animal rights organization based in Norfolk, Virginia, and led by Ingrid Newkirk, its international president. 43. Who is the head of the panel on petrochemical investment?

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[A] P Raghavendra Rao rakesh dash | [email protected] | [B] S Chaudhary [C] Pradeep Sharma [D] Rajat Bhargava Answer: Rajat Bhargava The Union Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals has appointed senior Andhra Pradesh bureaucrat Rajat Bhargava as head of a high-level committee to suggest necessary policy initiatives for attracting more investments into the Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemical Investment Regions (PCPIR) in the country. This is the first time the Union government is seeking to amend the PCPIR Policy after it was introduced. As per the PCPIR Policy, the Centre approved four PCPIRs at Dahej (Gujarat) on the west coast and Visakhapatnam- Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh), Paradeep (Odisha) and Cuddalore- Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu) on the east coast. The VK-PCPIR is the largest in the country spread over an area of 640 sq km along the Bay of Bengal coast. 44. Which military unit has been honoured with President’s Colour award? [A] Mahar Regiment [B] Rajputana Rifles [C] Indian Naval Academy [D] The Garhwal Rifles Answer: Indian Naval Academy President Ram Nath Kovind presented the prestigious President’s Colour, to the Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala, Kerala. It is recognition of the yeoman service rendered by the institution in training and shaping Indian Naval officers over the last 50 years at three different locations – Kochi, Goa and Ezhimala. The President’s Colour is the highest honour that is bestowed upon a military unit. 45. What is the theme of the 2019 edition of World Children’s Day (WCD)? [A] Protect Child, Protect World [B] Children of today, our keepers tomorrow [C] Children are taking over and turning the world blue [D] Kids Take Over Answer: Children of today, our keepers tomorrow The World Children’s Day (WCD) is observed every year on 20th of November across the world to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare. The 2019 theme is “Children of today, our keepers tomorrow”. This year is special as it marks 30 years of the Convention on the Rights of the Child – 30 years of child rights that have helped transform children’s lives around the world. 46. Which city has become the India’s first City to Install ‘Third Umpire’ RT-PCR Machines? [A] Mumbai [B] Chennai [C] Kolkata [D] Delhi Answer: Kolkata The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has installed first of its kind high-end Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) machines in India for quick detection of diseases like dengue, tuberculosis and swine flu. These machines are to serve as a Third Umpire in situations when medical reports and blood tests reveal contradictory results. The purpose of these machines is to give accurate DNA report on blood tests in order to ascertain the exact cause of illness. Through these machines, the tests will be conducted free of cost 47. IRCTC has signed pact with which state tourism to market & run Golden Chariot train? [A] Karnataka [B] Maharashtra [C] Kerala © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 102 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

[D] Tamil Nadu rakesh dash | [email protected] | Answer: Karnataka The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) to market and operate the Golden Chariot train. IRCTC is expected to carry out an internal refurbishment of the train and commence operations from March 2020. The new itineraries shall be a mix of history, culture, wildlife and nature. It is proposed to include Bandipur, Mysore, Halebid, Chikmagalur, Hampi, Bijapur and Goa in the itinerary. As per the pact, KSTDC will soon hand over the reins of the train to IRCTC. 48. NASA scientists have recently detected water vapor on which Jupiter’s moon? [A] Ganymede [B] Europa [C] Callisto [D] Io Answer: Europa For the first time, NASA scientists have discovered the presence of water vapor above the surface of Jupiter’s icy moon Europa using the W. M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii. The researchers detected 5,202 pounds of water releasing from Europa per second, which could fill an Olympic-size swimming pool within minutes. 49. Which country has declared that Israeli settlements on West Bank do not violate international laws? [A] United Kingdom [B] Russia [C] United States [D] France Answer: United States The United States has recently declared that Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land “West Bank “ donot violate international laws. The US declaration marks the rejection of a 2016 UN Security Council (UNSC) resolution that settlements on the West Bank are a “flagrant violation” of international law and the US legal position on the issue since 1978. It is also a rejection of the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949, which outlaws transfers of population by an occupying power, and a new rift with US allies in Europe and in the Islamic world. 50. Which Indian state has launched the first Hindi daily “Arun Bhoomi”? [A] Arunachal Pradesh [B] Nagaland [C] Tripura [D] Mizoram Answer: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu has recently launched the first Hindi daily Titled ‘Arun Bhoomi’ of the state to promote Hindi amongst the new generation of Arunachalees. The Hindi daily will be published and edited by Takam Sonia. Takam also heads the Arunachal Hindi Sanstha, an organization working for promotion and propagation of Hindi language in the state. 51. Which international organisation has released World Energy Outlook (WEO-2019)? [A] IMF [B] WHO [C] IEA [D] WB Answer: IEA The International Energy Agency (IEA) has recently released its latest World Energy Outlook (WEO) report. In the 2019 edition, IEA projected a rapid increase in installed installed solar capacity by 2040, from 495 GW now to 3,142 GW. Though, it expects (CO2) emissions to continue rising for decades unless polices reflect greater ambition on climate

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 103 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 change. This is primarily due to therakesh longevity dash | [email protected] of the |existing stock of coal-based plants, which account for 30% of all energy-related emissions. IEA is an inter-governmental organisation established in the framework of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). 52. Which international organization has organized the 2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products – Achieving the SDGs 2030 in New Delhi? [A] WHO [B] UNICEF [C] UNESCO [D] IMF Answer: WHO The 2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products- Achieving the SDGs 2030 was held in New Delhi from 19-21 November 2019. It was jointly organized by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The conference provided a platform for discussions focused on creating an enabling legal and trade environment for public health which are critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 Agenda. 53. Who has been conferred the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2019? [A] Angela Merkel [B] Ellen Johnson Sirleaf [C] David Attenborough [D] Ela Bhatt Answer: David Attenborough Renowned naturalist and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough has been chosen for the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2019. He has been recognized for a lifetime of doing more to reveal the wonders of the natural world to us than perhaps any other individual. 54. Which tech giant has organized the South Asia Safety Summit 2019? [A] Microsoft [B] Facebook [C] Twitter [D] Infosys Answer: Facebook The 2nd edition of South Asia Safety Summit 2019 was held in New Delhi to highlight the issue of safety while individuals and communities are connected on the digital platform. It was organized by Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) and Facebook. During the Summit, Union Minister Smriti Zubin Irani launched “We Think Digital” website. The website is a four-part course designed to empower students with the knowledge to use, understand, evaluate, communicate and create with digital technologies. The programme will focus on online safety, privacy and misinformation. 55. The first-ever pink ball Test match is being held between India & which country? [A] South Africa [B] Bangladesh [C] New Zealand [D] England Answer: Bangladesh The first-ever pink ball Test match between India and Bangladesh is being held at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on 22nd November 2019. Pink balls will be used in place of red balls for better visibility under lights. BCCI President Sourav Ganguly unveiled the official mascots of the event “Pinku-Tinku”. Its also India’s first Day-Night Test against Bangladesh. The Eden Gardens has a capacity of 67,000. 56. Which state government has launched YSR Matsyakara Bharosa scheme for fishermen? [A] Andhra Pradesh

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[B] Tamil Nadu rakesh dash | [email protected] | [C] West Bengal [D] Kerala Answer: Andhra Pradesh On the occasion of World Fisheries Day (WFD-2019), Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy has launched a welfare scheme – YSR Matsyakara Bharosa – for fishermen. Under this scheme, 1,32,332 fishermen in the 21-60 age group will get an enhanced monetary relief of Rs 10,000 each during the marine ban and lean period every year between April and June. Also, the subsidy on diesel has been increased from Rs 6.03 to Rs 9 per litre, applicable to the mechanised (3000 Ltrs) and motorized boats (300 Ltrs) for 10 months every year. 57. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Fisheries Day (WFD) is observed? [A] November 22 [B] November 21 [C] November 23 [D] November 20 Answer: November 21 The World Fisheries Day (WFD) is observed every year on 21st of November across the world by the fisherfolk community to ensure sustainable stocks of fisheries and healthy oceans ecosystems. Fisheries is an important sector in India that provides employment to millions of people apart from contributing to the food security of the country. India has over 8,000 km of coastline, and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of over 2 million sq km, and extensive freshwater resources. 58. Which country is hosting the world’s first Muslim yoga camp? [A] India [B] Israel [C] Bangladesh [D] China Answer: India The world’s first Muslim yoga camp has started at Kanva Ashram in Kotdwar town of Uttarakhand on 20th November & will conclude on November 24. Approx 500 Muslim men and women from different countries are participating in the event. The event will send a healthy message to the world that yoga does not belong to a particular religion and is beneficial for entire humanity. 59. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Television Day (WTD) is observed? [A] November 22 [B] November 20 [C] November 21 [D] November 23 Answer: November 21 The World Television Day (WTD) is observed every year on 21st of November across the world to acknowledge the role of broadcast media. The day also marks the commitment of governments, news organisations and individuals to deliver unbiased information in times when veracity of content on social media is questionable. 60. Which tech giant has launched ‘K-12 Education Transformation Framework’ to facilitate digital transformation of schools in India? [A] Twitter [B] Wipro [C] Facebook [D] Microsoft Answer: Microsoft Microsoft has launched its ‘K-12 Education Transformation Framework’ to facilitate comprehensive digital transformation of schools in India. The framework consists of four © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 105 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 pillars — Leadership and policy, Modernrakesh dash | [email protected] and | learning, Intelligent environments and Technology blueprint. The purpose of the framework is to provide education leadership, government decision-makers, teachers and most importantly learners, tools to achieve the ambitious change many schools seek, and to thoughtfully integrate technology in powerful and productive ways. 61. Which state government has decided to legalize the cultivation of cannabis in the state for medical and industrial purpose? [A] Haryana [B] Karnataka [C] Madhya Pradesh [D] Punjab Answer: Madhya Pradesh The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to legalize the cultivation of cannabis in the state for medical and industrial purpose. It is clear that the farmers can only sell their produce to the government and not to private buyers. The government will allow the farming of hemp (a type of marijuana) for medical purposes like in the treatment of cancer. Hemp with a Tetra-Hydro-Cannabinol (THC) content of 0.3 to 1.5% can be used for industrial purposes like in the manufacturing of fiber. 62. Chitharesh Natesan, who became the first Indian to be crowned Mr Universe 2019, is from which state? [A] Telangana [B] Tamil Nadu [C] Odisha [D] Kerala Answer: Kerala Indian bodybuilder Chitharesh Natesan from Kerala has become the first Indian to be crowned Mr Universe 2019 at the 11th World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship (WBPF) at the Island city of Jeju in South Korea. He won the title in the 90 kg category in the WBPF 2019. Earlier, he also bagged the Mr Asia 2019 title at the Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship (ABBF) held in Thailand in October. 63. Which Indian organisation hosted the first-ever Counter Terrorism Table Top Exercise (CTTE) for the Quad countries? [A] BSF [B] DRDO [C] NIA [D] Indian Army Answer: NIA The National Investigation Agency (NIA) hosted the first-ever Counter Terrorism Table Top Exercise (CTTE) for the Quad countries at its headquarters in Delhi on November 21-22, 2019. The Quad countries include the United States (US), India, Australia, and Japan. According to the NIA, the exercise was to assess and validate Counter Terrorism (CT) response mechanisms in the light of emerging terrorist threats. It also aims to provide opportunities to share the best practices and to explore areas for enhanced cooperation amongst participating countries. 64. Which union ministry is organizing the Destination North East (NE) in Varanasi? [A] Ministry of Home Affairs [B] Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region [C] Ministry of Finance [D] Ministry of Defense Answer: Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region The Destination North East (NE) Festival is being organized by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on 23rd November 2019. The 4-day festival will showcase art, culture, cuisine, handicrafts and handlooms of the northeastern region. During the festival, the visitors will have live

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 106 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 experience of the artisans and artistesrakesh dash from | [email protected] the Northeast | working on their looms and crafts, performing their songs and dances in the open stage. 65. Which business tycoon has been conferred with Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)? [A] Azim Permji [B] Mukesh Ambani [C] Ratan Tata [D] Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Answer: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, CMD of Biocon, has been conferred with Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for her outstanding achievement in healthcare and contribution to the society at large. She was also recognised for her philanthropic efforts and providing better healthcare to people in India and globally through cost-effective life-saving therapies and increasing access to healthcare at the grassroots. Bill Gates gave away this award to Mazumdar-Shaw in New Delhi on Nov 17 at an event to mark the celebration of 108th Foundation Day of ICMR. 66. The NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 is being held in which village of Haryana? [A] Badesra [B] Nathuwas [C] Chandeni [D] Manesar Answer: Manesar In Haryana, the NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 is being organized by International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) in Manesar under the theme “Smart & Green Mobility”. It aims to find alternative mobility solutions to problems like pollution emanating from vehicular emissions. 67. The Union Cabinet has recently approved establishment of the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa (NISR) under which union ministry? [A] Ministry of Home Affairs [B] Ministry of Tribal Affairs [C] Ministry of AYUSH [D] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Answer: Ministry of AYUSH The Union Cabinet has recently approved the establishment of the National Institute for Sowa-Rigpa in Leh as an autonomous organization under the Ministry of AYUSH. The Sowa-Rigpa is a Traditional Medical system of the Himalayan belt in India. It has been popularly practiced in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Darjeeling (West Bengal), Himachal Pradesh, Union Territory of Ladakh and now all over India. The Institute would provide an impetus for the revival of Sowa-Rigpa in the Indian Sub-continent. It will also provide opportunities for students of Sowa-Rigpa not only in India but also from other countries. 68. Nilkanth Khadilkar, who passed away recently, was the noted personality of which field? [A] Photography [B] Journalism [C] Politics [D] Arts Answer: Journalism Nilkanth Khadilkar (85) , the noted editor of Marathi newspaper Navakal, has passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra on 22nd November 2019. He was the editor of the newspaper for 27 years and had gained popularity for his hard-hitting editorials which became the daily’s popular feature. He was also author of a few books, including “Practical Socialism: musings from a tour of Russia”. 69. Who is set to become the first woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval operations? [A] Nikita Gupta © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 107 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

[B] Komal Sharma rakesh dash | [email protected] | [C] Divya Kumari [D] Shivangi Answer: Shivangi Woman officer Sub Lt Shivangi is expected to become the first woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval operations. She will join naval operations on completion of operational training at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi, Kerala on December 2, 2019. She hails from Muzzafarpur, Bihar and completed her schooling from DAV Public school, Muzzafarpur. 70. Shaukat Kaifi, who passed away recently, was the renowned actress of which cinema? [A] Hindi [B] Tamil [C] Telugu [D] Marathi Answer: Hindi Shaukat Kaifi (93), the veteran Bollywood actor and Shabana Azmi’s mother, has passed away in Mumbai on 23rd November 2019. Kaifi’s husband “Kaifi Azmi” was the celebrated Urdu poet and film lyricist. She and her husband were leading lights of the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA) and the Progressive Writers Association (IWA), which were the cultural platforms of the Communist Party of India (CPI). Also credited as Shaukat Azmi, Kaifi’s acting credits include ‘Bazaar’, ‘Umrao Jaan’ and Mira Nair’s Oscar-nominated film ‘Salaam Bombay’. Her last film was Shaadi Ali’s ‘Saathiya’. 71. Who has been bestowed with the 28th Bihari Puraskar for 2018? [A] Vijay Verma [B] Satya Narayan [C] Manisha Kulshreshtha [D] Bhagwati Lal Vyas Answer: Manisha Kulshreshtha Manisha Kulshreshtha, the noted writer from Rajasthan, has been conferred the 28th Bihari Puraskar for 2018 for her novel ‘Swapnapash’. The award is presented by the KK Birla Foundation and is for writers of Rajasthani origin. It is given annually to an outstanding work in Hindi or Rajasthani published in the past 10 years. The award is named after famous Hindi poet Bihari. It carries a cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh, a citation, and a plaque. 72. Bougainville, which is in news recently, is the province of which country? [A] Solomon Islands [B] Fiji [C] Kiribati [D] Papua New Guinea Answer: Papua New Guinea The people of Bougainville have started casting vote in a referendum on independence from Papua New Guinea (PNG). If the vote for independence passes, the autonomous province with 206,000 people could become the world’s newest independent nation. The referendum is part of a peace deal in 2001 that ended a bloody civil war between Bougainville and PNG. The referendum presents two options, either greater autonomy from PNG, or complete independence. However, the referendum is nonbinding and a vote for independence would require ratification from the Papuan Parliament. Bougainville is the small archipelago of Pacific islands. Its history includes colonial exploitation, attempts at independence, a 9-year war and a gradual peace process. 73. Living Root Bridges, sometimes seen in news, are associated to which state? [A] Meghalaya [B] Tripura [C] Nagaland [D] Mizoram

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Answer: Meghalaya rakesh dash | [email protected] | The Living Root Bridges (LRB) (or jing kieng jri) are the aerial bridges built by weaving and manipulating the roots of the Indian rubber tree. They have been serving as connectors for generations in Meghalaya. These bridges spans between 15 and 250 feet and are built over centuries. Primarily, the bridges are a means to cross streams and rivers & have also become world-famous tourist attractions. Now, new research investigates these structures and proposes to integrate them in modern architecture around the world, and potentially help make cities more environment-friendly. 74. Which oil company has rolled out special winter-grade diesel for Ladakh ? [A] HP [B] IOCL [C] BPCL [D] GAIL Answer: IOCL The Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) has launched a special winter-grade diesel for high altitude regions such as Ladakh, Kargil, Kaza and Keylong. This unique winter-grade fuel has been engineered to perform in extremely cold weather conditions. It will help provide year-round access to grueling regions and will work as a catalyst in the country’s efforts to speed up strategic road connectivity. This special fuel produced by Panipat refinery is capable of remaining unfrozen up to minus 33 degree Celsius. It also meets BIS specification of BS-VI grade diesel. 75. Which state assembly is hosting the Commonwealth Youth Parliament (CYP-2019)? [A] Delhi [B] Telangana [C] Kerala [D] Punjab Answer: Delhi The Delhi Assembly along with the Lok Sabha will host a 3-day Commonwealth Youth Parliament (CYP) from 25th November 2019. About 47 participants from 24 countries will participate in the event. The CYP is an annual gathering hosted by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA). It brings together young people aged 18–29 from across the Commonwealth of Nations to discuss issues of democracy and governance. 76. Who is the author of the book “RN Kao: Gentle Spymaster”? [A] S E Joshi [B] Nitin A Gokhale [C] K Sankaran Nair [D] Girish Chandra Saxena Answer: Nitin A Gokhale The book “RN Kao: Gentle Spymaster” has been authored by security expert Nitin A Gokhale. It is on the life and times of legendary spymaster Rameshwar Nath Kao, founding father of India’s external intelligence agency Research & Analysis Wing (RAW). Kao’s legendary exploits include conducting ‘Kashmir Princess’ probe in the mid-1950s, his contributions in the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971 and role in ensuring Sikkim’s merger with India. 77. Which state government has decided to constitute State Folk Art Council (SFAC)? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Rajasthan [C] Chhattisgarh [D] Uttar Pradesh Answer: Chhattisgarh The Chhattisgarh government has decided to constitute State Folk Art Council (SFAC) for preserving and nurturing traditional art forms and artists. The council will also ensure registration of folk art troupes of all kinds, enlist them and take necessary steps to provide certain assistance including musical instruments and other materials required by them. It © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 109 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 would promote folk arts of the staterakesh dashthrough | [email protected] modern | promotional mediums, organize festivals at archaeological and cultural heritage sites. 78. The 8th International Tourism Mart (ITM-2019) was held in which city? [A] Imphal [B] Guwahati [C] Itanagar [D] Kolkata Answer: Imphal The Ministry of Tourism is organizing the 8th International Tourism Mart in association with the North Eastern States at Imphal, Manipur from 23rd to 25th November 2019. The event aims to highlight the tourism potential of the region in the domestic and international markets. It brings together the tourism business fraternity and entrepreneurs from the 8 North Eastern States. 79. Oxford Dictionaries has named which word as its 2019 Word of the Year? [A] Climate action [B] Climate denial [C] Climate anxiety [D] Climate emergency Answer: Climate emergency The Oxford Dictionaries has declared “climate emergency” as its 2019 Word of the Year. In 2019, “climate” became the most common word associated with “emergency”. The Word of the Year citation is intended to highlight a word or expression shown through usage evidence to reflect the ethos, mood, or preoccupations of the passing year, and have a lasting potential as a term of cultural significance. 80. Which state government has decided to provide 5% reservation for its athletes in govt jobs? [A] Haryana [B] Uttar Pradesh [C] Punjab [D] Madhya Pradesh Answer: Madhya Pradesh In Madhya Pradesh, the state government has decided to provide 5% reservation for national and international medallists in government jobs. It was announced by Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Jitu Patwari during the inauguration of Under 16 state-level Olympic Games at Kampoo sports complex in Gwalior on 24th November 2019. He also announced that children from all CBSE, government and private schools would be involved in the Olympics. At present, the competition is being organized for children above 16 years of age. He said it includes 10 sports — hockey, basketball, football, volleyball, kabaddi, kho- kho, athletics, wrestling, badminton and table tennis. 81. Kailash Joshi, who passed away recently, was the former CM of which country? [A] Rajasthan [B] Madhya Pradesh [C] Uttar Pradesh [D] Chhattisgarh Answer: Madhya Pradesh Kailash Joshi (91), the former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh & BJP leader, has passed away in Bhopal on 24th of November 2019. His last rites performed at his ancestral town Hatpipalya in Dewas district. Born on 14th July 1929, Joshi was called as the ‘saint of politics’. He served as the state’s chief minister from 1977 to 1978. He was MLA for 8 terms and also served as member of both the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha. 82. Who became the first Indian bowler to take five-wicket haul with a pink ball? [A] Mohammed Shami [B] Umesh Yadav [C] Ishant Sharma

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[D] Jasprit Bumrah rakesh dash | [email protected] | Answer: Ishant Sharma Ishant Sharma has become the first Indian bowler to take five-wicket haul in the Day-night Pink ball Test against Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Earlier, Mohammad Nisar was the first-ever Indian bowler to take a five-wicket haul with the red ball against England at Lord’s in 1932. Interestingly, current head-coach Ravi Shastri holds the record of first-ever five-wicket haul by an Indian with the white ball when he took 5-wickets against Australia at WACA in 1991. 83. Which Indian Armed force has celebrated ‘Poonch Link Up Day’? [A] Indian Army [B] Indian Air Force [C] Indian Navy [D] Indian Coast Guard Answer: Indian Army On 23rd November 2019, Indian Army celebrated the historic Poonch Link-up Day with traditional gaiety & fervour to mark the Operation Easy conducted by them in 1948 to defend the border district from the invading Pakistani raiders. Poonch withstood a siege by the Pakistanis from November 1947 till relieved by the Indian Army. The day marks the historic link up carried out by Brigadier Pritam Singh’s forces with Brigadier Yadunath’s forces from Rajouri at Danna Ka Pir on 21 November 1948. 84. India’s first largest biotechnology stakeholders conglomerate – the Global Bio-India (GBI) Summit 2019 was held in which city? [A] Chennai [B] New Delhi [C] Pune [D] Kolkata Answer: New Delhi India’s first largest biotechnology stakeholders conglomerate – the Global Bio-India (GBI) Summit, 2019 was held in New Delhi on 24th November. The 3-day summit provided an opportunity to showcase the potential of India’s biotech sector to the international community, identify, create opportunities and deliberate on the key challenges in the areas of Bio-pharma, Bio-Agri, Bio-Industrial, Bio-Energy and Bio-Services and allied sectors. 85. Which state government has launched immunisation campaign against Filaria? [A] Uttar Pradesh [B] Madhya Pradesh [C] Rajasthan [D] Kerala Answer: Uttar Pradesh The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a massive immunization campaign against the filariasis (or Filaria) from 25th of November 2019. Under this campaign, more than 65 thousand teams of health workers will distribute medicines to around 6.5 crore people till 10 December in 19 districts. The Central government has set year 2021 as the deadline for complete eradication of filaria in country. 86. The Arcadia Education Project of which country has won 2019 Aga Khan Architecture Award? [A] India [B] Bangladesh [C] Nepal [D] Sri Lanka Answer: Bangladesh The Floating school named ‘The Arcadia Education Project’ has won the prestigious Aga Khan Architecture Award 2019 in Kajan, republic of Tatarastan. The school is located in South Kanarchor of Bangladesh. It is an innovative project for constructing a floating school for marginalized children in the country. The architect of the project Saif Ul Haque

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 111 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 designed a school which remains on rakeshthe dash ground | [email protected] during | dry season and floats when the area is submerged in water during monsoon. He utilized only the local material-bamboo, used tyres and steel drums for constructing the amphibious structure for school. The workforce and artisans for the project were also drawn locally. The school also serves as a shelter, a day care centre and a vocational training centre for the local people. 87. Which country’s team has won the 2019 Davis Cup title? [A] Spain [B] Canada [C] Switzerland [D] USA Answer: Spain In tennis, World No. 1 Rafael Nadal has clinched 6th Davis Cup title for Spain after beating Denis Shapovalov of Canada in front of a jubilant home crowd in Madrid. Nadal defeated Shapovalov 6-3, 7-6 (9-7) to clinch Spain’s 2-0 win against Canada. 88. Simon Taufel, who launched his book “Finding The Gaps”, is the former cricket umpire of which country? [A] South Africa [B] New Zealand [C] Australia [D] Sri Lanka Answer: Australia The book “Finding The Gaps: Transferable Skills to Be the Best You Can Be” has been authored by former Australian cricket umpire Simon Taufel. This book is a way of sharing those lessons and transferable soft skills that can be applied to anyone or any vocation. Taufel is known for his accuracy and extreme fitness & maintained immense respect from players up to his retirement from the international game in 2012. 89. On which date, the 2019 edition of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is observed? [A] November 25 [B] November 26 [C] November 24 [D] November 23 Answer: November 25 The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed every year on 25th of November to raise awareness of the fact that women around the world are subject to rape, domestic violence and other forms of violence. The official theme for 2019 is “Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape”. 90. The 70th Constitution Day of India has celebrated on which date? [A] November 25 [B] November 27 [C] November 28 [D] November 26 Answer: November 26 The 70th Constitution Day (or Samvidhan divas) is celebrated on 26th of November 2019 across the country to mark the adopting of the Indian Constitution by the Constituent Assembly on this day in 1949. The constituent assembly took two years, 11 months and 17 days to accomplish the stupendous task of drafting the historic document. It is the longest written constitution of any sovereign country in the world. The Constitution declares India a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic, assuring its citizens justice, equality and liberty and endeavours to promote fraternity. It came into force on 26th January 1950 to marking the beginning of a new era in the history of Indian Republic. 91. Which state government has launched a citizen helpline No. 14400 for corruption-related complaints? [A] Uttar Pradesh [B] Andhra Pradesh

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[C] Madhya Pradesh rakesh dash | [email protected] | [D] Rajasthan Answer: Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy has recently launched a citizen helpline number – 14400 – to enable people to complain about graft in government departments. The citizens could directly call the helpline and lodge a complaint against corruption in any government department. All complaints would be investigated in 15 to 30 days and required action will be taken. 92. Which Indian armed force is set to host multi-nation military drill ‘Milan 2020’? [A] Indian Air Force [B] Indian Coast Guard [C] Indian Navy [D] Indian Army Answer: Indian Navy The Indian Navy will host multi-nation military drill ‘Milan 2020’ at Visakhapatnam in March 2020 & will witness the participation of 41 nations from South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe. The areas of cooperation include capacity building, marine domain awareness, training, hydrography, technical assistance, operational exercise. 93. Sudhir Dhar, who passed away recently, was the renowned personality of which field? [A] Painting [B] Journalism [C] Cartoon [D] Poetry Answer: Cartoon Renowned cartoonist Sudhir Dhar (87) has passed away in Gurgaon on 26th of November 2019. His works graced several newspapers in a career spanning 58 years. He began his career with The Statesman in 1961 after which he moved to Hindustan Times. His cartoons have also appeared in The Independent, The Pioneer, Delhi Times, New York Times, Washington Post and Saturday Review among others. 94. The Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) has been set up in which city? [A] Dehradun [B] Hyderabad [C] Pune [D] Bangaluru Answer: Hyderabad In Telangana, the Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) has been set up in Hyderabad to impart professional training in management of railway finances. The institution marks an important addition to the list of premier professional institutions in the country in the field of financial management. The IRIFM institution is based on a 14-acre campus at Moula-Ali, Secunderabad. 95. The Guru Ghasidas National Park is located in which district of Chhattisgarh? [A] Korea [B] Bilaspur [C] Jashpur [D] Mungeli Answer: Korea The Chhattisgarh government has decided to declare Guru Ghasidas National Park in the Korea district as a tiger reserve. Presently the state has three tiger reserves viz. Indravati in Bijapur district, Udanti-Sitanadi in Gariaband and Achanakmar in Bilaspur. 96. Which country has strongly criticized China’s lending practices under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)? [A] Russia [B] United States

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[C] France rakesh dash | [email protected] | [D] England Answer: United States Top US diplomat Alice Wells has strongly criticized China’s international development projects and lending practices under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He also questioned the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on its commercial viability. China does not report on its overall lending despite being the largest lender globally. Hence, neither rating agencies nor the Paris club nor IMF are able to monitor those financial transactions. The lack of transparency was a means to hide risks to countries that borrowed from China to finance the development projects. It leads to a surrender of strategic assets and it diminishes sovereignty. The case of Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka and a runway in the Maldives were among the projects cited as examples of China financing projects of questionable commercial viability. 97. The Proposed Etalin Hydroelectric Project, sometimes seen in news, is associated to which state? [A] Odisha [B] Tripura [C] Punjab [D] Arunachal Pradesh Answer: Arunachal Pradesh The Union government has recommended a biodiversity study of the proposed 3,097 MW Etalin Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh by a credible international institute since the current environmental impact assessment was found to be completely inadequate. The project is estimated to cost Rs 25,296.95 crore & is proposed to be completed in 7 years. But, the project would entail felling 2,80,677 trees and threatens the existence of 6 globally-endangered mammal species. The area also has 680 species of birds, which is about 56% of the total avian species found in India. The Forest Advisory Committee of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has also advised caution in pursuing the project since it falls under the richest bio-geographical province of the Himalayan zone and would be located at the junction of the Palaearctic, Indo-Chinese and Indo-Malayan bio-geographic regions. 98. Which state cabinet has approved the nomination of at least one differently abled member to each panchayat? [A] UP [B] Odisha [C] Rajasthan [D] Chhattisgarh Answer: Chhattisgarh By amending the State Panchayati Raj Act of 1993, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet has made it mandatory the presence of at least one differently-abled member to each panchayat. If differently abled members are not elected through the electoral process, then one member – either male or female – would be nominated as a panch. The state will now have 11,000 persons with disabilities as representatives at the panchayat level. The state Cabinet also decided to drop the educational qualifications eligibility criterion for contesting panchayat elections. 99. The Union government has decided to merge which of the following Union Territories (UTs)? [A] Puducherry & Lakshadweep [B] Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli [C] A&N and Lakshadweep [D] Chandigarh & Delhi Answer: Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli Union Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha to merge two Union Territories — Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli – into one. The move comes after Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) was divided into two UTs — J&K and Ladakh. Currently, India has 9 UTs after the creation of the UTs of J&K and Ladakh.

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100. Which university has become the firstrakesh state dash | [email protected] university of Madhya| Pradesh to be accorded A+ Grade from National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)? [A] Jiwaji University [B] Maharaja Chhatrasal Bundelkhand University [C] Devi Ahilya University [D] Barkatullah University Answer: Devi Ahilya University The Indore-based Devi Ahilya University has become the first university of Madhya Pradesh to be accorded A grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). Now, the Centre of higher learning became entitled to several other facilities. It may introduce courses recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) without the latter’s permission besides commencing open distance-learning courses. The institute was established in 1964 by an Act of Legislature of Madhya Pradesh. 101. The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to set up its 1st vulture conservation in which district? [A] Lucknow [B] Sitapur [C] Maharajganj [D] Raebareli Answer: Maharajganj In a bid to conserve the endangered vulture population, the Uttar Pradesh government has decided to set up state’s first vulture conservation and breeding centre in farenda area of Maharajganj district. The new centre would be set up in association with Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), a wildlife research organization. It will be the first scientific assessment of vultures in the state to find out which species is most threatened and the locations where these natural scavengers are thriving. It will be set up on the lines of Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre at Pinjore in Haryana, which is also the first in the country. 102. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Milk Day (NMD) is celebrated in India? [A] November 29 [B] November 26 [C] November 28 [D] November 27 Answer: November 26 The National Milk Day (NMD) is celebrated every year on 26th of November to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the father of India’s White Revolution. The White Revolution (also known as Operation Flood) was launched in 1970. It is considered to be world’s biggest dairy development programme which transformed India from a milk deficient nation to the one of the largest producers of milk in the world. 103. Which union ministry has launched Credit-linked Subsidy Services Awas Portal (CLAP)? [A] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs [B] Ministry of Road Transport and Highways [C] Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare [D] Ministry of Women and Child Development Answer: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs The Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Singh Puri launched Credit- linked Subsidy Services Awas Portal (CLAP) in New Delhi on 27th of November 2019. The portal provides a transparent and robust real-time web-based monitoring system for credit- linked Subsidy Services, CLSS, beneficiaries. Using the portal, a beneficiary can track his application status in real-time. 104. Which union ministry has launched Kartavya portal as part of nationwide Nagrik Kartavya Palan Abhiyan? [A] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare [B] Ministry of Human Resource Development © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 115 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

[C] Ministry of Home Affairs rakesh dash | [email protected] | [D] Ministry of Women and Child Development Answer: Ministry of Human Resource Development On the occasion of 70th Constitution Day, Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched the kartavya.ugc.ac.in portal as a part of year long nationwide ‘Nagrik Kartavya Paalan Abhiyan’. The portal will be used primarily for holding monthly essay competitions for students as well as other activities like quizzes, debates, poster making etc pertaining to Abhiyan. 105. Which Indian scientist has been conferred the RAeS Honorary Fellowship of the Society 2019? [A] Punit Goenka [B] K Sivan [C] G Satheesh Reddy [D] Ram Sewak Sharma Answer: G Satheesh Reddy The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) London has conferred the Honorary Fellowship of the Society for the year 2019 to G Satheesh Reddy, Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO. Reddy is the first Indian recipient of this prestigious award in over 100 years. Honorary Fellowship from RAeS is one of the world’s highest distinctions for aerospace achievement awarded for only the most exceptional contributions to the aerospace profession. It is considered as equivalent to the Nobel Prize in the aerospace domain. 106. Which state has topped the overall crimes against children, as per latest CRY Report? [A] Uttar Pradesh [B] Punjab [C] Haryana [D] Odisha Answer: Uttar Pradesh The Child Relief and You (CRY) has recently its report titled “How vulnerable are children in India to crime?”, which is based on the latest National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for 2016-2017 data released on 21st October 2019 after a gap of two years. The report reveals that crimes against children rose by 20% higher than overall number of crimes which rose by 3.6%. As per CRY report, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have topped the list of States for overall crimes against children. Both stood at 14.8% with over 19,000 cases. The highest increase in crimes against children was seen in Jharkhand at 73.9% while Manipur had a significant decline of 18.7% between 2016 and 2017. 107. Balasingh, who passed away recently, was the renowned actor of which regional cinema? [A] Marathi [B] Odia [C] Telugu [D] Tamil Answer: Tamil Balasingh (67), the noted Tamil actor and theatre artist, has passed away in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. His notable performances include Kamal Haasan’s directorial venture ‘Virumandi’ and actor Dhanush’s ‘Puthupetta’, a gangster flick. 108. Madhu Shetye, who passed away recently, was the founding member of which press club? [A] Kolkata Press Club [B] Mumbai Press Club [C] Press Club of India [D] Chennai Press Club Answer: Mumbai Press Club Madhu Shetye (89), the senior journalist and activist, has passed away in Mumbai on 27th November 2019. He was a founding member of the Mumbai Press Club (MPC). He was a former corporator in the Mumbai municipal corporation and had participated in the

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 116 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Samyukta Maharashtra and Goa liberationrakesh dash | [email protected]. | 109. Which state government has decided to launch project Shakti to alert the public about crimes? [A] Kerala [B] Uttar Pradesh [C] Madhya Pradesh [D] Rajasthan Answer: Madhya Pradesh The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to launch the project titled ‘Shakti’ to alert the public through Short Message Service (SMS) system about crimes like abduction. The system will help prevent such crimes and solve them too. 110. Who designed the logo for the apex anti-corruption ombudsman “Lokpal”? [A] Nikhil Kumar [B] Prashant Mishra [C] Kanon Krishna [D] Narayanan Krishnaswamy Answer: Prashant Mishra Lokpal Chairman Justice (retired) Pinaki Chandra Ghose launched the new logo for the apex anti-corruption ombudsman. As per law, the logo symbolizes how Lokpal protects and cares for the people of India by establishing justice. It is designed by Prashant Mishra, a resident of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. The logo symbolizes various essence of LOKPAL figuratively in shapes such as: ombudsman (judges bench), people (three human figures), vigilance (Ashok chakra forming eye–pupil), law (shape of book in orange) and judicial (the tricolor two hands are placed below forming a unique balance). The logo is in tricolor representing the national essence of LOKPAL .A new motto titled “Ma Gridhah Kasyasvidhanam (Do not be greedy for anyone’s wealth)” was also adopted. 111. Which Indian organization has revised the framework on currency swap arrangement for the SAARC countries for 2019-2022? [A] Finance Ministry [B] RBI [C] SEBI [D] IRDA Answer: RBI The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised the framework on currency swap arrangement for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries for 2019-2022. Under the framework for 2019-22, the RBI will continue to offer a swap arrangement within the overall corpus of $2 billion. The drawals can be made in US dollar, euro or Indian rupee. The framework is valid from November 14, 2019 to November 13, 2022. The facility will be available to all SAARC member countries, subject to their signing the bilateral swap agreements. The SAARC countries are — Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. 112. Which launch vehicle has successfully carried out remote sensing satellite Cartosat-3 into orbit? [A] PSLV-44 [B] PSLV-49 [C] PSLV-48 [D] PSLV-47 Answer: PSLV-47 Through PSLV-47 vehicle, ISRO has successfully launched the India’s latest earth observation remote sensing satellite Cartosat-3 into Sun Synchronous orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota. Cartosat-3 satellite is a third generation agile advanced satellite having high resolution imaging capability. Beside this, 13 Commercial Nanosatellites from USA were also successfully injected into designated orbit. These satellites were launched under commercial arrangement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO.

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113. Which state Police has organized the 47thrakesh dash All | [email protected] India Police Science | Congress (AIPSC)? [A] Punjab [B] MP [C] UP [D] Rajasthan Answer: UP Lieutenant Governor of Puducheri and retired IPS officer Kiran Bedi has inaugurated the 47th All India Police Science Congress (AIPSC) at police headquarters in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The UP Police in association with the home ministry and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) has organised the 2-day event. During the event, there were discussions in 6 thematic sessions which includes some very contemporary issues like Reforms in Policing, Role of social media in countering radicalization and terrorism and Inculcating right kind of attitudes in police officers. 114. Who is the head of the expert committee to review Draft National Sports Code? [A] Sudhanshu Mittal [B] B P Baishya [C] Adille Sumariwala [D] Mukundakam Sharma Answer: Mukundakam Sharma The Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports has constituted a 13-member expert committee, headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Mukundakam Sharma, to review the Draft National Sports Code. The committee has been formed to suggest measures to make the Sports Code acceptable to all the stakeholders. It will try to strike a balance between the autonomy of National Sports Federations vis-a-vis need for transparency and autonomy. 115. Who is the author of the book “Hemant Karkare: A Daughters Memoir”? [A] S H Khan [B] Bhagat Gupta [C] Ajay Singh [D] Jui Navare Answer: Jui Navare The book titled “Hemant Karkare: A Daughters Memoir” has been authored by his daughter Jui Karkare Navare. The book portrays former Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare’s life as a father to his daughter. Her father was gunned down by Pakistani ISI- backed terrorists who’d stormed Mumbai on the night of 26 November 2008. Beside him, the 18 security personnel also lost their lives in the 26/11 terror attacks. 116. Which Indian news channel has won the 2019 IPI India Award for Excellence in Journalism for Kathua coverage? [A] NDTV India [B] Aaj Tak [C] Zee News [D] News 24 Answer: NDTV India The NDTV has won the 2019 IPI India Award for Excellence in Journalism 2019 for its coverage of the conspiracy to scuttle probe into the heinous Kathua rape and murder case probe and a strong expose of the political hypocrisy across the political spectrum. The story was anchored by senior journalist Nidhi Razdan. The Indian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI) is an active forum of Editors, Publishers and Senior Executives of newspapers, magazines and news agencies, all of whom are members of the International Press Institute. 117. Clive James, who passed away recently, was the renowned writer & broadcaster of which country? [A] South Africa [B] Australia [C] France © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 118 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

[D] United States rakesh dash | [email protected] | Answer: Australia Australian writer and broadcaster, Clive James (80) has passed away in Cambridge, United Kingdom on 24th of November 2019. He was known around the world for his dry wit. Born in 1939, he moved to England in 1961 and rose to prominence as a literary critic and TV columnist. He went on to deliver wry commentary on international programming in such shows as Clive James On Television. 118. What is the theme of the 10th CMS VATAVARAN Environment and Wildlife Film Festival? [A] Celebrating Indian Villages [B] Celebrating Ganga [C] Celebrating Indian Wildlife [D] Celebrating Himalayas Answer: Celebrating Himalayas The 4-day long MoEF&CC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change) and Centre for Media Studies (CMS) VATAVARAN-2019 Short Film Competition and Festival on Environment was held in New Delhi. The festival is being organized, exclusively on Environment and Wildlife along with the 10th Competitive edition of CMS VATAVARAN. This edition of the festival is focusing on theme “Celebrating Himalayas” in an attempt to highlight the importance of the spectacular mountain ecosystem in the current climate change discourse and action. 119. Which company has become the first Indian firm to hit Rs 10 lakh crore market valuation mark? [A] Hindustan Unilever [B] HDFC Bank [C] Reliance Industries [D] TCS Answer: Reliance Industries Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries (RIL) has become the first Indian firm to hit Rs 10 lakh crore mark in market capitalization following a spike in its share price. The oil-to- telecom conglomerate’s market capitalisation (m-cap) zoomed to Rs 10.02 lakh crore during morning trade on the BSE. TCS is the India’s 2nd most valued firm with a market valuation of Rs 7,79,708.02 crore, followed by HDFC Bank, Hindustan Unilever and HDFC. The m-cap figures of companies change daily with stock price movement. 120. Which Indian archer has won gold in the women’s individual recurve event of the 21st Asian Championships in Bangkok? [A] Nisha Rani Dutta [B] Trisha Deb [C] Ankita Bhakat [D] Deepika Kumari Answer: Deepika Kumari Indian archer Deepika Kumari won gold in the women’s individual recurve event of the 21st Asian Championships in Bangkok. In the one-sided final, she defeated her compatriot Ankita Bhakat by 6-0. Earlier, the duo had secured an individual Olympic quota for the country by storming into the semifinals of the event. 121. The 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup is being hosted by which city? [A] Jaipur [B] New Delhi [C] Bhubaneswar [D] Gwalior Answer: Bhubaneswar The 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup will be held in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela from January 13 to 29. It would the first time a country would be hosting successive editions of the premier tournament in the sport but the same city hosting it twice makes it even special. However, this time, Bhubaneswar (which hosted the 2018 WC) would share hosting rights

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 119 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 with the Biju Patnaik Hockey Stadiumrakesh in dash Rourkela. | [email protected] | 122. Brad Gobright, who passed away recently, was the world-renowned rock climber of which country? [A] Germany [B] United States [C] France [D] Russia Answer: United States The world-renowned US rock climber, Brad Gobright has fell to his death while climbing a sheer rock face in northern Mexico on 29th of November 2019. He was best known for his gravity-defying solo ascents with no ropes. 123. Which international organization has declared a global climate & environmental emergency? [A] European Union [B] BRICS [C] WHO [D] SAARC Answer: European Union The European Union (EU) has recently declared a global climate and environmental emergency in a symbolic move aimed at increasing pressure on the incoming European Commission (EC) to take a stronger stance on climate change. The climate declaration was passed in Strasbourg during a European Parliament debate on the upcoming United Nations’ COP25 climate summit. The summit kicks off on 2nd December in Madrid. The resolution calls on the EU to cut emissions by 55% by 2030 to become climate neutral by 2050. 124. Which state government has decided to replicate Tamil Nadu model of Micro Composting Centre (MCC)? [A] Odisha [B] Punjab [C] Madhya Pradesh [D] Rajasthan Answer: Odisha As part of its ‘Swachha Odisha Sustha Odisha’ campaign, the Odisha Government has decided to replicate Tamil Nadu model of Micro Composting Centre (MCC) for proper segregation and management of wet waste. The Solid waste management is a cause of concern for urban local bodies (ULBs) due to a rapid urbanisation. 125. Which state Government has decided to set up outdoor gyms at public places? [A] Rajasthan [B] Odisha [C] UP [D] Himachal Pradesh Answer: Himachal Pradesh The Himachal Pradesh Government has decided to set up modern outdoor gyms at public places to connect the masses with the Fit India Movement. As part of the state government’s initiative, recreational equipment for children and modern outdoor gyms would be set up at identified parks and public places of Dharamshala. The Fit India movement is a nationwide initiative to encourage people to remain healthy by including physical activities and sports in their daily lives. It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on National Sports Day (NSD-2019) in New Delhi. 126. The researchers of which IIT has decided to create Gandhipedia? [A] IIT Kanpur [B] IIT Delhi [C] IIT Indore [D] IIT Kharagpur

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Answer: IIT Kharagpur rakesh dash | [email protected] | Two IITs (IIT Gandhinagar & IIT Kharagpur) and the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) have joined hands to develop Gandhipedia to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary. The Gandhipedia is an online repository of books, letters and speeches written by Mahatma Gandhi. Approx 100 works of Mahatma Gandhi such as his letters and speeches, would be uploaded in the portal. The entire project will be done with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI). 127. What is the India’s rank in the Global Diplomacy Index 2019? [A] 64th [B] 25th [C] 5th [D] 12th Answer: 12th India has been ranked 12th out of 61 nations in the Global Diplomacy Index 2019, which is released by the Sydney-based Lowy Institute. As of 2019, New Delhi has 123 embassies and high commissions and 54 consulates globally. The index gives the latest statistics & marks how the world’s diplomatic networks are expanding and, in certain cases, shrinking. It is an analysis of the number of embassies and consulates maintained by countries around the world. As per index, China has overtaken the United States to become the world’s largest diplomatic network. 128. The Union Government has proposed to set up rocket launching pad near Kulasekarapattinam. The site is located in which state? [A] Kerala [B] Karnataka [C] Tamil Nadu [D] Andhra Pradesh Answer: Tamil Nadu The Union Government has proposed to set up new rocket launch pad near Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu.The development comes on the backdrop of increasing launches from India, both for domestic and international customers. Currently, the ISRO has two operational launch pads at Sriharikotta from where all GSLV and PSLV flights take place. 129. Which Union Ministry has collaborated with Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) to organize National Organic Festival of Women Entrepreneurs? [A] Ministry of Jal Shakti [B] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare [C] Ministry of Food Processing Industries [D] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Answer: Ministry of Food Processing Industries The Union Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) has signed a pact to organize “National Organic Festival of Women Entrepreneurs”. The event will be planned and organized through NIFTEM (National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management), which is an academic institution under the administrative control of MoFPI. The purpose of the festival is to encourage Indian women entrepreneurs and farmers to connect with buyers and empower them through financial inclusion. The fest will also promote organic food produce in India. 130. Election Commission of India (ECI) has recognized Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) as state party of which state? [A] Haryana [B] Jharkhand [C] Maharashtra [D] Odisha

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Answer: Haryana rakesh dash | [email protected] | The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recently recognized the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) as state party of Haryana and alloted the symbol of “key” for the party. The decision in this regard was taken on the basis of the poll performance of the party in the recent 2019 Assembly elections in Haryana. The JJP was formed in December 2018 by a breakaway faction of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) & won 10 seats in the recently-held Haryana Assembly elections and formed the government with the BJP. 131. Yasuhiro Nakasone, who passed away recently, was the former PM of which country? [A] North Korea [B] China [C] South Korea [D] Japan Answer: Japan In Japan, Yasuhiro Nakasone (101) has passed away at Tokyo on 29th November 2019. He was one of the longest-reigning Prime Ministers and known for his friendship with Ronald Reagan. He also broke an unwritten rule on limiting the annual defence budget to 1% of Gross National Product (GNP). In 1983, he became the first Japanese Premier to officially visit South Korea & mended fences with a country that Japan had brutally colonized from 1910 to 1945. 132. Angad Vir Singh Bajwa is associated to which sports? [A] Chess [B] Cricket [C] Boxing [D] Shooting Answer: Shooting In shooting, Angad Vir Singh Bajwa unofficially hit a world record score in the men’s skeet final at the 63rd National Shooting Championships for Shotgun events in New Delhi on 29th November 2019. He defeated his senior and fellow Tokyo 2020 quota winner Mairaj Ahmad Khan of Uttar Pradesh. He also equalled a record he jointly holds with skeet legend Vincent Hancock and two others. 133. Who has become fastest man to reach 7,000 Test runs? [A] Virat Kohli [B] Rohit Sharma [C] Steve Smith [D] Aaron Finch Answer: Steve Smith Steve Smith has become the fastest man to score 7,000 Test runs in the ongoing second Test against Pakistan. He broke English great Wally Hammond’s record that had stood since 1946. Smith also passed Bradman’s 6,996 Test runs. It took Smith 70 Tests to do so, while Bradman needed only 52. 134. Noted theatre artiste Paramananda Sahu, who passed away recently, was from which state? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Odisha [C] Uttar Pradesh [D] Rajasthan Answer: Odisha Renowened theatre artiste of Odisha, Paramananda Sahu (72) has passed away in Balasore on 30th of November . He had directed and acted in more than a hundred dramas, besides being an artiste in All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan. 135. Who is the author of the book “The Legacy of Militancy in Punjab: Long Road to Normalcy” ? [A] Dona Suri [B] Vikram Seth

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[C] Arundhati Roy rakesh dash | [email protected] | [D] Vani Kaushal Answer: Dona Suri The book titled “The Legacy of Militancy in Punjab: Long Road to Normalcy” have been authored by civil rights activist Inderjit Singh Jaijee and journalist Dona Suri. The book provide details how militancy in Punjab affected judiciary by delaying trials, how it influenced the popular culture and how the youth today are still responding to conditions in the northern state. It also aims at holding up a mirror to developments in post-militancy Punjab regarding politics, government policies, and functioning of police and courts among other things. 136. Schistura syngkai is the scientific name of which type of species? [A] Elephant [B] Fish [C] Frog [D] Tortoise Answer: Fish The fish species, that has a scientific name Schistura syngkai, has been discovered in West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It was discovered at Twahdidoh stream (a tributary of Wahblei river) by a team of scientists led by Prof Khlur Mukhim of Shillong’s Lady Keane College. Both sexes of the fish have golden-brown bodies with blackish lateral stripes and slightly emarginate tail fins. Earlier, Mukhim had discovered a blind fish species that lives 1,600 feet inside a limestone cave in East Jaintia Hills district of the state. 137. Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri, who has been chosen for the 55th Jnanpith Award, is associated to which language? [A] Kannada [B] Tamil [C] Malayalam [D] Telugu Answer: Malayalam Eminent Malayalam poet Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri has been chosen as the recipient of the 55th Jnanpith Award for the year 2019. Born in 1926, Akkitham is one of the most revered names in Malayalam poetry. Apart from poetry, his literary excellence has footprints in genres like drama, reminiscence, critical essays, children literature, short stories and translation. He has authored 55 books out of which 45 are collections of poems including “Khanda Kavyas”, “Katha Kavyas”, “Charitha Kavyas” and songs. His works have also been translated into many Indian and foreign languages. 138. The first-ever International Conference on “Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience” was held in which city? [A] Geneva [B] London [C] Paris [D] New Delhi Answer: New Delhi Minister of State for Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy inaugurated the first-ever International Conference on “Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience” in New Delhi. This first-of-its- kind conference aims to bring together all the stakeholders including relevant Ministries and experts to discuss, debate and disseminate information, experiences and innovations for landslides risk reduction and resilience at national and international levels. 139. Who has been appointed as chairman of microfinance panel of the Code for Responsible Lending (CRL)? [A] H R Khan [B] R Gandhi [C] Mahesh Kumar Jain

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[D] Anand Sinha rakesh dash | [email protected] | Answer: H R Khan Former deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), H R Khan has been appointed as the first chairman of the steering committee of the Code for Responsible Lending (CRL) in micro-credit. The CRL is a self-regulatory step for the micro-credit industry making diverse entities like banks, NBFC-MFIs and NBFCs adhere to standards of customer protection.

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Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

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Tarun SinghContents | [email protected] | ...... _ _ ...... News Headlines: November 16-30, 2019 ...... 3 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 16, 2019 ...... 3 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 17, 2019 ...... 3 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 18, 2019 ...... 4 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 19, 2019 ...... 4 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 20, 2019 ...... 6 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 21, 2019 ...... 6 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 22, 2019 ...... 7 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 23, 2019 ...... 9 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 24, 2019 ...... 10 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 25, 2019 ...... 11 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 27, 2019 ...... 12 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 28, 2019 ...... 13 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 29, 2019 ...... 14 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 30, 2019 ...... 15 November 16, 2019 ...... 16 Regional Conference on ‘Replication of Good Governance Practices in J&K, Ladakh’ ...... 16 WTO Panel rejects India’s claims on Steel issues with the US ...... 16 National Mission ‘NISHTHA’ launched in J&K ...... 17 European Investment Bank to stop Fossil Fuel Funding by 2021 ...... 17 Aadi Mahotsav: Fortnight long Tribal Festival being held in New Delhi ...... 17 Defence Minister inaugurates Sisseri River Bridge in East Siang ...... 18 GoI: Consumer Expenditure Survey, 2017-18 not to be released due to quality issues ...... 18 Trace Bribery Risk Matrix 2019 ...... 19 NDRF: New unit to save heritage structures ...... 19 OCSAE: On-line Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Prevention Unit set up by CBI ...... 20 BIS: Water Quality Report for state Capitals and New Delhi released ...... 20 November 17, 2019 ...... 21 India completes Agni II test fire successfully ...... 21 AIIB to invest 100 million USD in solar and wind projects in India ...... 21 DPIIT establishes Development Council for Bicycle ...... 22 Home Ministry, UN Women Launches Campaign to End Violence Against Women ...... 22 Darjeeling Green Tea & White Tea receive GI Tag ...... 23 Health Ministry launches ‘SAANS’ campaign ...... 23 India International Cherry Blossom Festival celebrated in Shillong ...... 24 GoI conducts first ever National Agro Chemicals Congress in New Delhi ...... 24 International Conference on Yoga held in Mysuru ...... 25 Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik-The first Indian to win Italian Golden Sand Art Award ...... 25 Hayabusa2: Japanese spacecraft starts year-long journey home from asteroid ...... 26 November 18, 2019 ...... 26 Special Winter Grade Fuel launched for Ladakh Region ...... 26 Sri Lanka Election: Gotbaya Rajapaksa to be sworn in as new President ...... 27 World Bank’s 300 million USD plan to Develop Kolkata ...... 27 17 November: World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims ...... 27 Harmeet Desai wins men’s singles title at ITTF Challenge Table Tennis tournament ...... 28 Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan sworn in as 13th Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court ...... 28 GoI merges three Insurance PSUs ...... 29 8th International Conference on Agricultural Statistics organized in New Delhi ...... 29 Report: India-2nd largest in sending students to US ...... 29 India extends Visa-on-Arrival facility to UAE nationals ...... 30 Indian Army conducts Sindhu Sudarshan exercise in Barmer, Rajasthan ...... 30 Government to set up FACT Check Module to curb fake news ...... 31 ICMR inks agreement with NIAD and Gates Foundation for healthcare research collaboration ...... 31 Pakistan-First Country to introduce WHO approved India made Typhoid Vaccine ...... 32 Thailand hosts 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus ...... 33 Roar of the sea: Naval Exercise between Qatar and India ...... 33 © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 2 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

November 19, 2019 ...... Tarun Singh | [email protected] | 34 November 19: World Toilet Day ...... 34 NITI Aayog Report: Health Reforms ...... 34 Indian boxer Sarita Devi elected to AIBA first Athletes Commission ...... 34 Initiatives of GoI to promote Fit India Movement in schools ...... 35 Health Ministry sign MoC with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for technical support ...... 35 India to host the Kimberely Process Certification Scheme ...... 36 12th Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2019 held in Lucknow ...... 37 Grassroot Olympic- Mission Talent Hunt launched in Assam to groom talent ...... 37 India and ADB sign 91 million USD to improve water resources in Karnataka ...... 37 ISRO to Launch 13 satellites and Cartosat-3 ...... 38 Pakistan successfully test fires Shaheen-1 surface-to-surface ballistic missile ...... 38 Implementation Updates: National Biofuel Policy ...... 39 Centre bans Meghalaya-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council ...... 39 Committee on Companies Act, 2013 submits its report to Finance Ministry ...... 40 India ranks 59th in 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking ...... 40 November 20, 2019 ...... 41 DRDO to double ASTRA’s range ...... 41 IRCTC Revenue doubles; 14% increase in profits ...... 41 2020 Hockey Pro League: Bhubaneswar to host India’s home matches ...... 42 Haryana Government sets up new Foreign Cooperation Department ...... 42 IRCTC signs an MoU with KSTDC to run the Golden Chariot Train ...... 42 Kolkata becomes first City to Install ‘Third Umpire’ RT-PCR Machines in India ...... 43 Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for 2019: David Attenborough ...... 43 2nd South Asia Safety Summit held in New Delhi ...... 44 India initiates New Visa exemption for foreigners seeking medical treatment ...... 44 India hosts World Customs Organization RCP meeting of Asia Pacific ...... 45 2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products held in New Delhi ...... 45 International Energy Agency releases World Energy Outlook, 2019 ...... 45 India-ASEAN Inno Tech Summit 2019 ...... 46 Parliament passes Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 ...... 46 November 21, 2019 ...... 47 November 20: World COPD Day-marked by WHO ...... 47 GoI to expand WHO’s 3S programme in the country ...... 47 NITI Aayog’s concerns on Vehicle Scrappage Policy ...... 48 World Children’s Day observed on November 20 ...... 48 Annual Report on Road Accidents in India released ...... 49 Cabinet approves Recycling of Ships bill, 2019 ...... 49 Cabinet approves Patent Prosecution Highway programme ...... 49 Strategic Disinvestment of BPCL and 4 other PSUs ...... 50 5th India – Europe 29 Business Forum held in New Delhi ...... 50 National Intelligence Grid will begin operating from December 31, 2020 ...... 51 NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 to be held in Manesar, Haryana ...... 51 Prithvi-2 missile successfully test fired ...... 52 President’s Colour awarded to Indian Naval Academy ...... 52 Cabinet approves establishment of National Institute of Sowa Rigpa at Leh ...... 53 November 22, 2019 ...... 53 DRDO offers free access to its 450 patents ...... 53 NIA hosts the first counter terrorism exercise for Quad Countries ...... 54 Cabinet approves Industrial Relations Code, 2019 ...... 54 Assam Government to launch Arundhati Swarna Yojana ...... 55 Microsoft launches K-12 Education Transformation Framework ...... 55 Lieutenant Shivangi: 1st woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval operations ...... 55 Avian Botulism-Reason behind birds’ death in Sambhar Lake ...... 55 Government to launch first fixed income ETF of bluechip PSUs ...... 56 CIC Annual Report tabled in Lok Sabha ...... 57 US approves sale of 13 MK45 Naval gun worth $1 billion to India ...... 57 India for Humanity-Jaipur Foot event organised at US Capitol building ...... 57

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November 23, 2019 ...... Tarun Singh | [email protected] | 58 Indian Railways: North East State capitals linking, Act East policy and Electrification ...... 58 National Policy to speed up Gas Infrastructure ...... 59 Tourism Ministry organising 8th International Tourism Mart 2019 ...... 59 WHO study on physical activity-India ranks 8th ...... 60 J&K achieves highest road length in country under PMGSY in 2019 ...... 60 GoI new scheme: Rs 400 crores for testing MSME Defense products ...... 61 50th Governors Conference inaugurated in Rashtrapathi Bhavan ...... 61 Internet Connections to 2 lakh Gram Panchayat by 2020 ...... 61 November 24, 2019 ...... 62 Mine Counter Measure Exercise-first time between India and Japan ...... 62 Destination North East Festival held in Varanasi ...... 62 RBI enhances scope of Special Non-Resident Rupee accounts ...... 63 November 23: Poonch Link up Day celebrated by Indian Army ...... 63 AIIA signs MoU with Western Sydney University to promote Ayurveda ...... 63 ETVAX: Potential Diarrhea vaccine developed in Sweden ...... 64 Global Bio-India Summit: India’s first largest biotechnology conference ...... 64 Researcher finds Earth’s Most Uninhabitable Place ...... 65 Secretagogin: Protein that helps regulate blood sugar levels identified Indian scientists ...... 65 China warns cattle imports as India notifies OIE about cattle disease in Odisha ...... 66 Madhya Pradesh: Sportspersons will get 5% reservation in government jobs ...... 66 CBDT inaugurates Web Portal for exchange of information on Income Tax ...... 67 MoSPI: Unemployment rates fall in second quarter ...... 67 November 25, 2019 ...... 68 NSO report: Rural India yet to become Open Defecation Free ...... 68 NSS releases report on disability ...... 68 Manipur Sangai Festival 2019 being organised in Imphal ...... 69 NSO Survey on Household Health Expenditure ...... 69 Etawah Lion Safari inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh ...... 69 Fadnavis sworn in as Maharashtra CM: SC’s concept of fast Floor Tests ...... 70 National Tribal Craft Mela- 2019 being held in Bhubaneswar ...... 70 Bill to merge UTs Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu ...... 71 25 November: International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women ...... 71 71st raising Day celebrated by NCC ...... 71 Centre extends ban on Assam-based NDFB by another 5 years ...... 72 PM Modi launches Fit India School grading system in schools across India ...... 72 November 26, 2019 ...... 73 Guru Ghasidas National Park to become Chhattisgarh’s 4th tiger reserve ...... 73 Indian Railways sets up Institute of Financial Management in Hyderabad ...... 73 Milan 2020: Indian Navy to host multi-nation military drill in March ...... 74 CLAP: Credit-linked Subsidy Services Awas Portal launched by governmnet ...... 74 India attends WATEC Conference in Israel ...... 74 26 November 2019: 70th Constitution Day ...... 75 India-Netherland: “Water 4 change”, an urban water management system ...... 75 13th Asia Pacific Screen Awards ...... 76 UP launches Filaria Campaign ...... 76 Food Processing Scheme: 271 crores cleared by IMAC ...... 76 26 November: National Milk Day ...... 77 Sumatran Rhinos go extinct in Malaysia ...... 77 CRY Report on Crime against Children in India ...... 78 November 27, 2019 ...... 78 DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy awarded honorary fellowship by Royal Aeronautical Society of UK ...... 78 DEFCOM INDIA 2019 seminar being held in New Delhi ...... 79 Global Exhibition on Services-2019 organised in Bengaluru ...... 79 RBI raises concerns over bad loans from Mudra Yojana ...... 80 HRD Ministry launches Kartavya Portal ...... 81 Lokpal Logo & Motto launched ...... 81 Cabinet approves India-Saudi Arabia Agreement on Strategic Partnership Council ...... 82

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Parliament passes Transgender Persons (ProtectionTarun Singh of | Rights)[email protected] Bill, 2019 | ...... 82 Parliament passes National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill ...... 83 November 28, 2019 ...... 83 Cabinet approves Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement between India-Chile ...... 83 India-Myanmar MoU on bilateral cooperation for Prevention of Trafficking in Persons ...... 84 Cabinet approves loan waiver of worth Rs.4 Cr against Sikkim Mining Corporation ...... 84 Cabinet approves MoUs with Saudi Arabia to combat smuggling of narcotic drugs ...... 85 Authorised capital of Food Corporation of India increased to Rs.10000 cr from Rs.3500 cr ...... 85 NuGen Mobility Summit-2019 being held in Haryana ...... 86 Cabinet approves extension of norms for mandatory packaging in jute materials ...... 86 Global Diplomacy Index 2019 ...... 87 November 29, 2019 ...... 88 Shipping Ministry approves Loktak Inland Waterways Project in Manipur ...... 88 1st International Conference on Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience ...... 88 NIFTEM to conduct National Organic Festival of Women Entrepreneurs ...... 89 Govt propose to set up new rocket launch pad near Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu ...... 89 ADB, India sign $451 million loan to strengthen Power Connectivity in Tamil Nadu ...... 90 Govt. constitutes committee for reviewing draft of National Code for Good Governance in Sports ...... 90 NDTV wins International Press Institute India award for Excellence in Journalism ...... 91 Indian Army successfully test-fires Spike LR missile ...... 91 November 30, 2019 ...... 91 Indian Navy test-fires Brahmos supersonic cruise missile ...... 92 UNDP launches Accelerator Lab in New Delhi ...... 92 Former RBI deputy governor H R Khan to chair Micro-Finance panel ...... 92 Aditya Birla Finance becomes first company to list commercial papers on stock exchanges ...... 93 All India Police Science Congress organised in Lucknow ...... 93 India Corruption Survey 2019 ...... 93 Malayalam poet Akkitham wins 55th Jnanpith Award ...... 94 DHFL becomes 1st financial services firm to be taken to NCLT ...... 95 UKIBC sets up Aerospace and Defence Industry Group ...... 95 UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2019 ...... 96 Multiple Choice Questions ...... 96

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Tarun Singh | [email protected] | News Headlines: November 16-30, 2019 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 16, 2019 India Defence Minister inaugurates 200-m long Sisseri River bridge at Lower Dibang Valley in Arunachal Pradesh AYUSH Ministry organising International Conference on Yoga in Mysuru on Nov 15-16; theme: ‘Yoga for Heart Care’ Delhi govt. signs MoU with J-PAL (Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab), co-founded by 2019 Nobel laureate Abhijit Banerjee, to conduct real-time monitoring of its public services Punjab govt. gives Rs 2,500 per acre as compensation to small and marginal farmers for not burning paddy straw India ranks second in govt requests for user data from Facebook in first half of 2019; US tops Govt asks airlines to have Swachh Bharat-themed cover page for in-flight magazines Home Ministry and UN Women launch awareness campaign to end violence against women Ramesh Hospitals Vijayawada sets Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of cardiac surgery patients at one place Agriculture Ministry to hold International Conference on Agricultural Statistics in New Delhi on Nov 18-21 Economy & Corporate Foreign exchange reserves touch a new high of USD 447.81 billion in the week to November 8 Govt won’t release Consumer Expenditure Survey results of 2017-2018 due to data quality issues DPIIT (Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade) establishes Development Council for Bicycle ‘Titan’s watch brand Sonata launches smartwatches – Stride and Stride Pro from Rs. 2995 Mahindra Group subsidiary Classic Legends launches Jawa Perak motorcycle at Rs 1.94 lakh Vodafone Idea reports a loss of Rs 50,921 crore for July-September quarter, highest ever for any Indian company World India pledges to contribute $13.5 mn for UN development activities for 2020 Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro is 2020 Republic Day chief guest BRICS Summit held in Brasilia on November 13-14; theme ‘BRICS: Economic Growth for an Innovative Future’ Swedish PEN’s Tucholsky Prize awarded to detained Chinese-Swedish book publisher Gui Minhai Branko Lustig, producer of ‘Schindler’s List’ and ‘Gladiator’, dies art 87 Sports Sharad Kumar and Mariyappan Thangavelu win silver and bronze respectively in high-jump at World Para-Athletics Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 17, 2019 India successfully conducts night trial of 2,000-km range surface-to-surface Agni II missile Health Ministry launches ‘SAANS’ campaign aimed at reducing child mortality due to pneumonia SAANS is Social Awareness and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia EC to establish chair in honour of former CEC TN Seshan at IIIDEM ((India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management)), New Delhi Mumbai tops the tap water quality ranking released by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) National Press Day celebrated on November 16; marks the foundation of Press Council of India in

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1966 Tarun Singh | [email protected] | National Tribal Festival ‘Aadi Mahotsav’ being held in New Delhi from November 16 to 30 International Cherry Blossom Festival celebrated in Shillong from November 13 to 16 Infosys Foundation chairman Sudha Murty launches her new book ‘The Daughter from a Wishing Tree: Unusual Tales about Women in Mythology’ ITAT (Income Tax Appellate Tribunal) orders withdrawal of income tax exemption to Congress- controlled Young Indian Students in Kerala’s Ernakulum district set a new Guinness World Record for holding the largest cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training on a single day Goa’s Director General of Police Pranab Nanda dies at 57 in New Delhi Economy & Corporate SC paves way for ArcelorMittal’s takeover of Essar Steel in ₹42,000 crore deal Darjeeling’s green and white tea registered as geographical indication (GI) products World International Day for Tolerance observed on November 16 US Senate unanimously passes resolution honouring Sikh Community Bangladesh’s Rabindra Sangeet exponent Rezwana Choudhury Bannya conferred the ICCR (Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre) distinguished alumni award in Dhaka Sports Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) President Rajat Sharma resigns India beat Bangladesh by an innings and 130-run victory in the first Test at Indore Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 18, 2019 India Indian Army conducting Sindhu Sudarshan exercise in Barmer, Rajasthan from Nov 16 to Dec 5 ICMR inks agreement with NIAD of US and Gates Foundation for healthcare research collaboration ICMR: Indian Council of Medical Research, NIAD: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Justice Ravi Ranjan sworn in as new chief justice of the Jharkhand High Court in Ranchi India extends Visa-on-Arrival facility to nationals of the United Arab Emirates Economy & Corporate PSU Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) starts supplying a special winter-grade diesel to Ladakh NCAER pegs India’s GDP growth for 2019-20 at 4.9% in its mid-year review World SLPP (Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna) candidate Gotabaya Rajapaksa wins Presidential election in Sri Lanka World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims observed on November 17 Sports India’s Purav Raja and Ramkumar Ramanathan win men’s doubles title at KPIT MSLTA Challenger tennis in Pune Hong Kong Open Badminton: Honk Kong’s Lee Cheuk Yiu (men’s) and China’s Chen Yu Fei (women’s) win singles titles India’s Harmeet Desai wins men’s singles title at the ITTF Challenge Indonesia Open Table Tennis tournament Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 19, 2019 India Justice R. Banumathi to become part of SC collegium, which comprises five senior-most judges, with the retirement of CJI Ranjan Gogoi

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Rajya Sabha begins its historic 250th SessionTarun Singh | [email protected] | External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar holds talks with his Bhutanese counterpart Lyonpo Tandi Dorji in Delhi AP CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launches toll-free number 14500 to report incidents of sand smuggling Health Ministry sign Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) for technical support 12th Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2019 organised in Lucknow Home Ministry bans Meghalaya-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) IMD World Talent Ranking India was ranked 59th (53rd in 2019) among 63 countries in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking that was topped by Switzerland. The ranking is based on the performance in three main categories — investment & development, appeal and readiness IMD (International Institute for Management Development) is a business school based in Switzerland. BPKK Union WCD Minister Smriti Irani along with Bill Gates, co-chair of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, launched the Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK) in New Delhi BPKK is a repository of diverse crops across 128 agro-climatic zones in India It has been launched to provide insights on traditional crop varieties and promote dietary diversity. ICMR AWARDS Bill Gates presented lifetime achievement awards of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in New Delhi on Nov 17 The awards were given to Dr Cyrus S. Poonawalla, CMD, Serum Institute of India, Kiran Mazumdar- Shaw, CMD, Biocon India and Dr Prakash Baba Amte, Director, Lok Biradari Prakalp Economy & Corporate ADB to provide $91 million loan to modernize the Vijayanagara Channel irrigation systems in Karnataka World India-Qatar maritime exercise Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea) being held in Doha from Nov 17 to 21 Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attends 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) in Bangkok; ‘Sustainable Security’ was theme of the meeting India, France to carry out joint patrolling in Indian Ocean Region in 2020: French Navy Chief Admiral Christophe Prazuck Pakistan successfully test fires 650-km range Shaheen-1 surface-to-surface ballistic missile that is capable of delivering all types of warheads Sports Hosts Brazil defeat Mexico in final 2-1 at Estádio Bezerrão, Gama to lift Men’s FIFA Under-17 World Cup trophy Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece wins men’s singles title at ATP Finals in Milan, Italy Red Bull driver Max Verstappen wins Formula One Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos, Sao Paulo South Korea’s Kim Joo Hyung wins the Panasonic Open golf tournament in Gurugram Assam Olympic Association (AOA) to launch ‘Grassroot Olympic – Mission Talent Hunt’ to identify the sports talent

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 5 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Current Affairs – NewsTarun Singh Headlines: | [email protected] November | 20, 2019 JALLIANWALA BILL Parliament passes Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill 2019 The bill removes the provision of having the Congress president as a permanent member in the trust that runs the Memorial India Avalanche hits Army patrol in Siachen Glacier; 4 soldiers, 2 porters killed NIA (National Investigation Agency) hosting first ‘CT-TTX’ (counter-terrorism table-top exercise) for the ‘Quad’ countries (India, the US, Japan and Australia) in New Delhi on November 21-22 Google removes secessionist mobile application ‘2020 Sikh Referendum’ from its Play Store British naturalist & broadcaster Sir David Attenborough wins 2019 Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development AP govt. hikes financial assistance to Christians for undertaking pilgrimage to Jerusalem and other Biblical places Economy & Corporate owned banks reported frauds of over Rs 95,700 crore in the first 6 months of 2019-20: Finance Minister GRSE (Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers) delivers FPV (Fast Patrol Vessel) ICGS ‘Amrit Kaur’ to Indian Coast Guard IRCTC, Karnataka sign agreement to restart Golden Chariot luxury train from March 2020 Lenovo launches ThinkBook laptops for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) Infosys tops Rs 10,000-crore exports in 2018-19, recognised as IT Ratna of Karnataka by Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) Visakhapatnam Police launch robot CYBIRA that can automatically take complaints Second edition of South Asia Safety Summit held in New Delhi World Defence Minister Rajnath Singh pays floral tributes to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose at the Indian National Army (INA) Memorial in Singapore US backs Israel’s right to build settlements in occupied West Bank in the Palestinian territories Pakistan lifts ban on the postal mail services with India that were imposed in August World Toilet Day observed on November 19, 2019 with its theme as ‘Leaving No One Behind’ Sports ITF announces Kazakhstan’s capital Nur-Sultan as venue for India-Pakistan Asia/Oceania Group 1 Tie of Davis Cup tennis on November 29-30 Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 21, 2019 India Nuclear capable Prithvi-2 missile of 350-km range successfully testfired from a mobile launcher from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha at night President’s Colour awarded to Indian Naval Academy (INA) at Ezhimala, Kerala Home Ministry cancels citizenship of Telangana MLA Ramesh Chennamaneni for concealing facts about his visits abroad Arunachal Pradesh: First Hindi newspaper ‘Aruna Bhoomi’ launched Tripura govt. to elevate the status of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) into a ‘Territorial Council’ to provide more autonomy and financial grants to it Uzbekistan’s Internal Affairs Minister Pulat Bobojonov visits India Union Cabinet approves a bill to grant ownership rights to residents of Delhi’s unauthorised colonies © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 6 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

CHIT FUNDS BILL Tarun Singh | [email protected] | The Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2019 was passed by the Lok Sabha on November 20, 2019 The Bill raises the monetary limits for chit funds by three times The maximum chit amount raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 3 lakh for those managed by individuals or less than four partners, and from Rs 6 lakh to Rs 18 lakh for firms with four or more partners. The maximum commission for the person managing the fund raised to 7% from the current 5%. The bill removes the limit of Rs 100, and allows the state governments to specify the base amount over which the provisions of the Act would apply Economy & Corporate RBI supersedes Dewan Housing Finance Corporation Limited (DHFL) board, to initiate insolvency proceedings because of governance concerns and payment defaults India – Europe 29 Business Forum organized by External Affairs Ministry and CII in New Delhi Europe 29 region refers to the 29 countries in Central, Eastern and Northern Europe International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) organising NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 in Manesar on Nov 27-29 World Defence Ministers Rajnath Singh and NG Eng Hen co-chair the Singapore-India Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in Singapore Indian Defence Minister visits Kranji War Memorial in Singapore; pays tributes to martyrs of World War-II Sri Lanka: President Gotabaya names brother Mahinda Rajapaksa as Prime Minister Microsoft’s India-born CEO Satya Nadella tops Fortune’s Businessperson of the Year 2019 list NASA scientists detect water vapour above the surface of Jupiter’s moon Europa for the first time Africa Industrialization Day observed November 20; theme: ‘Positioning African Industry to Supply the AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Agreement) Market’ World Children’s Day observed on November 20 Sports Virat Kohli named as the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India’s Person of the Year 2019 ACC Emerging Cup: India lose to Pakistan by three runs in semifinal Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 22, 2019 India PM unveils statue of Mahatma Gandhi at the CAG office premises in New Delhi India to buy 13 MK45 Naval guns made by BAE Systems in US for $1.02 billion ‘India for Humanity-Jaipur Foot’ event organised at US Capitol building jointly by Indian Embassy and Jaipur Foot USA ‘World Conference on Access to Medical Products: Achieving the SDGs 2030’ organised in Delhi from November 19 to 21 All iconic tourist sites to have rooms dedicated for mothers visiting with young children: Culture Minister Prahlad Patel Lieutenant Shivangi, first woman pilot of Indian Navy, to join Naval operations in Kochi on Dec 2 Microsoft launches ‘K-12 Education Transformation Framework’ to facilitate digital transformation of schools Chandrayaan-2’s Vikram lander hard-landed within 500 metres of the designated landing site: Govt. Assam govt. to gift 10 grams of gold to every bride (family’s annual income not more than Rs. 5 lakh) under its ‘Arundhati Gold Scheme’ from January 1, 2020 © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 7 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

SEBI ORDER ON DISCLOSING DEFAULTSTarun Singh | [email protected] | SEBI has made it mandatory for all listed companies to make public disclosures on loans defaults. Any default of payments of interest or principal on loans taken from financial institutions, including banks, will have to be disclosed if it continues beyond 30 days. DISINVESTMENT CCEA approves strategic disinvestment of the Centre’s entire stake in BPCL, Shipping Corporation of India, THDC India (Tehri Hydro Development Corporation India Limited), and NEEPCO (North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited), and most of its stake in Container Corporation of India (CCI), while giving up management control in these companies. Privatisation of BPCL will be without the company’s equity shareholding of 61.65% in Numaligarh Refinery in Assam Economy & Corporate Vehicles without tag using FASTag lane at toll plazas will have to pay double toll from Dec 1 The Union Cabinet decided to defer spectrum payments dues of the telecom companies for 2020-21 and 2021-22 India and Japan ink agreement for expeditious grant of patents to Indian entities and individuals AP Govt. signs agreement with IIM-Ahmedabad which will undertake a study to identify corruption in administration Women allowed to work in night shifts in all factories (registered under the factories act) in Karnataka MP Govt. decides to legalise cultivation of cannabis for medical and industrial purpose GLOBAL TERRORISM INDEX 2019 Global Terrorism Index: India 7th in the list of countries most affected by terrorism The 2019 Global Terrorism Index was released by the Sydney-based Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) The Index ranks 163 countries according to the impact of terrorism, based on factors such as the number of attacks, fatalities, injuries and the extent of property damage. The country most affected by terrorism in 2018 was Afghanistan (7,379 killed) World NASA unveils its first electric airplane, the X-57 Maxwell Russia passes bill allowing govt. to register bloggers, journalists and social media users as foreign agents World Fisheries Day celebrated on November 21 World Television Day celebrated on November 21; the date on which the first World Television Forum was held in 1996 World Philosophy Day celebrated by UNESCO on November 21; is celebrated every year on third Thursday of November Sports India women team win final match at the Providence Stadium in Georgetown, Guyana; complete 5-0 sweep of T20I series 33-year old Chitharesh Natesan becomes the first Indian to be crowned Mr Universe 2019 at the 11th World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship (WBPF) in South Korea ISSF WORLD CUP Indian shooters won three gold medals at the ISSF World Cup Finals in Putian, China Winners were Manu Bhaker: women’s 10m air pistol, Elavenil Valarivan: women’s 10m air rifle and Divyansh Panwar: men’s 10 air rifle © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 8 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Current Affairs – NewsTarun Singh Headlines: | [email protected] November | 23, 2019 India Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ holds talks with Australian counterpart Dan Tehan in Delhi India and China to jointly hold 70 celebratory activities in 2020 to mark 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties J&K achieves highest road length in country under PMGSY (Pradhan Mantri Grameen Sadak Yojana) in 2019, 11,400 km construction completed so far Nilkanth Khadilkar, the editor of Marathi newspaper Navakal, dies at 85 in Mumbai SNRR ACCOUNTS The RBI has expanded the scope of Special Non-Resident Rupee (SNRR) Accounts Non-residents permitted to open such accounts for rupee denominated overseas borrowings, trade credit and trade invoicing for popularising cross-border transactions in the domestic currency. DHFL crisis The Reserve Bank has constituted a three-member panel to advise the administrator of DHFL IDFC First Bank’s Non-Executive Chairman Rajiv Lall, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance’s MD & CEO N. S. Kannan, and AMFI’s Chief Executive N S Venkatesh would be part of the panel Indian Overseas Bank’s ex-MD R. Subramaniakumar was appointed as the administrator Earlier, RBI superseded DHFL’s board and placed the company under an administrator in the wake of governance issues and defaults. Economy & Corporate India’s foreign exchange reserves at a fresh lifetime high of USD 448.249 billion in the week to November 15 CBDT Chairman P.C. Mody inaugurates Web Portal for exchange of information on Income Tax Muthoot Finance Ltd to acquire IDBI Mutual Fund Tourism Ministry organising ‘International Tourism Mart’ at Imphal from November 23 to 25 Karnataka: Kalaburagi Airport starts operations with flight to Bengaluru National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) directed to issue free FASTags at toll booths until Dec 1 Wipro Chairman Azim Premji receives MMA Amalgamations Business Leadership Award 2019 in Chennai Amazon launches Echo Flex smart speaker at Rs. 2999 ASIA PACIFIC SCREEN AWARDS Manoj Bajpayee won the award for Best Actor for his role in ‘Bhonsle’ directed by Devashish Makhija Ridham Janve won the Young Cinema Award for his directorial debut film ‘The Gold-Laden Sheep and the Sacred Mountain’. SCO S&T MEETING The 5th Meeting of SCO Member States’ Heads of Ministries and Departments of Science and Technology held in Moscow Secretary, DSIR (Department for Scientific & Industrial Research) & DG, CSIR, Dr. Shekhar C. Mande, led the Indian delegation. India will host the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Forum of Young Scientists and Innovators in 2020. World Four Indian-origin lawmakers among 36 ministers inducted into Canadian PM Justin Trudeau’s new Cabinet; includes Harjit Sajjan as Defence Minister

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Sports Tarun Singh | [email protected] | Wriddhiman Saha becomes fifth Indian wicket-keeper to affect 100 dismissals in test cricket after M. S. Dhoni, Syed Kirmani, Kiran More and Nayan Mongia Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 24, 2019 India BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis sworn in as CM of Maharashtra; NCP’s Ajit Pawar as Deputy CM Poonch Link Up Day celebrated by Indian Army on Nov 23 50th Conference of Governors and Lt. Governors being organised at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi from Nov 22 to 23 ‘Destination North East’ festival being held in Varanasi from Nov 23 to 26 Veteran actor Shaukat Kaifi dies in Mumbai at the age of 91 DRINKING WATER Results of National Sample Survey (NSS) on drinking water, sanitation, hygiene and housing condition released 5% families in rural areas and 97.5% in cities used ‘improved drinking water’ during July-December 2018 from sources including tube wells, tankers and piped supply. DISABILITIES Results of National Sample Survey (NSS) on Persons with Disabilities were released. Overall percentage of persons with disability in the population was 2.2% during July-December 2018 Among males, prevalence of disability was 2.4%, while it was 1.9% among females The figure was 2.3% in rural and 2% in urban areas LITERACY RATE Results of National Sample Survey (NSS) on literacy were released Literacy rate among those in the age group of seven years and above was 77.7% during July 2017- June 2018. Literacy rate was 73.5% in rural and 87.7% in urban areas Economy & Corporate Global Bio-India Summit 2019 organised in New Delhi by the Department of Biotechnology, Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), CII, Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises (ABLE) and Invest India All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) signs MoU with Western Sydney University for collaboration in research UNEMPLOYMENT RATE The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation released its Quarterly Bulletin on employment The urban unemployment rate fell to 9.3% during January-March 2019 from 9.8% in April-June 2018. Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) for all ages is estimated as 36% in the urban areas during January-March 2019 as compared to 35.6% during April- June 2018. SENSEX REJIG YES Bank, Vedanta, Tata Motors and Tata Motors DVR will exit benchmark Sensex to make way for Titan Company, UltraTech and Nestle India. The changes will be effective December 23. Sports Madhya Pradesh: Sportspersons will get 5% reservation in government jobs India’s Fouaad Mirza secures an Olympic quota in men’s Equestrian

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 10 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Current Affairs – NewsTarun Singh Headlines: | [email protected] November | 25, 2019 India Manipur Sangai Festival being organised in Imphal from November 24 to 30 Lachit Divas celebrated in Assam on November 24 in memory general Lachit Borphukan (17th century) of Ahom kingdom Centre extends ban on Assam-based National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) by another five years Etawah Lion Safari inaugurated in Etawah, Uttar Pradesh BJP leader Kailash Chandra Joshi, MP’s first non-Congress CM in 1977-78, dies in Bhopal at 90 Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) leader and former West Bengal minister Kshiti Goswami dies at 77 National Tribal Craft Mela – 2019 being held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha from November 23 to 29 Economy & Corporate Media firm Amar Ujala acquires majority stake in Cygnus Medicare, which operates a chain of super specialty hospitals World Bolivia’s Congress passes law for new elections without former President Evo Morales FIT INDIA SCHOOLS PM launches the Fit India School grading system in schools across the country. The grading will be in 3 categories — The Fit India Schools, which is the first level of ranking, Fit India School (3 star) and Fit India School (5 star). Sports Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge (men’s marathon) and USA’s Dalilah Muhammad (women’s 400 m hurdles) win World Athlete of the Year awards India beat Bangladesh by an innings and 46 runs in the Day and Night Pink ball Test at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata to win the 2-test series 2-0 Pakistan beat hosts Bangladesh by 77 runs in final at Mirpur to win ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup ‘Finding the Gaps’, book written by Australian cricket umpire Simon Taufel, released BADMINTON Winners of Infosys Foundation-India International Challenge badminton organised in Mumbai: Xiaodong Sheng (Canada): Men’s Singles Manu Attri and Sumeeth Reddy (India): Men’s Doubles Porntip Buranaprasertsuk (Thailand): Women’s Singles Tan Pearly Koong Lee and Thinaah Muralitharan (Malaysia): Women’s Doubles Hoo Pang Ron and Cheah Yee See (Malaysia): Mixed Doubles [email protected] 24/11/2019, 22:39 – Gk Express: 25/11/2019, 23:18 – Gk Express: NEWS HEADLINES: November 26 10th Commonwealth Youth Parliament being held at the Delhi Assembly from November 25 to 27 ‘Hemant Karkare: A Daughters Memoir’, book written by Jui Karkare Navare, released AP govt. launches citizen helpline 14400 for corruption-related complaints Guru Ghasidas National Park to become Chhattisgarh’s fourth ‘tiger reserve’ after Achanakmar, Udanti-Sitanadi and Indravati: CM Bhupesh Baghel Indian Navy to host multi-nation military drill ‘Milan 2020’ in March: MoS for Defence Shripad Naik Army Chief General Bipin Rawat meets Vietnam’s Chief of the General Staff General Phan Van Giang in Delhi The Indian Railways Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) inaugurated in Hyderabad © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 11 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

CLSS AWAS PORTAL Tarun Singh | [email protected] | Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri launches CLSS (Credit Link Subsidy Scheme) Awas Portal This portal will enable people seeking to avail housing subsidy under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna (PMAY)-Urban to track their applications. Economy & Corporate Public sector banks collected Rs 1,996.46 crore in minimum balance penalty in 2018-19: Govt. Subhash Chandra resigns as chairman of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Sundram Fasteners Chairman Suresh Krishna wins CII’s ‘Quality Ratna’ award ASIA PACIFIC SCREEN AWARDS The 13th Asia Pacific Screen Awards were awarded in Brisbane, Australia Best Feature Film: ‘Parasite’, directed by South Korea’s Bong Joon-Ho Best Performance by an Actress: Max Eigenmann in ‘Verdict’ Best Performance by an Actor: Manoj Bajpayee in ‘Bhonsle’ World International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women observed on November 25, theme: ‘Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape’ French luxury group LVMH to buy New York jeweller Tiffany & Co. for $16.2 billion; LVMH known for its Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and Bulgari brands Sports Hosts Spain beat Canada 2-0 in final at Madrid to win 2019 Davis Cup Tennis title; Roberto Bautista Agut and Rafael Nadal won singles matches India’s Lakshya Sen wins men’s singles title at Scottish Open Badminton in Glasgow Asian Archery Championships in Bangkok: India’s Deepika Kumari and Atanu Das win bronze in mixed team recurve Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 27, 2019 India Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis resigns; Uddhav Thackeray of ‘Maha Vikas Aghadi’ (Congress, NCP & Shiv Sena) to become new CM Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill, 2019 passed by Parliament Constitution Day celebrated on November 26, the day when India adopted its Constitution in 1949 – Defence Ministry organising DEFCOM INDIA 2019 seminar on Nov 26-27 in Delhi on theme: “Communications: A Decisive Catalyst for Jointness” DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy awarded honorary fellowship by the Royal Aeronautical Society of UK Renowned cartoonist Sudhir Dhar dies at the age of 87 Parliament passes National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill; NIDs at Amaravati (AP), Bhopal (MP), Jorhat (Assam) and Kurukshetra (Haryana) declared as institutions of national importance HRD Minister launches kartavya.ugc.ac.in portal on ‘Constitution Day’ for holding monthly essay competitions for students LOKPAL LOGO & MOTTO The Chairman of Lokpal, Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose, launched the logo of Lokpal in New Delhi Logo design of Prashant Mishra of Prayagraj (UP) was selected The motto of Lokpal “मा गृधः कस्यस्विद्धनम् (Do not be greedy for anyone’s wealth) was also adopted. PETROL PUMP NORMS unveils norms for setting up petrol pumps © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 12 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

Non-oil companies can also set up petrolTarun Singhpumps | [email protected] | Any entity seeking authorisation for retail marketing only should have a minimum net worth of at least Rs 250 crore Licensees required to set up a minimum of 100 outlets with at least 5% of them in remote areas Licensee would also be required to “install facilities for marketing at least one new generation alternate fuels like CNG MILK STATS November 26, birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien (1921-2012), celebrated as National Milk Day Data on milk production and availability in India announced by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying Giriraj Singh India is the largest milk producing country in the world Milk production in India was 187.75 million tonnes in 2018-19 Per capita availability of milk was 394 grams in 2018-19 Economy & Corporate CSB Bank IPO subscribed 87 times on final day of bidding World Pakistan’s Supreme Court suspends Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa’s three-year term extension Goar Vartanyan, Soviet spy who helped prevent a Nazi assassination of allied leaders in Tehran in 1943, dies at 93 in Moscow Pre-dawn earthquake of 6.4 magnitude kills 16 in Albania 13 French soldiers killed in helicopter collision during an operation against militants in Mali ARCHERY Indian archers won three bronze medals at the ongoing Asian Championship in Bangkok. Atanu das won in men’s recurve individual event Atanu Das, Tarundeep Rai and Jayanta Talukdar won in men’s recurve team event Deepika Kumari, Laishram Bombayla Devi and Ankita Bhakat won in women’s recurve team event Sports Norway’s Magnus Carlsen wins Tata Steel Chess Rapid and Blitz title in Kolkata Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 28, 2019 ISRO launches PSLV-C47 carrying Cartosat-3 and 13 nanosatellites from Sriharikota (AP) Lok Sabha passes bill to merge Union Territories of Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli Former Navy Chief Admiral Sushil Kumar (1998-2001) dies at the age of 79 Lok Sabha passes Special Protection Group (Amendment) Bill, 2019 Union Cabinet approves MoUs with Saudi Arabia to combat smuggling of narcotic drugs NDTV wins International Press Institute India award for excellence in journalism 4-day long MoEFCC and CMS Vatavaran-2019 Short Film Competition and Festival on Environment begins in New Delhi MoEFCC: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, CMS: Centre for Media Studies Satoshi Suzuki appointed as new Ambassador of Japan of India 15th Higher Education Summit being organised by FICCI in New Delhi from November 27 to 29 Economy & Corporate Authorised capital of Food Corporation of India (FCI) increased to Rs 10,000 crore from Rs 3,500 crore Term of 15th Finance Commission extended by one-year to October 30, 2020 Finance Commission is to decide on division of tax and other resources between the centre and the © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 13 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

states Tarun Singh | [email protected] | Union Cabinet approves signing of a double taxation avoidance agreement (DTAA) with Chile Centre approves construction of 331,000 more houses Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), taking the total number to 9.6 million Tata Motors rolls out hatchback Altroz World At 276, China has highest number of diplomatic missions in the world: Sydney-based Lowy Institute Pakistan: Rules amended to facilitate “extension in tenure” of Army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa Sri Lankan spin legend Muttiah Muralitharan appointed Governor of the country’s Tamil-dominated Northern Province National University of Singapore is No: 1 in Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Asia Rankings 2020 Pro-democracy candidates win 389 out of 452 seats in District Council elections in Hong Kong Sports Asian Archery Championships in Bangkok: Abhishek Verma and Jyothi Surekha Vennam win India’s only gold in compound mixed pair event GOLDEN TARGET AWARD Three India shooters selected for the Golden Target award by International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) for finishing the season as the World No.1. They are Elavenil Valarivan in Women’s 10m Air Rifle, Divyansh Singh Panwar in Men’s 10m Air Rifle men and Saurabh Chaudhary in Men’s 10m Air Pistol Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 29, 2019 IFFI 50th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded in Goa on November 28 Golden Peacock Award: ‘Particles’ (French) directed by Blaise Harrison and produced by Estelle Fialon Best Director Award: Lijo Jose Pellissery for ‘Jallikattu’ (Malayalam) Best Actor (Male) Award: Seu Jorge for his role in ‘Marighella’ (Portuguese) Best Actor (Female) Award: Usha Jadhav for her role in ‘Mai Ghatt: Crime No. 103/2005’ (Marathi) Special Jury Award: Pema Tseden for ‘Balloon’ (Chinese) Centenary Award for ‘Best Debut Feature Film of a Director’: Won jointly by Amin Sidi Boumediene for ‘Abou Leila’ and Marius Olteanu for ‘Monsters’ ICFT–UNESCO Gandhi Medal: ‘Rwanda’ (Italian) India Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray sworn in as 18th CM of Maharashtra Maha Vikas Aghadi, an alliance of Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress, has formed the new government in Maharashtra Lok Sabha passes bill to provide ownership title to over 40 lakh people in unauthorised colonies in the national capital Lok Sabha passes Bill banning manufacture, import or sale of e-cigarettes in the country UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) launches the country chapter of its Accelerator Lab in New Delhi All India Police Science Congress being organised in Lucknow on November 28-29, 2019. Indian Navy test-fires Brahmos supersonic cruise missile of 290-km range Indian Army test fires Spike anti-tank missiles of 4 km range

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BJP wins Pithoragarh assembly seat inTarun Uttarakhand Singh | [email protected] in byelection | West Bengal: Trinamool Congress wins Kaliaganj, Kharagpur Sadar and Karimpur assembly seats in byelections India Corruption Survey Transparency International India (TII) and LocalCircles conducted the ‘India Corruption Survey 2019’ in 20 states Incidents of bribery in the country declined by 10% since last year 51 per cent Indians paid bribe in the last 12 months Economy & Corporate Grid connected solar power generation capacity at 31,696 Mega Watt (MW) till October 2019 Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2019 passed by Parliament; monetary limits for chit funds raised three- fold Aditya Birla Finance becomes first company to list commercial papers on stock exchanges Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) becomes the first Indian company to cross Rs 10 lakh crore in market capitalisation (m-cap) BSE Sensex and NSE Nifty close at life-time highs of 41,130.17 (+109.56) and 12,151.15 (+50.45) respectively ADB to provide $451 million loan to strengthen power connectivity in Chennai-Kanyakumari Industrial Corridor (CKIC) World Pakistan’s Supreme Court grants six-month conditional extension to Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa US President signs a bill that proposes to impose sanctions on officials targeting pro-democracy supporters in Hong Kong Clive James, Australian writer and broadcaster, dies at the age of 80 in London Sports Asian Archery Championships in Bangkok: India’s Deepika Kumari and Ankita Bhakat win gold and silver respectively in the women’s individual recurve event Current Affairs – News Headlines: November 30, 2019 India PM Modi announces financial assistance of USD 450 million to Sri Lanka after talks with newly elected President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in New Delhi Malayalam poet Akkitham wins 55th Jnanpith Award; had won Padma Shri and Sahitya Akademi Award earlier Defence Minister Rajnath Singh holds talks with his Mozambique counterpart Atanasio Salvador M’Tumukeis in New Delhi Economy & Corporate India’s Q2 GDP growth dips to over 6-year low of 4.5% India’s fiscal deficit hit 102.4% of 2019-20 Budget Estimate at Rs 7.2 lakh crore at the end of October Foreign exchange reserves touch a new high of USD 448.6 billion in the week to November 22 RBI sends troubled mortgage lender Dewan Housing Finance (DHFL) for bankruptcy proceedings, making it the first financial services player to go NCLT for a possible debt resolution Former RBI deputy governor H R Khan appointed first chairman of the panel on the Code for Responsible Lending (CRL) in micro-credit Govt extends mandatory FASTag roll-out date for toll payments on National highways to Dec 15; free FASTags till Dec 15 © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 15 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

Zurich Airport International AG wins contractTarun Singh | [email protected] develop the | Jewar airport on the outskirts of Delhi UK India Business Council (UKIBC) sets up Aerospace and Defence Industry Group Centre to make hallmarking compulsory for gold jewellery from January 15, 2020: Union Minister for Consumer Affairs Ram Vilas Paswan World Indo-Nepal joint military Exercise SURYA KIRAN – XIV to be held in Nepal from December 3 to 16 India to set up 12 hi-tech parks in Bangladesh at a cost of $193 million: High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das Former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone (1982-87) dies at 101 International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People observed on November 29 Sports India take 2-0 lead against Pakistan in Davis Cup tie at Nur-Sultan; Ramkumar Ramanathan and Sumit Nagal win singles matches. November 16, 2019 Regional Conference on ‘Replication of Good Governance Practices in J&K, Ladakh’ Centre is holding a two-day regional conference on theme- ‘Replication of Good Governance Practices in Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh’ from 15-16 November 2019 in Jammu. It was inaugurated by Minister of State for Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region Dr. Jitendra Singh. Key Highlights of Conference It is the first such conference being held in newly carved Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Delegates from 19 states and 4 UTs are participating in the Conference. At the conference the states of Tamil Nadu, Meghalaya and J&K will be sharing their experiences of grievance redressal. The conference is being organised by Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) in collaboration with government of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. As of now DARPG has organized 31 Regional Conferences. Conference Objective: To bring national and state level organizations on the same platform to share best practises. These include areas such as Digital Governance, Capacity Building, Aspirational Districts, Citizen Centric Governance and Personnel Administration. The pre-inaugural session was held on the topic ‘Public Policy and Governance’, which was chaired by J&K’s Financial Commissioner Arun Kumar Mehta. The ‘Sushasan Sankalp: Jammu Ghoshana’ resolution will be adopted in the final session of conference. Significance: The conference is an effort to create a common platform to share experiences in formulation and implementation of best practices in citizen-centric governance, improved public service delivery by e- governance, accountable, transparent and citizen-friendly effective administration. WTO Panel rejects India’s claims on Steel issues with the US The World Trade Organization panel on November 15, 2019, rejected several claims of India against US on steel duties. India earlier complained to the organization that the United States is breaching international trade rules in 14 areas. Following which, WTO had faulted US decision over imposition of countervailing duties on steel products from India. However, US failed to stick to the norms demanding more access to Indian markets. Background of the issue In 2012, India filed the first complaint against US at the WTO. The complaint was that Washington is imposing tariffs on nearly 300% imports that included steel, carbon-quality steel, etc. Later in 2014, the global body ruled that the duties imposed by the US were a breach of global trade rules. When US failed to comply the ruling, India took it to the WTO again.

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WTO set a Dispute Settlement Body to sort outTarun Singhthe | [email protected]. The Body| has now rejected several charges filed by India against US duties Effect on Trade Because of the duty imposed by the US, India’s steel export to the US declined by 49% in 2018. The export of steel from India that was 372 million USD in 2012 declined to 221 million USD. National Mission ‘NISHTHA’ launched in J&K National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement (NISHTHA) was launched in Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a pioneer scheme that was earlier launched across country by HRD Ministry on August 2019. This National Mission aims at improving learning outcomes at Elementary level through integrated Teacher Trainings. About NISHTHA Objective: Mission aims to build capacities of 42 lakh participants covering all teachers and Heads of Schools at elementary level in all Government Schools across India as well as faculty members of State Institute of Education (SIE)/ State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERTs), District Institute of Education and Training (DIET) etc. Features: The training will be conducted by 33120 Key Resource Persons (KRPs) and State Resource Persons (SRPs) identified by respective States and UTs, who will be trained by 120 National Resource Persons (NRPs) from NCERT, CBSE, NIEPA, NGOs, Navodaya Vidyala Samiti (NVS), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Under the programme a total of 86000 Elementary teachers of Government Schools will be trained in J&K. The First phase of training has been scheduled from 14 to 18 of November 2019 at University of Jammu, in which a total of 354 resource persons will be trained by National Resource Group from NCERT/NIEPA. European Investment Bank to stop Fossil Fuel Funding by 2021 The European Investment Bank is to stop funding oil and coal projects at the end of 2021. Since 2013, the European Union through the bank has funded 13.4 billion Euros for fossil fuel projects. In 2018, it was around 2 billion Euros. The Union has been reducing its funding to fossil fuel projects and is stopping by 2021. Highlights The EIB’s new policy demands that the energy projects applying for funding must prove that they can produce 1 Kilo watt hour of energy emitting less than 250 grams of carbon dioxide. The new rules being adopted are not applicable to gas-based energy projects. However, gas projects should be based on the norms set by the bank for “new technologies”. The “new technologies” include carbon capture, combining heat and power generation, mixing in renewable gases with fossil fuels, etc. The exemptions are made on gas projects as they are common in the EU member states. For the next 5 years, EU has over 200 billion USD worth projects planned. EU aims to become first carbon-neutral continent by 2050. Aadi Mahotsav: Fortnight long Tribal Festival being held in New Delhi The annual Aadi Mahotsav- National Tribal Festival is being held at INA Dilli Haat in New Delhi. The 15 days mega event which will be held from 16-30 November 2019 will celebrate and cherish the spirit of tribal culture, craft, cuisine and commerce. It will be inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. About Aadi Mahotsav The festival is being organized by Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs in association with TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Ltd.). TRIFED has planned to organize 26 such festivals during the current financial year. 8 out of 26 festivals have been already organised at Leh-Ladakh,

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Noida, Shimla, Ooty, Indore, Pune, BhubaneswarTarun Singh | [email protected] Visakhapatnam | wherein about 900 tribal artisans participated and realized sales of more than Rs.5 crore. Theme of fortnight long Tribal Festival is ‘Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Crafts, Culture and Commerce’, which represents basic ethos of tribal life. Main attractions of event will be: The tribal textiles manufactured by master tribal craftsmen from Jammu & Kashmir in North to Tamil Nadu in South and from Gujarat in West to Nagaland/Sikkim in East. Nearly 1000 tribal artisans from 27 states, tribal chefs and cultural troupes are taking part in the Mahotsav. The festival will feature exhibition-cum-sale of tribal handicrafts, art, paintings, fabric, jewellery and others through 200 stalls to showcase the theme. Moreover, in line with national aspiration to go cashless, the tribal merchandise stalls will be accepting payment through major credit/debit cards. Tribes in India In India, tribes constitute more than 8% of country’s population which corresponds to over 10 crore Indians. The national objective of inclusive development also includes the development of tribes as an important component and even Indian Constitution enjoins upon Government the responsibility of addressing special needs of tribals. Concept of organising Aadi Mahotsav in major cities has proved to be a boon for tribal artisans as this eliminates the middle man and provides direct access to large markets, which are otherwise impossible to reach for them. NOTE: TRIFED is an organisation of Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs. TRIFED organizes “Aadi Mahotsav – National Tribal Festival” to provide direct market access to the tribal master-craftsmen and women in large metros and State capitals. Defence Minister inaugurates Sisseri River Bridge in East Siang Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Sisseri River Bridge at Lower Dibang Valley in East Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh. The bridge will play an important role in the overall development of the area and will immensely contributes to the socio-economic development of the region. About Sisseri River Bridge It is a 200-metre long bridge between Jonai-Pasighat-Ranaghat-Roing road and would cut down the travel time from Pasighat to Roing by about 5 hours. The bridge provides connectivity to Tinsukia via Dhola-Sadia bridge. It will also provide connectivity between Dibang Valley and Siang to meet long-pending demand of people of Arunachal Pradesh. The Sisseri River bridge was constructed by Project Brahmank of Border Roads Organisation (BRO). BRO has four projects in Arunachal Pradesh namely Arunank, Vartak, Brahmank and Udayak to maintain and develop the difficult geographical terrain and strategically important area. Importance: This bridge will be a part of Trans Arunachal Highway and is also strategically important from a military viewpoint and moreover, infrastructural upgradation is necessary for the security of the North-East as well as the entire country. Other Infrastructure Projects undertaken by Centre in Arunachal Pradesh: operationalised Pasighat airport, the proposed: Bhalukpong – Tenga – Tawang railway line, Hollongi airport and Sela Pass tunnel. Government is also committed to establish strong and efficient roadways, railways, airways, waterways and digital network in the region. Moreover, government’s Act East Policy would also open new doors of rapid infrastructural development in North-East region of country, but especially in Arunachal Pradesh as it would also act as a bridge between India and South-East Asian countries. GoI: Consumer Expenditure Survey, 2017-18 not to be released due to quality issues The Ministry of Statistics and Programme implementation said that it is not releasing Consumer Expenditure Survey due to quality issues. The next Consumer Expenditure Survey is to be conducted in

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

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

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(Bureau of India Standards) to check on the Tarunquality Singh | [email protected] piped drinking | water provided in the cities, especially in the state capitals. The cities were then ranked based on the report. Parameters The study was conducted in two phases. In first phase, samples of drinking water were collected across Delhi and in the second phase the samples were collected from several state capitals. The tests were conducted on parameters such as Chemicals, Toxic substances, Organoleptic tests, Bacteriological tests and physical tests. Highlights of the report In Delhi, out of 11 samples, 10 failed to comply the standards of Indian Standards The best performing cities where almost all the samples were up to the standard were Ranchi, Shimla, Bhubaneshwar, Amravati and Raipur. The worst performing cities where only very few or none of the samples were under the Indian Standards were Thiruvananthapuram. Chandigarh, Bhopal, Patna, Bengaluru, Gandhinagar, Lucknow, Chennai, Dehradun, Kolkata and Jaipur November 17, 2019 India completes Agni II test fire successfully India on November 11, 2019, conducted its first night trial of AGNI II missile successfully. It is the first night trial being tested by the country. The nuclear capable missile was tested at the Abdul Kalam Island of Odisha Coast. Highlights The missile was developed by DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organization) The surface-to-surface medium range nuclear capable missile was tested by the Strategic Forces of the Indian Army. The missile is capable of striking range of 2,000 km. It can carry payload of 1,000 kg and launch a weight of 17 tonnes. It is 20 meters long and is a two-stage missile. It is an IRBM (Integrated Range Ballistic Missile) and has already been inducted into the armed forces AGNI Missile Agni II missile is a part of series of Agni missile with a range of 2,000 km. The range of Agni I is 700 km, Agni III is 3,000 km. The ranges of Agni IV and Agni V are longer The first test firing of Agni II missile was done in 1999. In 2010, the first test fire of nuclear capable Agni II ballistic missile was conducted successfully. AIIB to invest 100 million USD in solar and wind projects in India The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) which is headquartered at Beijing expects an investment of 100 million USD in India in a year. The foreign investment is to enter India through the bank in Wind and solar projects. AIIB approves 500 million USD for MUTP 3 On November 16, 2019, the bank approved a loan of 500 million USD in three suburban rail infrastructure projects. The projects are being executed under MUTP-Mumbai Urban Transport Project The project curbs trespass deaths by including mid-section trespasses. It is the first of its kind in the country. AIIB Investments in India AIIB has so far invested 2.9 billion USD. It amounts to 30% of the total investment India is the largest borrower of AIIB. The bank is planning to increase its investments in the future. It has a long-term strategy framed for

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the investments in India. In 2019-20, theTarun planSingh | [email protected] is to invest | around 4.5 billion USD. Next year the target is to increase the investment to 5 billion USD. The plan is to reach 10 billion USD by 2025. AIIB Projects The ongoing key projects of AIIB includes the following 400 million USD has been invested by the bank in the rural water supply system of Karnataka Around 1 billion USD is being spent on power distribution and transmission in the state of Assam. 800 million USD is to be invested in Chennai Metro. DPIIT establishes Development Council for Bicycle Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) under Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has set up a Development Council for Bicycle. The council has been constituted for a period of two years. It will stimulate value chain and fuel accelerated demand growth of Make-in-India. About Development Council for Bicycle Mandate: It has been setup for vision planning in design, engineering as well as manufacturing bicycles which are comparable with global standards for exports and domestic market. Members: The 23-member Council will be headed by Secretary DPIIT and will have 9 ex-officio members from DPIIT and Department of Commerce, Ministries of-Health and Family Welfare, Housing and Urban Affairs, Road Transport and Highways, Environment Forest and Climate Change, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It will also have seven expert domain members and four nominated. The terms of ex-officio members shall be co- terminus with their official posting while others members may be co-opted, as required, by Chairperson of the Council. Council Agendas: Improving competitiveness and level of services. For this council will undertake measures to leverage bicycle demand by ensuring enabling safe and segregated cycling infrastructure as well as transforming Indian bicycle technology (and its value chain). Undertaking continuous stakeholder persuasion as well as enhancing export competitiveness of bicycle. This will be achieved through support of schemes and favourable trade policies to popularize benefits of cycling via campaigns piloted by concerned ministries. Developing medium and small industries along with growth of skilled human resources for bicycle manufacturing and repair shops. Identifying and studying best international practices to adopt for bicycle manufacturing, recycling and infrastructure development in India. Home Ministry, UN Women Launches Campaign to End Violence Against Women Union Ministry of Home Affairs in collaboration with UN Women launched an awareness campaign to end violence against women. As part of campaign a ‘UNiTE to End Violence Against Women’ Metro was flagged of at the Sultanpur Metro station in New Delhi. The flag-off took place as part of 16 Days of Activism ‘Orange The World’ global campaign, which is being observed ahead of ‘International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women’, marked annually on 25 November and will continue till International Day of Human Rights on December 10. Key Highlights As part of campaign, people would be made aware about India’s single emergency helpline 112. It is an internationally recognised emergency number used in several countries. Currently, the 112 services are available in 27 States/Union Territories. The 112 service can be reached through voice call, SMS, email, 112 India App, respective state’s 112 websites and with even the panic button on mobile phones.

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

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

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

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 26 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Sri Lanka Election: GotbayaTarun Rajapaksa Singh | [email protected] to be | sworn in as new President The former wartime Defence Chief Gotabaya Rajpaksa of Sri Lanka has won the Presidential Election. He took 52.25% of vote against his rival Sajith Premadasa. Mr Rajapaksa won in Sinhalese majority areas and Mr Premadasa had scored in regions that were dominated by the Tamilians. Highlights National Security was seen as the dominant issue of the state as Islamic Group targeted churches and hotels in the Island. More than 250 people were killed in the state in several bombings in April 2019. Gotbaya is the brother of the former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa. In 2009, the brothers spear headed the Tamil Tiger rebels where at least 100,000 were killed The country recorded 83.7% of voters turn out. Totally 35 candidates contested in the Presidential Election India’s concerns The previous Government had close ties with China. Political experts are worried about the ballooning debt to Beijing. The regional powers especially India is concerned about the extent of Chinese influence in the country. Rajapaksa has told the reporters that he is planning to restore the relations with China. On the other hand, Mr Premadasa was leaning towards US and India. Falling into debt trap, Sri Lanka has leased the Hambantota port to the Chinese for 99 years. World Bank’s 300 million USD plan to Develop Kolkata The World Bank has submitted a master plan to develop logistics infrastructure of Kolkata metropolitan area. The bank is to invest 300 million USD in the project. The Government entities participating in the deal includes CII and the West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation. The focus of the project is to be on construction of rail, road, industrial parks. The aim of the project is to improve competitiveness, increase employment. Recent Infrastructural Developments in the region The West Bengal Government has increased its infrastructure spending by five times in 2019 as compared to 2011. The warehousing in the state has increased by 191% The Inland Water Transport World Bank Project, Asian High way project, Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor are the current prominent infrastructural developments in the region Significance Kolkata and West Bengal are strategically placed. It connects India and South East Asia in terms of infrastructure. This will help to achieve India’s interests in the ASEAN countries and also its Act East Policy. Location of Kolkata also enables trade and commerce to neighboring countries like Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh Kolkata has the potential to become the hub of India’s north-eastern region. 17 November: World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims was observed on 17 November 2019. This day is observed every year across the world on the third Sunday of November. It marks appropriate acknowledgment of victims of road traffic crashes and their families. The theme (motto) of this year’s World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims was “Life is not a car part”. It was based on Pillar 3 of the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety – Safer vehicles. Background Road traffic crashes are major cause of death among all age groups and leading cause of death for children

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 27 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 and young adults aged 5–29 years. The risk Tarunof dying Singh | [email protected] in road traffic | crash is more than 3 times higher in low- income countries than in high-income countries. More than half of all road traffic deaths across the world are among vulnerable road users. Pedestrians, cyclists, and riders of motorized 2- and 3-wheelers and their passengers are collectively known as “vulnerable road users”. They account for half of all road traffic deaths around the world. According to UN estismates, low-income countries record higher proportion of deaths of vulnerable road users as compared to high-income countries. About World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims It was started in 1993 by Road Peace, a national charity for road crash victims in United Kingdom. Since then it is observed and promoted worldwide by several Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs), including European Federation of Road Traffic Victims (FEVR) and its associated organizations. Its observance on every third Sunday in November each year was officially designated by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 26 October 2005 by adopting resolution 60/5. To commemorate this day, WHO and UN Road Safety Collaboration encourage governments and NGOs around the world to. Significance of this day: It has become an important tool in global efforts to reduce road casualties. It offers opportunity for drawing attention to scale of economic and emotional devastation caused by road crashes and also for giving recognition to suffering of road crash victims and work of support and rescue services. Harmeet Desai wins men’s singles title at ITTF Challenge Table Tennis tournament Indian paddler Harmeet Desai won wins men’s singles title at International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Challenge Indonesia Open 2019 Table Tennis tournament held at Batam, Indonesia. This was Harmeet’s first title on foreign soil and overall second International title of the year, after he had won Commonwealth championship in July 2019 held in Cuttack, Odisha. ITTF Challenge Table Tennis tournament In an all-Indian men’s singles final of ITTF Challenge Indonesia Open Table Tennis tournament, held in Batam, Indonesia, Harmeet had defeated compatriot Amalraj Anthony by 11-9, 9-11, 11-9, 11-9, 10-12, 11-9 score. Earlier, he had defeated Yuto Kizikuri (Japan) and Siu Hang Lam (Hong Kong) by the same scoreline of 4-2 in the quarters and semifinals respectively. In previous round of eight and four, Amalraj had recorded identical 4-0 victories over Joao Monteiro (Portugal) and Ibrahima Diaw (Senegal). Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan sworn in as 13th Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan was sworn in as the 13th Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court. He was administered oath to office and secrecy under Article 219 of Constitution by Governor Draupadi Murmu at the Raj Bhavan in Jharkhand’s capital Ranchi. The post of Chief Justice of Jharkhand High Court was lying vacant since early May 2019 after the elevation of former Jharkhand HC Chief Justice Aniruddha Bose to the Supreme Court. About Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan Prior to his appointment as the Chief Justice of Jharkhand HC, Justice Ravi Ranjan was serving in the Punjab and Haryana High Court. He was elevated to Additional Judge of Patna HC in July 2008. Later, he was appointed as permanent judge in January 2010. He also served as Acting Chief Justice of the Patna HC for a brief period in 2018. Article 219 (Oath or affirmation by Judges of High Courts): According to it, every person appointed to be a Judge of a High Court, before entering upon his office, make and subscribe before Governor of the State, or some person appointed in that behalf by him. This oath or affirmation is according to the form set out for the purpose in the Third Schedule of the Constitution.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 28 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 GoI mergesTarun Singh three | [email protected] Insurance | PSUs The GoI will merge 3 public Sector Insurance Companies as announced in budget 2019-20. The merger includes United India Insurance Limited, National Insurance Co Limited and Oriental Insurance Company Limited. Highlights The Budget 2019-2020 did not make provision of funds for insurers and the Department of Financial Services. Therefore, the government institutions in the financial sector are forced to seek supplementary demands to fulfil their purposes. The Budget allocated Rs 12,000 crore for this. The General Insurance Companies have sought Rs 500 crore to Rs 3000 crore each to avoid falling below solvency ratio. However, the three companies that are to be merged are struggling to maintain minimum solvency ratio of 1.5 Laws on solvency Ratio According to the Guidelines of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India, an insurance company has to compulsorily maintain a minimum solvency ratio of 1.5. The solvency ratio is calculated by dividing company’s tax net operating income by its total debt obligation. The ratio indicates if the enterprise is able to meet its debt obligations. The lower the ratio, the greater is its probability to default its debt obligations. 8th International Conference on Agricultural Statistics organized in New Delhi The 8th International Conference on Agricultural Statistics (ICAS-VIII) will be held in New Delhi from 18-21 November 2019. It is organised by Union Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoPSI), ISI-CAS, FAO, USDA, World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Eurostat, AfDB (African Development Bank), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and various other organizations. India is hosting this important conference in the field of agriculture statistics for first time. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates will be Chief Guest of this conference. About 8th International Conference on Agricultural Statistics (ICAS-VIII) The theme of this year’s conference is ‘Statistics for Transformation of Agriculture to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)’. It is aimed at addressing various challenges faced in producing data to report on SDGs and various leading research and also to deliberate and finalize best practises in the field of agriculture statistics. The agenda for this year’s conference covers domains of food and agricultural statistics, related methodologies, technologies and processes. It will see participation of more than 600 delegates of which 200 delegates will be from 108 countries. It will host 5 plenary sessions and 44 technical sessions. Background International Conference on Agricultural Statistics (ICAS) is a series of conferences that was started in 1998 based on comprehensive need for agricultural data all across the world. It is conducted every three years based on overarching need for agricultural data worldwide. It sponsored by United Nations-Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Bank (WB), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other international development agencies. Previsions ICAS: The last conference was held in Rome (Italy) in 2016. Before that, it was held in United States, Italy, Mexico, China, Uganda and Brazil. Report: India-2nd largest in sending students to US On November 18, 2019, the “2019 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange” was released. According to the report, India remained the largest source of foreign students to the US for the 10th consecutive year. This year alone, India has sent around 202,000 students to the US. It is the second largest number of foreign students from a country to the US. The first largest source is China.

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Key Findings of the Report Tarun Singh | [email protected] | In 2019, the total number of international students in the US are 1,095,299. The number has raised by 0.05% as compared to 2018. International students account to 5.5% of US higher education population. Of this, India and China alone accounts to more than 50% The other countries where majority of the students come from include South Korea (52,250), Saudi Arabia (37,080) and Canada (26,122). The number of students from countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria and Brazil have increased as compared to the previous years. For the US students, European countries are the popular destinations for their higher studies. Around 54.9% of US students choose Europe as their higher education destinies. India extends Visa-on-Arrival facility to UAE nationals India has now granted visa-on-arrival facility to the citizens of United Arab Emirates (UAE) with an aim to enhance people to people contacts and trade relations as well as strengthen strategic ties between the two countries. The move is a ‘special gesture’ for the UAE with whom India has a comprehensive strategic partnership. Key Highlights The visa-on-arrival facility for the nationals of UAE will be available for a period of up to 60 days (2 months) with double entry for tourism, business, medical purposes and conference. The facility came into effect on 16 November 2019. This facility is available at six designated International Airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kolkata. Eligibility: The visa-on-arrival facility will be available only to those UAE nationals who have earlier obtained an e-Visa or a normal paper visa for India. This eligibility condition is irrespective of whether person actually visited India or not. Those UAE nationals visiting India for first time are advised to apply for e-Visa or a normal paper visa. Moreover, Pakistan Origin UAE nationals will not be eligible for Visa-on-Arrival Scheme. NOTE: Japan and South Korea are the other two countries whose citizens are offered visa-on-arrival facility by India. However, India extends e-Visa facility to around Citizens of 170 countries. Indian Army conducts Sindhu Sudarshan exercise in Barmer, Rajasthan The Strike Corps (also known as Sudarshan Chakra Corps) of Indian Army is conducting the annually held exercise, dubbed Sindu Sudarshan-VII, in Barmer, Rajasthan. The annual exercise will test the operational readiness and maneuver warfare capability of Indian Army’s 21 Corps, one of the service’s three so-called Strike Corps. The Corps currently consists of 2 infantry divisions, 1 armored division, and 3 support brigades. About Sindhu Sudarshan Exercise Exercise Objective: To validate battle readiness and operational effectiveness of Sudarshan Chakra Corps in an Integrated Air-Land Battle scenario. Participants: About 40,000 troops, 700 ‘A’ Vehicles and 300 Guns of Sudarshan Chakra Corps of Southern Command. Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Army’s Army Aviation Corps (AAC) will participate in war games with an undisclosed number of combat aircraft. Exercise Part: The 1st part of Sindu Sudarshan-VII’ exercise was held in middle of October with fire power demonstration in Pokhran. The second part of this exercise is being held from 13 to 18 November in Jaisalmer-Barmer desert in Rajasthan and the 3rd part of exercise which will be held between 29 November 29 and 4 December 2019 will also include live firing exercise held in the Pokhran Field Firing Range,

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 31 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 between the two countries. It will establishTarun a Singhresearch | [email protected] fellowship | programme for young scientists from Untied States and India to expand healthcare research that will advance discovery to improve clinical practice and benefit public health in both countries. Its initial focus is intended to engage scientists in infectious disease and immunology research, with emphasis on diseases that affect women and children. 108th Foundation Day of ICMR In event celebrating this foundation day, Bill Gates presented ICMR Lifetime Achievement Award for Outstanding Achievement in Healthcare to three game-changers of country in field of health. They are: Dr Cyrus S Poonawalla (Chairman and Managing Director, Serum Institute of India), Dr Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (Chairman and Managing Director, Biocon India) and Dr Prakash Baba Amte (Director, Lok Biradari Prakalp). They have been awarded in recognisation of their efforts in providing better health care to people in the country and globally through innovative diagnostics, cost-effective life-saving tools and increasing access to healthcare at the grassroots. About Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) It is India’s apex scientific body for the formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research. It was established in 1911 as Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA) and renamed to its present name in 1948. This makes it one of the oldest and largest medical research bodies in the world. It functions under Department of Health Research, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is headquatered in New Delhi. Pakistan-First Country to introduce WHO approved India made Typhoid Vaccine Pakistan becomes the first country to introduce WHO approved typhoid vaccine. The Vaccine is to be used in southern Sindh province as more than 10,000 cases of Typhoid were documented since 2017. Highlights A four-week campaign will be conducted targeting 10 million children of age nine months to 15 years. The campaign is launched with the support of Geneva based Gavi Vaccine alliance. The Gavi Vaccine Alliance is backed by several global organization such as World Bank, WHO, UNICEF, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to lower vaccine costs for poor countries. In 2017 around 70% of deaths due to typhoid were among children. This is mainly because, Pakistan spends meagre amount of its national resources on public health Pakistan is suffering from drug-resistant typhoid fever since November 2016. The Salmonella Typhi bacteria that causes Typhoid is called a super-bug in the country as it has developed resistance towards old drugs. Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine The TCV was recommended by WHO in 2018 for infants and children over 6 months of age in typhoid- endemic countries. As compared to earlier vaccines, TCV provides long-lasting protection and requires fewer dosages. The Vaccine is funded by the United Nations Children Fund (UNCF). Typhoid Typhoid impacts young children in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and Middle-East. In these regions, the disease if caused due to unsafe water and sanitation systems and inadequate drinking water. India’s Contributions Bharat Bio-Tech, an Indian Vaccines and Bio-therapeutics Manufacturer in 2018 received Pre-Qualification tag from WHO for the TPV. Through the tag, the firm gained access to global public vaccination programmes. In February 2019, the Pakistan Government approached the company through the GAVI

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 32 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 alliance. Under this, Pakistan is now receivingTarun the Singh vaccines. | [email protected] | Thailand hosts 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting-Plus Thailand hosted the 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM)- Plus in its capital city Bangkok. ADMM-Plus is key ministerial-level platforms in regional security architecture for promoting strategic dialogue and practical cooperation between ASEAN and its 8 partner countries viz. India, China, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Russia and US. Participants in this edition of ADMM-Plus included Defence Ministers from 17 countries of ADMM-Plus group. Thereby, India was represented by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. As part of the agenda for ADMM-Plus meeting, Defence Minister of India released ‘Handbook on Military Medicine for ASEAN’ along with Defence Minister of Myanmar Lieutenant General Sein Win. About Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) It is regional intergovernmental organisation comprising 10 Southeast Asian countries viz- Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei and Laos. It promotes intergovernmental cooperation as well as facilitates political, economic, sociocultural, educational, military and security integration among its members and other Asian countries. It was founded on 8 August 1967. It is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia. India is full dialogue partner of ASEAN. About ADMM-Plus It is platform for ASEAN and its eight dialogue partners (Australia,New Zealand, India, China, Russia, US, Japan and South Korea) to strengthen security and defence co-operation for peace, stability, and development in the region. It seeks to promote mutual trust and confidence between defence establishments of ASEAN and its eight partner countries through greater dialogue and transparency. It was established in 2010. It was held for first time in Hanoi, Vietnam in 2010, in which defence ministers of participating countries had agreed on five areas of practical cooperation, including counter-terrorism, maritime security, peacekeeping operations and humanitarian assistance. Roar of the sea: Naval Exercise between Qatar and India A three-day naval exercise, Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea) is being conducted between November 17 and November 21, 2019 between the Indian and Qatar Naval Forces. The aim of the exercise is to enhance interoperability between the naval forces. Highlights From the Indian side, the Missile Stealth Frigate INS Trikand and Patrol Aircraft P8-I along with Rafale aircraft are to attend the exercise The exercise is being held for the first time. Both the P8 and Rafale are newly procured defense machines of India. The exercise will include Air defense, Surface action, interdiction operation, maritime surveillance and anti-terrorism The Qatar Emiri Naval Forces participating in the exercise include Anti-Ship Missile equipped Barzan Class Fast Attack craft and Rafale aircraft Significance The Geographical location of Qatar is significant for the country being located near the major petroleum deposits in the Persian Gulf . Also, the joint exercises will help in adding protection to the Indian ships sailing through the region. Around 110 billion USD of Indian trade happens through the region. As per 2018, it includes 50 billion USD of imports and 60 billion USD of exports. Defense Relations The first diplomatic defense agreement between India and Qatar was signed in 2008. According to the agreement the countries permit annual defense training. However, an exercise between the countries is

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 33 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 being conducted for the first time. Tarun Singh | [email protected] | November 19, 2019 November 19: World Toilet Day World Toilet Day is marked by the United Nations and its sister organizations every year on November 19 since 2013. In July 2013, the United Nations passed a resolution to mark the event by its member nations. The objective is to bring behavioural changes and implementation of policies that will end open defecation and increase access to sanitation among poor. As human waste spreads diseases, it is essential to use toilets. This year their importance is spread under the theme Theme: Leaving No One Behind Need More than half of the global population are living without good sanitation 673 million people still follow open defecation world wide 297,000 children under five die each year of diarrheal problems that are caused due to unsafe drinking water, hand hygiene and sanitation Developing Countries are losing 5% of their GDP due to sanitation-related diseases Sustainable Development Goals The day helps in achieving the SDG 6 that promises sanitation for all by 2030. The SDG 6 Ensures Clean Water and Sanitation for all. Improvement in sanitation facilities are predominantly required in Central Asia, South-East Asia, East Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia. NITI Aayog Report: Health Reforms On November 18, 2019, NITI Aayog released a report on “Health Systems for a New India: Building Blocks- Potential Pathways to reforms”. The report provides a framework to build a rigid health system for India. Key findings of the Report The report has identified 4 focus areas namely To deliver on unfinished public health agenda To change the health financing from out of pocket expenditures into large insurers. To integrate health services with digitization To empower citizens on becoming better health buyers The report criticized the multiplicity of health schemes. The think tank believes that multiplicity prevents standardization of purchasing procedures. Recommendations of the report The financing structure of the health care system in the country has to be changed. The out-of-pocket expenditure should be reduced and the spending should be directed towards purchasing capabilities. The report recommended the practices of Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust of Karnataka. It went on to enroll hospitals from neighboring states. It has succeeded its implementation in the state and is now targeting entire 6.4 crore population It suggests to extend the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, the cashless insurance scheme to cover entire country. The scheme is now focusing on 10 crore poor families Indian boxer Sarita Devi elected to AIBA first Athletes Commission Veteran Indian boxer L Sarita Devi was elected unopposed to International Boxing Association’s (AIBA) first- ever Athletes Commission. She is among six boxers elected as members of the commission from 5 continents. She will be representing Asian bloc in this Commission. The election for members of this commission was conducted during AIBA men’s and women’s Boxing Championships 2019 held in Russia. Sarita Devi was sole candidate contesting for this position from Asian region.

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About Laishram Sarita Devi Tarun Singh | [email protected] | She was born on 1 March 1982 in Manipur. Sge had become a professional boxer in 2000. She is eight-time Asian Championships medalist — five of them gold. She has been athletes representative in the executive committee of Boxing Federation of India (BFI), which nominated her for the position in the world body. She was awarded Arjuna award in 2009 by Central Government for her achievements. She is also DSP with Manipur Police. Asian Games 2014 Controversy: She had courted controversy in Asian Games in 2014 (held in Incheon, South Korea,), when she had refused to accept her bronze medal at the prize distribution ceremony of the 57-60kg category. owever, she accepted the medal later. This was followed by one-year ban on her by the AIBA. About AIBA Athletes Commission It was set up as a part of the reforms recommended by International Olympic Committee (IOC) for AIBA. Background: IOC in May 2019 had stripped AIBA of its right to conduct boxing in the 2020 Olympic Games due to alleged financial, ethics and administrative mismanagement and irregularities. Members of Commission: It features one male and a female boxer from each of the five regional confederations – Asia, Oceania, Africa, Americas and Europe. Functions of Members: Its members are mandated to act as a bridge between AIBA and boxers to ensure greater transparency and coordination in the formulation of rules and projects for the sport. They will also be expected to work in tandem with the IOC to ensure that boxers are represented in its athletes’ commission. Initiatives of GoI to promote Fit India Movement in schools The Department of Higher Education operating under Ministry of Human Resource Development has developed actions on Fit India Programme. The operations have been sent to all the Higher Education Institutes. The advisory has been circulated to Department of School Education and to Department of Sports at state levels. Operations Implement practices that will encourage students and staffs to participate in health and wellness activities Pledging to maintain physical and mental fitness and to participate in sports activities regularly. To encourage students and staffs to use bicycles inside the campus and to keep the campus clean. Organize yoga and meditation events. To organize regular heath-check up camps and medical fitness camps. Abuse free Campus To implement and tobacco free campus status It is the responsibility of the educational institutes to bring in zero tolerance policy towards tobacco and substance abuse To provide counselling services for stress management and mental health. Fit India Movement The Fit India Movement was launched by PM Modi in august 2019. It encourages Indians to include fitness activities in their daily lives. There is zero investment on the project. However, the reach and spread of the movement is big. The UGC and the CBSE board have asked the schools to encourage students and staffs to participate in the movement Health Ministry sign MoC with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for technical support Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare signed memorandum of cooperation (MoC) with Bill & Melinda

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

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The KPCS has been agreed by the UnitedTarun NationsSingh | [email protected] and the | World Diamond Council. Working of KPCS The scheme works on certain terms and conditions. The participating countries should implement national legislation, export and import controls and should exchange statistical data. The countries should also be transparent to the scheme meetings. What are conflict diamonds? Conflict diamonds are rough diamonds that are used by the rebel movements to finance wars, especially in the third world countries 12th Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2019 held in Lucknow The 12th edition of Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo 2019 was held in Uttar Pradesh’s capital city Lucknow from 15th to 17th November 2019. It was organised by Institute of Urban Transport (IUT), professional body under Union Ministry of Urban Development. The theme of this year’s conference was “Accessible and liveable Cities”. About Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference and Expo It is an annual flagship event organised under the aegis of Union Ministry of Urban Development. Its genesis is from the National Urban Transport Policy of the Government of India, 2006 (NUTP). Primary objective: To disseminate information to the cities and to help them keep up-to-date with best urban transport practices. Other Objectives: To provide opportunity for key decision makers and delegates to interact with service providers, civil society, academia, experts, professionals, industry, technology, as well as other stakeholders in Urban Transport (both domestic and international) to develop urban transport along sustainable path. It also serves as a forum to discuss key issues relevant to sector and suggest measures to address them. Exhibition (expo): It is a special feature of UMI to disseminate and showcase latest developments in urban transport technology, propagation of innovative ideas, implementation of best transport projects, good urban transport initiatives and practices in the field. Grassroot Olympic- Mission Talent Hunt launched in Assam to groom talent Assam Olympic Association (AOA) has launched new programme- ‘Grassroot Olympic – Mission Talent Hunt’ to identify and groom sports talent in the state. Its launch was annouced by Assam chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal during the executive committee meeting of AOA. Sarbananda Sonowal is President of AOA and minister of state (MoS) for health Pijush Hazarika is its vice-chairman. Key decisions taken at Executive committee meeting of AOA AOA constituted various sub-committees and commissions for the Khelo India Youth Games. The tournament is scheduled to be held in Assam from January 10-22, 2020. It was decided that AOA will organise sports events in 5 categories covering players from 10 to 60 years of age in the state. It also constituted committee under the chairmanship of vice-chairman of AOA. This committee is responsible for interacting with grassroot level sports organizations, clubs, sports organizers. It will prepare a detailed action plan and connect with the field to spot the talented sportspersons. India and ADB sign 91 million USD to improve water resources in Karnataka On November 18, 2019, India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a 91 million USD agreement to improve water security of Karnataka. The loan will help to modernize the Vijayanagara Channel irrigation systems and also to increase the efficiency of Krishna river basin. Highlights of the project The Karnataka Government will strengthen the basin institutions for Integrated and Sustainable Water Resources Management Investment Programme. The Programme plans to modernize about 442 kilometers of main distributaries in the Vijayanagara

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Channel network. Tarun Singh | [email protected] | The programme has two project loans. It will help Karnataka water agencies to roll out efficient river basin management plans. The first project will modernize the irrigation system The second project will strengthen water governance Significance The programme will help to save 1,700 million cubic metres that can be used on additional 160,000 hectares of farm land The project will establish 30 water user cooperative societies. This will strengthen irrigation canals of the farmers. It will help to improve efficiency of 84% of state’s total water use. Asian Development Bank The Bank is on the foot steps of achieving prosperous, resilient, sustainable and inclusive Asia and Pacific. Its goal is to eradicate poverty. In 2018 alone, the bank provided a loan of 21.8 billion USD funding several projects in the region ISRO to Launch 13 satellites and Cartosat-3 The Indian Space Research Organization will launch 13 commercial nano satellites of the United States along with the imaging and mapping satellite Cartostat-3. The launch is scheduled on November 25, 2019. Highlights The satellites will be launched by PSLV-C47, a Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle into Sun Synchronous Orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota. CartoSAT-3 Cartosat-3 is the third generation Earth observation satellite built by ISRO. It is one of the most advanced imaging satellites built by the organization so far. It has the capability to produce high resolution aerial images in the world. The features of the satellite include Panchromatic-Captures all visible colors of light Hyperspectral-Captures light from electromagnetic spectrum Multispectral-Captures light within specific ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum. Till date, eight Cartosats have been launched. 13 commercial satellites The 13 satellites are launched by the Luxembourg based space company Kleos, as a part of its multi- satellite constellation mission called the Scouting Mission. The Scouting mission aims to provide a global picture of unregistered marine activity and surveillance and intelligence capability to government and commercial entities. The mission also has an Automatic Identification system that rectifies commonly faced challenges of the surveillance mission. Pakistan successfully test fires Shaheen-1 surface-to-surface ballistic missile Pakistan conducted successful test launch of Shaheen-1 surface-to-surface ballistic missile. The test was conducted part of a training exercise aimed at testing the operational readiness of Army Strategic Forces Command for ensuring Pakistan’s credible minimum deterrence. The test come days after India conducted the first night trial of Agni-II surface-to-surface medium range nuclear-capable missile having strike range of 2,000 km. About Shaheen-1 missile It is a land based supersonic short-range ballistic missile (SRBM). It has been jointly designed and developed by joint venture of Pakistan’s National Engineering and Scientific Commission (NESCOM) and National Defence Complex (NDC). Its design is reportedly based on Chinese M-9 missile. It was first tested

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 38 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 in April 1999. Tarun Singh | [email protected] | It derives its name after a species of Falcon found in the mountains of Pakistan. It is also designated as Hatf IV. It is capable of delivering all types of warheads (conventional as well as nuclear). It has strike range of 650 KMs, bringing a number of Indian cities under its range. It is propelled by a two-stage solid-fuel rocket motor. Implementation Updates: National Biofuel Policy The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas notified a new National Policy on Biofuels in June 2018. On a written reply at the opening session of Lok Sabha on November 18, 2019, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas provided its implementation steps. Government measures and achievements The percentage of Ethanol in Ethanol blended petrol has been increased from 1.53% in 2013-14 to 4.22% in 2017-18 GoI has procured 180 crore litres of ethanol against the target of 225 crore litres for the year 2018-19 The total Ethanol production capacity of the country is 355 crore litres per annum. Current Government schemes on Biofuels The Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable scheme aims at establishing 5000 compressed bio gas plants across the country by 2023. The Oil Marketing Companies that are part of the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme can sell blended petrol with maximum ethanol percentage of 10%. Salient Features of the Policy The Biofuels will be categorized as Basic Biofuels and Advanced Biofuels. Government will provide incentives, viability gap funding and off-take insurance for advanced biofuels. Advanced Biofuels are derived from non-food feedstocks. They are also known as second- generation biofuels. According to the new policy, B-molasses, damaged food grains, sugarcane juice and surplus food grains can be used for ethanol production A supply chain will be set up for the production of biodiesel. It is to be produced from non-edible oil seeds, short gestation crops and used cooking oil The Policy defines the roles and responsibilities of all the ministries and other concerned departments that are involved in production and supply of Biodiesel. Centre bans Meghalaya-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council The central government has banned ‘Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council’ (HNLC), a Meghalaya-based insurgent group, for its increased activities of violence and other insurgent acts. Centre also notified that HNLC’s activities are detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India. The central government declared the HNLC, along with all its factions, wings and front organisations as unlawful association in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. Earlier, the HNLC was declared a banned organisation on 16 November 2000 but the ban was later lifted. Why is HNLC Banned? Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) notified that HNLC along with all its factions, wings and frontal organisations has been openly declaring secession of certain regions that are largely inhabited by Khasi and Jaintia tribals in Meghalaya from Indian Union as its objective. The group continues to bully and intimidate civilians to extort funds. It also maintains links with other insurgent groups of Northeast region to carry out the acts of extortion and intimidation. HNLC maintains camps in Bangladesh to give sanctuary and training to its cadre. If these activities are not immediately

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 39 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 curbed and controlled, the HNLC will regroupTarun and Singh rearm | [email protected] itself, expand | its cadre base, procure sophisticated weapons, thus cause loss of lives of civilians and security forces, as well as accelerate its anti-national activities. Recent Activities: The ministry also listed violence perpetrated by HNLC in recent past that include 4 incidents involving killing of 1 civilian, during the period from 1 January 2015, to 31 July 2019, arrest of 16 of its cadres, recovery of 4 weapons, surrender of 14 of its cadres and kidnapping of 4 persons. Committee on Companies Act, 2013 submits its report to Finance Ministry Ministry of Finance and Corporate Affairs constituted the Company Law Committee in September 2019. The Committee submitted its report to the Finance Minister on November 18, 2019. Objective of the Committee The Committee was constituted to decriminalize the Companies Act, 2013. This is being done to provide Ease of Living for Corporate in the country. Recommendations of the Committee The committee has recommended amendments to 46 penal provisions associated with the law. The amendments are either to remove criminality or to allow rectification through alternate methods or to restrict punishment only to fine. Bottom line, the committee suggests to lenient punishments mentiones in the law The Committee has recommended to provide further easing of living for law abiding corporate. It also insisted on wider consultations during following decisions by the Ministry of finance Permitting appeals in NCLT against the orders of Regional Directors To review provisions on disqualification of directors Reviewing provisions that debars audit firms. Significance With World Institutions decelerating growth rates of India, every step towards the financial flow in the country is important. Though India is an agricultural Economy, majority of the contribution towards its GDP is from the service sector. Therefore, it becomes important to provide Ease of Living for the corporates to boost the growth rate. India ranks 59th in 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking India was ranked 59th among 63 countries in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking released by International Institute for Management Development. This year, India slipped by 6 places as compared to 53rd rank in 2018 edition of this global annual list. India’s poor performance was on account of low quality of life and expenditure on education. IMD World Talent Ranking It is released annually by International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Switzerland based business school. It assesses the status and the development of competencies necessary for enterprises and the economy to achieve long term value creation. The ranking of countries is based on the performance in three main categories– investment & development, appeal and readiness. These 3 categories assess how countries perform in wide range of areas such as cost of living, quality of life, education, language skills, apprenticeships, workplace training, remuneration and tax rates. Highlights of 2019 Rankings Top 10 Countries: Switzerland (1st), Denmark (2nd), Sweden (3rd), Austria (4th), Luxembourg (5th), Norway (6th), Iceland (7th), Finland (8th), the Netherlands (9th) and Singapore (10th). These top countries share strong levels of investment in education and a high quality of life. Moreover, Europe leads way in fostering best conditions for competitiveness in a skills-scarce global economy.

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Top Asian Countries: Singapore, along with TarunHong Singh Kong | [email protected] SAR (15th | position), followed by Taiwan (20th) lead in terms of talent competitiveness due to the readiness of talent pool. In this edition of list, Singapore rose from 13th to 10th position compared to last year, Hong Kong SAR from 18th to 15th, and Taiwan from 27th to 20th. BRICS countries: India is also lagging behind fellow BRICS countries – China ranked 42nd, Russia (47th) and South Africa (50th). India’s Performance: It also witnessed one of harpest declines among Asian economies owing to low quality of life, negative impact of brain drain, and the low priority of its economy on attracting and retaining talents. China: It was ranked in the lower half of the index. This year its rank slipped by 3 places due to low ranking on government expenditure per student, cost of living index and exposure to particle pollution. November 20, 2019 DRDO to double ASTRA’s range The DRDO Chief, Mr G Sateesh Reddy recently announced that DRDO (Defence Research Development Organization) is to increase the range of ASTRA air-to-air missiles. India is one of the few countries to own a successful BMD-Ballistic Missile Defence programme. ASTRA Astra (Sanskrit word for weapon) is an all-weather air-to-air missile developed completely by DRDO. Currently, ASTRA is capable of engaging targets upto a distance of 110 km. The ASTRA missiles are integrated with Sukhoi Su-30 MKI aircrafts of India. Now, DRDO plans to increase the range of the missile to 160 km. Apart from this, it is also planning to infuse technologies like solid fuel ramjet and dual pulse solid rocket motor. There are also plans to integrate the missiles with other aircrafts like Dassault, MiG-29, HAL Tejas. Ballistic Missile Defence Programme The BMD is an initiative to develop multi-layered defence systems to protect India from missile attacks. The programme was introduced in the light of threats from China and Pakistan. Prithvi and Ashwin are the two most successful BMD missiles developed under the programme. IRCTC Revenue doubles; 14% increase in profits The earnings from internet ticketing services of IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) increased by 80.8% between the period April, 2019 and September, 2019. The earnings in the four-month period is Rs 199.3 crores. It was Rs 199.3 crore before April, 2019. The revenue has almost doubled. IRCTC is an exclusive e-ticketing partner of the Indian Railways. This is the first time IRCTC is releasing its revenue after it entered the stock market in October, 14, 2019. Also, the sector has earned huge success in India’s path of Digitization. Audit report The report was released by IRCTC after its audit by the Serva Associates, Charted Accountant, New Delhi. The audit was conducted through the concerned auditor under Section 139 of Companies Act, 2013 Section 139 of Companies Act, 2013 The section deals with the appointment of auditors The section under the act allows the public sector companies and other private companies to appoint auditors at the first annual meeting. IRCTC The IRCTC is one of the Miniratna companies of India. It is a subsidiary of the Indian Railways. A Miniratna status is provided to the Public Sector Undertakings that satisfy the following criteria The PSU should have continuously made profit in the last 3 years or it should have earned Rs 30 crore

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profit in one year Tarun Singh | [email protected] | 2020 Hockey Pro League: Bhubaneswar to host India’s home matches International Hockey Federation (FIH), the sport’s governing body announced that Bhubaneswar will host India’s home matches of 2020 Hockey Pro League. Odisha’s Capital Bhubaneswar has become a hockey hub in India as it has been hosting a majority of tournaments. The city most recently hosted Olympic qualifiers. Key Highlights The 2020 Hockey Pro League will be played between 11 January and 28 June 2020. It will feature 144 matches in the coming season. The first match will feature the Netherlands and China on 11 January 2020 at the Wujin Hockey Stadium in Changzhou, China. The first team that India will host in second Hockey Pro League is the Netherlands on January 18. Australia’s home matches will be played in Perth and Sydney and England will be playing its share in London, UK. THE VENUES: ASIA: India: Bhubaneswar; China: Changzhou EUROPE: Germany: Mengladbach, Hamburg, Berlin; Spain: Valencia; Great Britain: London; The Netherlands: Utrecht, Rotterdam, Hertogenbosch, Amsterdam; Belgium: Antwerp USA: North Carolina; Argentina: Buenos Aires, San Miguel de Tucuman Australia: Perth, Sydney; New Zealand: Christchurch, Auckland Haryana Government sets up new Foreign Cooperation Department The Haryana Government has created a new department called Department of Foreign Cooperation. The aim of the department is to focus on initiatives that are taken by the state that promotes welfare of non- Resident Indians, investment and youth employment. Key Features The Foreign Cooperation Department will work to formulate country-wise strategies that will promote employment and investment in the state The Department will work closely with the ministry of External Affairs to improve the international cooperation with the foreign provinces. The Department will also help to increase engagement under twin city programmes of the Ministry of External Affairs Objectives The Department will pursue issues that involves cooperation between public and private sectors. The main aim of the Department will be to work with bilateral and multilateral groups to promote the interest of the state in foreign countries. It will focus on trade and investments predominantly The Department will also maintain relations with Indian mission that are working abroad in matters that are related to the state of Haryana. IRCTC signs an MoU with KSTDC to run the Golden Chariot Train A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) and Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) to market, run and operate the Golden Chariot train. The MoU is an important step towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to promote tourism in India as well as his clarion call to countrymen to visit at least 15 tourism spots in India.

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

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 44 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 India hosts World CustomsTarun Organization Singh | [email protected] RCP | meeting of Asia Pacific India hosted the World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia Pacific Regional Contact Points (RCP) that was held for 3 three days on Puducherry. The conference is being held for the fourth time in India. Previously it was held in Jaipur and Cochin. Highlights International Organizations like UNCTAD, Global Alliance on Trade Facilitation (GATF) participated in the conference. They presented the best practices that are involved in customs procedures. The conference also discussed about the key focus areas of the Asia Pacific Region. It includes security, enforcement, facilitation and capacity building. World Customs Organization The World Customs Organization is an inter-governmental Organization that is involved in setting up principles and standards especially for cross border procedures and customs. The headquarters of WCO is located in Brussels. The Organization has divided the world into 6 regions to make the rules across borders of these regions easier. India is a member of the organization. Significance The Asia Pacific accounts to 37% of the world’s GDP. Also, the region is important for India as it is trying to increase its trade and investment in the region. India is achieving this through its Act East Policy. The development of North East Region is also linked with India’s interests in Asia Pacific. India is finding markets in the region for the export of goods from North East. It is also essential for India to increase its presence in the region as China has larger interests in the region especially in the markets of the region. 2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products held in New Delhi Union Minister for Health Dr. Harsh Vardhan inaugurated ‘2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products: Achieving the SDGs 2030’ in New Delhi. It was jointly organized by Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) and World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) and Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC). About Conference It is a follow on from the “2017 and 2018 World Conference on Access to Medical Products” organized in November 2017 and October 2018 by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. Objectives: (i) To explore new approaches in the innovation landscape in medical products for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and SDG 2030 goals (ii) To Discuss the role of intellectual property to promote access to medical products. It provided platform to further the discussions for access to medical products on themes of ‘UHC and innovation’, ‘legal landscape and trade-related aspects in the context of access to medical products’ and ‘regulation of medical products and access’. International Energy Agency releases World Energy Outlook, 2019 The Paris based International Energy Agency recently released its report on World Energy Outlook. The Agency has projected that the installed solar power in the world will increase by 3,142 GW by 2040. According to the report, the currently the world uses 495 GW of installed solar power. Highlights of the report Oil demand will slow down after 2025 and the world will transit towards electric vehicles. However, the oil

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 45 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 demand for the next decade will keep increasingTarun Singh | [email protected] with 85% of | increase coming from the US. In African states, the gas and renewable sources will power the future energy. However, the demand for coal in these countries are still raising The report says that at present the energy demand in the world is growing at the rate of 2% per year. Climate Scenarios There are three climate scenarios projected by the report for the future. It includes the Current Policy Scenario, Stated Policy Scenario and Sustainable Development Scenario. According to Current Policy Scenario, the world will continue to function with the old regulations with energy demand rising at the rate of 1.3% by 2040. The Stated Policy Scenario is New Policy Scenario. Under this the report says that with the new policies that have been introduced by the governments, the energy demand will increase by 1% per year. The Sustainable Policy Scenario is the most ambitious of all the scenarios. Under this, the report says that by aligning with Paris Agreement the global temperature will reduce by 1.5 degree Celsius. IEA IEA is an inter-governmental organization of OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development). the World Economic Outlook is the flagship publication of the agency. India-ASEAN Inno Tech Summit 2019 A Three day India ASEAN InnoTech Summit is to being held in Davao, Philippines. The Summit is organized between 20 November, 2019 and 22 November, 2019. It focuses on innovative technologies, exhibitions, and back to back meetings to accelerate innovative development. Highlights of the summit This is the second summit being organized. The previous summit was held in New Delhi. The ASEAN members participating in the summit includes Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. The summit is jointly organized by the FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) and DST (Department of Science and Technology). India will exhibit its best innovative technologies in the summit. It will also include technologies with potential implementation in the ASEAN region. Objectives The summit aims to explore new pathways for partnership between the countries and the Indian research based enterprises. It will capture global trends in innovations and technologies. The summit will also connect global research and development community with the local entities. It will also pave way for industry-academia-government partnerships. The summit will help India assess the needs of market and build capacities to rapidly commercialize research and development. It will also help in policy frameworks, reforms and regulatory environment. Parliament passes Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 Parliament passed Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 after it was approved by Rajya Sabha. The Bill seeks to amend Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951 to change provisions related to composition of Trustees of memorial and termination of trustee. It was earlier passed in Lok Sabha in August 2019. Features of Bill It seeks to make trust that runs Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial apolitical by removing the clause pertaining to the President of Congress Party as a permanent member of the trust. It also amends provision related to include Leader of Opposition recognised as such in the House of the People (Lok Sabha) or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, then Leader of the single largest Opposition Party in that House as a member of the trust. It also amends provisions related to termination of nominated trustee to allow his/her

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 46 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 termination before the expiry of the period ofTarun five Singh |years [email protected] by the | Central Government, without assigning any reason. Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951 It was enacted by Parliament to provide for the erection and management of National Memoraial to prepetuate memory of those killed or wounded on the 13th day of April, 1919, in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar. It provides for Trust for erection and management of the Memorial and also provided for composition of the Trust with certain Trustees for life. November 21, 2019 November 20: World COPD Day-marked by WHO The WHO (World Health Organization) and Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) organizes World COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Day on the third Wednesday of November every year. It was first launched in 1997 by WHO, GOLD and other institutes in the US. This year the day is marked to create awareness in the Theme: All Together to End COPD Significance COPD is currently the fourth major cause of death in the world. Diagnosing COPD condition is hard and is considered of the majorly under-diagnosed disease. Often the disease is confused with Asthma. With increasing pollution, it is essential to create awareness about COPD among the public. Experts believe that COPD is likely to increase in the coming years with increasing pollution. Creating awareness about the disease also becomes important as it is not curable but is preventable. India India has to increase its awareness campaign on COPD for two reasons namely pollution and smoking. India is home to 3 of the 10 highly polluted cities in the world according to the Skymet report. It includes Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. According to WHO, 12% of world smokers are from India. In India the prevalence of the disease has increased by 29.2% between 1990 and 2016 according to the International Journal of Pulmonary and Respiratory Sciences. The highest incidence of the disease in the country is in the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. What is COPD? COPD is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. It causes severe breathlessness and predisposes to exacerbations. GoI to expand WHO’s 3S programme in the country The Government of India will expand the 3S programme-Smart Safety Surveillance of WHO in the country. The expansion is being done to make sure the vaccines distributed under universal immunization programme are safe and also to optimize post-marketing surveillance of priority drugs. 3S Programme in India The programme was introduced by WHO (World Health Organization) in India considering limited safety data on vaccines in the country. Under 3S programme, India is currently evaluating rotavirus vaccines. The Government is also planning to collaborate the key stakeholders of the programme to ensure high levels of vigilance. The key stakeholders of 3S programme include Ministry of Health and Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). GoI will also expand the coverage of PCV (Pneumonal Conjugate Vaccine) to all states by 2022 under 3S programme. Significance According to ministry of Health and Family Welfare, often new medical products that enter Indian markets are with limited safety data from clinical trials. Also, they are pertinent to small controlled population and

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 47 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 therefore difficult to track. Hence, it becomesTarun Singh |essential [email protected] to | monitor post-marketing of immunization programmes. The PCV project was launched in India in 2017. Even after 2 years, the Health ministry has not yet launched an impact study about the programme. Such shortcomings are to be addressed under the new expansion programme. Also, it is essential to have impact evaluation of newly launched vaccines for further policy decisions. NITI Aayog’s concerns on Vehicle Scrappage Policy The Ministry of Road and Transport Highways recently released Draft Guidelines for Vehicle Scrapping Facility. The guidelines include land requirements, scrapping procedures, criteria for scrapping of vehicles. It applies to all automobile collection centers, vehicle owners, required audits and finances. The federal policy think tank on November 21, 2019, raised concerns on implementation of the vehicle scrappage policy. The Concerns The think tank’s major concern was over the life or age of vehicles that allows an owner to scrap them. The policy offers that the vehicle can be scrapped if its registration certificate has not been renewed in 15 years of time period. According to the think tank, this might fetch economic losses to the owners. The think tank also fears that India might face the same fate as that of the US after implementing Cash for Chunkers scheme. The scheme in the US provided financial incentives to the car owners who volunteered to scrap their vehicles. However, the US economy failed to stimulate even after spending 3 billion USD. Key Provisions of the policy The policy offers rebates on road tax for owners with certificate of scrapping. It intends to set up vehicle scrapping centers and also provides guidelines for the centers. The policy says that the vehicles can be scrapped if they are abandoned or impounded by enforcement agencies, if their registration certificates are not renewed for over 15 years, or if the vehicles are beyond repair and are damaged due to natural calamities. Significance The GoI launched the policy to boost the automobile sector that is facing deceleration in its growth rates lately. It believes that the policy will drive vehicle sales as it includes incentives. It also aims at protecting the environment by backing the dismantling and scrapping industries. World Children’s Day observed on November 20 The World Children’s Day also known as Universal Children’s Day is observed every year across the world on 20th November. The purpose of this day is to improve child welfare worldwide, promote and celebrate children’s rights and promote togetherness and awareness amongst all children. This day is promoted and coordinated by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) which works towards the improvement of children’s welfare. Background The World Children’s Day celebrate on 20 November every year was first established as Universal Children’s Day in 1954. Later it was officially adopted by United Nations General Assembly on 14 December 1954 by adopting resolution 836 (IX). This resolution had recommended all the countries to institute a Universal Children’s Day as a day of worldwide fraternity and understanding between children. Why November 20? It is an important date as it is the date in 1959 when UNGA adopted Declaration of Rights of the Child. It is also the date in 1989 when UNGA adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Since 1990, World Children’s Day also marks the anniversary of the date that UNGA adopted both the Declaration and the Convention on children’s rights.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 48 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Annual Report onTarun Road Singh | [email protected] |in India released On November 20, 2019, the Ministry of road transport and highways released a report on “Road Accidents in India, 2018”. According to the report, around 1,51,417 deaths occurred in India due to road accidents in 2018. It pointed out that road environment, human errors and vehicle conditions were the major reasons for road accidents. Highlights of the report The reports said that the number of road accidents have increased by 2.4% as compared to 2017. Around 53 crashes and loss of 17 lives are occurring in India every hour. Around 48% of road crash deaths were of persons in the age group between 18 years and 35 years. 6.6% of persons who died in road accidents were minors. According to the report, Tamil Nadu topped the country in terms of number of road crashes. The report also said that many states failed to enact Motor Vehicles Amendment Act and also reduced the fines (Eg: Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand) Road Accident Deaths The road accident deaths due to use of mobile phones accounted to 2.4%, drunken driving accounted to 2.8%. The deaths that occurred due to driving on the wrong sides of the road accounted to 5.8% and over- speeding accident deaths accounted to 6.4%. Cabinet approves Recycling of Ships bill, 2019 The Union Cabinet on 20th November, 2019 approved the proposal for enactment of Recycling of Ships bill, 2019. It also nodded to the Hong Kong International Convention for safe and environment sound recycling of ships. Background India is one of the leaders of ship recycling industry with a share of 30% of the market. According to UNCTAD’s report on “Review of Maritime Transport, 2018”, in 2017 alone India has demolished 6323 tonnes of known ship scrapping all over the world. Though the industry is labor intensive, it is susceptible to concerns on environmental safety. Salient Features The bill is being enacted by GoI in order to regulate the recycling of ships. This is done by setting international standards and laying down statutory mechanisms to enforce such standards. The bill also accedes to the Hong Kong International Convention for safe and environment sound recycling of ships, 2009. The convention aims to ensure that the ships after reaching the end of their operational lives do not pose any threats to human and environment. It was organized by the IMO (International Maritime Organization) in Hong Kong. The regulation includes facts that ships sent for scrapping may contain environmentally hazardous substances like hydrocarbons, asbestos, ozone depleting substances and others. It addresses the concerns around such factors. Benefits The bill restricts and prohibits the use of hazardous materials from the ships brought for recycling. For new ships, such restrictions are already in place. However, this is not applied to war ships and non-commercial ships. Under the bill, the ship recycling facilities need to get authorized. Cabinet approves Patent Prosecution Highway programme Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the proposal for adoption of Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) programme. It will be adopted by Indian Patent Office (IPO) under Controller General of Patents, Designs & Trade Marks, India (CGPDTM), Union Ministry of Commerce and Industries with patent offices of various other interest countries or regions.

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

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 51 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 the challenges faced by various stakeholders.Tarun Singh |It [email protected] seeks to |build a platform for bringing together all stakeholders in the automotive industry to understand global advancements in technologies. Participation: More than 2,500 participants and over 250 exhibitors from 14 countries apart form India are expected to take part in the summit. About International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), Manesar It is division of NATRIP Implementation Society (NATIS) under the Department of Heavy Industries, Government of India. It was established in 2006 at Manesar, Haryana. Mandate: (i) Provide leading world class services for testing, validation, design and homologation of all categories of vehicles (ii) To assist the automotive industry in adopting cutting edge technologies in vehicle evaluation and component development. (ii) To support automotive industries for ISO/IEC 17025:2005 implementation and NABL accreditation of their laboratories. Prithvi-2 missile successfully test fired India successfully test-fired two rounds of its indigenously developed nuclear-capable Prithvi-II missile at night as part of a user trial by Indian Army. These test were conducted from a mobile launcher from Launch Complex-3 of Chandipur Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Balasore district of Odisha. These were second night trials of Prithvi-II missile. About Prithvi-2 missile It is surface-to-surface tactical missile with a strike range of 350 km. It is India’s first missile indigenously developed by DRDO under prestigious Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP). It is capable of carrying 500 to 1,000 kg of warheads, both conventional as well as nuclear. The state-of-the-art missile is powered by liquid propulsion twin engines. It uses an advanced inertial guidance system with maneuvering orbit to hit its target. It was inducted into armour of the defence forces in 2003. Previous Night Trials: The first night testfire of Prithvi-2 was conducted successfully from the ITR on February 21, 2018. President’s Colour awarded to Indian Naval Academy President Ram Nath Kovind and Supreme Commander of Indian Armed Forces, awarded President’s Colour to Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala at Kochi, Kerala. The President’s Colour is the highest honour bestowed upon a military unit. It was awarded to INA in recognition of the yeoman service rendered by the institution in training and shaping Indian Naval officers over the last 50 years at three different locations – Goa, Kochi and Ezhimala. To commemorate this occasion, a special postal cover was also released by the President. Important Facts Indian Navy was the first of the three armed forces (others being Army and Air Force) to be awarded the President’s Colour on 27 May 1951 by then President of India Dr. Rajendra Prasad. Besides INA, Southern Naval Command, Eastern Naval Command, Western Naval Command, Western & Eastern Fleet as well as Submarine Arm are others units of Indian Navy to be awarded similarly. About Indian Naval Academy It was first established at a temporary location at Kochi, Kerala in 1969. With the increase in strength of the trainees, it was relocated to INS Mandovi at Goa in 1986. Later INA found its permanent home at Ezhimala, Kerala and was inaugurated on 8 January 2009. Over a period of 10 years, INA, Ezhimala has commissioned 5930 officers into Indian Navy and Coast Guard including 531 women officers. It has present strength of 963 trainees including 44 women trainees and 26 trainees from friendly foreign countries.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 52 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Cabinet approves establishmentTarun Singh of | [email protected] Institute | of Sowa Rigpa at Leh The Union Cabinet has approved establishment of National Institute for Sowa-Rigpa (NISR) in Leh, Union Territory of Ladakh. It will be an autonomous National Institute under Union Ministry of AYUSH. It is mandated to undertake interdisciplinary education and research programmes in Sowa-Rigpa system of traditional medicine in collaboration with premier national and international Institutes and facilitate integration of different systems of medicine. About National Institute of Sowa-Rigpa (NISR) It will be apex Institute for Sowa-Rigpa in the country. It is aimed at bringing a valid and useful synergy between traditional wisdom of Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine and modern science, tools and technology. Functions: It will help to promote interdisciplinary research & education of Sowa-Rigpa. It will facilitate quality education, quality control & standardization, scientific validation and safety evaluation of Sowa- Rigpa products, standardized Sowa-Rigpa based tertiary health delivery. It will identify best Sowa-Rigpa treatment ithin the framework of its traditional principle and possible co-relation with bio-molecular western medicine in providing health care facilities to the general public. Benefits: It will provide an impetus for the revival of Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine in the Indian Sub- continent. It will also provide multitude opportunities to students of Sowa-Rigpa from India and also from other countries. It will establish synergy among existing Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, Leh, Union Territory of Ladakh and Sowa Rigpa Institutions – Central University of Tibetan Studies at Sarnath, Varanasi (UP) – which are under the administrative control of Union Ministry of Culture. About Sowa-Rigpa It commonly known as Tibetan system of medicine. It is also dubbed as Science of healing. It is one of the oldest, Living and well documented medical tradition of the world. It has been originated from Tibet and popularly practice in India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Mongolia and Russia. In India, this system of traditional medicine is widely practice in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Darjeeling (West Bengal), Dharamsala, Lahaul and Spiti (Himachal Pradesh) and Ladakh (UT). Yuthog Yonten Gonpo is believed to be the father of Sowa Rigpa. He had composed rGyud-bZhi (four tantra) the fundamental text book of this medicine. rGyud-bZhi is based on indigenous medicine of Tibet enriched with Ayurveda, Chinese and Greek Medicine. November 22, 2019 DRDO offers free access to its 450 patents The Defense Research and Defense Organization has allowed free access to its 450 patents. The organization intends to provide a boost to domestic industries, especially startups and the strategic sector that has a network of 50 national laboratories that are involved in research and development Highlights The DRDO operating under the Ministry of Defence will offer complete access to its patents without charging royalty fees or licensing fees. It includes all the technologies related to life sciences, missiles, naval systems, electronics and communications, combat engineering, aeronautics. Following DRDO, other R&D bodies like CSIR (Council of Scientific Industrial Research), ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research), NRDC (National Research and Development Corporation) and ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) will also portfolio their patents. However, they would charge licensing fees and royalty. DRDO Industry Synergy Summit As a part of the new ToT policy of zero loyalty, a one-day DRDO-Industry Synergy Summit is to be scheduled. The summit will discuss the required policy frameworks to be created to increase the success rates of its implementation. Also, discussions on high technology collaborations and defence

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 53 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 manufacturing will be held. Tarun Singh | [email protected] | Significance The step is a great welcome to startups, industries and entrepreneurs. Also, this is the second time DRDO is offering such free access to its patents. Initially it happened for the first time in 2000 when Dr APJ Abdul Kalam was the principal scientific advisor. However, the access was restricted to CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) members alone. The move will also support Make in India, Transfer of Technology policy and Domestic Production Policy that boosts domestic industries. Also, it will help India achieve the defense production target of Rs 90,000 crore set for the year 2019-20. NIA hosts the first counter terrorism exercise for Quad Countries The National Investigation Agency will host the first “Counter Terrorism Exercise” between November 21, 2019 and November 22, 2019. The CT-TTX, Counter Terrorism Table Top Exercise will exercise the Quad countries namely India, Japan, US and Australia. Highlights The exercise will validate and assess the counter terrorism mechanisms and will provide opportunities to explore areas of enhanced cooperation and will also share their best practices against emerging terrorism threats. It will also enhance the cooperation between the countries in terms of counter terrorism. Quad Countries The dialogue between the four countries was initiated in 2007 by the Japanese President Shinzo Abe. The first ministerial level negotiations of the grouping were held in September 2019, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meeting. The aim of the grouping is to share commitment towards countering terrorism, disaster relief, humanitarian assistance, maritime cooperation and cyber security The Quad Dialogue was revived in 2017 with tensions increased in South China Sea. The countries formed new territorial ambitions especially focusing on China’s increasing influence in the South China sea and in the Indian Ocean. Significance The Grouping is one of the best avenues for interaction between India, Japan, Australia and US in terms of maritime security and domain awareness. It is the best platform for the countries to share notes and collaborate on projects on mutual interest. Cabinet approves Industrial Relations Code, 2019 On November 21, 2019, the Union Cabinet approved the introduction of Industrial Relations Code, 2019. This is the third code under labor reforms. Under the new code, forty-four laws are to be amalgamated into four codes. The four codes include wage rates, social security, industrial relations and industrial security and labor welfare. Features of the code The code intends to simplify and rationalize the Trade Union Act, 1926, Industrial Disputes Act, 1947, Industrial Employment Act, 1946. The code also features to set up a two-member tribunal to fasten the disposal of cases. The code allows the companies to hire fixed-term contract workers. It defines fixed-term employment as a worker who can be hired for a duration of 3 months or 6 months or a year based on the season and orders. Significance With the amalgamation of the laws, the process of registration and filing of returns will get streamlined. The process will help in improving ease of business and hence employments will increase. With the amalgamation of labor laws, the GoI intends to bring maximum governance with minimum laws.

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The Economic Survey, 2018 highlighted that Tarunthe Singh labor | [email protected] reforms in | Rajasthan increased growth rates of firms. The change was highly evident in firms that were employing more than 100 workers. Assam Government to launch Arundhati Swarna Yojana Assam Government has announced to launch ‘Arundhati Swarna Yojana’ on 1 January 2020. Under this scheme, state government will give each beneficiary bride fixed amount to buy 10 grams (one tola) of gold during her marriage if the marriage is registered. The scheme will cost around Rs 800 crore annually on the state government exchequer. About Arundhati Swarna Yojana Objective: It is aimed to strengthen women empowerment and reduce child marriage. Features: Under this scheme, State government will not give the gold directly to beneficiary bride but will provide Rs. 30,000 to purchase 10 gms of gold. To avail this benefit, the eligible bride and bridegroom must apply for the scheme before the date of their wedding. Eligibility Criteria of the scheme: (i) The annual income of the bride’s family must be less than Rs. 5 lakh. (ii) Minimum age should be 18 years and 21 years for the bride and bridegroom respectively. (iii) Bride should have minimum education of 10th standard. However, this requirement of minimum educational qualification criteria is not required for tribes and workers of tea gardens. (iv) Family has to register their marriage under the Special Marriage (Assam) Rules, 1954. Microsoft launches K-12 Education Transformation Framework Software giant Microsoft has launched its “K-12 Education Transformation Framework” to facilitate comprehensive digital transformation of schools in India. So far, this framework model has been adopted by education leaders in more than 50 countries to help plan their learning strategies. About K-12 Education Transformation Framework Objective: It is aimed at providing education leadership, government decision makers, teachers and most importantly learners, tools to achieve ambitious change many schools seek and to thoughtfully integrate technology in powerful and productive ways. Four Pillars: It comprises four pillars — leadership and policy, modern teaching and learning, intelligent environments and technology blueprint. Features: It provides holistic framework to facilitate a comprehensive digital transformation of schools. It is a flexible platform based on latest research and input from hundreds of academics, experts, and policymakers. To help school principals initiate their journey of digital transformation, this framework programme offer them series of workshops based on each of the four pillars. Lieutenant Shivangi: 1st woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval operations Lieutenant Shivangi become first woman pilot of Indian Navy will join Naval operations. She will join after naval operations on completion of operational training at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi, Kerala on December 2, 2019 two days ahead of Navy Day (observed on December 4). With this, she will graduate to become the first female Pilot of Indian Navy. On completion of training, she will get authorization to fly dornier aircrafts. Prior to this, Aviation branch of Indian Navy had women officers only operating as air traffic control (ATC) officers and as observers in the aircraft who are responsible for communication and weapons. About Lieutenant Shivangi She hails from Muzzafarpur, Bihar. She had completed her schooling from DAV Public school, Muzzafarpur. She was inducted into Indian Navy as Short Service Commission (SSC-Pilot) as part of 27 NOC course in Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala. She was formally commissioned by Vice Admiral AK Chawla in June 2019. Avian Botulism-Reason behind birds’ death in Sambhar Lake The Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) on November 21, 2019, confirmed that a neuro muscular

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 55 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 illness called Avian Botulism is the reasonTarun for Singh mass | [email protected] mortality | of migratory birds in Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan. The doctors say that the birds were suffering from Avian Botulism that was caused due to a toxin produced by bacterial strain. On November 12, 2019, thousands of migratory birds died in Sambhar lake that sent shock waves throughout the country. Key Findings The IVRI confirmed that the mass death was caused by the bacteria Clostriduim botulinum. The bacteria affected the nervous system of the birds that led to flaccid paralysis in their wings and legs. Over 18,000 carcasses were removed from the lake. The samples had varied stages of maggots by which scientists confirm that the mortality has occurred over a period of time. Clostridium botulinum According to WHO, Clostridium botulinum is the bacteria that produces dangerous toxins when the oxygen conditions are low. They lead to muscular paralysis blocking nerve functions. The bacteria cause 4 types of botulism namely infant botulism, wound botulism, foodborne botulism and inhalation botulism. Homemade, fermented and preserved foods are common sources of foodborne botulism. The bacteria are common in improperly processed foods. They are heat-resistant and germinate and grow in the absence of oxygen and excrete toxins. WHO on Botulism The World Health Organization supports and strengthens national and international surveillance on the local outbreak of the disease through the program INFOSAN. INFOSAM is International Network of Food Safety Authorities. The organization links the food safety authorities at national level with FAO and WHO. It includes actions against the spread of botulism as well. Government to launch first fixed income ETF of bluechip PSUs Union Government will launch India’s first fixed income Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) comprising debt securities of large central public sector enterprises (PSUs) by mid-December 2019. It will comprise only AAA-rated papers of the PSU companies. It is expected to have a size of Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore. It is expected to improve liquidity in corporate bond market, smoothen borrowing plans of the participating state-owned companies and enhance investor base. About India’s 1st fixed income ETF The proposed debt ETF will be first large fund in India that will provide retail investors convenience to invest in fixed income product comprising a basket of securities, without need to study individual bond issues. It may be comprising of corporate debt securities in the form of bonds, debentures, credit-linked note, promissory notes as underlying instruments. Large PSUs are expected to participate in the maiden debt ETF. Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) has appointed Edelweiss Asset Management as the asset manager for this proposed debt ETF. The tax treatment of this debt ETF will be same as that of debt mutual funds. Benefits of this debt ETF: It will provide safe investment option, alongside high liquidity. It will also help in deepening the corporate bond market and will allow PSUs to borrow from the market. As these ETF units will be listed on exchanges, it will provide new options to investors to own securities of government-owned PSUs along with facility of overnight liquidity. Moreover, it will provide investors higher yield than on fixed deposits. Compared with bank fixed deposits that generate a post-tax return of around 5.5%, this debt ETF can provide return of over 7% for the investors. Background In the 2018-19 Union Budget, Union Government had announced that DIPAM is planning to come out with

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 56 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 debt ETF, which will help PSUs better plan theirTarun Singh borrowing | [email protected] needs | and capital expenditure. At present there are number of gold and equity ETFs in markets, but there are no debt ETFs, barring two government securities-based ETF that have not generated much investor interest. In 2018-19, Union Government had launched Bharat-22 ETF and CPSE ETF comprising stake sale in a basket of 22 and 11 government companies, respectively. These were used by government to divest its equity in state-owned companies. It had helped government to raise Rs 10,000 crore through CPSE-ETF and another Rs 4,368 crore through Bharat-22 ETF. CIC Annual Report tabled in Lok Sabha The Central Information Commission tabled its annual report for the year 2018-19 in Lok Sabha on 20th November, 2019. The same report was also tabled in Rajya Sabha on 21st November, 2019. Highlights of the report The report said that in the year 2018-19, around 13.70 lakh applications were received by the Central Public Authorities of the commission. It says that the numbers are 11% more than the previous year 2017-18. Out of applications received, only 4.7% were processed by the commission. This has come down from 5.13% as compared to the previous year 2017-18. The highest number of applications were rejected by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It has rejected 26.5%. It was followed by the Ministry of Home Affairs that rejected 16.41%. In the period 2018-19, the CIC disposed around 17,188 second appeals and complaint cases. Central Information Commission The commission was set up under Right to Information Act in 2005. There are 10 Information Commissioners and one Chief Information Commissioner. The commissioners are appointed by the President of India. The President appoints the commissioners based on the recommendation of a committee. The committee consists of Prime Minister, the opposition leader and a cabinet minister nominated by the prime minister. US approves sale of 13 MK45 Naval gun worth $1 billion to India United States of America (USA) has approved Foreign Military Sale to India of 13 MK45 5 inch/62 caliber (MOD 4) Naval guns and related equipment for an estimated cost of $1.0210 billion. The principal contractor in this India-US defence deal will be BAE Systems Land and Armaments, Minneapolis, Minnesota with gun manufacturing in Louisville, Kentucky. Significance of sale to India MK-45 Gun System will provide India Navy lethal capability to conduct anti-surface warfare and anti-air defence missions. It will also enhance its interoperability with US and its other allied forces. It will be used by India as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen its homeland defense. This proposed sale will support US’s foreign policy and national security by improving the security of strategic regional partner. Moreover, this proposed sale and support will also not alter the basic military balance in the region. Background The sale of these naval guns was approved based on India’s request to buy 13 such guns along with 3,500 D349 Projectile, 5″/54 MK 92 MOD 1 Ammunition including other ammunition, spare parts, personnel training and equipment training, publications and technical data etc. With this, India has become one of handful few countries that US decided to sell its latest version (Mod 4) of its naval guns. The other countries to which US has sold MOD 4 naval guns so far are Australia, South Korea and Japan. It also has given one to Thailand. India for Humanity-Jaipur Foot event organised at US Capitol building India for Humanity-Jaipur Foot event was recently organised at United States Capitol building to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. It was jointly by Indian Embassy and Jaipur

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Foot USA. Tarun Singh | [email protected] | About India for Humanity initiative It was launched by Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in October 2018 to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and honour of his service to humanity. Under it, artificial limb fitment camps are held across different countries identified through missions with financial support of Central government (MEA). Objective: To provide physical, socio-economic rehabilitation of differently-abled around world by helping them regain their mobility and dignity to become self-respecting and productive members of society. It is based Father of Nation-Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of compassion, caring and service to humanity. Implementation: For this initiative, MEA has collaborated with renowned charitable organisation Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS), the parent body of Jaipur Foot. So far, BMVSS has conducted 78 camps in 33 countries under this programme, with the sanctions of the Government of India, fitting total of 5152 limbs in these camps. About Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) It is non-profit organization founded by Devendra Raj Mehta in 1975. It famously known by its trademark limb ‘Jaipur Foot’. It is world’s largest non-profit organization for handicapped in terms of fitment of artificial limb, calipers etc and providing ambulatory aids like wheel chairs, and other aids and appliances totally free of cost without any geographical, gender or community bias. It has served more than 1.8 million amputees in India and other parts of the world. November 23, 2019 Indian Railways: North East State capitals linking, Act East policy and Electrification Government of India has planned to link the capitals of North Eastern States with rail connectivity. This plan, however, does not include Sikkim. The capitals of Assam, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh are already connected through Broad Gauge rail network. Along with this several other initiatives are being upgraded by the Indian Railways Action Plan to Electrifying Broad Gauges The Ministry of Railways has created a new action plan to electrify 37,237 km of broad-gauge routes. This is 57.91% of total railway network in India. The commissioning of the rail lines has been completed and the works are to begin shortly. The details were given by Minister of Railways in his written reply to Lok Sabha. The Government of India has set target of 100% electrification of the railways in 10 years. It was announced in August 2019. Act East Policy and Railways To boost trade and investment with South East Asia through North Eastern region, India has taken up railway projects with Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Nepal. Currently, there are two rail connectivity projects connecting Indian cities Jogbani and Jayanagar with Nepal cities Biratnagar and Bardibas respectively. In Bangladesh there are two ongoing projects that connects Agartala with Akhuara and Hadibari with Chilhati. There are no ongoing railway projects with Myanmar and Bhutan. Adarsh Railway Station The Adarsh Railway Station scheme was started in 2009-10 to modernize railway stations. So far, 1253 stations have been developed under the scheme. The scheme intends to provide developmental activities that include retiring room, station building, waiting room for ladies, toilets, parking areas, foot over bridges, etc. There are no separate funds allocated to the scheme. The works are carried out under Passenger Amenities plans.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 58 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 National PolicyTarun to Singh speed | [email protected] up Gas | Infrastructure A “high-level committee” has been set up by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory board (PNGRB) to frame national policy on city gas distribution. The intention of the policy is to speed up development of infrastructure of piped natural gas. Highlights The committee formed will perform a detailed review of the issues in the development of piped gas network. The policy will also address issues like delay in getting approvals at state level. It will also identify Geographical Areas that are facing difficulties in witnessing significant progress as compared to the other regions. The policy will include appointment of a nodal officer by the state governments to grant clearances that includes land, environment, transport, etc in a time-bound manner. It will also include procedure for timely allocation of government at concessional rates for creating City Gas Distribution infrastructure. Progress so far The number of Geographical Areas with good City Gas Distribution has increased from 78 in the end of 2017 to 229 in 2019 according to the Ministry of Petroleum. Tourism Ministry organising 8th International Tourism Mart 2019 The 8th edition of ‘International Tourism Mart’ is being organized at Imphal, the capital city of Manipur from 23 to 25 November 2019. This annual event is organised in North Eastern region by Union Ministry of Tourism in association with North Eastern States. The theme for 8th International Tourism Mart is: ‘Sustainable Tourism an engine for Economic Growth and Employment’. Manipur is hosting this mart for the second time. Earlier editions of this mart were held in Guwahati, Tawang, Shillong, Gangtok, Agartala. Key Highlights The event will bring together the tourism business fraternity and entrepreneurs from the eight North Eastern States. It will also facilitate interaction between buyers, sellers, media, Government agencies and other stakeholders. Besides deliberations on promotion of tourism in North East Region in general, the Mart will also give a platform for promoting cultural ties, providing enhanced connectivity to States of North Eastern Region with other countries in neighbourhood. Participants: A total of 36 foreign buyer delegates from more than 19 countries namely- USA, Dubai, Oman, Australia, Canada, Cambodia, Czech, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Myanmar, Spain, Thailand, UK, Vietnam, Singapore are participating in the Mart. Other participants besides foreign delegates include 49 domestic stakeholders in tourism sector from other parts of the country and 109 sellers from North Eastern States. The State Government of Madhya Pradesh has also been invited to participate and give a presentation as it is paired State with Manipur under the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative. About International Tourism Mart It is annual event organized in north-eastern region of India with the objective of highlighting tourism potential of region in domestic as well as international markets. It is organized annually in North Eastern States on rotation basis, thus providing platform to tourism business fraternity and entrepreneurs from 8 North Eastern States. North East Region of India: It comprises of the States of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. These are endowed with diverse tourist attractions and products. The varied topography of region, its flora and fauna as well as the ethnic communities along with their rich heritage of ancient traditions and lifestyles, festivals, arts and crafts thus makes it a holiday destination

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 59 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 waiting to be explored. Tarun Singh | [email protected] | WHO study on physical activity-India ranks 8th The World Health Organization on November 22, 2019 published its study about physical activity of adolescents aged between 11 and 17 years. The study was conducted across 146 countries with the help of data from 298 school-based surveys. The assessment included physical education, active play, recreation and sports, walking, planned exercises and cycling. Highlights: India India was ranked eighth reporting lowest level of physical activity. Though, India was one of the top performers around 74% of adolescents showed insufficient physical activity. In India the overall insufficient physical activity in 2001 was 76.6% and has now decreased to 73.9% in 2016. The lowest level of insufficient physical activity among girls was seen in India. It was potentially explained by the social factors like increased domestic chores. The improvements in India can very be linked with recent initiatives of the government towards physical health. It includes Fit India Movement, plogging, a separate ministry for Sports, adopting yoga, etc. Highlights: World Bangladesh topped the list and the United States was ranked fourth. The study found that more than 80% of school going adolescents did not meet WHO recommendation of at least one hour of physical activity per day. Philippines was the least performing among boys, with 93% of adolescents (boys) showed least interest towards physical activities. Among girls, South Korea was the least performer with 97% of them reporting physical inactivity. The study says that globally four out of five schools were insufficiently physically active. J&K achieves highest road length in country under PMGSY in 2019 During the current fiscal year so far, the Jammu and Kashmir has achieved the highest road length in country under Centre’s rural roads’ programme of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), a centrally- sponsored scheme under the Union Ministry of Rural Development. This significant accomplishment involves completion of around 11,400 kilometres of different road projects covering 1,838 habitations against the total sanctioned length of 19,700 kilometres against sanctioned 2,214 habitations. About Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) It is Centre government’s mega flagship programme with the main objective of providing good all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural areas in the country. It is being implemented in J&K by Public Works (Roads and Buildings) Department of the Union Territory. Funds: Under the Central Road Fund, 88 schemes have been completed, including 22 bridges and 66 roads, with a target set for completion of 25 such schemes for the current fiscal year. Under NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) funding, a total of 518 works were approved out of which 147 have been completed while 34 works have been targeted for completion during current fiscal year. The central government has released funds under the Prime Minister’s Development Programme (PMDP) for vital health projects in UT. Supplementary Schemes: In 2018 the government also launched an ambitious scheme called ‘Languishing Programme’ to complete those projects that were stopped midway due to paucity of funds. The government thus arranged special funds for the completion of such projects. Besides this, a Special Bridge Programme funded under capital expenditure component of budget, a total number of 115 bridges have been taken up for execution and out of this, 59 bridges are being targeted for completion during the current year and as of now 46 bridges have been completed.

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NOTE: Jammu and Kashmir, along with Ladakh,Tarun Singh came | [email protected] into existence | as Union Territories on 31 October 2019 after the Centre revoked Article 370 and passed a bill bifurcating the erstwhile state into two separate UTs. GoI new scheme: Rs 400 crores for testing MSME Defense products The Government of India is planning to launch a new scheme to test defense products manufactured by MSMEs. In order to achieve this, the Ministry of Defence has allocated Rs 400 crores. Features of the scheme The test units that are to function under the scheme will be installed in north and south defence corridors. Under the scheme, 75% of the cost of equipment for the testing units will be provided by the Central Government. The first test facility is to be launched for drones. Significance Government is working to increase its defence exports. This is being done to achieve the set target of Rs 90,000 crore by the end of 2019-20 financial year. To achieve this, several initiatives are being launched. To mention some, recently DRDO offered free access to its 450 patents. The launch of new scheme will help in achieving the target. It will also aid the startups entering defence production. The announcement was made in the Quality Assurance-Industry Conclave that was held in Chennai on November 23, 2019. In the conclave, L&T was provided with the “Green Channel Status” under the Green Channel Policy. Green Channel Policy The policy was launched by the Ministry of Defence. The policy provides eligibility criteria for firms to obtain Green Channel Status. It also defines the constitution of green channel committee, defect investigation, submission of bank Guarantee, etc. The nodal agency implementing the policy is Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (DGS&D) Under the policy, when a firm gains the “Green Channel status” it can self-certify its products for their quality. 50th Governors Conference inaugurated in Rashtrapathi Bhavan A two-day conference of governors is being held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. It was attended by President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Narendra Modi and other ministers. The conference is being held between 23 November, 2019 and 24 November, 2019. Highlights The conference started with the inaugural address of President Ram Nath Kovind, followed by the address of PM Modi. Around 17 first time governors and Lt. Governors are participating in the event. It includes the governors of newly formed Ladakh and Kashmir regions as well. Prime Minister Modi insisted the Governors to work in health, education and tourism sector. President laid the importance of the roles of governors in empowerment of tribals. With their constitutional powers, they can help improve their lives in terms of education, health, financial inclusion, etc. Article 342 According to the article, the President after consulting the Governor, may specify the tribal communities or groups to be scheduled in relation to that state or union territory. Such orders can be modified only by act of Parliament. Hence, governors play significant role in lives of tribes. Internet Connections to 2 lakh Gram Panchayat by 2020 Government of India has set a target of providing broad band connectivity to two lakh Gram Panchayats by March 2020. So far (till 7th November, 2019) over 1,28,000 Gram Panchayats have already been connected. The project is being implemented under the BharatNet Project.

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Highlights Tarun Singh | [email protected] | According to the Ministry of Electronic and Information Technology, Wi-Fi hotspots have been installed in 45,000 Gram Panchayats. Service is being provided to 16,000 Panchayats. The updates were presented by the Electronics and Information Minister Shri Ravi Shankar in the Lok Sabha. Bharat Net Project The Bharat Net Project was launched in 2017. The main aim of the project is to provide affordable broadband connectivity at a speed of 2 Mbps to 20 Mbps for all . The first phase of the project was completed in December 2017 that provided broad band connectivity to 1 lakh Gram Panchayats. In its second phase the project intended to connect the remaining 2,50,000 Gram Panchayats by March 2019. OFC in the Project The project uses underground Optic Fibre Cables (OFC) lines. It is a new element in the history of connectivity of India. OFC has several advantages like low cost, easy maintenance, speed implementation, etc. November 24, 2019 Mine Counter Measure Exercise-first time between India and Japan The Indian Naval Forces and the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) was held on November 23, 2019. This is the firs time an explosive ordance disposal and mine counter measure was held by Indian and Japanese forces. Mine Counter measure Vessels The naval ships that are designed to locate and destruct the naval mines are called MCMVs. They play the combined role of mine sweeper and mine hunter. A Naval Mine is an explosive device that is placed under water to destroy submarines and surface ships. A minesweeper is a naval ship that is deployed in removing naval mines. They do not detect them. On the other hand, a minehunter seeks, detects and destroys naval mines Naval Mines and Crimean War The naval mines and naval mine sweeping was first practiced in the Crimean war. The Crimean war was fought between October 1853 and February 1856 where the Russian Empire lost to an alliance of Ottoman Empire, Britain, France and Sardina. The war was fought in the Crimean Peninsula, Blach sea, Balitc sea and White sea. Indian Minesweepers There are three categories of minesweepers in Indian Navy. It includes Ham-class minesweepers of Indian Navy, Pondicherry-class minesweepers, mahe-class minesweepers. Destination North East Festival held in Varanasi The Ministry of Development of North East Region conducted a four day long North East festival in Varanasi. The festival is to be conducted between November 23, 2019 and November 26, 2019. It aims to fuse the cultures of Ganga and Brahmaputra. Highlights A theme song of the festival was launched earlier. The previous editions of the event were held in Chandigarh and Delhi. All the eight states are participating in the event with their exhibitions of handloom, handicrafts, cultural troupes and organic products. A business-to-business session is also planned under the event. This will act as a platform for the young entrepreneurs looking for startup opportunities in the states. Central Government Agencies like North East Regional Agricultural Marketing Cooperation Limited (NERAMAC), North Eastern Region Community Resource Management Project (NERCORMP), International Centre for Cultural Relations are participating in the event.

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Significance Tarun Singh | [email protected] | The event is being organized for three years now (2019). It helps to familiarize people of other parts of the country with the rich unexplored potential of the North East. The event will also promote the tourism potential of the North East region. With Ganga and Brahmaputra basins offering similarities in terms of silk products, diverse handlooms and ancient culture, Varanasi is a natural choice for the event. RBI enhances scope of Special Non-Resident Rupee accounts The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has enhanced scope of ‘Special Non-resident Rupee’ (SNRR) by allowing persons residing outside India to open such accounts for purposes such as- (a) external commercial borrowing (ECB), (b) trade credit and and (c) Trade (Export/ Import) Invoicing, in domestic currency. The step is taken to popularise cross-border transactions in Indian rupee (INR). Key Highlights Objective: The step is taken with a view to promote usage of INR products by persons’ resident outside India. Other reasons for allowing such move includes export/ import invoicing and business related transactions outside International Financial Service Centre, all in domestic currency of INR. The apex bank, RBI in consultation with Government of India has been decided to expand the scope of SNRR Account by permitting non-residents to open such accounts for rupee denominated overseas borrowings and trade credit/ invoicing for popularising cross-border transactions in domestic currency. Any person resident outside India, having a business interest in India, can open a non-interest bearing SNRR account with a bank for bona fide transactions in INR. In addition to this, the RBI, in consultation with government has decided to rationalise certain other provisions for SNRR Account such as removing the restriction on tenure of SNRR account (which is currently 7 years) has for purposes given above. November 23: Poonch Link up Day celebrated by Indian Army Indian Army on November 23, 2019 commemorated the Poonch Link-up Day. The even was organized to pay tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lived defending Poonch during the conflict in 1948 Highlights The army laid its wreath at the War Memorial in the Poonch District. The event was conducted to mark Operation Easy that was aimed to defend the Poonch district from the invading Pakistan. On the sidelines of the commemoration, several welfare events were organized. The physically challenged people in the local were provided with two wheelers and wheel chairs. As a part of the event, Volleyball championship and hockey tournaments were also held. Poonch District The Poonch district is bounded by Line of Control on all three sides. In 1947-48 war, the district was divided between India and Pakistan. A part of the district went to Pakistan and the other part became a part of the then Indian state Jammu and Kashmir. 1947 war The 1947 war also called the First Kashmir War was the first of the four wars fought between India and Pakistan. Pakistan after a few weeks of its independence launched the Lashkar tribals with the intention of capturing Kashmir. The then ruler of Kashmir, Maharaja Hari Singh requested India to help him. India retaliated and won the war. AIIA signs MoU with Western Sydney University to promote Ayurveda The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Australia’s Western Sydney University with aim to promote collaboration in research and developing guidelines for integrating Ayurveda principles with modern medicine. The MoU was agreed and exchanged on the occasion of event ‘India Australia International Education and Research Workshop’ at Ambedkar

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International Center in New Delhi. Tarun Singh | [email protected] | Key Highlights of MoU Both Institutions AIIIA and Western Sydney University are committed to take collaboration to the next Higher Level by identifying specific areas for collaboration in education, research as well as practices of traditional medicine while ensuring quality standards and also by encouraging investment in traditional medicine related infrastructure. Since India is a priority country among Australia’s international partnerships, thus signing of MoU is another milestone in the history of health care industry. Combining data-driven precision based technologies and Ayurvedic medicine will be a valuable contribution to current goals for providing a better and safe health care system to Universe, specifically towards developing a safe and effective integration of traditional and complementary medicine. Significance: Complementing the Traditional Ayurveda Medicine along with conventional concepts of Modern Medicine is expected in generating scientific evidences that could further help in contributing to global healthcare. ETVAX: Potential Diarrhea vaccine developed in Sweden The researchers of University of Gothenburg in Sweden have developed a potential Diarrhea vaccine candidate, named as ‘ETVAX’. This vaccine has been proved safe and effective in an early-stage clinical trial in Bangladesh. The findings were published in Science journal, The Lancet. Key Findings Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) bacteria are primary cause of diarrhea. At present there is no ETEC vaccine available on the market for use in children in the ETEC high-risk areas. But now, an oral ETEC vaccine candidate, named ‘ETVAX’, was developed at University of Gothenburg in collaboration with Scandinavian Biopharma, Stockholm. ETVAX consists of inactivated E. coli bacteria expressing high levels of protective antigens as well as ETEC-based B subunit protein LCTBA. The report stated that 80% to 100% of children aged 2 to 5 years and 50% to 80% of infants aged 6 to 11 months, selected for the study responded to all key immunity generating components of vaccine. The vaccine has been proved safe and effective in an early-stage clinical trial in Bangladesh against enterotoxigenic E. coli diarrhea in children from half year (6 months) to 5 years of age. Diarrhea leads to substantial illness and death in children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). As per the researchers, there is no vaccine yet for use for children and vaccine development for Diarrhea is a World Health Organization (WHO) priority. Global Bio-India Summit: India’s first largest biotechnology conference India’s largest biotechnology conglomerate was held in New Delhi between 21 November, 2019 and 23 November, 2019. The event was organized by the Department of Bio Technology under Ministry of Science and Technology along with BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) and CII. Highlights The summit provided opportunity to exhibit the bio technological advances in the country to the international forum. The Minister of S&T, Earth Sciences and Health and Family Welfare released a report on “Private Investment in Biotechnology” at the summit Highlights of the Report The report highlighted the need for the government to find why there is inadequate private investment in the biotech research. It suggested the setting up of a single window system for approvals in the field of biotechnology. The GoI has set a target to make the biotechnology sector as a 100 billion USD industry. The report wanted the government to encourage industry-academia linkages in order to achieve the target set

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 65 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 marker, and one should check its potential inTarun diabetes Singh | [email protected] management. | Function: As per CCMB the findings have established SCGN as a functional insulin-binding protein with therapeutic potential against diabetes. They show that SCGN binds to insulin and protects it from various stresses, increases its stability as well as adds to its action. Experiment: The scientists have also shown that injection of SCGN (found at lower levels in diabetic patients) in obese diabetic mice clears excess insulin from circulation and reduces fat mass. CCMB release also said that SCGN treated animals also had lower levels of harmful LDL-cholesterol and lower lipid accumulation in liver cells. Significance: The findings are significant as various kinds of cellular stresses can result in loss of structure and function of insulin, ultimately leading to diabetes. Diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are often linked with each other. SCGN is found in lower quantities in brains of Alzheimer’s patients. China warns cattle imports as India notifies OIE about cattle disease in Odisha The Chinese Government has issued warnings against import of cattle and related products from India. The warning comes after India submitted its notification about “lumpy skin disease” virus in cattle to the World Organization of Animal Health (OIE). China does not officially import buffalo meat from India. However, a large quantity of beef gets smuggled into China through roads and ports. Notification India notified to OIE that the outbreak of disease was in August. Also, there were three cases and all three were from the state of Odisha. The main purpose of the organization is to control epizootic diseases. Epizootic is a disease that is prevalent in nonhuman animal population that is analogous to epidemic in humans. World Organization of Animal Health OIE is an intergovernmental organization that supports, coordinates and promotes animal disease control. The organization was formed in 1924 as Office International des Epizooties and hence the name OIE. However, in 2003, it became the World Organization for Animal Health retaining its historical name. Lumpy skin disease It is an infectious disease in cattle that reduces milk production, causes infertility, poor growth and chronic debility. The disease is caused by the virus Poxviridae. The virus is also called the Neethling virus. The disease causes permanent damage to the skin of the animals and hence has great economic implications. Madhya Pradesh: Sportspersons will get 5% reservation in government jobs The state government of Madhya Pradesh has announced 5% reservation to national and international medallists sportspersons in state government jobs. The announcement in this regard was made by Madhya Pradesh Minister of Sports and Youth Welfare Jitu Patwari while inaugurating the Regional Olympic Games at Kampoo sports complex in Gwalior. Key Highlights As per Chief Minister Kamal Nath’s recommendation, a draft of sports policy is being prepared by the state government to include the 5% reservation in government jobs to sportsperson. However, it is yet to be disclosed as what criteria will be considered to provide government jobs to players. The reservation is being given with keeping in mind that sportsperson have to remain without jobs even after winning medals at the national and international levels. The government will also promote public participation to ensure expansion of sports facilities and creating a better environment for the sports in state. Other Benefits to sportsperson: Every year, the Madhya Pradesh government provides government jobs to

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Vikram awardees. Vikram Award is the highestTarun sportsSingh | [email protected] awards for | players in state. Besides this national and international medallists have quota in state police department. Regional Olympic Games, Gwalior These games are being held in Gwalior for all children of all Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) affiliated schools along with government and private schools. The main objective of event is to identify talented players and provide them with better training as well as facilities in sports. These games will cover 10 sports including basketball, hockey, football, volleyball, kho-kho and kabaddi. The under-16 zonal Olympics will also be held in Madhya Pradesh to facilitate talented children as well as to encourage talents at the school level. CBDT inaugurates Web Portal for exchange of information on Income Tax Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has inaugurated the Web Portal for Exchange of Information on Income Tax which will consolidate all relevant Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) related information at one place. This portal will help in convenient access by public, financial institutions as well as departmental officers at large. Web Portal for Exchange of Information on Income Tax The Web Portal would be a repository of policy and technical circulars, guidance, notifications issued by the CBDT. It would provide links to relevant circulars, guidance issued by regulatory authorities in India and other international bodies. The portal would not only be useful for domestic financial institutions but will also help foreign financial institutions as well as tax authorities to get information about Indian laws, rules and procedures related to AEOI under Common Reporting Standard (CRS). Background To implement the AEOI standard, necessary domestic legal framework was put in place in 2015. Later, on August 2015 a comprehensive Guidance Note was released for providing guidance to financial institutions, sectoral regulators as well as Income Tax (IT) Department officers for ensuring compliance with reporting requirements under IT Act and Rules. Under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) on Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI), India is committed to exchange financial account information automatically from 2017. Also, financial institutions annually reports information which are then exchanged by India under the standard. Sectoral regulators have issued necessary notifications and circulars for compliance by financial institutions. To educate financial institutions about their reporting obligations, CBDT also carries out stakeholder consultations. Moreover, to reach out to financial institutions and account holders, CBDT has also created an Exchange of Information portal on Income-tax Department website for dissemination of information to all stakeholders. MoSPI: Unemployment rates fall in second quarter The National Statistics Office working under Ministry of Statistcs and Programme Implementation released its Quarterly Bulletin on November 23, 2019. The report presented the unemployment status, Labor Force Participation Rate, The urban unemployment rate fell to the lowest in the last 4 quarters. It was 9.3% between January and March, 2019 (2nd Quarter, Q2). In 2018, during the same quarter, the unemployment rate was 9.9%. The report was published by the Ministry of Statistics Highlights of the report (for Q2) According to the report the joblessness among the youth between 15 years and 29 years account to over a third of India’s population. The Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) among males is estimated to be 56.2% in urban area. It was 56% in April-June, 2018.

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The LFPR among the female population is 15%Tarun as Singh compared | [email protected] to 14.6%| during April-June, 2018. The Unemployment rate among males was 8.7% and among females were 11.6%. November 25, 2019 NSO report: Rural India yet to become Open Defecation Free The NSO under Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation conducted survey on drinking water, hygiene, sanitation and housing condition between the period July 2018 and December 2018. According to the survey one fourth of the households had no access to toilets. The main objective of this survey was to gather information about sanitation along with housing facilities available to the households and micro environment surrounding the houses. The survey is important as the GoI is currently working on a set target of Drinking Water for all by 2024. Highlights The survey says that around 42.9% of the households in rural areas and around 40.9% households in urban areas are still using hand pumps. About 80.7% in urban area and 58.2% in rural areas had drinking water facilities within the household premises. The survey reports that around 94.5% in rural and 97.4% in urban used improved water resources. Improved water resources include piped water, hand pump, tube well, protected spring, private tanker truck, rain water collection and bottled water. Open Defecation The Swacch Bharat Mission declared India open defecation free on October 2, 2019. However, according to the survey 71.3% in rural and 96.2% in urban had no access to toilets. Proper drainage system was found only in 61.1% of rural households and 92% of urban households. Micro Environment Around 48.3% of households in rural and 86.6% in urban used LPG as fuel. 48.1% of households in rural areas and 71.1% of urban households disposed household waste water without treatment to drainage system. Under Swachh Bharat Mission, door step collection of garbage and segregated collection of garbage is being implemented. However, the survey says that 70.3% of households urban and 72.4% of households in rural still disposed garbage in community dumping spots, open land, waste land, etc. NSS releases report on disability The National Statistical Office conducted survey of Persons with disabilities in the country between the period July 2018 and December 2018. The main objective of the survey is to estimate indicators of incidence and prevalence of disability, facilities available to persons with disability, age at onset of disability, arrangement of regular care giver, difficulties faced by the persons with disabilities, out of pocket expenses. The survey carried out in the year 2018 was the 76th round. It included all the disabilities that were included in The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Highlights The data was collected from 1,18,152 households. The prevalence of disability was 2.2%. Their contribution to the population was 2.3% in rural and 2% in urban. Disability among males were higher than females. The onset of disability in 365 days was 86 per 1,00,000 persons. Around 52.2% were literate in the age group greater than 7 years. Between age group of 3 and 35 years, 10.1% attended pre-school. The survey says that 21.8% of the disabled people in the country received aid from Government. Only 28% had certificate of disability. The unemployment rate among persons with disability was 4.2% and the Labor Force Participation Rate was 23.8%.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 68 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Manipur Sangai FestivalTarun Singh 2019 | [email protected] being organised| in Imphal The 2019 edition of Manipur Sangai Festival is being organised from 24-30 November in Imphal. Every year in November, Gateway of North-East region, Manipur celebrates the ‘Sangai Festival’, which was named after the State animal, Sangai, the brow-antlered deer found only in Manipur. About Manipur Sangai Festival It is one of the largest Government-sponsored tourism fests. The Festival is all about unity in diversity and a true reflection of Manipur’s saga. It exhibits the best of Manipur, in terms of: art and culture, cuisines and music, scenic beauty of the land, handloom and fine arts, indigenous sports, eco and adventure tourism activities such as trekking, white water rafting and parasailing etc. along with its indigenous martial arts- Thang Ta (a combination Spear & Sword skills), Yubi-Lakpi (a game played with greased coconut-like rugby), Mukna Kangjei (a game that combines hockey and wrestling), and Sagol Kangjei– Modern Polo (believed to have evolved in Manipur). Participants: This year more than 50,000 attendees including national leaders, policy makers, industry experts, business delegates and exhibitors are expected to attend festival this year. Moreover 20 countries inlucding Bhutan, Egypt, South Korea, Haiti, Myanmar, Japan, Cambodia, Laos, Maldives, Russia, Taiwan, Turkey, U.A.E., Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, Thailand, etc. are also expected to participate this year. Background Manipur Sangai Festival was started in year 2010. Since then it has grown over the years into a big platform for Manipur to showcase its rich tradition and culture to world. The festival is now labelled as the grandest festival of Manipur and helps to promote Manipur as a world-class tourism destination. The past editions of festival have been a huge success and brought a huge number of visitors from within and outside state. The Manipur Sangai Festival 2018 was organized at different locations in Imphal and Bishnupur District. This decision was made keeping in view, the increasing number of visitors to the state during festival. NSO Survey on Household Health Expenditure The National Statistical Office on November 23, 2019 released its survey on Household Social Consumption related to health. The survey was conducted between July 2017 and June 2018. It was a part of the 75th round of National Sample Survey. The main objective of the survey was to collect data on expenditure on medicines, expenditure in hospitalization, investigation, expenditure, maternity, childbirth, etc. The data for the survey was collected from 1.13,823 households Findings of the survey Around 14% of rural population and 19% of urban population had their health expenditure covered. Only 1% of urban population received health insurance from government health protection schemes. The average medical expenditure that is being spent in rural India per hospitalization case is Rs 16,676 and in urban India is Rs 26,475. The survey says that about 90% of rural childbirths and 96% of urban child births were institutional. In rural areas, around 97% of the children received vaccination. This includes all the 8 prescribed vaccinations. Among them, 59% of boys and 60% of girls were completely immunized. Ayushman Bharat GoI is currently working under the scheme under the objective “health for all”. It is considered as one of the world’s largest health coverage scheme. Around 100 million poor vulnerable families are included under the scheme. They are listed under the scheme based on SECC 2011. Etawah Lion Safari inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh The Etawah Lion Safari, formally known as Etawah Safari Park was thrown open for public in Uttar Pradesh on 24 November 2019 without the lion segment. It is a drive-through safari park located in Etawah, Uttar

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Pradesh and is one of the biggest safari parksTarun in Singh Asia | [email protected] with an area | of 350 hectares (860 acres). About Etawah Lion Safari Background: It was envisioned by then Chief Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav in 2005 and the permission to establish a lion breeding centre and lion safari were obtained from Central government in 2013. In 2014, the first pair of lions reached the safari and has now at least 18 lions roam in the premises. The wildlife officials entrusted with this project visited England’s Longleat Safari Park for inspiration. Purpose: It has been developed as an educative tourist destination for children as well as youths. The safari is expected to attract tourist and make Etawah a major tourist centre in the country. The park is officially categorised in Multiple Safari Park, Asiatic Lion Breeding Centre & Visitor Facilitation Centre. Besides being the lion breeding centre, the facility is also equipped with hospital, staff quarters backed by assured water and electric supply and is manned by trained staff. Multiple Safari: The park will have a lion safari, a deer safari, an elephant safari, bear safari and a leopard safari. Park also has a 4D theatre, which gives visitors a real closeups with wildlife. Fadnavis sworn in as Maharashtra CM: SC’s concept of fast Floor Tests On November 23, 2019, Mr Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The governor has given him time till November 30, 2019 to prove his majority. This contradicts Supreme Court’s orders that were passed in last two decades. The Supreme Court in its previous judgements have pronounced that floor tests should follow within 24 to 48 hours of swearing-in. This is because, it will increase risks of horse trading and corruption. S R Bommai Case The concept of floor test was introduced by the SC’s judgement in 1994 in SR Bommai case. SC referred to Article 164 of the constitution. SC interprets the article’s words “Council of ministers shall be collectively responsible to the Legislative Assembly of the state” as the ultimate test of majority is not held in Raj Bhavan but on the floors of the assembly. Previous SC Judgements In 2018, SC ordered a floor test within 24 hours after BJP leader Mr Yeddyurappa was sworn in as the CM of Karnataka. In 2005, SC ordered an immediate floor test to see which of the political alliances has majority in the house of Jharkhand In 1998, SC ordered for a floor test to be held within 48 hours to determine majority in the Uttar Pradesh assembly. National Tribal Craft Mela- 2019 being held in Bhubaneswar Chief Minister of Odisha Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the 8th National Tribal Craft Mela at State Tribal Museum Complex in Bhubaneswar. The seven-day long event will be opened for public from 2.00 PM to 8.00 PM every day from 23 to 29 November. As a part of Odisha Government’s ‘5Ts’ initiative, (which is aimed at achieving progress through Transparency, Teamwork, Technology, Time and Transformation) 45 Supplementary Readers prepared in 21 Tribal languages were released simultaneously by Chief Minister on the occasion of Tribal Mela. These supplementary Readers will be used as Learning Materials for Multi-Lingual Education (MLE) of Scheduled Tribe (ST) Students. About National Tribal Craft Mela- 2019 Objective: The National Tribal Crafts Mela is held annually with an aim to preserve, promote and popularize traditional tribal art and crafts and help the artisans to look for better opportunities to develop their skills through cross-cultural interactions for the commercial viability of their products. Participants: Over 240 tribal artisans from 18 States like Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh,

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Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal,Tarun Manipur, Singh | [email protected] Chhattisgarh, | Rajasthan, Telengana, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Nagaland, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand including Odisha are participating. Both Government and Non- Government Organizations such as TRIFED, TDCC (Tribal Development Co-operative Corporation), OTDC (Odisha Tourism Development Corporation), World Act, Anwesha, SCSTRTI (Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute) and ATLC are also participating in Mela. Exhibit: Handicraft items, handloom products, iron, lacquer craft, tribal jewellery, dhokra, bamboo products, puppets, sabai and siali crafts, tribal textiles and embroidery work, tribal paintings as well as many more tribal products will be put on display by these tribal artisans. Bill to merge UTs Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu The Government of India has planned to merge the Union Territories Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. The bill regarding the merging of the territories is to be tabled in Lok Sabha on November 29, 2019. Highlights The Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (Merger of Union Territories) Bill 2019 is being introduced for better administration and to check on duplications of various works. Though the territories are 35 km apart, they have had separate budgets and different secretariats. The merged territory will be named Dadra, Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu. The headquarters of the territory is to be located in Daman and Diu. With the creation of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, there are nine UTs in India. With the new merger, the count will come down to eight. Constitutional provisions Article 3 of Indian Constitution provides insights into formation of new states and Union Territories. It includes increase in area, diminishing the area and altering the boundaries. The article allows the parliament to legislate on state formation. The bills on state formation can be introduced in either of the houses. However, President’s assent on the bill is required before introduction. 25 November: International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women Every year 25 November is observed as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The official Theme for 2019 it is “Orage the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape“. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women Objective: To raise awareness of the fact that women around the world are subject to rape, domestic violence and other forms of violence as well as to highlight scale and true nature of issue is more often hidden. Why this date? Historically, the date 25 November is based on the date of 1960 assassination of 3 Mirabal sisters, political activists in the Dominican Republic. The killings were ordered by then Dominican dictator Rafael Trujillo (1930–1961). In 1981, the Latin American activists and Caribbean Feminist Encuentros marked 25 November as a day to combat and raise awareness of violence against women more broadly. Later on 17 December 1999, the date received its official designation by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) under its Resolution 54/134. Since the UN and Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) have encouraged governments, international organizations and NGOs to organize activities to support day as an international observance. 71st raising Day celebrated by NCC On November 24, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) celebrated the 71st raising day. The day was embarked all over the country. 2019 major contributions of NCC In this current year, the NCC have contributed significantly to relief and recovery operations during floods in

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Bihar, Maharashtra and Kerala. They have alsoTarun Singhbeen | [email protected] an active part| of Swachhta Cycle rally, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Mega Pollution Pakhwada. They have played a major role in Blood donation camps, digital literacy, tree plantation, international Day of Yoga, immunization programmes, etc. The girl cadets of NCC successfully climbed the Mount Tenchenkhang in Sikkim. The mountain is 6,010 metres high. They also summited Mount Tibba in Himachal Pradesh which is 5,982 metres high. About NCC The NCC has been active since 1948. It is a tr-service organization that comprises of Navy, Army and Air Force. It is a voluntary organization in schools, colleges and universities. The cadets are given basic preliminary training in small arms and parades. Legislation NCC was created under Indian Defence Act, 1917. The objective of the legislation was to make up shortage in army. Under the act, University Corps were created In 1948, the National Cadet Corps Act, was enacted to replace the University Corps with the National Cadet Corps. Today NCCs function according to the norms in NCC act, 1948 Centre extends ban on Assam-based NDFB by another 5 years The Centre has extended a ban on Assam-based Bodo insurgent group National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) citing that the terrorist outfit has continued to indulge its involvement in violent activities which includes killings, extortion and joining hands with anti-India forces. The NDFB was declared an outlawed outfit in 1990s, the ban has been extended every five years since then. Why is NDFB banned? Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has extended ban on NDBF under provisions of sub-section (1) of section 3 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. MHA also notified that NDFB was indulging in illegal and violent activities intended to disrupt sovereignty and territorial integrity of India. This is in furtherance of NDBF’s objective of achieving a separate Bodoland. The notification also pointed out that since January 2015, NDFB was involved in 62 violent incidents which resulted in killings of 19 civilians and 55 extremists, besides arresting of 450 ultras and confiscation of 444 arms and weapons. About NDBF The NDFB, formed in 1986 to obtain a sovereign Boroland for the Bodo people. Since then NDFB has been engaging in unlawful and violent activities thereby undermining the authority of Union Government as well as Government of Assam. It has also been spreading terror and panic among people and continues to indulge in extortion of money from various sections of society with a view to financing and executing its plans for the creation of a separate Bodoland resulting in killings and destruction of properties of non- Bodos, inhabiting the Bodo-dominated areas in Assam. Moreover, it still continues to embark on a systematic drive for recruitment of fresh cadres with a view to continue its terrorist and insurgency activities. PM Modi launches Fit India School grading system in schools across India Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the Fit India School grading system in schools across the country. The grading will be in 3 categories. During the launch PM Modi also appealed all schools to enroll in Fit India raking system to make it a mass movement and spread awareness. He also urged students and teachers to participate in ‘Fit India Week’ to be organized by as many as 22,000 Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) schools across the country. The initiative taken by CBSE will include fitness programme and indigenous games from every state and will be held in first week of December. About Fit India School grading system In Fit India Movement, schedules have been drawn for ranking schools in accordance with fitness and the schools that achieve this ranking will also be able to use Fit India logo and flag.

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Ranking system: Schools can declare themselvesTarun Singh |as [email protected] fit by visiting | the Fit India portal and the rankings will be assigned after survey. Fit India School rankings are divided into 3 categories- Fit India Schools, which is the first level of ranking Fit India School three star (3 star) Fit India School five star (5 star) However, the level of rankings will depend on how much importance a school gives towards inculcating fitness among its students as well as teachers. November 26, 2019 Guru Ghasidas National Park to become Chhattisgarh’s 4th tiger reserve Chhattisgarh government announced that the state is set to have Guru Ghasidas National Park in Kotiya district as its fourth ‘tiger reserve’. This decision was taken in 11th meeting of Chhattisgarh State Wildlife Board chaired by Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) had approved to declare Guru Ghasidas National Park as a tiger reserve in 2014. Key Highlights of Meet Emphasis was laid on increasing number of tigers in Chhattisgarh and their safety measures like radio collaring system for tiger safety as well as resettlement of more cheetahs from Barnavapara Sanctuary to Guru Ghasi Das National Park and Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve. Drafting of action plans for conservation of wild buffalo (wild animal of Chhattisgarh), hill myna (state bird of Chhattisgarh) and vultures. At least 5 species of vultures are found in Achanakmar tiger reserve, Guru Ghasidas National Park and Mainpat in Surguja. The decision was also taken to develop water sources for wild animals in the state’s forests, construction of large ponds in the forest villages and plantation of fruits and vegetables especially Narwali vegetables, plantation of bamboo and banana so that these wild animals won’t have to wander here and there for food and fodder. Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh: At present there are three tiger reserves in state: Achanakmar Tiger Reserve in Bilaspur, Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve in Gariaband and Indravati Tiger Reserve in Bijapur district. Lemru Elephant Reserve: During the meet a notification regarding the formation of Lemru Elephant Reserve was also made. It will come into existence soon by merging forest areas of Korba, Katghora, Dharamjigarh and Surguja forest divisions of Korba, Raigad and Surguja districts. The total area records to be of about 1995 sq-km. Indian Railways sets up Institute of Financial Management in Hyderabad The Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) has been set up in Hyderabad, Telangana. This new entity is set up to impart professional training in management of railway finances. The project was conceived and constructed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) at a cost of Rs 85 crore. About Indian Railways Institute of Financial Management IRIFM institution is based on a 14-acre campus at Moula-Ali, Secunderabad. The institute has 10 different functional blocks including academic block, hostel blocks, sports block, library and mess, can handle around 150 trainees at a time. Institute has green building which is capable of generating 90% of its own power needs with solar installations in the campus besides recycling 100% of the water consumed. IIRFM marks an important addition to the list of premier professional institutions in country in the field of financial management in Indian Railways. The ensuing batch of probationers belonging to Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS) will be trained here. IRIFM can handle about 150 trainees at a time. The world-class ambiance of IRIFM provides the right environment for training. It is important that Finance and Accounts Officers of Indian Railways who are known for their acumen to

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 73 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 continuously update their knowledge and skillsTarun Singh to | [email protected] tap opportunities | and strengthen the finances of the organisation. Milan 2020: Indian Navy to host multi-nation military drill in March Indian Navy will be hosting military drill called ‘Milan 2020’ at Visakhapatnam in March 2020 which will witness the participation of several countries. MILAN stands for ‘Multilateral Naval Exercise’. Apart from a large number of ships, senior dignitaries are also expected to take part in various functions and visit naval facilities during MILAN 2020. About ‘Milan 2020’ The MILAN series of biennial exercises commenced in 1995. It was conducted at Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) until last year, is being conducted for the first time on mainland at Eastern Naval Command(ENC) with increased scope and complexity of the Exercise. The government pursues cooperation initiatives with friendly foreign countries, including in Indian Ocean Region (IOR), through structured interactions such as Empowered Steering Group and Staff Talks. The areas of cooperation include capacity building, training, operational exercise marine domain awareness, hydrography, technical assistance. Invited Countries: 41 nations from South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe that share defence cooperation with India have been invited for the drill. These include- Indonesia, Maldives, Australia, Somalia, Kenya, Mozambique, Sudan, Qatar, Thailand, Malaysia, , Egypt, France, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Myanmar, New Zealand, USA, Israel, Tanzania, Comoros, Seychelles Brunei, Philippines, Japan, UK, Madagascar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Mauritius, Cambodia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Kuwait, Iran, Russia, Djibouti, Bahrain, UAE, Eritrea and Bangladesh. CLAP: Credit-linked Subsidy Services Awas Portal launched by governmnet Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri launched the Credit Link Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) Awas Portal (CLAP). Along with portal, the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MHUA) also launched Global Housing Technology Challenge (GHTC)-India to accomplish ‘Housing For All Mission’. MHUA also signed agreements with certain state governments for the construction of LightHouse projects under GHTC-India. GHTC-India seeks to get globally acclaimed, proven and alternate construction technologies for speedier as well as cost-effective construction of affordable housing. About CLSS Awas Portal (CLAP) The CLAP aims to provide a transparent and robust real-time web-based monitoring system for the beneficiaries of the Credit-linked Subsidy Services (CLSS) as through the portal people seeking to avail housing subsidy under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna (PMAY)-Urban will be able to track their applications. The CLSS Awas Portal also seeks to address grievances of beneficiaries in a much comprehensive and organised manner as well as to help other stakeholders to work in synergy for release of subsidy to beneficiaries on time. Under CLSS, the Centre provides interest subsidy of up to around Rs.2.67 lakh on home loans to individuals, which reduces principal outstanding amount of loan. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) PMAY-Urban aims to address the housing needs of Urban population of country. The Credit-linked Subsidy Services (CLSS) covers the MIG (middle income group) segment for first time. The mission is expected to benefit young professionals having an income of up to Rs.18 lakh/annum. At present, among the 4 verticals of PMAY(Urban), the government has managed to reach more than 8 lakh beneficiaries under CLSS. India attends WATEC Conference in Israel The Jal Shakti Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat represented India at the WATEC Conference that was held in Israel. The Water Technology and Environment Control (WATEC) conference helps to get updates on technologies related to water and environmental management. Several countries participated in

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 74 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 the conference showcasing their revolutionaryTarun technologies Singh | [email protected] and | solutions. Significance Israel is considered as world hero in terms of water management. The country treats and reuses 80% of its sewage water for agriculture. Today Israel’s water demand outstrips its unconventional water resources. With drip irrigation and sea water desalination, the country has become a global leader in agriculture. Attending such conferences will help India learn technologies to conserve water and replicate. Need Today Agriculture sector consumes nearly 89% of water resources according to the “Dynamic Ground Water Resources” of India report. The report also says that saving 10% of water will increase water availability by 50 years. It is essential for India to act upon quickly as the groundwater resources are depleting at faster rate. The water stressed states in India are Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Punjab and Haryana. 26 November 2019: 70th Constitution Day Every year India celebrates 26 November as Constitution Day also known as Samvidhan Divas. The day is celebrated to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India on 26 November 1949 by Indian Constituent Assembly. However, the Indian Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950 marking the beginning of a new era in history of Indian Republic. The year 2019 marks the 70th Constitution Day. Background Since the year 2015 was 125th birth anniversary of B. R. Ambedkar, who is also known as drafter of Indian constitution, the government of India officially announced celebration of 26 November as Constitution Day on 19 November 2015 by a gazette notification. The day was chosen to spread importance of constitution as well as to spread thoughts and ideas of Ambedkar. Earlier on 11 October 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the declaration while laying the foundation stone of the B. R. Ambedkar’s Statue of Equality memorial in Mumbai. BR Ambedkar had chaired the drafting committee of Constituent Assembly and played a pivotal role in the drafting of constitution. Previously 26 November was being celebrated as National Law Day. India-Netherland: “Water 4 change”, an urban water management system The Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), operating under the Government of Kerala has launched the “Water 4 Change”. Under the project, six prominent institutions from Netherlands will perform a long-term research and field level action on urban water management systems along with Indian scientists. Highlights The project will bring solutions for water problems in the cities of Kozhikode, Shimla, Bhuj and Bhopal. The project will address issues related to sanitary engineering, governance, urban planning, ecology, hydrology and economics in water handling. CWRDM The CWRDM was established by the Government of Kerala to cater the needs of research and development in water management of the state. The institution deals with environmental issues, drainage issues, water quality management and wet land management in the state Kerala water resources The state of Kerala being fed by the South West Monsoon is rich in water. There are around 44 rivers in the state. The average rainfall of the state is 3000 mm. However, due to poor water management the state faces water scarcity in certain regions. The forest cover in the state was 50% in 1900. It has now depleted to 27% in 2018. Several districts in

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Kerala are facing water scarcity. It includesTarun Kozhikode, Singh | [email protected] Thiruvanathapuram. | Also, the state fails to save water during the flooding season (June-September). 13th Asia Pacific Screen Awards The 13th Asia Pacific Screen Awards which are Asia Pacific’s highest accolade in film were awarded in Brisbane, Australia. With films from nearly 70 countries and areas in region, APSA honours filmmaking that best reflects its cultural origins and diversity of Asia Pacific. Awardees 2019 Best Feature Film: ‘Parasite’, directed by South Korea’s Bong Joon-Ho Best Performance by an Actress: Max Eigenmann in ‘Verdict’ Best Performance by an Actor: Manoj Bajpayee in ‘Bhonsle’ About Asia Pacific Screen Awards (APSA) It is an international cultural initiative/program of Australia’s Brisbane City Council that honours as well as promotes directors, films, actors, and cultures of Asia-Pacific region to a global audience. The award also realises objectives of UNESCO to promote and preserve respective cultures through the influential medium of film. The First edition of award was presented in 2007. Since then it is presented annually by UNESCO, FIAPF (International Federation of Film Producers Associations) and Brisbane City Council, Australia. UP launches Filaria Campaign The Uttar Pradesh Government has launched a three-day campaign against Filaria as GoI has set a target of eradicating Filaria completely by 2021. The campaign began on November 25, 2019 and is to run till December 10, 2019. Highlights The campaign will cover 47 districts and will aim at eradicating Filaria from Uttar Pradesh. The campaigning team will reach every door and provide medicines. The medicines include one tablet of DEC and one tablet of Albendazole. All the age group from children to elderly are to be covered. The dosage of the medicines is fixed according to the age of the persons. The campaign will also provide special emphasis on mosquito free environment. India’s status According to WHO, Filaria is the second-largest disease that makes people handicapped on a large scale. The organization says that around 65 million Indians are at the risk of the disease and 4.5 lakh are already suffering from Filaria. In India, most of the Filarial outbreaks are found in eastern Maharashtra and Malabar coasts. Filaria Filaria is spread through Culex fatigans female mosquito. The disease is caused by the Filarioidea type roundworms. Global alliance to eliminate Filariasis In June 2018, India hosted the Global Alliance to eliminate Filariasis. The meeting was held in New Delhi. The organization aims at bringing together public and private organizations to fight against the disease. It also focuses on mobilization of political, technical and financial resources to eradicate the disease completely. Food Processing Scheme: 271 crores cleared by IMAC The Inter-Ministerial Approval Committee chaired by Minister of Food Processing Shri Harsimrat Kaur has sanctioned Rs 271 crores for the CEFPPC scheme (Creation/Expansion of Food Processing and Preservation Capacities) scheme. Highlights The focus was given to projects that emphasized on linking agriculture and marketing food processing

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 76 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 technologies. During allocation, startups wereTarun given Singh | [email protected] priorities according | to the sources of Ministry of Food Processing. Also, the projects were examined based on project cost, means of finance to avoid bankruptcy in the future. Significance The aim of the scheme is to create direct employment that will help in achieving India’s goal of doubling farmers income by 2022. It expected that the project would create 9000 employment. It will also aid in implementing PM Krishi Sampada Yojana (PMKSY). The PMKSY aims at developing agro- processing Clusters and agro-marine processing units. Under the scheme, subsidies are provided in terms of grants-in-aid that ranges between 35% and 75% according to the project. PMKSY is being implemented by the Ministry of Food Processing. It will work on implementing mega food parks, value-addition infrastructure, creation of backward and forward linkages, food safety and quality infrastructure. 26 November: National Milk Day India National Milk Day is observed every year on 26 November to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the father of India’s White Revolution. However, World milk day is observed every year across the world on 1 June by the United Nations. About National Milk Day The day is celebrated to promote benefits related to milk and milk industry and to create awareness among people about importance of milk and milk products. This year India is celebrating 98th birth anniversary of Dr. Kurien. The first National Milk Day was celebrated on 26 November 2014 after the initiative taken by Indian Dairy Association (IDA). In first National Milk Day various milk producers from 22 states participated. About Dr. Verghese Kurien He was born on 26 November 1921 in Kozhikode, Kerala and passed away on September 9, 2012, at the age of 90. He is known as ‘Father of the White Revolution’ in India. He was a well-known Indian social entrepreneur and is still famous for his ‘Operation Flood’ the world’s largest agricultural development program. He established 30 institutions which are run by various farmers and workers and played a key role in establishment and success of Amul brand. Awards: He was awarded Ramon Magsaysay Award (1963) and World Food Prize (1989), Padma Shri (1965), Padma Bhushan (1966) and Padma Vibhushan (1999). Due to the strenuous efforts of Dr. Verghese Kurien, India became the largest producer of milk in 1998, surpassing the US. Milk sector in India The organized milk sector flourished in the Country after Independence due to efforts of Dr. Kurien. Currently, India is world’s largest producer of milk as it contributes to about 22% of world’s total milk production with over 187.7 million tonnes (MT) of milk production every year. India’s milk output surpasses that of all European Union (EU) countries combined, which is followed by Unite States, China. Indian milk production witnessed a growth of 6.28% during 2014 and 2016 and also, per capita, milk consumption capacity increased from 307 gm/day (2013-14) to 340 gm/day (2015-16). Sumatran Rhinos go extinct in Malaysia The last surviving Sumatran Rhino in Malaysia, Iman, died in Borneo Rhino Sanctuary. The Rhino died of cancer. With this Sumatran rhino have become extinct in Malaysia. Iman was captured in 2014 from Danum Valley in Malaysia. Sumatran Rhinos The Sumatran Rhinos are the smallest of the five extant rhino species in the world. The other rhino species include Black Rhinos, White Rhinos, Greater on-horned Rhinos and Javan Rhinos.

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With the death of Iman, there are only 80 SumatranTarun Singh | [email protected] Rhinos left | in the world. All the 80 are currently in Indonesia in the Indonesian part of Borneo and Sumatra Island. Poaching and loss of habitat are the main reasons behind their extinction. Sumatran Rhinos in India In India the Sumatran Rhinos occurred in parts of Nagaland, Assam, Manipur, Tripura and Chittagong hills in the 19th century. However, the last Sumatran Rhino of India was killed in 1967. The species is now extinct in India. IUCN Status The International Union of Conservation of Nature Red List has put the Sumatran Rhinos in the Critically Endangered category. Sumatran Rhino Rescue The Sumatran Rhino Rescue is an international project that intends to save the species. It is being implemented by the World Wildlife Fund, National Geographic Society, Global Wildlife Conservation, International Rhino Foundation and the IUCN Commission. CRY Report on Crime against Children in India The Child Rights and You recently released a report “How Vulnerable are Children in India to crime?” The report was based on the analysis of National Crime Records Bureau for 2016-17. The report says that the states of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh topped the list of states for crimes against children. There were over 19,000 cases in both the states. Key Findings The highest increase in crimes between the years 2016 and 2017 was seen in Jharkhand. The Child labor in the country saw a substantial increase of 126%. The report says that in 2016 child labor was 204 and it increased to 462 in 2017. As far as Child Marriage is concerned there was an increase of 21.17%. The numbers were based on the cases registered under Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006. Though the numbers in child labor and child marriage has increased, CRY considers it as a positive step. This is because among all the other child crimes, these two are the most unreported. Recommendations of the CRY The organization suggests that there has to be increase in financial investments in child protection. The focus should be on capacity building among officials working in child protection systems. November 27, 2019 DRDO Chairman G Satheesh Reddy awarded honorary fellowship by Royal Aeronautical Society of UK Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) chairman G Satheesh Reddy was awarded honorary fellowship by Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) of United Kingdom (UK) during the Medals and Awards presentation ceremony in London. He is the first Indian recipient of the prestigious award in more than 100 years. About G Satheesh Reddy Why was he awarded? Society’s highest award is bestowed in recognition of contributions of Reddy towards indigenous design, development and deployment of diversified missile systems, guided weapons, aerospace vehicles as well as avionics technologies in India over the past three decades. His pioneering technological contributions has enabled the country to realise frontline military systems and world class missile technologies. His Contributions: He spearheaded Mission Shakti, India’s first Anti-Satellite Missile Test (ASAT) mission which demonstrated an extremely high degree of precision and technological prowess, enabling India to join a select group of 4 nations with such capability. He even bolstered Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD)

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 78 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 programme and successfully demonstrated missileTarun Singh | [email protected] | capabilities at high altitudes. He also led development of advanced avionics, the indigenous design, development and deployment of state-of-the-art mission critical aerospace technologies and advanced missile systems as well as achieved successful missions of long-range Agni 5 strategic missile. His Research & Development contributions have made country self-reliant in Missiles and Avionics technologies. These cutting edge technologies have been backbone for key strategic programmes and other defence applications in India. He is famous among students as ‘Junior Kalam’ and ‘Next Generation Missile Man’ due to his talent on advanced technologies. Awards: He has received many awards such as- National Systems Gold Medal, AIAA Missile Systems Award, National Design Award, National Aeronautical Prize, Homi J Bhabha Gold Medal, Technology Leadership Award and IEI-IEEE (USA) award for engineering excellence. About Honorary Fellowship by Royal Aeronautical Society It is one of the world’s highest distinctions for aerospace achievement awarded for only most exceptional contributions to the aerospace profession. It is considered as equivalent to Nobel Prize in the aerospace domain. The first Honorary Fellowship was awarded in year 1917. Eminent persons conferred with this award includes doyens of Aerospace such as Orville Wright, aviation pioneer known for inventing airplane with his brother, Wilbur. DEFCOM INDIA 2019 seminar being held in New Delhi A two-day seminar ‘DEFCOM INDIA 2019’ is being held at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi from 26-27 November 2019. The theme for seminar is – ‘Communications: A Decisive Catalyst for Jointness’. The seminar is devoted to the seminal theme of leveraging communications for achieving jointness between three services. The prestigious DEFCOM journal was also released during the seminar. DEFCOM 2019 exhibition showcased cutting edge communication solutions from industry and gave officers from three services an opportunity to gain insights on technology and industry capabilities. About DEFCOM Seminar It is jointly organised by the Corps of Signals and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). Over the years the seminar has evolved to become a landmark symposium for collaboration between Indian armed forces, academia, research and development (R&D) organisations, and Industry on aspects pertaining to Information and Communications Technology (ICT). The seminar stresses on the need for three services (Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy) to be able to seamlessly communicate with each other from the strategic to tactical level and apprised audience on aspects that would be deliberated during seminar. Significance: DEFCOM has played crucial role over the years in promoting collaboration between armed forces and the industry in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) domain. He also encouraged industry to actively participate in DEFCOM exhibition with their solutions and products to enhance defence communications. Global Exhibition on Services-2019 organised in Bengaluru Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry & Railways inaugurated the Global Exhibition on Services (GES) 2019 in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The year 2019 is the 5th edition of GES. The inaugural function was also attended by Chief Minister of Karnataka B. S. Yediyurappa. About Global Exhibition on Services (GES) GES is an annual event established by Department of Commerce, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry in association with Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 80 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 and micro finance banks. However, the stressTarun of Singh bad | [email protected] loans is increasing | greatly on microfinance sector. It is essential for the microfinance sector to adapt to the external developments, risks, income inconsistencies and technological changes to reduce the raising numbers of bad loan. Suggestions RBI highlighted the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises run by SIDBI. The bank also believes that small loans that are being provided under Shishu category would not contribute much towards income generation. HRD Ministry launches Kartavya Portal On the occasion of 70th Constitution Day also known as Samvidhan Divas observed on 26 November 2019, Union Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched the kartavya.ugc.ac.in portal for holding monthly essay competitions for students. The portal was launched as part of year long ‘Nagrik Kartavya Paalan Abhiyan’ being observed throughout the country. Key Highlights The portal will be used primarily for holding monthly essay competitions for students as well as other activities including quizzes, poster making, debates pertaining to Nagrik Kartavya Paalan Abhiyan. The Department of Higher Education under HRD Ministry will be holding 11 rounds of National Essay Competitions during the year. The topics of the essay will be based on one Fundamental Duty every month. National Essay Competition Eligibility: The competition would be open for every student registered in any Higher Education Institution in India. They should also register for the essay competitions on Kartavya Portal- kartavya.ugc.ac.in. The competition will be held online through infrastructure and testing centres of National Testing Agency (NTA). The online exam in designated centres will be held for 2 hours duration. The choice of centres for writing essays will be made available to contestants when they do the online registration. Essays will also be sent online and (blind) evaluated online by experts. The essays can be written in Hindi or English (English can be written online, For Hindi paper will be provided at exam centre, after writing essay will be scanned at exam centre and uploaded ) There shall be no costs for exam on the participants. There will be four prizes worth: Rs. 15,000, Rs. 12,000, Rs. 10,000 and Rs 7500 along with certificates. About Nagrik Kartavya Paalan Abhiyan The year 2019 marks the 70th year of adoption of Indian Constitution. The Centre government thus decided to run a Nagrik Kartavya Palan Abhiyan from 26 November 2019 to 26 November 2020, to create mass awareness about Fundamental Duties as enshrined in our Constitution. This will give directions to the youth of country and will make them aware that rights are automatically realized when we follow our duties religiously. This principle will also help students to channelize their talents and capabilities in the right direction which will help them realize their mission with ease. Lokpal Logo & Motto launched The Chairman of Lokpal, Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose launched the logo of Lokpal, at an event held in New Delhi. The motto of Lokpal “मा गृधः कस्यस्विद्धनम्” (Do not be greedy for anyone’s wealth) was also adopted. The Logo design of Prashant Mishra, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh was selected for adoption as Logo of Lokpal. An open competition was conducted on Mygov portal (mygov.in), as well as through Lokpal registry mail, to invite entries for Logo and Motto/Slogan for using the same as Logo and Motto/Slogan of Lokpal in stationary, backdrop, and any other way that Lokpal deem fit. Through the Mygov portal, a total of 2236 entries received for Logo and total 4705 entries were received for Motto/Slogan from people of varied age groups and from different parts of the country.

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 82 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 transgenders from a village or a household. Tarun Singh | [email protected] | A grievance redressal mechanism has been set up for the issues related to transgender under which National Council for Transgender Persons (NCTP) will advise, monitor and evaluate measures for the protection of their rights. It provides for formulation of welfare schemes and programmes for education, social security and health of Transgender Persons. Benefit of Bill It will make all stakeholders responsive and accountable for upholding principles underlying the Bill and will also bring greater accountability on part of Central Government and State Governments/Union Territories (UTs) Administrations for issues concerning Transgender persons. It will benefit a large number of transgender persons in mitigating the abuse, stigma and discrimination against this marginalized section so as to bring them into the mainstream of society. It will also lead to greater inclusiveness and will make the transgender persons productive members of society. Way Forward As per the present bill, the punishment for sexual abuses of transgenders is 6 months to 2 years, however, many agree that the duration of punishment must be increased for sexual abuses. Moreover, the legislation does not have adequate penal provisions on discrimination against transgender, and the definition of transgenders is also being seemed controversial. Parliament passes National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill Parliament has passed National Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill, 2019, with the Lok Sabha approving it on 26 November 2019. The bill was already passed by Rajya Sabha on 6 August 2019. The Bill will now be placed before President to seek his assent, before it becomes a law. Key Provisions of Bill The bill seeks to amend National Institute of Design Act, 2014 that declares National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad as an institution of national importance. The bill will help fulfil the aspirations of a new and modern India. It also seeks to declare 4 National Institutes of Design (NID) as institutions of national importance. These institutes are located at Kurukshetra in Haryana, Amaravati in Andhra Pradesh, Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh and Jorhat in Assam. The four institutes will have the standards at par with the institute in Ahmedabad and will impart quality education in the field of design. At present, these institutes are registered as Societies under Societies Registration Act, 1860 and thus do not have the power to grant degrees/diplomas. Once these four institutes are declared as institutions of national importance, they be granted the power to grant degrees and diplomas. November 28, 2019 Cabinet approves Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement between India-Chile Union Cabinet has approved the signing of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and Protocol between Republic of India and Republic of Chile. This will help in elimination of double taxation as well as prevention of fiscal evasion and avoidance with respect to taxes on income. Major impact of DTAA Agreement and Protocol It will facilitate elimination of double taxation between two nations. Moreover, a clear allocation of taxing rights between Contracting States by Agreement will provide tax certainty to investors and businesses of both countries. This will also augment the flow of investment through fixing of fees for technical services, royalties and the tax rates in source State on interest. The Agreement and Protocol implements minimum standards and other recommendations of G-20 OECD Base Erosion Profit Shifting (BEPS) Project (or BEPS Project). The Agreement includes provisions such as

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 83 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 a Principal Purpose Test, Preamble Text, a GeneralTarun Singh | [email protected] Anti-Abuse | provision along with a Simplified Limitation of Benefits Clause (SLBC) as per BEPS Project. This will result in curbing of tax planning strategies which exploit gaps and mismatches in tax rules. Way Forward The Implementation Strategy and Targets includes completing necessary formalities for bringing the Agreement and Protocol into force after the Cabinet approval. Implementation would be watched and reported by Union Ministry of Finance. India-Myanmar MoU on bilateral cooperation for Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Union Cabinet has approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Myanmar on bilateral cooperation for Prevention of Trafficking in Persons; Rescue, Recovery, Repatriation and Re- integration of victims of Trafficking. The cabinet was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Key Highlights of MoU Objective: To increase bilateral cooperation on the issues of prevention, rescue, recovery and repatriation related to victims of human Trafficking as well as to strengthen friendship bonds between India- Myanmar To strengthen cooperation for preventing all forms of human trafficking and protecting and assisting victims of trafficking. Provisions: Prevent trafficking in persons by strengthening immigration and border controls cooperation and implementation of strategies with relevant Ministries and Organizations of both the countries. Set up Working Groups or Task Force to make efforts to prevent human trafficking as well as undertake Capacity building programmes for the agencies concerned of both countries. Developing and sharing database on traffickers and victims of trafficking in a safe and confidential manner and exchanging information via designated focal points of India and Myanmar. Formulating and adopting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Rescue, Recovery, Repatriation and Integration of the victims of trafficking and at the same time ensuring speedy investigation and prosecution of traffickers and organized crime syndicates in either country. Background Human Trafficking has national and international consequence therefore its complex nature calls for a multidimensional strategy in tackling it at both domestic/regional/international level. Being global in scope, international cooperation and collaboration is essential to check trafficking in persons. Moreover, strengthening cooperation between India’s and Myanmar’s border control agencies as well as establishing direct channels of communication can be an effective tool in countering trafficking in persons and promoting cross-border and regional cooperation. Cabinet approves loan waiver of worth Rs.4 Cr against Sikkim Mining Corporation Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved waiver of repayment of loan and interest thereon, of nearly worth Rs.4 crore outstanding against Sikkim Mining Corporation (SMC) including interest accrued on total amount from 1 April 2019, till this approval outstanding against SMC. CCEA is chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Benefit: Further, accumulation of interest on principal loan will get extinguished and liquidation process of Corporation will get completed. About Sikkim Mining Corporation (SMC) It was established on the 27 February 1960 as Joint Venture (JV) undertaking of Government of Sikkim and Centre Government. SMC has been incurring losses every year since its inception.

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 85 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 of India through equity or via long term loan.Tarun Therefore, Singh | [email protected] Centre | government is providing equity to FCI for maintaining stocks. As on 31 March 2019, the present authorized equity capital of FCI is Rs.3,500 crore and paid up equity capital is Rs.3447.58 crore. Significance: With the increase of authorized capital, additional equity capital can be infused in Food Corporation of India (FCI) through Union Budget for funding foodgrains stock, perpetually held by FCI. This will reduce thereby FCI’s borrowings, save FCI’s interest cost as well as reduce food subsidy in consequence. About Food Corporation of India (FCI) It was constituted under Food Corporations Act, 1964, to implement the objectives of National Food Policy of Government of India. FCI is a government-owned corporation under Department of Food and Public Distribution of Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. FCI Objectives: to ensure food security of Nation; to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) to farmers; to maintain buffer stock of foodgrains; distribution of foodgrains under National Food Security Act (NFSA); and execution of government policies and welfare schemes. NuGen Mobility Summit-2019 being held in Haryana Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Shipping, Nitin Gadkari inaugurated NuGen Mobility Summit-2019 at International Center of Automotive Technology (ICAT) in Manesar, Haryana. This three-day conference will be held from 27 to 29 November 2019. About NuGen Mobility Summit-2019 The conference is the largest automotive technology event in country so far. The event is being organized by ICAT on relevant topics of Alternate Fuel Systems and e-Mobility. It is first in a series of conference organized by ICAT. Theme of event is setup around new generation topics like: e-mobility, Hydrogen Mobility, Connected Vehicles and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). It focuses on developing new technological solutions according to global requirements. Participants: Automotive technology experts from 15 countries including India will be presenting more than 120 technical research papers in the event. Over 200 companies producing vehicles and components will display their products. Significance: The benefits of event will be found in finding suitable alternative to internal combustion engine (ICE) running for about 125 years in country and world as well as emphasizing on New Generation Mobility which shall be Green, safe and affordable. About International Center of Automotive Technology (ICAT) It is a division of NATRIP (National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project) Implementation Society (NATIS) under Department of Heavy Industries of Union Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises. It has facilities for vehicle homologation and also testing laboratories for vibration, noise, harshness and passive safety. Cabinet approves extension of norms for mandatory packaging in jute materials Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has accorded its approval for mandatory packaging of foodgrains and sugar in jute material for Jute Year 2019-20. The scope of mandatory packaging norms under Jute Packaging Material (JPM) Act, 1987 has been retained by Union Government as per 2018. Cabinet decision mandates that 100% of food grains and 20% of sugar shall be mandatorily packed in diversified jute bags. The decision also mandates that initially 10% of indents of jute bags for packing foodgrains would be placed through reverse auction on Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. The move will gradually usher in a regime of price discovery.

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 87 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 and 54 consulates globally. However, the studyTarun Singh shows | [email protected] that India | too has expanded its diplomatic footprint: In 2017, it had 120 embassies and 52 consulates. Analysis of China’s Rise China’s expansion in worldwide diplomatic presence has come partly at the expense of Taiwan, which is a self-governing democracy, however as per China it is a breakaway province. China’s gain has mostly been a direct result of Taiwan’s shrinking diplomatic presence as former intensified its ‘One China’ campaign. Taiwan saw the biggest drop in diplomatic posts, down from 22 embassies in 2016 to 15 in 2019. Moreover, China opened new embassies in The Gambia, Burkina Faso, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, São Tomé and Príncipe which were all former diplomatic friends of Taipei. China’s diplomatic push has been aided by its economic heft as under Chinese President Xi Jinping. Beijing has pumped in billions of dollars into Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the intercontinental connectivity project aimed primarily at building trading corridors connecting China. Significance: Establishing a robust diplomatic infrastructure is 1st practical step towards bolstering a country’s diplomatic influence. Similarly, China has also invested in its diplomatic infrastructure, which serves as a telling metric of its international ambitions. November 29, 2019 Shipping Ministry approves Loktak Inland Waterways Project in Manipur Union Ministry of Shipping (MoS) has approved long pending demand of Government of Manipur for development of Loktak Inland Waterways Project in the north eastern state. The request for development of this project was made by L Susindro Meitei, Chairman of Loktak Development Authority and MLA Khurai in Manipur. Key Highlights Government of India approved development of Loktak Inland Waterways improvement project under its objective of promoting the beautiful region Northeast which holds a lot of opportunity for tourism purposes. The project is approved under the Central Sector Scheme (CSS) at estimated cost of Rs.25.58 crore and will give a boost to development of inland water transport connectivity in North-eastern states and will also boost tourism sector there. About Loktak Lake It is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast. The lake is located at Moirang in Manipur. It is famous for phumdis floating over it which are formed naturally. Located on this phumdi, Keibul Lamjao National Park is the only floating national park in the world and is an integral part of Loktak Lake. 1st International Conference on Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience The 1st International Conference on ‘Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience – 2019’ was held in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, G. Kishan Reddy. International Conference on Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience Objective: To bring together all stakeholders including relevant ministries, organizations, departments, universities, as well as experts to discuss/debate/disseminate practically useful knowledge, experiences, information and innovations for landslides risk reduction and resilience at national and international levels. The first of its kind conference was organized by National Institute of Disaster management (NIDM). This international event will develop a road map towards landslide risk reduction and resilience via networking, collaboration and coordination amongst different stakeholders. It would also be highly pertinent to the disaster management in hill States. Participants: Scientist, technologists, developers, engineer, planners, administrators, policy and decision makers from different states of India as well as other countries.

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

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

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 90 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 of National Code for Good Governance in Sports,Tarun Singh 2017 | [email protected] and will | be required to review draft of national code with present code. NDTV wins International Press Institute India award for Excellence in Journalism India’s private news channel NDTV has been awarded International Press Institute India award for excellence in journalism by the India chapter of the Vienna-based International Press Institute. NDTV was awarded for its ‘expose of the conspiracy to scuttle’ the Kathua rape and murder case probe. Key Highlights A jury of eminent editors headed by Soli Sorabjee, former Attorney General of India considered entries received and unanimously selected NDTV for the prestigious award. NDTV was awarded for the exposing the conspiracy to scuttle probe into heinous Kathua rape and murder, and a strong expose of political hypocrisy across political spectrum which represented excellence in journalism. About International Press Institute India award for excellence in Journalism The annual award was instituted by IPI India in 2003. It recognises and honours best work done by an Indian media organization/ journalist in print, TV, radio and internet mediums in furtherance of public interest, including safeguarding of freedom of press as well as other freedoms like human right. The award comprises of a trophy, a citation and a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh. The first award for IPI India Excellence in Journalism, 2003 was given to The Indian Express for its reporting of the Gujarat riots and its aftermath. NDTV had also won the award in 2004 for its expose of baby-swapping racket in Hyderabad, and corruption trail of Telgi stamp scam. Karan Thapar, Hindustan Times, Tehelka are among the other awardees. International Press Institute (IPI) was founded on October 1950, in New York, by a group of editors from 15 countries and has grown into a truly global organisation committed to furtherance of freedom of press. The India chapter of IPI is an active forum of editors, publishers and senior executives of newspapers, news agencies and magazines, all of whom are members of International Press Institute. Indian Army successfully test-fires Spike LR missile Indian Army has successfully test fired two Spike long- range Anti-Tank Missiles from an Infantry School at Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. Indian Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat and several commanders witnessed the firing of the newly acquired missiles which are expected to further boost Army’s combat prowess. What is Spike LR missile? Spike anti-tank missiles is a 4th generation missile which can engage any target with precision at ranges up to 4 km. It is developed and designed by Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems. The missile is man- portable and has its own vehicle-launch and helicopter-launched variants. It will bolster Indian Army’s fire power capability. Background For the nearly last three decades (30 years), the Indian Army has been using outdated 2nd generation missiles. In 2011 a Request for Proposal (RFP) was floated for over 8000 missiles to Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Spike missile was the only one to qualify after going through a complex procurement process. Ministry of Defence completed negotiation in 2016 but programme did not see light of the day as the government was in favour of indigenously developing the missiles through India’s DRDO. Later, to overcome the critical capability void and to meet urgent operational requirement, Indian Army procured a limited quantity of Spike LR missiles from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems of Israel. India thus became 33rd country in world to have Spike missile as a part of its inventory. November 30, 2019

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 91 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 Indian Navy test-firesTarun Brahmos Singh | [email protected] supersonic | cruise missile Indian Navy test-fired the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, from the Navy’s stealth destroyer INS Kochi. The supersonic missile successfully hit a decommissioned target ship in Arabian Sea. Moreover, the second ship of Project 15-A ‘Kolkata-class’ guided missile destroyer test-fired advanced missile during a naval drill in west coast. Earlier the BrahMos missile has been successfully test fired twice from INS Kolkata, (one in June 2014 and February 2015) and one successful test firing has been from INS Kochi in November 2015. The recent test firing from INS Kochi has now re-validated ship’s precise strike capability. About BRAHMOS Supersonic Cruise Missile It has been jointly developed by India and Russia and has been in service with Indian Navy since 2005. It is world’s fastest cruise missile and has a strike-range of over 290 km. It successfully hit decommissioned target ship with high precision after performing extremely complex manoeuvres. BRAHMOS missile have supersonic speed of Mach 2.8. It also has a very low-cruising altitude of 10 metres at terminal phase and pin-point accuracy which has made the warship one of deadliest in Indian Navy fleet. Significance: Brahmos as prime strike weapon will ensure Naval warship’s invincibility by engaging naval surface targets at long ranges. This will thus make destroyer the another lethal platform of Indian Navy. About INS Kochi Indian Navy commissioned INS Kochi on 30 September 2015. It is a 7,500-ton warship which is indigenously designed and constructed. It incorporates new design concepts for improved manoeuvrability, stealth, survivability, and sea-keeping. Besides carrying other sophisticated weapons and sensors, the INS Kochi warship has enhanced capability of carrying a total of 16 BRAHMOS missiles in two 8-cell vertical launch systems. UNDP launches Accelerator Lab in New Delhi The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched the India chapter of its new initiative, Accelerator Lab in New Delhi. The objective behind launching lab is to address some of the most pressing issues facing India, including air pollution, through innovation. To achieve its objectives, the UNDP has also partnered with NITI Aayog ‘s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). About Accelerator Lab The laboratory will be housed in UNDP’s office based in New Delhi. The vision behind setting up lab is to make faster progress in meeting ambitious United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. At the Accelerator Lab innovators will seek to bring in their energy together to come up with solutions for common problems facing the country. Issues that laboratory will seek to address through innovation includes: air pollution, sustainable water management and client-resilient livelihoods. The Indian lab will be among 60 global ones that will find, test and try to scale up innovative solutions helpful in combating both climate change as well as social inequity. Former RBI deputy governor H R Khan to chair Micro-Finance panel H R Khan, former deputy governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has been appointed as first chairman of steering committee panel on Code for Responsible Lending (CRL) in Micro-Credit. Members of panel include: P Satish of Sa-Dhan, Sonia Krishnankutty of L&T Finance, Harsh Shrivastava of MFIN and Srinivas Bonam of IndusInd Bank among others. About Code for Responsible Lending (CRL) It is a self-regulatory step for micro-credit industry making diverse entities such as banks, Non-Banking Financial Company – Micro Finance Institution (NBFC-MFI) and NBFCs, adhere to standards of customer protection. CRL was launched in September 2019 by Micro-finance Institutions Network (MFIN) and Sa-Dhan, an RBI-

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 92 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 recognised association of microfinance institutionsTarun Singh | [email protected] (MFIs), | along with Finance Industry Development Council, an association of NBFCs. It was envisaged to be guided and supervised by a steering committee representing banks, Small Finance Banks (SFBs), NBFC-MFIs, NBFCs and industry associations under an eminent independent chair. Aditya Birla Finance becomes first company to list commercial papers on stock exchanges Aditya Birla Finance Ltd (ABFL), the Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) arm of Aditya Birla Capital, has now become the first company to list its commercial papers (CPs) on stock exchanges. The move comes after stock exchanges- the BSE (Bombay Stock Exchange) and NSE (National Stock Exchange), came out with a framework for listing of commercial papers (CPs), in a bid to broaden investors’ participation in such securities. Key Highlights Aditya Birla Finance is first company to list its commercial paper with value date of 28 November 2019 and maturity date on 7 February 2020. ABFL is a well-diversified NBFC with a long-term credit rating of AAA (stable) from both ICRA as well as India Ratings. Listing of commercial papers is expected to lead to an efficient transmission of information regarding corporate borrowings and liquidity positions to market participants. It will also contribute effectively towards development of CP market and is expected to have a positive effect on debt capital market. What is a Commercial paper? It is an unsecured money market instrument which is issued in form of promissory notes that enables highly rated corporate borrowers to diversify their sources of short-term borrowings. It also provides an additional instrument to investors. CPs can be issued for maturities between a minimum of 7 days and a max of up to 1 year from date of issue. They are usually issued at a discount from face value and reflects prevailing market interest rates. All India Police Science Congress organised in Lucknow The 47th All India Police Science Congress (AIPSC) was organised from 28-29 November 2019, at Police Headquarters in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The chief guest for event was former cop and current Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry Kiran Bedi. Key Highlights Top officials from police, security and investigation agencies from every Indian state participated in 47th All India Police Science Congress. More than 120 teams participated from all states and Union Territories (UTs). Apart from police, central agencies such as CBI, CRPF and BSF also participated. The event was organised by Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D). Uttar Pradesh is hosting this annual event after 22 years. The Congress focused on challenges in policing, and 5 other related topics which are need of the hour. The conference was also attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah who called for major changes in penal acts like Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and Indian Penal Code (IPC), along with Arms Act and Narcotics Acts to strengthen internal security. He also called upon Police officers to participate in this process by giving their suggestions and seeking suggestions from junior personnel also who are going to implement these rules. India Corruption Survey 2019 As per the India Corruption Survey 2019, Rajasthan and Bihar fared the worst in country with 78% and 75% of respondents admitting to paying bribes, while Telangana topped the list in south India. The survey was carried out between October 2018 and November 2019 and was conducted by Local Circles, a social media firm and the Transparency International India. It had a total of 1.9 lakh responses from nearly 81,000 unique respondents in 248 districts across 20 Indian states.

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As compared to 2018, India’s overall rankingTarun in SinghCorruption | [email protected] Perception | Index has risen 3 places to 78 out of 180 countries. While an average of 56% of respondents admitted to paying bribes in 2018, the number has come down to 51% in 2019. Key Highlights of Survey Most Corrupt States in India: Rajasthan tops corruption chart in India. As per India Corruption Survey, 78% people in Rajasthan, participating in survey, admitted to paying a bribe to get work done. Bihar follows Rajasthan and was placed at second spot. In Bihar 75 % of citizens admitted to paying a bribe to get their work done. Uttar Pradesh was ranked third in list. In UP 74 % of citizens admitted to paying a bribe to get their work done. Jharkhand shares 3rd spot with UP, where 74% citizens admitted to paying a bribe to get their work done. Telangana rounds off top 5 list of ‘Most Corrupt States in India’, with about 67% of citizens admitted to paying bribes to get numerous pending work completed. Punjab ranks sixth in list, where 63% citizens accepted to paying bribes to get their work done. Karnataka shares the spot with Punjab. Tamil Nadu ranks seventh in most corrupt state’s list. Around 62% of citizens admitted to paying bribes to get their work done. Least Corrupt States: According to the list, Kerala is one of the least corrupt states, where only 10% of people admitted to paying a bribe to get their work done and all of them gave bribes several times (directly/ indirectly). Besides Kerala, Goa, Gujarat, Odisha, West Bengal, Haryana and Delhi are least corrupt states. Malayalam poet Akkitham wins 55th Jnanpith Award Eminent Malayalam poet Akkitham has been chosen for 55th Jnanpith Award for the year 2019. The announcement in this regard was made by Jnanpith Selection Board chaired by novelist, scholar and Jnanpith laureate Pratibha Ray. About Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri Born in 1926, he was popularly known as Akkitham. He is one of the most revered names in Malayalam poetry. Apart from poetry, his literary excellence has footprints in genre such as drama, critical essays, children literature, short stories, reminiscence and translations. He is a poet of rare integrity, a creator of many works, all considered as classics. His poetry reflects unfathomable compassion, imprints of Indian philosophical and moral values and a bridge between tradition and modernity. Akkitham’s Work: He has authored 55 books out of which 45 are collections of poems. This includes Katha Kavyas, Charitha Kavyas, Khanda Kavyas and songs. His other celebrated creations include Akkitham Kavithaka, Veeravadam, Nimisha Kshethram, Antimahakalam, Balidarsanam, Amrita Khatika, and Epic of Twentieth Century. His works have also been translated into many Indian as well as foreign languages. Awards: He has won Vayalar Award, Mathrubhumi Award, Kabir Samman Kerala, Padma Shri, Sahitya Akademi Award (1973), Sahitya Akademi Award (1972 and 1988). About Jnanpith Award Instituted in 1961, the Jnanpith Award is India’s highest literary honour. With this award, the Bhartiya Jnanpith trust recognises Indian litterateurs who write in one of 22 Indian languages listed in Schedule VIII of Indian Constitution. The winners receive a cash prize of 11 lakh rupees, a citation and a bronze replica of Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and wisdom. First winner of Jnanpith award was famour Malyalam writer G.S. Kurup.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 94 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 DHFL becomes 1st financialTarun Singh | [email protected] firm | to be taken to NCLT The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has referred Dewan Housing Finance Corp. Ltd (DHFL) to the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for insolvency proceedings, making it the first financial services player to go NCLT for a possible debt resolution. DHFL has a debt of Rrs.83,873 crore. As per the statutory inspection of DHFL conducted by the National Housing Bank, the DHFL showed a serious deterioration in its finances. It had public deposits of Rs.6,188 crore as on 6 July 2019, down from Rs.10,166.72 crore as on 31 March 2018. Key Highlights RBI has filed an application for initiation of corporate insolvency resolution process against DHFL under Section 227 of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016 read with Rules 5 and 6 of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Rules, 2019. R. Subramaniakumar, the RBI-appointed administrator for DHFL, will take over lender’s affairs once his appointment is approved by National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). New Powers Granted to RBI DHFL is first financial services firm to be sent to bankruptcy tribunal after government notified the rules for referring financial services providers (FSPs) on 15 November 2019. Thereby now, unlike insolvency proceedings for companies from other sectors, a Financial Services Providers (FSPs) creditor/debtor cannot approach tribunal- the firm has to be referred by a regulator. Under new powers granted to RBI in Union budget, the central bank can take over administration of privately-held financial services companies. Moreover, RBI can also remove auditors, call for an audit of any group company, and have a say on compensation of top management of an Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs). As per new FSP insolvency rules, an interim moratorium will start from the date of filing of application till its admission/ rejection. Way Forward: Most likely this model will be followed for other NBFC as well because currently there is a lot of discussion about other NBFCs not being in a position to meet their debt servicing obligations. This could also be a used as a tool for RBI to ensure timely resolution for large NBFCs with significant public investments. Code UKIBC sets up Aerospace and Defence Industry Group The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) announced the establishment of Aerospace and Defence Industry Group to boost bilateral cooperation in the areas. The initiative demonstrates close ties between Indian and United Kingdom’s aerospace and defence industry as well as recognises that UK-India relationship is at a critical turning point. Key Highlights In 2019, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between UK and India on ‘Defence Technology Industrial Capability Cooperation’, which highlighted UK government’s approach towards enhancing cooperation with India. The collaboration besides advancing India’s defence acquisition process will also foster long-term hardware and technology transfers. Aerospace and Defence Industry Group will support and build on huge opportunities for collaboration that exists between defence industries of India and UK. It has been formed after suggestions of Defence and Security Organisation as well as with support of UK Defence Solutions Centre, the Department for International Trade, ADS Group Ltd and industry. The group could contribute towards India’s continued emphasis on defence modernization, Make in India initiative and sophisticated military capabilities, which will be a win-win for both UK and India. Core members of group include: Rolls-Royce, BAE systems, Thales UK, TVS Logistics, MBDA, Leonardo, PEXA, Pattonair and Cranfield University.

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 95 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 UNEP EmissionsTarun Singh | [email protected] Gap Report | 2019 Recently released United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Emissions Gap Report-2019 warns that the Earth’s average temperature may rise by 3.2 degrees Celsius by 2100. Moreover, despite all scientific warnings and political commitments emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) couldn’t decrease globally. The report was released prior to United Nations Climate Conference (COP-25) to be held in Spain from 2 December 2019. It states that GHG emissions have increased by 1.5% since last decade and that carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions have reached an all-time high figure of 55.3 gigatons. Key Findings of UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2019 China, United States of America (USA), European Union (28) and India are among the top four greenhouse gas emitters. India: UNEP report highlights that India is regularly considering deadlines and targets to curb carbon emissionAs per the report, India’s per capita emission is one of the lowest within G20 countries. Also, India is one of the leading countries that are looking for electric vehicle development. Globally: The report suggested that only if Green House Gas (GHG) emissions are reduced by 7.6% every year during 2020 to 2030 period, only then the target of reducing global temperature can be achieved. As per the report, the largest GHG contribution comes from energy sector and its fossil fuel emissions. Thus to achieve the target of limiting temperature rise to no more than 1.5 ° C, all countries must reduce GHG emissions by up to 5 times. The report also highlights that if global temperature reaches at level of 1.5 degrees then coral reefs would be reduced by 70-90%. It also clarifies that by 2100, the world would be warmer 3.2 degrees that pre- industrial level. Key Recommendations of Emissions Gap Report 2019 The report suggested that each country has own unique opportunities to protect livelihood, natural resources and lives. Moreover, Complete de-carbonization of energy sector is possible and necessary. With renewable energy electricity, the emission reduction can achieve a target of 12.1 gigatonnes (GT) by 2050. Also, the electrification of transport can also help to reduce carbon emission up to 72% by 2050. Multiple Choice Questions 1. Which country’s President has been invited as the chief guest at the India’s 2020 Republic Day? [A] Italy [B] Brazil [C] Portugal [D] New Zealand Answer: Brazil The 11th BRICS Summit 2019 has been attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Brasilia.During the summit, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro accepted Prime Minister Modi’s invitation to be the Chief Guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations in 2020. 2. Which Indian personality has been named an honorary trustee of “The Metropolitan Museum of Art”? [A] Nita Ambani [B] Ratan Tata [C] Amitabh Bachchan [D] Priyanka Chopra Answer: Nita Ambani Nita Ambani, the founder and chairperson of the Reliance Foundation, has been named an honorary trustee of “The Metropolitan Museum of Art”. This decision was taken due to her commitment to © 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 96 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019

preserve and encourage Indian art and Tarunculture. Singh | [email protected] She is the | first Indian to be so honoured on the museum’s Board of Trustees in its nearly 150-year history. 3. Who has been appointed as new CMD of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC)? [A] Sudhir Kumar [B] Payal Sharma [C] Kamala Vardhana Rao [D] Kirti Patel Answer: Kamala Vardhana Rao G Kamala Vardhana Rao, an IAS officer 1990 batch from Kerala Cadre, has been appointed as new CMD of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC).The ITDC is a hospitality, retail and education company owned by Government of India, under Ministry of Tourism. It came into existence in October 1966 and owns over 17 properties under the Ashok Group of Hotels brand across India. 4. The first-ever Indo-US tri-services ‘Tiger Triumph’ has started in which state? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Andhra Pradesh [C] Himachal Pradesh [D] Uttar Pradesh Answer: Andhra Pradesh The 9-day humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) exercise code-named ‘Tiger Triumph’ has been started between armed forces of India and United States on the Eastern seaboard (at Visakhapatnam and Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh). The aim of the first-ever tri-services exercise is to develop inter-operability between the militaries of the two countries in HADR operations. 5. Which state government has decided to organize 2019 World Kabaddi Cup? [A] Tripura [B] Kerala [C] Tamil Nadu [D] Punjab Answer: Punjab The 2019 World Kabaddi Cup is being organized by the Punjab government i.e. scheduled to be held from December 1 to 9. This year’s tournament would be dedicated to the 550th birth anniversary of Sikh guru – Guru Nanak Dev ji. Nine teams — India, USA, Australia, England, Sri Lanka, Kenya, New Zealand, Pakistan and Canada — are expected to take part in the tournament. 6. Suranga Bawadi, which has been selected as the World Monument Watch List for 2020, is located in which state? [A] Andhra Pradesh [B] Nagaland [C] Karnataka [D] Mizoram Answer: Karnataka The Suranga Bawadi is an integral part of the ancient Karez system of supplying water through subterranean tunnels built during Adil Shahi era in Vijayapura, Karnataka. It is in news recently because Bawadi has been selected as the World Monument Watch List for 2020 by the New York-based non- governmental organisation under the category of “Ancient Water System of the Deccan Plateau” along with 24 monuments across the world. Now, the unique underground water system in Vijayapura will

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receive funds for restoration work. AccordingTarun Singh to| [email protected] historians, | the Karez system was built in the 16th century by Ali Adil Shah–I & his successor Ibrahim Adil Shah–II brought in several changes by adding more structures to strengthen it. 7. India is hosting the 19th Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of SCO 2020 in which city? [A] Chennai [B] New Delhi [C] Pune [D] Bangaluru Answer: New Delhi India will host the 19th Council of Heads of Government (CHG) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) 2020 in New Delhi. This will be first time that India is hosting a such high-level meeting of China-led eight-member economic and security bloc after becoming full member of the organisation in 2017. The latest Summit of heads of government was held in Tashkent in November 2019. The SCO is an influential regional security grouping which is seen as a counterweight to NATO. The aim of the SCO is to maintain peace, stability and security of the region. 8. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Kindness Day (WKD) is celebrated? [A] November 13 [B] November 14 [C] November 15 [D] November 16 Answer: November 13 The World Kindness Day (WKD) is celebrated every year on 13th of November to highlight good deeds in the community focusing on the positive power and the common thread of kindness which binds us. Kindness is a fundamental part of the human condition which bridges the divides of race religion, politics, gender and zip codes. The day was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, a coalition of nations’ kindness NGOs. The theme for 2019 edition is “Empathy, encouraging people across the globe to better understand “the pains of others” and touch their lives “positively”. 9. Which Indian scholar has won the 2019 BRICS-Young Innovator Prize? [A] Sunil Rajput [B] Ravi Prakash [C] Laxmi Jain [D] Deepankar Kumar Answer: Ravi Prakash Ravi Prakash, a PhD scholar of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI- Bengaluru), has won the $25,000 BRICS-Young Innovator Prize for inventing an affordable indigenous milk chilling unit for smaller and marginal rural dairy farmers. Prakash was a part of 21-member delegation sent to Brazil by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) for the 4th BRICS-Young Scientist Forum (YSF- 2019). 10. The 2019 International Lavi fair was held in which district of Himachal Pradesh? [A] Shimla [B] Hamirpur [C] Kangra [D] Kullu Answer: Shimla The 4-day-long International Lavi fair 2019 was held at Rampur in Shimla district. The main attraction

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during the fair was the sale and purchase Tarunof ChamurthiSingh | [email protected] horses | — an endangered species known as the ‘ship of the cold desert’. The Lavi Fair is approximately 400 years old & dates back to the time when Raja Kehari Singh of Rampur Bushahr state signed a treaty to promote trade with Tibet. Rampur was once a major trade centre as it is located on the old silk route connecting Afghanistan, Tibet and Ladakh. The traders from Tibet used to bring raw wool, herbs and leather products and take back wheat flour, rice, spices, butter, farm implements and livestock. 11. What is the India’s rank at the 2019 Global Bribery Risk Index? [A] 78th [B] 93rd [C] 102nd [D] 55th Answer: 78th India has been ranked 78th among 178 nations in the 2019 Global Bribery Risk Index, which was released by Trace Bribery Risk Matrix.The Matrix evaluates countries under four parameters which are business interaction with the government, anti-bribery deterrence, transparency and civil society oversight.TRACE is a US based organisation which provides ranking to various countries in terms of the risk of bribery companies face in doing business in those countries. 12. Which state government has launched the ‘Nadu-Nedu’ programme? [A] Andhra Pradesh [B] Kerala [C] Tamil Nadu [D] Karnataka Answer: Andhra Pradesh The Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jaganmohan Reddy has launched the ‘Nadu-Nedu’ programme to introduce English medium from classes 1 to 6 in state-run schools.The scheme will be implemented in 15,715 schools in the first phase. It will cover all schools in three years’ time with a budget of Rs 12,000 crores. 13. Vashishtha Narayan Singh, who passed away recently, was the noted personality of which field? [A] Maths [B] Biology [C] Chemistry [D] Physics Answer: Maths Renowned mathematician Vashishtha Narayan Singh passed away in Patna on 14th November 2019. Born in 1942 in Basantpur village of the Bhojpur district in Bihar, Singh became a legend as a student when he was allowed by Patna University to appear in the two-year course of B.Sc (Hons) in Mathematics in its very first year. 14. The Golden Leaf Awards are awarded for which sector? [A] Tobacco [B] Coffee [C] Tea [D] Jute Answer: Tobacco The Tobacco Board of India (Guntur) has been awarded the Golden Leaf Award at Tab Expo 2019 event

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in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The award Tarunwas Singh given | [email protected] in the most | impressive public service initiative category for the year 2019 for its efforts to initiate various sustainability (green) initiatives in Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco cultivation in India.The Golden Leaf Awards are created to recognise professional excellence and dedication in the tobacco industry by an international magazine Tobacco Reporter. 15. Who has been named FIFA’s Chief of global football development? [A] Robert Jerni [B] Arsene Wenger [C] Harendra Singh [D] Igor Stimac Answer: Arsene Wenger Veteran coach Arsene Wenger has been named FIFA’s Chief of global football development. He would be responsible for the growth of the game for both men and women around the world and would also be the leading authority on technical matters, including potential changes to the sport’s laws. 16. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Press Day (NPD) is celebrated in India? [A] November 16 [B] November 14 [C] November 17 [D] November 15 Answer: November 16 The National Press Day (NPD) is celebrated every year on 16th of November as symbolic of free and responsible press in India.This was the day on which the Press Council of India (PCI) started functioning as a moral watchdog to ensure that not only did the press maintain the high standards expected from this powerful medium but also that it was not fettered by the influence or threats of any extraneous factors. 17. Which union ministry has decided to launch Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK)? [A] Ministry of Finance [B] Ministry of Rural Development [C] Ministry of Women and Child Development [D] Ministry of HRD Answer: Ministry of Women and Child Development The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) and Textiles has decided to launch Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK) on 18th November 2019 in New Delhi. The BPKK is the repository of diverse crops across 128 agro-climatic zones in India for better nutritional outcomes. 18. Which Indian movie bagged the Best Director award at the 2019 Asian Film Festival Barcelona? [A] Super 30 [B] War [C] Bhonsle [D] Panipat Answer: Bhonsle Manoj Bajpayee-starrer and critically acclaimed movie “Bhonsle”, directed by Devashish Makhija, has won the prestigious awards at the 2019 Asian Film Festival Barcelona. The film bagged two awards in the ‘Best Screenplay’ and ‘Best Director’ categories at the festival. The movie revolves around a police constable, who tries to help in the struggles of migrants and their battles with the local politicians. It

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also addresses the concerns of various ethnicTarun Singh groups | [email protected] and highlights | the issues that they face in order to survive in a city like Mumbai, away from their home. 19. Which movie bagged the Golden Royal Bengal Tiger Award for the Best Film at the 25th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF)? [A] Aga’s House [B] The Painted Bird [C] Run Kalyani [D] The Weeping Woman Answer: The Weeping Woman Spanish movie ‘The Weeping Woman’ (La llorona) bagged the Golden Royal Bengal Tiger Award for the Best Film in International Competition of the 25th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF). 20. The 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) was held in which city? [A] Colombo [B] New Delhi [C] Hanoi [D] Bangkok Answer: Bangkok The 6th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus-2019) has recently held in Bangkok, Thailand on 18th November 2019. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh along with 17 other Defence Ministers of ADMM-Plus countries attended the meeting. Its purpose was to seek collaborations in terms of security with Ministry of Defence of countries outside the region. 21. Who has been sworn-in as new President of Sri Lanka? [A] Gotabaya Rajapakasa [B] Priyantha Sirisena [C] Namal Rajapaksa [D] Karu Jayasuriya Answer: Gotabaya Rajapakasa Gotabaya Rajapakasa, the controversial wartime defence secretary, has been sworn-in as 7th Executive President of Sri Lanka at the Ruwanweli Seya in Anuradhapura on 18th November 2019. He succeeded President Maithripala Sirisena for a 5-year term. Before the ceremony, the newly-elected president worshipped at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree in the Mahamewna Gardens and Ruwanweli Seya. 22. Which Indian boxer has been elected as a member of the first-ever international boxing body (AIBA) athletes’ commission? [A] Shiva Thapa [B] Laishram Sarita Devi [C] Mary Kom [D] Vijender Singh Answer: Laishram Sarita Devi Indian boxer, Laishram Sarita Devi of Manipur has been elected unopposed as a member of the first-ever international boxing body (AIBA) athletes’ commission. She was inspired by Muhammad Ali’s achievements, and turned professional in boxing in the year 2000. She is DSP in Manipur Police. The election of the Athletes Commission members was organized during AIBA Men and Women World Boxing Championships 2019 in Russia. Boxers from all over the world voted for new members – one per

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continent, except Europe which has two representatives.Tarun Singh | [email protected] | 23. Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, who has been sworn-in as the new Chief Justice of India (CJI), is a former Chief Justice of which High Court? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Rajasthan [C] Maharashtra [D] Uttar Pradesh Answer: Madhya Pradesh Justice Sharad Arvind Bobde, a former Chief Justice of Madhya Pradesh High Court, has recently administered oath as the 47th Chief Justice of India (CJI) by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhawan. He will have a tenure of over 17 months as the CJI and is due to retire on April 23, 2021. Justice Bobde has decided several key cases and was part of the recent historic Ayodhya verdict. He also headed a 3-member in-house committee which gave a clean chit to CJI Gogoi on a sexual harassment complaint against him by a former apex court staffer. Hailing from a family of lawyers from Maharashtra, he is the son of eminent senior advocate Arvind Shriniwas Bobde. 24. The Andhra Pradesh government has selected which IIM to help curb corruption in the state administration? [A] IIM Calcutta [B] IIM Indore [C] IIM Ahmedabad [D] IIM Bangalore Answer: IIM Ahmedabad The Andhra Pradesh government has selected IIM Ahmedabad to help curb corruption in the state administration. The institute would study the structural issues in the government departments in relation to corruption and come out with measures to tackle them. The focus would be on government departments that have earned alleged notoriety for corruption. Based on the IIM-A report, it was expected that the government may suitably amend the PC Act for a complete crackdown on corruption. 25. Which country has become the first country in the world to introduce WHO approved typhoid vaccine? [A] Sri Lanka [B] Pakistan [C] India [D] Bangladesh Answer: Pakistan Pakistan has become the first country in the world to introduce WHO-approved Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine (TCV) into its routine immunisation programme through a campaign mode in Sindh. Its an effort to combat a drug-resistant strain of the potentially fatal disease in the Sindh province. The two- week campaign has been launched with the support of Geneva-based Gavi vaccine alliance. The TCV is a one-dose vaccine, injected intramuscularly, that is lower in cost and has higher efficacy. It is expected to provide long lasting immunity in adults, children and infants older than 9 months of age. Typhoid is a highly contagious disease that spreads quickly when people live in crowded neighbourhoods with weak water and sanitation infrastructure. 26. Which state government has launched virtual classes project? [A] Chhattisgarh [B] Jharkhand

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[C] Uttarakhand Tarun Singh | [email protected] | [D] Bihar Answer: Uttarakhand Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has recently launched a project that will connect 500 government-run secondary schools to virtual classrooms in the state. The virtual classes are attended through video conferences where students can meet the teacher on a real-time basis and ask questions. Approx 1.90 lakh students of these schools will also benefit from the project. 27. The ‘SAANS’ campaign has been launched by which union ministry? [A] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change [B] Ministry of Human Resource Development [C] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare [D] Ministry of Jal Shakti Answer: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Harsh Vardhan has launched a ‘SAANS (Social Awareness and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully) campaign to curb pneumonia deaths among children. Under the campaign, a child suffering from pneumonia can be treated with pre-referral dose of anti- biotic amoxicillin by ASHA workers, and health and wellness centres can use pulse oximeter (device to monitor oxygen saturation) to identify low oxygen levels in the blood of a child, and if required, treat him by use of oxygen cylinders. The campaign will mobilize people to protect children from pneumonia, and train health personnel and other stakeholders to provide prioritized treatment to control the disease. 28. Which state government has launched Mukhyamantri Septic Tank Safai Yojana? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Uttar Pradesh [C] Rajasthan [D] Delhi Answer: Delhi Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has launched a scheme — Mukhyamantri Septic Tank Safai Yojana – to help people in waste management and to ensure the safety of sanitation workers. The government has plans to achieve three objectives with the scheme viz. a collection of waste from septic tanks in the colonies, ensuring safe disposal of the waste in sewage treatment plants, and deployment of trained staff with safety equipment for cleaning septic tanks. 29. The first-ever National Agrochemicals Congress (NAC) was held in which city? [A] Pune [B] Bangaluru [C] Chennai [D] New Delhi Answer: New Delhi In New Delhi, the first-ever National Agrochemicals Congress (NAC) was conducted by Society of Pesticide Science India at IARI, Pusa under the theme “Country’s Status on various fronts of Agro chemicals”. The 4-day long Congress is conducted in view of the role chemical pesticides still continue to play in pest management as more and more target specific and environment friendly products are being introduced. 30. Which state government has decided to create new new Foreign Cooperation department? [A] Odisha

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[B] Haryana Tarun Singh | [email protected] | [C] Karnataka [D] Kerala Answer: Haryana The Haryana Government has decided to create a dedicated new department namely Department of ‘Foreign Cooperation’ to deal in formulation of country-wise strategies for promotion of investment, employment in the state, education and skill development and promotion of Haryanavi culture and welfare of Haryanavi diaspora. The Haryana Cabinet has also decided to revise the House Rent Allowance admissible to the Ministers from Rs 50,000 to Rs 80,000 plus Rs 20,000 to cover electricity and water charges that is totalling Rs 1 Lakh per month. 31. What is the India’s rank in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking? [A] 62nd [B] 43rd [C] 59th [D] 68th Answer: 59th Due to low quality of life and expenditure on education, India has been ranked 59th on a global annual list of 63 countries in the 2019 IMD World Talent Ranking. The list was topped by Switzerland, followed by Denmark, Sweden and Austria. The ranking is based on the performance in three main categories — Investment & Development, Appeal and Readiness. 32. Which union ministry has launched Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK)? [A] Ministry of Women and Child Development [B] Ministry of Food Processing Industries [C] Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare [D] Ministry of Rural Development Answer: Ministry of Women and Child Development The Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh (BPKK) has been launched by Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) in partnership with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in New Delhi. The BPKK is a repository of diverse crops across 128 agro-climatic zones in India for better nutritional outcomes. 33. The bilateral maritime exercise “Roar of the Sea” has started between India & which country? [A] Qatar [B] Japan [C] Afghanistan [D] Saudi Arabia Answer: Qatar The first-ever joint naval exercise titled “Za’ir-Al-Bahr (Roar of the Sea)” has started between Qatar & India in Doha. The exercise would strengthen cooperation and increase interoperability between the two navies. 34. Which state Olympic Association has decided to launch ‘Grassroot Olympic – Mission Talent Hunt’ to groom talent? [A] Odisha [B] Rajasthan [C] Punjab [D] Assam

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Answer: Assam Tarun Singh | [email protected] | The Assam Olympic Association (AOA) has decided to launch a new programme – “Grassroot Olympic – Mission Talent Hunt” – to identify the sports talent in the state and groom them. The AOA will organize sports events in five categories covering players from 10 years to 60 years of age in the state. 35. Who is the author of the book “The Daughter from a Wishing Tree Unusual Tales about Women in Mythology”? [A] Sudha Chandran [B] Sudha Murty [C] Kiran Bedi [D] Lakshmi Venu Answer: Sudha Murty The book “The Daughter from a Wishing Tree Unusual Tales about Women in Mythology” has been authored by acclaimed author and Infosys Foundation chairman Sudha Murty. The book will tell numerous untold tales of women in mythology. It will talk about the magic spell that can make a dead person come alive, and the wishing tree that gives the wonderful gift of daughters. It will also answer some very curiosity invoking questions like who the gods turn to for support when they are helpless. 36. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Epilepsy Day (NED) is observed? [A] November 17 [B] November 18 [C] November 19 [D] November 20 Answer: November 17 In India, the National Epilepsy Day (NED) is observed every year on 17th of November to create awareness about epilepsy. Epilepsy is a chronic disorder of brain characterized by recurrent ‘seizures’ or ‘fits’. The seizures are caused as a result of sudden, excessive electrical discharges in the neurons (brain cells). The condition can affect people at any age and each age group has unique concerns and problems. 37. What is the theme of the 2019 edition of World Toilet Day (WTD)? [A] Toilets and Nutrition [B] Follow the Flush [C] When Nature Calls [D] Leaving No One Behind Answer: Leaving No One Behind The World Toilet Day (WTD) is observed every year on 19th of November to draw attention to those people being left behind without sanitation. The 2019 theme “Leaving No One Behind” aims to tackle the global sanitation crisis. It means that a toilet is not just a toilet. It’s a life-saver, dignity-protector and opportunity-maker. Whoever you are, wherever you are, sanitation is your human right. 38. Which company has launched 60 Starlink satellites for cheaper global Internet? [A] SpaceX [B] Blue Origin [C] Virgin Galactic [D] Boeing Answer: SpaceX Elon Musk-run SpaceX has recently launched 60 “Starlink” satellites into Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) from

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Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, FloridaTarun that Singh will| [email protected] bring cheaper | and reliable space-based internet access to the world. The “Starlink” satellites will be deployed at an altitude of 280 km to beam broadband Internet services. These satellites are part of the 2nd batch of SpaceXs broadband Internet mega constellation. Enabled by a constellation of low Earth-orbit satellites, Starlink will provide fast, reliable internet to populations with little or no connectivity, including those in rural communities and places where existing services are too expensive or unreliable. The Starlink network is one of several ongoing efforts to start beaming data signals from space, and also the most ambitious. 39. Jayakwadi Dam, sometimes seen in news, is located on which river? [A] Krishna [B] Kaveri [C] Godavari [D] Mahanadi Answer: Godavari The Jayakwadi Dam is located on Godavari river at the site of Jayakwadi village in Paithan taluka of Aurangabad district in Maharashtra. It is in news because the seismometer , piezometer, earth pressure cell, slope meter and several other key instruments installed at the dam have stopped functioning properly. The seismometer was installed at the Jayakwadi dam after the devastating earthquake in Killari in Latur district in 1993. This instrument is powerful as it has a range of 10,000 kms. In the past, it has recorded the epicentres of earthquakes in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia, Nepal, etc. 40. The Union government has banned which state-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC)? [A] Nagaland [B] Tripura [C] Mizoram [D] Meghalaya Answer: Meghalaya The Central government has recently banned Meghalaya-based insurgent group Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) for its increased activities of violence and other subversive acts. The government also declared HNLC and its factions, wings and front organisations as “unlawful associations” by exercising powers conferred by sub-section (1) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967. 41. Which state government has decided to start Arundhati gold scheme by January 2020? [A] Tamil Nadu [B] West Bengal [C] Assam [D] Kerala Answer: Assam The Assam government has decided to start Arundhati gold scheme by January 2020 for the registered newly married couples. Under the scheme, an amount of 30 thousand rupees will be given to the bride to purchase gold. The purpose of the scheme is to promote marriage registrations and prevent under-age marriages in the state. To get the benefit, the annual income of the bride and her father should not be more than 5 lakh rupees per year. As per the scheme, the minimum age of the bride and groom to be 18 and 21 years to avail the benefit. 42. Who has been named PETA India’s Person of the Year for 2019?

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[A] KS Panicker Radhakrishnan Tarun Singh | [email protected] | [B] Virat Kohli [C] Shashi Tharoor [D] R Madhavan Answer: Virat Kohli Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has been named People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India’s ‘Person of the Year for 2019’ for his animal advocacy efforts. also reportedly visited an animal shelter in Bengaluru to check on injured and formerly neglected dogs there, sending a message to his fans to adopt animals rather than buying them. The PETA is an American animal rights organization based in Norfolk, Virginia, and led by Ingrid Newkirk, its international president. 43. Who is the head of the panel on petrochemical investment? [A] P Raghavendra Rao [B] S Chaudhary [C] Pradeep Sharma [D] Rajat Bhargava Answer: Rajat Bhargava The Union Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals has appointed senior Andhra Pradesh bureaucrat Rajat Bhargava as head of a high-level committee to suggest necessary policy initiatives for attracting more investments into the Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemical Investment Regions (PCPIR) in the country. This is the first time the Union government is seeking to amend the PCPIR Policy after it was introduced. As per the PCPIR Policy, the Centre approved four PCPIRs at Dahej (Gujarat) on the west coast and Visakhapatnam- Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh), Paradeep (Odisha) and Cuddalore- Nagapattinam (Tamil Nadu) on the east coast. The VK-PCPIR is the largest in the country spread over an area of 640 sq km along the Bay of Bengal coast. 44. Which military unit has been honoured with President’s Colour award? [A] Mahar Regiment [B] Rajputana Rifles [C] Indian Naval Academy [D] The Garhwal Rifles Answer: Indian Naval Academy President Ram Nath Kovind presented the prestigious President’s Colour, to the Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala, Kerala. It is recognition of the yeoman service rendered by the institution in training and shaping Indian Naval officers over the last 50 years at three different locations – Kochi, Goa and Ezhimala. The President’s Colour is the highest honour that is bestowed upon a military unit. 45. What is the theme of the 2019 edition of World Children’s Day (WCD)? [A] Protect Child, Protect World [B] Children of today, our keepers tomorrow [C] Children are taking over and turning the world blue [D] Kids Take Over Answer: Children of today, our keepers tomorrow The World Children’s Day (WCD) is observed every year on 20th of November across the world to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare. The 2019 theme is “Children of today, our keepers tomorrow”. This year is special as it marks 30 years of the Convention on the Rights of the Child – 30 years of child rights that have helped

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transform children’s lives around the world.Tarun Singh | [email protected] | 46. Which city has become the India’s first City to Install ‘Third Umpire’ RT-PCR Machines? [A] Mumbai [B] Chennai [C] Kolkata [D] Delhi Answer: Kolkata The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has installed first of its kind high-end Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) machines in India for quick detection of diseases like dengue, tuberculosis and swine flu. These machines are to serve as a Third Umpire in situations when medical reports and blood tests reveal contradictory results. The purpose of these machines is to give accurate DNA report on blood tests in order to ascertain the exact cause of illness. Through these machines, the tests will be conducted free of cost 47. IRCTC has signed pact with which state tourism to market & run Golden Chariot train? [A] Karnataka [B] Maharashtra [C] Kerala [D] Tamil Nadu Answer: Karnataka The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation (KSTDC) to market and operate the Golden Chariot train. IRCTC is expected to carry out an internal refurbishment of the train and commence operations from March 2020. The new itineraries shall be a mix of history, culture, wildlife and nature. It is proposed to include Bandipur, Mysore, Halebid, Chikmagalur, Hampi, Bijapur and Goa in the itinerary. As per the pact, KSTDC will soon hand over the reins of the train to IRCTC. 48. NASA scientists have recently detected water vapor on which Jupiter’s moon? [A] Ganymede [B] Europa [C] Callisto [D] Io Answer: Europa For the first time, NASA scientists have discovered the presence of water vapor above the surface of Jupiter’s icy moon Europa using the W. M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii. The researchers detected 5,202 pounds of water releasing from Europa per second, which could fill an Olympic-size swimming pool within minutes. 49. Which country has declared that Israeli settlements on West Bank do not violate international laws? [A] United Kingdom [B] Russia [C] United States [D] France Answer: United States The United States has recently declared that Israeli settlements on occupied Palestinian land “West Bank “ donot violate international laws. The US declaration marks the rejection of a 2016 UN Security Council (UNSC) resolution that settlements on the West Bank are a “flagrant violation” of international

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law and the US legal position on the issueTarun Singhsince | [email protected] 1978. It |is also a rejection of the Fourth Geneva Convention of 1949, which outlaws transfers of population by an occupying power, and a new rift with US allies in Europe and in the Islamic world. 50. Which Indian state has launched the first Hindi daily “Arun Bhoomi”? [A] Arunachal Pradesh [B] Nagaland [C] Tripura [D] Mizoram Answer: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu has recently launched the first Hindi daily Titled ‘Arun Bhoomi’ of the state to promote Hindi amongst the new generation of Arunachalees. The Hindi daily will be published and edited by Takam Sonia. Takam also heads the Arunachal Hindi Sanstha, an organization working for promotion and propagation of Hindi language in the state. 51. Which international organisation has released World Energy Outlook (WEO-2019)? [A] IMF [B] WHO [C] IEA [D] WB Answer: IEA The International Energy Agency (IEA) has recently released its latest World Energy Outlook (WEO) report. In the 2019 edition, IEA projected a rapid increase in installed installed solar capacity by 2040, from 495 GW now to 3,142 GW. Though, it expects (CO2) emissions to continue rising for decades unless polices reflect greater ambition on climate change. This is primarily due to the longevity of the existing stock of coal-based plants, which account for 30% of all energy-related emissions. IEA is an inter-governmental organisation established in the framework of the Organisation for Economic Co- operation and Development (OECD). 52. Which international organization has organized the 2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products – Achieving the SDGs 2030 in New Delhi? [A] WHO [B] UNICEF [C] UNESCO [D] IMF Answer: WHO The 2019 World Conference on Access to Medical Products- Achieving the SDGs 2030 was held in New Delhi from 19-21 November 2019. It was jointly organized by the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) and the World Health Organization (WHO). The conference provided a platform for discussions focused on creating an enabling legal and trade environment for public health which are critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 Agenda. 53. Who has been conferred the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2019? [A] Angela Merkel [B] Ellen Johnson Sirleaf [C] David Attenborough [D] Ela Bhatt Answer: David Attenborough

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Tarun Singh | [email protected] | Renowned naturalist and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough has been chosen for the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2019. He has been recognized for a lifetime of doing more to reveal the wonders of the natural world to us than perhaps any other individual. 54. Which tech giant has organized the South Asia Safety Summit 2019? [A] Microsoft [B] Facebook [C] Twitter [D] Infosys Answer: Facebook The 2nd edition of South Asia Safety Summit 2019 was held in New Delhi to highlight the issue of safety while individuals and communities are connected on the digital platform. It was organized by Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) and Facebook. During the Summit, Union Minister Smriti Zubin Irani launched “We Think Digital” website. The website is a four-part course designed to empower students with the knowledge to use, understand, evaluate, communicate and create with digital technologies. The programme will focus on online safety, privacy and misinformation. 55. The first-ever pink ball Test match is being held between India & which country? [A] South Africa [B] Bangladesh [C] New Zealand [D] England Answer: Bangladesh The first-ever pink ball Test match between India and Bangladesh is being held at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on 22nd November 2019. Pink balls will be used in place of red balls for better visibility under lights. BCCI President Sourav Ganguly unveiled the official mascots of the event “Pinku-Tinku”. Its also India’s first Day-Night Test against Bangladesh. The Eden Gardens has a capacity of 67,000. 56. Which state government has launched YSR Matsyakara Bharosa scheme for fishermen? [A] Andhra Pradesh [B] Tamil Nadu [C] West Bengal [D] Kerala Answer: Andhra Pradesh On the occasion of World Fisheries Day (WFD-2019), Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy has launched a welfare scheme – YSR Matsyakara Bharosa – for fishermen. Under this scheme, 1,32,332 fishermen in the 21-60 age group will get an enhanced monetary relief of Rs 10,000 each during the marine ban and lean period every year between April and June. Also, the subsidy on diesel has been increased from Rs 6.03 to Rs 9 per litre, applicable to the mechanised (3000 Ltrs) and motorized boats (300 Ltrs) for 10 months every year. 57. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Fisheries Day (WFD) is observed? [A] November 22 [B] November 21 [C] November 23 [D] November 20 Answer: November 21 The World Fisheries Day (WFD) is observed every year on 21st of November across the world by the

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fisherfolk community to ensure sustainableTarun Singh stocks | [email protected] of fisheries | and healthy oceans ecosystems. Fisheries is an important sector in India that provides employment to millions of people apart from contributing to the food security of the country. India has over 8,000 km of coastline, and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of over 2 million sq km, and extensive freshwater resources. 58. Which country is hosting the world’s first Muslim yoga camp? [A] India [B] Israel [C] Bangladesh [D] China Answer: India The world’s first Muslim yoga camp has started at Kanva Ashram in Kotdwar town of Uttarakhand on 20th November & will conclude on November 24. Approx 500 Muslim men and women from different countries are participating in the event. The event will send a healthy message to the world that yoga does not belong to a particular religion and is beneficial for entire humanity. 59. On which date, the 2019 edition of World Television Day (WTD) is observed? [A] November 22 [B] November 20 [C] November 21 [D] November 23 Answer: November 21 The World Television Day (WTD) is observed every year on 21st of November across the world to acknowledge the role of broadcast media. The day also marks the commitment of governments, news organisations and individuals to deliver unbiased information in times when veracity of content on social media is questionable. 60. Which tech giant has launched ‘K-12 Education Transformation Framework’ to facilitate digital transformation of schools in India? [A] Twitter [B] Wipro [C] Facebook [D] Microsoft Answer: Microsoft Microsoft has launched its ‘K-12 Education Transformation Framework’ to facilitate comprehensive digital transformation of schools in India. The framework consists of four pillars — Leadership and policy, Modern teaching and learning, Intelligent environments and Technology blueprint. The purpose of the framework is to provide education leadership, government decision-makers, teachers and most importantly learners, tools to achieve the ambitious change many schools seek, and to thoughtfully integrate technology in powerful and productive ways. 61. Which state government has decided to legalize the cultivation of cannabis in the state for medical and industrial purpose? [A] Haryana [B] Karnataka [C] Madhya Pradesh [D] Punjab Answer: Madhya Pradesh

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Tarun Singh | [email protected] | The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to legalize the cultivation of cannabis in the state for medical and industrial purpose. It is clear that the farmers can only sell their produce to the government and not to private buyers. The government will allow the farming of hemp (a type of marijuana) for medical purposes like in the treatment of cancer. Hemp with a Tetra-Hydro-Cannabinol (THC) content of 0.3 to 1.5% can be used for industrial purposes like in the manufacturing of fiber. 62. Chitharesh Natesan, who became the first Indian to be crowned Mr Universe 2019, is from which state? [A] Telangana [B] Tamil Nadu [C] Odisha [D] Kerala Answer: Kerala Indian bodybuilder Chitharesh Natesan from Kerala has become the first Indian to be crowned Mr Universe 2019 at the 11th World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship (WBPF) at the Island city of Jeju in South Korea. He won the title in the 90 kg category in the WBPF 2019. Earlier, he also bagged the Mr Asia 2019 title at the Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship (ABBF) held in Thailand in October. 63. Which Indian organisation hosted the first-ever Counter Terrorism Table Top Exercise (CTTE) for the Quad countries? [A] BSF [B] DRDO [C] NIA [D] Indian Army Answer: NIA The National Investigation Agency (NIA) hosted the first-ever Counter Terrorism Table Top Exercise (CTTE) for the Quad countries at its headquarters in Delhi on November 21-22, 2019. The Quad countries include the United States (US), India, Australia, and Japan. According to the NIA, the exercise was to assess and validate Counter Terrorism (CT) response mechanisms in the light of emerging terrorist threats. It also aims to provide opportunities to share the best practices and to explore areas for enhanced cooperation amongst participating countries. 64. Which union ministry is organizing the Destination North East (NE) in Varanasi? [A] Ministry of Home Affairs [B] Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region [C] Ministry of Finance [D] Ministry of Defense Answer: Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region The Destination North East (NE) Festival is being organized by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh on 23rd November 2019. The 4-day festival will showcase art, culture, cuisine, handicrafts and handlooms of the northeastern region. During the festival, the visitors will have live experience of the artisans and artistes from the Northeast working on their looms and crafts, performing their songs and dances in the open stage. 65. Which business tycoon has been conferred with Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)? [A] Azim Permji [B] Mukesh Ambani

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[C] Ratan Tata Tarun Singh | [email protected] | [D] Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Answer: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, CMD of Biocon, has been conferred with Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for her outstanding achievement in healthcare and contribution to the society at large. She was also recognised for her philanthropic efforts and providing better healthcare to people in India and globally through cost-effective life-saving therapies and increasing access to healthcare at the grassroots. Bill Gates gave away this award to Mazumdar-Shaw in New Delhi on Nov 17 at an event to mark the celebration of 108th Foundation Day of ICMR. 66. The NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 is being held in which village of Haryana? [A] Badesra [B] Nathuwas [C] Chandeni [D] Manesar Answer: Manesar In Haryana, the NuGen Mobility Summit 2019 is being organized by International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) in Manesar under the theme “Smart & Green Mobility”. It aims to find alternative mobility solutions to problems like pollution emanating from vehicular emissions. 67. The Union Cabinet has recently approved establishment of the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa (NISR) under which union ministry? [A] Ministry of Home Affairs [B] Ministry of Tribal Affairs [C] Ministry of AYUSH [D] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Answer: Ministry of AYUSH The Union Cabinet has recently approved the establishment of the National Institute for Sowa-Rigpa in Leh as an autonomous organization under the Ministry of AYUSH. The Sowa-Rigpa is a Traditional Medical system of the Himalayan belt in India. It has been popularly practiced in Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Darjeeling (West Bengal), Himachal Pradesh, Union Territory of Ladakh and now all over India. The Institute would provide an impetus for the revival of Sowa-Rigpa in the Indian Sub-continent. It will also provide opportunities for students of Sowa-Rigpa not only in India but also from other countries. 68. Nilkanth Khadilkar, who passed away recently, was the noted personality of which field? [A] Photography [B] Journalism [C] Politics [D] Arts Answer: Journalism Nilkanth Khadilkar (85) , the noted editor of Marathi newspaper Navakal, has passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra on 22nd November 2019. He was the editor of the newspaper for 27 years and had gained popularity for his hard-hitting editorials which became the daily’s popular feature. He was also author of a few books, including “Practical Socialism: musings from a tour of Russia”. 69. Who is set to become the first woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval operations? [A] Nikita Gupta [B] Komal Sharma

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[C] Divya Kumari Tarun Singh | [email protected] | [D] Shivangi Answer: Shivangi Woman officer Sub Lt Shivangi is expected to become the first woman pilot of Indian Navy to join Naval operations. She will join naval operations on completion of operational training at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi, Kerala on December 2, 2019. She hails from Muzzafarpur, Bihar and completed her schooling from DAV Public school, Muzzafarpur. 70. Shaukat Kaifi, who passed away recently, was the renowned actress of which cinema? [A] Hindi [B] Tamil [C] Telugu [D] Marathi Answer: Hindi Shaukat Kaifi (93), the veteran Bollywood actor and Shabana Azmi’s mother, has passed away in Mumbai on 23rd November 2019. Kaifi’s husband “Kaifi Azmi” was the celebrated Urdu poet and film lyricist. She and her husband were leading lights of the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA) and the Progressive Writers Association (IWA), which were the cultural platforms of the Communist Party of India (CPI). Also credited as Shaukat Azmi, Kaifi’s acting credits include ‘Bazaar’, ‘Umrao Jaan’ and Mira Nair’s Oscar-nominated film ‘Salaam Bombay’. Her last film was Shaadi Ali’s ‘Saathiya’. 71. Who has been bestowed with the 28th Bihari Puraskar for 2018? [A] Vijay Verma [B] Satya Narayan [C] Manisha Kulshreshtha [D] Bhagwati Lal Vyas Answer: Manisha Kulshreshtha Manisha Kulshreshtha, the noted writer from Rajasthan, has been conferred the 28th Bihari Puraskar for 2018 for her novel ‘Swapnapash’. The award is presented by the KK Birla Foundation and is for writers of Rajasthani origin. It is given annually to an outstanding work in Hindi or Rajasthani published in the past 10 years. The award is named after famous Hindi poet Bihari. It carries a cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh, a citation, and a plaque. 72. Bougainville, which is in news recently, is the province of which country? [A] Solomon Islands [B] Fiji [C] Kiribati [D] Papua New Guinea Answer: Papua New Guinea The people of Bougainville have started casting vote in a referendum on independence from Papua New Guinea (PNG). If the vote for independence passes, the autonomous province with 206,000 people could become the world’s newest independent nation. The referendum is part of a peace deal in 2001 that ended a bloody civil war between Bougainville and PNG. The referendum presents two options, either greater autonomy from PNG, or complete independence. However, the referendum is nonbinding and a vote for independence would require ratification from the Papuan Parliament. Bougainville is the small archipelago of Pacific islands. Its history includes colonial exploitation, attempts at independence, a 9- year war and a gradual peace process.

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

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‘Kashmir Princess’ probe in the mid-1950s,Tarun his Singh contributions | [email protected] in | the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971 and role in ensuring Sikkim’s merger with India. 77. Which state government has decided to constitute State Folk Art Council (SFAC)? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Rajasthan [C] Chhattisgarh [D] Uttar Pradesh Answer: Chhattisgarh The Chhattisgarh government has decided to constitute State Folk Art Council (SFAC) for preserving and nurturing traditional art forms and artists. The council will also ensure registration of folk art troupes of all kinds, enlist them and take necessary steps to provide certain assistance including musical instruments and other materials required by them. It would promote folk arts of the state through modern promotional mediums, organize festivals at archaeological and cultural heritage sites. 78. The 8th International Tourism Mart (ITM-2019) was held in which city? [A] Imphal [B] Guwahati [C] Itanagar [D] Kolkata Answer: Imphal The Ministry of Tourism is organizing the 8th International Tourism Mart in association with the North Eastern States at Imphal, Manipur from 23rd to 25th November 2019. The event aims to highlight the tourism potential of the region in the domestic and international markets. It brings together the tourism business fraternity and entrepreneurs from the 8 North Eastern States. 79. Oxford Dictionaries has named which word as its 2019 Word of the Year? [A] Climate action [B] Climate denial [C] Climate anxiety [D] Climate emergency Answer: Climate emergency The Oxford Dictionaries has declared “climate emergency” as its 2019 Word of the Year. In 2019, “climate” became the most common word associated with “emergency”. The Word of the Year citation is intended to highlight a word or expression shown through usage evidence to reflect the ethos, mood, or preoccupations of the passing year, and have a lasting potential as a term of cultural significance. 80. Which state government has decided to provide 5% reservation for its athletes in govt jobs? [A] Haryana [B] Uttar Pradesh [C] Punjab [D] Madhya Pradesh Answer: Madhya Pradesh In Madhya Pradesh, the state government has decided to provide 5% reservation for national and international medallists in government jobs. It was announced by Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Jitu Patwari during the inauguration of Under 16 state-level Olympic Games at Kampoo sports complex in Gwalior on 24th November 2019. He also announced that children from all CBSE, government and private schools would be involved in the Olympics. At present, the competition is being organized for

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children above 16 years of age. He said itTarun includes Singh | [email protected] 10 sports | — hockey, basketball, football, volleyball, kabaddi, kho-kho, athletics, wrestling, badminton and table tennis. 81. Kailash Joshi, who passed away recently, was the former CM of which country? [A] Rajasthan [B] Madhya Pradesh [C] Uttar Pradesh [D] Chhattisgarh Answer: Madhya Pradesh Kailash Joshi (91), the former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh & BJP leader, has passed away in Bhopal on 24th of November 2019. His last rites performed at his ancestral town Hatpipalya in Dewas district. Born on 14th July 1929, Joshi was called as the ‘saint of politics’. He served as the state’s chief minister from 1977 to 1978. He was MLA for 8 terms and also served as member of both the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha. 82. Who became the first Indian bowler to take five-wicket haul with a pink ball? [A] Mohammed Shami [B] Umesh Yadav [C] Ishant Sharma [D] Jasprit Bumrah Answer: Ishant Sharma Ishant Sharma has become the first Indian bowler to take five-wicket haul in the Day-night Pink ball Test against Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Earlier, Mohammad Nisar was the first-ever Indian bowler to take a five-wicket haul with the red ball against England at Lord’s in 1932. Interestingly, current head-coach Ravi Shastri holds the record of first-ever five-wicket haul by an Indian with the white ball when he took 5-wickets against Australia at WACA in 1991. 83. Which Indian Armed force has celebrated ‘Poonch Link Up Day’? [A] Indian Army [B] Indian Air Force [C] Indian Navy [D] Indian Coast Guard Answer: Indian Army On 23rd November 2019, Indian Army celebrated the historic Poonch Link-up Day with traditional gaiety & fervour to mark the Operation Easy conducted by them in 1948 to defend the border district from the invading Pakistani raiders. Poonch withstood a siege by the Pakistanis from November 1947 till relieved by the Indian Army. The day marks the historic link up carried out by Brigadier Pritam Singh’s forces with Brigadier Yadunath’s forces from Rajouri at Danna Ka Pir on 21 November 1948. 84. India’s first largest biotechnology stakeholders conglomerate – the Global Bio-India (GBI) Summit 2019 was held in which city? [A] Chennai [B] New Delhi [C] Pune [D] Kolkata Answer: New Delhi India’s first largest biotechnology stakeholders conglomerate – the Global Bio-India (GBI) Summit, 2019 was held in New Delhi on 24th November. The 3-day summit provided an opportunity to showcase the

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potential of India’s biotech sector to theTarun international Singh | [email protected] community, | identify, create opportunities and deliberate on the key challenges in the areas of Bio-pharma, Bio-Agri, Bio-Industrial, Bio-Energy and Bio- Services and allied sectors. 85. Which state government has launched immunisation campaign against Filaria? [A] Uttar Pradesh [B] Madhya Pradesh [C] Rajasthan [D] Kerala Answer: Uttar Pradesh The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a massive immunization campaign against the filariasis (or Filaria) from 25th of November 2019. Under this campaign, more than 65 thousand teams of health workers will distribute medicines to around 6.5 crore people till 10 December in 19 districts. The Central government has set year 2021 as the deadline for complete eradication of filaria in country. 86. The Arcadia Education Project of which country has won 2019 Aga Khan Architecture Award? [A] India [B] Bangladesh [C] Nepal [D] Sri Lanka Answer: Bangladesh The Floating school named ‘The Arcadia Education Project’ has won the prestigious Aga Khan Architecture Award 2019 in Kajan, republic of Tatarastan. The school is located in South Kanarchor of Bangladesh. It is an innovative project for constructing a floating school for marginalized children in the country. The architect of the project Saif Ul Haque designed a school which remains on the ground during dry season and floats when the area is submerged in water during monsoon. He utilized only the local material-bamboo, used tyres and steel drums for constructing the amphibious structure for school. The workforce and artisans for the project were also drawn locally. The school also serves as a shelter, a day care centre and a vocational training centre for the local people. 87. Which country’s team has won the 2019 Davis Cup title? [A] Spain [B] Canada [C] Switzerland [D] USA Answer: Spain In tennis, World No. 1 Rafael Nadal has clinched 6th Davis Cup title for Spain after beating Denis Shapovalov of Canada in front of a jubilant home crowd in Madrid. Nadal defeated Shapovalov 6-3, 7-6 (9-7) to clinch Spain’s 2-0 win against Canada. 88. Simon Taufel, who launched his book “Finding The Gaps”, is the former cricket umpire of which country? [A] South Africa [B] New Zealand [C] Australia [D] Sri Lanka Answer: Australia The book “Finding The Gaps: Transferable Skills to Be the Best You Can Be” has been authored by former Australian cricket umpire Simon Taufel. This book is a way of sharing those lessons and

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transferable soft skills that can be appliedTarun to Singh anyone | [email protected] or any vocation.| Taufel is known for his accuracy and extreme fitness & maintained immense respect from players up to his retirement from the international game in 2012. 89. On which date, the 2019 edition of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is observed? [A] November 25 [B] November 26 [C] November 24 [D] November 23 Answer: November 25 The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed every year on 25th of November to raise awareness of the fact that women around the world are subject to rape, domestic violence and other forms of violence. The official theme for 2019 is “Orange the World: Generation Equality Stands Against Rape”. 90. The 70th Constitution Day of India has celebrated on which date? [A] November 25 [B] November 27 [C] November 28 [D] November 26 Answer: November 26 The 70th Constitution Day (or Samvidhan divas) is celebrated on 26th of November 2019 across the country to mark the adopting of the Indian Constitution by the Constituent Assembly on this day in 1949. The constituent assembly took two years, 11 months and 17 days to accomplish the stupendous task of drafting the historic document. It is the longest written constitution of any sovereign country in the world. The Constitution declares India a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic, assuring its citizens justice, equality and liberty and endeavours to promote fraternity. It came into force on 26th January 1950 to marking the beginning of a new era in the history of Indian Republic. 91. Which state government has launched a citizen helpline No. 14400 for corruption-related complaints? [A] Uttar Pradesh [B] Andhra Pradesh [C] Madhya Pradesh [D] Rajasthan Answer: Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy has recently launched a citizen helpline number – 14400 – to enable people to complain about graft in government departments. The citizens could directly call the helpline and lodge a complaint against corruption in any government department. All complaints would be investigated in 15 to 30 days and required action will be taken. 92. Which Indian armed force is set to host multi-nation military drill ‘Milan 2020’? [A] Indian Air Force [B] Indian Coast Guard [C] Indian Navy [D] Indian Army Answer: Indian Navy The Indian Navy will host multi-nation military drill ‘Milan 2020’ at Visakhapatnam in March 2020 & will

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witness the participation of 41 nations fromTarun South Singh | [email protected] Asia, Southeast | Asia, Africa and Europe. The areas of cooperation include capacity building, marine domain awareness, training, hydrography, technical assistance, operational exercise. 93. Sudhir Dhar, who passed away recently, was the renowned personality of which field? [A] Painting [B] Journalism [C] Cartoon [D] Poetry Answer: Cartoon Renowned cartoonist Sudhir Dhar (87) has passed away in Gurgaon on 26th of November 2019. His works graced several newspapers in a career spanning 58 years. He began his career with The Statesman in 1961 after which he moved to Hindustan Times. His cartoons have also appeared in The Independent, The Pioneer, Delhi Times, New York Times, Washington Post and Saturday Review among others. 94. The Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) has been set up in which city? [A] Dehradun [B] Hyderabad [C] Pune [D] Bangaluru Answer: Hyderabad In Telangana, the Indian Railway Institute of Financial Management (IRIFM) has been set up in Hyderabad to impart professional training in management of railway finances. The institution marks an important addition to the list of premier professional institutions in the country in the field of financial management. The IRIFM institution is based on a 14-acre campus at Moula-Ali, Secunderabad. 95. The Guru Ghasidas National Park is located in which district of Chhattisgarh? [A] Korea [B] Bilaspur [C] Jashpur [D] Mungeli Answer: Korea The Chhattisgarh government has decided to declare Guru Ghasidas National Park in the Korea district as a tiger reserve. Presently the state has three tiger reserves viz. Indravati in Bijapur district, Udanti- Sitanadi in Gariaband and Achanakmar in Bilaspur. 96. Which country has strongly criticized China’s lending practices under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)? [A] Russia [B] United States [C] France [D] England Answer: United States Top US diplomat Alice Wells has strongly criticized China’s international development projects and lending practices under its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). He also questioned the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on its commercial viability. China does not report on its overall lending despite being the largest lender globally. Hence, neither rating agencies nor the Paris club nor IMF are able to monitor those financial transactions. The lack of transparency was a means to hide risks to

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countries that borrowed from China to financeTarun Singh | [email protected] development | projects. It leads to a surrender of strategic assets and it diminishes sovereignty. The case of Hambantota Port in Sri Lanka and a runway in the Maldives were among the projects cited as examples of China financing projects of questionable commercial viability. 97. The Proposed Etalin Hydroelectric Project, sometimes seen in news, is associated to which state? [A] Odisha [B] Tripura [C] Punjab [D] Arunachal Pradesh Answer: Arunachal Pradesh The Union government has recommended a biodiversity study of the proposed 3,097 MW Etalin Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh by a credible international institute since the current environmental impact assessment was found to be completely inadequate. The project is estimated to cost Rs 25,296.95 crore & is proposed to be completed in 7 years. But, the project would entail felling 2,80,677 trees and threatens the existence of 6 globally-endangered mammal species. The area also has 680 species of birds, which is about 56% of the total avian species found in India. The Forest Advisory Committee of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has also advised caution in pursuing the project since it falls under the richest bio-geographical province of the Himalayan zone and would be located at the junction of the Palaearctic, Indo-Chinese and Indo-Malayan bio-geographic regions. 98. Which state cabinet has approved the nomination of at least one differently abled member to each panchayat? [A] UP [B] Odisha [C] Rajasthan [D] Chhattisgarh Answer: Chhattisgarh By amending the State Panchayati Raj Act of 1993, the Chhattisgarh Cabinet has made it mandatory the presence of at least one differently-abled member to each panchayat. If differently abled members are not elected through the electoral process, then one member – either male or female – would be nominated as a panch. The state will now have 11,000 persons with disabilities as representatives at the panchayat level. The state Cabinet also decided to drop the educational qualifications eligibility criterion for contesting panchayat elections. 99. The Union government has decided to merge which of the following Union Territories (UTs)? [A] Puducherry & Lakshadweep [B] Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli [C] A&N and Lakshadweep [D] Chandigarh & Delhi Answer: Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli Union Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha to merge two Union Territories — Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli – into one. The move comes after Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) was divided into two UTs — J&K and Ladakh. Currently, India has 9 UTs after the creation of the UTs of J&K and Ladakh. 100. Which university has become the first state university of Madhya Pradesh to be accorded A+ Grade

© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 121 Current Affairs [PDF] - November 16-30, 2019 from National Assessment and AccreditationTarun Council Singh | [email protected] (NAAC)? | [A] Jiwaji University [B] Maharaja Chhatrasal Bundelkhand University [C] Devi Ahilya University [D] Barkatullah University Answer: Devi Ahilya University The Indore-based Devi Ahilya University has become the first university of Madhya Pradesh to be accorded A grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). Now, the Centre of higher learning became entitled to several other facilities. It may introduce courses recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) without the latter’s permission besides commencing open distance-learning courses. The institute was established in 1964 by an Act of Legislature of Madhya Pradesh. 101. The Uttar Pradesh government has decided to set up its 1st vulture conservation in which district? [A] Lucknow [B] Sitapur [C] Maharajganj [D] Raebareli Answer: Maharajganj In a bid to conserve the endangered vulture population, the Uttar Pradesh government has decided to set up state’s first vulture conservation and breeding centre in farenda area of Maharajganj district. The new centre would be set up in association with Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), a wildlife research organization. It will be the first scientific assessment of vultures in the state to find out which species is most threatened and the locations where these natural scavengers are thriving. It will be set up on the lines of Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre at Pinjore in Haryana, which is also the first in the country.

102. On which date, the 2019 edition of National Milk Day (NMD) is celebrated in India? [A] November 29 [B] November 26 [C] November 28 [D] November 27 Answer: November 26 The National Milk Day (NMD) is celebrated every year on 26th of November to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Verghese Kurien, the father of India’s White Revolution. The White Revolution (also known as Operation Flood) was launched in 1970. It is considered to be world’s biggest dairy development programme which transformed India from a milk deficient nation to the one of the largest producers of milk in the world. 103. Which union ministry has launched Credit-linked Subsidy Services Awas Portal (CLAP)? [A] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs [B] Ministry of Road Transport and Highways [C] Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare [D] Ministry of Women and Child Development Answer: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs The Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Hardeep Singh Puri launched Credit-linked Subsidy Services Awas Portal (CLAP) in New Delhi on 27th of November 2019. The portal provides a transparent

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and robust real-time web-based monitoringTarun Singh | [email protected] for | credit-linked Subsidy Services, CLSS, beneficiaries. Using the portal, a beneficiary can track his application status in real-time. 104. Which union ministry has launched Kartavya portal as part of nationwide Nagrik Kartavya Palan Abhiyan? [A] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare [B] Ministry of Human Resource Development [C] Ministry of Home Affairs [D] Ministry of Women and Child Development Answer: Ministry of Human Resource Development On the occasion of 70th Constitution Day, Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched the kartavya.ugc.ac.in portal as a part of year long nationwide ‘Nagrik Kartavya Paalan Abhiyan’. The portal will be used primarily for holding monthly essay competitions for students as well as other activities like quizzes, debates, poster making etc pertaining to Abhiyan. 105. Which Indian scientist has been conferred the RAeS Honorary Fellowship of the Society 2019? [A] Punit Goenka [B] K Sivan [C] G Satheesh Reddy [D] Ram Sewak Sharma Answer: G Satheesh Reddy The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) London has conferred the Honorary Fellowship of the Society for the year 2019 to G Satheesh Reddy, Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO. Reddy is the first Indian recipient of this prestigious award in over 100 years. Honorary Fellowship from RAeS is one of the world’s highest distinctions for aerospace achievement awarded for only the most exceptional contributions to the aerospace profession. It is considered as equivalent to the Nobel Prize in the aerospace domain. 106. Which state has topped the overall crimes against children, as per latest CRY Report? [A] Uttar Pradesh [B] Punjab [C] Haryana [D] Odisha Answer: Uttar Pradesh The Child Relief and You (CRY) has recently its report titled “How vulnerable are children in India to crime?”, which is based on the latest National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for 2016-2017 data released on 21st October 2019 after a gap of two years. The report reveals that crimes against children rose by 20% higher than overall number of crimes which rose by 3.6%. As per CRY report, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh have topped the list of States for overall crimes against children. Both stood at 14.8% with over 19,000 cases. The highest increase in crimes against children was seen in Jharkhand at 73.9% while Manipur had a significant decline of 18.7% between 2016 and 2017. 107. Balasingh, who passed away recently, was the renowned actor of which regional cinema? [A] Marathi [B] Odia [C] Telugu [D] Tamil Answer: Tamil

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Tarun Singh | [email protected] | Balasingh (67), the noted Tamil actor and theatre artist, has passed away in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. His notable performances include Kamal Haasan’s directorial venture ‘Virumandi’ and actor Dhanush’s ‘Puthupetta’, a gangster flick. 108. Madhu Shetye, who passed away recently, was the founding member of which press club? [A] Kolkata Press Club [B] Mumbai Press Club [C] Press Club of India [D] Chennai Press Club Answer: Mumbai Press Club Madhu Shetye (89), the senior journalist and activist, has passed away in Mumbai on 27th November 2019. He was a founding member of the Mumbai Press Club (MPC). He was a former corporator in the Mumbai municipal corporation and had participated in the Samyukta Maharashtra and Goa liberation movements. 109. Which state government has decided to launch project Shakti to alert the public about crimes? [A] Kerala [B] Uttar Pradesh [C] Madhya Pradesh [D] Rajasthan Answer: Madhya Pradesh The Madhya Pradesh government has decided to launch the project titled ‘Shakti’ to alert the public through Short Message Service (SMS) system about crimes like abduction. The system will help prevent such crimes and solve them too. 110. Who designed the logo for the apex anti-corruption ombudsman “Lokpal”? [A] Nikhil Kumar [B] Prashant Mishra [C] Kanon Krishna [D] Narayanan Krishnaswamy Answer: Prashant Mishra Lokpal Chairman Justice (retired) Pinaki Chandra Ghose launched the new logo for the apex anti- corruption ombudsman. As per law, the logo symbolizes how Lokpal protects and cares for the people of India by establishing justice. It is designed by Prashant Mishra, a resident of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. The logo symbolizes various essence of LOKPAL figuratively in shapes such as: ombudsman (judges bench), people (three human figures), vigilance (Ashok chakra forming eye–pupil), law (shape of book in orange) and judicial (the tricolor two hands are placed below forming a unique balance). The logo is in tricolor representing the national essence of LOKPAL .A new motto titled “Ma Gridhah Kasyasvidhanam (Do not be greedy for anyone’s wealth)” was also adopted. 111. Which Indian organization has revised the framework on currency swap arrangement for the SAARC countries for 2019-2022? [A] Finance Ministry [B] RBI [C] SEBI [D] IRDA Answer: RBI The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised the framework on currency swap arrangement for the South

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Asian Association for Regional CooperationTarun (SAARC) Singh | [email protected] countries | for 2019-2022. Under the framework for 2019-22, the RBI will continue to offer a swap arrangement within the overall corpus of $2 billion. The drawals can be made in US dollar, euro or Indian rupee. The framework is valid from November 14, 2019 to November 13, 2022. The facility will be available to all SAARC member countries, subject to their signing the bilateral swap agreements. The SAARC countries are — Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. 112. Which launch vehicle has successfully carried out remote sensing satellite Cartosat-3 into orbit? [A] PSLV-44 [B] PSLV-49 [C] PSLV-48 [D] PSLV-47 Answer: PSLV-47 Through PSLV-47 vehicle, ISRO has successfully launched the India’s latest earth observation remote sensing satellite Cartosat-3 into Sun Synchronous orbit from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota. Cartosat-3 satellite is a third generation agile advanced satellite having high resolution imaging capability. Beside this, 13 Commercial Nanosatellites from USA were also successfully injected into designated orbit. These satellites were launched under commercial arrangement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of ISRO. 113. Which state Police has organized the 47th All India Police Science Congress (AIPSC)? [A] Punjab [B] MP [C] UP [D] Rajasthan Answer: UP Lieutenant Governor of Puducheri and retired IPS officer Kiran Bedi has inaugurated the 47th All India Police Science Congress (AIPSC) at police headquarters in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The UP Police in association with the home ministry and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) has organised the 2-day event. During the event, there were discussions in 6 thematic sessions which includes some very contemporary issues like Reforms in Policing, Role of social media in countering radicalization and terrorism and Inculcating right kind of attitudes in police officers. 114. Who is the head of the expert committee to review Draft National Sports Code? [A] Sudhanshu Mittal [B] B P Baishya [C] Adille Sumariwala [D] Mukundakam Sharma Answer: Mukundakam Sharma The Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports has constituted a 13-member expert committee, headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice Mukundakam Sharma, to review the Draft National Sports Code. The committee has been formed to suggest measures to make the Sports Code acceptable to all the stakeholders. It will try to strike a balance between the autonomy of National Sports Federations vis-a- vis need for transparency and autonomy. 115. Who is the author of the book “Hemant Karkare: A Daughters Memoir”? [A] S H Khan [B] Bhagat Gupta

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[C] Ajay Singh Tarun Singh | [email protected] | [D] Jui Navare Answer: Jui Navare The book titled “Hemant Karkare: A Daughters Memoir” has been authored by his daughter Jui Karkare Navare. The book portrays former Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) chief Hemant Karkare’s life as a father to his daughter. Her father was gunned down by Pakistani ISI-backed terrorists who’d stormed Mumbai on the night of 26 November 2008. Beside him, the 18 security personnel also lost their lives in the 26/11 terror attacks. 116. Which Indian news channel has won the 2019 IPI India Award for Excellence in Journalism for Kathua coverage? [A] NDTV India [B] Aaj Tak [C] Zee News [D] News 24 Answer: NDTV India The NDTV has won the 2019 IPI India Award for Excellence in Journalism 2019 for its coverage of the conspiracy to scuttle probe into the heinous Kathua rape and murder case probe and a strong expose of the political hypocrisy across the political spectrum. The story was anchored by senior journalist Nidhi Razdan. The Indian chapter of the International Press Institute (IPI) is an active forum of Editors, Publishers and Senior Executives of newspapers, magazines and news agencies, all of whom are members of the International Press Institute. 117. Clive James, who passed away recently, was the renowned writer & broadcaster of which country? [A] South Africa [B] Australia [C] France [D] United States Answer: Australia Australian writer and broadcaster, Clive James (80) has passed away in Cambridge, United Kingdom on 24th of November 2019. He was known around the world for his dry wit. Born in 1939, he moved to England in 1961 and rose to prominence as a literary critic and TV columnist. He went on to deliver wry commentary on international programming in such shows as Clive James On Television. 118. What is the theme of the 10th CMS VATAVARAN Environment and Wildlife Film Festival? [A] Celebrating Indian Villages [B] Celebrating Ganga [C] Celebrating Indian Wildlife [D] Celebrating Himalayas Answer: Celebrating Himalayas The 4-day long MoEF&CC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change) and Centre for Media Studies (CMS) VATAVARAN-2019 Short Film Competition and Festival on Environment was held in New Delhi. The festival is being organized, exclusively on Environment and Wildlife along with the 10th Competitive edition of CMS VATAVARAN. This edition of the festival is focusing on theme “Celebrating Himalayas” in an attempt to highlight the importance of the spectacular mountain ecosystem in the current climate change discourse and action. 119. Which company has become the first Indian firm to hit Rs 10 lakh crore market valuation mark?

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[A] Hindustan Unilever Tarun Singh | [email protected] | [B] HDFC Bank [C] Reliance Industries [D] TCS Answer: Reliance Industries Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Industries (RIL) has become the first Indian firm to hit Rs 10 lakh crore mark in market capitalization following a spike in its share price. The oil-to-telecom conglomerate’s market capitalisation (m-cap) zoomed to Rs 10.02 lakh crore during morning trade on the BSE. TCS is the India’s 2nd most valued firm with a market valuation of Rs 7,79,708.02 crore, followed by HDFC Bank, Hindustan Unilever and HDFC. The m-cap figures of companies change daily with stock price movement. 120. Which Indian archer has won gold in the women’s individual recurve event of the 21st Asian Championships in Bangkok? [A] Nisha Rani Dutta [B] Trisha Deb [C] Ankita Bhakat [D] Deepika Kumari Answer: Deepika Kumari Indian archer Deepika Kumari won gold in the women’s individual recurve event of the 21st Asian Championships in Bangkok. In the one-sided final, she defeated her compatriot Ankita Bhakat by 6-0. Earlier, the duo had secured an individual Olympic quota for the country by storming into the semifinals of the event. 121. The 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup is being hosted by which city? [A] Jaipur [B] New Delhi [C] Bhubaneswar [D] Gwalior Answer: Bhubaneswar The 2023 Men’s Hockey World Cup will be held in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela from January 13 to 29. It would the first time a country would be hosting successive editions of the premier tournament in the sport but the same city hosting it twice makes it even special. However, this time, Bhubaneswar (which hosted the 2018 WC) would share hosting rights with the Biju Patnaik Hockey Stadium in Rourkela. 122. Brad Gobright, who passed away recently, was the world-renowned rock climber of which country? [A] Germany [B] United States [C] France [D] Russia Answer: United States The world-renowned US rock climber, Brad Gobright has fell to his death while climbing a sheer rock face in northern Mexico on 29th of November 2019. He was best known for his gravity-defying solo ascents with no ropes. 123. Which international organization has declared a global climate & environmental emergency? [A] European Union [B] BRICS

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[C] WHO Tarun Singh | [email protected] | [D] SAARC Answer: European Union The European Union (EU) has recently declared a global climate and environmental emergency in a symbolic move aimed at increasing pressure on the incoming European Commission (EC) to take a stronger stance on climate change. The climate declaration was passed in Strasbourg during a European Parliament debate on the upcoming United Nations’ COP25 climate summit. The summit kicks off on 2nd December in Madrid. The resolution calls on the EU to cut emissions by 55% by 2030 to become climate neutral by 2050. 124. Which state government has decided to replicate Tamil Nadu model of Micro Composting Centre (MCC)? [A] Odisha [B] Punjab [C] Madhya Pradesh [D] Rajasthan Answer: Odisha As part of its ‘Swachha Odisha Sustha Odisha’ campaign, the Odisha Government has decided to replicate Tamil Nadu model of Micro Composting Centre (MCC) for proper segregation and management of wet waste. The Solid waste management is a cause of concern for urban local bodies (ULBs) due to a rapid urbanisation. 125. Which state Government has decided to set up outdoor gyms at public places? [A] Rajasthan [B] Odisha [C] UP [D] Himachal Pradesh Answer: Himachal Pradesh The Himachal Pradesh Government has decided to set up modern outdoor gyms at public places to connect the masses with the Fit India Movement. As part of the state government’s initiative, recreational equipment for children and modern outdoor gyms would be set up at identified parks and public places of Dharamshala. The Fit India movement is a nationwide initiative to encourage people to remain healthy by including physical activities and sports in their daily lives. It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on National Sports Day (NSD-2019) in New Delhi. 126. The researchers of which IIT has decided to create Gandhipedia? [A] IIT Kanpur [B] IIT Delhi [C] IIT Indore [D] IIT Kharagpur Answer: IIT Kharagpur Two IITs (IIT Gandhinagar & IIT Kharagpur) and the National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) have joined hands to develop Gandhipedia to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary. The Gandhipedia is an online repository of books, letters and speeches written by Mahatma Gandhi. Approx 100 works of Mahatma Gandhi such as his letters and speeches, would be uploaded in the portal. The entire project will be done with the help of Artificial Intelligence (AI). 127. What is the India’s rank in the Global Diplomacy Index 2019?

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[A] 64th Tarun Singh | [email protected] | [B] 25th [C] 5th [D] 12th Answer: 12th India has been ranked 12th out of 61 nations in the Global Diplomacy Index 2019, which is released by the Sydney-based Lowy Institute. As of 2019, New Delhi has 123 embassies and high commissions and 54 consulates globally. The index gives the latest statistics & marks how the world’s diplomatic networks are expanding and, in certain cases, shrinking. It is an analysis of the number of embassies and consulates maintained by countries around the world. As per index, China has overtaken the United States to become the world’s largest diplomatic network. 128. The Union Government has proposed to set up rocket launching pad near Kulasekarapattinam. The site is located in which state? [A] Kerala [B] Karnataka [C] Tamil Nadu [D] Andhra Pradesh Answer: Tamil Nadu The Union Government has proposed to set up new rocket launch pad near Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu.The development comes on the backdrop of increasing launches from India, both for domestic and international customers. Currently, the ISRO has two operational launch pads at Sriharikotta from where all GSLV and PSLV flights take place. 129. Which Union Ministry has collaborated with Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) to organize National Organic Festival of Women Entrepreneurs? [A] Ministry of Jal Shakti [B] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare [C] Ministry of Food Processing Industries [D] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Answer: Ministry of Food Processing Industries The Union Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) has signed a pact to organize “National Organic Festival of Women Entrepreneurs”. The event will be planned and organized through NIFTEM (National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management), which is an academic institution under the administrative control of MoFPI. The purpose of the festival is to encourage Indian women entrepreneurs and farmers to connect with buyers and empower them through financial inclusion. The fest will also promote organic food produce in India. 130. Election Commission of India (ECI) has recognized Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) as state party of which state? [A] Haryana [B] Jharkhand [C] Maharashtra [D] Odisha Answer: Haryana The Election Commission of India (ECI) has recently recognized the Jannayak Janta Party (JJP) as

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state party of Haryana and alloted the symbolTarun Singh of | [email protected] “key” for the | party. The decision in this regard was taken on the basis of the poll performance of the party in the recent 2019 Assembly elections in Haryana. The JJP was formed in December 2018 by a breakaway faction of the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) & won 10 seats in the recently-held Haryana Assembly elections and formed the government with the BJP. 131. Yasuhiro Nakasone, who passed away recently, was the former PM of which country? [A] North Korea [B] China [C] South Korea [D] Japan Answer: Japan In Japan, Yasuhiro Nakasone (101) has passed away at Tokyo on 29th November 2019. He was one of the longest-reigning Prime Ministers and known for his friendship with Ronald Reagan. He also broke an unwritten rule on limiting the annual defence budget to 1% of Gross National Product (GNP). In 1983, he became the first Japanese Premier to officially visit South Korea & mended fences with a country that Japan had brutally colonized from 1910 to 1945. 132. Angad Vir Singh Bajwa is associated to which sports? [A] Chess [B] Cricket [C] Boxing [D] Shooting Answer: Shooting In shooting, Angad Vir Singh Bajwa unofficially hit a world record score in the men’s skeet final at the 63rd National Shooting Championships for Shotgun events in New Delhi on 29th November 2019. He defeated his senior and fellow Tokyo 2020 quota winner Mairaj Ahmad Khan of Uttar Pradesh. He also equalled a record he jointly holds with skeet legend Vincent Hancock and two others. 133. Who has become fastest man to reach 7,000 Test runs? [A] Virat Kohli [B] Rohit Sharma [C] Steve Smith [D] Aaron Finch Answer: Steve Smith Steve Smith has become the fastest man to score 7,000 Test runs in the ongoing second Test against Pakistan. He broke English great Wally Hammond’s record that had stood since 1946. Smith also passed Bradman’s 6,996 Test runs. It took Smith 70 Tests to do so, while Bradman needed only 52. 134. Noted theatre artiste Paramananda Sahu, who passed away recently, was from which state? [A] Madhya Pradesh [B] Odisha [C] Uttar Pradesh [D] Rajasthan Answer: Odisha Renowened theatre artiste of Odisha, Paramananda Sahu (72) has passed away in Balasore on 30th of November . He had directed and acted in more than a hundred dramas, besides being an artiste in All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan.

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135. Who is the author of the book “The LegacyTarun Singhof Militancy| [email protected] in Punjab: | Long Road to Normalcy” ? [A] Dona Suri [B] Vikram Seth [C] Arundhati Roy [D] Vani Kaushal Answer: Dona Suri The book titled “The Legacy of Militancy in Punjab: Long Road to Normalcy” have been authored by civil rights activist Inderjit Singh Jaijee and journalist Dona Suri. The book provide details how militancy in Punjab affected judiciary by delaying trials, how it influenced the popular culture and how the youth today are still responding to conditions in the northern state. It also aims at holding up a mirror to developments in post-militancy Punjab regarding politics, government policies, and functioning of police and courts among other things. 136. Schistura syngkai is the scientific name of which type of species? [A] Elephant [B] Fish [C] Frog [D] Tortoise Answer: Fish The fish species, that has a scientific name Schistura syngkai, has been discovered in West Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. It was discovered at Twahdidoh stream (a tributary of Wahblei river) by a team of scientists led by Prof Khlur Mukhim of Shillong’s Lady Keane College. Both sexes of the fish have golden-brown bodies with blackish lateral stripes and slightly emarginate tail fins. Earlier, Mukhim had discovered a blind fish species that lives 1,600 feet inside a limestone cave in East Jaintia Hills district of the state. 137. Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri, who has been chosen for the 55th Jnanpith Award, is associated to which language? [A] Kannada [B] Tamil [C] Malayalam [D] Telugu Answer: Malayalam Eminent Malayalam poet Akkitham Achuthan Namboothiri has been chosen as the recipient of the 55th Jnanpith Award for the year 2019. Born in 1926, Akkitham is one of the most revered names in Malayalam poetry. Apart from poetry, his literary excellence has footprints in genres like drama, reminiscence, critical essays, children literature, short stories and translation. He has authored 55 books out of which 45 are collections of poems including “Khanda Kavyas”, “Katha Kavyas”, “Charitha Kavyas” and songs. His works have also been translated into many Indian and foreign languages. 138. The first-ever International Conference on “Landslides Risk Reduction and Resilience” was held in which city? [A] Geneva [B] London [C] Paris [D] New Delhi Answer: New Delhi

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

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