Current Affairs Pocket PDF

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Current Affairs Pocket PDF – May 2020

Table of Contents NATIONAL AFFAIRS ...... 4 CABINET APPROVALS ...... 4 PARLIAMENT NEWS ...... 4 STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS ...... 4 LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION ...... 11 OTHER NATIONAL NEWS ...... 14 GOVT SCHEMES ...... 22 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS ...... 23 BANKING & FINANCE ...... 26 RBI IN NEWS ...... 26 LOANS ISSUED BY BANKS ...... 27 AGREEMENTS & MoU’s SIGNED ...... 27 OTHER BANKING NEWS ...... 27 FINANCE NEWS ...... 30 ECONOMY & BUSINESS ...... 31

GDP & GROWTH RATE ...... 31 ECONOMY NEWS ...... 32 BUSINESS NEWS ...... 33 MoU’s & AGREEMENTS ...... 34 MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY ...... 34 APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ...... 36 APPOINTMENTS ...... 36 NATIONAL ...... 36 INTERNATIONAL ...... 38 COUNTRY AMBASSADORS ...... 40 AWARDS ...... 41 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL SERVICE, SCIENCE & BRAVERY ...... 41 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS ...... 42 OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS ...... 43 RECOGNITIONS ...... 44 AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 44 SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE ...... 45 SUMMITS ...... 45 EVENTS ...... 45

CONFERENCE ...... 45 COMMITTEE & MEETING ...... 46 COMMITTEE ...... 46 MEETING ...... 46 COMMITTEE & MEETING IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 48 INDEX ...... 48 RANKING ...... 48 REPORTS ...... 49 ACQUISITION & MERGERS ...... 52 DEFENCE ...... 55 TESTING ...... 55 ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS ...... 56 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY...... 57 SATELLITES LAUNCHES ...... 57 NATIONAL ...... 57 INTERNATIONAL ...... 64 ENVIRONMENT ...... 65 SPORTS ...... 66

CRICKET ...... 66 BADMINTON & TENNIS ...... 66 ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL ...... 67 OTHER SPORTS NEWS ...... 67 BOOKS & AUTHORS ...... 68 OBITUARY ...... 70 NATIONAL ...... 70 INTERNATIONAL ...... 73 IMPORTANT DAYS ...... 74 APPS & WEB PORTAL ...... 81 AC GAZE...... 84

NATIONAL AFFAIRS

CABINET APPROVALS Cabinet approvals on May 20, 2020 The Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval to the following on May 20, 2020:  Cabinet approves Rs 10,000 cr “Scheme for formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (FME)”  Cabinet approves extension of ‘Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana till 2023  Cabinet approves Rs 20,050 cr Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana  Cabinet approves Rs 30,000 cr Special Liquidity Scheme for NBFCs/HFCs to address their Liquidity Stress  Cabinet approves waiver of interest of Hindustan Organic Chemicals Limited Read More Details Here: Cabinet approvals on May 20, 2020

PARLIAMENT NEWS SC Ruling: Cooperative banks come under SARFAESI Act, 2002; Parliament can prescribe recovery process for cooperative banks A five judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court head by Justice Arun Mishra has passed a ruling that cooperative banks established under a State law or multi-State level societies come under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest (SARFAESI) Act of 2002. Read More Details Here: SC Ruling: Cooperative banks come under SARFAESI Act, 2002; Parliament can

prescribe recovery process for cooperative banks

Central Board of Direct Taxes amends 44G of Income-tax Rules 1962 The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) amended Rule 44G of Income-tax Rules, 1962 for making an application to invoke the mutual agreement procedure in Form no.34F which will be called Income-tax (8th Amendment) Rules, 2020.

Govt amends rules to ban global tender for procurement up to Rs 200 crores to benefit MSMEs Government has notified the amendments to the General Financial Rules, 2017 to ensure that goods and services valued less than Rs 200 crores are procured from domestic firms, which states that the global tenders will be banned for government procurement up to 200 crores as announced in the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Package. This move will boost domestic suppliers, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh CM rolls out ‘CMAPP’ to monitor farming needs Andhra Pradesh (AP) Chief Minister (CM) YS Jaganmohan Reddy has launched a mobile application ‘CMAPP (Comprehensive Monitoring of Agriculture, Price, and Procurement)’ with the aim to monitor the agriculture needs of the farmers in the state.

AP govt forms 5-member panel headed by Neerabh Kumar Prasad to probe Vizag gas leak The Andhra Pradesh (AP) government has formed a 5-member high-powered committee led by Neerabh Kumar Prasad to probe into the causes behind the leakage of styrene gas from the LG Polymers India Ltd located at Visakhapatnam. The panel required to submit its final report within one month.

AP’s CM Jagan Mohan Reddy launches Rs 1,110 crores ‘ReStart’ to revive MSME sector Andhra Pradesh CM Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has launched Rs 1,110 crores ‘ReStart’ a new programme to support & boost the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector in the State.

Assam Himanta Biswa Sarma presented Rs 1,03,762 cr Assam Budget for FY 2020-2021 Assam finance minister Himanta Biswa Sarma presented Rs 1,03,762 crores Budget for Assam for the financial year 2020-21. He presented his fifth and final budget as the finance minister of Sarbananda Sonowal-led government. Read More Details Here: Himanta Biswa Sarma presented Rs 1,03,762 cr Assam Budget for FY 2020-2021

Bihar Sushil Kumar Modi presented Rs 2,11,761 cr Bihar’s budget for FY 20-21; Max. allocation towards education The government of Bihar led by Chief Minister (CM) Nitish Kumar presented Rs 2,11,761 crore state budget for 2020-21 with a special emphasis on education, health and infrastructure. It was presented by the state’s finance minister and Deputy CM Sushil Kumar Modi, which was his 11th Budget speech. The proposed allocations were Rs 11,260.48 crore more than the FY 2019-20. Read More Details Here: Sushil Kumar Modi presented Rs 2,11,761 cr Bihar’s budget for FY 20-21; Max. allocation towards education

India Post & Bihar’s Horticulture dept. partnered to supply” Shahi Litchi” & “Zardalu Mango” to the people at doorstep The Department of Posts, Government of India and Department of Horticulture, Government of Bihar has partnered to supply” Shahi Litchi” of Muzaffarpur & “Zardalu Mango” of Bhagalpur at the doorstep of people. Bihar Postal Circle has made an agreement with the Bihar’s Horticulture department for its logistics & delivery. Both of the items got GI tag in 2018.

Chhattisgar Chhattisgarh Govt rolls out Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana for farmers The state government of Chhattisgarh has launched its ambitious ‘Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana’ (RGKNY) to encourage crop production in the state and to give the farmers the right price for their produce. Under this scheme, an amount of Rs 5700 crore will be transferred directly to their accounts in four instalments to 19 lakh farmers of the state.

Gujarat Gujarat Govt launches ‘Atmanirbhar Gujarat Sahay Yojna’ to provide loans to small businessmen The Gujarat state government has launched a ‘Atmanirbhar Gujarat Sahay Yojna (AGSY)’ under which small businessmen and a cross- section of people falling under the lower middle-income group can take a guarantee-free loan of Rs 1 lakh from banks at a 2 % annual interest rate for a period of 3 years.

Himachal Pradesh HP govt to launch ‘Mukhya Mantri Shahari Rojgar Guarantee Yojna ‘for urban employment Himachal Pradesh (HP) state cabinet under the chairmanship of CM Jai Ram Thakur has decided to launch employment guarantee scheme called “’Mukhya Mantri Shahari Rojgar Guarantee Yojna” that will provide 120 days of employment to those living in urban areas.

Himachal Pradesh to launch ‘Nigah’ to aware family members of migrant returnees Himachal Pradesh (HP) government plans to launch a new programme ‘Nigah’ to sensitize and educate the family members of the people coming to the state from other parts of the country. The programme will deploy ASHA workers, health and Anganwadi workers to create general awareness in maintaining social distancing during home quarantine, to save themselves from any possible infection.

Jammu and Kashmir J&K promotes e-learning under Samagra Shiksha programme Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), the Union Territory administration has initiated a slew of measures under “Samagra Shiksha programme” to facilitate students with complete access to education through technological interventions and other viable means in wake of COVID-19 lockdown. These measures include tele-classes on DD Kashmir and Local Cable Network. The J&K government also launched Online Career Guidance Portal “Manzelein” for students in association with UNICEF.

J&K starts an initiative ‘SUKOON’ – COVID-19 Beat the Stress The Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) of Jammu & Kashmir has started an initiative ‘SUKOON’- COVID-19 Beat the Stress, in order to spread awareness about psychological impact of lockdown and measures to be adopted to overcome them.

Jammu and Kashmir notified new rules for issuing domicile certificates The administration in the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir issued a new set of rules named “Jammu and Kashmir Grant of Domicile Certificate Rules 2020” which defines the rules for issuing domicile certificates in the UT. Read More Details Here: Jammu and Kashmir notified new rules for issuing domicile certificates

SKIMS in Srinagar gets its first of its kind Infectious Disease Block facility Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Lieutenant Governor’s adviser Baseer Ahmad Khan inaugurated first of its kind Infectious Disease Block (IDB) facility at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) at Soura in Srinagar, J&K. It was an initiative for the treatment of COVID-19 and other pathologically infected patients.

Ladakh inaugurates the 1st Solar Lift Irrigation Plant of Kargil Ladakh’s Director of Animal, Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries Mohammad Raza inaugurated the 1st Solar Lift Irrigation Plant of Kargil with 5-kilowatt (KW) Solar Plant and 3 HP Submersible Pump (installed by Kargil Renewable Energy Agency- KREDA) at Yak Breeding Farm, Bodh Kharboo. The pump discharges 45,000 litres of water per day, a major achievement in the industry. Under Rashtriya Gokul Mission(RGM) Yak Breeding Farm, Bodh Kharboo has an allotment under special package of Rs 1.20 crore by the Government of India.

Jharkhand Jharkhand launches three schemes for rural job creation Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren, launches three schemes namely, Birsa Harit Gram Yojana (BHGY), Neelambar Pitambar JAL Sammridhi Yojana (NPJSY) and Veer Sahid Poto Ho Khel Vikas Scheme (VSPHKVS) to provide wage employment for the workers in the rural area devised in convergence with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). As per data of Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CIME) the unemployment rate of the state pegged at 47.1% which is double the national average (23.5%).

Jharkhand: Education dept with Doordarshan starts online classes for School children The State Education Department of Jharkhand in collaboration with Doordarshan (DD) started online classes and educational programmes to provide school education to students of the state through video and thematic lectures. The special educational lectures are designed for students from class 1 to 12 with special slots allotted for each class.

Ranchi district launches “Tatpar” programme to transport migrants Ranchi district launched the “Tatpar” program to help the migrant workers to get back to their native places on bus instead of tiresome travel by foot. The administration launched a helpline “1950” to support the migrant workers in arranging buses.

Karnataka BBMP, Bengaluru launches “Pranavayu” to track oxygen levels of ILI patients The Bengaluru based Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), has launched an initiative called “Pranavayu” as many COVID-19 patients have low oxygen levels that puts them at risk of complications. This initiative helps each individual to monitor blood oxygen levels and heart rates of patients showing influenza-like illnesses (ILI) in fever clinics.

Karnataka launches first accelerator for cyber security start-up Karnataka's centre of excellence in cyber security (CySecK) has launched an accelerator programme for cyber security start-ups. Branded as H.A.C.K, it is the State's first cyber security-specific accelerator. H.A.C.K is an Accelerator for Cyber Security in Karnataka (H.A.C.K) inviting all the cyber security start- ups in both early-stage and growth-stage, for applying for the zeroth cohort launching in Q2 2020.

Kerala Senior IAS officer Vishwas Mehta appointed as new Chief Secretary of Kerala The State Cabinet of Kerala appointed Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Vishwas Mehta as Chief Secretary (CS) of Kerala and will continue to hold the office till February 28, 2021. The government has posted Ms Sreelekha, the first women IPS officer in the state, as Director General, Fire and Rescue Services.

Madhya Pradesh Sanjeevani a unique vehicle developed at the local level in Madhya Pradesh Sanjeevani, the first of its kind unique vehicle was developed at the local level in the initiative of Rajnagar administration of Chhatarpur district, Madhya Pradesh to help the healthcare workers. The vehicle is to assist the healthcare workers to investigate the patients and the suspected patients without direct physical contact.

Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan re-launched Sambal Yojana for dalits tribals and poor Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, Shivraj Singh Chouhan has re-launched the Sambal Yojana to strengthen the lives of the poor and Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities by providing them social security cover, right from birth to death. The scheme was originally launched in April 2018 & Rs 703 crore was spent in 2018-19 for its implementation. Objective of Sambal Yojana- To provide social security to the poor and the beneficiaries of SC and ST from birth to death.

Madhya Pradesh launched 1st of its kind campaign for migrant labourers: Charan Paduka Madhya Pradesh, in a first of its kind of initiative named “Charan Paduka” campaign has been started for the migrant labourers passing through the state. Under this campaign, the migrant labourers going

barefoot are being providing shoes and slippers to reduce their pain. The most notable thing is that this campaign is being conducted by the police at most places.

MP: Rural Livelihood Mission begins Didi Vehicle Service for safe delivery of rural women In the Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh (MP), the women Rural Livelihood Mission started ‘Didi Vehicle Service’ for rural women for the safe delivery and other emergency medical services. Also, the Madhya Pradesh government has developed a unique vehicle named ‘Sanjeevani’ to help the health care workers in order to investigate any suspected COVID-19 patients without getting out of the vehicle.

MP Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan to inaugurate ‘Everybody will get employment’ scheme through video conferencing Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will inaugurate the ‘Everybody will get employment’ (Sabko Milega Rozgar) scheme through video conferencing. Under this scheme, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MNREGA) job cards will be distributed to the labourers.

Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh launches ‘Rozgar Setu’ Yojana for skilled workers The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chauhan launched ‘Rozgar Setu Yojana’ to support and provide employment to the migrant workers who returned to the state in the COVID-19 situation and to meet the worker’s requirements of the industries. The government of Madhya Pradesh launched a portal ‘MP Rojgar Setu Portal’ for the unemployed migrants to register and find jobs in the field related to their skills. Shram Siddhi Abhiyan was launched to support the unskilled labourers to find employment.

Maharashtra ‘Mee Annapurna’ initiative launched for farmers welfare across Maharashtra The Government of Maharashtra has announced ‘Mee Annapurna’ for farmers welfare across the state. This comes after the Department of Agriculture, Govt of Maharashtra announced a 3-year empanelment of insurance companies and intermediaries for implementation of crop insurance scheme, the Integrated Risk Insurance Brokers Limited (IRIBL).

The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 modified by Maharashtra Gov. Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari has made certain modifications in Section 6 of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, (also called as Forest Rights Act-FRA) in its application to the Scheduled Areas of the State of Maharashtra.

Mizoram Mizoram becomes the 1st state to give industry status to sports Mizoram sports minister Robert Romawia Royte informed that the state cabinet has cleared the proposal of the Sports and Youth Service department to grant sports an industry status to boost the sports sector, generate employment, increase value of sports & to attract private companies to invest in sports which will benefit in terms of subsidy, loans and concessions. It becomes the 1st state to do so.

Nagaland Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio presented Rs. 21049.87 crore state budget for FY 20-21 Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, who also holds the charge of the finance portfolio, presented a state budget of Rs. 21049.87 crore for the fiscal 2020-21. The state’s total Receipt Budget for the year 2020-21

was estimated at Rs 20826.02 crore. The negative opening balance of Rs 2234.35 crore, FY21 is estimated to close with a negative balance of Rs 2358.81 Crore. Read More Details Here: Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio presented Rs. 21049.87 crore state budget for FY 21

New Delhi Delhi Police & AIIA jointly launches ‘Ayuraksha’ programme to fight COVID-19 The Delhi Police in association with New Delhi based All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), a public Ayurveda medicine and research institution, has jointly run the program called ‘Ayuraksha – Corona se Jung, Delhi Police ke sang’ with the aim of providing all possible health-related help to all those Delhi Policemen working in the frontline to fight against COVID-19.

Punjab Punjab govt promulgates ‘Punjab Good Conduct Prisoners Amendment Ordinance, 2020’ The Punjab government has promulgated ‘The Punjab Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Amendment Ordinance, 2020’. As per new provisions, the temporary release of the prisoners has been allowed beyond the maximum period of 16 weeks in a calendar year.

Sikkim Sikkim Assembly passes a budget of Rs 9,100 crores for FY21 The Sikkim Legislative Assembly with a 32-member state legislature passed the budget of Rs 9,100 crores for fiscal 2020-21 comprising Rs. 7343.60 as revenue expenditure, and Rs. 1756.40 as capital expenditure in the 2nd Session of 10th Assembly (Budget Session 2020-21) on March 24. Read More Details Here: Sikkim Assembly passes a budget of Rs 9,100 crores for FY21

Tamil Nadu TN constitutes a 24-member high-level committee headed by ex-governor of RBI C Rangarajan to assess COVID-19 impact Tamil Nadu (TN) government has constituted a 24 member high-level committee headed by C Rangarajan, ex-governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to assess the immediate and medium-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on various sectors of the State’s economy, examine fiscal challenge & suggest ways to improve its fiscal position including increasing the tax-Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio and diversifying revenue sources and re-prioritising expenditure. The committee will give the final report to the government in 3 months.

Tamil Nadu starts Implementation of Solar Fence Farmland Protection Programme The Government of Tamil Nadu started the preliminary works on implementing the Solar Fence Farmland Protection Programme, under the Central Agriculture Improvement Scheme. This scheme is to protect agricultural lands of the districts which have the Western Ghats as their boundaries and are at risk of animal (Elephant) attacks.

Tamil Nadu govt inks 17 investment MoUs worth ₹15,128 cr with corporates T s with various companies based in Germany, Finland, Taiwan, China, France, South Korea, Japan, USA, Australia, Englandhe state and government Netherlands, has inkedwith the 17 aimmemorandum to provide employmentof understandings opportunities (MOUs) worthto 47,150 ₹15,128 people. crore

Tripura Tripura government launches agro entrepreneur facilitation desk to boost economy The Tripura government launched an “Agro-Entrepreneur Facilitation Desk” to help the entrepreneurs of the state to get subsidies and incentives from Central government funding agencies and NABARD

(National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development), the new desk would help them about availing the facilities.

Tripura CM launches national scholarship online portal under ‘Mukhyamantri Yuba Yogayog Yojana’ Tripura, Chief Minister (CM) Biplab Kumar Deb launched a National Scholarship online portal website (https:/ /scholarships.gov.in/) under ‘Mukhyamantri Yuba Yogayog Yojana’, an incentive scheme for students. Under this scheme, Will provide Rs 5000 or cost of the phone whichever is lower to around 14,608 students from 38 educational institutions.

Uttarakhand Uttarakhand CM launches ‘HOPE’ a portal to help unemployed youths The Uttarakhand Chief Minister, Trivendra Singh Rawat launched ‘HOPE’- Helping Out People Everywhere’ a portal to create employment opportunities for the youths in their expertise and to provide skill development opportunities.

Uttarakhand CM Rawat presented Rs 53,527-cr budget for FY20-21; 25 public welfare goals in focus Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat presented the surplus annual budget of Rs 53,526.97 crore for FY20-21. The budget is described as the document reflecting the hopes and aspirations of the people of the state. It aims to achieve 25 public welfare goals under the state government’s Vision 2020. Read More Details Here: Uttarakhand CM Rawat presented Rs 53,527-cr budget for FY20-21; 25 public welfare goals in focus

Uttarakhand launches Mukhyamantri Swarozgar Yojana for returnee migrants Uttarakhand Chief Minister (CM) Trivendra Singh Rawat, launched the scheme named “Mukhyamantri Swarozgar Yojana” to retain the migrants who have returned to the state during the lockdown. Under the Yojana, the margin money will be provided as a grant by the MSME (Small, Micro and Medium Enterprises) department. Margin money will be adjusted as a grant after the successful operation of the enterprise for minimum 2 years.

Uttar Pradesh Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath launches ‘Ayush Kavach-Covid’ App Uttar Pradesh (UP) Chief Minister (CM) Yogi Adityanath launched the “Ayush Kavach-Covid app” that will provide health-related tips and information about ayurvedic medicines to people during the coronavirus crisis. The app has been developed by the AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) Department of UP in view of the COVID-19 health crisis.

UP passes ordinance to suspend most Labour Laws for 3 years The Uttar Pradesh(UP) government has passed an ordinance ‘Uttar Pradesh Temporary Exemption from Certain Labour Laws Ordinance, 2020’, to suspend most of the labour laws for 3 years, to encourage industries to employ the large number of migrant workers that have come back & new investments to set up new industrial infrastructure and to benefit the existing industries & factories. The ordinance has been sent to Governor Anandiben Patel for approval.

Yogi Adityanath launches ‘Pravasi Raahat Mitra’ app for migrant Workers Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath launched the ‘Pravasi Raahat Mitra’ mobile application developed by the state revenue department in collaboration with United Nations (UN) Development Program to provide support for the migrant workers of Uttar Pradesh in other states to access the advantages of the government schemes.

UP presents largest ever Rs 5.12 lakh crores budget in state assembly Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna presented the Uttar Pradesh (UP) government’s largest ever budget of Rs 5,12,860.72 crores for FY 2020-21 which estimates total receipts of 5,00,558 crores (Rs 4,22,567 crores- revenue and Rs 77,990 crores-capital receipts) & a deficit of Rs 12,302 crores. Read More Details Here: UP presents largest ever Rs 5.12 lakh crores budget in state assembly

UP launches ‘Startup Fund’ signs MoU with SIDBI to promoted young entrepreneurs The Government of Uttar Pradesh launched the ‘Uttar Pradesh Start-up Fund’ to promote entrepreneurship among the youths of the state and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath termed the MoU between the state and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI). The HQ of SIDBI located at Lucknow, UP.

UP govt to create migration commission to provide employment to migrant workers The state government of Uttar Pradesh (UP), which is continuously bringing back the migrant workers from other states, has now taken a big decision for them. It has decided to set up a ‘Migration Commission’ to provide employment and social security to over 23 lakh migrant workers in the state.

Uttar Pradesh Government develops 800 Km roads as Herbal roads The Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and PWD Minister of State Keshav Prasad Maurya, announced the development of 800 km herbal roads along the state and national highways through the state. These herbal roads will have herbal and medicinal trees on the both sides of the road. The trees on the herbal roads include Peepal, Neem, Sehjan along with herbal trees like Brahmi, Ashvagandha and Jatrofa.

West Bengal West Bengal govt launches exit app for stranded people of other states The West Bengal (WB) state government has launched an “exit app” for people of other states who are stranded in the state due to the lockdown and want to return to their native place. The app can be downloaded from the state government’s ‘Egiye Bangla’ website.

West Bengal govt launches ‘Matir Smristi’ scheme to utilise 50,000-acre barren land in 6 districts The West Bengal (WB) Government (govt) launched ‘Matir Smristi’ scheme to utilise 50,000 acres of barren land in 6 districts for income-generating activities like horticulture and pisciculture involving the locals. Chief Minister (CM) Mamata Banerjee also added that the scheme will benefit around 2.5 lakh people in rural Bengal.

Government of West Bengal announces two new schemes- ‘Sneher Porosh’ & ‘Prochesta’ The Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee launched two schemes ‘Sneher Porosh’ to provide support for the migrant workers and ‘Prochesta’ to help the workers of the unorganised sector of Bengal to enable them to earn their living in the lockdown situation.

LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION Coal Ministry launched Project Monitoring Unit for early operationalization of coal mines Ministry of Coal (MoC) launched a project monitoring unit (PMU) to facilitate early operationalization of coal mines allocated by the government in order to ramp up coal production in the country. Netherlands based KPMG (Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler) has been appointed as the consultant in the project monitoring unit (PMU) through a transparent bidding process.

DST launched ‘Year of Awareness on Science & Health (YASH)’on health & risk communication focusing COVID-19 The National Council for Science & Technology Communication (NCSTC) under Department of Science & Technology (DST) has initiated a programme on health and risk communication focusing on COVID-19 titled “Year of Awareness on Science & Health (YASH)”. Its aim is to convey authentic best practices to the general public to minimize the risk of transmission of virus at all levels, in the absence of vaccines and cure for COVID-19.

IIT Alumini Council Launches India’s first COVID-19 test bus in Mumbai The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Alumni Council launched India’s 1st “COVID-19 test bus” in Mumbai, Maharashtra and inaugurated by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackery. India’s first test bus for the disease was flagged off on Maharashtra Day (May 1).

CSIR launches Compendium of Indian Technologies to tackle COVID-19 pandemic The National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) which works under the administrative control of the Dept. of Scientific & Industrial Research, Ministry of Science & Technology prepared a compendium of Indian Technologies for combating COVID-19 pandemic. The technologies are categorized under 3T’s of tracking, testing and treating.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurates 80 km link road for Kailash Mansarovar through VC Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has inaugurated 80 km strategically crucial road link connecting Lipulekh pass (China Border) with Dharchula in Uttarakhand constructed by Border Roads Organization (BRO). He also flagged off a convoy of vehicles from Pithoragarh to Gunji (Both in Uttarakhand).

India launched Mission Sagar to assist 5 island nations Indian Ocean amid COVID-19 The central government has initiated a “Mission Sagar” to send medical aid to five Island nations in the Indian Ocean amid COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kesari departed for Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar and Comoros, to provide Food items, COVID related Medicines including Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) Tablets and Special Ayurvedic Medicines with Medical Assistance Teams. This mission is launched in coordination with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), and other agencies of GOI.

National Gallery of Modern Art launches a virtual program ‘NGMA Ke Sangrah Se’ to showcase artworks National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), New Delhi, functions under Culture ministry, has launched a virtual program called “NGMA KE SANGRAH SE” to showcase an iconic and rare collection of artifacts from its repository. The event is based on various weekly/ daily themes & for the current week, the theme is ‘Artist by Artists’ and dedicated it to Poet Rabindranath Tagore, whose 159th birth anniversary was celebrated on 7th May 2020.

MP becomes 1st in the country to launch ‘FIR Aapke Dwar Yojana’ Madhya Pradesh government has launched the country’s 1st ‘First Information Report (FIR) Aapke Dwar Yojana ‘(FIR at your doorstep) at the new Police Control Room, Bhopal to enable people to file FIRs from their homes instead of visiting police stations.

Arjun Munda launches ‘GOAL’ Programme for digital skilling of tribal youths Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Shri Arjun Munda launched the ‘GOAL’ – Going Online As Leaders Programme of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) in partnership with Facebook. It is designed to provide mentorship to tribal youth with digital mode. The program will focus on three core areas – Digital

Literacy, Life Skills and Leadership and Entrepreneurship on sectors like textiles, Agriculture, Art & Culture, Nutrition etc.

6 Cities rated 5 Star, 65 Cities rated 3 Star and 70 Cities rated 1 Star for garbage free cities: MOHUA Ministry Of Housing and Urban Affairs (MOHUA) announced the results of the Star Rating of Garbage Free Cities, for the assessment year 2019-2020, where 6 Cities (Ambikapur, Rajkot, Surat, Mysuru, Indore and Navi Mumbai) were rated 5 Star, 65 Cities rated 3 Star and 70 Cities rated 1 Star out of 141 cities & also launched the revised protocol for the Star Rating of Garbage Free Cities.

Nirmala Sitharaman announces several initiatives to boost education sector Union Finance & Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has announced several initiatives to boost the education sector. PM e-VIDYA will be launched, to enable multi-mode access to education. Manodarpan initiative is launched to provide psychosocial support to students, teachers and families for mental health and emotional wellbeing. Government expands e-learning in higher education by liberalizing open, distance and online education regulatory framework.

Centre launches scheme for 100% solarisation of Konark sun temple & Konark town in Odisha The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) announced that the Government of India launched a scheme for 100% solarisation of Konark Sun Temple and Konark town in Odisha. The objective of this scheme is to advance the Prime Minister’s vision to develop the historical Sun Temple town of Konark as ‘Surya Nagri’ to meet all the requirements of the Konark town by solar energy. The implementation of this scheme will be done by Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA).

Prakash Javadekar launched five key initiatives to conserve biodiversity during IDB virtual celebration on May 22, 2020 On May 22, 2020 Union Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar launched the following five key initiatives towards conservation of biodiversity during the virtual celebration of “International Day for Biological Diversity (IDB)” on the theme “Our solutions are in nature”.  Launch of Samrakshan Internship Programme  Launch of UNEP Campaign on Illegal Trafficking of Endangered Species  Launch of WWF Model Conference of Parties (MCoP)  Launch of awareness campaign  Launch of webinar initiatives Read More Details Here: Prakash Javadekar launched five key initiatives to conserve biodiversity during IDB virtual celebration on May 22, 2020

Former Supreme Court Justice A K Sikri inaugurates Indian Dispute Resolution Centre Former Supreme Court Justice A K Sikri, International Judge, Singapore International Commercial Court inaugurates Indian Dispute Resolution Centre (IDRC), first of its kind Institutional Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Centre to provide Offline and e-ADR facility through e-Arbitration, e-Mediation and e- Conciliation software portal.

Nirmala Sitharaman launched Instant allotment facility of PAN through Aadhaar based e-KYC Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman launched the Instant Permanent Account Number (PAN) facility of Income Tax (IT) Department through Aadhaar based e-KYC (Electronic Know your Customer) to further ease the process for the taxpayers in New Delhi. PAN is a 10-digit alphanumeric number. It is an identification number assigned to all taxpayers in India.

Karnataka to launch State Health Register, a first-of-its-kind in India Karnataka is all set to launch the first of its kind in the country a “State Health Register” that will maintain the health records of all 6.5 crore citizens of the state. This decision to launch the standardized health repository of citizens has been taken after the COVID-19 crisis which needed urgent focus on better healthcare for all. The pilot project will be implemented in Chikkaballapur district, and Dakshina Kannada or Mangalore districts.

Missile Park ‘Agneeprastha’ to be set up, 2 MW Solar Power Plant inaugurated at INS Kalinga The foundation stone for a Missile Park named ‘Agneeprastha’ was laid & 2 Mega Watt (MW) solar photovoltaic plant was commissioned at INS Kalinga, Visakhapatnam. Agneeprastha aims to capture glimpses of Missile History of INS Kalinga. A 2 MW plant was commissioned in line with the initiative of the Union government’s objective to achieve 100 Giga Watt (GW) of solar power by 2022 as part of the National Solar Mission.

OTHER NATIONAL NEWS Cauvery Water Management Authority brought under the Jal Shakti Ministry: Central government The central government has brought the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA) under the Jal Shakti Ministry, which was earlier under the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. This decision is a formality of business allotment, which means that the authority must report to the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Water management authorities of other rivers have also been brought under the ministry, which was earlier under the same ministry as CWMA.

Manipur black rice, Gorakhpur terracotta & Kovilpatti kadalai mittai gets GI tag

Chak-Hao, the black rice of Manipur, the terracotta work of Gorakhpur (UP) & Kovilpatti (TN) kadalai- mittai has been granted with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Read More Details Here: Manipur black rice, Gorakhpur terracotta & Kovilpatti kadalai mittai gets GI tag

NLC India Limited, a Navratna Public Enterprise under the Ministry of Coal commences coal production Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) India Private Limited, a ‘Navratna’ Enterprise under the Ministry of Coal started the production of Coal for the first time. The coal allocated to the Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLCIL) in 2016 with a capacity of 20 million tonne per annum from the Talabira II and III mines of Odisha will suffice the requirements of existing and future coal fired power plants.

NBWL permits coal mining in part of Assam’s Dehing Patkai elephant reserve National Board for Wild Life (NBWL) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) which review all wildlife-related matters, has permitted the use of 98.59 hectares of land at Saleki, a part of the Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve in Assam for opencast coal mining project done by North-Easter Coal Field (NECF), a unit of Coal India Limited. Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve that includes the Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary (also known as Jeypore Rainforest).

Kashmir saffron gets GI tag After chak-hao, the black rice of Manipur, Gorakhpur (UP) terracotta & Kovilpatti (TN) kadalai-mittai, the Kashmir saffron cultivated and harvested in the Karewa (highlands) of Jammu and Kashmir gets Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry. Iran is the largest producer of saffron in the world.

Five more States/UTs integrated with ‘One Nation One Ration Card’ platform, taking the total to 17 RamVilas Paswan, Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution approved the integration of 5 more States and Union Territories under “One Nation One Ration Card” plan with the 12 existing states taking a total number of states/UTs to 17. The newly approved states/UTs under this plan are Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu. Read More Details Here: Five more States/UTs integrated with ‘One Nation One Ration Card’ platform, taking the total to 17

Maharashtra the first state government to announces free and cashless insurance to the people The Health Minister of Maharashtra Rajesh Tope announced that Maharashtra will be the first state to provide free and cashless insurance protection to the people and the covered under the state governments health scheme and for the treatment of COVID-19 patients at the private hospitals in Pune and Mumbai. The government has signed an MoU with the General Insurance Public Sector Association (GIPSA). He mentioned that the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY) will cover 85% of the population and it will be extended to the remaining 15%.

200 new mandis added to the e-NAM platform from 7 States: Narendra Singh Tomar Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar has added 200 new mandis to the e-National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) platform from 7 States & stated that by May 2020 there will be around 1,000 Mandis joining the e-NAM platform for marketing of Agricultural produce at a function in Krishi Bhawan through video conference.

NMCG & NIUA organized IDEAthon, a webinar; collaborated on urban river management plan The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti and National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) has organized an IDEAthon, a webinar on a theme “The future of River Management” to formulate River Management strategies for the future by learning lessons for river management from the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown positive impact on rivers. Read More Details Here: NMCG & NIUA organized IDEAthon, a webinar; collaborated on urban river management plan

Surakshit Dada-Dadi & Nana-Nani Abhiyan campaign to protect senior citizens during COVID- 19: NITI Aayog Think-Tank of Government of India, National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog in association with Piramal Foundation launched virtually the ‘Surakshit Dada-Dadi & Nana-Nani Abhiyan’ campaign to ensure well-being of senior citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MP becomes the first state in country to provide Mid-Day Meal ration The Central Government appreciated that Madhya Pradesh (MP) has become the first state in the country to provide a mid-day meal ration. Amid COVID-19 crisis, an amount of Rs. 117 crores have been transferred online by the state government in the bank accounts of the parents of total 66 lakh 27 thousand students of primary and secondary school. In addition to that, the ration has also been provided to 56,87,000 children.

India’s unemployment rate shoots up to 27.11% amid COVID-19 crisis: CMIE As per data of Mumbai based Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) the country’s unemployment rate rose to 27.11% for the week ended May 3 due to the COVID-19 crisis, up from the under 7% level before in mid-March. The unemployment rate stood at 21.05% in the week ending April 26. The unemployment rate in the urban areas is at 29.22%, against 26.69% for the rural areas due to more red

zones. Puducherry (UT) in South India has the highest number of unemployment at 75.8%, followed by Tamil Nadu at 49.8%. The Unemployment rate is lowest in hilly areas like Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, etc.

Govt to run awareness campaign in 1 lakh villages on balanced use of fertilisers for FY20-21 While reviewing the Soil Health Programme in New Delhi, Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar has informed that the government will run a mission mode awareness campaign in FY2020-2021 in over 1 lakh villages for promoting use of bio/organic fertilisers and reducing consumption of chemical soil nutrients. In this regard, Soil Testing Labs by youth having education in agriculture, Women SHGs, FPOs, will be set up at village level Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approves abolition of 9,304 posts in Military Engineering Service On the recommendation of the Committee of Experts (CoE), headed by Lt General DB Shekatkar, Minister of Defence, Rajnath Singh has approved the proposal of Engineer-in-Chief of Military Engineering Services (MES), Lt Gen Sanjeev Kumar Shrivastava, for abolition of 9,304 posts in MES out of the total 13,157 vacancies of the Basic and Industrial staff.

ICMR ties-up with India Post for lab delivery of Covid-19 testing kits Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has entered in to the partnership with India Post to deliver corona test kits from its 16 regional depots to the 200 additional labs set by ICMR in the country. There is a huge network of 1,56,000 post offices in the country, which will help ICMR in getting this kit at the earliest. Under this initiative, the ICMR has set a target of taking 1 lakh tests every day.

SRS Bulletin released: National infant mortality rate at 32, MP worst performer; Kerala achieved SDG target Registrar General of India has released its Sample Registration System (SRS) bulletin based on data collected for 2018 (reference year) which has presented the estimates of Birth Rate, Death Rate, and Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) for the year 2018 for India and its States/UTs. Madhya Pradesh is the state with maximum IMR of 48 (National average is 32). Chhattisgarh (8.0) has highest death rate & Bihar (26.2) has highest birth rate. Read More Details Here: SRS Bulletin released: National infant mortality rate at 32, MP worst performer; Kerala achieved SDG target

Department of Consumer Affairs partners with Safejob and Seekify to power Suraksha Store Initiative The Department of Consumer Affairs partnered with start-ups named “Safejob” and “Seekify” to use the technology in the local Kirana store level to control the spread of COVID-19. The initiative of Suraksha Store is to provide safety and health of the people during and after the lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic. The protocols were designed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Gujarat based Macpower produces India’s 1st indigenous Seam Sealing Machine for PPEs The Gujarat based Macpower CNC Machines Ltd, has made India’s 1st indigenous hot air seam sealing machine which is used to manufacture personal protective equipment (PPE) kits with the guidance of doctors at Indian Medical Association (IMA).

PM Modi announces Rs 20 lakh cr special economic package and Lockdown 4.0 Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced Rs 20-lakh-crore stimulus package, equivalent to about 10% of India’s GDP to revive the Indian economy which is facing a downward trend due to lockdown imposed to contain COVID-19. The details of the plan are dubbed as “Atma nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan”

(self-reliant India) which is to be provided by finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman. PM Modi stated the five pillars of India which are economy, infrastructure, system, demography and demand.

4 new products from three states receive Geographical Indication (GI) tag Geographical Indications Registry headquartered in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, has granted Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Jharkhand’s Sohrai Khovar painting (a traditional and ritualistic mural art), Telangana’s Telia Rumal cloth and Thanjavur Netti Works and Arambavur Wood Carvings from the state of Tamil Nadu.

ICMR, NCDC to initiate a population-based sero-survey in selected districts to monitor COVID-19 prevalence Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are set to initiate a population-based sero-survey in selected districts in collaboration with key stakeholders and State Health Departments so as to monitor the trend of COVID-19 infection at district level.

New initiative by the Railways and postal department for delivery and pick up The Thiruvananthapuram division of Southern Railways and Kerala Circle of Postal department has initiated a first of its kind to establish tie up for door delivery and pick up of parcels to help the public during the lockdown. The service will help the consigner to transit upto 3.5 tonne packages as a single shipment. The service is initially provided in the region of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, Ernakulam Town, Aluva and Thrissur.

In a 1st, PoK’s Gilgit-Baltistan & Muzaffarabad included in the meteorological forecast list of IMD The Regional Meteorological Centre of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), has included the areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Muzaffarabad, which are parts of PoK (Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir) in its weather forecasting for the 1st time. India Meteorological Department. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is an agency of the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

PM CARES Fund trust allocates Rs 3,100 crore: COVID-19 PM CARES (Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations) Fund Trust has allocated Rs 3100 crores. The distribution of allocation as follows, Rs 2000 crores to purchase 50,000 made in India ventilators, Rs 1000 crores to care migrant labourers - distribution based on state population & number of positive COVID-19 cases & Rs 100 crores to support vaccine development under supervision of Principal Scientific Advisor (K Vijay Raghavan) to fight against COVID-19 pandemic.

ICMR fast-tracks roll out of ‘Solidarity’ trial to find treatment: COVID-19 The Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) has fast-tracked the roll out of the global ‘Solidarity’ trial launched by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to help find an effective treatment for COVID-19. The ICMR-National AIDS Research Institute (NARI), Pune, Maharashtra is the national coordination site for the trial in India. Remdesivir, Chloroquine/Hydroxychloroquine, Lopinavir-Ritonavir and Lopinavir- Ritonavir with Interferon (beta-1a) are the 4 drugs suggested for trial.

Centre sets up “Rice Export Promotion Forum” to promote rice export The Central government has set up a new body Rice Export Promotion Forum (REPF) to give impetus to rice exports under the aegis of Agricultural and Processed Foods Export Promotion Development Authority (APEDA).

Jal Jeevan Mission: Haryana and J&K to provide tap water to every household by Dec 2022 The Union Territory (UT) Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) and the state Government of Haryana have planned to provide tap connection to supply water to all rural families by December 2022 under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).

Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-1: MSME focused package detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman; EPF contribution reduced Measures taken in the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan package are focused on “Getting back to work” which enables employees, employers, and businesses to get back to production and workers back to gainful employment.  Rs 3 lakh crore Emergency Working Capital Facility for Businesses, including MSMEs for 4 years  Rs 50,000 crores equity infusion for MSMEs through Rs 10,000 cr Fund of Funds  2500 crore Employees Provident Fund (EPF) Support for Business & Workers for 3 more months  EPF contribution reduced for Business & Workers for 3 months- Rs 6750 crores Liquidity Support  Rs 30,000 crores Special Liquidity Scheme for NBFC/HFC/MFIs  Rs 45,000 crores Partial credit guarantee Scheme 2.0 for Liabilities of NBFCs/MFIs  Reduction in Rates of ‘Tax Deduction at Source’ and ‘Tax Collected at Source” by 25% for the remaining period of FY 20-21 Read More Details Here: Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-1: MSME focused package detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman; EPF contribution reduced

Govt introduces new scheme of 2% interest subvention on working capital loans for dairy sector Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying has introduced a new scheme named “Interest subvention on Working Capital Loans for Dairy sector” for supporting Dairy Cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organizations engaged in dairy activities. The scheme has made provisions for providing interest subvention of 2% per annum, with an additional incentive of 2% per annum interest subvention. The scheme will be implemented through National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).

Dr Harsh Vardhan dedicates COBAS 6800 testing machine to the nation Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan has dedicated the COBAS 6800 COVID-19 testing machine to the nation during a visit to the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in New Delhi. The COBAS 6800 is a fully automated, high-end machine for performing Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) tests for COVID-19. The machine can able to test around 1200 samples in 24 hours. It can also detect other pathogens like Viral Hepatitis B and C, HIV, etc.

4 Ayush formulations against COVID-19 by AYUSH ministry & CSIR The Shripad Yesso Naik, Minister of State (I/C) for AYUSH, has announced that AYUSH ministry & Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) are working together to validate 4 Ayush formulations Ashwagandha, Yashtimadhu (Mulethi), Guduchi Pippali (Giloy) and AYUSH-64 (poly herbal formulation) against COVID-19.

Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-2: Package for Poor, including migrants and farmers detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman The Part 2 of “Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan” (self-reliant India Movement) is focused on providing relief to poor including migrant labours, street vendors, migrant urban poor, small traders, self-employed people, small farmers, housing and members of tribal community.  One Ration Card fully rolled out by March 2021  2% Interest Subvention for 12 months for Shishu MUDRA loanees- Relief of Rs. 1,500 crores  Rs 6000 crore employment push using CAMPA funds  Rs 30,000 crore Additional Emergency Working Capital for farmers through NABARD

Read More Details Here: Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-2: Package for Poor, including migrants and farmers detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman

Delhi Police gets India’s first ‘Thermal Corona Combat Headgear’ to enhance social distancing Delhi Police launched India’s first ‘Thermal Corona Combat Headgear’ to ensure the safety of frontline warriors and enforce social distancing. The initiative has been launched by the Delhi police in collaboration with Indian Robotics Solution. The equipment is used to detect temperature of large number of people at the distance of 10-15m. The Delhi Police has also launched a ‘Thermal Corona Combat Drone-(TCCD)’ in collaboration with the same start-up Indian Robotics Solution.

India’s CO2 emissions falls for the 1st time in four decades: Carbon Brief As per the analysis of UK based environmental website, Carbon Brief, India’s Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions fell by 30 metric tonnes (1.4%) in the fiscal year ending March 2020, which is the first annual decline in four decades. Furthermore, emission fell by 15% during the month of March and is likely to fall by 30% in April. The analysis is done by Lauri Myllyvirta and Sunil Dahiya of Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA). Read More Details Here: India’s CO2 emissions falls for the 1st time in four decades: Carbon Brief

Rajnath Singh approves Rs 400 crore Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme Union Defence minister Rajnath Singh has approved the launch of Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS) with a cost of Rs 400 crores to create testing infrastructure for the defence sector so as to boost domestic defence and aerospace manufacturing. The DTIS is to promote indigenous defence production, with special focus on participation of MSMEs and start-ups by bridging the gaps in defence testing infrastructure in the country.

Centre approves modified DPR of Ujh Multipurpose Project in Jammu and Kashmir The Central government has approved the modification of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the Ujh multipurpose Project (MPP) located on the river Ujh, main tributaries of river Ravi in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir at the estimated cost of Rs.9,167 crore.

Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-3: Package for agriculture Fisheries and Food Processing Sectors detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman The Part 3 of “Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan” (self-reliant India Movement) is consisted of 11 measures. 8 measures are for improving agricultural infrastructure and 3 measures are for administrative and governance reforms, including removing restrictions on sale and stock limits of farm produce.  NABARD anchored Rs 1 lakh crore Agri Infrastructure Fund for farm-gate infrastructure for farmers  20,000 crores allocated for fisherman through Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)  Rs. 13,343 cr National Animal Disease Control Programme launched  Amendments to Essential Commodities Act, 1955 to enable better price realisation for farmers Read More Details Here: Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-3: Package for agriculture Fisheries and Food Processing Sectors detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman

3rd advance estimates of production projects all time high food grain production of 295.67 million tonnes for 2019-20 In accordance with the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare’s 3rd Advance Estimates of production of major crops for 2019-20, the total food grain production in the country is estimated to achieve a record of all-time high 295.67 million tonnes in 2019-20 for the 4th consecutive year since 2016-17 crop year (July-June).

e-NAM reaches target 1000 mandis across 18 states and 3 Union Territories The Ministry of Agriculture announced that the e-NAM reached target 1000 mandis across the nation in 18 states and 3 union territories (UTs) with 38 new mandis integrated with the e-NAM platform of electronic agriculture trading portal. The 38 new mandis include 19 from Madhya Pradesh, 10 from Telangana, 4 from Maharashtra and one each in Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Kerala and J&K.

GoM headed by Thawar Chand Gehlot proposes land pooling to corporatise agri, merging MGNREGA with skilling programmes A Group of Ministers (GoM) panel headed by Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot on employment and skill development has drafted a set of proposals that includes land pooling to corporatize agriculture, merging MGNREGA with skilling programmes to create a wage subsidy programme.

Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-4: New Horizons of Growth detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman The Part 4 of “Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan” (self-reliant India Movement) is consisted of structural reforms in the eight sectors of Coal, Minerals, Defence production, Civil Aviation, Power Sector, Social Infrastructure, Space and Atomic energy. The aim is to boost economic growth, and create jobs.  Coal Sector: Rs 50,000 cr infused for building evacuation infrastructure  Defence sector: FDI to be raised from 49% to 74%  Power sector; Privatization of PDCs in UTs  Atomic Energy Sector Read More Details Here: Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-4: New Horizons of Growth detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman

Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-5: Government reforms detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman The Part 5 of “Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan” (self-reliant India Movement) is focused on seven areas viz. MNREGA, Health and Education, Business during COVID-19, Decriminalisation of Company Act, Ease of doing business, Policy related to Public Sector Units, State government and resources related to it.  Rs 40,000 crores increase in allocation for MGNREGS to provide employment boost  Technology Driven Education with Equity post-COVID by launching PM eVIDYA  Enhancement of Ease of Doing business through IBC related measures  Ease of Doing Business for Corporates  Public Sector Enterprise Policy for a New, Self-reliant India Read More Details Here: Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan Part-5: Government reforms detailed by Nirmala Sitharaman

India Provides 2 million USD to support UN agency working for Palestinian refugees India provides 2 million USD (Rs 15 crore) to support the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to support the Palestinian refugees for its programmes and services like education and healthcare in the COVID-19 situation. India has increased the annual contribution to the UNRWA from 1.25 million USD (Rs.9.45 crore) to 5 million USD (Rs. 37 crore) in 2019 and promised another 5 million USD (Rs. 37 crore) for 2020.

Army proposes 3-year stint for civilians under “Three-Year Short Service” Scheme Indian army is considering a proposal to allow civilians, including young working professionals, to join the force for 3 years as officers and in other ranks (ORs) in areas like logistics and front-line formations under the “Tour of Duty” or “Three-Year Short Service” Scheme. Initially, 100 officers and 1,000 men are being considered for recruitment. The key criteria under this scheme will be age and fitness, among others.

Indian Railways operationalised its 1st 12,000 hp electric made in India Locomotive- WAG12 manufactured by MELPL Indian Railways has operationalised its 1st 12,000 hp electric made in India Locomotive named WAG12 from Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Station, Uttar Pradesh. It is manufactured by Madhepura Electric Locomotive Pvt. Ltd. (MELPL) Factory, Bihar which is a joint venture between French giant Alstom (74% share) & IR (26% share). India became the 6th country to produce high hp loco indigenously & is the 1st time it operationalised high hp on a broad-gauge track in the world.

Labour ministry notifies EPF contribution to 10% from 12% for three months Ministry of Labour & Employment had decided to reduce the Employees’ provident fund (EPF) contributions to 10% from the existing 12% for three months till July 2020 (i.e May, June, July) to retain more money in the hands of the employer and the salary class.

Defence Ministry approves procurement of 26 defence items from local suppliers to boost ‘Make in India’ The Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence in order to further encourage procurement from local suppliers to boost ‘Make in India’, has approved 26 defence items out of 127 already notified have now been notified under clause 3(a) of the Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) Order 2017. Read More Details Here: Defence Ministry approves procurement of 26 defence items from local suppliers to boost ‘Make in India’

Centre gives environmental clearance for drilling & testing of hydrocarbons in Assam’s Dibru Saikhowa Park Union Ministry for Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) gave green clearance for the extension drilling and testing of hydrocarbons at seven locations by Oil India Ltd under Assam's Dibru- Saikhowa National Park. The clearance was given as part of the Centre’s target to reduce 10% imports and the Northeast Vision 2030. Union MoEFCC Minister & Chairman of National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), Prakash Javadekar has also approved a coal-mining project in the Saleki reserve forest which is a part of the Dihing Patkai Elephant Reserve (Assam).

Local to Global: Khadi Masks to export in Foreign Markets Ministry of Commerce and Industries lifted the ban on export of non-medical/ non-surgical masks of all types. Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has already developed double layered cotton masks and triple-layered silk face masks. If this came to effect then it will be a perfect example of “local the global”, a call-in wake of AtmaNirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.

Uttarakhand becomes the 1st state to release report on conservation of endemic, threatened floras Uttarakhand became the 1st state to release a report highlighting its conservation efforts to save over 1,100 rare plants from extinction. The project aims at Germplasm conservation so that species remains conserved with the forest department & also to promote conservation of plant species among the general public so as to end plant blindness.

Chardham Project: BRO constructs 440-meter long tunnel below Chamba town in Uttarakhand In a big boost to” Char Dham” project to connect holy towns of Gangotri, Kedarnath, Yamunotri and Badrinath, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has constructed a 440-meter-long tunnel under the Chamba town on Rishikesh-Dharasu road Highway (NH 94) in Uttarakhand even during the COVID-19 epidemic. The long tunnel, being constructed under the Chardham Mahamarg Vikas Pariyojna using Austrian technology.

DST, Rajasthan in association with TRIFED, M/O Tribal Affairs organised Webinar on “Van Dhan Scheme: learnings for post COVID-19” The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of Rajasthan in association with The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED), under Ministry of Tribal Affairs has organized a webinar under Know Your Scheme-Lecture Series on “Van Dhan Yojana: Learning for Post Covid-19” to help the tribal people.

Government withdrew 7.75% Savings (Taxable) Bonds scheme due to declining interest rates Government has ceased the 7.75% Savings (Taxable) Bonds scheme commonly known as RBI Bonds or GOI bonds for subscription due to the declining interest rates as RBI has lowered the short-term lending (repo) rate which is currently at 4%. This scheme was popular among retail investors for safety of principal and a regular income. These bonds had a 7-year lock-in period with minimum investment starts from Rs. 1000 & no maximum limit.

CIPET renamed as Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering &Technology Central Institute of Plastics Engineering & Technology (CIPET) was renamed as Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering and Technology. CIPET is a premier national institution under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India (GOI).

One Sun One World One Grid: India initiated talks on West to SE Asia solar grid The Union Ministry of New and Renewable energy (MNRE) proposed the ‘One Sun One World One Grid’ (OSOWOG) to interconnect renewable energy by sharing solar resources with more than 140 countries of West Asia and South East Asia. The grid will be interconnected with African power pools later. India has already initiated the International Solar Alliance (ISA) which aims to deploy over 1,000 GW of solar generation capacity globally and mobilise investment of over $1 trillion towards by 2030. GOVT SCHEMES

Chhattisgarh tops among other states in providing employment under MGNREGS According to data of Rural Development ministry, Chhattisgarh is top (1st) state in the country providing employment to around 18.51 lakh unskilled labourers, followed by Rajasthan (2nd) to 10.79 lakh workers & Uttar Pradesh (3rd) to around 9.06 lakh workers under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). Also, as per ministry data, around 77.85 lakh people are engaged in different work under the scheme across the country. Position secured State Name No of employment provided (in lakhs) 1 Chhattisgarh 18.51 2 Rajasthan 10.79 3 Uttar Pradesh 9.06

Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ announces modifications in PMRF Scheme to boost research Union Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ announced various modifications (amendments) in the Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF) Scheme to boost research in the country & to enable more students to avail the benefit under the scheme.” Research and Innovation Division” is being created in the ministry to boost research.

Atal Pension Yojana completed 5 yrs on May 9, 2020 with 2.23 crore enrolment The Atal Pension Yojana (APY) which was launched in 2015 by PM Modi to deliver old age income security particularly to the workers in the unorganised sector, has completed 5 years on the May 9, 2020. The

scheme has been implemented comprehensively across the country covering all states and Union Territories (UTs). The scheme has been administered by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).

Coir Geo textiles to be used in rural road construction under PMGSY-III: Govt According to the National Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (NRIDA) under Union Ministry of Rural Development, ‘Coir Geo textiles’ has been finally got nod as a good material for rural road construction under the third phase of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, (PMGSY-III).

1 crore treatments provided under AB-PMJAY, created webinar, launched Ask Ayushman & Hospital Ranking Dashboard: Harsh Vardhan Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan to mark 1 crore treatments of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) has inaugurated the 1st edition of Arogya Dhara, a series of webinars titled “Ayushman Bharat: 1 crore treatments and beyond” which is created as an open platform for discussion on topical issues of public health and launched ‘Ask Ayushman’ a chatbot on WhatsApp & “Hospital Ranking Dashboard”. Read More Details Here: 1 crore treatments provided under AB-PMJAY, created webinar, launched Ask Ayushman & Hospital Ranking Dashboard: Harsh Vardhan

Rs. 20,050 cr PMMSY detailed by Giriraj Singh: Fish production target set to 220 LMT by FY24- 25 Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Giriraj Singh detailed the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) in New Delhi. PMMSY was announced as a part of the Rs 20 Lakh crore Centre’s economic stimulus package in response to COVID-19 and received the Union Cabinet approval on May 20, 2020. It will be implemented for a period of 5 years FY21 to FY25 in all states and Union Territories (UTs). The outlay of the scheme is Rs. 20,050 crores. As a part of PMMSY, there will be Swath Sagar plan, which is envisaged with modernizing of the fisheries sector. India is the 2nd largest aquaculture and 4th largest fish exporting nation in the world. Read More Details Here: Rs. 20,050 cr PMMSY detailed by Giriraj Singh: Fish production target set to 220 LMT by FY24-25 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

USAID announces 3 million USD to support India’s efforts to combat COVID-19 The United States Agency of International Development (USAID), one of the leading aid-agency of the government of United States has announced an additional grant of 3 million USD in addition to the 2.9 million USD announced on 6th April 2020 to help India to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The Funds are provided to the innovative financing platform, Partnerships for Affordable Healthcare Access and Longevity (PAHAL) project.

Disasters, conflicts trigger 5 million displacements in India in 2019: IDMC According to a recent report from the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), titled ‘The Global Report on Internal Displacement (GRID 2020)’, nearly 5 million (mn) people were displaced in India in 2019, the highest in the world so far. Read More Details Here: Disasters, conflicts trigger 5 million displacements in India in 2019: IDMC

Iran approves currency denomination bill to slash 4 zeros from Rial and covert to Toman The parliament of Iran has approved a bill on national currency denomination, which allows to cutting four zeros from its national currency Rial & to rename it as ‘Toman’ which is equal to 10,000 rials. It has taken this major decision to prevent a major fall in currency due to US (United States) sanctions.

WHO and UN’s postal agency releases commemorative stamp on 40th anniversary of smallpox eradication The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nation (UN) postal agency released a commemorative postage stamp on the 40th anniversary of the eradication of smallpox. The stamp was designed and developed by Sergio Baradat, United Nations Postal Administration (UNPA) in collaboration with WHO. Tedros Adhanom expressed his gratitude to a top Indian-origin Atul Khare for making this commemorative stamp possible.

COVID-19: United Nations and partners to raise $ 6.7 billion for vulnerable nations United Nations (UN) and its partner agencies have appealed to governments, companies and billionaires to donate $ 6.7 billion in funds for essentials within vulnerable countries to fight against COVID-19 Pandemic.

BRICS’ New Development Bank provides USD 1 billion loan to India to fight COVID-19 The Shanghai based New Development Bank of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries has disbursed USD 1 billion emergency assistance loan to India. The ‘Emergency Assistance Program Loan’ to India was approved by the NDB Board of Directors on April 30, and it is aimed at supporting the Indian government to contain the spread of COVID-19 and to provide financial aid.

CDC of the United States promises 3.6 million USD to India to combat COVID-19 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States of America has promised 3.6 million USD (around 27 crores) to the government of India, the first tranche of funding to help in strengthening the India to combat against the COVID-19 pandemic and to increase the laboratory capacity of SARS-COV-2 testing and to help molecular diagnostics and serology.

Forest loss rate globally declined from 2015 to 2020: FRA 2020 According to the Global Forest Resources Assessment (FRA) 2020 released by the Rome based Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the forest loss rate in 2015-2020 has declined to an estimated 10 million hectares(mha), down from 12 mha in 2010-2015. Among the world’s regions, Africa has the largest annual rate of net forest loss in 2010–2020, whereas Asia has the highest net gain of forest area in 2010– 2020, followed by Oceania and Europe. More than 54% of the world’s forests were in only five countries namely- Russia, Brazil, Canada, USA and China.

Israel names street in Tel Aviv after Rabindranath Tagore on his 159th birth anniversary Israel has named a street in Tel Aviv after Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore on his 159th birth anniversary to honour his valuable contributions in the field and to mankind. He was born on May 7, 1861, in Calcutta. In Bengal Rabindra Jayanti is celebrated on the 25th day of the Bengali month of Boishakh. The capital and currency of Israel is Jerusalem and Shekel respectively.

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sworn-in for the 5th time Benjamin Netanyahu has been sworn as the Israel Prime Minister (PM) for the 5th time after signing of power-sharing deal with rival-turned-partner Benny Gantz of Blue and White Party. He will now chair the post until 13 November 2021. As per agreement Benjamin will continue as PM of Israel for 18 months and Benny will take charge after that.

Italy develops ‘iFeel-You’ bracelet for social distancing The Genoa-based Italian Institute of Technology (IIT) has developed “i-Feel you”, an intelligent bracelet which will help users respect social distancing rules. The capital and currency of Italy is Rome and Euro respectively.

Nepal approves new political map including India’s Kalapani, Lipulekh as its territory Nepal’s cabinet has accepted a new political map showing Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura under its territory. The new map shows the northern, southern, eastern and western international borders of Nepal. The politics and administrative systems of the areas adjacent to these borders are also mentioned. The Lipulekh Pass is a remote western place near the disputed border between Nepal and India, Kalapani. Both India and Nepal consider Kalapani as their integral part. India calls it part of Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand while Nepal is part of Dharchula district.

Airtel Africa with UNICEF extends e-learning support to students New York headquartered United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) partnered with Bharti Airtel’s Africa Arm to support the school children in the COVID-19 affected areas and provide them access to remote learning and financial assistance to their families through mobile cash transfer. Under this partnership, Airtel Africa will utilize mobile technology to support over 133 million school age children affected due to closure of schools in 13 Sub-Saharan African country. This partnership will support UNICEF’s Global Agenda for Action for children.

India sets up military war game centre called ‘INDIA’ for Ugandan Defence forces The Indian Association Uganda (IAU) and Indian Military Advisory and Training Team for Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) have jointly set up military war game centre called ‘INDIA’ at the Uganda Senior Command and Staff College in Jinja District of Uganda with a cost of over 1 billion Ugandan shillings or $2,65,000. The centre was inaugurated by the Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The capital and currency of Uganda are Kampala and Ugandan Shilling respectively.

India’s crude steel output slips 65.2% to 3.13 MT in Apr: Worldsteel April 2020 report According to the Brussels, Belgium based World Steel Association’s (worldsteel) monthly crude steel report for April 2020, India’s crude steel output declined by 65.2% to 3.137 million tonnes (MT) during April, 2020 in comparison to the 9.021 MT of crude steel production in April 2019. The report included 64 steel production nations reporting to the worldsteel.

WHO and IOC team up to improve health through sport amidst COVID-19 Pandemic The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have teamed up to fight the battle against Covid-19 and have signed an agreement to work together to promote health through sport and physical activity. Also, WHO estimates that 1 in 4 adults is not active enough and more than 80% of the world’s adolescent population come under this category.

US left open skies surveillance treaty due to non-compliance of Russia towards treaty The United States (US) has left the Open Skies treaty (OST) for 6 months w.e.f. May 23, 2020 due to Russia’s non-compliance with the treaty. In this regard, US submitted a notice of its decision to withdraw from the Treaty on Open Skies to the Treaty Depositories. The treaty was signed in 1992 and came into force on January 1, 2002. The treaty includes USA, Russia and majority of NATO allies, India was not the part of the treaty.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen re-elected for second term; 2 Indian MPs sent congratulatory video messages Tsai Ing-wen (63) the current and first female President of Taiwan has been re-elected for a second four- year term of presidency. A representative of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), took the oath on May 20, 2020. The BJP MPs Meenakshi Lekhi & Rahul Kaswan sent the congratulatory video messages to her. The capital and currency of Taiwan are Taipei and New Taiwan dollar respectively.

U.S. joins G7 artificial intelligence group to counter China The United States (US) has joined an international panel of Group of Seven (G7) for setting up ethical guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The partnership was launched after a virtual meet of technology ministers of member nations. The aim of this panel is to counter China’s twisting technology in ways that threaten civil liberties. BANKING & FINANCE

RBI IN NEWS RBI extends regulatory benefits under SLF-MF scheme dated 27.4.2020 to all banks Reserve Bank of India (RBI) extended the regulatory benefits under the Special liquidity facility for mutual funds (SLF-MF) to all banks, irrespective of whether they avail funding from the Reserve Bank or deploy their own resources under SLF-MF scheme. This decision has been taken on the lines of request made by banks to RBI. Read More Details Here: RBI extends regulatory benefits under SLF-MF scheme dated 27.4.2020 to all banks

Reserve Bank extends interest subsidy scheme for exporters till 31 March 2021 The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has extended the interest subsidy period by one year to 31 March 2021 on export credit received before and after shipment of goods to exporters. Exporters get the subsidy under the ‘Interest Equalisation Scheme for pre and post shipment Rupee Export Credit’, which was ended on March 31, 2020.

Overview of Monetary Policy Statement 2020-21 released by RBI The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released its Monetary Policy Statement 2020-21 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The three-day (May 20 to 22,2020) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) virtual meeting by the 6 members was headed by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das.  All members of the MPC unanimously voted to reduce the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) to 4.0 % from 4.40%.  RBI extends moratorium on loans for another 3 months till August 2020  India’s 2020-21 GDP growth rate expected to be negative  Reserve Bank infuses Rs 15,000-crore line of credit to EXIM Bank  Reserve bank grants Rs 15,000-crore refinance facility for SIDBI  Industrial production decrease by 17 % in March with manufacturing activity down by 21%: RBI Read More Details Here: Overview of Monetary Policy Statement 2020-21 released by RBI

LOANS ISSUED BY BANKS LOANS ISSUED RECEIVED BY AMOUNT KEY NOTES BY Asian India $500 million Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has Infrastructure approved a loan worth of $500 million for India’s Investment Bank ‘COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health (AIIB) Systems Preparedness Project’ to assist nation’s efforts to stop the risk posed by COVID-19. This is the first-ever health sector support from AIIB to India. Asian Development India USD 177 The Manila based Asian Development Bank (ADB) Bank (ADB) million and the Government of India signed a USD 177 million loan to upgrade 11 state highways & 2 major district roads with a combined length of 450 km to a 2-lane standard across seven districts of Maharashtra.

AGREEMENTS & MoU’s SIGNED BANKS SIGNED WITH KEY NOTES Federal Bank MoneyGram Payment MoneyGram Payment System, a subsidiary of System MoneyGram International, global leader in P2P payments tied up with Federal Bank Limited, a private bank in India to provide the customers a cost-effective way to receive deposits directly in their bank accounts in India. The World Bank has mentioned that India is one of the world’s top recipients of remittance who has received around 82 billion USD in 2019. Asian Infrastructure India and West Bengal The Government of India and West Bengal Investment Bank Government have inked two loan agreements with (AIIB) and World Bank Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and (WB) World Bank (WB) each $145 million ($290 million cumulative) for the “West Bengal Major Irrigation and Flood Management Project” to improve irrigation services and flood management in the Damodar Valley Command Area (DVCA) of West Bengal. The total outlay of the project is $413.8 million. The Government of West Bengal has infused $123.8 million for this project.

OTHER BANKING NEWS ‘Vikas Abhaya’ loan scheme launched: KVGB Dharwad Headquartered - Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB), a regional rural has launched ‘Vikas Abhaya’ a loan scheme to provide some relief to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) borrowers whose business activities are disrupted on account of the COVID-19 pandemic. The loan will be provided for the existing MSME customers who have been regular as on February 29, a maximum loan of up to Rs 1 lakh will be provided and is repayable within 36 months. Chairman of KVGB – P Gopi Krishna.

USD 400 million multi-year financial support to India: World Bank The World Bank ‘s Board of Executive Directors has approved a USD 400 million multi-year financial support to help India enhance its coastal & marine resources, protect marine resources & coastal populations from pollution, erosion, sea-level rise, and improve livelihood opportunities for coastal communities over the next decade. The loan from the international bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) has a final maturity of 14.5 years including a grace period of 5 years. The 1st phase covers 8 coastal States and 3 coastal Union Territories, with USD 180 million in funding, for Enhancing Coastal and Ocean Resource Efficiency (ENCORE).

Reserve bank cancels Mumbai’s 105-year-old CKP co-op bank license Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cancelled the license granted to the 105-year-old CKP Co-operative Bank Ltd located in Mumbai, Maharashtra to conduct banking business which includes acceptance of deposits and repayment of deposits as defined in Section 5 (b) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 with immediate effect. In the sequence of cancellation of license and commencement of liquidation work, the process of payment of amount will be initiated to depositors of CKP bank under Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) Act, 1961, around 99.2 % depositors of the bank will be entitled to deposit up to Rs. 5 lakhs from the DICGC subject to the general terms and conditions.

‘India SME Services Platform’ to be launched: SIDBI The Lucknow based Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) informed that it will launch a digital platform named ‘India SME Services Platform’ to educate stakeholders in the small and medium enterprises (SME) ecosystem and have information on coronavirus-related initiatives for the sector.

NABARD disburses Rs 12,767 crore to State Co-op Banks & RRBs to extend credit to farmers The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) disburses Rs 12,767 crore to State Co-operative (Co-op) Banks & Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) across the country to increase their resources for extending credit to farmers during the lockdown due to the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. The loans are being offered for one year at an interest rate of 4.8 per cent.

World Bank approves 1 billion USD to support India’s combat against COVID-19 World Bank approves Rs 7500 crore (1 billion USD) to ‘Accelerating India’s COVID-19 Social Protection Response Program’ to increase India’s COVID-19 Social Protection response Program to help the nation’s efforts in providing assistance for the poor and needy who are affected by the pandemic. This makes the total commitment from the World Bank to India for the COVID-19 response to Rs.15000 crore (USD 2 billion).

Rs 1,500 crores sanctioned for Punjab to ensure continuous credit flow to farmers: NABARD The Mumbai based National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has sanctioned Rs 1,500 crores for Punjab to ensure continuous credit flow to farmers, through state cooperative banks, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Out of the total amount Rs 1,000 crores is sanctioned to Punjab State Cooperative Bank and Rs 500 crores to Punjab Gramin Bank.

Canara Bank launches special gold loan business vertical The Bengaluru headquartered Canara Bank has launched a special business vertical dedicated for gold loans to meet the financial needs of its customers as they are in need of immediate credit support to meet their emergency needs due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The bank has launched a gold loan campaign till 30th June, 2020 with an interest rate as low as 7.85% per annum. The MD & CEO of Canara bank is LV Prabhakar.

NABARD extends Rs 20,500 crores special liquidity facility to co-op banks & RRBs The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has informed that it has extended Rs 20,500 crores special liquidity facility to co-operative banks (co-op– Rs 15,200 crores) and Regional Rural Banks (RRB’s– Rs 5,300 crores) in various States. This amount is part of the Rs 25,000 crores of special refinance facility provided by the RBI to NABARD for refinancing RRBs, cooperative banks and Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs).

Kotak Mahindra becomes 1st bank in India to introduce video-KYC facility for SA customers The Mumbai based Kotak Mahindra Bank has become the 1st bank in India to allow video Know your customer (KYC) facility for its customers opening savings account (SA) on Kotak 811 platform.

Franklin Templeton appoints Kotak Bank as an advisor to assist in monetising assets of 6 Wind- up Schemes Franklin Templeton Trustee Services Pvt. Ltd. has appointed Mumbai based Kotak Mahindra Bank as an independent advisor to work together with Franklin Templeton Asset Management (India) Pvt. Ltd (the AMC), to assist the Trustees in monetizing portfolios of the 6 schemes that are being wound up & make pay-outs to the affected investors.

World Bank announces $160 billion assistance to 100 countries The World Bank announced emergency operations worth USD 160 billion to 100 developing countries over a 15-month period to fight the deadly Coronavirus. The COVID-19 pandemic and shutdown were expected to put over 60 million into extreme poverty globally.

ICICI introduced ‘ICICI Bank Golden Years FD’ a special FD with interest rate of 6.55% p.a. for senior citizens The Private sector ICICI bank has introduced a special fixed deposit (FD) scheme for senior citizens called ‘ICICI Bank Golden Years FD’ which offers an interest rate of 6.55% per annum (p.a) for deposits up to Rs. 2 crores with a tenure of more than 5 years (5 years and 1 day) to 10 years. Similarly, SBI has launched ‘SBI Wecare Deposit’ scheme which offers an additional 30 bps interest to senior citizens on their term deposits & HDFC has launched ‘Senior Citizen Care FD’ which offers an additional 75bps for deposits with more than 5-year tenors with investments up to Rs 5 crore.

Airtel Payments Bank joined hands with Mastercard to develop customised payment solutions for farmers, SMEs The Airtel Payments Bank (APBL) has joined hands with Mastercard to develop a special type of payment solutions such as contact less payments via NFC (Near Field Communication), credit facility and other neighbourhood banking services for Indian farmers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

NABARD grants Rs 1,050 crore to West Bengal during FY 21 for the benefit of farmers & poor people The Mumbai based National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has extended Rs. 1,050 crores special liquidity facility (SLF) to West Bengal (WB) in the current fiscal year (FY 21) for the welfare of farmers and poor people in the state. Of the 1050 crores, Rs 300 crores disbursed for MFIs (micro-finance institutions), Rs 700 crores sanctioned for state cooperative banks and Rs 50 crorse for regional rural banks (RRBs).

FINANCE NEWS Flipkart ties up with Bajaj Allianz General Insurance for digital motor insurance policy E-commerce company Flipkart partnered with Pune based Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company to offer digital motor insurance policy to customers of e-commerce major. This enables consumers to purchase the motor-insurance policy using the Flipkart mobile application.

IBM ties up with Intellect Design Arena to launch iTurmeric FinCloud platform for cloud services of banks, financial institutions IBM (International Business Machines) ties up with the Intellect Design Arena Limited, a full spectrum banking and insurance products company, has launched iTurmeric FinCloud platform through IBM public cloud targeting financial institutions which are looking to switch to the latest tools and technologies.

Maruti Suzuki ties-up with Cholamandalam Investment & Finance to launch ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ offer Maruti Suzuki India Limited, an automobile manufacturer in India, has partnered with the Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company Limited (CIFCL) to launch ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ financing scheme to make the purchase of its cars even more convenient. Under the scheme, customers have the option to avail a 60-day surcharge on their EMI. Apart from Maruti, Tata Motors and Mahindra have also rolled out similar finance schemes this week.

Edelweiss General Insurance launched app-based OD floater policy Edelweiss General Insurance launched ‘Edelweiss SWITCH’, an app-based motor insurance own damage (OD) floater policy under IRDAI’s sandbox regulations. This driver-based motor insurance allows the owners of the vehicles to cover multiple vehicles under a single policy. Edelweiss SWITCH is approved under the ‘Pay as you use’ model, expected to change the standard of determining the premium of Motor OD based on the age, make and model of vehicle to usage of vehicle and experience of driver.

LIC launches modified PM Vaya Vandana Yojana pension scheme The Mumbai headquartered Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) announced the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana-PMVVY (Modified- 2020) Scheme for those over and above 60 years. The sale will be available from May 26 for 3 financial years (up to March 31, 2023). This scheme can be purchased offline as well as online from LIC website.

Maruti Suzuki partners with ICICI Bank to provide retail financing schemes to customers Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) announced its partnership with ICICI Bank to offer retail financing schemes to its customers. ICICI bank offers a flexible EMI scheme allowing the customers to pay minimum EMI initially to support them in the liquidity stress during COVID-19 situation.

Annual listing fee reduced by 25% for SMEs: BSE & NSE The BSE (formerly known as The Bombay Stock Exchange) and NSE (National Stock Exchange) announced that they will reduce the annual listing fee by 25% for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) companies to lower the compliance costs for companies. NSE will provide the rebate to all its existing listed companies currently listed on its EMERGE platform. BSE will provide the rebate to its currently- listed companies & for all the firms waiting to be listed on the exchange.

ECONOMY & BUSINESS

GDP & GROWTH RATE ORGANIZATION YEAR RATE DBS bank FY 2020-2021 1% The Singapore based DBS bank has trimmed the India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) forecast for FY 2020-2021 to 1% from 1.5% projected on April 9, 2020 due to two months lockdown. DBS Bank estimated that additional another Rs 1.5-3 lakh-crore needed to reach every poor (1.70 Lakh crore announced earlier). Moody’s Fiscal Year 0% 2020-21 Moody’s slashed down India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth to zero for the current fiscal 2020-21 from its earlier forecast of 2.6%. In 2021-22 India’s GDP growth rate will bounce back to 6.6%. No change in sovereign rating which stands at ‘Baa2’ with ‘Negative’ outlook for India. Goldman Sachs FY21 -0.4% Group, Inc. The US based Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has predicted India’s GDP (Gross domestic product) growth for 2020-21 (FY21) at -0.4% following the expansion of the lockdown. While the Japan based Nomura Holdings, Inc. has also lowered India’s FY21 GDP growth forecast to –5.2% from -0.4% predicted earlier. Click here Goldman Sachs FY21 5% US based Goldman Sachs has estimated Indian economy to contract by 5% in FY21, which will be the deepest compared to all recessions India has ever experienced since 1979. It is against its earlier forecast of 0.4% contraction before revising it down to a level it shares with Japanese brokerage Nomura. ICRA FY21 -5 % Gurugram based credit rating agency ICRA Limited has sharply reduced India’s FY21 (Fiscal Year 2020-21) growth forecast to minus 5 % from 1%, -2% growth predicted earlier, due to the multiple extension of lockdown and labour mismatches results in further delays in supply chain resumption. State Bank of India’s Last quarter According to the State Bank of India’s (SBI) Ecowrap report, India’s (SBI) (Q4) of FY20 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is estimated to grow at 1.2% in the last quarter (Q4) of FY20 as economic activity came to a halt since last week of March due to the nationwide lockdown. The report forecast a loss of at least Rs 1.4 lakh crore during the last week of March. The GDP is likely to be 4.2% for FY20 as compared to the 5% projected earlier and (-) 6.8% for FY21. S&P Global Ratings FY 21 5 % The S&P Global Ratings has projected India’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth for the current fiscal year FY 21 (2020-21) to contract by 5 % from 1.8 % growth projected in April 2020, due to the lockdown imposed for the prevention of the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely affected economic activity in the country.

Fitch’s Global May According to Fitch’s Global Economic Outlook (GEO) for May, Economic Outlook India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to a 5% decline in (GEO) the current financial year (ending March 2021). As per the report by CRISIL the gross domestic product (GDP) of Indian economy will contract by 5% in fiscal 2021. Click here Provisional Financial year According to the Provisional Estimates of National Income for the Estimates of National 2019-20 financial year 2019-20 by National Statistical Office (NSO), Ministry Income of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI), India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth has slowed to an 11-year low of 4.2% in 2019-20. Also, as per the Controller General of Accounts (CGA) data, the fiscal deficit for 2019-20 which signifies the gap between government revenue and expenditure has widened to 4.59%(~4.6%) of GDP, higher than the revised estimate of 3.8 %. Click here

ECONOMY NEWS IIT Hyderabad to collaborate with Hong Kong firm to create venture ecosystem The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Hyderabad has collaborated with Hong Kong based financial firm New Frontier Capital Management to establish a global network of ventures as well as to create a venture ecosystem. The core objective of this partnership is to promote innovation, research and incubation.

Government hikes its market borrowing to Rs 12 lakh crore from Rs 7.80 lakh crore for FY 21: COVID-19 impact

The Finance Ministry has informed that Government has hiked its estimated gross market borrowing to Rs 12 lakh crore (additional Rs 4.2 lakh crore) from Rs 7.80 lakh crore for Financial Year (FY) 2020-21 as per the Budget Estimates (BE) so as to tackle the expected shortfall in revenue due to the impact of COVID-19 crisis on the economy. Read More Details Here: Government hikes its market borrowing to Rs 12 lakh crore from Rs 7.80 lakh crore for FY 21: COVID-19 impact

FM Nirmala Sitharaman launches INR-USD futures and options contracts on BSE, NSE at Gift city Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman launched INR-USD (Rupee- Dollar) Futures and Options contracts on two international exchanges namely BSE’s India INX and NSE’s NSE-IFSC at the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) of Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) in Gandhinagar through a video conference.

UN WESP forecasts India to grow at 1.2% in CY20 and global economy to shrink by 3.2% In the United Nations (UN) World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) mid-year 2020 report forecast that the COVID-19 pandemic situation will shrink the world economy by 3.2% in 2020 this is the sharpest contraction since the 1930’s Great Depression and India’s economy to grow at 1.2% in 2020.

Finance ministry exempts B2B firms from using only BHIM, RuPay for accepting payments Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), a statutory authority functioning under the Department of

business-to-business (B2B) transactions, from the requirement of accepting payments only by e- paymentsRevenue in facilities the Ministry using of debit Finance, cards has powered exempted by RuPay firms orwith BHIM a turnover-UPI. of over ₹50 crore & engaged in

Indian exports to fall by 20% during FY 21: FIEO The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), apex body of exporters set up jointly by Ministry of Commerce and Government of India has informed that Indian exports are expected to fall by 20% in the current fiscal, in value terms it will be around USD 50 to 60 billion & also imports due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Bharat Biotech and Thomas Jefferson University to develop a new vaccine candidate for COVID- 19 Hyderabad based Vaccine manufacturer Bharat Biotech and Thomas Jefferson University of Philadelphia have signed an exclusive deal to develop a new vaccine candidate for COVID-19 at Jefferson with the support from the Department of Biotechnology, Bharat Biotech aims for human trials in early December 2020.

IRDAI’s working committee recommended enhancing trade credit policy (TCI) cover to 90% from 85% The Hyderabad based Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has formulated 9-member expert panel headed by Atul Sahai. The panel has recommended an increase in indemnity being provided to the policyholders under Trade Credit Insurance (TCI) from existing 85% of the trade receivables from each buyer to 90%. For Micro and small enterprises (MSEs), 95% indemnity is proposed to provide relief in the event of loss which is beyond their control.

FDI raised 18% to $73.46 billion in FY20: DPIIT According to the data released by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), the total foreign direct investment (FDI) increased by 18% to $73.46 billion in the FY 2019-20. Singapore again emerged as the largest equity FDI source, contributing to inflows of $14.67.

BUSINESS NEWS Fintech startup Zaggle ties up with Visa to launch innovative payments solutions for SMEs & start-ups Mumbai based fintech start-up Zaggle informed that it has partnered with payments technology major Visa to launch innovative payment solutions for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups so as to enhance productivity, efficiency, automate processes, reduce costs & focus on easy and fast credit with a unique card which will have forex, prepaid & credit. Zaggle plans to launch” FoundersCard”, a credit card for founders and Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of SMEs and start-ups in the next 45-60 days.

REC Ltd ties up with TajSATS to provide nutritious meals to medical staff in New Delhi REC Foundation, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) arm of state-run non-banking finance company REC (formerly known as Rural Electrification Corporation – focus on power sector), has partnered with TajSATS (a joint venture of Indian Hotels Company Ltd and SATS Ltd) to provide specially- made nutritious meal packets for medical staff in Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi.

Tech firm Vakrangee joins hands with LIC to distribute micro insurance products Tech firm Vakrangee Limited (VL) has entered into the Corporate Agency partnership with Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) to distribute latter’s micro insurance products in unserved and underserved areas through its Nextgen Vakrangee Kendra network spread across India.

HIL (India) to supply 25 tonnes of pesticides to Iran to control locust invasion HIL (India) Limited, PSU under Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers is in process to produce & supply 25 tonnes Malathion Technical to Iran for the Locust Control Program under government arrangements. Earlier, HIL has exported 10 tonnes of fungicide Mancozeb to Latin American country Peru and another 12 tonnes will be exported in the next one week.

Infosys ties-up with Zurich-based Avaloq for digital wealth management services The Bengaluru based Infosys Limited has entered into the partnership with Switzerland based Avaloq, a company that develops and provides software for core banking, to offer end-to-end (e2e) products and services as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) across the world to its clients. MoU’s & AGREEMENTS

MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY COUNTRIES MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE India Bangladesh Signed the 2nd Addendum to the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade in Dhaka. Under this pact- Increased 5 more ports of call from earlier 6 (Total- 11) & extended 2 ports of call in each country; 2 new Indo Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) routes (from 8 to 10) & new locations are also added to the existing routes to facilitate the trade between two countries.

MoU’s WITH STATES

STATE MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE Jammu and Kashmir Tata Technologies limited Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) administration has signed an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with Tata Technologies limited to set up 2 Centres for Invention, Innovation, Incubation and Training (CIIITs) in the Union Territory (UT), one each at Government Polytechnic Colleges at Jammu and Baramulla.

MoU’s BETWEEN ORGANIZATION ORGANIZATION MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE Punjab National Indian Institute The Delhi based Punjab National Bank Housing Finance Limited Bank Housing of Technology (PNBHFL) has signed a MoU with Indian Institute of Technology Finance Limited (IIT) Delhi (IIT) Delhi to support the research and development of a unique (PNBHFL) prototype material to be used in the manufacture of washable and reusable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) surgical gowns and masks by using Jacquard knitting technology. Bharat Dynamics Indian Institute The Hyderabad based Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), a defence Limited (BDL) of Technology Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) has signed a MoU with Indian (IIT) Kanpur Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur for the large-scale manufacture of ventilators developed by NOCCA Robotics (incubated start-up of IIT Kanpur) Pune, Maharashtra to enhance

the development of affordable ventilators for COVID-19 treatment & is in line with ‘Make in India’. CSIR-IGIB TATA Sons The Constituent lab of CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research), Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR- IGIB – located at New Delhi) and TATA Sons signed an MoU for licensing of KNOWHOW related to the development for FNCAS9 EDITOR LINKED UNIFORM DETECTION ASSAY (FELUDA) for rapid diagnosis of COVID-19. Tribal Cooperative Art of Living To collaborate in programmes of each organisation to promote Marketing (AOL) the tribal enterprises. AOL Foundation is an educational and Development humanitarian NPO with consultative status with the United Federation of India Nations (UN) helping around 300 million people in more than (TRIFED) under the 152 countries around the world. Ministry of Tribal Affairs Coir Board Indian Institute Ministry of MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) of Technology announced the signing of a MoU between the Coir Board and (IIT) Madras Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras for setting up a Centre of Excellence (CoE) to boost the use of Coir applications (exclusively or in combination with other natural fibres). Directorate General Ministry of Has signed MoU through video conference to implement a cloud- Defence Estates Defence & eGov based platform to deliver various citizen services under the (DGDE) Foundation program e-Chhawani & to drive e-governance and improved citizen services across all 62 cantonment boards in the country. Oil and Natural Gas NTPC Signed a preliminary agreement to set up a joint venture for a Corporation Limited renewable energy project and entered into a memorandum of (ONGC) understanding (MoU) on 21st May 2020 in New Delhi to formalize the agreement. The joint venture will gain significant growth in the renewable power sector. State-owned Ircon RZD State-owned Ircon International Limited (IRCON) has signed a International International Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with RZD International Limited (IRCON) L.L.C. L.L.C., a subsidiary of government-owned Russian Railways Company, to explore opportunities for joint development of railways and other infrastructure projects in Asia, Africa and Latin America. Power Finance Narmada Basin The Power Finance Corporation (PFC), under the Ministry of Corporation (PFC) Projects Power signed an agreement to fund Rs. 22,000 crores with Company limited Narmada Basin Projects Company limited (NBPCL) of (NBPCL) Government of Madhya Pradesh for the 225 MW hydro-electric projects and 12 multipurpose projects in the state. Karnataka State Flipkart The Karnataka State Mango Department and Marketing Mango Department Corporation Ltd. (KSMD&MCL) and Flipkart signed a and Marketing memorandum of understanding (MoU) to support the mango Corporation Ltd. farmers in this mango season to sell their produce through the (KSMD&MCL) online platform of Flipkart.

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

APPOINTMENTS NATIONAL PERSON NAME APPOINTED ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES AS Tarun Bajaj Director Reserve Bank of The government appointed Economic India (RBI) Affairs Secretary Tarun Bajaj, Indian Administration Service (IAS) officer, as a director on the central board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He replaces Atanu Chakraborty, who retired on April 30. The nomination of Mr. Bajaj is effective from May 5 and until further orders. Click here Adhir Ranjan Chairperson Parliament’s Public Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Congress Leader Chowdhury Accounts of Lok Sabha was reappointed as Committee (PAC) Chairperson of the Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The PAC is the oldest Parliamentary Committee which consist of 22 members in total (15 members from the Lok Sabha and 7 from the Rajya Sabha are elected every year). The PAC examines the annual financial accounts of Government and accounts the sums granted by the parliament for the expenditure of the Government. D P S Negi Director Labour Bureau in D P S Negi, a 1985 batch IES (Indian General the Ministry of Economic Services) officer has assumed Labour and charge as Director General (DG) of Labour Employment Bureau in the Ministry of Labour and Employment by replacing B N Nanda. In addition, he also takes charge as Senior Labour & Employment Advisor of the ministry. It is for the first time a dual duty has been given to an IES officer. Ramesh Babu V Director NTPC State-owned power giant National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC) appointed Ramesh Babu V as director (operations). He was the successor of Prakash Tiwari who retired on April 30, 2020. Gurdeep Singh is the chairman and MD of NTPC. Krishnan Managing Max Bupa Health The New Delhi based Max Bupa Health Ramachandran Director (MD) Insurance Insurance appointed Krishnan and Chief Ramachandran as its new managing Executive director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer Officer (CEO)

(CEO). He succeeds Ashish Mehrotra, after almost 5 years of service in its company. Neeraj Dhawan Chief Risk Yes Bank Mumbai based Yes Bank has appointed Officer (CRO) Neeraj Dhawan, as Chief Risk Officer (CRO) for a period of three years with immediate effect, replacing Ashish Agarwal. Zubair Iqbal Managing Jammu and The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Director (MD) Kashmir Bank administration approved the appointment of Zubair Iqbal as the new Managing Director (MD) of Jammu and Kashmir Bank, for a period of 3 years. The Rajesh Kumar Chibber, who is currently MD and Chairman of J&K bank, has been reappointed as the Chairman for the period of 3 years. Govinda Rajulu Chairman National Bank for The Appointments Committee of Cabinet Chintala Agriculture and (ACC) appointed Govinda Rajulu Chintala as Rural Development Chairman of National Bank for Agriculture (NABARD) and Rural Development (NABARD). He was the successor of Harsh Kumar Bhanwala. Also, Shaji K V and P.V.S Suryakumar have been appointed as Deputy Managing Directors (DMD) of NABARD. Dilip Oommen President Indian Steel Indian Steel Association (ISA) has Association (ISA) unanimously appointed Dilip Oommen, CEO of Arcelor Mittal Nippon Steel India as the new President for the next two years with immediate effect after T V Narendran, CEO of TATA Steel stepped down on May 1. Carmen Reinhart Vice President World Bank The World Bank has named Carmen (VP) & Chief Reinhart as its new Vice President (VP) and Economist chief economist, tapping an expert on financial crisis who also serves on the advisory board of the New York Federal Reserve. Reinhart’s appointment is effective on June 15, 2020. Jahnabi Phookan President Federation of Jahnabi Phookan was appointed as the 37th Indian Chambers National President of Federation of Indian of Commerce and Chambers of Commerce and Industry Industry (FICCI) (FICCI) Ladies Organization (FLO). She took over the position from Harjinder Kaur Talwar at the 36th FLO session. She was the founder member and founder Vice Chairperson of FLO North East chapter in 2007. Dr Narinder Dhruv Member Olympic Channel Indian Olympic Association (IOA) President Batra Commission Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra (63), was appointed as a member of the Olympic Channel Commission. He also heads the International Hockey Federation (FIH).

Thierry Delaporte Chief Executive Wipro Thierry Delaporte, COO of Capgemini, was Officer (CEO) appointed as the new Chief Executive and Managing Officer (CEO) and Managing Director (MD) Director (MD) of Wipro with effect from 6th July 2020. He succeeds Adidali Neemuchwala, who will be stepping down from his position on June 1. Thierry Delaporte was the co-founder and President of the not-for-profit Life Project 4 Youth. Ravinder Singh Chairman and Navratna CPSE The Navratna CPSE Power Finance Dhillon Managing Power Finance Corporation (PFC) under administrative Director (CMD) Corporation (PFC) control of Ministry of Power has announced the appointment of Ravinder Singh Dhillon as chairman and Managing Director (CMD) from June 1, 2020. He will be the successor of Rajeev Sharma as he retires on May 31, 2020. SN Rajeshwari Chairman and Delhi-based The Banks Board Bureau (BBB) appointed Managing Oriental Insurance SN Rajeshwari as the new Chairman and Director Company (OIC) Managing Director (CMD) of Delhi-based Oriental Insurance Company (OIC). She will be the successor of AV Girija Kumar, who retires on May 2020.

INTERNATIONAL PERSON NAME APPOINTED AS ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES Mustafa Al- Prime Minister Iraq Mustafa Al-Kadhimi (53), former head of Kadhimi Iraq’s intelligence agency, was sworn in as the country’s 6th Prime Minister (PM). This has ended the leadership crisis that had been going on in the country for 6 months. He has become Iraq’s 1st proper PM after Adel Abdul Mahdi resigned in November 2019 due to massive anti-governmental protests. This is the 3rd appointment for the PM post in last 10 weeks. Moeketsi Majoro Prime Minister Lesotho Moeketsi Majoro (58) has been sworn in as (PM) Lesotho’s new prime minister (PM) after Thomas Motsoahae Thabane, who has stepped down as prime minister. The capital and currency of Lesotho are Maseru & Lesotho Loti respectively. Ashok Michael Representative to IBRD United States President Donald Trump Pinto IBRD nominated Indian-American lawyer Ashok Michael Pinto as a representative to the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the World Bank’s lending arm. He was nominated as US Alternate Executive Director of IBRD for a

period of 2 years. He will be the successor of Erik Bethel, who resigned from the post Shobhana International American Academy Professor Shobhana Narasimha head of the Narasimha Honorary Member of Arts and Science Computational Nanoscience group from the Theoretical Science Unit (TSU), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology of the Government of India has been elected as an International Honorary Member to the American Academy of Arts and Science. Kumar President Marylebone Cricket Former Sri Lanka player Kumar Sangakkara Sangakkara Club (MCC) is to serve a second term as the president of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) since the activities of the club are postponed. He is the first non-British President of the Club, he assumed office on 1st October 2019 and entered the list of people who served multiple terms. Brazil’s Marcos President New Development The New Development Bank of the BRICS Prado Troyjo Bank of the BRICS countries has designated Brazil’s Marcos countries Prado Troyjo as its President. He will succeed eminent Indian banker KV Kamath who took over as the first president of the bank in 2015. The Board also appointed Anil Kishora of the State Bank of India (SBI), as the vice president of the NDB to assist the emerging economies in infrastructure development loans.

BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS PERSON NAME BRAND / CAMPAIGN KEY NOTES Dia Mirza Goodwill Ambassador Nairobi (Kenya) based United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the leading environmental authority in the United Nations (UN) system, has extended the Bollywood actress & environmentalist Dia Mirza ‘s term as its National Goodwill Ambassador for another two years till the end of 2022. Ajinkya Rahane Brand Ambassador US based education technology company, ELSA Corp (English Language Speech Assistant Corporation), has appointed Indian Test team vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane (31) as its brand ambassador for India, Middle East, ANZ (Australia & New Zealand) and SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation).

COUNTRY AMBASSADORS PERSON NAME COUNTRY KEY NOTES T S Tirumurti United Nations (UN) at New T S Tirumurti an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer of York 1985 batch currently serving as the Secretary, Economic Relations in the Ministry of External Affairs was appointed as the permanent representative of India to the United Nations (UN) at New York, succeeding Syed Akbaruddin following his retirement. The following are appointed as the ambassador of respective countries, Jaideep Mazumdar – Austria, Deepak Mittal – Qatar, Piyush Srivastava – Bahrain, Namrata S Kumar – Slovenia. Manisha Singh Paris (France) United States President Donald Trump has nominated senior Indian American diplomat Manisha Singh, Assistant Secretary of State for Economic and Business Affairs at the State department as his envoy to the Paris (France) based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) with an Ambassador rank.

OTHER APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS Panel formed Panel headed by Yegnapriya Bharat to frame standard professional indemnity policy: IRDAI The Hyderabad headquartered Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has set up a panel to frame standard professional indemnity policy for insurance intermediaries that can be

issued by all the insurers. It is headed by Yegnapriya Bharat, CGM (Non-Life), IRDAI.

Narinder Batra to remain as FIH President until May 2021 The Lausanne, Switzerland based International Hockey Federation (FIH) announced that it has extended the terms of its president Narinder Dhruv Batra & the Executive Board (EB) members which is due to end in October 2020 has been extended until the 47th FIH Congress (initially planned on 28th October- 1st November 2020 in New Delhi) in May 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Manoj Ahuja appointed as new CBSE chief and ASI gets V Vidyavati as Director General Manoj Ahuja, senior IAS officer is appointed as the new Chief of Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) & Anurag Jain as the Vice-Chairman of Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and V Vidyavati as the Director General of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) effective from 12th May 2020. Shiv Das Meena, as the secretary of Department of School Education and Literacy & Vasudha Mishra as secretary of UPSC are other appointments.

Akhil Kumar re-inducted into NADA disciplinary panel Former Commonwealth Games gold-winning Indian boxer Akhil Kumar (39) was re-inducted into the National Anti-Doping Agency’s (NADA) Disciplinary Panel. He was formerly in the panel from 2017 to 2019. NADA is headquartered at New Delhi and Navin Agarwal is the Director-General of NADA.

WTO Director General Roberto Azevedo to step down on August 31 before term expires At the World Trade Organisation (WTO) members virtual meeting, the 6th Director-General Roberto Azevedo (62), a former Brazilian diplomat & 1st Latin American director of WTO has announced that he will step down from the 7-year tenure (since 2013) on 31st August, 2020 on personal grounds, cutting his second term in office short by exactly one year.

11-member high-level committee under the chairmanship of Rajesh Bhushan formed to reform drug regulatory system in India The centre has constituted a 11-member high-level committee to “simplify and expedite” the drug approval process in India. The committee chaired by Rajesh Bhushan, Officer on Special Duty, Ministry of Health was set up by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) as a measure to reform the drug regulatory system in India.

Abhas Jha appointed as Key position in South Asia by World Bank Abhas Jha, Indian economist was appointed to a key position on Climate change and disaster management in South Asia by the World Bank. Previously He served as the Practice Manager for Urban Development and Disaster Risk Management in East Asia and Pacific region.

JP Morgan’s Kalpana Morparia to retire & Leo Puri to take over Leo Puri, the former Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of UTI Mutual Fund, will take charge as the chairman of JP Morgan, South and Southeast Asia after Kalpana Morparia (70) retirement in 2021. She will stay in the company till Q1 of 2021.

Zomato elevates food-delivery CEO Mohit Gupta as co-founder Deepinder Goyal, Founder and (CEO) Chief Executive Officer of food ordering platform Zomato has virtually- appointed Mohit Gupta, the CEO- of its food delivery business as one of its co-founder.

Sandip Mukund Pradhan gets two-year extension as Director General of SAI Sandip Mukund Pradhan, the Director-General (DG) of Sports Authority of India (SAI) was given an extension for a period of 2 years and it will come into effect from June 6, 2020. Also, SAI has recently deposited Rs 30,000 each as out of pocket allowance (OPA) in accounts of 2,749 Khelo India athletes, a total of Rs. 8.25 crores. The allowance is for the first quarter of 2020-21. AWARDS

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL SERVICE, SCIENCE & BRAVERY AWARD NAME AWARD FIELD KEY NOTES WINNER Young Career Award Professor Saurabh Nano Science Professor Saurabh Lodha of IIT Bombay 2020 Lodha and received Young Career Award 2020 in Nano Technology Science and Technology by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India to recognize his contribution for the development of two-dimensional Van der Waals material-based logic transistor technologies beyond silicon and nanoelectronics. Alexander Dalrymple Vice Admiral Distinguished The National Hydrographer to the Award Vinay Badhwar service Government of India, Vice Admiral Vinay Badhwar is honoured with the 2019 Alexander Dalrymple Award. The award was first presented in 2006 by the UK Ministry of Defence sponsored UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO) named after the first Hydrographer

of the Admiralty, Alexander Dalrymple. In 2019, He received the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal for “distinguished service of an exceptional order during peacetime”. United Nations Suman Gawani Army Indian Army officer and woman peacekeeper Military Gender Suman Gawani who has served with the Advocate of the Year United Nations Mission in South Sudan Award (2019) (UNMISS) & Brazilian Naval Officer Commander Carla Monteiro de Castro Araujo have been selected for the prestigious United Nations Military Gender Advocate of the Year Award (2019). She becomes the 1st Indian peacekeeper to win the award. Carla Monteiro de Castro Araujo is the second Brazilian to receive this award. This is the 1st time 2 different peacekeepers will receive the award. Inventor of the Year Dr. Rajiv Joshi Advancing the IBM Academy of Technology Member Dr. Award electronic Rajiv Joshi won The New York Intellectual industry and Property Law Association (NYIPLA) 2020 improving Inventor of the Year Award, to honour for his artificial work in advancing the electronic industry intelligence and improving artificial intelligence (AI) (AI) capabilities. He received the award through capabilities an online interview.

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES Fed Cup Heart Sania Mirza Tennis Sania Mirza became the first Indian Award tennis player to be nominated for the Fed Cup Heart Award from the Asia/Oceania Zone. She was nominated along with Indonesia’s Priska Madelyn Nugroho, Estonia’s Anett Kontaveit and Luxembourg’s Eleonora Molinaro from Europe/Africa, Fernanda Contreras Gomes of Mexico and Paraguay’s Veronica Cepede Royg from Americas. The voting for the award opens from 1st May until 8th May. Fed Cup Heart Sania Mirza Tennis Indian tennis player Sania Mirza (33) Award 2020 has become the 1st Indian to win Fed Cup Heart Award 2020 for Asia/Oceania zone. She is one of 4 winners chosen by a public vote, alongside Anastasija Sevastova of Latvia (wins Qualifiers award), Mexico’s Fernanda Contreras Gomez (Americas I zone) and Estonian

Anett Kontaveit (Europe/Africa I zone). Highest paid female Naomi Osaka Tennis Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka athlete in the world (22) has become the highest paid female athlete in the world, topping American great Serena Williams. Osaka has been ranked No.1 by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA). The complete Forbes list, due to be released next week. Osaka, a two- time Grand Slam champion, ranks No. 29 on the 2020 Forbes list of the World’s 100 top-paid athletes while Williams is No. 33.

OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES Pulitzer Prize 3 Indian Photojournalists The 2020 Pulitzer Prize winners were 2020 announced in 15 Journalism categories and 7 Book, Drama and Music categories via video-conference instead of a ceremony at Columbia University in New York, United States due to the COVID-19 pandemic for their "striking images of life" in the valley. The three Indian photojournalists namely Dar Yasin, Mukhtar Khan and Channi Anand from Jammu and Kashmir who work for Associated Press (AP) have won the 2020 Pulitzer Prize in feature photography. More Awards Click here Nikkei Asia Prizes Thalappil Pradeep Nanotechnology Thalappil Pradeep the Padma Shri awardee (2020) Professor at IIT Madras has been conferred with the 25th Nikkei Asia Prizes (2020) in Science and Technology (S&T) category in recognition of his pioneering work in nanotechnology-based water purification. Marcus Professors Nicholas Forest Sector Professors Nicholas C. Coops of Canada, Wallenberg Prize C. Coops, Richard H. Richard H. Waring of United States of (MWP) 2020 or Waring, Joseph J. America & Joseph J. Landsberg of Australia the Nobel Prize Landsberg shares the ‘Marcus Wallenberg Prize (MWP) for forest sector 2020’ or ‘the Nobel Prize for forest sector’ for 3-PG (Physiological Principles Predicting Growth), a model to predict forest growth in a changing climate. The 3-PG model was developed by them (all 3 involved) in 1997 to predict forest growth under changing environmental conditions and the ability of forests to store carbon. Deutsche Welle 17 Member Journalism On the occasion of World Press Freedom Freedom of Awardees Day 2020, i.e. on May 3, 2020, 17 journalists

Speech Award from 14 countries have been named for 2020 Deutsche Welle Freedom of Speech Award 2020 who have disappeared or been arrested or threatened because of their reporting on the COVID-19 pandemic. Siddharth Varadarajan, one of the founding editors of non-profit online news page The Wire, is one among them. Click here SKYTRAX Award Kempegowda Best Regional The Kempegowda International Airport 2020 International Airport Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru, Karnataka has won the (KIA) SKYTRAX Award 2020 for Best Regional Airport in India and Central Asia. It ranks 68th in World’s Top 100 Airports 2020 list, which was topped by Singapore Changi Airport. The Kempegowda International Airport also ranked 8th in the “Best Airports 2020: 30 to 40 million passengers” category. Click here

RECOGNITIONS NAME RECOGNITION Akshay Kumar Lieutenant Commander Akshay Kumar of the Anti-Submarine Warfare School of the Southern Naval Command (SNC) in Kochi was awarded the Vice Admiral G.M. Hiranandani Memorial Rolling Trophy for the year 2020 by Vice Admiral A.K. Chawla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-chief (FOC-in-C) of the SNC.

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT Manipuri doctor Thangjam Dhabali Singh conferred ‘Order of Rising Sun’ by Japan Manipuri allopathic doctor, Thangjam Dhabali Singh has been conferred with “Order of Rising Sun- Gold and Silver Rays” by the Japan government for promoting a better understanding of Japan in India and deepening ties between 2 countries. Thangjam Dhabali Singh is the founder and the former president of the Manipur Tourism Forum (MTF). The capital and currency of Japan is Tokyo and Yen respectively.

Vladimir Putin awards commemorative World War II medal to DPRK leader Kim Jong-un Russian President Vladimir Putin has awarded North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un a commemorative war medal marking the 75th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany. The medal was awarded to the North Korean leader for his role in preserving the memory of Soviet soldiers who died on North Korean territory.

Giriraj Singh presents awards to the winners of “Start-up India- Animal Husbandry Grand Challenge” Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Giriraj Singh presented the award to the winners of “Start-up India-Animal Husbandry Grand Challenge”. Read More Details Here: Giriraj Singh presents awards to the winners of “Start-up India- Animal Husbandry Grand Challenge”

UN declares Khudol initiative of Manipur as one of the top 10 global initiatives to fight against COVID-19 Jayathma Wickramanayake of Sri Lanka, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth, has listed Khudol (gift), a crowdfunded initiative of Imphal (Manipur) based NGO Ya_All, among the top 10 global initiatives for an inclusive fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Khudol aims to provide food, health and hygiene of the LGBTQI+ community, people living with HIV, children and adolescents. SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE

SUMMITS SUMMITS VENUE KEY POINTS Non-Aligned Movement Video Conference Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi participates in the (NAM) Contact Group online summit of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Contact Group on the theme “United against COVID-19” hosted by President of Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, the present chairman of NAM through video conference to discuss the response to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. It also observes the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace (April 24). Digital Summit on Video Conference Union Minister for Commerce & Industry and Railways, Exports Piyush Goyal participated in the Digital Summit on Exports organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) through a Video Conference. The institutional partner for the summit is Export-Import (EXIM) Bank.

EVENTS EVENTS VENUE KEY POINTS Bamboo Conclave Video Conference Union Minister of State (I/C) Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Dr Jitendra Singh participated in the Bamboo Conclave through Video Conference. The aim of the conference was to discuss the importance of Bamboo, which will provide an opportunity for India to emerge as an economic power post COVID-19. It should be noted that the northeast consists of 60% of India’s reserve of Bamboo. Click here Society of Indian Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh participates in Micro, Defence Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) E-conclave, “Society of Manufacturers Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) MSME Conclave 2020“, (SIDM) MSME - jointly organised by SIDM, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Conclave 2020 and Department of Defence Production. The Theme of the E- conclave is ‘Business Continuity for MSMEs in Defence & Aerospace Sector’.

CONFERENCE CONFERENCE VENUE KEY POINTS Indo-Bangladesh - Minister of State (I/C) Development of North Eastern Region ‘Virtual (DoNER) Jitendra Singh, addresses the Indo-Bangladesh ‘Virtual Conference’

Conference’ organised by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM). RESTART The Union Minister of Science & Technology Harsh Vardhan addressed a digital conference RESTART (‘Reboot the Economy through Science, Technology and Research Translations’) to celebrate - the National Technology Day on May 11, 2020. The conference is organised by the Technology Development Board (TDB) a statutory body of the Department of Science & Technology (DST) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). SCO Foreign External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar participated in a virtual Ministers video conference of foreign ministers hosted by Russia from Shanghai conference - Cooperation Organisation (SCO – HQ at Beijing, China) member states to discuss on the ongoing COVID-19 situation and insisted on the collective action against the terrorism and the security challenges.

COMMITTEE & MEETING

COMMITTEE COMMITTEE NAME COMMITTEE HEAD KEY NOTES High-powered Ajay Kumar Bhalla The Supreme Court (SC) orders to set up a high- committee powered committee to look into the demands by petitioners who seek restoration of 4G internet services in the Union Territory (UT) Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The committee is headed by Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Ajay Kumar Bhalla is the present MHA secretary.

MEETING MEETING NAME VENUE KEY POINTS G20 Digital Economy Ministers Ravi Shankar Prasad, Union Minister for Law & meeting Justice, Communications and Electronics & IT has attended the Extraordinary Virtual G20 Digital Economy Ministers meeting held to discuss the - challenges posed by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and to forge a global coordinated response harnessing Digital Technologies. The meeting was attended by Digital Ministers of G20 member countries, invited countries and International Organizations. MoRTH & SIAM meeting Video Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Conference Transport & Highways (MoRTH) and MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) held meeting via video conferencing with the members of SIAM (Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers) Institute on impact of COVID-19 on auto sector. The target of constructing roads worth Rs 15 lakh crore was set for next two years.

Commonwealth Health Ministers’ Video Union Health & Family Welfare Minister Harsh Meeting Conference Vardhan participated in the 32nd Commonwealth Health Ministers’ Meeting through Video Conference. The theme of the meeting is- ‘Delivering a co-ordinated Commonwealth COVID-19 response’. The secretariat of Commonwealth is located at London, UK. G20 Trade and investment Video Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush ministers meet Conference Goyal participated in a video conference of 2nd edition of trade and investment ministers of G20 countries following the G20 trade ministers meet on March 30, 2020 to discuss on COVID-19 situation. The meeting was chaired by Saudi Arabia which holds presidency of G20 for 2020. Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Video Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Harsh Health Ministers meeting Conference Vardhan participated in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Health Ministers meeting through video conference. The NAM Summit is organised in a time when international community faces a pandemic and the meeting was chaired by Minister of Health, Azerbaijan, Mr. Ogtay Shiraliyev. Ilham Aliyev the president of Azerbaijan is the present chairman of NAM. World Health Assembly (WHA) The 2-day long 73rd session of the World Health Assembly (WHA) of World Health Organization (WHO) was held virtually for the first time, amid COVID-19, from 18 – 19 May 2020. The objective of - the meet was to reach a consensus of EU backed draft stating an investigation on how the “severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS- CoV-2)” has originated. Click here Finance Commission’s Committee Video The 1st meeting of the 15th Finance Commission’s Meeting Conference committee on Fiscal Consolidation Roadmap was held through video conferencing. The committee headed by Nand Kishore (NK) Singh has recommended the judgement of Reserve Bank of India on monetisation of fiscal deficit, as RBI is government’s principal debt manager. The Committee also estimated India’s GDP growth to - 6% to 1% in the financial year 2020-21. The committee supported the Centre’s decision of allowing states to borrow up to 5% of gross state domestic product (GSDP). Click here Financial Stability and Video Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chaired the Development Council (FSDC) Conference 22nd Meeting of the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) via video conferencing. The meet was held to review the various measures to maintain financial stability in the context of COVID-19. The economy is expected to contract by 5% by some estimates amid the virus crisis. The

meeting also took note of the activities undertaken by the FSDC Sub-Committee chaired by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das.

COMMITTEE & MEETING IN CONTENT FORMAT 7-member committee formed to enhance audit independence and accountability: MCA The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has constituted a 7-member committee to examine the comments received on the consultation paper floated by it & make recommendations which require any amendments in law, rules and standards so as to enhance audit independence and accountability.

6-member panel to set up to review production sharing contracts: Central Government The ministry of petroleum and natural gas has set up a 6-member panel to review the existing Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) due to the fall in crude oil prices and the COVID-19 lockdown. The committee is a Public Sector Undertakings (PSU)-Director General of Hydrocarbon (DGH)-dominated panel & there is no representation from the private sector, industry bodies, and from top bureaucratic circles.

Registration Committee recommends banning use of TB drug on crops The Registration Committee (RC) under the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) under the Chairmanship of S. K. Malhotra has recommended the use of Tuberculosis (TB) drugs (antibiotics) like streptomycin and tetracycline to be banned completely with immediate effect on crops where other options were available for bacterial disease control. The streptomycin is recognised as a critically important medicine for human use by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Government implements Shekatkar Committee’s recommendations to create border infrastructure Government has accepted and implemented 3 important recommendations of Committee of Experts (CoE) under the Chairmanship of Lieutenant General D B Shekatkar (Retd) relating to border Infrastructure so as to speed up road construction, which leads to socio-economic development in the border areas. The Committee was set up by former defence minister Manohar Parrikar in 2016.

Textiles Committee named as 9th approved laboratory to test and certify PPE body coveralls; developed fully indigenous Design PPE Testing Equipment Mumbai based Textiles Committee of Ministry of Textiles was named as the ninth approved laboratory to test and certify Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) body coveralls produced in the country for healthcare workers and other COVID-19 warriors. India has become the world’s second largest manufacturer of PPE body coveralls, following China. Read More Details Here: Textiles Committee named as 9th approved laboratory to test and certify PPE body coveralls; developed fully indigenous Design PPE Testing Equipment INDEX

RANKING INDEX / SURVEY RELEASED BY / KEY NOTES NAME CONDUCTED BY India Solar Market Mercom India Research India => 3rd Rank Leaderboard 2020 India has installed 7.3 Giga Watt (GW) of solar power in Calendar Year (CY) 2019 which consolidates its

position as the 3rd largest solar market in the world. India has total solar installations of approximately 35.7 GW by the end of December 2019. Top 3 Country: 1. China 2. U.S 3. India Click here S&T Indicators Tables National Science and India => 3rd Rank 2019-20 Technology Management According to the Research and Development (R&D) Information System Statistics At a Glance 2019-20 and S&T Indicators (NSTMIS) Tables 2019-20 based on the national Science & Technology (S&T) survey 2018 brought out by the National Science and Technology Management Information System (NSTMIS), Department of Science and Technology (DST), India’s gross expenditure in R&D has tripled between 2008 & 2018 and also there is rise in scientific publications. Top 3 Country: 1. USA 2. China 3. India Click here Open Budget Survey International Budget India => 53rd Rank 2019 Partnership (IBP) According to the 7th edition of ‘Open Budget Survey 2019’ conducted by International Budget Partnership (IBP), India has been ranked at 53rd position among 117 nations in terms of budget transparency and accountability with the score of 49 out of 100. While at the same time New Zealand has been topped the list with a score of 87. The global average transparency score on this survey was 45. Yemen =>117th Rank Top 3 Country: 1. New Zealand 2. South Africa 3. Sweden Click here Global Energy Transition Geneva Based World India => 74th Rank Index (ETI) 2020 Economic Forum (WEF) The scores of ETI are on a scale from 0% to 100%. The index includes 115 countries. Top 3 Country: 1. Sweden 2. Switzerland 3. Finland Click here

REPORTS REPORT NAME SUBMITTED BY KEY NOTES Lost at Home: The risks and United Nations The report by United Nations Children’s Fund challenges for internally Children’s Fund (UNICEF) titled “Lost at Home: The risks and displaced children and the urgent (UNICEF) challenges for internally displaced children actions needed to protect them and the urgent actions needed to protect them”, has stated, at the end of 2019, an

estimation of 46 million people were internally displaced around the world by conflict and violence, out of which, more than 4 in 10, or 19 million were children. In India, the total number of new internal displacements in 2019 stood at 5,037,000 (5 mn) due to natural disasters & conflict and violence. Click here Country of Particular Concern U.S. Commission on The U.S. Commission on International (CPC) Annual Report 2020 International Religious Religious Freedom (USCIRF) in its Annual Freedom (USCIRF) Report 2020 has downgraded the Indian ranking by naming it into the list of “Country of Particular Concern (CPC)” i.e. Tier 1 from “Special Watch List i.e. “Tier-2” in 2019 report, this is the first time since 2004 that India has been placed in this category for engaging in and tolerating systematic, and ongoing religious freedom violations, as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA), 1998. NIP for FY 2019-25 Final Report Atanu Chakraborty The task force on National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) chaired by economic affairs secretary Atanu Chakraborty submitted its Final Report on NIP for FY 2019-25 to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, projecting total infrastructure investment of Rs 111 lakh crore during a 5-year span of FY 2019-20 to FY 2024-25. Click here A Report on Impact of Energy Raj Kumar Singh, Unveiled e-book titled “ A Report on Impact of Efficiency Measures Union Minister of State Energy Efficiency Measures” prepared by (IC), Power and New & PricewaterhouseCoopers Private Limited Renewable Energy (PWC Ltd) for the year 2018-19 which has stated that energy efficiency initiatives by BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency) led to savings worth Rs 89,122 crore in 2018-19 compared to 2017-18 savings of Rs 53,627 crore. As per report, India reduced energy intensity in 2018-19 by 20% as compared to the 2005 level & India’s target was to reduce energy intensity by 33-35% by 2030. The energy efficiency efforts have also contributed in reducing 151.74 Million Tonnes of CO2 emissions in 2018-19. Click here Digital in India report Internet & Mobile Shows that for the 1st time has more internet Association of India users in rural areas than urban, where rural (IAMAI) & Nielsen India had 227 million (Mn) active internet users, 10% more than urban India’s about 205 Mn, as of November 2019. At the state level, Delhi retains the top spot in terms of Internet penetration followed by Kerala. Among the

metro cities, Mumbai has the highest internet population of 13 Mn followed by Delhi with 11.3 Mn. Click here Subnational mapping of under-5 India State-Level In accordance with the two papers on child and neonatal mortality trends in Disease Burden survival published by India State-Level India: the Global Burden of Initiative Disease Burden Initiative titled “Subnational Disease Study 2000–17 mapping of under-5 and neonatal mortality trends in India: the Global Burden of Disease Study 2000–17”, child and maternal malnutrition was the predominant risk factor in India as it attributed to 68·2% of under-5 deaths while low birth weight and short gestation led to 83·0% of neonatal deaths in 2017. The papers are published in Lancet and EClinicial Medicine. Click here Global Energy Review 2020-The Paris-based India’s energy demand has faced a 30% impacts of the COVID-19 crisis on International Energy decrease due to 40 days lockdown to contain global energy demand and CO2 Agency’s (IEA) COVID-19. It means that with each additional emissions week of lockdown, India’s annual energy demand is reduced by 0.6%. Click here The State of the World’s Nursing World Health World Health Organization (WHO) in 2020 report Organization (WHO) partnership with the International Council of Nurses (ICN) and Nursing Now has released the first “The State of the World’s Nursing 2020” report amid COVID19 pandemic. In accordance with the report, there are 28 million nurses worldwide but still, there is a global shortfall of 5.9 million. Click here International Tourism Report United Nations World According to the latest data of the Madrid Tourism Organization based United Nations World Tourism (UNWTO) Organization (UNWTO) the international tourism could decline by 60-80% in 2020 when compared with 2019 figures, due to COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, which will result in loss of USD 910 billion to USD 1.2 trillion and places millions of livelihoods at risk and threatens to curtail the progress made in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The current scenarios indicate a possible decline in arrivals of 58% to 78% for the year. Global Nutrition Report 2020 World Health India is one among 88 countries to miss global Organization (WHO) nutrition targets by 2025 & is with highest rates of domestic inequalities in malnutrition. India along with Nigeria & Indonesia are worst in disparities in stunting & the levels varied four-fold across communities. Click here India’s Utility-Scale Solar Parks— Kashish Shah In accordance with a report titled “India’s A Global Success Story Utility-Scale Solar Parks—A Global Success Story” by Kashish Shah, a researcher analyst at

US-based Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), the installation of utility-scale solar parks or ultra-mega power plant (UMPP) in India has started the India’s energy sector transition. It should be noted that in 2016, the Indian government has set a target of installing 175 gigawatts of renewable energy by the FY2021-22and 275 gigawatts by FY2026-27. The ultra-mega solar parks have attracted foreign capital as well as top global developers to India providing investors with an opportunity to join a US$500-700bn renewable energy and grid infrastructure investment boom in the coming decade. Updated Assessment of the Manila, Philippines According to a report titled “Updated Potential Economic Impact of based Asian Assessment of the Potential Economic Impact COVID-19 Development Bank of COVID-19” released by Manila, Philippines (ADB) based Asian Development Bank (ADB), global economy is expected to lose between $ 5.8 trillion to $ 8.8 trillion (equal to 6.4 % to 9.7 % of global gross domestic product (GDP)) due to the outbreak of the COVID-19. Children in monetary poor UNICEF & Save the According to the report “Children in monetary households and COVID-19: Children poor households and COVID-19: Technical Technical Note Note” released jointly by the UNICEF & Save the Children, the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 epidemic may increase the number of children living in poor households in low- and middle-income countries by 86 million (or an increase of 15%) to reach 672 million by the end of 2020. The 2/3 of these children falling in the poverty line live in all of Sub Saharan Africa and South Asia. ACQUISITION & MERGERS

Manulife acquired 49% stake in Mahindra AMC for Rs 265 crore The Singapore arm of Canada based Manulife, Manulife Investment Management (Singapore) Pvt Ltd has acquired 49% stake in Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services’ wholly-owned subsidiary Mahindra Asset Management Company (AMC) for Rs. 265 crore or $35 million. Mahindra Financial Services now owns the balance 51% stake in its AMC.

Reliance increases its stake to 26.3% in US-based tech company SkyTran Reliance Strategic Business Ventures Limited (RSBVL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mukesh Ambani- led Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), has increased its stake to 26.3% on a fully diluted basis in US-based SkyTran INC, a venture-funded technology company which develops modern transport modes including personal rapid transit system.

CCI approves BP Global’s proposed 49% acquisition of Reliance BP Mobility Limited The New Delhi Headquartered Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of 49% of the fully diluted paid-up equity share capital and voting rights in Reliance BP Mobility Limited (RBPML) by BP Global Investments Limited (BP Global) under Section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002.

CCI approves proposed acquisition of 100% shares and control of Tech Data Corporation by Tiger Midco LLC The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the proposed acquisition of 100% shares and control of Tech Data Corporation by Tiger Midco LLC. In this regard, Tech Data Corporation (Tech Data) will be acquired by Tiger Midco LLC (Tiger Midco) by way of merger of Tech Data with a wholly owned subsidiary of Tiger Midco, viz., Merger Sub.

CCI approves the acquisition of less than 5% shareholding in Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd by Canary Investments and Link Investment Trust II The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves the acquisition of less than 5% shareholding in Intas Pharmaceuticals Limited by Canary Investments Limited (Canary) and Link Investment Trust II (Link II), under Section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002.

KPTL completes sale of 100 percent stake in Kalpataru Satpura Transco to CLP India The Kalpataru Power Transmission Limited (KPTL) announced the successful completion of the sale of the entire stake in Kalpataru Satpura Transco Private Limited (KSTPL) to CLP India Private Limited of CLP groups, one of Asia’s largest investor-owned power business and from November 20, 2019, KSTPL ceased to be a subsidiary of the company.

US private equity firm Silver Lake buys 1.15% stake in Reliance Jio platforms for Rs 5655.75 cr US based private equity company Silver Lake partners has bought a 1.15% stake in Jio Platforms Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) for Rs 5,655.75 crore ($750 million), days after Facebook bought a 9.99 % stake in Reliance Jio for Rs 43,574 crore ($ 5.7 billion).

Polycab India acquired 50% stake in Ryker from Singapore-based Trafigura Polycab India Limited (PIL) has signed an agreement with Trafigura Pte Ltd, Singapore to acquire 50% stake in Gujarat based Ryker Base Private Limited (RBPL) thereby terminating the existing joint venture (JV). In this regard, PIL has acquired 2,60,10,000 (i.e. balance 50% equity shares) shares held by Trafigura in Ryker Base. The purchase consideration is likely to be around the US $ 4 Million (Rs 300 million).

US-based Vista Equity Partners to buy 2.32% stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 11,367 crore The US-based private equity firm Vista Equity Partners to buy 2.32% stake in Reliance’s Jio Platforms, for Rs 11,367 crore which will make Vista the largest investor in Jio Platforms after Reliance Industries and Facebook. After this investment, Jio platforms will have an equity value of Rs 4.91 lakh crore and an enterprise value of Rs 5.16 lakh crore.

74% stake of SeQuent bought by Carlyle for Rs 1,587 crore The Carlyle Group, a United States (US) based private equity firm acquired 74% stake in SeQuent Scientific Limited, the largest animal healthcare company from India for Rs.1,587 crore ($210 million) for Rs.86 apiece.

Britain’s GlaxoSmithKline sells 5.7 % stake in Hindustan Unilever for $3.35 billion UK based pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline plc (GSK), has sold its 5.7 % stake in Indian FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) company Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) for $3.35 billion (about

254.8 billion rupees) in the stock market through a largest ever block deal. However, the names of the buyers could not be immediately ascertained. Also, France based Societe Generale S.A multinational investment company, has acquired 1.29 crore shares in Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) worth of Rs 2,453.58 crore through bulk deals from GlaxoSmithKline Pte.

Godrej consumer products arm picks balance 25% stake in Kenya’s Canon Chemicals Godrej East Africa Holdings Ltd, a subsidiary of FMCG (Fast-moving consumer goods) firm Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL), has acquired the balance 25% stake in Kenya-based Canon Chemicals Ltd for an undisclosed sum. Earlier, the Godrej group has acquired 75 % stake in Canon for an undisclosed sum in 2016.

General Atlantic buys 1.34% stake in Jio platforms for Rs 6,598.38 crores Reliance Industries Limited announced the sale of 1.34% stake in its digital services subsidiary, Jio Platforms to General Atlantic for Rs 6,598.38 crores. After this investment Jio Platforms will have an equity value of Rs 4.91 trillion and an enterprise value of Rs 5.16 trillion. Earlier, Facebook has bought 9.99%, Silver lake bought 1.15% and Vista equity partners bought 2.32% stake in Jio platforms.

Accenture acquires start-up Byte Prophecy to deliver AI solutions to enterprises Irish based multinational professional services company; Accenture has acquired Ahmedabad based AI (Artificial Intelligence) start-up Byte Prophecy for an undisclosed sum.

Tata Power International Pte Ltd acquires 10% stake in Adjaristsqali Netherlands BV Tata Power announced that its subsidiary Tata Power International Pte Ltd (TPIPL) has acquired a 10% stake in Adjaristsqali Netherlands BV (ABV) from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for USD 150,000 (about Rs 1.13 crore). The agreement is signed among TPIPL, ABV, and the IFC. The acquisition is done as per the provisions of the shareholder agreement.

IRDAI approves Union Bank to continue with its 30% holding in India First Life Insurance Hyderabad based Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has approved the proposal of the Mumbai headquartered Public Sector Bank Union Bank of India-UBI (which holds 25.1% stake in Star Union Dai-Chi Life) to continue with its 30% holding in India First Life Insurance.

KKR buys 2.32% in Jio Platforms for Rs 11,367 crores Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) announced the sale of a 2.32 % stake in its digital unit, Jio Platforms to US private equity giant KKR for Rs 11,367 crores, which is the 5th deal of Jio since 22 April that will inject Rs 78,562 crores in RIL to cut debt. After this transaction, Jio Platforms will have an equity value of Rs 4.91 lakh crore and an enterprise value of Rs 5.16 lakh crore. Previous deals done by Jio: Date Name of the Company Stake % Amount in crores April 22 Facebook 9.99% Rs 43,574 May 4 Silver Lake 1.15% Rs 5,665.75 May 8 Vista Equity Partners 2.32% Rs 11,367 May 17 General Atlantic 1.34% Rs 6,598.38

Airtel acquires 10% stakes in conversational AI start-up Voicezen Bharti Airtel acquired a10% strategic stake in Voicezen, a Gurugram based start-up in early stage focused on conversational AI technologies under the fast expanding Airtel Start-up Accelerator Program as a part of its strategy to deliver highly differentiated service experience.

CCI approves 100% acquisition of Emami Cement by Nuvoco Vistas Corporation Limited The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved 100% acquisition of the total issued and paid up share capital of Emami Cement Limited (ECL)on a fully diluted basis, by Nuvoco Vistas Corporation Limited (NVCL) for an enterprise value of Rs 5,500 crore.

Ola Electric acquires AppScooter maker Etergo, to launch 2-wheeler EV in India in 2021 Ola Electric acquired the Netherlands-based Etergo BV, an innovative electric scooter company for an undisclosed sum, as the former has planned to set its own line of premium electric two-wheelers, both globally and nationally. Etergo BV has developed an all-electric state-of-the-art AppScooter, which has won multiple awards across the world for its innovative design and engineering. In 2019, Ola electric gained the unicorn status (privately held startup company valued at over $1 billion).

NCLT gives nod to sell IL&FS’s 50% stake in GIFTCL to Gujarat government The principal bench of National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has given its nod to sell 50% stake in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City Co Ltd (GIFTCL) held by crisis hit Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services (IL&FS) to the Gujarat state government.

ITC to acquire 100% equity of Sunrise Foods by share purchase agreement Kolkata based FMCG company, ITC Limited entered into a Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) to acquire 100% of the equity share capital of Sunrise Foods Private Ltd (SFPL), which is primarily engaged in spices under the trademark ‘Sunrise’.

RITES signed pact to acquire 24% stake in Indian Railway Station Development Corporation Infrastructure consultancy and engineering company RITES (Rail India Technical and Economic Service) has signed an agreement for acquiring 24% stake in Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation (IRSDC) for Rs 48 crore. IRSDC, a joint venture of Rail Land Development Authority (RLDA) and IRCON International is tasked with redeveloping railway stations across the country. DEFENCE

TESTING MISSILES NAME TESTING LOCATION FEATURES USS Portland (LPD-27) The amphibious transport dock ship, USS Portland (LPD-27) of the United States (US) Navy successfully destroyed an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with a - solid-state laser “Laser Weapon System Demonstrator (LWSD)” from Pacific. The exact location of testing has not been specified by the US Navy. It was the first system-level implementation of a high-energy class solid-state laser to disable an aerial drone aircraft.

DEALS, MoU’s Defence Ministry signs contract with Tata Power SED for Phase-II of Modernisation of Air Field Infrastructure The Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has signed a contract of nearly Rs 1,200 crore for phase II of modernisation of Air Field Infrastructure (MAFI) of 37 airfields for Indian Air Force (IAF), Indian Navy (IN) and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) with Tata Power Strategic Engineering Division (TPSED).

ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS Indian Navy’s ‘Samudra Setu’ to bring stranded Indian citizens from Maldives; Air India will evacuate from other 12 nations Indian Navy has launched Operation “Samudra Setu” (Sea Bridge) to bring back 1000 Indians from Maldives. In this regard, Indian Navy has sent two India Naval Ships (INS) named INS Jalashwa and INS Magar on May 5, 2020 to Maldives capital Malé to commence the first phase of the evacuation operations of Indians stranded abroad from May 8, 2020. Read More Details Here: Indian Navy’s ‘Samudra Setu’ to bring stranded Indian citizens from Maldives; Air India will evacuate from other 12 nations

Indian coast guard ship sachet, interceptor boats C-450 and C-451 commissioned: Rajnath Singh Union Defence minister Rajnath Singh has commissioned the indigenously-built Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sachet, the 1st in the series of five offshore patrol vessels (OPVs), and Interceptor Boats (IB’s) C- 450 and C-451 in Goa. The ICGS Sachet is indigenously designed and built by Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) & The interceptor boats are designed and built by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Shipyard.

Indian Navy commissions 7th ship of MK IV class Landing Craft Utility ‘IN LCU L57’ at Port Blair Lt. General PS Rajeshwar the Commander-in-Chief of Andaman & Nicobar Command, has commissioned the 103rd Landing Craft Utility (LCU) MK IV class vessel ‘INLCU L 57’ (Yard no: 2098) into the Indian Navy at Port Blair in a low-profile ceremony. It was the 7th in the series of 8 such vessels being indigenously made by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE) for the Navy.

DRDO’s RCI develops ‘AINA’ AI-based Attendance Application The DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organization) laboratory, The Research Centre Imarat

(RCI), Hyderabad, Telangana has developed an AI (Artificial Intelligence)-based Attendance application (AINA) which allows non-contact based personnel verification, using facial features of the person in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian Navy made breathable PPE kit “NavRakshak” Indian Navy made “NavRakshak” (Naval Protector) PPE kit made with innovative breathable fabric material, to provide comfort to healthcare workers working against COVID-19 pandemic wearing multi- layered coverall PPE treating patients in the hot and humid condition for more than 12 hours. The patent of this cost-effective PPE developed by Indian Navy is filed by the Intellectual Property Facilitation Cell (IPFC) of the Ministry of Defence.

IAF operationalised its 2nd squadron No. 18 ‘Flying Bullets’ with the indigenous LCA Tejas Mk-1 Final Operational Clearance The Indian Air Force (IAF) operationalised its 2nd squadron No. 18 ‘Flying Bullet’ equipped with Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas (Mk-1) Final Operational Clearance (FOC) at its Air Force Station in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. This Sqn is designed by the Aircraft Development Agency (ADA) under DRDO and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bengaluru & is the only Param Vir Chakra Sqn of the IAF. Read More Details Here: IAF operationalised its 2nd squadron No. 18 ‘Flying Bullets’ with the indigenous LCA Tejas Mk-1 Final Operational Clearance

Western Naval Command sets up Ultraviolet sanitisation Bay at the Naval Dockyard The Indian Navy has set up an Ultraviolet (UV) sanitisation Bay at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai to decontaminate the coveralls, tools, personal gadgets, masks, cloths and other items of the workers who

will resume their works after the lock down in the Dockyards and other naval establishments to control the spread of COVID-19. SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SATELLITES LAUNCHES SATELLITE NAME COUNTRY PURPOSE Arktika-M Russia Russia will launch its 1st Arktika-M satellite by December 9, 2020, to monitor the Arctic climate and environment. It will be launched from Baikonur space centre (Kazakhstan) using a Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket with a Fregat booster. The plan for launch of 2nd Arktika-M satellite which is still under development is in 2023. The capital and currency of Russia is Moscow and Russian Rouble respectively. Long March 5B China China has successfully launched a powerful white-large cargo rocket ‘Long March 5B’and prototype spacecraft towards the space from the Wenchang Space Launch Centre on the coast of southern China’s island province of Hainan. Xingyun-2 01 and 02 China China launches two satellites Xingyun-2 01 and 02 into the orbit by Kuaizhou-1A (KZ-1A) carrier rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre to test the space-based Internet of Things (IoT) communication technology. The Rocket is developed by an affiliated company of Sanjiang Group under the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC) used to launch low-orbit small satellites.

OTHER SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY NEWS NATIONAL COVID-19: Glenmark Pharma becomes the first company to get Nod from DCGI for clinical trials of Favipiravir tablets Mumbai based Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has become the first pharma company in India to receive approval from Drug Controller General of India (DCGI – VG Somani) to conduct clinical trials of Favipiravir antiviral tablets for the treatment of COVID-19 patients.

IMD releases list of 169 names for upcoming tropical cyclones: North Indian Ocean India Meteorological Department (IMD), an agency of the Ministry of Earth Sciences of the Government of India (GoI), has released a detailed list containing 169 names (list comprises names of 13 cyclones each for the 13 member nations) of upcoming tropical cyclones that are likely to occur over the north Indian Ocean including the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. The 13 names for India include Gati, Tej, Murasu, Aag, Vyom, Jhar, Probaho, Neer, Prabhanjan, Ghurni, Ambud, Jaladhi and Vega.

COVID-19: HCARD, a robot, to assist frontline healthcare warriors Durgapur, West Bengal based CSIR- Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI) has developed the robotic device named HCARD (Hospital Care Assistive Robotic Device) which helps the frontline healthcare workers in maintaining physical distance from those infected by COVID-19.

Pune-based defence institute develops microwave steriliser Atulya to kill COVID- 19 The Defence Ministry announced that the Pune-based Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) university under Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a microwave steriliser ‘Atulya’ that can disintegrate the novel Coronavirus within 30 seconds by differential heating in the range of 56 degrees to 60 degrees Celsius temperatures.

35 thousand-year history of river erosion in Ladakh Himalayas revealed: WIHG Scientists and students from Dehradun, Uttarakhand based Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science &Technology, in the study, published in the Global and Planetary Changes journal has revealed a 35 thousand-year history of river erosion and identified hotspots of erosion and wide valleys that act a buffer zones in Ladakh Himalayas. Read More Details Here: 35 thousand-year history of river erosion in Ladakh Himalayas revealed: WIHG

CSIR-CSIO transfers its Electrostatic Disinfection Technology for commercialization The Chandigarh based Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – CSIR’s Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO) has transferred the Electrostatic Disinfection Technology, an innovative and effective disinfection and sanitization technology developed by them to Rite Water Solutions Private Limited a Nagpur based company for commercialization and large-scale production to fight COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian-origin girl Vaneeza names NASA’s 1st Mars helicopter as ‘Ingenuity’ A 17-year old Indian-origin girl Vaneeza Rupani has named the 1st helicopter to be built for Mars as ‘Ingenuity’ (in Hindi it means the inventive character of a person). She received this credit when she submitted her essay in NASA’s ‘Name the Rover’ competition. Before this new name, it was just named as “Mars Helicopter”. NASA in March 2020 announced that its next rover would be named ‘Perseverance’, based on an essay by seventh-grade student Alexander Mather.

NIAB develops portable coronavirus detection kit “eCovSens” The researchers from the Department of Biotechnology(DBT), National Institute of Animal Biotechnology(NIAB), Hyderabad developed a biosensor “eCovSens” to detect the novel coronavirus within 30 seconds using 20 microliters of the sample of saliva The Biosensors is currently used to detect toxins, narcotic drugs and used as a reliable tool to detect infectious diseases.

IIG developed 1D fluid simulation code to study electric field structure in Earth’s Magnetosphere The Scientists at Mumbai based Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) have developed a generalized one-dimensional (1D) fluid simulation code capable of studying a wide spectrum of coherent electric field structures in near-earth plasma environment or earth’s magnetosphere. This development will help in the planning of future space missions. The results obtained through fluid simulation code, published in the journal Physics of Plasmas

DRDO Develops “UV blaster”, an Ultraviolet Disinfection Tower The Laser Science & Technology Centre (LASTEC), Delhi-based, laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation(DRDO), with the assistance of New Age Instruments and Material Private Ltd., Gurugram developed “UV blaster” an ultraviolet (UV) disinfection tower for a quick and chemical-free sanitization of areas that are highly prone to the infection of novel coronavirus in method.

SNBNCBS develops Nanomedicine to alter oxidative stress to treat COVID-19 The Scientists of S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBNCBS), Kolkata developed a nanomedicine, safe and cost-effective, to treat many diseases by altering oxidative stress in the body and the research will support the combat against the COVID-19 in India.

COVID-19: CIMAP’s Herbal products ‘CIM-Paushak’ and ‘Herbal Cough Syrup’ boost immunity Researchers at Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) - Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow, have developed scientifically proven two herbal products ‘CIM- Paushak’ and ‘Herbal Cough Syrup’ which can boost the immunity of the persons as well as helps in reducing the dry cough symptom generally associated with the coronavirus infection.

SCTIMST develops 2 types of swabs and viral transport medium for COVID-19 testing Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India (GOI) have developed two types of nasal and oral swabs and viral transport medium for COVID- 19 testing. ChitraEmBed & ChitraEnMesh are the name of swabs. Read More Details Here: SCTIMST develops 2 types of swabs and viral transport medium for COVID-19 testing

JNCASR Researchers Invent Economical, Energy-Efficient Wafer-Scale Photo detector for security The Researchers at Karnataka based Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) under the Department of Science and Technology, has invented an economical and energy efficient wafer- scale photo detector to detect weak scattered light and indicate unwanted activity for security-based applications.

IIT-Delhi start-up launches reusable antimicrobial mask NSafe Nanosafe solutions the start-up company at IIT (Indian Institute of Technology) - Delhi has developed and launched an antimicrobial and washable face mask “NSafe” that can be reused upto 50 launderings.

CSIR receives approval for clinical trial of two drugs, ‘phytopharmaceutical & favipiravir’ to treat COVID-19 The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has received approval from Drug Controller General of India (DCGI – VG Somani) for its two clinical trial drugs- “favipiravir” and “phytopharmaceutical”- to combat COVID-19.

ICMR-NIV develops 1st indigenous antibody detection kit “COVID KAVACH ELISA” for COVID-19 Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has announced the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)- National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune has developed the 1st indigenous anti-Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) human Immunoglobulin G (IgG) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test kit, “COVID KAVACH ELISA” for antibody detection of COVID-19. Also, ICMR has partnered with Zydus Cadila, a global healthcare company for mass-scale production of the ELISA test kits after its development.

Parakh: DRDO- DFRL’s mobile microbial containment lab handed over to MMCRI Mysuru based Defence Food Research Laboratory (DFRL), a laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has handed over an innovative, state of the art Mobile Microbial Containment (BSL-3) Laboratory ‘PARAKH’ to the Mysuru Medical College and Research Institute (MMCRI) to test samples of Covid-19 at its hi-tech Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL).

DRDO lab develops DRUVS, an automated UV system to sanitise electronic gadgets, papers & currency notes Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad based Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) premier lab, developed an automated contactless Ultraviolet C (UVC) sanitisation cabinet called

Defence Research Ultraviolet Sanitiser (DRUVS). It has been designed to sanitise mobile phones, iPads, laptops, currency notes, cheque leaves, challans, passbooks, paper, envelopes, etc.

ICMR ties up with BBIL to develop the 1st fully indigenous COVID-19 vaccine Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) announced its tie-up with Bharat Biotech International Ltd (BBIL) to develop the 1st fully indigenous COVID-19 vaccine by using the virus strain isolated at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune. The strain has been successfully transferred from NIV to BBIL. Earlier, the company announced that it has been working on CoroFlu, a one-drop COVID-19 nasal vaccine built on a flu vaccine backbone which has proven to be safe for humans. Read More Details Here: ICMR ties up with BBIL to develop the 1st fully indigenous COVID-19 vaccine

CSIR approves project to develop ‘hmAbs’ that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2 in patients; BBIL to lead Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) through its New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative (NMITLI) program has approved a project for the development of human monoclonal antibodies (hmAbs) that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) in patients. It will be implemented through a collaboration of National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS) Pune; IIT Indore; PredOmix Technologies Ltd, Gurugram and Bharat Biotech International Ltd (BBIL), Hyderabad. The project will be led by Vaccines and biotherapeutics maker BBIL.

CSIR-NAL develops BiPAP non-invasive ventilator ‘Swasth Vayu’ The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research – National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL), Bengaluru develops a cost effective, easy to use, compact, non-invasive Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) ventilator ‘Swasth Vayu’ in 36 days to treat the patients tested positive for COVID-19.

Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank launches Central University of Odisha helpline ‘Bharosa’ to help students in distress Union Minister for Human Resource Development (HRD) Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank launched Central University of Odisha (CUO) Helpline “Bharosa” and its Helpline Number 08046801010 through a virtual platform to relieve the distress of student community during the troubled time of the COVID-19.

TVS Group, IIT-M develop automated respiratory assist device “Sundaram Ventago” The Sundaram Medical Foundation of TVS group and IIT (Indian Institute of Technology)- Madras, have jointly developed a low-cost, automated respiratory assistance device named “Sundaram Ventago” that will be useful in remote and rural areas where ventilator facilities are not available and would have a great impact of post COVID-19. The device has been designed according to internationally accepted medical standards in collaboration with the Madras Medical College (MMC), Kauvery Hospital and with guidance from MIT-Boston.

IITGN develops interactive dashboard “MIR AHD Covid-19 Dashboard” to help contain COVID-19 community infection post lockdown The Researchers at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)- Gandhinagar (IITGN), Gujarat, have developed an interactive COVID-19 dashboard named “MIR AHD Covid-19 Dashboard”, that can help administrators, hospitals as well as public in planning optimised testing for the COVID-19 and containing community infection in various post-lockdown scenarios.

CSIR collaborates with Intel India and IIIT-Hyderabad to develop solution and strategies to combat COVID-19 The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) working with Intel India and International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Hyderabad in developing a faster and cost efficient COVID-19 diagnostic solution, an IT technology to understand epidemiology and AI based risk stratification for the patients. To perform comprehensive diagnostics the constituent labs of CSIR like, IGIB, CCMB, IMTECH, CLRIT are collaborating with various hospitals and diagnostic chains.

Scientists of JNCASR Develops Injectable Silk Fibroin-based hydrogel for Insulin delivery in diabetic patients The Research team of Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Karnataka headed by Prof. T. Govindaraju developed the Silk Fibroin (SF) formulated using biocompatible additives and an injectable SF hydrogel (iSFH) to ease the insulin delivery for diabetic patients.

Bhopal’s CSIR-AMPRI faculty Rajeev Kumar develops lightweight carbon foam that can replace lead batteries Dr. Rajeev Kumar of the Bhopal based Council of Scientific and Industrial Research -Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute (CSIR -AMPRI), who received the Inspire Faculty Award, constituted by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has developed a porous lightweight carbon foam with a density of less than 0.3g/cc that can replace lead-grids in lead acid batteries.

COVID-19: University of Hyderabad, CSIR-CCMB ties up with Vins Bioproducts for antibody therapy University of Hyderabad (UoH) and Hyderabad based CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), have tied up with Vins Bioproducts Limited, an antisera manufacturing company incubated at UoH’s BioNEST incubation centre, to develop antibody- based immunotherapy for immediate treatment for Covid-19 pandemic.

A novel tool to help gain deeper insights into Parkinson’s disease Scientists of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) (Indian School of Mines ISM) Dhanbad, Jharkhand and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology (IICB), Kolkata has teamed up to find a solution to understand Parkinson’s disease which is a common neurodegenerative disease with no cure.

NDMA developed an online Dashboard National Migrant Information System to track migrants’ movements The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) developed an online dashboard National Migrant Information System (NMIS) on the existing NDMA-Geographical Information System (GIS) portal to capture the information regarding movement of migrants and facilitate the smooth movement of stranded persons across states.

CSIR-CMERI develops two mobile indoor disinfection sprayers: BPDS and POMID to combat COVID-19 The CSIR – Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI), Durgapur, West Bengal has developed two mobile indoor disinfection sprayer units Battery Powered Disinfectant Sprayer (BPDS) and Pneumatically Operated Mobile Indoor Disinfection (POMID) for cleaning and disinfecting pathogenic micro-organism.

ARCI & SCTIMST jointly develops next-generation biodegradable metal implants for use in humans The Hyderabad based International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI) and Thiruvananthapuram based Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute of Medical Sciences and technology (SCTIMST) – autonomous institutes under Department of Science and Technology (DST) have jointly developed new generation Iron-Manganese (Fe-Mn) based alloys for biodegradable metal implants for use in humans. The newly developed alloys are suitable for biodegradable stent and orthopaedic implant applications.

SCR develops robot “Rail-BOT (R-BOT)” to assist railway doctors South Central Railway (SCR) zone developed a robotic device, “RAIL-BOT” (R-BOT) to assist in hospital management functions towards patient care in the wake of COVID-19 outbreak. The robot provides medicines, medical accessories & to serve food to the patients, without any need for physical contact. Also, Jaipur-based Club First, has developed robots to help the healthcare workers and to contain the spread of the virus. It is the world’s first robot that is based on spine technology which helps robots balance anything it handles. A hospital in Bengaluru deployed the ‘Mitra’ robots to check and screen the patients for COVID-19 symptoms.

IIT Guwahati discovers methods to prevent memory loss due to Alzheimer The research team of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati headed by Professor Vibin Ramakrishnan, Department of Bioscience and Bioengineering worked on a new idea to help in preventing or reducing the short-term memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

Scientist at Pune based ARI maps 2 alternative dwarfing genes in wheat that can eliminate rice crop residue burning According to the research published in The Crop Journal and Molecular Breeding, a team of Scientists at Pune based the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) have mapped two alternative dwarf genes – Rht14 and Rht18– in wheat that can eliminate rice crop residue burning.

SCTIMST commercially launched RNA extraction Kit ‘Agappe Chitra Magna’ for detection of COVID-19 Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Science and Technology (SCTIMST), Trivandrum, Kerala with Agappe Diagnostics Ltd, Cochin organised the commercial launch of ‘Agappe Chitra Manga’, a magnetic nanoparticle-based RNA extraction Kit for the detection of COVID-19 at the Biomedical Technology Wing of SCTIMST.

Researchers at IIT-M develop solar parabolic trough collector Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras (IIT-M), developed a solar ‘parabolic trough collector’ (PTC) system for concentrating solar energy for industrial applications like desalination, space heating and space cooling.

A rare palm from Andamans ‘Pinanga andamanensis’ replanted at Kerala’s JNTBGRI A rare palm of South Andaman Island ‘Pinanga andamanensis’ will be grown in Palode (Kerala) with the help of Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI). The Pinanga, recorded as a time-extinct species, is related to Areca Palm. Around 600 plants are found in a small area of ‘Mount Harriet National Park’ in South Andaman.

Electrochemical sensing platform developed to detect carcinogenic & mutagenic compounds in food: IASST The Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, Assam has developed an electrochemical sensing platform to detect carcinogenic or mutagenic compound N- nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and N-nitrosodiethanolamine (NDEA) that are found in food items like cured meat, bacon, some cheese, and low-fat milk.

Researchers of INST found a route to fabricate precisely controlled nanostructure of desired geometry and location on 2D materials The Researchers team from Mohali based Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) found an innovative route to fabricate precisely controlled nanostructure of the required geometry and location on two dimensional (2D) materials using one-step low power laser writing process.

Mumbai based start-up VAMS Global develops world’s 1st contactless visitor management software ‘VAMS SafeGuard’ The Mumbai based start-up named VAMS (Visitor Authentication & Management Systems) Global has developed world’s 1st contactless Visitor Management Software named ‘VAMS SafeGuard’ that checks body temperature, scan faces with mask compliance & monitors social distancing on the premise. The software can be deployed in pharmaceuticals, hospitality, manufacturing, transportation and logistics, educational institutions, etc.

CSIR-IIIM & Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) to develop RT-LAMP based test for Coronavirus The Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM) in Jammu has collaborated with Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) to develop and increase a new Reverse Transcriptase-Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (RT-LAMP)- based COVID-19 diagnostic kit. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has also been signed between CSIR-IIIM, Jammu and RIL.

IIT Madras develops magnesium alloy to replace steel, aluminium in cars The research team of Dr. Sushanta Kumar Panigrahi at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras belonging to IMPCRG group and Professor Rajiv Mishra, University of North Texas and K. Cho, the United States(US) Army Research Laboratory has engineered a magnesium alloy to replace the steel and aluminium in the automobile industry to reduce the carbon footprint and increase fuel efficiency. The magnesium alloy contains rare earth elements like Gadolinium (Gd), Yttrium (Y) and Zirconium (Zr)

AI virtual assistant PAi launched: NPCI National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched an artificial intelligence (AI) based chatbot named ‘PAi’, to create awareness around its products like FASTag, RuPay, Unified Payments Interface (UPI), Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) on a real time basis & to improve digital financial inclusion in India. The chatbot was developed by Bengaluru based startup CoRover Private Limited.

ISRO receives patent for highland soil simulant for future lunar missions Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has received a patent for its method of manufacturing highland lunar soil simulant or “moon soil” which was prepared to create an artificial moon surface as a part of 2019’s Moon landing mission Chandrayaan-2 so that the Vikram lander and Pragyaan rover could be tested. It is made in bulk from anorthosite rocks, a sample similar to regolith identified and picked out from Sittampundi Anorthosite Complex, TN. Read More Details Here: ISRO receives patent for highland soil simulant for future lunar missions

Kochi Startup Devaditek Innovations develops decontamination device ‘Lumos’ to check COVID- 19 spread The Devaditek Innovations Private Limited, a start-up company focusing on technology transfer in the areas of medical devices, based in Maker village Kochi (Kerala), has developed a multi-purpose decontamination device named ‘Lumos’ that can sanitize items ranging from N95 masks to vegetables by using UVGI (ultraviolet germicidal irradiation) technology. The device was developed in collaboration with the Collegiate Congress under the United Nations Master Plan initiative.

Indian researchers explore new possibilities to increase paddy yield A team of researchers from the Department of Biotechnology’s National Institute of Plant Genome Research (DBT-NIPGR) of New Delhi, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), ICAR-National Rice Research Institute (ICAR-NRRI), Cuttack and University of Delhi South Campus (UDSC), have identified a part in the paddy genome through which there is a possibility of increasing yields. The study has been published in ‘The Plant Journal’.

India Observatory launches GIS-enabled dashboard, CoAST India India Observatory, an open-source database, launched a GIS-enabled dashboard, CoAST India (Collaboration / Covid Action Support Group) in collaboration with Anand-based Forest Ecological Security(FES) as its main nodal point, to help administrators, civil society organisations & volunteers to plan urgent steps to get the stranded migrant population to safety & care.

INTERNATIONAL Jupiter like cloud bands on closest brown dwarf discovered by astronomers A team of astronomers at the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) discovered that the Luhman 16A,

closest known brown dwarf showing signs of cloud bands similar to the Jupiter and Saturn using the technique of polarimetry to determine the properties of atmospheric clouds outside the solar system or typically. The Astrophysical Journal has accepted this study. James Webb Space Telescope, an upcoming NASA project will enable the study system like Luhman 16.

Astronomers of the University of Canterbury discovered new one in a million Super-Earth Astronomers at the University of Canterbury (UC) have found a new “one in a million” Super-Earth planet towards the genre of the galaxy. The planet-hunters’ research has been published in The Astronomical Journal, which states that the size and orbit of this planet are comparable to that of Earth. The newly discovered planet is among only a handful of extra-solar planets that have been detected with both sizes and orbits close to that of Earth.

South African & US scientists use MeerKAT telescope to solve the mystery of ‘X galaxies’ A team of astronomers from the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), the (US) National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), the University of Pretoria, and Rhodes University, (both in SA), have used the MeerKAT telescope to solve a longstanding puzzle in ‘X’-shaped radio galaxies. The results have been published in the journal ‘Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society’.

Researcher of CSIRO develops “heat resistant” coral to fight bleaching A team of scientists of CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) and Australia’s national science agency, the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and the University of Melbourne successfully discovered corals with increased heat tolerance which has potential to reduce the impacts of coral reef bleaching due to climatic change.

NASA renames its WFIRST Telescope after ‘Mother of Hubble’ Nancy Grace Roman National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) renamed its Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope (WFIRST), a next-generation space telescope as Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope or Roman Space Telescope to honour Nancy Grace Roman (“Mother” of Hubble Space Telescope), NASA’s 1st chief astronomer, who paved way for space telescopes focused on the broader universe. ENVIRONMENT

US Scientists discover 1st known aquatic Dinosaur ‘Spinosaurus aegyptiacus’ A team of scientists from various Universities of United States have discovered a carnivorous (meat eating) swimming dinosaur named “Spinosaurus aegyptiacus” at the Kem Kem region of the Moroccan Sahara in North Africa. The discovery supported by assistance from the National Geographic Society, is published in the journal Nature.

North Pole’s largest-ever ozone hole,620,000 square miles, finally closes In accordance with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), “record-level” ozone hole over the Arctic, which was in news in March 2020, has now closed. Scientists have been monitoring the hole at the Copernicus Atmospheric Monitoring Service (CAMS), a European Union (EU) earth observation program. This ozone hole became the largest one ever recorded in the Arctic region spanning an area of over 620,000 square miles (or 997793.28 km).

Indian Scientists discover 3 new species of fishes under genus ‘Dawkinsia’ in western ghats Scientists from the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) based in Mumbai, the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER),

Pune, have jointly discovered a three new fish species under the genus ‘Dawkinsia’ namely Dawkinsia apsara, Dawkinsia austellus, Dawkinsia crassa.

Denmark researcher discovers new species of fungus ‘Troglomyces Twitteri’ on Twitter According to the study published in the journal MycoKeys, Ana Sofia Reboleira, a biologist from the University of Copenhagen’s Natural History Museum of Denmark, has discovered a new species of a parasitic fungus ‘Troglomyces Twitteri’ by using an image of millipede circulating on social media platform Twitter.

Zoological Survey of India lists 20 species of amphibians as critically endangered and 35 as endangered The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) updated the checklist of Indian amphibians, a list of 20 species as critically endangered and 35 species as endangered on its website. The scientists of Zoological Survey of India in collaboration with other Indian institutes update the checklists of Indian amphibians periodically as per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Cyclone Amphan causes havoc in India and Bangladesh A powerful super-cyclone Amphan, making landfall at 2.30 p.m. between Digha in West Bengal and Hatiya island in Bangladesh with winds of about 120mph (190km/h), has killed at least 22 people and destroying thousands of homes. Cyclone Amphan pronounced as ‘um-pun’, Thailand had given the name ‘Amphan’ for this cyclone way back in 2004.

Scientists at BSI discover 3 new plant species in Western Ghats A team of scientists led by K.A. Sujana at the Botanical Survey of India (BSI - Kolkata) under Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change have discovered 3 new plant species namely- Eugenia

sphaerocarpa, Goniothalamus sericeus and Memecylon nervosum at the Western Ghats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu (TN).

A new species of small freshwater fish “Puntius sanctus” discovered in Velankanni, Tamil Nadu According to the study published in the Journal ‘Bioscience Research’, Professor Mathews Plamoottil, head of the Department of Zoology at the BJM Government College, Chavara (Kerala), has detected a new species of silver colored small freshwater fish “Puntius sanctus” of the Cyprinidae family in Velankanni, Tamil Nadu. SPORTS

CRICKET Australia deposes India for the first time since 2016 in Test ranking for men: ICC India slips to 3rd Position India has lost its top spot & has slipped to the 3rd position (114) for the first time since 2016 in the International Cricket Council (ICC) test rankings, as its record of 12 test victories and one Test defeat in 2016-17 was removed in the latest chart as per rules. Australia (116) topped the rank, followed by New Zealand (115). Ranking Test ODI T20 Internationals 1 Australia (116) England (127) Australia (278) 2 New Zealand (115) India (119) England (268) 3 India (114) New Zealand (116) India (266)

COVID-19 impact: ICC cricket committee led by Anil Kumble recommends ban on use of saliva to shine ball The International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket Committee, chaired by former Indian cricketer, Anil Kumble has recommended a ban on the use of saliva to make the ball shine due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the committee considered ball-shining as safe from the use of sweat. The committee also recommended that two non-neutral umpires should be appointed for a short period of time & provision for extra DRS (Decision Review System).

BADMINTON & TENNIS BWF postpones World Championship 2020 to November 2021 The Badminton World Federation (BWF – headquartered at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) postponed Badminton World Championship 2020 to the November 29 to December 5,2021 which is traditionally held in August. The tournament will take place at the Caroline Marin Stadium, Huelva, Spain.

TIU bans Egyptian tennis player Youssef Hossam for life in match-fixing cases Tennis Integrity Unit (TIU), the organisation responsible for investigating match-fixing in tennis, has banned Egyptian tennis player Youssef Hossam (21) for life after being involved in a number of match- fixing and corruption cases.

US tennis star Jamie Hampton announced retirement from Professional tennis Former World Top 25 and US tennis star Jamie Hampton (30) announced her retirement from professional tennis due to the injuries she suffered during the last six years. The Alabama player reached heights in her career in 2013 by reaching a world rank of 24.

ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL Para-athlete Shot-putter Deepa Malik announce retirement to head PCI Deepa Malik (49) Shot-putter Para-athlete, the 1st Indian woman to earn a medal at the Paralympic Games (silver at the Rio Paralympics, 2016) has announced retirement as per the national sports code so as to hold her post as the President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI).

NADA provisionally suspends Savita Kumari, Ankit Shishodia for violating anti-doping rules The New Delhi based National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) provisionally suspended powerlifters Savita Kumari and Ankit Shisodia for violating anti-doping rules. Athletes were given an opportunity to present themselves before the Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel (ADDP) and explain their cases on the date and time fixed by the panel for a hearing.

Aritz Aduriz, Spanish footballer announces retirement Spanish footballer, Athletic Bilbao striker Artiz Aduriz (39) announced his retirement after finding out that he requires prosthetic hip replacement surgery.

OTHER SPORTS NEWS COVID-19 impact: CGF postpones 7th season of 2021 Commonwealth Youth Games to 2023 Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF – HQ at London, UK), the organisation responsible for the control of the Commonwealth Games, has postponed the proposed 7th season of Commonwealth Youth Games 2021 to 2023 following a clash with Tokyo Olympic 2020 dates postponed by a year due to the COVID- 19 epidemic. It is to be noted that Commonwealth Youth Games were scheduled to take place from August 1 – 7, 2021 in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago.

Former world snooker champion Peter Ebdon retires from sport United Kingdom’s former world snooker champion Peter David Ebdon (49) announced his retirement from a 29 years career in the sport to avoid having to undergo spinal surgery. He was born on 27 August 1970, Islington, is nicknamed as ‘The Force’, his last victory came at a ranking event at the 2012 China Open.

FINA postpones 2021 Fukuoka Aquatics World Championships to May 2022 Following the postponement of 2020 Tokyo Olympics to 2021 the governing body of swimming Federation Internationale de Natation (FINA – headquartered at Lausanne, Switzerland) has postponed the 2021 aquatics world championships, Fukuoka, Japan to May 13 to May 29 of 2022 due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic.

Discus thrower Sandeep Kumari banned for 4 years by WADA after testing positive for metenolone Indian Discus thrower Sandeep Kumari (27) has been given a 4-year ban by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) after failing a drug test, despite her sample previously being deemed clear by the National Dope Test Laboratory (NDTL).

SAI Forms 6-member committee headed by Rohit Bharadwaj to prepare SOP for phased resumption of training after COVID-19 Lockdown The Sports Authority of India (SAI) formed a six-member committee headed by SAI secretary Rohit Bharadwaj to prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for phased resumption of training across sporting disciplines at all the centres once the coronavirus-forced national lockdown is lifted.

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup to be held in India from 17 Feb 2021 The FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in India has been rescheduled from February 17 to March 7, 2021. The tournament was initially scheduled to be held in India from November 2-21, 2020 and was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new dates for the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup were also announced. It will now be held between 20 January and 6 February 2021 in Panama and Costa Rica.

French cyclist Remy Di Gregorio banned by UCI for 4 years following ‘super-EPO’ positive test Remy Di Gregorio (34), a French road bicycle racer, has been banned for 4 years by the International Cycling Union (UCI – Headquartered at Aigle, Switzerland) for using a form of banned blood-boosting hormone EPO (Erythropoietin).

China wins 1st edition of FIDE Chess.com online Nations cup 2020; India finishes fifth China has won the 1st edition of FIDE Chess.com online Nations Cup 2020 chess tournament took place from 5-10 May 2020, through a chess.com platform. They have defeated United States in the final of the competition. India finished 5th in the six-team event consists of Russia, US, Europe, China, India and a team representing the Rest of the World (RoW). BOOKS & AUTHORS

BOOK NAME AUTHOR KEY NOTES The Room Where It John Bolton US based John Bolton authored a book titled “The Room Happened: A White Where It Happened: A White House Memoir”. The date House Memoir of the book release has been pushed back from May 12, 2020 to June 23, 2020, on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble bookseller company. The book was published by an American publishing company Simon & Schuster. Shivaji in South Block: Girish Kuber Journalist Girish Kuber has authored the book named” The Unwritten History of Shivaji in South Block: The Unwritten History of a Proud a Proud People People” which talks about the Maharashtra’s evolution from the past to the modern times and its contribution to the tapestry of the country’s culture, politics, history and society. The book is scheduled to be published in October by HarperCollins Publisher India. Prof. B. B. Lal- India Prahlad Singh Patel, Union Culture Minister, released an Rediscovered e-book “Prof. B. B. Lal- India Rediscovered” in New - Delhi, on the occasion of centenary year (100th birthday) of the great archaeologist Professor Braj Basi Lal. COVID KATHA- A Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Science & Technology, Health & Family Welfare and Earth Sciences, launched “COVID KATHA- A Multimedia Guide for Mass Awareness”, a multimedia guide on COVID-19 - on the occasion of the 50th DST (Department of Science and Technology) Foundation Day on May 3, 2020. The Golden Jubilee Celebrations were also launched, initiating myriad activities in different parts of the country throughout the year. Vijyant at Kargil: The Life Vijyant’s father The book titled as ‘Vijyant at Kargil: The Life of a Kargil of a Kargil Hero Colonel VN Thapar Hero’ authored by Vijyant’s father Colonel VN Thapar

and writer Neha and writer Neha Dwivedi, a martyr’s daughter. Its e-book Dwivedi will be released on May 15. It is published by Penguin Random House. Finding Freedom: Harry Omid Scobie and The Biography of Britain’s Prince Harry and his wife and Meghan and the Carolyn Durand Meghan Markle “Finding Freedom: Harry and Meghan Making of A Modern and the Making of A Modern Royal Family” by royal Royal Family reporters Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand scheduled to release on 11th August tops the pre order charts as it went online in Amazon. Fear of God Vadhan Bomma Devara Sai Chandravadhan writes under the Pen Name, Vadhan, has authored his third book titled “Fear of God”. The book was published by TreeShade publications. The Book was released by author and Producer Anirban Bhattacharya. His first published book is Shatru, a prequel to his yet unpublished fantasy Series & second book was Agniputr: When Agni First Spoke. Psycho-Social Impact of e-Launched by Union HRD (Human Resource Development) Minister pandemic & lockdown Ramesh Pokhriyal Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank e-Launched print as and how to Cope With Nishank well as e-editions of the set of 7 titles on “Psycho-Social Impact of pandemic & lockdown and how to Cope With” under the corona studies series published by National Book Trust (NBT), India. These books will serve as guides to mental well-being of people at large. Click here Wuhan Diary: Dispatches Fang Fang Chinese The book titled as “Wuhan Diary: Dispatches from a from a Quarantined City literary writer Quarantined City” authored by Chinese literary writer Fang Fang is a compilation of online diary entries and social media posts that document 60 days of lockdown during COVID-19. The book was released in India in an ebook format on May 15, 2020, published by HarperNonFiction, the audio will follow on May 26. Three handbooks Ramesh Pokhriyal Union Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister released Nishank Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ released three handbooks through video conferencing in New Delhi. The 3 handbooks were prepared by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on measures taken by the Board to adopt value-based global standards of education. Click here Hop On: My Adventures Ruskin Bond Popular author Ruskin Bond has authored a book titled on Boats, Trains and ‘Hop On: My Adventures on Boats, Trains and Planes. Planes The e-book format was released on the occasion of his 86th birthday. The illustration of the new book has been done by Samrat Halder and published by Speaking Tiger’s children’s imprint Talking Cub. The Ickabog JK Rowling Harry Potter author JK Rowling released a new online Children’s book named ‘The Ickabog’ to entertain children during Coronavirus lockdown. The new story will be serialized with a couple of chapters released for free online and posted on “The Ickabog” website every

weekday from May 26, 2020 to July 10, 2020 in instalments. This is the first book of author JK Rowling aimed at children since “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows”. Author also wrote books for adults — ‘The Casual Vacancy’ and ‘The Cuckoo’s Calling’ (under the pseudonym of Robert Galbraith).

OBITUARY

NATIONAL PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES Rishi Raj Kapoor Actor Mumbai Veteran Bollywood actor Rishi Raj Kapoor (67) passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra, after a 2-year battle with leukaemia (blood cancer). His autobiography Khullam Khulla: Rishi Kapoor Uncensored… was published by HarperCollins and launched at “The Hindu Lit for Life 2017”. Rishi received the National Film Award for Best Child artist for his debut role in his father Raj Kapoor’s 1970 film Mera Naam Joker. He had his first lead role as an adult in the film Bobby (1973). Padma Shri Freedom Activist, Assam Passed away due to prolonged illness at Gandhian Hema social worker, her home in Guwahati, Assam. She was Bharali Sarvodaya leader born on 19th February 1919. In 2006, The National Foundation for Communal Harmony under the Ministry of Home Affairs awarded her the National Communal Harmony Award. She also received Padma Shri the 4th highest civilian award of the country in 2005. Subimal Former India football Kishoreganj Commonly known by his nickname Chuni Goswami captain Goswami, passed away in Kolkata, West Bengal. He was born on January 15, 1938 in Kishoreganj, now Bangladesh. Goswami was successful in cricket as well, he represented Bengal in 46 first-class games between 1962 and 1973. He was appointed the Bengal Ranji Trophy captain in 1971-72 season. Ronald Vivian Eminent author & Agra, Uttar Passed away in Delhi, due to age-related Smith columnist and Pradesh (UP) ailments. He was born in 1938 in Agra, Historian Uttar Pradesh (UP). He was best known for his writings in Delhi. He was the former News Editor for The Statesman and also worked with the Press Trust of India (PTI). Smith authored several books on Delhi, of

which “The Delhi That No One Knows” was a bestseller, He also wrote poetry and romantic novels like “Jasmine Nights & The Taj” Bijay Mishra Playwright, dramatist, Odisha Passed away due to age-related ailments scriptwriter and film in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. He was born at director Santaragadia village in Balasore district, Odisha on July 16, 1936. Padma Shri Veteran Poet and Devanahalli, Popularly known as K S Nissar Ahmed Kokkare Kannada writer Mysuru passed away in his residence at Bangalore Hosahalli Sheikh due to various old age-related problems. Haider Nissar He was born on 5th February 1936. He Ahmed was the 73rd president of Kannada Sahitya Sammelana in the year 2007 held at Shivamogga. He received Rajyotsava in 1981, Padma Shri in 2008 and Pampa Award in 2017. Ajay Kumar Lokpal member & Passed away at the age of 62 in All India Tripathi former Chief Justice of - Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Chhattisgarh High New Delhi due to COVID- 19. He was born court on November 12, 1957. Dalit Ezilmalai Former Union Minister Chengalpattu, Passed away at his residence in Chennai, of State for Health Tamil Nadu Tamil Nadu due to a cardiac arrest. He was born on 24th July 1945 in Irumbedu village, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu. He participated in the Indo-Pak War of 1971 as an army officer and received Sainik Sewa Medal for his meritorious service. Hari Shankar Eminent Historian Passed away at Kolkata after testing Vasudevan positive for novel coronavirus on May 6th 2020. He served as the Director of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of - Asian Studies under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. From 2005 to 2015, he was the Chairman of Syllabus Committees and Textbook Development Committees for Social Science, NCERT and from 2006 to 2007 & he acted as a consultant on Indo-Russian Trade for the Ministry of Commerce, GoI. Raja Rangappa Former JDS (Janata Dal Passed away in Bengaluru, Karnataka. He Nayak [Secular]) MP (Member - had represented the Raichur constituency, of Parliament) Karnataka and 2elected in the Lok Sabha elections held in 1996. Debesh Roy Veteran Bengali Author Pabna (present passed away due to massive cardiac attack day Bangladesh) in a private hospital in Baguihati. He was born on December 17, 1936. He won the Sahitya Akademi award for his novel ‘Tista Parer Brittanto’ in 1990.

Ratnakar Matkari Veteran Marathi Mumbai, Passed away in a hospital at suburban writer, playwright Maharashtra Marol, Mumbai. Last week he was tested positive to COVID-19. He was born on 17th November 1938. He won the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his directorial front. His Film “Investment” won the National Award for Best Feature Film in Marathi in 2012.He won the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in the year 2003. Balbir Singh Legendary hockey Haripur, Three-time Olympic gold medallist and the Dosanjh Player Jalandhar, Punjab best centre-forward Balbir Singh Dosanjh (95) passed away at the Fortis Hospital, Chandigarh where he was admitted due to multiple organ failure and remained in ventilator support from 8th May 2020. He was born on 19th October, 1924. He wrote his biography “The Golden Hat Trick: My Hockey Days” in 1977. Retiring from his active hockey career, he served as the Manager of India’s World Cup winning team lead by Ajitpal Singh in 1975. Shyamala G. Legendary Classical Bengaluru, Who was well versed in both the Bhave musician Karnataka Hindustani and Carnatic styles passed away in Bengaluru, Karnataka. She was born on March 14, 1941. She was honoured with the title of ‘Ubhayagaana Vidushi’ (expert in both styles) by Sir M Visvesvaraya, the 19th Diwan of Mysore. Shyamala Bhave won the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award. Mujtaba Hussain Urdu author Hyderabad, Famous Urdu author, humourist and Telangana satirist Mujtaba Hussain (84) who returned his Padma Shri has passed away after a prolonged illness in Hyderabad, Telangana. Hussain was often described as the Mark Twain of Urdu. He was born on July 15, 1936. He was often described as the Mark Twain of Urdu. The Government of India (GOI) awarded the fourth highest civilian honour of the Padma Shri to Mujtaba in the year 2007. R. Shanmugam Footballer and coach Burma Former Tamil Nadu Footballer and coach R. Shanmugam (77) passed away due to age-related illness in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN). He was born in Burma (now Myanmar) in 1943. Ajit Pramod Chief Minister Bilaspur, Former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister, Ajit Kumar Jogi Chhattisgarh Pramod Kumar Jogi (74) passed away in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. He was born on April 29, 1946. In November 2000, when the

new state of Chhattisgarh was carved from Madhya Pradesh (MP), He, was chosen by Sonia Gandhi to serve as the first Chief Minister (CM) of the State. M.P. Veerendra Rajya Sabha (RS) MP Kalpetta, Kerala born M.P. Veerendra Kumar (83), Kumar Wayanad district, Rajya Sabha (RS) MP and Loktantrik Janata Kerala Dal (LJD) Leader, writer and journalist, passed away due to cardiac arrest in Kozhikode, Kerala. He was born on July 22, 1936. Yogesh Gaur Famous Indian Lyricist Lucknow, Uttar Passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He and writer Pradesh (UP) was born on March 19, 1943. He was a prominent lyricist in 1970s Hindi cinema and also worked with the prominent film directors such as Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Basu Chatterjee.

INTERNATIONAL PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES Denis Theodore South-African Cape Town, Passed away due to lung cancer and diabetes in Goldberg anti-apartheid South Africa (SA) Cape Town, South Africa. He was born on April activist 11, 1933. Jerry Stiller Actor New York, US Jerry Stiller (92), an actor, comedian and father of Ben Stiller passed away due to natural causes in the United States of America (USA). He was born on June 8, 1927 in New York, US. He was nominated for Emmy awards in 1997 for his performance in Seinfeld. Manmeet Singh Former National Passed away in Montreal, Canada. He became Walia Table Tennis (TT) the national champion in 1989 when he beat S champion - Sriram in the men’s singles final in Hyderabad. He was also one of the finest and consistent performers in the 1980’s. Bessie Regina R&B (Rhythm & US (United Better known by her stage name Betty Wright, Norris blues) singer, States) was an American Soul and R&B (Rhythm & songwriter and blues) singer, songwriter and background background vocalist passed away in Miami, Florida, US vocalist (United States) due to cancer. She received her first Grammy Award for the Best Song, “Where is the Love?”, at the age of 23. Anisuzzaman Bangladesh’s Calcutta, Bengal Padma Bhushan recipient and Bangladesh’s National Professor Presidency National Professor Anisuzzaman (83) passed away in Dhaka, Bangladesh. He was born on February 18, 1937. British India and shifted to Bangladesh soon after the partition in 1947. He made an immense contribution to Bangla language & literature through his research and writings.

Ashley John Famous Melbourne, Passed away in Sydney, Australia. Cooper, the Cooper Australian Tennis Australia former Ranked No.1 player, won 8 Grand Slam player titles- 4 Grand Slam singles and 4 Grand Slam doubles titles. He was born on September 15, 1936 Gigi Simoni Former Inter head Crevalcore, Italy Who led a Ronaldo-inspired team to UEFA coach (Union of European Football Associations) Cup glory in 1998, passed away in Pisa, Italy. He was born on January 22, 1939. Stanley Ho Gambling Hong Kong Stanley Ho, one of the richest men in Asia, the head of Sociedade de Jogos de Macau (SJM) holdings and famously known as the Casino kingpin of Gambling Capital Macau passed away at the age of 98 at the Kong Sanatorium and Hospital. He was born in 1921.

IMPORTANT DAYS

OBSERVED DATE / WEEK DAYS KEY NOTES April 30, 2020 International Jazz Day 30th April is designated as the International Jazz Day, in 2011 November by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and it is celebrated annually to promote jazz and its role in uniting people from all around the world. May 1, 2020 International Labours day May 1st of every year is acknowledged as International Labours day, an official public holiday in many countries all over the world as a tribute to the workers across the globe. It is also known as Workers day or May day. In India, the first May day was celebrated by the Labour Kisan Party of Hindustan (LKPH) in Madras on May 1, 1923 and also the first time to use the Red flag as a symbol of Labours Day. The First May day took place on May 1st 1890. April 30, 2020 Ayushman Bharat Diwas Ayushman Bharat Diwas is celebrated across the country every year on 30th April, to mark the start of Ayushman Bharat(AB) Yojana, which is also referred as AB-National Health Protection Scheme (AB-NHPM) or ModiCare or AB-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on April 30,2018. Click here May 2, 2020 World Tuna Day Observed on May 2 every year Since 2017. The United Nations (UN) established the World Tuna Day to raise awareness about the tuna fish and its importance to humans and earth. In December 2016, the United Nations

General Assembly (UNGA) officially recognized May 2 as a World Tuna Day in its resolution 71/124. May 2, 2020 International Astronomy The International Astronomy Day is Day celebrated twice a year (bi-annual), once in the spring (in 2020- May 2) & another in autumn (in 2020- September 26). Doug Berger, former President of the Astronomical Association of Northern California, founded this event in 1973 May 3, 2020 World Press Freedom Day By the United Nations (UN) General Assembly with the recommendation of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) all over the world since 1993 to commemorate the Declaration of Windhoek (Namibia). The theme of this year’s World Press Freedom Conference is Journalism without Fear or Favour. May 3, 2020 World Laughter Day Every first Sunday of May is celebrated as the World Laughter Day to raise awareness about laughter and the healing properties of laughter and this year the day falls on 3rd May. More than 70 countries around the world are celebrating the world laughter day on this occasion. The first World laughter day was celebrated on 10th May 1998 in Mumbai, India organised by Dr Madan Kataria, the founder of the Worldwide Laughter Yoga movement. May 4, 2020 International Firefighters’ The International Firefighters’ Day (IFFD) is Day (IFFD) observed every year on May 4 to recognize and honour the sacrifices that firefighters make to ensure that their communities and environment are as safe as possible. May 5, 2020 World Asthma Day Observed annually on the first Tuesday of May and this year it was celebrated on May 5, 2020. The day is organized by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) to improve asthma awareness and care around the world. Theme for the year 2020: Enough Asthma Deaths. The first World Asthma Day (WAD) was held in 1998 in more than 35 countries. The first World Asthma meeting was held in Barcelona, Spain. May 5, 2020 International Day of the Globally observed on 5th May of every year Midwife since 1992 to acknowledge the works of midwives and to raise awareness about their status. The First International Midwives Day was celebrated in 1991. The theme of this year is “Midwives with women: celebrate,

demonstrate, mobilise, unite – our time is now”. May 6, 2020 International No Diet Day An annual event observed on May 6 to (INDD) promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness of the dangers and futility of dieting. The day also aims awareness about the various dieting disorders which exist such as anorexia and bulimia. May 7, 2020 World Athletics Day Introduced by the IAAF (International (WAD) Association of Athletics Federation) to increase awareness about athletics and to encourage youth to take up sports. The day is celebrated in the month of May every year generally, for the year 2020, the IAAF marked May 7 as the World Athletics Day. WAD was celebrated for the first time in the year 1996 and was launched by Primo Nebiolo, former president of IAAF. May 8, 2020 World Red Cross Day and Observed on May 8 every year to Red Crescent Day acknowledge the volunteers who help the people in need and to commemorate the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant the founder of International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) born on 8 May 1828. The first Red Cross Day was adopted on May 8, 1948. May 8, 2020 World Thalassaemia Day Observed every year on May 8 globally, to (WTD) create awareness about the disease and help thalassaemia patients to lead a normal life despite the burden of the disease. Theme for the year 2020: “The dawning of a new era for thalassaemia: Time for a global effort to make novel therapies accessible and affordable to patients”. May 5, 2020 World Hand Hygiene Day Observed every year on May 5 globally. The day is organized by the World Health Organization (WHO). The main aim of the day is to make people across the globe more aware of the importance of hand hygiene in health care facilities, thus protecting health care workers and patients from infections. Theme for the year 2020: “SAVE LIVES: Clean your hands”. May 8 & 9, 2020 Time of Remembrance and For Those Who Lost Their Lives during World Reconciliation War II is a two-day international event observed by the UN every year on May 8 & 9 to pay tributes to the millions of people who lost their lives during World War II. The 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of World War II. On November 22, 2004, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly passed a resolution

59/26 and declared 8–9 May as a time of remembrance and reconciliation. May 9, 2020 World Migratory Bird Day Annual global celebration campaign to raise (WMBD) awareness of the needs for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats. This day was initiated in 2006 by the United Nations Secretariat of the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA). The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) celebrates this event bi-annually on the second Saturday in May and in October. The theme of this year’s WMBD is “Birds Connect Our World”. May 11, 2020 National Technology Day To commemorate the success of the Shakti-I nuclear missile tested in Indian Army’s Pokhran test range, Rajasthan on May 11, 1998, and also to commemorate the flight of the first indigenous aircraft Hansa-3 developed by the National aerospace laboratories. This day has been named by the former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Bajpayee and celebrated since 1999. This year’s focus is “Rebooting the economy through science and technology. May 12, 2020 International Nurses Day International event observed every year on (IND) May 12 globally to commemorate the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. She was also known as ‘The Lady with the Lamp’. This year the day marks the 200th birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. Theme for the year 2020: Nurses: A voice to lead- Nursing the World to Health. WHO (World Health Organization) designated the year 2020 as the “International Year of the Nurse and Midwife”. May 15, 2020 International Day of Observed every year on May 15. The day Families provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families and to increase the knowledge of the social, economic and demographic processes affecting families. Theme for the year 2020: “Families in Development: Copenhagen & Beijing + 25”. May 15, 2020 National Endangered In order to raise awareness about Species Day endangered species and wildlife in India, National Endangered Species Day is celebrated every year on the 3rd Friday of May. This year the day falls on May 15, 2020 & we are celebrating the 15th edition. As per the International Union for Conservation of

Nature (IUCN), at least 40 % species of animals, plants, and insects are at the risk of extinction around the globe. May 16, 2020 International Day of Light Celebrated every year on May 16 globally. (IDL) The day marks the anniversary of the first successful operation of the laser in 1960 by physicist and engineer, Theodore Maiman. The day was organized by UNESCO which celebrates the role light plays in science, culture, art, education and sustainable development as well as in the fields of medicines, communications & energy. May 16, 2020 National Dengue Day India observes National Dengue Day on May 16 every year based on the suggestion of the Union Health Ministry to create awareness about measures on dengue prevention and to control the spread of the vector-borne disease and preparedness before the transmission season of dengue begins. May 18, 2020 International Museum Day Celebrated annually on May 18, to create (IMD) awareness on the importance of museums for the development of society. The day is organized by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) and has been celebrated since 1977. Theme for the year 2020: “Museums for Equality: Diversity and Inclusion”. The HQ of ICOM is located at Paris, France. May 18, 2020 World AIDS Vaccine Has been observed annually on May 18 to Day(or HIV Vaccine recognize and acknowledge the hard work of Awareness Day) the thousands of health professionals, volunteers, members of the medical field and scientists who have been working together for so many years to make HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) / AIDS (Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) vaccine. The United Nations (UN) has set a target to eliminate AIDS from its roots by 2030. May 17, 2020 World Hypertension Day Observed every year on 17th May to create awareness and educate people to prevent and control the Hypertension. This day was initiated by the World hypertension League (WHL) an affiliated section of the International Society of Hypertension (ISH) in May 2005.The theme of World Hypertension Day 2020 is “Measure Your Blood Pressure, Control It, Live Longer”. May 17, 2020 World Celebrated every year on May 17 to raise Telecommunications and awareness about the importance of the internet and other means of information and

Information Society Day communication in bringing the world closer. (WTISD) This day marks the foundation of ITU in 1989 and Telegraph convention in 1865. The HQ of International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is located at Geneva, Switzerland. The Theme for the year 2020: “Connect 2030: ICTs for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”. May 16, 2020 International Day of Living Celebrated every year on May 16th since Together in Peace 2018 with an aim to uphold the desire to live and act together, united in differences and diversity, in order to build a sustainable world of peace, solidarity and harmony. May 20, 2020 World Bee Day Every year is celebrated as the World Bee Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of Anton Jansa, the pioneer of beekeeping born in 1734 in Slovenia and to acknowledge the role of bees in the ecosystem. The theme of world Bee Day 2020 is “Bee Engaged” – highlighted the importance of traditional knowledge related to beekeeping, the use of bee-derived products and services May 20, 2020 World Metrology Day Celebrated every year on May 20, celebrating (WMD) the International Systems of Units. The term Metrology is a study of measurements. On this day, many nations internationally collaborate to create awareness about metrology and its advancement in the respective field. Theme for the year 2020: Measurements for global trade. May 21, 2020 World Day for Cultural Observed every year on May 21. The day Diversity for Dialogue and celebrates not only the richness of the Development world’s cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development. In the year 2001, UNESCO adopted the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity. May 21, 2020 International Tea Day Annually celebrated by tea-growing countries like India and Sri Lanka since 2005 and in December 2019, the United Nation (UN) approved the proposal to celebrate the International Tea Day put forth by the Government of India in the session of the Intergovernmental Group on Tea and designated May 21st as International Tea Day. May 21, 2020 National Anti-Terrorism Observed every year on May 21 in order to Day raise awareness amongst people that terrorism has no religion, also to spread the message of peace, harmony, and

brotherhood. The day commemorates the death anniversary of former India’s youngest Prime Minister (PM) Rajiv Gandhi. He served the nation from 1984 to 1989. May 22, 2020 International Day for Celebrated every year May 22. The day was Biological Diversity (IDB) declared by the United Nations (UN) to raise awareness and increase understanding of biodiversity issues. Biological Diversity is not limited to nature alone, but also plants, animals, microorganisms and different ecosystems. Theme for the year 2020: Our solutions are in nature. May 23, 2020 World Turtle day Since 2000 by the American Tortoise Rescue (ATR), a Non-Profit Organisation, to celebrate and protect the turtles, tortoises and their habitats which is now celebrated throughout the world in the countries like US, Canada, Pakistan, India, Australia and others. The ATR’s World Turtle day 2020 is focusing on bringing attention and increasing respect and knowledge for tortoises and turtles. In addition, Motivating humans to come and help them survive. May 23, 2020 International Day to End Observed every year on May 23 globally to Obstetric Fistula significantly raise awareness and intensify actions towards ending obstetric fistula, as well as urging post-surgery follow-up and tracking of fistula patients. The day was organized by the UN (United Nations). Theme for the year 2020: “End gender inequality! End health inequities! End Fistula now!”. May 25, 2020 World Thyroid Day All over the world, established in 2008 as a part of the campaign led by European Thyroid Association (ETA) and the American Thyroid Association (ATA) followed by Latin American Thyroid Society (LATS) and Asia Oceania Thyroid Association (AOTA) to commemorate the patients with Thyroid diseases and doctors and physicians who treats them. May 25, 2020 International Missing Observed every year on May 25 globally since Children’s Day (IMCD) 2001. The day aims to raise awareness on the issue of child abduction, educate parents on safeguarding measures to protect their children. May 28, 2020 World Hunger Day (WHD) Observed every year on May 28 globally. The objective of this day is to raise awareness about more than 820 million people living in chronic hunger worldwide. The day seeks sustainable solutions to hunger and poverty

and to inspire everyone to be a part of the solution. World Hunger Day is an initiative by The Hunger Project, first started in the year 2011. May 29, 2020 International Day of United The first UN Peacekeeping mission was National Peacekeepers established on 29th May 1948 to commemorate this day General Assembly of the United Nations designated May 29th as International Day of United National Peacekeepers in its resolution 57/129 on December 11, 2002. In 2003 the first International Day of UN peacekeepers was observed. The theme of 2020 International Day of UN Peacekeepers is “Women in Peacekeeping – A key to Peace”. May 28, 2020 World Menstrual Hygiene Celebrated every year on May 28 to highlight (MH) Day the importance of menstrual health & to change the social stigma associated with menstruation. Theme of MH day, 2020: ‘’Periods in Pandemic – it is time to take action!”. United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) launched a week-long campaign #RedDotChallenge ahead of the MH Day to ensure whether all girls manage their periods safely and with dignity & has reached 3.2 million through social media. May 29, 2020 World Digestive Health Every year 29th May is celebrated as the Day (WDHD) World Digestive Health Day (WDHD) by the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO) with the WGO Foundation (WGOF). The First WDHD was celebrated on 29th May 2005. The theme of the WDHD 2020 is “Gut Microbiome – A Global Perspective”. May 30, 2020 World Vape Day (WVD) Observed on May 30, by Millions of e- cigarette users across the globe and the day is celebrated, a day before World No Tobacco Day (May 31). The day aims to raise awareness on e-cigarettes or vapes & help smokers who are unable to quit on their own or with currently available smoking cessation tools to change to safer nicotine products. APPS & WEB PORTAL

APP & WEB NAME LAUNCHED BY PURPOSE Janaushadhi Sugam Developed by the More than 325000 users are benefited by the Bureau of Pharma “Janaushadhi Sugam” a mobile application PSUs of India (BPPI) developed by the Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI) under the Department of Pharmaceuticals,

Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers for the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). Click here MSME Bank of Ideas, Innovation Nitin Gadkari, the MSME Bank of Ideas, Innovation and Research and Research Union Minister of portal (http://ideas.msme.gov.in/) through Video (http://ideas.msme.gov.in/) Road transport & Conference from Nagpur, Maharashtra. He also Highways (MoRTH) launched ‘Ayush Entrepreneurship Development and Ministry of Program’ jointly organized by the Ministry of Micro Small & AYUSH & Ministry of MSME for promoting the Medium Enterprises AYUSH sector in India. (MSME) Shipmin.gov.in Ministry of Shipping The Ministry of Shipping has launched its reconstructed website (shipmin.gov.in), which is based on open source technology and is deployed on the National Informatics Centre (NIC) cloud Meghraj. Click here Kisan Sabha CSIR The New Delhi Based Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), a CSIR lab, has come up with an app called Kisan Sabha to resolve the problems related to the agricultural supply chain. The primary objective of Kisan Sabha is to connect farmers to supply chain and freight transportation management system. ‘Bharatmarket’ Confederation of All Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), the (www.bharatemarket.in) India Traders leading advocate for small traders and businesses (CAIT) in India, in association with several technology partners, will soon launch a national e-commerce marketplace ‘bharatmarket’ (www.bharatemarket.in) for all retail traders in India. CAIT has pledged to connect 95% of India’s retail business in this marketplace with the initial collaboration of DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry to implement the Prime Minister’s vision of Digital India and Digital Payments. “Paisa Bolega” and “BharatPe BharatPe The BharatPe, a Merchant payment and a leading Balance” network provider launched two voice-based applications named “Paisa Bolega” and “BharatPe Balance” for the account holders to access transactions and balance using without touching the phones during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aarogya Setu Mitr Private-public A new private-public partnership (PPP) initiative partnership (PPP) called Aarogya Setu Mitr, available on the Aarogaya Setu app, will offer free online COVID- 19-related consultation from the Tata Group, Tech Mahindra and Swasth, which is a collaboration of other related entities. Aarogya Setu Mitr will be a separate site and won’t be able to access individual data from Aarogya Setu. The three private companies listed for free tele-consultation are Swasth, Tata Bridgital Health, which is a

healthcare initiative of the Tata Group, and Connectsense Telehealth, a platform from Tech Mahindra. The Saras Collection Narendra Singh Union Minister for Rural Development and Tomar Panchayati Raj, Narendra Singh Tomar, launched “The Saras Collection” on the Government e Marketplace (GeM) portal to showcase daily utility products made by rural self-help groups (SHGs). The Saras Collection is an initiative of GeM and the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). Click here https://garud.civilaviation.gov.in The Ministry of Civil The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and Aviation (MoCA) Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and Directorate launched Government Authorisation for Relief General of Civil Using Drones (GARUD) portal Aviation (DGCA) (https://garud.civilaviation.gov.in) to provide fast track conditional exemptions to government agencies for COVID-19 related RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft System)/drone operations. The portal was designed & developed and launched by Vikram Singh, Senior System Analyst, National Informatics Centre (NIC). Ayush Sanjivani application Harsh Vardhan, Union Health & Family Welfare Minister, Harsh Shripad Yesso Naik Vardhan and Minister of State for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH), Shripad Yesso Naik jointly launched Ayush Sanjivani application (app) & clinical research studies on Ayurveda interventions as an addition to standard care to COVID 19 situation. Click here CHAMPIONS Micro, Small and The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Medium Enterprises ministry has launched CHAMPIONS (Creation and (MSME) ministry Harmonious Application of Modern Processes for Increasing the Output and National Strength) portal, a Technology-driven control room-cum- Management Information System. The objective of the portal is to assist Indian MSME’s to become National and Global CHAMPIONS in the big league. The system utilises modern Information and Communications Technology (ICT) tools. SAMARTH Developed by The The Ministry of Human Resource Development Ministry of Human has developed an e-Governance platform named, Resource SAMARTH Enterprises Resource Planning (ERP) Development under National Mission of Education in Information and Communication Technology Scheme (NMEICT) to provide quality education to students across all Universities & Higher Education Institutes (HEIs), which is the mission of Department of Higher Education.

National Test Abhyas Ramesh Pokhriyal Union Human Resource Development Minister Nishank Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered mobile app called the ‘National Test Abhyas’. The app is developed by National Testing Agency (NTA) IGNOU’S (Indira Gandhi National Ramesh Pokhriyal Union HRD (Human Resource Development Open University) Nishank Minister) Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched IGNOU’S (Indira Gandhi National Open University) Online Programme for Master of Arts (MA) in Hindi. The main objective of Bharat Padhe or India Padhe online is to promote online education for Crowdsourcing of Ideas. UMANG App Ministry of The Ministry of Electronics and Information Electronics and Technology (MeitY) has launched seven services Information of India Meteorological Department (IMD) on the Technology (MeitY) Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance (UMANG) App to further enhance the online delivery of Government services. The seven services are Current Weather, Nowcast, City Forecast, Rainfall Information, Tourism Forecast, Warnings, Cyclone. UMANG was launched in 2017 by PM Modi, its aim is to make the government accessible on the mobile phone of citizens.

AC GAZE

FIFA launches #WeWillWin campaign for health workers Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), Switzerland based international governing body, has launched a campaign called “#WeWillWin”, a special video to pay tribute to health workers and other professionals who ensure the society continues to function among COVID-19 pandemic. Former India football captain Bhaichung Bhutia who is also featured among 50 past and present football stars.

KARMI-Boot robot deployed by Kerala government hospital In order to assist COVID-19 patients, robot named “KARMI-Boot” was deployed by Kerala government hospital at the medical college’s COVID-19 isolation ward in Ernakulamhere, Kerala, which was developed by ASIMOV robotics under maker village of Kerala start-up mission.

International Guide Dog Day 2020: April 29 International Guide Dog Day 2020 is observed on April 29 (every year last Wednesday of April). The main aim of this day is to create awareness about guide dogs and honour for supporting visually impaired people as faithful companions. This day was designated by International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF). Johann Wilhelm Klein who created the idea of guide dog.

Indian Railways starts Shramik Special Trains As per the guideline issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, which has decided to run “Shramik Special” trains from “Labour Day” (May 1, 2020), to move migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students and other persons stranded at different places due to lock down. Indian railways have already run the first such train with 1,200 passengers from Hyderabad to Jharkhand.

Government hikes MSP for minor forest produce of 49 items As per the order issued by Tribal Affairs Ministry ,The Minimum Support Price(MSP) for Minor Forest Produce(MFP) of 49 items was raised in view of circumstances arising out of COVID-19, which also stated that the MSP for MFPs is revised once in every 3 years by the Pricing Cell constituted under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. The increase across various items of MFP ranges from 16 % to 66%.

Pixar Director Rob Gibbs passed away Veteran director, story artist and writer of many Pixar films Rob Gibbs passed away at the age of 55 years, who is well Known for successful Pixar films, including Toy Story 2, Finding Nemo, Monsters Up, Wall-E, Inside Out to Onward.

UP becomes first state to provide facility of beds with ventilators in each district Uttar Pradesh (UP) has become the first state in the country to provide the facility of beds with ventilators in hospitals of all 75 districts of state. In order to curb the spread of COVID-19 in every village through community surveillance, the government has constituted a Village Supervision Committee or Gram Nigrani Samiti.

‘United We Fight’ musical creation released by ICCR to Fight COVID-19 Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has unveiled a musical creation “United we Fight”, which was Written and composed by Joe Alvares to fight against COVID-19. The Indian Embassy stated that the song is dedicated to the world by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India.

177 new mandis from 10 States & UTs integrated with the e-NAM platform for marketing of Agricultural produce In order to strengthen agriculture marketing and facilitate farmers to sell their harvested produce through the online portal, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar has launched integration of 177 new mandis with the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) from 10 States & UTs. Now the total number of eNAM mandis across country is 962 (including 177 mandis).

Little Richard, rock’n’roll pioneer, passed away at 87 Little Richard (87), architect of rock ‘n’ roll, has passed away in Tullahoma, Tennessee due to bone cancer, who was a Grammy Award winner and an inductee to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986.

Special Postal Cover dedicated to Migrant Workers: India post The India post, Mumbai has released a Special Postal Cover dedicated to migrant workers at the Bicentennial Hall of the historic, Mumbai, Maharashtra. The five migrant workers from different sectors such as two from construction sector, a taxi driver, a jewellery craftsman and a tailor were called to release the postal cover. India post, Department of Posts (DoP), which comes under the Ministry of Communications, headquartered in New Delhi.

Gujarat mandates digital payment for home delivery in Ahmedabad To Prevent the spread of Covid-19 through currency notes, Gujarat government has mandated digital payment for all home delivery services in the worst-hit city of Ahmedabad and also issued protocol to be followed by the delivery persons.

Jaipur based company ‘Club First’ develops India’s first service robots “Sona 1.5 and Sona .5” Jaipur-based company named ‘Club First’ has developed India’s first service robots named “Sona 1.5 and Sona .5” to help health workers in conducting a thermal screening of the people amid COVID-19 crisis. The robot which is 95 per cent made in India is the first in the world to be based on spine technology.

Actor Sai Gundewar passed away at 42 Actor Sai Gundekar passed away at the age of 42 years due to brain cancer in the United States (U.S), who was known for his appearances in shows like Survivor and Splitsvilla, as well as acting in films PK and Rock On!.

New space defense unit launched: Japan Japan has launched a new space defense unity to monitor and counter threats to the country’s satellites. The main role of the unit is to monitor and protect Japanese satellites from enemy attacks or space debris and also to conduct satellite-based navigation and communications for other troops in the field. The capital and currency of Japan is Tokyo and Japanese yen respectively.

Facebook acquires popular GIF database GIPHY Facebook has acquired New York based GIF database GIPHY for $400 million to integrate its GIF library into Instagram and other Facebook apps, Vishal Shah, Instagram’s VP of product.

Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma to resign from SoftBank’s Board Alibaba co-founder, e-commerce billionaire Jack Ma is set to resign from SoftBank’s board of directors after 13 years, which is effective from June 25, 2020. SoftBank ‘s board will propose three new appointments, including Lip-Bu Tan, Yoshimoto Goto, Yuko Kawamoto at its annual general meeting on June. The SoftBank Group is a Multinational conglomerate company in Minato city, Tokyo, Japan.

‘Hunar Haat’ with the theme “Local to Global” to restart from September 2020 A flagship initiative ‘Hunar Haat’ by the Minority Affairs Ministry will make a comeback in September 2020 with a theme ‘Local to Global’, which is a platform for artisans and craftsmen from various parts of the country to showcase their art and craft and to generate employment for master craftspeople.

Voicebot ‘TIA’ on Whatsapp launched: Tata Capital Tata Capital, Private Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), has launched a voicebot “TIA” on WhatsApp. The voicebot offers a range of services to its customers like opting for a new loan or getting queries resolved etc to provide seamless and interactive services on the widely used messaging platform, Whatsapp.

A song titled ‘Jayatu Jayatu Bharatam – Vasudev Kutumbakkam’ penned by Prasoon Joshi A song titled ‘Jayatu Jayatu Bharatam – Vasudev Kutumbakkam’ was released.The song lyrics penned by Prasoon Joshi and composed by Shankar Mahadevan, as many as 211 singers involved like legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar to increase the nation’s will power and evoke the spirit of self-reliance in this difficult time (COVID-19 pandemic).

Current Affairs Pocket PDF – June 2020

Table of Contents NATIONAL AFFAIRS ...... 5 CABINET APPROVALS ...... 5 PARLIAMENT NEWS ...... 6 STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS ...... 6 LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION ...... 13 FESTIVALS ...... 17 OTHER NATIONAL NEWS ...... 17 GOVT SCHEMES ...... 24 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS ...... 25 VISITS ...... 27 FOREIGN VISIT ...... 27 BANKING & FINANCE ...... 27 RBI IN NEWS ...... 27 BANKING TECHNOLOGY ...... 29 LOANS ISSUED BY BANKS ...... 29 OTHER BANKING NEWS ...... 30 FINANCE NEWS ...... 32 ECONOMY & BUSINESS ...... 34 GDP & GROWTH RATE ...... 34 ECONOMY NEWS ...... 35 BUSINESS NEWS ...... 35 MoU’s & AGREEMENTS ...... 36 MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY ...... 36 MoU’s WITH STATES ...... 36 MoU’s BETWEEN ORGANIZATION ...... 37 OTHER MoU’S IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 38 APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ...... 38 APPOINTMENTS ...... 38 NATIONAL ...... 38 INTERNATIONAL ...... 39 BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS ...... 40 RESIGNATIONS ...... 41 OTHER APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ...... 41 AWARDS ...... 43 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF LITERATURE & ACADEMICS ...... 43 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF ARTS & CULTURE FILMS ...... 44

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS ...... 44 OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS ...... 45 RECOGNITIONS ...... 46 AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 46 SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE ...... 47 SUMMITS ...... 47 CONFERENCE ...... 47 COMMITTEES & MEETINGS ...... 48 COMMITTEES ...... 48 MEETINGS ...... 48 COMMITTEES & MEETINGS IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 49 INDEX ...... 49 RANKING ...... 49 REPORTS ...... 53 ACQUISITION & MERGERS ...... 56 DEFENCE ...... 57 ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS ...... 57 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ...... 58 SATELLITES LAUNCHES ...... 58 NATIONAL ...... 58 INTERNATIONAL ...... 61 ENVIRONMENT ...... 62 SPORTS ...... 62 CRICKET...... 62 BADMINTON & TENNIS ...... 62 ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL ...... 63 BOXING, WRESTLING & WEIGHTLIFTING ...... 63 ARCHERY & SHOOTING ...... 63 OTHER SPORTS NEWS ...... 63 BOOKS & AUTHORS ...... 64 OBITUARY ...... 66 NATIONAL ...... 66 INTERNATIONAL ...... 70 IMPORTANT DAYS ...... 71 APPS & WEB PORTAL ...... 79 AC GAZE ...... 81

NATIONAL AFFAIRS

CABINET APPROVALS Cabinet approvals on June 1, 2020 On June 1, 2020, Union Cabinet meet was held which was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This was the first meeting of the Union Cabinet after the Central Government entered into its second year in office.  Cabinet approves extension of repayment date for short term loans for agriculture and allied activities by banks till August 31, 2020  Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for Kharif Crops for marketing season 2020-21 increased  Cabinet approves Upward revision of MSME definition and modalities/ road map for implementing Atmanirbhar Bharat Packages for MSMEs Read More Details Here: Cabinet approvals on June 1, 2020

Cabinet approvals on June 3, 2020 On June 3, 2020, Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has given the following approvals:  Cabinet approves renaming of Kolkata Port Trust as Syama Prasad Mukherjee Trust  Govt approved setting up of an “Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS) and Project Development Cells (PDCs)” in Ministries/Departments for attracting FDIs  Cabinet approved historic amendment to the Essential Commodities Act, 1955  Cabinet approved ‘The Farming Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Ordinance, 2020’  Cabinet approved ‘The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Ordinance, 2020’ Read More Details Here: Cabinet approvals on June 3, 2020

Union Cabinet approved MoU between India and Bhutan on Cooperation in the areas of Environment The Union cabinet chaired by the PM Narendra Modi approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India & Bhutan to improve cooperation in the areas of Environment. The MoU covers the following areas of the environment, namely - Air, Waste, Chemical Management, Climate Change, and any other areas jointly decided upon, by considering the bilateral interest of both countries. The capital and currency of Bhutan is Thimphu & Bhutanese Ngultrum respectively.

Centre approved funds for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Odisha, Meghalaya, Assam & Bihar On the lines of the announcement made by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 regarding Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) which aims to provide “Functional Household Tap Connection” (FHTC) to 18 Crore rural households of the country by the year 2024, the Centre has approved funds for the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in the following states during FY2020-2021:  Centre approves Rs 812 crore for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Odisha  Centre approves Rs 175 crore for implementation of JJM in Meghalaya  Centre approves Rs 1,407 crore for implementation of JJM in Assam during 2020-21  Centre allocates over Rs 1,832.66 cr for implementation of JJM in Bihar  Arunachal Pradesh plans to provide tap connection to all rural households by March 2023  Puducherry plans to provide tap connections to all rural households in 2020-21 Read More Details Here: Centre approved funds for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Odisha, Meghalaya, Assam & Bihar

Cabinet approvals on June 24, 2020 On June 24, 2020, Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has given its approval to the following proposals:  Cabinet approves declaration of Kushinagar Airport in Uttar Pradesh as an International Airport  Union Cabinet Approves Term Extension of Commission to Examine Sub-Categorization of OBCs till Jan 31, 2021  Historic Reform: Private sector participation in Space activities approved  Urban, multi-State cooperative banks to come under RBI supervision  2% Interest Subvention approved on prompt repayment of Shishu Loans under PMMY for 12 months Read More Details Here: Cabinet approvals on June 24, 2020

PARLIAMENT NEWS Karnataka Becomes the First State to Amend Industries (Facilitation) Act for Small, Medium and Large-scale Industries The Karnataka Government amended the “The Karnataka Industries (Facilitation) act, 2002”, in the state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister of Karnataka BS Yediyurappa, to facilitate and attract investment in the state. Gujarat and Rajasthan are the only two states in the country that have amended the act for small scale industries. But Karnataka amended the act for small, medium and large-scale industries.

President Promulgates Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 amending Banking Regulation Act, 1949 The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind in exercising the powers conferred under clause (1) of article 123 of the Constitution has promulgated the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 which

will amend section 45, and 56 of Banking Regulation Act, 1949 as applicable to Cooperative Banks. This promulgation followed the Cabinet approval on June 24, 2020 regarding an ordinance to bring nearly 1,482 urban and 58 multi state cooperative banks under the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) supervision. Read More Details Here: President Promulgates Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 amending Banking Regulation Act, 1949

STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS Andhra Pradesh AP Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launches India’s 1st online waste management platform Andhra Pradesh(AP) Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launched India’s 1st “online waste management platform” of Andhra Pradesh Environment Management Corporation (APEMC) on the occasion of World Environment Day to ensure 100% safe disposal of industrial toxic wastes.

Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launches ‘Jagananna Chedodu’ scheme Andhra Pradesh (AP) Chief Minister (CM) Jagan Mohan Reddy launched the ‘Jagananna Chedodu’ scheme to provide financial assistance to tailors, barbers and dhobis (washermen). Under the scheme, Rs 10,000 per person was provided to 2.47 lakh beneficiaries.

AP, 1st Indian State presented its Budget amid COVID-19: Rs 2.24 lakh cr Budget publicized by Buggana Rajendranath for FY21 Finance Minister of Andhra Pradesh (AP) Buggana Rajendranath presented the AP state budget for Rs 2.24 lakh crore for the FY20-21. With this, AP became the first Indian state to convene its Legislative Assembly and Council which will adopt a budget for FY21 amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Read More Details Here: AP, 1st Indian State presented its Budget amid COVID-19: Rs 2.24 lakh cr Budget publicized by Buggana Rajendranath for FY21

Andhra CM Jagan Mohan Reddy Launches YSR Kapu Nestham Scheme for Women of Kapu Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launched the Kapu Nestham scheme to provide financial support of Rs 75000/- for a period of 5 year (Rs 15000/- per annum) to women of Kapu community. The objective of the scheme is to financially empower Kapu women by enhancing their livelihood and living standards with financial assistance. Women in the age group of 45-60 belonging to Kapu Community are benefited with this scheme.

Chandigarh V P Singh Badnore & Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurates Battery Swapping Facility Quick Interchange Service virtually Punjab Governor and Administrator of Chandigarh, V P Singh Badnore with Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Steel, Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated Battery Swapping Facility Quick Interchange Service (QIS) at Chandigarh in a virtual function. Also, Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has signed an agreement with Sun Mobility Private Limited to install lithium-ion battery swapping stations for electric vehicles in fuel stations across Indian Oil Retail outlets in selected cities. The 1st such battery swapping station was installed at one of IOC’s fuel stations in Chandigarh.

Chhattisgarh Chhattisgarh becomes the 1st state to launch “Godhan Nyay Yojana”, to Procure Cow Dung from Livestock Owners Bhupesh Baghel, Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh announced the launch of “Godhan Nyay Yojana” through an online press conference to promote animal husbandry and make it a commercially profitable practice and to procure the cow dung from the farmers at a fixed rate. The scheme will commence from the Hareli Festival on 20th July 2020.

Chhattisgarh government to launch Adarsh police station scheme from July 1, 2020 Adarsh Police stations scheme will be launched in Chhattisgarh from July 1, 2020. It will develop the police stations in the state as Ideal Police stations.

Gujarat Nitin Patel presented Rs 2.17 lakh crore Gujarat budget for 2020-21 Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Nitin Patel presented a Rs 2,17,287 crore budget for the financial year 2020-21, which is higher by Rs 12,472 crore over the previous Budget in 2019-20. The Budget was prepared keeping in focus the motto of SaunoSath, SaunoVikas and SaunoVisvas. Read More Details Here: Nitin Patel presented Rs 2.17 lakh crore Gujarat budget for 2020-21

2nd & 3rd phase of Gujarat’s SAUNI scheme to be completed by August 2020 & March 2021 Gujarat Chief Minister, Vijay Rupani, announced the phase 2 and phase 3 of the Saurashtra Narmada Avtaran Irrigation (SAUNI) scheme to fill Saurashtra’s 115 dams with Narmada water by August 15, 2020 and March, 2021 in Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat. The SAUNI yojana is a multipurpose project designed to provide irrigation and drinking water in the Saurashtra regions.

Gujarat Govt’s Online Aid” At One Click” Initiative of Rs 1,369 Crore for MSMEs, Textile Industry The Chief Minister of Gujarat Vijay Rupani launched the online aid initiative ‘At One Click’ with Rs 1,369 crore for around 13000 Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) (i.e. MSMEs and textile

industries) in Gujarat. The initiative has been started with Rs 768 crore in bank accounts of 12,247 MSME units and Rs 601 crore aids to industrial units including textile industry in Gujarat.

Haryana Government of Haryana and Reliance Jio TV partners to educate 52 Lakh students The Government of Haryana under the Chief Minister’s Distance Education Programme signed an agreement with Reliance Jio TV to benefit around 52 lakh rural students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Himachal Pradesh Himachal Pradesh CM Jai Ram Thakur launched ‘Panchvati Yojana’ for the senior citizens of rural areas Himachal Pradesh (HP) Chief Minister (CM) Jai Ram Thakur launched ‘Panchvati Yojana’ for the senior citizens of rural areas of the state. Under the yojana, parks & gardens will be established in every development block with mandatory facilities under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) 2005, Scheme of Rural Development Department. About 100 such parks will be developed in different parts of the state during FY 2020.

Jammu & Kashmir J&K Lt Governor launches salary tracker mobile app “MeraVetan (Version – 1)” for government employees The Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Girish Chandra Murmu launched the first version of the Salary Tracker Mobile app “MeraVetan” developed by the National Informatics Centre(NIC) – J&K State Centre on the Android Platform to provide end to end computerization of JK Payment System (JKPaySys) application.

Jammu and Kashmir UT Rolls Out Poultry Policy 2020 The Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has prepared a J&K Poultry Policy, 2020/Operational Guidelines for the first time to boost poultry production in the region. The government will give a subsidy of 50 crores annually for broiler/layer farms and related activities.

Agri Dept of J&K Changed its Name to Agriculture Production & Farmers Welfare Department The Jammu & Kashmir Administration approved the Agriculture Production Department’s proposal to change its nomenclature to “Agriculture Production & Farmers Welfare Department” and announced new rules for appointments to various posts. The new rules for appointment are known as “Jammu and Kashmir Probationer (condition of Service, Pay and Allowances) and Fixation of Tenure Rules, 2020”.

Jharkhand Jharkhand to Launch Employment Guarantee Scheme “Mukhyamantri SHRAMIK Yojna” for Urban Poor Jharkhand government is set to launch a 100-day employment scheme “Mukhyamantri SHRAMIK (Shahri Rozgar Manjuri For Kamgar) Yojna” to enhance the livelihood and security of urban poor. This scheme is in line with the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). Jharkhand is the 2nd state in the country to launch a job guarantee scheme for the urban poor following Kerala’s Ayyankali Urban Employment Guarantee Scheme (AUEGS).

Karnataka Karnataka launches “Meghasandesha” App for real time information & ‘Varunamitra’ portal for real-time information on weather The Karnataka government has launched Meghasandesha App & Varunamitra web portal to provide real- time information and alerts on weather, rainfall, flooding in Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) jurisdiction. These were developed by Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) under the project ‘Urban Flood Model’ (UFM) for the city.

Karnataka Observes Mask Day on 18th June 2020 BS Yediyurappa, Chief Minister of Karnataka announced that the state will observe 18th June 2020, as “Mask Day” to create awareness to the general public on the importance of wearing a mask, using sanitisers, washing hands and maintaining social distancing against COVID-19.

Kerala Kerala announces K-FON to provide free internet by December 2020, first state to declare internet as a fundamental right Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan announced on a Rs.1500 crore Kerala Fiber Optic Network (K-FON) project to provide free internet access for the poor by December 2020. The project was executed by the association of Bharat Electronics Limited, RailTel Corporation and SRIT and LS Cables. Also Kerala become the 1st state in India to declare the internet as a fundamental right of the citizen.

Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh launches Welfare programme for Street Vendors

Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan, launched Street Vendor Registration Portal http://www.mpurban.gov.in/ and “Mukhyamantri Shahri Path Vyavasayi Utthan Yojana” and transferred Rs 300 crore to the urban local bodies. The urban businessman of the state will gain benefits through the Pradhan Mantri Path Vikreta Aatmanirbhar Nidhi Karyakram and Shehri Path Vyavasayi Utthan Yojana.

Madhya Pradesh starts a plantation drive named “Thank Mom” Madhya Pradesh has started a plantation drive named “Thank Mom” on the premises of its Social Justice and Disabled Welfare Directorate on World Environment Day (June 5). On the theme ‘Time for Nature’, online and offline programs were organized in all the districts to focus on conservation of biodiversity across the state.

Madhya Pradesh Madhya Kshetra Vidyut Vitaran Company Introduces Nishtha Vidyut Mitra Scheme for Women Empowerment The Madhya Pradesh Madhya Kshetra Vidyut Vitaran Company Limited introduced the Nishtha Vidyut Mitra Scheme for women empowerment. Under this scheme, women Self-Help Groups at Gram Panchayat level will act as Nishtha Vidyut Mitra.

Maharashtra Maharashtra cabinet approves to rename its Environment Ministry as Environment and Climate Change Ministry The Maharashtra cabinet chaired by its Chief Minister (CM) Uddhav Bal Thackeray has approved a proposal to rename the state’s Environment Ministry as ‘Environment and Climate Change Ministry’ with the aim to play an active role in climate change mitigation.

Govt of Maharashtra Appoints Sanjay Kumar as Chief Secretary & Ajoy Mehta as Principal Advisor to CM Maharashtra government has appointed Sanjay Kumar as its Chief Secretary. He will take up the charge on July 1. He will succeed Ajoy Mehta who will retire on 30 June. Whereas, Ajoy Mehta has been named as the Principal Advisor to the Chief Minister (CM) Uddhav Thackeray & will take this position on July 1.

Maharashtra Announced “Maha Parwana” to Attract Fresh Industrial Investment The government of Maharashtra announced the “Maha Parwana” to attract fresh investment in industries, for project execution, this plan will offer incentives and a single window clearance system. The companies with investment proposals for Rs. 50 crore or more will get relaxation on getting clearances from multiple departments with assurance letters. These companies should apply at the Maharashtra Industry, Trade and Investment Facilitation Cell (MAITRI), single window system and get an online permission within 48 hours.

29.53 sq km Tillari Forest Area in Dodamarg and Sawantwadi Range Declared as Conservation Reserve Area: Maharashtra Maharashtra forest department declared the 29.53 square kilometre Tillari forest area in Dodamarg and Sawantwadi range in coastal Sindhudurg district as a conservation reserve area. The Tilari ecosystem breeds tiger population and serves as the source population for the Sahyadri tiger reserve. Tillari will be 13th reserve in Western Ghats.

Manipur Manipur CM N. Biren Singh inaugurates three projects undertaken by PHED through VC Manipur Chief Minister (CM) N. Biren Singh inaugurated three projects undertaken by the State Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) through Video Conferencing (VC). The 3 projects are Integrated Water Supply Project for Imphal Planning Area Phase-1, Integrated Water Supply Project for Imphal Planning Area Phase-1 & Imphal Sewerage Project Phase-1.

Manipur Observes the 19th Great June Uprising Day – June 18 Manipur observes the 19th Great June Uprising Day in memory of the 18 people who lost their lives on 18th June 2001 in the June uprising to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur.

Mizoram Green Mizoram Day 2020: June 11 Every year a particular day during the first or second week of June is observed as Green Mizoram Day. In 2020, Green Mizoram Day is observed on June 11 across Mizoram in India.

Odisha The Cabinet of Odisha gives state anthem status to “Bande Utkala Janani” The Cabinet of Odisha chaired by Naveen Patnaik, the Chief Minister of Odisha approved the proposal to give the status of State anthem to “Bande Utkala Janani”, a poem written by Kantakabi Laxmikanta Mohapatra in 1912.

Odisha becomes 1st state in India to receive ISO certification for tribal hostels Odisha became the first State in India to receive prestigious ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 9001:2015 certification for its 44 tribal hostels of Keonjhar and Sambalpur districts improving their overall infrastructure and standards under Mission Suvidya.

Punjab Punjab CM Amarinder Singh launches surveillance app ‘Ghar ghar nigrani’ app to detect COVID- 19 Punjab Chief Minister(CM) Amarinder Singh launched mobile based app ‘Ghar ghar nigrani’ app through video conference to conduct house-to-house surveillance in the state to eliminate the COVID-19 pandemic. The app was developed in-house by the health department.

IAS Officer Vini Mahajan Becomes Punjab’s First Woman Chief Secretary The Punjab government appointed 1987 batch Indian Administrative Service (IAS) Officer Vini Mahajan as the Chief Secretary. She becomes the 1st woman to hold this post. She will remain in the post until October 2024. She succeeded Karan Avtar Singh, who was due to retire in August 2020.

Rajasthan Rajasthan CM launches Raj Kaushal Portal through video conference Rajasthan Chief Minister (CM) Ashok Gehlot launched the Online Shramik Employment Exchange, ‘Raj Kaushal Portal’ developed by the department of Information and Technology (IT) and Rajasthan Skill & Livelihoods Development Corporation (RSLDC) through video conference.

Rajasthan Signs Pact with POWERGRID & EdCIL to Setup Smart Classrooms in 100 Schools Rajasthan government has signed a tripartite agreement with the Power Grid Corporation of India (POWERGRID) and the Educational Consultants India Limited (EdCIL) to set up smart classrooms in 100 schools with a cost of Rs 1.85 crore.

Rajasthan Government to Launch ‘Indira Rasoi Yojna’ Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot announced ‘Indira Rasoi Yojna’ (Indira kitchen scheme), to provide pure nutritious food to the poor twice a day at concessional rates. A sum of Rs 100 crore will be spent every year on this scheme. This scheme has been created in memory of great leader Indira Gandhi.

Tamil Nadu Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary K. Shanmugam gets 3-month extension The Central government approves the 3-month extension (August 1- October 31) of Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary K. Shanmugam, who assumed charge on June 30, 2019, after the retirement of incumbent Girija Vaidyanathan.

Petroleum Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan & CM Edappadi K.Palaniswami Inaugurates CBG Plants in Tamil Nadu Edappadi K.Palaniswami, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Steel, inaugurates Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) Plants at Namakkal and CBG Fuel Stations at Pudhuchattiram and Rasipuram over a virtual platform. The 15 Tonnes per Day (TPD) CBG plant is set up by the IOT Infrastructure and Energy Services, a joint venture between Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. and Germany’s Oiltanking GmbH at an expense of Rs. 25 crores.

Centre Allocates Rs 4125 cr to Rejuvenate Small, Medium & Tiny Industries Sector in Tamil Nadu The Central Government has allocated 4125 crore rupees to Tamil Nadu for rejuvenating the Small, Medium and Tiny industries sector. It forms 10% of the total allocation of the scheme, and the scheme is being effectively implemented in the state.

Telangana Kondapochamma Sagar project inaugurated by Telangana CM Under the flagship of the multipurpose Irrigation project; Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP), the last and vital Markbook pump house was inaugurated on May 29 2020 by the Chief Minister of Telangana K Chandrasekhar Rao. The estimated cost of KLIP is Rs. 3500 crores. Read More Details Here: Kondapochamma Sagar project inaugurated by Telangana CM

Hyderabad City Security Council along with Hyderabad City Police launches a programme ‘STREE’ for women Hyderabad City Security Council (HCSC) along with Hyderabad City Police launched “She Triumphs through Respect, Equality, and Empowerment (STREE)”, a programme to support and empower women victims of domestic violence and abuse. The programme was launched to promote a common platform for all women to join together and work with police to deal with issues related to women’s safety and security.

Telangana Govt Issues Ordinance to Defer Payment of Employees, Pensioners The state Government of Telangana has promulgated the Telangana Disaster and Public Health Emergency (Special Provisions) Ordinance 2020 which allowed it to defer salaries and pensions of its employees, pensioner, institution, any person (ready contract or outsourcing employees) and other dues in the event of disaster and public health emergency in the State. The ordinance, promulgated by Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, considered effective from 24 March 2020 & will be in force for six months.

Tripura Tripura Government to launch ‘Ektu Khelo, Ektu Padho’ for school students Tripura Education Minister Ratan Lal Nath informed that, ‘Ektu Khelo, Ektu Padho’ (Play little, Study little’), an initiative for school students up to class VIII will be launched on June 25. Tirupur had launched many programmes for students through online classes and recorded videos in April 2020, which were broadcasted on cable television channels and social media.

Tripura govt launches Mukhyamantri Matru Pushti Uphaar Scheme to Provide Nutrition Kits to Pregnant and Lactating Women Tripura government has launched Mukhyamantri Matru Pushti Uphaar scheme to provide nutrition kits to pregnant and lactating women. The scheme is a part of the state’s efforts to fight malnutrition and maternal mortality. The scheme will be in addition to the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY). Each nutrition kit will cost Rs 500 & will have food items and grocery supplies, such as peanuts, soya beans, mixed pulses, jaggery and ghee will be provided for pregnant women.

Uttarakhand Gairsain in Chamoli district declared as summer capital of Uttarakhand Uttarakhand Governor Baby Rani Maurya approved the declaration of Bhararisen (Gairsain) in Chamoli district as the state’s summer capital in compliance with the provisions of clause (3) of Article 348 of the Constitution of India. Dehradun will remain as the winter capital.

Uttar Pradesh UP introduces MoU Monitoring Mechanism for implementation of investment proposals and tracking of MoU Uttar Pradesh introduces a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU Monitoring Mechanism to achieve efficient implementation of investment proposals by guiding interested investors and to track the

signed MoUs. The state will also launch a new MoU tracking portal integrated with ‘Nivesh Mitra’, single window system.

UP govt. clears “Cow Slaughter Prevention (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020” to prevent cow slaughter Uttar Pradesh (UP) government approved a draft ordinance titled “Cow Slaughter Prevention (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020” by amending the Uttar Pradesh cow slaughter act, 1955 to protect cows and prevent their slaughter. This proposed law provides a maximum rigorous imprisonment of 10 years and a fine up to Rs 5 lakh.

UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launches ‘Bal Shramik Vidya Yojana’ through video conference Uttar Pradesh(UP) Chief Minister(CM) Yogi Adityanath launched ‘Bal Shramik Vidya Yojana’ for child labourers who are 8-18 years old, through video conference. The launch is in line with the ‘World Day Against Child Labour’ (June 12, 2020). The objective of the scheme is to educate orphans and worker’s children or child labourers & ensure their healthy life. This scheme provides financial assistance to the selected students of Rs 1000 per month (pm) to boys, Rs 1200 pm to girls.

UP Govt Decides to Adopt Flatted Factory Model The Uttar Pradesh State Industrial Development Authority (UPSIDA) of the Government of Uttar Pradesh decided to adopt the scheme of Flatted Factory Model, to ensure the availability of industrial land which means that non-polluting industries can operate in Multi-storeyed buildings.

West Bengal West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched “Karmo Bhumi”, a job portal to help IT professionals West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched Karmo Bhumi, a job portal to help Information Technology (IT) professionals who have lost their jobs after the outbreak of COVID-19 and returned to the state. The portal will enable them to get employment in the state.

LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION “My Life, My Yoga” Video Blogging contest launched; announced by PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat PM Narendra Modi has announced the “My Life, My Yoga” (Jeevan Yoga) Video Blogging Contest, as one of the activities related to the observation of the 6th International Day of Yoga on June 21st, 2020. The contest being organized by the Ministry of AYUSH and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). The objective of the contest is to focus on the transformative impact of Yoga on the lives of individuals.

Kisan Credit Cards campaign launched for 1.5 crore dairy farmers: Government The Union Government has planned to provide Kisan Credit Cards (KCC) to 1.5 crore dairy farmers belonging to milk unions and milk producing companies within the next two months (1st June-31st July 2020) under a special drive. The drive is part of the Prime Minister’s Atma Nirbhar Bharat package for Farmers. The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on 15 May 2020, announced that 2.5 crore new farmers will be covered under the KCC scheme which provides additional liquidity of Rs.5 lakh crore to farmers.

R. K. Singh launches Pan-India Real Time Market in electricity through VC Minister of State (I/C) Power R. K. Singh launched Pan-India Real Time Market (RTM) in electricity through video conference in New Delhi, which has positioned Indian electricity market in the league of few electricity markets in the world, which have a RTM. This will allow consumers to buy power just one hour before the delivery. India has set a 175 GW Renewable Energy Capacity by 2022.

MEITY launched 3 new schemes worth Rs 50,000 cr to boost electronic manufacturing in India Minister of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) Ravi Shankar Prasad launched a trilogy of schemes namely “Electronics Manufacturing Scheme 2.0” with an outlay of Rs 50,000 crore (approximately $7 billion) to boost electronic manufacturing in India. These will contribute in achieving a USD 1 Trillion digital economy and a USD 5 Trillion GDP by 2025. The three schemes are namely,  Production Linked Incentive Scheme (PLI) for Large Scale Electronics Manufacturing,  Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS)  Modified Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0) Scheme Read More Details Here: MEITY launched 3 new schemes worth Rs 50,000 cr to boost electronic manufacturing in India

HRD & Urban development ministries & AICTE jointly launches 1st of its kind student internship programme, “TULIP” Union HRD minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal `Nishank’ & Housing & Urban Affairs minister (MoS I/C) Hardeep S. Puri, and All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) have jointly launched a 1st of its kind online portal for `The Urban Learning Internship Program (TULIP)’ – A program for providing internship opportunities to fresh graduates in all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and Smart Cities across the country. MoHUA and AICTE have signed a 5-year MoU for the implementation of TULIP. Read More Details Here: HRD & Urban development ministries & AICTE jointly launches 1st of its kind student internship programme, “TULIP”

Citizen skill mapping under Vande Bharat Mission called “SWADES” launched by Govt. Under the joint initiative by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Union govt. has launched a new initiative Skilled Workers Arrival Database for Employment Support (SWADES). SWADES is launched to conduct a skill mapping exercise of the returning citizens under the Vande Bharat Mission (VBM).

Nitin Gadkari launches UNDP national awareness campaign on ‘Prevention of Human and Animal Mortality on Highways’ On the occasion of World Environment Day (June 5), Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) Nitin Gadkari has launched the UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) national awareness campaign on ‘Prevention of Human and Animal Mortality on Highways’ with the aim to reduce or eliminate cases of death on the roads.

Dr. Jitendra Singh launched COVID BEEP, India’s first physiological parameters monitoring system for COVID-19 patients Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region, Jitendra Singh launched India’s 1st indigenous wireless physiological parameters monitoring system named “COVID BEEP” (Continuous Oxygenation & Vital Information Detection Biomed ECIL ESIC Pod). ESIC medical college, Hyderabad in collaboration with Indian IIT Hyderabad, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Hyderabad, and Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL) have developed the “COVID BEEP”.

Vice-Admiral Atul Kumar Jain of ENC inaugurates a Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle Complex in Vizag Vice Admiral Atul Kumar Jain, flag officer commanding in Chief of the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) inaugurated a Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) complex in Visakhapatnam.

Narendra Singh Tomar virtually launched ‘Sahakar Mitra’ scheme to provide paid internship to the Youth; NCDC initiative Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister inaugurated a Sahakar Mitra: Scheme on Internship Program (SIP) an initiative of the NCDC (National Cooperative Development Corporation).

CM Uddhav Thackeray and Dr Harshvardhan e-launched ‘I-FLOWS’ a flood warning system in Mumbai The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray and Union Minister for Earth Sciences, Harsh Vardhan jointly launched the state-of-the-art Integrated Flood Warning System (I-FLOWS) in Mumbai with an aim to alleviate and monitor the flood activities by providing early warning in the city during high rainfall and cyclone. It was developed by Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) functioning under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) along with Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM).

Dharmendra Pradhan Launched Nation’s 1st “Indian Gas Exchange”, an Online Delivery-Based Gas Trading Platform India’s first nationwide online delivery-based natural gas trading platform, “Indian Gas Exchange (IGX)” has been launched by Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Notably, IGX will work as a wholly owned subsidiary of the India Energy Exchange (IEX), which is India’s energy market platform. Headquartered in New Delhi. IGX will offer six market products day-ahead, daily, weekly, weekdays, fortnightly and monthly. India target to raise natural gas share to 15% from 6% by 2030. Manikaran Power becomes the first member of India’s gas trading platform.

Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) Launches Multi-Location Claim Settlement The Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) under Ministry of Labour and Employment has launched Multi-location claim settlement facility. This new facility has replaced the old using system of geographical jurisdiction for claim process.

Dr Harsh Vardhan Launched India’s 1st I-Lab, a DBT – AMTZ Mobile Diagnostic Unit for COVID- 19 Testing Union Health & Family Welfare Minister Harsh Vardhan inaugurated India’s first I-Lab (Infectious disease diagnostic lab) in New Delhi as a part of DBT-AMTZ COMManD Consortia. I-Lab is a mobile testing facility that has been created by the Andhra Pradesh Med-tech Zone (AMTZ) team with the support of Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the National Biopharma Mission being implemented by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC). Read More Details Here: Dr Harsh Vardhan Launched India’s 1st I-Lab, a DBT – AMTZ Mobile Diagnostic Unit for COVID-19 Testing

Coal Ministry & FICCI Initiated e-Auction Process of 41 Coal blocks for Commercial mining; Launched by PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the two-stage electronic auction of 41 coal blocks for commercial mining through video-conference. The e-auction was initiated by the Ministry of Coal in association with FICCI as an industry partner. The government has set a target to gasify around 100 million tonnes of coal by 2030.

1st Online Edition of Cannes Film Market 2020 Launched; Virtual India Pavilion Inaugurated by Union Minister Prakash Javadekar Cannes Film Festival launched the 5 days long first online edition of Marché du Film 2020 (Cannes Film Market) which will continue till June 26, 2020. The e-inauguration of the Virtual India Pavilion at Cannes Film Market 2020 was done by Minister of Information & Broadcasting Prakash Javadekar. He also unveiled the booklet and poster of the 51st International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which is scheduled to be held in Goa.  Union Minister Shri Prakash Javadekar inaugurates Virtual India Pavilion at Cannes Film Market 2020  NFDC’s Film Bazaar partnered with Marche du Film (Cannes Film Market) 2020 Read More Details Here: 1st Online Edition of Cannes Film Market 2020 Launched; Virtual India Pavilion Inaugurated by Union Minister Prakash Javadekar

FPI Minister Harsimrat Kaur Launches Food Processing Edition of Exclusive Investment Forum Hosted by Invest India The Union Minister of Food Processing Industries (FPI) Harsimrat Kaur Badal has launched the Inaugural Session of Food Processing Sector Edition of the Exclusive Investment Forum hosted by Invest India. The Forum, aims to conduct detailed interaction between leading global companies in the food processing sector and policy makers of the central and 6 State Governments (Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh).

MSMEs Launches Funding Scheme “Distressed Assets Fund–Sub-ordinate Debt for MSMEs” to Help the Distressed MSME Sector MSME minister, Nitin Gadkari launched the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Sub-ordinate debt (CGSSD) which is also called the “Distressed Assets Fund–Sub-ordinate Debt for MSMEs” to provide Rs 20000 crore guarantee cover to two lakh MSMEs. The scheme will be operationalised through Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for MSEs (CGTMSE).

NITI Aayog & ITF Launch Decarbonizing Transport Project in India The NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog and the International Transport Forum (ITF) of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) launched the ‘Decarbonizing Transport in Emerging Economies’ (DTEE) project in India. The 5-year project helps India in developing a pathway towards low-carbon transport system.

Jitendra Singh e-Inaugurates” Puneja Bridge” & “Devika Bridge” in J&K MoS (I/C) Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) & MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space Jitendra Singh inaugurated” Puneja Bridge” & “Devika Bridge” in Doda and Udhampur district of Jammu & Kashmir respectively over a virtual platform. Both the bridges were constructed by Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

MSDE & IBM Joins Hands to Launch SkillsBuild Reignite and Skills Build Innovation Camp Directorate General of Training (DGT), under Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and Technology giant IBM India Private Limited, have jointly launched free digital learning platforms ‘SkillsBuild Reignite’ and ‘SkillsBuild Innovation Camp’ to provide more new resources to job seekers and business owners in India through BharatSkills learning platform of DGT.

Prime Minister Inaugurates ‘Aatma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Abhiyan’ PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated ‘Atma Nirbhar Uttar Pradesh Rojgar Yojana’ through video conferencing for migrant workers of Uttar Pradesh. The local entrepreneurship will be promoted along with providing employment opportunities to migrant workers. This is the largest employment generating

program in the country which provided employment to about 1.25 crore people in Uttar Pradesh. The scheme is launched in 31 districts with more than 25000 returnees.

NITI Aayog Launched Behaviour Change Campaign, ‘Navigating the New Normal’, and Website Government think tank agency, NITI Aayog in partnership with Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), Centre for Social and Behavioural Change (CSBC) of Ashoka University, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), and Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) launched the behaviour change campaign ‘Navigating the New Normal’ and its website. The campaign has been formulated under the guidance of Empowered Group 6, chaired by NITI Aayog Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amitabh Kant.

Shri Mandaviya Inaugurates India’s 1st ever largest Virtual ‘Healthcare & Hygiene EXPO 2020’ organised by FICCI The Minister of State for Shipping (I/C) and Chemicals & Fertilisers Mansukh Mandaviya has launched webinar of India’s first 5-day long virtual exhibition and conference, ‘Virtual Healthcare and Hygiene Expo 2020’ (VHHE), organised by FICCI and supported by Ministry of AYUSH with the aim to create a self- reliant ecosystem in the Pharmaceuticals and Health & Hygiene Sector by increasing domestic production.

Nasha Mukt Bharat: Annual Action Plan (2020-21) for 272 Most Affected Districts E-Launched by Rattan Lal Kataria Rattan Lal Kataria, MoS for Social Justice and Empowerment has virtually launched “Nasha Mukt Bharat: Annual Action Plan (AAP) (2020-21) for 272 Most Affected Districts” from New Delhi to observe “International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking” on June 26, 2020 on the theme ‘Better knowledge for better care’. He also released Logo and Tagline for National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR) for 2018-2025 and 9 Video Spots produced for Drug Abuse Prevention. Read More Details Here: Nasha Mukt Bharat: Annual Action Plan (2020-21) for 272 Most Affected Districts E-Launched by Rattan Lal Kataria

FESTIVALS Odisha celebrates Raja Parba – Festival of Menstruation and Womanhood Raja Parba is a three-day festival celebrated during the mid-June (preferably starts from 14th June and ends on 16th June) in Odisha, marking the beginning of monsoon. On this day people celebrate menstruation and womanhood, based on the belief that mother earth menstruates for three days which is considered as a sign of fertility.

OTHER NATIONAL NEWS Ministry of Jal Shakti sanctions Rs. 445 crores for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Chhattisgarh during 2020-21 Ministry of Jal Shakti has approved an amount of Rs. 445 crores for the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Chhattisgarh during 2020-21. Under this mission, Chhattisgarh state has planned 100 % Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) by 2023-24.

23 additional Minor Forest produce items in Minimum Support Price List announced: M/O of Tribal affairs Ministry of Tribal Affairs has notified an Inclusion of 23 additional Minor Forest Produce (MFP) items and stipulation of their Minimum Support Price (MSP) under the Central government-sponsored Scheme (2011) titled “Mechanism for Marketing of MFP through MSP and development of value chain

of MFP”. The previous notification was issued on May 1, 2020, in which the MSP revisions for the existing 49 MFPs were announced. The increase across various items of MFP ranged from 16% to 66%.

India’s access to USD 50-60 billion worth of carbon credits can be achieved if it propagates agroecology: NITI Aayog The NITI Aayog vice-chairman Rajiv Kumar stated that India’s access to USD 50-60 billion worth of carbon credits can be achieved if it propagates natural farming and agroecology while suggesting adoption of innovative farming methods based on ecological principles during a virtual high-level round- table on ‘Agroecology and Regenerative Agriculture’. Amitabh Kant is the CEO of NITI Aayog.

Odisha, Sikkim and Mizoram included in ‘One Nation-One Ration Card’ scheme The Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution Ram Vilas Paswan informed that Odisha, Sikkim and Mizoram have joined the ‘One Nation-One Ration Card’ scheme on ‘Integrated Management of Public Distribution System’(IM-PDS) a total of 20 states/Union Territories (UTs) in the scheme. All the states/UTs will be added to the scheme by March 31, 2021.

MoD places orders with OFB to supply 156 upgraded tanks worth of Rs 1,094 crore for Army The Acquisition Wing of Ministry of Defence (MoD) has ordered Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) in Telangana’s Medak, to supply 156 BMP 2/2k Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) worth Rs 1,094 crore for the Indian army with the approval of Defence minister Rajnath Singh. There are plans to induct these advanced feature vehicles into the army by 2023.

Govt starts process of consultation for 5th science, technology and innovation policy 2020 The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India (GoI) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST) have jointly started the process of consultation for the new & 5th national Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP 2020) & it will last long for 6 months. The Present PSA – K VijayRaghavan.

Power Minister RK Singh initiated ‘#iCommit’ campaign on the occasion of WED on June 5, 2020 As a part of World Environment Day (WED – June 5) celebrations, Minister of State (I/C) (Power, New & Renewable Energy) Raj Kumar Singh has initiated the “#iCommit” Campaign for building an energy resilient future. This initiative is headed by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), under the administration of the Ministry of Power.

Amritsar included in Delhi-Katra expressway; Punjab stretch to be converted into Greenfield Expressway Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari accepted the Punjab state’s demand for including Amritsar in an expressway project that will connect Delhi and Katra, J&K. Now, the Greenfield connectivity will be developed in Punjab stretch of Delhi-Amritsar-Katra expressway. It should be noted that this expressway is a part of Bharatmala Pariyojana with a total outlay of Rs 60,000 crore.

DPIIT revises public procurement order to Encourage “Make in India” and enhance employment Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) revised the public procurement order, 2017 on 29th May 2019 to encourage the Make in India initiative and to increase the income and employment generation. The Department of Chemical and petrochemicals prescription of local content of local chemicals and petrochemical content in public procurement: Min 60% for 2020-21; Min 70% for 2021-23; Min 80% for 2023-25.

India loses 750 tigers during 2012-2019; Madhya Pradesh topped: NTCA Data According to the official data provided by National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) as a reply to RTI (right to information) query, 750 tigers have died in the country in the last eight years i.e. between 2012 and 2019 due to poaching and other causes. Also, Madhya Pradesh has the highest number of 526 tigers in the country. As per Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Prakash Javadekar there is an increase in tiger population by 750 in the last four years from 2,226 to 2,976.

Task Force formulated to examine matters pertaining to age of motherhood, and related issues; headed by Ms. Jaya Jaitly The Central Government of India has formulated a task force to examine matters pertaining to age of motherhood, imperatives of lowering Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), improvement of nutritional levels and related issues. It will be headed by Ms. Jaya Jaitly. The Task Force was formed as it was mentioned in the Union Budget 2020-21 by Nirmala Sitharaman.

CSIR and Atal Innovation Mission sign a Letter of Intent to foster Innovation in India The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) have signed a letter of intent (LoI) to promote innovation in the country. The collaboration is to support world class start-ups through CSIR Incubators under AIM initiatives and jointly work on new models of innovation, including setting up of CSIR Innovation Parks.

“Healthy and Energy Efficient Buildings” Initiative by the EESL and USAID The Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) partnered with U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for the Market Integration and Transformation Program for Energy Efficiency (MAITREE) Program & launched the “Healthy and Energy Efficient Buildings” that will pave way for a greener and healthier workplace on the occasion of the World Environment Day (June 5).

Western Coalfields Ltd opened 3 new coal mines for Rs 849 cr; 100 MT coal production target by FY26-27 The Western Coalfields Ltd (WCL), the subsidiary of Coal India Ltd (CIL) has opened trilogy (three) of new coal mines in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh with total capital expenditure (Capex) of Rs 849 crores. These will generate direct employment for 647 people. In order to monitor the mines, and to connect with its employees and stakeholders, WCL launched ‘WCL EYE’ - surveillance system & ‘SAMVAAD’ – Mobile or desktop app.

Govt changes public procurement rules, more preference to local suppliers In accordance with the revised Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India), Order 2017, the government has modified public procurement norms for giving maximum preference to companies whose goods and services have 50% or more local content. In revised Public Procurement Order, 2017, a concept of Class-I (Domestic value will be 50% or more than that), II (20%-50%) and non-local suppliers (less than 20%) was introduced based on which they will get preference in government purchases of goods and services.

India to set up first coal trading exchange India to set up its first coal trading platform -a sort of ‘Coal exchange’, where a large number of sellers and buyers can get together to trade coal as a commodity. It is to be noted that the coal ministry is likely to initiate auctions of about 50 coal blocks for commercial coal mining on June 11, 2020. Also, it should be noted that India is the 2nd largest producer of coal in the world, only behind China.

56 schools to be reconstructed by Govt. of India in Nepal The Indian Embassy and the Central Level Project Implementation Unit (CLPIU) of the Ministry of Education, Nepal signed 7 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for re-building 56 higher secondary schools in Nepal. The schools will be built as a part of 2.95 billion (Nepali rupees) grant to Nepal by the Government of India post-earthquake reconstruction.

Diversion of forests for non-forestry projects: Govt. of India According to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate change annual report 2019-20 the diversion was for 932 non-forestry projects under the Forest (Conservation) Act (FCA), 1980. Large areas of forest land are being diverted to other projects throughout India by the Government. A total 11,467.83 hectares’ forest lands were diverted in 22 states between January 1 and November 6, 2019. The most number of projects were in Haryana where a total diversion of 519.53 ha for 251 projects. Odisha diverted 4,514 hectares (ha) of forest land, which is equal to 1/3rd of the total diverted forest land.

MHRD & Fit India collaborates to produce series of special films to promote 10 indigenous sports of India The Department of School Education and Literacy under Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) has collaborated with Fit India under the” Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat” initiative to produce a series of special films to promote 10 indigenous sports of India.

Centre approved funds for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand & West Bengal The Central government has now approved funds to the Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand & West Bengal for FY2020-2021 for the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission.  Govt approves Rs 1280 cr for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Madhya Pradesh  Government of India approved Rs 572.23 Crore for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Jharkhand  Central Government pushes for 100% household tap connections in rural areas of West Bengal Read More Details Here: Centre approved funds for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand & West Bengal

Gir Sanctuary Gujarat’s Asiatic Lion population risen to 29% in 5 years; “Poonam Avlokan” survey According to the “Poonam Avlokan” survey the population of the Asiatic lion at the Gir sanctuary in Gujarat has seen a commendable rise to approximately 29% (28.87%) from 27% in 2015 i.e their population went from 523 in 2015 to 674 in 2020. Also, the distribution area of the lions was also increased to 36% from 22,000sq Km in 2015 to 30,000 sq Km in 2020.

‘Turant customs’ a flagship programme launched in Bengaluru and Chennai by CBIC The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) launched a flagship programme, “Turant customs” at Bengaluru and Chennai with technological support for faster clearance of imported goods and for the ease of doing business.

Shipping Ministry approved revised cost estimates of Rs. 123.95 cr for Ship Repair facilities in Andaman & Nicobar Islands Ministry of Shipping has approved the Revised Cost estimate of Rs. 123.95 crore for the project “Extension of Dry Dock-II at a marine in Port Blair, South Andaman” for augmenting Ship Repair facilities in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The project envisages extension of existing dock length by 90 meters by August 2021.

First in the world: Indian Railways runs Double-Stack Container Train in OHE electrified region Indian railways created a benchmark by setting a new world history on the successful running of the first Double-decker Container Train with a contact wire of 7.57-metre height on its high reach pantograph in the high rise Over Head Equipment (OHE) electrified territory on the western railway at stations in Gujarat.

NHAI Becomes First Fully Digitalised Organisation in Construction Sector The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways becomes the first Organisation in the Construction Sector to become fully digitalised utilising the cloud and artificial intelligence powered by the Data Lake, a Big Data Analytic platform and Project Management software.

Madhya Pradesh becomes the top wheat procurer; Purchased for Rs 25,000 crores from farmers Rural economy of the Madhya Pradesh (MP) was inducted with Rs 25,000 crore as the state government procured large amount of wheat from its farmers as a result MP becomes India’s largest wheat procurer for the year 20-21 surpassing Punjab. MP also produced the highest amount of wheat this year about 30 million tonnes.

India Builds First Ever Infectious Disease Diagnostic Lab India builds the first ever Infectious Disease Diagnostic Mobile Laboratory with the support of the Department of Bio-technology as a part of Atma Nirbhar Bharat. The Laboratory was built within 8 days on receiving the chassis from Bharat Benz. The BSL-2 facility lab holds the Elisa, real-time Reverse Tranion Polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR) test and Bio chemistry analyser. The laboratory is capable of testing around 200 Elisa tests and 50 rRT-PCR tests per day.

India to construct Rs 2.33 cr sanitation facility at Nepal’s iconic Pashupatinath Temple India has extended its financial aid by NR (Nepalese rupee) 37.23 million (i.e. Equivalent of Rs. 2.33 cr INR) for the construction of the sanitation facility for the pilgrims at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, Nepal, under the Nepal-Bharat Maitri: Development Partnership as a high impact community development scheme by India. It is the largest temple complex in Nepal and stretches on both sides of the Bagmati River which crosses into India at Bairgania, Bihar.

Ministry of Sports Identified 8 State-Owned Sports Facilities to Upgrade into Khelo India State Centres of Excellence The Sports Ministry prepared to establish Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCE) under the Khelo India Scheme and identified 8 state owned sports facilities to upgrade as KISCE. The purpose of KISCE are enhance the performance of India in Olympic games & transforming the facilities across the nation into academies of world class standard.

Formal Jobs in India Increases by 28.6% to 78.58 Lakh in 2019-20: EPFO According to the payroll data of EPFO (Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation), the formal employment in India saw a 28.6 % increase at 78.58 lakh in 2019-20 as compared to only 61.12 lakh added in 2018- 19. Sectors such as Hospitality and Financial Institutions have experienced a 50% growth.

MNRE Sets Up Project Development Cell Under Amitesh Kumar Sinha For Investment in Green Energy Sector The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has set up a Project Development Cell (PDC) under the chairmanship of Amitesh Kumar Sinha (MNRE joint secretary) to attract investment in clean energy, especially in the solar sector. The cell will help meet centre’s 175 GW target for green energy capacity by 2022.

UP provided employment to 57 lakh 12975 migrant workers under MGNREGA; Highest in India Uttar Pradesh (UP) has provided employment to 57,12,975 workers (around 18% of total work generated under MGNREGA & generated 7.93 crore man-days) in 56,981 village panchayats of the state under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), making it the top Indian state to provide highest employment under MGNREGS.

India’s 1st ever Climate Change Assessment – Climate Change Tracker India released its 1st national report on the state of the climate crisis titled “Assessment of climate change over the Indian region” prepared with the support of the Ministry of Earth Science (MoES) and edited by the scientists of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune. This report is published as an open access book by Spring Nature. The average temperature of India has raised by 0.7-degree Celsius in 1901 – 2018. Read More Details Here: India’s 1st ever Climate Change Assessment – Climate Change Tracker

Centre Approved Funds for Implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tripura On the lines of the announcement made by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 regarding Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) which aims to provide “Functional Household Tap Connection” (FHTC) to 18 Crore rural households of the country by the year 2024, the Centre has approved funds for the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission to Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tripura.  Central Govt approved funding of Rs 1,829 Crore for implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Maharashtra  Central Govt has approved fund of Rs 1,189.40 Crore for implementation of JJM in Karnataka in 2020- 21  Central Govt allocated Rs 156.61 Crore for FY20-21 to Tripura for implementation of JJM in State Read More Details Here: Centre Approved Funds for Implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission in Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tripura

NITI Aayog Forms Panel Led by Amitabh Kant to Develop Job Platform for Migrant Labours NITI Aayog under the leadership of its CEO, Amitabh Kant has formed a high-powered committee to drive public and private partnership in order to engage and develop technologies that can solve this looming crisis and provide better job opportunities to the migrant workers & blue-collar workers. The committee comprises of top executives of technology companies like Google, Microsoft and Tech Mahindra.

Centre sanctions Rs 190 cr for augmentation of healthcare facilities in North Eastern States Union Minister of State (MoS) of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Dr Jitendra Singh has sanctioned Rs.190 crore for augmentation of healthcare facility in the eight North Eastern (NE) States viz. of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Sikkim, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura for developing infrastructure for management of infectious diseases. Ministry of DoNER has also given the NE States the option to send proposals for health-related projects to be funded up to over Rs 500 crore from North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS).

CIL Joined Hands with NITI Aayog’s AIM to Boost Innovation Ecosystem in India The Kolkata based PSU, Coal India Limited (CIL) has entered into the partnership with NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog’s flagship initiative Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), to actively support the latter’s key innovation and entrepreneurship initiatives across India.

15th Finance Commission Grants First installment of Rs.15187.50 cr to Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) The Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) has submitted its interim report for the period FY 2020-21 & GoI accepted those recommendations on respect of Rural Local Bodies (RLBs). The commission has recommended the grant of Rs.60,750 cr for the period FY 2020-21 for RLBs. The Ministry of Finance released the first instalment of Rs.15187.50 crore, for RLBs. Read More Details Here: 15th Finance Commission Grants First installment of Rs.15187.50 cr to Rural Local Bodies (RLBs)

IIT-Delhi, UN-WFP to offer research-based solution to storage, supply of food grains The Rome based United Nations World Food Programme (UN-WFP) India and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi have joined hands to support state and national governments in achieving food and nutrition security.

Centre to allocate Rs 3,000 crore from PM CARES for ventilator supply & migrants’ welfare The Central Government is all set to allocate Rs 3,000 crore from the PM CARES Fund for supply of ventilators and for the welfare of migrant labourers. Centre will be spent Rs 2,000 crore in the procurement of 50,000 Made-in-India ventilators to Government-run COVID hospitals in all States/Union Territories (UTs). On the other hand, Rs 1,000 crore has already been released to States/UTs for the welfare of migrant labourers.

Central Govt Approved Rs. 412.19 Crore for Implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Telangana On the lines of the announcement made by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 regarding Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) which aims to provide “Functional Household Tap Connection” (FHTC) to 18 Crore rural households of the country by the year 2024, the Centre has approved Rs. 412.19 Cr for the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission for Telangana. The Centre is hopeful that the state will provide 100% tap connections to all rural households in the year 2020-21 itself and become the first State to achieve the feat of ‘Har Ghar Jal Rajya’.

Ministry of Sports to Establish 1000 District Level Khelo India Centres to Engage Former Champions in training The Ministry of Sports, GoI has decided to establish around 1000 district level Khelo India centres (KIC) all over the nation to engage the former champions in sports training and to ensure a source of income for them in the sports. The 14 Identified Sports for Excellence in Olympics (ISEO) will be trained at KIC.

Union Government Granted Rs 500 cr Emergency Funds to Armed Forces for War Preparedness The Central Government has granted special financial powers of Rs 500 crore as emergency funds to armed forces for war preparedness amid ongoing border tensions with China. Under this financial aid, the three defence services (Army, Navy and Air Force) can buy any weapon system or any in inventory up to Rs 500 cr in consultation with the Department of Military Affairs (DMA).

Culture Ministry celebrating “Sankalp Parva” to plant trees from 28th June to 12 July 2020 Union Ministry of Culture is celebrating two week long Sankalp Parva from 28th June to 12 July 2020. The decision for tree plantation has been taken on the call of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has identified 5 trees representing the herbal heritage of our country. The trees are: Bargad, Awla, Pepal, Ashoka & Bel.

Centre Sanctions Additional Rs 1,691 crore For Road Construction in J&K, Uttarakhand central Government has sanctioned an additional Rs 1,691 crore for the construction of highways by the Border Roads Organization (BRO) in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Uttarakhand during 2020-21 in the wake of clashes with China in Ladakh. Of this amount, Rs 1,351.10 crore has been allocated for the construction of BRO roads in the border areas of J&K. While, Rs 340 crore have been sanctioned for road- building in Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand Develops India’s First Lichen Park to Conserve Jurassic Era Plant in Munsiyar The Forest Department of Uttarakhand has developed India’s First Lichen Park in Munsyari (Munsiyari), Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand as a research centre with over 150 Lichen species – Jurassic Era plant which was inaugurated on 27th June 2020, the development process of the 1.5 acres park began in 2019. GOVT SCHEMES

200 Urban forests in 5 next years: ‘Nagar Van’ scheme The “Nagar Van” (Urban forest) Scheme launched virtually by the Central Govt. on June 5, the occasion of the World Environment Day 2020 (WED) announced the implementation to develop around 200 urban forests across the country over the span of 5 years. It stressed the theme of “Biodiversity” by the United Nation’s Environment Programme (UNEP), The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change celebrated the day by announcing the initiative of urban forests in India. Read More Details Here: 200 Urban forests in 5 next years: ‘Nagar Van’ scheme

Rs. 4000cr allocated to State Governments under Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) component of PMKSY for FY 2020-21 The Department of Agriculture Cooperation & Farmers’ Welfare (DAC&FW) has allocated Rs. 4000 cr to the state governments for the year 2020-21 for implementing Per Drop More Crop component of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY- PDMC). The PDMC is to enhance the use of water effectively at farm level through Micro Irrigation technologies viz. Drip and Sprinkler irrigation systems.

Migrants facing job loss amid lockdown to get health insurance under AB-PMJAY Indian government extended its health insurance scheme Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) for migrant workers facing unemployment, across states. In this regard, the implementing agency of AB-PMJAY, National Health Authority (NHA) is coordinating with the states to identify the eligible beneficiaries under the scheme so that e-cards will be issued to them.

PM Modi launched Rs 50,000 cr Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan to boost employment and livelihood for migrant workers Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the lines of the announcement made in Rs 20 Lakh crore Aatma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan has launched an employment -cum- rural public works Campaign for 67 lakh migrant workers named “Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan (GKRA)”. The outlay of this campaign is Rs 50,000 Crores and the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) is the nodal Ministry for its implementation. GKRA, the mission mode campaign of 125 days will cover 116 districts comprising more than 25,000 returnee migrant workers each across 6 states.

Government Introduced New Floating Rate Savings Bonds, 2020 (Taxable) Scheme w.e.f July 1, 2020 Government has notified the new Floating Rate Savings Bonds (FRSB), 2020 (Taxable) Scheme in place of 7.75% Savings (Taxable) Bonds, 2018, with effect from July 1, 2020. The 7.75% Savings (Taxable) Bonds, 2018 Scheme was ceased for subscription from the close of banking business on May 28, 2020.

The Floating Rate Savings Bonds, 2020 (Taxable) Scheme is going to issue a floating rate, taxable savings bond for an initial coupon of 7.15%, payable on January 1, 2021. These bonds will be issued by Reserve Bank India (RBI) on behalf of the Government of India (GoI). Read More Details Here: Government Introduced New Floating Rate Savings Bonds, 2020 (Taxable) Scheme w.e.f July 1, 2020 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

UN extends arms embargo and other sanctions in South Sudan till May 2021 The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has extended the individual sanctions, travel ban and an arms embargo in South Sudan until May 2021. This extension has been drafted by the United States (US), which received 12 votes in favour while Russia, China and South Africa abstained it. The capital and currency of South Sudan is Juba & South Sudanese pound.

WHO Launched ‘COVID-19 Technology Access Pool’ for equal access to Life-saving Tech The COVID-19 Technology Access Pool (C-TAP) which was proposed by President Carlos Alvarado of Costa Rica has been launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) during an event co-hosted by WHO and Costa Rica. The C-TAP was supported by 35 countries (as on May 29, 2020). The aim of this initiative is to provide access to all for making vaccines, tests, treatments and other health technologies to fight COVID-19. C-TAP will serve as a sister initiative to the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator. Also, WHO, Costa Rica and all the co-sponsor countries have also issued a “Solidarity Call to Action” to join and support the initiative.

India, China hold top military-level talks in Maldo, Ladakh amid May 2020 standoff The Lieutenant General-level talks were held between India and China at the Border Personnel Meeting Point in Maldo in the Chushul sector, on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh. The Indian delegation was led by Lieutenant General Harinder Singh, Commander of 14 Corps, while the Chinese side was headed by Major General Liu Lin, Commander of the Tibet Military District. In addition to that, ITBP operationalises two newly sanctioned commands in Chandigarh & Guwahati due to stand off.

ADB forms 8-member panel to find solutions for speedy recovery of COVID-19 in Southeast Asia The Mandaluyong, Philippines based Asian Development Bank (ADB) has constituted an 8-member high- level panel of leading experts in economics, finance, and health, moderated by ADB Vice-President Ahmed M. Saeed, to help ministers, central bank governors, and other senior officials identify solutions for Southeast Asian economies to quickly recover after the COVID-19 pandemic.

India with 12 Countries Leads “Verified” Initiative of United Nations to Counter Misinformation on COVID-19 India with 12 other countries lead the “Verified” initiative launched by the United Nations (UN) on 21st May 2020, to fight the spreading of misinformation (Infodemic) about COVID-19 with fact-based accurate information. The theme of “verified” is Science, Solidarity and Solution.

India Joined GPAI, 1st of its kind AI initiative as founding member India has joined the first-of-its-type initiative namely Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) as a founding member to support responsible and human-centric development and use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). India is part of 15 members founding members of the initiative. GPAI will be supported by a Secretariat, to be hosted by Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in Paris, France.

India elected for 8th term as non-permanent member of UN Security Council for 2021 & 2022; will hold presidency in August, 2021 India was elected unopposed for an 8th term as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for two years (i.e.2021 & 2022) starting January 2021. Mexico, Ireland, Kenya and Norway were also elected along with India. India’s overall objective during this tenure in the UN Security Council will be the achievement of N.O.R.M.S: New Orientation for a Reformed Multilateral System & India’s approach will be guided by “Five S’s”: Samman, Samvad, Sahyog, Shanti & Samriddhi. Read More Details Here: India elected for 8th term as non-permanent member of UN Security Council for 2021 & 2022; will hold presidency in August, 2021

France commits 200 Million Euros to Support India’s COVID-19 Response France and India signed a credit financing agreement promising 200 million euros to support the social welfare system and India’s COVID-19 response. The fund will be provided to India through French Development Agency, AFD (Agence Française de Développement). The programme focuses on the “Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana” to benefit the low-income families.

Nearly 1% of world’s population, “79.5 mn” forcibly displaced globally at the end of 2019: UNHCR According to the annual report on displacement titled “Global Trends- released by UN refugee agency- United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), on global front the displacement number is 79.5 million (about 1% of world population)Forced or one Displacement in every 97 people in 2019″ on the planet at the end of 2019. Five countries account for two-thirds (68%) of people displaced across borders: Syria, Venezuela, Afghanistan, South Sudan and Myanmar. Read More Details Here: Nearly 1% of world’s population, “79.5 mn” forcibly displaced globally at the end of 2019: UNHCR

Pakistan remains in Financial Action Task Force’s Grey list The Paris based Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in its 3rd and final plenary meeting under the Chinese Presidency of Xiangmin Liu over a virtual platform, retained Pakistan on the grey list till October 2020, for failing to prosecute and penalise terrorist financing in the country before the deadline fixed by FATF. Germany will take over the presidency of the FATF from July 2020 for a year.

“Vivekananda Yoga University” World’s First Yoga University Outside India launched in Los Angeles As a part of International Yoga day, on 23rd June 2020, V Muraleedharan, the MoS of External Affairs and P P Chaudhary, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on External Affairs, jointly launched World’s First Yoga University “Vivekananda Yoga University”(VaYU) in Los Angeles, United States of America, over the virtual event at the Consulate General of India in New York. The first chairman of the VaYU is the Indian Yoga Guru, Dr. H R Nagendra.

China to Join UN Arms Trade Treaty to Enhance World Peace The Standing Committee of China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) has agreed to join the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty (UN-ATT) that is designed to control the flow of weapons into conflict zones. As a part of this treaty, China is committed to enhance peace and stability in the world. As per Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s (SIPRI) study in January 2020, China is the second largest arms producer in the world, behind the United States (US).

India named in Switzerland’s top-3 partners for info exchange on tax matters: OECD’s Global Forum study According to the latest study by OECD’s (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) Global Forum on transparency and exchange of information for tax purposes, referring to the period from July 2015 to June 2018, India was named among the top-three countries as EOI (Exchange of Information) partners along with France and Germany.

NASA Renames Washington HQ after Mary Jackson, first black Engineer at NASA The headquarter building of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) located at Washington D.C., has been renamed after Mary Winston Jackson (1921-2005), the first black female engineer at NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine made the announcement on 24th June.

VISITS

FOREIGN VISIT Overview of Rajnath Singh 3-day Visit to Russia from 23- 25, 2020 to Attend 75th Victory Day Parade of World War II Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh paid a 3-day visit to Russia from June 23- 25, 2020 on the invitation of Defence Minister of the Russian Federation Sergey Shoigu to attend the 75th Anniversary of Victory Day Parade and to strengthen the longstanding special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia.  Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attends Victory Day Parade in Moscow, Russia on June 24  75-member Tri-service: Indian military contingent participates in Victory Day Parade in Russia

 Rajnath Singh met Russian Deputy PM Yury Borisov to review India-Russia defence cooperation  Rajnath Singh holds talks with Myanmar Military Chief Read More Details Here: Overview of Rajnath Singh 3-day Visit to Russia from 23- 25, 2020 to Attend 75th Victory Day Parade of World War II BANKING & FINANCE

RBI IN NEWS RBI creates Payments Infrastructure Development Fund with initial corpus of Rs 250 cr to boost digitization Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has initiated with Rs 500-crore ($66 million) Payments Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF) with an initial contribution of Rs 250 crore to encourage the deployment of Points of Sale (PoS) infrastructure in smaller cities and towns. The vision document had envisaged that the usage of debit cards at PoS transactions will be around 44 per cent of total debit card transactions by 2021. Also, there will be around 5 million active PoS by 2021.

RBI proposed Draft Frameworks for Sale of Loan Exposures and Securitisation of Standard Assets The RBI has proposed two draft documents titled “Draft Comprehensive Framework for Sale of Loan Exposures” and “Draft Framework for Securitisation of Standard Assets” consisting of guidelines applicable to all Scheduled Commercial Banks (excluding RRBs); All India Financial Institutions (NABARD, NHB, EXIM Bank, and SIDBI); and, all Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) including Housing Finance Companies (HFCs).

Read More Details Here: RBI proposed Draft Frameworks for Sale of Loan Exposures and Securitisation of Standard Assets

RBI bars People’s Co-operative Bank from granting fresh loans, accepting deposits for 6 months The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has restricted People’s Co-operative Bank located in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh (UP) from granting fresh loans and accepting deposits for six months from June 10, 2020, due to its weak financial position in exercise of powers vested in it under sub section (1) of Section 35 A of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. The bank is barred from selling, transferring or disposing any of its properties or assets.

RBI sets up 5-member Internal working group headed by P K Mohanty to review ownership and control of Private banks Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set up a 5-member Internal Working Group (IWG) headed by Prasanna Kumar (PK) Mohanty to review ownership guidelines and corporate structure for private banks in light of recent developments in the banking sector.

RBI Releases New Framework for Financial Market Infra, Retail Payment System; NPCI & NEFT classified as FMI Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has made some changes to the monitoring structure of Financial Markets Infrastructure (FMI) and Retail Payment Systems (RPSs) with the aim to ensure the security and stability of the payment structure. Read More Details Here: RBI Releases New Framework for Financial Market Infra, Retail Payment System; NPCI & NEFT classified as FMI

RBI Proposes to Set Upper Age Limit of CEOs, Whole-Time Directors of Banks to 70 Years The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in its Discussion Paper on ‘Governance in Commercial Banks in India’ proposed to set the upper age limit of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and whole-time directors (WTDs) belonging to the promoter group of banks to 70 years and maximum tenure of 10 years.

RBI Proposes New Rules for Housing Finance Companies; Increases Min NOF to Rs 20cr RBI being a new regulator has proposed changes to be prescribed for HFCs with an aim to increase their efficiency and address concerns of liquidity and double financing. In exercise of powers conferred under Section 29A (1) (b) of NHB Act, 1987, RBI proposes to increase the minimum NOF for HFCs from the current requirement of Rs10 crore to Rs 20 crore. Also, housing loans must account for at least 50% of HFCs’ assets of which at least 75% should be towards individual housing loans. HFCs which do not fulfil this criterion will be treated as NBFC – Investment and Credit Companies (NBFC-ICCs). Read More Details Here: RBI Proposes New Rules for Housing Finance Companies; Increases Min NOF to Rs 20cr

RBI doubles withdrawal limit to Rs 1 lakh for PMC Bank depositors; 4 other banks withdrawal limit increased The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raised the withdrawal limit from Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC) Bank to Rs 1 lakh from Rs 50,000 but extended the moratorium on the bank for another six months. With this relaxation, over 84% of the bank’s depositors will be able to withdraw their entire account balance. In addition to that, RBI has increased withdrawal limit of 4 more banks namely, Kerala Mercantile Co-operative Bank Limited, Hindu Cooperative Bank Limited, Sri Guru Raghavendra Sahakara Bank Niyamitha, Youth Development Cooperative Bank Limited.

RBI Extends Rs 50,000 Crores Special Liquidity Window for YES Bank by 3 months The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) extended a special liquidity window for Rs 50,000 crores to Yes Bank for three months, to help private lenders cover for shortfall in deposits. The Yes bank was first provided with a special liquidity window for 3 months in March, which ended in June. The bank has requested for the same facility for one year, against which the RBI has extended for another 3 months.

Reserve Bank Extends Enhanced Borrowing Limit to Banks Under MSF Till Sept 30, 2020 In exercise of power conferred under the Section 24 of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to extend the enhanced borrowing facility provided to banks under MSF till September 30, 2020 to meet the liquidity shortage in the midst of the economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 epidemic. In addition, RBI has also extended the minimum daily cash reserve ratio (CRR) maintenance of 80% by three months until 25 September 2020. Read More Details Here: Reserve Bank Extends Enhanced Borrowing Limit to Banks Under MSF Till Sept 30, 2020

BANKING TECHNOLOGY IndusInd Bank rolls out India’s 1st mobile app based facility for opening current accounts The Pune based IndusInd Bank Limited has introduced a first-of-its-kind facility for customers to open current accounts (CA) through its ‘Indus Corporate’ mobile app. The customer will not need physical KYC (Know your Customer) documents to open an account in this manner. The account will become operational within 24 hours of opening the account.

ICICI Bank launches ‘Insta Flexicash’ an Online OD facility for its salary account customers The Mumbai based ICICI Bank has launched ‘Insta Flexicash’, an online overdraft (OD) facility for its pre- approved salary account customers, by which these customers can get approval for OD instantly & in a paperless manner.

HDFC Ergo & Tech firm Tropogo Jointly Launches India’s 1st ‘pay as you fly’ Insurance for Drones The Mumbai headquartered HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company has joined hands with UK based tech firm TropoGo Limited to launch India’s 1st ‘Pay as you Fly’ insurance for drone-owners in India.

Yes Bank & Affordplan Jointly Launches Co-Branded Healthcare Card Called ‘Swasth Card’ YES Bank Limited has joined hands with Delhi-based fintech start-up Affordplan, to launch a first of its kind co-branded healthcare card called ‘Swasth Card’ under Swasth program with the aim to enable families plan and manage their finances for their healthcare needs.

PhonePe Partnered with ICICI Bank on UPI multi-bank model The Bengaluru based Flipkart-owned PhonePe announced that it has partnered with Mumbai headquartered ICICI Bank on the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) multi-bank model. To provide its users the option to create and use multiple UPI IDs with ICICI Bank’s “@ibl” handle and YES Bank’s ‘@ybl’ handle on the PhonePe app. Through this ICICI Bank has become the second official UPI partner of PhonePe after Yes Bank.

LOANS ISSUED BY BANKS LOANS ISSUED RECEIVED BY AMOUNT KEY NOTES BY World Bank (WB) West Bengal Rs. 1,950 According to the Chief Minister (CM) of West crores Bengal Mamata Banerjee, the World Bank (WB) has granted loan worth of Rs. 1,950 crores to the

state for tackling COVID-19 situation and developmental work. Out of the total amount, Rs. 1,100 crores will be allocated for creating Industrial infrastructures and the balance Rs. 850 crores will be spent for various Social-Welfare schemes. Asian India USD 750 The Beijing based Asian Infrastructure Infrastructure million Investment Bank (AIIB) approved a 2nd loan of Investment Bank USD 750 million to India under the bank’s USD 10 billion COVID-19 Crisis Recovery Facility (CRF); this loan is co-financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Earlier, the 1st loan under this facility of USD 500 million, co-financed by the World Bank was approved on May 8.

OTHER BANKING NEWS DBS Bank India partners with TCIL to facilitate real time payments for truck drivers by DBS RAPID solution DBS Bank India partnered with Gurugram based Transport Corporation of India Limited (TCIL) to facilitate real time payments for truck drivers by DBS RAPID (Real Time APIs by DBS) solution to enable them to receive payments instantly. The solution has been set up under the support of National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

Axis Bank, MasterCard and Worldline launches ‘Soft POS’, first financial payments service:

Transform SmartPhones for Merchant POS terminals The Mumbai based Axis Bank Ltd, Mastercard India & Worldline India partnered to launch a digital point- of-sale (POS) solution ‘Soft POS’, the 1st financial payments service in India to transform everyday smartphones into merchant POS terminals. The technology used is Near Field Communication (NFC).

SBI launches separate FI&MM vertical for agriculture and small businesses The Mumbai based State Bank of India (SBI) has created a separate Financial Inclusion and Micro Market (FI&MM) vertical within the bank with an exclusive focus to provide financial services to people engaged in agriculture and allied activities and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The new wing will be headed by Sanjeev Nautiyal at the national level.

NABARD provides Rs 270 crore Special Liquidity Facility to Assam Gramin Vikash Bank The Mumbai based National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) provided Rs 270 crore Special Liquidity Facility(SLF) to Assam Gramin Vikash Bank in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic to support the agricultural activities of the farmers. This support & separate line of credit will enable to intensify farmers crop production.

POS solution in Africa promoted by the partnership between ePaisa and First Alliance Bank The ePaisa (PoS service provider in India) has entered into a partnership with First Alliance Bank (Z) Ltd in Zambia, Africa, to provide mobile point of sale (mPOS) solution to small and medium enterprises and other businesses.

Exim Bank sanctions $215.68 mn LoC to Malawi govt for Drinking Water Supply Schemes The Mumbai based Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank), a specialized financial institution wholly owned by Government of India (GoI), has provided a line of credit (LOC) of $215.68 million to the Malawi government. With this agreement, there are five loan facilities worth $ 395.68 million have been provided

by the EXIM Bank to the Government of Malawi so far. The capital and currency of Malawi are Lilongwe & Malawian kwacha.

Airtel Payments Bank launches ‘Suraksha Salary Account’ for MSMEs The Airtel Payments Bank launched ‘Suraksha Salary Account’ for the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The account will enable the MSMEs & other organisations to make cashless payments & provide financial security to their employees.

SEBI panel headed by Anil Dave suggested measures to strengthen enforcement of SEBI In order to strengthen the Securities and Exchange Board of India’s (SEBI) enforcement mechanism and also to improve its system of recovery of siphoned off money, the SEBI committee headed by Anil Dave has proposed a method of quantification of profit made by the defaulter and loss caused to investors in the report. The committee also examined the insolvency, recovery and securities laws jurisprudence of India and abroad and suggested suitable changes in the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016.

Bank of Baroda to Fully Digitize Lending Operations India’s 3rd largest lender, Bank of Baroda is set to fully digitise its lending operations including home, agriculture, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), personal and auto loans. The bank has set up a new vertical, ‘Digital lending Department’ at the corporate office, which will have substantial overlap with various credit verticals including Retail, MSME, Agri & service verticals like Analytics centre, Risk Management, Marketing.

EXIM Bank Extends Line of Credit of USD 20.10 Million to Nicaragua Govt The Mumbai based Export-Import (EXIM) Bank on behalf of the Indian Government, extended a Line of Credit (LOC) of USD 20.10 million to the Government of the Republic of Nicaragua for the reconstruction of Aldo Chavarria Hospital. The bank has extended 4 LOCs to Nicaragua, on behalf of Indian Government, with a total value of USD 87.63 million till now.

Hyundai Motor India Ltd Partners with HDFC Bank offers 1st Online Auto Retail Financing: ‘Click to Buy’ Platform Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) partnered with HDFC Bank to offer industry 1st online auto retail financing on its end-to-end online automotive retail platform, ‘Click to Buy’ to the customers.

UCO Bank Ties Up with 4 Insurers to Offer Various Insurance Products The Kolkata headquartered United Commercial Bank (UCO Bank) partnered with four insurers namely, SBI Life Insurance Company, the Oriental Insurance Company and Religare Health Insurance Company, Star Health and Allied Insurance Company to offer various insurance products for its customers. The bank also signs a ‘bancassurance’ pact with SBI Life Insurance to provide insurance solutions to the customers of UCO bank at its 3,086 branches spread across the country.

Karnataka Bank launches ‘KBL Micro Mitra’ for MSMEs The Karnataka Bank launched a new product ‘KBL Micro Mitra’ for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This product will provide financial assistance up to Rs 10 lakhs to the Micro manufacturing and service enterprises for working capital or for investment purposes.

Yes Bank Launches Digital Wallet Solution ‘Yuva Pay’ in Partnership with UDMA Technologies to Enable Contactless Payments The Mumbai headquartered Yes Bank launches a digital wallet solution (app) ‘Yuva Pay’ in partnership with UDMA Technologies Pvt Ltd to enable contactless payments for its customers. The wallet is issued under minimum Know Your Client (KYC) regulations.

Lt Governor G C Murmu Launches Two Customized Loan Schemes of J&K Bank for Business Communities Girish Chandra Murmu, the lieutenant governor of the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), has rolled out 2 customized loan schemes of J&K Bank namely ‘J&K Bank Business Support Loan Scheme 2019-20’ and ‘J&K Bank Business Support Loan Scheme 2019-20 for Hotels and Guest Houses’ with the aim to overcome business challenges that have stemmed up due to the prevailing conditions. R K Chhibber is the CMD of J&K Bank (HQ -Srinagar, J&K).

SOLV partnered with Standard Chartered Bank to Launch Credit Card for MSMEs The Bengaluru based SOLV, a B2B (business to business) digital platform for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), has launched a tailor-made credit card in partnership with Standard Chartered Bank, India. SOLV MSME Credit Card provides MSME clients with a ready means to meet ongoing business expenses including supplier payments, fuel, logistics, purchase of raw material, utility payments and working capital outlays.

World Bank Grants $500 Million to Bangladesh For Cross Country Road Projects World Bank (WB) has sanctioned $ 500 million for “Western Economic Corridor and Regional Enhancement (WeCARE) Phase I project” to improve road connectivity in Bangladesh’s Jashore - Jhenaidah corridor, which consists of four western districts to connect with the capital Dhaka as well as with India and Bhutan.

World Bank Approves $500 mn Under ‘STARS’ Project to Improve Education Quality in 6 Indian States The board of executives of the World Bank (WB) has approved loan of $ 500 million under ‘Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States Program (STARS)’ project to improve the quality and governance of school education across six states (Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, and Rajasthan) in India. The new project will be executed through flagship central scheme, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. As per WB, India has made better improvement in access to education across the country from 2004-05 to 2018-19, where the number of children going to school hiked from 21.9 crore to 24.8 crore.

World Bank Enhances the financial Support for Ganga rejuvenation with $400 million through SNGRBP The World bank enhanced the support to India’s programme to rejuvenate the Ganga with $400 million through Second National Ganga River Basin Project (SNGRBP), for the development of infrastructure projects Under the National Ganga River Basin Project. This is the 1st Indian Project to get the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) Guarantee in the water sector in India. The Namami Gange Programme is an integrated conservation mission, approved by Union Government in 2014 with a budget outlay of Rs 20000 crore.

FINANCE NEWS SEBI Extends Deadline for Power of Attorney Norms till August 1, 2020 Mumbai based Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has extended the date for implementing norms pertaining to power of attorney (POA) given by clients to trading members or clearing members till August 1, 2020 from June 1, 2020. POA is a document allowing an individual or entity to appoint a person/organization for managing the former’s property, financial, or medical affairs if he/she/it becomes unable to do so.

American DFC to invest $350 million in India firms To support multiple projects in India, The US International Development Finance Corporation (USIDFC) is planning to invest $350 million in sectors of finance, health infrastructure, renewable energy and food security space also look to empower smallholder dairy farmers, generate solar power increase access to education.

PhonePe along with ICICI Lombard launches ‘first of its kind’ domestic trip travel insurance Flipkart-owned digital payments platform PhonePe along with ICICI Lombard, the non-life insurance company launched ‘first of its kind’ travel insurance, domestic multi-trip insurance to provide a stress- free travel experience to customers by covering risks associated with all modes of travel within the country.

India becomes 2nd nation to have contact-free ATM cash withdrawals; Empays Payment Systems partners with Mastercard The Empays Payment Systems has joined hands with Mastercard to launch “Cardless ATM powered by Mastercard” in India based on the standards of EMV (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa). With this, India will be the first country outside the United States (US) where this product will be launched. It uses SMS (short message service) technology to enable cash withdrawals.

ICICI Home Finance Launches SARAL, Affordable Housing Loan Scheme The Mumbai headquartered ICICI Home Finance Company Limited (HFCL) launched ‘SARAL’, a special affordable housing loan scheme to finance homes in urban and rural areas. The beneficiaries are women, lower, middle income customers and economically weaker sections, with a maximum household income up to Rs 6 lakh per annum.

SEBI amends SEBI (SAST) Regulations, 2011 to enhance promoter’s shareholding The board of SEBI has amended the regulation 3, in sub-regulation (2) of Securities and Exchange Board of India (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011 (SEBI-SAST) to enhance the acquisition limit for promoters of a listed company. The amendment allows promoters owning 25% or more of the shares or voting rights in a company to increase his shareholding by up to 10% in a year in comparison to the earlier 5% limit.

Karnataka Bank Launches Health Insurance Policy to Cover COVID-19 in Partnership with Universal Sompo General Insurance Company Karnataka Bank in partnership with Universal Sompo General Insurance Company has launched a health insurance policy. The policy aims to cover the individuals’ COVID-19 pandemic related health expenses. The validity period of policy is 120 days and people aged between 18-65 can avail this policy.

Tata AIA Life Insurance Partners with East Consultancy Services to Offer Aadhaar-Based Paperless Offline e-KYC Service The Mumbai based Tata AIA Life Insurance partnered with East Consultancy Services to offer Aadhaar- based paperless offline e-Know Your Customer (KYC) service. Also, Tata AIA Life Insurance will soon extend the service for verification of agents as part of” Know Your Agent” (KYA) requirement.

World’s First Gold-backed US Digital Gold Currency Launched in India, GCC, Middle East and Africa by IBMC IBMC Financial Professionals Group in partnership with US Gold Currency Inc and Blockfills introduced the world’s first monetary gold-backed US Gold digital currency in India, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC),

Middle East and Africa. Each US Gold digital currency is backed by a US American Eagle one-ounce (33.931 gram) gold coin, minted by the US Federal Agency, US Mint.

SIDBI Set Up ‘Swavalamban Crisis Responsive Fund’ to Facilitate Free Onboarding of MSMEs on TReDS platform The Lucknow based Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has informed that it has set up ‘Swavalamban Crisis Responsive Fund’ (SCRF), an open-ended fund to facilitate free onboarding of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) on Trade Receivables Discounting System (TReDS) platform.

ECONOMY & BUSINESS

GDP & GROWTH RATE ORGANIZATION YEAR RATE Moody’s Fiscal 2021 4% The New York based rating agency Moody’s expects India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to contract by 4% in fiscal 2021. The expected growth is 8.7% in fiscal 2022. Also India’s foreign- currency and local-currency long-term issuer ratings have been downgraded to Baa3 from Baa2 & India’s local-currency senior unsecured rating was also reduced to Baa3 from Baa2, and its short-term local currency rating to Prime (P)-3 from P-2. The outlook remains negative. Survey of FY21 1.5 % Professional The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released the results of 3 Forecasters (SPF) surveys’ namely -Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS) – May 2020; Survey of Professional Forecasters (SPF) on Macroeconomic Indicators and Inflation Expectations Survey of Households (IESH) – May 2020. As per the CCS, the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) came down to 97.9 in May 2020 & As per SPF, India’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth may contract by 1.5 % for the FY21. Economic Co- FY 2020-2021 -3.7% operation and India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for FY 2020-2021 predicted at Development (OECD) -3.7% which can further decelerate to -7.3% in case of second Covid- 19 outbreak as per the Economic Outlook (EO), June 2020 by Paris based Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). For FY21-22, a recovery to 7.9% in the “single-hit” scenario while an 8.1% rebound in the “double-hit” scenario. Moody’s According to the Moody’s Global Macro Outlook report for June 2020, there will be a contraction of 3.1 % in India’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020 & it will reach the level of 6.9% in 2021. Also, Moody’s - expects a change in geographical conditions in Asia due to tensions at the border between India and China. The growth of G20 countries for 2020 will contract by 4.6% & China will be the only G20 nation which will see growth in 2020 (1% growth). India Ratings and FY20-21 Contract - 5.3% Research (Ind-Ra) India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) has estimated India’s Gross domestic Product (GDP) likely to contract by 5.3% in FY20-21, the lowest GDP growth in the Indian history. It will contract in each

quarter in FY21 (April 2020 to March 2021). For FY21-22, it is expected that GDP growth would bounce back in the range of 5-6%. International Contract - 4.5 % Monetary Fund (IMF) The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in the June 2020 update “A Crisis Like No Other, An Uncertain Recovery” of its flagship World - Economic Outlook (WEO), has predicted that the Indian economy will have a big 4.5 % contraction in 2020. IMF has reported a global growth rate of negative 4.9 % in 2020 & for 2021, growth rate is expected to be 5.4 %.

ECONOMY NEWS Tech Mahindra signs UNGC Initiative to reduce CO2 emissions; Target to raise renewable energy to 50% by 2025 Tech Mahindra Ltd, an IT subsidiary of the Mahindra Group has joined 155 global companies by inking a joint declaration with United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) urging governments to align their COVID- 19 recovery efforts with the latest climate science & to reduce Co2 emissions and energy conservation by using new-age technologies like IoT, AI and block chain. Apart from above, Tech Mahindra set targets to increase the renewable source of energy to 50% by 2025 & It is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions from a grey to a green economy.

India’s foreign exchange reserves cross $500 bn for the first time According to the data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), India’s foreign reserves crossed the $500 billion mark as the nation had forex reserves of $501.7 billion as of June 5, 2020 a rise of $ 8.22 billion in a week. FOREX in India = Foreign Currency Assets (FCAs) + Gold Reserves + Special Drawing

Rights (SDRs) + India’s reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Indian Economy to contract by 4% in 2020-21: ADB Forecast According to Mandaluyong, Philippines based Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) Asian Development Outlook (ADO) for FY20-21, Indian economy is projected to contract by 4% in fiscal year (FY) 2020, ending on 31 March 2021, before growing 5.0% in FY2021.

BUSINESS NEWS Indian Energy Exchange rolls out real time electricity market Indian Energy Exchange Limited (IEX) has started a Real-Time Market (RTM) to meet the demand for electricity. This will enable the power companies to buy and sell electricity according to their needs only one hour before. There will be 48 auction sessions throughout the day. This is the part of centre government’s target to achieve 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022.

Recykal partnered with UNDP, HCCB for plastic waste management Project Prithivi The digital technology company, Recykal, collaborated with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt Ltd (HCCB) for Project Prithvi, a joint initiative for developing sustainable plastic waste management practices in the country.

TCS partners with NSDC to provide its training partners access to the TCS iON Digital Glass Room The Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) iON, unit of TCS, partnered with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to provide its training partners access to the TCS iON Digital Glass Room, a web- based digital education platform so as to enable online vocational skills training for millions of students across the country. The partnership will strengthen NSDC’s online content aggregation platform – eSkill India.

Infosys becomes 1st Indian Company to sign Climate Pledge with Amazon and Global Optimism to Become Net-Zero Carbon The Bengaluru based Infosys becomes first Indian company to sign the ‘Climate Pledge’, of Amazon and Global Optimism. The climate pledge an initiative by Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon and Christiana Figueres, founder of Global Optimism & former United Nations Climate chief to become net-zero carbon by 2040, ten years ahead of the Paris Agreement.

RIL Becomes India’s 1st Firm to Hit Rs 11 Tn Market Cap on June 11, 2020 after Valuing at Rs 11.15 tn; Mukesh Ambani became world’s 9th richest Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) became the first Indian company to reach a market capitalisation of Rs 11 trillion/$150 billion, as the company was valued at Rs 11.15 trillion (on June 19, 2020). With this, RIL accounts for nearly 9% of the country’s total m-cap of Rs 138 trillion. Also, the net worth of Mukesh Ambani, chairman has jumped to $64.5 billion, making him the only Asian tycoon in world’s top 10 richest people list, ranked number 9.

Republic of Mali Grant the Project Management Consultancy Contract of 500 MW Solar Park to NTPC The Republic of Mali awarded the Project Management Consultancy (PMC) contract for the development of a 500 MW solar park in Mali to NTPC Limited. In the event chaired by RK Singh, Minister of State for Power and President of International Solar Alliance (ISA), Sekou Kasse, Ambassador of Mali handed the award letter to Gurdeep Singh, CMD of NTPC. The capital and currency of Mali are Bamako & West African CFA franc.

MoU’s & AGREEMENTS

MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY COUNTRIES MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE India Denmark The Ministry of Power, Government of India and the Ministry for Energy, Utilities and Climate, Government of Denmark signed an MOU to develop strong cooperation and promote strategic intervention in the power sector on 5th June 2020. India Bhutan The Bhutan government and the Kholongchhu Hydro Energy Limited signed the Concession Agreement for 600 Mega Watt (MW) Kholongchhu hydroelectric Project (Joint Venture of India and Bhutan) in Thimphu. It will be implemented by Kholongchhu Hydro Energy limited, a joint venture company formed between Drunk Green power Corporation (DGPC) of Bhutan and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SJVNL) of India.

MoU’s WITH STATES STATE MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE Uttar Pradesh Industries and Business The Uttar Pradesh State MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Chambers Enterprises) Minister Sidharth Nath in the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Aditya Nath signed the MoU with the Industries and Business Chambers to promote the MSME sector and provide employment for around 10 lakh skilled and semi-skilled workers. The migrant workers will be

supported with the motto of “work to every hand and Employment to every house”. Maharashtra 12 domestic and foreign Maharashtra government signed 12 Memorandum of companies Understanding (MoUs) with 12 domestic and foreign companies for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) worth over Rs 16,000 crores. It is a part of the Magnetic Maharashtra 2.0 initiative.

MoU’s BETWEEN ORGANIZATION ORGANIZATION MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE Indian Space Aryabhatta The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), Bengaluru Research Research institute signed a MoU with the Aryabhatta Research institute of Organization (ISRO) of Observational Observational Science (ARIES), Nainital, Uttarakhand for the Science (ARIES) cooperation in the field of Space Situational Awareness (SSA) and Astrophysics. Board of BEML MELCO To study and plan for initiating a joint venture (JV) company (Mitsubishi between BEML and MELCO. This approval is on the lines of Electric invitation of BEML regarding Expression of Interest (EoI) for Corporation) Manufacturing, Partnerships under “Make in India” policy. Ircon International (NIIFL) & Ircon International Ltd (IRCON), a public sector enterprise Ltd (IRCON) (AYANA) (miniratna) has signed a MoU with National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL) and Ayana Renewable Power Private Limited (AYANA), NIIF platform company to explore and collaborate on opportunities in the solar energy

sector. GAIL (India) Ltd Energy Efficiency State-owned Natural gas company GAIL (India) Ltd and Energy Services Ltd Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL) signed Memorandum of (EESL) Understanding (MoU) for development of” trigeneration” projects in India. The aim of the MoU is to build a close strategic partnership between the two companies by jointly exploring business opportunities in the trigeneration business segment in India. Noida based Industrial The Noida based National Fertilizers Limited (NFL), a Central National Fertilizers Training Institutes Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) works under the Ministry of Limited (NFL) (ITI) Nangal Chemicals & Fertilizers, has signed a MoU with Industrial (Punjab) Training Institutes (ITI) Nangal (Punjab) to train youths in 12 trades under Dual System of Training Scheme. NFL becomes first CPSE to take this initiative in the state of Punjab. Indian Farmers Indian Council of For joint research, testing and validation of different products Fertilizer Agricultural through ICAR institutes and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). Cooperative Ltd Research (ICAR) (IFFCO) Ministry of Housing Small Industries Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has inked MoU & Urban Affairs Development with Lucknow based Small Industries Development Bank of (MoHUA) Bank of India India (SIDBI) to make latter as the implementation Agency for (SIDBI) Prime Minister Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) – a Special Micro-Credit Facility for Street Vendors. The scheme was launched by the MoHUA, on June 01, 2020 for providing affordable Working Capital loan to 50 lakh street

vendors, under the scheme the vendors can avail a working capital loan of up to Rs. 10,000, which is repayable in monthly instalments in the tenure of one year.

OTHER MoU’S IN CONTENT FORMAT Serum Institute of India signed supply agreement with UNICEF to supply pneumonia vaccine to low-income countries The Pune based Serum Institute of India (SII) signed a new supply agreement with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Vaccine alliance Gavi’s procurement partner to supply Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine to low income countries all over the world. Under the agreement, SII will provide around 10 million doses of PCV to the lower income countries for the next 10 years for $2 per dose.

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

APPOINTMENTS NATIONAL PERSON NAME APPOINTED ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES AS Urjit Patel Chairman National Institute The former governor of Reserve Bank of of Public Finance India (RBI) Urjit Patel was appointed as the and Policy (NIPFP) Chairman of National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP) succeeding Vijay Laxman Kelkar, with effect from June 22, 2020. Krishnendu Chairperson British Academy of The British Academy of Film and Television Majumdar Film and Arts (BAFTA) appointed Emmy-winning Television Arts television producer of ‘Hoff The Record’ (BAFTA) Krishnendu Majumdar as its chairperson for the next 3 years. He becomes the 1st Indian origin Chair from the United Kingdom (UK) in its 73 year-long history & is also the youngest chair in 35 years. He succeeds Pippa Harris who will continue as a deputy chairperson. PR Jaishankar MD (Managing India The Ministry of Finance appointed PR Director) Infrastructure Jaishankar as the MD (Managing Director) Finance Company of the India Infrastructure Finance Limited (IIFCL) Company Limited (IIFCL) for 3 years. The appointment comes after the recommendation of the Bank Boards Bureau (BBB) on March 15, 2020. Arun Singhal Chief Executive (FSSAI) The Appointments Committee of the Officer (CEO) Cabinet (ACC), has approved the appointment of Arun Singhal, as chief executive officer (CEO) of New Delhi based Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

Uday Kotak President Confederation of The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Indian Industry announced its new office bearers for 2020- (CII) 2021. Uday Kotak, succeeds Vikram Kirloskar as the new President of CII. Sanjiv Bajaj is elected as the Vice President & TV Narendran became the new President Designated of CII. Virendra Nath Datt Chairman and National Fertilizers Virendra Nath Datt has taken over the Managing Limited (NFL) additional charge as chairman and Director (CMD) managing director (CMD) of Noida, Uttar Pradesh based National Fertilizers Limited (NFL). G Kishan Reddy Chairman Welfare of the MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs) freedom fighters reconstituted a new committee for the welfare of the freedom fighters with G Kishan Reddy as the chairman including 9 other “eminent freedom fighters” across the country. Along with Reddy, former Congress MLA from Gujarat Dinakar Bhai Desai, who took part in 1942 Quit India Movement is one among the 9-member panel. Imtaiyazur Rahman Chief Executive UTI Asset The Board of Unit Trust of India (UTI) Officer (CEO) Management Mutual Fund had appointed Imtaiyazur Company (AMC) Rahman as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the UTI Asset Management Company (AMC). He had been already serving as the interim CEO for the past two years. He will succeed Leo Puri whose 5-year tenure was over in August 2018. T Rabi Sankar Chairman Indian Financial The Mumbai based Indian Financial Technology & Technology & Allied Services (IFTAS), Allied Services wholly owned subsidiary of Reserve Bank Dr. N Rajendran Chief Executive (IFTAS) of India appoints T Rabi Sankar as the Officer (CEO) Chairman and Dr. N Rajendran as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective from 15th May 2020 and 27th May 2020 respectively.

INTERNATIONAL PERSON NAME APPOINTED AS ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES Volkan Bozkir President UNGA Volkan Bozkir (69) from was the 1st Turkish elected as the president of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly (UNGA) succeeding Tijjani Muhammad-Bande. He will hold the presidency during 75th session of UNGA. Kubatbek Prime Minister Kyrgyzstan Kubatbek Boronov (55) was appointed as Boronov Kyrgyzstan’s Prime Minister succeeding Mukhammedkalyi Abylgaziyev. Kyrgyzstan’s

President Sooronbai Jeenbekov signed an order to appoint him. Micheál Martin Prime Minister Ireland Irish Parliament (the Dáil) has elected ‘Fianna Fail’ (party) leader Micheál Martin as the new (Taoiseach) Prime Minister of Ireland and he will take over the office from Leo Varadkar. He will lead the government for the first two and a half years (until December 2022); the second half of the 5- year team will be led by Leo Varadkar, Indian Origin & Leader of ‘Fine Gael’ party. Lazarus President Malawi Lazarus Chakwera, won Malawi’s President Chakwera Elections and sworn in as the 6th President of Malawi on 28 June. He succeeded Peter Mutharika of Democratic Progressive Party by winning 58.57% of total votes. The capital and currency of Malawi are Lilongwe & Malawian Kwacha respectively. Clare Connor President Marylebone Cricket Former England Women Cricket Captain Club (MCC) Clare Connor (43), an all-rounder, becomes the 1st female president of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) in 233 years. Her tenure will begin on October 1, 2021, and will end on September 30, 2022. She will succeed Kumar Sangakkara.

BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS PERSON NAME BRAND / CAMPAIGN KEY NOTES Manushi Chhillar Brand Ambassador The former Miss World Manushi Chhillar joined Rohit Sharma, Indian star Batsman, Hima Das Sprinter from Assam and Actor Ranveer Singh as the brand ambassador of Adidas. She supports the #HOMETEAMHERO challenge of Adidas to stay physically and mentally fit in the lockdown due to COVID-19. Rohit Sharma Brand Ambassador Indian cricketer & limited overs team vice-captain Rohit Sharma became the first brand ambassador of the IIFL Finance. The IIFL finance is known for the straight talk and honesty with their customers and Rohit Sharma who is popular for his #SeedhiBaat (doing business in a straight way) attitude towards both life and game. Nethra Goodwill Ambassador The United Nations Association for Development and Peace (UNADAP) appointed 13-year-old Madurai girl Nethra as its ‘Goodwill Ambassador to the Poor’. Sonu Sood Brand Ambassador The Gargo International, the delhi based lubricant company under the RG group appoints Sonu Sood as the brand ambassador in January 2020 & praised

him now for his support works for the migrants and went live with their TVC starring Sonu Sood. Pankaj Tripathi Brand Ambassador Pankaj Tripathi, Bollywood Actor, was appointed as the brand ambassador of Bihar’s Khadi by the Government of Bihar. He will promote the usage of Khadi product as well as the Patna’s Khadi Mall. The Khadi Mall in Patna is India’s first ever Kadhi mall & it was inaugurated by Nitish Kumar, Chief Minister of Bihar in November 2019. Sourav Ganguly and Sunil Brand Ambassadors JSW Cement, a part of JSW Group, signed former Chhetri Indian cricket captain & the current president of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Sourav Ganguly and Sunil Chhetri, captain of India’s National Football Team & Bengaluru FC as their brand ambassadors for their marketing campaign Leaders Choice.

RESIGNATIONS PERSON NAME RESIGNED AS ENTITY / PLACE Mukhammedkalyi Prime Minister The Kyrgyzstan’s Prime Minister Abylgaziyev Mukhammedkalyi Abylgaziyev (52) was resigned, due to ongoing criminal investigation of illegally sold radio frequencies by government. He was appointed as prime minister by President Sooronbai Jeenbekov after succeeding Sapar Isakov in April 2018. The capital and currency of Kyrgyzstan are Bishkek & Kyrgyzstani Som respectively.

OTHER APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS Mohandas Pai to chair the advisory committee on Service provider of IBBI The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) reorganised its advisory committee on service providers & appointed ‘TV Mohandas Pai’ as its chairman to support the 12-member panel and provide professional insights on the service providers handled by the IBBI.

PM Modi appoints committee for MSME loan implementation headed by Rajnath Singh PM Narendra Modi appointed a committee headed by Rajnath Singh (Defence minister) to solve the difficulties faced in the implementation of Rs. 3 Lakh crore collateral-free loan for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman as a part of Rs.20 Lakh crore Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan package to raise the economy.

Reserve Bank approves Lakshmi Vilas Bank’s MD and CEO, Subramanian Sundar extension The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the extension of tenure for Chennai based Lakshmi Vilas Bank (LVB) Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Subramanian Sundar by 6 months from May 31, 2020 to November 30, 2020 or till the appointment of new CEO.

On Menstrual Hygiene Day Former Miss World Manushi Chhillar joins UNICEF’s “Red Dot Challenge” On Menstrual Hygiene Day, 28th May 2020, former Miss World Manushi Chhillar (23) collaborated in the global initiative of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the “Red Dot Challenge” to create awareness and to educate the girls about menstrual hygiene and construction of sanitation facilities and access to hygiene products. Chhillar runs “Project Shakti”, an initiative on menstrual hygiene to create awareness on the importance of menstrual hygiene and the issues faced by the girls.

PMO officers Rajeev Topno to be senior advisor at World Bank, Brajendra Navnit India’s permanent representative to WTO The appointments committee of cabinet has appointed Rajeev Topno as the Senior Advisor to the Executive Director (ED), World Bank & Brajendra Navnit, the Joint Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office as Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India (PRI) to the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

SEBI rearranges its Commodity derivatives advisory committee The Mumbai based Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) rearranged the Commodity derivatives advisory committee and appointed Ashok Dalwani, as the chairman & Aliasgar S Mithwani as Secretary of the 17-member committee.

PM CARES Fund Trustees appoints SARC & Associates as Auditor The Trustees of the Prime Minister’s Citizens Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM CARES) fund appointed SARC & Associates; New Delhi based Chartered Accountants as its auditors for the next three years.

DK Jain, BCCI’s 1st Ever Ombudsman Gets a 1-year Extension as Ethics Officer and Ombudsman The tenure of former supreme court judge DK Jain as the ethics officer and ombudsman of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) got 1-year extension in June 2020 due to the current COVID-19 situation. He was the first-ever ombudsman of BCCI appointed by the supreme court in February 2019.

Tata’s Natarajan Chandrasekaran Re-nominated as a Part-Time Non-Official Director on RBI Central board As per Reserve Bank of India (RBI)’s notification, Chairman of the Board of Tata Sons (since January 2017), Natarajan Chandrasekaran has been re-nominated as a Part-Time Non-Official Director on RBI Central board for 2 years from 3rd March 2020 or until further orders, whichever is earlier. The board is appointed by the Government of India in line with the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. The central BoD consists of 21 members. Currently RBI’s central board has 15 directors, including the Governor and three Deputy Governors.

Priyanka Chopra & Anurag Kashyap Named Among 50 Ambassadors for 45th Edition of TIFF 2020 Actor Priyanka Chopra and Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap named among the 50 ambassadors for the 45th edition of Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2020, which is to be held virtually from September 10-19. This is the 1st time TIFF will launch a digital platform for the festival, offering new opportunities to connect with audiences beyond Toronto. TIFF has partnered with Shift72 to develop the online platform.

IRDAI Forms 9-Member Working Group Headed by Anjan Dey to Look into Drone Insurance The Hyderabad based Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has formulated a 9-member working group (WG) headed by Anjan Dey to suggest insurance products covering various

risks involved in the use of Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS)/ Drones. The panel shall need to submit its report within six weeks. Note: The Civil Aviation Ministry had earlier on June 5, 2020 issued draft rules for making and using drones in India.

Anandiben Patel, Governor of UP is given additional charges as Governor of Madhya Pradesh The President of India has assigned Anandiben Patel, Uttar Pradesh (UP) Governor with additional charge as the Governor of Madhya Pradesh (MP) due to the absence of Lalji Tandon, Governor of MP. The Lal Ji Tandon has been under treatment at a private hospital in Lucknow since 11th June 2020.

Aleksandar Vucic, President of Serbia Declares the Victory of the Ruling Party in the Parliament Election Aleksandar Vucic, President of Serbia has declared the victory of the Serbian Progressive Party (Srpska napredna stranka – SNS) with more than 63% vote in the Parliamentary election held on 21st June 2020 which was boycotted by most of the opposition parties. The SNS holds about 189 seats in the 250-member General Assembly. The capital and currency of Serbia are Belgrade & Serbian Dinar respectively.

AWARDS

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF LITERATURE & ACADEMICS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES Regional award for Asia Kritika Pandey Story Indian writer from Ranchi, Kritika in 2020 Pandey (29) was announced as the winner of regional award for Asia in 2020 Commonwealth short story prize for her story “The Great Indian Tee and Snakes” – about love in an age of hatred and prejudice. The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is for the unpublished best short fiction from the Commonwealth nations, administered by the Commonwealth Writer. The winning stories will be published in the literary magazine “Granta”. Richard Dawkins Award Javed Ahktar Poet, Lyricist Javed Ahktar, renowned poet, lyricist 2020 and Writer and writer became the first Indian to receive the Richard Dawkins Award 2020 for critical thinking, holding religious principles up to scrutiny, advancing human progress and humanist values. The award was created by Margaret Downey, Leader of Secular Community in 2003. World Food Prize Dr. Rattan Lal Indian- Has received the 2020 World Food Laureate American Soil Prize Laureate (popularly referred as scientist ‘Nobel Prize for Food and Agriculture’) for developing and mainstreaming a soil centric approach to increase food production that conserves natural

resources and mitigates climate change. Peace Prize 2020 Amartya Kumar Sen Indian Selected for 2020 Peace Prize by the Economist, Board of Trustees of the Peace Prize of Philosopher the German Book Trade for his and Nobel decades-long work around issues of Laureate global justice.

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF ARTS & CULTURE FILMS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES Vithabai Gulabbai Arts Maharashtra Culture Minister Amit Deshmukh Narayangaokar Sangamnerkar announced that Vithabai Narayangaokar lifetime lifetime achievement award 2018-19 will be conferred achievement upon the senior tamasha (folk art) artist, award 2018-19 Gulabbai Sangamnerkar. Also, Sangeetacharya Annasaheb Kirloskar musical theatre lifetime achievement award 2019-20 will be given to Veteran theatre actress-singer Madhuvanti Dandekar. Medal of the Shobha Sekhar Musician Indian Musician Shobha Sekhar, the founder of Order of Australia Kalakruthi a music organisation in Australia receives the Medal of the Order of Australia on the occasion of Queen’s Birthday 2020 for her service to Indian music and dance.

Annual Daytime 43 Member Arts & National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Emmy Awards Awardees, Sciences (NATAS) announced the winners of the 47th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, the presentation was hosted by the Sharon Osbourne, Shery Underwood, Eve, Carrie Ann Inaba and Marie Osmond, the hosts of CBS’ Daytime Emmy Award-winning show THE TALK which was broadcasted on the CBS Television Network. Click here 100 world’s Akshay Kumar Celebrity According to the Forbes 100 world’s highest-paid highest-paid celebrities 2020, Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar celebrities 2020 (52) ranked 52nd with estimated earnings of USD 48.5 million (M) & is the only Indian featured on the list. The list is topped by Model named Kylie Jenner (22) with the earning of 590M. The youngest on the list is American Pop musician Billie Eilish (18) & The oldest on the list Musician Paul McCartney (77).

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES Top 100 highest Virat Kohli Indian cricket team Becomes the only cricketer and the paid athletes of captain only Indian to feature in the Forbes’ 2020 Top 100 highest paid athletes of 2020. He ranked 66 with Forbes

Magazine estimated earnings of around 26 million USD. Tennis player Roger Federer tops the list for the first time with estimated earnings 106.3 million USD. Cristiano Ronaldo stands 2nd with 105 million USD and Lionel Messi ranked 3rd with 104 million USD. Click here Arjuna award for K. Sanjita Chanu Sports Indian Weightlifting Federation 2018 (IWLF) has informed that 2 times Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist (2014 & 2018), Weightlifter K. Sanjita Chanu will get the Arjuna award for 2018. This comes after the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) cleared her doping charges. The award is given to her as per the Delhi High Court order in 2018, where the selection committee was directed to consider her & keep the decision in a sealed cover until she was acquitted of the doping charges.

OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES EY World Kiran Mazumdar- Executive Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (67), Executive Entrepreneur of Shaw Chairperson Chairperson of India-based Biocon Limited the year 2020 was named as EY World Entrepreneur of the year 2020. She became the 3rd Indian to win this award, after Uday Kotak (2014) and Narayana Murthy (2005) & also she become the 2nd women after Olivia Lum (2011) to receive the award. Earlier in the year 2020, she received Order of Australia, Australia’s Highest Civilian Honour & Ranked as one of the world’s top 20 inspirational leaders in the field of biopharmaceuticals (2020) in the Medicine Maker Power List. Biodiversity Deccan Development Environment The Hyderabad based NGO, Deccan Award Society (DDS) Development Society (DDS), has won the ‘Biodiversity award’ of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation for the year 2020. The award was presented for the contribution of DDS women in rehabilitation of degraded lands and to promote biodiversity. International Water Management Institute (IWMI), Sri Lanka has won ‘water award’ &

Professor John Rockström has won ‘climate change award’. Humanitarian Beyonce Long-standing The 24-time Grammy winner Popstar Award philanthropic Beyonce (38) to receive the Humanitarian work Award at 20th edition of annual BET Awards (established in 2001 by the Black Entertainment Television network) 2020, for her long-standing philanthropic work, including her recent COVID-19 relief efforts. The awards will honour 2 personalities namely, basketball legend Kobe Bryant & Little Richard.

RECOGNITIONS NAME RECOGNITION Renjith Kumar Engineer from Kerala and Indian Entrepreneur based in Virginia is honoured with NASA’s highest form of recognition for a non-governmental individual “NASA Distinguished Public Service Medal” for his service to NASA through executive leadership, engineering contribution, technical excellence and customer satisfaction. R K Chetty Pandipati was the First Indian to win this award in 2002.

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT SEEDS, an Indian NGO wins ‘World No Tobacco Day Award 2020’: WHO The World Health Organization (WHO) has accorded the World No Tobacco Day Award 2020 to an Indian NGO named Socio-Economic and Educational Development Society (SEEDS), one among the 3 South East Asian Region awardees. Mom Kong, Executive Director, Cambodia has won the WHO Director-General Special award 2020.

Hyderabad International Airport receives Platinum Recognition in ACI Asia-Pacific Green Airports recognition 2020 The GMR led Rajiv Gandhi Hyderabad International Airport (RGHIA) was awarded the highest Platinum Recognition in Asia-Pacific Annual Green Airport Recognition 2020 Airports Council International (ACI) for their effective water management under the 15-35 Million Passengers per annum (MPPA) category. The focus of Green Airport Recognition 2020 is Water Management. In addition to that, Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru – Silver (under 15 MPPA) & Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi - Gold and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai - Silver in the over 35 MPPA category.

Former NASA Astronaut & Oceanographer Kathy Sullivan becomes 1st Woman to Reach Deepest Point of Ocean Kathy Sullivan, Former NASA astronaut and Oceanographer became the first woman (8th overall) to reach the Challenger Deep, the deepest point in the ocean which is located in Mariana Trench. She was the first American Woman to walk in space in 1984. She became the first human to visit both the space and the deepest known point in the Ocean

Indian Startups Stellapps and Zestmoney are a Part of the World Economic Forum’s List of Technology Pioneers of 2020 Two Indian start-ups named Stellapps and Zestmoney were featured in the List of Technology Pioneers of 2020, released by the World Economic Forum (WEF) which consist of pioneers addressing the global

issues with advanced technologies. More than 25 industries in the list are led by females which is twice the industry average.

Himachal Pradesh panchayati raj department wins 1st prize under e-Panchayat Puraskars 2020 for effective use of e-applications Himachal Pradesh Panchayati raj department wins 1st prize under e-Panchayat Puraskars 2020 for effective implementation of e-applications, developed by the central government & other applications developed by the state government. The prize will be given by Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj.

6 District Hospitals of J&K wins Kayakalap Award for their Achievement in Health Sector 6 Districts hospitals (DH) of the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir won the Kayakalap Award for their achievements in the health sector and secured positions in the best hospital category 2019-2020. The award was instituted as a part of the “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan” on 15th May 2015 to recognise the public health facilities that exhibit high levels of cleanliness, hygiene and infection control measures. DH Reasi and 3 other district hospitals from Jammu division won the cash award of Rs 50 Lakh each.

SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE

SUMMITS SUMMITS VENUE KEY POINTS India-Australia virtual The 1st ever India-Australia virtual leader’s summit was leader’s summit held between Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi - and his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison. The focus of the meet was to further strengthen the bilateral ties in areas like healthcare, trade and defence. Click here Virtual Global Vaccine Hosted by UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson from London. Summit 2020 The Summit was organised by the Global Alliance for - Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI). Also, PM Modi addressed the event and pledged to support 15 million USD to GAVI during the Virtual Summit. Annual WEF Davos The 51st annual WEF Davos meeting to be held in January Meeting 2021 by the World Economic Forum (WEF). WEF planned - to adopt a new twin-summit format by bringing together leaders from across the globe for an in-person and well as virtual dialogues with the theme: ‘The Great Reset’. Association of Southeast Video Conference The 36th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit was held via video conference on the theme Summit “Cohesive and Responsive ASEAN”. The summit was chaired by Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc as Vietnam is ASEAN’s chair in 2020.

CONFERENCE CONFERENCE VENUE KEY POINTS Russia-India- Russia-India-China (RIC) Foreign Minister-level virtual conference China (RIC) was held following the cross-border clash between Indian and Foreign Minister- - Chinese troops in Galwan Valley in Ladakh on June 15, 2020. It was level conference the biggest ever confrontation between the two sides after a gap of 45 years. The conference was hosted by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey

Lavrov, Moscow, Russia. From Indian side, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar participated in the meet. Defence Conclave Video Minister of State (MoS) of Defence, Shripad Naik inaugurated the two 2020 Conference days ‘Defence Conclave 2020’ in Gujarat through video conferencing. The conclave was jointly organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Gujarat and Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM). The Conclave is held in the defence and aerospace manufacturing sector. Focusing in strong defence is a great economic growth and helps in job creation in manufacturing. Ministerial During an Extraordinary Virtual Ministerial Pledging Conference for Pledging United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Conference - Near East (UNRWA), India has announced a contributing United States (US) $10 million towards UNRWA over the coming two years. Indian delegation in the conference has been addressed by Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, V Muraleedharan.

COMMITTEES & MEETINGS

COMMITTEES COMMITTEE NAME COMMITTEE HEAD KEY NOTES 3-member high-level SCL Das. Dharmendra A 3-member high-level committee was formed by committee Pradhan the Petroleum & natural gas ministry to inquire the disaster at Oil India Ltd (OIL) well in Assam. The panel will be headed by Director General of Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH), SCL Das. Dharmendra Pradhan is the present minister of Petroleum and Natural gas.

MEETINGS MEETING NAME VENUE KEY POINTS ASEAN youth dialogue 2020 The 3rd India-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) youth dialogue 2020 was held virtually on June 8-10, 2020 focusing on COVID-19 - pandemic. The meet has regarded the youth as “vehicles of change” who are playing a pivotal role by leading the fight against the pandemic. The Vietnam holds the presidency of ASEAN for the year 2020. GST Council Meeting Union Finance & Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman chaired the virtual 40th GST Council Meeting. The key outcome of this meet was further relief on late fee and interest payable on late - payments as a part of compliance burden of businesses. Reduction in/waiver from the Prior Period Late Fee; 1st July 2017 to 31st Jan 2020. Small Taxpayers filers: Interest Relief and Late fee waiver for periods February-July 2020. Click here

EAG plenary meeting 2020 The officials from India have participated in the 32nd special Eurasian Group on Combating Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (EAG) - plenary meeting 2020, under the aegis of the Paris based Financial Action Task Force (FATF). The meet was chaired by the EAG Chairman Mr. Yury Chikhanchin (Russia). G20 Extraordinary Virtual Union HRD (Human Resource Development) Education Ministers Meeting Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ participated in - group of 20 (G20) Extraordinary Virtual Education Ministers’ Meeting which was focused on the effects of the COVID 19 pandemic on the education sector. Click here

COMMITTEES & MEETINGS IN CONTENT FORMAT Expert Committees on Rationalization of Film Media Units and Review of Autonomous Bodies headed by Bimal Julka submitted report to MIB The Expert Committees on Rationalisation of Film Media Units and Review of Autonomous Bodies under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) submitted their report to Union IB minister Prakash Javadekar during a meet in New Delhi. Both committees were headed by Bimal Julka for rationalisation and professionalization of film institutes.

IBBI restructures committee on corporate insolvency resolution & Liquidation under the chairmanship of Uday Kotak The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) has restructured an advisory committee on Corporate Insolvency Resolution and Liquidation process by including four new members. Now, the committee consist of 14 members which will be chaired by Uday Kotak.

NGT Forms Committee Headed by Justice BP Katakey to investigate Assam Gas Leak The National Green Tribunal (NGT) formed a high-level committee headed by Justice BP Katakey, former High Court judge of Gauhati, to investigate the blowout at Assam’s Baghjan oil well of Oil India Limited (OIL). On 12th June 2020, The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas formed a high-level committee headed by SCL Das to inquire about the disaster.

INDEX

RANKING INDEX / SURVEY RELEASED BY / KEY NOTES NAME CONDUCTED BY Countries Global Ranking StartupBlink India => 23rd Rank of Startup Ecosystem Also, only four India cities were named in “2020 2020 Cities Global Ranking of Startup Ecosystem” of which Bengaluru ranked 14th position (top among Indian cities). Top 3 Country: 1. United States (US) 2. United Kingdom (UK) 3. Israel Click here

Asia University Ranking Times Higher Education India => 3rd Rank (THE) On 4th June 2020, India became the third most represented country with 8 institutes in the top 100. Indian Institute of Science (IISc) with 36th position on the list retains its top position in India. The Tsinghua University, China Topped the overall List. State Food Safety Index Food Safety and The 2nd edition of State Food Safety Index (SFSI) for (SFSI) for 2019-20 Standards Authority of 2019-20 of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) India (FSSAI) has been topped by Gujarat among larger states and by Goa among smaller states & Chandigarh among Union Territories. It was announced during a webinar conducted on the occasion of “World Food Safety Day” on June 7, 2020 on the theme “Food Safety is everyone’s business”. The State Food Safety Index ranks states on five parameters. Click here National Institutional Ramesh Pokhriyal The Union Minister of Human Resource Ranking Framework Nishank Development (HRD) Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ has (NIRF) 2020 virtually released 5th edition of National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2020. The rankings are being announced for India’s best universities and institutions in 10 categories. Top 3 Ranks: 1. Indian Institute of Technology Madras with the Score 85.31. 2. Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru with the Score 84.18. 3. Indian Institute of Technology Delhi with the Score 81.33. Click here Environment Yale University and India => 168th Rank Performance Index (EPI) Columbia University According to the biennial Environment Performance 2020 Index (EPI) 2020 released jointly by Yale University and Columbia University, India has ranked 168 out of 180 countries. While the Denmark has been topped the list. Top 3 Country: 1. Denmark with EPI Score 82.5 2. Luxembourg with EPI Score 82.3 3. Switzerland with EPI Score 81.5 Click here QS World University QS (Quacquarelli 17th edition of the QS World University Rankings Rankings 2021 Symonds) 2021. In this edition only 3 Indian Institutions were among the top 200 ranks - 2 IIT’s (IIT Bombay – 172th & IIT Delhi 193rd) and IISC (ranked 185th). Globally, MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), USA continues to be the number one for the 9th year in a row. Top 3 University: 1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology(MIT), USA 2. Stanford University, USA 3. Harvard University, USA Click here

Annual Cost of Living Mercer From India, Mumbai city has been ranked 60th most Survey 2020 expensive city globally and is the only Indian city ranked in the top 100. Hong Kong tops the list globally. New York City is used as the base city for all comparisons and currency movements are measured against the USD. Click here Rule of Law Index India => 69th Rank with overall score 0.51 The Supreme Court asked the government to treat a writ petition, for setting up expert panels to improve India’s performance in the Rule of Law Index, as a “representation” and to decide further action within - 6 months’ time. India was Ranked 69th in the WJP Rule of Law Index 2020 India has never been ranked even among top 50 in the Index. Top 3 Country: 1. Denmark with overall score 0.9 2. Norway with overall score 0.89 3. Finland with overall score 0.87 Click here SIPRI Yearbook 2020- SIPRI India => 6th Rank with nuclear warheads 150 Armaments, According to the 51st edition of “SIPRI Yearbook Disarmament and 2020-Armaments, Disarmament and International International Security Security” of Swedish think tank, SIPRI, the number of nuclear warheads in the Indian arsenal pegged at 150 in comparison to the 2019 report (on the basis of 2018) when India had 130-140. Importantly, in April 2020, SIPRI had identified India as the 3rd largest military spender in the world, behind the United States (US) and China. The yearbook was published by Oxford University Press. Top 3 Country: 1. US with nuclear warheads 5800* 2. Russia with nuclear warheads 6375 3. UK with nuclear warheads 215 Click here World Investment UN Conference on Trade India => 9th Rank Report 2020 and Development According to “World Investment Report 2020” by (UNCTAD) Geneva based UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), India has become the 9th largest recipient of foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2019 after receiving $51 billion last year. This is an increase of 20% from the 42 billion dollars of FDI received in 2018. The list was topped by United States ($246 Bn). The overall FDI flow in Asia declined by 5% to $ 474 Bn in 2019. Also, the global FDI flows are forecast to decrease by up to 40% in 2020, from their 2019 value of $1.54 trillion. Top 3 Country: 1. United States (US) 2. China 3. Singapore Click here

World Competitiveness Management and India => 43rd Rank Index 2020 Development (IMD) As per the 32nd edition of World Competitiveness Index 2020, which ranked performance of 63 economies across the globe, prepared by Swiss- based Institute for Management and Development (IMD)’s World Competitiveness Centre (WCC), the Indian economy remained at 43rd position this year. The list was topped by Singapore for the 2nd consecutive year. Top 3 Country: 1. Singapore 2. Denmark 3. Switzerland Click here Statistical Review of UK based oil and gas According to the 69th edition of “Statistical Review World Energy 2020 company BP plc of World Energy 2020”, released by UK based oil and gas company BP plc, India was the 2nd major market after China to increase primary energy consumption in the year 2019. On the other hand, based on the energy consumption in 2019, India ranked 3rd (34.06 EJ) following China (141.70 EJ) & US. Click here Economy on Purchasing World Bank According to World Bank Data under the Power Parity (PPP) for International Comparison Program (ICP), revealed 2017 by India’s National Statistical Office (NSO) of Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation, India has retained its position as the third-largest economy in terms of Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) for the reference year 2017 as it accounted for 6.7% or $8,051 billion out of world total of $119,547 billion of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP). India has followed China (16.4%) and the United States-US (16.3%) which ranked 1st and 2nd respectively. Top 3 Country: 1. China 2. United States(US) 3. India Largest Holder of US United States (US) India => 12th Rank Government Securities Treasury Department In accordance with the data from the United States (US) Treasury Department, India became the 12th largest holder of US government securities at the end of April, 2020 with holdings of worth $157.4 billion. The country with maximum exposure to US government securities is Japan at US$1.266 trillion followed by China and the United Kingdom at the second and third positions, respectively at the end of April 2020. Top 3 Country: 1. Japan with 1.266 trillion 2. China with 1.073 trillion 3. UK with 368.5 billion

Annual Banking Switzerland’s central India => 77th Rank Statistics, 2019 bank Swiss National Bank According to the ‘Annual banking statistics, 2019’ (SNB) released by Switzerland’s central bank Swiss National Bank (SNB), India is at the 77th position in terms of money parked by its citizens and enterprises with Swiss banks at the end of the year 2019 with 0.06 % of the money deposited by foreigners in Swiss banks. Britain holds the first place in this list with a share of 27 % of the total deposits. Top 3 Country: 1. United Kingdom (UK) 2. United States (US) 3. West Indies Global Start-up Start-up Genome According to the report, ‘Global Start-up Ecosystem Ecosystem Report Report (GSER) 2020; the New Normal for the Global (GSER) 2020 Start-up Economy and the Impact of COVID-19’ released by Start-up Genome, Bangalore has become the only city in the country to be included in the world’s top-30 start-up ecosystem ranking & placed 26th position & Silicon Valley, US topped the ranking. Further, Mumbai ranked first in a parallel “100 emerging ecosystem rankings 2020” followed by Jakarta, Zurich. Click here THE Young University Times Higher Education The Times Higher Education (THE) released THE Rankings 2020 (THE) Young University Rankings 2020 for the universities which are 50 years old or younger. Two Indian Institutes secured their ranks in the top 100 with IIT Ropar, the best 12-year-old institute of India at 62nd rank and IIT Indore at 64th rank. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), Hong Kong topped the overall ranking. Top 3 University: 1. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), Hong Kong 2. Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 3. Paris Sciences et Lettres – PSL Research University, France

REPORTS REPORT NAME SUBMITTED BY KEY NOTES Annual Periodic Labour Force National Statistical According to the annual Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Office (NSO), Ministry Survey (PLFS) [July 2018 – June 2019] of of Statistics and National Statistical Office (NSO), Ministry of Programme Statistics and Programme Implementation Implementation (MoSPI), India’s unemployment rate fell to (MoSPI) 5.8% between July 2018 and June 2019 from 6.1% during the same period of 2017-18 while the Indian economy grew 6.1% in 2018-19, slower than the 7% expansion recorded the year before. Click here

Nature Index 2020 Nature Index 2020 3 autonomous institutions of the Department ratings of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India ranked among top 30 Indian Institutes. The Nature Index 2020 ratings has been globally topped by Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), China while India’s Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is on 160th position globally but stood first among Indian institutions. Click here U.S. Commission on International USCIRF U.S. Commission on International Religious Religious Freedom (USCIRF) Freedom (USCIRF) appreciated State Report Department’s 2019 Annual Report on International Religious Freedom to improving religious freedom conditions abroad. As per the report India was termed as “country of particular concern’(CPC). Click here Global Economic Prospect (GEP) World Bank World Bank in its latest edition of the Global June 2020 report Economic Prospect (GEP) June 2020 report, states that India’s growth is contract by 3.2% (ie. -3.2%) for FY20-21. Also the global economy will contract by 5.2% in 2020 as per GEP. The World Bank president David Malpass stated that an estimated 60 million people could be pushed into extreme poverty in 2020. Click here Global Trade Update 2020 United Nations According to the report titled ‘Global Trade Conference on Trade Update 2020’ released by the Geneva based and Development United Nations Conference on Trade and (UNCTAD) Development (UNCTAD), the value of international trade in goods fell by 5% in the Q1 of 2020 and is expected to plunge further by 27% in the ongoing Q2 due to the unprecedented effects of the COVID-19. It has also forecasted a 20% annual decline in trade for the year 2020. Click here Policy Brief: The Impact of Food and Agriculture According to the report titled “Policy Brief: COVID-19 on Food Security and Organization (FAO) The Impact of COVID-19 on Food Security and Nutrition Nutrition” released by Rome based Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), around 45 million people were fall into acute food insecurity since February 2020 due to COVID- 19. Global Status Report on United Nations (UN) According to UN’s 1st of its kind report titled, Preventing Violence Against “Global Status Report on Preventing Violence Children 2020 Against Children 2020”, up to 1 billion children are affected by physical, sexual or psychological violence, etc due to the inability of the countries. The report has been launched by WHO, UNICEF, UNESCO, UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General on

Violence against Children and the End Violence Against Children. It charted progress in 155 countries against the “INSPIRE” framework, a set of seven strategies for preventing and responding to violence against children. Click here India TB (Tuberculosis) Report Union Health Minister Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s 2020 Dr Harsh Vardhan and (MoHFW) Union Health Minister Dr Harsh its Minister of State Vardhan and its Minister of State (MoS), (MoS), Ashwini Kumar Ashwini Kumar Choubey launched the Annual Choubey “India TB (Tuberculosis) Report 2020” through a virtual event which is released by Central TB Division (CTD), MoHFW. According to the report, there were around 24.04 lakh TB patients in 2019, a 14% increase in as compared to the year 2018. The Minister also released a Joint Monitoring Mission report, a manual on Direct Benefit Transfer to TB patients under NIKSHAY system. Click here South Asian region on the impacts UNICEF The New York based United Nations Children’s of COVID-19 on children Fund (UNICEF) released its first report focusing on the South Asian region on the impacts of COVID-19 on children states that around 240 million children are classified as poor and the current COVID-19 situation will affect an additional 120 million children, a total of 360 million children will be pushed into poverty and food insecurity in the next 6 months. Inclusion and Education: All (UNESCO) Global The Paris based United Nations Educational, Means All Education Monitoring Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (GEM) (UNESCO) Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report Team launched its 2020 Report on “Inclusion and Education: All Means All”, assessing the progress towards the Sustainable Developments Goal 4 on education and other SDG agendas related to education. The report estimates that around 40% of low and lower-middle income countries have not provided any support to the disadvantaged students during the lockdown due to COVID- 19 situations. Click here Money Laundering and the Illegal Financial Action Task According to the first ever report on illegal Wildlife Trade Force (FATF) wildlife trade (IWT) titled “Money Laundering and the Illegal Wildlife Trade” report by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), illegal wildlife trade is a “global threat” which generate estimated revenues between $7 to $23 billion a year. This crime could lead to more zoonotic diseases in the future.

ACQUISITION & MERGERS

YES Bank picks 24.19% stake in Dish TV by invoking pledged shares The Mumbai based Private sector lender Yes Bank has acquired a 24.19% stake in Dish TV India Ltd, a company providing Direct to Home (DTH) television service in India, following invocation of 44.53 crore pledged shares due to default in payment of debt by Dish TV and some other companies. This is the 6th such transaction done by Yes Bank to pick majority stake in a non-banking entity.

Tata Power acquires 51% stake in Odisha’s TPCODL for Rs 178.5 cr Tata Power Limited has acquired 51% stake in TP Central Odisha Distribution Ltd (TPCODL), a wholly- owned subsidiary of Grid Corporation of Odisha (GRIDCO), for a consideration of Rs. 178.5 crore. The remaining 49% stake in TPCODL will be held by GRIDCO.

Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala to buy 1.85% stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 9,093.6 crore The Abu Dhabi-based sovereign investor, Mubadala is all set to buy 1.85% stake in jio Platforms, a wholly- owned subsidiary of Reliance Industries (RIL), for Rs 9,093.60 crore. With this investment, the platform has raised Rs 87,655.35 crore from leading global technology and growth investors including Facebook, Silver Lake, Vista Equity Partners, General Atlantic, KKR and Mubadala in less than 6 weeks.

CCI gives nod to Peugeot and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles merger Competition Commission of India (CCI) has given its approval to the proposed merger between French car maker Peugeot S.A (PSA) and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V (FCA), an Italian-American multinational corporation and is the world’s eighth largest auto maker.

US private equity firm Silver lake to invest ₹4,546.80 cr for 0.93% additional stake in Jio platforms The US (United States) based private equity company Silver Lake partners announced an investment of Rs 4,546.80 crore for an additional 0.93 % stake in Jio Platforms, a subsidiary of Asia’s richest man Mukesh Ambani-controlled Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL). It is to be noted that, earlier on May 04, 2020, Silver Lake had invested Rs 5,655.75 crore ($750 million) for a 1.15 % stake. The total share of Silver Lake in Jio platforms now reached to 2.08% stake.

Bharti International (Singapore) buys additional 6.3% stake in Robi Axiata from NTT Docomo Bharti Airtel’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Bharti International (Singapore) Pte. Ltd., (BISPL) directly and through its affiliate entities, has acquired an additional 6.3% stake in Robi Axiata Limited, Bangladesh from Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation (NTT) Do Communications over the Mobile network (Docomo) Inc and its group entities for an undisclosed sum. This all-cash deal will raise the BISPL’s stake in Robi Axiata to 31.3% from 25%.

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority invests Rs 5,683.50 cr for 1.16% stake in Jio Platforms Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), one of the world’s biggest sovereign wealth funds, has invested Rs 5,683.50 crore for a 1.16 % stake in Jio platforms, a subsidiary of Asia’s richest man Mukesh Ambani-controlled Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL).

TPG, L Catterton bought 1.32% stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 6441.3 crore The United States (US) based private equity firms TPG Capital and L Catterton have become the 8th and 9th investors respectively in the Jio Platforms, as the latter has sold 0.93% stake to TPG for Rs 4,546.80 crore and 0.39% stake sold to L Catterton for Rs 1,894.50 crore. With the 10 investments till now parent Reliance Industries has sold 22.38% stake in Jio for Rs 104,326.95 crore.

CCI Approves Acquisition by MacRitchie in 91Streets, Ascent and API The New Delhi based Competition Commission of India (CCI) approves acquisition by MacRitchie Investments Pte. Ltd. (MacRitchie) in 91Streets Media Technologies Private Limited (91Streets), Ascent Health and Wellness Solutions Private Limited (Ascent) and API Holdings Private Limited (API) under section 31 (1) of the competition Act, 2002.

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund Buys 2.32% Stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 11,367 Crores Reliance Industries Limited (RIL)’s Jio Platforms stepped into 11th deal with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), who bought 2.32% stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 11,367 crores. With this investment, Jio Platforms has raised Rs. 1.15 lakh crores (approx.) from leading global investors since April 22, which is the largest continuous fund raised by a company in the world.

CCI approves acquisition of Metso Oyj’s minerals business by Outotec Oyj The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of Metso Oyj’s (Metso) minerals business by Outotec Oyj (Outotec) under section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002.

Adani Power to Acquire US-based AES Corporation’s 49% Equity Stake in Odisha Power Generation Corporation for USD 135 million Adani Power Ltd (APL) has signed an agreement to acquire the 49% of stake in Odisha Power Generation Corporation (OPGC) from the affiliates of the US-based global energy company, AES Corporation for USD 135 million (around Rs 1,019 crore). The remaining 51% stake in OPGC is held by the Government of Odisha.

DEFENCE

ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS Airborne Rescue Pod for Isolated Transportation (ARPIT) inducted by the Indian Air Force ARPIT (Airborne Rescue Pod for Isolated Transportation) was designed, developed and inducted by the Indian Airforce (IAF) for the evacuation of critical patients with infectious diseases from high altitude area, isolated and remote places. The design requirements are developed on the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) and Centre for Disease Control (CDC), USA. The IAF is inducting a total of 7 ARPITs.

DRDO Develops Dry Heat Treatment Chamber “GermiKlean” to Sanitise Uniforms of Security Force The sanitising dry heat treatment chamber “GermiKlean” – developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Saveer Biotech Limited to sanitise the uniforms of the security forces. The sanitising chamber was developed to satisfy the requirements of the Delhi Police to sanitize their uniforms, canes, cane shields, helmets etc. The chamber is designed to sanitise 25 pairs of uniforms in 15 minutes. The chamber is placed at the Parliament Street Police Station.

Indian Navy Inducts Advanced Torpedo Decoy System ‘Maareech’ Indigenously Developed by DRDO labs-NPOL & NSTL Indian Navy inducted an Advanced Torpedo Decoy System (ATDS) namely ‘Maareech’ that is capable of being fired from all frontline warships. The design and development of this ATDS have been done by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) labs viz. Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), Kochi, Kerala and the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL),

Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. On the other hand, the Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Defence Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), would undertake the production of this decoy system.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SATELLITES LAUNCHES SATELLITE NAME COUNTRY PURPOSE BeiDou Navigation Satellite China China has successfully launched the last Satellite of its System (BDS) BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS), The satellite was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch centre in Sichuan Province. BDS is one of the four global navigation networks among the US’s GPS, Russia’s GLONASS and European Union’s Galileo. India is building its Indian Regional Navigation Satellite system (IRNSS), with operational name NAVIC.

OTHER SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY NEWS NATIONAL Irrawaddy Dolphin population at Odisha ‘s Chilika lake increased with the help of IIT Madras’ dredging methodology A research project undertaken by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has helped triple the number of Irrawaddy dolphins in Odisha’s Chilika lake, Asia’s largest natural water reservoir. The project involved the excavation (loosening or dislodging) of unwanted substances from the foothills without damaging the lake’s ecosystem, removing the loosened material to the dredge vessel & transportation of the material to the placement area.

Karnataka launches COVID-19 tracking platform built by NASSCOM The National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) announced that it has delivered an end-to-end coronavirus tracking platform for Karnataka, called the Karnataka Listening Dashboard for COVID-19. As part of the launch, NASSCOM has provided the 1st set of dashboards to state government’s use recently.

DRDO develops ‘Ultra Swachh’ to disinfect PPE and other materials Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Science (INMAS) a Delhi based laboratory of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in association with M/s Gel Craft Healthcare Private Ltd., Ghaziabad developed “Ultra Swachh”, a disinfection unit to disinfect Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs), electronic items, fabrics and other materials.

For the comfort of PPE Wearers DRDO Develops “SUMERU-PACS” The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed “SUMERU-PACS”, a personal air circulation system to provide comfort for the doctors and healthcare workers who wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for more than 6 hours and suffer due to sweating.

ASI team discovers 1100-year-old Shiva lingam in Vietnam during temple excavation A 4-member team of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has discovered a 1100-year-old monolithic sandstone Shiva lingam, a representation of the Hindu deity Shiva, at the Cham Temple Complex located in My Son Sanctuary of Quang Nam Province, Vietnam. It was built by the powerful Champa kingdom

between the 4th century and the 13th century in My Son. The capital and currency of Vietnam are Hanoi & Vietnamese Dong respectively.

Scientists at ARCI develops magnetocaloric material for the treatment of Cancer According to the research work published in the Journal of Alloys and Compounds, a team of Scientists from the International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI), Hyderabad has developed a magnetocaloric material (a rare-earth-based material that can be heated or cooled by applying or removing a magnetic field) that can be used in the treatment of cancer.

Thane engineer develops world’s first ‘Internet-controlled’ robot ‘Coro-bot’ for COVID-19 hospitals Pratik Tirodkar (23), Thane based engineer & founder of a start-up PNT Solutions, Dombivali developed the world’s 1st ‘Internet-controlled’ robot named ‘Coro-bot’ to address the needs of the hospitals treating COVID-19 patients. It is deployed for the 1st time in Holy Cross Hospital, Maharashtra.

DIAT Develops “ANANYA” nanotechnology based disinfectant spray to fight COVID-19 The Pune based Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) developed “ANANYA” water based disinfectant spray with nanotechnology assisted formulation. This can be used by the general public and healthcare workers and can be used for individual and large scale purposes.

GRSE delivered 5th & final ship in FPV series, ICGS Kanaklata Barua; 4th FPV to be exported to Seychelles Coast Guard The 5th and last ship in the series of Fast Patrol Vessels (FPV) namely “ICGS Kanaklata Barua” or “Yard 2117” for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has been delivered by Kolkata based Garden Reach Shipbuilders

and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd. This was the 105th vessel delivered by GRSE. It was named after a freedom fighter from Assam. 4th in the series FPV, “Yard 2116” is set to export to Seychelles Coast Guard (SCG).

Kerala Startup ties up with SCTIMST to launch IoT based BIN-19 & UV SPOT: COVID-19 The Kerala based start-up VST Mobility Solutions, has launched Internet of Things(IoT) based (facility that works without any human touch) automated mask disposal machine, “BIN-19” & “Ultra Violet (UV) SPOT”, a UV light-based multipurpose disinfector in association with Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST).

Central Railway Launched Robotic ‘CAPTAIN ARJUN’ to Boost Screening, Surveillance in Pune along with ‘FebriEye’ in Mumbai The Railway Protection Force of Central Railway (CR), Pune division, Maharashtra launched a Robotic ‘Captain Arjun’ (Always be Responsible and Just Use to be Nice) to intensify the screening and surveillance of passengers. The Brainchild behind this innovation is Alok Bohra DIG/RPF, Central Railway. Also, the “FebriEye thermal cameras”, developed by Vehant Technologies was set up by central railway to ensure contactless entry.

Union MoS of Home Affairs G Kishan Reddy launches ‘GermiBAN’ device to kill viruses G Kishan Reddy, (MoS - Home Affairs) has launched a device, ‘GermiBAN’ that kills viruses & other germs by sterilising, sanitising & disinfecting in large areas. It also acts as an Air Purifier effective against viruses like COVID-19 which will stop the spread of it.

Indian Railways installs Automated Ticket Checking and Managing Access Machine, 1st of its Kind at Nagpur station Indian Railways’ Central Railway zone has installed an Automated Ticket Checking & Managing Access (ATMA) machine, 1st of its kind at Nagpur station. The machine has been introduced at the station under the New, Innovative Non-Fare Revenue Ideas Scheme (NINFRIS) policy to prevent transmission of COVID-19.

IIT Mandi Develops Herbal Infusion Technology to Help Farmers in the Mid-Himalayan Region The Researchers of IIT Mandi have developed an herbal infusion technology, as a source of income for local marginal farmers in the mid-Himalayas. The technology is ready to license industries interested in working with Enabling Women of Kamand (EWOK)- a rural incubator at IIT Mandi.

ISRO Receives Patent for Liquid Cooling and Heating Garment for Astronauts The ISRO has initiated a 10,000 crores project- Gaganyaan to send humans to space by 2022, in accordance to which, ISRO has received a patent for its Liquid Cooling and Heating Garment (LCHG) for astronauts to use in space for protection from hot and cold environments.

500 Years Old Temple Found Submerged in Mahanadi River of Odisha The Researchers at Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH) along with heritage enthusiast of Odisha, Rabindra Rana have located the 500-year-old submerged temple in the Mahanadi river near Baideswar in Padmavati area, Cuttack, Odisha. This is a pilot project of INTACH and the first of its kind study on any river in India.

IIT Bombay Researchers Develops Chip ‘Dhruva’ to Navigate Locations Researchers at IIT (Indian Institute of Technology) Bombay have created a chip named ‘Dhruva’ that can be mounted in smartphones and navigation devices to find places and routes within the country. Dhruva sends and receives radio signals to India’s NAVIC group of navigation satellites as well as GPS-based satellites to accurately determine these under all weather conditions.

HRD Ministry Launches YUKTI 2.0 for Higher Education Institutes Union HRD minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched “YUKTI 2.0” – (Young India combating COVID with Knowledge, Technology and Innovation 2.0), a platform to support the start-ups incubated in the institutes of higher education over the virtual platform. YUKTI 2.0 is a logical extension of YUKTI, which will help in fostering the innovation and entrepreneurship culture in the academic institutions.

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport becomes the 1st airport in India to get AWMS at both ends of the runway The Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB/ BLR Airport) becomes the 1st airport in India to get an indigenously-developed Aviation Weather Monitoring System (AWMS) at both ends of the runway. AWMS is installed by Bangalore International Airport (BIAL). The technology is developed by Bengaluru-based CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL).

India to be World’s First Country to Use Drone Mounted ULV Sprayer for Locust Control Under the Make in India initiative the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers’ Welfare (DAC&FW - Mechanization and Technology Division) has initiated to develop a vehicle mounted ultra- low volume (ULV) sprayer for locust control to reduce the limitations of importing equipment. With that India has become the first country in the world to control desert locusts using drones. Currently the Micron Sprayers, of United Kingdom (UK) is the supplier of Vehicle mounted sprayer to India.

INTERNATIONAL NASA astronauts fly SpaceX spacecraft ‘Dragon’ first private company to dock with ISS The US based SpaceX became the first private company to fly astronauts into orbit. NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley docked the SpaceX “Dragon” spacecraft with the International Space Station (ISS). The astronauts named the SpaceX Crew Dragon Capsule, “Endeavour” after the retired winged orbiters, stating that they both had their first flight on the shuttle Endeavour.

SANSA & NASA collaborates to support human spaceflight missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond The South African National Space Agency (SANSA) has partnered with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to host a deep-space ground station to support human spaceflight missions to the Moon, Mars and beyond. South Africa became the 4th country after the United States of America, Spain and Australia to host a deep space ground station.

Rare ‘first of its kind’ Trojan asteroids called 2019 LD2 detected near Jupiter’s Orbit by astronomers at the “ATLAS” Institute of Astronomy The Institute for Astronomy at the University of Hawaii’s Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS) revealed the discovery of a rare asteroid named ‘2019 LD2’ with a comet-like-tail among the Jupiter Trojans, moving in the same orbit as Jupiter moves around the sun. This was the first time astronomers had ever seen a Trojan spewing out gas as a comet, 2019 LD2 is a” first-of-its-kind” Trojan as most Jupiter Trojans were captured billions of years ago.

Scientists discover new star Kepler-160 & planet KOI-456: ‘mirror image’ of Earth and Sun According to the research published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics, a team of scientists led by the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research (MPS) in Gottingen (Germany) have discovered a new planet named KOI-456.04 & its host star called Kepler-160 by using Kepler Space Telescope.

For the first time in human history, French astronomers witness signs of planet birth According to the study published in Astronomy & Astrophysics journal, a team of Scientists from University in France, have witnessed a birth of a new planet around a distant star called ‘AB Aurigae’ for the first time in human history by using photographs of the SPHERE (Spectro - Polarimetric High-contrast Exoplanet Research) instrument on the Very Large Telescope (VLT) of the European Southern Observatory (ESO) in Chile.

NASA Scientists Observe Bose-Einstein Quantum “Fifth State of Matter” in Space for The First Time According to the research published in the journal Nature, a team of scientists at NASA’s Cold Atom Lab (CAL), have found the evidence of ‘Fifth State of Matter’ (also known as Bose-Einstein condensates (BEC) in the space for the 1st time. This special state of matter occurs when the atoms of some elements are cooled to absolute zero (0 Kelvin or -273.15 ° C).

NASA Astronomers Discover 240-year-old Neutron Star ‘Swift J1818.0−1607’ After Recent X-ray Burst Astronomers at the US based space agency NASA have discovered the youngest known magnetar (a type of neutron star) named “Swift J1818.0-1607” which is about 16,000 light years away from Earth. The study has been published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters.

Astronomers of RedDots Team Discovered Super Earths Gliese 887b and Gliese 887c Near Red Dwarf In the research of the RedDots team of Astronomers led by the University of Göttingen, Germany detected two super Earths Gliese 887b and Gliese 887c orbiting around the Gliese 887, the brightest red dwarf star in the sky. The results of the research are published in the journal Science.

Russia is Set to Take First Tourists on Space Walk in 2023 Russia’s Space Corporation RSC Energia in contract with Space Adventures of US announced that it is set to take its first tourist on space walk in 2023. Note: Roscosmos and RSC Energia in collaboration with Space Adventures took 8 tourists to ISS between 2001 and 2009. ENVIRONMENT

Researchers of CMFRI have found a rare bandtail scorpionfish in Gulf of Mannar Researchers at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi have found a rare bandtail scorpionfish from Sethukarai coast in the Gulf of Mannar. This was the first time that the particular species was found alive in Indian waters during the exploratory survey of the seagrass ecosystem. The specimen was deposited in the National Marine Biodiversity Museum of the CMFRI and the research work was published in the latest issue of the journal “Current Science”.

Millipede-like creature, Kampecaris obanensis is the world’s oldest-known land animal: Scotland Research According to the research published in the journal Historical Biology, fossilized millipede-like Silurian Period creature called as Kampecaris obanensis (approximately 450 million years old) is unearthed on the island of Kerrera in the Scottish Inner Hebrides (Scotland), which is likely to be the world’s oldest- known land animal.

New fish species ‘Schizothorax sikusirumensis’ discovered in Arunachal Pradesh A new species of fish named, ‘Schizothorax sikusirumensis’ discovered in Arunachal Pradesh by professor Dr. Keshav Kumar Jha. The fish species is from genus Schizothorax. The fish was discovered from the junction of River Siku and Sirum near Gakang area under Mebo circle of East Siang District. This Fish lives in a submerged area.

SPORTS

CRICKET New Zealand Cricketer Rachel Priest Announces Retirement from International Cricket New Zealand wicketkeeper-batswoman Rachel Priest (35) announced her retirement from international cricket after she was not included in the White Ferns central contracts list announced in June 2020. With this decision she brought her 13 years career with the White Ferns to an end. She made her debut for New Zealand against Australia in 2007. She has played 87 ODIs and 75 T20Is for New Zealand and scored 1694 and 873 runs respectively.

BADMINTON & TENNIS National Champion Niki Kalayanda Poonacha elected to ITF Men’s Tennis Panel The International Tennis Federation (ITF) announced, Niki Kalyanda Poonacha, National Champion of India as a member of the ITF World Tennis Tour Men’s Panel representing the Asia-Oceania zone with Ti

Chen of Chinese Taipei. The Men’s and Women’s Panel will be headed by Mark Woodforde and Mary Pierce respectively.

ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL Indian long distance runner Kiranjeet Kaur handed 4-year ban for violation of anti-doping rule The World Athletics anti-doping body handed a four year ban to Kiranjeet Kaur (32), long-distance runner, for violation of anti-doping rule with the abuse of Enobosarm and its metabolite. The period of her ban started from December 15 and on February 26 she was provisionally suspended by World Athletics.

AIU banned Gomathi Marimuthu, Tamil Nadu’s Track and Field athlete for 4 years due to doping The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has banned Gomathi Marimuthu (31), athlete from Tamil Nadu who won the gold medal for 800m in the 2019 Asian Championship, in Doha, Qatar for 4 years from 17th May 2019 to 16th May 2023 after testing positive for banned substances. The titles, rankings, points and prizes won by Gomathi from 18th March 2019 to 17th May 2019 will be forfeited and her results will be annulled.

Australia and New Zealand to Host The 2023 Women’s Football World Cup The Zurich based FIFA’s Council voted over a video conference and handed the right to host the 2023 Women’s World Cup Football tournament, the first 32-team women’s championship to Australia and New Zealand. This is the first Women’s World Cup to be hosted in the Asia-Pacific Region. The 2022 Men’s World Cup will take place in Qatar.

BOXING, WRESTLING & WEIGHTLIFTING Ukrainian boxing champion and Olympic medalist Oleksandr Gvozdyk retires Ukrainian lightweight boxing champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk (33) also known as “The Nail” announced his retirement. He was born on 15th April 1987 in Kharkiv, Ukraine. He won the Bronze medal in the 2012 Olympic games.

World Karate Federation provisionally de-recognised the Karate Association of India The Madrid, Spain headquartered World Karate Federation (WKF) has provisionally de-recognised the Karate Association of India (KAI) with immediate effect from June 21 for infighting and violating the WKF statutes during its 2019 elections. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) disaffiliated KAI in January 2020 for violating its constitution and guidelines.

ARCHERY & SHOOTING 2020 World Archery Field Championships postponed to 2022 due to COVID-19 The World Archery (WA) and Yankton organising committee decided to postpone the 2020 World Archery Field Championships which was scheduled on September 2020 at the National Field Archery Association (NFAA) Easton Yankton Archery Centre (NEYAC), the world’s largest archery centre to 2022. Yankton also set to host the 2021 World Archery Championships.

OTHER SPORTS NEWS SAI in collaboration with NSF launches India’s 1st online coaching programme ‘Khelo India e- Pathshala‘ Sports Authority of India (SAI), the apex national sports body of India, in association with National Sports Federations (NSF) has launched India’s 1st -ever national-level open online coaching and education programme called “Khelo India e-Pathshala” to grassroots players.

Kiren Rijiju launches 25 day Khelo India Community Coach Development programme Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju inaugurated & launched a 25-day Khelo India Community Coach Development programme, an online development programme to equip 15,000 Physical Education Teachers and community coaches across India to train students to take up fitness and sport as a way of life. The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) & the sports ministry ensures to take this programme to every school in India.

India to host AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2022 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) granted the hosting rights of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2022 to India for the 1st time since 1979. The tournament was hosted by India in 1980 in Kozhikode this was the first time the competition was held in South Asia. India also hosting the U-17 FIFA women’s world cup in 2021.

Former European high jump champion Alexander Shustov of Russia banned for 4 years for doping The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), informed that Former European high jump champion (2010) Alexander Shustov (35) of Russia banned for 4 years for the use or attempted use of a banned substance or method (doping) & did not provide any further details.

4th Asian Youth Para Games to be Held in Bahrain in December 2021 The Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) announced that the 4th Asian Youth Para Games will take place in Bahrain from (1-10), December 2021. The event will be organised in partnership with the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Bahrain with the support of the local government. The competition will take place across numerous venues in Khalifa Sports City, Bahrain. 1st Asian Para Youth Games was hosted by Tokyo (2009). The last edition was held in Dubai (2017).

Grandmaster P. Harikrishna becomes the 1st Indian to join the USD 150,000 Chessable Masters Grandmaster P. Harikrishna debuted the Magnus Carlsen Chess (MCC) Tour 2020 by joining the players in the USD 150,000 Chessable Masters. He is the 1st Indian in the tour. He exited from the Chessable Masters with a final-round defeat to Alexander Grischuk. The Magnus Carlsen Chess Tour is an online series hosted by chess24.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

BOOK NAME AUTHOR KEY NOTES One Year of Modi 2.0 – Released by Ministry A 92-page e-booklet titled ‘One Year of Modi 2.0 – Towards A Self-Reliant of Information and Towards A Self-Reliant India’ on the key achievements India Broadcasting (I&B) of the Modi government during its second term was released on June 1, 2020, by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B). This marks the first anniversary of the second term of the government. The Dry Fasting Miracle: Luke Coutinho & co- “The Dry Fasting Miracle: From Deprive to Thrive”, a From Deprive to Thrive authored by member book on the benefits of dry fasting diet written by the of UAE’s Sheikh famous personal lifestyle coach and author, Luke Abdulaziz Bin Ali Bin Coutinho and co-authored by a member of UAE’s Sheikh Rashid Al Nuaimi Abdulaziz Bin Ali Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, published under the Ebury Press a division of Penguin Random House and the e-book version is available on Kindle.

Safe online learning in Launched by Ramesh Union Minister for Human Resource Development the times of COVID-19 Pokhriyal Nishank (HRD) Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank launched information booklet “Safe online learning in the times of COVID-19” digitally to raise awareness to students and teachers about online safety & ensure timely action in cases of cyberbullying in New Delhi. The booklet is developed by NCERT and UNESCO New Delhi Office. Lockdown Liaisons Shobhaa De’s Writer and Columnist Shobhaa De’s new collection of stories titled “Lockdown Liaisons” a book reflecting the impacts of COVID-19 on human lives published by Simon & Schuster India and released on May 30, 2020. They released the 1st ebook titled “Leaving and Other Stories” under Lockdown Liaisons on May 30, 2020. The book displays the shifting emotions of people during the pandemic and its effect on people and their struggle to adjust to the “new normal”. Naoroji Pioneer of Indian Historian Dinyar Patel Historian Dinyar Patel has written the biography of Nationalism Dadabhai Naoroji titled “Naoroji Pioneer of Indian Nationalism” was published by the Harvard University Press in May 2020. The book displays the life chapters of Dadabhai Naoroji, who had become the first Asian to be elected to the British parliament in 1892. Klara and the Sun Kazuo Ishiguro Nobel Prize winner (2017) Kazuo Ishiguro (Japan born British author) will release his new novel ‘Klara and the Sun’ & will be published by Faber & Faber in the United Kingdom, Alfred A. Knopf in the United States and Knopf in Canada on March 2, 2021. He won Man Booker Prize in 1989 for the novel, ‘The Remains of the Day’. A Burning Megha Majumdar The Penguin Hamish Hamilton released the “A Burning”, debut novel of Megha Majumdar. The 32-year-old New York’s writer who was born and raised in Kolkata. The book was published on 2nd June 2020 by Knopf Doubleday publishing Group. Legend of Suheldev: The Amish Tripathi Best-selling author and the Director of Nehru Centre, King Who Saved India London (since 2019) Amish Tripathi released his fiction book,”Legend of Suheldev: The King Who Saved India”. The book is published by Westland Publications Pvt Ltd. His 1st book is ‘The Immortals of Meluha’, which is also the 1st book of Shiva Trilogy. He is currently working on the 4th book of his Ram Chandra series, the sequel to” Raavan – Enemy of Aryavarta”.

OBITUARY

NATIONAL PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES Pournima Zanane Former Indian Air Rifle Maharashtra An International Shooting Sport Shooter Federation (ISSF)-licensed coach who suffered from cancer for the past 2 years passed away in Pune, Maharashtra. She was born in Maharashtra. She holds a national record in the 10 m air rifle event. The Maharashtra government honoured her with Shiv Chhatrapati Sports award for 2018-2019 on 22nd February 2020. Sqn Ldr Parvez The Vir Chakra Who was a 1971 Indo-Pak war hero, after Jamasji Awardee a brief illness on 26th June 2020 in Mumbai. He is a resident of the Parsi - Colony in Dadar. He started his service in 1965 and retired in 1985. He was a former Air Force officer and also a Helicopter pilot. Ved Prakash Former Delhi police Peshawar, British Passed away in a private hospital in Marwah commissioner and India Mapusa town in North Goa where he was former Governor of admitted three weeks ago due to a fall. He Mizoram, Manipur and was born on 15th September 1934. He Jharkhand wrote the book “Uncivil Wars: Pathology of Terrorism in India” in 1995. Wajid Khan Music Director Saharanpur, Music Director Wajid Khan (42), of the Uttar Pradesh popular duo Sajid-Wajid, known for his compositions for Salman Khan’s popular movies such as ‘Wanted’, the ‘Dabangg’ and ‘Ek Tha Tiger’, passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Wajid Khan was the brother of music director Sajid Khan. He was born on July 10, 1977. Jayantilal Former international Dungarpur, Passed away in Udaipur. He was born on Nanoma archer and Archery Rajasthan 12th December 1985 in Dungarpur, coach Rajasthan. From 2003 to 2010 he was a member of Indian Compound Teams and won in Asia Cup Grand Prix Archery Tournaments. He has got Maharana Pratap State Sports Award in 2005-2006 & Rajasthan government’s Guru Vashistha Award in 2017. P Namgyal Former Union Minister Nubra, Ladakh Passed away in the Union Territory of and Three-time Ladakh. He was born on December 17, Congress MP 1937, in Nubra, Ladakh. He was Union Minister of State of Chemical and Petrochemical and Parliamentary affairs, between 1988-89.

Basu Chatterjee Veteran filmmaker- Ajmer, British Passed away in Mumbai due to age-related screenwriter India health issues. He worked in Hindi & Bengali cinema and was a dialogue writer and produced a few films. He received the National Film Award for Best Film on Family Welfare in 1992 for his film Durga. He was born on January 10, 1930. Chiranjeevi Sarja Kannada Actor Passed away due to a cardiac arrest in - Bengaluru. He is the grandson of Kannada late actor Shakti Prasad & the nephew of multilingual actor Arjun Sarja. Arjun Charan Former Union Water Arjun Charan Sethi (79) the former Union Sethi Resources Minister Water Resources Minister (2000 to 2004) passed away due to his short illness in a - private hospital at Bhubaneswar. He is an 8-time member of parliament (MP) from Bhadrak Lok Sabha constituency. He was born on 18 Sep 1941 & hails from Bhadrak, Odisha. Padma Shri Pioneer in The Management guru, Padma Shri Pritam Pritam Singh Management Singh (78), who contributed more than 50 research papers and 7 books on management education in India and abroad passed away at a hospital in - Gurugram due to cardiac arrest. He received the Padma Shri in 2003 in the field of Management Education. He was the first asian to receive the “Global Thought Leader 2006-2007” from the Moscow International Business School MIRBIS. Dr. A. Former member of the Passed away in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Vaidyanathan Planning Commission, He worked as a professor at the Madras Advocate of data - Institute of Development Studies and the quality and economist Centre for Development Studies. He joined the National Council of Applied Economic Research in 1956. Vasant Raiji India’s oldest first-class Vadodara A right-handed batsman passed away due cricketer (Baroda), Gujarat to old-age at his residence in Walkeshwar in South Mumbai. He was born on January 26, 1920. He is a former opening batsman who represented Bombay, Baroda, and Cricket Club of India (CCI) in first-class cricket between 1941 and 1950. Anand Mohan Veteran Urdu poet & Gali Passed away due to cardiac arrest at his Zutshi ‘Gulzar’ freedom fighter Kashmeerian, Old residency in Noida after his recovery from Dehlvi Delhi COVID-19. He was born in Gali Kashmeerian, Old Delhi in 1926. He was the editor of the 1st Urdu science

magazine, Science ki Duniya, published by the Government of India in 1975. Sushant Singh Bollywood Actor Patna, Bihar Committed suicide & found dead at his Rajput home in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He was born on 16th January 1986. He acted as M.S Dhoni in “MS Dhoni: The Untold Story” in 2016. Raj Mohan Vohra Lieutenant General Shimla Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) awardee, passed away due to COVID-19. He was born in 1932. He received the MVC (second highest military decoration in India) in 1972 for his role in the Battle of Basantar (Part of 1971 India-Pakistan war). He also received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal. Achyut Kashinath Former Goa, Daman & Passed away in the Goa Medical College Sinai Usgaonkar Diu Cabinet Minister and Hospital (located near Panaji) due to age-related ailments. Note– Goa, Daman, - and Diu was a Union Territory (UT) of India from 19 December 1961 to 30 May 1987. In 1987, when Goa got statehood, Daman and Diu were made a separate UT. Madhavrao Former Lok Sabha Nashik, Passed away due to short illness in Nashik, Balwant Patil Member and the Maharashtra Maharashtra. He was born on 21st January founder of Janalaxmi 1940 in Nashik, Maharashtra. Cooperative Bank B.P.R. Vithal Baru Veteran Economist & Passed away in Hyderabad due to old age- Member of the 10th related ailments. He was born in 1926. He Finance Commission, was influential in shaping the demand for IAS - Telangana state through his essay titled “The Telangana Surpluses: A Case Study”. He also worked as fiscal advisor to the governments of Sudan and Malawi at IMF for very short period. KR Malayalam Script Passed away due to cardiac arrest and Sachidanandan Writer & Director hypoxic brain damage in Jubilee Mission Hospital, Thrissur. He was a native of Kodungallur, Thrissur. He debuted as a - writer in the Malayalam film industry in collaboration with Sethunath. His last movie Ayyapanum Koshiyum, an action thriller starring Prithiviraj and Biju Menon was the highest grosser of this year till the implication of Lockdown. Dinu Ranadive Veteran Journalist and Palghar, Passed away in his residency in Dadar, Freedom Fighter Maharashtra Maharashtra due to a short illness. He was born in 1925 in Dahanu tehsil of adjoining Palghar district, Maharashtra. He started his career as the founder-editor of “Samyukta Maharashtra Patrika” in 1950s. He received the lifetime achievement

award of the Mantralaya Vidhimandal Vartahar Sangh and Mumbai Press Club’s RedInk Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2019. Vidyaben Shah Padma Shri Awardee & Gujarat Passed away around the age of 97 in her National Awardee, residence in New Delhi. She established Freedom Fighter & India’s 1st Bal Bhavan in Rajkot in the Social Worker 1940s. She was born on November 7, 1922. She was the 1st non-official head of the New Delhi Municipal Council in the 1970s. Rajinder Goel Domestic cricket Punjab, British Who represented Haryana, Punjab and stalwart, Legendary India (today’s Delhi passed away due to old age-related first-class spinner Haryana) illness at his residence in Rohtak, Haryana, India. He was born on 20th September 1942 in Punjab, British India (today’s Haryana). Lachhman Singh Vir Chakra Awardee, Hoshiarpur, Passed away in New Delhi. He was born in Lehl retired Major General Punjab Hoshiarpur, Punjab. He received the Vir Chakra, the third highest gallantry award in India for his role as a forward observer in the 50 Para Brigade. He authored “Missed Opportunities” a comprehensive book on the 1965 Indo-Pak war. Vishwa Bandhu Former MP and a Bombay Who was nicknamed as Balloon Man Gupta veteran journalist Province, British around the age of 93 he passed away in India Delhi. He was born in Bhingar, Bombay Province, British India. He was associated with the National Congress party and became the Member of Parliament (MP) in April 1984. He represented Delhi in Rajya Sabha from 1984 to 1990. He was the President of All India Newspaper Editors Conference (AINEC) and one of the founding members of the Press Club of India (PCI). K Raghunath Former Karnataka Passed away due to age-related Basketball Player complications. He was one of the founding - members of the Beagles Basketball Club (BC), Bengaluru. He was popularly called as pappachi. Geetha Veteran Kannada Kalaburagi, Passed away due to cardiac arrest in a Nagabhushan Novelist Karnataka private hospital at Kalaburagi. She was born on 25th March 1942 in Savalagi village, Kalaburagi. She was the first woman to win Nadoja Awards of Kannada University Hampi in 2004. She wrote around 50 short stories including Avva Mattu Itara Kathegalu and Jwalantha, 27 novels including Baduku, Hasimamsa

Mattu Haddugalu, 12 plays, collection of poems and research works.

INTERNATIONAL PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES Pierre President Ngozi Province President of Republic of Burundi passed away Nkurunziza due to cardiac arrest at the hospital in Karuzi, eastern Burundi. He was born on 18th December 1964. The capital and currency of Burundi are Gitega (Political Capital); Bujumbura (Economic Capital) & Burundian Franc respectively. Bobby Morrow Olympic Medallist Harlingen, Texas San Benito Buller (84), Bobby Morrow died of American Sprinter natural causes in his home in San Benito, Texas. He was born in October 1935. He won three gold medals for 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay in the 1956 Olympic in Melbourne. In 2006, The San Benito High School named the new 11,000 seater football stadium “the Bobby Morrow Stadium”. Riaz Sheikh Former Pakistani Passed away in Karachi, Pakistan after testing first class positive for the novel coronavirus. He became cricketer - the second professional cricketer in Pakistan to die due to COVID-19. He played 43 first-class and 25 List A matches in his domestic career from his debut in 1987 to 2005. Kurt Bilteaux Gymnastic Miami, Florida First American to win the gold medal in the Thomas Gymnastic World Championship 1978 in floor exercise that held in Strasbourg, France passed away after suffering from a stroke on 24th May 2020 in Texas. He was born on 29th March 1956. Tony Dunne Former footballer Dublin, Ireland Former footballer & the defender of & the defender Manchester United Tony Dunne (78), passed away on June 8, 2020. He was born on 25th July 1941. Matt Beresford Former New Canterbury, New Passed away in Auckland, New Zealand. He was Poore Zealand cricketer Zealand born on June 1, 1930, Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand. Joel Schumacher Costume designer New York, USA Who suffered from cancer for the past one year cum Film Director passed away in New York, USA. He was born on August 29, 1939 in New York, USA. He was the production designer for telefilm Killer Bees in 1974.His most well-known directed movies are St Elmo”s Fire”, “Falling Down” as well as two “Batman” movies.

IMPORTANT DAYS

OBSERVED DATE / WEEK DAYS KEY NOTES May 31, 2020 World No Tobacco Day 31st May of Every year is observed as World No Tobacco Day created by the Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1987 to educate the public on the effects of tobacco and tobacco related diseases. The theme of World No Tobacco Day 2020 is “Protecting youth from industry manipulation and preventing them from tobacco and nicotine use”. May 29, 2020 International Everest Day To commemorate the first summit of Mt. Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal in the year 1953. In 2008, the Government of Nepal made the decision to mark this day as the international Everest Day when Sir Edmund Hillary passed away. May 28, 2020 International Day of Action Observed globally on May 28, 2020 every for Women’s Health (or year with the aim to raise awareness about International Women’s the issues related to women’s health and Health Day) well-being such as sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) around the world. In the year 1987, during the WGNRR member’s reunion in Costa Rica, May 28 was declared to be the International Day of Action for Women’s Health. June 1, 2020 World Milk Day (WMD) Observed every year on June 1 globally, with the aim to raise awareness about milk and its importance as global food. Theme for the year 2020: 20th Anniversary of World Milk Day. The Day was established by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) to recognize the importance of milk. The day was first celebrated on June 1, 2001. WMD 2020 celebrations started with the “#Enjoy Dairy” rally from May 29- 31, 2020. The International Dairy Federation (IDF) will host a virtual ‘raise a glass’ event on June1, 2020. June 1, 2020 Global Day of Parents Celebrated every year on June 1 globally. The day was organized by the United Nations (UN) to emphasize the critical role that the family has the primary responsibility for the nurturing and protection of children. In 2012, the General Assembly manifested June 1 as the Global Day of Parents, to be observed

annually in honour of parents throughout the world. May 28, 2020 World Dugong Day Observed on May 28 to raise awareness and conserve an endangered marine species from extinction. The dugongs commonly known as the sea cow and its Scientific name is Dugong dugon, which is the world’s only vegetarian marine mammal threatened with extinction and is fighting for its survival in Indian waters. June 3, 2020 World Bicycle Day Celebrated every year on June 3rd to promote simple, affordable, reliable, clean and eco- friendly sustainable transportation. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared June 3rd as World Bicycle Day in April 2018. This day comes under the adaptation of the UN General Assembly Resolution A/70/L.1 (Transforming our World: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development) as the agenda for enabling Sustainable Development. June 2, 2020 International Sex Workers Observed on June 2 every year to ensure that Day the sex workers enjoy the same rights as all the other human beings and tackle the abuse and trafficking problems. June 4, 2020 International Day of 4th June of every year is observed as the Innocent Children Victims International Day of Innocent Children of Aggression Victims of Aggression decided by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to acknowledge the physical, mental and emotional abuse on the children around the world. The day is observed to commemorate the 1982 Lebanon War victims. June 5, 2020 World Environment Day Celebrated as the World Environment Day since 1974 in more than 100 countries. The activities of World Environment Day 2020 will be hosted by Colombia in partnership with Germany. The Theme of World Environment Day 2020 is “Biodiversity”. The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) declared it a Time #For Nature campaign. June 6, 2020 World Pest Day or World Celebrated every year on June 6 to raise Pest Awareness Day awareness of how pest management helps preserve the quality of life. The day is initiated by the Chinese Pest Control Association. The inaugural ceremony of the day was held at the Beijing Hotel on June 6th, 2017.

June 6, 2020 Russian Language Day Annually celebrated as the Russian Language Day by the United Nations (UN) to promote and support Multilingualism and cultural diversity and to celebrate the birthday of the famous Russian poet Alexander Puskin who was born on 6th June 1799. To raise awareness about the history, culture and the development of all the six official languages (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish) of the UN. June 5, 2020 International Day for the United Nations (UN) annually observes June 5 Fight against Illegal, as the International Day for the Fight against Unreported and Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Unregulated (IUU) fishing to ensure the sustainability of the fisheries to stop the illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing activities. The first International Day for the fight against IUU fishing was observed in 2018. UN had declared the year 2022 as the International Year of Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture. June 8, 2020 World oceans day Every year on June 8 World oceans day, the United Nations (UN) day is celebrated across the world to inform the public about the impact of human activities on the ocean, create a global citizens’ movement for the ocean, and mobilize & unite the world’s population for the sustainable management of the world’s oceans. The theme of 2020 is “Innovation for a Sustainable Ocean”. June 8, 2020 World Brain Tumour Day June 8th is annually celebrated as the World Brain Tumour Day which was initiated by the Deutsche Hirntumorhilfe (German Brain Tumour Aid) in 2000 to pay respect to all the brain tumour patients and their families. The grey ribbon is the international symbol for the solidarity with brain tumour patients. June 7, 2020 World Food Safety Day The 2nd World Food Safety Day was celebrated to promote actions that support food security, human health, agriculture and sustainable development and prevent, detect and manage foodborne diseases. The First World Food Safety Day was celebrated on 7th June 2019. The Theme of World Food Safety Day 2020 remains the same as the theme of 2019 “Food Safety, everyone’s business”. June 9, 2020 World Accreditation Day Observed every year on June 9, It is an (WAD) initiative established by the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC) and International Accreditation Forum (IAF) to promote the value of accreditation. The

Theme of World Accreditation Day 2020 is “Accreditation: Improving food safety”. June 12, 2020 World Day Against Child Every year is observed as the World Day Labour Against Child Labour which was launched by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2002 to focus on the global extent of child labour and the steps to be taken to eliminate it. Theme of 2020: “COVID-19: Protect children from child labour, now more than ever”. June 13, 2020 International Albinism Observed every year on June 13 to create Awareness Day (IAAD) awareness about albinism and the human rights for the people with albinism. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed June 13 as International Albinism Awareness Day in its resolution in 2014 and celebrated it for the first time in 2015. The theme of International Albinism Awareness Day 2020 is “Made to Shine”. June 14, 2020 World Blood Donor Day Observed June 14 every year all over the world since 2005 to create awareness about the need for safe blood and their importance in treatments and role in maternal and neonatal care. It was designated by the World Health Assembly (WHA) of the World Health Organisation (WHO). The theme of World blood donor day 2020 is “Safe Blood saves lives”. June 15, 2020 World Elder Abuse Observed on June 15 every year across the Awareness Day (WEAAD) world since 2012. This day raises awareness about abuse and neglect of older persons and raising awareness about the cultural, social, economic and demographic processes affecting elder abuse and neglect. The designated day, June 15 was initiated by the International Network for the Prevention of Elderly Abuse (INPEA) in 2006. The UN also observes International Day of Older Persons every year on October 1. June 15, 2020 Global Wind Day Observed every year on June 15 to discover, encourage and create awareness about the renewable natural form of energy and the advantages of the use of wind energy like, reducing emission, improving air quality and generating employment. The European Wind Energy Association (EWEA) established the Wind Day in 2007. In 2009 the Day became a global event coordinated by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) and EWEA (now known as Wind Europe). Tamil Nadu is the

largest producer of wind energy in India & China is world’s largest wind energy producer. June 16, 2020 International Day of Family Observed every year on June 16 across the Remittances (IDFR) globe. The day recognises the migrants’ contributions (about 200 million migrants) to improve their family members (800 million) lives back home & to create a future of hope for their children. The Rome based International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) will host a virtual observance event for the International Day of Family Remittances: Supporting Remittance Families Build Resilience in Times of Crisis on June 16, 2020. June 17, 2020 World day to combat Observed on June 17 every year since 1995 to desertification and drought educate the general public on the international efforts to fight against desertification and to promote the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification’s (UNCCDs) motto “Healthy land = Healthy people”. The theme of World day to combat desertification and drought 2020 is “Food. Feed. Fibre. – the link between consumption and land”. June 18, 2020 Sustainable gastronomy Observed on June 18 every year to celebrate day seasonal ingredients and producers, preserve wildlife and culinary traditions. The UNESCO, FAO and UNGA facilitate the day in collaboration with the United Nations (UN) organisations and their member states with other international organisations works to create an awareness to the general public on their contribution in sustainable development. June 18, 2020 Autistic Pride Day Celebrated on June 18 annually to create awareness about Autism and to create space for the people with autism to be themselves and celebrate their neurodiversity and differences. In 2005, the first autistic pride day was celebrated in Brazil by the Aspies for Freedom (AFF) created by Gareth & Amy Nelson and became a global event. A rainbow infinity symbol is used to represent neurodiversity which symbolises the infinite possibilities in the lives of autistic people. June 19, 2020 International day for the Observed on June 19 every year to create elimination of sexual awareness about the conflict related sexual violence in conflict violence. The day was established by the

United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2015 (2020 marked 6th year of observance). June 19, 2020 World Sickle Cell Day Observed on June 19 annually to increase public knowledge & understanding about sickle cell disease. World Sickle Cell Day was 1st organised by the United Nation General Assembly in the year 2008 to recognise sickle cell disease as a public health problem. The 1st day was celebrated on June 19, 2009. June 19, 2020 National Reading Day India celebrated the 25th edition of the National Reading Day on June 19, 2020 to honour Kerala’s Father of Library Movement, Puthuvayil Narayana (P.N.) Panicker & his significant contribution to the reading culture which made Kerala’s universal literacy rate (100%) in 1990. The following week of June 19, 2020 will be celebrated as Reading week and reading month will be celebrated from June 19 – July 18, 2020. P.N. Panicker’s death anniversary is celebrated as National Reading Day. June 20, 2020 World Refugee Day Observed on June 20 every year to celebrate the strength and courage of the people who were forced to leave their homes and flee their country due to conflicts or persecution. The day was designated by the United Nations (UN) to honour the refugees all around the world. The theme of this year is “Every Action Counts”. June 21, 2020 International Day of Yoga Celebrated on June 21 to raise awareness (IDY) about the benefits of practicing yoga and to educate the public on the importance of choosing a healthy lifestyle to achieve good health. The first IDY was celebrated on 21st June 2015. UN declared IDY 2020 theme as “Yoga for Health – Yoga at Home”. Click here June 21, 2020 World Hydrographic Day Observed annually on June 21 to highlight the importance of hydrography & its relevance in our lives. Theme of World Hydrographic Day 2020: ‘Hydrography Enabling Autonomous Technologies’. International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) initiated the idea of the day in 2005. June 21, 2020 International Day of the Every year, the United Nations (UN) Celebration of the Solstice International Day of the Celebration of the Solstice is globally observed on 21st June to create awareness about the solstices and equinoxes and their cultural and religious significance.

June 21, 2020 World Music Day (Fête de Celebrated annually on June 21 around the la Musique) world to honour amateur and professional musicians. The day aims to provide free music to everyone & to promote peace and spread goodwill through music. June 23, 2020 International Olympic Day Observed all over the world on June 23 every year. The first Olympic Day was hosted by the National Olympic Committees (NOC) of Austria, Belgium, Canada, Great Britain, Greece, Portugal, Switzerland, Uruguay, and Venezuela in their respective countries on June 23, 1948. June 23rd is designated as the International Olympic Day in 1948. On Olympic Day 2020, The World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) advocates #BeActive. June 23, 2020 International Widows Day United Nations (UN) International Widows Day is observed annually on June 23 to raise awareness about the human rights violation experienced by widows in many countries following the death of their spouses. The day was initiated by Loomba Foundation, a Non- Governmental Organization (NGO), London on 26 May 2005. June 23, 2020 United Nations Public Observed annually on June 23 to highlight the Service Day contribution of people associated with public service to the community. The General Assembly designated the day by adopting resolution 57/277 on December 20, 2002. June 25, 2020 International Day of the Observed annually on June 25 as a tribute to Seafarer the Seafarers and sailors who are essential to global trade and transport. The day aims to raise awareness about the dangers of sea travel, like piracy. This year marks the 10th edition. The 2020 campaign is: #SeafarersAreKeyWorkers. To support the campaign, a webinar on the theme “Seafarers are key workers: Essential to shipping, essential to the world” will be held online on June 26, 2020. June 25, 2020 World Vitiligo Day Observed on June 25 every year as a campaign to raise awareness about vitiligo and to recognise the challenges, bullying, social neglect and psychological trauma faced by the people who have this disease. The day was created by the non-profit organization’s VR Foundation of USA and VITSAF of Nigeria and the first World Vitiligo Day was held on 25th June 2011.

June 26, 2020 International Day in United Nations (UN) International Day in Support of Victims of Support of Victims of Torture is observed Torture annually on June 26 to raise awareness about the crime of torture. The day aims to honour, support the victims and survivors worldwide. The UN General Assembly proclaimed the day through the resolution 52/149 on December 12, 1997.The 1st day was observed on June 26, 1998. June 26, 2020 International Day Against United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed Trafficking annually on June 26th to create awareness to the general public on the global problems caused due to drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The theme of 2020 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is “Better Knowledge for better care”. The social media campaign – “#FactsForSolidarity” package of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) provides the resources for the individuals and non-profit organisations of the member nations to campaign the day on social media. June 27, 2020 Micro-, Small and Medium United Nations (UN) Micro-, Small and – Sized Enterprises Medium – Sized Enterprises (MSME) Day is (MSME) Day observed annually on 27th June to recognise the contributions of these enterprises to the global economy and sustainable development and their focus on promoting innovation and creativity. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), designate June 27th as the Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day in the resolution A/RES/71/279 on 6th April 2017. According to the International Council for Small Business (ICSB) the formal and informal MSME makes up over 90% of the firms and accounts for about 70% of total employment and 50% of GDP. June 29, 2020 National Statistics Day India celebrates June 29th as the National Statistics Day to recognise the contribution of statistics in daily life and to educate the general public on the importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation. The first National Statistics Day was celebrated on 29th June 2007. The theme of 2020 National Statistics Day is “SDG- 3 (Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages) & SDG- 5 (Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls)”. The day was chosen to celebrate the National

Statistics Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of Prof. Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis “Father of Indian Statistics”. June 29, 2020 International Day of the United Nations (UN) International Day of the Tropics Tropics is observed annually on 29th June to raise awareness about the challenges faced by the tropical areas and the importance of the tropical areas in achieving the sustainable development goals (SDG). The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared June 29th as the International Day of the Tropics in its resolution A/RES/70/267 adopted in 2016. APPS & WEB PORTAL

APP & WEB NAME LAUNCHED BY PURPOSE NCS portal Union Ministry of Offers free online career skills training through Labour and the National Career Service (NCS) project to Employment enhance the corporate etiquette, interpersonal partnered with TCS skills, presentation skills and other softs skills of iON the job-seekers. NCS partnered with HireMee (online assessment and hiring service provider) to offer creation of video profiles for job-seekers. Responsible AI for Youth Ravi Shankar Prasad Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology (IT), Ravi Shankar Prasad launched India’s National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Portal & National Program for the youth named “Responsible AI for Youth” during the occasion of the 1st anniversary of the second tenure of the government. The portal was developed jointly by the National e-Governance Division of Ministry of Electronics and IT and NASSCOM from the IT industry. SwissCovid Swiss The developers at Swiss based EPFL & ETH Zurich has developed the “SwissCovid”, first of its kind for digital contact tracing app utilizing the Exposure Notification API (Application Programming Interface) of Apple and Google and based on a decentralized approach to track the spread of COVID-19. Latvia also developed a similar app “Apturi Covid” based on the Exposure Notification API. CHAMPIONS Narendra Modi PM Narendra Modi has launched CHAMPIONS (PM) (Creation and Harmonious Application of Modern Processes for Increasing the Output and National Strength) to help the smaller MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) by resolving their grievances and the complaints received on the portal will also be redressed within the prescribed

limit. The CHAMPIONS has been linked to CPGRAMS (Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System) of the Government of India. Aarogyapath Ministry of Health Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has and Family Welfare launched a National Healthcare Supply Chain Portal ‘Aarogyapath’ to provide real-time availability of critical healthcare supplies with the involvement of manufacturers, suppliers and customers. The portal, developed by CSIR team led by Anjan Ray Director of Dehradun based CSIR- IIP. e-Office M. Ajit Kumar Chairman of Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), launched the ‘e-Office’ application in over 500 Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and customs offices across India at New Delhi. The e-Office is a Mission Mode Project (MMP) under the e-Governance of India. e- Office has been developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), and supported by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG). SATYABHAMA Pralhad Joshi Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for Mines has launched SATYABHAMA (Science and Technology Yojana for Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Mining Advancement) Portal, developed by National Informatics Centre (NIC), Mines Informatics Division. The Portal, integrated with NGO Darpan Portal of NITI Aayog, will promote research and development in the mining and minerals sector. eBloodServices Harsh Vardhan Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has launched ‘eBloodServices ‘mobile app developed by the ERaktkosh team of C-DAC (Development of Advanced Computing) India for easy access to blood needed for transfusion. The mobile app is an initiative of the Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) with the aim of ‘Safe blood saves lives.’ Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan Narendra Singh Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Rural (GKRA) Tomar Development launched a web portal of the Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyan (GKRA) through video conferencing from New Delhi. The GKRA was launched with coordination of 12 ministries for 25 categories of works to be completed in 125 days and allotted with Rs 50,000 crore & Rural development ministry is the nodal ministry for the implementation of GKRA.

AC GAZE

A multipurpose algae-based respirator ‘Oxigeno’ developed: LPU researchers A team of researchers from Lovely Professional University (LPU), Punjab, have developed a first of its kind multipurpose algae-based respirator called ‘Oxigeno’, which helps to boost the amount of oxygen passing through it and filters out 99.3 percent of the harmful gasses.

South African Quarraisha Abdool Karim wins 2020 Christophe Mérieux Prize South African HIV researcher, Professor, Quarraisha Abdool Karim has won a 2020 Christophe Mérieux Prize (French prize) for her work at the Durban-based Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (Caprisa) with a prize amount of € 500 000 (INR-Rs.4 Crores approx).

US, UK proposed expansion of G7 grouping The United States (US) and the United Kingdom(UK) have proposed the expansion of the G7 grouping. While the United States has proposed G7+4, which includes India, Australia, South Korea and Russia, United Kingdom wants a G7+3, calling it ’10 Democracies (D10)’ which excludes Russia.

Chhattisgarh govt launches a campaign “Spandan” for police Chhattisgarh Police have launched a special campaign titled “spandan” to check mental stress and depression among their personnel by conducting interactive programmes and arranging counselling sessions, music and yoga therapies. The motive of the campaign is to prevent the force from depression and stress pushing them to take extreme steps.

Facebook to acquire 9.9% stake in Jio Platforms via Jaadhu Holdings As per regulatory documents, Facebook will acquire 9.9% stake in Jio Platforms through a new entity named Jaadhu Holdings LLC, which was announced in April 2020 with an investment worth of $ 5.7 billion (Rs 43,574 crore). Jaadhu is a newly incorporated company formed in March 2020 under the laws of the State of Delaware, US (United States) and is not engaged in any business in India or anywhere.

HDFC Bank launches a campaign “summer treats” The Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited(HDFC) Bank, a Mumbai based private sector bank has launched a special campaign ‘Summer Treats’ with offers to meet the changing needs of merchants as well as salaried and self-employed customers.

Severe cyclonic storm “Nisarga”: India’s west coast Cyclone Nisarga, which intensified into a severe cyclonic storm in the Arabian Sea, expected to hit the coasts of Gujarat, Maharashtra. It was weakened into a Cyclonic Storm, dropped heavy rains and winds gusting up to 120km (75 miles) per hour as a category 4 cyclone near the coastal city of Alibag (Maharashtra). The name Nisarga was proposed by Bangladesh.

Army Commanders Conference 2020 held in New Delhi The Army Commanders’ Conference, an apex level biannual event’s First phase of the Conference was conducted at South Block, New Delhi from 27 to 29 May 2020, which facilitates conceptual level deliberations culminating in important policy decisions. The second phase of the conference scheduled from 24 to 27 June 2020.

Former footballer Hamza Koya passed away at 61 Former Santosh Trophy National Football Championship player, Hamza Koya (61) has passed away after undergoing plasma therapy for Covid-19 infection in Kerala, who played as a wing-back position and represented Maharashtra in Santosh Trophy from 1981 to 1986.

IIT-Guwahati’s students develop mobile app “Flyzy” A group of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Guwahati students has developed a mobile application called “Flyzy” for seamless and contactless air travel. The aim of the mobile app is to provide contactless boarding, keeping in mind the easier baggage drop, manageable parking, better shopping experience.

Indian GDP to contract 5% in FY21: S&P Global Ratings S&P Global Ratings predicted that Indian economy will shrink 5% in FY21 and the fiscal stimulus worth 1.2 percent of GDP will not be enough to provide significant growth support. In a report on emerging markets titled ‘Financial Conditions Reflect Optimism, Lockdown Fatigue Emerges” highlighted that the services sectors have been severely affected.

India ranked 56th safest country in the world from COVID- 19: Report As per the report of Deep Knowledge Group’s safest country in the world from COVID- 19, India ranked 56th position in a list of 200 countries, while Switzerland has been found to be the safest place on earth from the ongoing covid-19 pandemic followed by Germany and Israel. while South Sudan was ranked at 200th position.

Highest allocation of Rs 1,01,500 crore in MGNREGS for FY 2020-21 The highest ever allocation of funds worth Rs. 1,01,500 made under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) in the current Financial Year (FY) 2020-2021. A sum of Rs. 31,493 crores have already been released in 2020-21, which is more than 50 percent of budget estimation of current Financial Year 2020-21.

Aadhaar-based online ‘Insta Saving Bank Account’ relaunched: SBI The State Bank of India (SBI) has relaunched ‘SBI Insta Saving Bank Account’,an Aadhaar-based instant digital savings account for customers using the Yono platform, which will offer a complete paperless and instant digital savings account opening with just PAN and Aadhaar number.

Tamil Nadu legislator Anbazhagan passes away at 61 Three-time DMK MLA, J. Anbazhagan (61) passed away after he tested positive for COVID-19 in Chennai, who represented the Chepauk & Thiruvallikeni constituency in the Assembly.

India remains at 108 in FIFA rankings, Belgium tops According to the Zurich, Switzerland based FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) world Ranking released on June 11, 2020, India has retained the 108th spot with 1187 points as international football has been suspended since March due to the COVID- 19. Belgium tops the ranking followed by France and Brazil. Qatar is the host country of FIFA World Cup 2022.

India to become President of United Nation Security Council for August 2021 India will serve as the president of the United Nation Security Council (15-Member) during August 2021 (will also hold presidency one more time during its term). India has been elected as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for two years (2021&22) along with Kenya Ireland, Mexico and Norway. Following the English alphabetical order of the member states’ names, the presidency of the Council is held by each of the members in turn for one month.

Meteorite-like object falls from sky: Rajasthan On June 19, 2020 A meteorite-like object weighing around 2.78kg has fallen from the sky in Rajasthan’s Sanchore town of Jalore District, resulting in a one-foot deep crater in the earth, explosion heard 2-km away, which has metallic properties of Germanium, Platinum, Nickel and Iron with the major share.

‘Air-Venti’ App to provide information on ICU beds, ventilators: Mumbai Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), Maharashtra, has launched a mobile application “Air- Venti” developed by Octaware Technologies Limited in partnership with Probity Soft Pvt Ltd, which helps to provide information about availability of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds and Ventilators.

World’s largest chariot festival Rath Yatra in Puri: Odisha World’s largest chariot festival Rath Yatra of Jagannath temple held in coastal district of Puri, Odisha under curfew, After Supreme Court had decided to allow it to be held with the coordination of the temple committee, State and Central government without compromising with the health issue pertaining to COVID-19.

India’s PCI to decline by 5.4% during 2020-21 to Rs 1.43 lakh: SBI report As per the report by the economic wing of State Bank of India (SBI), Covid-19 pandemic is likely to bring down India’s Per Capita Income (PCI) by 5.4% in the financial year 2020-21 (FY21) to Rs 1.43 lakh from Rs 1.52 lakh in FY20. Delhi, Chandigarh, and Gujarat will be the worst hit with PCI falling 15.4%, 13.9% and 11.6% respectively in FY21 among states.

India’s economy to contract by 5% in 2020: S&P Global Ratings According to the S&P Global Ratings report titled ‘Asia-Pacific losses near USD 3 trillion as balance sheet recession looms’, India’s economy is expected to contract by 5% in 2020 before rebounding in 2021 and Asia-Pacific’s economy will contract by 1.3% in 2020 but show 6.9% growth in 2021.

Former Germany striker Mario Gómez retired from soccer Former Germany, 33-year-old striker Mario Gómez retired from soccer, who won the Bundesliga title in 2007 in his first stint at Stuttgart and was also part of Bayern Munich’s treble winning team in 2013.

Current Affairs Pocket PDF – July 2020

Table of Contents NATIONAL AFFAIRS ...... 5 CABINET APPROVALS ...... 5 PARLIAMENT NEWS ...... 5 STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS ...... 6 LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION ...... 13 OTHER NATIONAL NEWS ...... 17 GOVT SCHEMES ...... 25 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS ...... 26 BANKING & FINANCE ...... 30 RBI IN NEWS ...... 30 BANKING TECHNOLOGY ...... 31 AGREEMENTS & MOU’S SIGNED ...... 32 OTHER BANKING NEWS ...... 32 FINANCE NEWS ...... 35 ECONOMY & BUSINESS ...... 37

GDP & GROWTH RATE ...... 37 ECONOMY NEWS ...... 38 BUSINESS NEWS ...... 39 MoU’s & AGREEMENTS ...... 40 MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY ...... 40 MoU’s WITH STATES ...... 41 MoU’s BETWEEN ORGANIZATION ...... 42 OTHER MoU’S IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 43 APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ...... 44 APPOINTMENTS ...... 44 NATIONAL ...... 44 INTERNATIONAL ...... 48 BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS ...... 49 RESIGNATIONS ...... 49 OTHER APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ...... 50 AWARDS ...... 52 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF LITERATURE & ACADEMICS ...... 52 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL SERVICE, SCIENCE & BRAVERY ...... 53 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF ARTS & CULTURE FILMS ...... 54

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS ...... 54 OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS ...... 55 RECOGNITIONS ...... 56 AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 57 SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE ...... 59 SUMMITS ...... 59 COMMITTEES & MEETINGS ...... 60 COMMITTEES ...... 60 MEETINGS ...... 60 COMMITTEES & MEETINGS IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 61 INDEX ...... 62 RANKING ...... 62 REPORTS ...... 65 ACQUISITION & MERGERS ...... 67 DEFENCE ...... 69 EXERCISE ...... 69 ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS ...... 70 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY...... 71

SATELLITES LAUNCHES ...... 71 NATIONAL ...... 73 INTERNATIONAL ...... 76 ENVIRONMENT ...... 76 SPORTS ...... 77 CRICKET ...... 77 BADMINTON & TENNIS ...... 78 ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL ...... 78 BOXING, WRESTLING & WEIGHTLIFTING ...... 78 OTHER SPORTS NEWS ...... 79 BOOKS & AUTHORS ...... 80 OBITUARY ...... 82 NATIONAL ...... 82 INTERNATIONAL ...... 84 IMPORTANT DAYS ...... 86 APPS & WEB PORTAL ...... 95 AC GAZE...... 99

NATIONAL AFFAIRS

CABINET APPROVALS Cabinet approvals on July 8, 2020 The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval to the following proposals on July 8, 2020:  Cabinet approved Rs. 1 Lakh cr financing facility under ‘Agriculture Infrastructure Fund’  Cabinet approved Rs. 12,450 crore capital infusion for 3 Public Sector General Insurance Companies – OICL, NICL & UIICL; their merger halted  Cabinet approves developing of Rs 600 crore Affordable rental housing Complexes for urban migrants / poor  Cabinet approved 3-months extension of “Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana- Ujjwala” for beneficiaries w.e.f. 01.07.2020 Read More Details Here: Cabinet approvals on July 8, 2020

Cabinet approved National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by replacing NEP, 1986; HRD ministry renamed as Ministry of Education Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the first education policy of the 21st century i.e. National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 which has replaced 34 years old NPE, 1986. This was announced by Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Prakash Javadekar. With this, the Ministry of Human Resource Development will officially be renamed the Ministry of Education (MoE). Read More Details Here: Cabinet approved National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by replacing NEP, 1986; HRD ministry renamed as Ministry of Education

Cabinet approves MoU between India and Zimbabwe on Traditional System of Medicine and Homeopathy The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has given ex-post facto approval to Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Zimbabwe on Cooperation in the field of Traditional Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy., which was signed on November 3rd, 2018. The objective of the MoU is to promote traditional systems of medicine and homeopathy between two nations on the basis of equality and mutual benefit.

PARLIAMENT NEWS Central govt Implemented Amendments in the Indian Stamp Act, 1899 and Rules from 1st July, 2020 Central Government has enforced the amendments to the Indian Stamp Act, 1899, and the Indian Stamp (Collection of Stamp-Duty through Stock Exchanges, Clearing Corporations and Depositories) Rules, 2019 as proposed under Part I, Chapter IV of the Finance Act, 2019 on 10th December, 2019 to implement uniform stamp duty on security market instruments from July 1, 2020. Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL) under the jurisdiction of RBI and the Registrars to an Issue and/or Share Transfer Agents (RTI/STAs) to act as a collecting agent.

Consumer Protection Act, 2019 comes into force; Replaces Consumer Protection Act 1986 The Consumer Protection Act (CPA), 2019, which has replaced old Consumer Protection Act 1986 has come into force w.e.f. July 20, 2020 aiming to enforce and protect the rights of consumers, and provide an effective mechanism to address consumer grievances. The act was briefed by Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution Ram Vilas Paswan through video conference with media.

Read More Details Here: Consumer Protection Act, 2019 comes into force; Replaces Consumer Protection Act 1986

Rajya Sabha Launches Employees Welfare Scheme in Arun Jaitley’s Name: “Arun Jaitley Financial Assistance for Group C Employees” The Rajya Sabha Secretariat launched “Arun Jaitley Financial Assistance for Group C Employees”, an Employees Welfare Scheme in the name of former Union Minister of Finance, Arun Jaitley. The Scheme will be funded by the pension his family receives as he has been a member of the upper house. The scheme was formulated and approved based on the decision of Sangeeta Jaitley, wife of Arun Jaitley.

STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS Andhra Pradesh Andhra Pradesh celebrates Rythu Dinotsavam (Farmer’s Day) on Birth Anniversary of YS Rajasekhara Reddy – July 8 On 8th July 2020, Andhra Pradesh celebrated Rythu Dinotsavam (Farmer’s Day) to mark the 71st birth anniversary of YS Rajasekhara Reddy, 14th Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. The first Ruthu Dinotsavam (Farmer’s Day) was celebrated on 8th July 2019. CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy releases the book “Naalo…Naatho…YSR” (Within me…With me…YSR) authored by YS Vijayalakshmi.

Government of Andhra Pradesh Announces Renewable Energy Export Policy 2020 The State Government of Andhra Pradesh (AP) announced the Andhra Pradesh Renewable Energy Export Policy 2020, which permits the sale of power to the other states of India. The policy will be in force for the five years. To implement the projects, the New and Renewable Energy Development Corporation of AP Limited (NREDCAP), will be the nodal agency under the new export policy 2020.

Assam CoM of Assam passes MSME Ordinance The Council of Ministers (CoM) of Assam has passed the MSME Ordinance during the meeting held in presence of Chief Minister (CM) Sarbananda Sonowal in Guwahati. The Ordinance gives provision to put an end to the process of taking multiple permissions for setting up MSME in the state for next 3 years. Also, the state govt changed the academic year of schools from January-December to April-March.

Assam: Guwahati gets “BANDICOOT” the first manhole cleaning robot in Northeast Siddhartha Bhattacharya, Minister of Guwahati Development Department inaugurated Guwahati’s first manhole cleaning robot named “BANDICOOT”, an automatic sewer cleaning device. Guwahati became the first city in the Northeast region to get a manhole cleaning robot. The BANDICOOT was developed by Genrobotics, an Indian startup company & funding for the development was provided by the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) under CSR initiative.

Goa Goa Government Allots Land to 49 MSME Units to Set Up India’s First Marine Cluster The Government of Goa allotted land to a consortium of 49 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) units to set up India’s first Maritime Cluster, Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa provided 14,380 square Metres of land to set up the Common Facility centre. The Project is aimed to create a world class facility for ship designing, ship building, ship repairers and marine equipment manufacturing.

Haryana Haryana passed “Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Ordinance, 2020” to reserve 75% private sector jobs for locals The Haryana state Cabinet, under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, has passed the draft “Haryana State Employment of Local Candidates Ordinance, 2020” to provide 75% reservation for the residents of Haryana in private sector jobs having salary of less than Rs 50,000 per month in companies, Societies, Trusts, Limited Liability Partnership Firms, partnership firms etc. situated in Haryana.

Central Govt Provides Rs 1500 crore to Haryana for its Crop Diversification and Rejuvenate Ponds Central government provides financial aid of Rs 1500 crore to Haryana for water conservation, which includes Rs 500 crore to expand crop diversification under the ‘Mera Pani Meri Virasat’ scheme and Rs 1000 crore to rejuvenate the ponds and treat water. The ‘Mera Pani Meri Virasat’ scheme was launched for the purpose of crop diversification from maize / millet / pulses / horticulture crops in 1.00 lakh hectares of land. Under this scheme, farmers are encouraged to grow alternative crops other than paddy.

Nitin Gadkari Inaugurates and Lays Foundation Stones of 11 Highway Projects Worth Around Rs 20,000 crore in Haryana Virtually Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Nitin Gadkari inaugurated and laid foundation stones of 11 Highway projects worth around Rs 20 thousand crore in Haryana through a web based program presided over by Haryana Chief Minister, Manohal Lal. The projects are part of new economic corridors in the state. Read More Details Here: Nitin Gadkari Inaugurates and Lays Foundation Stones of 11 Highway Projects Worth Around Rs 20,000 crore in Haryana Virtually

Haryana Cabinet approved ‘Samadhan se Vikas’ to Recover External Development Charges dues The Haryana Cabinet gave approval to the ‘Samadhan se Vikas’, a one-time settlement scheme for the recovery of long-pending dues on account of External Development Charges (EDC). It is modeled on the central scheme ‘Vivad se Vishwas-2020’.

Haryana CM Launched E-Sachivalaya Portal, for Online Appointments with CM, Deputy CM and Various Heads of Dept. Haryana Chief Minister (CM) Manohar Lal Khattar launched e-Sachivalaya portal (https://esachivalaya.edisha.gov.in/), a digital platform to enable people to take online appointments for virtual meetings with the chief minister, deputy CM, ministers and other heads of various departments. Also, During COVID-19 crisis, the state Govt. launched Haryana Udhyam Memorandum (H.U.M) portal to facilitate MSMEs.

5-day Sub-Tropical Fruit Expo 2020 was organised by Horticulture dept of Haryana Haryana Horticulture Department organised a five-day Sub-Tropical Fruit Expo 2020 at the Centre for Sub-Tropical Fruit (Indo Israel Project), at Ladwa in district Kurukshetra from 18th – 22nd July 2020.

Jammu and Kashmir Lt. Governor, G.C Murmu announced the ‘Macadamisation Program’ for improvement of roads across J-K Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), Girish Chandra Murmu launched the ‘Macadamisation program’ to improve the roads across Jammu and Kashmir. The program covers 100% macadamisation of all roads along with 11,000 Km of fair-weather roads.

Karnataka Karnataka Chief Minister Launches a Portal, ‘Skill Connect Forum’ to Connect Job Seekers and Employers Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa launched a portal, ‘Skill Connect Forum’ to connect job seekers (skilled workers) and employers (private entrepreneurs) on a common platform. The portal provides information on available jobs and those who need job.

Karnataka Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa Launched a Scheme “Weavers Samman Yojana” The Chief Minister of Karnataka B.S. Yediyurappa launched “Weavers Samman Yojana” to provide financial assistance of Rs 2000 for about 19,744 handloom weavers in the state, through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Karnataka Cabinet Approved the New Industrial Policy for 2020-2025 Karnataka Cabinet approved the new Industrial Policy for 2020-2025 that aims to attract Rs 5 lakh crore investment and create about 20 lakh employment over the next 5 years to help mitigate the economic impact of the COVID-19 crisis. The cabinet also approves “The Industrial Disputes and Certain Other Laws (Karnataka Amendment) Ordinance” 2020 & gave approval to set up the Karnataka Digital Economy Mission under section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013 to promote 7,000 start-ups, e-commerce and other gig economy companies. 49% of the share will be held by the state and remaining 51% by the industries.

Kerala Kerala announced new Chief Minister’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme to address working capital shortage Kerala government announced a new scheme namely “Chief Minister’s Entrepreneurship Development Programme” to address the issues of shortage of working capital and availability of credit faced by start- ups and small entrepreneurs amid COVID-19 pandemic. The programme will be implemented through the Kerala Financial Corporation (KFC).

Ladakh UT Administration launched Ladakh Food Security Scheme The Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh launched the Ladakh Food Security Scheme (LFSS) & With the implementation of the LFSS, the Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Food Entitlement Scheme (MMSFES) of the erstwhile State of J&K is discontinued. The introduction of the LFSS will benefit around 6101 families under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana in addition to the 43,916 beneficiary families covered under the MMSFES.

Ladakh LG RK Mathur E-Launches Mission Organic Development Initiative & Greenhouse Project Radha Krishna Mathur, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh launched Mission Organic Development Initiative (M.O.D.I) and Greenhouse Project, to lead the Union Territory on a sustainable path, over a virtual platform from Raj Niwas, Ladakh. Read More Details Here: Ladakh LG RK Mathur E-Launches Mission Organic Development Initiative & Greenhouse Project

Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh launches “Hamara Ghar-Hamara Vidyalaya” scheme The Principal Secretary Rashmi of Madhya Pradesh (MP), Arun Shami launched “Hamara Ghar-Hamara Vidyalaya” Scheme over a virtual platform to maintain academic regularity of the students during the Lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic. The scheme will start from 6th July 2020.

Madhya Pradesh: “Intzaar Aap Ka” Social Media Campaign to Attract Tourists “Intzaar Aap Ka” campaign is started by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board (MPTB), over the social media platform in Madhya Pradesh to attract tourists with taglines and the description of the tourism destinations of the State.

MP Govt to Launch ‘Roko -Toko’, a Campaign for those who do not Wear Masks Government of Madhya Pradesh has announced to launch a campaign ‘Roko -Toko’, which means stop and campaign for those who do not wear masks. It is to ensure that all wear masks as the usage of masks is made mandatory in all public places in the state. Also, under ‘Jeevan Shakti Yojana’ the selected organizations will be provided 100 masks on credit.

Maharashtra Maharashtra CM Launches ‘Platina’, World’s Largest Convalescent Plasma Therapy-Cum-Trial Project Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray launched world’s largest convalescent plasma therapy- cum-trial project, ‘Platina’ to treat COVID-19 patients, through video conference at Nagpur’s government medical college. The state plans to take this study further and isolate MONOCLONAL antibodies developed against COVID-19 from plasma.

Dadasaheb Phalke and Sahitya Akademi Winner Ratnakar Matkari Posthumously Honoured by Maharashtra Government The Government of Maharashtra announced that Marathi writer and playwright Ratnakar Matkari will be posthumously honoured with the Natvarya Prabhakar Panshikar award for his lifetime contribution to the theatre and arts.

Maharashtra CM Launches ‘Maha Jobs portal’, an online platform to Provide Employment Opportunities Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray launched the ‘Maha Jobs Portal’, an online platform to provide employment opportunities to local residents of the state by connecting job seekers with employers. The people who register at the portal should submit a domicile certificate, which is mandatory. The portal is run by the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC). The portal is a joint venture between the Department of Industries, Department of Labour, and Skill Development- Entrepreneurship of the Government of Maharashtra

Maharashtra Govt & SBI to Set up Stress Fund to Revive Slum Rehabilitation Authority projects Maharashtra Housing Minister Jitendra Awhad announced that the state govt and State Bank of India (SBI) will set up a stress fund to revive Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) projects (about 370 projects) in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and other urban areas of the state. For this purpose, the state govt will inject Rs 700 crore to Rs 1,000 crore in this fund as a financial support. SRA will act as the nodal agency under the Housing Ministry to implement the slum redevelopment schemes.

Manipur Manipur CM N. Biren Singh Virtually Inaugurates 5 Water Supply projects, worth Rs 48.39 crore and Rapid Antigen Detection Testing Centre Manipur Chief Minister (CM) N. Biren Singh inaugurates 5 Water Supply projects worth Rs 48.39 crore, which have a total capacity of more than 26.15 million of litres per day (MLD) through video conferencing from the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, Imphal. Read More Details Here: Manipur CM N. Biren Singh Virtually Inaugurates 5 Water Supply projects, worth Rs 48.39 crore and Rapid Antigen Detection Testing Centre

Mizoram Harsimrat Kaur Badal E-Inagurates First Operationalized Mega Food Park of Mizoram: Zoram Mega Food Park Union Minister of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Harsimrat Kaur Badal, e-inaugurated the first operationalized mega food park of Mizoram, Zoram Mega Food Park, in Khamrang Village in Kolasib District, Mizoram, promoted by M/s Zoram Mega Food Park Pvt. Ltd, which will provide directly benefit over 25,000 farmers and will provide employment opportunities to over 5,000 people in the region.

New Delhi Arvind Kejriwal Launched India’s First Plasma Bank for COVID-19 Treatment Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal launched India’s first Plasma Bank for the treatment of the patients tested positive for COVID-19. The Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) will house the plasma bank facility which will be available to government and private hospitals. The plasma bank will start its operation by 2nd July 2020.

Delhi Govt to Launch ‘Podhe Lagao Prayavaran Bachao’, a 17-day Campaign to Reduce Air Pollution Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai informed that a 17-day campaign” Podhe Lagao, Paryavaran Bachao” (Plant Trees, Save Environment) will be launched from July 10 to July 26 from the National Highway (NH) 20 near ITO to reduce air pollution. During the campaign 31 lakh saplings will be planted. The plantation drive is likely to increase Delhi’s green area to 350 square kilometres (sq km) by 2021 from 325 sq km at present.

Delhi Govt Launches an E-Portal, ‘LEAD’ for its Students Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and education minister Manish Sisodia launched an e- portal, ‘Learning through E-Resources Made Accessible for Delhi’ (LEAD) for its students to strengthen the children’s online education. The e- portal contains 10,000 instructional materials and course content for Classes I to XII. It is developed by the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), the Delhi government.

Delhi Cabinet Approved Mukhya Mantri Ghar Ghar Ration Yojana, doorstep delivery of ration scheme The Delhi Cabinet has approved ‘Mukhya Mantri Ghar Ghar Ration Yojana’ to deliver ration directly to the homes of beneficiaries. This scheme and Centre’s ‘One Nation One Ration Card ‘scheme will be implemented on the same day in Delhi.

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, launched a free website portal named ‘Rozgaar Bazaar’ for job seekers, employers Delhi chief minister, Arvind Kejriwal launched a free website http://jobs.delhi.gov.in named ‘Rozgaar Bazaar 2020’ via video conference. The portal connects the job seekers and the recruiters on one platform.

Odisha Odisha Government to Implement an Initiative ‘Sabuja Odisha’ to Increase Green Cover through Extensive Plantation Odisha government in a high-level meeting held under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary Asit Tripathy decided to implement a new initiative ‘Sabuja Odisha’. The initiative will increase green cover through extensive plantations over 1,30,264 Hectares of land. About 1.30 lakh hectares of land where these seedlings can be planted has been identified in 2,660 locations for plantation.

Odisha Government included Transgender Community under Madhu Babu Pension Yojana The official notification of The Department of Social security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) informed that, Odisha Government has included the transgender community under Madhu Babu Pension Yojana (MBPY), a social security scheme. In addition to transgenders, women those who are fighting divorce cases in courts are also included. Under this scheme, about 6,000 transgenders will receive Rs 500, Rs 700 and 900 per month as a pension depending on their age.

Punjab Punjab Cabinet Approved a USD 285.71 million project for canal-based water supply The Punjab Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh approved a USD 285.71 million (over Rs 2,130 crore) project for canal-based water supply for Amritsar and Ludhiana cities through video conferencing. The funding of these projects will be offered by the World Bank (70%) and Punjab government (30%). In addition to this, the cabinet also approved an amendment to the Land Pooling Policy.

Puducherry Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy Presented Rs 9000 Crore Tax Free Budget for FY 20- 21 Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy, who also holds the finance portfolio presented Rs 9000 crore tax free budget for the financial year 2020-2021 in the assembly. The budget is Rs 575 crore more than the previous year’s outlay of Rs 8,425 crore and Rs 1073 crore more than the revised budget outlay of Rs 7927 crore in 2019-2020. Read More Details Here: Puducherry Chief Minister V Narayanasamy Presented Rs 9000 Crore Tax Free Budget for FY 20-21

Rajasthan Rajeeva Swarup was appointed as the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan The Rajasthan Government appointed Rajeeva Swarup the current Additional Chief Secretary (Home) as the new Chief Secretary (CS) of Rajasthan replacing incumbent D.B. Gupta in the bureaucratic reshuffle amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Rajasthan Launches “Pure for Sure” Week Long Campaign to Ensure Purity of Dairy Products – July 8 – 14 The Health minister of Rajasthan, Raghu Sharma launched a week long campaign “Pure for Sure” from 8th July 2020 to 14th July 2020 – to ensure the purity of the milk and dairy products.

Rajasthan Cabinet Approved ‘One-Stop Shop’ Scheme to Fast-Track Investments Rajasthan Cabinet has approved ‘One-Stop Shop’ Scheme– OSS to fast track investment and capacity expansion proposals by facilitating time-bound approvals and clearances. This will help revive industries in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. As per the scheme, entrepreneurs who invest above Rs 10 crore will be able to get 98 types of clearance under one roof at OSS under the Bureau of Investment Promotion (BIP) of the State Industries Department. CM Ashok Gehlot is the chairman of Board of Investment.

Tamil Nadu 117th birth Anniversary of Former CM of Tamil Nadu K Kamaraj, observed as Educational Development Day – July 15 On 15th July 2020, the 117th birth anniversary of the former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu “King Maker” K. Kamaraj was observed as Tamil Nadu’s Educational Development Day to remember his contribution to enhance the school education facilities of Tamil Nadu. In 2006 the Government of Tamil Nadu passed

a development and celebration bill declaring July 15th, the birth day of Perunthalaivar Kamarajar as the “Educational Development Day”.

Tamil Nadu Government Signed 8 MoUs worth Rs 10,399 crore with Industrial Groups for Employment Creation The Tamil Nadu government signed 8 Memorandums of Understandings (MoUs) worth Rs 10,399 crore with companies to create employment opportunities for over 13,507 people. The MoUs were signed in the presence of Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami in the Secretariat at Fort St George in Chennai. Read More Details Here: Tamil Nadu Government Signed 8 MoUs worth Rs 10,399 crore with Industrial Groups for Employment Creation

TN government signed 16 MoUs worth Rs 5,137 crore with companies for employment creation The Tamil Nadu (TN) government has signed 16 Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) worth Rs 5,137 crore to create employment opportunities for over 6,555 people. The MoUs were signed by TN Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami. The government has signed three tranches of MoUs worth Rs 30,664 crore within 2 months, which will provide employment to over 67,212 persons. Read More Details Here: TN government signed 16 MoUs worth Rs 5,137 crore with companies for employment creation

Telangana Telangana amends state FRBM Act 2005; accepting govt’s decision to extend borrowing limit to 5% from 3% The Governor of Telangana Dr. Tamilisai Sounderarajan has promulgated an ordinance No.3 of 2020, amending the Telangana Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act-2005 which will enable the State to increase the borrowing limit by 2% to 5% from earlier 3%. With the new Telangana FRBM (Amendment) Act 2020, state government’s additional borrowing limit can go up to Rs 20,000 crore now. Read More Details Here: Telangana amends state FRBM Act 2005; accepting govt’s decision to extend borrowing limit to 5% from 3%

Telangana Police launch ‘CybHER’, Virtual Awareness Campaign to Tackle Cyber Crime against Women & Children Women Safety Wing (WSW), Telangana Police along with Telangana Director General of Police (DGP) Mahender Reddy launched ‘CybHER’, a month-long virtual awareness campaign to make cyberspace safe for women and children. The campaign is organised by WSW in collaboration with Legal Aid Centre, Symbiosis Law School, Hyderabad.

Uttarakhand Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat Inaugurated ‘Smriti Van’ on Harela festival Uttarakhand Chief Minister(CM) Trivendra Singh Rawat inaugurated ‘Smriti Van’ at Asthal village of Dehradun district in memory of late Jeet Singh Negi, famous folk singer of the state on the occasion of Harela festival. To mark the celebration of Harela festival 2020 CM urged to plant a sapling each.

Uttar Pradesh UP CM Yogi Adityanath inaugurates “Mission Vriksharopan-2020” to plant 25 crore saplings across UP Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh inaugurated “Mission Vriksharopan-2020” in Kukarel Forest, Lucknow, on account of Guru Purnima, under which around 25 crore saplings of medicinal, herbal, environmental, fruit producing, shady plants of around 201 species will be planted across the state.

UP Government Approves Uttar Pradesh Start-up Policy 2020 Cabinet of Uttar Pradesh (UP) Government chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath approved the new start-up policy – Uttar Pradesh Start-up Policy 2020 to increase the job opportunities and employment in Uttar Pradesh by promoting the developing units in agriculture, health, power, education, tourism and transport sectors.

Yogi Adityanath launched “Navin Rojgar Chhatri Yojana” for Scheduled Castes Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adiytyanath, over a video conference launched “Navin Rojgar Chhatri Yojana”, an all-round development scheme for the Scheduled Castes (SC) and to provide financial assistant to support people to become self-dependent.

West Bengal West Bengal CM launches “SelfScan” document scanning app Mamta Banergee, The Chief Minister of West Bengal launches “SelfScan” app developed by the state’s Information Technology department as an alternative to Camscanner. The app is currently available in English, and is being improved in Hindi and other regional languages of India. No registration is needed to use the app.

LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION Dharmendra Pradhan Inaugurates Asia’s First Continuous Galvanized Rebar Production Facility in Punjab Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Steel & Petroleum and Natural Gas virtually inaugurated Asia’s first Continuous Galvanized Rebar (CGR) Production Facility near Gobindgarh, Punjab launched by Madhav KRD Group in association with International Zinc Association with the support of Hindustan Zinc

Limited. The demand of zinc in India grew 4-5 % CAGR (compounded annual growth rate) in the last 10 years.

Giriraj Singh Launches the 1st Edition of “Matsya Sampada” – Fisheries and Aquaculture Newsletter Giriraj Singh, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, launched the 1st edition of “Matsya Sampada” – newsletter fisheries and aquaculture published by the Department of Fisheries and the operational guidelines of Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The PMMSY flagship scheme was launched by the Government of India in May 2020 with Rs.20,050 crore as investment.

HRD Ministry Launches the World’s First Online B.Sc Degree in Programming and Data Science – Prepared by IIT Madras Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, Union Minister of Human Resource and Development (HRD) launched the world’s first online B.Sc Degree in Programming and Data science through the webinar, the programme was prepared by Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT-Madras).

Dr. Harsh Vardhan Released the Good Clinical Practice Guidelines Handbook and Prospectus for FPIS of NBE Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan along with the Minister of State of Health, Ashwini Kumar Choubey, released the Good Clinical Practice Guidelines Handbook and Prospectus for Fellowship Programme for International Students (FPIS) of the National Board of Examinations (NBE) on a virtual platform on the occasion of National Doctors Day (July 1).

Union HRD Minister and Union Health Minister Launched Drug Discovery Hackathon 2020 (DDH2020) Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, the Union Minister of HRD and Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and minister of Science and Technology launched the Drug Discovery Hackathon (DDH2020) through an online platform in the presence of Sanjay Dhotre, MoS (HRD). It is a first of its kind national initiative supporting the Drug Discovery Process. The DDH2020 is a joint initiative of the Ministry of HRD, All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and is supported by Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), My Gov, Schrodinger and ChemAxon.

Union HRD Minister and Sports MoS launched ‘Fit Hai to Hit Hai India’ webinar & ‘Fit India Talks’ Sessions for School Students “Fit Hai To Hit Hai India” webinar program was launched, under the India’s flagship Fit India campaign, by the Human Resource Development minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ and MoS for Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs Kiren Rijiju. Also, sports ministry has set a target that India must be in the top 10 countries at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. In this regard, the ministry is going to start a Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) Junior for 10-12 old kids.

Maharashtra CM, Uddhav Thackeray E-Inaugurates NM1, Yotta Data Centre Near Mumbai – World’s 2nd Largest & Asia’s Largest Data Centre Uddhav Thackeray, Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Ravi Shankar Prasad, Minister of Communications, Electronics and informational technology inaugurated the World’s 2nd Largest & Asia’s Largest Data Center, ‘Yotta NM1 Data Center’ of Yotta Infrastructure of Hiranandani Group at Panvel data centre park, Mumbai over a virtual platform.

Harsh Vardhan & Narendra Singh Tomar released ‘Guidelines for Evaluation of Nano-based Agri- input and food products in India’ Union Minister for Science & Technology, Health & Family Welfare and Earth Sciences, Harsh Vardhan & Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Narendra Singh Tomar has released ‘Guidelines for Evaluation of Nano-based Agri-input and food products in India’ through a video-link, from New Delhi. Guidelines will pave the way for significant benefits for our mission on ‘Doubling Farmers Income by 2022’ and ‘National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture’. Read More Details Here: Harsh Vardhan & Narendra Singh Tomar released ‘Guidelines for Evaluation of Nano-based Agri-input and food products in India’

Rajnath Singh e-Inaugurated Rs 43 cr Six Strategic Bridges in J&K; Built by Border Road Organisation Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated six strategic bridges in the border areas close to the International Border and Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) through video conferencing, from New Delhi. These were built by the Project Sampark of Border Road Organisation (BRO). The total outlay of the following bridges is Rs 43 crore: Tarnah-I Bridge (160m); Tarnah-II Bridge (300m); Palwan Bridge (91m); Ghodawala Bridge (151m); Pahadiwala Bridge (61m); Panyali Bridge (31m). Read More Details Here: Rajnath Singh e-Inaugurated Rs 43 cr Six Strategic Bridges in J&K; Built by Border Road Organisation

Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik Launches BLUIS, first of its Kind in India to Use Space Technology & Artificial Intelligence to Monitor Government Lands The Chief Minister of Odisha, Naveen Patnaik, launched the Bhubaneswar Land Use Intelligence System (BLUIS), a flagship development of the General Administration and Public grievances departments.

Because of that, Odisha becomes the first state in India to use high resolution satellite imagery utilising space technology and artificial intelligence to monitor government lands.

PM Modi Inaugurates Asia’s Largest Solar Power Project – Rewa Solar Project in Madhya Pradesh Asia’s largest Solar Power project: 750 MW Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Power Project in Madhya Pradesh is inaugurated by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, through video conferencing. It reduces emission equivalent to 15 lakh tonne of carbon dioxide per year. It was developed by Rewa Ultra Mega Solar Limited (RUMSL), a joint venture of Madhya Pradesh Urja Vikas Nigam Limited (MPUVN) and Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). The Rewa Solar Power project received the World Bank Group President’s Award.

Ministry of Culture Released the First Five Re-Printed Volumes of Mongolian Kanjur Manuscripts Under the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM), The Ministry of Culture has taken up the project of re-printing 108 volumes of Mongolian Kanjur. A set of First Five manuscripts were presented to Ram Nath Kovind, the President of India on Guru Purnima (Dharma Chakra Day) on 4th July 2020. The mission is expected that all the 108 volumes of the Mongolian Kanjur will be published by March 2022. The present edition is being published by the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM).

Union Minister Harsh Vardhan Releases White Paper by TIFAC on “Focused Interventions for Make in India Post COVID 19” Union Minister of Science and Technology Harsh Vardhan released a White Paper on “Focused Interventions for Make in India Post COVID 19” & “Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients: Status, Issues, Technology Readiness and Challenges” prepared by the Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC) in New Delhi over a virtual platform.

Smart City Mission opens the registration for India Cycles4Change Challenge The Smart City Mission of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs opened the registration for India Cycles4Change Challenge launched by Hardeep Singh Puri, MoS (I/C) Housing and Urban Affairs on 25th June 2020. The objective of the challenge is to connect the cities with citizens and experts to develop a vision to promote cycling.

UNICEF India & FICCI’s SEDF joined hands to Initiate “#Reimagine Campaign” to Support Vulnerable Populations and Children in India United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) India joined hands with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s (FICCI) Socio Economic Development Foundation (SEDF) to initiate UNICEF’s “#Reimagine Campaign” for the support of most vulnerable populations and children during the ongoing COVID-19 response and its aftermath in India.

Defence Minister of State Shripad Naik inaugurated 5th edition of conference on Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Technologies Minister of State (MoS) for Defence Shripad Naik inaugurated the 5th edition of conference on Aerospace and Defence (A&D) Manufacturing Technologies in New Delhi through Video Conference. The conference was jointly organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Tamil Nadu Technology Development and Promotion Centre (TNTDPC) and Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM). Theme of 5th edition: Empowering India with ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat Mission’. India set the target of achieving 26 Billion US Dollar domestic Defence production by 2025.

First online NISHTHA programme launched for 1200 Key Resources Persons of Andhra Pradesh by MHRD Union HRD (Human Resource Development) Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank and Minister of State (MoS) for HRD Sanjay Dhotre have jointly launched the first online National Initiative for School Heads and Teachers Holistic Advancement (NISHTHA) programme for 1,200 key resources persons (KRPs) of Andhra Pradesh, virtually from New Delhi. NISHTHA is the world’s largest teachers’ training programme of its kind. 33 states and UTs launched this programme in collaboration under Samagra Shiksha.

Power Minister RK Singh launched India’s 1st public EV Charging Plaza in New Delhi & RAISE initiative Minister of State (MoS) for Power, and New & Renewable Energy, Raj Kumar (RK) Singh inaugurated India’s first public EV (Electric Vehicle) charging plaza at Chelmsford Club in New Delhi. This plaza has been established by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) in collaboration with New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC). He also launched national programme namely “Retrofit of Air-conditioning to improve Indoor Air Quality for Safety and Efficiency (RAISE)” joint initiative of EESL and United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID).

Union HRD Minister Launched MANODARPAN initiative to provide psychosocial support to students for their Mental Health and Well-being The Union Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched MANODARPAN initiative of HRD Ministry virtually in New Delhi. The initiative provides psycho-social support to students, teachers and parents and addresses their issues related to mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Prakash Javadekar virtually launched piloting of National Transit Pass System (NTPS); undertaken in MP & Telangana Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar virtually launched the piloting of the National Transit Pass System (NTPS), as another step towards Digital India Movement. The pilot project will be functional in Madhya Pradesh (MP) and Telangana, and by this Diwali it will be operational in pan India. NTPS will replace manual paper-based transit system by online transit system.

Union Home Minister Launches Tree Plantation Campaign-2020 “Vriksharopan Abhiyan” of the Coal Ministry The Union Home Minister, Amit Shah launched ‘Vriksharopan Abhiyan’ the tree plantation campaign of the Coal Ministry in the presence of Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of Coal, Mines and Parliamentary Affairs. Amit Shah laid the foundation stones of six eco parks and tourism sites during the ‘Tree Plantation Campaign’ through video-conferencing.

DST launched Rs 15 Crore fund to support India-Russia collaboration joint R&D and cross- country technology adaptation The Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science and Technology launched India-Russia Joint Technology Assessment and Accelerated Commercialization Programme in partnership with Russia’s Foundation for Assistance to Small Innovative Enterprises (FASIE). On the Indian side, the programme will be implemented & funded by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). The programme will run through two annual cycles and top 5 selected Indian and Russian partners will be provided partial funding support. DST will fund up to Rs 15 Crores to Indian SMEs/Start-ups and FASIE will provide similar funding to the Russian projects.

First by Indian Government: World Class State of the Art Honey Testing Lab was e-inaugurated by Shri Narendra Singh Tomar at Anand, Gujarat Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ welfare Shri Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurated the ‘World Class State of Art Honey Testing Laboratory’ virtually. This is considered to be the first Government Honey Testing lab in India. The testing lab was established by National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) in Anand, Gujarat with support of NBB (National Bee Board). Note: Narendra Singh Tomar also inaugurated ‘Two Days Online Training Programme on Scientific Honey bee production’ conducted by NDDB.

PM Modi Launched High Throughput COVID-19 Testing Facilities at Kolkata, Mumbai & Noida Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually launched three high throughput COVID-19 testing facilities at Kolkata, Mumbai and Noida to increase the test capacity by 10000 tests per day in each city.

Green-Ag project launched in Mizoram to bring transformative change in the farm sector Green-Agriculture (Green-Ag), a project funded by Global Environment Facility (GEF) was launched in Mizoram, India. It was launched by Agriculture minister of Mizoram C Lalrinsanga. Mizoram is first among the 5 states where the project is to be implemented. The other states are Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan and Uttarakhand. Read More Details Here: Green-Ag project launched in Mizoram to bring transformative change in the farm sector

Dr. Harsh Vardhan released ebook titled “Standard Treatment Guidelines for the Management of Substance Use Disorders and Behavioural Addictions” The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare (MoH & FW), Harsh Vardhan, released an e-book, titled ‘Standard Treatment Guidelines (STG) for the Management of Substance Use Disorders (SUD) and Behavioural Addictions’ virtually. The guidelines in the book were developed by a group that works under the Tobacco control and Drug Dependence and Treatment program.

OTHER NATIONAL NEWS Government bans 59 Chinese mobile apps prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY), invoking its power under section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 read with the relevant provisions of the Information Technology (Procedure and Safeguards for Blocking of Access of Information by Public) Rules 2009 has decided to ban 59 apps (which includes popular apps like Tik Tok, UC Browser etc) due to their activities which are prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defence of India, security of state and public order.

Government Declares Entire Nagaland ‘Disturbed Area’ for 6 more Months Under AFSPA Act 1958 The Government of India declared the entire Nagaland as a “disturbed area” for another six months from 30th June 2020 to 31st December 2020 by exercising the powers conferred by Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958.

Government to release commemorative stamp to honour former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao Government announced that it will release commemorative stamp to honour former Prime Minister (9th Prime minister) PV Narasimha Rao after celebrating his 100th birth anniversary on June 28, 2020. He is regarded as the ‘Father of Indian Economic Reforms’. He was born on June 28, 1921 in Warangal.

Indian marine fish landings rose 2.1% to 3.56mt in 2019: CMFRI; Tamil Nadu tops According to the report “Annual Marine Fish Landings in India for 2019” by Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi, India’s marine fish production has increased marginally by 2.1% to 3.56 million tonnes (mt) in 2019 as compared to 3.49 mt in 2018. As per the report, Tamil Nadu grabbed the top in annual fish production followed by Gujarat and Kerala. The estimated value of fish landings in the country last year was Rs 60,881 crore with 15.6% increase over 2018.

NHAI to set up India’s 1st govt sponsored InvIT, Forms Committee to Appoint Senior Management for its Investment Manager Board National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) is undertaking the establishment of India’s first government or semi government promoted Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) under the Indian Trust Act, 1882 and Securities and Exchange Board of India (Infrastructure Investment Trusts) Regulations, 2014 to facilitate investment in the highway sector. NHAI has constituted a search-cum-selection committee for the appointment of two independent Directors and one Chairman for the Investment Manager Board in which Sukhbir Singh Sandhu (Chairman of NHAI) appointed as the convener.

M.V Asiatic Moon: A New Shipping Service b/w Kolkata Port & Chattogram Begins to Ease Indo- Bangla Trade Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP) [erstwhile Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT)] has started a new shipping service between Kolkata Dock System (KDS) and Chattogram (Bangladesh) through Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route to transport containers with the aim to increase the Indo-Bangla trade. The Container Ship ‘M.V Asiatic Moon (Singapore Flag) is expected to transport 300 containers of Indian exports to Bangladesh.

Indian Railways Sets up Solar Plant in Bina, MP & Becomes the 1st Organization in the World to Directly Supply Power to Railway Overhead Line For the 1st time in the world, Indian Railways (IR) will directly supply power to Overhead Traction System of train. To achieve this feat, Indian Railways has recently set up 1.7 MWp at Bina (Madhya Pradesh) which shall be connected directly to Overhead Traction System. The IR has partnered with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) for this first of its kind project in the world. Also, IR set the target to transform itself as ‘Net Zero’ Carbon Emission Mass Transportation Network by 2030.

CBSE Partners with Facebook For Curriculum on Digital Safety, Augmented Reality The Union Minister for Human Resource Development (HRD) Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ made an announcement on the partnership of Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and Facebook to launch a curriculum on Digital Safety and Online well-being and Augmented Reality (AR) for students and educators. As part of the collaboration, Facebook will support CBSE in its first-ever initiative to introduce AR as a curriculum.

DRDO to establish a research cell at IIT-H to meet the future defence technological requirements Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will establish a research cell at Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT-H), ‘DRDO – IIT-H Research Cell’ to meet the future defence technological requirements of the country. The research cell is established as an extension of the DRDO Research and Innovation Centre (RIC), Chennai.

New Building of IARI, Jharkhand named after Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee The new administrative and academic building of the Indian Agricultural research Institute (IARI), at Gouria Karma in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand is named after Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee the founder of Bharatiya Jan Sangh, on the event of his birth anniversary. Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of

Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj participated the virtual inauguration along with few others.

Assam Government to Upgrade Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary to National Park amid Coal Mining Row The government of Assam has decided to upgrade the 111.942 sq km Dehing Patkai (known as amazon of the east) Wildlife Sanctuary into a national park which is located within the larger Dehing Patkai Elephant Reserve, spreading across the coal- and oil-rich districts of Upper Assam (Dibrugarh, Tinsukia and Sivasagar). Post upgradation, Dehing Patkai will be the 6th national park in Assam. The other five are Kaziranga, Nameri, Manas, Orang and Dibru-Saikhowa. Read More Details Here: Assam Government to Upgrade Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary to National Park amid Coal Mining Row

Central Govt approved funds for Implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Himachal Pradesh & Goa On the lines of the announcement made by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 regarding Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) which aims to provide “Functional Household Tap Connection” (FHTC) to 18 Crore rural households of the country by the year 2024, the central government has approved funds (FY21) to Himachal Pradesh and Goa for the implementation of JJM .  HP to provide tap connections to all rural households by 2022; Received Rs. 326.20 Cr funds from Central Govt for FY21  Goa plans to provide 100% FHTC in rural areas by 2021; Received Rs. 12.40 Cr funds from Central Govt for FY21 Read More Details Here: Central Govt approved funds for Implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Himachal Pradesh & Goa

USAID’s SAGE Partnered with MNRE’s National Technical Institutions for Clean Energy Development The US Agency for International Development (USAID)- supported South Asia Group for Energy (SAGE) has collaborated with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)’s National Technical Institutions to increase US-India collaboration for clean energy development. South Asia Group for Energy (SAGE) provides advanced technical knowledge on clean energy development.

IIT-H collaborates with NVIDIA to establish India’s 1st NVIDIA AI Technology Centre Indian Institute of Technology – Hyderabad (IIT-H) collaborates with NVIDIA to establish India’s first ‘NVIDIA Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technology Centre' (NVAITC) to speed up the research work on AI and its commercial purpose.

T-Hub Partners with MeitY and Digital India to Lead Scale Up Program for Hardware Startups T-Hub announced their partnership with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) and Digital India to lead the scale up program of Digital India for hardware and Internet of Things (IoT) start-ups and to support the start-ups with investments and market access.

Chhattisgarh organises India’s first e-Lok Adalat Chhattisgarh State Legal Service Authority and the high Court organised India’s first e-Lok Adalat to ensure the administration of justice and to solve the financial crisis of the parties and lawyers amid COVID-19 pandemic. The high court Chief Justice P R Ramchandra Menon inaugurated the e-Lok Adalat through video conferencing.

Ministry of Shipping approved Rs 107 Crore for Modern Firefighting Facilities in Haldia Dock, Kolkata Mansukh Laxmanbhai Mandaviya, Union Minister of State (I/C) for Shipping approved Rs.107 Crore to improve the firefighting facilities on five jetties of Haldia Dock Complex of Kolkata Port. The modern firefighting facilities will enable safe and secure handling of the movement of petrochemical goods in the Haldia Dock Complex.

Union Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ released PRAGYATA Guidelines on Digital Education prepared by MoHRD Union Minister for Human Resource Development (MoHRD), Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, released the PRAGYATA Guidelines on Digital Education, over a virtual platform from Delhi in the presence of Sanjay Dhotre, Minister of State HRD. The guidelines were prepared by the Department of School Education & Literacy of the Ministry of HRD. The 8 steps under PRAGYATA include P-Plan; R-Review; A-Arrange; G- Guide; Y-Yak (talk); A-Assign; T-Track; A-Appreciate.

CoalMin to link mining plan portal with PARIVESH website The ministry of coal is planning to link the mining plan portal with PARIVESH website, a single-window hub for online submission, monitoring, and management of proposals submitted to the Environment Ministry for environment clearances (EC). This announcement was made by Coal Secretary Anil Kumar Jain during a stakeholder consultation on auction of coal mines for commercial mining organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

Anji Khad bridge: India’s 1st cable-stayed rail bridge by Indian Railways to connect Katra and Reasi in J&K The Union Minister of Railways, Piyush Goyal, has announced that the India’s first cable-stayed Indian Railways bridge namely “Anji Khad Bridge” being developed by Konkan Railway Corporation Limited (KRCL), is all set to connect Katra and Reasi in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) & crosses Chenab River. The cable-stayed railway bridge is a part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, which passes through the Young Himalayas. Notably, the USBRL project also involves the Chenab river bridge. The Chenab Bridge once completed, will become the world’s highest rail bridge.

Poba Reserve Forest in Assam’s Dhemaji to be upgraded to wildlife sanctuary The Chief Minister (CM) of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal has announced the upgradation of Poba Reserve Forest, a vital biodiversity hotspot in Dhemaji district of Assam, as a wildlife sanctuary.

Mansukh Mandaviya reviews deployment activities of India’s 1st trans-shipment hub – Vallarpadam Terminal of Cochin Port, Kerala Mansukh Laxmanbhai Mandaviya, Minister of State (I/C) for the Ministry of Shipping reviewed the development activities of the Vallarpadam Terminal (Kochi International Container Trans-shipment Terminal (ICTT)) of Cochin Port which is proposed to develop as India’s first and Asia’s leading trans- shipment port to ensure that Indian cargoes are trans-shipped through Indian Port.

Atal Innovation Mission Teams with Ministries to Support Start-ups with COVID-19 Solutions Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), flagship initiative of NITI Aayog teamed with other Ministries and its partners, to organize the series of virtual COVID-19 Demo Days to find the potential start-ups with innovative COVID-19 solutions and provide support to develop and scale up the solutions.

Govt to Increase Public Health Expenditure to 2.5% of GDP by 2025 In a meeting with the 15th Finance Commission the Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan highlighted that the government aims to gradually increase the public health expenditure to 2.5% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025.

Shipping Minister Mansukh Mandaviya virtually flagged off 1st container ship from Kolkata Port to Agartala via Chattogram port (Bangladesh) Union Minister of State for Shipping (I/C) Mansukh Mandaviya flagged off the first trial container ship from Kolkata (West Bengal) to Agartala (Tripura) through Chattogram Port of Bangladesh in a virtual ceremony. The will pave a way to boost maritime relationship with Bangladesh & will provide shorter route for India to access North East states. The standard operating procedure (SOP) for which was signed and exchanged between both nations during the Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina visit to India in October 2019.

CBSE collaborates with IBM to integrate AI in High School Curriculum of 2020-2021 The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), announced integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the high school (11th & 12th grade) curriculum for the 2020-2021 academic year. The curriculum was developed in collaboration with IBM (International Business Machines Corporation). The IBM AI curriculum is a part of CBSE’s Social Empowerment through Work Education and Action (SEWA) program.

Harsimrat Kaur Badal virtually addressed the Digital Indo- Italian Business Mission on Food Processing’ Union Minister for Food Processing Industries, Harsimrat Kaur Badal addressed the opening session of two-day long Digital Indo- Italian Business Mission on Food Processing held virtually. This webinar consisted of digital conferences; trade fair, and B2B (business to business) meetings where 23 Italian companies virtually exhibited their products and services for end users and other industry players in India.

ICWA-RIAC conference: India & Russia to explore Joint Projects in Asia and Africa India and Russia explores to activate the joint projects in Asia and Africa in the webinar on “India-Russia Relations in the Context of Post-Pandemic Global order”. The discussions were chaired by TCA Raghavan, Director General of ICWA and organised by Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC) and Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA).

Capitals of NE states to be connected through rail network by 2023 Railway Board Chairman Vinod Kumar Yadav has announced the connectivity of all capitals of North- Eastern (NE) states through rail network by 2023 during a virtual interaction with media. The capitals of Assam, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh are already connected. The work to connect capitals of Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Meghalaya is in progress. Indian Railways’ attempts to connect every part of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) to the railway are also underway, and the 111 km Katra - Banihal rail link project is likely to be completed by December 2022.

India Established Individual Bilateral ‘Air Bubbles’ with France, Germany and US Union Civil Aviation Minister Hardeep Singh Puri informed that India has established individual bilateral ‘air bubbles’ with France and the United States (US). In addition to this, a similar arrangement with Germany has been established and Lufthansa will be operating the flights. This agreement allows countries’ airlines to operate international flights.

Indian Railways to launch 1st set of private trains by 2023, all 151 by 2027 The Indian railways has planned to roll out 151 private train services by 2027 on 109 pairs of routes across the country. In this regard, Indian Railways is ready to introduce 12 trains in 2022-23, 45 in 2023- 2024, 50 in 2025-26 and 44 more in 2026-27, taking the total number of trains to 151 by the end of FY 2026-2027. There would be Rs 30,000 crore private sector investment in this project. The railways is expected to receive total haulage charges of around Rs. 3,000 crores per annum from operation of these 151 trains.

Maharashtra becomes the 1st State to use drones to inspect power lines and transmission towers Maharashtra State Electricity Transmission Company Limited (MSETCL) has started to use drones for aerial surveillance and inspection of extra high voltage (EHV) power transmission lines and towers. Maharashtra becomes the 1st state to do so. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs and the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) gave approval for this purpose. MSETCL becomes the 1st power utility to get approval from DGCA for power line inspections with drones in the country.

Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports Partners with UNICEF’s YuWaah to Mobilise 1 Crore Youth Volunteers to Achieve Goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) signed the statement of intent with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)’s multi stakeholder platform – YuWaah to mobilise 1 crore youth volunteers in India to achieve the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and to promote the volunteerism among the youth in India.

MoCA set up Investment Clearance Cell for Assistance & Clearance of Proposals in Aviation Sector; Headed by Amber Dubey The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has set up the Investment Clearance Cell (ICC) under the chairmanship of Amber Dubey, joint secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation. The ICC is a single window clearance mechanism for assistance and clearance of investment proposals in the domestic aviation industry. Nirmala Sitharaman, Finance Minister announced the setting up of ICC in the 2020-2021 Union Budget in February 2020.

Prakash Javadekar: Government approved the Zonal Master Plan of Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone During the review meeting of “Char Dham Road Project” over a virtual platform, Prakash Javadekar, the Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) informed the approval of the Zonal Master Plan (ZMP) of Bhagirathi Eco-Sensitive Zone by the Ministry Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) on 16th July 2020. The ZMP was prepared by the State government of Uttarakhand and appraised by the Ministry of Jal Shakti.

PM Narendra Modi Laid Foundation Stone for Manipur Water Supply Project Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, laid the foundation stone of the Manipur Water Supply Project, under the Jal Jeevan Mission designed to provide Freshwater Household Tap connections (FHTCs) to the rural households of Manipur. The outlay of the project with a loan component funded by New Development Bank is about Rs.3000 crores (~Rs.3054.58 crores).

Kakrapar Atomic Power Project’s Unit 3 in Gujarat: India’s First 700 MWe unit to Achieve Criticality The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) announced that, Unit-3 of Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP-3), India’s First 700 MWe (megawatt electric) and indigenously developed

Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) in Surat, Gujarat achieved its first criticality – initiation of controlled and sustained nuclear fission reaction on 22nd July 2020.

India to Have 60% Renewable Energy by 2030: R K Singh at Webinar On Energy Transition Minister of State (MoS I/C) Power and New & Renewable Energy, Raj Kumar Singh, stated that India will have around 60% of the installed capacity of the electricity generation from renewable resources by 2030, in the webinar on Energy Transition at the second pre-event hosted by The World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) 2021 in collaboration with Energy Transitions Commission (ETC) India on 21st July 2020. During the webinar R K Singh launched two reports titled ‘Renewable Power Pathways: Modelling the Integration of Wind and Solar in India by 2030’ and ‘Bending the Curve: 2025 Forecasts for Electricity Demand by Sector and State in the Light of the COVID Epidemic’ prepared by the Energy Transitions Commission (ETC) India.

Rs 8767 crore Approved for 81 projects under Special Window for Affordable and Mid Income Housing Investment Fund I Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman informed that so far Rs 8767 crore has been approved for 81 projects under Special Window for Affordable and Mid Income Housing (SWAMIH) Investment Fund I. The approved projects will enable the completion of almost 60,000 homes across India. The announcement was made when the performance of SWAMIH was reviewed with Secretaries of Ministries of Finance and senior management team of the State Bank of India, SBI Capital Markets Limited and SBICAPS Ventures Limited (SVL).

APSEZ Becomes the 1st Indian Port and 7th Port Globally to Sign Up for the Science-Based Targets initiative Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) becomes the 1st Indian port and 7th Port globally to sign up for the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi). By signing the commitment letter to SBTi, APSEZ is committed to set science-based emissions reduction targets that keep global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. SBTi is a collaboration between CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project), the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

SPRING Project-India & EU Partnered to Purify Sewage Water in Ganga & Godavari Rivers The IIT (Indian Institute of Technology), Banaras Hindu University (BHU) to develop a biotechnology based water treatment system for the purification of sewage water flowing into the rivers Ganga and Godavari through the SPRING Project. The project is funded by the Ministry of science & technology, Department of biotechnology, India with the European Union.

HRD Ministry Conducts First Ever Ind-SAT Test 2020 Under its Study in India Programme The Ministry of Human Resource & Development (MHRD) conducted the first ever Indian Scholastic Assessment (Ind-SAT) Test 2020 under study in India Programme on July 22, 2020. The exam was conducted in the proctored Internet mode by the National Testing Agency. ‘Study in India’ programme: The Primary objective is to target foreign students by branding India as an attractive education destination.

India extended medical assistance worth about USD 1 million to North Korea under WHO’s anti- tuberculosis programme On World Health Organisation (WHO)’s request, the Government of India (GoI) has extended medical assistance in the form of anti-tuberculosis medicines worth about USD 1 million to Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), popularly known as North Korea. It is to be noted that New Delhi’s medical

assistance is under the aegis of an ongoing WHO’s anti-tuberculosis programme in North Korea and hence exempted from the sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Govt imposed restrictions on public procurement from countries sharing land border with India by amending GFRs 2017 The Government of India (GoI) has amended the Rule 144 of General Financial Rules (GFRs) 2017 entitled “Fundamental principles of public buying” by inserting sub rule (ix) which has imposed restrictions on bidders of countries sharing land borders with India in public procurement tenders. This decision has been taken to strengthen the defence and national security of India. The order in this regard has been issued by the Department of Expenditure (DoE), Ministry of Finance. Read More Details Here: Govt imposed restrictions on public procurement from countries sharing land border with India by amending GFRs 2017

First in the World: India builds electrified rail tunnel capable to run double-stack containers India builds one kilometre (km) long World’s first electrified rail tunnel that fits double stack containers. It cuts through Aravalli mountain on the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC) near Sohna, Haryana. The project is implemented by the DFCCIL (Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited).

GoI funded 10 Broad Gauge Locomotives handed over to Bangladesh by Indian Railways in a virtual ceremony Indian Railways handed over the specifically modified 10 railway broad gauge locomotives to Bangladesh, which will help in handling the increasing volume of passenger and freight train operations in Bangladesh. The move was part of a sharpened focus on India’s “neighbourhood first” policy. The locomotives were flagged off virtually to Bangladesh by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal. From Bangladesh, the online ceremony was attended by Minister of Railway Md Nurul Islam Sujan and Minister of Foreign Affairs Abul Kalam Abdul Momen.

Govt released guidelines for 4 schemes to boost domestic manufacturing of bulk drugs & medical devices Parks Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Sadananda Gowda launched guidelines for four schemes of Department of Pharmaceuticals (under ministry of chemical & fertilizers), two each for Bulk Drugs and Medical Devices parks, on the lines of making India Atma Nirbhar in pharma sector to boost domestic manufacturing of bulk drugs and medical devices parks in India. Read More Details Here: Govt released guidelines for 4 schemes to boost domestic manufacturing of bulk drugs & medical devices Parks

Central Govt. with World Bank decides to convert ravines of Chambal region into arable land Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare announced that the Central Government in collaboration with the World Bank has decided to convert the area of ravines in the region of Gwalior-Chambal belt of Madhya Pradesh into cultivable land. The decision was made through a virtual meeting with Adarsh Kumar, representative of the World Bank.

India to set up Solar Power Plant in Sri Lanka Under the aegis of International Solar Alliance (ISA) NTPC Ltd, Largest power generation utility of India plans to establish solar power plants in Sri Lanka as a part of the strategy to exhibit the presence of India in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) amid China’s attempt to attract nations into the “Belt and Road” initiative.

GOVT SCHEMES

Harsimrat Kaur Badal virtually launched Rs 10,000 cr PM-FME Scheme; Operation Greens scheme extended to 18 more fruits, vegetables Minister for Food Processing Industries (FPI) Harsimrat Kaur Badal launched Centrally Sponsored Prime Minister Formalisation of Micro food processing Enterprises (PM FME) scheme named “Sapno ki Udaan” to be implemented over a period of five years from 2020-21 to 2024-25. With an outlay of Rs 10,000 crore, this scheme for the unorganized food processing sector.  35% Credit-linked capital subsidy for upgradation of micro food processing units  NIFTEM & IIFPT will be supported by MoFPI for training of units  Operation Greens scheme extended to 18 more fruits, vegetables Read More Details Here: Harsimrat Kaur Badal virtually launched Rs 10,000 cr PM-FME Scheme; Operation Greens scheme extended to 18 more fruits, vegetables

5 years of PMAY (U), Smart Cities Mission (SCM) and AMRUT completed on June 25, 2020 On June 25, 2020, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) organized an online event to mark the 5th Anniversary of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) (PMAY-U), Smart Cities Mission (SCM) and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT). Read More Details Here: 5 years of PMAY (U), Smart Cities Mission (SCM) and AMRUT completed on June 25, 2020

PM announced extension of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana till November 2020 Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during televised address to the nation, has announced the extension of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY) from July 2020 till the end of November 2020, with an outlay of more than Rs 90,000 crore. The scheme was initially rolled out for three months i.e. April- June (116.34 lakh metric tonne (LMT) food grains provided during that period).

DFPD estimated Rs 1,48,938 cr as cost for distribution of food grains and pulses under PMGKAY during April – Nov 2020 The Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD) under Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has worked out estimated cost for distribution of food grains (Rice and Wheat) and pulses under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY), which will be Rs 1,48,938 crore approx. for a period between 8 months from April to November 2020.

Odisha Launches 1st of its kind scheme, ‘Balaram’ to provide Rs 1,040 crore credit to 7 lakh Landless Farmers Government of Odisha launched 1st of its kind scheme, ‘Balaram’ to provide agricultural credit of Rs 1,040 crore to landless farmers facing hardships during COVID 19. The Scheme is designed in collaboration with National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).

Home Minister Amit Shah Distributed 100 Electric Potters Wheels to Artisans of Gujarat under KVIC’s ‘Kumhar Sashaktikaran Yojana’ Under the ‘Kumhar Sashaktikaran Yojana’ of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) Union Home Minister Amit Shah distributed 100 electric potter’s wheels to 100 trained artisans of Gujarat in a programme at the Gandhinagar constituency through video conferencing from New Delhi.

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

UNGA President Tijjani Muhammad-Bande Launched ‘Alliance for Poverty Eradication’; India Joins as Founding Member India became a founding member of the United Nation (UN)’s ‘Alliance for Poverty eradication’ launched by Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, President of the 74th United Nation’s General Assembly (UNGA). Over 271 million people of India have moved out of poverty between 2006 to 2016, according to the United Nations Development programme. Approximately 2.1 billion people are classified as poor across the globe, among which 767 million are living in extreme poverty.

WTO Dispute Settlement Body Sets Up Panel Against India’s ICT Duties Based on EU’s Complaint The World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Dispute Settlement Body (DBS) has established a panel after the European Union (EU) has dragged India into the Dispute Settlement System of WTO for the second time against import duties on ICT (information and communication technology) products, including mobile phones, cameras, headphones and earphones, imposed by the country. India is levying a fee up to 20 % on them & these charges will affect the EU’s exports of 400 million euros annually.

New Zealand Cancels the 2021 APEC’s Auckland Summit & opts to Virtual Summit New Zealand cancelled the 2021 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC -21 member group) forum that was scheduled to be held in Auckland, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and is opting to lead a virtual summit. The 2019 leaders’ meeting was cancelled by Chile due to violent anti-government protests and the virtual APEC meeting of 2020 are being hosted by Malaysia. The secretariat of APEC located at Singapore.

Uganda, First African Country to Submit Results of REDD+ to UNFCCC Uganda became the first African country to submit the results for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD+) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which has opened the way for potential result-based payments to Uganda. The capital and currency of Uganda are Kampala & Ugandan Shilling respectively.

77.9% Russians Grant Putin Right to Extend His Rule Until 2036 The 77.9% Russian electorate have voted in favour of constitutional amendments that will allow 67 years old President Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036 i.e. until the age of 83. His current term of 6 years will end in 2024. Means now, he will be re-elected twice under the constitutional amendments.

New School Infrastructure worth Rs 1.94 cr Funded by India inaugurated in Nepal via Video Conferencing A new four-storey school building, developed with the Indian assistance of Rs 1.94 crore (Nepalese Rupees (NPR) 31.13 million) under the Nepal-Bharat Maitri Development Cooperation programme has been inaugurated in Shri Saptmai Gurukul Sanskrit Vidyalaya, located in Ilam district of Nepal to boost the learning environment for students. The project was implemented by the District Coordination Committee (DCC), Ilam.

US formally notified UN of its Decision to Withdraw from WHO; Serves Notice Period till July 6, 2021 United States of America (USA), as a depositary of the 1946 Constitution of the World Health Organization (WHO), has formally notified the United Nations (UN) of its decision of withdrawal from WHO. The US, which has been a party to the WHO Constitution since June 21, 1948 is the largest funder to the WHO,

contributing more than USD 450 million per annum. US has to serve a 12-month notice period till July 6, 2021 & needs to clear the current and past dues currently owes to WHO, which is around $200 million.

Maldives & Sri Lanka are the 1st two countries in South-East Asia to eliminate Rubella and measles ahead of 2023 target: WHO According to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) South East Asian Region (SEAR) office, Maldives and Sri Lanka were verified to eliminate both measles and rubella, making them the first two countries in the WHO South-East Asia region to achieve beyond their 2023 target. All the 11 member countries of the South-East Asia region of WHO (which includes India) set year 2023 as a target to fight measles and rubella in September 2019.

Germany to Become First Major Economy to Phase out of Coal, Nuclear Power Germany became the first industrialized country to phase out of both coal and nuclear energy, On July 2020, both the houses of the German parliament approved the bill for shutting down the coal fired power plant by 2038 and to provide around 45 billion USD (40 billion Euro) for the affected regions. It closed its last black coal mine in 2018 and committed to close its nuclear power plants by 2022.

PM Modi addresses inaugural session of 3-day virtual India Global week 2020 organized in UK Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi has addressed the inaugural session of 3-day (July 9-July 11) virtual India Global week 2020 based on the theme ‘Be The Revival: India and a Better New World’ organized in UK (United Kingdom) by India Inc. Group.

New Admin and Academic block of Shree Mahadev Masta Chaturdev Campus Funded by India inaugurated virtually in Nepal The administrative and academic block of Shree Mahadev Masta Chaturdev Campus, constructed with the assistance of India under the Nepal-Bharat Maitri Development Cooperation programme at a cost of Nepali Rupees (NPR) 35.11 million (around Rs 2.20 crore) was inaugurated in Nepal’s Mugu district through Video Conference (VC). The construction was implemented by the District Coordination Committee, Mugu.

Mean Average Global Temperature could rise by 1.5° Celsius in 5 years: WMO The Geneva Based World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in its “Global Annual to Decadal Climate Update for 2020-2024” has forecasted that the annual mean global temperature is already at least 1° C higher now than during the period from 1850-1900 because of man-made greenhouse emissions and there is a 20% chance that it will exceed 1.5°C (2.7 Fahrenheit) in at least one year between 2020-2024. Overall, it is very likely to be within the range 0.91 – 1.59°C. Read More Details Here: Mean Average Global Temperature could rise by 1.5° Celsius in 5 years: WMO

WHO sets up Independent Panel Co-chaired by Helen Elizabeth Clark & Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for evaluation of global COVID-19 response World Health Organization (WHO) has formulated an Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response (IPPR) to evaluate the world’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Panel will be co- chaired by former Prime Minister of New Zealand Helen Elizabeth Clark (served as administrator of UNDP) and former President of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf (2011 Nobel Peace Prize winner).

NITI Aayog presented India’s 2nd Voluntary National Review at UN’s High-Level Political Forum; held virtually NITI Aayog presented India’s second Voluntary National Review (VNR) report titled “Decade of Action: Taking SDGs from Global to Local” at the United Nations High-level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development, 2020, which is being held virtually from July 7, 2020 to July 16, 2020, under the aegis of

the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). The theme of HLPF is “Accelerated action and transformative pathways: realizing the decade of action and delivery for sustainable development”. Read More Details Here: NITI Aayog presented India’s 2nd Voluntary National Review at UN’s High-Level Political Forum; held virtually

India in partnership with Chile & UN’s FAO Co-Hosted Event, “On the road to the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables 2021” India partnered with Chile & Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN) co- hosted the “On the road to the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables 2021: Highlighting health and nutritional benefits through sustainable production and consumption of fruits and vegetables”, side event of 2020 High-level Political forum. The Chile had championed to declare the year 2021 as an International Year of Fruits and Vegetables’ by UN General Assembly in 2019. India is the 2nd largest producer of fruits with around 98 million tonnes which is 10.9% of the world’s production with only 2.4% of the world’s land area.

India & Bhutan Opens New Trade Route to Improve Trade and Connectivity India and Bhutan opened a new trade route between Jaigaon in West Bengal and Ahlay, Pasakha in Bhutan to establish easy connectivity and to increase trade between India and Bhutan amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, India and Bhutan (Kholongchhu Hydro Energy Limited and Bhutan Government) signed a pact for the construction of 600 MW Kholongchhu project in Thimphu.

UNICEF India Partners with SAP India to Provide Career Counselling to Young People On World Youth skills Day (July 15), The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) India announced its partnership with SAP India, a software company to provide career counselling to young people on improving their skills to increase employment opportunities for them. To benefit the underserved young people of India, UNICEF India collaborates with YuWaah – UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited initiative to provide digital education and skills required for employment.

PM Modi delivers keynote address virtually at High-Level Segment of UN’s ECOSOC held at in New York, US Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a keynote address virtually at 2020’s High-Level Segment (HLS) of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) session held at the United Nations in New York, United States (US). The theme of this 2020 ECOSOC HLS was “Multilateralism after COVID19: What kind of UN do we need at the 75th anniversary”. UN will mark its 75th anniversary on 21st September 2020 on the theme, ‘The Future We Want, the UN We Need: Reaffirming our Collective Commitment to Multilateralism’.

India Remains as Lower-Middle-Income Economy: World Bank Country Classifications by Income Level 2020-2021 According to the New World Bank country classifications by income level 2020-2021, India remains in the classification, Lower-Middle-Income Economy. In total 218 countries have been included in this classification. The World Bank classifies countries into four income groups namely: low income, lower- middle income, upper-middle income, and high-income economies. The classifications are updated each year on July 1 and are based on Gross National Income (GNI) per capita in current USD (Atlas method exchange rates) of the previous year. Read More Details Here: India Remains as Lower-Middle-Income Economy: World Bank Country Classifications by Income Level 2020-2021

Turkmenistan became 25th country with Observer Status in World Trade Organization Turkmenistan became the 25th country who was granted observer status in the World Trade Organization (WTO) enabling the nation to establish permanent residence at WTO headquarter in Geneva, Switzerland and monitor its proceedings. Turkmenistan also became the last former Soviet republic to establish formal ties with the trade body.

Nicaragua becomes the 87th Country to sign the International Solar Alliance Framework Agreement The Republic of Nicaragua became the 87th country to sign the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement, an initiative to promote sustainable energy, led by India. Out of the 87 signed countries 67 countries have also ratified the ISA Framework agreement. The headquarters of ISA located at Gurugram, Haryana.

‘COVID-19 Law Lab’ Initiative launched to provide legal information worldwide The World Health Organization (WHO) along with other key bodies had launched COVID-19 Law Lab (www.COVIDLawLab.org). It is a database of laws that countries had implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This will help countries to establish and implement strong legal frameworks to manage the pandemic across the world. The lab is a joint project of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), WHO, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) and the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown University.

Climate-friendly Cooling can cut 460 Giga Tonnes of Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Cooling Emissions and Policy Synthesis Report The Cooling Emissions and Policy Synthesis Report from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Energy Agency (IEA) states that, by combining energy efficiency improvements with the transition away from super-polluting refrigerants, the world can avoid cumulative greenhouse gas emissions of between 210-460 Giga Tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (GtCO2e) over the next four decades. The report was authored by a range of experts under the guidance of a 15-member steering committee co-chaired by Mario Molina & Durwood Zaelke. The report is supported by the Kigali Cooling Efficiency Programme (K-CEP).

22 million children from South Asia missed out on early childhood education due to COVID-19: UNICEF According to the new research titled “Childcare in a global crisis: The impact of COVID-19 on work and family life” by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), 22 million children from South Asian countries (at least 40 million globally), including India, have missed out on early childhood education in their pre-school year due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic closure. This report was produced by UNICEF’s Office of Research – Innocenti. In the South Asia region, UNICEF covered Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka for the research.

Maldives launched 9 development projects under USD 5.6 million Indian Grant for HICDP The Government of India has handed over symbolic cheque of USD 5.6 million to the Government of Maldives. The cheque was handed over by the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid.

A 300-year-old temple, Sree Sree Joy Kali Matar temple reconstructed with Indian support in Natore, Bangladesh The reconstruction of a 300-year-old temple, Sree Sree Joy Kali Matar temple began in Natore, Bangladesh with Indian assistance. The Indian High Commissioner Riva Ganguly Das inaugurated the event virtually.

The High Commission of India in Bangladesh added that an MoU for the reconstruction of the temple at Lalbazar, Natore was signed on 23 October 2016.

UNICEF Publishes First of its kind report on Health crisis states 1 in 3 children poisoned by lead The New York based United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Pure Earth, international non-profit organization authored and published the first of kind report on the health crisis titled “The Toxic Truth: Children’s Exposure to Lead Pollution Undermines a Generation of Future Potential”. The report states that around 1 in every 3 that is around 800 million children across the world has the blood lead level above or at 5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL).

Narendra Modi & Pravind Jugnauth virtually inaugurated Supreme Court building in Port Louis, Mauritius Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with his Mauritian counterpart Pravind Jugnauth jointly inaugurated the new Supreme Court building of Mauritius in Port Louis through video conference. The Supreme Court building has been constructed with Indian grant assistance of US$ 30 million and is the first India-assisted infrastructure project within the Mauritius’ capital city - Port Louis.

SABIC in Spain to Become World’s First Large Scale Chemical Production Plant to Completely Run on Renewable Energy The Polycarbonate facility of SABIC in Spain, is set to become the World’s first large scale Chemical production industry to completely run on renewable power on signing a major agreement with Iberdrola, an electricity utility company to secure power from solar power projects. The Facility is expected to become fully operational by 2024 and support SABIC to achieve its clean energy target by 2025. BANKING & FINANCE

RBI IN NEWS FDI Up by $19 bn in FY20; Portfolio Investment Down by $13.7 bn: IIP Data Released by RBI According to India’s International Investment Position (IIP) data as at end-March 2020, released by Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country has raised by $19 billion while portfolio investment declined by $13.7 billion during 2019-20. Read More Details Here: FDI Up by $19 bn in FY20; Portfolio Investment Down by $13.7 bn: IIP Data Released by RBI

RBI conducted OMO of purchase and sale of G-secs for Rs 10,000 cr each; Borrowing facility to banks extended till Sept 30, 2020 Reserve Bank of India (RBI) conducted the simultaneous purchase of Government Securities (G-Secs), maturing between 2027 and 2033, and sale of 182 day and 364-day treasury bills (DTBs) under Open Market Operations (OMO) for Rs 10,000 crore each on July 2, 2020. This OMO is a part of “Operation Twist” to ease pressure evolving liquidity and market conditions. Read More Details Here: RBI conducted OMO of purchase and sale of G-secs for Rs 10,000 cr each; Borrowing facility to banks extended till Sept 30, 2020

Tamil Nadu Tops Market Borrowings Among States in India with a Collection of ₹30,500 crores for 2020-21: RBI According to data from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Tamil Nadu (TN) has topped market borrowings among States in India with a collection of Rs. 30,500 crores in the fiscal 2020-21 (FY 21). TN, which has accounted for 17% of the borrowings done through the issue of bonds (known as state development

Readloans), More has Detailsbeen followed Here: Tamil by Maharashtra Nadu Tops Market ₹25,500 Borrowings crore (14%), Among Andhra States Pradesh in India ₹17,000 with a Collection crore (9%), of Rajasthan30,500 crores ₹17,000 for 2020crore- 21:(9%). RBI

₹ RBI Releases Report of Committee for Analysis of QR Code headed by Prof. Deepak B Phatak Reserve Bank of India (RBI) publicized the “Report of the Committee for Analysis of QR (Quick Response) Code” under the chairmanship of Prof. Deepak B. Phatak on its website for comments / suggestions of various industry players currently involved in or associated with the use of QR codes before August 10, 2020.

RBI Signed USD 400 mn Currency Swap Facility for Sri Lanka Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has agreed to a USD 400 million currency swap facility for Sri Lanka, valid till November 2022. This will help Sri Lanka to meet its short-term international liquidity requirements and to boost its foreign exchange reserves following the economic crisis resulting from COVID-19. This Currency swap agreement was made under the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) framework.

Gross NPA of banks may rise to 12.5% by March 2021: RBI Financial Stability Report According to the 21st issue of Financial Stability Report (FSR), July 2020 by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released on July 24, 2020, the gross nonperforming assets (GNPA) ratio of all scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) may increase from 8.5% in March 2020 to 12.5% by March 2021 under the baseline scenario; the ratio may escalate to 14.7% under a very severely stressed scenario. Read More Details Here: Gross NPA of banks may rise to 12.5% by March 2021: RBI Financial Stability Report

BANKING TECHNOLOGY Swiggy in Partnership with ICICI Bank Launches an Industry- First Instant Digital Wallet, ‘Swiggy Money’ Online food delivery and ordering platform, Swiggy has launched its own digital wallet, ‘Swiggy Money’ in partnership with ICICI Bank to enable a ‘single-click checkout experience’ on its platform. It is an industry- first instant digital wallet. The Swiggy Money is powered by ICICI Bank’s ‘insta wallet service’ which is built on a cloud platform with Application Programming Interface (API) integration.

ICICI bank Launched a Facility, ‘Insta Loans against Mutual Funds’, in Partnership with Computer Age Management Services The Mumbai based ICICI Bank in partnership with Computer Age Management Services (CAMS) launched ‘Insta Loans against Mutual Funds’, a facility for retail customers to avail loans up to Rs 1 crore instantly by pledging their holdings in both debt and equity Mutual Funds (MFs).

HDFC Bank to Offer ‘ZipDrive’, an Online Instant Auto Loans to its Customers HDFC Bank announced that it will offer ‘ZipDrive’, an online instant auto loan to its customers in 1,000 cities. The auto loan disbursal product is only for customers with pre-approved offers. It is a technology- enabled loan product where credit assessment is done by banking software.

YES Bank Launches a Digital Solution, ‘Loan in Seconds’ for Instant Disbursement of Retail Loans The Mumbai headquartered YES Bank launched a digital solution, ‘Loan in Seconds’ for instant disbursement of retail loans. It is available for the bank’s pre-approved liability account holders. The algorithm evaluates the loan application in real-time and eliminates the need for documentation.

Bank of Baroda Launched ‘Insta Click Savings Account’, 100% Paperless Digital Self-Assisted Online Savings Account India’s third-largest public sector bank, Bank of Baroda (BoB) launched ‘Insta Click Savings Account’, a 100% paperless digital self-assisted online savings account. It can be activated in real-time i.e; the customer can transact using the Baroda M Connect Plus application with the MPIN received on the mobile number.

AGREEMENTS & MOU’S SIGNED BANKS SIGNED WITH KEY NOTES World Bank Government of India Signed an agreement along with the Government of Tamil Nadu to help the low-income groups in the state of Tamil Nadu to get access to affordable housing. The agreement was signed for 2 projects, First Tamil Nadu Housing Sector Strengthening Programme worth $200 million (Rs 1,510 crore) & Tamil Nadu Housing and Habitat Development Project worth $50 million (Rs 377 crore). Karur Vysya Bank Star Health and Allied Karur Vysya Bank (KVB) has joined hands with Star Health (KVB) Insurance Co Ltd and Allied Insurance Co Ltd for bancassurance, through which KVB will market wide range health insurance products of the Star Health through its 780 branches. Note: Bancassurance is a partnership between a bank and an insurance company, where the bank sells the tied insurance company’s insurance products to its clients. Asian Development International Energy Asian Development Bank (ADB) has renewed a MOU with

Bank (ADB) Agency (IEA) Paris headquartered International Energy Agency (IEA) during IEA’s Clean Energy Transitions Summit 2020 with the aim to further increase the collaboration on sustainability with a focus on energy sector resilience in Asia and the Pacific. ADB earlier inked a 3-year MOU with IEA in March 2017. Asian Development Green Climate Fund The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Green Climate Bank (ADB) (GCF) Fund (GCF) agreed to partner toward the “Green Recovery”. This is to help hands for the people who are facing the harsh economic impact due to COVID-19 pandemic.

OTHER BANKING NEWS World Bank Approves USD 750 Million MSME Emergency Response Program for India The World Bank approved a USD 750 million (about Rs.5600 Crore) Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Emergency Response Program to support severely impacted MSMEs in India due to COVID-19 crisis. The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) will provide the loan. The World bank has lent USD 5.13 billion to India in the financial year 2020. It has committed USD 2.75 billion to support India’s emergency COVID-19 response.

ADB Joins Network for Greening the Financial System as Observer Asian Development Bank (ADB), a regional development bank, has joined the Paris (France)-based Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) as an observer. With this, ADB now joins the ranks of the World Bank (WB), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) as NGFS observers.

Kotak Mahindra Bank & Innoviti Collaborates to Offer EMIs on Kotak Debit Cards Swiped on Innoviti POS Terminals Kotak Mahindra Bank and Innoviti Payment Solutions Pvt. Ltd. announced that they have collaborated to provide Equated Monthly Instalments (EMI) billing options on Kotak Debit Cards which are swiped on Innoviti Point of Sale (POS) terminals.

SBM Bank India Partnered with Mastercard to facilitate Real-time domestic & cross-border payments & remittances through ‘Mastercard Send’ SBM Bank (sponsored by Mauritius government) India has partnered with Mastercard to enable its customers to make real-time domestic & cross-border payments (Business to Consumer- B2C) and remittances quickly and efficiently through ‘Mastercard Send’.

Fino Payments Bank launches ‘Bhavishya’ Savings Account for Minors Aged between 10-18 years Fino Payments Bank Limited launched ‘Bhavishya,’ a savings account scheme for minors aged between 10-18 years. The subscription-based savings account aims to inculcate banking and saving habits in children. The Bhavishya Savings Account can be only opened through the Electronic-Know Your Customer(e-KYC) mode.

Deutsche Bank and Google Cloud to Enter into a Multi-Year, Strategic Partnership The Frankfurt (Germany) headquartered Deutsche Bank and Google Cloud have proposed to enter into a strategic, multi-year partnership. The partnership focuses on redefining how the bank develops and offers its financial services.

Karur Vysya Bank Enters into Bancassurance Corporate Agency Partnership with Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Karur Vysya Bank (KVB), a Scheduled Commercial Bank in India has joined hands with Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance for bancassurance. Note: Bancassurance is a partnership between a bank and an insurance company, where the bank sells the tied insurance company’s insurance products to its clients.

ADB & EAA Foundation Collaborated in $100 million Project to Provide Quality Primary Education for out of school children The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has entered into a 5-year agreement with Qatar-based Education Above All (EAA) Foundation to work jointly for project worth of $100 million to put at least 3.2 lakh out- of-school children, including refugees and internally displaced children into quality primary education. The ADB will help India and 9 other Asian nations to ensure quality education for the out-of-school and at-risk children in the primary level.

Visa Partners with Federal Bank to Deploy Visa Secure to the Bank’s Cardholders Visa, enters into partnership with Federal Bank to deploy Visa Secure to the bank’s cardholders. Visa Secure will provide additional authentication layers for issuers and merchants to combat online frauds. In addition to this, the upgraded technology provides a quick and smooth checkout experience to consumers. Visa Secure is a global authentication program that uses the latest standards of the EMV (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa) 3DS (3D Secure) protocol.

NABARD organised a ‘digital choupal’ to mark its 39th Foundation Day; 2 schemes each of Rs 5,000 cr announced On July 12, 2020, National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has celebrated its 39th Foundation day. On July 13, 2020, NABARD has organized its first “digital choupal”, a video conference which brought together farmers from across the country. On this occasion, NABARD has

announced Rs 5,000 crore of refinance scheme for banks and financial institutions and also earmarked another Rs 5,000 crore for turning Primary Agricultural Credit Societies, into multi service centres.

NABARD disbursed Rs 2.51 cr grant assistance to SHGs & Rs 221.89 cr to support 298 watershed project in Karnataka National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has disbursed Rs 2.51 crore of grant assistance to Self Help Groups (SHGs) for promotion, skill development and digitisation of records in Karnataka. This funding is a part of eShakti or Digitisation of SHGs an initiative of Micro Credit and Innovations Department (mCID) of NABARD. Also, NABARD has extended a grant assistance of Rs 221.89 crore to support 298 watershed projects in over three lakh hectares benefitting 66,500 families.

CBDT launched tool for banks, co-operative societies & post offices to ascertain TDS applicability rates on cash withdrawals A new functionality of Income Tax Department namely “Verification of applicability u/s 194N” which is available on www.incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in since July 1, 2020 has now made accessible for banks, cooperative societies, and post offices through web-services by Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). Read More Details Here: CBDT launched tool for banks, co-operative societies & post offices to ascertain TDS applicability rates on cash withdrawals

NABARD Launched Development Projects worth Rs 44 lakhs in Andaman and Nicobar Islands National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) launched development projects of Rs 44 lakhs in Andaman and Nicobar Islands to strengthen the Atmanirbhar Bharat through rural entrepreneurship. The development projects include formation and development of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). NABARD has also partnered with the Centre of Agriculture Research Institute (CARI) to conduct agricultural programmes with an amount of Rs 20 lakh.

NABARD Sanctioned Rs 795 crore to West Bengal for Reconstructing Infrastructure Damaged by Cyclone Amphan National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has sanctioned Rs 795 crore to West Bengal to reconstruct infrastructure which was damaged by Cyclone Amphan (May 2020) under Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF). NABARD has already provided Rs 145 crore under RIDF to the state as special liquidity support to enhance rural infrastructure considering the COVID-19 pandemic.

Harsh Vardhan Launched PNB’s Nationwide CSR Campaign to Fight COVID-19 Pandemic Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Vardhan launched New Delhi based Punjab National Bank (PNB)’s nationwide Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) campaign to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by distributing face masks and sanitizers. S.S. Mallikarjuna Rao is the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PNB.

LIC-UBI announced corporate agency pact The Mumbai headquartered Union Bank of India (UBI), after its amalgamation with Corporation Bank and Andhra Bank, has announced a corporate agency agreement with Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) to distribute latter’s policies. As per the pact, UBI can act as a financial supermarket by offering LIC products of term insurance, pension, plan, children plan, ULIPs, and endowment schemes to its account holders, whereby they can select products according to their choice.

FamPay launched India’s 1st numberless card, Famcard FamPay, India’s first Neobank for teenagers, in partnership with IDFC First Bank launched India’s 1st numberless card, FamCard. FamPay with National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) developed this card. This card is accepted across the RuPay payment network of merchants.

Airtel Payments Bank Partnered with NSDC to Skill Rural Youth for Financial Services Sector Jobs The New Delhi based Airtel Payments Bank Ltd has partnered with National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to train and skill the youth in rural India. This will enable them to find employment opportunities and become entrepreneurs in the financial services sector.

Bank of Maharashtra joined hands with Uniken for Omni-channel security The Pune based Bank of Maharashtra has joined hands with Uniken, a pioneer in the field of digital security in India to secure its Internet banking channels on mobile, card, call centres and ATMs, among others, against cyber fraud. In this regard, the bank will use Uniken’s REL-ID technology for Omni-channel security for its online banking app MahaSecure.

SBI provided USD 16.20 million liquidity support for local businesses in Maldives as COVID-relief State Bank of India (SBI) provided liquidity support of USD 16.20 million as a COVID-relief for the Government of Maldives to overcome liquidity shortage on the occasion of Independence Day of the Maldives on July 26, 2020.

ADB Approves 3 Million USD Grant to India to Support COVID-19 Response The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved the 3 Million USD grant (about Rs.22 Crore) from the ADB’s Asia Pacific Disaster Response Fund (APDRF), financed by Japanese government to India to support the Government’s emergency response to COVID-19.

FINANCE NEWS GoI approved special liquidity scheme for NBFCs and HFCs through SBICAP as SPV

Government of India (GoI) has approved a scheme for improving the short-term liquidity position of non- banking finance companies (NBFCs)/housing finance companies (HFCs) through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) in the form of Special Liquidity Scheme (SLS) Trust set up by SBI Capital Markets Limited (SBICAP). This SLS of Rs. 30,000 crores were announced by Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman on 13th March 2020. Read More Details Here: GoI approved special liquidity scheme for NBFCs and HFCs through SBICAP as SPV

Edelweiss AMC to Launch Second Tranche of ‘BHARAT Bond ETF’; Target to Raise Rs 14000 crore Edelweiss Asset Management Company (AMC) has decided to bring the second instalment of the Bharat Bond ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) with two new series having maturities of 5 years (April 2025) and 11 years (April 2031) to raise Rs 14,000 crore. The new five-year and 11-year ETFs track have yields of 5.65% and 6.76%, respectively, as on 1 July. Earlier in December 2019, in the opening series of ETF, Rs 12,400 crore was raised.

IndiaFirst Life Insurance Associates with BOB Financial to Offer COVID-19 cum Hospital Cash Cover to BOB Credit Cardholders IndiaFirst Life Insurance Company Limited (It was promoted by Bank of Baroda and Union Bank of India) associated with BOB Financial Services Limited (BOB Financial), a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of Baroda (BOB) to offer a group insurance cover. The cover will provide financial support to the BOB credit card customers upon their hospitalisation or on COVID-19 diagnosis.

Liberty General Insurance launches 1st of its kind innovative service ‘Liberty Assure’ The Mumbai based Liberty General Insurance launches 1st of its kind innovative service ‘Liberty Assure’. The Motor (car) insurance customers who avail this service, are not required to pay the ‘Compulsory

Deductible’ cost for each claim. In addition to this no premium will be charged from the buyers to provide this unique cost-effective feature at the time of raising a claim/loss. The service was provided under the Regulatory Sandbox approval received from the Insurance regulatory agency, IRDAI.

Ola Enters into a Strategic Partnership with PhonePe to Enhance its Digital Payments Experience for its Customers The ridesharing Company; Ola announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Bengaluru based PhonePe to boost its digital payments experience for its customers.

AIIB Releases USD 50 mn as 1st Tranche to L&T Infrastructure Finance for Renewable Energy The Beijing Headquartered Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has released USD 50 million in the first tranche of assistance to L&T Infrastructure Finance Ltd (LTIF), to fund renewable Energy Projects in the country. The released amount is part of a sanctioned USD 100 million External Commercial Borrowing (ECB) loan. This is the 1st loan of AIIB to a non-banking financial company (NBFC) in India.

IRDAI Revised Arogya Sanjeevani Policy limit; Minimum Insurance limit Rs.50000 & Maximum Insurance limit beyond 5 Lakh The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has allowed all general and health insurance companies to increase the sum insured on the Standard Individual Health Insurance Product namely “Arogya Sanjeevani” beyond Rs 5 lakh. Earlier the product had a cap of Rs 5 lakh on the sum insured and the minimum cover for it was of Rs 1 lakh. The regulator has now allowed insurers to offer sum insured as low as Rs 50,000 with no upper limit. The sum insured has to be in multiples of Rs 50,000.

Mastercard to Invest Rs 250 cr to Support SMEs in India Amid COVID-19 Crisis Mastercard has announced that it will invest Rs 250 crore (USD 33 million) to support Indian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to enable the SMEs to restart itself and help them in business recovery. SMEs have been hit hardest during the lockdown caused by COVID-19 due to their dependence on the cash- economy and disruption of the supply chain.

IRDAI mandated insurance companies to launch ‘Corona Kavach’ & ‘Corona Rakshak’ amid increasing COVID-19 cases Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) made it mandatory for all general and health insurers to launch short-term standard health policies for COVID-19 viz. Corona Kavach and Corona Rakshak, due to increase in COVID-19 cases in India. Minimum entry age for both the policies will be 18 years and the maximum 65. Corona Kavach – Tenure – 3.5 – 9.5 months; Max sum – 5 Lakh; Min sum – 50,000. Corona Rakshak – Tenure - 3.5 – 9.5 months; Max sum – 2.5 Lakh; Min sum – 50,000.

World’s largest 1st Global Fintech Fest held virtually; UPI AutoPay, RuPay commercial card & OCEN protocol launched The 1st edition of two days long (July 22-23, 2020) world’s largest Global Fintech Fest (GFF) was held virtually, which was organized by Payments Council of India (PCI) and Fintech Convergence Council (FCC) at National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) under the theme “Fintech: With and Beyond COVID”. The aim of the fest was to bring together the global FinTech and Banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI) sector.  NPCI launched UPI AutoPAy to ease online recurring payments  NPCI launched SBM EnKash RuPay Business Card for small business  Nandan Nilekani launched open credit protocol network  SEBI formed committee for financial and regulatory technology

Read More Details Here: World’s largest 1st Global Fintech Fest held virtually; UPI AutoPay, RuPay commercial card & OCEN protocol launched

Amazon Pay partnered with Acko General Insurance Ltd to offer auto insurance in India Amazon Pay, the payments arm of Amazon India has partnered with Acko General Insurance Ltd to offer auto insurance for two and four-wheelers in India, a 100% paperless insurance plan. Customers can avail this auto insurance from Amazon Pay page, Amazon app or mobile website and can get a quote for their car or bike’s insurance by providing basic details.

ICICI Lombard in partnership with PhonePe launched Hospital Daily cash benefit ICICI Lombard in partnership with PhonePe has launched Hospital Daily cash benefit under its Group Safeguard Insurance policy, a sachet-based group insurance product. It is a customized hospitalisation policy that allows PhonePe users to get an assured amount if they are hospitalised due to injury or illnesses (including COVID-19).

IRCTC and SBI Card launched a Co-Branded Contactless Credit Card on RuPay Platform Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Limited (IRCTC) and Gurugram based SBI Card launched a co-branded contactless credit card, IRCTC -SBI Platinum Card on RuPay Platform to reward the frequent railway travellers. The card is equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) technology by which users can facilitate their transactions at the point of sale (POS) machines by Tap and Pay Option.

Bharti AXA General Insurance Launched Crop Insurance Campaign, ‘Bohot Zaroori Hai’ for Farmers Bharti AXA General Insurance has launched its crop insurance campaign,’Bohot Zaroori Hai’ for farmers in Maharashtra and Karnataka to encourage them about their yield protection and financial security. Bharti AXA General Insurance had received Rs 800 crore worth crop insurance mandate from the governments of Maharashtra and Karnataka to insure their farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).

BOB Financial Solutions Limited ropes Fiserv, Inc for Digital Transformation BOB Financial Solutions Limited (BFSL) has chosen Fiserv, Inc. to enable the digitization of their end-to- end card issuance and processing cycle and support the launch of several new and high-tech products including contactless credit cards, virtual credit cards among others. For this purpose, BFSL will utilize Fiserv’s FirstVisionTM, an end-to-end managed services solution.

ECONOMY & BUSINESS

GDP & GROWTH RATE ORGANIZATION YEAR RATE Fitch Ratings Inc FY 2021-22 8% Fitch Ratings Inc in its June 2020 update of Global Economic Outlook (GEO), has lowered India’s growth forecast for FY 2021-22 to 8% from 9.5 % projected in May 2020 due to the toughest lockdown imposed by the central government to prevent the outbreak of COVID-19. However, Fitch has not made any change in its previous estimate of a (–) 5% in the economy during the FY21. CARE Ratings FY21 6.4 % contraction Limited

CARE Ratings Limited in its report, ‘Revised GDP growth projections for FY21’ has projected a 6.4 % contraction (or -6.4%) in India’s GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth for the current financial year FY 21 due to the continuous lockdown imposed for prevention of COVID-19 epidemic. FICCI FY2020-21 (-) 4.5% According to the latest round of Economic Outlook Survey of FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry), India’s annual median Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for FY2020-21 has been declined to (-) 4.5% with a minimum and maximum growth estimate of (-) 6.4% and 1.5% respectively, as compared to January 2020 estimate of 5.5%. As per the survey, there is a possibility of V-shaped recovery with government expenditure as in the current situation. ICRA Limited FY21 Contract by 9.5% (-9.5%) ICRA Limited (formerly Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency) projects India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to contract by 9.5% (-9.5%) in FY21 from 5% earlier forecasted as ongoing lockdowns in some states have affected the recovery seen in May and June 2020. India Ratings and FY21 Contract by 5.3% (-5.3%) Research (Ind-Ra) As per the research report of India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra), Centre’s fiscal deficit is estimated to increase to 7.6% in FY21, which is twice the budget estimate as the country spends more to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic, facing a shortfall in revenues. The report projects India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to contract by 5.3% (or -5.3%) in FY21. Nomura Holdings, FY21 Contract by 6.1% (-6.1%) Inc As per the report of Nomura Holdings, Inc, a Japanese brokerage firm, India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is likely to contract by 6.1% (-6.1%) in FY21 as economic activity continues to be weak due to COVID-19 pandemic. DBS FY21 Contract by 6% (-6%) As per the report of DBS (Formerly, Development Bank of Singapore), Singaporean brokerage, India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will contract by 6% (-6%) in FY21 as the economy is yet to stabilise the COVID -19 infection curve and due to the caseload in the economically key states. This will affect the economy badly.

ECONOMY NEWS India’s External debt increased by 2.8% to $558.5 bn in FY20: RBI data In accordance with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, India’s external debt stood at $558.5 billion in March 2020, an increase of $15.4 billion or 2.8% as compared to the March 2019. The largest component of the external debt is Commercial borrowings with a share of 39.4%, followed by non-resident deposits at 23.4% and short-term trade credit at 18.2%. In terms of currency, United States (US) dollar- denominated debt continued to be the largest component of India’s external debt, with a share of 53.7% at end-March 2020. Read More Details Here: India’s External debt increased by 2.8% to $558.5 bn in FY20: RBI data

NLC, Coal India to form 50:50 JV to develop solar and thermal power assets NLC India Limited signed a pact with Coal India Ltd (CIL) to form a joint venture (JV) to develop 5,000 megawatts (MW) of solar and thermal power assets across the country. There will be equal equity participation of both companies in the proposed JV i.e. in the ratio of 50:50. Notably, both undertakings are under the administrative control of the Ministry of Coal.

Global economy to contract by 5.2 pc in 2020: D&B’s Country Risk and Global Outlook Report According to Dun and Bradstreet’s (D&B) Country Risk and Global Outlook Report, which has covered 132 countries, the global economy is likely to contract by 5.2% in 2020. India’s economy is expected to contract this fiscal year after four decades of positive growth. In March, 2020 D&B downgraded India’s rating to DB5c from DB4d, stating the magnitude of downgrade and the risk level highest since 1994. The D&B divided the risk indicators in 7 seven bands DB1 to DB7, which is subdivided into quartiles (a-d).

US remain India’s top trading partner in 2019-20 with USD 88.75 billion bilateral trade According to the data of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the United States (US) remained India’s top trading partner for the second consecutive fiscal in 2019-20 as bilateral trade between the US and India stood at USD 88.75 billion as against USD 87.96 billion in 2018-19. On the other hand, the bilateral trade between India and China has dropped to USD 81.87 billion in 2019-20 from USD 87.08 billion in 2018-19. In 2018-19, the US first surpassed China to become India’s top trading partner.

Google Launches $10 Billion Digitization Fund in India The Alphabet Inc. & Google Chief Executive Officer Sundar Pichai announced an investment of $10 billion (Rs 75,000 crore) in India through the “Google for India Digitisation Fund” which will be utilised in another five to seven years to digitize the Indian Economy. The announcement comes after a virtual meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also, Google is set to enter into partnership with Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to promote online education in India.

CBDT launched revised Form 26AS; Details of Specified Financial Transactions included In order to enhance the flow of information between taxpayers and tax authorities, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has launched a revised auto-generated Form 26AS namely “Annual Information Statement (AIS)” from this assessment year of 2020-2021 w.e.f. June 1. The key difference between the new and old form is that the former will also reflect the details of “specified financial transactions (SFT)” i.e. all high-value transactions of individuals, companies, partnership firms, etc. which are filed with the tax department under Section 285BA of the Income-tax Act, 1961. Read More Details Here: CBDT launched revised Form 26AS; Details of Specified Financial Transactions included

BUSINESS NEWS SAP India Rolls Out Global Bharat Program to Digitalise MSMEs SAP India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Germany based enterprise technology firm, in partnership with National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) Foundation, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Pratham InfoTech Foundation, has rolled out Global Bharat program to equip micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by providing them access to global marketplace, digital skilling for the workforce and transforming business processes.

NSDC Collaborates with Microsoft India to Provide Digital Skills to Indian Youth The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has joined hands with tech giant company Microsoft India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation, to enhance the digital skills of the country’s youth. Under this, more than 1 lakh youth will be digitally enabled in the country in the

next one year. As part of the tie-up, Microsoft’s learning resource centre, Microsoft Learn, will be integrated with NSDC’s eSkill India portal.

India’s HIL supplied 20.60 MT of DDT 75 % WP to South Africa for malaria control HIL (formerly Hindustan Insecticides Limited), a PSU under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has supplied 20.60 Metric tonne of DDT (Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane) 75 % Wettable powder (WP) to South Africa for their Malaria control program in three province adjoining Mozambique. The company is in process of supplying DDT 75% WP to Zimbabwe (128 MT) and Zambia (113 MT) in the current FY 2020-21.

RIL becomes the 1st Indian company to reach Market Cap of Rs 13 lakh crore; Becomes 48th largest company in market cap globally As stock market data, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) becomes the 1st Indian company to reach Market Capitalisation (m-cap) of Rs 13 lakh crore. It becomes the world’s 48th largest company by m-cap, ahead of Abbott Labs, Oracle, Chevron and Unilever. The United States listed Reliance Jio among the companies that are becoming “Clean Telcos”.

RIL becomes world’s second most valuable energy company, overtaking ExxonMobil Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) became the world’s second most valuable energy company, overtaking American oil giant ExxonMobil after its market capitalisation (m-cap) reached over Rs 14 lakh crore (14.1 trillion or USD 189.3 billion). Aramco tops the list. Note: RIL is the 1st ever Indian company that crossed the m-cap of Rs 14 trillion.

IOC and France’s Total S.A. formed 50:50 JV to make superior quality bitumen Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has formed an equal (50:50) Joint Venture (JV) with France’s Total S.A. to manufacture and market high-quality innovative bitumen derivatives and superior quality products like polymer-modified bitumen, crumb rubber modified bitumen among others for the growing road-building industry in India. The JV will commence by taking over an existing plant of Total at Jodhpur, Rajasthan.

MoU’s & AGREEMENTS

MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY COUNTRIES MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE India Bangladesh Signed an agreement for formation of 50:50 Joint Venture Company (JVC) of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) business in Bangladesh. IOC Middle East FZE, Dubai, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Indian Oil Corporation and RR Holdings Ltd., Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, the holding company of Beximco LPG, Bangladesh. India Indonesia In order to bolster the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Indonesia, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Indonesian Coast Guard (Badan Keamanan Laut Republik Indonesia) on ‘Maritime Safety and Security’. The capital and currency of Indonesia are Jakarta & Indonesian rupiah respectively. India Afghanistan Government of India has inked 5 Memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Afghanistan under the former’s high impact community development projects (HICDP) programme. The objective behind these MoUs is the development of educational infrastructure in four Afghan provinces namely Nooristan, Farah, Badakhshan and Kapisa.

India Israel Signed an agreement to further expand their collaboration in dealing with cyber threats. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), a unit of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, and Israel’s National Cyber Directorate (INCD). India Maldives Government of India (GoI) has signed an agreement with Ministry of Health of Maldives for the establishment of ‘Emergency Medical Services Unit’ at Baa Atoll Dharavandhoo Hospital in Malé. The project would cost MVR (Maldivian rufiyaa) 8.5 million (Approx. Rs 4,14,58,782) out of which MVR 7.5 million (Approx. Rs 3,64,03,786) is grant from India. It will be constructed by LF Construction Pvt Ltd of Maldives. Pakistan China The Pakistan and Gezhouba Group Company Limited of China signed an Engineer Procurement and Contract (EPC) agreement for the 700 MW Azad Pattan Hydel Power Project on Jhelum River in the Sudhnoti District of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). This 1.5 billion USD project is a 2nd power project under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Click here India Maldives India and Maldives inked an agreement to set up Geydoshu Mas Plant (Neighbourhood Fish Processing Plants) at two islands in the Addu city of Maldives namely Maradhoo and Hulhudhoo. This agreement is also first in the series of “Indian Grant Assistance for Implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects through local bodies” in Maldives at a total cost of $5.5 million.

MoU’s WITH STATES STATE MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE Karnataka Flipkart Flipkart and the Department of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Mines of Government of Karnataka signed a MoU under Flipkart’s Samrath programme to promote the arts, Crafts and Handloom sector of Karnataka by providing market access through e-commerce platform and to increase the local business. Andhra Pradesh AMUL The Government of Andhra Pradesh signed a MoU with AMUL (Anand Milk Union Limited) to empower women self- help groups (SHG) and to encourage the cooperatives in government sectors. Andhra Pradesh produces around 4 crore litres of milk per day and stands 4th in the production of Milk with only 24% under the organised sector. Jharkhand HDFC Bank To provide digital payment solutions to the state’s transport department. Punjab (IIT) – Ropar The Punjab government signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) – Ropar, for Skill Development in Chandigarh. Gujarat UKIBC The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) signed a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) over a virtual platform with the Industrial Extension Bureau (iNDEXTb), Industries and Mines Department, Government of Gujarat to

speed up the business and industrial development process of Gujarat.

MoU’s BETWEEN ORGANIZATION ORGANIZATION MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE Indian Railways RailTel (PSU Signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for installation under ministry of of an IP-based video surveillance system (VSS) at 6,049 railway railways) stations across the country. This is a part of Digital India initiative. NMPB ICAR- National A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Bureau of Plant the National Medicinal plants Board (NMPB) under the Ministry Genetic Resources of AYUSH and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)- National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR – located at New Delhi) under Department of Agricultural Research and Education to conserve Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Genetic Resources (MAPGRs). UKIBC MIDC The UK India Business Council (UKIBC) signed a MoU with Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), to improve the business relationship between India (Maharashtra) and the United Kingdom (UK). Central Board of SEBI The New Delhi based Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and Direct Taxes (CBDT) Mumbai headquartered Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the data exchange between the two organisations via video

conference. It facilitates sharing of data and information automatically between the two organisations on a regular basis. IIT Alumni Council CSIR-IGIB The Alumni Council of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT Alumni Council) signed an agreement for joint research on COVID-19 and patient data analysis with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), New Delhi. The IIT Alumni Council is setting up the “MegaLab” in Mumbai, the world’s largest molecular diagnostic lab and “MegaTx” antibody facility for treatment based biologics as a part of this partnership. EESL NOIDA Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) inked an agreement with the New Okhla Industrial Development Authority (NOIDA) to install public Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations & related infrastructure in order to promote the usage of electric vehicles. NATGRID NCRB The National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) to access the centralised online Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) database for getting details of First Information Reports (FIRs) and stolen vehicles. The CCTNS database is a platform that links around 14,000 police stations. BSE IIT Alumni Council BSE (formerly Bombay Stock Exchange) informed that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Alumni Council to encourage the listing of start-ups and develop a ‘High Investor Depth’ platform for those start-ups.

NTPC Limited NIIF The NTPC Limited (formerly known as National Thermal Power Corporation) signs the MoU with National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF), acting through National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL) to seek investment opportunities in areas like renewable energy, power distribution and other areas of mutual interest in India. CBDT MoMSME The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) signed the formal memorandum of understanding (MoU) for sharing of data related to income tax returns by the CBDT to the Ministry of MSME. CBDT CBIC The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) and the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), signed A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a smoother data exchange between the two organisations. The MoU was signed by Pramod Chandra Mody, Chairman, CBDT and M. Ajit Kumar, Chairman, CBIC. Airports Authority Bharat Electronics Airports Authority of India (AAI) signed a Memorandum of of India (AAI) Ltd (BEL) Understanding (MoU) with Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) through video conferencing to collaborate and support the emerging global opportunities in the airport business, including those in the Asia Pacific region. The MoU is likely to boost the civil aviation industry. GAIL Carbon Clean The GAIL (India) limited and Carbon Clean Solutions Limited Solutions Limited (CCSL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to (CCSL) explore the project development opportunities in the Compressed Biogas (CBG) value chain in India. PFC (Power Finance Indian Institute of The PFC (Power Finance Corporation) signed an agreement with Corporation) Technology- the Indian Institute of Technology- Kanpur (IIT-K) in order to Kanpur (IIT-K) provide training, research and Entrepreneurship Development (ED) in Smart grid technology. The objective of the agreement is to provide support for the IIT-Kanpur to develop the infrastructure of the research and development on smart grid technology & for that purpose PFC will provide financial assistance of Rs. 2.38 crore to the IIT-K under its CSR initiative. Praj Industries Automotive Under which they will jointly develop advanced biofuels (Praj) Research application technology for the usage in industry and Association of transportation. This technology will help to reduce the health India (ARAI) risks posed by air pollution in the transportation sector. NHPC GEDCOL The National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) through video conference with The Green Energy Corporation of Odisha Limited (GEDCOL) to develop floating solar power projects with a total capacity of 500 Megawatts (MW) in the state of Odisha.

OTHER MoU’S IN CONTENT FORMAT MoU Signed Between Indian Oil, NTPC Ltd, and SDMC for Waste to Energy Plant in Delhi A MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) was signed between the Indian Oil, NTPC Ltd and South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) on setting up a waste to energy plant at Okhla in Delhi.

Ministry of Defence signed with BEML to procure Mine Plough for Battle Tank T-90 The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Rajnath Singh, Union Minister of Defence signed the contract worth Rs. 557 crores (approximately) with Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) for the procurement of 1,512 mine plough (MP) for the battle tank T-90 S/SK of Indian Army. To increase the capabilities of the Indian army, induction of the 1512 mine ploughs is planned to be completed by 2027.

India & Southern African Customs Union revived initiative for Preferential Trade Agreement via virtual meet A virtual meeting between India and Southern African Customs Union (SACU), consisting of South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, have been revived to achieve a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) and to discuss its various aspects. The Headquarters of SACU located at Windhoek, Namibia.

India-European Union Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation renewed for next five years (2020-2025) India and European Union (EU) exchanged Note Verbale to renew its Agreement on Scientific and Technological Cooperation for the next five years (2020-2025) which expired on May 17, 2020. It was initially inked on 23 November 2001 and renewed two times in past in 2007 and 2015. This renewal is on the lines of the decision taken by both nations during the virtual 15th India-EU Summit.

TRIFED Signed Tripartite MoU with IIT Delhi and Vijnana Bharati Under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan of MHRD The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) signed a tripartite MoU with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) – Delhi and Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA), a Swadeshi Science Movement under the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA), a flagship programme under the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD).

CSIR, UBA-IIT Delhi and VIBHA Signs a Tripartite MoU to Adopt CSIR Technologies for Rural Development Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Unnat Bharat Abhiyan-Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (UBA-IITD) and Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA), New Delhi signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide access to rural technologies of CSIR for UBA and for the cooperation and actions in the area of UBA towards rural development of India.

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

APPOINTMENTS NATIONAL PERSON NAME APPOINTED ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES AS Ashok Lavasa Vice-President Asian The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has Development Bank appointed Ashok Lavasa as its Vice- (ADB) President for Private Sector Operations and Public–Private Partnerships, who is currently serving as one of the Election Commissioners of India (since January 2018). He will succeed Diwakar Gupta, whose term will end on 31 August, 2020.

Prof. Rattan Lal Members International Antonio Guterres, Chief of United Nations, Scientific Group named Prof. Rattan Lal (2020 World Food prize Laureate) and Dr. Uma Lele (Agricultural expert) from India as members of International Scientific group Dr. Uma Lele to offer foremost scientific evidence for sustainable food systems for global food summit 2021. The Scientific Group will be Chaired by Dr. Joachim von Braun of Bonn University Germany. Ravinder Bhakar Chief Executive Central Board of Ravinder Bhakar, a 1999 batch officer of Officer (CEO) Films Certification Indian Railway Stores Service (IRSS), (CBFC) assumed charge as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Central Board of Films Certification (CBFC). He succeeds Anurag Srivastava. Shrikant Madhav (SM) Chairman Indian Oil Shrikant Madhav (SM) Vaidya assumed Vaidya Corporation (IOC) charge as the chairman of Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). He succeeds Sanjiv Singh who has superannuated. V Suryanarayanan Managing Cholamandalam The Cholamandalam MS General Insurance Director (MD) MS General Company promoted V Suryanarayanan, Insurance President and COO of the company as the Company New Managing Director (MD) with effect from 1st July 2020 succeeding SS Gopalarathnam. Sijo Kuruvilla George Member Central Sijo Kuruvilla George, the CEO of start-up Government’s village and founder of Re-think Foundation Expert Committee has been selected as a member of Central on Science, Government’s Expert Committee on Technology and Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Innovation Policy 2020 (STIP 2020) led by Harkesh Mittal (also heads the department of Science and Technology). Injeti Srinivas Chairman International Government appointed former corporate Financial Services affairs secretary and IAS officer, Injeti Centre Authority Srinivas as the 1st chairman of the (IFSCA) International Financial Services Centre Authority (IFSCA) for a 3 years term. In addition to the chairman, IFSCA has other members who have been nominated from the RBI, SEBI, IRDAI, PFRDA and two members from the Centre. The IFSCA was located at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Click here Jayant Krishna Chief Executive UKIBC UK India Business Council (UKIBC) Officer (CEO) announced that Jayant Krishna has accepted the Invitation of UKIBC to become the Group’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and became the first India based CEO of UKIBC. He will assume office from 3rd

August 2020 succeeding the current CEO Richard Heald (chair elect). Gyanendro Officiating Hockey India (HI) The Hockey India (HI) in its Executive Ningombam President Board meeting named Manipur’s Gyanendro Ningombam as officiating president till the end of September 2022 after Mohd Mushtaque Ahmad resigned on July 07, 2020 due to personal and family commitments. Hemang Amin Interim Chief Board of Control Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Executive for Cricket in India announced the appointment of Hemang Officer (CEO) (BCCI) Amin, the current Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Indian Premier League (IPL) as the interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) following the resignation of Rahul Johri on 9th July 2020. Ashwini Kumar Managing SBI Cards and SBI (State Bank of India) cards and Tewari Director (MD) Payment Services payment services appointed, Mr. Ashwini and Chief Kumar Tewari as its new Managing Executive Director (MD) and Chief Executive officer officer (CEO) (CEO) who is intended to be in charge from August 1, 2020. His new appointment will be valid for 2 years. He succeeds Hardayal Prasad, who will quit the directorship of the company on July 31, 2020 due to voluntary retirement. Ramesh Babu Boddu Managing Karur Vysya Bank Karur Vysya Bank (KVB)’s Board of Director (MD) (KVB) Directors has co-opted Ramesh Babu & Chief Boddu as an Additional Director and Executive appointed him as the Managing Director Officer (CEO) (MD) & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for three years’ tenure. He replaces P R Seshadri, who resigned in January 2020 citing personal reasons. R. Narayanaswamy Chair Technical Advisory R. Narayanaswamy, Professor of Finance Committee (TAC) and Accounting in Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore was appointed as the Chair of the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) of the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA), independent accounting and auditing regulator set up by the Government of India under the Companies Act, 2013. Prakash Chandra Managing SBI General The SBI General Insurance Company Kandpal Director (MD) Insurance Limited announced that it has appointed and Chief Company Limited Prakash Chandra (P C) Kandpal as its Executive Managing Director (MD) and Chief Officer (CEO) Executive Officer (CEO), effective from July 20. He succeeds Pushan Mahapatra

Sumit Deb Chairman and National Mineral The Appointment Committee of the Cabinet Managing Development (ACC) approved the appointment of Sumit Director Corporation Deb as the Chairman and Managing (NMDC) Director of the National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) till 28th February 2023, the date of his superannuation. He succeeds N. Baijendra Kumar (IAS) the current CMD of NMDC who superannuates on 31st July 2020. Partha Pratim Managing Indian Overseas The Chennai headquartered Indian Sengupta Director (MD) Bank (IOB) Overseas Bank (IOB) has appointed Partha and Chief Pratim Sengupta as its new Managing Executive Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer Officer (CEO) (CEO), and his tenure ends by December 31, 2022 or until further orders. He succeeds Karnam Sekar who was retired on June 30, 2020. Sahil Seth Honorary BRICS Chamber of The Deputy Commissioner of Mumbai Advisor Commerce and Customs and a 2011 batch IRS Officer, Sahil Industry (CCI) Seth, has been appointed as an honorary advisor for the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) for the period 2020 to 2030. The Role is a non- financial, voluntary basis, zero – remuneration appointment. Anil Kumar Jha Member Expert Appraisal The Government of India appointed the Committee (EAC) former chairman of Coal India Ltd. (CIL), Anil Kumar Jha, as a member of Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) formed by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) that deals with violation of environment rules. Naveen Tahilyani Managing Tata American Naveen Tahilyani was appointed as the new Director (MD) International Managing Director (MD) and Chief and Chief Assurance (AIA) Executive officer (CEO) of the Tata Executive Life insurance American International Assurance (AIA) officer (CEO) company Life insurance company. His appointment was under regulatory approval from Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). He succeeds Rishi Srivastava. Alok Misra Chief Executive Microfinance Microfinance Institutions Network (MFIN), Officer (CEO) Institutions a Self-Regulatory Organisation (SRO) for and Director Network (MFIN) the microfinance industry announced that Alok Misra will take over the present CEO, Harsh Shrivastava on 1st August 2020 as the New Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Director.

N. Sivaraman Managing ICRA ICRA Limited Appointed N. Sivaraman as its Director (MD) new Managing Director (MD) and Group and Group Chief Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Mr. Executive Sivaraman will join ICRA Ltd. on August 10, Officer (CEO) 2020. He was appointed for the tenure of 3 years, which can be further extended for 2 more years. He succeeds former MD and Group CEO Mr. Naresh Takkar.

INTERNATIONAL PERSON NAME APPOINTED AS ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES Gudni President Iceland Gudni Johannesson, president of Iceland was Johannesson re-elected by winning over 92% of votes in the Presidential election. He defeated Gudmundur Franklín Jónsson who secured only 6.5% of the vote. The capital and currency of Iceland are Reykjavik & Icelandic Krona respectively. Jean Castex Prime Minister French French President Emmanuel Macron appointed a public Servant, Jean Castex (55) as the new Prime Minister of government reshuffle, replacing Edouard Philippe. He is known as Mr Deconfinement by French Media. Lee Hsien Prime Minister Singapore The Results of Singapore’s General Election Loong’s 2020 were announced and the ruling Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s People’s Action Party (PAP) won the election by winning 83 seats out of 93 contested and Lee Hsien Loong was reinstated as the third Prime Minister of Singapore. Andrzej President Poland Andrzej Sebastian Duda of the Law and Sebastian Duda Justice (PiS) party won the Presidential Election of Poland by securing over 51.2% of votes leaving behind W Trzaskowski (almost 49% of votes). arsaw Mayor Rafał Chandrikapersad President Suriname Chandrikapersad “Chan” Santokhi (61), an “Chan” Santokhi Indian-origin former police chief has been elected as the president of Suriname, a country in South America. Santokhi leads the Progressive Reform Party of the country. Santokhi will be sworn in as the President from 16, July 2020. Santokhi Succeeds Desi Bouterse. The capital and currency of Suriname are Paramaribo & Surinamese Dollar. Rose Christiane Prime Minister Gabon Ali Bongo Ondimba, President of Gabon Ossouka appointed Rose Christiane Ossouka Raponda Raponda (56), as the First Women Prime Minister of Gabon succeeding Julien Nkoghe Bekale, On

16 July 2020. The capital and currency of Gabon are Libreville & Central African CFA franc respectively. Hichem Mechichi Prime Minister Tunisia Tunisian President Kais Saied appointed Hichem Mechichi (46), Interior Minister as its new Prime minister. He has a month to form a government i.e., should be capable of winning a confidence vote in parliament by a simple majority. He succeeded Elyes Fakhfakh, who resigned over allegations of a conflict of interest. Andrej Plenkovic Prime Minister Croatia The Croatian parliament approved the new government led by Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic whose Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) party won the most parliamentary seats in the general election held on July 5, 2020. The capital and currency of Croatia are Zagreb & Croatian Kuna respectively.

BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS PERSON NAME BRAND / CAMPAIGN KEY NOTES Sukhbir Singh Brand Ambassador Luxury Ride has signed singer Sukhbir Singh as its brand ambassador. He will soon be seen in a full- fledged marketing campaign besides being leveraged across its upcoming brand and product communication initiatives. Brett Lee Brand Ambassador SportsAdda, news and information website for Cricket, Football and Kabaddi announced that they signed Former Australian cricketer Brett Lee as its Brand ambassador. SportsAdda website is owned by Stumped Entertainment FZE. The website was formed in 2018 and it is also available as a mobile application.

COUNTRY AMBASSADORS PERSON NAME COUNTRY KEY NOTES Indra Mani Pandey United Nations and the other Indra Mani Pandey, Indian Foreign Services International Organisations in (IFS) Officer of 1990 and Additional Secretary Geneva in Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) was appointed as India’s Permanent Representative/Ambassador to the United Nations and the other International Organisations in Geneva, succeeding Rajiv Kumar Chander, IFS Officer of 1983 batch.

RESIGNATIONS PERSON NAME RESIGNED AS ENTITY / PLACE Edouard Phillipe Prime Minister French Prime Minister Edouard Phillipe resigned during the expected government reshuffle. The

French President Emmanuel Macron has planned to open a new chapter for the two remaining years to focus on efforts to relaunch the French economy deeply hit by the COVID-19 crisis. Elyes Fakhfakh Prime Minister(PM) Tunisian Prime Minister(PM) Elyes Fakhfakh resigned, who was appointed in January, 2020. He presented his resignation letter to President Kais Saied. The capital and currency of Tunisia are Tunis & Tunisian Dinar respectively. Karnam Sekar MD and CEO Karnam Sekar, The Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Chennai Headquartered Indian Overseas Bank (IOB), retired on 30th June 2020. Rahul Johri Chief Executive Officer The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) (CEO) has accepted a long pending resignation of Rahul Johri, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BCCI on 9 July 2020. He is the first CEO of the BCCI since 2016, and tendered his resignation in December 2019.

OTHER APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS KK Venugopal Reappointed as Attorney General of India for a Year & Tushar Mehta as Solicitor General for 3 Years The Appointments Committee of the Union Cabinet has approved the re-appointment of senior advocate K.K. Venugopal as Attorney General of India for 1 year, whose 3-year tenure ends on June 30, 2020 and senior advocate Tushar Mehta as Solicitor General for a period of three years.

Rajkiran Rai G, Union Bank of India MD & CEO Term Extended for 2 years Government extends the term of Rajkiran Rai G as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Mumbai headquartered Union Bank of India (UBI) by 2 years till May 31, 2022.

Shashank Manohar Steps Down as ICC Chairman, Imran Khwaja Takes Charge as Interim Chairman Shashank Manohar stepped down as International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman after his two 2-year tenure (4 years). He is the first independent chairman. His tenure ended on July 1, 2020. Deputy Chairman Imran Khwaja will take charge as interim chairman until the next chairman is elected.

IRDAI Sets Up 9-Member Panel headed by G Srinivasan to study suitability of Surety Bond issuance by Indian insurers Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), an autonomous, statutory body tasked with regulating and promoting the insurance in India, has set up a 9-member working Group (WG) under G. Srinivasan, to study the suitability of insurers offering surety bonds for contractors. The panel set up comes after the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways urged the IRDAI to examine possible offering of such bonds.

Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, Chairman of NHAI gets 6 months extension Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, the Chairman of National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) gets a 6 months extension in his tenure as Chairman of NHAI. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the extension in central deputation tenure of Sandhu as Chairman of NHAI beyond 21st July 2020, till mid- January 2021.

MCA extends tenure of Justice (Retd.) Bansi Lal Bhat as acting chairperson of NCLAT by three months The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has extended the term of Justice (Retd.) Bansi Lal Bhat, as the acting chairperson of National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) by 3-month, effective from June 15. He was appointed as acting chairperson on March 15, after Justice SJ Mukhopadhaya completed his term in the office.

RBI Approves reappointment of Shyam Srinivasan as the MD & CEO of Federal Bank The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) approved the reappointment of Shyam Srinivasan as the managing Director and Chief Executive officer of Federal bank Limited with effect from September 23, 2020 till September 22, 2021. The HQ of Federal Bank located at Aluva, Kerala.

IRDAI Constitutes 9-member Working Group Headed by Suresh Mathur to Look into the Possibility of Forming ‘Pandemic Risk Pool’ The Hyderabad Headquartered Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has formed a 9- member working group under the chairmanship of Suresh Mathur to look into the possibility of setting up ‘Pandemic Risk Pool’ to deal with the various risks arising out of a pandemic -like health emergencies & recommend the structure and operating model for the Pool within 8 weeks.

Government extends NCLT Acting President BSV Prakash Kumar’s tenure for 1 month The Ministry of Corporate affairs has extended the tenure of BSV Prakash Kumar, the acting President of National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for one month with effect from 5th July, 2020. This is his second extension.

Roshni Nadar Becomes 1st Woman to Chair Listed Indian IT firm after taking over as HCL Tech Chairperson Roshni Nadar Malhotra, India’s richest woman becomes the 1st woman to head a listed Indian IT company as she took over as the Chairperson of HCL Technologies from her father and billionaire Shiv Nadar (Founder & chairman).

Rahul Bajaj to Step Down as Bajaj Finance Chairman; Sanjiv Bajaj to succeed Rahul Bajaj, the present non-executive chairman of Bajaj Finance has decided to step down on July 31, 2020 and he will be replaced by his son Sanjiv Bajaj (the present Vice Chairman of the company) from August 1, 2020.

DG of RPF, Shri Arun Kumar, nominated as the Vice-Chairman of the UIC, security platform The DG of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) Arun Kumar, has been nominated as the Vice -Chairman of the Security platform of the Paris – based Union UIC (Union internationale des chemins de fer or International Union of Railways) from July 2020 to July 2022.

MHRD Sets Up Panel Under the Chairmanship of D.P. Singh to Form Guidelines to Encourage Students to Study in India Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, Union Minister of Human Resource Development announced that the ministry has set up a committee headed by UGC Chairman, D.P. Singh to form guidelines and suggest measures to ensure that more students study in India and there is a smooth transition for students returning from abroad due to COVID-19 situation.

Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister Mahdi Mohammed Gulaid appointed as Interim Prime Minister President of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed appointed Deputy Prime Minister Mahdi Mohammed Gulaid as the interim Prime Minister of Somalia following the impeachment of Hassan Ali Khaire, the previous Prime Minister of Somalia. The capital and currency of Somalia are Mogadishu & Somali Shilling respectively.

Indian climate activist Archana Soreng becomes a member of Antó nio Guterres’s new Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change The United Nations Secretary-General Ant nio Guterres named Indian climate activist Archana Soreng among 7 members to his new Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change. The members will advise him regularly on accelerating global action andó also provide solutions to tackle the worsening climate crisis. The other members of the group are Nisreen Elsaim (Sudan), Ernest Gibson (Fiji), Vladislav Kaim (Moldova), Sophia Kianni (United States), Nathan Metenier (France), and Paloma Costa (Brazil).

AWARDS

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF LITERATURE & ACADEMICS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES 1st Prof. P. C. Chakravarthi National On account of National Statistics Day Mahalanobis National Rangarajan Statistical celebrated on June 29, the Ministry of Award System (NSS) Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) presented the first Prof. P. C. Mahalanobis National Award in Official Statistics’2020 to Chakravarthi Rangarajan, Former Governor, Reserve Bank of India for his contribution to the National Statistical System (NSS) in India. Also, the Prof. P.V. Sukhatme National Award in Statistics 2020 was jointly presented to Arvind Pandey & Akhilesh Chandra Kulshreshtha. Annual UNIFIL Indian Battalion Increasing The United Nations Interim Force in Environment Award for (INDBATT) Awareness and Lebanon (UNIFIL) Head of Mission and 2020 Reduce Waste Force Commander Major General Stefano Del Col awarded the annual environment awards of UNIFIL to 7 mission entities. An Indian Battalion (INDBATT) stationed with UNIFIL is declared first their project towards increasing awareness and to reduce the generation of waste by planting seedlings and building green house. Von Karman Award Kailasavadivoo Sivan Academic The Paris headquartered International 2020 Academy of Astronautics (IAA) has announced Kailasavadivoo Sivan, Chief of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as the recipient of the 2020 Von Karman Award, the highest distinction

of the IAA. The award will be presented to Dr. K. Sivan in March 2021 at Paris. National Award of Kannan CS Warrier Indian Council Kannan CS Warrier, Senior Principal Excellence 2019 of Forestry Scientist at the Institute of Forest Research and Genetics and Tree Breeding (IFGTB) Education received the 2019 National Award of (ICFRE) Excellence for Outstanding Research in Forestry from the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE). The National Award was given to Kannan CS Warrier for releasing three productive clones of Casuarina equisetifolia, first of its kind in India that are suitable for salt affected (sodic) soils.

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL SERVICE, SCIENCE & BRAVERY AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES Global Humanitarian Sachin Awasthi Top Publicist Sachin Awasthi, the president of Awards 2020 National Media Club and Founder of Shri Ram Seva Mission has bagged the “Top Publicist” honour in the Global Humanitarian Awards 2020 held as a webinar over a virtual platform in

London. The Global Humanitarian Award 2020 is instituted as a part of the Honouring the Honourable initiative of the World Humanitarian Drive (WHD). Lifetime Achievement Ashok Kumar Legendary The Legendary Hockey Player Ashok Award Hockey Player Kumar, key player of the 1975 World Cup winning Indian Hockey team was honoured with the Lifetime achievement award by the Kolkata based football club – Mohun Bagan Athletic Club on its foundation day over the virtual ceremony. Pranab Ganguly (Football) and Monoranjan Porel (Athletics) also got lifetime achievement along with Ashok Kumar. Click here International Press 4 Member Awardees Courageous Act The Committee to Protect Journalists Freedom Awards 2020 (CPJ) has announced that 4 Journalists, Shahidul Alam from Bangladesh, Mohammad Mosaed from Iran, Dapo Olorunyomi from Nigeria and Svetlana Prokopyeva from Russia will be honoured with the 2020 International Press Freedom Awards for their courageous act. In addition to them lawyer Amal Clooney will be honoured with the Gwen Ifill Press Freedom Award 2020. Click here

Gulbenkian Prize Greta Thunberg Humanity A 17 years old climate activist from Sweden namely Greta Thunberg became the first recipient of the inaugural Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity, awarded by Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. The award in the amount 1 million euro ($1.15 million) recognized her ability to mobilize younger generations for the cause of climate change. The entire amount of 1 million euro from the Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity would be donated by Greta Thunberg to the project and organisations who are working to help people on the front lines affected by the climate crisis and ecological crisis.

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF ARTS & CULTURE FILMS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES Dada Saheb Kezang D Thongdok Documentary An independent filmmaker, Kezang D Thongdok Phalke Award won the 10th edition Dada Saheb Phalke Award for the year 2020 for his documentary “Chi Lupo” – showcasing the practice of collection of honey from the perched rocky hilltops. TIFF Tribute Kate Winslet Leading The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Actor Award 2020 Performer announced that Kate Winslet will be receiving the 2020 TIFF Tribute Actor Award at the virtual event of the 45th edition of TIFF. Kate will receive the honour in the virtual gala on 15th September 2020. The TIFF Tribute Actor Award is presented to a leading performer in their field for their outstanding contribution to cinema.

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES India’s Most Ravindra Jadeja Batting and Fielding Spin bowling all-rounder, 31 years Valuable Player old Ravindra Jadeja, was named (MVP) India’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the 21st century by Wisden for his contribution in both batting and fielding. He is second only to Muttiah Muralitharan of Sri Lanka who is the most Valuable Test Player of the 21st Century. Also, Rahul Dravid has won the Best Indian test batsman poll conducted by Wisden.

OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES 2020 Diana Award Freya Thakral Her Recycler Freya Thakral, a 13-year-old student of the App British School New Delhi received the 2020 Diana Award for her Recycler App, which she developed to connect users with waste- handlers as a measure to help the ragpickers of Delhi. The award is presented annually on the birth anniversary of Princess Diana. 2020 Kritika Pandey Story The commonwealth writers announced Commonwealth Kritika Pandey, the winner of Asian region Short Story Prize prize as the overall winner of the 2020 Commonwealth Short Story Prize for her story, “The Great Indian Tee and Snakes”. The award was presented to her by Ghanaian writer and editor, Nii Ayikwei Parkes, the chair of the 2020 Judge panel in the online award ceremony. She is the second Indian to win the overall prize after Parashar Kulkarni in 2016. Development Institute for Human Project Alcohol Institute for Human Development (IHD), an Marketplace Development (IHD) Indian non-profit institution conferred with Award 2020: ‘Development Marketplace Award 2020: Innovations to Innovations to Address Gender-Based Address Gender- Violence’ from World Bank Group and Based Violence Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI) for the project alcohol, intimate partner violence and household economy: an assessment of liquor ban in Bihar. Apart from this, other 8 non-profit organizations from various countries have received this award. Click here CII-ITC NTPC Limited Outstanding NTPC Limited (formerly- National Thermal Sustainability Accomplishment Power Corporation Limited) wins CII-ITC Award 2019 Sustainability Award 2019 under the category Corporate Excellence for Outstanding Accomplishment. In addition to this, it has also received a Commendation for Significant Achievement in the category of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The award was for GEM (Girl Empowerment Mission), a 4 weeks’ residential program of NTPC in its flagship CSR program. Click here Elites Excellence Darpan Monitoring Chhattisgarh’s Chief Minister Darpan Awards 2020 (Mukhyamantri Important (Mukhyamantri Darpan) Portal and Mobile Darpan) Portal and Schemes of the app received the Elites Excellence Awards Mobile app Government 2020 under the government category for the innovation for monitoring important schemes of the government by the IT institution Elites Technomedia under the

Digital India Initiative. The portal and the mobile application for the Chief Minister Darpan (Mukhyamantri Darpan) was developed by the Chhattisgarh Infotech Promotion Society (CHiPS). USIBC Global Natarajan (N) Outstanding Tata group chairman, Natarajan (N) Leadership Award Chandrasekaran and Leadership and Chandrasekaran and Jim Taiclet, Chief Jim Taiclet for promoting Executive Officer (CEO) and president of Indo-US trade Lockheed Martin to receive the US-India and business. Business Council (USIBC) Global Leadership Award 2020. They also serve as a co-chair of the US-India CEO Forum. The USIBC Global Leadership Award has been presented annually since 2007. Hurun’s Jeff Bezos Richest Man According to the Hurun’s Research’s World Research’s World Richest Man List, Reliance Industries Richest Man List Limited (RIL) chairman & CEO Mukesh Ambani (63) with worth 78 billion USD ranked 5th richest man in the world. He sustains as the wealthiest Indian & he is the only Asian Tycoon in the world’s top 10 richest people as on July 2020. Water Heroes South Central The Ongole Sub-Divisional Office of Award Railway’s Ongole Vijayawada Division, Andhra Pradesh, South Sub-Divisional Office Central Railway has won the Water Heroes Award for the month of April 2020 from the - Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. The division is led by Pratham Agarwal, Assistant Divisional Engineer. Water Heroes Award was instituted to promote the value of water and to support country-wide efforts on water conservation and sustainable development of water resources. Legend of Arnab Chaudhuri Animation Arnab Chaudhuri posthumously awarded Animation award with The ‘Legend of Animation’ award, 2020. 2020 This award is instituted by the Toonz Media Group (TMG) as a part of the Animation Masters Summit (AMS), 2020 – Digital Edition. His movie ‘Arjun: The Warrior Prince’ was the only animation from India, listed on the Oscar awards.

RECOGNITIONS NAME RECOGNITION Edappadi K The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International, Chicago, has honoured Tamil Palaniswami (CM) Nadu (TN) Chief Minister (CM) Edappadi K Palaniswami with Paul Harris Fellow recognition. The recognition is in the honour of Rotary founder, Paul Harris who contributed to The Rotary Foundation.

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT India’s 2018 Tiger Census – Largest Camera Trap Wildlife Survey sets Guinness Record The 4th edition of India’s 2018 Tiger census sets new Guinness World Record for being largest camera trap wildlife survey because the census had installed more cameras to monitor the tigers as compared to other countries. As per the census, in 2018, India had doubled the tiger population before 4 years of the target year, 2022 through the Sankalp Se Siddhi programme. According to the latest survey conducted in 2018 it is estimated that India has around 2967 tigers which is around 75 per cent of the global tiger population.

India’s AI enabled “MyGov Corona Helpdesk” wins two global awards at 4th Annual CogX 2020 India’s AI enabled “MyGov Corona Helpdesk” won two awards under the categories of “Best Innovation for Covid-19 – Society” and “People Choice Covid-19 Overall Winner” in 4th CogX, 2020. The theme of CogX 2020 is “How do we get the next 10 years right?”. The AI enabled Helpdesk was designed, developed and deployed by JioHaptik Technologies Limited in collaboration with the WhatsApp team.

Bloomberg Billionaires Index-Mukesh Ambani becomes World’s 6th richest man, surpassing Elon Musk, Sergey Brin and Larry Page On July 14, 2020, Bloomberg Billionaires Index has ranked Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) as the World’s 6th richest man with a worth USD 72.4 billion after surpassing Elon Musk, co-founder & CEO of Tesla and Alphabet Inc co-founders, Sergey Brin and Larry Page. The index was updated on day to day basis. Top 3 in Global wise Rank Name Total Net Worth 1 Jeff Bezos(US) USD 184B 2 Bill Gates(US) USD 115B 3 Bernard Arnault(France) USD 94.5B Other Indians in Top 100 77 Azim Premji USD 16.9B 89 Shiv Nadar USD15.8B

Mon District Administration received 3 SKOCH Awards in 65th SKOCH Summit The District Administration of Mon, Nagaland received 2020 SKOCH awards under three categories viz SKOCH Crucible Award 2020, SKOCH order of Merit 2020, SKOCH Honourable mention 2020 in the 65th SKOCH summit from Sameer Kochar, Chairman of SKOCH group

Pulitzer Prize Winner Siddhartha Mukherjee and Prof Raj Chetty Named among ‘2020 Great Immigrants’ Honourees Carnegie Corporation of New York has named 2 renowned Indian-Americans, Siddhartha Mukherjee, a Pulitzer prize winner and Raj Chetty, Economics Professor at Harvard University among ‘2020 Great Immigrants’ honourees, due to their contribution towards the efforts in mitigating the COVID-19 health crisis.

UN announced the Laureates of 2020 Nelson Mandela Prize: Marianna Vardinoyannis & Morissana Kouyaté Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, The President of United Nations General Assembly announced that Marianna Vardinoyannis, of Greece, and Doctor Morissana Kouyaté, of Guinea will receive the 2020 Nelson Mandela

Prize (established in 2014 & will be awarded every 5 years). They will be recognised in the virtual ceremony on 20th July 2020.

Hardeep Singh Puri Launches Toolkit for 6th Edition of Annual Cleanliness Survey of Urban India ‘Swachh Survekshan 2021’ Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of State (I/C) for Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA), has launched the toolkit for sixth edition of the annual cleanliness survey of urban India ‘Swachh Survekshan (SS) 2021’conducted by MoHUA. As part of Swachh Survekshan 2021, Puri also announced a new category of awards named ‘Prerak Dauur Samman’, in which top 3 cities being recognized in following 5 sub- categories. Along with the tool kit, SBM-Urban MIS [Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban Management information system] portal was launched during the event.

Nadaun Police Station of Himachal Pradesh declared as one of the best in India The Annual Ranking of Police Stations for 2019 prepared by the Ministry of Home Affairs was announced in the Director General of Police’s (DGP’s) conference. The Nadaun Police Station of Hamirpur District in Himachal Pradesh is ranked as one of the best Police Stations of India. Amit Shah, Union Minister of Home Affairs presented the Certification of Excellence to Jai Ram Thakur, CM of Himachal Pradesh.

Narendra Singh Tomar declared the 2019 ICAR Awards in 92nd ICAR Foundation Day On 16th July 2020, Narendra Singh Tomar, the Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare inaugurated the Virtual celebration of the 92nd Foundation day of Indian Council of Agricultural Research(ICAR) and declared the 2019 ICAR Awards from Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi. Read More Details Here: Narendra Singh Tomar declared the 2019 ICAR Awards in 92nd ICAR Foundation Day

Mukesh Ambani, fifth-richest Man in the World with Net Worth $75 billion: Forbes Real-Time Billionaires List Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) Chairman & CEO Mukesh Ambani (63), became the world’s fifth-richest man in the world with an estimated wealth of 75 billion USD, according to the real-time ranking of billionaires by Forbes. The list will be updated regularly on every trading day. The above mentioned data is based on July 22, 2020.

National Awards for excellence in Earth System Science: MoES Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) recognized scientific contributions made by eminent scientists/engineers in various fields of Earth System Science and also to encourage women and young researchers who involved in Earth System Science. Name of the Award Name of Awardee Field Life Time Professor Ashok Sahni, Geology, Vertebrate Paleontology Excellence Award Chandigarh and Biostratigraphy National Award for Ocean Science & Dr. V. V. S. S. Sarma, biogeochemistry of the Indian technology Vishakapatnam Ocean Implementation of Ocean Data Dr.M.Ravichandran, assimilation and Modelling for Goa operational ocean services

‘Aditya’, India’s First Solar Powered Ferry Bags the 1st ‘Gussies’ electric boat awards – Gustave Trouvé Award The plugboats.com announced the winners of the 1st ‘Gussies’ electric boat awards officially known as ‘Gustave Trouvé Award for Excellence in Boats and Boating’. “Aditya”, India’s first & largest Solar Powered ferry, won the Gustave Trouvé Award under the Excellence in Electric Boats Designed for Paying Passengers category. Aditya built & designed by Navalt Solar and Electric Boats for Kerala State Water Transport Department (KSWTD).Department of Ship Technology, Cochin University of Science and Technology was part of the technical committee that did a feasibility study and approved the project at various stages during design and construction.

SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE

SUMMITS SUMMITS VENUE KEY POINTS India and the European The 15th summit between India and the European Union Union (EU) Summit (EU) was held virtually where India was represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the EU was represented - by Charles Michel, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.India, EU adopted declaration on Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy. India-EU endorsed Strategic Partnership: A Roadmap to 2025. High-level dialogue set up Piyush Goyal and Phil Hogan to address trade issues. Click here India Ideas Summit Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the keynote 2020 address at the two days long (July 21-22) virtual India Ideas Summit 2020 which was hosted by US-India Business Council (USIBC) under the theme “Building a - Better Future”. The year 2020 marked the 45th anniversary of the formation of the Council. Key Points from PM Modi Address; Target of 50th spot in WB’s Ease of Doing Business ranking. Click here

CONFERENCE CONFERENCE VENUE KEY POINTS Air Force New Delhi Union Minister of Defence, Rajnath Singh, inaugurated the Air Force Commanders Commanders Conference (AFCC) at the Air Force Headquarters (Vayu Conference Bhawan), New Delhi. The conference chaired by Chief of the Air Staff (AFCC) (CAS), Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria was conducted from 22nd July 2020 to 24th July 2020. The theme of the conference was “IAF in the Next Decade”.

COMMITTEES & MEETINGS

COMMITTEES COMMITTEE NAME COMMITTEE HEAD KEY NOTES Central Committee Ranbir Singh The Central Committee for reforms in Criminal Law, headed by Ranbir Singh was constituted by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) & is going to start a 3 months long online consultation exercise. The objective of this exercise is to gather opinions by consulting with experts and collating material for their report to the government. The Questionnaires have been posted online on the possible reforms in the Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure and Indian Evidence Act. 11-member expert Dr K S Reddy The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) committee has set up an 11-member expert committee headed by Dr K S Reddy, president of Public Health Foundation of India to study impact of COVID-19 on human rights of individuals, particularly marginalised and vulnerable sections of the society, together with migrant labourers & will also study the future response of the government.

MEETINGS MEETING NAME VENUE KEY POINTS Joint Economic and Trade The 14th Joint Economic and Trade Committee Committee (JETCO) meeting 2020 (JETCO) meeting 2020 was held virtually for the first time amid COVID-19 between India and United - Kingdom (UK), which was co-chaired by Minister for Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for International Trade, Elizabeth Mary Truss. Both nations have affirmed their shared commitment towards Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Ministerial on Climate Action The 4th edition of international meeting named (MoCA) Meeting “Ministerial on Climate Action (MoCA)” was held on July 7, 2020, which was co-chaired by European Union (EU), China and Canada. From India, Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate - Change, Prakash Javadekar participated in meet. Developed nations’ Target of USD 1 trillion funding by 2020 for developing nations is not achieved yet. India has set the aspirational target of increasing renewable energy capacity to 450 GW by 2030. India at present contains the forest and tree cover of 8,07,276 sq. km, which is 24.56% of the total geographical area of the country. Click here

U.S.-India Strategic Energy Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Partnership (SEP) ministerial Minister of Steel Dharmendra Pradhan and United meeting States (US) Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette co- chaired the 2nd ministerial meeting of the U.S.-India - Strategic Energy Partnership (SEP) virtually. The meeting was organized by US-India Business Council (USIBC). India-US signed MoU to begin cooperation on strategic petroleum reserve; India to create its first overseas oil stockpile in US. Click here G20 Finance Ministers and Central The 3rd G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Bank Governors (FMCBG) meeting Governors (FMCBG) meeting was held virtually on July 18, 2020. It was organized under the Saudi Arabian Presidency where Indian side was - represented by Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman. The meeting was in line with finance track for the G20 Leaders Summit 2020, which is to be hosted by Saudi Arabia at the end of 2020 G20 Digital Economy Minister Union Minister of Electronics and Information meeting Technology, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad represented - India in the virtual meeting of the G20 Digital Economy Minister under the presidency Saudi Arabia. SCO Health Minister’s Digital Meet Nirman Bhawan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Harsh Delhi Vardhan participated digitally in the Beijing headquartered Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Health Minister’s Digital Meet at Nirman Bhawan, Delhi. The meeting was chaired by Mikhail Murashko, Minister of Health of the Russian Federation. Board of Governors of AIIB The 5th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors meeting of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) was held virtually from Beijing, China, was originally planned to be held in-person there, on the theme “Connecting for Tomorrow”. Union Minister of - Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman represented India in the event. Jin Liqun Re-elected President of AIIB. AIIB to Hold its First Annual Meeting in the Middle East in the UAE in 2021. AIIB’s Membership grew to 103; Liberia joined. Click here

COMMITTEES & MEETINGS IN CONTENT FORMAT SEBI Restructures Advisory Committee on Mutual Funds Under the Chairmanship of Usha Thorat Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), the regulator of the securities and commodity market in India, has reconstituted the committee advising it on matters related to regulation and development of the mutual fund industry by including five new members. The new 20-member committee, will be chaired by Usha Thorat, former deputy governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

NITI Aayog & USAID Co-Chaired Sustainable Growth Pillar Meeting; India Energy Modeling Forum Launched NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) co-chaired a joint working group meeting of the Sustainable Growth (SG) Pillar. The meeting on SG Pillar will boost the India–US Strategic Energy Partnership. During the meet, an India Energy Modelling Forum (IEMF) was launched which will provide a platform to examine important energy and environmental related issues, and facilitate exchange of ideas.

INDEX

RANKING INDEX / SURVEY RELEASED BY / KEY NOTES NAME CONDUCTED BY The Global E-waste Global E-waste Monitor India => 3rd Rank Monitor 2020 report- According to the 3rd edition of “The Global E-waste Quantities, flows, and the Monitor 2020 report-Quantities, flows, and the circular economy circular economy potential” report, the world potential dumped a record 53.6 million tonnes of e-waste in 2019, an increase of 21% in 5 years. Notably, this waste is enough to form a line 125 kilometres long. China is the biggest contributor to e-waste. The new report also predicts global e-waste will reach 74 Mt by 2030. Top 3 Country: 1. China 2. United States 3. India Click here Sustainable Sustainable Development India => 117th Rank Development Report Goals According to the report titled “Sustainable 2020- The Sustainable Development Report 2020- The Sustainable Development Goals and Development Goals and COVID-19”, comprising of COVID-19 SDG index 2020, there will be severe negative impacts on most of the United Nations (UN)- mandated Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) due to COVID-19 pandemic. India facing major challenges in 10 of the 17 SDGs. The index has been topped by Sweden. Top 3 Country: 1. Sweden with the Score 84.72 2. Denmark with the Score 84.56 3. Finland with the Score 83.77 Click here INFORM Report 2020: INFORM India => 31st Rank with inform risk 5.4 Shared evidence for In accordance with the “INFORM Report 2020: managing crises and Shared evidence for managing crises and disasters” disasters released by research centre INFORM, operating under European Commission (EU), India has ranked at 31st place with an inform risk of 5.4, means risk of humanitarian crises and disasters. The report ranked the countries based on “INFORM Risk Index” which

has been topped by Somalia with an inform risk of 8.9. The report has analysed 191 countries. Top 3 Country: 1. Somalia with inform risk 8.9 2. Central African Republic with inform risk 8.6 3. South Sudan & Yemen with inform risk 8.1 Click here Global Real Estate Jones Lang LaSalle’s (JLL) India => 34th Rank with the Score 2.69 Transparency Index According to the 11th edition of the ‘Global Real 2020 Estate Transparency Index 2020’, which covers 99 countries and territories and 163 cities, released by US based Jones Lang LaSalle’s (JLL), India has improved by one place to 34th & placed under ‘semi- transparent’ zone. Regulatory reforms, better market data and sustainability initiatives led to a one-point improvement in the nation’s ranking. The ranking was topped by United Kingdom (UK) followed by United States, Australia. Top 3 Country: 1. United Kingdom with the Score 1.31 2. United States with the Score 1.35 3. Australia with the Score 1.39 Click here Cancer preparedness in Economist Intelligence India => 8th Rank with the Score 51.6 Asia-Pacific: Progress Unit (EIU) According to Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) towards universal cancer report on “Cancer preparedness in Asia-Pacific: control Progress towards universal cancer control” sponsored by Roche, India ranked 8th in cancer preparedness among 10 Asia-Pacific countries. Top 3 Country: 1. Australia with the Score 92.4 2. South Korea with the Score 83.4 3. Malaysia with the Score 80.3 Click here Inward Investment United Kingdom’s India => 2nd Rank Statistics for 2019-2020 Department for According to the United Kingdom’s Department for International Trade (DIT) International Trade (DIT) inward investment statistics for 2019-2020, India has become the second largest Foreign Direct Investor in the United Kingdom (UK) after the United States in 2019, by investing in 120 projects and creating 5,429 new jobs in the UK. Top 3 Country: 1. USA 2. India 3. Germany Global Manufacturing Cushman & Wakefield’s India => 3rd Rank Risk Index (MRI) 2020 In accordance with the “Cushman & Wakefield’s 2020 Global Manufacturing Risk Index (MRI)” India ranks 3rd in the Baseline Scenario, 3rd in Cost Scenario & 30th in Risk Scenario. The Index ranks the countries in the above 3 Scenarios based on

most-suitable locations for global manufacturing among 48 countries in terms of cost, competitiveness and operating conditions. Top 3 Country: 1. China 2. United States (US) 3. India Click here Global Skills Index 2020 Coursera India => 51st Rank The report of Global Skills Index 2020, an in depth view at the state of the skills across the world prepared by “Coursera”, World’s largest online learning platform shows that India Surges ahead of the peers in the business and technology skill sets because of the growing young population. India ranked 51st in Data science domain; 34th Business domain & 40th in technology domain. Top 3 Country: 1. Russia 2. Switzerland 3. Belgium Click here The Global Direct Selling World Federation of India => 15th Rank – 2019 Retail Sales Direct Selling Associations According to the report titled “The Global Direct (WFDSA) Selling – 2019 Retail Sales” released by the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA), India was ranked 15th in the global direct selling industry with sales of USD 2.477 billion in 2019. The ranking has been topped by the United States (US) which contributed 20% of the global direct selling industry with sales of USD 35.21 billion. Also, India has been ranked at 6th in terms of number of direct sellers. Top 3 Country: 1. United States (US) 2. China 3. Korea & Germany Click here Delta Rankings for NITI Aayog According to the delta rankings for aspirational Aspirational Districts districts by government think-tank NITI Aayog, Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh has topped the list of aspirational districts in Overall Delta Ranking for the Feb-June 2020. The Ri-Bhoi (Meghalaya) and Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh) are placed at 2nd and 3rd positions respectively. The delta rankings for aspirational districts considers an incremental progress in five developmental areas viz. Health and Nutrition, Education, Agriculture and Water Resources, Financial Inclusion & Skill Development and Basic Infrastructure. Top 3 District: 1. Bijapur (Chhattisgarh) 2. Ri-Bhoi (Meghalaya)

3. Bahraich (Uttar Pradesh) Click here Global Rights Index International Trade Union According to the 7th edition of “International Trade 2020-The World’s Worst Confederation (ITUC) Union Confederation (ITUC) Global Rights Index Countries for Workers 2020-The World’s Worst Countries for Workers”, India became the new entrant in the 10 worst countries for working people in the world, with a rating of 5 that states “No guarantee of rights”. The index ranked 144 countries on the basis of respect for workers’ rights. The ITUC Global Rights Index depicts world’s worst countries for workers by rating countries on a scale from 1 to 5+ with 1 being the best rating and 5+ the worst rating. India currently in scale 5. World’s Most Surveilled Comparitech 150 major cities across the globe, Hyderabad has Cities 2020 positioned in 16th rank among the list of top 20 cities with the maximum number of Closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance cameras. It has most CCTV surveillance in India. The List was topped by Taiyuan, China. The research also highlighted the 20 most populated cities in the world. Delhi ranked 2nd & the list was topped by Tokyo, Japan. The 3rd rank was secured by Shanghai, China. Top 3 City: 1. Taiyuan, China 2. Wuxi, China 3. London, England (UK) Click here Global Forest Resources FAO of the United Nations India => 3rd Rank Assessment (FRA) 2020 (UN) In accordance with the latest Global Forest Resources Assessment (FRA) 2020 brought out by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations (UN), India has ranked 3rd among the top 10 countries that have gained in forest areas during 2010-2020 only behind China and Australia. India reported 0.38% annual gain in forest, or 266,000 ha of forest increase every year at an average. The report also states that; India provides maximum employment in forestry sector. Top 3 Country: 1. China 2. Australia 3. India Click here

REPORTS REPORT NAME SUBMITTED BY KEY NOTES Towards a Clean Energy NITI Aayog and the The new report on clean energy transition in Economy: Post-Covid-19 Rocky Mountain India titled “Towards a Clean Energy Opportunities for India’s Energy Institute (RMI) Economy: Post-Covid-19 Opportunities for and Mobility Sectors India’s Energy and Mobility Sectors” brought out jointly by the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog and the

Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) to support India’s clean energy future. As per the report, India’s transport sector can save 1.7 Giga Tonnes (GT) of cumulative carbon dioxide emissions (CO2) and avoid about 600 million tonnes of oil equivalent in fuel demand by 2030. The renewable energy target of GoI is175 GW of solar and wind by 2022 and 500 GW by 2030. Click here State of World Population 2020: United Nations According to the report, “State of World Against my will – Defying the Population Fund Population 2020: Against my will – Defying practices that harm women and (UNFPA) the practices that harm women and girls and girls and undermine equality undermine equality”, released by New York based United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), India accounts for 45.8 million of the world’s 142.6 million “missing females” over the past 50 years & it has the highest number of missing women only after China (72.3 million). COVID-19 and Tourism: United Nations The United Nations Conference on Trade and Assessing the Economic Conference on Trade Development (UNCTAD) published the report, Consequences and Development ‘COVID-19 and Tourism: Assessing the (UNCTAD) Economic Consequences’ stating that the World Tourism sector could lose around 1.2 trillion USD or 1.5% of the Global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) because of the 4 months lockdown due to global pandemic situation. The loss could rise to USD 2.2 trillion or 2.8% of the global GDP if lockdown continues for 8 months & 3.3 trillion USD or 4.2% of Global GDP for 12-month lockdown. The state of food security and United Nations' (UN) According to the United Nations' (UN) annual nutrition in the world- report “The state of food security and Transforming food systems for nutrition in the world- Transforming food affordable healthy diets systems for affordable healthy diets”, nearly 690 million people, or 8.9% of the world’s population, went hungry in 2019, an increase of 10 million since 2018 and of nearly 60 million since 2014. The report has been prepared by 5 UN agencies, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), World Food Programme (WFP) and World Health Organization (WHO). World Wildlife Crime Report UNODC The Vienna based United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) released its World Wildlife Crime Report stating that the Seizure of the scales of the Pangolins, the most trafficked wild animal in the world has

increased 10 times between the year 2014 and 2018. The report was prepared by the UNODC Crime Research Section. Global Multidimensional Poverty United Nations The United Nations’ “The Global Index (MPI) 2020 Development Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) 2020: Programme (UNDP) Charting pathways out of multidimensional and the Oxford Poverty poverty: Achieving the SDGs” states that India and Human records the largest reduction in the number of Development Initiative People living in poverty as around 273 million (OPHI) people moved out of the multidimensional poverty over 10 years (2005/06 – 2015/16). The report released by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI). Special Bulletin on Maternal Registrar General’s According to the “Special Bulletin on Maternal Mortality in India 2016-18 Sample Registration Mortality in India 2016-18”, released by the System (SRS) Office of the Registrar General’s Sample Registration System (SRS), the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) in India has declined to 113 in 2016-18 from 122 in 2015-17 and 130 in 2014-2016 and almost 100 deaths lesser than in the period of 2007-2009. Click here Implications of AI on the Indian NASSCOM along with According to The report titled, ’Implications of Economy ICRIER and Google AI on the Indian Economy’ by National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM) along with the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and Google, a unit increase in Artificial Intelligence (AI) intensity (measured as the ratio of AI to total sales in firm) can result in a 2.5% increase in India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the immediate term.

ACQUISITION & MERGERS

US-based Carlyle Group to Acquire 25% Stake in Nxtra Data For $235 mn The US based private equity company Carlyle Group has decided to acquire about 25% stake in India’s second largest telecom company Bharti Airtel’s data centre business –Nxtra Data Ltd– for $235 million II, which is an affiliated entity of CAP V Mauritius Ltd., an investment fund managed and advised by affiliated firms of the Carlyle. (about ₹1,780 crore) through a company called Comfort Investments Intel Capital to buy 0.39% stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 1,894.50 crore US based Electronic chip maker Intel’s investment arm, Intel Capital to buy 0.39% stake in Reliance Industries Limited (RIL)’s Jio Platforms for Rs 1,894.50 crore. This is the 12th deal of Jio Platforms. With this investment, Jio Platforms has raised Rs 1,17,588.45 crore from global investors since April 22.

KKR to Buy 54% Stake in JB Chemicals for about Rs 3,100 crore US private equity giant KKR has agreed to acquire a 54% stake in Mumbai-based drug manufacturer JB Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals for approximately Rs 3100 crore. KKR will make the investment through its subsidiaries, Tau Investments Holdings Pte. Ltd., Tau Holdco Pte. Ltd., and KKR Asia III Fund Investments Pte.

Payments Platform Paytm to Acquire Raheja QBE General Insurance For $76 million Indian e-commerce payment system Paytm & QorQl Pvt. Ltd, a Healthcare start-up company with majority shareholding of Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma, is set to acquire Mumbai-based private sector general insurer Raheja QBE General Insurance Company Limited in a deal worth around $76 million.

CCI approves Proposed Combination Involving Eros Plc, STX and Marco The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the proposed combination which involves Eros International Plc (Eros Plc), STX Filmworks Inc (STX) and Marco Alliance Limited (Marco).

CCI approves Kubota’s 9.09% Acquisition of Escorts and Escorts’ 40% Acquisition by KAI The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of 9.09% equity stake in Escorts Limited (Escorts) by Kubota Corporation (Kubota) and of 40% in Kubota Agricultural Machinery India Private Limited (KAI) by Escorts under Section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002.

Qualcomm Ventures buys 0.15% stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 730 crore US-based Qualcomm Ventures, the investment arm of chipmaker Qualcomm Incorporated to invest up to Rs 730 crore in Reliance Industries Limited (RIL)’s Jio Platforms for 0.15% stake. With this investment Jio Platforms has raised a total of Rs 1,18,318.45 crore by selling 25.24% of stake in Jio (till July 14, 2020). The RIL now holds 74.76% stake in Jio Platforms.

Google to Buy 7.73% Stake in Jio Platforms for Rs 33,737 Crores Alphabet Inc’s Google to buy 7.73% stake in Reliance Industries Limited (RIL)’s Jio Platforms for Rs 33,737 crores. For this purpose, they have signed a binding partnership and an investment agreement. With this, Jio Platforms has raised a total of Rs 1,52,056 crore. With this deal, RIL holds 67.03% stake in Jio Platforms, while other investors hold 32.97% stake.

CCI Approved Acquisition of up to 58.92% Stake in HealthCare Global Enterprises Limited by Aceso The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved acquisition of up to 58.92% stake by Aceso Company Pte. Ltd. (Aceso) in HealthCare Global Enterprises Limited (HCG), under Section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002.

L&T Tech Services to Acquire 100% Stake in Orchestra Tech for about Rs 187 Crore L&T Technology Services (LTTS), the engineering services arm of Larsen and Toubro Group, informed that it will acquire a 100 % stake in Texas-based Orchestra Technology. The acquisition is an all cash deal of USD 25 million, or about Rs 187 crores.

CCI Approved Acquisition of Krishnapatnam Port Company Limited by Adani Ports and SEZ Limited The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the acquisition of Krishnapatnam Port Company Limited (KPCL) by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ). The proposed

combination envisages acquisition of equity shareholding and full management control of KPCL by APSEZ.

DEFENCE

EXERCISE EXERCISE NAME VENUE / PARTICIPATING KEY NOTES COUNTRIES PASSEX (Passing Exercise) Indian Navy and Japanese Indian Navy and Japanese Navy (Japanese Navy Maritime Self-Defence Force - JMSDF) have conducted a day long Naval Exercise PASSEX (Passing Exercise) for tactical and communications training, towards the Malacca Strait in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The exercise consisted of four warships viz. INS Rana and INS Kulish of Indian Navy and JS Kashima and JS Shimayuki of JMSDF’s training squadron. Major Naval exercises Andaman and Nicobar Indian Navy conducted major Naval exercises Islands, Indian Navy in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands led by Sanjay Vatsayan, Chief Rear Admiral of Eastern naval fleet as a display of strategic intents against China amid the current military conflicts in the North-eastern borders in Ladakh. Click here Passage Exercise (PASSEX) Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) Indian Navy undertook a short joint naval islands , Indian Navy with Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the United United States (US) Navy States (US) Navy near the Andaman and Nicobar (A&N) islands in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) to conduct maritime drills, against the backdrop of the India-China border standoff in Ladakh. India was represented by INS Rana, INS Sahyadri, INS Shivalik and anti- submarine corvette of the Kamorta class INS Kamorta. US was represented by US Navy carrier strike group which was led by USS (United States Ship) Nimitz (CVN 68), a nuclear-powered World’s largest aircraft carrier & few other ships.

TESTING MISSILES NAME TESTING LOCATION FEATURES Dhruvastra Balasore, Odisha The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) test fired the Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) named “Dhruvastra” (Formerly known as Helicopter launched Nag Missile, “HELINA”) without Helicopter at the Interim Test Range (ITR) in Balasore, Odisha. The flight trials were conducted in direct and top attack mode.

Underground Gulf waters Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a Ballistic Missiles paramilitary force, launched the underground ballistic missiles from the depths of the Earth in a completely camouflaged way during the last day of ‘Great Prophet 14’ (code name- “Payambar e Azam 14”) military exercise near Gulf waters.

DEALS, MoU’s Defence Ministry of India and Indonesia agree to expand the military ties during Defence Minister Dialogue in New Delhi Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh and the Defence Minister General of Indonesia Mr. Prabowo Subianto agree to expand the military ties during the Defence Minister’s dialogue held at New Delhi. The objective of the meet is to expand the defence industries and military ties between two countries and to expand the technology sharing. The capital and currency of Indonesia are Jakarta & Indonesian Rupiah respectively.

ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS DAC approves Rs 38,900 cr capital acquisition of equipment for armed forces; 33 fighter jets to be procured Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has given its consent for the capital acquisition of various platforms and equipment required by the Indian Armed Forces, Army, Navy and the Air Force, worth Rs 38,900 crore. This decision was taken during the DAC meet held on July 2, 2020 under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. DAC also approved the proposal for procurement of 33 fighter jets which includes 21 MIG-29 and 12 Su-30 MKI aircraft along with upgradation of existing 59 MIG-29 aircraft. Read More Details Here: DAC approves Rs 38,900 cr capital acquisition of equipment for armed forces; 33 fighter jets to be procured

Indian Air Force & CSIO Have Develops Indigenous ‘Airborne Locust Control System’ on Two Mi- 17 Helicopters The Chandigarh based 3 Base Repair Depot (BRD) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO) have indigenously developed an Airborne Locust Control System (ALCS) for two Mi-17 helicopters for spraying atomised pesticide malathion to arrest locust breeding. Also, Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar has flagged off a Bell 206- B3 helicopter for effective control of crop threatening locusts in the worst affected areas in Rajasthan. Read More Details Here: Indian Air Force & CSIO Have Develops Indigenous ‘Airborne Locust Control System’ on Two Mi-17 Helicopters

Bharat Dynamics Limited signs LAToT of Akash Missile Weapon System with DRDO Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) signed Licence Agreement and Transfer of Technology (LAToT) for Akash Missile (Surface to air) Weapon System of Indian Army Variant with Defence Research and Development Organisation – Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDO – DRDL). The Akash missile was designed and developed by DRDO and manufactured by BDL.

Indian Navy Completes “Operation Samudra Setu” by repatriating 3992 Indian from 3 countries Indian Navy has successfully completed its 55 days and 23,000 Km long ‘Operation Samudra Setu’, which was launched on May 5, 2020 as a part of the national effort to bring back Indian citizens from 3 countries of Maldives, Iran, and Sri Lanka during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, INS Kesari undertook ‘Mission SAGAR’, carrying 580 tonnes of food aid and medical stores including ayurvedic medicines to Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros Islands and Seychelles, covering over 14,000 km in 49 days.

Read More Details Here: Indian Navy Completes “Operation Samudra Setu” by repatriating 3992 Indian from 3 countries

IAF Received Last 5 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from US Aerospace company Boeing United States (US) based Aerospace Company Boeing, has delivered the last 5 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to Indian Air Force (IAF) at the Air Force Station, Hindan, Uttar Pradesh. This final 5 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters were part of a deal that was signed by Indian Government & Boeing in the year 2015 to deliver 22 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. In March 2020, Boeing had delivered the last five of the 15 CH-47F(I) Chinook heavy-lift helicopters to the IAF. The Aero-structures of AH-64 Apache helicopter are produced by Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL).

Defence Ministry Entrust Power to Armed Force to Make Emergency Purchase Worth Rs.300 crores The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) headed by Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence has granted special financial power to the armed forces to make emergency purchases of armed weapons worth up to Rs.300 crores to meet the emerging operational requirement.

The Navy’s largest Solar plant was inaugurated at the INA, Ezhimala The Vice Admiral Anil Kumar Chawal, Flag Officer Commanding-in-chief, Southern Naval Command (SNC), virtually employed the 3 Megawatt (MW) largest Solar Power Plant at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, Kerala. The project is a part of the Indian Government’s initiative of National Solar Mission, to achieve 100 Gigawatt (GW) of solar Power by 2022. Also, 2 Megawatt Solar Power Plant Inaugurated at Naval Station Karanja, Uran, Maharashtra.

1st five of 36 French Rafale fighter jets landed at Haryana’s Ambala Airbase The first five of 36 Rafale fighter jets, from France were landed in Ambala in Haryana after covering a distance of nearly 8500 km to join the Indian Air Force (IAF). These fighter jets are manufactured with 13 India Specific Enhancements (ISE), by Dassault Aviation, a French company. India & France signed Inter-governmental agreement worth €7.87 billion in 2016 for Rafale Fighter jet production.

Indian Army Gets World’s Most Agile & Lightest Drone, “Bharat” for Accurate Surveillance developed by DRDO’s TBRL; Deployed in Indo-China Border Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) provides the drone named “Bharat” – indigenously developed by the Chandigarh based laboratory of DRDO, “Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL)” to the Indian Army to monitor the high altitude areas and mountain terrains along the line of actual control in the Easter Ladakh (China Border). The Bharat series drones are listed among World’s most agile and lightest surveillance drones.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SATELLITES LAUNCHES SATELLITE NAME COUNTRY PURPOSE Ofek 16 Israel The Israel Ministry of Defence (IMoD), and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), have successfully launched a new spy satellite “Ofek 16” into orbit by using a locally- developed Shavit rocket from a launchpad at Palmachim airbase in central Israel.

Amazonia – 1 Brazil Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the Amazonia – 1 on board the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) as a primary payload by August 2020. Amazonia -1 is Brazil’s first satellite for Earth observation – designed, assembled and tested in Brazil. India and Brazil signed the agreement of Cooperation in the 6th BRICS Summit in 2014 on setting up a Brazilian earth station to receive data from the Indian Remote Sensing Satellites (IRS) series. Kuaizhou-11(KZ-11) China China’s 1st Kuaizhou-11(KZ-11), solid-fuelled carrier rocket launch was failed. The rocket was launched from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China. Also, China launched its new commercial telecommunication satellite “APSTAR-6D” by a Long March-3B carrier rocket from the south-western Xichang Satellite Launch Centre. Click here Hope Probe mission United Arab United Arab Emirates (UAE) became the 1st West Asian Emirates (UAE) and Arab nation to embark on a first-ever interplanetary space mission to Mars namely “Hope Probe mission” from Tanegashima Space Centre, Japan atop a Mitsubishi Heavy Industries H-IIA rocket. It was also known as Al- Amal or Emirates Mars Mission, this $200 mn mission will be the first to study both Martian climate viz. diurnal (daily) and seasonal cycles. Notably, the mission arrival, which is expected to reach Mars’s orbit by February 2021 which marks the 50th anniversary of the unification of the UAE, an alliance of seven emirates. ANASIS-II South Korea South Korea launched its first military communications satellite, Army/Navy/Air Force Satellite Information System 2 (ANASIS-II). The satellite was deployed into a geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) by a Falcon 9 rocket developed by US space firm SpaceX. It was lifted off from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in the US state of Florida. With this launch South Korea has become the 10th country to own a military-only communications satellite. Click here Tianwen-1 China On 23rd July 2020, Tianwen-1, China’s first fully home- grown Mars Mission, was launched by Long March 5 Rocket from the Wenchang Satellite Launch Centre in Hainan Island, China. The name Tianwen means “Questions to Heaven” it was taken from the poem by Qu Yuan (Lived in 340 to 278 BCE). Ziyuan III 03 China China sent a new high-resolution mapping satellite named “Ziyuan III 03”, developed by the China Academy of Space Technology, into space by Long March-4B carrier rocket from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Center in the Northern Province of Shanxi, China. It was the 341st flight mission by the Long March rocket series. Along with high-resolution mapping satellite, two small satellites named Tianqi 10 & Lobster Eye 1 developed by

the Shanghai ASES Spaceflight Technology Co. Ltd. were sent.

OTHER SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY NEWS NATIONAL Swedish Institute of Space Physics to Explore Venus for 2nd time via Indian Space Mission Shukrayaan-1 The Swedish Institute of Space Physics (IRF) will explore Venus for the second time through the India’s 1st Venus Mission Shukrayaan-1. The Shukrayaan-1 is scheduled for launch at the end of 2023 from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

IIT Kanpur Develops Virtual Classroom Aid, ‘Mobile Masterjee’ The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur has developed a virtual classroom aid, ‘Mobile Masterjee’. It is a classroom-to-home teaching setup, which enables students to record teachers’ lectures/instructions while using smartphones. It is developed by the Imagineering Lab of IIT Kanpur. The IIT Kanpur also developed an Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered solution, ‘Satyanweshi’ (seeker of truth in Sanskrit) to find and check true information about COVID-19

Researchers Found Jupiter Like Planet: TOI-849b, First Ever Planetary Core The researchers spotted a Jupiter-like planet, 39 times more massive than the Earth, orbiting around a distant star with temperature lower than the Sun, the planet is located around 730 light years away from Earth. The astronomers named the planet TOI-849b. This is the first ever planetary core to be found by the astronomers. The study was published in Journal Nature.

India’s Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) Captured the Image of Mars’ moon Phobos Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) released the picture of the closest and biggest moon of Mars named “Phobos” which was captured by Mars Colour Camera (MCC) onboard India’s Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM – also known as Mangalyaan). The image was taken on July 1, 2020 when MOM was about 7200 km from Mars and at 4200 km from Phobos.

India’s First NPNT Compliant Drone Flight Successfully Completed by Quidich & Asteria Aerospace India’s First No-Permission No-Takeoff (NPNT) compliant drone flight on the A200 Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) has been completed successfully by Quidich Innovation Labs and Asteria Aerospace in the green zone identified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), near Tumkur in Karnataka. This NPNT drone flight is under the MoCA & DGCA comprehensive policy on use of UAVs, which came into effect on 1st Dec 2018.

IIT Roorkee Develops “Unisaviour” – Disinfection Box to Sterilise Personal Belongings The Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT-R) announced that the IIT-R researchers team led by Prof. Soumitra Satapathi, Laboratory of Integrated Nano photonics and Biomaterials, have developed the disinfection box – “Unisaviour” box, which can be used to sterilise various personal belongings to minimise the COVID-19 transmission.

ICMR-NIV in Collaboration with Bharat Biotech Develops India’s First COVID-19 Vaccine – COVAXIN The Hyderabad based Bharat Biotech India Ltd (BBIL) in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – National Institute of Virology (NIV – located at Pune, Maharashtra) developed India’s

first COVID-19 vaccine – COVAXIN (BBV152 COVID vaccine). The vaccine is developed and manufactured by the BSL-3 (Bio Safety Level- 3) high containment facility of BBIL.

Mylab Discovery Solutions Launches ‘Compact XL’ India’s First Machine to Automate Manual Processes of Molecular Diagnostic Tests Mylab Discovery Solutions, Pune based molecular diagnostics company has launched ‘Compact XL’- India’s first machine to automate the manual processes of molecular diagnostic tests like RT-PCR test for COVID-19 on 7th July 2020.

Loyal Textile Mills in Collaboration with RIL and HeiQ Launched world’s 1st Reusable PPE with Triple Viral Shield Technology Loyal Textile Mills Limited in collaboration with Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and HeiQ has launched the world’s first reusable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) with Triple Viral Shield Technology that has passed the Viral Penetration Test, Synthetic Blood Penetration Test, and the Systolic Blood Pressure Recovery (SBPR) Test at a webinar. The launch was done by Loyal’s signature brand SUPERA SHIELD.

IIT Kanpur Develops ‘SHUDH’, UV Sanitizing Device to make Surroundings COVID free The Imagineering Laboratory department of IIT Kanpur has developed an Ultraviolet (UV) sanitizing product, ’SHUDH’. The SHUDH is a smartphone operated Handy UV Disinfection Helper. It helps to make the surroundings COVID free especially the highly prone places such as hospitals, hotels, malls, offices and schools.

ARAD and CARMEL – New Israeli Assault Rifles Are Set to Manufacture in India under Make in India Initiative The latest Israeli Assault Rifles, Arad and Carmel, will be manufactured under the Make in India initiative in the PLR Systems Private Limited, established by Israel Weapons Industries (IWI) in 2017 as a joint venture with Punj Lloyd in Madhya Pradesh, India.

GHIAL’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Introduces India’s First Fully Contactless Car Parking The GMR Hyderabad International Airport (GHIAL), introduced India’s first ever fully contactless airport car parking with contact less toll transaction for their passengers and visitors in Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) to provide a safe airport amid COVID-19. The NETC FASTag Car Park is a part of the “One Nation One Tag” – NETC FASTag programme of Indian Government.

DRDO developed fully indigenous P7 Heavy Drop System for IL 76 aircraft Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed P7 Heavy Drop System (HDS) which is capable of para dropping military stores ((vehicle/ ammunition/ equipment) up to 7-ton weight class from IL 76 aircraft [Ilyushin Il-76 or Gajraj (elephant king)]). This HDS consists of a platform & specialised parachute system. It has been inducted in the Indian Army. The design of this fully indigenous system has been developed by Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), Uttar Pradesh. The platform of the system will be manufactured by L&T (Larsen & Toubro) while parachutes manufactured by Ordnance Factory.

Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ E-Launched “Corosure” – World’s Most Affordable COVID-19 Diagnostic Kit Developed by IIT Delhi Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, the Union Minister of Human Resource Development (MoHRD) E-launched the world’s most affordable Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) based COVID-

19 diagnostic kit, “Corosure Kit”. It is developed by the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT-D) approved by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).

DCGI Approves India’s 1st Fully Indigenously Developed Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Conjugate Vaccine The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) informed that, the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI – VG Somani) has given approval to India’s first fully indigenously developed vaccine against pneumonia, Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Conjugate Vaccine. The vaccine has been developed by M/s. Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd, Pune.

Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) to construct world’s 1st fully automatic electric ferries for Norway’s ASKO Maritime The Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) has signed a contract to build the world’s first fully automatic electric vessel for ASKO Maritime, Norway. In this regard, CSL will construct and supply two autonomous electric ferries to ASKO Maritime, with an option to build two more identical vessels. The project, partially funded by the Norwegian Government, aimed at emission-free transport of goods across the Oslofjord, inlet in Norway.

IIT-M Incubated Start-up, Modulus Housing Developed a Portable Hospital Unit, ‘MediCAB’ to Treat COVID-19 Patients Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M)-incubated start-up, Modulus Housing has developed a portable hospital unit, ‘MediCAB’, a decentralized approach to detect, screen, identify, isolate and treat COVID-19 patients. It can be installed anywhere within 2 hours by four people. The start-up has collaborated with Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST). This collaboration helps the start-up to get inputs on certification and customizations necessary for the project. Recently, MediCAB has been launched in the Wayanad, Kerala to treat COVID-19 patients.

CSIR-CMERI, Durgapur Introduced COVID Protection System (COPS) with IntelliMAST, TouF & 360° Car Flusher for Workplace The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI), Durgapur, West Bengal introduced the COVID Protection System (COPS), a collection of technologies for workplace, which includes, contactless Solar Based Intelligent Mask Automated Dispensing Unit cum Thermal Scanner (IntelliMAST), Touchless Faucet (TouF) and 360° Car Flusher.

Nitin Jairam Gadkari Launches Mentoring Platform ‘RestartIndia’ to Support MSME Sector Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MoMSME), launched www.restartindia.com, a mentoring platform. It was initiated jointly by Muthoot Fincorp and INKtalks to support the MSME sector to restart the business across the nation.

Space start-up DRT developed India’s first in-orbit space debris monitoring and tracking system A Space start up named Digantara Research and Technology (DRT) which has developed India’s first in- orbit space debris monitoring and tracking system that works on LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology has been selected by SID (Society for Innovation and Development) incubation program at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru.

CSIR’s CSIO along with AMESYS INDIA developed a microorganism decontamination box named ‘Suraksha’ Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)’s Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO) along with AMESYS INDIA developed a microorganism decontamination box, ‘Suraksha’. The box sanitizes an object in the span of 10 – 15 minutes using heat and UVC light.

DIAT Developed ‘Aashray’, the Medical Bed Isolation System to Combat COVID-19 The Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) has developed ‘Aashray’, the Medical Bed Isolation System to fight against COVID-19 pandemic by controlling the spread of infection released by the patient. It is a low cost, reusable solution. The model of Aashray was manufactured by M/s Cleancore Solutions Pvt Ltd. Bhosari, Pune.

INTERNATIONAL Russia for the 1st Time Successfully Conducted Flight Tests of the MGTD-20 Gas Turbine Engine made by 3D-printing The Russian Foundation for Advanced Research Projects in the Defense Industry informed that Russia for the first time conducted a successful flight test of the MGTD-20 gas turbine engine made by 3D- printing. Also, The Russian Helicopters manufacturing company (part of Rostec corporation) informed that Russia’s new Mi-8AMTSh-VN attack transport helicopter is being tested. Read More Details Here: Russia for the 1st Time Successfully Conducted Flight Tests of the MGTD-20 Gas Turbine Engine made by 3D-printing ENVIRONMENT

“Golden Birdwing” from Uttarakhand surpassed “Southern Birdwing” to become India’s largest butterfly after 88 years The Himalayan butterfly named “Golden Birdwing (Troides aeacus)” has surpassed the “Southern Birdwing (Troides minos)” after 88 years to become the largest butterfly in India. The female Golden Birdwing was recorded from Didihat in Uttarakhand, the largest male was from the Wankhar Butterfly Museum in Meghalaya capital Shillong. The new measurements of Golden Birdwing and 24 other species, are published in the latest issue of Bionotes

New species of a Fan-Throated Lizard, ‘Sitana Dharwarensis’ Discovered from Northern Karnataka A 3-member team has discovered a new species of a fan-throated lizard, Sitana dharwarensis, from the barren lands of northern Karnataka’s Bagalkot district. The study on the discovery was published in Bonn zoological Bulletin. This is the 2nd species discovered from the open scrub and rock terrain of northern Karnataka after Hemidactylus vijayraghavani, a gecko.

A Team of Wildlife researchers rediscover ‘Ypthima watsoni’ butterfly after 61 years in Tripura A team of wildlife researchers has rediscovered ‘Ypthima watsoni’ butterfly (commonly known as ‘Looped three-ring’) after 61 years near a village called Phuldungsei in Jampui Hills under the North Tripura district. The research paper regarding this discovery was published in the Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies.

A Team of Researchers from Singapore Discovered a New Species, ‘Bathynomus raksasa’ in Indian Ocean A team of researchers led by Peter Ng from Singapore confirmed the discovery of a new species called ‘Bathynomus raksasa’ (Described as “cockroach of the sea”). The scientists reported their findings in the biodiversity research journal ‘ZooKeys’. ‘Bathynomus Raksasa’ is the second-largest isopod species known to researchers to date and is the sixth “supergiant” species from the Indo-West Pacific.

SPORTS

CRICKET Nitin Menon Becomes the 3rd Indian & Youngest Umpire to Enter ICC Elite Panel Nitin Menon (36) from India became the youngest member of the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Elite Panel of Umpires. He replaces Nigel Llong (England) for the upcoming 2020-21 season. He becomes the 3rd Indian umpire to be included in the ICC’s after former captain Srinivas Venkatraghavan and Sundaram Ravi.

T20 World Cup 2020 in Australia postponed due to COVID-19: ICC The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that the Men’s T20 World cup, 2020 scheduled to be played in Australia in October – November, has been postponed to 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Windows for the forthcoming three ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has been rescheduled. ICC T20 World Cup 2021 is rescheduled on October – November 2021; The ICC T20 World cup 2022 is rescheduled in October – November 2022; The ICC ODI World cup 2023 rescheduled in October – November 2023 with the final on 26 November 2023 in India.

Sri Lankan Cricketer Sripali Weerakkody retires from International Cricket A 34 years old Female fast bowler Sripali Weerakkody who represent for Sri Lanka in International Crickets has announced her retirement from all forms of Cricket. She played 89 ODIs and 58 T20Is. She totally picked 89 wickets in her career. she became the first woman cricketer from Sri Lanka to qualify as a fitness trainer from the Australian Institute of Fitness.

England Won the Final Wisden Trophy against West Indies by 2-1 England won the third and final Wisden Trophy test match against the West Indies by 269 runs and won the series by 2-1. After this final series, The Wisden trophy will be retired and displayed at the Museum at Lord’s. It will be replaced by the Richards-Botham Trophy. During the series, Stuart Board became the 7th bowler in the history of Test cricket to scalp 500 wickets in his 140th test. Ben Stokes become new No.1 all-rounder in ICC test rankings. Read More Details Here: England Won the Final Wisden Trophy against West Indies by 2-1

Indian Domestic Player Rajat Bhatia Announces Retirement from All Forms of Cricket Delhi All-rounder Rajat Bhatia has announced retirement to his two-decade long cricket career. He announced his retirement on July 29, 2020. Rajat Bhatia has played 112 first-class games scoring 6482 runs and scalping 137 wickets. He was part of title-winning Kolkata Knight Riders team in 2012. Even though he has played more than 100 first-class matches, he could never be a part of the Indian cricket team.

BADMINTON & TENNIS China’s Badminton Player and 2 Time Olympic Champion Lin Dan Announces Retirement China’s Badminton player and 2-time Olympic Champion, Lin Dan announced his retirement due to his physical capabilities and injuries. He won gold at the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Olympics. He was born on October 14, 1983 Longyan, China. He became the 1st and only player to complete the “Super Grand Slam”, having won all nine major titles in the badminton world.

ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL Liverpool wins the top-flight title in 2020 Premier League Championship defeating Manchester City Liverpool won its 19th top-flight title in the 28th edition of Premier League Championship 2020 football tournament after waiting for 30 years by defeating Manchester City by 2-1 at Stamford Bridge.

Former Australian Skipper Mile Jedinak Announces Retirement from Football Mile Jedinak (35), Former Australian skipper and Crystal Palace midfielder from Sydney announced his retirement on 11 July, 2020. He has been the captain for Australia national Team. He played 79 times for his country, and was captain for over 25 times. Mile captained the Socceroos’ to win the 2015 Asian cup in his own country.

Former Chelsea Forward and World Cup Winner Andre Schurrle Retires at 29 Andre Schurrle (29), Former Chelsea attacker and Borussia Dortmund forward and 2014 FIFA World cup winner (Germany), announces his retirement on July 17, 2020. He is a German former professional footballer who played as a forward. He represented the German national team from 2010 to 2017.

FIFA World Cup 2022: to be held in Qatar at Al Bayt Stadium The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) informed that the 2022 World cup tournament is to be held in Qatar at Al Bayt Stadium (or) Al Khor Stadium. Men’s 2022 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to be the 22nd edition of the FIFA World Cup. Host country will be Qatar. Tournament likely to be held between November 21- December 18, 2022 & the final match will be held at Lusail Stadium.

ISL becomes 1st league in South Asia and 7th in Asia to join the World Leagues Forum The Hero Indian Super League (ISL) joins the World Leagues Forum (WLF), the association of Professional football leagues. It is the first league from South Asia and seventh in Asia to join the WLF. The Premier League, La Liga and Bundesliga are also part of the association of Professional football leagues and also the most supported leagues by the people.

BOXING, WRESTLING & WEIGHTLIFTING Indian boxer Amit Panghal secures top spot in AIBA World Men’s Ranking 2020 in 52kg category; Manju world’s second-best boxer in Women’s ranking in 48Kg category The Lausanne headquartered International Boxing Association (AIBA) has released the world rankings 2020 for women’s and men’s boxing, as per which Indian amateur boxer & World championships silver medallist Amit Panghal has been ranked first in the world ranking of men elites of 52 kg weight category with a total of 1300 points. At the same time, Manju Rani has got the second place in women’s rankings in 48 kg with 1175 points.

OTHER SPORTS NEWS Lt Col Bharat Pannu Becomes First Indian To Secures Podium Position in International Ultra cycling Race: Finished 3rd In 1st Edition VRAAM 2020 Lt Col Bharat Pannu, Indian Army officer, secured the 3rd position on the leader board at the first edition of the Virtual Race Across America (VRAAM) 2020 held from 16th June to 28th June 2020 and became the first ever Indian to secure a podium position in the international ultra-cycling race.

Indian Olympic Association Adopts New Visual Identity to Celebrate 100 Years of Participation in Olympic Games To mark the 100th year of Indian participation in the Olympic Games the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) adopted a new visual identity (Logos). The logo celebrates the contribution of the athletes and the officials all over the world towards Team India. The newly adopted logo is a symbol representing India’s identity and IOA’s value in sports.

Chess Player,G.Akash from Chennai,TN Becomes India’s 66th Grandmaster The 23 year-old G. Akash from Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN) become the country’s 66th Grandmaster with rating of 2495. The title was confirmed at the recent meeting of International Chess Federation (FIDE) Council.

Mercedes Valtteri Bottas Won the Formula One Season-Opening Austrian Grand Prix Finland based driver Valtteri Bottas of Mercedes won the Formula One (F1) season-opening Austrian Grand Prix (GP), surpassing his Mercedes team mate and defending Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton.

World’s No.1 Women Squash Player Raneem El Welily of Egypt Retired; India’s Joshna Chinappa ranked 10th Raneem El Welily, the 31-year-old Egyptian Squash player and world’s top ranking (No.1) Women Squash Player announced her retirement ending her 18 year sports career. Nouran Gohar of Egypt claims the No.1 ranking after the retirement of Welily. Also, Indian Squash player Joshna Chinappa ranked 10th in the latest PSA World Women’s Ranking 2020. She entered the top 10 of the PSA world ranking following the retirement of Raneem.

Lewis Hamilton Won the Styrian Grand Prix in Spielberg Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes Driver won the Styrian Grand Prix (GP) in Spielberg, Austria with this win Hamilton has won at least one race of his 14-year career on the circuit.

Formula One Champion, Mercedes Lewis Hamilton Won the Hungarian Grand Prix 2020; won this Title for 8th Time Formula One Champion Mercedes Lewis Hamilton (British) won the Hungarian Grand Prix (GP) 2020 held at the Hungaroring in Mogyoród, Hungary. This is his 8th time to win this title. With this victory he equalled Michael Schumacher ‘s single-venue record (French GP). Red Bull’s Max Verstappen (Dutch) came second and was awarded ‘drive of the day’.

India’s 2018 Asian Games mixed relay medal upgraded to gold after Bahrain’s disqualification Indian 4x400m mixed relay team’s silver medal in the 2018 Asian Games has been upgraded to gold. This decision has been taken after the disqualification of original winners Bahrain due to doping ban. Anu Ragavan’s fourth place in the women’s 400m hurdles has been upgraded to Bronze medal after this.

Haryana to host the 4th edition of Khelo India Youth Games 2021 The Minister of State (I/C) of Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju and Haryana Chief Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar announced that Haryana will host the 4th edition of Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) in 2021 through video conference. The Games will be held in Panchkula in Haryana. Star Sports will be the Official Broadcast Partner.

Indian GM P. Harikrishna Finishes Second in Grandmaster Triathlon Tournament at Biel Chess Festival 2020 Indian Grandmaster P. Harikrishna finished overall second spot in the Grandmaster Triathlon Tournament at 53rd Biel International Chess Festival which took place in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland. Poland’s Radoslaw Wotjaszek finished first in the Biel Chess Festival. The Grandmaster Triathlon Tournament consists of three rounds of chess competition – Classical, Rapid & Blitz and it is part of Biel Chess Festival. He grabbed the top spot in Accentus Chess960, another separate tournament which was held in the Biel International Chess Festival 2020.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

BOOK NAME AUTHOR KEY NOTES Bharatiya Loktanktra Ka Priyamvad Hindi literature writer Priyamvad to release his new Koras: Kuch Bisari book, ‘Bharatiya Loktanktra Ka Koras: Kuch Bisari Bikhari Dhwaniyan Bikhari Dhwaniyan’ in 2021. The book will be published by Penguin Random House India’s Indian language publishing division, Hind Pocket Books. Future of Higher CA V Pattabhi Ram Vice President of India, M Venkaiah Naidu virtually Education – Nine Mega released a book, “Future of Higher Education – Nine Trends Mega Trends“. The book is authored by CA V Pattabhi Ram, a Public Speaker, author and Teacher. The Virtual event was hosted by ICT Academy. Overdraft: Saving the Urjit Patel Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor Urjit Patel Indian Saver has authored a book titled ‘Overdraft: Saving the Indian Saver’, which focuses on the issue of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) that has affected Indian banking in recent years and also its causes. The book will be published by HarperCollins India. Currently he is the Chairperson of the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP). Getting Competitive: A RC Bhargava RC Bhargava, the Chairman of Maruti Suzuki authored Practitioner’s Guide for the book “Getting Competitive: A Practitioner’s Guide India for India” from his experience of around 60 years as a policymaker and a leading industrialist. The book published by HarperCollins India, provides practical suggestions to make India a competitive industrialised country. Mahaveer: The Soldier A.K. Srikumar and his The book, titled ‘Mahaveer: The Soldier who never died’ who never died wife, Rupa Srikumar is authored by award winning author A.K. Srikumar and his wife, Rupa Srikumar. The book is a patriotic story about the courage and selfless love of Jaswant Singh Rawat who is one of the legendary Garhwali soldiers fought in Indo-Chinese battle of Nuranang in 1962. The

book is published by Rupa Publications and represented by The Book Bakers. His Holiness the Tenzin Geyche A book titled ‘His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama: Fourteenth Dalai Lama: Tethong An Illustrated Biography’ is authored by one of the Dalai An Illustrated Biography Lama’s closest aides and advisor, Tenzin Geyche Tethong. The biography is a memorable portrait of the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso. The book is to be released in October 2020 and is published by Roli Books. A Song of India Ruskin Bond Released on July 20, 2020, which will mark the 70th year of the author’s literary career. The book is the 4th instalment in his memoir series (a written record of a person’s own life and experiences - His memoir series are, “Looking for the Rainbow” (2017), “Till the Clouds Roll by” (2017) and “Coming Round the Mountain” (2019)). The book portrays his unknown life before he became a successful author. It is published by Puffin Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House India. If It Bleeds Stephen King A new book titled “If It Bleeds”, a collection of four stories, authored by Stephen King has been released in India on July 10, 2020. The book published by Hachette India has centred on a bomb at Albert Macready Middle School. It is a sequel to his bestselling work, The Outsider. Suraj Kade Marda Nahi Baldev Singh Sahtiya Akademi Awardee Baldev Singh Sadaknama has (sun never dies) Sadaknama authored a book ‘Suraj Kade Marda Nahi’ (sun never dies). The book portrays many aspects of freedom fighter Udham Singh. The book is published by Unistarbooks. Baldev Singh Sadaknama received Sahitya Akademi Award 2011 for his novel Dhaahwan Dilli De Kingre. The Tangams: An Released by Prema The book titled “The Tangams: An Ethnolinguistic Study Ethnolinguistic Study of Khandu of the Critically Endangered Group of Arunachal the Critically Endangered Pradesh” was released by Prema Khandu, the Chief Group of Arunachal Minister of Arunachal Pradesh. The book is published by Pradesh Centre for Endangered Languages (CFEL), Rajiv Gandhi University and Himalayan Publishers, New Delhi. As per the UNESCO World Atlas of Endangered Languages (2009), Tangam – an oral language that belongs to the Tani group, under the greater Tibeto-Burman language family is marked ‘critically endangered’. The Pandemic Century Mark Honigsbaum “The Pandemic Century, A History of Global Contagion from the Spanish Flu to Covid-19”, by the British medical historian Mark Honigsbaum covers 10 outbreaks in the past 100 years, dating from the Spanish Flu (1918) to the present day Coronavirus (2019). The book is published by Penguin Publishers. The Endgame S Hussain Zaidi S Hussain Zaidi, a well-known crime writer has recently written a novel named “The Endgame”. It was published by the HarperCollins India. The book speaks about the

politics, betrayal, and unimaginable terror. “Black Friday”, “Mafia Queens of Mumbai”, “Dongri to Dubai” and “Byculla to Bangkok” are other notable books written by him. He was the associate producer of “Terror in Mumbai”, a famous HBO documentary based on 26/11 terror attacks. The India Way: S Jaishankar ‘The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World’, a Strategies for an book authored by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Uncertain World argues about the standards of India in the global order. The book was published under the HarperCollins India publications. Quest for Restoring Viral V. Acharya The book titled “Quest for Restoring Financial Stability Financial Stability in in India” authored by former Reserve Bank of India India (RBI) deputy governor Viral V. Acharya. The book portrays his quest to restore financial stability in India and offers a concrete plan for sustained improvement. The book is published by SAGE Publications India Pvt Ltd. Padi Bhavajaalalu S Jaipal Reddy M Venkaiah Naidu, Vice President of India virtually unveiled the “Padi Bhavajaalalu” Telugu version Ten Ideologies book authored by former Union Minister Late S Jaipal Reddy and published by Orient BlackSwan, amid his family members and followers on the event of his first death anniversary. The translation was done by Kalluri Bhaskaram. Burnt Sugar Avni Doshi A debut novel ‘Burnt Sugar’ authored by Avni Doshi has been published in the United Kingdom (UK) and it was one among the 13 authors longlisted for the prestigious 2020 Booker Prize. A version of the same novel has been published in India under the title ‘Girl in White Cotton’.

OBITUARY

NATIONAL PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES Saroj Khan Veteran Bollywood Mumbai, Died of Cardiac arrest at Gurunanak Choreographer Maharashtra Hospital, Bandra, Maharashtra where she was admitted before one week with complaint of breathing issues. She was born in Mumbai, Maharashtra. She was a three-time National Award winner, who choreographed most memorable songs of Hindi cinema. Jagdeep Veteran Bollywood Datia, Madhya Passed away in his Bandra residence, actor-comedian Pradesh Mumbai. His real name is Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jafri. He is recognised for his role as Soorma Bhopali in the film “Sholay” and for his expression ‘khambha ukhadke’. He

was born on March 29, 1939 in Datia, Madhya Pradesh (MP). Nagindas Sanghvi Padma Shri Awardee Burma Veteran Gujarati journalist, columnist, (Myanmar) writer, political analyst and Padma Shri Awardee (2019) Nagindas Sanghvi (100) passed away in Surat due to a brief illness. He was suffering from acute asthma. He was born on March 10, 1920 in Burma (Myanmar). He received ‘Vyoshrestha Samman’ from Government of India in 2017. Suresh Amonkar Former Goa Health Amona, Goa Passed away due to COVID-19 infection, Minister while undergoing treatment at ESI hospital in Margao. He was born on May 15, 1952 in Amona, Goa. He served as the Minister of Health, Social Welfare, and Labour & Employment in Francisco Sardinha’s cabinet from 1999 to 2000. He also served as the Minister of Health, Labour & Employment, and Factories and Boilers in the First Manohar Parrikar cabinet. Ramesh Tikaram Arjuna awardee, para Passed away due to COVID-19 in a athlete and para- Bengaluru hospital. He organized the badminton player, World Cup for Para badminton in - Bengaluru in 2002. He was the India’s 1st Para Badminton Player to receive the Arjuna Award. Neela First woman State Mumbai Neela Satyanarayanan (72), first woman Satyanarayanan Election Commissioner State Election Commissioner (SEC) of (SEC) of Maharashtra Maharashtra and a praised Marathi author died of COVID-19 on July 16, 2020. She died at Seven Hills Hospital at Marol in Andheri (East), Mumbai where she was undergoing treatment for COVID-19. Neela has written 17 novels and an autobiography “One Full, One Half”, an experience of raising a child with down syndrome. Conjeevaram Padma Bhushan Kanchipuram, TN Passed away in Chennai, Tamil Nadu (TN). Srirangachari Awardee & Renowned He was the founder of the Chennai (C.S.) Seshadri Mathematician Mathematical Institute (CMI). He is known for his work in algebraic geometry. He was born on February 29th, 1932, in Kanchipuram, TN. The Seshadri constant is named after him. He received Padma Bhushan in 2009. Shri Lalji Tandon Governor of Madhya Lucknow, Uttar Who was admitted in Medanta hospital, in Pradesh (MP) Pradesh Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, had passed away. He was diagnosed to have chronic liver disease and breathing problems and put

on severe medical ailment. He was born on 12, April 1935, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. He served as the Governor of Bihar between 23rd August 2018 to 28th July 2019. Amala Shankar Eminent Danseuse Jessore (Now Passed away in Kolkata on 24 July, 2020. (dancer) Bangladesh) Amala Nandy was born on June 27, 1919 in Jessore (Now Bangladesh). She is the wife of legendary Indian dancer and choreographer Uday Shankar. Zaibunnissa Veteran Bollywood Sheikhpura, Popularly known as Kumkum (86) due to Actor Bihar age related ailments passed away in her residence in Bandra, Mumbai, Maharashtra. She was born on 22nd April 1934 in Sheikhpura district, Bihar. Somendra Nath President of West Katorah, Died in Bellevue Hospital, Kolkata due to Mitra Bengal Pradesh Bangladesh Kidney and heart ailments. He was born on Congress Committee 31st December 1941, Katorah, Bangladesh. He served as the member of the 15th Lok Sabha, elected from the Diamond Harbour constituency in West Bengal state in 2009 as a Trinamool Congress candidate. Later rejoined the congress party in 2014.

INTERNATIONAL PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES Everton de West Indies Barbados Passed away. He is the last member of the Courcy Weekes cricketer legendary Three Ws (Clyde Walcott, Frank Worrell & Everton Weekes are 3Ws), the legendary trio of cricketing knights. He was born in Pickwick Gap, Barbados on February 26, 1925. He was the 3rd oldest surviving men’s Test cricketer, after South African John Watkins and England’s Don Smith. Carl Reiner Veteran New York, U.S A creator and director of several Steve Martin Hollywood and films, died of natural causes at his Beverly Hills multi-hyphenate home. He was born in The Bronx, New York, personality U.S. Reiner was a writer, film maker, actor and voice artist. He has won multiple Emmy Awards, among which 5 awards were backed by “The Dick Van Dyke Show” in the 1960s. Ennio Morricone Two Times Oscar Rome, Italy Italian Composer passed away in Campus Bio- winner Medico, a clinic in Rome, Italy, where he was admitted due to a broken femur. He was born on 10th November 1928 in Rome, Italy. He received the honorary Oscar for lifetime achievement in 2007 and won an Oscar for the best original score for ‘The Hateful Eight of Quentin Tarantino’ in 2016.

Amadou Gon Prime Minister Abidjan, Ivory Prime Minister Amadou Gon Coulibaly (61), the Coulibaly Coast Presidential election candidate of Ivory Coast’s ruling party, died on 8 July 2020 at Abidjan, Ivory Coast within a few days after returning from two months of treatment in France. The capital and currency of Ivory Coast are Yamoussoukro & West African CFA franc respectively. Jack Charlton Footballer London, United Footballer Jack Charlton (nicknamed “Big Kingdom Jack”), the former central defender and a part of England’s 1966 World Cup winning Football team, passed away at the age of 85 in his residence in Northumberland in northeast England. He was born in Northumberland colliery village of Ashington, London, United Kingdom on 8 May 1935. Wim Suurbier Dutch football Eindhoven, Passed away at 75. His cause for death was not player Netherlands provided. He was suffering from a cerebral haemorrhage. He was born in Eindhoven, Netherlands on 16 January 1945. He is a defender who helped to establish the free- flowing ‘Total Football’ on Ajax (Amsterdamsche Football Club Ajax) and Dutch national teams of the 1970s. Rev. Cordy Civil Rights U.S state of Died out of natural causes at his residence in Tindell Vivian Veteran Maryland Atlanta, United States on July 17, 2020. He has served as head of the organisation co-founded by the civil rights icon. Cordy Tindell Vivian was born on 28 July 1924 in Howard County, U.S state of Maryland. He has worked for Martin Luther King Junior and has served as head of the organisation co-founded by the civil rights icon. John Lewis US lawmaker Alabama, United Civil rights movement pioneer and long-time States member of the US House of Representatives died of advanced pancreatic cancer in Atlanta, Georgia, U. S. John Lewis is one of the nation’s most powerful voices of justice and equality. He was born on February 21, 1940 in Troy, Alabama, United States. John Lewis was honoured by President Barack Obama with the Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honour. Barry Jarman Former Australian Hindmarsh, Former Australian test wicket keeper, an ex- test wicket keeper South Australia International Cricket Council match referee Barry Jarman passed away in Adelaide, South Australia at the age of 84 years, who played in 19 tests and scored two half-centuries among his 400 runs at an average of 14.81 and made a test debut in 1959. He was born in Hindmarsh, South Australia. In 1997 he was awarded the

“Medal of the Order of Australia” for service to sport as a cricket player, coach and international cricket referee, and to horse racing in South Australia. Benjamin Mkapa Former President Tanzania Tanzania’s former president Benjamin Mkapa (81), died at a hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on 24 July 2020, where he was admitted for an undisclosed illness. He was born on November 12, 1938. He served as the President from 1995-2005 following the country’s first multiparty election, he is the third president of his country since Independence. The capital and currency of Tanzania are Dodoma & Tanzanian Shilling respectively. Olivia de 2 time Oscar Tokyo, Japan Died in Paris, France. She was known as a doe- Havilland Winner eyed actress. She was born on 1st July 1916, in Tokyo, Japan. She served as the last surviving lead of the movie ‘Gone with the Wind’. She won an Oscar award for the movie ‘To Each His Own’ under the category Best supporting actress in the year 1946 & Again in the year 1949 she won the second Oscar award for the movie “The Heiress’. John Saxon American Actor New York, USA Passed away at his residence in Murfreesboro, Tennessee due to pneumonia. He was born on 5th August 1936 as Carmine Orrico in Brooklyn, New York, United States of America. He won the Golden Globe Award for the new star of the year in 1958 for the movie “This Happy Feeling”. Annabella Allan Actress London, United Annabella Allan Short (89) popularly known as Short Kingdom ‘Annie Ross,’ a British-American jazz vocalist, and actress of the 1950s, passed away in New York. She suffered from emphysema and heart disease. She was born on 25 July 1930, in London, United Kingdom.

IMPORTANT DAYS

OBSERVED DATE / WEEK DAYS KEY NOTES June 30, 2020 International Day of United Nations (UN) International Day of Parliamentarism Parliamentarism is observed annually on June 30 to celebrate parliaments. The year 2020 marks the 3rd edition of the day. The day also marks the establishment date of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the global organization of parliaments in 1889. This year is IPU’s 130th anniversary.

June 30, 2020 International Asteroid Day United Nations International Asteroid Day is observed annually on 30th June of every year to create awareness about asteroids and the hazards of asteroid impacts and to organise events around the world to educate about the Near-Earth Objects (NEO) and Asteroids. The First International Asteroid Day was observed on 30th June 2017. The day was adopted by UN in 2016. The Siberia Tunguska is the Earth’s largest asteroid impact in recorded history. July 1, 2020 National Doctors Day India Celebrates July 1st as the National Doctors Day to honour the doctors and physicians and to recognise their 24×7 service to the society and to express gratitude towards the professionals of the medical sector for their service. Indian Medical Association (IMA) observed the first National Doctors Day on 1st July 1991. The theme of 2020 Doctors Day is “Lessen the Mortality of COVID-19”. The day was celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of the former Chief Minister of West Bengal Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy. July 1, 2020 National Chartered Celebrated annually on July 1 to honour the Accountants Day Chartered Accountant (CA). The day marks the establishment of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) in 1949 under the Chartered Accountants Act, 1949. This year 2020 is the 72nd celebration of the day. July 2, 2020 World Sports Journalists Observed annually on July 2. The day aims to Day acknowledge the work of sports journalists & to encourage them to do better at their work. The day was established in 1994 to mark the 70th anniversary of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS). This year 2020 marks the 96th anniversary of AIPS (established in 1924). June 28 – July 4, 2020 World Allergy Week World Allergy Week is an annual event initiated by the World Allergy Organisation (WAO) to raise awareness about the allergic diseases, disorders related to allergic diseases and the preventive measures of these diseases. The first World Allergy Week was observed in July 2011. The theme of World Allergy Week 2020 is “Allergy care does not stop with COVID-19”. July 4, 2020 Dharma Chakra Day President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind has virtually inaugurated the celebrations for the

Dharma Chakra Day 2020 Organized by International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in Partnership with Union Ministry of Culture. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to the youth of the country to adopt the Buddha’s thoughts through video message. Also, Vesak day (May 7, 2020) and Global Prayer Week from May 7- 16, 2020 have been celebrated. July 4, 2020 United Nations Annually celebrated on the first Saturday of International Day of July which falls on 4th of July in 2020. The Cooperatives day is celebrated to create awareness on the importance of cooperatives and to highlight the goals and objectives of the United Nations and the cooperative movements. The theme of International Day of Cooperatives 2020 is “Cooperatives for Climate Action”. January 11 – 17, 2020 Road Safety Week Observed across India. Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the 31st Road Safety Campaign in Nagpur Maharashtra. Theme: “Bringing Change Through Youth”. July 6, 2020 World Zoonoses Day Observed annually on July 6 to raise awareness of the risk of zoonotic diseases among people. The day commemorates French Biologist, Louis Pasteur who administered the first successful vaccine against the Rabies virus in July 6, 1885. July 1, 2020 Goods and Service Tax Observed annually on July 1. This year marks (GST) day the 3rd anniversary of the launch of the day and was marked by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and all its field offices across India. Most of the interactions with stakeholders to mark this day were made in virtual mode due to COVID- 19. The day was 1st celebrated on July 1, 2018. July 10, 2020 National Fish Farmers Day The government of India celebrated July 10 as the National Fish Farmers Day in remembrance of the successful demonstration of induced breeding (Hypophysation) in Indian Major Carps on 10th July 1957 by scientist’s K H Alikunhi and H L Chaudhury. Also, The Fish Cryobanks will be established by the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) in collaboration with the National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR) in multiple parts of the nation.

July 11, 2020 World Population Day Observed annually on July 11 to raise awareness about population issues like family planning, gender equality, poverty, maternal health and human rights. The theme of 2020 is to safeguard the sexual and reproductive health care, protect the health and rights of women and girls, and end gender-based violence. “Putting the brakes on COVID-19: How to Safeguard the health and rights of women and girls’’. July 6-10, 2020 2nd Counter-Terrorism The United Nations Office of Counter- Week Terrorism (UNOCT) observes 2nd Counter- Terrorism Week from July 6- 10, 2020 virtually. The theme of the week is “Strategic and Practical Challenges of Countering Terrorism in a Global Pandemic Environment”. July 12, 2020 Malala Day The United Nations (UN) designated 12th July of every year as Malala Day, to commemorate the birthday of Malala Yousafzai, Pakistani activist and the youngest recipient of the Nobel prize for peace. In 2013 first “Malala Day: An Education for All Children” was celebrated. HarperCollins India, documents a book about the challenges faced by 25 brave girls for their right to education. The book is yet to be titled & planned to be released in 2021. She was the author of the bestselling book – I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban, We Are Displaced, Malala’s Magic Pencil and co-authored “I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World”. July 15, 2020 World Youth Skills Day Every year the United Nations (UN) World (WYSD) Youth Skills Day (WYSD) is globally celebrated on 15th July to highlight the importance of equipping young people with skills to provide opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. The first WYSD was celebrated on 15th July 2015. The theme of 2020 WYSD virtual event – “Skills for a Resilient Youth”. Click here July 17, 2020 Day of International Annually observed on 17th July to recognise Criminal Justice the importance of the international criminal justice system in prevailing the justice for the victims of the crimes, wars and genocide and to promote their rights. Day of International Criminal Justice is also called as international criminal justice day and World Day for

International Justice. The 17th of July was chosen to commemorate the adoption of Rome Statute – the founding treaty of International Criminal Court (ICC). July 18, 2020 Nelson Mandela The United Nations’ (UN) Nelson Mandela International Day International Day is annually celebrated on July 18th the birth anniversary of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, to recognise his contribution in creating a democratic South Africa. The first Nelson Mandela International Day was celebrated on 18th July 2010. The theme of Nelson Mandela International Day is “Take action, inspire change”. July 20, 2020 First World Chess Day United Nations’ (UN) First World Chess Day is celebrated on 20th July, 2020 all over the world to acknowledge the importance of chess in building harmony among countries, breaking the racial, political and social barriers and its role in achieving the 2030 Agenda for sustainable development and sustainable development goals (SDG). This day also marks the 96th Anniversary of the International Chess Federation (FIDE – Fédération Internationale des Échecs). The FIDE’s motto of 2020 is “Teach someone how to play chess.” May 7, 2020 Vesak Day The Vesak, also known as Buddha Jayanti, Buddha Purnima and Buddha Day 2020 was observed on May 7 by International Buddhist Confederation (IBC). The day was recognised by the United Nations and celebrated since 2000.The Day of Vesak (1st full moon day in the month of May) commemorates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death. June 17, 2020 World crocodile day World crocodile day or World croc day is observed annually on 17th June to create awareness about the endangered crocodiles and alligators specious around the world. The day was first observed in 2017 by the Crocodile Research Coalition (CRC) & The Belize Zoo. India is home to three crocodilian species viz, The mugger or marsh crocodile (Crocodylus palustris), The estuarine or saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), The gharial (Gavialis gangeticus). June 5, 2020 World day against On June 5, People for the Ethical Treatment of speciesism Animals (PETA), Farm Animal Rights Movement (FARM), and other animal rights groups observe, The World day against speciesism every year to enlighten

knowledge about speciesism among people. Note: The word “speciesism” refers to the assignment of different rights, values, or special consideration to individuals solely on the basis of their species. The year 2020 International Year of Plant According to Food and Agriculture Health (IYPH) Organisation (FAO) data, annually there is a loss of food crops up to 40% due to plant pest and diseases which leaves millions of people without enough food & affects the agricultural sector severely, In order to address the issue the United Nations (UN) has declared the year 2020 as the International Year of Plant Health (IYPH) to raise the global awareness on how, protecting the plant health can help to end hunger, reduce poverty, protect the environment, and boost economic development. Finland Government has proposed the UN to dedicate the year 2020 as IYPH. The year 2021 International Year for the The United Nations General Assembly Elimination of Child (UNGA) has declared the year 2021 as the Labour International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour to eradicate forced labour and child labour across the world. The International Labour Organisation (ILO) will be the Nodal agency for the implementation of activities. The Republic of Argentina has proposed the Idea of International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour to United Nations. March 20, 2020 World Oral Health Day Observed globally on 20 March every year. (WOHD) The objective of this day is to create global awareness and promote good oral health for everyone and empower individuals to maintain a healthy mouth at all ages. The theme of campaign 2020 is #Unite for Mouth Health. It was organized by FDI World Dental Federation and is the largest global awareness campaign on oral health. Note: The day was first declared in 2007 and first officially celebrated in 2013. March 28, 2020 Earth hour Earth hour 2020 is observed on March 28 (last Saturday of March annually), a one-hour observance (8.30 P.M- 9.30 P.M) is organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). The main aim is to create awareness about global conversations on protecting nature. This year event is to ‘Raise your voice for nature’ and call for stronger climate action.

Note: This Earth hour was started by WWF and partners as a symbolic lights-out event in Sydney in 2007. April 1-7, 2020 Prevention of Blindness In order to increase awareness towards blind Week people, Prevention of Blindness Week 2020 is observed from April 1 to April 7 every year, which is a campaign planned by the Government of India. Note: Under the Societies Registration Act of 1860, It was first started by Jawaharlal Nehru and Raj Kumari Amrit Kaur in 1960. The year 2021 International Year of The United Nations (UN) has declared 2021 Creative Economy for as the International Year of Creative Sustainable Development Economy for Sustainable Development at the 74th session of the UN General Assembly. The resolution recognizes the need to promote sustained and inclusive economic growth, foster innovation and provide opportunities, benefits and empowerment for all and respect for all human right Note: Indonesia was the main sponsor of the proposal, which was presented by a global grouping of countries, including Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Mongolia, Philippines and Thailand. The year 2021 International Year of Peace The United Nations (UN) has adopted the and Trust Resolution on declaration of 2021 as International Year of Peace and Trust to strengthen the ideals of peace, both within and between countries, which was initiated by the President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov at the 106th plenary meeting of the 73rd session of the United Nation General Assembly. July 23, 2020 National Broadcasting Day The 23rd July of every year is observed as the National Broadcasting Day across India to commemorate the first ever radio broadcast aired in India on 23rd July 1927 from the Bombay Station of a private company, the Indian Broadcasting Company. Click here January 6, 2020 World Day of War Orphans Observed on January 6 every year to address the war orphans as it has become a growing worldwide humanitarian and social crisis. The day was initiated by the French organization, SOS Enfants en Détresse. Note: According to UNICEF (the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund), there are roughly 153 million orphans worldwide. March 9, 2020 Commonwealth day Observed on March 9. It was celebrated on the 2nd Monday of March every year. Earlier

the day was observed on May 24 as British Empire day since the late 19th century, later based on the request of Canadian government, the day was shifted to the 2nd Monday of March in 1977. The 2020 theme is ‘Delivering a Common Future: Connecting, Innovating, Transforming’. The year 2021 International Year of Fruits On December 2019, The United Nations and Vegetables designates the year 2021 as the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables based on the request of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to create awareness about the increasing loss and waste in fruits and vegetables and their negative impacts on the global economy and also to acknowledge the nutritional and health benefits of consuming fruits and vegetables Note: As per FAO estimation, 14 percent of the world’s food gets lost from the point of harvest to the retail level. July 22, 2020 Pi approximation day Observed annually on July 22. It is dedicated

is also called Casual Pi Day. Pi denotes the relationshipto the mathematical between constant a circle’s pi circumference (π). The day and its diameter and is denoted by the fraction 22/7 which calculates approximately to 3.14. July 27, 2020 Central Reserve Police Observed annually on July 27. This year Forces (CRPF)’s raising day marks the 82nd year of its existence. The CRPF came into existence as Crown Representative’s Police on 27th July 1939. July 26, 2020 21st Kargil Vijay Diwas 26th July 2020 is celebrated as the 21st Kargil Vijay Diwas which marks the 21st anniversary of India’s victory against Pakistan under Operation Vijay, launched to recapture the Indian Territories captured by the Intruders of Pakistani army in the Kargil Drass sector in 1999. July 24, 2020 Income Tax day 24th July 2020 is marked as the 160th Income Tax day or Aaykar Diwas by the Income Tax Department. The Income Tax Day has been celebrated in India on 24th July since 2010. In 2010, The Income Tax Department declared July 24th as the annual Income Tax Day to mark the 150th year of this levy, the income tax was first imposed as a duty and came into force on 24th July 1860. Income tax was introduced in India by Sir James Wilson on 24th July 1860.

July 28, 2020 World Hepatitis Day World Health Organisations (WHOs) World Hepatitis Day is annually observed on 28th July to encourage the national and international efforts towards hepatitis and to educate the individuals and general public about the need for global response outlined by WHOs Global hepatitis report 2017. The first World Hepatitis Day was observed on 28th July 2011. The theme of 2020 World Hepatitis Day is “Hepatitis-free future” focusing on prevention of Hepatitis B among mothers and new-borns. July 28, 2020 World Nature July 28th of every year is celebrated as the Conservation Day World Nature Conservation Day. This day is celebrated all over the world to create awareness about the conservation of natural resources and on environmental issues. Aim: To focus our efforts on preserving our natural environment and keeping our home, Earth, healthy. Click here July 26, 2020 Conservation of the The International Day for the Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems the Mangrove Ecosystems is celebrated worldwide on July 26th of every year. The day was adopted by the General Conference of UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) in the year 2015. This day is also known as ‘World Mangrove day’. Mangroves for the future (MFF) was initiated by the International Union for conservation of Nature (IUCN) and co-chaired by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to restore the mangrove forests. The Godrej and Boyce industries along with the WFF India (World Wide Fund) jointly organized a nationwide campaign for conservation of the Mangrove forests. July 29, 2020 International Tiger Day 29th July is annually celebrated as International Tiger Day or the Global Tiger Day to create awareness among the general public on the importance of tiger conservation and protection of their natural habitat and to promote the resolution of the tiger range countries to double the tiger population by 2022. The first Global Tiger Day was celebrated on 29th July 2011. Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change(MoEF&CC) released a report of 4th All India Tiger Estimation-2018, the Status of

Tigers Copredators and Prey in India. Click here July 25, 2020 World In Vitro Fertilization The world witnessed the birth of world’s first (IVF) Day test tube baby or IVF baby Louis Brown, in Royal Oldham Hospital, United Kingdom on July 25, 1978. British Physiologist Robert Edwards and Gynaecologist Patrick Steptoe succeeded in fertilizing a human ovum outside the womb. Robert G Edwards was awarded the Nobel Prize in 2010 for Physiology or medicine for ‘development of in vitro fertilization’. July 30, 2020 World day against The United Nations (UN) observed the trafficking in Person “World day against trafficking in Person” annually on July 30. The day is celebrated to raise awareness about the conditions of the victims of trafficking and to protect their rights. Human trafficking is a crime that exploits women, children and men for numerous purposes including forced labour and sex. Theme for 2020 of the day as per United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is “Committed to the Cause: Working on the Frontline to End Human Trafficking”. July 30, 2020 International Day of The United Nations (UN) International Day of Friendship Friendship is observed annually on July 30 to cherish the bond of friendship which will ultimately help to develop love and peace among human beings. The day is also called Friendship Day. The 1st day was proposed for 30 July in 1958 by the World Friendship Crusade. The UN General Assembly in 2011 proclaimed July 30 as the official International Day of Friendship. APPS & WEB PORTAL

APP & WEB NAME LAUNCHED BY PURPOSE Udyam Registration Released by Nitin Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Jairam Gadkari Enterprises (MSME) Nitin Jairam Gadkari released the consolidated notification in the form of guidelines for classification and registration of MSMEs, which are facing several challenges due to the COVID-19 impact. The new process of Classification and Registration of MSMEs will be known as ‘Udyam Registration’. As per the notification,

enterprise will be called in the name of ‘Udyam’. Click here www.acceleratevigyan.gov.in Union The ‘Accelerate Vigyan’ (AV) scheme for Government’s research internships, was launched by the Science and Union Government’s Science and Engineering Engineering Research Board (SERB) to Research Board encourage high-end scientific research and (SERB) prepare scientific manpower which leads to research careers and knowledge-based economy. The application was called under ABHYAAS scheme. Aatma Nirbhar Bharat App Innovation Shri Narendra The ‘Aatma Nirbhar Bharat App Innovation Challenge Modi, Prime Challenge’ for Indian tech entrepreneurs and Minister start-ups was launched by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, with an objective to support and build Aatmanirbhar App Ecosystem. Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (Meity) in partnership with Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) launched the challenge & will regulate the challenge. e-Kisaan Dhan HDFC Bank HDFC Bank has launched ‘e-Kisaan Dhan’ App for Farmers in India. This app provides information and knowledge to farmers which will help them to meet the needs of the rural ecosystem. With this app, farmers can access a bouquet of services in banking and agriculture, through their mobile phones. https://ncog.gov.in/modnoc/home.html Rajnath Singh Defence minister Rajnath Singh launches an online Portal for issue of No Objection Certificate (NOC) for power projects and Research, Survey, Exploration and Exploitation (RSEE) and activities in the Indian Territorial Waters (TW) and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The Ministry has developed the online application portal with the assistance of National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Bhaskaracharya Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG) and National Informatics Centre (NIC), to ensure transparency in issuing NOC. NADA INDIA Kiren Rijiju The first mobile app of National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA), “NADA INDIA” was released by Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju. The initiative is an important step towards dope free sports, providing updates & information about the banned substances and their use to aware the athletes & Coaches.

(http://pmsvanidhi.mohua.gov.in/) Durga Shanker Durga Shanker Mishra, Secretary of Housing Mishra & Urban Affairs has rolled out the Beta version web portal for street vendors loan scheme Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors’ AtmaNirbhar Nidhi –PMSVANidhi (http://pmsvanidhi.mohua.gov.in/) developed by SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) to provide end- to-end solutions for scheme management. Elyments Venkaiah Naidu Vice President of India Venkaiah Naidu launched India’s first social media super application ‘Elyments’ virtually on 5th July 2020. The app was developed by Sumeru Software Solutions & provides free audio/video calls, and private/ group chats through vibrant feed. Aatamanirbhar Skilled Employee- Mahendra Nath Mahendra Nath Pandey, Union Minister of Employer Mapping (ASEEM) Pandey Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MoSDE) launched the Aatamanirbhar Skilled Employee-Employer Mapping (ASEEM) portal, to improve the information flow and bridge the demand-supply gap in the skilled workforce market to help skilled people find sustainable livelihood opportunities. ASEEM is developed and managed by National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) in collaboration with Betterplace, a Bengaluru based company. ATL App Development Module NITI (National NITI (National Institution for Transforming Institution for India) Aayog has launched pan India “ATL Transforming App Development Module”, a free online India) Aayog course for school students and teachers on the lines of the Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi’s vision of AtmaNirbhar Bharat. The module was developed by NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) and Indian startup, Plezmo. The hashtag or campaign for this state of the art platform is “#TinkerfromHome”. PM SVANidhi Durga Shanker A mobile Application of Prime Minister Mishra, Secretary, Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM Ministry of SVANidhi) was virtually launched by Durga Housing and Shanker Mishra, Secretary, Ministry of Urban Affairs Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) from (MoHUA) New Delhi. The aim of the app is to ease the sourcing and processing of loan applications of street vendors under the Scheme by providing user friendly digital interface. ASPIRE International Automotive technology e-portal, Automotive Centre of Solutions Portal for Industry, Research and

Automotive Education (ASPIRE). The key objective of this Technology portal is to enhance the technological (ICAT) capability of Indian automotive sector through exchange of knowledge & expertise. It was launched to facilitate the initiative of the Department of Heavy Industry (DHI), Govt. of India to promote, R&D and product development in India for various sectors. KURMA (ITCAN) in Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister of collaboration Environment, Forest and Climate Change and with the Turtle Information & Broadcasting hailed KURMA, a Survival Alliance mobile based application contributing – India and towards conservation of Indian turtles, as a Wildlife unique tool for tracking and reporting Indian Conservation turtles and tortoises. The application was Society developed by Indian Turtle Conservation Action Network (ITCAN) in collaboration with the Turtle Survival Alliance – India and Wildlife Conservation Society – India. www.pmawards.gov.in Jitendra Singh Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space launched the restructured scheme for PM’s Awards for Excellence in Public Administration 2020 and the web portal (www.pmawards.gov.in) through video conference. Purpose of restructuring the award is to recognize the performance of District Collectors towards economic development of the District. Mausam Harsh Vardhan In the event of 14th Foundation day of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) On 27th July 2020, Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Earth Sciences launched the mobile app “Mausam” designed and developed by the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)’s Digital Agriculture & Youth (DAY) team, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune and India Meteorological Department (IMD). Click here BIS-Care Ram Vilas Paswan Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution Ram Vilas Paswan launched the Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS)’s Mobile App, ‘BIS-Care’, by which consumers can check the authenticity of the ISI and hallmarked products and also lodge complaints. In addition to this, he also launched 3 portals of e-BIS on Standardisation, Conformity assessment and

Training Portals on www.manakonline.in for consumers.

AC GAZE

Madhya Pradesh to launch ‘Kill Corona’ campaign In order to control the spread of Covid-19, Madhya Pradesh has decided to launch a 15-day campaign called ‘Kill Corona’ from July 1, 2020.This campaign includes door-to-door surveys and tests would also be done on citizens for other diseases.

“COPAL-19”app to track plasma donors launched AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Science) doctor along with a team of IIT-Delhi students have developed an app “COPAL-19” which enables users to track willing plasma donors who have recovered from COVID-19.

Unique Urban Forest inaugurated at the Office of CAG: New Delhi Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Shri Prakash Javadekar has inaugurated Unique “Urban Forest” at the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) in New Delhi. The” Miyawaki method” of forest creation is employed which could help to reduce the temperature and increase the moisture.

Himachal Pradesh becomes first state with 100% LPG Connections Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in the country where 100% households have Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) connections, announced by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur while interacting with the beneficiaries of ‘Himachal Grihini Suvidha Yojana’ through video conferencing.

NASA Astronaut observed comet “Neowise” from ISS The images of the comet Neowise (C/2020 F3), were captured by NASA astronaut Bob Behnken from International Space Station (ISS) camera, which was discovered by the Neowise space telescope, short for the Near-Earth Object Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer (on March 27, 2020).

Google relaunches Google Plus as Google Currents Google, an Internet search giant has relaunched Google plus (shutdown on April 2019) as Google Currents, it helps to exchange documents and have meaningful discussion by enabling leaders and workers to exchange ideas across the organization and collect valuable feedback & input from other people.

Indian teenager Soham Mukherjee in UAE makes Guinness World Record title Indian teenager Soham Mukherjee in UAE (United Arab Emirates), has made a Guinness World Record title with 101 One-Leg Hops over a Ruler, who managed to break the previous Guinness World Records title of 96 hops in 30 seconds.

Cartoonist Avad Bin Hassan Jami passes away Renowned cartoonist Avad Bin Hassan Jami, popularly known as “Jami” passed away at the age of 77 years in Jamnagar, Gujarat. For more than two decades, his cartoons were published in leading Gujarati daily newspapers and news magazines.

2022 Dakar Youth Olympics postponed by four years to 2026: IOC The International Olympic Committee(IOC) has postponed the 2022 Dakar (Senegal) Youth Summer Olympics by four years to 2026 due to COVID-19 pandemic and this would be the first Youth Summer Olympic Games to be organized in Africa.

“BlackRock” an Android malware steals data A new Android malware “BlackRock” has been discovered that steals data such as password and credit card details from 337 apps like Gmail, Amazon and more, which was discovered by mobile security firm ThreatFabric.

CIPET gets NABL accreditation for testing, certification of PPE kits Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET), Bhubaneswar, Odisha, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Dept of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, has received Gurugram based National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) accreditation for Testing and Certification of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kit.

First-ever container ship “MV Shejyoti” from Kolkata via Chattogram port reaches Agartala The first-ever container Ship “MV Shejyoti “from Kolkata (West Bengal) via Bangladesh’s Chattogram port has reached Agartala (Tripura), was flagged off by Union Minister of State for Shipping (I/C) Mansukh Mandaviya on July 16, 2020.

Pravasi Rojgar app to help migrants find job opportunities: Sonu Sood Actor Sonu Sood has launched an app “Pravasi Rojgar” to offer support to workers in finding right job opportunities in various sectors across the country. This initiative will be supported by community outreach in the villages to find the right employment opportunities for migrant workers in different parts of the country.

Veteran Odia Actor Bijay Mohanty passes away at 70 Veteran Odia Actor Bijay Mohanty has passed away at the age of 70 years in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, who earned National Film Award in his debut film, Chilika Tire and famous for his negative roles in films including Samay Bada Balaban, Naga Phasa, Danda Balunga and Chaka Bhaunri.

Indian-origin nurse Kala Narayanasamy in Singapore conferred with President’s Award Indian-origin nurse Kala Narayanasamy (59) in Singapore has conferred with the President’s Award for Nurses for serving on the frontline during the COVID-19 pandemic, who was among the five nurses (Tay Yee Kian, Patricia Yong Yueh Li, Alice Chua Foong Sin, Chin Soh Mun). Note: A trophy, a certificate signed by President Halimah Yacob and SGD 10,000 (USD 7,228) was awarded.

IIM-Kozhikode start-up develops wearable device ‘Veli Band’ Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM-K) based incubated start-up Qual5 India Pvt. Ltd, has developed a wearable device called ‘Veli Band’ which helps in maintaining social distancing by sending out an alarm in case of proximity with another person. Note: The start-up Qual5 India Pvt. Ltd is co- founded by a woman entrepreneur, mentored and funded by IIMKs business incubator and entrepreneurship development centre, LIVE (Laboratory for Innovation, Venturing and Entrepreneurship).

Road in Lucknow named after former MP Governor Lalji Tandon: UP The Lucknow Municipal Corporation, Uttar Pradesh (UP), has named a road Lucknow-Hardoi as Tandon Marg and a crossing Chauk Chauraha as Lalji Tandon Chauraha after former Madhya Pradesh (MP) Governor Lalji Tandon.

Bombay Flying Club: India’s 1st DGCA-approved drone training school Bombay Flying Club, Mumbai, has become the India’s first DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) approved drone training school, announced by Ministry of Civil Aviation. Note: In an order dated July 20, 2020, DGCA approved the club’s application for conducting remote pilot training for remotely piloted aircraft system.

‘Dare to Dream 2.0’ contest for innovators and start-ups launched: DRDO In order to promote innovators in the fields of defence and emerging technologies in India, DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) has launched ‘Dare to Dream 2.0’ contest for innovators and start-ups to mark the fifth death anniversary of former President APJ Abdul Kalam (July 27, 2020).

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Current Affairs Pocket PDF – August 2020

Table of Contents NATIONAL AFFAIRS ...... 5 CABINET APPROVALS ...... 5 PARLIAMENT NEWS ...... 5 STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS ...... 5 LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION ...... 12 FESTIVALS ...... 17 OTHER NATIONAL NEWS ...... 17 GOVT SCHEMES ...... 25 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS ...... 26 BANKING & FINANCE ...... 28 RBI IN NEWS ...... 28 BANKING TECHNOLOGY ...... 30 LOANS ISSUED BY BANKS ...... 31 OTHER BANKING NEWS ...... 31 FINANCE NEWS ...... 34

ECONOMY & BUSINESS ...... 36 ECONOMY NEWS ...... 36 BUSINESS NEWS ...... 37 MoU’s & AGREEMENTS ...... 38 MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY ...... 38 MoU’s WITH STATES ...... 38 MoU’s BETWEEN ORGANIZATION ...... 40 OTHER MoU’S IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 42 APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ...... 43 APPOINTMENTS ...... 43 NATIONAL ...... 43 INTERNATIONAL ...... 46 BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS ...... 47 RESIGNATIONS ...... 48 OTHER APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ...... 49 AWARDS ...... 49 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF LITERATURE & ACADEMICS ...... 49 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL SERVICE, SCIENCE & BRAVERY ...... 51 AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS ...... 51

OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS ...... 51 RECOGNITIONS ...... 52 AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 53 SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE ...... 53 SUMMITS ...... 53 EVENTS ...... 54 CONFERENCE ...... 54 COMMITTEES & MEETINGS ...... 55 COMMITTEES ...... 55 MEETINGS ...... 56 COMMITTEES & MEETINGS IN CONTENT FORMAT ...... 57 INDEX ...... 57 RANKING ...... 57 REPORTS ...... 60 ACQUISITION & MERGERS ...... 61 DEFENCE ...... 62 TESTING ...... 62 ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS ...... 63

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY...... 63 SATELLITES LAUNCHES ...... 63 NATIONAL ...... 63 INTERNATIONAL ...... 67 ENVIRONMENT ...... 68 SPORTS ...... 69 CRICKET ...... 69 BADMINTON & TENNIS ...... 70 ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL ...... 70 OTHER SPORTS NEWS ...... 70 BOOKS & AUTHORS ...... 71 OBITUARY ...... 74 NATIONAL ...... 74 INTERNATIONAL ...... 79 IMPORTANT DAYS ...... 80 APPS & WEB PORTAL ...... 86 AC GAZE...... 89

NATIONAL AFFAIRS

CABINET APPROVALS Cabinet Approvals on August 19, 2020 On August 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the following proposals:  Cabinet approves setting up of National Recruitment Agency to conduct Common Eligibility Test; Rs. 1517.57 cr sanctioned  Cabinet approves proposal for leasing out three airports – Jaipur, Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram of AAI through PPP  Cabinet approves liquidity measure in the Power Sector amid financial stress caused by COVID-19 Read More Details Here: Cabinet Approvals on August 19, 2020

PARLIAMENT NEWS IBBI amends the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Voluntary Liquidation Process) Regulations, 2017 In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (t) of sub-section (1) of section 196 read with section 240 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (31 of 2016), the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India has amended the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Voluntary Liquidation Process) Regulations, 2017 by Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Voluntary Liquidation Process) (Second Amendment) Regulations, 2020.

IBBI Amended Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Insolvency Resolution Process for Corporate Persons) Regulations, 2016 In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (t) of sub-section (1) of section 196 read with section 240 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (31 of 2016), the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India amended the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Insolvency Resolution Process for Corporate Persons) Regulations, 2016 by Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Insolvency Resolution Process for Corporate Persons) (Fourth Amendment) Regulations, 2020.

Daughters have Equal Birth right to Inherit Property with Retrospective Effect: Supreme Court In accordance with the landmark judgment passed by three-judge Bench of Supreme Court (SC) headed by Justice Arun Mishra and comprised of Justices S Abdul Nazeer and Mukeshkumar Rasikbhai Shah, as per the Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005, the daughters will have equal inheritance rights as of sons in the properties of fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers right from the codification of the law in 1956 i.e. it would have retrospective effect.

STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS Andhra Pradesh AP Governor cleared three State-capital Bills and CRDA Repeal Bills 2020 The Governor of Andhra Pradesh (AP) Biswa Bhusan Harichandan gave his assent to the Andhra Pradesh Decentralisation and Inclusive Development of All Regions and Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) Repeal Bills – 2020.

Andhra Pradesh CM Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy launched cybercrime awareness programme ‘E- Raksha Bandhan’ Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Y. S. Jaganmohan Reddy launched a one-month long virtual cybercrime awareness programme ‘E-Raksha Bandhan’ in Amaravati. The Aim of the Programme is to create awareness among women, youth and children on Cyber Crimes across the state.

Andhra Pradesh CM Launched “YSR Cheyutha” scheme to ensure sustainable livelihood for women YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh launched “YSR Cheyutha” a scheme to ensure the sustainable livelihood of women by providing a financial assistance of Rs. 18750 per year for 4 years. The scheme benefits around 23 lakh women of age group 45-60 belonging to the minority community like SC, ST, BC.

Andhra CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy Launches UPI-based Payment facilities in Village, Ward Secretariats Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy launched the digital payment services through Unified Payments Interface (UPI) in 15, 004 village and ward secretariats through video conference. The Government of Andhra Pradesh has entered into a tie-up with National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) and Canara Bank for this digitalisation process.

Assam Assam CoM approves “Assam Non-Government Education Institutions (Regulation of Fees) Rules 2020” Assam Council of Ministers approved “Assam Non-Government Education Institutions (Regulation of

Fees) Rules 2020”. It seeks to regulate the fees structure of the private educational institutes in the State of Assam. The state Government will constitute a Fee Regulatory Committee for determination of fees for any standard or course of study in Private educational institutions. The Assam Cabinet also approved the proposal to make Bajali the 34th district of Assam.

Assam Government to Launch ‘Orunodoi’ Scheme to provide Financial Assistance Finance Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sharma announced that the Government of Assam will roll out the ‘Orunodoi’ Scheme, which will provide Financial Assistance of Rs. 830 per month through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme to around 17 Lakh Families in the state. It is expected to be the largest direct benefit Transfer scheme in Assam. The ‘Orunodoi’ scheme will be implemented from October 2, 2020 and will act as an umbrella scheme for all other government schemes for the next 5 years.

TERI launches Early Warning System for Guwahati, Assam The Flood Early Warning System (FEWS), fully automated web-based tool was launched by The Energy and Resources Institute’s (TERI) in association with National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in Guwahati, Assam. The Flood Early Warning System (FEWS) project was developed under The Energy and Resources Institute’s (TERI) project supported by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA).

Assam Cabinet Approves ‘Assam Skill Development University Bill’ Government of Assam approved the ‘Assam Skill Development University Bill’, which provides for setting up of World Class Skill University at Mangaldoi, Darrang District at a cost of 900 crore Rupees. The University will be the first of its kind in the North-East Region and will be financed by Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Chhattisgarh Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel Announced the Launch of “Indira Van Mitan Yojana” To Support Forest Dwellers On 9th August 2020, In an event of International Day of World’s Indigenous Peoples (or world tribal day) Chief Minister (CM) of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel announced the launch of “Indira Van Mitan Yojana”, an initiative to support the forest dwellers of Chhattisgarh to achieve self-reliance.

Chhattisgarh’s Jagdalpur Became the First Municipal Corporation of India to Provide Forest Land Right Certificates to Urban People On 9th August 2020, on the occasion of International Day of World’s Indigenous Peoples or World Tribal Day Chief Minister (CM) of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel initiated the distribution of forest land right certificates to four beneficiaries of Jagdalpur. The Municipal corporation of Jagdalpur became the first municipal corporation in India to provide forest land right certificates to the people of urban region.

Chhattisgarh Govt Launched ‘Padhai Tuhar Para’ scheme for school students Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel launched the ‘Padhai Tuhar Para’ scheme to enable school students to learn from their respective localities as the classes are being suspended due to the outbreak of the COVID-19. He informed that a Bluetooth-based programme ‘Bultu Ke Bol’, ‘Mukhyamantri Slum Swasthya Yojana’, ‘Radhabai Diagnostic Centre Scheme’.

Gujarat Gujarat Announced New Industrial Policy 2020 Gujarat Government announced the New Industrial Policy 2020 for the State, with an expected average annual outlay of up to Rs 8,000 crore, which is meant to provide incentives to the industries. It aims to provide an estimated Rs 40,000 crore as subsidies to industries in the next 5 years. Under the new policy Gujarat will become the 1st state to “delink incentives from State Goods and Service Tax (SGST)”.

Anil Mukim, Gujarat Chief Secretary gets 6 Month Extension The Central government has approved the proposal of the Gujarat Government to extend the tenure of 29th Gujarat Chief Secretary, Anil Mukim for 6 months (i.e., from September 1, 2020 to February 28, 2021) in view of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. He was due to superannuate on August 31, 2020.

Gujarat Names Two Flyover of Ahmedabad After Late Arun Jaitley & Sushma Swaraj Chairman of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) Standing Committee, Amul Bhatt announced that in Gujarat two flyover bridges of Ahmedabad city will be named after late Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj. The flyover bridge at Income Tax circle, Ahmedabad will be named as Arun Jaitley Flyover. The flyover at the Anjali cross road will be named Sushma Swaraj Bridge.

Haryana Haryana’s Forest department used drone for aerial seeding to increase green cover in Aravallis Haryana forest department has used drone technology to shower 50,000 seeds pallets covered with a mixture of clay and compost to improve green cover in the inaccessible Aravalli area of Haryana’s Faridabad district. This ‘seeding drone’ is designed by an Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT)-Kanpur backed start-up.

Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar launched Parivar Pehchan Patras Manohar Lal Khattar, the Chief Minister of Haryana launched the ‘Parivar Pehchan Patras’ (PPP), an initiative of the state government developed by the team CMO (Chief Minister’s Office) for effective and efficient delivery of central and state schemes to the people in a transparent way.

Haryana Minister Anil Vij Launches “Works Management System” Web Portal to its ULBs Haryana’s Urban local bodies and Home Minister Anil Vij launched the first of its kind, “Works Management System”, a web-based, paperless and centralised web portal for the management and monitoring of the development works in the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in Haryana.

Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar launched Anti Bullying Campaign of Faridabad Police over Social Media Manohar Lal Khattar, Chief Minister of Haryana launched the anti-bullying campaign of the Faridabad Police over their Instagram, Facebook and Twitter page with username @FBDpolice to report any form of bullying in the schools, colleges, neighbourhood, home and workplace and to implement the targeted programs to counter bullying. The campaign initiative is a part of the ‘Teen Age Police’ programme of Faridabad Police.

Himachal Pradesh Himachal Pradesh gets approval from Centre for projects worth Rs 7922.69 Crores Himachal Pradesh has received Investment Clearance from the Union Government for six multipurpose and flood control projects involving expenditure of Rs 7,922.69 crore for on 7th August, 2020. Read More Details Here: Himachal Pradesh gets approval from Centre for projects worth Rs 7922.69 Crores

Jammu and Kashmir Jitendra Singh Laid Foundation Stones Virtually & E- Inaugurated Various Construction Works under PMGSY-II in J&K Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State-MoS (I/C), Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space laid foundation stones virtually and e-inaugurated various construction works undertaken under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)-II in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Jitendra Singh informed that J&K has ranked 2nd in terms of performance under PMGSY II after Himachal Pradesh.

JK Government Launches E-Auction Portal for Kashmir Saffron The government of Jammu and Kashmir launched the e-auction portal www.saffroneauctionindia.com created by its department of agriculture to promote the trade of Kashmir Saffron. The department under the aegis of India International Kashmir Saffron Trading Centre (IIKSTC) in partnership with NSE-IT established the portal. The objective of the portal is to promote the e-trading of Geographical Indications (GI) tagged “Kashmir Saffron” between registered growers and buyers.

‘Iraada’ Campaign Launched to Cover Eligible Left-Out Beneficiaries under Social Welfare Schemes: J&K The Jammu and Kashmir District Deputy Commissioner, Dr Sagar D. Doifode, launched ‘Iraada’ campaign to include eligible left-out beneficiaries, who have not yet been enrolled to receive the financial assistance benefits under various social welfare schemes, which includes old age pension, widow and handicap scheme. In other words, the campaign is for 100% coverage under social welfare schemes.

Jharkhand Jharkhand introduced new State Logo at Ranchi Draupadi Murmu, governor of Jharkhand and Hemant Soren Chief Minister of Jharkhand introduced the New State emblem at the Aryabhatta Auditorium, Ranchi. The Logo came into effect from 15th August 2020. The new circle shaped emblem incorporates and represents the progress of the state along with

the traditions, cultural heritage and flora and fauna of the state. The logo represents reflects the real spirit of the state.

Karnataka India’s first mobile RT-PCR COVID lab was inaugurated by Karnataka’s Medical Education Minister Dr. K Sudhakar in Karnataka Karnataka’s Medical Education Minister K Sudhakar inaugurated India’s first Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT- PCR) COVID-19 mobile Lab approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The mobile lab is called the Mobile Infection Testing and Reporting lab (MITR) which was developed by the Indian Institute of Science (IISC) in Bengaluru and handed over to Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS) in Bengaluru.

Kerala Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan Inaugurates State’s First Marine Ambulance ‘Pratheeksha’ in Kochi Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the State’s First fully equipped Marine Ambulance ‘Pratheeksha’. It was acquired by the Fisheries Department at Kochi for rescue operations at sea. ‘Pratheeksha’ – built by Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) is the first of the three marine ambulances ordered by the state.

Madhya Pradesh Madhya Pradesh launched “Ek Mask-Anek Zindagi” public awareness campaign from August 1- 15 Madhya Pradesh Urban Development and Housing Minister Bhupendra Singh launched a public awareness campaign “Ek Mask-Anek Zindagi” from August 1-15. “Ek Mask-Anek Zindagi” – means one mask, many lives. The state planned to establish Mask Banks, where people can donate masks which in turn will be distributed free to poor people.

MP Police’s ‘Ek Sankalp – Bujurgo ke naam’ campaign proves to be boon for senior citizens In the state of Madhya Pradesh, a unique campaign ‘Ek Sankalp – Bujurgo ke naam’ (a commitment for elders) is being run by the Chhatarpur Police in the midst of Pandemic. The campaign is being run specifically for the elderly people above the age of 60 years.

Maharashtra Maharashtra Govt. Approved MagNet project worth Around Rs 1,000 crore to Help Farmers; 70% funded by ADB The Maharashtra government approved the Maharashtra Agribusiness Network (MagNet) project worth about Rs 1,000 crore (USD 142.9 million). The project aims to help farmers across all districts in the state for the next 6 years. This will boost the fruit and vegetable production and will improve processing and minimise the losses in the sector of perishables. 70% of the project cost will be funded by Asian Development Bank (ADB) while the rest of 30% cost is funded by the state government.

Maharashtra Became the First State to Partner with Google India to Provide Learning Tools for Schools Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray announced the partnership with Google which will blend Google’s learning programmes that integrate the classroom approach with online learning, over a virtual launch event. Maharashtra became the first state in India to collaborate with Google India for state-wide distribution of G suite for Education and Google Classroom.

Manipur Rajesh Kumar appointed as Manipur Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar, IAS has been appointed as the next Chief Secretary of the state of Manipur by Manipur Governor Najma Heptullah the Current Chief Secretary J. Suresh Babu who retired on 31st July, 2020.

Manipur Observed its Patriots’ Day 2020 on August 13 Patriots ’day is observed annually on August 13 in Manipur. The Patriots’ Day 2020 was observed to commemorate the 1891 Anglo-Manipuri war during which many Manipuri’s sacrificed their lives to safeguard the independence of the State.

Meghalaya Meghalaya Cabinet Approves Policy on Reservation of Seats for Women in Village Employment Councils Conrad Kongkal Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya informed the cabinet’s approval for the passage of the “Policy on Reservation of seats for Women in Village Employment Councils (VECs)”, the policy of reserving 50% seats for women in the village level community institutions.

Meghalaya CM Launched Restart Meghalaya Mission Worth Rs. 14,515 Crore to Revive Activities Stalled due to COVID-19 On 15th August 2020, on the occasion of the 74th Independence day, Conrad K Sangma, Chief Minister of Meghalaya launched the restart Meghalaya Mission worth Rs. 14,515 crores to revive the development activities which were stalled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Nagaland

Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio launches ‘Yellow Chain’ e-commerce platform on Independence day 2020 Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio launched ‘Yellow Chain’ an e-commerce platform during the State level celebration of India’s Independence Day at Secretariat Plaza, Kohima. The centralized e-commerce platform is expected to promote local business & entrepreneurship in the state. It is seen as a “new era in Naga marketing culture”. The ‘Yellow chain’ is developed by Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN).

New Delhi Delhi Government Launched Niraman Mazdoor Registration Abhiyan for Construction Workers The Delhi Government launched Niraman Mazdoor Registration Abhiyan for construction workers to register and utilise around 18 assistance schemes under which a mega registration campaign for construction workers will be conducted from 24th August 2020 to 11th September 2020.

Delhi Government Launched ‘Healthy Body, Healthy Mind’ Fitness Campaign for Students Confined in Homes Delhi Government launched the Fitness Campaign – “Healthy Body, Healthy Mind”, for the students who are confined in their homes because of the lockdown imposed on Schools and colleges due to COVID-19 pandemic. As a part of the “Healthy Body, Healthy Mind” campaign, a YouTube channel has been started.

Odisha Odisha Cabinet Approved 20 Proposals including 4 Mega Drinking Water Projects Odisha cabinet headed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik approved 20 proposals including four mega drinking water projects in its Koraput, Malkangiri, Mayurbhanj, Balasore, Gajapati and Cuttack districts

worth Rs 800.27 crore. It also approved the financial bid worth Rs 1138.63 crore for implementation of the Gangadhar Meher Lift Canal System. Read More Details Here: Odisha Cabinet Approved 20 Proposals including 4 Mega Drinking Water Projects

Odisha to Promulgate Ordinance to Enhance Punishment for Non-Compliance of Covid-19 regulations State Cabinet of Odisha approved the various amendments to the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 which will enhance the penalty for violators of the COVID-19 regulations. In Accordance with the Ordinance, non- compliance of regulations will attract Imprisonment for a term, which may be extended to two years or with fine which can be extended up to Rupees One Lakh or with both. The provision to levy punishments has been provided in the Section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897. The Odisha Government has framed Odisha COVID-19 Regulations, 2020 and has exercised the powers conferred under section 2 and 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897.

Odisha Govt launched a new scheme ‘Promotion of Intensive Aquaculture through Introduction of Bio-flocTechnology during the year 2020-21’ The Fisheries and Animal Resources Department of the Odisha Government has launched a new scheme ‘Promotion of Intensive Aquaculture through Introduction of Bio-flocTechnology during the year 2020- 21’. The state with this scheme aims to increase the fish productivity and make the state self-sufficient in fish production. Under this programme, 1080 Bio-floc tanks will be developed with subsidy support, under state plan scheme during 2020-21 in all 30 districts of Odisha. The total outlay of the programme is Rs.3.10 Crore.

Punjab Punjab CM Amarinder Singh launches ‘Pride of Punjab’ partnership of State Govt, YuWaah for youth development Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh launched the ‘Pride of Punjab’ programme through video conferencing. The programme is a partnership programme between the Department of Youth Services and Sports and YuWaah – a joint initiative of UNICEF, other UN agencies, civil society organisations and the private sector.

Punjab CM Amarinder Singh Launched ‘Punjab Smart Connect Scheme’ to Provide Free Smartphones for more than 1.74 Lakh Students On the occasion of International Youth Day and Janmastami (August 12, 2020), Captain Amarinder Singh, Chief Minister of Punjab launched the “Punjab Smart Connection Scheme” worth Rs. 92 crores to provide free smartphones to the students of class 12 and he also handed over the smartphones to 6 students.

Punjab gets First Rank in Health, Welfare Centre Operationalisation: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) State of Punjab has secured first rank in the list of best performing states in operationalisation of Health and Wellness Centers (HWCs) released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India. Punjab’s State Health and Family Welfare Minister Balbir Singh Sidhu had announced regarding this ranking on 13th August, 2020.

Rajasthan Government of Rajasthan Approves 5% Reservation in Judicial Service for MBC The Government of Rajasthan approved the 5% reservations to the More Backward Classes (MBC) in the state judicial service. The Rajasthan government amended the Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules 2010

through the cabinet of Rajasthan on the initiative of Ashok Gehlot, chief Minister of Rajasthan to provide 5% reservation in the state judicial service for the More Backward Classes (MBC) instead of 1%.

Telangana Telangana launched AI for Agricultural Innovation Program in Collaboration with C4IR & WEF, India The Government of Telangana has launched Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Agricultural Innovation Programme (AI4AI) in collaboration with Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR) & World Economic Forum (WEF) – India. Agriculture Innovation Program is being launched as part of Telangana’s year of AI (2020) programmes.

Uttar Pradesh UPEIDA Signed a Deal with BOB-led Consortium of 6 Banks to Fund Bundelkhand Expressway Project The Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) signed a deal with the consortium of 6 banks led by Bank of Baroda (BoB) for funding construction of Bundelkhand Expressway project. The consortium of banks includes Bank of Baroda, Union Bank of India, Bank of Maharashtra, Indian Bank, Bank of India and UCO Bank.

UP govt launches ‘Major Dhyan Chand Vijaypath Yojana’ to Build Roads to 19 International Player’s houses Uttar Pradesh (UP) Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya launched ‘Major Dhyan Chand Vijaypath Yojana’ scheme under which 19 International Players will get road connectivity to their homes.

West Bengal West Bengal Govt Launched ‘Karma Sathi Prakalpa’ scheme to Provide Soft Loans, Subsidies to Youth On the occasion of International Youth Day August 12, 2020, the West Bengal government launched the ‘Karma Sathi Prakalpa’ scheme under which 1 lakh unemployed youth will be provided soft loans and subsidies so as to make them self-reliant. The West Bengal (WB) Government launched ‘Matir Smristi’ scheme to utilise 50,000 acres of barren land in 6 districts for income-generating activities.

LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION AIM launched ‘AIM-iCREST’, in partnership with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Wadhwani Foundation NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), has launched AIM iCREST – an Incubator Capabilities enhancement program for a Robust Ecosystem focused on creating high performing Start-ups in collaboration with Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Wadhwani Foundation, which will provide global expertise. This is a first of its kind initiative for advancing innovation at scale in India.

Piyush Goyal Inaugurates CII National Digital Conference on “Easing Doing Business for Atmanirbhar Bharat” Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, inaugurated the National Digital Conference on “Easing Doing Business for Atmanirbhar Bharat” organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) to improve the business environment of India.

Nitin Gadkari inaugurated upstream carriageway of Mahatma Gandhi bridge in Bihar Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari virtually inaugurated its upstream carriageway. This means the two lanes are completed of the 4-lane bridge which is being renovated at a cost of Rs 1,742 crore. Mahatma Gandhi Bridge is the first ever bridge in India using modern technology for improving the existing structure. The designing of the bridge has been done by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee in discussion with international consultants.

Narendra Singh Tomar Released Booklet on ‘Best Practices in Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme’ Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, released a booklet on ‘Best Practices in Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP)’ prepared by Department of Land Resources (DoLR), Ministry of Rural Development based on the presentations made by states during regional and national workshops since inception of the programme.

MSME launched programme under “Gramodyog Vikas Yojana” to benefit artisans manufacturing Agarbatti Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (M/o MSME) approved a programme under “Gramodyog Vikas Yojana” for the benefit of artisans involved in manufacturing of Agarbatti and to develop village industry. As a part of the programme, a total of 200 Automatic Agarbatti making machines and 40 Mixing machines will be provided to the artisans. Recently, the Agarbatti item placed from Free trade to Restricted trade in the import policy.

Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ Launches India Report – Digital Education June 2020 prepared by Digital Education Division of MHRD Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ Union Minister for Human Resource Development (HRD) launched the compilation ‘India Report – Digital Education June 2020’ prepared by the Digital Education Division of Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) in consultation with Education Departments of States and UTs.

Harsh Vardhan launched largest network of 5 dedicated COVID-19 Biorepositories; 1st Pan- India 1000 Genome Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 Completed Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare announced the completion of 1st Pan-India 1000 Genome Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2. He reviewed the COVID-19 activities of Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) and DBT- Autonomous Institutions (AIs) in the meeting with DBT. He also launched the largest network of five dedicated COVID-19 Biorepositories by the DBT. Read More Details Here: Harsh Vardhan launched largest network of 5 dedicated COVID-19 Biorepositories; 1st Pan-India 1000 Genome Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 Completed

4th edition of Smart India Hackathon 2020, Largest ever Online Hackathon in the World Launched by Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ Virtually Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Grand Finale of 4th edition of Smart India Hackathon-SIH (Software) 2020, largest ever online Hackathon in the world and interacted with the participants through Virtual Conference. Union Human Resource Development Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ inaugurated the event virtually in New Delhi. The Hackathon has been organized by the Ministry of HRD, Government of India; All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Persistent Systems and i4C.

Union Minister Harsh Vardhan launches ‘Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan 2020-21’ Union Minister for Ministry of Science and Technology Harsh Vardhan launched Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan, a national level programme for popularizing pure science among school students of Class 6th to 11th. It is an initiative of Vijnana Bharathi (VIBHA) in collaboration with Vigyan Prasar, Government of India and National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).

Prahlad Singh Patel virtually inaugurated 1st golf course of Mizoram, “Thenzawl Golf Resort” under Swadesh Darshan Scheme Union Minister of State for Culture & Tourism (I/C) Prahlad Singh Patel inaugurated the first golf course of Mizoram i.e. “Thenzawl Golf Resort” under the Swadesh Darshan (SD) Scheme of Ministry of Tourism Project from New Delhi. The Project was sanctioned under the “Integrated Development of New Eco Tourism” of Swadesh Darshan project (SD) and was constructed by Edufice Infraservices Private Limited of New Delhi. The Golf Course is designed by Graham Cooke and Associates.

PM Narendra Modi Launched Submarine Cable Connectivity to Andaman & Nicobar Islands (CANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and dedicate to the Nation, submarine Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) connecting Chennai, Tamil Nadu and Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands (A&NI) through video conferencing. This connectivity will enable delivery of faster mobile and landline telecom services to A&NI, at par with other parts of India. The Submarine OFC cable has been laid at a cost of about Rs 1224 Crore. The foundation stone for 2,312-kilometer Chennai – Andaman and Nicobar Islands (CANI) was laid by PM Narendra Modi on 30th December 2018 at Port Blair.

PM inaugurated Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra; Launched ‘Gandagi Mukt Bharat’ – Week Long Campaign Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra (RSK) an interactive experience centre on the Swachh Bharat Mission.  PM launched ‘Gandagi Mukt Bharat’ – week long (Aug 8-15, 2020) campaign for Swachhata  Railways to observe cleanliness week from August 10-15 to mark Independence Day Read More Details Here: PM inaugurated Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra; Launched ‘Gandagi Mukt Bharat’ – Week Long Campaign

Rajnath Singh Launched DPSUs and OFB’s Modernisation Projects During Atma Nirbhar Week (Aug7-14, 2020) As a part of the Atma Nirbhar Week celebration between August 7-14, 2020 of the Ministry of Defence and to boost Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, the Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually launched the initiatives for modernisation and upgradation of facilities at defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). Read More Details Here: Rajnath Singh Launched DPSUs and OFB’s Modernisation Projects During Atma Nirbhar Week (Aug7-14, 2020)

Prakash Javadekar Launched the Booklet on Best practices of Human-Elephant Conflict Management in India and Beta Version of “Surakhsya” Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister of Environment Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) launched the booklet on “Best practices of Human-Elephant Conflict Management in India” to strengthen coexistence of the human-elephant, along with the Beta Version of “Surakhsya” during the event on the eve of World Elephant Day. Note: The 12th of August of every year is celebrated as the World Elephant Day all across the globe.

Narendra Singh Tomar Launched Krishi Megh, KVC ALUNET & Online Accreditation System for Agricultural Institutions Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar virtually launched the Krishi Megh (National Agricultural Research & Education System -Cloud Infrastructure and Services) along with the KVC ALUNET (Krishi Vishwavidyalaya Chhatr Alumni Network) and Online Accreditation System for Higher Agricultural Educational Institutions (HEI) on the lines of the Digital India initiative. Read More Details Here: Narendra Singh Tomar Launched Krishi Megh, KVC ALUNET & Online Accreditation System for Agricultural Institutions

Atal Innovation Mission in association with Dell Technologies launched the 2nd Edition of Student Entrepreneurship Program NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) in collaboration with Dell Technologies has launched the 2nd edition of Student Entrepreneurship Program (SEP 2.0) for young innovators of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs). The objective of the programme is to accelerate the entrepreneurial journey of young innovators who can play a major role in creating a new innovative India.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Launched the Swachh Bharat Mission Academy Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Jal Shakti launched the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) Academy, an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) based free mobile online training course with modules on the Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus programme at an event in New Delhi. It is launched as part of ‘Gandagi Mukt Bharat’, the ongoing week-long behaviour change campaign.

PM Narendra Modi Launched “Transparent Taxation – Honoring the Honest” platform of IT department Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a platform for “Transparent Taxation – Honoring the Honest” through video conferencing that provides faceless assessment and appeal and taxpayers’ charter, as a part of direct tax reforms. The objective of the platform is to ease the tax compliance and expediting refunds, benefiting honest taxpayers. While the faceless assessment and taxpayers’ charter would be implemented from August 13 itself but the faceless appeal system would be available from September 25, 2020. Note: With a view to provide for resolution of pending tax disputes the Direct Tax “Vivad se Vishwas Act, 2020” was rolled out.

Def Minister Rajnath Singh Launched 15 Products Developed by Defence PSUs and OFB Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually launched 15 products of Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) viz. four products each by OFB and BEML, two by BEL and one each by HAL, BDL, MDL, GRSE and GSL as a part of the Atma Nirbhar Week celebration between August 7-14, 2020. Read More Details Here: Def Minister Rajnath Singh Launched 15 Products Developed by Defence PSUs and OFB

Rajnath Singh Launched Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation Virtually Rajnath Singh, Union Defence Minister launched the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) through an online webinar. NIIO establishes dedicated structures to enable end users to interact with academia and industry towards fostering innovation and indigenisation for self-reliance in defence in Accordance with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Also, ‘SWAVLAMBAN’, a compendium of Indian Navy’s Indigenisation perspective plans was also released during the occasion.

EU launches Nirmanshree for Odisha and Maharashtra Women in Housing Sector European Union has launched project ’Nirmanshree’ for enhancing the women skill towards housing construction sector. This is the first-of-its-kind sustainable housing on a large scale in India. The project

will be implemented in Beed and Osmanabad districts of Maharashtra and the Dhenkanal and Jajpur districts of Odisha.

M/o SJ&E Launched ‘Nasha-Mukt Bharat’ Campaign; National Institute of Social Defence Building Inaugurated in New Delhi The State Governments and the 272 District Collectors launched a seven-month-long anti-drugs campaign namely “Nasha Mukt Bharat” or “Drug-Free India” by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (SJE) which will run till March 31, 2021. The union minister also inaugurated a building of the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD) in Dwarka, New Delhi during the videoconferencing.

Ravi Shankar Prasad Launched “Swadeshi Microprocessor Challenge- Innovate Solutions for #Aatmanirbhar Bharat” to Support Startups Ravi Shankar Prasad, Union Minister of Law & Justice, Communications and Electronics & Information Technology launched the “Swadeshi Microprocessor Challenge- Innovate Solutions for #Aatmanirbhar Bharat” to provide a strong ecosystem of start-ups, innovation and research in India. Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras and Centre for Development of Advance Computing (CDAC) have developed two microprocessors named SHAKTI (32 bit) and VEGA (64 bit) respectively.

Arjun Munda Virtually Launched Trifood Project of TRIFED in Raigad, Maharashtra and Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh Arjun Munda, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) virtually launched the tertiary processing centres of the “Trifood Project” in Raigad, Maharashtra and Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh. The Trifood project was carried by the MoTA in association with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and implemented by the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED).

Harsh Vardhan Launched FSSAI’s ‘Eat Right India’ Handbook and a Website to Scale Up ‘Eat Right India’ Initiatives Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare launched FSSAI’s ‘Eat Right India’ Handbook, a referral guide for officials of different jurisdictions to adopt and scale up the ‘Eat Right India’(ERI) initiatives in their jurisdictions during the online orientation workshop organised by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) as part of its “Eat Right Challenge”.

India’s Longest River Ropeway Inaugurated in Guwahati, Assam The Guwahati Passenger Ropeway Project connecting the Northern and Southern banks of the Brahmaputra River was inaugurated by the Assam State Minister of Finance, Himanta Biswa Sarma and Guwahati Development Department (GDD) Minister, Siddhartha Bhattacharya. The ropeway service is 1.8 Kilometres long, making it the longest ropeway distance over a river in the entire country.

Nitin Gadkari inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 45 highway projects in Madhya Pradesh Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 45 highway projects in Madhya Pradesh during a virtual event. He also announced that Rs.700 crores from the Central Road Fund will be utilised for the road sector of Madhya Pradesh. The inaugurated project consists of a road length of around 1361 Km with a construction cost of Rs. 11,427 crores.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal launches National GIS-enabled Land Bank system Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal e-launched the National GIS (Geographic Information System)-enabled Land Bank system for six states. The system is developed by the integration of the Industrial Information System (IIS) with State GIS systems. The initiative is supported by Invest

India, National Center of Geo-Informatics (NCoG), National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology and Bhaskaracharya Institute for Space Applications and Geo- Informatics (BISAG).

Department of Economic Affairs & UNDP India Launched Sustainable Finance Collaborative to Promote Sustainable Finance in India Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) India launched the Sustainable Finance Collaborative (SFC). In this regard, a three days’ consultation centered on the broad scope of Sustainable Finance architecture in India was held to accelerate green finance by bringing together leading experts and organizations.

IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad Launched “Chunauti”, Next Generation Start-up Contest; Foundation stone laid for NIELIT at Muzaffarpur, Bihar Ravi Shankar Prasad, Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) launched next- generation start-up Challenge contest “Chunauti” to encourage start-ups and software products with special focus on Tier-II towns. This contest is a part of Rs 95 crore programme, spanning over 3 years, will hunt for around 300 start-ups working in identified areas and to provide them seed funds of up to Rs 25 lakh and other support from government through the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI).

Union Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Addresses Inaugural session of World Urdu Session Union Minister for Education, Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ addressed the inaugural session of the two- days World Urdu Conference organised by National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language (NCPUL) from August 27-28, 2020. The NCPUL is organizing a two-day World Urdu Webinar titled as ‘Responsibilities of Urdu Writers in the age of Electronic & Social media’.

FESTIVALS Odisha, Chhattisgarh Celebrates ‘2020 Nuakhai Juhar’, Agricultural Festival on August 23 Nukhai Juhar, an ancient festival which is also known as Nuakhai Parab or Nuakhai Bhetghat is celebrated on the fifth day of lunar fortnight of Bhadrabaa, to welcome the new crop of the season in Odisha, Chhattisgarh and other neighbouring states. Nuakhai is a combination of two words, Nua which means new and Khai which means eat. The 2020 Nuakhai Juhar was celebrated on 23rd August.

Kerala State Dragonfly Festival 2020 aka “Thumbimahotsavam 2020” Launched; Mascot is “Pantalu” The first ever Kerala State Dragonfly Festival 2020 aka “Thumbimahotsavam 2020” was launched by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-India State unit in collaboration with Society for Odonate Studies (SOS) and Thumbipuranam from Kerala. The festival will culminate with the State dragonfly summit, most probably in January 2021. The official mascot of the festival is “Pantalu” which is the genus of dragonfly. Read More Details Here: Kerala State Dragonfly Festival 2020 aka “Thumbimahotsavam 2020” Launched; Mascot is “Pantalu”

OTHER NATIONAL NEWS Nitin Gadkari Approves the Khadi Agarbatti Aatmanirbhar Mission Proposed by KVIC to Generate Employment and Achieve Aatmanribhar Bharat Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), approved the Khadi Agarbatti Aatmanirbhar Mission proposed by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) to increase the production of Agarbatti (incense sticks) and to generate employment and to achieve the self- reliant India in the production of agarbatti.

MoD releases draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020; aimed at $5 bn export by 2025 Ministry of Defence publicized a draft ‘Defence Production & Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP) 2020’ for public feedback by August 17, 2020 after which the policy would be promulgated by the MoD. The policy aims to achieve a manufacturing turnover of $25 bn or Rs 1,75,000 crore, including exports of $5 bn or Rs 35,000 Crore in aerospace and defence goods and services by 2025. The Department of Defence Production will be the nodal department for coordination on various components of the DPEPP 2020.

Listed entities get 3 years to meet criteria of minimum 25% public shareholding In order to provide more time to the listed entities to meet criteria of minimum public shareholding (MPS) of 25%, the Centre Government has made changes in the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Rules, 1957 in rule 19A, in sub-rule (1), where the words “two years” substituted by words “three years”.

Four more States/UTs linked with One Nation One Ration Card scheme; taking total to 24 With effect from August 1, 2020, 3 states of Manipur, Nagaland and Uttarakhand, and one Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) have joined the One Nation, One Ration Card (ONORC) platform, increasing the total number of states/UTs under this scheme to 24. This information has been provided by Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Ram Vilas Paswan while reviewing the progress of ONORC plan. The scheme will be operational all over India by 31st March 2021.

For the 1st time in India Railways uses NTC machine for track construction In a boost to the railways’ efforts to use technology to ease infrastructure work, for the first time in India, Railway is using New Track Construction (NTC) machine for the entire track laying of the Dedicated Freight Corridors. The projects will be implemented by Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL). The project is expected to be completed by 2022. eVIN to Strengthen Immunisation Supply Chain, reached 32 States & UTs The Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network (eVIN), which is used for efficient vaccine logistics management has reached 32 States and Union Territories (UTs) and will soon be rolled-out in the remaining State and Union Territories (UTs). Currently, 23,507 cold chain points across 585 districts of 22 States and 2 UTs routinely use the eVIN technology. The eVIN provides real-time information on vaccine stocks and flows, and storage temperatures across all cold chain points in the country amid COVID-19. National Health Mission (NHM) by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) is the implementing agency of eVIN.

Uttarakhand to develop India’s first snow leopard conservation centre in Uttarkashi forests India’s 1st snow leopard conservation centre is to be set up in Lanka, near Bhaironghati bridge in Uttarkashi district, Uttarakhand. Chief minister of Uttarakhand Trivendra Singh Rawat chaired a meeting along with State forest minister Harak Singh Rawat and other officials to look into the setting up of the conservation centre. It will be built by the Uttarakhand forest department along with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as part of sustainable use and restoration of high range Himalayan ecosystems SECURE Himalayas.

Northern Railway runs the first-ever Vyapar Mala express train for small traders Northern Railway ran its first Vyapar Mala Express train from Kishanganj in Delhi bound for Jirania in Tripura. It will help small traders to move their cargo in short time, cost effective, convenient and environment-friendly mode of transportation.

India extended US$18 mn Line of Credit to Maldives for expansion of fishing facilities at MIFCO India has extended the Line of Credit (LoC) worth USD 18 million to the Government of Maldives for the expansion of fishing facilities at Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) based in Felivaru, Lhaviyani Atoll, through the development of fish collection and storage facilities, and the setting up of a tuna cooked plant and fishmeal plant. This extension is a part of USD 800 million LoC offered by India through Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank) carrying an interest rate of 1.75% with repayment tenor of 20 years and a 5-year moratorium.

India’s first ‘Kisan Rail’ flagged off from Devlali Railway Station of Maharashtra Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Railways and Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare flagged off the India’s 1st Kisan Rail, a Special Parcel Train from Maharashtra’s Devlali to Bihar’s Danapur Railway station through video link. This is the 1st ever multi commodity train of Indian Railways (IR) that carries fruits like Pomegranate, Banana, Grapes etc and vegetables like Capsicum, Cauliflower etc.

PM Modi Addresses Conclave on Transformational Reforms in Higher Education under NEP Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the inaugural address at the “Conclave on Transformational Reforms in Higher Education under National Education Policy (NEP)” organised by the Ministry of Education in association with University Grants Commission (UGC) over a virtual platform and discussed various aspects of NEP 2020, which replaces the National Policy on Education framed in 1986 with academicians and scientists.

IBBI amended Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Liquidation Process) Regulations, 2016 In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (t) of sub-section (1) of section 196 read with section 240 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (31 of 2016), the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) amended the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Liquidation Process) Regulations, 2016 by the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Liquidation Process) (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2020.

UNESCO Recognises Venkatraipur & Noliasahi of Odisha as ‘Tsunami Ready’; India Becomes 1st Country in Indian Ocean Region to Receive the Honour United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) recognises Venkatraipur and Noliasahi, villages of Odisha as ‘Tsunami Ready’ for their overall preparedness to face the tsunami. With this recognition, Odisha became the first state in the India and India became the 1st Country in the Indian Ocean region to achieve the honour from the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO.

Simplilearn and NSDC Announce Collaboration to Upskill Professionals in Digital Skills In order to support the continuity of digital skilling of the Indian workforce, Simplilearn, a global provider of digital skills training joined hands with National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). Under this collaboration, Simplilearn will host more than 1,000 hours of free learning in digital skills and technologies for learners across India. This partnership is aligned to the Skill India Mission.

Piyush Goyal and Pralhad Joshi Dedicated the Railway Museum at Hubballi to the Nation Over Video Conference Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Railways and Commerce & Industry and Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Coal & Mines dedicated the Railway Museum at Hubballi, Karnataka to the Nation in the event over a video conference presided by Suresh Angadi Channabasappa, Minister of State for Railways.

Def. Minister Rajnath Singh Restricted Import of 101 defence items Department of Military Affairs (DMA), Ministry of Defence (MoD) decided to restrict import of 101 weapons and military platforms, the embargo on which is planned to be progressively implemented between 2020 and 2024, in order to boost indigenous defence manufacturing on the lines of “Atmanirbhar Bharat”. Read More Details Here: Def. Minister Rajnath Singh Restricted Import of 101 defence items

PCA to Name Mullanpur Stadium After Late Maharaja Yadavindra Singh Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) is set to name its new stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh, Punjab after the late Maharaja Yadavindra Singh. PCA President Rajinder Gupta proposed the idea to name the stadium and it had been approved.

Central Government Extended the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme to Large Firms & Self Employed Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the Central Government have extended its Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS), credit guarantee scheme for MSME to cover the loans given to the large firms, self-employed professionals and people who have taken a loan for business purpose. The turnover limits to avail the loan under the scheme was increased to annual turnover of Rs.250 crore and outstanding loans up to Rs.50 crores from annual turnover up to Rs.100 crores with outstanding loans of up to Rs.25 crores. The maximum loan amount under the scheme is also increased to Rs.10 crores from Rs.5 crores.

Govt Abolished Cotton Advisory Board; Notifies Change in Status of Textiles Research Associations Ministry of textiles has abolished it’s another advisory body, Cotton Advisory Board (CAB), and notified that all eight Textiles Research Associations (TRAs) have ceased to be” affiliated bodies” of the ministry. The TRAs will be approved bodies for conducting testing, research and developmental activities related to the textiles sector.

NTPC Group achieves 100 Billion Units (BU) power generation mark NTPC Limited (formerly known as National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC)) has achieved 100 Billion Units (BU) of cumulative power generation in the ongoing fiscal year.

DAC Approved Procurement of Approx Rs 8,722.38 cr for Armed Forces under Atmanirbhar Bharat Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in its meeting held under the Chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the capital acquisitions of various platforms and equipment for an approximate cost of Rs 8,722.38 crore. Read More Details Here: DAC Approved Procurement of Approx Rs 8,722.38 cr for Armed Forces under Atmanirbhar Bharat

MoTA: The Nine ‘Tribal Freedom Fighters’ Museums to Recognise the Tribal Freedom Fighters will be Completed by 2022 The Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) announced that the nine Tribal Freedom Fighters Museums that are under development by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to recognise the contribution of the tribal freedom fighters will be completed by the end of 2022. The Museums will utilise latest technologies like Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, 3 dimensional (3D) and 7 dimensional (7D) holographic projects and others.

India Extends an Assistance of USD 1 Million to Antigua and Barbuda’s COVID-19 Response India extended an assistance of 1 million USD to the government of Antigua and Barbuda to combat the global COVID-19 pandemic and to improve their health infrastructure and capacity. The capital and currency of Antigua and Barbuda are Saint John’s & East Caribbean dollar respectively.

First-of-its-kind Katra-Delhi Express Road Corridor to be completed by 2023 First-of-its-kind Katra (Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir)-Delhi Express Road corridor works have begun and it is expected to be completed by 2023. It was announced by Union Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (M-DoNER), Dr. Jitendra Singh. The express Corridor is expected to reduce the travel time between Katra and Delhi to around six and half hours, the total outlay of the project is Rs. 35, 000 crores. The Express Corridor is being built under the Bharatmala Pariyojana project.

Goa’s Moira bananas, Harmal Chillies, Khaje gets GI tag The Geographical Indications Registry headquartered in Chennai granted Geographical Indications (GI) to Goa’s Harmal Chillies which are grown only in Harmal village and adjacent areas of Pernem taluka (specifically in the coastal village of Arambol), Moira bananas, a unique banana grown in Moira village of Bardez taluka & Bicholim Taluka and Khaje, the traditional state sweet.

National Health Authority Approves to Integrate Health Schemes of Central Ministries with Ayushman Bharat Scheme The Governing board of National Health Authority (NHA) approved the proposal to integrate the existing health schemes of the central ministries with the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) for employees, during the governing board’s review meeting on the implementation AB- PMJAY chaired by Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare.

India Granted USD 500 mn Aid for Maldives Connectivity Project & USD 250 mn as Budgetary Support India has granted a USD 250 million as budgetary support and USD 500 million for the 6.7 Km Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP) during a virtual conversation between India’s Union Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Maldivian Counterpart Abdulla Shahid.

India aims to Achieve Zero Road Fatalities by 2030: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari while addressing the Indo-Australian Chamber of Commerce and Womennovator on Trade Investment and collaborations in Road infrastructure, has underlined India’s initiatives to achieve Zero Road Fatalities by 2030. The World Bank & Asian Development Bank have committed Rs. 7,000 crores each on initiatives to reduce road accidents.

NITI Aayog’s AIM & NASSCOM launch ATL Artificial Intelligence Step-up modules for school students National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) in collaboration with National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) has launched Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) Artificial Intelligence (AI) Step-up module (ATL AI Step Up Module) through ‘ATL AI Modules’ for school students to empower youngest minds and drive innovations in the country to the next level.

PM Narendra Modi delivered 7th consecutive speech on Independence Day; Announced Launch of New Projects Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi announced new projects in his 86 minutes’ speech (1 hour 26 minutes) during the 74th Independence Day from Red Fort, New Delhi. It was his 7th consecutive

Independence Day speech and focused on the themes of “Aatma Nirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India)”, “Vocal for local” and “Make in India to Make for World”.  PM announced launch of National Digital Health Mission; rolled out in 6 UTs  PM Modi announces optical fibre link connecting Lakshadweep, mainland India  PM announced project for conservation of Gangetic Dolphins  Committee set up to reconsider minimum age of marriage for women Read More Details Here: PM Narendra Modi delivered 7th consecutive speech on 74th Independence Day; Announced Launch of New Projects

MP CM: Gwalior Chambal Expressway will be Named Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Chambal Progressway Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chouhan, announced that the Gwalior Chambal Expressway will be named as Atal Bihari Vajpayee Chambal Progressway while addressing the gathering on the 2nd death anniversary of the former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee (August 16, 2020).

Indian Railways Constructing World’s Tallest Pier Bridge Across River Ijai in Manipur As a part of 111 kilometre-long Jiribam-Tupul-Imphal line project, Indian Railways’ North East Frontier Railway zone is constructing the world’s tallest pier bridge, having height of 141m, across river Ijai in Manipur with an outlay of Rs 280 crore. After completion, it will surpass the record of 139m of the Mala – Rijeka Viaduct, Montenegro in Europe. The project will be completed in March 2022.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari lays foundation stone for 13 highway projects in Manipur among other measures for the NE states Union Minister for Road Transport, Highways, Nitin Jairam Gadkari laid the foundation stone for 13 highway projects and inaugurated a Road Safety Project in Manipur through video conference. Read More Details Here: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari lays foundation stone for 13 highway projects in Manipur among other measures for the NE states

UK Launched £3 million Innovation Challenge Fund for India to Tackle COVID-19 Challenges & Climate Change The government of United Kingdom (UK) launched a £3 million “Innovation Challenge Fund 2020” in India to support scientists in academia and industry to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change. These grants are part of a wider initiative under the tech partnership known as ‘Tech Clusters’. The Innovation Challenge Fund 2020 of £3 million to India is provided to Maharashtra (£1.5 million) & Karnataka (£1.5 million).

India Post Issued 5 Commemorative Postage Stamps and 1 Miniature Sheet on UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India-III India Post has issued 5 Commemorative Postage Stamps namely: Historic City of Ahmedabad (Gujarat)- Sarkhej Roza, Churches and Convents of Goa- Church of Bom Jesus, Group of Monuments at Pattadakal (Karnataka), Khajuraho Group of Monuments Javeri Temple (Madhya Pradesh) and Qutb Minar its Monuments, Delhi. It also issued 1 miniature sheet consisting of all the above stamps on UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India-III.

Centre extended Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme (PCGS) 2.0 by 3 months till Nov 11, 2020 Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme (PCGS) 2.0 which was launched on May 20, 2020 as a part of Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan has been extended by three months i.e. till November 11, 2020. With regard to portfolio level, the maximum headroom permissible for purchase of bonds and CPs (Commercial paper), rated AA/AA-, by PSBs under the Scheme is also extended to 50% from the earlier 25% (i.e. Rs 11,250 crore).

Read More Details Here: Centre extended Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme (PCGS) 2.0 by 3 months till Nov 11, 2020

Manduadih Railway Station in Uttar Pradesh to be renamed as ‘Banaras’: MHA Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) approved the renaming of Manduadih Railway Station in Uttar Pradesh (UP) as ‘Banaras railway station’. In 2019, Former Union Minister Manoj Sinha had written to UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath requesting the change in name of the Manduadih Railway Station. The Manduadih is a place in Varanasi situated about four kilometres from Varanasi Cantonment Station.

President gives Nod for Renaming of HRD Ministry to Ministry of Education In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (3) of article 77 of the Constitution, President Ram Nath Kovind amended the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961 by Government of India (Allocation of Business) Three Hundred and Fifty Sixth Amendment Rules, 2020, thereby, changing the name of the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) as Ministry of Education.

India ranked 1st in number of organic farmers and 9th in terms of area under organic farming: MoA&FW In accordance with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW), India ranked first in number of organic farmers and 9th in terms of area under organic farming. Notably, Sikkim was the first state in the world to become completely organic and other states including Tripura and Uttarakhand have set targets to be on the same line.

‘Dhanwantari Rath’ to bring Ayurveda at Doorsteps of Delhi Police Families All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Delhi Police for extending Ayurvedic mode of preventive and promote health services in the residential colonies of the Delhi Police through mobile units named ‘Dhanwantari Rath’.

NRDC and NAL Partners to Establish Incubation Centre for Startup in Aerospace Technologies The National Research Development Corporation (NRDC) under the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research- National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL), partnered to establish an innovation cum incubation centre to promote the start-up in the field of aerospace technologies.

Atal Innovation Mission and India Sweden Healthcare Innovation Centre Partners to Boost Startup Ecosystem Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog and Business Sweden on behalf of India-Sweden Healthcare Innovation Centre signed a virtual Statement of Intent (SoI) to boost the culture of innovation in India

Centre Formulated India’s First 30-member National Council for Transgender Persons; Chaired by Union Minister of SJ&E In exercise of the powers conferred by section 16 of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019 the Central Government constituted the India’s first 30-member National Council for Transgender Persons to advice, monitor and evaluate measures for the protection of the rights of Transgender community. The 30-member council is consisted of 1 Chairperson (Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment), 1 Vice-Chairperson, 13 members, 14 nominated members and 1-member secretary. The present chairperson is Thawar Chand Gehlot.

CMIA Partnered with UNDP to Set up Help Desk for MSME amid COVID-19 The Chamber of Marathwada Industries and Agriculture (CMIA) has joined hands with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to set up a help desk for MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises). The help desk will be active till January 2021.

Niti Aayog Task Force headed by Ramesh Chand Recommends Linking of Sugarcane Prices to Sugar Rate The final report of the NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog Task Force headed by Ramesh Chand, Niti Aayog Member (Agriculture), “Sugarcane and Sugar Industry” recommended linking of Sugarcane prices to sugar rate to maintain the financial state and stability of the industry and to clear the arrears of the sugarcane farmers. The report also recommends a one-time increase in the minimum sugar price to Rs.33 per kilogram.

Tamil Nadu Women Topped the List of MUDRA Loan Scheme Beneficiaries According to the data provided by the Ministry of Finance to the Rajya Sabha, as of March 31, 2020, women in Tamil Nadu topped the list of loan benefits under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) by availing Rs 58,227 crore loan. They are followed by women in West Bengal (Rs 55,232 crore), Karnataka (Rs 47,714 crore), Bihar (Rs 44,879 crore) and Maharashtra (Rs 42,000 crore). Together women from these five States have got 52% of the total MUDRA loan. Also women have got 15.75 crore loans out of 22.53 crore loans since the launch of the scheme (around 70%).

Karnataka CM Addresses virtual Indo-Japan business forum from Bengaluru Karnataka Chief Minister B. S. Yediyurappa addressed a virtual Indo-Japan business forum organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC). The Chief Minister also signed a Japan-India Start-up Initiative to promote start-ups in the State. The Government of Karnataka has set up a 519 acres Japanese Industrial Township at Vasanthanarasapura near Tumakuru to enable more Japanese investments in the state. The Business forum saw the participation from the representatives of Maharashtra and Odisha. Read More Details Here: Karnataka CM Addresses virtual Indo-Japan business forum from Bengaluru

Indian Railways Set to Meet All its Energy Need of Over 33 Billion Units by 2030 Indian Railways organised a discussion over a wide range of topics with the stakeholders, chaired by Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Railways, to become 100% self-sustainable for all its energy needs and to contribute to the National Solar Mission of India. Indian Railways is set to meet its energy consumption which will be over 33 billion units by 2030. Indian Railways has developed a mega plan to install solar power plants of capacity 20 Gigawatt (GW) by utilising vacant lands by 2030.

NITI Aayog Launches NDC–Transport Initiative for Asia (TIA) India Component NITI Aayog launched the India Component of the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC)-Transport Initiative for Asia (TIA). The NDC-TIA India team will focus on establishing a multi-stakeholder dialogue for decarbonizing transport and providing technical support on Green House Gas emission reduction measures in India. NITI Aayog will be the implementing agency in India. NDC-TIA is part of International Transport Forum (ITF)’s work on Decarbonising Transport in India that also includes Decarbonising Transport in Emerging Economies – India component.

India granted 4th Tranche of USD 5mn to Myanmar for India-Myanmar Border Area Development India granted the 4th tranche of USD 5 million to Myanmar for the development of the India-Myanmar Border Area. In this regard, the Indian Ambassador to Myanmar Saurabh Kumar handed over the ceremonial cheque to Lt-Gen Ye Aung, Minister for Border Affairs, Myanmar. This funding is on the lines of the MoU signed by ex-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2012 according to which India would grant

a total of USD 25 million to Myanmar, divided into five tranches of USD 5 million each annually, starting 2017, for projects on India-Myanmar border.

Kerala to set up India’s First International Women’s Trade Centre Biju Prabhakar, Secretary, Department of Social Justice, Women & Child Development announced that Kerala will set up India’s First International Women Trade Centre (IWTC) in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations(UN) at Angamaly, Kochi, Kerala. This announcement was made during the webinar on “Scaling up Opportunities for MSME women Entrepreneurs in Kerala” organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry(FICCI) Kerala State Council.

India, Singapore commit to further enhance security partnership at 14th India-Singapore Defence Policy Dialogue India and Singapore carried out a review of their defence ties at the virtual meet of the 14th India- Singapore Defence Policy Dialogue (DPD). The DPD was co-chaired by India’s Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar and Permanent Secretary (Defence), Singapore Mr Chan Heng Kee. During the DPD, the Implementing Arrangement on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) was signed between the two countries. GOVT SCHEMES

Haryana Govt launched Mahila Evam Kishori Samman Yojana & Mukhya Mantri Doodh Uphar Yojana for state’s girls & women Haryana government has launched two schemes, with a total outlay of Rs 256 crore, viz. launched “Mahila Evam Kishori Samman Yojana” to provide free sanitary napkins to girls and women of below poverty line (BPL) families, and initiated “Mukhya Mantri Doodh Uphar Yojana” to provide fortified flavoured skimmed milk powder to women and children. These schemes were launched by Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar through video conferencing. Read More Details Here: Haryana Govt launched Mahila Evam Kishori Samman Yojana & Mukhya Mantri Doodh Uphar Yojana for state’s girls & women

Chhattisgarh govt launched Shaheed Mahendra Karma Tendupatta Sangrahak Samajik Suraksha Yojana for tendu leaves collectors Chhattisgarh Chief Minister (CM) Bhupesh Baghel launched a social security scheme namely “Shaheed Mahendra Karma Tendupatta Sangrahak Samajik Suraksha Yojana” for tendu leaves collectors in the state covering over 12 lakh families, mostly tribals and forest dwellers.

PM Launched Financing Facility of Rs.1 Lakh crore Under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund & Rs 17000 Cr as 6th Instalment of PM-KISAN Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Central Sector Scheme (CSS) of financing facility under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund of Rs. 1 lakh crore via video conferencing. In this regard, the first sanction of over Rs. 1000 Crore was made to over 2,280 farmer societies. The duration of the scheme is 10 years i.e. from FY2020 to FY2029. PM Narendra Modi also released the 6th instalment of funds of Rs. 17,000 crores to 8.5 crore farmers under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojna (PM-KISAN) scheme.

Gujarat Launched Mukhya Mantri Kisan Sahay Yojana Replacing PMFBY to Compensate Crop Loss of Farmers for FY21 Chief Minister of Gujarat, Vijay Rupani, launched Rs 1,800 crore scheme “Mukhya Mantri Kisan Sahay Yojana” by replacing “Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)”, for FY20-21 only, for the state’s 56

lakh farmers facing crop losses due to drought, excess rain or unseasonal rain. The Farmers who have sown crops for kharif (monsoon) 2020 season i.e. sown till July, and tribal farmers registered under the Forest Rights Act are eligible for this scheme. The compensation will be given only if the loss of crop is more than 33% due to above mentioned factors.

Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) Completed Six Years of Successful Implementation On August 28, 2020, the 6th anniversary of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna (PMJDY) was observed which was launched on August 28, 2014. The objective of PMJDY is to ensure access to financial services, namely, Banking/ Savings & Deposit Accounts, Remittance, Credit, Insurance, Pension in an affordable manner. It is operated by the Department of Financial Services under the Union Finance Ministry. As on 19th Aug’20 the total number of PMJDY Accounts is 40.35 Crore; Rural PMJDY accounts: 63.6%, Women PMJDY accounts: 55.2%. Out of total 40.35 crore PMJDY accounts, 34.81 crore (86.3%) are operative. Read More Details Here: Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) Completed Six Years of Successful Implementation INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

India & UK tie up for new 8 Million Pounds Medicinal Research The United Kingdom (UK) and India tied up for five new medicinal research projects worth 8 million pounds (around Rs. 78 crore) to tackle the anti-microbial resistance to support the combat against antibiotic resistant bacteria and genes during his ‘virtual visit’ to India. The United Kingdom will contribute 4 million pounds (around Rs. 39 crore) from the UK research and Innovation (UKRI) fund for international collaboration and India will contribute 4 million pounds for the funding of the five projects that are planned for September 2020.

India contributed USD 15.46 mn to India-UN Development Partnership Fund of UNOSSC Government of India (GoI) has contributed USD 15.46 million to the India-UN (United Nations) Development Partnership Fund as a support to fellow developing nations for their 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and related projects. In this regard, a cheque of USD 15.46 million handed over by India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador T S Tirumurti to the United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC) Director Jorge Chediek.

UN’s Policy Brief: Education during COVID-19 and beyond: Around 23.8 Million Children May Drop Out of School Due to the Impacts of COVID-19 António Guterres Secretary-General of United Nations (UN) launched the report titled “Policy Brief: Education during COVID-19 and beyond” states that around 23.8 million additional children and youths may drop out or not have access to school in 2021 due to the economic impacts of COVID-19. The Policy brief was built on United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation(UNESCO)’s data and features recommendations on ways to avoid the emerging disaster.

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa registers landslide victory in Sri Lankan Parliamentary elections Parliamentary elections in Sri Lanka were held on 5 August 2020 to elect 225 members to Sri Lanka’s 16th Parliament. Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) headed by Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa has won 145 (150 including allies) in the elections, securing two-thirds majority in the parliament. The two- thirds supermajority will give them powers to change the constitution. Sri Lanka is a democratic republic and unitary state, which is governed by a semi-presidential system, a mixture of parliamentary and presidential system.

FAO Introduce New Platform to Reduce Global Food Loss and Waste The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) unveiled a new Platform, “Technical Platform on the Measurement and Reduction of Food Loss and Waste” to support the global reduction of food loss and waste. The official launch of the platform will be on the first International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW) which will be observed on 29th September 2020.

Bangladesh Decided to Construct a Monument for the Indian Soldiers Killed by Pakistan in the 1971 The Bangladesh government has announced the decision to construct a standalone monument for the Indian Soldiers who were killed by Pakistan in 1971 Liberation War against Pakistan. The construction of the monument will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Independence of Bangladesh.

Russia Becomes World’s 1st Country to Register COVID-19 Vaccine, ‘Sputnik V’ Russia becomes the World’s 1st country to officially register a COVID-19 vaccine and declare it ready for use. The vaccine will be marketed in foreign markets under the name ‘Sputnik V’, after the world’s first satellite Sputnik. The vaccine has been developed jointly by the Gamaleya Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology and the Russian Defence Ministry.

Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko wins sixth term with 80% of votes The Central Election Commission of the Republic of Belarus said that the country’s long-time authoritarian leader Alexander Grigoryevich Lukashenko has won his sixth consecutive presidential term (1994-present) by taking over 80% of the votes. His main opposition challenger Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya has secured only 9.9% of votes. The capital of Belarus is Minsk.

Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Committed USD 25mn to Expand Unified Champion Schools to 6 countries Including India Under the Unified Champion School (UCS) worldwide programme, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has committed USD 25 million to expand UCS (an initiative undertaken by the Special Olympics) to 6 countries namely, India, Argentina, Egypt, Pakistan, Romania and Rwanda with an aim to empower intellectually disabled children. The 4-year project will create 120 UCS across 12 states in India, which will play a pivotal role to make Indian education system more inclusive.

European Union to Provide 1.65 million euros in Humanitarian Aid Funding to Support Victims of South Asia Floods The European Union (EU) will provide 1.65 million euros in humanitarian aid funding to support flood victims of South Asia most notably in Bangladesh, India and Nepal. The funding is part of the EU’s Acute Large Emergency Response Tool (ALERT). Of the 1.65 million euros, 500,000 euros will be used in India, 1 million euros will be dedicated to Bangladesh and 150,000 euros will be used in Nepal.

The ILO’s “Youth and COVID-19: Impacts on Jobs, Education, Rights and Mental Well-being”: 50% of World’s Youth Are Under Anxiety or Depression United Nations (UN)’s International Labour Organization (ILO) published the survey report titled “Youth and COVID-19: Impacts on Jobs, Education, Rights and Mental Well-being” which found that 50% of young people across the world are possibly subject to anxiety or depression and around 17% of them are already affected by it. and 38% of youths do not have a clear idea about the career or future.

Over 200 Elephants in India Kept in Severely Inadequate Conditions: World Animal Protection On August 12, 2020, during the observance of World Elephant Day 2020, World Animal Protection released the third edition of the report ‘Elephants. Not commodities’ which highlighted that over 200

Elephants in India are kept in ‘Severely Inadequate Conditions’. According to the report, India is home to the second-highest number of elephants which are used for tourism in the region of Asia.

WHO Urged Developed Nations to Join Covax Facility to Counter “Vaccine Nationalism” The World Health Organisation (WHO) has invited countries to join its COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access (COVAX) facility by August 31, 2020. This facility is led by the WHO, along with the GAVI vaccine alliance, and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). The COVAX is part of a broader program, called the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator. The reason behind this facility is to counter “vaccine nationalism”.

World Health Organization (WHO) declares Africa free of Wild Poliovirus The African Continent was declared free of wild polio by the independent body, the Africa Regional Certification Commission (ARCC), which is responsible for certifying the eradication of wild poliovirus in the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region. The commission led by Professor Rose Gana Fomban Leke, chairperson of ARCC. The Poliovirus is now found only in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Ericsson & UNICEF Partnered to Map School Internet Connectivity in 35 Countries Swedish Telecom Company, Ericsson has partnered with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to map internet connectivity landscape for schools in 35 countries by the end of 2023 to provide digital learning access to the children. This joint initiative is a part of the Giga initiative launched by UNICEF and International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in September 2019 to provide internet connection to every school and their surrounding communities. Ericsson is the first private sector partner to make a commitment to the Giga initiative and global UNICEF partner for School Connectivity Mapping.

Maldives Launches India backed Infrastructure Projects The government of Maldives launched India backed infrastructure projects like Hulhumale Central Park and renovation of the Arrival Jetty in Maldives during a ceremony which was attended by Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Hulhumalé MP Ali Niyaz, High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir, MD of Housing Development Corporation Limited (HDC) Suhail Ahmed etc. It is a part of 18 grant projects being funded by India in the Maldives under a total grant assistance of USD 6.9 million extended in 2019.

India co-sponsors UNSC Resolution for Greater Participation of Women in Peacekeeping Forces India co-sponsored United National Security Council Resolution for Greater Participation of women in peacekeeping forces. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution called on full, effective and meaningful participation of women in peacekeeping operations. The resolution was tabled by Indonesia has been seconded by India. BANKING & FINANCE

RBI IN NEWS RBI Mandates System-based Asset Classification for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has mandated the urban co-operative banks (UCBs) with assets of Rs 2,000 crore or above as on March 31, 2020 to implement system-based asset classification from 30 June 2021. For UCBs having total assets of Rs 1000 crore or above but less than Rs 2000 crore as on March 31, 2020 and have self-assessed under Level III or Level IV on “Comprehensive Cyber Security Framework for Primary (Urban) Cooperative Banks (UCBs) – A Graded Approach” are mandated to implement it from September 30, 2021.

RBI Tightens Norms for Core Investment Companies; Formation of Group Risk Management Committee Mandated Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revised the guidelines applicable for Core Investment Companies (CICs) on the basis of the recommendations of the Working Group (WG) to Review the Regulatory and Supervisory Framework for Core Investment Companies (CICs), constituted under the Chairmanship of Tapan Ray, former Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). In this regard, RBI has made the guidelines stricter for CICs by mandating more disclosures, better risk management and a simpler group structure w.e.f. August 13, 2020. The existing entities have been given time till 31 March 2023 to reorganize their business structure. Read More Details Here: RBI Tightens Norms for Core Investment Companies; Formation of Group Risk Management Committee Mandated

RBI’s Central Board headed by Shaktikanta Das approved a dividend of Rs 57,128 crore to Central Govt The 584th meeting of the Central Board of Reserve of Board (RBI) under the Chairmanship of Governor Shaktikanta Das approved the transfer of Rs 57,128 crore in surplus as dividend to the Central government for the accounting year 2019-20. The board decided to maintain the Contingency Risk Buffer at 5.5%. As per the Union Budget 2020-21, the government has budgeted Rs 60,000 crore as dividends from RBI and state-run banks and financial institutions.

RBI Released Framework for Authorisation of Pan-India Umbrella Entity for Retail Payments Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the “Framework for authorisation of Pan-India Umbrella Entity for Retail Payments” recently. The Board for Regulation and Supervision of Payment and Settlement Systems (BPSS), will be the final authority to issue authorisation for setting up umbrella entity. The minimum paid-up capital of the umbrella entity should be Rs 500 crore. Read More Details Here: RBI Released Framework for Authorisation of Pan-India Umbrella Entity for Retail Payments

RBI Released Draft Framework for Self-Regulatory Body for Payment System Operators Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released a draft framework for grant of recognition to an industry association as a Self-Regulatory Organisation (SRO) for Payment System Operators (PSOs). Notably, SRO will serve as a watchdog to guard against unprofessional practices within an industry or profession.

RBI Releases National Strategy for Financial Education 2020-2025; 5C Approach Recommended On the lines of the review of progress made under the first National Strategy for Financial Education (NSFE: 2013-2018) the revised NSFE (2020-2025) has been prepared and the document for the same was released by Mahesh Kumar Jain, Deputy Governor, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on August 20, 2020. The document recommends adoption of a ‘5 C’ approach viz. Content, Capacity, Community, Communication and Collaboration. Read More Details Here: RBI Releases National Strategy for Financial Education 2020-2025; 5C Approach Recommended

Highlights of RBI Annual Report 2019-20; India’s Growth Projected at -4.5% Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its Annual Report for 2019-20. It is Report of the Central Board of Directors on the working of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for the year ended June 30, 2020 submitted to the Central Government in terms of Section 53(2) of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. In the report, RBI projected that India’s growth at minus 4.5% for 2020-21.  Bank frauds more than double in FY20 to Rs 1.85 trillion  Setting up GST Council type authorities for land, labour, power  RBI to dissolve Banking Codes and Standards Board of India

Read More Details Here: Highlights of RBI Annual Report 2019-20; India’s Growth Projected at -4.5%

RBI Announced Purchase & Sale of Govt Securities under OMO worth Rs 20,000 crore Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a simultaneous purchase and sale of government securities (G- Secs) under open market operations (OMO) for an aggregate amount of Rs 20,000 crore in two equal tranches of Rs 10,000 crore on August 27, 2020 and September 03, 2020 on account of current and evolving liquidity and market conditions. Read More Details Here: RBI Announced Purchase & Sale of Govt Securities under OMO worth Rs 20,000 crore

BANKING TECHNOLOGY SIDBI, TransUnion CIBIL launched financial knowledge platform” MSMESaksham” for MSMEs The Lucknow based Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) in association with TransUnion CIBIL Limited has launched a comprehensive financial education and one-stop knowledge platform for micro, small and medium enterprises “MSMESaksham”, which will guide MSMEs seeking quick access to finance and will also support them in managing their credit obligations.

HDFC Bank Virtually Launched ‘Shaurya KGC Card’, a First-of-its-Kind Card for Indian Armed Forces Aditya Puri, Managing Director of HDFC Bank, launched digitally the 1st of its kind card, ‘Shaurya KGC (Kisan Gold Credit) Card’, a tri color themed card for Indian armed forces personnel and their families. It will benefit over 45 lakh users. The product is aimed largely towards armed forces personnel from semi- urban and rural communities. The product is based on the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) guidelines by the government. This launch is part of the HDFC Bank’s ‘Har Gaon Hamara’ initiative.

PNB Launched ‘DIGITAL APNAYEN’, a Campaign to Promote Digital Banking S S Mallikarjuna Rao, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Punjab National Bank (PNB) launched a campaign, ‘DIGITAL APNAYEN’ to encourage customers to use digital banking channels and participate in the noble cause of donating to PM CARES Fund for COVID-19.

Fino Payments Bank Ltd Launched ‘Jan Bachat Khata’, an Aadhaar Authentication Based Digital Savings Account Fino Payments Bank Limited launched Jan Bachat Khata (JBK), an Aadhaar authentication based digital savings account for its customers. JBK will bring neo-banking experience to the consumers. The primary target of JBK is low income household families and direct benefit transfer (DBT) beneficiaries.

Lakshmi Vilas Bank Launched ‘LAKSHMI digiGO’, a Contactless Online Instant Savings Account Opening Facility Lakshmi Vilas Bank (LVB) has launched ‘LAKSHMI digiGO’, a contactless digital initiative that will enable customers to open a savings account instantly. This initiative will help people to avail the most required banking services instantly through the website on account of COVID-19 pandemic.

SBI Partners with AddaCorner to Launch ‘Online Home Carnival’ The Mumbai headquartered State Bank of India (SBI) has partnered with India’s First Real-Time Group Negotiation E-Platform, AddaCorner to launch ‘Online Home Carnival’, which will help in boosting the Real Estate market in Bengaluru.

LOANS ISSUED BY BANKS LOANS ISSUED BY RECEIVED BY AMOUNT KEY NOTES Asian Development Bank Delhi – Meerut Rs 7,485 crore The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has (ADB) (Uttar Pradesh) approved a USD 1 billion (about Rs 7,485 crore) loan to construct the modern, high- speed 82-kilometer Delhi – Meerut (Uttar Pradesh) Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) in India, a first of its kind in India. The finance of the Delhi- Meerut RRTS project will be given in 4 tranches between August 2020 and May 2025. The NCR Transport Corporation (NCRTC) will execute the project. Asian Infrastructure Government of $500 million A quartet loan agreement was inked Investment Bank (AIIB) Maharashtra, between the Government of India, the Mumbai Railway Government of Maharashtra, Mumbai Vikas Corporation Railway Vikas Corporation (MRVC) and (MRVC) the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) for Mumbai Urban Transport Project-III. The total estimated cost of the project is $997 million, of which $500 million will be financed by the AIIB, $310 million by the Government of Maharashtra and $187 million by the Ministry of Railways. The loan from the AIIB has a 5-year grace period and a maturity of 30 years.

OTHER BANKING NEWS Kotak Mahindra Bank Launched a Two-Month Campaign, ‘Kona Kona Umeed’ with Offers, Discounts Kotak Mahindra Bank has launched a special two-month campaign, ‘Kona Kona Umeed’ with offers and discounts across its suite of products to make banking and shopping more rewarding for the customers so as to boost consumer demand and lift people’s enthusiasm during this pandemic situation.

Canara Bank Partnered with 3 insurers to Provide Individual Short-Term Corona Kavach Policy As part of a social commitment to compensate the unprecedented expenses of ordinary people, the Bengaluru based Canara bank has partnered with 3 insurers namely, New India Assurance Company Ltd, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Co Ltd and HDFC ERGO Health Insurance Co Ltd to offer individual short- term Corona Kavach policy to cover COVID-19 related health expenses.

National Bank of Bahrain Selects Infosys Finacle to Digitally Transform its Transaction Banking Business National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) and Infosys Finacle, part of EdgeVerve Systems, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Infosys, announced that the bank has decided to adopt the Finacle Cash Management Suite to digitally transform its transaction banking business.

Airtel Payments Bank partnered with Bharti AXA General Insurance to offer “Smart Plan Shop Package Policy” Airtel Payments Bank has entered into a partnership with Bharti AXA General Insurance to offer the latter’s affordable and newly launched shop insurance product namely “Smart Plan Shop Package Policy” for financial protection of the bank’s retailers and merchants.

Exim Bank extends USD 250 million line of credit to Mozambique to improve the power supply quality The Mumbai headquartered Export-Import (EXIM) Bank on behalf of Indian Government, extended a Line of Credit (LoC) of USD 250 million (about Rs. 1,870 Crores) to Mozambique to improve the power supply quality of the country. The capital and currency of Mozambique are Maputo & Mozambican metical respectively.

ADB signed USD 200 mn financing deal with Reliance Bangladesh LNG and Power Limited for 718 mw power plant in Bangladesh The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a USD 200 million financing deal with the Reliance Bangladesh LNG and Power Limited (RBLPL) to build and operate a 718 megawatt combined-cycle gas- fired power plant in Bangladesh. The financing deal has two components of dollar 100 million each. ADB will provide USD 100 million and will also manage the other part worth USD 100 million from the Leading Asia’s Private Infrastructure Fund (LEAP).

SBM Bank India Collaborated with InstaReM to Enhance Outbound Remittance Experience from India SBM Bank (India) Limited has collaborated with InstaReM to enhance the existing outbound remittance service offerings from India, including introduction of new remittance corridors, increased frequency of transactions for outbound Transactions and improved delivery timings for transfers.

NPCI Launched Omni-Channel Loyalty Platform, ‘nth Rewards’ National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched ‘nth Rewards’, a business intelligence and analytics enabled omni-channel multi-branded loyalty platform. This platform enables users to earn ‘nth’ (denoting infinite possibilities) points through various bank transactions and redeem them instantly on various products, such as e-vouchers, donations, hotel and flight bookings. The platform aims to become a one stop shop for the bank which will enable them to retain and grow their customer base.

South Indian Bank obtained RBI’s in-principle Nod to Set up Non-Financial Subsidiary South Indian Bank (SIB) has obtained in-principle approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to set up a wholly owned non- financial subsidiary for undertaking activities permitted by RBI. After SIB completes the relevant formalities and receives final approval from the regulators the subsidiary will commence its operations.

Federal Bank Partnered with Fiserv, Inc. to Support Launch of their 1st Independent Credit Card, ‘Federal Bank Credit Card’ Federal Bank has partnered with Fiserv, Inc. to enable the digitization of its end-to-end card issuance and processing cycle to support the launch of the ‘Federal Bank credit card’, their 1st Independent Credit Card. The Federal bank will also outsource associated operational processes to Fiserv.

SBI rolls out “KCC (Kisan Credit Card) Review option” for Farmers State Bank of India (SBI) has launched “KCC (Kisan Credit Card) Review option” on its digital agricultural solution platform, YONO (“You Only Need One”) Krishi. With this application the farmers can access their

KCC limit in the virtual platform. It is expected to benefit more than 75 Lakh Farmers who have Kisan Credit Card accounts with SBI. The Farmers will no longer need to visit the bank branch physically to apply for a revision in their KCC limit.

YES Bank in Partnership with KFin Technologies Launched ‘Loan against Securities’ to Provide Complete Digital loan Against Mutual Fund Yes Bank in partnership with KFin Technologies Private Limited has launched ‘Loan against Securities’, a unique digital solution that enables customers to lien mark their mutual funds digitally and avail quick and hassle-free loans. The digital solution is launched under YES BANK’s ‘Loan in Seconds’ platform, which allows the customers to set an instant credit limit against securities held.

HSBC India Becomes 1st Foreign Bank in India to launch a ‘Green Deposit Programme’ for Corporate Clients to Finance Green Initiatives HSBC India becomes 1st Foreign Bank in India to launch a ‘Green Deposit Programme’ exclusively for corporate clients to finance green initiatives and eco-friendly projects like renewable energy, clean transportation, and pollution prevention among others, that promote transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient and sustainable economy. This will enable companies to support environmentally-beneficial projects.

Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank and SBI General Insurance Co Ltd Signed MoU to Sell General Insurance Products Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB) and SBI General Insurance Co Ltd have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Dharwad, Karnataka to sell general insurance products of SBI general insurance company through the branches of KVGB.

RBL Bank Partnered with Accenture to Accelerate its Digital Transformation The Mumbai headquartered RBL Bank has entered into a strategic partnership with Accenture to transform and enhance the future readiness of the bank’s Information Technology (IT) systems and accelerate its digital transformation journey.

NABARD Introduced a Debt and Credit Guarantee Product, ‘Structured Finance and Partial Guarantee Programme to NBFC-MFIs’ The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has introduced, ‘Structured Finance and Partial Guarantee Program for Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFC)-Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs)’, a dedicated debt and credit guarantee product. NABARD has signed a pact with Vivriti Capital and Ujjivan Small Finance Bank on 14 August 2020 to introduce the initiative.

ICICI Bank Becomes the 1st Bank in India Uses Satellite Data to Assess Credit Worthiness of Farmers ICICI Bank uses satellite data (imagery from Earth observation satellites) to assess credit worthiness of farmers. ICICI Bank has become the 1st bank in India to use such a technique to measure an array of parameters related to the land, irrigation and crop patterns and use it in combination with demographic and financial parameters to make quick lending decisions for farmers.

MasterCard and Goals101.ai Partnered to create Targeted and Personalised Offers for Bank Cardholders Mastercard has entered into an alliance with Goals101.ai, the leading bank-tech and Artificial Intelligence (AI) company. Through this alliance, Goals101.ai connects merchants and issuers using big data, AI and

automation to create targeted and personalized offers for Bank cardholders. Through this partnership, Mastercard and Goals101.ai will launch a section within the platform called ‘For You’.

Axis Bank Introduced ‘Liberty Savings Account’ for the Indian Youth; 1st of its Kind Savings Account to Cover Pandemic The Mumbai headquartered Axis Bank, India’s third-largest private sector bank, has introduced ‘Liberty Savings Account’ for the Indian Youth, to address the ever changing lifestyle needs of young and digitally interested Indians. It offers a complimentary hospital cash insurance cover of up to Rs 20,000 per year, which covers hospital expenses incurred under COVID -19, which makes this a 1st of its kind savings account to cover the pandemic.

HDFC Bank to Partner with Adobe to Enhance Digital Customer Experiences HDFC Bank announced a strategic partnership with Adobe to enhance the Digital Experiences of its Customers. The partnership is powered by Adobe Experience Cloud Solutions and will help HDFC Bank to deliver personalised digital experiences to existing as well as new customers, at anytime and anywhere.

FINANCE NEWS Craft Silicon & PayU Partnered to Advance Digital Loan Repayment Craft Silicon has entered into a strategic partnership with PayU to innovate and accelerate the digital loan repayment solutions for small finance banks, micro-lending institutions and Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC).

MobiKwik Launched mpay.me, a Personalized UPI Payment Link

MobiKwik launched ‘mpay.me’, a Unified Payment Interface (UPI) payment link service that allows users to send and receive money from any UPI payment app. Through mpay.me, users and merchants can set up a personalized link using their mobile number.

BOB Financial Solutions Partnered with Innoviti Payment to launch the New Credit Card EMI offering on POS Terminal BOB Financial Solutions Limited partnered with Innoviti Payment Solutions Pvt. Ltd to launch New Credit Card Equated Monthly Instalments (EMI) offering on Point of Sale (POS) terminals. The association of Bank of Baroda (BOB) Credit Card with Innoviti Payment Solutions will enable BOB credit card holders to access EMIs that can be repaid conveniently through their credit cards.

Aditya Birla Health Insurance Launches New Services and Products for COVID-19 Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited (ABHICL), the health insurance arm of Aditya Birla Capital Limited, has introduced new services, product solutions & add-ons to the existing products to enable customers to safeguard their health during COVID-19. The ABHICL has launched an initiative ‘Active Dayz@Home’ & campaign #HealthFromHome recently.

SEBI revised IFSC guidelines, 2015’ eligibility, shareholding limit for clearing corp at IFSC Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) amended the clause 4 (2) of SEBI international financial services centre (IFSC) guidelines, 2015 pertaining to eligibility criteria and shareholding limit for clearing corporations that wish to operate in such centres. Read More Details Here: SEBI revised IFSC guidelines, 2015’ eligibility, shareholding limit for clearing corp at IFSC

International Financial Corporation to Invest Rs.75 Crore in Endiya Partners Fund II The International Financial Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, has committed to invest Rs 75 crore (about USD 10 million) in Endiya Partners Fund II. In addition to this, IFC has also committed an additional USD 10 million for direct co-investments.

Paytm Launched India’s 1st Pocket Android POS Device, ‘Paytm All-in-One Portable Android Smart POS’ Paytm has launched India’s 1st Pocket Android POS (Point of Sale) Device, ‘Paytm All-in-One Portable Android Smart POS’ for contactless ordering and payments in India. It is an effort to digitise and empower a large number of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). It is integrated with the ‘Paytm for Business’ app to generate GST compliant bills and to manage all transactions & settlements.

Muthoot Finance Partnered with Kotak Mahindra General Insurance to Offer COVID-19 Insurance Cover Against Gold Loan Muthoot Finance has partnered with Kotak Mahindra General Insurance to offer COVID-19 insurance cover of up to Rs 1 lakh under the initiative Muthoot Finance Ayush Gold Loan. The cover will be available only for the customers who avail gold loan from Muthoot Finance under the Muthoot Super Loan (MSL) scheme.

Bharti AXA Life Insurance Entered into Bancassurance Partnership with SBM Bank India Bharti AXA Life Insurance has entered into a bancassurance partnership with SBM Bank (India) Limited. Through this partnership, Bharti AXA Life Insurance will offer its entire suite of life insurance products, including protection, health, savings and investment plans, to the customers of SBM Private Wealth, the retail banking arm of SBM Bank India.

Universal Sompo General Insurance Company Ltd Collaborates with BSE EBIX to sell General Insurance products Universal Sompo General Insurance Company Ltd has collaborated with BSE EBIX Insurance Broking Private Limited (BSE EBIX) to sell General Insurance products in a fully digital environment using the distribution network of BSE EBIX.

Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance Partnered with Element AI for AI Transformation Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance Company Limited has partnered with Element AI, a global developer of AI (Artificial Intelligence)-powered solutions and products, to develop, design and implement a strategic AI roadmap for the new age insurer and prioritise their investments into AI.

NPCI Launched its Subsidiary Firm, ‘NPCI International Payments Limited’; Appointed Ritesh Shukla as its CEO The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched a wholly-owned subsidiary, NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) to internationalize (or export to foreign markets) NPCI’s indigenously developed offerings and technological acumen. NPCI has appointed Ritesh Shukla as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of NIPL.

Tata Capital Ltd Launched a New Service, ‘Swift Insta Personal Loans’ on Whatsapp Tata Capital Ltd, the financial services arm of the Tata Group launched its new service called, ‘Swift Insta Personal Loans’ (SIPL) on WhatsApp. Through the new service, the existing customers can easily apply for loans and receive sanctions for personal loans (on a single platform) using TIA, a Chat-bot of Tata Capital on WhatsApp.

SBI General Insurance Launched a 1st of its Kind offering, ‘Shagun – Gift an Insurance’ Policy for Personal Accident SBI General Insurance Co Ltd launched a 1st of its kind offering, ‘Shagun – Gift an Insurance’, a unique gift of Personal Accident policy which provides complete financial protection to the insured person against uncertainties such as accidental death and partial or total disabilities, and permanent & temporary disabilities resulting from an accident.

HSBC India Launched Omni Collect, a One Stop Solution to Businesses HSBC India has launched Omni Collect, a one-stop solution in India. It supports businesses to offer multiple payment options on a single platform. Advanced Travel Partners International (ATPI) is the 1st client of HSBC India to go live with this solution and has started to receive payments through the online payment gateway.

Innoviti and Visa Partnered to develop installments platform for face-to-face transactions Innoviti Payment Solutions Pvt. Ltd. and Visa have partnered to develop an instalment platform, which will enable the issuers to extend credit to their cardholders at face-to-face Point of Sale (PoS) in India. The instalments platform with the suite of platform capabilities leveraging Innoviti’s uniPAYNEXT platform and Visa’s APIs, provides shoppers the ability to choose how they pay during the purchase.

Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Launched 1st of its Kind ‘Smart Assist’, a Real-time Assistance Service Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company Limited has launched ‘Smart Assist’, a 1st of its kind technology service in the insurance industry. Through a secure screen sharing feature, the service allows the customers to connect with the company to avail real-time assistance on completing the purchase anywhere.

Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance & Andhra Pragathi Grameena Bank Entered into a Strategic Partnership through VC to Offer Life Insurance Canara HSBC Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC) Life Insurance Company Limited (Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance) and Andhra Pragathi Grameena Bank (APGB) have entered into a strategic tie up virtually. The distribution tie-up is to sell life insurance, health and pension products at all the branches of APGB. It is the 1st virtual launch of Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance tie-up with APGB.

ECONOMY & BUSINESS

ECONOMY NEWS Global remittances may lose $108.6 bn in 2020: ADB In accordance with the report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) published on August 3, 2020, if the economic impact of Covid-19 persists throughout the year then global remittances may fall by $108.6 billion in 2020.

Unitus Ventures Received Rs 75 Crore from SIDBI; will Strengthen the Deployment of its Fund II Unitus Ventures has received an investment of Rs 75 crore (USD 10 million) under Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI)’s Fund of Funds for Start-ups initiative enabled by the Government of India. The fund will strengthen the deployment of its second Rs 300 crore fund, which was launched in 2018.

ReNew Power & UNEP Partnered to Increase Access to Clean Energy ReNew Power and the Nairobi based United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) signed a partnership agreement to promote increased access to renewable energy and improved energy efficiency. This MoU is a part of progressive strategies that India has adopted to realise its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. In accordance with MoU, ReNew Power will join hands with UNEP’s District Energy in Cities Initiative as an implementation partner for renewable energy installations across India.

MCX Launched India’s 1st Tradeable Real-Time Bullion Index, ‘MCX iCOMDEX Bullion’ Multi-Commodity Exchange of India Ltd (MCX), India’s first listed, national-level, electronic exchange, launched futures trading on the country’s first tradeable real-time bullion index, MCX iCOMDEX Bullion, or Bulldex. The index will track the real-time performance of the gold (1kg) and silver (30kg) futures contracts, the flagship future products on the Exchange.

BUSINESS NEWS Reliance Power, JERA ink loan agreement with banks for new power plant in Bangladesh Reliance Power and Japanese energy major JERA have inked a pact with a group of banks for full financing, totalling $ 642 million (approx Rs 4,798 crore), for their new gas-fired thermal power generation project in Bangladesh. Both partners will develop a new 745 MW natural gas combined-cycle power project in Meghnaghat in Bangladesh. Reliance Power hold 51% stake while JERA will hold 49% stake in the joint venture company.

Airtel Announced the Multi Year Strategic Collaboration with Amazon to Tap Start-ups and SME Bharti Airtel announced the multi-year strategic collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to provide a comprehensive set of cloud solutions to the large enterprises and Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) customers in India.

Reliance Foundation partnered with USAID to Launch the W-GDP Women Connect Challenge Across India Under the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity (W-GDP) Initiative, US Agency for International Development (USAID) and Reliance Foundation, arm of Reliance Industries Ltd, have partnered to bridge the gender digital divide in India. Through the partnership they will launch the W-GDP Women Connect Challenge (WCC) across India in 2020.

Google Partners with CWC of India for Flood Forecasting Initiatives Google in association with the Central Water Commission (CWC) of India launched the flood forecasting initiatives across India for the past several months. Central Water Commission is the first governmental partner of Google to measure water levels on an hourly basis using around 1000 stream gauges across India.

IBM Collaborates with NSDC to Offer Free Digital Education Platform for Skill Development IBM (International Business Machines Corporation) announced its collaboration with National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to offer a free digital education platform on emerging technologies and professional skill development and to equip the next generation with digital skills.

Google Launches ‘The Anywhere School’ to Boost Online Learning Google launched ‘The Anywhere School’ initiative in more than 250 countries around the world. The initiative is expected to benefit millions of students who have switched to learning from home, due to the

COVID-19 pandemic. Under the initiative, Google will roll out over 50 new features across products like Google Meet, Classroom, G Suite and other products.

Tech Mahindra, NITI Aayog’s WEP Partnered to Support Women Entrepreneurs in India Information Technology Giant Tech Mahindra joined hands with NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) to support Indian women entrepreneurs. In this regard, Tech Mahindra has partnered with the winners of Women Transforming India (WTI) Awards, to provide mentorship.

MoU’s & AGREEMENTS

MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY COUNTRIES MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE India Maldives Signed a contract for the development of five eco-tourism zones in Addu atoll of Maldives during an online signing ceremony held from Addu City. The virtual ceremony was attended by High Commissioner of India to the Maldives Sunjay Sudir and Maldives Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed. India Nigeria Government of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on space cooperation with the Federal government of Republic of Nigeria at the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria. On the occasion, both sides also agreed to sign a subsidiary MOU between New Space India Limited (NSIL), under ISRO, and Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP), under the Federal Ministry of Environment of Nigeria, on cooperation in use of Geospatial Technologies. Israel United Arab Emirates Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates, have agreed for the Israel–United Arab Emirates peace agreement, or the ‘Abraham Accord’ to establish full diplomatic ties. Click here India Israel India signed a cultural agreement with Israel, which outlines a three year programme of cooperation for 2020 to 2023, to strengthen the strategic bilateral relations through promoting the people to people exchange. This is one of a series of agreements which will be followed by the signing of a water agreement by our Ambassador in India. This agreement is based on the cultural agreement signed between India and Israel on 18th May, 1993.

MoU’s WITH STATES STATE MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE Andhra Pradesh Hyderabad-based Indian Andhra Pradesh Government virtually signed the MoU School of Business (ISB) through the Economic Development Board, with the Hyderabad-based Indian School of Business (ISB) for setting up a public policy lab called “GoAP-ISB Policy Lab” to drive the evidence-based policy decisions & to work with various economic departments in the state.

Uttar Pradesh PFC India’s leading Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), Power Finance Corporation Ltd (PFC) has signed a Memorandum of Association (MoA) with District Administration of Siddharthnagar, Uttar Pradesh (UP) to construct 2 Modular Operation Theatre Rooms in the District Hospital, Siddharthnagar. Recently, PFC has also signed MoA with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur for training, research, and entrepreneurship development in smart grid technology. Uttar Pradesh Flipkart The E-commerce platform Flipkart signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Uttar Pradesh Government’s One District, One Product (ODOP) scheme. As part of the MoU, artisans, weavers and craftsmen under the One District, One Product (ODOP) scheme will be brought into the ‘Flipkart Samarth’ initiative. This partnership will enable the underserved communities to showcase their specialised products and crafts in the e-commerce platform. Andhra Pradesh The Boston Group (TBG) Andhra Pradesh (AP) Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with US based, The Boston Group (TBG) to set up a facility at Visakhapatnam dedicated to Research and Development (R&D) in the Information Technology sector with focus on learning platforms and also leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and cybersecurity. Goa NSDC Goa’s Directorate of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (DSDE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) for setting up an Institute to provide Advanced Skills Training. The Training for the Marginalized People will be given under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY). NSDC’s programs such as Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) and India International Skill Centres (IISC) will aim to provide international placements to local students. Delhi Indian Institutes of The Delhi government has signed a Memorandum of Technology (IIT)- Understanding (MoU) with Indian Institutes of Technology Bombay and Tata (IIT)-Bombay and Tata Projects Limited to construct a 20- Projects Limited metre-high smog tower in Connaught Place, New Delhi following the orders of Supreme Court (SC). Goa Siemens Limited and Government of Goa signed a tripartite memorandum of Deutsche Gesellschaft für understanding (MoU) with Siemens Limited and Deutsche Internationale Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) India Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) to provide world class German dual vocational education and India training in Goa’s Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). Under this MoU, Siemens and GIZ India will provide the training for the instructors of the ITIs and will provide support throughout the process. Delhi Bloomberg In a bid to enhance road safety i.e. eliminate road accidents Philanthropies and create safe mobility for commuters, Kailash Gahlot, Delhi Transport Minister signed Memorandum of Understanding

(MoU) with Bloomberg Philanthropies. On signing this MoU, Delhi has joined 30 world cities & world’s leading organisations in the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety, a network committed to reducing the deaths and injuries from road traffic crashes. Uttar Pradesh Israel The government of Uttar Pradesh (UP) signed an agreement with the Israel’s Water Resource Minister for the water resource management in Bundelkhand region in Uttar Pradesh. For the execution of this project the Pahuj dam reservoir in Jhansi will be used for the integrated drip irrigation along with the service of the experts of Israel. Himachal Micro Tek New The Government of Himachal Pradesh (HP) has signed a Pradesh (HP) Technologies Private Ltd Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) worth Rs110 Crores with Micro Tek New Technologies Private Ltd for setting up an Electronics Manufacturing Unit at Baddi, Solan District, Himachal Pradesh. Haryana M3M Foundation Haryana government’s employment department signed an MoU with M3M Foundation, the philanthropic arm of M3M Group to facilitate students’ online preparation, training and mentoring for entrance examinations of government jobs. The MoU is in line with the vision of the Haryana government to link 1 lakh candidates to government jobs within and outside the state in the next 2 years.

MoU’s BETWEEN ORGANIZATION ORGANIZATION MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE NHAI IIT Delhi National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) signed an agreement with IIT Delhi to set up a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in data driven decision making and Advance Data Management System for Highways (ADMS Highways). CSIR FSSAI Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has signed agreement with Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for collaborative research and information dissemination in the area of food and nutrition, during a ceremony which was presided by Health Minister Harsh Vardhan. FSSAI was selected as one of the ten global organizations for the award by Rockefeller Foundation, in partnership with SecondMuse, and OpenIDEO for the ‘Eat Right India’ movement. In addition to that, Hyderabad-based non- profit Naandi Foundation was selected as one of the ‘Top 10 Visionaries’ in the world for the Food Vision 2050 Prize. BSPCB Indian Institute of Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) has signed a Technology (IIT) Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Indian Institute of Delhi Technology (IIT) Delhi to set up a Geographical Information System (GIS) based platform for air quality management in Bihar. MoA has been signed on the backdrop of Government of India’s National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). The Agreement

which comes at a cost of Rs. 10 Lakh will provide for exchange of technical expertise between IIT Delhi & BSPCB. Ministry of Tribal Ministry of Rural Signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to take the Affairs (MoTA) Development convergence endeavour (efforts of both ministries) ahead and (MoRD) support rural poor including tribal communities. Also, Narendra Singh Tomar also released a book “Farm Livelihood Interventions under DAY-NRLM (Strategy, Convergence Framework, Models)”. All India Football International To conduct online Scouting Workshops throughout India. Federation (AIFF) Professional Scouting Organization (IPSO) National Seeds Jute Corporation Signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve the Corporation (NSC) of India (JCI) production and productivity of raw Jute in the country. Indian Institute of Bureau of India Signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Technology (IIT) Standards (BIS) collaboration in areas of Standardisation and Conformity Roorkee Assessment based on equality and reciprocity. L&T Hydrocarbon NTPC Ltd L&T Hydrocarbon Engineering (LTHE), a wholly-owned Engineering (LTHE) subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with power utility major NTPC Ltd. As per the MoU LTHE will be the engineering, procurement and construction management partner to build a carbon dioxide (CO2) to methanol demonstration plant in NTPC Power Station. Ministry of Shipping Ministry of Skill A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between (MoS) Development and the Ministry of Shipping (MoS) and Ministry of Skill Entrepreneurship Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) for skilling, re- (MSDE) skilling and upskilling of manpower in Port, Maritime sectors. Indian Institute of Switzerland based To engage in a collaborative partnership to provide consulting Management, HELP Logistics services and logistics training for the humanitarian community Kozhikode (IIM-K) in South Asia. The aim of the MoU is to develop humanitarian logistics in India by providing consulting services and logistic training. Flipkart Indian Institute of Flipkart signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Technology (IIT) Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna to support the Patna industry focused applied research in the fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning (ML). Indian Space Veer Surendra Sai Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) signed a Research University of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Veer Surendra Sai Organisation (ISRO) Technology University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla, Odisha, a technical (VSSUT) institute, to set up the first of its kind innovation cum incubation centre, VSSUT Space Innovation Centre (VSSSIC) in India to promote space research. National e- Ministry of National e-Governance Division (NeGD), Ministry of Electronics Governance Electronics & & Information Technology (MeitY) has signed an MOU with CSC Division (NeGD) Information (Common Service Center) e Governance Services India Limited Technology to facilitate delivery of UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for (MeitY) New-Age Governance) app services to citizens through the network of 3.75 lakh CSCs. Notably, all the UMANG services at

CSCs are available at zero cost and will be provided by CSC operators Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs). Association of Football Coaches To support the development of football in both India and Indian Football Australia (FCA) Australia. The Objective of MoU is to encourage the involvement Coaches (AIFC) of more female coaches and increase the access to football for all participants. Greenko Energies NTPC Greenko Energies Private Limited, Hyderabad based energy Private Limited solution provider entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN), a wholly-owned subsidiary of NTPC limited to explore renewable energy power supply solution and energy storage. UTIITSL NHA UTI Infrastructure Technology and Services Limited (UTIITSL) has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Health Authority (NHA) to provide printing services, support the beneficiary identification and verification process in issuing e-cards to beneficiaries under the Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). Power Grid ACTREC The Power Grid Corporation (POWERGRID), an enterprise under Corporation the government of India signed a Memorandum of (POWERGRID) Understanding (MoU) with TATA Memorial Centre (TMC) – Advanced Centre for Treatment Research & Education in Cancer (ACTREC), under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) for the construction of “POWERGRID OT Complex” a modular operation theatre complex in Navi Mumbai. Mahindra & REE Automotive Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M), a Mumbai based company signed Mahindra (M&M) a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with REE Automotive, a Tel-Aviv, Israel based start-up firm to explore development and manufacturing of electric commercial vehicles for the global market.

OTHER MoU’S IN CONTENT FORMAT IIT Kanpur and DARPG Sign Agreement with MoD for Using AI, ML to Address Public Grievances A Tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between IIT Kanpur, Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Department of Administrative Reforms & Public grievances (DAR & PG) to develop Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Techniques to conduct exploratory and predictive analysis of Public Grievances received on the web based Centralized Public Grievances Redress & Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) pertaining to the MoD.

Government of AP Signs MoU with Hindustan Unilever Ltd, P&G and ITC to Support Economic Empowerment of Women The state government of Andhra Pradesh (AP) signs a MoU with three International FMCG (Fast-moving consumer goods) companies- Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL), ITC ltd., and Procter and Gamble (P&G) to provide marketing and technological support for the economic empowerment of the women and to make them self-reliant. The companies will support the women under the YSR Cheyutha and YSR Asara schemes. Chief Minister also launched a web portal called HYPERLINK “http://4s4u.appolice.gov.in to provide information on various issues like cybercrime, harassment and other issues for women safety.

BSE signs MoU with two Akola based Bullion Trade Association for Deepening Commodity Derivatives Market in India BSE, formerly known as Bombay Stock Exchange has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Akola Sarafa Association and Akola Sarafa Va Suvarnakar Yuva Sangh, Maharashtra based bullion trade and industry associations for deepening the commodity derivatives market in India and benefit the trading and hedging of all the market participants in Indian bullion derivatives market.

MoTA and MoRD Signed Joint Communication to Promote Sustainable Livelihood Opportunities Among Tribal Women SHGs Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) and Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) inked a Joint Communication to promote sustainable livelihood opportunities among tribal women Self Help Groups (SHGs) under National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM).

Ministry of Tourism Inked MoU with TAAI & FICCI Ladies Organisation for Women’s Economic Empowerment through Tourism Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Ladies Organisation (FLO) inked a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Tourism for women empowerment through video conference. The MoU was inked in the presence of Minister of State (MoS) for Tourism (I/C), Prahlad Singh Patel.

AP Govt Signed MoU with Reliance Retail, Jio and Allana Group to Help Women SHGs Market Their Products As part of implementation of the YSR Cheyutha scheme, Andhra Pradesh (AP) government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Reliance Retail, Reliance Jio Infocomm and Allana Group to empower women and help women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the state to market their products.

APEDA Signed MoUs with AFC India Ltd and NCUI for Cooperation in Interest of Agriculture & Allied Sectors Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has signed two MoUs (Memorandum of Understanding) one each with AFC ((formerly Agricultural Finance Corporation Ltd) India Limited, and National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI), Delhi for working together in the interest of agriculture and allied sectors.

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

APPOINTMENTS NATIONAL PERSON NAME APPOINTED ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES AS Satya Pal Malik Governor Meghalaya Ram Nath Kovind, President of India appointed Satya Pal Malik, Goa Governor as the Governor of Meghalaya. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari was given the additional charge as Governor of Goa. Satya Pal Malik replaced Tathagata Roy who completed his 5-year

term by serving as governor of Tripura for 3 years and remaining in Meghalaya. Rakesh Asthana Director Border Security Appointments Committee of the Cabinet General (DG) Force (BSF) (ACC) headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the appointment of Rakesh Asthana, Gujarat cadre IPS officer of 1984 batch as the Director General (DG) of the Border Security Force (BSF), along with the Director General of Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) till 31st July 2021– the date of his superannuation. Varun Sridhar Chief Executive Paytm Money Paytm Money, the subsidiary of One97 Officer (CEO) Communication Ltd announced the appointment of Varun Sridhar as the New Chief Executive Officer (CEO) following the resignation of former Managing Director and CEO Pravin Jadhav. Pradip Shah Head Expert Committee The International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) announced the establishment of an expert committee headed by Pradip Shah, Chairman of Indasia Fund Advisors Pvt Ltd. to suggest ways to enhance International Retail Business in International Financial Services Centres (IFSC). Sashidhar Jagdishan Managing HDFC Bank The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has Director (MD) approved Sashidhar Jagdishan as the next and Chief Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Executive Officer (CEO) of HDFC Bank for a Officer (CEO) period of 3 years, effective from the date of taking charge i.e., October 27, 2020 under Section 35B of the Banking Regulation Act 1949. He will succeed Aditya Puri, the bank’s longest serving CEO (26 years- since September 1994). Manoj Sinha Lieutenant Jammu and President of India, Ram Nath Kovind Governor Kashmir (J&K) appointed Manoj Sinha (61), former union minister and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader from Uttar Pradesh (UP) as Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), effective from the date he assumes charge. He succeeds Girish Chandra Murmu, the 1st Lt governor of the Union Territory (UT) of J&K who resigned on August 5, 2020. Girish Chandra (GC) CAG India Ram Nath Kovind, President of India as per Murmu the powers conferred on him by Section 1 of Article 148 of the Constitution of India has appointed Girish Chandra (GC) Murmu as 14th Comptroller and Auditor General

(CAG) of India, with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office. He succeeds Rajiv Mehrishi who completes his term on August 8,2020 as he attains the age of 65. GC Murmu will take oath on August 8, 2020 at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. He will have a tenure up to November 20, 2024. Pradeep Kumar Joshi Chairman Union Public Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Service appointed Professor Pradeep Kumar Joshi Commission as its new Chairman. His tenure as the (UPSC) chairman of the UPSC will be till April 4, 2022. He succeeds Arvind Saxena who retires as the UPSC chairman on 6th August 2020. Hardayal Prasad Managing PNB Housing PNB Housing Finance, promoted by Punjab Director (MD) Finance National Bank (PNB) announced the and Chief appointment of Former State Bank of India Executive (SBI) Card Head, Hardayal Prasad as its Officer (CEO) new Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Prasad will take over from Neeraj Vyas, the current interim CEO of PNB housing finance on 10th August 2020. Harsh Kumar Executive CIFL Financial Services Platform, Capital India Bhanwala Chairman Finance Limited (CIFL) has appointed Ex- NABARD Chief Harsh Kumar Bhanwala as its Executive Chairman. Harsh Kumar Bhanwala took charge as Executive Chairman from August 06, 2020. Subhash Sheoratan Non-Executive IBH Indiabulls Housing Finance Limited (IBH) Mundra Chairman appointed Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Deputy Governor Subhash Sheoratan Mundra (SS Mundra) as its Non-Executive Chairman with immediate effect. Prashant Joshi Managing DBS Bank India Ltd The Mumbai headquartered DBS Bank Director (MD) India Ltd has appointed Prashant Joshi as and Head of Managing Director (MD) and Head of National National Distribution. He will report to Distribution Surojit Shome, Managing Director and CEO of DBS Bank India Limited. Ashwani Bhatia Managing SBI The Appointments Committee of the Director (MD) Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed Ashwani Bhatia as the Managing Director (MD) of SBI, effective from his date of assumption up to the date of his superannuation (May 31, 2022) or until further orders, whichever is earlier. He succeeds PK Gupta, who superannuated on March 31, 2020.

Rajiv Kumar Election India Rajiv Kumar, IAS officer (retd.) and Former Commissioner Finance Secretary was appointed as the Election Commissioner with effect from August 31, 2020. He succeeds Ashok Lavasa who resigned the position to join as Vice- President of Asia Development Bank. He will be working alongside other Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra. He is currently serving as chairperson of Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) from 29 April, 2020 which was set to end on 28 April 2023. Vinay M Tonse MD & CEO SBIFMPL Vinay M Tonse, appointed as the Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SBI Funds Management Pvt. Ltd. (SBIFMPL). He replaced Ashwani Bhatia, DMD of SBI, who was appointed as MD (IT- Information Technology & SARG-Stressed Assets Resolution Group) of SBI.

INTERNATIONAL PERSON NAME APPOINTED AS ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES Hamed Bakayoko Prime Minister Republic of Ivory The Republic of Ivory Coast President (PM) Coast Alassane Ouattara has appointed Defence Minister Hamed Bakayoko (55) as Prime Minister (PM) after acting as an interim PM since the sudden death of Amadou Gon Coulibaly on July 8, 2020. Hamed Bakayoko will also hold his position as defence Minister. Mohamed Irfaan President Guyana Former Guyanese housing minister Ali Mohamed Irfaan Ali (40) became the President of the country after he was declared as the winner of the disputed March 2, 2020 general election following a recount. He is a member of the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP). He succeeds David Arthur (A.) Granger. The capital and currency of Guyana are Georgetown & Guyanese Dollar respectively. Walter Roger Prime Minister Peru President of Peru Martin Vizcarra appointed Martos Ruiz Walter Roger Martos Ruiz, the former defence minister and retired army general, as the country’s new Prime Minister. He succeeds Pedro Álvaro Cateriano Bellido. The Capital and currency of Peru are Lima and Peruvian Sol respectively. Mohamed Ould Prime Minister Mauritania Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Bilal Cheikh El Ghazouani has named Mohamed Ould Bilal as the 16th Prime Minister of the

Islamic Republic of Mauritania on August 06, 2020. Mohamed Ould Bilal belongs to the political party of Union for the Republic (UPR). He has served as Political Advisor and headed several state agencies. The capital and currency of Mauritania are Nouakchott & Ouguiya respectively. Luis Rodolfo President Dominican Luis Rodolfo Abinader has been sworn in as Abinader Republic the 54th President of Dominican Republic. Luis Rodolfo Abinader is a businessman who has never held any other elected office. Abinader’s Modern Revolutionary Party (PRM) won the elections with 53% vote, while Gonzalo Castillo who was the candidate of the ruling PLD got 37.7%. The capital and currency of Dominican Republic are Santo Domingo & Dominican Peso respectively. Keith Rowley Prime Minister Republic of Keith Rowley sworn in as Prime Minister of Trinidad and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago for a Tobago 2nd consecutive 5-year term at the President’s House, following victory in general elections held on August 10, 2020. He is from the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM). The capital and currency of Trinidad and Tobago are Port of Spain & Trinidad and Tobago dollar respectively. Francisco Asue Prime Minister Republic of Francisco Asue was reappointed as the Equatorial Guinea Prime Minister of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea and He was sworn in at the People’s Palace in Malabo before President Teodoro Obiang on 18th August 2020. The capital and currency of Equatorial Guinea are Malabo & Central African CFA franc respectively.

BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS PERSON NAME BRAND / CAMPAIGN KEY NOTES Suresh Raina, Brand Ambassador Indian middle-order batsman Suresh Raina & Indian Harmanpreet Kaur women’s team captain (T20I) Harmanpreet Kaur were appointed as Global brand ambassadors of Win Trade Fantasy (WTF) Sports. In addition to this, Suresh Raina has also joined the brand as Strategic Partner. Harbhajan Singh Brand Ambassador eBikeGO, Amritsar based e-mobility start-up appointed Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh as its brand ambassador for a year. He will help the company to upgrade itself and will also have an active presence on the company’s website and campaigns across media.

Shahzan Mujeeb Brand Ambassador Indian Idol Season11 Finalist and Oscar Nominated Playback Singer Shahzan Mujeeb became First Ever National Brand Ambassador of Aligarh Municipal Corporation for Swachh Bharat Abhiyan Campaign at National and International level. He is also a Music Composer and Music Director. His film Gera won the National Award for Best Gujarati Film. Rohit Sharma Brand Ambassador Indian Limited-overs Team Vice-Captain Rohit Sharma has been appointed as Brand Ambassador of Sports eyewear brand, Oakley for a period of two years in India.

RESIGNATIONS PERSON NAME RESIGNED AS ENTITY / PLACE Hassan Diab Prime Minister (PM) Hassan Diab, Lebanon (Republic of Lebanon) Prime Minister (PM) and his government resigned due to public outrage and the pressure from within his own Cabinet as his government was blamed for the August 4 explosion in Beirut’s port which killed at least 160 people and injured about 6,000 others. Michel Aoun, Lebanon President accepted his resignation letter and asked him to stay on in a caretaker capacity until a new cabinet was formed. Isher Judge Ahluwalia Chairperson Isher Judge Ahluwalia, the Chairperson of the think tank of Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) has retired from her post recently. She will continue as the Chairperson Emeritus. Also, Pramod Bhasin the current vice chairman of the board of governors of ICRIER is appointed as the new Chairman. Ashok Lavasa Election Commissioner Ashok Lavasa, one of the two Election of India Commissioners of India resigned from his post in-order to take charge as the Vice President of Asian Development Bank (ADB) next month. Ibrahim Boubacar Keita President Mali President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita announced his resignation with immediate effect following a military mutiny in the Republic of Mali. Boubacar represents the Political Party Rally for Mali (RPM) and has served as the sixth Prime Minister of Mali from 1994-2000. Shinzo Abe Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (65), Prime Minister of Japan announced his resignation owing to his worsening health condition due to ulcerative colitis. Shinzo Abe of Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) was the longest serving Prime Minister of Japan. Rajiv Srivastava MD & CEO The Board of Directors of Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) accepted the resignation of its

Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Rajiv Srivastava. He was relieved from his position as MD & CEO with immediate effect from 24th August 2020.

OTHER APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS Great Eastern Shipping Company Ltd Appointed Former RBI Governor Urjit Patel as Additional & Independent Director Great Eastern Shipping Company Ltd announced that its board has appointed former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Urjit Patel as an additional and independent director for a term of 5 years, effective from August 01, 2020. He has authored a book titled ‘Overdraft: Saving the Indian Saver’. The book will be published by HarperCollins India.

Ajay Tyagi, Chairman of SEBI gets Another 18 Months Extension Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), Government of India (GoI), has approved another extension of Ajay Tyagi’s term as Chairman of Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) for 18 months, with effect from (w.e.f) 01.09.2020 up to 28.02.2022 or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

AAIB forms 5 Member Panel Headed by Captain S S Chahar to Investigate the Kozhikode Plane Crash The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) formed a 5-member panel headed Captain S S Chahar to investigate the circumstances of the Air India Express Dubai-Calicut flight IX 1344Crash at the Kozhikode airport, Kerala on 7th August 2020. The 5-member team will probe and determine the cause and contributory factors that led to the accident. The team will also make recommendations to avoid

similar accidents in the future.

Aerospace Scientist G Satheesh Reddy gets Two-Year Extension as Chairman of DRDO Renowned Aerospace Scientist G. Satheesh Reddy was given a two-year extension as Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) & as Secretary of the Department of Defence Research & Development (DoDRD) by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet. He is one of the Chief Architects behind India’s Mission Shakti, Anti Satellite Missile Test (ASAT).

Centre Sets up Panel to Modify the Charter of DRDO labs; Headed by Prof V Ramagopal Rao G Satheesh Reddy, Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D), and Chairman of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has constituted the 5-member committee under the chairmanship of IIT Delhi director Valipe Ramagopal Rao to review charter of duties of 57 DRDO labs on the basis of current and futuristic defence and battlefield needs.

AWARDS

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF LITERATURE & ACADEMICS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES The Karmaveer Chakra Sunil Ydv SS Contribution to The Karmaveer Chakra Award Award The Society instituted by the United Nations (UN) and International Confederation of NGO (iCONGO) was awarded to 23 years old Sunil Ydv SS, the founder and CEO of SS motivation channel on

Telegram for his contribution to the society through “SS Motivation”, at the ReX ConcLIVE hosted at Indian Institute of Technology- Delhi (IIT-D). He authored the book “The Secrets Behind Success”. Prem Bhatia Award Dipankar Ghose Outstanding Prem Bhatia award 2020 is conferred 2020 Political upon Indian Express reporter Reporting of Dipankar Ghose– ‘Outstanding Political the Year 2020 Reporting of the Year 2020’ and People’s Archive of Rural India (PARI), a non-profit journalism website – ‘Outstanding Environmental Reporting of the Year 2020’. Gandhian Young Group of Researchers Generating Gandhian Young Technological Technological from (IIT) Kharagpur Electricity from Innovation (GYTI) Awards 2020 is Innovation (GYTI) wet Clothes bestowed to a group of researchers Awards 2020 from Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur for developing a mechanism for generating electricity from wet clothes left under sunlight to dry. The work has been published in Nano Letters, a high-impact journal in the field, and the innovation has been patented by them. Asian College of Nitin Sethi Investigative Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) Journalism (ACJ) Award Journalism award 2019 was conferred upon 2019 Journalist Nitin Sethi for investigative journalism and K P Narayana Kumar Memorial Award 2019 for Social Impact Journalism is bestowed upon K P Narayana Kumar Shiv Sahay Singh Social Impact Journalist Shiv Sahay Singh. The Memorial Award 2019 Journalism awards were presented in a virtual ceremony by Soumya Swaminathan, chief scientist of the World Health Organisation (WHO), at the inauguration of the Class of 2021. Pallikkutam National St Christopher School Innovation in St Christopher School in Chessore Award Education Village, Nagaland won the Gold Award along with cash prize of Rs.1 Lakh from the first ever Pallikkutam National Award for Innovation in Education instituted by Rajagiri Media. The Silver Award (Rs.50, 000) was presented to DAV Public School, Haryana & Bronze Award (Rs.25, 000) was presented to CMI Christ School, Iritty, Kerala. The award was sponsored under the CSR initiative of the Federal Bank Ltd.

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL SERVICE, SCIENCE & BRAVERY AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES Star 2020 E-citation Ganesh Vilas Lengare Social Service Solapur based activist Ganesh Vilas Certification Lengare has been awarded Star 2020 E-citation Certification by World Book of Records, London. He has been awarded for his efforts to help the poor people during the lockdown caused by COVID-19.

AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES National Sports 73 Member Sports National Sports Awards 2020 were announced by Awards 2020 Awardees the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The awards were recommended by the Selection Committee headed by Justice (Retd.) Mukundakam Sharma. For the 1st time in history Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award was given to 5 persons namely, Rohit Sharma (Cricket), Manika Batra (Table Tennis – 1st person from the sport to receive the award), Mariyappan Thangavelu (Para Athletics), Vinesh Phogat (Wrestling), Rani Rampal (Hockey – 1st women hockey player to receive the award). More Awards Click here

OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES SKOCH Gold MoTA Empowerment The SKOCH Awards were presented over a Award of Tribals virtual platform at the 66th SKOCH Summit through IT at New Delhi. The 66th SKOCH 2020 enabled Competition on the title “India Responds to Scholarship COVID Through Digital Governance”. SKOCH Schemes Gold Award was presented to MoTA for its project of Scholarship Division – “Empowerment of Tribals through IT enabled Scholarship Schemes” & eSamadhan -Chief minister’s office (CMO) public grievance system of the Government of West Bengal received the SKOCH Platinum award. The SKOCH Foundation awards one platinum award, 3 Gold awards and 10 silver Awards every year. Click here Leadership Award Anand Mahindra & Exemplary US-India Strategic Partnership Forum 2020 Shantanu Narayen Vision and Effort (USISPF) announced that Mahindra Group Chairman, Anand Mahindra and Adobe Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shantanu Narayen will receive the 2020 Leadership Awards for their exemplary vision and effort towards the promotion of US-India Bilateral Ties. The 2020 Leadership

awards will be presented to the duo during the Third Annual Leadership Summit titled as “US-India Week: Navigating New Challenges”. Click here Global Water Va Tech Wabag Water Water technology major Va Tech Wabag Award Technology bagged the 2020 Global Water Award for its 45 million litres a day Tertiary Treatment Reverse Osmosis (TTRO) plant at Koyambedu in Chennai. The plant bagged the distinction award under the ‘Wastewater project of the year’ category. Swacchta Hi Seva NLC India Limited Plastic-free, NLC India Limited (Formerly known as (Cleanliness is Clean and Green Neyveli Lignite Corporation) bagged the Service) 2019 Campus Swacchta Hi Seva (Cleanliness is Service) Award 2019 award for transforming the Neyveli Township into a plastic-free, clean and green campus. The Evaluation Committee of Ministry of Coal, Government of India carried out the assessment and gave marks to each unit of the NLCIL based on the performance. Human Capital State Bank of India Nayi Disha State Bank of India (SBI) to receive Brandon Management (SBI) Human Capital Management (HCM) Excellence Award Excellence Award (also known as the Academy Awards of Learning & Development) 2020, a global recognition for its HR initiative,” Nayi Disha”. SBI partnered with M/s Chrysalis & developed the “Nayi Disha” Programme. SBI has won the award in The HCM Spring Program under ‘Excellence in Learning and Development’ in 3 categories namely, Best Learning Program supporting a Change Transformation Business Strategy (Gold), Best Use of Blended Learning and Best Unique or Innovative Learning (Gold) and Development Program for its HR initiative (Silver).

RECOGNITIONS NAME RECOGNITION Neelakantha Bhanu Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash of Hyderabad has bagged the first ever Gold Medal Prakash for India in Mental Calculations World Cup (MCWC) held on August 15, 2020 by Mind Sports Olympiad (MSO). He has created a new All Time Record and has beaten the records of Math Maestros like Shakuntala Devi and Scott Flansburg. He holds 4 World Records and 50 Limca records for being the fastest human calculator in the world. Dutch Author Marieke Won the 2020 International Booker Prize for the Literary fiction book ‘The Lucas Rijneveld Discomfort of Evening’. Rijneveld became the youngest author to win the prize. The Book was first published in Dutch in 2018 and eventually translated into

English by Michele Hutchison. Under the rules of the prize, the award of 50,000- pound will be split equally between the author and translator Michele Hutchison, giving equal recognition to both.

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT ‘Moothon’ and ‘Son Rise’ wins awards at 20th edition of New York Indian Film Festival Malayalam film ‘Moothon’ and National Award winning documentary ‘Son Rise’ won awards at the 20th edition of New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF) of Indo-American Arts Council (IAAC) which was conducted as a virtual event with the celebrities of the film industries and award winners participating from all across India and the United States. Read More Details Here: ‘Moothon’ and ‘Son Rise’ wins awards at 20th edition of New York Indian Film Festival

Kallis, Sthalekar and Zaheer Abbas inducted into ICC Cricket Hall of Fame Former Cricket players Jacques Kallis (South Africa), Lisa Sthalekar (Australia) and Zaheer Abbas (Pakistan) were inducted into the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) Hall of Fame of the class of 2020 in a virtual ceremony. Any Retired Player, who last played an international match before 5 years is eligible for the Hall of Fame. A total of 93 players have been inducted into the Hall of Fame, starting from 2009.

Noor Inayat Khan, Britain’s World War II Spy Became the 1st Indian-origin woman to honoured with a Memorial Blue Plaque Noor Inayat Khan, Britain’s World War II spy, who served in the Special Operations Executive (SOE) became the 1st Indian-origin woman to be honoured with a memorial Blue Plaque at her former family home in London, United Kingdom (UK). She is 1st Muslim war heroine of Britain and 1st female wireless

operator sent from the UK into Nazi-occupied France to aid the French Resistance during World War II. She was born on January 1, 1914 in Moscow, Russia.

SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE

SUMMITS SUMMITS VENUE KEY POINTS India@75 Summit – Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Micro Small and Medium Mission 2022 Enterprises (MSME) and Road Transport & Highways - addressed the “India@75 Summit – Mission 2022” organised by the confederation of Indian Industries (CII) which was focused on ‘reinventing technology in India’. 8th East Asia Summit The 8th East Asia Summit Economic Ministers’ Meeting Economic Ministers’ (EAS-EMM) was held virtually which was attended by Meeting (EAS-EMM) Economic Ministers from the ten ASEAN Member States, Australia, China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, New - Zealand, the Russian Federation and the United States. The Meeting was chaired by Tran Tuan Anh, Minister of Industry and Trade of Vietnam. From Indian side it was attended by Piyush Goyal, Minister of Railways and Minister of Commerce and Industry.

EVENTS EVENTS VENUE KEY POINTS Round Table of ASEAN - Video Conference Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in partnership with the India Network of Think Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand organized the two- Tanks (AINTT) day long 6th Round Table of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)-India Network of Think Tanks (AINTT) through video conference on the theme “ASEAN- India: Strengthening Partnership in the Post COVID Era”. It was inaugurated by Union External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Thailand Don Pramudwinai.

CONFERENCE CONFERENCE VENUE KEY POINTS Global Conference Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, Union Minister for Education inaugurated the global conference on “Reimagining and - Transforming the University: Confluence of Ideas during and Beyond the COVID-19 Disruption” hosted by O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) and International Institute for Higher Education Research and Capacity Building (IIHEd) on 6th and 7th August 2020. IC-IMPACTS Annual IC-IMPACTS (The India-Canada Centre for Innovative Research Conference Multidisciplinary Partnerships to Accelerate Community Transformation and Sustainability) 2020 Annual Research - Conference held Virtually on Aug 6-7, 2020 to discuss the ways to elevate the inter-country cooperation to the next Level by strengthening existing international connections, sharing best practices in multiple areas, and initiating new collaborations in government and institutions. The Conference was organised by IC-IMPACTS. National Public Piyush Goyal, Union Commerce and Industry & Railways Procurement Conclave Minister virtually inaugurated the 4th edition of 2-day (NPPC) 2020: Digital ‘National Public Procurement Conclave (NPPC) 2020: Digital Exhibitions and - Exhibitions and Conferences’, on August 9, 2020 under the Conferences theme “Technology enabled Govt Procurement - Towards efficiency, transparency, and Inclusiveness”. It is organized by Government e-Marketplace (GeM), in association with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) through CII Hives Digital Platform. CII Public Health Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare; Conference Science & Technology and Earth Sciences virtually addressed the inaugural session of the two-day long CII Public Health - Conference, where he inaugurated “India Healthcare Week” with the theme “Redefining Healthcare Ecosystem” from 17th – 21st August 2020. The week has been initiated by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and the Ministry of AYUSH. World Conference of The 5th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament Speakers of Parliament (5WCSP) was inaugurated virtually (1st time in virtual mode). It was organised jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary

Union (IPU), Geneva and the Parliament of Austria with the - support of the United Nations (UN). Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla attended the inaugural ceremony. The theme of the 5WCSP Conference is ‘Parliamentary leadership for more effective multilateralism that delivers peace and sustainable development for the people and planet’. Naval Commanders New Delhi The Naval Commanders’ Conference 2020, a biennial Conference 2020 conference was held in New Delhi, India from August 19 to 21, 2020. Rajnath Singh, Union Defence Minister addressed the opening session of the conference. This is the 1st Naval Commanders’ Conference since the institution of the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) and Chief of Defence Staff (CDS).

COMMITTEES & MEETINGS

COMMITTEES COMMITTEE NAME COMMITTEE HEAD KEY NOTES Monetary Policy Shaktikanta Das To state “2020-21 Resolution of the Monetary Committee (MPC) Policy Committee (MPC)” a three-day meeting of Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) six-member MPC, headed by Shaktikanta Das was held from August 4-6, 2020 where it was forecasted that India’s real gross domestic product (GDP) will contract in the first half (H1) of FY21 as well as full FY 2020-21. The central bank kept the repo rate unchanged at 4%, reverse repo rate at 3.35%, and marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 4.25%. Click here Three-Member G.K. Pillai The Government of India under the Ministry of Committee finance, Department of Revenue has set up a three- member committee headed by Secretary (retired) G.K. Pillai for determination of ceiling rates under Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme. Expert Committee Dr VK Paul Central Government has formulated an expert committee namely “National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration” under the chairmanship of Dr VK Paul, a member (health) at the NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog to consider the logistics, ethical aspects of procurement, and administration of COVID-19 vaccine in discussion with all state governments and vaccine manufacturers.

MEETINGS MEETING NAME VENUE KEY POINTS BRICS Environment Ministers’ Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Meeting Change (MoEF&CC), Prakash Javadekar, participated in the 6th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Environment Ministers’ Meeting under the presidency of Russia along with the - Environment minister of Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa over a virtual platform from New Delhi. India will assume the Presidency of BRICS in 2021. Also, the BRICS Environment Ministers established BRICS Environmentally Sound Technology (BEST) Platform. India-UAE Joint Commission The 13th Session of the India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting Meeting on Trade, Economic and Technical Cooperation was held virtually. The meeting was co- - chaired by Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of India and Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the United Arab Emirates. First National Coordination Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs, V Committee Meeting Muraleedharan and Sardor Umurzakov, Deputy Prime Minister for Investments and Foreign - Economic Relations, Uzbekistan co-chaired the first National Coordination Committee Meeting over a virtual platform. The works of the committee will strengthen the strategic relations between India and Uzbekistan. ASEAN - India Business Council Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Piyush Virtual Meet Goyal addressed the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) - India Business Council Virtual Meet. He extended India’s friendship and - partnership to ASEAN countries and expected to achieve a target of 300-billion-dollar trade through Business with them. He emphasized 3 C’s Cooperation, Collaboration & Commitment as guide for the strategic partnership between India and ASEAN countries. 41st GST Council Meeting Video Conference The 41st meeting of goods and services tax (GST) Council, chaired by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, was held via video conferencing to discuss the issue of compensating states on account of revenue loss due to implementation of GST, and deficit in the compensation cess fund due to the fall in tax collections. 17th Meeting of the India- Video Conference The 17th meeting of the India-Vietnam Joint Vietnam Joint Commission Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation was held virtually which was co-chaired by India’s External Affairs Minister

Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and his Vietnamese counterpart Pham Binh Minh. India-Vietnam signed the following MoUs: Cooperation between Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS), New Delhi and Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam (DAV), Hanoi & MoU between National Maritime Foundation, New Delhi and Scientific Research Institute of Sea and Islands, Hanoi. 5th BRICS Industry Ministers Video Conference Som Prakash, Union Minister of State for Commerce Meeting and Industry represented India and addressed the 5th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Industry Ministers Meeting held through Virtual Conference. In the meeting they discussed the ways to enhance cooperation in areas like 5G, Artificial Intelligence (AI) & industrial Internet, among BRICS countries. The meeting adopted a Joint Declaration to commence the implementation of the BRICS Partnership on New Industrial Revolution (PartNIR). Sports Ministers of BRICS Minister of State (MoS) (I/C) for Youth Affairs and Nations Meeting Sports, Kiren Rijiju attended the meeting between the Sports Ministers of BRICS nations. After the meeting, Kiren Rijiju announced that India may host - the BRICS Games in 2021 and may align it with the Khelo India Games in India. Also, India is set to get the chairmanship of the five-nation independent international group in 2021.

COMMITTEES & MEETINGS IN CONTENT FORMAT MCA Secretary, Rajesh Verma Released Report of the Committee on Business Responsibility Reporting (BRR) Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) secretary, Rajesh Verma released the “Report of the Committee on Business Responsibility Reporting (BRR)” from New Delhi which has recommended a new reporting framework called as ”Business Responsibility and Sustainability Report (BRSR)” as the demand for non- financial reporting is growing due to increase trends of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) investing. It should be noted that the 8-member committee, chaired by Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, Joint Secretary, MCA.

INDEX

RANKING INDEX / SURVEY RELEASED BY / KEY NOTES NAME CONDUCTED BY FutureBrand Index 2020 FutureBrand Index Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), Oil and Gas Company ranked as the Second Biggest Brand for its recognition associated with its growth, innovative products and customer service after Apple which topped the index. RIL ranked 91st in the

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Global Top 100 companies 2020. Top 3 Company: 1. Apple 2. Reliance Industries Limited 3. Samsung Implementation of Ministry of Housing and Odisha has retained top position in the (AMRUT) scheme Urban Affairs (MoHUA) implementation of Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) scheme. According to rankings released by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Odisha regained its top position by securing a score of 85.67 percent, followed by Union Territory of Chandigarh (75.08) and Telangana (74.04). Top 3 State: 1. Odisha with score 85.67 2. Chandigarh (UT) with score 75.08 3. Telangana with score 74.04 Click here Bloomberg Billionaires Bloomberg Reliance Industries Chairman and Managing Director Index Mukesh Ambani has become the world’s fourth- richest person surpassing Bernard Arnault. As per the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Ambani’s net worth is now at $80.2 billion (approx Rs 6 lakh crore). Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos ($187 billion), Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates ($121 billion) and Facebook co-founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg ($102 billion) were in top 3 respectively. Top 3 Person: 1. Jeff Bezos 2. Bill Gates 3. Mark Zuckerberg Atal Ranking of Venkaiah Naidu Vice-President of India, Venkaiah Naidu, e-released Institutions on the Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Innovation Achievements (ARIIA) 2020 from New Delhi. He was Achievements (ARIIA) the chief of the virtual ceremony while Union 2020 Minister of Education, Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ and Minister of State (MoS) for Education Sanjay Shamrao Dhotre were the Guest of Honour. The rankings were announced in six categories. Click here Swachh Survekshan MoHUA Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of State (MoS)- 2020 (SS2020) Independent Charge (I/C) MoHUA announced the 5th edition of the annual cleanliness urban survey of India i.e.” Swachh Survekshan 2020 (SS2020)” conducted by MoHUA. A total of 129 awards were given by the minister in which Madhya Pradesh’s Indore Creates record as India’s cleanest city for the 4th consecutive time while Gujarat’s Surat and Maharashtra’s Navi Mumbai grabbed 2nd and 3rd positions respectively. Click here

Digital Quality of Life Online Privacy Solutions India => 57th Rank (DQL) Index 2020 Provider SurfShark According to the 2nd edition of global research “Digital Quality of Life (DQL) Index 2020” released by online privacy solutions provider SurfShark, India ranked 57th out of 85 countries in terms of overall category “Digital Quality of Life 2020” with 0.5 index points which has been topped by Denmark with 0.79 points. Top 3 Country: 1. Denmark 2. Sweden 3. Canada Click here Highest Paid Actors for Forbes Bollywood Actor Akshay Kumar ranked 6th with the year 2020 his estimated earnings of USD 48.5 million and is the only Indian features on the list comprising top 10 actors. The list is topped by Wrestler-turned-actor Dwayne Johnson for the consecutive second time, with an estimated net worth of USD 87.5 million followed by Ryan Reynolds (USD 71.5 million) and Mark Wahlberg (USD 58 million). Top 3 Actor: 1. Dwayne Johnson with USD 87.5 2. Ryan Reynolds with USD 71.5 3. Mark Wahlberg with USD 58 Export Preparedness NITI Aayog in partnership NITI Aayog in partnership with Institute of Index (EPI) 2020 with Institute of Competitiveness released the Export Preparedness Competitiveness Index (EPI) 2020, this is the first report to examine export preparedness and performance of the states of India. Gujarat was identified as the top performing state in the category of Coastal state and also topped the Overall rankings. Top 3 State: 1. Gujarat 2. Maharashtra 3. Tamil Nadu Click here Global Ranking of Picodi.com India ranked 72nd among 106 countries Average Wages with an average monthly wage of Rs 32,800 (USD 437). Picodi.com is an international e-commerce platform, headquartered in Poland, provides discount coupons. Its analysis team looked into earnings of countries around the world and created a global ranking of average wages. Top 3 Country: 1. Switzerland with an average monthly wage of 4,49,000 (USD 5,989) 2. Luxembourg with an average monthly wage of Rs 3,00,900 (USD 4,014) 3. United States with an average monthly wage of Rs 2,64,900 (USD 3,534) Click here

REPORTS REPORT NAME SUBMITTED BY KEY NOTES Progress on drinking water, World Health As per the latest report, ‘Progress on drinking sanitation and hygiene in school’s Organization (WHO) water, sanitation and hygiene in school’s Special focus on COVID-19 and United Nations Special focus on COVID-19’ released by World Children’s Fund Health Organization (WHO) and United (UNICEF) Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) through the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme(JMP), around 818 million children across the world lacked basic hand-washing facilities in their schools which makes them prone to the COVID-19 and other transmittable diseases. Click here National Cancer Registry The Indian Council of The Indian Council of Medical Research Programme 2020 Medical Research (ICMR) – National Centre for Disease (ICMR) – National Informatics & Research (NCDIR), Bengaluru Centre for Disease released a new Report of National Cancer Informatics & Research Registry Programme 2020. The report (NCDIR) estimates that cancer in India will rise by 25% in 2020 and may rise 12% from the 1392179 cases in 2020 to 1569793 cases in 2025 and tobacco related cancers are estimated to constitute around 27% of all cancers. Population projections for India National Commission The National Commission on Population under and States 2011- 2036 on Population the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) submitted the Report of the Technical group on population projections July 2020, titled “Population projections for India and States 2011- 2036”. The report projected that the India’s sex ratio of the total population (females per 1000 males) is expected to be more feminine in 2036 compared to the population as of 2011. Click here Tackling the Covid-19 youth ILO & ADB The International Labour Organization (ILO) employment crisis in Asia and the and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Pacific released the joint report titled “Tackling the Covid-19 youth employment crisis in Asia and the Pacific”, which stated that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, around 41 lakh (4.1 million) youths have lost their jobs in India. Click here Status of Sex Ratio at Birth in M Venkaiah Naidu M Venkaiah Naidu, Vice president of India India released 2 research reports of the Indian Association of Parliamentarians on Population and Development (IAPPD) namely, ‘Status of Elderly Population in India: Sex Ratio at Birth in India’ and ‘Elderly Status and Support Systems Population in India: Status and Support Systems’ in New Delhi. Click here

COVID-19: Are Children Able to United Nations Which states that at least a third of the world’s Continue Learning During School Children’s Fund school children, which is around 463 million Closures? (UNICEF) children couldn’t not access remote learning amid the closure of schools due to COVID-19 pandemic. Click here

ACQUISITION & MERGERS

TATA Capital Growth Fund invests 30 Million USD for 0.85% Stake in Biocon Biologics Biocon Biologics India approved the primary equity investment of around Rs. 225 crores (30 Million USD) by Tata Capital Growth Fund for a 0.85% minority stake in Biocon Biologics, biosimilar business, at an equity valuation of around Rs. 26,250 crores (3.5 billion USD) and enterprise valuation of around Rs. 30,400 crores (4 billion USD).

Oman India Joint Investment Fund II Acquired 1.63% stake in DCB Bank Oman India Joint Investment Fund (OIJIF) II acquired 1.63% stake in DCB Bank Limited (DCB Bank) through a block trade (bulk deal) on stock exchanges. The stake is valued at Rs 42 crore.

LIC acquired 4.23% Stake of YES Bank Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) has acquired 4.23% Stake of YES Bank by purchasing from the open market. With this acquisition, the hold of LIC in YES Bank has increased from 0.75% to 4.98%. Period of acquisition is between September 21, 2017, and July 31, 2020.

CCI Approved Proposed Combination Pertaining to JV Formation between Honda Motor and Hitachi The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the proposed combination filed jointly by Keihin Corporation, Nissin Kogyo Co., Ltd., Showa Corporation and Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd. to form a Joint Venture between Honda Motor Co. Limited and Hitachi Limited.

Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd Acquired 60% stake in Vitalic Health Pvt Ltd & 100% direct ownership of Netmeds Reliance Retail Ventures Ltd, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) has acquired 60% equity stake in Vitalic Health Pvt Ltd and 100% direct equity ownership of its subsidiaries namely Tresara Health Private Limited, Netmeds MarketPlace Limited and Dadha Pharma Distribution Pvt Limited (collectively known as Netmeds) for a cash consideration of around Rs 620 crore (USD 83.08 million). The deal values Netmeds around Rs 1,000 crore.

CCI Approved 100% Proposed Acquisition of C&S Electric Limited by Siemens Limited The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved 100% proposed acquisition of the share capital of the Indian Operations of C&S Electric Limited (C&S) by Siemens Limited (Siemens India). For this purpose, Siemens Ltd has signed an agreement with C&S in January 2020.

ICICI Lombard & Bharti AXA Signed Definitive Agreements to Merge their Insurance Businesses ICICI Lombard General Insurance Co. Ltd. (ICICI Lombard) and Bharti AXA General Insurance Co. Ltd. (Bharti AXA) have signed definitive agreements to merge their insurance business. The proposed merged non-life insurance company will have a market share of 8.7% on a pro-forma basis. The deal values Bharti AXA at around Rs 2,700 crore.

Axis Bank to Acquire 17% Instead of 29% in Max Life Insurance The Mumbai headquartered Axis Bank Ltd (Axis Bank) to acquire 17% (17.002%) of the equity share capital in New Delhi based Max Life Insurance (Max Life), instead of 29%. After the transaction, the total ownership of Axis bank in Max Life will be 18%. The parties have executed definitive agreements.

CCI Approved Acquisition by Tau Investment, Lightstone Fund S.A and Carlyle Group’s Comfort Investments II On August 26, 2020 The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the following proposals:  Acquisition of up to 64.90% of share capital of J B Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals Ltd by Tau Investment  Acquisition of Lightstone Fund S.A., for and on behalf of Lightstone Global Fund (LGT)  Acquisition of Nxtra Data Ltd by Carlyle Group’s Comfort Investments II Read More Details Here: CCI Approved Acquisition by Tau Investment, Lightstone Fund S.A and Carlyle Group’s Comfort Investments II

PAG to Acquire 51% Stake in Edelweiss Wealth Management for About Rs 2,200 Crore Private equity (PE) firm PAG, (formerly known as Pacific Alliance Group) to make a strategic investment of approximately Rs 2,200 crore (USD 300 million) for a 51 % stake in Edelweiss Wealth Management (EWM). It is to be noted that this is the PAG’s 1st PE investment in India.

DEFENCE

TESTING

MISSILES NAME TESTING LOCATION FEATURES LGM-30G Vandenberg Air Force United States (US) Air Force conducted a scheduled test Minuteman III Base in California launch of an LGM-30G Minuteman III, an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) carrying a load of three unarmed re- entry vehicles, from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, US to a target in the Pacific Ocean. Minuteman III, an Intercontinental ballistic missile manufactured by Boeing. Raman Skyroot Aerospace Skyroot Aerospace, Indian aerospace start-up successfully test fired an upper stage rocket engine “Raman”, India’s first 100% 3D printed bi-propellant liquid rocket engine injector named after the Nobel laureate Sir CV Raman and became the first private aerospace company in India to test a rocket engine developed in India. Arrow-2 Israel Israel government announced that Israel has successfully tested their advanced missile defence system, Arrow-2, a ballistic missile interceptor, which serves as the top tier integrated Israeli shield built to withstand various missile salvoes, was built with the support of the United States of America. Arrow 2 is a multi-layered system designed and manufactured by Israel Aerospace Industries and Boeing, US based industry. Pinaka rocket Firing Range in In a major boost for Make in India, the first ever Pinaka Pokhran, Rajasthan rockets fully manufactured by the private sector company “Economic Explosives Ltd (EEL)” have been successfully

test fired by the army at a firing range in Pokhran, Rajasthan. Six Pinaka rockets were test fired as part of the final developmental trials and are the first munition of its kind made by the private sector in India. These rockets have been manufactured on the lines of the transfer of technology (ToT) agreement between Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private sector, five years ago.

ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS L&T Built Interceptor Boat ‘ICGS C-454’ of Indian Coast Guard Launched at Surat The 27-meter-long Interceptor Boat (IB) ‘ICGS C-454’, built by Larsen and Toubro Ltd (L&T) was launched into the service of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) by Hiral Patel, wife of Surat district Collector, Dhaval Patel during a ceremony in Surat. Till now, L&T has handed over 51 out of 54 IB’s ordered by the ICG.

Indian Coast Guard Ship C-449 Commissioned in Chennai Indian Coast Guard Ship C-449 was commissioned in Chennai by Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary K. Shanmugam. The ship is the 49th Interceptor Boat of the series, which are indigenously built and designed by M/s Larsen and Toubro Ltd, Hazira (Surat).

China Launches Most Advanced Warship Type-054 class for Pakistan Navy China launched the first of the four advanced naval warships, Type-054 class frigates for the Pakistan Navy. The Type-054 class frigate is manufactured by China Shipbuilding Trading Company Ltd (CSTC) and was launched in the Chinese state-owned Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard, Shanghai.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SATELLITES LAUNCHES SATELLITE NAME COUNTRY PURPOSE Gaofen-9 05 China China launched its fifth Gaofen-9 series satellite named “Gaofen-9 05” along with two smaller payloads viz. Tiantuo-5 and Duo Gongneng Shiyan Weixing through Long March-2D carrier rocket from its Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre (JSLC) in northwest China. The ‘Gaofen-9 05’ satellite was developed by Aerospace Dongfanghong Satellite Co. Ltd. The Tiantuo-5 was developed by the National University of Defense Technology & Duo Gongneng Shiyan Weixing was developed by the People’s Liberation Army.

OTHER SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY NEWS NATIONAL India, Israel Collaborated to develop rapid testing for COVID-19 in under 30 seconds The experts from India and Israel have collaborated to develop rapid testing for COVID-19 in under 30 seconds by merging the technological expertise of Israel with Indian development and production capabilities. They have started to conduct trials at a special testing site at Dr Ram Manohar Lohiya (RML) Hospital on a large sample of patients for 4 different kinds of technologies namely, Voice test, Breath

analyser test, Isothermal testing and Polyamino acid testing. These trials are part of a multi-pronged mission named “Operation Breathing Space”. Read More Details Here: India, Israel Collaborated to develop rapid testing for COVID-19 in under 30 seconds

UNICEF & ADB funds for Thermal screening at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has received a mass fever screening system to enhance the screening process of passengers. There are two more scanners in the Airport. The thermal scanner has been provided by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in coordination with Asian Development Bank funded by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

IIT Madras with Helyxon Developed First of Its Kind Remote Patient Monitoring Solution for COVID-19 Healthcare Technology Innovation Centre (HTIC) of Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) in partnership with Helyxon Healthcare Solutions Private Limited, a healthcare start-up in IIT Madras jointly developed a first of its kind remote patient monitoring device for COVID-19.

A health assistant robot “Rakshak” designed by the Mumbai Division of Central Railway Mumbai Division of Central Railway (CR), designed a health assistant robot “Rakshak” that communicates between doctor and patient remotely. The Robot was developed in-house at EMU (Electric Multiple Unit) car shed by Sunil Bairwa. The robot was handed over to Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial Hospital.

A COVID prevention kiosk named “UV Baggage Bath” inaugurated at Bengaluru railway station A unique kiosk named “UV Baggage Bath” was inaugurated at the Bangalore railway station, South Western Railway, by the Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Bengaluru Division, AN Krishna Reddy and Additional Divisional Railway Manager, Bengaluru Division, Kalyani Sethuraman. The proposal was implemented at KSR Bengaluru and Yesvantpur Railway stations by M/s Optimurz Bio and IT Solutions.

Ministry of Jal Shakti launched a New Version of the India Water Resources Information System The Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS) has launched a new version of the India Water Resources Information System (India-WRIS) with new functions and features. It is open to the public, and accessible through the web portal www.indiawris.gov.in. The MoJS has established a dedicated organization, National Water Informatics Centre (NWIC) to maintain and update India-WRIS.

IIT Guwahati, in collaboration with Imperial College London, develops nanoparticle ‘meta-grid’ The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, India, and Imperial College London, United Kingdom, have developed nanoparticles called the ‘meta-grid’ or ‘metamaterial grid’ that makes the light-emitting diodes (LED) brighter, energy-efficient and durable. It was jointly developed by Dr. Debabrata Sikdar, assistant professor at IIT Guwahati along with Prof. Sir John B. Pendry and Prof. Alexei A. Kornyshev from Imperial College London. The findings have been recently published in Light: Science and Application journal of the Nature Publishing Group.

SII Partnered with Gavi and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to accelerate the manufacture & Delivery of COVID-19 vaccines for India Serum Institute of India (SII) Private Limited has entered into a new partnership with GAVI, the International Vaccine Alliance and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, to accelerate the process of manufacture and delivery of up to 100 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines for India and other low and middle income countries (LMICs) by 2021. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, through its strategic investment fund, will provide at-risk funding of USD 150 million to GAVI.

IIT Kanpur in Collaboration with Agnys Waste Management Pvt. Ltd Developed Indigenous Seed Balls, ‘BEEG’ for Farmers Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) Kanpur in collaboration with Agnys Waste Management Private Limited (start-up at IIT Kanpur) developed indigenous seed balls named ‘BEEG’ (Biocompost Enriched Eco Friendly Globule). This will help to safeguard people and farmers in plantations during the COVID- 19 times.

World’s Lightest Attack Helicopter -HAL’s Two LCH Deployed for Operations at Leh, Ladakh Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) manufactured two Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) have been deployed for operations at high altitude (Leh, Ladakh sector) to support Indian Air Force (IAF) missions amid prevailing situation on the India-China border. The twin engine LCH is the lightest attack helicopter in the world designed and developed by HAL.

Ammunition Factory Khadki, Pune Handed Over 40 mm Under Barrel Grenade Launcher (UBGL) to BSF The first consignment of 40 mm Under Barrel Grenade Launcher (UBGL) was handed over to Border Security Force (BSF) which is designed and manufactured indigenously by the Ammunition Factory Khadki (AFK) in Pune, Maharashtra on the lines of the “Atmanirbhar Bharat”. This ammunition is used to be imported by the Army and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) units.

Indian Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel “Sarthak “launched; Manufactured by Goa Shipyard Limited An Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) for the Indian Coast Guard was launched and re-christened as Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) “Sarthak” during a ceremony held at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) which was conducted through video conferencing from Coast Guard headquarters at New Delhi. Sarthak, the 4th in the series of five OPVs deployed by the ICG. The ship will be deployed for exclusive economic zone (EEZ) surveillance, Coastal Security and other duties to safeguard India’s maritime interests.

IIA discovers He-enhanced star among Omega Centauri Indian Scientist from Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, Karnataka, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) discovered a helium (He)-enhanced cool bright star among metal rich samples of the globular cluster, Omega Centauri. This is the first ever spectroscopic determination of He-abundance in the Omega Centauri. The study was published in “The Astrophysical Journal”.

IIT Ropar Developed “UVSAFE”, UVGI Based Room Disinfection Device Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar (IIT-R) in collaboration with Momentum India Private Limited developed “UVSAFE”, a state-of-the-art room disinfection device based on Singular Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI). The efficiency of the device was tested by FICCI Research and Analysis Centre (FRAC) (NABL Accredited Laboratory, New Delhi).

ISRO’s Chandryaan-2 Captured Images of Crater of Moon; one of the Craters Named ‘Sarabhai Crater’ after Vikram Sarabhai Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that Chandrayaan-2 has captured images of Craters of the Moon by Terrain Mapping Camera – 2 (TMC-2) and named one of the craters as ‘Sarabhai Crater’ after Indian Astrophysicist Dr. Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai who is regarded as the Father of Indian Space program so as to celebrate his birth centenary. Note– Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai’s 100th birth century was observed on 12th of August, 2020.

IISc and ISRO developed sustainable process to make bricks on lunar surface Team of researchers of Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru, Karnataka and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) developed a sustainable process for making brick-like structures named “Space Bricks” on the surface of the moon. The process uses the lunar soil, bacteria and guar beans to make the space brick. The process uses the Urea – sourced from human urine and lunar soil as the raw materials for the construction on the lunar surface which reduces the overall expenditure.

NSE, IIMB join hands to offer Platform for Investor Education National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) Investor Protection Fund Trust (NSE IPFT) and Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) have jointly developed and launched Platform for Investor Education (PIE), an online investor education resource centre.

Astronomers Found SPT0418-47, a Look-alike of the Milky Way at 12 Billion Light Years Away The Astronomers at the Max Planck Institute of Astrophysics found a baby galaxy called “SPT0418-47” a look-alike of the Milky galaxy at 12 billion light-years away using the Atacama Large Millimeter/sub- millimeter Array (ALMA) Telescope. The galaxy appears as a near-perfect ring of light like the “Einstein Ring”. The research published in the Journal Nature.

Indian Railways Introduces Drone Based Surveillance System for Railway Security Indian Railways introduces Drone based surveillance technologies which has emerged as an important and cost effective tool for security surveillance over a large area with limited manpower. Central Railway’s Mumbai Division of the Indian Railways procured 2 Ninja Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) to increase the security and surveillance in the Railway premises like the station, tracks, yards and workshops.

Dwarf Planet Ceres is now an ‘Ocean World’ Researchers have given Dwarf Planet Ceres the status of an “Ocean World”. The scientists have analysed the data collected by NASA’s Dawn Spacecraft and published the findings as a series of papers in the journals Nature Astronomy, Nature Communication and Nature Geoscience.

Air Unique-quality Monitoring, an Indigenous Photonic System Developed for Real-Time Remote Monitoring of Air Quality Parameters Air Unique-quality Monitoring (AUM), an indigenous photonic system for real-time remote monitoring of air quality parameters has been developed. It was developed by Prof. Rao Tatavarti, Director of Gayatri Vidya Parishad-Scientific and Industrial Research Centre (GVP-SIRC) & GVP College of Engineering, Visakhapatnam with the support from Department of Science and Technology’s Clean Air Research Initiative. The system had CATS Eco-Systems, Nashik as the technology transfer partner for commercialization.

Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan Launches Online Registration and Renewal of Gold Hallmarking Centres Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution Ram Vilas Paswan virtually launched an online system for registration and renewal of licence of gold assaying and hallmarking (A&H) centres. The online system can be accessed through the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) web portal – www.manakonline.in. The hallmarking of gold which is voluntary at present, will be made mandatory from 1st June, 2021.

Govt Introduced a New Feature, ‘Open API Service’ of Aarogya Setu to Help People, Businesses & Economy to Return to Normalcy The Government of India has introduced a new feature, ‘Open API (Application Programming Interface) Service’ of Aarogya Setu, which will address the risk of COVID-19 infections and help the people, businesses and the economy to return to normalcy. Aarogya Setu has now emerged as the most downloaded contact tracing App in the world, with more than 15 crore users.

India’s ASTROSAT Detected Extreme UV light from AUDFs01 Galaxy In accordance with the Pune based Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), India’s first multi- wavelength satellite observatory, ASTROSAT, has detected an extreme ultraviolet (UV) light from a galaxy called “AUDFs01” which is 9.3 billion light-years away from Earth. The galaxy is located in the Hubble Extreme Deep field (XDF). The study is published in “Nature Astronomy”.

First in Indian Railways: Ahmedabad Railway Division Introduces Baggage Sanitization and Wrapping Machine Ahmedabad Railway Division launched the Baggage Sanitization and Wrapping Machine at the Ahmedabad Railway station to ensure safe travel for the passengers during the Pandemic. The railways have taken this initiative under the New Innovative Non Fare Revenue Idea Scheme (NINFRIS).

NHAI has Developed, ‘Vendor Performance Evaluation System’ to Establish a Transparent and Comprehensive Performance Rating System The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has developed the ‘Vendor Performance Evaluation System’ to establish a transparent and comprehensive performance rating system for its consultants, contractors and concessionaires. The portal-based objective assessment of vendors was initiated to track the vendor performance for various NHAI projects.

IIT Alumni Council Partnered with Russoft & Moscow State University to Build World’s Largest & Fastest Hybrid Quantum Computer The IIT Alumni Council has signed an agreement with Russia’s Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU) and Russoft, an association of software developing companies, to access and transfer key technologies from Russia to build the world’s largest and fastest hybrid quantum computer in India.

ARIES Discovered the Accelerated Formation of the Stars of Dwarf Galaxies The astronomers named Amitesh Omar and Sumit Jaiswal from the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital, Uttarakhand have discovered the aberration in the formations of the stars in dwarf galaxies while studying several such galaxies. The findings of the study with detailed images of 13 galaxies will be published in the Monthly Notice of Royal Astronomical Society (MNRAS) journal by Royal Astronomical Society, United Kingdom.

INTERNATIONAL Mars 2020 mission: NASA’s Mars rover ‘Perseverance’ launched to seek signs of ancient life United States’ (US) 5th Mars Mission “Mars 2020” initiated by NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) after launching the biggest Mars rover named “Perseverance”, which was lifted off by United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V 541 rocket from Florida’s Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, United States (US). The rover will land on Jezero Crater of Mars on Feb. 18, 2021. Read More Details Here: Mars 2020 mission: NASA’s Mars rover ‘Perseverance’ launched to seek signs of ancient life

NASA’s TESS Completed Primary Mission, Finds 66 New Exoplanets & around 2100 ‘candidates’ Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) completed its primary mission of imaging 75% of the starry sky during the two-year survey and found 66 new exoplanets beyond the solar system, and around 2100 candidates on which the astronomers are working on to confirm among others. The NASA Astrophysics Explorer mission led and operated by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge.

Israel shares AI-based technology, high-end equipment with AIIMS to help combat COVID-19 As part of Israel-India cooperation to fight the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic, Israel has shared Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technology and high-end equipment with All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), Delhi, India.

Iran Unveiled Locally Made Surface-to-Surface Ballistic Missile, Martyr Qassem Soleimani & Cruise Missile, Martyr Abu Mahdi Iran has inaugurated a locally made surface-to-surface ballistic missile, called Martyr Qassem Soleimani, which has a range of 1,400 km (870-mile) and a new cruise missile, called Martyr Abu Mahdi which has a range of over 1000 km (620-mile).

NASA observes the Slowly Splitting South Atlantic Anomaly, a dent in Earth’s Magnetic Field National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) observes the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA), a strange dent in Earth’s magnetic field over South America and the nearby Atlantic Ocean which was there for more than 10 years is growing and splitting this change in the magnetic field will affect the earth.

ENVIRONMENT

New twighopper species named Cladonotus bhaskari after Kerala researcher Dhaneesh Bhaskar After a span of 116 years, a first new species of twighopper, genus Cladonotus Saussure, was discovered from the Sinharaja rainforest of Sri Lanka by Croatian and German researchers. The interesting fact is that this cockcomb-shaped twighopper has been named as Cladonotus bhaskari after Dhaneesh Bhaskar, a young conservation biologist and grasshopper expert from Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI).

Polar Bears in Arctic could become extinct by 2100: The Study published in Nature Climate Change The new study of University of Toronto Scarborough published in the journal of Nature Climate Change titled “Fasting season length sets temporal limits for global polar bear persistence” on 20th July 2020, states that climate change is starving the polar bears into extinction and concluded that the Polar bears in the Arctic could become extinct by 2100.

Scientists Identified 77 New Species of Butterflies in Matheran Near Mumbai The 8 year long (2011 – 2019) field work research conducted in the Matheran an eco-sensitive zone near Mumbai, Maharashtra an area of 214.73 Square Kilometre, identified around 140 rare species of butterflies including 77 new species. Scientists Mandar Sawant, Dr. Nikhil Modak and Sagar Sarang from the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and Somaiya Vidya Vihar University published their research paper ‘Finding the forgotten gems: Revisiting the butterflies of Matheran after 125 years’ in the community peer-reviewed Biodiversity Data Journal.

New Plant Species “Ardisia ramaswamii” of Genus Ardisia Identified by JNTBGRI Named After M S Ramaswami The scientist of Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI) at Palode identified a new species of the Genus Ardisia in the Akkamalai forest in the Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Tamil Nadu. The new species Ardisia ramaswamii, named after the 20th Century Botanist M.S. Ramaswami, who along with C.C. Calder and V. Narayanaswami, listed the species that are not mentioned in the “J D Hooker’s Flora of British India”.

IIT Delhi Found WHO listed Priority Pathogens in the Waters of River Yamuna The research team of Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT-D) found the critical group and multi drug resistant bacteria of the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) 2017 list of antibiotic resistant priority pathogens, in the waters of River Yamuna. The study was conducted on the 20 major sewer drains and the waters of Yamuna at 5 locations across Delhi over two seasons and isolated the Faecal Coliform (FC) from all the samples. The research paper on the study was published in the Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering. Dr. Manisha Lamba was the first author of the research paper.

SPORTS

CRICKET Central Government gave nod to Indian Premier League 2020 in UAE The Central Government has given the go ahead for 13th edition of Indian Premier League (IPL) to be rescheduled in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 19 to November 10, 2020. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has got “verbal clearance” from the Government and will receive the official letter in a day or two. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah will be the three venues of the tournament. Women’s T20 Challenge (Challenger series) to be held from November 1 to 10.

ICC Retains India as the Host of 2021 Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup & Australia to Host Men’s T20 2020 World Cup in 2022 International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that India will host the Men’s Twenty-20 (T20) Cricket World Cup 2021 between October – November 2021 as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) retained the hosting rights and Australia will host the 2020 Men’s World Cup, which was postponed due to the global pandemic in 2022.

Indian Cricketers MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina retire from international cricket Former India Skipper and Wicket-Keeper Mahendra Singh Dhoni & Veteran middle-order Batsman Suresh Kumar Raina announced retirement from International Cricket on August 15, 2020. Dhoni is the only captain in the history of the game to win three ICC trophies – 2007 World T20, 2011 World Cup and 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. Suresh Raina is the first Indian batsman to hit a century in all three formats of international cricket. Read More Details Here: Indian Cricketers MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina retire from international cricket

Australian Cricketer Cameron White announces Retirement from Professional Cricket Australian All-Rounder Cameron Leon White (37) announced his retirement from Cricket. He has captained the Australian Team Seven Times including One Day International (ODI) & Twenty20 Internationals (T20I). He has represented Australia in 4 Tests, 91 ODIs & 47 T20Is scoring 146 runs in Tests, 2072 in ODIs and 984 runs in T20I.

Sri Lanka Cricketer Tharanga Paranavitana retires from International Cricket Sri Lankan Opening batsman Tharanga Paranavitana (38) announced retirement from all forms of International Cricket. He is Sri Lanka’s highest ever run-getter in first-class cricket with 12, 522 runs. He has represented Sri Lanka in 32 Test Matches scoring 1792 runs including two hundreds and 11 fifties.

West Indies Cricketer Dwayne Bravo becomes first bowler to scalp 500 wickets in T20s West Indies All-Rounder Dwayne John Bravo became the first bowler in Cricket to scalp 500 wickets in Twenty20 (T20s). He achieved the feat in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2020 match between his team Trinbago Knight Riders and St Lucia Zouks. Bravo took the wicket of Rahkeem Cornwall (18) to register his 500th wicket. Dwayne Bravo achieved the feat in his 459th match in the shortest format.

BADMINTON & TENNIS Indian Table Tennis player Poulomi Ghatak retires at 37 Indian Table Tennis player Poulomi Ghatak (37) announced her retirement from the sport in August 2020. The Kolkata born Poulomi Ghatak is a seven-time National Champion. She Won the Junior National Championship thrice and the Senior National Championship seven times, held in between 1998 and 2016. She Represented India at the 2000 Sydney Olympics at the age of 16.

Ayaka Takahashi, Japan’s 1st Olympic Gold medalists in Badminton Announces Retirement Japan’s Ayaka Takahashi, who won gold medal in Rio Olympics in 2016 Women’s Doubles Badminton along with Misaki Matsutomo, announced that she will end her career (retires) on August 31, 2020 as she has a doubt whether her inner fire and body will get through another year.

Bryan Brothers, Successful Doubles Pair in Tennis Announced Retirement

The Bryan Brothers, 42-year-old identical twins Robert Charles “Bob” Bryan and Michael Carl “Mike” Bryan, the most successful American doubles tennis players announced their retirement from the professional circuit with immediate effect. The Bryan brothers finished their career with a 1108 – 359 team win-loss record. They won around 119 trophies which includes 16 Grand Slams, 39 ATP Masters 1000s, four Nitto ATP Finals, 438 weeks at No. 1, the 2012 Olympic gold medal and 2007 Davis Cup triumph.

ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL German Footballer Benedikt Howedes retires at 32 German footballer Benedikt Howedes has announced retirement from the sport recently. He was part of the 2014 world-cup winning Germany team. He was one of the 3 players who had played every minute for the team in the tournament. He has played 44 times for German National Team from 2011-17.

Spanish Footballer Iker Casillas announces retirement at 39 Spain’s World Cup-winning Captain and Goalkeeper Iker Casillas announced his retirement. In 2014, Casillas became one of four players to represent Spain at four World Cups. Iker Casillas was born 20 May 1981 in Móstoles, Spain. Casillas won the Yashin Award (FIFA World Cup Golden Glove) in 2010 World Cup after he kept a joint–record five clean sheets.

OTHER SPORTS NEWS Mercedes Lewis Hamilton Won British Grand Prix 2020; Created Record by winning the British Grand Prix title for 7th Time Formula One Champion Mercedes Lewis Hamilton (British) won British Grand Prix (GP) 2020 (officially known as the Formula 1 Pirelli British Grand Prix 2020) held at the Silverstone Circuit in Silverstone,

United Kingdom (UK). By this win, he created record by winning the British Grand Prix title 7th time. He is the only racer to win most in British GP.

Max Verstappen Wins F1 70th Anniversary Grand Prix 2020 Red Bull’s 22 years old driver Max Emilian Verstappen from Netherland had won F1 70th Anniversary Grand Prix (officially called as Emirates Formula 1 70th Anniversary Grand Prix 2020) at the Silverstone Circuit, Silverstone, United Kingdom and became the first non-Mercedes driver to win a race in the 2020.

Lewis Hamilton Claims Record 156th Podium Finish with Win at Spanish GP Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton claimed his 156th Podium with a victory in Spanish Grand Prix. It is the Fourth race of the season at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Spain. Lewis Hamilton now holds the record for most podium finishes in F1 history surpassing Former F1-Great Michael Schumacher’s record. Lewis Hamilton also claimed his 88th Formula One career victory with this.

England Cricketer Laura Marsh announces retirement England Spinner Laura Alexandra Marsh announced her retirement from all forms of Cricket. In December 2019, she announced retirement from International Cricket, and now has retired from Domestic Career as well. She was part of the England women’s cricket team which won the Women’s 50- Over Cricket World Cup in (2009 & 2017) & T20 World Cup in 2009.

Ronnie O’Sullivan Wins Sixth World Snooker Championship 2020 at Crucible English Professional Snooker Player Ronnie O’Sullivan won the World Snooker Championship for the 6th time by winning the 2020 World Snooker Championship at Crucible Theatre, Sheffield, England. He defeated England’s Kyren Wilson 18-8 in the final of the Betfred World Snooker Championship. The event was organized by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association and World Snooker Tour.

Bayern Munich Won the UEFA Championship League 2019-20 Bayern Munich (FC Bayern München), German football club won their 6th Championship in the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Champions League 2019-20. Bayern Munich became the champions of Europe by defeating the first time finalists Paris Saint Germain (PSG) 1- 0 at the finals held in Estadio da Luz, Lisbon, Portugal.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

BOOK NAME AUTHOR KEY NOTES Greenlights Matthew ‘Greenlights’ the debut book authored by Oscar-winning McConaughey actor Matthew McConaughey published by Crown Publishing Group is set to be released on 20th October 2020. The book was described as “not a traditional memoir but a playbook” based on the adventures and life experiences of McConaughey. Siyasat Mein Sadasyata Vijay Kumar Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar released a book Choudhary titled, “Siyasat Mein Sadasyata” authored by Bihar Assembly Speaker Vijay Kumar Choudhary. The book is a compilation of the author’s views, three dozen articles on different important issues and his life journey. The book was published by Bihar Assembly Secretariat. Vishesh: Code to Win Nirupama Yadav A book titled, “Vishesh: Code to Win” written by the sportswoman-turned-author Nirupama Yadav is

expected to be put out for the public view on August 29, 2020, the National Sports day. The book is the biography of India’s Youngest Basketball Captain, Vishesh Bhriguvanshi and will be published by the Bluerose publishers. Swachh Bharat Kranti Launched by Gajendra Union Minister for Jal Shakti Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Singh Shekhawat, & Union Minister for Textiles and Women & Child Smriti Zubin Irani Development Smriti Zubin Irani launched the book ‘Swachh Bharat Kranti’ (Hindi) in New Delhi. It has been edited by Parameswaran Iyer, Secretary of the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation. RAW (Research and Yatish Yadav The famous Journalist and Author, Yatish Yadav wrote a Analysis Wing): A new book titled, “RAW (Research and Analysis Wing): A History of India’s Covert History of India’s Covert Operations”, narrates the Operations heroic operations carried out by the Indian external spy agency, RAW has been published by Westland Publications and is available in Amazon and other bookstores in India. Amazing Ayodhya Neena Rai “Amazing Ayodhya” A book by Neena Rai promises to shed light on the history of Ayodhya. The book is set to give “authentic information” about the city of Ayodhya and will help in understanding the life and times of ancient Hindus. The book aims to gain knowledge of the architecture in Ayodhya, houses in Ayodhya, establishment of the city and animals which lived in Ayodhya. Corona Kavithakal PS Sreedharan Pillai Books authored by Mizoram Governor PS Sreedharan Pillai titled ‘Corona Kavithakal’ was released by Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga. Meanwhile ‘Republic Day 2020’ and ‘Thus Speaks the Governor’ were released by Gauhati High Court Chief Justice Ajai Lamba through a video message. Connecting, Prakash Javadekar Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister of Information and Communicating, Broadcasting released an e-version of the book Changing ‘Connecting, Communicating, Changing’, a chronicle of Vice President of India, Venkaiah Naidu’s third year in office. In addition to this Rajnath Singh, Union Minister of Defence also released the print coffee table version of the e-book. The book was published by the Publications Division of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Our Only Home: A Dalai Lama Tibetan spiritual leader, Dalai Lama is set to release his climate Appeal to the new book “Our Only Home: A climate Appeal to the world world” on Climate change co-written by German environmental Journalist Franz Alt in November. A Bend in Time: Writings Bijal Vachharajani A book titled “A Bend in Time: Writings by Children on by Children on the the COVID 19 Pandemic” was released in July 2020, the COVID 19 Pandemic introduction of which is written by award-winning children’s author Bijal Vachharajani. The book is published by Talking Cub (children’s imprint of

Speaking Tiger). Bijal is the winner of the AutHer Children’s Book Award 2020 and also named in the Parag Honour List 2020 of TATA Groups. The Beauty of Living Sharon Stone Hollywood Actor Sharon Stone announced the release of Twice her Memoir “The Beauty of Living Twice” in March 2021. She unveiled the cover of the book on Twitter. The book is set to be published by Alfred A Knopf, and is set to release both in hardcover and e-book. Full Spectrum: India’s Arjun Subramaniam Retired Air Vice Marshal Arjun Subramaniam has Wars, 1972-2020 authored a new book titled, “Full Spectrum: India’s Wars, 1972-

2020″. The book portrays decadesthe next month.comprehensive It will be account published of war by HarperCollins and conﬂict in Publishers Indiacontemporary Pvt. Ltd. ItIndia is the over sequel the pastto his ﬁve 1st book, ‘India’s Wars: A Military History, 1947-1971’. Disloyal: The True Story Michael Cohen’s Michael Cohen’s memoir about President Donald Trump of the Former Personal titled “Disloyal: The True Story of the Former Personal Attorney to President Attorney to President Donald J. Trump” published by Donald J. Trump Skyhorse Publishing is set to release on 8th September 2020. India Tomorrow: Pradeep Chhibber and The book titled “India Tomorrow: Conversations with Conversations with the Harsh Shah the Next Generation of Political Leaders” authored by Next Generation of American academicians Pradeep Chhibber and Harsh Political Leaders Shah was released in August 2020. The book is published by Oxford University Press (OUP). One Arranged Murder Chetan Bhagat A Book Titled ‘One Arranged Murder’ authored by Chetan Bhagat will be released worldwide on September 28, 2020. The fiction book portrays a murder mystery in the backdrop of an arranged marriage. The book will be published by Westland Publications Ltd. It is the author’s 9th novel and 11th book overall. Gastric Cancer Launched by Dr Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh launched a book on Jitendra Singh cancer – “Gastric Cancer” edited by Dr Ashok K. Vaid. He is a Noted Oncologist and was awarded Padma Shri in 2009 for his outstanding work in the field of medicine. The book was launched during a special session organized during the 3 -day virtual conference on Oncology. The book is published by Springer Healthcare Education. Delhi Riots 2020: The Monika Arora, The book “Delhi Riots 2020: The Untold Story” authored Untold Story advocate, Sonali by Monika Arora, advocate, Sonali Chitalkar (political Chitalkar (political Science) and Prerna Malhotra (English) teachers at Science) and Prerna Delhi University is set to be published by Garuda Malhotra (English) Prakashan. The book was released by Bhupendra Yadav, teachers member of parliament and national general secretary of Bharatiya Janata Party. Running Toward Tenzin Priyadarshi The book ‘Running Toward Mystery: The Adventure of Mystery: The Adventure and co-written by an Unconventional Life’ authored by Tenzin Priyadarshi Zara Houshmand and co-written by Zara Houshmand released. The book

of an Unconventional provides an account of how the Dalai Lama traced his Life Spiritual Teacher Khunu Lama in India. Cricket Drona Vasudev Paranjpe’s ‘Cricket Drona’ a book on one of India’s most renowned son and current cricket coaches, Vasudev Jagannath Paranjpe will be national selector Jatin released on September 2, 2020. The Book is written by Paranjpe along with Vasudev Paranjpe’s son and current national selector Cricket Journalist Jatin Paranjpe along with Cricket Journalist Anand Vasu Anand Vasu and published by Penguin. National Security University Students, General Manoj Mukund (MM) Naravane, Chief of Army Challenges: Young Ranging from the Staff released a book titled, “National Security Scholars Perspective Undergraduate Level Challenges: Young Scholars’ Perspective” authored by to Doctoral university students, ranging from the undergraduate Candidates level to doctoral candidates. The book was edited by Ramandeep Singh Sandhu and Manjari Singh. The book was published by Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), the Army think-tank. The book is a tribute to Field Marshal Manekshaw, the strategist of 1971 Indo- Pakistan War, that resulted in the liberation of Bangladesh. Pitching It Straight Gurcharan Singh & Indian Cricket Coach Gurcharan Singh (85) penned his Co-Authored by memoir titled “Pitching It Straight” which is co-authored Sports Journalist MS by sports journalist MS Unnikrishnan and published by Unnikrishnan Vitasta The book portrays the personal and professional life of Gurcharan Singh, who trained numerous young talents.

OBITUARY

NATIONAL PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES Sonam Tshering Folk Musician, Kalimpong, West Passed away at Kalimpong, West Bengal Lepcha composer, Lyricist Bengal due to age related ailments. He was and Padmashree born on 3rd January, 1928 at Bong Awardee Busty, Kalimpong, West Bengal. He played a major role in reviving and promoting the Lepcha Culture which is one of the indigenous culture of Sikkim. He received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award of the Sangeet Natak Akademi in 1995. Anil Murali Malayalam Actor Thiruvananthapuram, Who acted in more than 200 movies in Kerala Tamil, Malayalam and Telugu, passed away at the hospital in Kochi, Kerala where he was admitted due to liver ailments on 22nd July 2020. He hails from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Sa. Kandasamy Famous Writer and Mayiladuthurai, Passed away in Chennai, Tamil Nadu Documentary Tamil Nadu due to heart ailments. He was born in Filmmaker 1940, Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil

Nadu. He won the Sahitya Akademi award for his Novel ‘Visaranai Commission.’ He started his career in the year 1968 with the publication of his novel, Chayavanam / Sayavanam later listed by the National Book Trust as a masterpiece in modern Indian Literature. Amar Singh Former Samajwadi Aligarh in Uttar Passed away in Singapore due to Kidney party leader and Pradesh ailments. He was born on January 27, Rajya Sabha MP 1956 at Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh. From 5th July 2016 to 1st August 2020, he was re-elected as the member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha. (Constituency: Uttar Pradesh). Kamala Rani Minister of Technical Lucknow, Uttar Passed away in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Varun Education of Uttar Pradesh due to the infection of COVID-19. She Pradesh was born on 3 May, 1958 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. She belongs to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). She also served as the Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha from the year 1996 to 1999. Pydikondala (P) Former Andhra Andhra Pradesh (AP) Passed away due to COVID-19 infection Manikyala Rao Pradesh (AP) in a private hospital in Vijayawada, AP. Minister He was a Senior BJP leader. He was born on November 1, 1961 at AP. He belongs to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He served as the Endowment Minister in Chandrababu Naidu’s cabinet between 2014-2018. Ramachandra Former Arunachal Passed away in Mumbai. He was born Dattatraya Pradesh Governor on 27th June, 1928. He has held the Pradhan and Veteran position of Home Secretary & Chief Bureaucrat - Secretary of Maharashtra. He received Padma Bhushan third highest civilian award of India in 1987. He also won a seat in Maharashtra Legislative Council in June 1990. Shivajirao Patil Senior Congressman Nilanga, Hyderabad Passed away in Pune, Maharashtra. He Nilangekar and Former Was born on 1 September 1931 in Maharashtra Chief Nilanga, Hyderabad state (British Minister (CM) India). He had served as the 10th Chief Minister of Maharashtra for a year between 3rd June 1985 and 6th March 1986. Ebrahim Alkazi Father of Modern Pune, Maharashtra Passed away in Escorts Hospital, New Indian theatre Delhi due to a massive heart attack. He was a theatre director, drama teacher, and the longest-serving director of the National School of Drama (NSD) i.e.,

from 1962 to 1977. He was credited for revolutionising India theatre. He was born on October 18, 1925 in Pune, Maharashtra. He won the Padma Vibhushan in 2010, Padma Bhushan in 1991, Padma Shri in 1966. Sadia Dehlvi Writer and Activist Died of cancer at Delhi. She was born in 1957, came from the royal ‘Shama’ family, edited the Urudu women’s - journal Bano. Her popular books include ‘The Sufi Courtyard: Dargahs of Delhi’ 2012 and ‘Sufism: The Heart of Islam’ (2009) published by HarperCollins. Shyamal Former Communist Passed away in Calcutta. He served as Chakraborty Party of India – the three-time transport minister of Marxist (CPM) and - West Bengal from 1982 to 1996. He had Former West Bengal served as a member of the Rajya Sabha Transport Minister MP (Member of Parliament) from 2008 to 2014. Mukund Lath Prominent Culture Kolkata Passed away on 6th August, 2020 in Historian and Jaipur. He was born on 9th October Exponent of Mewati 1937 in Kolkata. He was awarded Gharana India’s fourth highest civilian honour, the Padma Shri, in 2010 for his contributions to the field of arts and cultural history. Some of his works on performing arts are: ‘A Study of Dattilam: A Treatise on the Sacred Music of Ancient India’ (1978), ‘Sangita evam Chintan’ (1992), and ‘Transformation as Creation’ (1998). Nandi Yellaiah Former Member of Hyderabad, Passed away due to COVID – 19 Parliament (MP) & Telangana infections in Telangana. He was born on Senior Congress July 1, 1942, in Hyderabad, Telangana. Leader He was the six-term member of Lok sabha & 2-term member of Rajya Sabha. Laishram Former Indian Imphal, Manipur Passed away due to suffering from a Manitombi Singh Footballer and prolonged illness and breathed his last former Mohun on August 09, 2020 in his native village Bagan club (Football near Imphal, Manipur. club) captain Penmatsa YSR Congress Party Passed away due to his prolonged ill- Sambasiva Raju (YSRCP) veteran health, at a private hospital in leader Visakhapatnam. He served as Transport - Minister and Pro-tem Speaker of the united Andhra Pradesh Assembly. He was the only MLA who won the election for 8 times in the united Andhra Pradesh Assembly.

Rahat Indori Urdu Poet & Lyricist Indore Who was being treated for COVID-19 died of Heart Attack at Aurobindo Hospital, Indore. He was born as Rahat Qureshi on 1 January, 1950 in Indore. Indori with a 50-year career in poetry was an Urdu scholar of great repute, he was one of the biggest mushaira (poetry symposiums) stars in the country. Gopal Krishna Veteran sports Malabar District, Passed away in suburban Mumbai, (G.K) Menon journalist Madras Presidency, Maharashtra. He has worked with the British India Indian Express and The Times of India before which he was a freelancer. He was a cricketer at club level. He ended his freelancer career in the early 1990s. Chunakkar Veteran Malayalam Alappuzha, Kerala Passed away due to old age-related Ramankutty poet, lyricist and ailments in a hospital at drama writer Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He hails from Chunakkara, Alappuzha, Kerala. In 2015, Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi honoured him with “Guru Shreshta Award”. Chetan Chauhan Former Indian Bareilly, UP Former Indian cricketer and Uttar cricketer Pradesh (UP) Cabinet Minister of Sainik Welfare, Home Guards, Prantiya Rakshak Dal and Civil Security Chetan Chauhan (73) passed away in Medanta hospital, Gurugram, Haryana due to COVID-19. He belongs to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He was honoured with the Arjuna award in 1981. He was born on July 21, 1947. Pandit Jasraj Indian classical Hisar, Haryana. Pandit Jasraj (90), an Indian classical vocalist vocalist, belonging to the Mewati gharana (a musical apprenticeship tribe of Hindustani classical music) passed away in his home in New Jersey, New York, United States(U.S.) due to cardiac arrest. He was born on January 28, 1930 in Pili Mandori, a village in the Hisar district of Haryana. He is a recipient of the Padma Shri (1975), Padma Bhushan (1990) and Padma Vibhushan (2000). Nishikant Kamat Filmmaker-Actor Mumbai, Maharashtra Passed away due to multiple organ failure at the AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad. He was suffering from Liver Cirrhosis for the last two years. Nishikant Kamat was born on 17th June, 1970 in Dadar, Mumbai, Maharashtra. He won the

National Award for Best Feature Film in Marathi for Dombivali Fast in 2006. Bhaskar Maity Former India Passed away due to massive stroke at a Footballer hospital in Navi Mumbai. He (Goalkeeper) turned represented India against Iraq at the Coach - 1978 Asian Games in Bangkok. At the domestic level, he represented Maharashtra in Santosh Trophy from 1975-1979. Gopalaswamy Former Cricketer, Chennai, Tamil Nadu Passed away due to heart attack at his Kasturirangan Administrator and Bangalore Residence. He was born on Pitch Curator 12th October 1930. He served as Chairman of BCCI grounds and pitches committee and Vice-President of the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA). Archana Mahanta Veteran Assamese Guwahati Passed away in Health City hospital, folk singer Guwahati, Assam following a brain stroke. She was also a reputed artist of All India Radio (Guwahati). She is the wife of late Khagen Mahanta (known as ‘Bihu King’) and mother of Angaraag ‘Papon’ Mahanta, popular Indian singer and founder of the folk-fusion band Papon and The East India Company. A.R. Lakshmanan Former Supreme Sivaganga district, Passed away in a private hospital in Court Judge Tamil Nadu Trichy, Tamil Nadu following a heart attack. Currently he was the sitting representative of Tamil Nadu in the Mullai Periyar Panel headed by Justice A.S. Anand. He served as the chairman of the Law Commission (18th Law Commission) after his retirement. He was born in Devakottai in Sivaganga district, Tamil Nadu on March 22, 1942. H. Vasanthakumar Congress Member of Kanyakumari, Tamil Passed away in Apollo hospital, Parliament Nadu Chennai, Tamil Nadu due to COVID-19. (Kanyakumari Lok He is the first MP from Tamil Nadu to sabha Constituency), die due to COVID-19. The Indian founder and businessman and politician from Tamil chairman of Vasanth Nadu was born on April 14, 1950 in & Co Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. Purushotham Rai Athletics Coach Passed away due to Cardiac Arrest, a day before he was to be conferred with - the Dronacharya Award from President Ram Nath Govind in the lifetime category.

INTERNATIONAL PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES Mr. Lee Teng-hui President Sanzhi, Taiwan Died at Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan due to infection, and heart ailments. He was born on 15th January 1923, Sanzhi, Taiwan. He was popularly known as “Mr. Democracy” for eradicating the dictatorial rule in favour of unbiased pluralism in Taiwan. Pascal Lissouba Former President Republic of Pascal Lissouba (88), the former President of Congo Republic of Congo, which is also known as Congo-Brazzaville passed away in Southern France due to illness. He was born in Tsinguidi, Republic of Congo. He belonged to the Pan- African Union for Social Democracy (UADS) party. John Hume Nobel Peace Prize Derry Passed away in a Londonderry nursing home winner & (Londonderry), due to a long period of illness on August 3, Prominent Northern Ireland 2020. He was born on January 8, 1937 in Derry Northern Ireland (Londonderry), Northern Ireland (a part of the politician United Kingdom- UK). He is the only person to receive the three major peace awards (Gandhi Peace Prize, Nobel Peace Prize & Martin Luther King Award). Mr. William Co-Creator of the Kentucky Died in California due to respiratory failure. He English Mouse was born in 1929, Kentucky and studied electrical engineering at university before joining the US Navy. He built the first mouse in 1963, with the help of the sketches made by Doug Engelbart while they were working on early computing. Shirley Ann Grau Famous Fiction Louisiana, United Died due to stroke in New Orleans, Louisiana, Writer and States United States. She was born on July 8, 1929 in Pulitzer Prize- New Orleans, Louisiana, United States. She won Winner the Pulitzer Prize for her fourth book, “The Keepers of the House” in 1965. Angela Buxton Former British Liverpool Died recently. Angela Buxton was the doubles tennis player and partner of Althea Gibson, who was the first two-time Grand Black person to win a major title in 1956. Slam Doubles Buxton was one of the first to be inducted into champion and the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame, in Equal Rights 1981. Pioneer Russel A. Kirsch Computer Manhattan, Russel A. Kirsch (91), the computer scientist Scientist Credited United State of credited with inventing pixel passed away at with Inventing America (USA) his home in Portland, Oregon, United States. Pixel Pixels, the digital dots used to display photos; video and computer screens were invented by Russell Kirsch in 1957. He scanned the world’s first digital photograph. He was born in

Manhattan, United State of America (USA) in 1929. Arnold Spielberg Pioneered Cincinnati, Ohio Passed away in Los Angeles, California of computer natural causes. He along with Charles Propster designer & an designed the ‘GE-225 mainframe computer’, innovative while he worked for General Electric. He was engineer born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on February 6, 1917. He helped to develop the 1st point-of-sale computerised cash register, it is regarded as his greatest contribution. He designed and patented the 1st electronic library system, which was implemented as an interrogation system for data stored on an array of magnetic tapes.

IMPORTANT DAYS

OBSERVED DATE / WEEK DAYS KEY NOTES July 31, 2020 World Ranger Day Celebrated annually on July 31 around the world and it is promoted by the 54-member association of the International Ranger Federation (IRF). The day celebrates the accomplishments done by rangers around the world and honours those who have died in the course of their duties. August 1-7, 2020 World Breastfeeding Week Celebrated annually in the first week of August (from 1st of August to 7th of August) around 120 countries in the World. The day was commenced after signing the Innocenti Declaration in August 1990. The global campaigning was first organized by the WABA (World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action). The day is celebrated to encourage breastfeeding and improve the babies’ health around the world. The theme for the year 2020 is, “Support Breast feeding for a healthier planet”. August 3, 2020 World Sanskrit Day Which is also known as Sanskrit Diwas or Vishvasamskritadinam is celebrated all over the world on the Shravana Poornima, full moon day of the Hindu month Shravana. The World Sanskrit Day 2020 is celebrated on 3rd August 2020. All India Radio (AIR) broadcast its first ever special program titled, ‘Bahujan Bhasha-Sanskrit Bhasha’ on 3rd August 2020 on account of World Sanskrit Day. “Sudharma”, the only Sanskrit newspaper in the world, has been published from Mysore, Karnataka since 1970.

August 1, 2020 Muslim Women Rights Day Union Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi informed that country observed the first anniversary of the passage of Muslim Women Act (Protection on Rights on Marriage Act) on 1st August 2019 which against the act of triple talaq or talaq-e-biddat and help to achieve gender equality for Muslim women as Muslim Women Rights Day. 1st August 2020 was recorded as the first Muslim Women Rights Day across India. August 1, 2020 World Lung Cancer Day Observed annually on August 1 to raise awareness about the causes and treatment of lung cancer and its global impact, creating an educational movement to understand the risks of lung cancer and early treatment around the world. The World Lung Cancer Day campaign was initiated in 2012 by the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) in collaboration with the members of the international lung health community such as the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) and also including the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) in the U.S. July 3, 2020 International Plastic Bag Global initiative by the activists from activist Free Day associations like Zero Waste Europe’s Bag Free World and German Institute of Global and Area Studies (GAIA), observed on 3rd July every year to create a worldwide awareness about the Plastic pollution and the contribution of the single use plastics to the global catastrophe. The first International Plastic Bag Free Day was observed on 3rd July 2009. August 6, 2020 Hiroshima Day Observed as Hiroshima Day to mark the world’s first atomic bombing on Hiroshima, Japan during World War II which instantly killed more than 70,000 people. The day is to remember the victims of the bombing and to promote world peace and create awareness about the hazards of Nuclear Power and nuclear weapons. This year marks the 75th Anniversary of Hiroshima Day. On 6th august 1945, The United States of America detonated the first nuclear bomb named “Little Boy”, a uranium gun-type bomb, from a modified B- 29 bomber named Enola Gay at 1900 feet above the city of Hiroshima followed by “Fat Man”, plutonium implosion bomb over Nagasaki on 9th August 1945.

August 7, 2020 National Handloom day Every year the Government of India (GoI) celebrates the National Handloom day on August 7, to create awareness about the Handloom Industry amongst the public at large and its contribution to socio-economic development. The 6th edition of the Nation Handloom Day is celebrated on August 7, 2020. The Union Government had declared 7th August as the first National Handloom Day in July 2015. The day chosen in order to commemorate the Swadeshi Movement, launched on August 7, 1905. August 8, 2020 Anniversary of the “Quit On August 8, 2020, Government of India India Movement” commemorated the 78th Anniversary of the “Quit India Movement”. On this day in 1942, father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi gave the clarion call of ‘Do or Die’ to all Indians to drive away British people from the country. This day is observed as August Kranti Day every year. August 10, 2020 World Biofuel Day Observed annually on August 10 to raise awareness about the importance of non-fossil fuels as an alternative to conventional fossil fuels. The day honours the research experiments by Sir Rudolf Christian Karl Diesel (inventor of the diesel engine) who ran an engine with peanut oil in 1893. In India, the day has been celebrated by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas since 2015. On the occasion of the day, a webinar was organized by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, with the theme “Biofuels towards Atmanirbhar Bharat”. August 9, 2020 International Day of the The United Nations (UN’s) International Day World’s Indigenous People of the World’s Indigenous People is annually observed on 9th August. The International Day of the World’s Indigenous People also known as World Tribal Day. The First International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was celebrated on 9th August 1995. The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 2020 is celebrated under the theme – “COVID-19 and indigenous peoples’ resilience”. Click here August 9, 2020 Nagasaki day The 9th August of every year is observed as Nagasaki day all over the world to promote peace and to create awareness about the hazards of nuclear weapons. The 9th August 2020, Marks the 75th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Nagasaki, Japan.

August 10, 2020 World Lion Day Observed across the world on August 10 every year. World Lion Day 2020 is being observed virtually this year due to the pandemic. In 2013, Dereck and Beverly Joubert, a husband-and-wife team of Big Cat Initiative and National Geographic began an initiative to form World Lion Day. August 12, 2020 International Youth Day The United Nations (UNs) International (IYD) Youth Day (IYD) is annually celebrated on 12th August to raise awareness on the legal and cultural problems related to the youths all over the world and to celebrate and focus on the voices, actions and initiatives of young people. The First International Youths day was observed on 12th August 2000. The 2020’s theme of IYD is “Youth Engagement for Global Action”. August 12, 2020 World Elephant Day The 12th August of every year is celebrated as the World Elephant Day to create awareness on the need to conserve and preserve the elephants and their habitats. The First World Elephant Day was celebrated on 12th August 2012. The Idea to celebrate World Elephant Day was initiated by Sivaporn Dardarananda, Secretary General of Elephant Reintroduction Foundation and Canadian filmmakers Patricia Sims and Michael Clark in 2011. August 13, 2020 World Organ Donation Day Observed annually on August 13 to motivate people to donate organs after death and to spread awareness about the importance of organ donation. The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare of India launched the 6th World and 1st ever Indian Organ Donation Day and Organ Donation Congress in 2010 in New Delhi. August 13, 2020 World Left-Handers-Day Observed every year on August 13 to celebrate the uniqueness and differences of Southpaws. Around 10 percent of the people worldwide are left-handed. It was first observed in 1976 by Dean R. Campbell who was founder of the Lefthanders International Inc. August 15, 2020 Independence Day Indians all around the world celebrate the 74th Independence Day on 15th August 2020, to mark the independence of India from rule of British Raj on 15th August 1947. Click here August 19, 2020 World Humanitarian Day United Nations (UN) World Humanitarian (WHD) Day (WHD) is annually observed on 19th August. The First WHD was observed on 19th

August 2009. The 19th August 2020 marks the 11th World Humanitarian Day. The date 19th August was chosen in memory of the 19th August 2003 bombing in Canal Hotel, Baghdad, Iraq which killed 22 people including Sergio Vieira de Mello, Chief Humanitarian in Iraq. August 19, 2020 World Photography Day The World Photography Day also known as World Photo Day is observed annually on 19th August with an aim to inspire photographers across the globe to share a single photo with a purpose of sharing their world to the world. The day celebrates the arts, crafts, science and history of Photography. The first official World Photo Day was marked on 19th August 2010. August 20, 2020 Sadbhavana Diwas Every year 20th August is celebrated as the Sadbhavana Diwas which is also known as Communal Harmony Day, to commemorate the Birth Anniversary of former Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi. The Government of India posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award to Rajiv Gandhi in 1991. August 20, 2020 World Mosquito Day The World Mosquito Day is observed on 20th August every year to raise awareness about the Causes and Prevention of Malaria and to commemorate the discovery made by British Doctor Sir Ronald Ross in 1897 that female Anopheles mosquitoes transmit Malaria between humans. Sir Ronald Ross was awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine in 1902 for the discovery, he became the first British Nobel Laureate. August 21, 2020 International Day of United Nations (UN)’s International Day of Remembrance and Tribute Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of to the Victims of Terrorism Terrorism is annually observed on 21st August. The first International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism was observed on 21st August 2018. The event of 2020 are organized by UN Counter Terrorism Centre (UNCCT) in collaboration with the Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism. August 21, 2020 World Senior Citizen’s Day World Senior Citizen’s Day is observed annually on August 21 to raise awareness about the various issues including age deterioration and elder abuse that affect senior citizens. The day was officially founded by Ronald Reagan, former President

of the United States of America, in 1988. He signed Proclamation 5847 declaring August 21st as the day. The day was 1st celebrated on October 1, 1991. August 22, 2020 International Day United Nations (UN)’s International Day Commemorating the Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Victims of Acts of Violence Violence Based on Religion or Belief is Based on Religion or Belief observed annually on August 22 as a response to the violence based on religion and belief. The year 2020 marks the 2nd International Day Commemorating the Victims of Acts of Violence Based on Religion or Belief. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution A/RES/73/296 on 28th May 2019. August 22, 2020 Earth Overshoot Day Earth Overshoot Day 2020 is observed on August 22, 2020. Earth Overshoot Day is the date when the demands of biological resources and services of the year by humanity exceeds the generation capacity of Earth in that year. The first Global Earth Overshoot Day campaign was launched in 2006. The Earth Overshoot Day was conceived by Andrew Simms of the UK think tank New Economics Foundation in partnership with Global Footprint Network. The Computation of Earth Overshoot Day: (Earth’s Bio capacity / Humanity’s Ecological Footprint) x 365 = Earth Overshoot Day. August 23, 2020 International Day for the United Nations (UN)’s International Day for Remembrance of the Slave the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Trade and Its Abolition Abolition is observed annually on 23rd August to spread the information about the historic events associated with slave trade and its consequences and to promote the tolerance and human rights. The uprising against the transatlantic slave trade in Santo Domingo (Todays Haiti and Dominican Republic) on the night of 22 to 23rd August 1791 played a key role in the abolition of slave trade and dehumanization. August 24, 2020 World Gujarati Day World Gujarati Day 2020 is celebrated on 24th August 2020 to commemorate the birth anniversary of the famous Gujarati poet and social reformer, Narmadashankar Dave popularly known as Veer Narmad. His poem “Jai Jai Garavi Gujarat” is used as the state song of Gujarat. August 24-28, 2020 The World Water Week The World Water Week of the year 2020 is observed as the World Water Week at Home

(WWWeek at Home) from 24rd August 2020 to 28th August 2020. The World Water Week, organised by Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) since 1991. The theme of WWWeek at Home 2020 is ‘Water and Climate change: Accelerating Action’. August 29, 2020 National Sports Day Annually observed on 29th August to commemorate the birth anniversary of Indian Hockey Legend Major Dhyan Chand Singh. The Government of India decided to celebrate the 29th August of every year as the National Sports Day in 2012. Click here August 29, 2020 International Day Against United Nations(UN)’s International Day Nuclear Tests Against Nuclear Tests is observed annually on 29th August to create awareness and to educate the people about the facts and effects of nuclear weapon test explosions and other nuclear explosions. The first International Day against Nuclear Tests was observed on 29th August 2010. The Republic of Kazakhstan with a large number of sponsors and cosponsors initiated the resolution to declare 29th August as the International Day Against Nuclear Tests to commemorate the closure of Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test site on 29 August 1991. APPS & WEB PORTAL

APP & WEB NAME LAUNCHED BY PURPOSE Credai – Awaas App and an E-Commerce Hardeep Singh Minister of State (I/C) for Ministry of Portal, “HousingforAll.com” Puri Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), Hardeep Singh Puri released the Affordable Rental Housing Complexes Pack through Video Conferencing on July 31, 2020. He also launched the mobile application of Credai – Awaas App and an E-Commerce Portal, “HousingforAll.com” of NAREDCO. COVID19BWM App Developed by the The Supreme Court (SC) has made it Central Pollution mandatory for all municipal corporations Control Board and state pollution control boards to use the (CPCB) ‘COVID19BWM App’ to track biomedical waste on a daily basis. This ensures that the waste is collected, transported and sent to a registered common biomedical waste treatment facility. The app was developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in May 2020 following the directions from the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

Overhead Equipment (OHE) Inspection Indian Railways Indian Railways has launched an Overhead Equipment (OHE) Inspection app which will help in minimizing the train delays and long waits due to technical snags. The app has been rolled out on a Pan India basis. Khelo India Mobile App (KIMA) SAI, CISCE & CBSE Sports Authority of India (SAI) in association with Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) and Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will host an online training programme through the Khelo India Mobile App (KIMA) to train the Physical Education (PE) teachers and head of the institutions from CISCE schools on “Khelo India Fitness Assessment of School Going Children”. E-Gyan Mitra Education The Education department of Daman department of Administration launched the E-Gyan Mitra Daman mobile application developed by the Administration administration of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu (DNHDD) to support students for their online education of the Union Territory of DNH and DD. My Handloom Smt Smriti Zubin The Union Minister of Textiles and Women & Irani Child Development, Smriti Irani, launched the Mobile App & Backend Website for Handloom Mark Scheme (HLM) for the weavers on the occasion of 6th National Handloom Day held virtually on 7th August, 2020, organized by the Ministry of Textiles, GoI (Government of India). Click here AIR SUVIDHA DIAL Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) a GMR Group-led consortium, that operated Indira Gandhi International Airport has developed AIR SUVIDHA, a first-of-its-kind portal allowing international arriving passengers to fill a mandatory self- declaration form and eligible passengers to apply for exemption from compulsory institutional quarantine for COVID-19. The online forms have been developed in collaboration with various state governments, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Ministry of External Affairs. www.indiainvestmentgrid.gov.in Nirmala Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Sitharaman Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated an information repository, in the form of an online dashboard, for all projects identified under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) through video conferencing from New

Delhi. The dashboard hosted on the India Investment Grid (IIG) website “www.indiainvestmentgrid.gov.in” will be a one stop solution providing information on infrastructure projects in New India to all stakeholders. Note: NIP is framed to achieve the target of a $5 trillion economy by FY 2025. SRIJAN Rajnath Singh Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually launched Department of Defence Production (DDP) portal ‘SRIJAN’ as a part of “opportunities for Make in India in Defence” on the occasion of Atma Nirbhar Week celebration (Atmanirbharta Saptah) of the Ministry of Defence between August 7-14, 2020. Click here E-Pathshala AIFF & SAI On 15th August 2020, on the occasion of 74th Independence Day, The All India Football Federation (AIFF) and the Sports Authority of India (SAI), jointly launched the E-Pathshala, a web platform to recognise creativity of the children and to develop their interest in football. Swasthya MoTA Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Arjun Munda inaugurated the first of its kind e-portal “Swasthya” (hosted on the National Informatics Centre (NIC)), a tribal health and nutrition portal and Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) also launched e-newsletter on health and nutrition ALEKH and opening of National Overseas Portal and National Tribal Fellowship Portal. VedKrishi.com Nitin Gadkari Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME) launched VedKrishi.com, an Online Farm to Fork Service, over a virtual platform. The portal is promoted by the farmers for selling toxic free farm produce. The platform was set up by the VedKrishi Farmer Producer Company, Nagpur based farmer producer Company. Harit Path Nitin Jairam Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Union Minister for Gadkari Road Transport and Highways launched the mobile app, “Harit Path” for monitoring plantations and transplantation of trees along the highway. during the meeting to review the New Green Highway Policy. The mobile app was developed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), a Public

Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Road and Transport. My IAF Rakesh Kumar Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief of the Air Staff, Singh Bhadauria Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, launched the mobile application “My IAF”, to provide career related information and details in IAF to the aspirants. The application was launched as a part of the ‘Digital India Initiative’. It was developed in association with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC). DGNCC Rajnath Singh Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched Directorate General National Cadet Corps (DGNCC), a mobile training app which will help in conducting a countrywide online training for the National Cadet Corps (NCC). YONO (You Only Need One) Krishi Narendra Singh Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Tomar Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare virtually launched the integration of State Bank of India’s YONO (You Only Need One) Krishi platform with government’s online seed portal Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) and Indian Institute of Horticulture Research (IIHR) to help the farmers in increasing the crop production along with the crop quality and income generation. Pensioners Corner CISF The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has created & launched an in-house mobile Application, ‘Pensioners Corner’ to get in touch with the pensioners and to bring them to the digital platform as a one stop solution. It will also cater to the needs of its pensioners.

AC GAZE

Bollywood action director Parvez Khan passes away at 55 Bollywood action director Parvez Khan (55) has passed away due to massive heart attack who is known for his work in Andhadhun, Johnny Gaddaar and Bullett Raja and also worked with Filmmaker Hansal Mehta in the National Award-winning 2013 drama “Shahid”.

Pawan Hans launches Helicopter service in UttaraKhand: UDAN scheme Pawan Hans Limited (PHL) has launched helicopter service on the Dehradun-New Tehri-Srinagar- Gauchar route in UttaraKhand under the Central government’s regional connectivity scheme UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik).

India withdraws from Women’s World Team Squash Championship 2020 Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI) has withdrawn from the Women’s World Team Squash Championship 2020, due to lack of preparation, time and match-readiness of athletes, which is scheduled in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from December 15 to 20,2020. The HQ of SRFI located at Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Two-day international webinar on ‘Lokmanya Tilak – Swaraj to Self-Reliant India’: ICCR Union Home Minister Amit Shah has inaugurated a two-day international webinar on the theme of ‘Lokmanya Tilak – Swaraj to Self-reliant India’ in New Delhi, which was organized by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) on the 100th death anniversary of the great freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak (August 1, 2020).

Axis Bank unveils AXAA, an AI powered conversational banking IVR The Mumbai headquartered Axis Bank has partnered Bengaluru start-up Vernacular.ai, an AI-based SaaS voice automation platform, to deploy multi-lingual BOT AXAA on its phone banking Interactive voice response (IVR) which helps to increase automation in customer service.

A device named “AJO-Neo” developed: SNBNCBS S.N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences (SNBNCBS), Kolkata, an autonomous research Institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has developed a No-touch & Painless device named “AJO-Neo” for non-invasive screening of bilirubin level in new-borns.

KVIC and ITBP sign MoU to supply mustard oil In a bid to support the “Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan” initiative, Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to supply mustard oil Note: ITBP became the first Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) to have supplies from the KVIC.

Sahakar Cooptube NCDC Channel launched: Narendra Singh Tomar Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Shri Narendra Singh Tomar has launched “Sahakar Cooptube NCDC Channel”, a new initiative by National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) and the guidance videos produced by NCDC on ‘Formation and Registration of a Cooperative’ also launched in Hindi and regional language of eighteen different states. The headquarters of NCDC is New Delhi.

Foundation Stone of Indian Institute of Management Sirmaur laid: Himachal Pradesh Union Minister of Education Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has laid the foundation stone of Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sirmaur at Dhaula kuan in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh through Video conference, along with Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Jai Ram Thakur; Minister of State for Finance Anurag Singh Thakur and Minister of State for Education Sanjay Dhotre.

DIAT, Pune wins first prize in Smart India Hackathon 2020 Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT) Pune, an autonomous organization under the Department of Defence Research & Development, DRDO, has won first prize of rupees 1 Lakh for solving problem statement MS331 in the category of software posed by the Madhya Pradesh Government in Smart India Hackathon –SIH (Software) 2020, which is held at Noida Institute of Engineering & Technology (NIET), Uttar Pradesh from August 1 to 3, 2020.

Mumbai becomes first city in India to have female icons on traffic signals Mumbai’s Dadar has become the first city in India to have women symbols on traffic signals and signage, which was installed by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) that display female icons sporting triangular frock, a shift from the default representation of men.

Guidelines for grant of authorization for bulk and retail marketing of petrol and diesel simplified: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas In order to increase private sector participation in the marketing of petrol and diesel, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has simplified the guidelines for grant of authorization for bulk and retail marketing of Motor Spirit (Petrol) and High Speed Diesel (Diesel), Any entity with a net worth of at least Rs.500 crore is eligible for obtaining the liberalised licence to sell petrol and diesel to both retail & bulk consumers and a net worth of Rs 250 crore can get a licence to retail petrol and diesel to either bulk or retail consumers.

LIC unveils ‘Special Revival Campaign’ to revive lapsed policies The Mumbai headquartered Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) has unveiled ‘Special Revival Campaign’ from August 10 to October 9, 2020 to provide an opportunity for its policyholders to revive lapsed policies.

Microwave device ‘Atulya’ to disintegrate novel Coronavirus unveiled: Nitin Gadkari Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Nitin Gadkari has unveiled a microwave device named ‘Atulya’ that can disinfect any premises in just 30 seconds, disintegrating COVID-19 virus in Nagpur, Maharashtra and is developed by the Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune.

“Atma Nirbhar App Innovation Challenge” winners announced: Govt The Central government has announced 24 winners in the eight categories of “AatmaNirbhar App Innovation Challenge”, under this Challenge, Chingari emerged as a winner of ‘social’ category and Koo, MaymyIndiamove, Asksarkar, myitreturn are some of the other apps that won the challenge, across eight categories.

Fit India Freedom Run launched: Kiren Rijiju Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiju has launched a country-wide event “Fit India Freedom Run” from August 15 (74th Independence Day) to October 2 (151st Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi) through an online programme.

AYUSH Ministry launches campaign “Ayush for Immunity” To enhance immunity and prevent any disease, The Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) has launched a three-month campaign on “AYUSH for Immunity” through webinar on AYUSH Virtual Convention Centre (AVCC), which aims to increase awareness about affordable and easy practices to boost immunity.

Dream11 wins IPL title sponsorship rights Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has awarded the title sponsorship rights of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 to fantasy cricket league platform Dream11 with an average bid of Rs 234 crore per year (222 crores for the first year, Rs 240 crore & 240 crore for 2nd & 3rd year respectively) after Chinese mobile manufacturer Vivo exit from Sponsorship. IPL 2020 is to be held in UAE (United Arab Emirates) from September 19 to November 10, 2020.

Soumya Swaminathan honoured with Tamil Nadu CM’s special award Soumya Swaminathan, Chief Scientist of World Health Organisation (WHO) has received Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s (CM’s) special award on the 74th Independence Day celebration at Fort St George, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, in recognition for her advisory role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic in the state, while the Chief Minister’s Best Practices award was bagged by the Department of Treasuries.

Biodegradable Face Mask “Pavitrapati” & Anti-microbial Body Suit “Aushada Tara” developed: DIAT Defence Institute of Advanced Technology (DIAT), Pune has developed Ayurvedic based Biodegradable Face Mask named “Pavitrapati” and Anti-Microbial Body Suit named “Aushada Tara”. The Transfer of Technology (ToT) for this product was signed between DIAT and Kolhapur based Textile Company Siddheshwar Techtessile Pvt Ltd, Maharashtra for production on mass scale.

INOX Group to sponsor Team India for Tokyo Olympics: IOA Indian Olympic Association (IOA), a governing body for the Olympic Movement in India and INOX Group has signed a sponsorship agreement to support Team India for Tokyo Olympics, which was rescheduled to be held from July 23 to August 8, 2021.

Google launches Kormo Jobs app in India Google has launched an android app called “Kormo Jobs” for job seekers in India, which aims to provide entry-level jobs and helps job seekers find and apply for positions across India. It was launched in Bangladesh in 2018 and subsequently in Indonesia.

Proposal to expand NCC in 173 border, coastal districts approved: Defence minister Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal of the National Cadet Corps(NCC) for a major expansion scheme in 173 border and coastal districts, where one lakh new cadets will be inducted and one-third of them will be girls. A total of 83 NCC units will be upgraded to provide training to the cadets.

Religare Health Insurance renamed Care Health Insurance Religare Health Insurance Company, subsidiary health insurance of Religare Enterprises, has changed its name to ‘Care Health Insurance’ and became effective from August 19, 2020.

England pacer James Anderson became 1st fast bowler to take 600 Test wickets England pacer James Anderson (38) has become the first fast bowler in history to take 600 Test wickets in the third Test against Pakistan at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, England, who is only the fourth bowler in the test cricket to join the 600-Plus Club with the three legendary spinners Sri Lankan Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Australian Shane Warne (708) and Indian Anil Kumble (619).