Book titled Nathuram Godse - The Story of an Assassin released

Nathuram Godse – The Story of an Assassin: Anup Ashok Sardesai

The book titled Nathuram Godse – The Story of an Assassin authored by the Anup Ashok Sardesai was released.

The book was released at the government owned Ravindra Bhavan in Margao, Goa by BJP leader and the bhavan’s chairman Damodar Naik.

The book narrates the story of Nathuram Vinayakrao Godse who died an untimely death and his brother suffered a life of immense mental torture. It also speaks of the family of Godse who faced countless abuses & humiliations.

The author through the book claims that this all was mended because of Godse’s love for his motherland. It also says that Godse is India’s most hated criminal.

Besides, the book justifies Godse’s act of killing Mahatma Gandhi by stating that he was not able to bear the pressure of partition of his country in front of his eyes & slaughtering of his fellow countrymen who were butchered like cows.

It also highlights the reason that forced Godse to decide that he must turn into a killer on 12th January. It also speaks about

• The role of Narayan Apte, Vishnu Karkare, Madanlal Pahwa & Gopal Godse role in the conspiracy

• About involvement of an outsider in the assassination of Gandhi

• On whose instructions was Savarkar arrested and implicated in this crime

• Could this murder have been prevented by the police?

• Was a very influential organization involved in this crime?

• How did Digambar Badge turn approver?

The book release & debate

The book was released on the death anniversary of the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi. This date of release forced certain people and political party to call a protest. Newly formed Goa Forward party and an Independent legislator Vijai Sardesai have opposed the release on the death anniversary.

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Book titled Nathuram Godse - The Story of an Assassin released

Japan unveiled 1st stealth fighter aircraft X 2

Japan unveiled country’s 1st stealth fighter aircraft X 2. The domestically built fighter aircraft seeks to augment defence capabilities of the country that is surrounded by the China & Russia that already have radar evading aircraft technology.

Aircraft X 2 is expected to undergo its 1st test flight in Feb. 2016.
Features of Aircraft X 2

• It has two engines, similar to the F-22 of the USA, and is 46 feet long by 30 feet wide and 15 feet tall.

• Its stealthy features include a special coating on the canopy that houses the pilot, as well as carbon fiber composite material that absorbs radar waves.

• It was built under the code name Mitsubishi Advanced Technology Demonstrator X by the country’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries limited.

• Apart from Mitsubishi, around 200 companies were involved in the development of the unarmed technology demonstrator.

• It was built at a cost of 340 million US dollars and is smaller than a standard jet fighter.

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Japan unveiled 1st stealth fighter aircraft X 2

India won 3 match T-20 series against Australia

On 31st January 2016 India won the 3 match T-20 series against Australia, 3-0. In the 3rd and final T-20 match played in Sydney, India defeated Australia by 7 wickets.

Australia wins the toss and electing to bat, Australia was able to score 197 for 5 in 20 overs after which India surpassed the target of 198 by making 200 for 3 in their 20 overs.

Series Report:

• First Match: Played at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide, Australia on 26th January 2016. India defeated Australia by 37 runs. Virat Kohli (India) was declared the Man of the Match.


• Second Match: Played at Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne on 29th January 2016, India defeated Australia by 27 runs. Virat Kohli (India) was declared the Man of the Match.


• Third Match: Played at Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney, Australia on 31 January 2016. India won the match Seven wickets. Shane Watson (Australia) who smashed 124 runs in 71 balls was declared the Man of the Match.


•  Virat Kohli was declared as the player of the series.


• Indian men’s team also became the number one side in the ICC T20 rankings after whitewashing
  
  Australia in the 3 match series in Sydney.

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India won 3 match T-20 series against Australia

Prince Mahidol Award 2015 conferred in Bangkok

Prince Mahidol Award 2015 was conferred upon Professor Morton Mower and Sir Michael Marmot for outstanding achievements in medicine & public health worldwide.

The award was presented at the Grand Palace in Bangkok by the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on behalf of the King of Thailand Bhumibol Adulyadej, who couldn’t attend the ceremony due to ill health.

Mower, a citizen of the United State America (USA), received the award in the category of medicine for invention of the Automatic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator. The device helps in monitoring heart rate & rhythm and delivers electrical current when abnormality is detected.

Marmot, a citizen of the UK, won the award in public health category for his evidence based evaluation of the role of Social Determinants of Health, a concept that was adopted by the government of the UK and the World Health Organisation (WHO) to eliminate health inequalities.
Prince Mahidol Award

• It was established in 1992 to commemorate the 100th birthday anniversary of Prince Mahidol of Songkla, who is recognized by the Thais as the father of modern medicine & public health of Thailand.

• The award is presented by the Prince Mahidol Award Foundation that was established under the Royal Patronage of the King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

• It is bestowed upon individuals or institutions that have made outstanding and exemplary contributions to the advancement of medical, and public health and human services in the world.

• It is conferred upon by the King of Thailand with prizes worth a total of 100000 US dollars.

• Every year, a committee, consisting of world renowned scientists & public health experts recommend the selection of laureates.

• The committee also recommends on the number of prizes to be awarded annually, which shall not exceed two in any one year.

• The two categories – medicine & public health- were established in commemoration of Prince Mahidol’s graduation with Doctor of Medicine (Cum Laude) and Certificate of Public Health.

• Since its inception in 1992, Dilip Mahalanabis, a pediatrician, is the only Indian who received the award.

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Prince Mahidol Award 2015 conferred in Bangkok

India, ADB ink $80 Million Loan Agreement to Improve Urban Services in Agartala & Aizwal

Union Government and Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed $80million loan agreement to improve urban services in two North Eastern cities Agartala & Aizwal. This loan agreement is the 3rd tranche of a $200 million financing facility of ADB under its North Eastern Region Capital cities Development Investment Program.
Key facts:

The loan funds will be used for investments in water supply, sanitation and solid waste management in Agartala & Aizwal. It will support urban reforms as well as strengthen the institutional, managerial, and financial capacity of service institutions benefiting nearly a million people in the two cities. ADB’s 3rd tranche loan is in the form of ordinary capital resources of 20 year term. Union Ministry of Urban Development is nodal agency for implementing the tranche Three activities and overall program associated with that will have June 2019 deadline. Under NERCDI, the previous program tranches have provided assistance to 5 other cities in the Northeast. They are Aizawl (Mizoram), Shillong (Meghalaya), Gangtok (Sikkim), Kohima (Nagaland) & Agartala (Tripura).

About Asian Development Bank (ADB):
ADB is based in Manila, Philippines.
Established:
Members: It is owned by 67 members – 48 from the region including India. It is dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration.

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India, ADB ink $80 Million Loan Agreement to Improve Urban Services in Agartala & Aizwal

Nitish Kumar selected for the prestigious K Veeramani Social Justice Award

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has been chosen for the prestigious K Veeramani Social Justice Award. N.Kumar has been chosen for this award for his immense contribution for the cause of social justice especially for upliftment of weaker and marginalised sections of the society.
About K Veeramani Social Justice Award:

• The annual award has been instituted by the US based Periyar International, an organisation of non resident followers of Dalit icon Periyar EV Ramasami.


• Award has been named after K Veeramani, the President of Dravidar Kazhagam Party who had opposed to the caste system and had dedicated his life to the welfare of socially disadvanatged.


• The award carries a plaque and cash of One lakh rupees. Previous recipients are late Prime Minister VP Singh, Sitaram Kesri, M Karunanidhi & Mayawati.

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Nitish Kumar selected for the prestigious K Veeramani Social Justice Award

Lieutenant Governor Ajay Kumar Singh launches MITRA app in Puducherry

The Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry Ajay Kumar Singh has launched MITRA application to ensure protection of women, children & elderly in time of distress. The MITRA (Mobile Initiated Tracking and Rescue) application has been developed by the Puducherry Police department in association with National Informatics Centre.
Features of MITRA application:

• It is smartphone based application that helps women to end emergency SOS alert messages when they are danger and distress.


• The application gets launched automatically and sends SMS having user’s precise location to the nearest police station and to their Three registered numbers.


• It does not require an internet connection & presently is available only in smart phones.

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Lieutenant Governor Ajay Kumar Singh launches MITRA app in Puducherry

Dr. Kamlesh Kumar Pandey appointed as new Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities

The Union Government has been appointed Dr. Kamlesh Kumar Pandey as Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities (CCPD) for a period of 3 years. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Pandey was associated with NGO Saksham working in the field of disability. Dr.Pandey is a Science Graduate from University of Allahabad & Medical Graduate from Agra University in 1990. Dr. Pandey was also associated NGO with Sewa Bharti and there he had worked in rehabilitation of slum dwellers. He was also associated with the NGO Akhil Bhartiya Dristihin Kalyan Sangh which is working for visually challenged persons.
About the Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities:

• The CCPD is appointed by the Central Government from persons having special knowledge or practical experience in matters relating to rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities.


• Office of CCPD is statutory government agency functioning under the aegis of Union Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.


• It has been established as per the provisions of Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights & Full Participation) Act, 1995.


• The Chief Commissioner has been vested with the power of a civil court under the Code of Civil Procedure (CCP).

Functions:

• It is mandated to take steps to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities. Take steps to safeguard the rights and facilities made available to persons with disabilities.


• Submit reports to the Central Government on the implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995.


• Coordinate the work of the state Governments’ and UT Commissioners to monitor the utilization of funds disbursed by the Union Government.

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Dr. Kamlesh Kumar Pandey appointed as new Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities

CCEA approves Hybrid Annuity Model for implementing the NH Projects

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its in principle approval for the Hybrid Annuity Model for implementing the National Highway(NH) Projects.Main objective of this model is to revive highway projects in the country by making it as one more mode of delivery of highway projects.
Key features of Hybrid Annuity Model Investment(HAMI):

Government will invest 40% of the construction cost for building highways and the balance 60 % will come from the private developer.Government will investment will be based on the targeted completion of the road project in Five equal installments.

• Recovery: The private developer will be able to recover his investment from the government by receiving annuity payments over a period of 15 years.


• Toll collection: There is a separate provision for operation & management payments by the government to the concessionaire.


• The highway toll tax will be collected by the government i.e. by the National Highways Authority of India unlike in the build, operate and transfer (BOT) toll model in which the private sector collects it.


• Thus, private party does not have to bear traffic and inflation risks as the project cost are also inflation indexed.

Advantages:

• As there is distribution of risk between the government and private players in this model, it will speed up the construction of highways in the country.


• It will play revival in highway development sector as it brings long term infrastructure funds like pension funds into the sector.


• It will facilitate uplifting the socio-economic condition due to increased connectivity across the length & breadth of the country due to enhanced economic activity.


• Expertise of private sector will be utilised to operate & maintain the highways and government no longer will be dependent on its limited financial resources.

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CCEA approves Hybrid Annuity Model for implementing the NH Projects

Union Government announced First batch of 20 smart cities from 11 States & Delhi

The Union Ministry of Urban Development on 28th January 2016 announced the First batch of 20 smart cities from 11 States & Union Territory of Delhi under the Smart Cities Mission.

20 cities were selected through the Smart City Challenge competition that saw the participation of 1.52 crore citizens from 97 cities & towns.

23 States and Union Territories who could not make to the list of winners will be given an opportunity to participate in fast-track competition.
Details related to 20 smart cities

• Among the 20 cities & towns, 3 cities are from Madhya Pradesh, 2 each from Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan and 1 each from the remaining 5 made it to the winning list.

• The 20 winning cities & towns have proposed a total investment of 50802 crore rupees over the 5 years with all the cities proposing Public-Private-Partnership as a major vehicle of resource mobilization. A total area of 26735 acres has been identified by these cities for making them smart cities through necessary interventions.

• These 20 cities account for a total population of 3.54 crore and five have population below five lakhs each, four in the range of 5 to 10 lakhs, six in between 10 to 25 lakhs, four between 25 & 50 lakhs and only Ahmedabad has above 50 lakhs.

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Union Government announced First batch of 20 smart cities from 11 States & Delhi

Akash missile was successfully test fired from complex-3 of the ITR at Chandipuri in Odisha

The Indigenously-built surface to air Akash missile was successfully test fired from complex 3 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipuri in Odisha.
Test: It was as part of user trial mission in which three rounds of test were carried out by the Indian Air Force (IAF) aiming at parac barrel targets.
About Akash Missile:

• Akash is a mid-range surface to air missile. Indigenously developed by the Defence Research & Development Organisation under the Integrated Guided-Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).


• The missile has supersonic speeds ranging from Mach 2.8 to 3.5. It has capability to carry warhead of 60 killo gram.


• It can engage aerial targets up to a range of approximately 25 killo meters.


• It is powered by the Ramjet-rocket propulsion system (RRPS) which renders thrust for the missile to intercept the target at supersonic speed without any retardation.


• It is capable of neutralising aerial targets like as the cruise missiles, fighter jets and air-to-surface missiles. The missile was formally inducted into the IAF in July 2015.


• The 1st missile was delivered in March 2012 to the IAF.

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Akash missile was successfully test fired from complex-3 of the ITR at Chandipuri in Odisha

Union Government formed expert committee to review the Specific Relief Act, 1963

The Legislative Department in the Ministry of Law and Justice on 28th January 2016 constituted an expert committee to review the Specific Relief Act, 1963. The committee will have 5 members besides the Chairman.

The committee has been asked to submit its report within 3 months.

The Specific Relief Act, 963 provides for the law relating to certain kind of specific relief and has not been amended since its inception.

Decision was taken in view of tremendous developments that have taken place after 1963 and also in the context of present scenario involving contract based infrastructure development, public private partnerships and other public projects involving huge investments and enforceability of the contracts thereof.

It is a remedy which aims at the exact fulfillment of an obligation or specific performance of the contract rather than a general relief or damages and compensation. The review of the Act will also ensure ease of doing business.

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Union Government formed expert committee to review the Specific Relief Act, 1963

CTS acquires KBACE Technologies

United States (US) based software services exporter Cognizant Technology Solutions (CTS) has acquired cloud-based computing firm KBACE Technologies. This acquisition will help Cognizant to strength and expands its digital capabilities from its critical business applications to cloud-based IT infrastructures. The terms and amount of the acquisition deal were not disclosed by the company. This acquisition was part of Cognizant’s strategy to diversify businesses into newer geographies. As part of the acquisition, KBACE Technologies’ 400 consultants and implementation experts will become part of Cognizant.

KBACE Technologies’

It is based in New Hampshire and is a leading Oracle Cloud partner that specializes in cloud strategy, implementation and integration. It enjoys a sizable customer base for its Oracle Cloud implementation services.

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CTS acquires KBACE Technologies

Computer Emergency Response Team-In inks cyber security agreements with 3 nations

The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has signed cyber-security agreement with its counter parts in Malaysia, Singapore and Japan. In this regard, the Union Cabinet chaired by the PM Narendra Modi has apprised the Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) signed between CERT-In and three nations.
Key facts:

• These MoUs are related to cyber security and shall promote closer co-operation for exchange of knowledge & experience. Each signatory country will share knowledge & experience in resolution, detection or prevention of security related incidents between India and the respective country.


• Malaysia: MoU between Computer Emergency Response Team-In and its Malaysian counterpart was signed in Kuala-Lumpur in November, 2015 during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Malaysia.


• Singapore: MoU between CERT-In and Singapore Computer Emergency Response Team (SingCERT), Cyber Security Agency (CSA) was signed in November, 2015 during Prime Minister’s visit to Singapore.


• Japan: MoU between CERT-In and Japan Computer Emergency Response Team Co-ordination Center (JPCERT/CC) was signed in December, 2015 through diplomatic exchange.

About the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In):

• CERT-In is nodal department under the aegis of Union Ministry of Communications & Information Technology that deals with cyber security threats like hacking and phishing in India.


• Headquarters: New Delhi. Objective: To protect Indian cyberspace and software infrastructure against destructive and hacking activities.


• Strengthen security related defence of the Indian Internet domain. Issue guidelines, vulnerability notes, advisories, and whitepapers regarding to information security practices, prevention,procedures, response and reporting of cyber security incidents.

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Computer Emergency Response Team-In inks cyber security agreements with 3 nations

Union Cabinet has approves the raising of 17 Indian Reserve Battalions

The Union Cabinet has been approved proposal of raising of 17 Indian Reserve Battalions (IRBs) in  Indian Reserve Battalions and Four Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected states.Decision in this regard was taken by Union Cabinet Meeting chaired by PM Narendra Modi in New Delhi.
Key facts:

• 17 IRBs includes 5 battalions in J&K, four in Chhattisgarh, three each in Jharkhand, Odisha and three in Maharashtra.


• The major thrust in raising these IRBs will be by recruiting local youths. State Government can relax age & educational criteria if required.


• In case of Five IRBs of Jammu &Kashmir, 60 Percent of the vacancies for the posts of constables and class 4 will be filled from the state’s border districts.


• In case of LWE states, 75 percent of the vacancies of constables will be fille 6d up from 27 core districts under Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme.

About Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme:

• The Union Government had introduced scheme of Indian Reserve Battalions in 1971. It is a non-plan scheme.


• The objective of the scheme is to supplement the efforts of the states to deal with the Left Wing Extremism (LWE) i.e. naxalite problem effectively.


• Under it, so far government has sanctioned 153 IRBs in the various states of which 144 IRBs have been raised.


• 1 IRB in Jharkhand has been converted into Specialized Indian Reserve Battalion (SIRB) which is having 2 engineering companies and 5 security companies.

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Union Cabinet has approves the raising of 17 Indian Reserve Battalions

Rajasthan Government inks MoU to join Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana Scheme

Rajasthan Government along with its power distribution companies (DISCOMS) has signed a MoU to join UDAY (Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana) Scheme. State DISCOMS part of this MoU are Jaipur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (JVNL), Jodhpur Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (JVVNL) and Ajmer Vidyut Vitran Nigam Limited (AVNL).
Key facts:

• With this, Rajasthan became third state to sign the MoU under UDAY scheme after Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.


• By joining the UDAY Scheme, discoms in Rajasthan will be able to overcome permanent and sustainable solution for their debt-ridden utilities and achieve financial stability and growth.


• Presently, discoms in Rajasthan have a total debt of 80,500 crore rupees which accounts for 18.7 % of the country’s total discom debt of 4.3 lakh crore rupees.

About Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojna (UDAY):

• UDAY Scheme has been launched by Union Ministry of Power for financial restructuring of debt of power distribution companies.


• It aims for financial revival and turnaround of Power Distribution companies and also ensures a sustainable permanent solution to the problem.


• By becoming part of it, states power DISCOMs can convert their debt into state bonds as well as roll out number of measures to improve efficiency at power plants.


• It seeks to make DISCOMs financially and operationally healthy so they can supply adequate power at affordable rates and play important role in Union Government’s ambition of meeting target of 100% Village electrification and 24X7 Power For All.

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Rajasthan Government inks MoU to join Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana Scheme

The Union Government launches Sahaj Scheme for online booking of LPG cylinders

Union Government has launched the Sahaj Scheme for online booking of LPG cylinders.This scheme was launched by the Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan as part of Government’s 2016 Year of the Consumers initiative.
Features of Scheme:

• Consumers can book LPG cylinders online through the unified web portal www.mylpg.in which is available in 13 languages.


• coustomer can apply online for the new LPG connection and they need not visit to the LPG distributors for it.


• This facility is available around the clock and with online and offline payment options. LPG cylinders will be delivered at home even in their absence.


• The Union government has decided to target of adding Ten crore new LPG connections by December 2018 to present 16.5 crore connections.

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The Union Government launches Sahaj Scheme for online booking of LPG cylinders

India and France singed 14 pacts for co-operation various fields

India and France have singed Fourteen pacts for enhancing bilateral co-operation various fields including the defence, space, railways, education etc. These agreements were signed between the 2 countries after extensive talks between india’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Francois Hollande.
The Signed Agreements are
Defence:MoU on purchase of 36 Rafale Aircrafts.

Space: Implementation Arrangement between ISRO & CNES on hosting Argos 4 Payload onboard Oceansat 3 satellite of India. Implementation Arrangement between ISRO & CNES on a future joint Thermal Infrared earth observation mission. Letter of Intent (LoI) on France’s (CNES) participation in India’s (ISRO’s) next Mars Mission.
Railways: Joint Venture Shareholding Agreement between Indian Railways & Alstom for production of 800 electric locomotives in Madhepura plant in Bihar. Agreement between Indian Railways & French Railways (SNCF) for the joint feasibility study for the renovation of Ambala (Punjab) , Ludhiana (Punjab) railway stations.
Food safety: MOU between Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) & ANSES in food safety.

Public Administration: Partnership Agreement on Co-operation in Public Administration between Union Ministry of Personnel and Public Grievances & France. 

Cultural exchange: Declaration of Intent (DoI) for conducting Bonjour India (French festival) in 2017 and Namaste France (Indian festival) in 2016, Cultural Exchange Programme between both countries for the period 2016-2018 Science and Technology: Arrangement for establishment of an Indo French Ministerial level Joint Committee on Science and Technology.
Education: MoU between IIT Mumbai & Thales Systemes Aeroportes for Industry Sponsored Ph.D Fellowship. Co-operation Agreement for joint research, teaching, exchange of personnel etc between IISER, Pune & ENS de Lyon (France). Agreement of Co-operation in the field of Higher Education and Research between IIT Mumbai and CNRS, TB, UBO, UBS,ENSTA Bretagne,ENIB. Apart from signing these agreements, both countries also discussed on ways to enhance co-operation in counter terrorism, security & civil nuclear energy.

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India and France singed 14 pacts for co-operation various fields

Kerala dentist Sajeev Koshy honoured with the highest civilian honour Order of Australia

On 26 January 2016 Kerala dentist Sajeev Koshy settled in Melbourne was honoured with the highest civilian honour, the Order of Australia.

Koshy was given the award for his service to dentistry in Victoria, Australia. Sanjeev Koshy was honoured on the Australia Day Awards 2016, by the Governor General of Australia.
About Sajeev Koshy:

•Sanjeev Koshy has served as the president of the Kerala Dental Council and president of the Indian Dental Association.

• Sanjeev Koshy is currently the head of the endodontics at the Royal Melbourne Dental Hospital, which is the teaching hospital for the University of Melbourne.
About the Order of Australia

• Order of Australia is an order of chivalry established on 14th February 1975 by Elizabeth II, Queen of Australia.

• It is awarded to recognise Australian citizens and other persons for achievement or meritorious service.

• Before the establishment of the order, Australian citizens would receive British honours.

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Kerala dentist Sajeev Koshy honoured with the highest civilian honour Order of Australia

Maharashtra’s 1st Solar Power operated Mini Water Supply Plant commissioned

The 1st Solar Power operated Mini Water Supply Plant of Maharashtra was commissioned in Hingna village of Mouda Taluka in Nagpur district. It will facilitate villagers to get pure water supply for a very low cost which can easily be borne by the Gram Panchayat.
Key facts:

• The unit has been installed in the village on experimental basis by private company Rite Water Solutions under the supervision of the Zilla Parishad authorities.


• The system delivers 10,000 Litres of purified water every day and runs completely on solar power for which 1800 Watt panels.


• It purifies the water by removing the nitrate content in order to prevent the ill effects on the health of villagers.

Advantages of system:

• It can help to curb the menace of nitrate in the ground water which is becoming a major challenge in most parts of the country due of excessive use of fertilizers in agriculture.


• It has economic considerations as it alleviates the difficulties faced by the local bodies in payment of hefty water supply bills.


• It uses of an effective and environment-friendly cleaner technology that serves very need of people at grass root level

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Maharashtra’s 1st Solar Power operated Mini Water Supply Plant commissioned

The Union Cabinet clears President’s rule in Arunachal Pradesh

Union cabinet headed by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recommended imposition of President’s Rule in Arunachal Pradesh under the Article 356 (1) of the Constitution. Proposal in this regard has been forwarded to President Pranab Mukherjee after the Union Government felt that Congress ruled state is heading for a constitutional breakdown.
Key facts:

• The Union Government took this decision after state assembly failed to comply with the provisions of Article 174 (sessions of the state legislature, prorogation and dissolution) of the Constitution.


• As per the provisions of Article 174, the session of state assembly was to be held in 21st January 2016, 6 months after the last sitting.


• But the state assembly failed to comply with this provision which may led to constitutional breakdown.

Background:

The political crisis in the north eastern hill state began in December 2015 after 21 out of 47 ruling Congress legislators in the Sixty member house rebelled along with 11 BJP and Two independent legislators and extended support to Kalikho Pul to form new government. Arunachal Pradesh Governor Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa also had advanced the date of the convening of the assembly session in order check the majority of ruling government in the assembly.

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The Union Cabinet clears President’s rule in Arunachal Pradesh

Pusarla Venkata Sindhu wins Malaysia Masters Grand Prix Gold Badminton title 2016

Indian Shuttler Pusarla Venkata Sindhu has won the 2016 Malaysia Masters Grand Prix Gold Badminton title. In the final match played at Penang. PV Sindhu defeated Scotland’s Kirsty Gilmour by 21-15, 21-9 score. This was Sindhu’s 2nd title in Malaysia Masters Grand Prix which and earlier she had won in 2013. It was overall 5th career Grand prix gold title and 1st title of the season 2016. Sindhu’s other 4 titles are Malaysia Masters (2013) and hat-trick Macau Open won in 2013, 2014 & 2015.
Winners of 2016 Malaysia Masters Grand Prix Men’s singles category:
Lee Chong Wei (Malaysia). Men’s doubles category: Markus Fernaldi Gideon and Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo (Indonesia).
Women’s doubles category: Misaki Matsutomo and Ayaka Takahashi (Japan). Mixed doubles category: Zheng Siwei and Li Yinhui (China).

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Pusarla Venkata Sindhu wins Malaysia Masters Grand Prix Gold Badminton title 2016

1st Ministerial Meeting of Arab-India Co-operation Forum held Manama,Bahrain

The 1st Ministerial Meeting of Arab,India Co-operation Forum was held Manama, capital city of Bahrain. The meeting was inaugurated by the Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and was attended by the representatives of 22 Arab League nations. Indian side was represented by Union External Affairs (UEA) Minister Sushma Swaraj and also Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar.

Key Highlights:

• The forum seeks to provide platform for India’s bid to reach out to West Asian nations (22 Arab League nations) to further strengthen the economic, trade & financial co-operation. Manama Declaration: Both sides also issued a joint statement called the Manama Declaration.


• Terrorism: The 2 sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and rejected associating it with any religion. They vowed to combat terrorism and called for developing a collective strategy to eliminate its sources and its funding.


• Islamic State: Strongly condemned crimes committed by all terror organisations, especially those committed by the IS.


• Both sides affirmed their respect to the independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Iraq and non interference in its internal affairs in tackling with IS.


• The 2 sides discussed regional and global issues of mutual concern, including developments in the Arab region and in South Asia, counter terrorism, United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms, Palestinian issue and nuclear disarmament.

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1st Ministerial Meeting of Arab-India Co-operation Forum held Manama,Bahrain

19th National Conference on e-Governance begins in Nagpur,Maharashtra

The 19th edition of National Conference on e-Governance has begun in Nagpur. It was inaugurated by the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari and the Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Dr. Jitendra Singh. This edition of conference has been organised by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances in association with the Government of Maharashtra.
Key facts:

• The 2 day conference aims at discussing various aspects of e-Governance ranging from Technology Enabled Services to Cyber Security framework.


• More than 600 delegates have participated in the conference including 150 delegates from Maharashtra and 250 from other States and Fifty participants from the Private Sector.


• The Conference also included an exhibition and brainstorming sessions on Governance by subject experts. Four books on e-Governance were also released at the inaugural session.


• National Awards for e-Governance for the Year 2015-16 in 18 categories including Ten Gold and Eight Silver under various categories were presented during the Valedictory Session.

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19th National Conference on e-Governance begins in Nagpur,Maharashtra

Indian Bureau of Mines inks MoU with NRSC to monitor mining activities using satellite technology

The Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM) has signed MoU with the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) to monitor the mining activities in the country through satellite technology. As part of the MoU, Indian Bureau of Mines would set up exclusive remote sensing cell under the technical guidance of the NRSC at its offices in Nagpur and Hyderabad.
Key facts:

• The remote sensing cell will utilise web based Bhuvan GIS (Geographic Information System) services for monitoring mining activities.


• Initially pilot project will be undertaken to demonstrate the feasibility of using high resolution satellite imagery in monitoring the changes over a period of time in select group of mines.


• The pilot project will be launched in Odisha & Hospet sector of Karnataka to check and validate the consistency of differential GEO positioning system points.


• MoU envisage to train IBM staff to use the modern technology in the course of time and would be extended to the State Governments.

About Indian Bureau of Mines:

• IBM is a multi disciplinary government orgnisation under the aegis of Department of Mines, of Union Ministry of Mines. It was established in 1948.


• It is engaged in promotion of scientific development of mineral resources, conservation & protection of environment in mines other than petroleum and natural gas, coal, atomic minerals and minor minerals.

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Indian Bureau of Mines inks MoU with NRSC to monitor mining activities using satellite technology

Fourth India Africa Hydrocarbons Conference begins in New Delhi

The 4th edition of India Africa Hydrocarbons Conference (IAHC) has begun in New Delhi. 2 day conference aims at enhancing greater co-operation between India & African continent in the field of Hydrocarbons. It also seeks to explore opportunities, bridge boundaries and boost bilateral trade between India & Africa.
Fourth India Africa Hydrocarbons Conference:

• 22 African nations have participated of which nine are represented by their Ministers. These nine countries are Morocco, Algeria, Liberia, Mauritius, South Sudan, Sudan, Tunisia, Equatorial Guinea & Senegal.


• Provide a global forum and common platform to African Countries to share their vision and chart out the road map for extended energy co-operation.


• Bring together African leaders in and also CEOs from India and abroad to exchange expert insights and develop strategies for enhancing energy co-operation.

India and Africa Relations for Energy Security:

• India – African nations have common colonial past and enjoyed political and cultural ties. However, energy security stands as one of the major focus area of the bilateral ties.


• Presently, India is importing close to 75% of its crude oil and is seeking to diversifying import basket to meet its energy requirements.


• Oil imports from Africa play a significant role in meeting the demands of India. In June 2015, Nigeria had stood as the 2nd largest supplier of oil to India.


• Though Africa has huge hydrocarbon resources, it lacks capital, technology & ability, experience and manpower to exploit these resources for future growth.


• This can serve as the catalyst to encourage proper co-operation in the hydrocarbon energy sector as India can provide investment capital for development needs of African countries.

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Fourth India Africa Hydrocarbons Conference begins in New Delhi

Atulesh Jindal appointed as the chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes

Senior Indian Revenue Service (IRS) Officer Atulesh Jindal has been appointed new chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). His appointment was cleared by the Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Atulesh Jindal will succeed Arun Kumar who has completed his term. Jindal will have tenure of 6 months till he retires in July 2016. Atulesh is a 1978 batch IRS officer and currently working as member (revenue) in the CBDT.

About Central Board of Direct Taxes:

• CBDT is apex policy making body of Income Tax department in India and is the supreme body for framing policies related to direct taxes.


• It is a statutory authority established under The Central Board of Revenue Act, 1963. The composition of Central board of direct taxes includes Chairman and 6 members.

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Atulesh Jindal appointed as the chairman of Central Board of Direct Taxes

Union Cabinet approves amendments of Power Tariff Policy to promote clean energy

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of the Union Ministry of Power for amendments in the Power Tariff Policy 2006. The comprehensive amendments bring required changes for holistic view of the power sector and also to achieve the objectives of Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY) with the focus on 4 Es.

These 4 Es are:

Electricity for all, Environment for a sustainable future, Efficiency to ensure affordable tariffs, Ensure financial viability and Ease of doing business to attract investments.
Key Highlights:

• Electricity 24X7 power supply will be ensured to all consumers. In this case state governments & regulators will devise appropriate power supply trajectory to achieve this.


• Micro Grids will provide power to remote unconnected villages. It will have provision for purchase of power into the grid.


• People near coal mines will be provided with affordable power through procurement of power from coal washery reject based plants.


• Efficiency Reduce power cost to consumers through expansion of the existing power plants. For reduction in overall power cost, benefit from sale of un-requisitioned power to be shared.


• Through competitive bidding process, transmission projects will be developed in order to ensure faster completion at very lower cost.


• To enable Time of Day metering installations of smart meters will be fasten. It will help to reduce theft & allow net-metering. Creating transmission capacity for accessing power from across India for lower power cost.

Environment

• Renewable Power Obligation (RPO):


• By March 2022, 8 percent of electricity consumption shall be from solar energy in order to promote renewable energy & energy security.


• Renewable Generation Obligation (RGO):
  
  New thermal plants based coal/ligniteto establish/purchase/ procure renewable capacity. Transmission charges and losses will be not levied for solar & wind power between inter-State power transmission. 100 percent power procurement produced from Waste to Energy plants in order to give big boost to Swachh Bharat Mission.


• Ease of Doing Business:


• Investments will be encouraged in coal rich states like West Bengal(WB), Odisha, Jharkhand & Chhattisgarh to generate employment.

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Union Cabinet approves amendments of Power Tariff Policy to promote clean energy

Union Cabinet approves Policy on Promotion of City Compost

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval to Policy on Promotion of City Compost.This policy will help in circulating compost produced from city waste for the purpose of farming & agriculture.
Key features of Policy:

• For increasing production & consumption of City Compost, provision for Market development assistance of Rs. 1500 per tonne of city compost has been added.


• Farmers will be benefitted from lower MRP of city compost as result of Market development assistance. To ensure that environment friendly quality city compost, eco Mark standard has been made mandatory.


• Fertilizer companies will co-market City Compost along with chemical fertilizers. For promoting the use of compost, these companies will adopt villages.


• It will be mandatory for public Sector undertakings and Government Departments to use City Compost for purpose of their horticulture.


• Concerned Ministries will undertake campaigns to create awareness amoung farmer about benefits of city compost and its uses.


• Agriculture Universities and other departments will also contribute in demonstration activities related to use of City compost.


• In the initial phase, promotion and marketing of city compost will be done through the existing fertilizer companies.


• But later, it will be done by the compost manufacturers and other marketing entities after the approval from Department of Fertilisers.


• Benefits Composting is process of recycling of organic matter or waste into useful fertilizers for soil. Compost obtained from city garbage will provide primary as well as secondary nutrients to soil improving its productivity.


• It will play pivotal role municipal waste management especially keeping the city clean and also generate revenue from the waste.


• It will also generate employment in urban areas as compare the rural areas. Prevent the production of harmful greenhouse gases (GHGs) especially methane (CH4) and toxic material. Thus, keeping environment and groundwater clean.

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Union Cabinet approves Policy on Promotion of City Compost

New tree frog genus named Frankixalus discovered in north eastern India

Researchers have discovered a new genus of tree hole-breeding frogs named Frankixalus in the forests of northeast India and bordering parts of china. It was discovered by the team of researchers led by Professor Sathyabhama Das Biju who is popularly known as the frogman of India.

Key facts:

The new genus has been named after Professor Franky Bossuyt of Brussel based Vrije Universiteit for his contribution in amphibian research. Frog populations of this genus live in pools of water in the trunks of canopy trees especially in tree holes. They live in low-resource environments which are common practice among frogs and tadpoles of these frogs eat their mother’s eggs for sustenance. Findings in this regard have been published in a paper in the international journal PLoS One. It should be noted that this new genus includes species of frogs which were first described in 1876 based solely on museum specimens.

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New tree frog genus named Frankixalus discovered in north eastern India

Guenter Butschek appointed as Managing Director and CEO of Tata Motors Limited

India’s largest automaker Tata Motors limited has appointed Guenter Butschek as chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director (MD) of the company. In his new role Guenter Butschek will lead all operations of Tata Motors in India & international markets, including South Korea, Indonesia, Thailand & South Africa. Prior to this appointment he had served as chief operating officer (COO) of plane maker Airbus Group SA and also was member of the group executive committee. Prior to Airbus, he had worked with Daimler AG for more than 25 years in international automotive management and had lead functions like industrialization, production & procurement. His last role at Daimler AG was as president and CEO of Beijing Benz Automotive Co. Limited.which is a joint venture between Daimler and Beijing Automotive Industrial Holding.

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Guenter Butschek appointed as Managing Director and CEO of Tata Motors Limited

France President declares a state of economic emergency

French President Francois Hollande has declared a state of economic emergency to redefine France’s economic and social model. Under the ambit emergency, government has proposed series of economic measures to boost long-stagnant economic growth and reduce chronic unemployment.

Proposed economic measures are:

• Training half a million jobless workers, greater use of apprenticeships and aiding companies for hiring young workers.


• Updating country’s labour-friendly business model in an increasingly online and border-free economy.


• Loosening rigid working time rules including 35-hour workweek and a bonus of 2,000 euros to small businesses that hire young people.


• Integrate youth from France’s troubled suburbs especially minorities who face job discrimination into the global economy.


• These measures will be included in draft economic reform laws which French government is going to present in parliament.

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France President declares a state of economic emergency

Anuradha Roy won DSC 2016 Prize for Sleeping on Jupiter

Anuradha Roy won the prestigious DSC 2016 Prize for South Asian Literature for her novel Sleeping on Jupiter at the Galle Literary Festival in Sri Lanka.

Anuradha Roy was awarded the prize and a unique trophy by the Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The 6 shortlisted authors in contention for the prestigious prize were:

• UK based Indian origin author Akhil Sharma for Family Life

• KR Meera’s Hangwoman (Translated by J Devika)

• Mirza Waheed’s The Book of Gold Leaves

• Neel Mukherjee’s The Lives of Others

• Raj Kamal Jha for She Will Build Him A City
About Anuradha Roy:

• Roy is an award winning Indian novelist, journalist & editor.

• She did her schooling at South Point School, Kolkata followed by St. Thomas School, Kidderpore.

• She studied English Literature at Presidency College, Calcutta & Cambridge University.

• Anuradha Roy is the co-founder of Permanent Black, a publishing house started in 2000.

• Her 1st novel, An Atlas of Impossible Longing has been translated into fifteen languages across the world. It was named by World Literature Today as one of the 60 Essential English Language Works of Modern Indian Literature.
About DSC Prize for South Asian Literature:

• The DSC Prize for South Asian Literature is a literary prize awarded annually to writers of any ethnicity or nationality writing about South Asia with themes such as culture, politics, history or people.

• The prize was instituted by DSC Limited, an Indian infrastructure & construction company.

• It is for an original full length novel written in English, or translated into English.

• The winner of the prize receives 2800000 rupees (about 50000 US dollars).

• In 2015, Jhumpa Lahiri won the prize for her novel The Lowland. Cyrus Mistry won it for Chronicle of a Corpse Bearer in 2014.

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Anuradha Roy won DSC 2016 Prize for Sleeping on Jupiter

Viktor Troicki wins WTA 2016 Apia International title of Tennis

Viktor Troicki from Serbia has won the WTA 2016 Apia International title of Tennis in the men’s single category.Viktor Troicki defended this tittle by defeated Grigor Dimitrov from Bulgaria by 2–6, 6–1, 7–6, (9–7) score in the final match played at Sydney. It was overall his 3rd ATP’s single career title after 2010 Kremlin Cup and 2015 Apia International Sydney title. Men’s Doubles Jamie Murray (UK) & Bruno Soares (Brazil) pair won the WTA 2016 Apia International title in the men’s double category. In the final match they defeated Rohan Bopanna (India) & Florin Mergea (Romania) pair by 6–3, 7–6(8–6) score.

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Viktor Troicki wins WTA 2016 Apia International title of Tennis