Current Affairs August 2017 - National

1 - Lok Sabha passed Banking Regulation (Amendment) Bill for resolution of non-performing assets

The Lok Sabha has passed the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2017. The bill seeks to amend the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 to insert provisions for handling cases related to stress assets of banks.

The bill will replace the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 that was promulgated on 4^th of May this year. The legislation will enable the Central government to authorize the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to direct banking companies to resolve specific stressed assets by initiating insolvency resolution process.

2 - More than 25 crore LED bulbs distributed under the UJALA Scheme

More than 25 crore LED bulbs have been distributed in 36 States and Union territories across the country under the UJALA Scheme.

The Energy Efficiency Services Limited has distributed 25.28 crore LED bulbs and the private sector has also sold more than 41 crore LED bulbs up to June 2017.

The government has set a target to replace 77 crore incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs by March 2019.

3 - Rajya Sabha passed IIIT (Amendment) Bill, 2017

The Rajya Sabha has passed the Indian Institutes of Information Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2017. The bill was already passed by the Lok Sabha. The bill seeks to declare the Indian Institute of Technology, Design and Manufacturing at Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh as an institution of national importance.

The Bill also permits the Board of Governor of Institutes to appoint Assistant Professors and all the posts above that level as well. Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar had moved the Bill for consideration and passing.

4 - Government launched portal e-Rashtriya Kisan Agri Mandi

The government launched a portal e-Rashtriya Kisan Agri Mandi (e-RaKAM), which will provide a platform to sell agricultural produce. E-RaKAM is a first of its kind digital initiative bringing together the farmers, PSUs, civil supplies and buyers on a single platform to ease the selling and buying process of agricultural products.

Under this initiative, E-RaKAM centres are being developed in a phased manner throughout the country to facilitate farmers for online sale of their produce. The farmers will be paid through e-Payment directly into their bank accounts.

5 - PM Modi announced Rs. 2,350 crores flood relief for the Northeast

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a package of ₹2,350 crores for all Northeast states for mitigating the impact of floods on short- and long-term basis and immediate release of Rs. 250 crores for flood-hit Assam.

The Prime Minister has also announced a ₹ 100 crore corpus for setting up a research project to study the Brahmaputra and its role in creating devastating flood.

This committee will study the river and suggest remedies to tackle floods.

6 - Supreme Court bans use of Five Metals in Firecrackers

The Supreme Court bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur imposed a ban on the use of five harmful metals lithium, mercury, arsenic, antimony and lead in firecrackers as they cause enormous air pollution.

Petroleum and Explosive Safety Organisation (PESO) has been entrusted the responsibility to ensure compliance. The order came on a 2015 petition by three Delhi children, Aarav Bhandari, Arjun Gopal and Zoya Rao Bhasin.

7 - Swachh Survekshan-2018 launched to assess sanitation

The Union Government launched the ‘Swachh Survekshan-2018’ to rank all the 4,041 cities and towns of the country based on infrastructure development for improved sanitation services and their sustainability, outcomes, citizen connect and visible impact on ground.

The Survey Methodology seeks to capture the efforts under and outcomes of Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) as the cities move on from building toilets towards Solid Waste Management with emphasis on decentralized solutions, ensuring sustainability of improved sanitation infrastructure and services and enforcement.

8 - India and Somalia sign agreement on transfer of sentenced persons

India and Somalia signed a bilateral agreement for the transfer of sentenced persons. The Agreement with Somalia shall facilitate the Indian prisoners imprisoned in Somalia or vice versa to be near to their families, for serving remaining part of their sentence and shall facilitate their social rehabilitation.

The Government of India has signed bilateral Agreements on Transfer of Sentenced Persons with United Kingdom, Mauritius, Bulgaria, France, Egypt, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Bangladesh, Brazil, Israel, Bosnia & Herzegovina, UAE, Italy, Turkey, Maldives, Thailand, Russian Federation, Kuwait, Vietnam, Australia, Hong Kong, Qatar, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Bahrain and Estonia.

9 - Cabinet approved MoU between India and BRICs countries to set up BRICS Agriculture Research Platform

The Union Cabinet has given its ex-post facto approval for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed among India and various BRICs countries for establishment of the BRICS Agriculture Research Platform (BRICS-ARP).

The BRICS Agriculture Research Centre will promote sustainable agricultural development and poverty alleviation through strategic cooperation in agriculture to provide food security in the BRICS member countries. A MoU on establishment of the Agricultural Research Platform was signed by the foreign Ministers of BRICS countries in the eighth BRICS Summit held on 16 October 2016 at Goa.

10 - Cabinet scrapped no-detention policy for kids of Class 5 and 8 in school

The Union Cabinet has approved the scrapping of the no-detention policy in schools until Class 8.

If the children fail in Class 5 and 8, schools can detain them. However, before being detained, the students will get another opportunity to clear the exam. Only if they fail in that exam will they be detained.

Under the existing no-detention policy, students are promoted automatically to higher classes every year until the eighth grade.

11 - World Bank permitted India to construct Kishanganga, Ratle projects under Indus Water Treaty

The World Bank has said that India is permitted to construct hydroelectric power facilities on tributaries of the Jhelum and Chenab rivers with certain restrictions under the Indus Waters Treaty.

Pakistan opposes the construction of the Kishanganga (330 megawatts) and Ratle (850 megawatts) hydroelectric power plants being built by India.

The IWT was signed in 1960 after nine years of negotiations between India and Pakistan with the help of the World Bank, which is also a signatory.

12 - Government launched e-RaKAM Portal for Selling Agri Produce

The government launched online portal, e RaKAM, to provide a platform to sell agricultural produce.

The portal is a joint initiative by state-run-auctioneer MSTC and Central Warehousing Corporation arm CRWC.

The government plans to auction 20 lakh tonnes of pulses in the first phase through the platform. The prime objective of e-Rakam is to assist farmers with payment directly into their bank accounts without any intermediaries.

13 - Mahindra Agri Solutions signs MoU with MCX for data on agricultural pricing

Mahindra Agri Solutions Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited (MCX) to provide agriculture related price information available on Mahindra’s recently launched mobile application − ‘MyAgriGuru’.

The unique differentiation of MyAgriGuru is its open discussion platform − AgriBuzz − wherein any farmer can interact with the rest of the farmers and agri-experts connected to the platform. To start with, MCX would be providing price information, open interest information, spot price, future price and derived data (analytics) for all the agri commodities.

14 - Aadhaar mandatory for registration of death from 1^st October

Aadhaar number has been made mandatory for establishing the identity of the deceased for death registration from 1 October 2017 for residents of all States except Jammu and Kashmir, Assam and Meghalaya for which a date will be notified separately.

The use of Aadhaar for the applicants of Death Certificate will result in ensuring accuracy of the details provided by the relatives and dependents. It will also obviate the need for producing multiple documents to prove the identity of the deceased person.

15 - Centre approved proposal to rename Mughalsarai railway station after Deen Dayal Upadhyaya

The Union Home Ministry has approved a proposal to rename the Mughalsarai railway station in Uttar Pradesh after BJP ideologue Deen Dayal Upadhyaya.

Uttar Pradesh government had sent a proposal in this regard to revive the legacy of Upadhyaya. He was found dead under mysterious circumstances on a platform of Mughalsarai in 1968. The junction is located on the main Howrah-Delhi rail line. Mughalsarai is also the birthplace of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri.

16 - Rs. 41712 lakhs sanctioned during 2016-17 under National AYUSH Mission

According to a data released by the AYUSH Ministry, Rs 41712 lakhs was sanctioned during 2016-17 under National AYUSH Mission (NAM). Under NAM, grant-in-aid is being provided to State/UT Governments as per their proposed State Annual Action Plans (SAAPs).

The Government of India approved and notified National AYUSH Mission (NAM) on 29^th September 2014 which envisages better access to AYUSH services, strengthening of AYUSH educational institutions, facilitate the enforcement of quality control of Ayurveda, Siddha and Unani & Homoeopathy (ASU&H) drugs and sustainable availability of ASU & H raw-materials in the States/UTs during 12^th Plan.

17 - ISRO and CSIR-NPL sign MoU for time and frequency traceability services

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the ISRO Telemetry Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Department of Space and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-National Physical Laboratory (NPL), Ministry of Science and Technology, in New Delhi.

The MoU provides for time and frequency traceability services to ISRO by CSIR-NPL. The MoU shall remain valid for a period of 5 years from the date of signing of the agreement.

18 - Government signed a MoU with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

The Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The MoU outlines targets on various performance parameters of the company during the year 2017-18. The revenue from operations has been targeted at Rs. 17,900 crore, the highest ever. The thrust on ‘Make in India’ is ensured by inclusion of specific milestones for projects such as Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), Jaguar DARIN-III Upgrade, Mirage 2000 Upgrade and civil version of Dornier Aircraft. The company also aims to achieve capital expenditure of Rs. 1300 crores.

19 - Rs. 406 Crores approved for ECCE program under the ICDS during 2017-18

The Government has approved Rs 406 crore of funds under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme for implementation of National Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE) as per the approved cost sharing between Centre and States/UTs.

The objectives of the ECCE Policy are given below:

Facilitate comprehensive childcare supports, infrastructure and services aimed at holistic well-being of children and responsive to their developmental needs along the continuum of care from conception to age of six years.
Universalise and reinforce ECCE and ensure adaptive strategies for inclusion of all children with specific attention to vulnerable children.

20 - 2^nd Agri UDAAN Program launched in New Delhi

The Government has launched “AGRI UDAAN” − Food and Agribusiness Accelerator 2.0 programme in New Delhi. This 6-month program will have the shortlisted Agri start ups with promising innovative business models, which will be mentored and guided. This helps to scale up their operations. Top 40 start-ups will be shortlisted and allowed to pitch in front of panel of evaluators.

The programme will be run by ICAR-NAARM Technology Business Incubator (TBI), a-IDEA and Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad’s (IIM-A) incubator Center for Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE).

21 - IRCTC launched Book Now, Pay Later Scheme for Tatkal Tickets

IRCTC has launched "book now, pay later" scheme for Tatkal tickets as part of its ‘ePaylater’ and ‘Pay-on-Delivery’ schemes. The facility was available only in case of general reservations.

Under this scheme, an individual can book online and has a window of either making an ePayment within 15 days, or within 24 hours on delivery.

While the ePaylater facility is powered by Arthashastra Fintech, the ‘Pay-on-Delivery’ service is provided by Anduril Technologies.

22 - First meeting of Japan-India Coordination Forum (JICF) for Development of NER held

The first meeting of the Japan-India Coordination Forum (JICF) for Development of North Eastern Region was held in New Delhi. The Japanese delegation was led by the Japanese Ambassador to India, Mr. Kenji Hiramatsu while the Mr Naveen Verma led the Indian side.

Priority areas of cooperation identified by Indian side including Connectivity and Road Network Development; Disaster Management; Food Processing; Organic Farming and Tourism were discussed in the meeting.

23 - Government signed MoA to set up IRRI’s regional centre in Varanasi

The Union Agriculture Ministry has signed a memorandum of association (MoA) for setting up a regional centre of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh to develop high-yielding rice varieties.

The IRRI South Asia Regional Center (ISARC) will be set up at campus of National Seed Research and Training Center (NSRTC) in Varanasi.

The Philippines-based International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), which has offices in 17 countries, is known for its work in developing rice varieties that contributed to the green revolution in 1960s.

24 - Government proposes to set up 14 new AIIMS hospitals under PMSSY

The Union Government has proposed to establish an additional 14 new AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Science) under various phases of Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) in different parts of the country.

Under the scheme, six AIIMS are already under development. The Government is also going to establish 20 state cancer institutes and 50 tertiary care cancer centres in different parts of the country.

Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) was announced in 2003.

25 - NAAC launches Revised Accreditation Framework

NAAC has launched revised accreditation framework. The draft framework was pilot tested on select Higher Education Institutions (HEI’s) across the country.

A National Consultation on the Revised Accreditation Framework was held on 25 April 2017 at New Delhi. The Revised Accreditation Framework, which became operational in July 2017, is ICT enabled, objective, transparent, scalable and robust. It is a combination of online evaluation (70%) and Peer evaluation (30%), which would usher in high level of transparency.

26 - Inauguration of National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute in Punjab

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Science, Technology, Earth Sciences, Environment, Forest and Climate Change inaugurated the new Administrative and Research Buildings of two national institutes under the administrative control of Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India namely National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI) and Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing (CIAB) in Punjab.

NABI is the first Agri-Food and Nutritional based Biotechnology Institute, which has been set up by the Dept. of Biotechnology in Punjab, dedicated to generation of secondary agriculture bioproducts through value addition to unutilized and underutilized biomass.

27 - Grameen Marathon for the youth of rural regions in Delhi

Ministry for Youth Affairs and Sports organized the first Grameen Marathon for the youth of rural regions in Delhi. The marathon started from Nizampur village in Delhi with around 11,000 participants. Such initiatives would go a long way in providing a platform to talented youngsters to represent India.

The first three position holders received a prize money of Rs. 21000, Rs. 11000 and Rs. 5000 respectively in each category (Boys and Girls) along with 10 consolation prizes. The Ministry will conduct more Grameen Marathons across Delhi.

28 - Government gives funds to States/UTs under NAM to develop AYUSH System of Medicine

The Central Government has launched Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National AYUSH Mission (NAM) to develop and encourage the AYUSH system of medicine in the country. Under NAM grant-in-aid is being provided to State/UT Governments as per their proposed State Annual Action Plans (SAAPs).

During 2014-15, under National AYUSH Mission (NAM) funds released by the Central Government is Rs. 7,528.707 lakhs and during the year 2015-16 and the year 2016-17 funds released by the central Government is Rs. 33,101.248 lakhs and Rs. 41711.849 lakhs respectively.

29 - Environment Ministry to implement two major Afforestation Schemes in the country

To achieve the targets mentioned in the National Forest Policy to maintain 33% forest and tree cover in the country the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) is implementing two major afforestation/tree plantation schemes i.e. National Afforestation Programme (NAP) scheme and National Mission for a Green India (GIM).

While NAP is being implemented for afforestation of degraded forestlands, GIM aims at improving the quality of forest/increase in forest cover, besides cross-sectoral activities on landscape basis. An area of about 21 lakh ha has been approved for new afforestation with an investment of around Rs. 3700 crore under NAP and Rs.174 crore under GIM.

30 - Government launched the ‘Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana

Government has launched the ‘Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)’ to provide social security during old age and to protect elderly persons aged 60 and above against a future fall in their interest income due to uncertain market conditions. The scheme enables old age income security for senior citizens through provision of assured pension/return linked to the subscription amount based on government guarantee to Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC).

This scheme provides an assured return of 8% per annum payable monthly for 10 years, to be borne by Government of India.

31 - High Capacity Parcel Vans in Indian Railways

To meet the demand of full vehicle load perishable traffic, Indian Railways has developed High Capacity Parcel Vans (VPs) with a capacity of 23 Tonnes, which are attached to passenger carrying trains subject to availability of room in train and operational feasibility. To facilitate transportation of milk through Rail, specially designed High Capacity Milk Tankers having capacity of 44.66 KL are run as Special trains.

In addition to this, Indian Railways also run special parcel train consisting of High Capacity Parcel Vans for transportation of fruits in bulk on demand, on a fixed path between specific origin-destination stations.

32 - NITI Aayog selects three States for transformative change in Health & Education sectors

In a major push to competitive, cooperative federalism, NITI Aayog announced partnership with three States each to radically-transform their Health and Education sectors. NITI Aayog has selected Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Karnataka to improve healthcare delivery and key outcomes in these States. In Education, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Jharkhand have been selected for support to better learning outcomes.

States made presentations for each sector, which was assessed by a committee comprised of senior members of NITI Aayog. The States highlighted the initiatives undertaken by them thus far and justified why they should be selected for the institutional support.

33 - Railways earned Rs.540 crore through flexi fare scheme

The Indian Railways earned an additional revenue of Rs 540 crore through the flexi fare scheme from September 2016-June 30, 2017. The scheme was launched in September 2016.

The scheme allows 10% of the seats to be sold at normal fare and thereafter increasing it by 10% with every 10% of berths sold with a ceiling of 50%. It is applicable only in Rajdhani, Shatabdi and Duronto trains. Duronto trains earned Rs. 140 crores more than the amount earned in the same period last year while Shatabdi trains earned Rs. 120 crores more.

34 - President of India hosts ‘At Home’ for freedom fighters on the 75^th anniversary of the Quit India Movement

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind hosted an ‘At Home’ reception for freedom fighters on the 75^th anniversary of the Quit India Movement on August 9, 2017 at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. On the occasion, the President honoured and felicitated 93 freedom fighters from across the country.

Each of the freedom fighters was gifted an electric kettle with a personal message from the President. On the occasion, the President also released a set of eight Commemorative Postage Stamps on 75 years of 1942 Freedom Struggle.

35 - PM addressed district collectors on the theme of “New India − Manthan”

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, addressed district collectors across the country via videoconference, on the theme of “New India − Manthan.” The first-of-its-kind interaction with district collectors marked the occasion of the 75^th anniversary of the Quit India Movement on 9^th August, and is aimed at catalysing “New India − Manthan” at the grassroots level.

The Prime Minister asked the collectors to prepare a vision document for their district before 15 August. This Resolution Document, should include those 10 or 15 objectives which they feel should be achieved by 2022.

36 - Dr. Mahesh Sharma inaugurated the Exhibition ‘Quit India’ and ‘Azad Hind Fauj’

On the occasion of the 75^th Anniversary of the Quit India Movement and the Azad Hind Fauj, Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State (I/C) for Culture and Tourism inaugurated an exhibition “Quit India and Azad Hind Fauj − 75^th Anniversary (1942-2017)” in New Delhi. The exhibition will continue until 1 September 2017.

This exhibition was based on public records, private papers, photographs, newspaper reports and proscribed literature banned by the British Government, which came out during the last phase of freedom movement. The film presenting the passing of the “Quit India Resolution”, arrest of freedom struggle leaders was also on display.

37 - Shri J P Nadda chaired high-level review meeting on control of vector borne diseases

Shri J P Nadda, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, held a high-level meeting to review the activities for prevention and control of vector borne diseases (dengue, malaria, chikungunya).

Highlighting the important role that the field level workers, and municipal corporations and municipalities play in control and prevention of these vector borne diseases, he directed to involve municipalities and corporations at the ground level for more effective and joint efforts.

The Ministry has distributed 23.5 million insecticidal nets. The Ministry has also requested the States/UTs to declare Dengue as notifiable disease for improving reporting in affected areas.

38 - NCERT launched its Web Portal for supply of NCERT Textbooks

Shri Upendra Kushwaha, Minister of State, Ministry of Human Resource Development and Government of India launched a NCERT’s Web portal for supply of textbooks to schools and individuals in New Delhi. The portal will ensure better distribution of textbooks across the country and will address the apprehensions, on the part of schools and parents, regarding unavailability of NCERT textbooks.

The schools will be able to log on to the portal, by entering their respective Boards’ affiliation numbers and other details, until 8^th September 2017 for placing their orders for the session 2018-19.

39 - Ashram Schools for Students belonging to Scheduled tribes

Funds have been provided by Ministry of Tribal Affairs for construction of 1205 Ashram Schools across the country for creation of about 1,15,500 seats. Besides, 3272 Ashram Schools have also been opened for ST boys and girls by various State Governments.

During 2017-18, an amount of Rs. 10 crore has been allocated under the scheme of Ashram Schools in Tribal Sub-Plan Area.

Funds have also been provided to States for amenities in Ashram Schools through Special Central Assistance to Tribal Sub Scheme (SCA to TSS) and grants under article 275(1) of the Constitution based upon proposals from States.

40 - Ten Namami Gange projects of Rs. 2,000 crore approved

The National Mission for Clean Ganga has approved ten projects in Bihar, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh of about Rs. 2,033 crore.

Eight of the ten projects pertain to sewage infrastructure and treatment, one to river front development and one to Ganga Knowledge Centre. These projects were approved in the fifth meeting of the Executive Committee of National Mission for Clean Ganga.

A project to establish Ganga Monitoring Centers in five Ganga states has also been approved at an estimated cost of Rs. 46.69 crores. Besides, two pilot demonstrative projects of treatment of drains using bioremediation method were approved.

41 - World Bank Aid for cleaning of Ganga River

World Bank has sanctioned a loan of US $ 1 billion for funding Institutional Development and for construction of priority infrastructure projects for municipal wastewater treatment and solid waste treatment on the main stem of Ganga in the five Ganga basin states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal.

The Government of India has withdrawn a cumulative amount of US $ 91.26 million (Rs. 550.48 crores) under this loan.

42 - Installation of Display Screens at Railway Stations

Railways proposed to install display screens at foot-over bridges, platforms, waiting rooms etc. at Railway Stations under Railway Display Network (RDN) project.

RailTel Corporation of India Ltd, a Public Sector Undertaking under the administrative control of Ministry of Railways, has been appointed as Nodal Agency to implement and manage Indian Railway’s RDN system.

Railway Display Network is envisaged to become a unique medium of communication with passengers, which will not only provide necessary information and social messages to the passengers but will also become a medium of enriched infotainment.

43 - Ministry of Culture organized Sankalp Se Siddhi Program in Coimbatore

To take forward the initiative of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for a New India movement from 2017 - 2022, a Sankalp Se Siddhi (Attainment through Resolve) Program was organized at Coimbatore.

The New India Movement 2017-2022 envisages an India free of Poverty, Corruption, Terrorism, Communalism, Casteism and Un-cleanliness. The participants took the New India Pledge of “Come, let us together pledge for building a New India by 2022, a Clean India, a Poverty-free India, a Corruption-free India, a Terrorism-free India, a Communalism-free India, and a Casteism-free India”.

44 - NSDC and Google India launched Android Skill Development Program

National Skill Development Corporation in union with Google India launched Android Skill Development Program to train app developers and impart mobile app development training on the Android and Web platform to improve the quality of mobile app development ecosystem in India.

With the introduction of this new development program, NSDC will bring up a 100-hour learning course and train learners to create applications for the mobile platform that can be used on smartphone and tablets running on the Android operating system.

45 - Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana launched

The Government of India has decided to launch a new sub-scheme named “Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY)” as part of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).

This will help to provide safe, affordable and community monitored rural transport services to connect remote villages with key services and amenities (such as access to markets, education and health) for the overall economic development of backward rural areas.

AGEY will be initially implemented in 250 Blocks in the country on pilot basis with each Block provided up to 6 vehicles to operate the transport services.

46 - Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot Inaugurates ‘Inclusive Independence Day Celebrations of National Trust’

Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment inaugurated the ‘Inclusive Independence Day celebrations’ organised by the National Trust.

On the eve of 71^st Independence Day, National Trust, a statutory body of Government of India under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment conducted Inclusive Independence Day celebrations, as a part of its ‘Inclusive India Initiative’, an awareness campaign. The Initiative aims to provide equal access to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, by means of Inclusive Education, Inclusive Employment and Inclusive Community Life.

47 - "Launch of GeMSamvad: The GeM - Industry forum”

A MoU was signed between Government eMarketplace (GeM) SPV and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), in the presence of Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Commerce & Industry Minister at Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi.

This MoU between GeM and CII is aimed at establishing GeM Samvaad – A participative and collaborative approach with the industry for promoting Indian industry and entrepreneurship. As part of this initiative GeM & the Indian industry shall work together to, create GeM related awareness and on board industry members from across the country.

48 - Website for Gallantry Awardees since Independence Launched

An online portal dedicated to the gallantry award winners, bestowed since Independence, has been launched today. The domain name of the portal is http://gallantryawards.gov.in.

The website gives details of the Chakra Series awardees i.e., Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Vir Chakra, Ashok Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra.

The portal contains information such as name, unit, year, citations and photographs of awardees until date. The Ministry of Defence would welcome any feedback or suggestion for further improvement.

49 - Cabinet approves raising Extra Budgetary Resources for Long Term Irrigation Fund

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved raising Extra Budgetary Resources (EBR) of up to Rs. 9020 crore during 2017-18 by NABARD in respect of borrowings for implementation of Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) works of 99 ongoing prioritized irrigation projects along with their command area development (CAD) works under PMKSY.

As per the status reported by the states and Central Water Commission during various review meeting, 18 projects have been completed/almost completed. Irrigation potential utilization is expected to be more than 14 lakh hectares during 2016-17 from all the 99 projects.

50 - Cabinet approved MoU between India and Sweden on IPRs

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved MoU between India and Sweden on cooperation in the field of Intellectual Property (IPRs).

The MoU establishes a wide ranging and flexible mechanism through which both countries can exchange best practices and work together on training programs and technical exchanges to raise awareness on IPRs and better protect intellectual property rights. A Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) with members from both sides will be formed to decide cooperation activities to be taken under the MoU.

51 - Cabinet approved creation of a single non-lapsable corpus fund for Secondary and Higher education

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi accorded its approval for creation of a non-lapsable pool in the Public Account for secondary and higher, education known as "Madhyamik and Uchchtar Shiksha Kosh" (MUSK) into which all proceeds of "Secondary and Higher Education Cess" will be credited.

The funds arising from the MUSK would be utilized for schemes in the education sector for the benefit of students of secondary and higher education, all over the country. The MUSK would be maintained as a Reserve Fund in the non-interest bearing section of the Public Accounts of India.

52 - Union Cabinet approved new Metro Rail Policy

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved a new Metro Rail Policy that seeks to enable realization of growing metro rail aspirations of a large number of cities but in a responsible manner.

The policy opens a big window for private investments across a range of metro operations making PPP component mandatory for availing central assistance for new metro projects. The new Metro Rail Policy provides for rigorous assessment of new metro proposals and proposes an independent third party assessment by agencies to be identified by the Government.

53 - Cabinet approves Scheme of Budgetary Support under GST Regime

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi approved to the Scheme of providing Budgetary Support under Goods and Service Tax Regime for the eligible industrial units located in State of Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and North Eastern States including Sikkim.

Budgetary support of Rs. 27,413 crore for the said Scheme has been approved for the period from 1.7.2017 until 31.03.2027 for such industrial units located in previously mentioned States which availed the benefit of Central Excise exemption prior to coming into force of GST regime.

54 - Cabinet approved procedure and mechanism for Strategic Disinvestment

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the proposal of Department of Investment and public Asset Management (DIPAM) for the strategic disinvestment of the following −

For setting up an Alternative Mechanism (AM) to decide on the matters relating to terms and conditions of the sale from the stage of inviting of Express of Interests (Eols) until inviting of financial bid.
For empowering the Core Group of Secretaries (CGD) to take policy decisions with regard to procedural issues.

55 - India signed Global Environment Facility (GEF) Grant Agreement with the World Bank

A Grant Agreement from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) of the World Bank of USD 24.64 million for “Ecosystem Service Improvement Project” was signed for USD 24.64 Million, to be financed by the World Bank out of its GEF Trust Fund.

The Ministry of Environment will implement the Project in the States of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh through Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education under the National Mission for Green India to enhance forest ecosystem services and improve the livelihoods of forest dependent communities in Central Indian Highlands.

56 - EESL and IOCL, BPCL & HPCL sign MOUs for distribution of Energy Efficient appliances

Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), under the Ministry of Power signed a MoU with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) for distribution of energy efficient appliances under the flagship Unnat Jeevan by Affordable LEDs and appliances for All (UJALA) scheme.

According to the agreement, Oil Marketing Companies will take up distribution of LED Bulbs, LED Tubelights and energy efficient Fans from select retail outlets across the country. Through the scheme, the estimated cumulative cost reduction in bills of consumers annually, is over INR 13,346 crore and is leading to reduction of approximately 2.7 crore tonnes of CO₂ every year.

57 - States participating in UDAY take over targeted debt of Rs. 2.09 lakh crores

Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY) was launched in November 2015 and has completed more than one year of operation. Participating States of UDAY have taken over the targeted debt of Rs. 2.09 lakh crores of their DISCOMs under borrowing exemption from the FRBM Act given in UDAY for the years 2015-16 and 2016-17.

Because of the debt addressed as above, and other operational interventions, the participating DISCOMs have achieved net savings of approximately Rs. 15,000 Crores until March 2017.

58 - 7.4% growth in Foreign Tourist arrivals in July 2017 over July 2016

Ministry of Tourism compiles monthly estimates of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) & FTAs on e- Tourist Visa based on Nationality. As per reports, the number of FTAs in July 2017 rose to 7.88 lakh, i.e. by 7.4%, as compared to FTAs of 7.34 lakh in July, 2016.

The percentage share of Foreign Tourist Arrivals in India during July 2017 among the top 15 source countries was highest from Bangladesh followed by USA, UK, France, Malaysia and Canada. During the month of July, 2017 total of 1.19 lakh tourist arrived on e-Tourist Visa.

59 - NHAI takes steps to facilitate availability of FASTags for Electronic Toll Collection

National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken two revolutionary steps in consultation with RBI and NPCI to facilitate the availability of FASTags for electronic toll collection. These are the online sale of FASTags and offline sales through Common Services Centres, CSC, to be set up near toll plazas.

FASTags could also be purchased online from the websites of issuer banks and the NHAI website and would be delivered by courier at the doorstep of the purchaser. FASTag is a brand name for Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) at toll plazas on National Highways.

60 - NHAI launched two mobile apps

The NHAI launched two mobile Apps - MyFASTag and FASTag Partner. The mobile Apps will ease the process, making it possible to buy or recharge FASTags at the click of a mobile button. MyFASTag can be downloaded for both Android and iOS systems.

A consumer can purchase or recharge FASTags on this App and it will also help to keep track of transactions and provides for online grievance redressal. FASTag Partner is a merchant App and agencies like Common Services Centre, banking partners and vehicle dealers can sell and enroll FASTag through this App.

61 - CCEA approves proposal of DIPAM for strategic disinvestment

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, CCEA has approved the proposal of Department of Investment and public Asset Management, DIPAM for the strategic disinvestment. The approval will help in speedy completion of strategic disinvestment transactions.

The department will set up an alternative mechanism comprising of the Finance Minister, Minister for Road Transport and Highways and Minister of Administrative Department, to decide on the matters relating to terms and conditions of the sale from the stage of inviting of Express of Interests till inviting of financial bid.

62 - Government revised up 2016-17 grain output to record 275.68 million tonnes

The government revised upward the country's overall food-grain production by 2.3 million tonnes to a record 275.68 million tonnes in 2016-17 crop year that ended in June. The previous record of 265.04 million tonnes was achieved in 2013-14 crop year while the production had declined to 251.57 million tonnes in 2015-16.

As per the estimates, rice output is estimated at record 110.15 million tonnes, which is higher by 3.50 million tonnes. Wheat production is also estimated at record 98.38 million tonnes. Pulses production during 2016-17 is also estimated at 22.95 million tonnes.

63 - Cabinet Approved raising of over Rs. 9000 crores through NABARD for Completing Irrigation Projects

The Union Cabinet has approved raising extra budgetary resources of over Rs. 9,000 crore for Long Term Irrigation Fund in 2017-18. The amount will be raised by NABARD through Bonds.

The Fund seeks to make loans from NABARD attractive for states by ensuring lending rate of 6 percent per annum. The funds will be utilized for the completion of 99 irrigation projects under the Prime Minister’s Krishi Sinchai Yojna.

64 - Cabinet approved completion of balance works of North Koel Reservoir Project

The Union Cabinet gave its approval to the proposal to complete the balance works of the North Koel Reservoir Project in Jharkhand and Bihar at an estimated expenditure of Rs. 1622.27 crore to be incurred during three financial years from the start of the project.

The project is situated on North Koel River, which is a tributary of Sone River finally joining the river Ganga. The Cabinet also approved storage of water in dam restricted at lower level than envisaged earlier to reduce the submergence and to protect Betla National Park and Palamau Tiger Reserve.

65 - Government to conduct 'world's largest sample survey' for students

The Human Resource Development (HRD) Ministry will conduct its National Assessment Survey (NAS) for the students of Class 3, 5, and 8 on November 13.

Approximately 30 lakh students will be assessed in the year 2017-18 making it the world's largest sample survey of student learning achievement. So far, NCERT has conducted four rounds of National Achievement Survey (NAS) for Class 5, three rounds for Classes 3 and 8 and one round for Class 10.

66 - Government banned export of Gold items above 22-Carat Purity

The government has banned exports of gold jewellery, medallions and other articles above 22- carat purity in order to check round tripping of the precious metal.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade also stated that only those exporters could avail of incentives who are shipping gold jewellery and other articles containing gold of 8 carats and up to a maximum limit of 22 carats and not beyond.

India is the world's second-biggest gold consumer after China. The imports mainly take care of demand by the jewellery industry.

67 - GoI and World Bank Sign Grant Agreement to Enhance Outcomes of the Green India Mission

The Government of India, the Governments of Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education and the World Bank signed a US$ 24.64 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to improve forest quality, sustainable land management and benefits from Non-Timber Forest Produce for forest dependent communities in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

The Ecosystem Services Improvement Project will support the Government of India’s GIM (Green India Mission) goal of protecting, restoring and enhancing India’s forest cover and responding to climate change.

68 - NITI Aayog organised "Champions of Change" initiative

NITI Aayog organised the "Champions of Change" initiative. Six groups of Young Entrepreneurs made presentations before the PM on themes such as - Soft Power: Incredible India 2.0; Education and Skill Development; Health and Nutrition; Energizing a sustainable tomorrow; and Digital India; New India by 2022.

The "Champions of Change" initiative is one effort to bring together diverse strengths for the benefit of the nation and society.

69 - Home Minister Rajnath Singh launched digital police portal

Home Minister Rajnath Singh launched digital police portal under Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and Systems Project (CCTNS). The portal is a smart policing initiative to provide services to citizens and aid efficient police investigation.

The portal is a platform for citizens to file online crime related complaints and request for antecedent verification. The portal will also provide access to authorized persons to use National Database of crime records for the purpose of investigation.

70 - HRD Minister Shri Prakash Javadekar launched ‘Swasth Bachche, Swasth Bharat’

‘Swasth Bachche, Swasth Bharat’ Programme, an initiative of Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan to prepare a physical Health and Fitness Profile Card for more than 12 lakhs of Kendriya Vidyalaya students was launched in Kochi.

The ‘Swasth Bachche, Swasth Bharat’ programme aims to make students, teachers and parents aware of the importance of good health and fitness and encourage ‘60 minutes of play’ every day.

This program also intends to imbibe values of Olympics and Paralympics among students.

71 - India and USA Establish TWO-BY-TWO Ministerial Dialogue

India and USA have established new two by two (2 by 2)-ministerial dialogue to enhance strategic coordination between the two nations and maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The new dialogue format will be similar to the India-Japan 2+2 dialogue format between foreign and defence secretaries of the two countries. It will replace the earlier India-US Strategic and Commercial Dialogue. The new format would include External Affairs Minister and Defence Minister from India and their American counter-parts Secretary of State and Defence Secretary.

72 - Ministry of Defence approved delegation of Powers to Border Roads Organisation

The Ministry of Defence has decided to delegate administrative and financial powers to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) right up to the level of Chief Engineer and Task Force Commander, so as to avoid delays on account of references between the Chief Engineer and HQ DGBR and also between HQ DGBR and the Ministry.

The BRO is engaged in road construction to provide connectivity to difficult and inaccessible regions in the border areas of the country.

73 - NITI Aayog to launch Mentor India Campaign

NITI Aayog will launch the Mentor India Campaign, a strategic nation building initiative to engage leaders who can guide and mentor students at Atal Tinkering Labs.

More than 900 such labs have been established across the country as a part of the Atal Innovation Mission and by the end of the year, 2000 such labs will be in place.

Atal Tinkering Labs are dedicated works spaces where students from Class 6^th to Class 12^th learn innovation skills and develop ideas that will go on to transform India.

74 - Cabinet approved setting up of Commission to examine sub-categorization of OBCs

Based on the recommendation of National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), Union Cabinet has approved setting up of a Commission to examine sub-categorization of OBCs.

The sub-categorization will apply for reservation in Central government jobs. The Commission will take up the exercise of identifying the respective castes, sub-castes, communities and synonyms in the Central list of OBCs and classifying them into their respective sub-categories. The Commission will submit its report within 12 weeks from the date of appointment of Chairperson.

75 - Cabinet approved framework of consolidation of public sectors banks

The Union Cabinet has given in-principle approval for Public Sector Banks to amalgamate through an Alternative Mechanism (AM). The decision would facilitate consolidation among the Nationalised Banks to create strong and competitive banks.

The proposal must start from the Boards of Banks. The proposals received from Banks for in-principle approval to formulate schemes of amalgamation shall be placed before the Alternative Mechanism (AM). The final scheme will be notified by Central Government in consultation with the Reserve Bank of India.

76 - CCEA approved renaming of central sector scheme SAMPADA as PM Kisan Sampada Yojana

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, CCEA, has approved the renaming of the new Central Sector Scheme - SAMPADA (Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing Clusters) as Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY) for the period of 2016-20.

The objective of the scheme is to supplement agriculture, modernize processing and decrease Agri-Waste. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana has an allocation of 6 thousand crore rupees is expected to leverage investment of 31,400 crore rupees in the country by the year 2019-20.

77 - Cabinet approved transfer of 40 acres of AAI land at Dahisar to MMRDA

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for transfer of 40 acres of Airports Authority of India (AAI) land at RR station, Dahisar to Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) for its metro shed swapping with 40 acres of State Government land at Gorai, Mumbai. The land transaction will enable MMRDA to complete the Metro rail project in Mumbai.

MMRDA will pay the difference in cost of land of 40 acres, as per the stamp duty ready reckoner rate based on 2016-17 arrived at Rs. 472.70 crores.

78 - Cabinet approved MoU between India and Nepal on Drug Demand Reduction

The Union Cabinet gave its approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between India and Nepal on Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances and precursor chemicals and related matters.

The MoU lists out the areas of cooperation on drug matters between the two countries. It also indicates the mechanism of information exchange and the competent authorities in the two countries who are responsible for the implementation of the MoU and exchange of any information.

79 - Cabinet approved MoU to be signed between India & Nepal for bridge construction at Indo-Nepal border

The Union Cabinet has approved a Memorandum of Understanding to be signed between India and Nepal for laying down implementation arrangement on Cost sharing, Schedules and Safeguard issues for starting construction of a new Bridge over Mechi River at Indo Nepal border.

The estimated cost of construction of the bridge is 158.65 crore rupees, which would be funded by Government of India through ADB loan. Mechi Bridge is the ending point of Asian Highway 02 in India leading to Nepal and provides critical connectivity to Nepal.

80 - Cabinet approved Closure of loss making Bharat Wagon and Engineering Company

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the proposal of Ministry of Railways to close the Bharat Wagon and Engineering Company Limited (BWEL) - a Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under Ministry of Railways.

Around 626 employees of BWEL will be benefitted from the voluntary retirement scheme to be offered at 2007 pay scale. The Government will have to provide one time grant off 151.18 crore towards severance package and for clearing the current liabilities of the company.

81 - The 17^th meeting of FSDC Held in New Delhi

The 17^th Meeting of the Financial Stability and Development Council (FSDC) was held in New Delhi under the Chairmanship of the Union Minister of Finance, Shri Arun Jaitley.

The Council also took note of the progress of Financial Sector Assessment Program for India, jointly conducted by the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.

The Council discussed on the Central KYC Registry (CKYCR) system. The Council also deliberated on strengthening the regulation of the Credit Rating Agencies (CRAs).

82 - ICMR signed pact with International Vaccine Institute for vaccine

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Union Ministry of Health signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Vaccine Institute (IVI), South Korea to collaborate on vaccine research and development.

IVI has 35 signatory countries. With this partnership, India is committing an annual contribution of US$ 5,00,000 to IVI and joins Sweden and South Korea as financially contributing signatories to IVI. The ICMR in Delhi is the apex body in the country for the formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research.

83 - 40% reservation for girls at planned Navodaya schools

The Union Government has decided to provide 40 percent reservation for girls at 100 Navodaya-type schools and five higher education institutes it plans to setup for minority community students.

The government has plans to open the 100 Navodaya-type schools in minority concentrated areas of the country. A panel formed by The Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF), a government-funded agency, had recommended a three-tier model to tackle educational backwardness among minorities. There are six notified minority communities in the country: Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, Sikhs, Parsis and Jains.

84 - SC declared right to privacy as Fundamental right

In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court declared the right to privacy a fundamental right under the constitution.

A nine-judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice JS Khehar ruled that right to privacy is an intrinsic part of the Right to Life and Personal Liberty under Article 21 and entire Part III of the Constitution.

The bench unanimously overruled the two earlier judgements of the apex court that the right to privacy is not protected under the Constitution.

85 - List of MoUs/Agreements signed during the State Visit of Prime Minister of Nepal to India (August 24, 2017)

India and Nepal signed eight different agreements in different areas of mutual benefit. They are −

Modalities for Utilization of India’s Housing Grant Component to support Reconstruction of 50,000 Houses
Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Education Sector in Nepal
Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Cultural Heritage Sector in Nepal
Implementation of the Grant Component of India’s Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Package in the Health Sector in Nepal
Implementation Arrangement on Cost Sharing, Schedules and Safeguard Issues for Construction of Mechi Bridge under ADB's SASEC Road Connectivity Programme (Tranche 2), Funded by GoI
Drug Demand Reduction and Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic Substances and Precursor Chemical and Related Matters
Agreement on Cooperation in the Field of Standardization and Conformity Assessment
MoU between the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nepal

86 - TRAI signed agreement with The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC)

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) signed a letter of intent (LoI) with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). The following activities are planned under the agreement −

Exchange of information and regulatory best practices
Exchange, deployment and attachment of experts
Collaboration in various international forums
Jointly conduct capacity building exercises in the fields of broadcasting and telecommunications regulation
Any other forms of collaboration in the fields of broadcasting and telecommunications regulation.

87 - Government sets up task force on artificial intelligence

Government constituted a task force on Artificial Intelligence for the country's Economic Transformation. The 18-member panel, headed by Dr. V. Kamakoti of IIT Madras, will comprise of experts, academics, researchers and industry leaders. It will explore the possibilities to leverage Artificial Intelligence for development across various fields.

The task force will submit concrete and implementable recommendations for government, industry and research institutions. It is done with aim so that with rapid development in the fields of information technology and hardware, the world is about to witness a fourth industrial revolution.

88 - UIDAI launched door-to-door Aadhaar Enrollment facility in Delhi

UIDAI in union with CSC India launched door to-door AADHAAR enrolment facility in Delhi. Law and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad flagged off van to provide Aadhaar enrolment facility at doorstep in Delhi. It is facility for people who are unable to travel to Aadhaar centers for enrolment like elderlies, patients, small children etc.

CSC India has duty to permit and monitor operations of common service centers across India, which are meant to provide government services in rural area. Around 2.5 lakh CSCs operational across India will help in providing facility.

89 - Bilateral Meeting - India and Uzbekistan held in Delhi

The Commerce and Industries Minister, Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman and Mr. Abdulaziz Kamilov, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Mr. Elyor Ganiev, Minister of Foreign Trade held detailed discussions on deepening trade and economic ties between India and Uzbekistan in a bilateral meeting held on 23^rd August 2017 in, New Delhi.

Commerce Minister suggested setting up and activation of a private industry led Joint Business Council to develop and enhance business relations, simplify procedure for granting visa to Indian businesspersons and reduction of import duty on leather goods and footwear in Uzbekistan to 10%.

90 - Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu launched the National Sports Talent Search Portal

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu has launched the National Sports Talent Search Portal in New Delhi. The National Sports Talent Search Portal will enable any person from across the country to upload his information and as per that; the Ministry will tap their talent and train them further in their respective disciplines.

The portal will provide a three step simple process for registration, profile creation and upload of achievements. Around 1000 kids will be selected and they will receive scholarships of 5 lakh rupees per year for eight years.

91 - 85 lakh milk-producing animals identified and their data uploaded on INAPH database

Pashu Sanjivni component under National Mission on Bovine Productivity scheme was initiated by the Government in November 2016.

88 million milk-producing animals out of 300 million cattle and buffaloes are being identified using polyurethane tags with 12 digit unique identification (UID) number.

The data of the identified animals is being uploaded on Information Network on Animal Health and Productivity (INAPH) database.

As on date, 85 lakh milk-producing animals have been identified and their data has been uploaded on INAPH database.