testbook · Tata Steel won the Prime Minister's Trophy Best Woman Parliamentarian Award for KanimozhiPrivate steel major Tata Steel Limited won the Prime Minister's Trophy for the

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Current Affairs Monthly Capsule I 1st December

to 31st December 2018 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 9thto 15th

September 2018

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to 31st December 2018 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 9thto 15th

September 2018

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Table of Contents Awards &Honours ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Days & Events ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 5

International Affairs .................................................................................................................................................................................. 7

National Affairs ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 10

India & World .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 13

Personalities in News .............................................................................................................................................................................. 14

Government Policies & Schemes ............................................................................................................................................................ 15

Science & Technology ............................................................................................................................................................................. 20

Books & Authors ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 21

Environment ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 22

Committees & Recommendations .......................................................................................................................................................... 22

Business & Economy ............................................................................................................................................................................... 22

Sports ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25

Defence ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 28

Polity ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 29


to 31st December 2018 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 23rdto 29th

September 2018 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 16thto 22nd

September 2018 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 19th to 25th

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Awards &Honours

National Nritya Shiromani Award for Anindita

US-based Kathak exponent Anindita Neogy Anaam will be honoured with the 'National Nritya Shiromani' award for 2019 on 2 January 2019.

She will be given the award for promoting the Kathak Dance across the world.

The award would be conferred on her in Cuttack on the opening day of the 10th 'Cuttack Mahotsav: International Dance and Music Festival'.

Documentary wins award at a film festival

'Finding Beauty in Garbage' received the Best Short documentary film award in 'Asia South East International Short Film Festival' in Cambodia on 28 December 2018.

The Film which is based on the garbage of Dibrugarh town in upper Assam.

The seven-minute film was produced, directed, and scripted by Satyamam Dutta who is an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) Officer presently posted in Dibrugarh.

Chamba SP conferred 'Champion of Change' award

Chamba's Superintendent of Police Monika Bhutunguru was conferred with the 'Champion of Change' award by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on 27 December 2018.

She was awarded for her immense contribution, exemplary work and bringing a significant change in the Chamba district.

The award selection jury was led by former Chief Justice of India K G Balakrishna.

Govt institutes 'Aapda Prabandhan Puraskaar'

The government of India has instituted the 'Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskaar'.

The award will be given to recognise the excellent work done by individuals and institutions in the field of disaster management.

If the awardee is an institution, it will be given a cash prize of Rs 51 lakh.

If the awardee is an individual, the person will receive a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh.

Champions of Change award given to Manipur CM

Manipur's Chief Minister N Biren Singh was conferred with the 'Champions of Change' award by Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on 26 December 2018.

He was awarded for his exemplary leadership in bringing about transformation in governance in the northeastern state.

The award selection jury was led by former Chief Justice of India K G Balakrishna and former Supreme Court judge Sudha Mishra.

Swachch Bharat Grand Challenge Award announced

As part of the Swachhta Pakhwada held from 1 to 15 November 2018, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) organised a 'Swachch Bharat Grand Challenge'.

This was organised to reward innovative solutions by DIPP recognized Start-ups in the country.

Four areas of sanitation, waste management, water and wastewater management, and air management were selected for the grand challenge.

Sitarist Manju Mehta gets 'Tansen Samman'

Sitar player Manju Mehta was conferred with the 'Tansen Samman' for 2018 by the Madhya Pradesh government

The award was given for her contribution in the field of music.

She was given a cash award of Rs 2 lakh and a memento.

She was presented with the award at the inaugural ceremony of the Tansen Music Festival on 25 December 2018.

'Rafi Award' conferred to Laxmikant & Usha

The 'Mohammed Rafi Award 2018' was given to late music composer Laxmikant Shantaram Kudalkar and playback singer Usha Timothy.

Laxmikant was given the Mohammed Rafi Lifetime Achievement Award consisting of 1 lakh rupees and a trophy.

Usha Timothy was honoured with the award and 51,000 rupees.

The awards were instituted by the NGO Spandan Arts.

Railways bags Energy Conservation Awards

The Railways has bagged 17 awards at the ‘National Energy Conservation awards 2018' on 14 December 2018.

It participated in three categories: Railway stations, hospitals, and institutions.

Under ‘transport’ category, railways obtained 10 awards for the sub-sector railway station.

Under ‘building’ category, it bagged three awards for sub-sector Railway hospitals.

Suresh Prabhu conferred with Skoch Award 2018

Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu was conferred the 'Skoch Golden Jubilee Challenger Award 2018' on 22 December 2018.

He was awarded for his contribution to reforms, particularly in the power sector reforms.

The Skoch Challenger Awards are the highest independently instituted civilian honours.

40 workers selected for PM Shram Awards 2017

On 20 December 2018, the Government of India has decided to confer the Prime Minister’s Shram Awards for the year 2017 to be awarded to 40 workers.

They are employed in the Departmental Undertakings & Public Sector Undertakings of the Central and State Governments and Private Sector Units.

The awards are in recognition of their distinguished performances in the field of productivity.

Handicrafts Export Awards announced

Union Minister of Textiles, Smriti Irani, presented awards to handicrafts exporters for their outstanding performance in exports for the year 2015-16 & 2016-17 on 19 December 2018.

The awards for outstanding performance of handicrafts exports were given under different categories to 136 exporters.

70 awards were given for the year 2015-16 and 66 awards were distributed for the year 2016-17.

'Period. End of Sentence' in Oscars

'Period. End of Sentence' has made it to the Oscar shortlist in the Documentary Short Subject category.

The film is about women in India fighting against the deeply rooted stigma of menstruation and delving upon the work of real-life ‘Pad Man’ Arunachalam Muruganantham.

India’s entry for the Foreign Language Film Category, 'Village Rockstars' is out of the Oscar list.

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Jeff Bridges will be awarded 'Cecil B deMille'

Veteran actor Jeff Bridges will receive the 'Cecil B DeMille' award 2018 at the 76th annual Golden Globe Awards.

The 'Cecil B DeMille' award is given annually to a talented individual who has made a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.

Bridges' first Golden Globe nomination came in 1984 for best actor in 'Starman'.

French govt. honours producer Ashok Amritraj

Film producer Ashok Amritraj was honoured with the 'French Knight of the National Order of Merit' on 14 December 2018.

Mr Amritraj has been the producer of Hollywood films such as Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance with Nicholas Cage and 99 Homes starring Andrew Garfield.

He was awarded for his contribution to the world of cinema and Indo-French film industry.

Women Transforming India Awards 2018

Government think-tank NITI Aayog will organise the 3rd edition of the 'Women Transforming India Awards' 2018 on 16 December 2018.

It will also launch the upgraded portal of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will present the awards and launch the portal.

The awards were instituted to recognise and celebrate stories of exemplary women from across India.

Amitav Ghosh honoured with 'Jnanpith Award'

Noted English writer Amitav Ghosh has been honoured with the 'Jnanpith Award' 2018 for outstanding contribution towards literature.

The decision was taken in a meeting of Jnanpith Selection Board chaired by eminent novelist, scholar and Jnanpith laureate Pratibha Ray.

He is known for a series of novels such as 'The Shadow Lines', 'The Glass Palace', and 'The Hungry Tide'.

Tata Steel won the Prime Minister's Trophy

Private steel major Tata Steel Limited won the Prime Minister's Trophy for the 'Best Performing Integrated Steel Plant' in the country for 2016-17.

It also won the award for 2014-15 and 2015-16.

It was the fourth consecutive year when the company was honoured with this award.

The award has been instituted to recognize the outstanding performance of integrated steel plants in the country.

'Doordarshan Mahila Kisan' Awards launched

Prasar Bharati Chairman Dr A Surya Prakash launched 'Doordarshan Mahila Kisan' Awards programme on DD Kisan Channel in New Delhi on 14 December 2018.

The award is an effort to bring the stories of struggle and success of women farmers in front of the country.

The women farmers have been selected by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

8 parliamentarians awarded by M Venkaiah Naidu

Eight parliamentarians were honoured by Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu for their contribution in strengthening parliamentary democracy on 13 December 2018.

Rajya Sabha MP Sharad Pawar and veteran leader Murli Manohar Joshi got the 'Lifetime Achievement' award.

Ghulam Nabi Azad and BJP MP Nishikant Dubey were selected for the 'Best Parliamentarians' award 2018.

Iranian Film 'Dark Room' won an award at IFFK

Iranian movie 'Dark Room' bagged the 'Suvarna Chakoram' (The Golden Crow Pheasant) award in the 23rd edition of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IIFK) on 13 December 2018.

The movie revolves around the efforts of the parents of a boy to identify the abusers of their child.

'The Dark Room' will get a cash prize of Rs 15 lakh, which will be shared with the producer.

Jharkhand gets 'Krishi Karman' award

Jharkhand has been selected for the 'Krishi Karman' award in the rice category from the Union Ministry of Agriculture on 13 December 2018.

The award to be given away in February 2019 carries a cash prize of Rs 2 crore and a citation.

Each farmer would be given a cash award of Rs 2 lakh along with citation.

UN honoured Indian startup 'HelpUsGreen'

Uttar Pradesh-based 'HelpUsGreen' named startup has been honoured by the UN.

The startup works to clean up the mighty river Ganga by recycling thousands of tonnes of floral waste from temples.

'HelpUsGreen' has come up with the world's first profitable solution to the monumental temple waste problem: 'flowercycling'.

Mary Kom honoured with highest civilian title

Manipur Government honoured MC Mary Kom with the title 'Meethoileima' (par excellent queen) in Imphal on 11 December 2018.

She was honoured with the title 'Meethoileima' for winning the sixth gold medal in the World Boxing Championship 2018.

On the occasion, state's Chief Minister N. Biren Singh handed over a cheque of ten lakh rupees to her.

Shyam Sundar won the Sahitya Akademi Award

Shyam Sundar Besra has been conferred the 'Sahitya Akademi Award 2018' on 5 December 2018.

He has been awarded for his novel 'Marom' in Santhali language.

The novel highlights the situation emerged after the two main industrial development of the Santhal area after Independence.

He is the Chief Inspector of Ticket working in Asansol Division of Eastern Railway.

Best Woman Parliamentarian Award for Kanimozhi

DMK MP Kanimozhi has been selected for the 'Best Woman Parliamentarian Award' (Rajya Sabha) set up by Lokmat newspaper for 2018.

A jury of eminent personalities headed by Murali Manohar Joshi selected her for the award.

The award will be presented to her by Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu on 13 December 2018.

Imran won the Sanctuary Wildlife Service Award

Conservationist Imran Siddiqui has been honoured with 'Sanctuary Wildlife Service Award 2018' on 8 December 2018.

He is the Assistant Director for Conservation Science at Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)-India that monitors tigers.

The Sanctuary Wildlife Awards are organised annually by the Sanctuary Nature Foundation.

IIT-Mandi professor won Biotechnologist Award

Rajanish Giri has been awarded the 'Innovative Young Biotechnologist Award (IYBA) 2018'.

He was selected for his proposed innovative idea on Zika virus Capsid Folding and inhibitor discovery.

He is the assistant professor from the Indian Institute of Technology-Mandi (IIT-Mandi).

The 'Innovative Young Biotechnologist Award' (IYBA) was instituted by the Department of Biotechnology in 2005.

Rattan Lal won 'Glinka World Soil Prize 2018'

He was awarded for his outstanding contribution to sustainable soil management and the protection of soil resources.





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The 'Glinka World Soil Prize' is considered the highest honour in the soil science profession.

Rattan Lal has won the 'Glinka World Soil Prize 2018' in a ceremony held at the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) headquarters in Rome on 6 December 2018.

MNRE conferred 'Skoch Award 2018'

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has been conferred the 'Skoch Award for National Significance 2018' in New Delhi on 7 December 2018.

The award has been conferred on the Ministry considering its purpose and critical role played in installing about 73 GW renewable energy capacity in the country.

The award was received by Ministry of New Renewable Energy Secretary Anand Kumar.

S. Ramakrishnan won Sahitya Akademi Award

Tamil writer S. Ramakrishnan has won the 'Sahitya Akademi Award 2018' on 5 December 2018.

He has been awarded for his novel 'Sancharam'.

The novel deals with the lives of nadhaswaram artistes.

The Sahitya Akademi award is among the most prestigious literary honours bestowed on writers for their works across genres and languages.

G. Venkatasubbaiah got Bhasha Samman for South

G. Venkatasubbaiah has been chosen for the Sahitya Akademi’s 'Bhasha Samman' for South (2017) on 5 December 2018.

The award has been given in recognition of his contribution to the field of classical and medieval literature.

The other winners of 'Bhasha Samman': Yogendra Nath Sharma was awarded for the North zone, Gagendra Nath Das for the East zone, and Shailaja Bapat for the West zone.

Delhi Minister Imran Hussain awarded by PETA

Delhi environment minister Imran Hussain received 'Hero to Animals Award' by the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)-India on 2 December 2018.

He received the award for banning the Chinese manjha, or the glass-coated kite strings, across Delhi.

Mr Hussain in July 2018 had called for a complete ban on the sale, production, storage and import of the Chinese manjha.

Abhinav Bindra won ISSF's 'Blue Cross' award

On 30 November 2018, shooter Abhinav Bindra was conferred with the 'Blue Cross' by the International Shooting Sports Federation's (ISSF).

It is the ISSF's highest award.

He was awarded for his outstanding services as the Chairman of the International Shooting Sports Federation's Athletes Committee.

He won the gold medal in 10m air rifle event at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

Days & Events

Indian Social Science Congress inaugurated

The 42nd Indian Social Science Congress was inaugurated by Manipur Governor Dr. Najma Heptulla in Bhubaneswar on 27 December 2018.

The theme of the congress is ‘Human Future in Digital Era’.

Indian Social Science Congress is the annual meet of social scientists organized by Indian Social Science Academy (ISSA).

Childres's Science Congress inaugurated

The 26th National Childres's Science Congress was inaugurated by the Odisha's Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in Bhubaneswar on 27 December 2018.

The event will provide a platform for children to showcase their creativity and ability in science innovation.

The event is supported by the National Council for Science and Technology Communication (NCSTC).

Indian Science Congress to be held on 3 Jan 19

The 106th Indian Science Congress will be held on 3 January 2019 at Lovely Professional University in Punjab.

The theme of the four-day event is 'Future India: Science and Technology'.

The aim of the event is to bring together science fraternity from across the world to discuss innovations and researches.

It is organised by the Indian Science Congress Association.

Good Governance Day: 25 December

Good Governance Day is observed annually on 25th December, the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Good Governance Day was established by the government of India in 2014.

The aim of the day is to make people aware of the government's commitment to providing a transparent and accountable administration in the country.

National Consumer Day: 24 December

National Consumer Day is observed in India every year on 24 December.

The theme for 2018 National Consumer Day is 'Timely Disposal of Consumer Complaints'.

On this day the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 had received the assent of the President.

The Consumer Protection Act aims to provide consumers with effective safeguards against different types of exploitation.

National Mathematics Day: 22 December

The National Mathematics Day is observed every year in India on 22 December.

The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan.

He was the first Indian to be elected a Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge University.

He made significant contributions to mathematical analysis, number theory, infinite series, and continued fractions.

International Human Solidarity Day: 20 Dec

International Human Solidarity Day is observed every year on 20 December.

The aim of the day is to remind people about the importance of solidarity in working towards eradicating poverty, hunger, and disease.

The day also aims to remind governments to respect their commitments to international agreements.

International Migrants Day: 18 December

International Migration Day is observed every year on 18 December.

The aim of the day is to recognize the efforts, contributions, and rights of migrants worldwide.

The theme for 2018 is 'Migration with Dignity'.

On this day, in 1990, the Assembly adopted the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.

Vijay Diwas celebrated on 16 December

Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year in India on 16 December.

The day marks the Indian military's victory over Pakistan in 1971 during the war for the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan.

On this day, 93,000 members of Pakistani troops surrendered to the Indian Army and Mukti Bahini, calling an end to the Indo-Pak war of 1971.

1st Workshop on Explosives Detection held

A trace explosive detection device, 'OPX-Revelator', developed by HEMRL was also unveiled during the workshop.





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The first National Workshop on Explosives Detection was inaugurated at High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) in Pune on 14 December 2018.

The OPX Revelator is a portable, miniaturised, an electronic detector capable of detecting almost all the explosives.

National Energy Conservation Day: 14 December

National energy conservation day is celebrated every year in India on 14 December.

The aim of the day is to raise awareness about the importance of energy efficiency and conservation.

The day was established by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in 2001 when they executed the Energy Conservation Act of India.

Universal Health Coverage Day: 12 December

International Universal Health Coverage Day is observed on 12 December.

The aim of the day is to raise awareness about the need for strong and resilient health systems and universal health coverage with multi-stakeholder partners.

The theme for 2018 is 'Unite for Universal Health Coverage: Now is the Time for Collective Action'.

International Day of Neutrality: 12 December

International Day of Neutrality is observed every year on 12 December.

The aim of the day is to raise public awareness of the value of neutrality in international relations.

It was officially declared by a UN General Assembly resolution adopted in February 2017 and first observed on 12 December 2017.

International Mountain Day: 11 December

International Mountain Day (IMD) is observed every year on 11 December.

The aim of the day is to raise awareness about the importance of mountains.

The theme for 2018 is '#MountainsMatter'.

Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) is the coordinating agency for celebrating International Mountain Day and is mandated to lead observance of it at the global level.

'India Day' inaugurated in New Delhi

'India Day' was inaugurated in New Delhi on 10 December 2018.

It is the official side event organised jointly by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the development partners ahead of 'Partners’ Forum 2018'.

The aim of the event is to highlight the government's Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCH+A) programme.

Human Rights Day: 10 December

Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December.

On this day, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.

This year, Human Rights Day marks the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The theme for 2018 is 'Stand up for the human rights'.

1st Conference on Sustainable Water Management

The first International Conference on 'Sustainable Water Management' is being organised in Mohali from 10 to 11 December 2018.

The conference is being organised by the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).

The aim of the Conference is to promote sustainable policies for water management and to create awareness of water-related problems.

Armed Forces Flag Day: 7 December

Armed Forces Flag Day is observed throughout India on 7 December.

The aim of the day is to honour the martyrs as well as men and women in uniform, who valiantly fight on borders to safeguard India.

The ‘Armed forces Flag Day Fund’ (AFFDF) has been constituted by the Government of India for the welfare and rehabilitation of the Ex-Servicemen (ESM) community.

International Anti-Corruption Day: 9 Dec

International Anti-Corruption Day is observed every year on 9 December.

The aim of the day is to raise awareness about the adverse effects of corruption.

A joint global campaign-'United Against Corruption'-has been developed for the year 2018.

The campaign focuses on how corruption affects education, health, justice, democracy, prosperity and development.

Aero India and aviation expo to be merged

For the first time, the country’s civil aviation exhibition will be merged with the 'Aero India 2019'.

The Aero India 2019 and the aviation exhibition will be held at Bengaluru from 20 to 24 February 2019.

So far, 'Aero India' has been defence-oriented while a separate civil aviation exhibition is held in Hyderabad.

The tagline of Aero India 2019 is 'Runway for a billion opportunities'.

International Civil Aviation Day: 7 December

International Civil Aviation Day is observed every year on 7 December.

The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of the importance of international civil aviation to the social and economic development of States.

For 2018, the theme of the day is 'Working Together to Ensure No Country is Left Behind'.

Startup India summit to be organized

India has the world’s third largest startup base.





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The Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Government of Goa will organise the annual 'Startup India Venture Capital Summit' in Goa on 7 December 2018.

The theme of the Summit is ‘Mobilizing Global Capital for Innovation in India'.

The event will showcase the Indian startup opportunity for funds from around the world.

International Volunteer Day: 5 December

International Volunteer Day (IVD) is observed every year on 5 December.

It is an international observance mandated by the UN General Assembly in 1985.

The theme for IVD 2018 is 'Volunteers build Resilient Communities'.

IVD is a chance for individual volunteers, communities and organisations to promote their contributions to development at the local, national and international levels.

World Soil Day observed on 5 December

World Soil Day is observed every year on 5 December.

The aim of the day is to focus attention on the importance of healthy soil and advocating for the sustainable management of soil resources.

The theme for World Soil Day 2018 is 'Be the Solution to Soil Pollution'.

'Water Impact Summit' to be held from 5 Dec

'India Water Impact Summit 2018' will be held in New Delhi from 5 December 2018 to 7 December 2018.

The summit will be organised by the National Mission for Clean Ganga and the Centre for Ganga River Basin Management and Studies.

It is an annual event where stakeholders get together to discuss, debate and develop model solutions for some of the biggest water related problems in the country.

Conference on bears began in Agra

International conference on bears is being organised in Agra from 3 December 2018 to 6 December 2018.

The conference is hosted by Wildlife SOS, a conservation non-profit.

The conference aims to share knowledge on principles of welfare of bears and other wild animals in zoos, sanctuaries and rescue centres.

Indian Navy Day celebrated on 4 December

Indian Navy Day is celebrated every year on 4 December.

The day is celebrated in honour of the Indian Navy's role during the war with Pakistan in 1971 when Indian warships attacked Karachi port.

The day is also celebrated to highlight the role the Navy plays in securing the country's marine borders during peacetime and carrying out humanitarian missions.

WCO policy commission commenced on 3 Dec

The 80th session of the three-day Policy Commission of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) began in Mumbai from 3 December 2018.

The meeting will conclude on 5 December 2018.

Issues like trade facilitation and controlling illicit financial flow will be discussed at the meeting.

The meeting is being organised by the WCO and hosted by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs.

Day of Persons with Disabilities: 3 December

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed every year on 3 December.

The aim of the day is to increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic, and cultural life.

The theme for 2018 is 'Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality'.

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery

The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is observed every year on 2 December.

The focus of this day is on eradicating contemporary forms of slavery.

Slavery includes trafficking of persons, sexual exploitation, the worst forms of child labour, forced marriage and the forced recruitment of children for use in armed conflict.

The day was first celebrated in 1986.

'CII Agro Tech 2018' inaugurated in Chandigarh

President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated the 'International CII Agro Tech 2018' in Chandigarh on 1 December 2018.

It is organised by Confederation of Indian Industries (CII).

The theme for 'International CII Agro Tech 2018' is 'Technology in Agriculture: Increasing Farmer's Income'.

The partner country is Great Britain while focus countries are Canada and China.

World AIDS Day: 1 December

World AIDS Day is observed on 1st December each year.

The aim of the day is to spread awareness about the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

The theme for 2018 is 'Know Your Status'.

The 2018 theme focusses on the importance of HIV testing as a gateway to HIV prevention and treatment.

The day was first initiated by the World Health Organisation in 1988.

International Affairs

PM Sheikh Hasina wins the election

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina secured her third consecutive term on 29 December 2018.

Her ruling party Awami League and its allies have won 288 of the 300 parliamentary seats contested, surpassing its previous election wins.

Bangladesh's parliament has 350 seats in total, 50 of which are reserved for women and allotted proportional to the overall vote.

UN issues Chinese edition of its Basic facts

The United Nations issued the Chinese version of the latest edition of the 'Basic Facts about the United Nations'.

The Basic facts serve as the definitive introduction to the UN and its family of related institutions and agencies.

With this, the UN publication has been issued in all the six official languages-- Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, and Spanish.

Single-use plastic free flight introduced

Portuguese airline 'Hi Fly' introduced single-use plastic free flight on 29 December 2018.

The flight took off from Lisbon to Natale, Brazil, without a single piece of single-use plastic on board.

There were no plastic cups, plastic silverware, plastic cocktail stirrer, and plastic food containers.

Pakistan to issue 'Panda bonds'

Pakistan's cabinet has approved the issuance of first-ever renminbi-denominated 'Panda Bonds'.

It will issue the bonds to raise loans from China's capital markets.

It expects to raise $500 million to $1 billion in different tranches.

The interest rate may be over 5.5% but the final price will be determined at the time of launching the bond.

Russia successfully tests hypersonic missile

Russia's Defence Ministry successfully conducted the final tests of the 'Avangard' hypersonic missile system on 26 December 2018.

The intercontinental 'Avangard' system would be ready for use from 2019.

It can fly at 20 times the speed of sound and can be maneuvered up and down.





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It is designed using new composite materials to withstand temperatures of up to 2,000 degrees Celsius.

Nepal caps expenditure of its citizens

On 25 December 2018, Nepal imposed a monthly limit on the amount of Indian currency its citizen can spend in India.

Nepali citizen would not be able to spend more than Rs. 1 lakh every month while paying for goods and services in India.

The policy is applicable to prepaid, credit, and debit cards of Nepali banks.

The decision was taken to deal with the current account deficit of Nepal.

Italy's Mount Etna erupts

Italy's Mount Etna erupted on 24 December 2018, causing a magnitude 3.3 earthquake and the closure of Sicily's Catania Airport.

The Mount Etna observatory said lava had spewed from a new fracture near its south-eastern crater.

Mount Etna is Europe's highest and most active volcano.

In June 2013, it was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Japan announces withdrawal from IWC

Japan has announced its withdrawal from the International Whaling Commission (IWC)in 2019.

It will resume commercial hunting of whales in its territorial waters and exclusive economic zone from July 2019.

Japan will not be able to continue hunting of whale for the scientific research in the Antarctic.

Japan joins Iceland and Norway which defies the IWC's ban on commercial whale hunting.

Thailand approves medical use of marijuana

On 25 December 2018, Thailand approved the licensed use of marijuana for medical use and research.

The changes will legalize the production, import, export, possession, and use of marijuana products for medical purposes.

Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to allow the use of medical marijuana.

Recreational use of the drugs remains still illegal in Thailand.

SpaceX launches new GPS satellite

SpaceX successfully launched the US Air Force’s first Global Positioning System (GPS) III satellite, nicknamed 'Vespucci', on 23 December 2018.

The new GPS satellites, built by Lockheed Martin, will provide three-times better accuracy than the current system of GPS and will be eight times better at anti-jamming.

The GPS is owned by the U.S. military and operated by the U.S. Air Force.

Turkmenistan launches first messaging app

Turkmenistan launched its first messaging app on 24 December 2018.

The name of the messaging app is 'BizBarde'.

The app will allow the exchange of messages, files, photos, and videos.

The application is available via the Google Android platform as well as Apple's iOS and Microsoft Windows.

Tsunami strucked Indonesia's Sunda Strait

Tsunami strucked coastal towns of Indonesia's Sunda Strait on 22 December 2018.

It is thought undersea landslides from the Anak Krakatau volcano caused them.

The Sunda Strait, between the islands of Java and Sumatra, connects the Java Sea to the Indian Ocean.

Indonesia is prone to tsunamis because it lies on the Ring of Fire, the line of frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Patrick to be acting Defence Secretary

US President Donald Trump appointed Patrick Shanahan as acting Defence Secretary on 23 December 2018.

He will take the post from 1 January 2019.

He will replace Defence Secretary Jim Mattis.

At present, he is the Deputy Defence Secretary.

He was a former executive at the aerospace giant Boeing.

Burundi names Gitega as new capital

Burundi government declared the small central city of Gitega as the country's new political capital on 22 December 2018.

Burundi's previous capital Bujumbura will function as the country's economic centre.

Cabinet meetings will henceforth be held in Gitega, where five ministries will also be established from the start of 2019.

Pierre Nkurunziza is the President of Burundi.

US Federal Reserve raises key interest rate

The U.S. Federal Reserve System raised interest rates on 19 December 2018.

The rate hike lifted the target range for the Fed’s benchmark overnight lending rate by a quarter of a percentage point to a range of 2.25% to 2.50%.

It will mean higher borrowing costs for many consumers and businesses.

Jerome Powell is the Chairman of U.S. Federal Reserve System.

Nevada: 1st US State to have female majority

Nevada became the first state in the US with an overall female majority in its legislature on 18 December 2018.

The appointments of the Democrats Rochelle Thuy Nguyen and Beatrice Angela Duran to two Las Vegas-area legislative seats give women 51% of the 63 seats in the legislature.

No state has previously had a female-majority or even a 50%-female legislature.

International migration pact adopted by UN

The UN General Assembly officially adopted the 'Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration' on 19 December 2018.

The compact was adopted by the General Assembly in Marrakesh, Morocco on 10 December 2018.

It is the first-ever negotiated global framework on a common approach to international migration.

It is non-legally binding compact.

EU agrees to ban single-use plastics

EU countries and the European Parliament agreed to ban on single-use plastics, including plates, cutlery, and drinking straws, in a bid to cut marine pollution.

The new rules target the top 10 items most frequently found littering around European beaches.

Plastic cotton bud sticks and expanded polystyrene food containers have also been barred.

European Union to reduce new car emissions

The European Union (EU) will reduce the carbon dioxide emissions from new cars and vans by 2030.

According to the EU, new cars sold in 2030 will emit 37.5% less carbon dioxide on average as compared to 2021 levels.

Emissions from new vans will have to be 31% lower.

The new plan will help the EU to meet its commitments under the Paris climate accord.

UAE declared 2019 as ‘Year of Tolerance’

On 17 December 2018, UAE President Sheikh Khalifa Nahyan declared 2019 as the 'Year of Tolerance'.

2019 would highlight the UAE as a global capital for tolerance and instilling the values of co-existence and peace in local, regional and international communities.

The 'Year of Tolerance' will focus on five main pillars.

France to introduce tax on internet firms





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France will introduce its own tax on large internet and technology companies from 1 January 2019.

The name of the tax is 'GAFA tax' which was named after Google, Apple, Facebook, and Amazon.

The aim of imposing the tax is to ensure that the global giants pay a fair share of taxes on their massive business operations in Europe.

Indonesia's Soputan volcano erupts

Mount Soputan in central Indonesia has erupted, ejecting columns of thick ash as high as 7,500 metres into the sky on 16 December 2018.

It is located on the northern part of Sulawesi island.

Soputan is one among Indonesia's more than 120 active volcanoes.

Indonesia is prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions due to its location on the 'Pacific Ring of Fire'.

Wickremesinghe reappointed as PM of Sri lanka

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was reinstated by President Maithripala Sirisena on 16 December 2018.

President Sirisena administered the oath that restored Wickremesinghe to the office of Prime Minister.

In October 2018, President Sirisena dismissed the cabinet and replaced Wickremesinghe with former President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Indian currency banned by Nepal government

The Nepal government banned the use of Indian currency notes of Rs 2,000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 denominations.

The Indian currency is extensively used by Nepalese people and businesses for their savings and transactions.

India is Nepal's largest trade partner and supplies the majority of its consumer goods.

Global debt reached at $184 trillion

According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), global debt has reached an all-time high of $184 trillion.

The amount, in nominal terms, is the equivalent of 225% of the world GDP in 2017.

The top three borrowers in the world are the United States, China, and Japan.

In early 2018, the IMF had calculated the global debt to be around $182 trillion.

Israel becomes a member of FATF

Israel became a full member of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on 10 December 2018.

Membership of the FATF will present Israel as a safe and attractive place for investments.

The FATF is an intergovernmental organisation founded in 1989 to combat money laundering and terrorism financing.

The headquarters of FATF is in Paris, France.

President of FATF is Marshall Billingslea.

Migration pact adopted by United Nations

The United Nations adopted the 'Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration' in Morocco on 10 December 2018.

It is the non-binding global pact.

The pact is aimed at coordinating action on migration around the world.

The global pact lays out 23 objectives to open up legal migration and discourage illegal border crossings.

Japan govt enacts new law for foreign workers

On 7 December 2018, the Japanese government enacted a new law to bring more blue-collar foreign workers into the country to address chronic labour shortages.

Under the new law, Japan plans to bring in 3.45 lakhs foreign workers in construction, food services, nursing and other sectors.

The law allows foreign nationals with skills in sectors facing severe shortages to obtain five-year visas.

Ebola outbreak spreads to a Congo city

The Ebola outbreak has spread to a major city in eastern Congo.

Butembo in Congo, with more than one million residents, is now reporting cases of the deadly hemorrhagic fever.

The Ebola virus is spread via bodily fluids of those infected, including the dead.

The current Ebola epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo is the second largest and second deadliest in history.

UN launches new framework to combat terrorism

On 7 December 2018, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has launched a new framework to combat international terrorism.

The name of the framework is 'UN Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact'.

It will replace the 'Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force'.

It is an agreement between the UN Chief, 36 organisational entities, INTERPOL and the World Customs Organisation.

Luxembourg to make all public transport free

Luxembourg is set to become the first country in the world to make all its public transport free.

It will remove fares on trains, trams, and buses in 2019.

In 2018, the Luxembourg government made public transport free for every person under the age of 20.

Luxembourg City is the capital of Luxembourg and its currency is Euro.

Xavier Bettel is the Prime Minister of Luxembourg.

WB unveils $200 Billion in climate action

The World Bank unveiled $200 billion in climate action investment for 2021-25 on 3 December 2018.

World Bank said it has doubled funding of its current five-year plan.

This move represents a significantly ramped up ambition to tackle climate change.

The World Bank said the breakdown of the $200 billion would comprise 'approximately $100 billion in direct finance from the World Bank.

Qatar to quit OPEC in January 2019

Qatar will withdraw from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in January 2019.

Qatar is the first Gulf country to leave the bloc of oil-producing countries.

Qatar is the world's biggest supplier of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

The OPEC is an intergovernmental organisation of 15 nations, founded in 1960 in Baghdad and headquartered in Vienna, Austria.

'Nomophobia' declared 'People's Word of Year'

Cambridge Dictionary has named 'nomophobia' as 'People's Word of 2018'.

'Nomophobia' means the fear or worry at the idea of being without your mobile phone or unable to use it.

Nomophobia is a blend, which means it is made up of syllables from two or more words, in this case, it was made from 'no mobile phone phobia'.

Asia Pacific Summit 2018 began in Kathmandu

The 'Asia Pacific Summit-2018' was held in Kathmandu on 1 December 2018.

The theme of the Summit is 'Addressing the Critical Challenges of Our Time: Interdependence, Mutual Prosperity, and Universal Values'.

It was organised by the South Korea-based 'Universal Peace Federation' and supported by the Government of Nepal.

Andres Manuel sworn in as Mexico President

Leftist leader Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador sworn in as the new Mexican President on 1 December 2018.

He won the Presidential election on 1 July 2018.

Prior to becoming President, he was the Mayor of Mexico City.

The capital of Mexico is Mexico City and its currency is Mexican Peso.





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India to host G20 summit in 2022

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India will host the G-20 summit in 2022.

Argentina hosted the G20 summit in 2018.

The G-20 is a group of the world's 20 major economies : Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the UK, and the US.

Conference on climate change began in Poland

The 24th meeting of Conference of Parties (COP-24) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) began in Poland on 3 December 2018.

The Conference will conclude on 14 December 2018.

COP-24 is very significant as it is expected to finalise guidelines for implementation of the 'Paris Agreement' adopted in 2016.

Reggae gets into heritage list

UNESCO added 'Reggae' music to its collection of 'intangible cultural heritage' deemed worthy of protection and promotion on 29 November 2018.

'Reggae' music originated in Jamaica.

Intangible Cultural Heritage is defined as intangible heritage as the practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities and individuals recognise as part of their cultural heritage.

Orphanage trafficking to be treated as slavery

'Modern Slavery Bill' was passed by Australian Parliament on 29 November 2018.

Under the new law, 'orphanage trafficking' will be treated as a slavery and trafficking offence.

Australia has become the first country in the world to recognise 'orphanage trafficking' as a form of slavery.

Orphanage trafficking is where children are actively recruited into orphanages for profit purposes.

US, Canada, & Mexico have signed 'USMCA'

The United States, Canada, and Mexico have signed a new trade agreement which will replace the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) on 30 November 2018.

The new trade agreement has been renamed as the 'United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement' (USMCA).

USMCA will govern more than $1 trillion worth of trade between the countries.

'TIPS' system launched by ECB

The European Central Bank (ECB) launched the first pan-eurozone instant payment system called 'TARGET Instant Payment Settlement' (TIPS) system on 30 November 2018.

The 'TIPS' system will let people and companies in Europe transfer money to each other within seconds.

It will settle transactions only in euros.

It is restricted to European Union banks only.

EU sets goal to be 'climate neutral' by 2050

The European Union has unveiled a strategy to become the first major economy to go 'climate neutral' by 2050.

The strategy includes investing in technological solutions to help lower carbon emissions.

This move will cut premature air pollution deaths by 40%.

Climate neutrality is achieved when carbon emissions are at zero.

National Affairs

Annual bird census to begin from Jan 4

Annual bird census in Chilika lake is slated to be carried out on 4 January 2019.

Chilika lake is the biggest brackish water lake in the country.

Experts from organisations like Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), Wild Odisha, National Board of Wildlife, Regional Museum and Natural History, Chilika Development Authority (CDA) will take part in the census.

Telangana govt hospital enters Guinness Book

Telangana government's MNJ Institute of Oncology and Regional Cancer Centre entered the Guinness Book of World Records.

It organised the largest men's Health Awareness programme on prostate cancer on a single day.

Besides the Guinness World Record, the hospital also received recognition from 'High Range Book of World Records

Exhibition 'Dandi Yatra' organised by NGMA

An exhibition titled 'Dandi Yatra' was inaugurated in New Delhi on 29 December 2018.

It was organised by the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA).

The exhibition is part of the celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

The exhibition showcases the unseen drawings of artist Chhaganlal Jadav and also the masterworks of NGMA's collection of contemporaneous artists.

Delhi Police digitised all malkhanas

The Delhi Police became the first police force in the country to digitise all malkhanas.

Malkhanas are rooms for keeping seized arms and ammunition, across every police station in the state.

The digitisation of case properties would give a boost to the prosecution and the judicial system by making it easier to maintain, locate, and retrieve case properties.

NHRC launches toll-free helpline

https://bit.ly/2mdJPmF





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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) launched a toll-free number and also a facility to file complaints through Common Service Centre (CSC).

The toll-free number is '14433'.

These steps had been taken by the NHRC to expand its outreach.

Justice (retd) H L Dattu is the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission.

Foundation stone of 11 projects for laid

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari laid the foundation stone of 11 projects for Yamuna Rejuvenation under Namami Gange Programme in New Delhi.

The projects have been taken up under 'Namami Gange Programme' by 'National Mission for Clean Ganga' to conserve river Yamuna in Delhi.

Most of the projects are for the sewerage infrastructure and are at various stages of implementation.

Telangana & AP to get separate High Courts

President Ramnath Kovind issued orders constituting a separate High Court for Andhra Pradesh with effect from January 1, 2019.

The High Court of Judicature at Hyderabad will now become the High Court for Telangana.

With the creation of the new High Court for Andhra Pradesh, the country now has 25 High Courts.

The High Court for Andhra Pradesh will function from Amravati.

Photography Awards to be held in Feb 2019

The photo division of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting will organise the 7th National Photography Awards in February 2019.

The photographers will be awarded in mainly three categories - lifetime achievement award, awards for professional photographers, and the awards for the amateur photographers.

The Life Time Achievement award carries a cash prize of three lakh rupees.

Maha launches Vajpayee international schools

Maharashtra government launched Atal Bihari Vajpayee International Schools in Mumbai on 25 December 2018.

The schools are affiliated to the newly formed Maharashtra International Education Board (MIEB).

The State aims to introduce international curriculum in 100 schools run by civic bodies, the tribal development department, the social justice department, and the education department.

Rs 100 coin in memory of Vajpayee launched

A commemorative coin worth Rs 100 in honour of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was launched on 24 December 2018.

The coin features the Emblem of India on the front side.

The reverse side of the coin features a portrait of Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The years 1924 and 2018 are inscribed below Vajpayee's portrait to mark the year of his birth and death respectively.

Stamp to commemorate Paika rebellion released

On 24 December 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a stamp and a coin to commemorate the Paika rebellion of 1817 in Odisha.

The Paika Rebellion was the first war of Independence against the British.

In the early 1800s, the farming community of Odisha had risen in rebellion against British's revenue model.

The rebellion of 1817 came to be known as Paika Bidroh.

PM announces Sardar Patel Award

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi announced annual 'Sardar Patel Award for National Integration' on 22 December 2018.

The award was announced by him while addressing the conference of DGPs/IGPs in Gujarat's Kevadia.

The award will be given every year for 'outstanding efforts' in the field of furthering national integration.

NGT bans mining close to Sariska reserve

On 22 December 2018, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned all mining activities within 10 km radius of the Sariska Tiger Reserve.

It also said that any further mining activity is subject to the clearance of leases by the National Board of Wildlife.

The Supreme Court had in 2006, prohibited any mining activity within 1 km of national parks and sanctuaries.

NABCB Accreditation secured Recognition

The National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB) signed the Multilateral Recognition Arrangement (MLA) of the Pacific Accreditation Cooperation (PAC) on 19 December 2018.

Any industry carrying ISO 45001 certificate with NABCB logo will be recognised in the Asia Pacific region.

NABCB is a constituent Board of the Quality Council of India.

PM Modi to lay foundation of PHPL

The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi will lay the foundation of 'Paradip Hyderabad Pipeline Product' Project (PHPL) on 24 December 2018.

He will also lay the foundation of Bokaro-Angul section of 'Jagdishpur-Haldia & Bokaro-Dhamra' Gas Pipeline Project (PM Urja Ganga) and is being built by the Gas Authority of India Limited.

PHPL is being built by Indian Oil Corporation Limited.

India’s largest cancer institute launched

India’s largest cancer hospital, National Cancer Institute (NCI) in Jhajjar District started the trial run of its Outpatient Department on 18 December 2018.

NCI is a project under Delhi AIIMS.

It will be headed by Dr. GK Rath who is also the chief of Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital at AIIMS.

It will be the nodal institution for all activities related to cancer in the country.

India retains highest aviation safety ranking

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has retained the highest aviation safety ranking for India.

India's International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) rating remained at 'Category 1'.

FAA carried out an audit in July 2018 to confirm India's adherence to the standards laid down by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

NPCIL's Kaiga Unit-1 created world record

A 220-MW unit of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited's (NPCIL) Kaiga Atomic Power Station has created a world record for continuous operation for 941 days.

The previous world record of 940 days held by 'Heysham 2' Unit-8 of the United Kingdom.

Earlier in October 2018, the unit surpassed the world record of 894 days for continuous operation among all pressurized heavy water reactor.

Delhi HC quashed Centre's ban on Oxytocin

The Delhi High Court, on 14 December 2018, quashed the Central government’s decision to prohibit the sale, distribution, manufacturing and import of Oxytocin by private companies in India.

Oxytocin was widely misused by farmers and the dairy industry.

Oxytocin is a hormonal drug which is administered to induce labour pain, control bleeding after childbirth, or help new mothers lactate.

Bihar's Silao Khaja gets GI tag

Geographical Indications Registry at Chennai has granted Geographical Indication(GI) tag to Silao Khaja on 11 December 2018.

Silao Khaja is the traditional delicacy of Nalanda district of Bihar.

Silao is located close to Buddhist sites.

The application was filed by Silao Khaja Audyogik Swavalambi Sahakari Samiti Limited.

Cyclonic storm Phethai struck Andhra Pradesh





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The severe cyclonic storm 'Phethai' struck Andhra coast near Kakinada on 17 December 2018 with a wind speed of 70-90 km per hour.

East and West Godavari, Visakhapatnam, Krishna, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam districts of Andhra Pradesh and Yanam district of Puducherry are likely to experience very heavy rainfall.

MET officials have warned of heavy rain in coastal Andhra Pradesh.

15 new breeds of livestocks registered

ICAR has approved registration of record 15 new breeds of livestock and poultry this year.

These include 2 cattle breeds - Ladakhi and Konkan Kapila (Maharashtra & Goa); 3 buffalo breeds - Luit (Assam & Manipur), Bargur (TN), Chhattisgarhi etc.

The process of identification of animal breeds and their documentation plays a special role in preserving the biodiversity of the country.

‘AYUSHCHARYA’: a two day Conference held

All India Institute of Ayurveda, New Delhi organised a National conference ‘AYUSHCHARYA’ on Dinacharya (Daily Regimen) and Ritucharya (Seasonal Regimen).

The aim was to promote public health.

It was held on 10th and 11th of December, 2018.

The Minister of State for AYUSH Shri Shripad Yesso Naik released the Dinacharya booklet and AYUSHCHARYA Calendar-2019.

PM inaugurated the 'Partners’ Forum, 2018'

PM Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the 'Partners’ Forum, 2018' in Delhi.

He also released the coffee table book ‘Proven Paths’, a compendium of 36 best practices in maternal, child and adolescent health.

Partners’ Forum is a global health partnership launched in September 2005 to accelerate efforts to reduce child and maternal mortality, improve adolescent, child, newborn and maternal health.

First container mainline vessel flagged off

Shri Nitin Gadkari flagged off India's first container mainline vessel from VoC Port (Tuticorin Port).

By this EXIM trade will benefit and there will be a saving of approximately 50 USD per container as the handling of the container at Colombo will not be required.

This service will give benefit to the importers and exporters in terms of saving transhipment cost and transit time.

Home Ministry launches Twitter account

The Ministry of Home Affairs has launched a Twitter handle '@CyberDost' on 11 December 2018.

The aim of the twitter account is to enhance people's basic knowledge about cybercrimes and precautions to be taken for prevention.

The twitter handle will also mitigate possibilities of disruption in normal business activities or losses due to cyber crimes.

Govt to declare ESZs around 21 National Parks

The Supreme Court directed the Union Environment Ministry to declare 10 km area around 21 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries as 'Eco-Sensitive Zones' (ESZs) on 11 December 2018.

The 21 national parks & wildlife sanctuaries are in Assam, J&K, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Uttar Pradesh, & West Bengal.

ESZs are notified by Union Environment Ministry.

Global Hackathon On AI launched by NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog launched 'AI 4 All Global Hackathon' on 7 December 2018.

NITI Aayog partnered with 'Perlin', a Singapore-based AI (Artificial Intelligence) startup, to launch this Hackathon.

The objective of this Hackathon is to promote awareness and subsequently develop solutions that deliver the twin benefit of efficient computing to address the infrastructure challenges.

Kolkata-Patna : 2nd inland cargo sector

After Varanasi, Patna will become the second city in India to receive container cargo via waterways.

According to the shipping ministry, Gaighat terminal at Patna, on Ganga river, will receive cargo consignment from PepsiCo and Emami Agrotech after 10 December 2018.

India's first multi-modal terminal in Varanasi under Jal Marg Vikas Project was inaugurated in November 2018.

Pune court is first to get e-payment facility

The Pune district and sessions court have become first courts in India to launch the e-payment system.

This will help in reducing corruption and bring in transparency.

The practising lawyers and litigants in various cases will be able to make payments online. .

The e-payment facility will be available on 'https://pay.ecourts. gov.in/epay'.

Govt approves 'SCord' to tackle smuggling

The Central government has approved 'Anti-Smuggling National Coordination Centre' (SCord) under the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI).

'SCord' will help the government of India to formulate a 'National Anti-Smuggling' policy.

All the border agencies like BSF, ITBP, Assam Rifles, SSB, and Coast Guards will be the members of 'SCord'.

2nd 'Tejas' train to run b/w Chennai & Madurai

The second 'Tejas' superfast express train will be operated between Chennai and Madurai.

The train coaches are equipped with modern entertainment system, modular toilets, smart windows, and GPS-based passenger information system.





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The coaches have been manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai.

The first 'Tejas' train was launched in 2017 between Mumbai and Goa.

India & World

India to provide Bhutan Rs 400 Cr

India will provide Bhutan a transitional trade support facility of Rs 400 crore over a period of five years.

The amount will help in strengthening the bilateral trade & economic linkages between India and Bhutan.

India and Bhutan reiterated their commitment to jointly develop 10,000 MWs of hydropower generating capacity in Bhutan and in this regard discussed the 'Sankosh Hydropower' Project.

India announced financial assistance to Bhutan

India announced Rs. 4,500 crore financial assistance to Bhutan for its 12th five-year plan.

The announcement was made after the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Lotay Tshering, Prime Minister of Bhutan.

The new five-year plan of Bhutan began this year and will continue till 2022.

PM Tshering arrived in New Delhi on his first foreign visit on 27 December 2018.

1st meeting of the Follow-up Committee held

The first meeting of the Follow-up Committee for implementation of the Trilateral Chabahar Agreement between India, Afghanistan, and Iran was held in Chabahar in Iran on 24 December 2018.

They agreed on the routes for the trade and transit corridors between the three countries.

'India Ports Global Limited' company opened its office and took over operations of Chabahar port on this occasion.

Japan to support various development projects

India will receive a loan of Rs 66.68 billion from Japan for various development projects.

The loan will be used to develop the phase two of the Chennai metro project, a dairy development project, and a programme for Japan-India cooperative actions towards Sustainable Development Goals in India.

India is the largest recipient country of Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) in 2018.

India-China Film Festival to begin from 22 Dec

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is organising an 'India-China Film festival' from 22 to 24 December 2018.

It will be organised during the first 'India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges'.

The list of Indian films that will be screened includes 'Dangal'(Hindi), 'Maacher Jhol' (Bengali), and 'Ventilator' (Marathi).

India & China held 'People-to-People' meeting

India and China held the first ever meeting of the 'India-China High Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges'.

The meeting was held in Delhi on 21 December 2018.

The meeting was attended by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

The meeting aims to strengthen bilateral cultural ties.

9th India-ROK Joint Commission meeting held

The '9th India-ROK Joint Commission' meeting was held in New Delhi on 19 December 2018.

India and South Korea reviewed the progress of their special strategic partnership.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Foreign Affairs Minister of South Korea Kang Kyung-wha co-chaired the meeting.

The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global issues of common interest.

Denmark's Foreign Affairs Minister arrives

Foreign Affairs Minister of Denmark Anders Samuelsen arrived in New Delhi on a two-day official visit to India on 17 December 2018.

Mr Samuelsen will meet External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

They will hold discussions on various aspects of bilateral ties as well as important regional and multilateral issues.

The capital of Denmark is Copenhagen and its currency is Danish krone.

India extends $1.4 billion to Maldives

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced $1.4 billion financial assistance to the Maldives on 17 December 2018.

The two countries also inked four pacts, including one on visa facilitation.

Both countries vowed to deepen security cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also held extensive talks with Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Myanmar announces Visa-On-Arrival Facility

Myanmar decided to start a visa-on-arrival facility for Indian tourists, reports the Deccan Herald.

The visit is part of India’s ‘Act East’ and ‘Neighbourhood First’ policies.

Mr Kovind also visited a temple of goddess Kali which is managed by a trust represented by people who came to Myanmar from different regions of India.

Kovind Dedicated ACARE project to Myanmar

President Ram Nath Kovind dedicated India assisted project ‘Advanced Centre for Agricultural Research & Education’ (ACARE) to the people of Myanmar.

The project focuses on Genetics, Post Harvest Technology, Participatory Knowledge Management and capacity building for farmers in Myanmar.

Earlier he dedicated the Advanced Centre for Agricultural Research and Education to the people of Myanmar.

Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence inaugurated

India's first 'Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence' established by the European Union, was inaugurated at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in Karnataka.

The Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence in India aims to strengthen and enhance the educational connect between India and EU.

Ambassador of the European Union (EU) to India and Bhutan, Mr Tomasz Kozlowski inaugurated the Centre at MAHE.

India signed ascension pact to 'T-RMN'

India signed an ascension pact to the 30-member 'Trans-Regional Maritime Network' (T-RMN) on 10 December 2018.

The pact will give India an access to the information on ships passing through the Indian Ocean Region.

This will greatly help the security forces of India in keeping a tab on any suspicious activity.

2023 is international year of millets: FAO

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) approved India's proposal to observe 2023 as the 'International Year of Millets'.

Millets consist of Jowar, Bajra, Ragi and minor millets, together termed as nutri-cereals.

FAO also approved India’s membership to the Executive Board of the 'World Food Program' for 2020 and 2021.

This decision was taken at the 160th session of FAO Council in Rome.

Defence Min on a 5-day official visit to US

Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is on an official visit to the United States of America from December 02-07, 2018.





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During the meeting, discussions were held on the growing partnership between India and US in the defence sphere.

She also paid respect at the 'Tomb of the Unknown Soldier' by laying a wreath at the Arlington National Cemetery Memorial.

'Gandhi-Zayed Digital Museum' inaugurated

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Sheikh Abdullah, Foreign Minister of the UAE jointly inaugurated the 'Gandhi-Zayed Digital Museum' in Abu Dhabi on 4 December 2018.

The inauguration is to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and centenary celebrations of the birth of Shaikh Zayed.

Sheikh Zayed is the founding father of the modern UAE.

Sushma Swaraj began her UAE visit

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 3 December 2018.

She will co-chair the 12th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting for Economic and Technical Cooperation with UAE Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah in Abu Dhabi.

She will also inaugurate a 'Gandhi-Zayed Digital Museum' in Abu Dhabi.

The capital of UAE is Abu Dhabi and its currency is Dirham.

Personalities in News

Colin completed Solo trek across Antarctica

Colin O’Brady, an American adventurer, has become the first person to complete a solo trek across Antarctica without the assistance of any kind.

He took 54 days to complete the nearly 1,000-mile (1,600-km) crossing Antartica.

He arrived at the finish point on the Ross Ice Shelf on the Pacific Ocean.

In 1996-97, a Norwegian explorer, Borge Ousland, made the first solo crossing of Antarctica.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee's memorial inaugurated

'Sadaiv Atal', the memorial of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, was inaugurated in Delhi on 25 December 2018.

He passed away on 16 August 2018 after a prolonged illness.

The memorial project was funded by the Atal Smriti Nyas Society.

'Sadaiv Atal' memorial will be managed by a trust headed by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan.

Vedangi: Fastest Asian to cycle the globe

Indian woman Vedangi Kulkarni has become the fastest Asian to cycle the globe.

She completed the 29,000 kilometers' distance required to qualify as bicycling across the globe.

She spent 159 days peddling up to 300 kilometers a day in 14 countries.

British adventurer Jenny Graham is the fastest woman to have cycled the globe in 124 days in 2018.

Anup Kumar announces his retirement

Kabaddi player Anup Kumar announced his retirement on 19 December 2018.

He began his international career in 2006 at the South Asian Games in Sri Lanka.

He led India to victory at the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup.

It was during his tenure that the Indian team won 2 gold medals at Asian Games in 2014.

In season 2 of the Pro Kabaddi League, Anup captained U Mumba and led the team to victory.

Sonam named PETA India's 'person of the year'

Sonam Kapoor was named PETA India's 'Person of the year' for 2018 for her animal advocacy efforts.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is an animal rights organisation based in Virginia, USA.

Past recipients of PETA India's Person of the Year Award include Anushka Sharma, Dr Shashi Tharoor, Hema Malini, and others.

Shree Saini crowned 'Miss India Worldwide'

Indian-American Shree Saini won the 'Miss India Worldwide 2018' title at the 27th annual global pageant competition held in New Jersey on 15 December 2018.

Sakshi Sinha from Australia and Anusha Sareen from United Kingdom were respectively declared first and second runner-ups.

The competition was organised by the New York-based India Festival Committee.

Catriona won the 'Miss Universe 2018' title

The Philippines’ Catriona Gray was named 'Miss Universe 2018' in the pageant competition concluding in Bangkok on 17 December 2018.

She is the fourth person from the Philippines who has won the international beauty pageant.

The first runner-up was Tamaryn Green of South Africa and the second runner-up was Sthefany Gutierrez of Venezuela.

Chiefs of IB and RAW gets six months extension

The Chiefs of Intelligence Bureau and Research and Analysis Wing Rajiv Jain and Anil K Dhasmana respectively got extensions of six months each on 14 December 2018.

The decision to extend the tenure of the two intelligence chiefs by six months was taken due to the forthcoming general elections.

Rajiv Jain, 1980-batch IPS officer from Jharkhand, was appointed IB Director on December 30, 2016.

Shri Bharat Bhushan became member of UPSC

Shri Bharat Bhushan Vyas, IAS (J&K 1986) (Retd.) took the Oath of Office and Secrecy as Member, Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

The Oath was administered by Shri Arvind Saxena, Chairman, UPSC. He was born on 15/11/1957.

He has done B.Sc. (Botany).

He joined Indian Administrative Service in 1986.

Arunima Sinha to climb Mt. Vinson, Antarctica

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi handed over the tricolour flag to Arunima Sinha, marking the beginning of her expedition to Mount Vinson, Antarctica.

Ms. Arunima Sinha is the first female Divyang to climb Mount Everest.

Arunima Sinha had earlier conquered the highest peaks in five continents, becoming the first female Divyang to achieve the feat.

Time magazine's 'Person of the Year' announced

Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi has been named Time magazine's 'Person of the Year' on 11 December 2018.

This is the first time that a 'Person of the Year' is a deceased person.

Jamal Khashoggi was murdered in October 2018.

The magazine has also honoured Philippine journalist Maria Ressa and Reuters reporters Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo who are currently imprisoned in Myanmar.

Indian Air Force Chief on a visit to Japan

Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa, Chief of the Air Staff is on a visit to Japan from 10-14 December 2018.

The visit is intended to further strengthen the existing defence cooperation between the Air Forces of the two countries.

The main focus would be to share ideas, enhance bilateral defence cooperation and mutual ties.

Prathamesh won 'Mister Supranational 2018'

Goa's Prathamesh Maulingkar has become the first Asian/Indian to win 'Mister Supranational 2018' title on 9 December 2018.





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Mister Supranational Poland was adjudged first runner-up and Mister Supranational Brazil was adjudged the second runner-up.

The third edition of 'Mister Supranational 2018' pageant took place in Poland.

Vanessa Leon won 'Miss World 2018' crown

Mexico's Vanessa Ponce de Leon won the coveted 'Miss World 2018' crown on 8 December 2018.

She is a volunteer for 'Migrantes en el Camino' and is on the board of directors of a rehab centre for girls.

Thailand's Nicolene Pichapa Limsnukan was declared the runner-up.

Miss Belarus Maria Vasilevich, Miss Jamaica Kadijah Robinson, and Miss Uganda Quiin Abenakyo were also among the final five.

Swapna Barman appointed as Brand Ambassador

State Bank of India (SBI) has appointed Swapna Barman as Brand Ambassador for its digital app 'YONO' on 3 December 2018.

YONO, the bank's digital platform that makes both lifestyle and banking available through a single app, was launched in 2017.

Swapna Barman won the gold medal in Heptathlon in Jakarta Asian Games 2018.

Prez Kovind to be on 5-day visit to Myanmar

President Ram Nath Kovind will be on a 5-day visit to Myanmar from 10 December 2018.

A Joint Statement will be adopted during the President's visit, along with the signing of several agreements.

The capital of Myanmar is Naypyidaw and is currency is Burmese kyat.

U Win Myint is the President of Myanmar and Aung San Suu Kyi is the State Counsellor.

Pawan Singh elected in ISSF's judges committee

Pawan Singh has become the first Indian to be elected one of seven member's of the Judges Committee of the International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF).

He also holds the post of the Joint Secretary General of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI).

ISSF is the governing body of the Olympic Shooting events in Rifle, Pistol and Shotgun disciplines.

President Ramaphosa will be the Chief guest

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations on 26 January 2019.

The celebrations are held every year before the President of India.

In 2018, the chief guest at Republic Day celebrations were the 10 heads of state from ASEAN countries.

The Chief guest at India's first Republic Day on 26 January 1950 was the President of Indonesia.

Andres Manuel sworn in as Mexico President

Leftist leader Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador sworn in as the new Mexican President on 1 December 2018.

He won the Presidential election on 1 July 2018.

Prior to becoming President, he was the Mayor of Mexico City.

The capital of Mexico is Mexico City and its currency is Mexican Peso.

Suu Kyi stripped Of 'Freedom Of Paris' Award

Paris city stripped Aung San Suu Kyi of her honorary 'Freedom of Paris' award over her failure to speak out against a crackdown on Rohingya minority.

Aung San Suu Kyi is the first person to lose the 'Freedom of Paris', a symbolic award.

She has already been stripped of her honorary Canadian citizenship and her Amnesty International's 'Ambassador of Conscience Award'.

Government Policies & Schemes

MP govt decides to form new Spiritual Dept

Madhya Pradesh government decided to form a new Spiritual Department.

The Religious Trust and Endowments and Happiness Department will be merged in the new department.

The objective of the formation of the Spiritual Department is to strengthen inter-communal harmony and Sarvadharma Sambhav in the state covering all religions, sects, and faiths.

'Ujjwala Sanitary Napkin' launched in Odisha

Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan launched 'Ujjwala Sanitary Napkins' in Odisha on 30 December 2018.

Under the initiative, Oil Marketing Companies (OMC) will set up 100 manufacturing units at the Common Service Centres in Odisha.

The aim of the initiative is to educate women on female hygiene and health, and improve accessibility to low cost eco-friendly sanitary pads.

Web Page on ‘Drone Olympics’event launched

Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched a newly designed web page for ‘Drone Olympics’ (https://aeroindia.gov.in/Drone) on 28 December 2018.

The event is scheduled to be held at ‘Aero India – 2019’ from 20-24 February 2019 at Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru.

The web page is open for registration of UAV players interested in taking part in the maiden event of Aero India.

Cabinet approves a hike in MSP for Copra

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs gave its approval for an increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Fair Average Quality (FAQ) of ‘Milling Copra’ by Rs 2000.

It has been increased to Rs.9521/- per quintal for 2019 season from Rs. 7511/-per quintal in 2018.

The approval is based on recommendations of Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).

Export incentives for onion farmers doubled

The government of India has doubled the export incentives for onion farmers from the existing 5% to 10%.

The export incentive for fresh Onions was zero before July,2018.

During July 2018, the incentives were introduced at the rate of 5%.

The export incentive programme allows farmers to get a credit from the government, which can be used to pay various taxes.

Booklet on cyber safety released

Home Ministry has brought out a booklet on cyber safety for school children to inform them about different aspects of cyber safety.

The title of the booklet is 'A Handbook for Students on cyber Safety'.

It also deals with the problems of cyberbullying, cyber grooming, and email fraud.

It advises teenagers against accepting friend requests from unknown people on social media.

Cabinet approves 10,000 cr Gaganyaan project

The Union Cabinet approved the Gaganyaan project under which a three-member crew will be sent to space for at least seven days.

The project will cost Rs 10,000 crore.

India has already inked agreements with Russia and France for assistance in the ambitious project.

Gaganyaan will help India become the fourth nation to send humans to space.

The mission will be undertaken by 2022.

Handbook of Ministry of I&B released

The 'Administrative Handbook' of Ministry of Information & Broadcasting was launched on 27 December 2018.





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The handbook is a mix of a telephone directory and a diary and displays contact details of all officers of the Ministry and Media Units.

Col.Rajyavardhan Rathore (Retd.) is the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Information & Broadcasting.

Haryana to rename CCIs as 'Jagannath Ashrams'

Haryana's Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced to name all the Child Care Institutes (CCIs) being run in the state as 'Jagannath Ashrams.'

The Chief Minister made the announcement during an event in Karnal.

A child care institution as defined under the JJ Act,2015, is a facility recognized under the Act for providing care and protection to children, who are in need of such services.

485 schemes launched under 'Digital Haryana'

Haryana government launched 485 schemes under the 'Digital Haryana' initiative on 25 December 2018.

Haryana became the first state in India, where 4000 'Atal Seva Kendras' in rural areas, 22 at district headquarters, 51 at the sub-divisional level, & 20 'Antyodya Saral Kendras' at Tehsil level, has been launched simultaneously.

A toll-free Antyodaya Helpline number was also inaugurated.

'Atal Ayushman Uttarakhand Yojana' launched

'Atal Ayushman Uttarakhand Yojana' was launched in Uttarakhand on 25 December 2018.

Under the scheme, each household in the state will be able to avail medical treatment of up to Rs 5 lakh annually.

The scheme will benefit 23 lakh households and cover 1,350 critical diseases.

A total of 99 government and 66 private hospitals have been selected under the scheme.

MSMEs Ministry to establish governing council

The Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) has proposed to establish a governing council to ensure the efficient delivery of all export-related interventions.

The step is a part of its action plan to boost shipments from micro, small and medium enterprises.

The governing council shall be chaired by Secretary, MSME and co-chaired by Development Commissioner in MSME Ministry.

MSAMB appoints officers to facilitate trade

Maharashtra has become the first state in the country to appoint out-of-state trade representatives.

The Maharashtra State Agriculture Marketing Board (MSAMB) appointed six trade representatives to promote trade in semi-perishable commodities.

They will also collect relevant market information.

They have been posted in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Assam, and Tamil Nadu.

UP approves setting up of 2 development boards

The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet gave its approval for setting up of development boards for Bundelkhand and Purvanchal.

It will be chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

Both boards will be formed for 3 years.

The Chairperson of the board will select two Vice-Chairmen, 11 non-government members and two experts for each board.

Government to make all meters smart prepaid

Ministry of Power, Government of India has decided to make all meters smart prepaid in 3 years from 1st April 2019.

Advantages of this step: Reduction of AT&C losses, better health of Discoms, energy conservation, ease of bill payments, and doing away with the paper bills.

Consumers need not to pay the whole month's bill in one go instead they can pay as per their requirements.

CDSCO issues guidelines for 'Isotretinoin'

It is an oral drug, which is used in the treatment of severe acne.






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The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) issued safety guidelines for 'Isotretinoin'.

It may be sold by retailers only against a dermatologist’s prescription.

Isotretinoin capsules of 10 mg/20 mg were approved by CDSCO in 2002 for the treatment of cystic and conglobate acne.

Queue management system & Social CRM launched

The Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan launched various digital customer initiatives for Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) on 21 December 2018.

The initiatives are CNG Queue Management System (QMS) and Social CRM.

CNG Queue Management System through 'OORJA' mobile application would provide information regarding the average waiting time at the CNG station.

Odisha government announces 'KALIA' scheme

On 21 December 2018, Odisha government announced a Rs 10,000-crore scheme for the overall development of farmers in the state.

The name of the scheme is 'Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation' (KALIA) scheme.

An amount of Rs 10,000 per family at the rate of Rs 5,000 each for Kharif and Rabi seasons shall be provided as financial assistance for taking up cultivation.

Jharkhand announces Rs 2,250-Crore scheme

Jharkhand government announced an Rs 2,250-crore scheme to help 22.76 lakh medium and marginal farmers of the state.

The name of the scheme is Mukhya Mantri Krishi Yojana.

Under the scheme, 22.76 lakh medium and marginal farmers will get Rs 5,000 per acre from 2019.

The scheme will help farmers procure seeds, fertilizers, and other requirements for agriculture purposes.

Haryana to set up Herbal Corporation

On 20 December 2018, Haryana's Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced the setting up of the 'Haryana Herbal Corporation'.

The aim of the corporation is to promote Ayurveda and herbal medicines in the state.

It will also act as a catalyst for developing Morni area of the district as an organic cluster and setting up of a world-class nursery for the herbal plant.

Tembhu irrigation scheme approved by Maha Govt

The Maharashtra government approved a sum of Rs 4,089 crore for the 'Tembhu lift irrigation' scheme in Satara district.

The irrigation project will benefit the drought-prone areas of Satara, Solapur and Sangli districts.

The scheme is about constructing barrages on the river Krishna near Tembhu village and lifting 22 billion cubic feet water to irrigate 80,000-hectare areas.

Meghalaya launches health insurance

Meghalaya's Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma launched the 'Meghalaya Health Insurance Scheme' (MHIS-IV) on 20 December 2018.

MHIS-IV is merged with the government of India's Ayushman Bharat scheme.

The MHIS-IV targets to cover more than 8 lakh households offering over 2300 medical and surgical packages and up to Rs 5 lakh per family.

The new scheme will be functional from 1 February 2019.

Rs 2500 to be deposited in tea workers account

The Assam government has approved the release of the second installment of the 'Chah Bagicha (tea estate) Dhan Puraskar Mela'.

Rs 2500 will be deposit in each bank accounts of tea garden workers that were opened just after the demonetisation in 2016.

This amount is the second installment of the Rs 5,000 incentive

announced in the budget for 2017-18.

Govt to set up panel to look into tax issues

The government of India will set up an expert committee to look into all the taxation issues being faced by start-ups and angel investors.

The committee of experts from IITs and IIMs will make recommendations on individual cases of recognised startups.

The notification for the formation of the committee will be issued by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) shortly.

Govt online training programme launched

'iGOT' (Integrated Government Online Training Programme) was launched on 20 December 2018.

It was developed by Department of Personnel and Training, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions.

It will augment the existing training mechanism, provided to government servants, with online module-based training coupled with certification.

Conservation project for lions launched

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched the 'Asiatic Lion Conservation Project' on 20 December 2018.

The aim of the project is to protect and conserve the world's last ranging free population of Asiatic Lion and its associated ecosystem.

The project will be funded from the Centrally Sponsored Scheme- 'Development of Wildlife Habitat' (CSS-DWH).

All computers now under govt. watch

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued an order authorising 10 Central agencies to intercept, monitor, and decrypt 'any information generated, transmitted, received or stored in any computer'.

The MHA gave the authorisation under 69 (1) of the Information Technology Act, 2000.

The agencies are the Intelligence Bureau, Narcotics Control Bureau, Enforcement Directorate etc.

MSME Ministry to set up 20 technology centers

The government of India will set up 20 additional technology centres to help Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

These centres support MSMEs by giving them access to advanced manufacturing technologies, skilling manpower and providing technical and business advisory support.

Currently, 10 such centres are operational in different states of the country.

Mobile app for global aviation summit launched

The Civil Aviation Ministry along with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) launched the app named 'GAS 2019' on 19 December 2018.

The app is for the 'Global Aviation Summit' will be held in Mumbai on January 2019.

The app enables users to interact with the co-delegates and speakers besides providing a platform for networking through personal and group chats.

Assam govt announced 3 schemes for farmers

Assam government has announced 3 schemes for the welfare of farmers on 19 December 2018.

The 3 schemes are the Assam Farmers’ Credit Subsidy Scheme (AFCSS), Assam Farmers’ Interest Relief Scheme (AFIRS), and Assam Farmers’ Incentive Scheme (AFIS).

Under AFCSS, farmers who took loans from banks and whatever amount they repaid, 25% of the money will be reimbursed by the state government.

Strategy Document for New India released

NITI Aayog unveiled its comprehensive national strategy for New India, which defines clear objectives for 2022-23.





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The Strategy Document advocates empowering and encouraging women to participate in all sectors of the economy, to build a strong and inclusive New India.

It vouches for the transformation of the rural economy.

Govt. approves new tourist routes in Ladakh

The Home Ministry approved new tourist and trekking routes in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir.

The aim is to promote adventure tourism and enhance economic activities in Ladakh.

The proposed routes include the Merak-Lema Bend and the Chusul-Kartsangla-Mahe.

The Phyang-Dokla-HunderDok-Hunde is one of the proposed trekking routes.

'Shiksha Setu' app launched by Haryana govt.

The Haryana government launched the 'Shiksha Setu' app on 18 December 2018.

The app will provide students information on attendance, fee, online admission, and scholarships of all government colleges of the state.

The app will provide instant updates of important notices, circulars and other programmes to students and teachers.

The students will also get information on assignments.

Cabinet approves establishment of 2 new AIIMS

The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of two new All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Madurai, Tamil Nadu and Bibinagar, Telangana.

The AIIMS will be set up under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY).

Establishment of new AIIMS involves creation of Hospital, Teaching Block for medical & nursing courses, residential complex and allied facilities/services.

Ramayana Circuit: 15 Destinations identified

As per the Tourism Ministry, fifteen destinations have been identified for development under the Ramayana Circuit.

Ramayana Circuit is one of the fifteen thematic circuits identified for development under the Swadesh Darshan scheme of the ministry.

Ayodhya, Nandigram, Shringverpur, & Chitrakoot in Uttar Pradesh is among the destinations identified for development under the Ramayana Circuit.

CCEA approves setting up of tribal schools

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) gave its in-principle approval for setting up of Eklavya Model Residential Schools for tribals.

The schools will be set up in every block with more than 50% Scheduled Tribes population and at least 20,000 tribal persons.

It has also approved the constitution of an autonomous society under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to run the schools.

CCEA approves extending Ujjwala LPG scheme

On 17 December 2018, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the expansion of beneficiaries list under 'Pradhan Mantri Ujjawala Yojana'.

The scheme, launched in 2016, originally targeted giving LPG connections to mostly rural women members of below the poverty line (BPL) households.

The list was later expanded to include all SC/ST households and forest dwellers among others.

Govt. notifies rules for mobile phone services

On 16 December 2018, the government of India notified rules for providing in-flight & maritime mobile phone services.

Indian and foreign airlines and shipping companies operating in the country can provide in-flight and maritime voice and data services with a valid Indian telecom licence holder.

The connectivity can be provided using telecom networks on the ground as well as using satellite.

Railways offers 25% discount

The railways will give a discount of 25% on the extant haulage rate per Twenty Feet Equivalent Unit (TEU) on the transport of empty containers as well as empty flat container wagons.

It is expected to enhance the efficient handling of traffic at ports and attract a larger share of container traffic to rail.

It will help to load more commodity at an economical rate.

Delhi Police launches 'Prahari' scheme

Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik launched the 'Prahari' scheme in the southwest district of Delhi on 14 December 2018.

The aim of the scheme is to prevent crime and maintain law and order.

Under the scheme, civic personnel such as chowkidars and security guards, deployed in commercial and VIP areas, will act as the eyes and ears of the police for prevention of crime.

'ECO Niwas Samhita 2018' launched

The Ministry of Power launched 'ECO Niwas Samhita 2018' on 14 December 2018.

It is an Energy Conservation Building Code for Residential Buildings (ECBC-R).

The objective is to benefit the occupants and environment by promoting energy efficiency in the design and construction of homes, apartments and townships.

The Code is expected to assist a large number of architects and builders.

Govt of India to set up NMDPC under DIPP

The government of India announced setting up of a 'National Medical Devices Promotion Council' (NMDPC) under the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) in the Ministry of Commerce & Industry.

The Council will be headed by Secretary of DIPP.

It will act as a promotion and developmental body for the Indian Medical Devices Industry (MDI).

Kovind launched app for farmers in Myanmar

President Ram Nath Kovind launched a mobile app developed for farmers in Myanmar and dedicated a centre and a bio park to promote agriculture research and education to the people.

App provides crop and livestock knowledge and information apart from cropping guidelines based on location.

The app links farmers with more than 2,000 experts.

Govt formulates 'Crisis Management Plan'

The government of India has formulated a 'Crisis Management Plan' to counter cyber attacks and cyber terrorism.

It will be implemented by all Ministries and Departments of the Centre and the state governments in critical sectors.

The Government of India has empanelled 76 security audit organisations to ensure information security.






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'Operation Minimum wage' launched in Delhi

Delhi Government launched 'Operation Minimum Wages' on 10 December 2018.

Under the operation, an employer who does not pay minimum wages may be fined or can face three years of jail.

The Delhi government fixed the minimum wage for the unskilled labourers at Rs 14,000 per month while that for semi-skilled at Rs 15,400 per month, and for the skilled, it at Rs 16,962 per month.

Online portal 'Ensure' launched

The Agriculture Ministry launched the online portal 'Ensure' to connect with direct benefit transfer and provide a simple, useful and transparent system to the beneficiary on 12 December 2018.

The portal has been developed by NABARD.

It is operated under the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries.

Through this portal, the flow of information/funds will be quicker.

Indian Ports Association launched ‘PCS 1x’

Indian Ports Association under the guidance of the Ministry of Shipping launched the Port Community System 'PCS1x' on 11 December 2018.

This system will enable trade to have an improved communication with the customs.

It is a cloud-based technology with a user-friendly interface.

The platform offers services such as notification engine, workflow, mobile application, track and trace.

Government contribution to NPS raised to 14%

The government of India announced a slew of changes to the National Pension Scheme (NPS) on 10 December 2018.

Central Government contribution has been raised to 14% from 10% in NPS.

The tax exemption limit for lump sum withdrawal on exit from NPS has been enhanced to 60%.

The NPS was introduced for central government employees who joined service on or after 1 January 2004.

Government notifies medical devices as drugs

The government of India notified commonly used medical devices like nebulizers, blood pressure monitors, digital thermometers, and glucometers as 'drugs' under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

It will enable the government to ensure their quality and performance.

The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) will regulate the import, manufacture and sale of these devices from January 2020.

Tourism Ministry formulates guideline for OTAs

The Ministry of Tourism has formulated the guidelines for approval and reapproval of Online Travel Aggregators (OTAs) on 7 December 2018.

This is a voluntary scheme open to bonafide online travel aggregators to bring them on a common platform in the organised sector.

The guidelines will come out by 31 December 2019.

OTA is an intermediary or an agent, selling travel products and services.

National challenge for Youth launched

A National Challenge for Youths named 'Ideate for India - Creative Solutions using Technology' was launched on 6 December 2018.

The aim of this challenge is to give school students across the country a platform and opportunity to become solution creators for the problems.

The Challenge has been designed and launched by the National e-Governance Division, Ministry of Electronics & IT.

Govt. approves freight village in Varanasi

The Ministry of Shipping approved a freight village in Varanasi on 6 December 2018.

It will boost the professional logistics industry in Varanasi.

It will be developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).

A freight village is a designated area where facilities for various modes of transportation, distribution of goods and other logistics are available on a large scale.

Union Cabinet approves NM-ICPS

The Union Cabinet approved the 'National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems' (NM-ICPS) on 6 December 2018.

The Mission addresses the various requirements of Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) and associated technologies.

The mission will be implemented by the Department of Science and Technology.

A CPS is a mechanism that is controlled or monitored by computer-based algorithms.

Cabinet approves 'Shahpurkandi Dam project'

The Union Cabinet has approved the implementation of 'Shahpurkandi Dam Project' in Punjab on Ravi river.

Implementation of this project would help in minimising the wastage of water of the Ravi river.

On completion of the project, an additional Irrigation Potential of 5000 hectares in Punjab and 32173 hectares in J&K would be created.

The project would be completed by June 2022.

Cabinet approves agri export policy

The Union Cabinet approved the Agriculture Export Policy on 6 December 2018.

The new policy aims to double India's farm exports to $60 billion by 2022

It is aimed at boosting exports of agriculture commodities such as tea, coffee and rice and increase the country's share in global agri-trade.

The policy is also expected to provide an institutional mechanism to tackle market barriers.

Maharashtra CM launched 'SMART' initiative

Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has launched a unique initiative called 'State of Maharashtra’s Agribusiness and Rural Transformation' (SMART) on 5 December 2018.

The aim of the 'SMART' initiative is to revamp agricultural value chains, with a special focus on marginal farmers across 1,000 villages.

The initiative is assisted by the World Bank.

Free pilgrimage scheme launched by Delhi CM

Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched the 'Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana' on 5 December 2018.

Under the scheme, a city resident above 60 years will be eligible to take free pilgrimage along with his or her spouse.

The Delhi government will bear the expenses of pilgrims every year.

It has also signed a MoU with the railways to cater to the pilgrims availing the scheme.

Government of India notifies dual-fuel usage

Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has notified dual-fuel usage for agricultural and construction equipment vehicles.

These include tractors, power tillers, construction equipment vehicles and combine harvesters which have originally been manufactured as dual- fuel with diesel as the primary fuel

This move will help in reducing both cost and pollution.

Gangotri, Yamunotri included under 'PRASAD'

The government of India has included Gangotri and Yamunotri in Uttrarakhand, Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh and Parasnath in Jharkhand under the 'Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive' (PRASAD) scheme.

'PRASAD' is a central scheme to develop pilgrimage and heritage destinations in the country.

PRASAD scheme was launched by the Ministry of Tourism.

Swadesh Darshan proj. inaugurated in Nagaland





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Project 'Development of Tribal Circuit: Peren-Kohima-Wokha Project' was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Shri Neiphiu Rio.

This is the first project to be implemented in the state under Swadesh Darshan Scheme of Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

Under the project the ministry has developed facilities like tribal tourist village, open-air theatre, cafeteria, helipad etc.

AB-PMJAY scheme launched in Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik launched the 'Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana' (AB-PMJAY) scheme on 1 December 2018.

The scheme will benefit over 31 lakh residents in the state.

The AB-PMJAY is the world’s largest healthcare scheme which aims at providing coverage of Rs 5 lakh per entitled family annually.

'PEETHA' programme launched in Odisha

Odisha's Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched the 'Peoples Empowerment Enabling Transparency and Accountability' (PEETHA) programme on 3 December 2018.

The aim of the programme is to create transparency and awareness of various government schemes.

'PEETHA' is a sub-scheme of the Odisha government's flagship 'Ama Gaon Ama Bikas Yojana'.

'Digital Sky Platform' launched

The Civil Aviation Ministry launched the 'Digital Sky Platform' for the registration of drones and their operators on 1 December 2018.

To get permissions to fly drones, operators or remote pilots will have to file a flight plan.

Payments for Unmanned Aerial Operator's Permit and Unique Identification Numbers (UIN) will be accepted through the Bharat Kosh (bharatkosh.gov.in) portal.

ERSS launched in Nagaland

Pan-India single emergency number '112' under 'Emergency Response Support System' (ERSS) was launched in Nagaland on 1 December 2018.

It will connect to Police, Fire, Health and other helplines.

Nagaland is the first amongst the North-Eastern States and the second State in India to launch the emergency number '112'.

Himachal Pradesh is the first state to launch the emergency number ‘112’.

Defence Ministry approved military procurement

The Defence Acquisitions Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman accorded approval for the acquisition of defence equipment worth 3000 crores on 1 December 2018.

The DAC granted approval for procurement of indigenous Brahmos Missiles for two Indian Navy Ships to be built in Russia.

The DAC also approved the procurement of Armoured Recovery Vehicles for the Indian Army.

Science & Technology

SpaceX launches new GPS satellite

SpaceX successfully launched the US Air Force’s first Global Positioning System (GPS) III satellite, nicknamed 'Vespucci', on 23 December 2018.

The new GPS satellites, built by Lockheed Martin, will provide three-times better accuracy than the current system of GPS and will be eight times better at anti-jamming.

The GPS is owned by the U.S. military and operated by the U.S. Air Force.

'Super-Earth’ in 'Cassiopeia' discovered

Researchers have discovered a new exotic planet outside the solar system in the constellation 'Cassiopeia'.

The planet has been named 'HD219134 b'.

It is located 21 light years away from earth.

It has a mass of almost five times that of Earth, which is considered a so-called 'super-Earth'.

It is rich in calcium and aluminum alongside magnesium and silicon.

World's smallest tic-tac-toe game board made

Researchers from the California Institute of Technology have developed the world's smallest tic-tac-toe game board by using dynamic DNA origami tiles.

DNA origami tiles are microscopic organic structures that can be programmed to transform into predesigned patterns.

Earlier, scientists had developed the world's smallest version of the iconic Mona Lisa using the same technique.

Satellite for space-based broadband launched

On 22 December 2018, China launched its first communication satellite to provide broadband internet services worldwide.

The satellite is the first in the 'Hongyun project' planned by China Aerospace Science and Industry Corp (CASIC).

The 'Hongyun project' started in September 2016, aims to build a space-based communications network to provide broadband internet connectivity.

ISRO's GSAT 7A launched into the orbit

ISRO's 'GSAT 7A' satellite was launched into the orbit from Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh on 19 December 2018.

GSAT 7A was launched on 'GSLV F-11' rocket.

GSAT 7A is a geostationary communication satellite weighing 2250 kilograms and will provide communication services in Ku Band over the Indian region.

This satellite will provide vital data for hi-tech communication in strategic fields.

Most-distant object ever discovered

Scientists have discovered the most-distant body ever observed in our solar system.

The new object was given the provisional designation of '2018 VG18' and nicknamed 'Farout'.

It is located over 100 times farther than Earth is from the Sun.

'2018 VG18' is located about 120 astronomical units (AU) from earth.

1 AU is defined as the distance between the Earth and the Sun.

Hubble discovers a vanishing planet

Astronomers using the Hubble Space Telescope have discovered a planet roughly the size of Neptune, evaporating at a rate 100 times faster than a previously identified exoplanet of similar size.

The name of the planet is 'GJ 3470b'.

GJ 3470b is 96 light-years away from earth and circles a red dwarf star in the general direction of the constellation Cancer.

Manned mission to space

It is proposed to undertake a manned mission to space before the 75th Anniversary of Indian Independence.

The manned mission will be accomplished using ISRO’s launch vehicle GSLV MkIII.

The manned mission will launch Indian astronauts from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota into an approximately 400 Km Low Earth Orbit.

The maximum mission planned is of 7 days duration.

ISRO to launch GSAT-7A Communication Satellite

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch communication satellite 'GSAT-7A' from Sriharikota on 19 December 2018.

GSAT-7A is the 35th Indian Communication satellite built by the ISRO.

The satellite will enable the Indian Air Force to interlink different ground radar stations, ground airbase and airborne early warning and control aircraft.





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'Journalism AI' Project announced by Google

Google has announced a partnership with Polis, the international journalism think-tank at London School of Economics and Political Science, to create 'Journalism Artificial Intelligence (AI)' project.

The 'Journalism AI' project will focus on research and training for newsrooms on the intersection of AI and journalism.

The project is the part of Google News Initiative (GNI).

Voyager 2 probe reached interstellar space

NASA's 'Voyager 2' probe has become the second human-made object to enter interstellar space or space between stars.

It carries a working instrument that will provide first-of-its-kind observations of the nature of interstellar space.

It is now slightly more than 18 billion kilometres from Earth.

'Voyager 1' was the first one to enter the interstellar space in 2012.

China mission launched to far side of Moon

China launched the first mission to land a robotic craft on the far side of the Moon on 7 December 2018.

The name of the mission is 'Chang'e-4'.

The mission, which consists of a stationary lander and a rover, will explore the 'Von Kármán' crater which is located on the far side of the Moon.

The payload was carried by Long March 3B rocket.

NASA’s 'OSIRIS-REx' reached asteroid Bennu

NASA’s 'Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer' (OSIRIS-REx) spacecraft arrived at the asteroid named 'Bennu' on 3 December 2018.

'OSIRIS-REx' was launched in September 2016.

The spacecraft’s mission involves a close-up survey of the asteroid Bennu.

It is the part of NASA’s New Frontiers Programme.

'GSAT-11' launched from French Guiana

ISRO's heaviest and most-advanced high throughput communication satellite 'GSAT-11' was launched from French Guiana.

It is also known as 'Big Bird'.

The launch vehicle 'Ariane 5 VA-246' carried India’s 'GSAT-11' along with South Korea’s 'GEO-KOMPSAT-2A' satellite.

The 5,854-kg 'GSAT-11' will provide high data rate connectivity through 32 user beams in Ku-band and 8 hub beams in Ka-band.

Four new gravitational waves detected

Scientists have made four new detections of gravitational waves emanating from separate black hole mergers.

The gravitational waves were detected by the US-based LIGO and Europe-based VIRGO gravitational-wave detectors.

The new waves are known as 'GW170729', 'GW170809', 'GW170818', and 'GW170823', in reference to the dates they were detected.

Three astronauts set to launch to ISS

According to NASA, 3 space travellers are scheduled to launch to the International Space Station (ISS) on 3 December 2018 for a six-and-a-half month mission.

They will officially become the part of 'Expedition 58' crew.

Anne McClain of NASA, David Saint-Jacques of the Canadian Space Agency and Oleg Kononenko of Russian space agency are preparing to launch aboard the Soyuz MS-11 spacecraft.

Books & Authors

Book on Maharaja Jagatjit Singh launched

Punjab's Chief Minister Amarinder Singh released a book on former ruler Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Kapurthala on 24 December 2018.

The title of the book is 'Prince, Patron, and Patriarch - Maharaja Jagatjit Singh of Kapurthala'.

It is co-authored by Brigadier (Retd) Sukhjit Singh and Cynthia Meera Frederick.

PM releases the book 'Timeless Laxman'

The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, released the coffee table book 'Timeless Laxman' on 18 December 2018.

The book is based on the famous cartoonist RK Laxman.

RK Laxman was an Indian cartoonist, illustrator, and humorist.

He was best known for his creation 'The Common Man' and for his daily cartoon strip, 'You Said It' in The Times of India.

Book authored by former CEA launched

The book titled 'Of Counsel: The Challenges of the Modi-Jaitley Economy' was launched in Mumbai on 7 December 2018.

The author of the book is Arvind Subramanian.

Arvind Subramanian is an Indian economist and the former Chief Economic Advisor to the Government of India.

The book talks about the journey of Arvind Subramanian as the CEA from 2014 to 2018.

Books on President's speeches to be launched

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting will launch the books on selected speeches of President Ram Nath Kovind on 8 December 2018.

The titles of the books are 'The Republican Ethic' and 'Loktantra Ke Swar'.

The book is a collection of 95 selected speeches out of a total of 243 speeches made by President Ram Nath Kovind in the first year of his office.

‘Blue Waters Ahoy!’ book released

Admiral Sunil Lanba, chief of the Naval Staff, released a book titled ‘Blue Waters Ahoy!’.

It tells Indian Navy’s History from 2001-10.

It was unveiled on the occasion of the Indian Navy Day, celebrated every year on 04 December 2018.

https://bit.ly/2mdJPmF





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The book is authored by Vice Admiral Anup Singh, who retired as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Naval Command in 2011.

Environment

Cabinet approves submission of BUR to UNFCCC.

The Union Cabinet approved the submission of India’s second Biennial Update Report (BUR) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

As per the report, India emitted around 2.607 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent of Green House Gases in 2014.

India had submitted its first BUR in 2016.

The scope of BUR is to provide an update to India's 1st BUR to UNFCCC.

Conference on climate change began in Poland

The 24th meeting of Conference of Parties (COP-24) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) began in Poland on 3 December 2018.

The Conference will conclude on 14 December 2018.

COP-24 is very significant as it is expected to finalise guidelines for implementation of the 'Paris Agreement' adopted in 2016.

Committees & Recommendations

'Economic capital framework' committee formed

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), in consultation with the government of India, has set up a six-member committee to review the 'Economic Capital Framework' of the central bank.

Former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan will be the committee’s Chairman.

The other members are Economic Affairs Secretary Subash Chandra Garg, RBI Deputy Governor N.S. Vishwanathan and two board members of the RBI.

Logistics Development Committee constituted

The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) constituted a Logistics Development Committee.

The committee will be headed by Dr. Bibek Debroy, Chairman EAC-PM.

The committee will assess key challenges in logistics development and associated commerce, and suggest policy reforms for ease of doing trade in India.

Govt forms panel to select Managing Directors

The government of India constituted a seven-member panel to select Managing Directors of public sector insurance companies.

The panel would be headed by Banks Board Bureau (BBB) Chairman BP Sharma.

The other members of the panel are Financial Services Secretary, Department of Public Enterprises Secretary and Chairman of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India.

Govt sets up GoM on stressed power assets

The government has constituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) to examine the recommendations made by a high-level panel on stressed power projects.

The GoM will be headed by Arun Jaitley.

The high-level panel on stressed power projects headed by Cabinet Secretary P K Sinha had submitted its report in November 2019.

GoM to form sub-panel on harassment

The Group of Ministers (GoM), formed to look into the sexual harassment cases at the workplace, decided to constitute a sub-committee on 10 December 2018.

The sub-committee will suggest changes to the law on the prevention of sexual harassment at the workplace as well as ways to strengthen the National Commission for Women.

The GoM is headed by Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

Panel to look at selling OIL, ONGC fields

The government of India has constituted a six-member panel to look at selling small and marginal oil and gas fields of state-owned ONGC and Oil India.

The panel is headed by NITI Aayog's Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar and includes Cabinet Secretary P. K. Sinha and Oil Secretary M. M. Kutty.

The smaller fields of ONGC and Oil India accounted for just 5% of the domestic crude oil production.

NGT appointed former HC judge U C Dhyani

On 30 November 2018, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) appointed former Uttarakhand High Court judge, Justice U C Dhyani, as head of the three-member committee to oversee rejuvenation work of the Ganga river.

Other Members of the committee will be from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and IIT Roorkee.

The committee was set up by NGT on 6 August 2018.

Business & Economy

Banks recover ₹40,400 crore from defaulters

According to RBI, in the fiscal ended March 2018, banks recovered ₹40,400 crore worth of bad loans as against ₹38,500 crore recovered in FY17.

The various channels through which lenders recovered their bad loans include the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), SARFAESI Act, Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) and Lok Adalats.

The amount recovered through SARFAESI was ₹26,500 crore in FY18.

Govt extends import restrictions on peas

The commerce ministry extended the import restrictions on peas for another three months till 31 March 2019.

Such measures help in curbing cheaper imports and boost local prices.

The restrictions were imposed by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT.

India is the largest producer of pulses in the world.

ESAF is now ‘scheduled bank’

ESAF Small Finance Bank Ltd has received the RBI’s approval for inclusion in the second schedule of the RBI Act, 1934.

Now the bank can seek funds from trusts, associations, religious institutions, and mutual funds.

It will also enable the bank to avail higher refinance facility.

R Prabha is the Chairman of ESAF Small Finance Bank.

The headquarters of the bank is in Thrissur, Kerala.

PSBs approve loans worth over Rs 37,400 cr

Public Sector Banks (PSBs) approved more than 1.12 lakh loan applications of MSMEs worth of 37,412 crore rupees under the '59 minutes' loan scheme.

The scheme was launched by the government of India in November 2018.

GST-registered Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) can take the loan up to one crore in just 59 minutes through 'psbloansin59minutes.com' portal.

RBI enhances single borrower limit facility

The Reserve Bank of India extended the enhanced single borrower limit facility for Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) sector by 3 months.

It has now been extended up to March 31, 2019

This will provide much-needed liquidity support to NBFCs.

In October 2018, RBI increased the single borrower limit for NBFCs from 10% to 15% of capital funds.

Cabinet approves listing of 7 unlisted CPSEs





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6 Central Public Sector Enterprises will be listed on the stock exchange.

Telecommunication Consultants Ltd, RailTel Corporation India Ltd, National Seed Corporation India Ltd, Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Ltd, Water & Power Consultancy Services Ltd, & Aravali Gypsum and Minerals Ltd will be listed on the exchange.

The government will dilute the stake in Kudremukh Iron Ore Company.

RBI relaxes withdrawal limit for depositors

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) relaxed the restrictions placed on the City Co-operative Bank Ltd., by allowing the depositors to withdraw ₹5,000.

In April 2018, the RBI barred the bank from extending fresh loans or making a new investment without prior approval and depositors were allowed to withdraw ₹1,000.

City Co-operative Bank Ltd. is based in Mumbai and its Chairman is Anandrao Adsul

HDFC group surpasses Tatas in m-cap

HDFC group has become the most valuable business house in the country.

It has surpassed the Tatas in terms of Market capitalisation.

The cumulative market valuation of HDFC group surged to Rs 10.40 trillion on 27 December 2018.

HDFC group has five listed firms - HDFC Ltd, HDFC Bank, HDFC Standard Life Insurance Company, Gruh Finance Ltd and HDFC Asset Management Company.

7th tranche of electoral bonds sale from 1 Jan

The seventh tranche of electoral bonds sale will take place from 1 to 10 January 2019.

The State Bank of India has been authorised to issue and encash Electoral Bonds through its 29 Authorised Branches.

A person can buy electoral bonds, either singly or jointly, with other individuals.

An electoral bond will be valid for 15 days from the date of issue.

Seven PSBs to receive Rs. 28,615 crore

The government will infuse Rs. 28,615 crore into seven public sector banks (PSBs) through recapitalisation bonds by the end of December 2018.

The amount infused will help the banks meet regulatory capital requirement.

Out of these seven PSBs, Bank of India is likely to get the highest amount of Rs. 10,086 crore, followed by Oriental Bank of Commerce which might get Rs. 5,500 crore.

Fiscal deficit touches 115% of target

India’s fiscal deficit touched 114.8% of the full-year target of Rs. 6.24 lakh crore at the end of November 2018 on account of lower revenue collection.

The fiscal deficit stood at Rs. 7.16 lakh crore during April-November of the current financial year.

The government has budgeted to cut the fiscal deficit to 3.3% of GDP in 2018-19, from 3.53% in 2017-18.

Investment through P-notes rises in November

Investments in the Indian capital market through Participatory notes (P-notes) increased to Rs 79,247 crore in November 2018.

P-notes are issued by registered foreign portfolio investors to overseas investors who wish to be part of the Indian stock market without registering themselves directly.

The funds' inflow through P-notes in October 2018 was 69,445 crore rupees.

Survey launched to capture the payment habits

The Reserve Bank of India launched a 'Survey on Retail Payment Habits of Individuals (SRPHi)' on 26 December 2018.

The survey will cover a sample of 6,000 individuals from various socio-economic backgrounds.

The survey will be conducted in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Guwahati.

The purpose of the survey is to capture the payment habits of individuals.

Centre tightens rules for selling online

The government of India said that e-commerce companies would be barred from selling products sourced from firms in which they have the stake in or control over.

It also said that an e-commerce marketplace will not force any seller to sell any product exclusively on its platform.

The norms will come into effect from February 1, 2019.

PNB launches special card for Kumbh Mela

Punjab National Bank (PNB) has launched a special card for Kumbh Mela 2019.

The bank has partnered with the Uttar Pradesh government to create a model for digitization at Kumbh Mela 2019.

For convenient and hassle-free transactions at these shops, the bank has created the 'PNB Rupay' card which works even without the internet.

RBI shortlists Wipro, TCS, 4 others for PCR

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) shortlisted six major IT companies to set up a digital Public Credit Registry (PCR)

The IT companies are TCS, Wipro, IBM India, Capgemini Technology Services India, Dun & Bradstreet Information Services India, and Mindtree Ltd.

PCR will be capturing details of all borrowers and wilful defaulters.

It will strengthen the credit culture in the economy.

GST Council cuts rates on 17 items, 6 services

The Goods and Services Tax Council has cut rates on 17 items and six types of services during its 31st meeting on 22 December 2018.

The GST rate on cinema tickets above ₹100 was cut from 28% to 18% and on tickets up to ₹100 from 18% to 12%.

The Council decided that 5% GST would be levied on renewable energy devices and parts for their manufacture.

Govt. to infuse Rs 83,000 crore in PSBs

The government of India will infuse Rs 83,000 crore in Public Sector Banks (PSBs) in the next few months in the current fiscal.

The government of India moved the proposal in Parliament for enhanced bank recapitalisation

The recapitalisation will enhance the lending capacity of PSBs and help them come out of the RBI's Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework.

RBI caps outstanding ECBs at 6.5% of GDP

On 20 December 2018, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced a cap for outstanding stock of External Commercial Borrowings (ECB) at 6.5% of GDP of the country.

The outstanding stock of ECB as on 30 September 2018 was $126.29 billion.

ECBs refer to commercial loans in the form of bank loans, securitised instruments buyers’ credit, suppliers’ credit availed of from non-resident lenders.

Four banks may come out of PCA

Four public sector banks that are under the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework of RBI, may come out of the PCA restrictions following an improved performance.

Four public sector banks are Bank of Maharashtra, Corporation Bank, Allahabad Bank, and Bank of India.

This follows a review of the performance of all 11 banks that are under the PCA framework.

Merger of IDFC Bank & Capital First completed





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IDFC Bank completed the merger process with Non-Banking Financial Company 'Capital First' on 18 December 2018.

After the merger, 'Capital First' has been renamed as 'IDFC First Bank'.

V. Vaidyanathan is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the merged entity.

Rajiv Lall, who was the MD & CEO of IDFC Bank, will now become part-time non-executive Chairman of the merged entity.

RBI scales up liquidity infusion

The RBI will increase the amount of liquidity infusion by Rs.10,000 crore to Rs. 50,000 crore in December 2018.

It earlier announced that it will infuse liquidity amounting to Rs. 40,000 crore through Open Market Operations (OMO) in December 2018.

OMO refers to the buying and selling of government securities in the open market in order to expand or contract the amount of money in the system.

OBOPAY partners with Federal Bank & Mastercard

Global financial technology company, OBOPAY, announced the launch of a new generation pre-payment instrument in partnership with Federal Bank and Mastercard.

The OBOPAY card can be availed by all the business entities including corporate, distributor – retailer ecosystem, colleges, factories etc.

The card includes 'Split transaction' feature which provides payment flexibility to users.

India Post introduces internet banking service

India Post launched internet banking services for all the Post Office Savings Bank (POSB) account holders on 14 December 2018.

India Post has introduced the net banking facility to push the digital payments.

Under India Post internet banking facility, customers will be eligible to transfer funds from one post office savings bank account to another POSB account.

SEBI eases norms for cyber security operations

Market regulator SEBI relaxed guidelines pertaining to setting up cyber security operations centre for small market intermediaries as they lack knowledge in cyber security.

Under the new framework, small intermediaries can utilise services of market security operations center (SOC).

The SOCs is proposed to be set up by Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs).

WPI inflation falls to 4.64% in November

Inflation based on wholesale prices fell to a three-month low of 4.64% in November 2018, as prices of food articles, especially vegetables reduced.

The Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation stood was 5.28% in October 2018 and 4.02% in November 2017.

Vegetables, too, became cheaper with deflation at 26.98% in November 2018 as compared to 18.65% in October 2018.

SEBI eased norms for FPIs and startups

The SEBI eased norms for startup listings and allowed mutual funds to segregate distressed assets to safeguard investment returns.

It also approved a proposal to expand the offer-for-sale mechanism for reduction of the stake in listed companies.

It also cleared a proposal to allow custodial services in the commodity derivatives market to enable institutional participation.

Single cover for multiple vehicles allowed

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) allowed customers to buy one single Compulsory Personal Accident (CPA) cover for multiple vehicles.

The cover will extend to all the vehicles driven by the policyholder and have a validity of one year.

Currently, a vehicle buyer has to buy a CPA for every vehicle he or she purchases.

CBIC to notify Korean Won and Turkish Lira

The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) will include 'Korean Won' and 'Turkish Lira' in the list of currencies for exchange rates for the purpose of valuing imports and exports.

CBIC notifies the Rate of Exchange for the purpose of conversion of foreign exchange to Indian rupees for assessment of imports and exports.

CBIC notifies the conversion under Customs Act, 1962.

Route mobile collaborates with Oracle

Route Mobile Ltd, a cloud-communication platform service provider and a member of Oracle Partner Network announced the collaboration with Oracle Marketing Cloud.

This will empower them to take a smarter approach to customer experience management & business transformation initiatives.

This enables companies to leverage Route Mobile’s quality connections for mobile customer engagement over SMS

FDI inflows to South West Asia down: UN report

As per the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) report, FDI inflows to South and South-West Asia decreased by 6 percent in 2017.

It is due to a drop in foreign funding flow to countries like India and Turkey.

The foreign direct investment (FDI) inflow to South and South-West Asia stood at USD 63 billion in the last calendar year.

RBI imposes ₹1 cr fine on Indian Bank

The Reserve Bank of India imposed a fine of Rs 1 crore on Indian Bank for violating cybersecurity norms on 11 December 2018.

This penalty has been imposed in the exercise of powers vested in RBI under the provisions of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949.

RBI said that this action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance.

Current account deficit widens to 2.9% in Q2

According to the Reserve Bank of India, the Current Account Deficit (CAD) widened to 2.9% of GDP for the July-September quarter.

The deficit for the second quarter was $19.1 billion.

The CAD for the April-June quarter was 2.4% of GDP or $15.9 billion.

The widening of CAD on a year-on-year basis was primarily on account of a higher trade deficit at $50 billion.

SEBI to relax listing norms for start-ups

SEBI has proposed few relaxations for new-age ventures in sectors like e-commerce, data analytics and biotechnology.

The proposed relaxation will help startups to raise funds and get their shares traded on stock exchanges.

The proposed changes also include renaming the 'Institutional Trading Platform' that the regulator had created for such listings as 'Innovators Growth Platform'.

Sale of REC to PFC approved by cabinet

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the strategic sale of 52.63% stake in Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) to Power Finance Corporation (PFC).

This deal is expected to fetch the exchequer around ₹15,000 crore.

This transaction will help the government meet its ₹80,000-crore disinvestment target for 2018-19.

The transaction will be through the acquisition route.

SBI to cease to be EPFO fund manager

State Bank of India (SBI) will cease to be a fund manager of retirement fund body EPFO by the end of March 2019.

According to RBI rules, a bank cannot function as an asset management company.





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Currently, SBI, ICICI Securities Primary Dealership, Reliance Capital, HSBC AMC and UTI AMC are fund managers of the EPFO.

RBI to implement an Ombudsman scheme

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will implement an 'Ombudsman Scheme for Digital Transactions' covering services provided by entities falling under Reserve Banks regulatory jurisdiction.

The aim of the scheme is to provide a cost-free mechanism to redress grievances of customers related to digital transactions.

The scheme will be notified by the end of January 2019.

Loans to be linked to external benchmarks

The RBI proposed that floating interest rates on loans will be linked to external benchmarks like repo rate or treasury yields.

The new guidelines will be applicable from 1 April 2019.

Currently, banks follow a system of internal benchmarks including the Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR), Benchmark Prime Lending Rate (BPLR), and Prime Lending Rate (PLR).

New norms on loan system for large borrowers

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) came out with guidelines for enhancing credit discipline among large borrowers.

Borrowers having aggregate fund based working capital limit of Rs 150 crore and above, a minimum level of 'loan component' of 40% will be applicable.

The 40% loan component will be revised to 60% with effect from 1 July 2019.

The guidelines will be effective from 1 April 2019.

RBI to cut SLR gradually to 18% by mid-2019

The RBI will reduce the Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) by 0.25% every quarter beginning January 2019.

The reduction in SLR will continue till it reaches 18%.

The current SLR is 19.5%.

The move is likely to release funds locked in government securities.

SLR is the portion of funds which banks are required to maintain in the form of gold reserves and the government approved securities.

RBI to inject Rs 10,000 cr through OMO

The Reserve Bank of India will inject Rs 10,000 crore into the banking system through purchase of government securities on 6 December 2018 to increase liquidity.

The purchase will be made through Open Market Operations (OMOs).

The RBI also announced auction of 'Cash Management Bill'.

Cash Management Bill is short term instrument to meet the temporary cash flow mismatches of the Government.

RBI left key interest rate unchanged

The Reserve Bank of India’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) kept the repo rate unchanged at 6.5% on 5 December 2018.

The reverse repo rate was also kept unchanged at 6.5%.

Repo rate is the rate at which the RBI lends to other banks.

This means that home loan and car loan rates will not change.

The six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is headed by RBI Governor Urjit Patel.

HUL board approves merger with GlaxoSmithKline

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) approved the merger with GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare (GSKCH India) through an-all equity deal on 3 December 2018.

GSKCH India sells consumer healthcare products, including the popular drink brand 'Horlicks'.

The merger includes all the operations of GSKCH India and including a consignment selling contract to distribute GSKCH India.

'eATM' launched by ICICI Securities and BSE

ICICI Securities and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has launched 'eATM' facility on 3 December 2018.

Through 'eATM' facility, clients of the domestic brokerage entity will be able to receive the pay-out within 30 minutes of selling the shares.

The new service would have a cap of ₹50,000 per client a day and would be applicable on about 600 stocks listed on the BSE.

Infra growth slows down to 4.8% in Oct 2018

The growth rate of eight infrastructure sectors slowed down to 4.8% in October 2018 due to contraction in the production of crude oil, natural gas, and fertiliser.

During April-October 2018-19, the eight sectors recorded a growth rate of 5.4%.

Eight infrastructure sectors comprise coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement, and electricity.

India's economy grew at 7.1% 2nd quarter

According to the data released by Central Statistics Office (CSO), India’s GDP (gross domestic product) growth rate for the second quarter (July-September) for the financial year 2018-2019 was 7.1%.

The size of the GDP in the second quarter is estimated at Rs 33.98 lakh crore.

India’s GDP growth rate for the first quarter (April-June) of the financial year 2018-2019 came in at 8.2%.

Sports

Smriti won the ICC 'Women's Cricketer' award

India women's cricket vice-captain Smriti Mandhana won the 'Women's Cricketer of the Year' and the 'Women's ODI Player of the Year' by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

She won the 'Women's Cricketer of the Year' for scoring 669 runs in 12 ODIs along with 622 runs in T20 Internationals in 2018.





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She became only the second India woman player to win an ICC award after Jhulan Goswami.

ICC name Women's ODI and T20I team of the year

International Cricket Council (ICC) announced women's ODI and T20I teams of the year 2018.

New Zealand’s Suzie Bates was named as captain of the 50-over side and Harmanpreet Kaur of India appointed captain of the T20 team.

The teams have been selected by Voting Academy comprising of members from media and broadcast.

Modric won ‘Balkan Athlete of the Year’ award

Croatia football captain Luka Modric was named ‘Balkan Athlete of the Year’ on 27 December 2018.

He is the second football player to win the prize.

He also won the ‘Ballon d’Or’ award 2018.

Bulgaria’s Hristo Stoichkov was the first football player to win the ‘Balkan Athlete of the Year award in 1994.

Women Boxing Championship to begin from 31 Dec

The National Women's Boxing Championships will be held in Karnataka from 31 December 2018 to 6 January 2019.

The tournament will be held at the JSW Sports' Inspire Institute of Sports.

This will be the first time that the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) will be hosting the national championship at the privately-run institute.

Ricky Ponting inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting was formally inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame on 26 December 2018.

He was named in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame along with former India captain Rahul Dravid in July 2018.

He is the 25th Australia cricketer to be formally inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame.

He is a three-time ICC Cricket World Cup winner including two times as captain.

Weightlifters banned after 2012 Olympic tests

The International Weightlifting Federation announced that five weightlifters have been provisionally suspended after reanalysis of their urine samples provided during the 2012 London Olympics.

They include two Olympic champions, Ukrainian Oleksiy Torokhtiy, and Uzbekistan's' Ruslan Nurudinov.

The other weightlifters are from Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Belarus.

Youngest woman to have 50 World Cup wins

America's Mikaela Shiffrin became the youngest woman to win 50 World Cup ski races with victory in the slalom in the French Alps on 22 December 2018.

Slovakia's Petra Vlhova got the second position while Sweden's Frida Hansdotter was in third place in slalom championship.

Slalom is an alpine skiing and alpine snowboarding discipline, involving skiing between poles or gates.

Kuttappa new chief coach for men's boxing

CA Kuttappa has taken over as India's Chief boxing coach on 26 December 2018.

He took over from veteran coach SR Singh, who has now retired.

His first major assignment would be the second edition of the India Open scheduled in January 2019 in Guwahati.

He is credited with shaping some of the country's most successful boxers such as Vijender Singh, M Suranjoy Singh, among others.

Hamilton awarded Drivers' Driver of the Year

On 22 December 2018, Lewis Hamilton won the 'Drivers' Driver of the Year' award.

For the first time, voting was done to determine the winner of the award.

He won the award after he claimed the 5th World Drivers' Championship.

Lewis Hamilton is the third man in history to secure the 5th world title.

Max Verstappen was placed in the 2nd position and Fernando Alonso got the 3rd place.

Belgium tops FIFA rankings

Belgium ended the year at the top of the FIFA rankings for December released on 20 December 2018.

They are one point ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup champions France.

Belgium has 1,727 points by FIFA's calculations and France has 1,726 points.

France was ranked second.

France is followed by Brazil, Croatia, and England.

Mahesh & Yash clinch squash tournament titles

Squash players Mahesh Mangaonkar of Maharashtra and Yash Fadte of Goa clinched the men's and under 19 boys titles respectively in the 'CCI Western India Squash Championship' on 23 December 2018.

Yash defeated Veer Chotrani of Maharashtra in the under 19 boys final.

Mahesh defeated Vikram Malhotra in the Men's final.

The 75th CCI Western India Squash Championship was held in Mumbai.

Real Madrid won the 'Club World Cup 2018'

Real Madrid won the 'FIFA Club World Cup 2018' in United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 23 December 2018.

They defeated Al Ain in the final match.

With this win, Real Madrid becomes the first ever to claim three straight Club World Cup or Intercontinental Cup.

They also became the first to win four Club World Cup titles.

It won the world cup in 2014,2016 and 2017.

Bala Rafique won the 'Maharashtra Kesari'

Wrestler Bala Rafique Shaikh won the 'Maharashtra Kesari' title on 23 December 2018.

He defeated Abhijeet Katke of Pune in the final round.

He was honoured with a silver mace and cash prize of Rs 1 lakh.

Maharashtra Kesari is an Indian-style prestigious wrestling championship, established in 1961.

Premier Badminton League begins in Mumbai

Premier Badminton League 2018 (PBL) began in Mumbai on 22 December 2018.

It will conclude in Bengaluru on 13 January 2019.

Olympian and World Champion Carolina Marin of Spain and India's Rio Olympics silver medalist PV Sindhu are taking part in it.

The Premier Badminton League 2017 title was won by the Chennai Smashers.

WV Raman appointed as India women's team coach

Former India opener, W. V. Raman was appointed as the new coach of the Indian women's cricket team.

Raman was among three recommendations made by the ad-hoc committee of Kapil Dev, Anshuman Gaekwad, and Shantha Rangaswamy.

He has represented India in 11 Tests and 27 One-Day Internationals.

He is currently a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.

Novak & Simona named 2018 ITF world champions

Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep were named as the '2018 ITF World Champions' by the governing body of global tennis.

Djokovic received the honour from the International Tennis Federation (ITF) for the sixth time.

It is the first time that Romania’s top-ranked Halep has been named for '2018 ITF World Champions'.

Virat: 2nd fastest to score 25th Test century

Virat Kohli became the second fastest batsman to score 25 Test centuries.





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He reached the milestone in 127 innings on Day 3 of the Perth Test, between India and Australia on 16 December 2018.

Sachin Tendulkar is at the third position, as he achieved the mile stone in 130 innings.

Don Bradman took mere 68 innings to score 25 Test hundreds.

Belgium won the 'Hockey World Cup 2018'

Belgium won the 'Hockey World Cup 2018' in Bhubaneswar on 16 December 2018.

They defeated the Netherlands in a shoot-out in the final of the Men's Hockey World Cup.

The 'Hockey World Cup 2018' was held in Bhubaneswar, India from 28 November 2018 to 16 December 2018

The 2014 Hockey World Cup was won by Australia.

Senior National Rowing Championship begins

The 37th Senior National Rowing Championship began in the Army Rowing Node in Pune on 17 December 2018.

Around 500 rowers and coaches from various rowing associations across the country will take part in the Championship.

The Rowers for the World Championships - 2019 will be selected from this event.

World Championship - 2019 is the first qualifying Championship for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

PV Sindhu won the BWF World Tour Finals

PV Sindhu won the season-ending Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Tour Finals tournament on 16 December 2018.

She is the first Indian to win the gold medal in BWF World Tour Finals tournament.

She defeated the Nozomi Okuhara in the final match.

ICC ropes in Royal Stag as official sponsor

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has roped in Royal Stag as the official sponsor for the next five years.

The partnership, which runs through 2023, will cover international events, including the ICC Cricket World Cup, ICC T20 World Cup and ICC World Test Championship.

ICC currently also has Nissan, Oppo, MRF Tyres and Emirates as global partners.

Manika won 'Breakthrough Star award'

India's Manika Batra became the first Indian Table Tennis player to be decorated with the 'Breakthrough Table Tennis Star' award.

She was honoured at the prestigious 'International Table Tennis Federation Star Awards' in Incheon.

Manika started the year on a high at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, guiding India to it's first-ever gold medal in the Women's Team category.

Sascha Bajin named WTA 'Coach of the Year'

Tennis coach Sascha Bajin was chosen as the first winner of the Women's Tennis Association's (WTA) 'Coach of the Year' award on 10 December 2018.

Sascha Bajin is the coach of tennis player Naomi Osaka.

According to the WTA, the award is given to the coach with not only success on the court, but also one who serves as an ambassador of the sport.

SAIL Hockey Academy won 'Aga Khan Gold Cup'

Steel Authority of India's Hockey Academy won the 115th 'All India Aga Khan Gold Cup' hockey tournament 2018 in Delhi on 10 December 2018.

They defeated the Army XI Danapur in the final match.

SAIL's Hockey Academy is run SAIL's Rourkela Steel Plant.

Aga Khan Gold Cup is one of the oldest hockey tournaments in the country.

Khelo India Youth Games to be held in Pune

The 2nd edition of 'Khelo India Youth Games' will be held in Pune in January 2019.

Students from colleges and Universities will also be allowed to compete in the games.

Tennis and table tennis will also be the part of 2019 edition of games.

The 1st edition of Khelo India games was held in Delhi in January 2018.

The Khelo India games is organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports.

Shubhankar won the 'Asian Tour Order of Merit'

Golf player Shubhankar Sharma became the youngest Indian to win the 'Asian Tour Order of Merit' on 8 December 2018.

He is the fifth Indian to win the 'Asian Tour Order of Merit'.

Before him, Jyoti Randhawa (2002), Arjun Atwal (2003), Jeev Milkha Singh (2006 and 2008), and Anirban Lahiri (2015) won the 'Asian Tour Order of Merit'.

Jeev is the only golf player to win the Merit honours twice.

Italy won 'Admiral's Cup' Sailing Regatta 2018

The ninth edition of 'Admiral's Cup' Sailing Regatta 2018 concluded on 6 December 2018 in Kerala.

Team Italy won the 'Admiral's Cup' Sailing Regatta 2018.

Team Singapore came second and Team USA came third.

'Admiral’s Cup' Regatta is a prestigious international military sailing event hosted annually by Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala.

Kylian Mbappe won best young player trophy

French footballer Kylian Mbappe was named the winner of the 'Kopa Trophy' at the Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris on 3 December 2018.

The trophy is given to the best young football player under 21 years of age.

He is the first-ever winner of the trophy.

The new award was named after the former Ballon d'Or winner Raymond Kopa.

Delhi Daredevils renamed as 'Delhi Capitals'

Delhi Daredevils was renamed as 'Delhi Capitals' on 4 December 2018.

Parth Jindal, representing JSW Sport, and Kiran Kumar Grandhi of GMR are the Co-owners of 'Delhi Capitals'.

Shreyas Iyer will be the captain of 'Delhi Capitals'.

Australian great Ricky Ponting is the coach the 'Delhi Capitals'.

Budapest to host 2023 Athletics Championships

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) announced that Budapest will host the 'World Athletics Championship' in 2023.

Budapest has twice hosted the IAAF world indoor championships and the European athletics championships.

The 2019 'World Athletics Championship' will be held in Doha and the 2021 edition in Eugene, Oregon.

Budapest is the capital of Hungary.

Kipchoge and Ibarguen won IAAF awards






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Marathon world-record holder Eliud Kipchoge of Kenya and Colombian long jumper Caterine Ibarguen won the 'IAAF Athletes of the Year' awards on 4 December 2018.

Kipchoge had set a new marathon world record in Berlin in September 2018.

Ibarguen had won the long and triple jumps at the Central American and Caribbean Games, the IAAF Continental Cup, and at the IAAF Diamond League finals in 2018.

Ullas won first Int’l medal in ultra running

Ullas Narayan became the first ever Indian individual medal winner in the '2018 International Association of Ultra Running (IAU) 24 Hour Asia & Oceania Championship' on 2 December 2018.

He won the bronze medal in the event.

Japan won the team event Gold at the event.

Ultra races involved running over extremely long distances which are far longer than the traditional races.

Luka Modric won 'Ballon d’Or 2018'

Real Madrid and Croatia midfielder Luka Modric won 'Ballon d’Or 2018' in Paris on 3 December 2018.

He was awarded the FIFA’s World Cup 2018 Most Valuable Player Award, UEFA’s Player of the Year 2018, and Best FIFA Footballer of the 2018.

Norwegian forward Ada Hegerberg won the 'Ballon d’Or 2018' for women’s players.

Maheshwari Chauhan won women's skeet title

Rajasthan's Maheshwari Chauhan won the women's skeet title at the '62nd National Shooting Championship Competition' (NSCC) for shotgun events in Jaipur on 3 December 2018.

She defeated Ganemat Sekhon in the final match.

The bronze medal was won by Punjab's Simran Preet Kaur Johal.

Simran won the women's team, junior women's and junior women's team gold medal.

Vinesh won the national title in wrestling

In Wrestling, Vinesh Phogat won the 57-kilogram national title at the 'Tata Motors Senior National Championship 2018' in Gonda, Uttar Pradesh on 1 December 2018.

She had earlier won five national titles in a row from 2012 to 2016.

Sakshi Malik also won the national title at the 'Tata Motors Senior National Championship 2018' in the 62-kilogram category.

Atlawim won the 'Pune International Marathon'

Atlawim Debebe of Ethiopia won the 'Pune International Marathon' with the timing of 2 hours 17 minutes 17 seconds on 2 December 2018.

Teshome Getachew claimed second and Bekele Asefa third position in the marathon.

In women’s Full Marathon Pascalia Chepkogei from Kenya stood first with the timing of 2 hour 50 minutes 27 seconds.

This was the 33rd year of Pune International Marathon.

Esha Singh won 3 gold medals in shooting

Shooter Esha Singh won three gold medals at the '62nd National Shooting Championship' at Thiruvananthapuram on 29 November 2018.

Esha won the Women’s, Youth Women’s and Junior Women’s 10m Air Pistol competitions.

She defeated Manu Bhaker in the Women’s 10m Air Pistol event.

Shweta, representing ONGC, won the bronze medal in the Women’s 10m Air Pistol event.

Defence

Lt Gen Manoj takes charge of Gajraj Corps

Lt Gen Manoj Pande took the command of the Indian Army's Gajraj Corps on 30 December 2018.

He replaced Lt Gen Gurpal Singh Sangha.

Prior to this, he was the Chief of Staff in Headquarters Southern Command.

The Gajraj Corps (IV Corps) is a military field formation of the Indian Army, created in 1961.

India successfully test-fires Agni-IV missile

India successfully test-fired its nuclear-capable long-range 'Agni-IV' on 23 December 2018.

It has a strike range of 4,000 km.

The strategic surface-to-surface missile was flight tested from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Dr. Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha coast.

Agni-IV missile is equipped with advanced Avionics, 5th generation On Board Computer and distributed architecture.

IFC-IOR inaugurated in Gurugram

India inaugurated an Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) on 22 December 2018.

The IFC has been established at the Navy’s Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) at Gurugram.

It will work closely with countries in the India ocean region and will be manned by the Indian Navy.

It will track and monitor 75,000 to 1.5 lakh shipping traffic in the IOR in real time.

IAF tested flight using blended Bio-Jet fuel

In a first, experimental test pilot and test engineer of the Indian Air Force (IAF) flew an 'An-32' military transport aircraft using blended bio-jet fuel on 17 December 2018.

The project is a combined effort of IAF, DRDO, Directorate General Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), and CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum.

The bio-jet fuel is made from Jatropha oil.

Navy to inaugurate 'Information Fusion Centre'

The Navy will inaugurate the Information Fusion Centre (IFC) for the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Through this Centre, information on 'white shipping', or commercial shipping, will be exchanged with countries in the region to improve maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean.

The IFC has been established at the Navy’s Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) in Gurugram, Haryana.

India's first private UAV factory inaugurated

India' first private sector unit for manufacturing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) opened at Adani Aerospace Park in Hyderabad.

The Adani Aerospace Park facility has been built by the Adani Group and Israel-based Elbit Systems.

The facility will develop 'Hermes 900' medium altitude long-endurance UAVs for the Indian and global markets.

Coast Guard launches 'Operation Oliva'

The Indian Coast Guard launched the 'Operation Oliva' exercise at the Gahirmatha marine sanctuary in Odisha.

The aim of the exercise is to protect the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles during their breeding season.

A state-of-the-art Coast Guard ship is maintaining round-the-clock vigil along the coastal shoreline.

HAL’s Helicopter clears 6-km flight test

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's (HAL) multi-purpose Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) that is under development achieved an important milestone of flying at 6 km altitude on 10 December 2018.

The LUH has a maximum permitted height limit of 6.5 km.

The LUH will replace the aged Cheetah and Chetak helicopters of the Armed Forces.

DSRVs inducted by the Indian Navy





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The Indian Navy inducted its first Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) system at the naval dockyard in Mumbai on 11 December 2018.

DSRV is used to rescue crew members stranded in submarines that get disabled.

The Indian Navy joined a select group of naval forces in the world that boasts of DSRVs.

The DSRV can be operated at a depth of 650 meters and can hold around 15 people.

Agni V Missile successfully launched

Agni V was successfully launched from a canister on a road-mobile launcher at the Dr Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on 10 December 2018.

Agni V is a long-range surface-to-surface Nuclear Capable Ballistic missile.

The launch operations were carried out and monitored by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) and Scientists from Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Exercise 'Cross Bow 18' conducted by IAF

The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted the exercise code-named 'Cross Bow 18' at the Air Force Station at Suryalanka in Andhra Pradesh on 8 December 2018.

In the exercise, the Indian Air Force successfully tested the firing of four different classes of missiles like Akash, Spyder, OSA-AK-M, and IGLA.

The aim of the exercise is to improve the combat skills of the missile squadron crew.

Ex 'Indra Navy 2018' commenced

Indian Navy and Russian Federation Navy will hold the maritime exercise 'Indra Navy 2018' from 9 to 16 December 2018.

The exercise will be conducted at Visakhapatnam.

The aim of the exercise is to increase interoperability amongst the two navies and develop common understanding and procedures for maritime security operations.

The first 'Indra Navy' exercise was held in 2003.

Ex 'Aviaindra 2018' commenced on 10 Dec 2018

Indian Air Force and Russian Federation Aerospace Force (RFSAF) will hold exercise 'Aviaindra 2018' at Air Force Station Jodhpur from 10 to 21 December 2018.

The first exercise 'Aviaindra' was held in 2014.

The aim of the exercise is focused on anti-terrorist operations.

The exercise is unique wherein the RFSAF will not bring its air assets.

Indian Navy celebrating Submarine Day on 8 Dec

The Indian Navy is celebrating Submarine Day on 8 December.

The day commemorates the induction of the first submarine, the erstwhile INS Kalvari, into the Navy on this day in 1967.

The Foxtrot class submarine was decommissioned on 31 May 1996, after 29 years of service.

ICG conducted exercise ‘Clean Sea 2018’

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) conducted the Regional Level Marine Oil Pollution Response Exercise titled ‘Clean Sea 2018’ at Port Blair on 6 December 2018.

Coast Guard ships Viswasth, Vijith, Rajveer, Rajshri, and Chetak helicopters participated in the exercise.

The ICG is the designated authority for oil spill response in Indian waters.

ICG comes under the Ministry of Defence.

Indian Navy to conduct 'TROPEX' from Jan 2019

The Indian Navy will be conducting its flagship 'Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise' (TROPEX) from January 2019.

The aim of the exercise is to test the combat capability of the Indian Navy, Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Coast Guard

As part of TROPEX, the Indian Navy will also be conducting a large-scale coastal defence exercise 'Exercise Sea Vigil'.

Indian Navy Day celebrated on 4 December

Indian Navy Day is celebrated every year on 4 December.

The day is celebrated in honour of the Indian Navy's role during the war with Pakistan in 1971 when Indian warships attacked Karachi port.

The day is also celebrated to highlight the role the Navy plays in securing the country's marine borders during peacetime and carrying out humanitarian missions.

Air exercise 'SHINYUU Maitri-18' began

Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japanese Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) began their air exercise 'SHINYUU Maitri-18' at Air Force Station Agra on 3 December 2018.

The theme of the exercise is joint Mobility/Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) on Transport aircraft.

IAF participated in the exercise with 'An-32' and 'C-17' aircraft with aircrew & observers.

ASEAN Defence Ministers meeting begins

The ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) Experts' Working Group on 'Military Medicine' began at the Central Command in Lucknow on 2 December 2018.

The meeting will conclude on 6 December 2018.

The meeting is being co-chaired by India and Myanmar.

The aim of the conference is to establish better co-operation in medical operations amongst ASEAN and ASEAN-Plus countries.

Tactical exercise 'Vajra Kayaa' completed

On 1 December 2018, the Special Forces of India and United States completed their three-day tactical exercise called 'Vajra Kayaa'.

'Vajra Kayaa' is a part of the joint military drill 'Vajra Prahar 2018'.

'Vajra Kayaa' was based on the narrative of an imaginary country going into a civil war due to a weak democratic structure.

'Vajra Prahar 2018' is being held between India and the US.

Polity

Cabinet approves amendments to POCSO Act

On 28 December 2018, the Union Cabinet approved amendments to strengthen the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The new amendment includes the death penalty for sexual assault on children.

It provides for punishments for other crimes against those below 18 years of age.

The Act defines a child as any person below the age of 18 years.

It is gender-neutral legislation.

Union Cabinet approved the Medicine Bill, 2018

On 28 December 2018, the Union Cabinet approved the draft National Commission for Indian Systems of Medicine (NCIM) Bill, 2018.

The bill seeks to replace the existing regulator Central Council for Indian Medicine (CCIM) with a new body to ensure transparency.

The draft bill provides for the constitution of the Board of Ayurveda and Board of Unani, Siddha, and Sowarigpa.

Cabinet nod for easing CRZ norms

The Union Cabinet approved the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification, 2018 on 28 December 2018.

The new notification will allow the greater use of coastal areas for tourism and industrial growth.

Temporary tourism facilities such as shacks, toilet blocks, drinking water facilities etc. have now been permitted in Beaches.

Union Cabinet approves Homoeopathy Bill, 2018

On 28 December 2018, the Union Cabinet approved the draft National Commission for Homoeopathy, Bill, 2018.





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The bill seeks to replace the existing regulator Central Council for Homoeopathy (CCH) with a new body to ensure transparency.

It also proposes a common entrance exam and an exit exam which all graduates will have to clear to get practicing licenses.

Triple Talaq bill passed in Lok Sabha

The Lok Sabha passed the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill 2018 on 27 December 2018.

The Bill makes all declarations of instant triple talaq void and illegal.

It seeks to make the practice a punishable offense with imprisonment of up to three years.

The Bill will replace the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Ordinance-2018.

President gives assent to two bills

President Ram Nath Kovind has given assent to two bills from Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh.

The 'Himachal Pradesh Early Childhood Care and Education Centers Bill, 2017' aims to ensure quality education to children.

The 'Tamil Nadu Vanniyakula Kshatriya Public Charitable Trusts and Endowments Bill, 2018' aims to create a board to maintain and administer public charitable trusts.

Manipur passes 'Anti-mob Violence Bill'

Manipur's Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who also holds charge of the Home Department, moved the 'The Manipur Protection from Mob Violence Bill, 2018' in the state Assembly.

The bill was passed by the Assembly unanimously on 21 December 2018.

It recommends a rigorous life imprisonment term if the crime results in the death of a victim.

Govt introduces bill to amend Companies Act

On 20 December 2018, the government of India introduced a bill to amend the Companies Act in Lok Sabha.

The bill seeks to improve the ease of doing business in India.

The bill will replace the 'Companies (Amendment) Ordinance 2018' that was promulgated in November 2018.

The amendments will help reduce the burden on special courts and bring down applicable penalties for small companies.

Consumer Protection Bill passed in Lok Sabha

On 20 December 2018, Lok Sabha passed the Consumer Protection Bill, 2018 that seeks to replace the Consumer Protection Act, 1986.

The Bill enforces consumer rights and provides a mechanism for redressal of complaints regarding deficiencies in goods and services.

It seeks to establish Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions at District, State, and National levels.

President's rule imposed in Jammu and Kashmir

The central government imposed President's rule in Jammu and Kashmir from December 20, 2018.

President's rule was first imposed in J&K in 1986, whereas it was imposed for the second time in 1996.

President's Rule is the imposition of Article 356 of the India Constitution on a state which gets incapable of running the constitutional machinery.

The President will dissolve the state assembly.

Surrogacy Bill passed in Lok Sabha

Lok Sabha has passed the Surrogacy Bill, 2016 on 19 December 2018.

The bill is aimed at prohibiting commercial surrogacy and unethical practices relating to it.

The Bill has provisions to constitute National Surrogacy Board, State Surrogacy Boards and appointment of appropriate authorities for regulation of surrogacy.

It permits surrogacy only for couples who cannot conceive a child.

Cabinet gives nod to law amendment for Aadhaar

The Cabinet approved amending the two existing laws to provide legal backing for seeding of biometric ID Aadhaar with mobile numbers and bank accounts.

The Telegraph Act is being amended to provide legal backing for the issuance of mobile SIMs through Aadhaar.

The amendment to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act will give individuals the option to link their bank accounts to Aadhaar.

Transgender bill passed in Lok Sabha

On 17 November 2018, the Lok Sabha passed the 'Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill', 2016.

The bill seeks to empower the transgender community by providing them with a separate identity.

The bill also seeks to define transgenders and prohibit discrimination against them.

The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha in 2016.

1st state to have a law banning 'sextortion'

Jammu and Kashmir have become the first state in the country to have a law banning sexual exploitation of women by those in positions of authority, having a fiduciary relationship or a public servant.

The State Administrative Council approved the amendment of 'Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2018'.

It also approved the 'Jammu and Kashmir Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018'.

Dam Safety bill introduced in Lok Sabha

The government of India introduced the 'Dam Safety Bill' in the Lok Sabha on 12 December 2018.

The bill will help states and union territories adopt uniform procedures to ensure the safety of reservoirs.

The bill also provides for surveillance, inspection, operation, and maintenance of specified dams to prevent dam failure related disasters.

Lt Governors can set up special courts

Lieutenant Governors (LGs) and Administrators of Union territories have been empowered by the central government to designate civil courts as special courts to adjudicate contracts relating to infrastructure projects.

The Union Home Ministry passed an order to this effect on 3 December 2018.

The decision was taken due to the large pendency of cases relating to infrastructure projects in UTs.

Witness protection scheme approved by SC

The Supreme Court approved the government of India's draft 'Witness Protection Scheme 2018' on 5 December 2018.

The aim of the scheme is to safeguard witnesses and their family members from any threats against their lives and reputation.

It said that the scheme shall be the 'law' under Article 141 and 142 of the Constitution.

It asked all the states to implement the scheme.

Documents

testbook · Tata Steel won the Prime Minister's Trophy Best Woman Parliamentarian Award for KanimozhiPrivate steel major Tata Steel Limited won the Prime Minister's Trophy for the