Current Affairs July 2018 - National

1 - Government to link 22,000 rural markets to e-NAM portal

The Union Government has announced to link 22,000 rural markets to the Electronic National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) by 2020 as part of its drive to double the income of farmers. These 22,000 rural markets or haats will be upgraded to Gramin Agricultural Markets and linked with the e-NAM to enable farmers sale directly to potential buyers.

The e-NAM is a pan-India electronic trading portal, a network of the existing Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) mandis to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities. The portal provides a single window service for all APMC related information and services.

2 - Ministry of Women and Child Development organises POSHAN Abhiyaan TECH-THON

With an aim to integrate information technology for better rolll out of its major social sector schemes, Ministry of Woman and Child Development organized a day-long Seminar on Technology Partnerships for Steering POSHAN Abhiyaan called 'TECH-THON'. Poshan is an overarching Scheme for Holistic Nourishment launched by PM Modi.

ICDS-Common Application Software has been specially designed to strengthen the Service Delivery System as well as the mechanism for Real Time Monitoring for nutritional outcomes.

3 - Suresh Prabhu launched Mobile App 'ReUnite'

Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Suresh Prabhu has launched a mobile application called ReUnite which helps to track and trace missing and abandoned children in India. The app has been developed by the NGO, Bachpan Bachao Andolan in association with Capgemini.

The app is multiuser-friendly where parents and citizens can upload pictures of children, and provide detailed description like name, birth mark, address, report to the police station, search and identify missing kids. The photographs will not be saved in the mobile phone’s physical memory. AmazonRekognition, web facialrecognition service, is being used to identify missing kids.

4 - Government approved institution of "Home Minister's Special Operation Medal"

The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh has approved the institution of "Home Minister's Special Operation Medal". Police Officers of States & Union Territories, Central Police Organisations (CPOs), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and Security Organisation involved in Special Operations will be eligible.

The Union Home Minister has also instituted three more Medals, - the Antarik Suraksha Medal, Asadharan Aashuchan Padak, and Utkrisht & Ati-Utkrisht Seva Medal. The Medals will be awarded annually.

5 - Government notified Electoral Bond Scheme 2018

The Union Government has notified the Electoral Bond Scheme 2018 via Gazette Notification. As per provisions of the Scheme, Electoral Bonds may be purchased by a person, who is a citizen of India or incorporated or established in India.

A person being an individual can buy Electoral Bonds, either singly or jointly with other individuals. Only the Political Parties registered under Section 29A of Representation of People Act, 1951 & which secured not less than 1% of the votes polled in last General Election or the Legislative Assembly of the State, shall be eligible to receive Electoral Bonds.

6 - NITI Aayog partnered with GNFC Ltd to implement Fertilizer Subsidy Disbursement

NITI Aayog and Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers & Chemicals Limited (GNFC) have signed a Statement of Intent (SOI) to work together towards implementing a Proof-of-Concept (“PoC”) application using Blockchain Technology for fertiliser subsidy management.

With implementation of BlockchainTechnology,it is expected that the distribution will become effective and efficient, and subsidy transfer could be automated and made real time. Fertilizer units manufacture approximately 31 Million MT of fertilizers across country, where total approximately Rs. 70,000 Cr. of subsidy is disbursed to the manufacturing units.

7 - NITI Aayog released First Delta Ranking of Aspirational Districts

The NITI Aayog launched the first Delta ranking (incremental progress) for the Aspirational Districts, based on self-reported data of districts between March 31, 2018 to May 31, 2018, across five developmental areas of Health and Nutrition, Education, Agriculture and Water Resources, Financial Inclusion and Skill Development, and Basic Infrastructure.

The ‘Transformation of Aspirational Districts’ programme aims to quickly and effectively transform some of the most underdeveloped districts of the country.

8 - Integral Coach Factory launched MEMU stainless steel coach

The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Coimbatore has launched the first three phase energy efficient Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) coaches built with stainless steel bodies.

The MEMU rake has been provided with modular toilets in every coach. The new rake will run on self-propelled 25 kv AC Overhead Traction, supported by Regenerative braking system. The MEMU train consists of eight coaches and two driving motor coaches. It can carry about 2,402 passengers per trip.

9 - President launched Solar Charkha Mission

President Ram Nath Kovind has launched the Solar Charkha Mission covering artisans in 50 identified clusters. The Mission will cover 50 clusters and every cluster will employ 400 to 2000 artisans.

The Mission has been approved by the Government of India and will disburse subsidy of Rs. 550 crore to the artisans. 15 new state-of-the-art technology centers are being set up all over the country including North-East, of which 10 centers will become operational by March 2019. Each center is being built at a cost of around Rs. 150 crore.

10 - Cabinet approved capital infusion in Export Credit Guarantee Corporation Ltd

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the capital infusion of Rs.2000 crore for strengthening of Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC). The amount would be infused in the three financial years, i.e., Rs.50 crore in 2017-18, Rs.1450 crore in the year 2018-19 and Rs.500 crore for 2019-20.

ECGC is a premier export credit agency of the Government of India to provide Export Credit Insurance Services to facilitate exports from the country. The ECGC offers credit insurance schemes to exporters to protect them against losses due to non-payment of export dues by overseas buyers.

11 - Cabinet approved accession to WIPO Copyright Treaty, 1996 and WIPO Performance and Phonograms Treaty, 1996

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal submitted by Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry regarding accession to the WIPO Copyright Treaty and WIPO Performers and Phonograms Treaty. It will help extend coverage of copyright to the internet and digital environment.

The approval is a step towards the objective laid in the National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy adopted by the Government on 12^thMay 2016 which aims to get value for IPRs through commercialization by providing guidance and support to EPR owners about commercial opportunities of e-commerce through Internet and mobile platforms.

12 - Cabinet approved renaming of Agartala Airport, Tripura as Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Kishore Airport, Agartala

The Union Cabinet gave its approval to rename the Agartala Airport in Tripura as ‘Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Kishore Airport, Agartala. The decision comes in the wake of the long pending demand of people of Tripura as well as the Tripura Government for paying tribute to the king.

Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Kishore, who ascended the throne of the erstwhile Tripura Princely State in 1923, was a wise and benevolent ruler. Agartala Airport was constructed in 1942 on the land donated by Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Kishore.

13 - Cabinet approved extension of Scheme of Recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks up to 2019-20

The Union Cabinet has approved the extension of the scheme of recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) for the next three years, i.e., up to 2019-20. This will enable the RRBs to maintain the minimum prescribed Capital to Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of 9%.

The scheme of Recapitalization of RRBs started in FY 2010-11 and was extended twice in the year 2012-13 and 2015-16. The last extension was upto 31.03.2017.

14 - Cabinet approved MoU between India and UK on cooperation in the sphere of Law & Justice

The Union Cabinet has approved signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and United Kingdom regarding cooperation between both countries in the sphere of Law & Justice and to set up a Joint Consultative Committee.

The MoU takes care of concerns and requirements in the field of exchange of experience by legal professionals, government functionaries and their training and effective legal aid mechanism for resolution of disputes before various Courts, Tribunals, etc. and proposes establishment of Joint Consultative Committees.

15 - Cabinet approved DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018

The Union Cabinet has approved The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill 2018. The primary intended purpose for enactment of the bill is for expanding the application of DNA-based forensic technologies to support and strengthen the justice delivery system of the country.

By providing for the mandatory accreditation and regulation of DNA laboratories, the Bill seeks to ensure that there is also the assurance that the DNA test results are reliable and the data remain protected from misuse or abuse in terms of the privacy rights of our citizens.

16 - Cabinet approved revision of the compensation on SESF Operations with Boeing 747-400 aircraft

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval to enhance the expenditure for "Special Extra Section Flights" (SESF) operations from Rs.336.24 crore plus applicable taxes to Rs.534.38 crore plus applicable taxes for 2016-17 with built-in annual escalation of 10% to compensate the cost of living index and exchange fluctuation for the maintenance of B747-400 aircraft.

Air India (Al) operates SESF with B747-400 aircraft for the President, the Vice President and the Prime Minister of India.

17 - Cabinet approved Revitalising Infrastructure and Systems in Higher Education (RISE) by 2022

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the proposal for expanding the scope of Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) by enhancing its capital base to Rs. 10,000 crore and tasking it to mobilise Rs. 1,00,000 crore for Revitalizing Infrastructure and Systems in Education (RISE) by 2022.

The Cabinet has also permitted the HEFA to mobilise Rs 1,00,000 crore over the next 4 years till 2022 to meet the infrastructure needs of these institutions.

18 - ICAT releases First BS-VI engine certificate

ICAT has completed the first BS-VI certification for a heavy duty engine model for M/s Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicle Limited. The engine has been developed and manufactured indigenously by Volvo Eicher in India.

The International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) is one of the prime testing agencies recognized by the Government of India as one of the accredited 'Type Approval and Homologation' agencies in India under Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR).

19 - India to host IUFoST 2018

The International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST) announced the 19^th edition of its prestigious global event to be held in Navi Mumbai, India from October 23-27, 2018. The event will be held in association with Indian National Science Academy (INSA) as adhering body.

The focal theme for this edition of the prestigious congress is 25 Billion Meals a Day by 2025 with Healthy, Nutritious, Safe and Diverse Foods. IUFoST 2018 will provide insight on key concepts on recent advances in food sciences, food processing and agriculture technologies.

20 - NRL becomes 1^st oil PSU to introduce online legal compliance

Numaligarh Refinery Ltd (NRL) in Assam has become the first oil public sector undertaking (PSU) to adopt an online legal compliance system by introducing 'Legatrix'.

'Legatrix' is a one-stop solution for effectively managing the organisations legal and regulatory compliances through monitoring control at different levels. It encompasses the requirements of laws like labour, taxation, IT, commercial, export-import, corporate laws and other industry-specific laws. Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) is a joint venture between Bharat Petroleum (61.65%), Oil India (26%) and Government of Assam (12.35%).

21 - NITI Aayog to organise India’s First Global Mobility Summit

NITI Aayog, in collaboration with various ministries and industry partners, is organising ‘MOVE: Global Mobility Summit’ in New Delhi on 7^th and 8^th September, 2018. This Summit will help drive Government’s goals for vehicle electrification, renewable energy integration and job growth and also speed up India’s transition to a clean energy economy.

The six tracks or themes for the Summit will focus on −

Asset Utilization and Services
Comprehensive Electrification
Alternative Energy
Reinventing Public Transit
Logistics and Goods Transport
Data Analytics and Mobility

22 - KVIC launched e-marketing system

The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) launched its, in-housedeveloped, single-umbrella e-marketing system named Khadi Institution Management and Information System (KIMIS) in New Delhi. The system can be accessed from anywhere in the country for the sale and purchase of Khadi and Village Industries products.

This software will give real-time data of sales and will also give the updated status of stocks of khadi bhawans and godowns, allowing better planning and control of inventory of the KVIC.

23 - Election Commission of India launched Mobile App “cVIGIL”

The Election Commission of India has launched a mobile app, called ‘Cvigil,’ for citizens to report any violation of the model code of conduct during elections. Chief Election Commissioner Sh. O.P. Rawat along with Election Commissioners Shri Sunil Arora and Shri Ashok Lavasa launched the cVIGIL App.

“cVIGIL" is a user-friendly and easy to operate Android application. It will be operational only where elections are announced. To prevent any misuse, the app will not allow uploading of the pre-recorded or old images and videos.

24 - Cabinet increased MSP for paddy by a record Rs. 200 per quintal

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has hiked the minimum support price for paddy by a record 200 rupees per quintal to 1,750 rupees per quintal for 2018-19 season. The CCEA has also approved the MSP of 14 Kharif crops for the 2018-19 season. The government's price advisory body CACP has calculated production cost of paddy at 1,166 rupees per quintal.

The MSP of cotton (medium staple) has been raised to 5,150 rupees, tur MSP has been raised to 5,675 per quintal and that of moong to 6,975 per quintal. Urad MSP has been hiked to 5,600 rupees per quintal. Among oilseeds, MSP of soyabean has been increased to 3,399 rupees per quintal while that of groundnut (shell) to 4,890 rupees per quintal.

25 - Government launched Coal Mine Surveillance & Management System and ‘Khan Prahari’ App

The government has launched the Coal Mine Surveillance & Management System (CMSMS) and Mobile Application ‘Khan Prahari’ developed by CMPDI, Ranchi a Subsidiary of CIL and Bhaskarcharya Institute of Space Application and Geo-informatics (BISAG).

The CMSMS is a web based GIS application through which location of sites for unauthorised mining can be detected. Khan Prahari is a tool for reporting any activity taking place related to illegal coal mining like rat hole mining, pilferage, etc.

26 - 51 lakh houses approved under PMAY in 3-yrs

Government had approved 51 lakh houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) in the three years of its implementation. Out of 51 lakh sanctioned houses, over 28 lakhs houses are already in various stages of construction and over 8 lakh houses have already been completed.

Global Housing construction technology has been proposed to use the opportunity of large scale construction under PMAY-U to ensure delivery of houses at a minimum cost, in minimum time while ensuring maximum number of houses in a given area.

27 - Language Census 2011 unveiled

Language Census 2011 reported surge in number of Hindi speakers as compared to last census. Hindi language has been reported as the fastest growing language in India with 25.19% followed by other languages such as Kashmiri (22.97%), Gujarati (20.4%), Manipuri (20.07%), and Bengali (16.63%).

Hindi and Bengali has highest speakers. Sanskrit remains the least spoken language. Bhili language has been found to be most spoken unscheduled language. Marathi replaced Telugu language to become third most common spoken language.

28 - PM Modi, South Korean President Moon Jae-in inaugurate Samsung Centre

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South Korean President Moon Jae-in jointly inaugurated Samsung Centre, the world's largest mobile phone factory in Noida. The new manufacturing unit is a step towards making India a manufacturing hub. Samsung unit will export its products globally.

Around 40 crore people are using smartphones in the country and digital transactions are increasing day by day due to the use of RuPay Card and BHIM App. The new Samsung unit will provide jobs to local people.

29 - HRD Ministry granted Institution of eminence status to IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IISc Bangalore

Human Resource Development Ministry granted Institution of eminence status to IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay and IISc Bangalore. The status will facilitate the institutions to grow more rapidly with more skills and quality improvement so that they become world class Institutes.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education, BITS Pillani and Jio Institute have been granted institution of eminence tag in the private sector.The aim of the Institutions of Eminence scheme is to bring selected higher educational institutions in top 500 of world ranking in the next 10 years and in top 100 eventually overtime.

30 - Government sets noise standards for airports across India

Union Environment Ministry issued notification to set noise levels for all airports across India excluding defence aircrafts. The noise level rules state that busy airports or civil airports cannot exceed noise level beyond 75 decibels during the day time and 65 dBA during the night. All other airports cannot exceed levels beyond 65 dBA during the day and 60 dBA during the night.

According to notification issued by Ministry, new airports will have to develop airport noise zones and conduction of noise modelling by airport operators before set up so as to submit the detailed report to MoEFCC.

31 - India Smart Cities Fellowship (ISCF) and Internship (ISCI) Program launched

In order to promote digital payments and encourage Smart Cities to adopt innovative digital payments initiatives, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs launched India Smart Cities Fellowship (ISCF) Program, India Smart Cities Internship (ISCI) Program, The Smart Cities Digital Payments Awards 2018, the ‘CITIIS’ challenge under the Smart Cities Mission and the Local Area Plan (LAP)/Town Planning Scheme (TPS).

The India Smart Cities Fellowship Program is designed to provide valuable experience to the youth. ISCI program is where interns will be given training for urban planning.

32 - IFFCO inked pacts with two South Korean firms for agri-equipment and finance business

Indian farmers' cooperative IFFCO tied up with South Korean firmsLS Mtron and NH Capital Co for agri equipment and agri finance so as to explore business in sales and distribution of agri-machineries and finance. There has been immense demand for agri machines and agri products.

Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) is one of India's biggest cooperative society which is wholly owned by Indian Cooperatives. IFFCO has made strategic investments in several joint ventures in India.

33 - Government to launch Global Housing Construction Technology Challenge under PMAY-U

Government is in process to launch Global Housing construction technology challenge to expedite filling up the housing construction gap. Global Housing construction technology challenge has been proposed to use the opportunity of large scale construction under PMAY-U to attract the best available global construction technologies which could ensure delivery of houses at a minimum cost, in minimum time while ensuring maximum number of houses in a given area.

Under PMAY (U), so far more than 51 Lakhs dwelling units have been sanctioned against the validated demand of 1 crore in last 3 years of implementation.

34 - India and South Korea signed 5 MoUs for cooperation in Science & Technology

India and South Korea signed five MoUs in the field of Science & Technology. Union Minister for Science & Technology, Dr Harsh Vardhan and his South Korean counterpart,Mr. You Young Min signed three MoUs for (i) Programme of Cooperation 2018-21; (ii) Establishment of Future Strategy Group; (iii) Cooperation in Biotechnology & Bioeconomy. Two other MoUs were signed between CSIR and South Korean National Research Council.

Both countries renewed the Programme of Cooperation in the field of Science and Technology for 2018-21 to augment the cooperation in Science, Technology and Innovation.

35 - Over Rs 1,100 cr released for development of border villages

The Union Government has released 1100 crore rupees in 2017-18 for the all-round development of villages located along the international border in 17 states.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has decided to develop 61 model villages for which 126 crore rupees has been released. Each model village will provide all basic facilities like primary health centre, primary education, community centre, connectivity, drainage and drinking water to enable sustainable living in border areas.

36 - Niti Aayog proposed 15-point action plan to combat air pollution in ten most polluted cities

Niti Aayog has proposed a 15-point action plan to combat air pollution in ten most polluted cities in the country, including Delhi, Kanpur and Varanasi. The draft action plan titled 'Breathe India' includes encouraging electric vehicles, phasing out private diesel vehicle and development of crop residue utilisation policy.

According to a recent WHO database (2018), Kanpur, Faridabad, Gaya, Varanasi, Agra, Gurgaon, Muzaffarpur, Lucknow and Patna are the top ten most polluted cities in India.

37 - IIIDEM organized 5-day Capacity Development programme for Media Officials from Bhutan

On a special request from Election Commission of Bhutan, India International Institute of Democracy and Election Management (IIIDEM) organized a 5-day Capacity Development programme for Media Officials from Bhutan from July 9-13, 2018 at New Delhi.

The participants include media journalists and media officials from Election Management Body of Bhutan. The program is aimed to hold interactive discussionson media in elections. Hon’ble Chief Election Commissioner of India Shri OP Rawat inaugurated the programme.

38 - India and UK sign MoU for enhancing bilateral cooperation in legal affairs

India and UK signed a MoU for enhancing bilateral cooperation in legal affairs which, inter alia, provides a framework for promoting greater co-operation between the judicial and legal professionals in both countries through exchange of expertise and training; exchanging information regarding current issues of international significance.

The MoU also provides for establishment of a Joint Consultative Committee to facilitate such exchange. India and UK will cooperate on global issues like governance of internet, cyber-crime and cyber-security.

39 - MoU between DGFASLI and GMB for improving working conditions in the ship recycling yards at Alang

The Directorate General Factory Advice Service & Labour Institutes (DGFASLI) and Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to augment the activities in the field of OSH, especially in training of workers and supervisors of Ship Recycling Yards in Alang, Gujarat.

The MoU will also help in improving the working conditions and quality of work life of workers, thereby improving the image of industry world-over. This will also contribute in prevention of occupational injuries and diseases.

40 - Major ports register 3.91% growth

The major ports in India have recorded a growth of 3.91% and together handled 174.02 Million Tonnes of cargo during the period April to June, 2018 as against 167.48 Million Tonnes handled during the corresponding period of previous year.

For the period from April- June 2018, nine ports - Kolkata including Haldia, Paradip, Visakhapatnam, Kamarajar, Chennai, Cochin, New Mangalore, JNPT and Deendayal (Kandla) Port have registered positive growth in traffic.

41 - India-Korea Technology Exchange Centre inaugurated

The India-Korea Technology Exchange Centre was inaugurated by the Minister of State (I/C) MSME Giriraj Singh and Minister of SMEs and Start-ups of Republic of Korea, Hong Jong- hak in New Delhi. The India-Korea Technology Exchange Centre has been established at the National Small Industries Corporation premises in New Delhi.

The India-Korea Technology Exchange Centre will work towards identifying Indian technologies which can be exported to Korea and find suitable Korean partners for the same. An MoU was signed between the Small Business Corporation (SBC) of Korea and the NSIC for cooperation in the field of MSME Sector.

42 - India’s first private UAV factory to come up in Kota

India’s first private sector unit for manufacturing unmanned air vehicles (UAV) and light bullet proof vehicles (LBPV) will be set up by DCM Shriram Industries Group on the campus of Shriram Rayons in Kota. The company on July 5 this year obtained a licence from the centre to manufacture two defence products namely UAV and LBPV.

UAVs will be like larger drones, which will help in surveillance, while LBPV will protect defence and para-military forces against light automatic weapon fire, IED blasts and small grenade attack.

43 - FSSAI launched tool kit to promote safe, healthy food

To promote safe and healthy food, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched a training toolkit to health workers at the proposed 1.5 lakh wellness centers under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme. The FSSAI also launched a national campaign by the name of ‘The Eat Right Movement’ with health and wellness centers to integrate its existing initiatives ‘Safe and Nutritious Food’ (SNF) at schools, home and workplace as well as food fortification.

The kit will serve as a supplementary engagement resource to be mainstreamed in the national nutrition and public health programmes.

44 - Government launched Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2018

The Union Government has launched Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2018 and the month long survey will begin on 1^st August, 2018. The survey will be done through an independent survey agency to rank all districts and states of the country on the basis of qualitative and quantitative evaluation in villages.

The ranking will be based on a comprehensive set of cleanliness parameters. The parameters of assessment will be availability of toilets, usage of toilets, hygiene of toilets, status of littering and status of stagnant water.

45 - Telecom Commission of India approved Net Neutrality

The Telecom Commission of India has approved the net neutrality rules which bar service providers from discriminating against Internet content and services by blocking, throttling or granting them higher speed access.

Some mission-critical applications or services like remote surgery and autonomous cars has been kept out of the purview of net neutrality framework. The TC also approved installation of around 12.5 lakh WiFi hotspot in all gram panchayats with viability gap funding of around Rs 6,000 crore by December 2018.

46 - South Korean President Moon Jae-in's Visit To India: Complete Highlights

South Korean President Moon Jae-in was on a four-day visit of India from 8 to 11 July. He was accompanied by First Lady Kim Jung-sook. He spoke at the India-Korea Business Forum organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

PM Narendra Modi and South Korean President Moon Jae-in inaugurated the New Mobile Manufacturing Plant of Samsung at Noida, world's largest mobile factory. India & South Korea Signed 5 MoUs In Field Of Science and Technology.

47 - Indian Railways launched its first consolidated Bridge Management System

The Indian Railways has launched its first consolidated Bridge Management System (IR-BMS), a web-enabled IT application to store data on its 1,50,000 bridges. The application is useful for "meaningful assimilation, analysis and dissemination of information related to various activities" about its bridges.

The web-based platform will show the bridge master data, works data, information regarding inspection/monitoring and maintenance of the bridges and other essentials.

48 - India, Bangladesh signed revised travel agreement

India has signed a revised travel agreement with Bangladesh to ease visa restrictions for citizens from Bangladesh. Under the Revised Travel Arrangement (RTA)-2018, freedom fighters and elderly Bangladeshi nationals will get five year multiple visa from India.

The agreement was signed as a part of Home Minister Rajnath Singh's visit to Bangladesh. He also participated in the 6^th Home Minister Level Talks between India and Bangladesh.

49 - ASI lifted ban on photography at protected monuments

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has lifted the ban on photography within the premises of all centrally protected monuments/sites, except at three sites - Ajanta Caves, Leh Palace and the Taj Mahal at Agra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had questioned rules that prohibit people from taking pictures at some monuments. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) administers and manages 3,686 ancient monuments and archaeological sites, and remains of national importance.

50 - Shri Piyush Goyal inaugurated the MAHAGENCO Pipe Conveyor System

Union Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurated the MAHAGENCO Pipe Conveyor System for coal transportation from cluster of mines of Western Coalfields Limited (WCL). The first Pipe Conveyor project of 6.3 Km length is a dedicated system for Chandrapur Super Thermal Power Station of MAHAGENCO. The second project of approx. 20 Km length will have five feeding Open Cast Mines of Nagpur Area of WCL.

The pipe conveyor system is a step in the direction of developing a modern, efficient and eco-friendly mode of coal transportation from mines of WCL to the Pit head Power stations of MAHAGENCO.

51 - Prime Minister dedicated Bansagar Canal Project to the country

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, has dedicated the Bansagar Canal Project to the Nation in Mirzapur. This project will provide a big boost to irrigation in the region, and will be greatly beneficial for the farmers of Mirzapur and Allahabad districts of Uttar Pradesh.

The PM also laid the Foundation Stone of the Mirzapur Medical College. He inaugurated 100 Jan Aushadhi Kendras in the State. He also dedicated a bridge over the River Ganga at Balughat, Chunar. The bridge will facilitate connectivity between Mirzapur and Varanasi.

52 - University of Houston signed MoU with IIPE to build scientific, technical knowledge through joint research

The University of Houston has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE) to build scientific and technical knowledge through joint research.

The agreement covers key areas of possible collaboration in faculty exchanges, offshore and onshore petroleum engineering, process control systems and process safety in all chemical engineering fields and non-conventional energy areas. The MoU also covers possible student exchanges for short-term visits and learning.

53 - IFFCO launches a new, innovative and interactive “IFFCO iMandi App”

IFFCO has launched a social e-commerce app and web portal, “IFFCO iMandi” in line with the vision for a “Digital India”. Going forward, all ecommerce and digital initiatives of IFFCO shall be available on the IFFCO iMandi platform.

iMandi is a strategic investment by IFFCO eBazar Ltd, which is 100% subsidiary of IFFCO with iMandi Pte Ltd, a Singapore based technology company. iMandi will also facilitate access to a variety of financial services like loans, insurance, etc.

54 - BEL inks MoU with Swedish firm Saab for marketing air-surveillance radar

Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Saab, Sweden, for jointly marketing the L-Band 3D Air Surveillance Radar, RAWL-03, co-developed by BEL and Saab.

RAWL-03 is a cost-effective L Band three dimensional (3D) radar, for early detection and tracking of air and surface targets, thereby enabling engagement of fire control systems to neutralise the same. RAWL-03 will be offered in both ship-borne and land-based configurations. BEL, India’s leading Defence electronics Company, is engaged in the design, manufacture and supply of state-of-the-art Radars for the armed forces.

55 - Home Ministry to create a National Database Of Arms License Holders

The Home Ministry is planning to create a national database and a unique identification number to all arms license holders - new or old by April 2019 with an aim to keep a tab on authorized private gun holders.

The decision has been taken by exercising powers under Section 44 of the Arms Act, 1959 (54 of 1959) by amending the Arms Rules, 2016. These rules will be called the Arms (Second Amendment) Rules, 2018.

56 - Cabinet approved continuation of Scholarship Schemes for minority students

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the proposal for Continuation of Pre-Matric, Post Matric and Merit-cum-Means based Scholarship Schemes for the students belonging to the six notified Minority Communities at a total cost of Rs. 5338.32 crore for period up to 2019-20. This will benefit 70 lakh students annually.

These Schemes shall be implemented through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) and scholarships are disbursed through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode. Scholarship is awarded to students who have secured not less than 50% marks in the previous final examination.

57 - Cabinet approved MoU amongst BRICS Nations on the Regional Aviation Partnership

The Union Cabinet has approved the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) amongst BRICS Nations on the Regional Aviation Partnership Cooperation viz. Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Among the areas of cooperation, following areas have been identified −

Public Policies and best practices in regional services;
Regional Airports;
Airport infrastructure management and air navigation services;
Technical cooperation between regulatory agencies;
Innovation;
Environment Sustainability; including deliberation of global initiatives;
Qualification and Training;
Other fields as mutually determined

58 - Cabinet approved Special Remission to Prisoners on occasion of 150^th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi

The Union Cabinet has given its approval to grant Special Remission to Prisoners as part of Commemoration of 150^th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

In Phase-l, the prisoners will be released on 2^nd October, 2018 (Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi), in Phase-ll prisoners will be released on 10^th April, 2019 (Anniversary of Champaran Satyagrah) and in Phase-Ill, prisoners will be released on 2^nd October 2019 (Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi).

59 - Government introduced Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018

The government has introduced a bill proposing ban on unregulated deposits and up to 10-year jail term for perpetrators of ponzi schemes. The 'Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018 provides for punishment for fraudulent default in repayment to depositors and attachment of assets of entities engaged in such activities.

The Bill seeks to put in place a mechanism by which the depositors can be repaid without delay by attaching the assets of the defaulting establishments.

60 - Lok Sabha passed Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Bill

The Lok Sabha has passed the Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Bill, 2017 which has the provision of allowing a court trying an offence related to cheque bouncing, to direct the drawer to pay interim compensation to the complainant.

The interim compensation may be paid under certain circumstances, including where the drawer pleads not guilty of the accusation. The interim compensation will not exceed 20% of the cheque amount and will have to be paid by the drawer within 60 days of the trial court’s order to pay such a compensation.

61 - Cabinet approved Policy framework for streamlining working of PSCs

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the policy framework for streamlining the operations of Production Sharing Contracts, PSCs for increased domestic production of hydrocarbon resources. The policy framework includes special dispensation for exploration and production activities in the North Eastern Region, NER.

Based on recommendations in Hydrocarbon Vision 2030 for North East, Government has extended timelines for exploration and appraisal where exploration has been increased by two years and appraisal period by one year. Further, Government has also allowed marketing including pricing freedom for natural gas to be produced from 1^st July, 2018 in NER.

62 - Rajya Sabha passed the State Banks Repeal & Amendment Bill, 2017

The Rajya Sabha has passed the State Banks (Repeal and Amendment) Bill,2017 . The Bill seeks to repeal the State Bank of India (Subsidiary Banks) Act, 1959, the State Bank of Hyderabad Act, 1956 and further to amend the State Bank of India Act, 1955.

Under it, the five associates banks that were merged are State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, State Bank of Hyderabad, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Patiala and State Bank of Travancore. The merger of these banks has already been effective from 1^st April, 2017.

63 - ONGC board approved exiting Pawan Hans, to sell 49% stake

Oil and Natural Gas Corporation- ONGC- the premier Public Sector Natural gas company has approved exiting its helicopter service provider Pawan Hans by selling its entire 49% stake. The move is expected to cut debt and consolidate resources in this core oil and gas business. ONGC wants its interest to be clubbed with the 51% government stake that is already on offer for sale.

Pawan Hans was incorporated as the Helicopter Corporation of India (HCI) with the objective of providing helicopter support services to the oil sector for its off-shore exploration operations, services in remote areas and charter services for promotion of tourism.

64 - Government hiked sugarcane price by Rs. 20 per quintal to Rs. 275 rupees

The government has increased fair and remunerative price, FRP, of sugarcane by 20 rupees per quintal to 275 rupees for the next marketing year starting October. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the FRP for 2018-19 sugar season payable by sugar mills at 275 rupees per quintal for a basic recovery rate of 10% for sugar.

The total remittance to the sugarcane farmers will be more than 83000 crore rupees keeping the expected production of sugarcane in the sugar season 2018-19.

65 - Cabinet approved MoU between India and Cuba

The Union Cabinet has given its ex-post facto approval for the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Cuba on cooperation in the field of Traditional Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy. The MoU was signed on 22.6.2018.

The MoU will enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the areas of Traditional Systems of Medicine and Homeopathy. This will be of immense importance to both countries considering their shared cultural heritage.

66 - Cabinet approved MoU between India and Indonesia on cooperation in the field of pharmaceutical products

The Union Cabinet has given its ex-post facto approval for the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), India and National Agency for Drug and Food Control (BPOM), Indonesia on cooperation in the field of pharmaceutical products, pharmaceutical substances, biological product and cosmetics regulatory functions. The MoU was on signed on 29^th May, 2018 in Jakarta.

The MoU is expected to forge better understanding about each other's regulatory requirements and would be beneficial to both the countries. It could also facilitate India's export of pharmaceutical products.

67 - Cabinet approved fresh MRA between the ICAI and the Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Ireland

The Union Cabinet has given its ex-post facto approval of the "Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA)" signed in 2010 and approval for fresh MRA between the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) and the Institute of Certified Public Accountants (CPA), Ireland.

The MRA will provide opportunities to members of both the parties to be exposed to best practices of either country and thus expand their scalability to cater to demand of newer markets. The Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland (CPA Ireland) is one of the main Irish accountancy bodies with 5,000 members and students.

68 - Cabinet approved establishment of Medical College, Salempur at Deoria, Uttar Pradesh

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the proposal of the State Government of Uttar Pradesh for establishment of new medical college at Deoria at a cost of Rs.250 crore under Phase-II of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme.

Under Phase-II of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme for establishment of new medical colleges attached with existing District/Referral hospitals, the criteria for one medical in every three Parliamentary Constituencies and one Government medical college in each State was adopted. Accordingly, a requirement of 24 additional medical colleges including eight medical colleges in Uttar Pradesh has been approved.

69 - IIT Delhi and the All India Institute of Ayurveda sign MoU

IIT Delhi and the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under which projects would be launched that would aim to give “scientific validation” to the ancient medical science and integrate it with technology.

The projects would be funded by the Ayush Ministry. The faculties of IIT Delhi and AIIA will work together in the projects to look at ways to integrate technology with Ayurveda.

70 - Lok Sabha passed Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill

The Lok Sabha has passed the Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill 2018 which will replace the Fugitive Economic Offenders Ordinance promulgated by President Ram Nath Kovind in April. The bill gives authorities power to attach and confiscate the proceeds of crime and properties of fraudsters and loan defaulters who flee the country.

Cases where the total value involved in such offences is 100 crore rupees or more, will come under its purview. The law takes its cue from Prevention of Money Laundering Act.

71 - CSIR-NPL and HPCL signed MoU for indigenous development of petroleum certified reference materials (CRMs)

CSIR- National Physical laboratory (NPL) has signed a MoU with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) for indigenous development of petroleum certified reference materials (CRMs) under trade name of Bhartiya Niredeshak Dravyas (BNDTM).

This will not only ensure maintaining highest standard quality ecosystem for petroleum products used by all stakeholders including common man but also will save vital foreign exchange through import substitution for CRMs. Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) play a pivotal role for the calibration of laboratory testing equipment for quality assurance.

72 - Rajya Sabha passed Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill

Rajya Sabha has passed the Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill, 2017. The Bill amends the regulations governing the compensation payable for acquisition of immovable property by the Centre for defence and security purposes.

The Bill seeks to amend a provision to allow the Centre to re-issue the notice of acquisition to ensure that the property owner gets an opportunity to be heard. The Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha in December 2017.

73 - Government to increase scholarship of minority communities schoolgirls by up to 15%

The Ministry of Minority Affairs has decided to increase the scholarship of schoolgirls belonging to minority communities by up to 15%. The Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF), a subordinate organization of the ministry, has decided to increase the total budget for its 'Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship Scheme' for schoolgirls.

Around Rs. 78 crore was allotted during 2017-18 under the scheme and about 1,15,000 girls were given scholarship. The budget will be increased to Rs. 90 crore in 2018-19.

74 - Development of agriculture sector

The Government has implemented various schemes to meet the objective of development of agriculture sector viz. Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme, Neem Coated Urea, Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY), National Agriculture Market Scheme (e-NAM), Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), Interest Subvention Scheme etc.

For the period 2009-2014, the budget for agriculture was Rs.1,21,082 crore. During 2014-2019, the allocation has been enhanced by 74.5% to Rs.2,11,694 crore. Non-budgetary resources have been mobilized to supplement budgetary resources.

75 - Government to use MicroDot technology to check vehicle thefts

The government is planning to notify a new technology to check vehicle thefts. The new technology, called as MicroDots, aims to spray thousands of laser etched small dots with a vehicle identification number all over the vehicle.

The highest automobile technical standard making body CMVR-TSC is slated to finalise the rule and its guidelines. 2.14 lakh vehicles are stolen across India annually. According to the latest Delhi Police report, about 41,000 vehicles were stolen in 2017.

76 - Inaugural 'two-plus-two dialogue' to be held in New Delhi

India and US will hold the inaugural 'two-plus-two dialogue' in New Delhi on September 6. It is aimed at developing and strengthening strategic defence cooperation between the two countries. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defence Secretary James Mattis would travel to India for the dialogue.

The "2+2" dialogue will replace the Strategic and Commercial Dialogue between the foreign and commerce ministers of the two countries held during the Obama administration.

77 - India, Ghana ink 2 MoUs

India and Ghana signed two Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) on Cultural Exchange Programme and on cooperation between Bureau of Indian Standards and Ghana Standards Authority. The MoUs will help enhance the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ghana Shirley Botchwey was on a four-day visit to India. Ghana is one of India's important partners in West Africa. The bilateral trade stands at USD 3.5 billion.

78 - Government launches the Student Police Cadet (SPC) programme

The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh launched the Student Police Cadet (SPC) programme for nationwide implementation. The SPC programme focuses on students of Classes 8 & 9. The programme seeks to build a bridge between the Police and the larger community through school students by inculcating values and ethics in them through classes in school and outside.

The programme does not have any prescribed textbook nor is any exam envisaged. Only one class in a month is proposed. The programme seeks to cover broadly two kinds of topics, - crime prevention and control; and values and ethics.

79 - India, Uganda sign four MoUs

India and Uganda signed four MoUs in the areas of defence cooperation, visa exemption for official and diplomatic passport holders, cultural exchange programme and material testing laboratory. The agreements were inked following delegation-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni in Kampala.

India also announced two Lines of Credit worth nearly 200 million US dollars to Uganda in energy, infrastructure, agriculture and dairy sectors.

80 - Parliament passes Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill

The Parliament has passed the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill 2018 after it was cleared by the Lok Sabha. The Bill provides for punishment to bribe givers and takers, and extends prior nod for prosecution to former public officials.

The Bill provides for imprisonment from three to seven years, besides fine, to those convicted of taking bribes. Bribe givers can be punished with imprisonment up to seven years, fine, or both.

81 - 10598.00 lakh earmarked for development of museums in FY 2018-19?

A total of ?10598.00 lakh has been earmarked for development of museums in Current Financial Year 2018-19.

The government has provided a Special Assistance of ? 223 lakhs for State Central Library, Bengaluru and ?87 lakhs for Govt District Library, Shimoga under National Mission on Libraries Scheme. Under the NMLS, financial assistance to one State Central Library and one District Library is provided in each state/UT as recommended by the state/UT Library Authority.

82 - Around 69,784 MW of renewable energy capacity installed as on 31.03.2018

A total of around 69,784 MW of renewable energy capacity has been installed in the country as on 31.03.2018 from all renewable energy sources which includes around 34,145 MW from Wind, around 21,651 MW from solar, around 4,486 MW from Small Hydro Power and around 9,502 MW from Bio-power.

The Government has set a target of installing 175 GW of renewable energy capacity by the year 2022 which includes 100 GW from solar, 60 GW from wind, 10 GW from biomass and 5 GW from small hydro capacity.

83 - Unnat Bharat Abhiyan 2.0 successfully launched

The Government has successfully launched Unnat Bharat Abhiyan 2.0. UBA is a flagship programme of the Ministry of HRD. It aims to link the Higher Education Institutions with set of at least (5) villages, so that these institutions can contribute to the economic and social betterment of these village communities using their knowledge base.

Currently 748 Institutions are participating under the scheme. In the phase -2 of the scheme 605 institutions are selected. Out of these 313 are Technical Institutions and 292 are Non-Technical Institutions. Also, the number of institutions which took part in phase-1 are 143.

84 - Ministry of Labour extended Social Security Schemes till 2019-20

The Ministry of Labour & Employment implements welfare schemes for beedi workers, mica mine workers, limestone & dolomite mine workers, iron ore manganese, chrome ore mine workers and cine workers. These schemes have been extended up to the financial year 2019-20.

Salient features of these welfare schemes are as follows −

Revised Integrated Housing Scheme-2016 − Subsidy of Rs.1,50,000 for construction of a new house is provided to the workers in three installments.
Education Scheme − Financial Assistance varying from Rs.250 to Rs.15,000 per year is provided to the wards of the workers studying in classes I to XII or pursuing non-professional and professional degree/graduate/post graduate courses.
Health Scheme − Health care facilities are provided to the workers and their dependents through 12 hospitals and 286 dispensaries.

85 - MoU with UK for Improving Public Transport System

The Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with United Kingdom for seeking help in improving overall public transport system in the country. The MoU would help mainly in sharing of information and areas of cooperation like improving the public transport system with an augmentation of passenger capacity, passenger services etc.

This MoU will help in strengthening the integrated public transport for all. It will also help in introducing innovative practices such as digital payments, standardizing the design of the buses, use of technology for demand projection and route rationalization to enhance efficiency of public transport operations.

86 - Kumbh Mela to be promoted globally to attract foreign tourists

With an aim to globally promote the ‘49 day Kumbh Mela’ which is to begin in January 2019, in order to attract foreign tourists, Government has adopted following measures −

Launch of ‘Chalo Kumbh Chalo’ campaign across the country
Branding and marketing campaigns for Kumbh, 2019
Advertisements at major international airports of the country to attract foreign tourists
Development of a designated area for flag hoisting for 192 countries visiting Kumbh Mela
Organising the ‘Pravasi Bharatiya Divas’, 2019 in Varanasi to attract ‘Pravasi Bharatiya Delegates’ to visit Kumbh, 2019

87 - NITI Aayog signed SoI with Lupin Foundation

NITI Aayog has signed a Statement of Intent (SoI) with Lupin Foundation to collaborate in Aspirational Districts Programme. For this programme, the NITI Aayog and Lupin Foundation are collaborating to improve indicators in education, health & nutrition, financial inclusion and skill development, agriculture and water resources and basic infrastructure in Aspirational Districts of India.

As per the terms of the SoI, Lupin Foundation, with the NITI Aayog, will work in three states - Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. The ‘Transformation of Aspirational Districts’ programme aims to quickly and effectively transform some of the most underdeveloped districts of the country.

88 - Advanced weather forecasting system unveiled at New Delhi

Minister for Science and Technology Harsh Vardhan has unveiled the first of a kind Air Quality and Weather Forecast System, SAFAR at Chandni Chowk in New Delhi. The giant true colour LED display will give real-time air quality index on 24x7 basis with colour coding along with 72-hour advance forecast.

SAFAR (System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting) can track UV-Index, PM1, Mercury and Black carbon in real time. SAFAR is implemented in four cities - Delhi, Pune, Mumbai and Ahmedabad. It will accelerate public awareness and preparedness of air pollution and weather extremes.

89 - Lok Sabha passed National Council for Teacher Education (Amendment) Bill, 2017

The Lok Sabha has passed a bill to amend the National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) Act 2017. The Bill seeks to grant recognition with retrospective effect, as a one-time measure, to central and state institutions running teacher training courses without permission.

As per norms, all institutions running courses such as B.Ed. and D.El.Ed, have to obtain recognition from the NCTE under Section 14 of the Act. The NCTE Act, 1993 came into force on 1^st July, 1995 and is applicable throughout the country, except the State of Jammu and Kashmir.

90 - Invest India and Business France signed MoU to promote investment

Invest India and Business France have signed an MoU to promote investment facilitation and cooperation between startups of India and France. The goal will be to facilitate direct foreign investment by providing practical investment information to enterprises and support the companies pursuing those opportunities which contribute positively to economic growth of the two countries.

Invest India is the official Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of the Government of India, mandated to facilitate investments in the country. Business France is an executive agency of the French government under the supervision of the Minister for Economic Affairs.

91 - Task force on National Artificial Intelligence Mission finalized

A Task Force on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for India’s Economic Transformation was constituted. It has recommended an Inter-Ministerial National Artificial Intelligence Mission to act as a nodal agency for coordinating AI related activities in India.

In order to create a policy framework and to develop the ecosystem for Artificial Intelligence, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, has constituted four committees covering all the aspects of AI.

These Committees are −

Committee on platforms and data for AI,
Committee on leveraging AI for identifying National Missions in key sectors,
Committee on mapping technological capabilities, key policy enablers, skilling, re-skilling and R&D
Committee on cybersecurity, safety, legal and ethical issues.

92 - Technical agreement of Railways with UAE

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between Ministry of Railways and the Federal Transport Authority-Land & Maritime of the United Arab Emirates on technical cooperation in Rail Sector for cooperation in the following areas −

Regulation, safety and technical investigation of accidents ;
Station redevelopment ;
Locomotives, coaches and wagons ; and
Any other area jointly identified by the Participants.

Discussion was also held with the Federal Transport Authority and Ethihad Rail regarding the ongoing infrastructure and rolling stock projects of United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the possibility of association of Indian companies in these projects.

93 - 2^nd Meeting of National Council on India’s Nutrition Challenges held in New Delhi

Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India has organized 2^nd meeting of National Council on India’s Nutrition Challenges under POSHAN Abhiyaan on 24^th July, 2018 in New Dehli under the Chairmanship of Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog.POSHAN Abhiyaan aims to ensure service delivery and interventions by use of technology, behavioural change through convergence and lays-down specific targets to be achieved across different monitoring parameters over the next few years.

During the meeting in-principle approval of the guidelines for construction of anganwadicentres in urban areas/slums under aanganwadi services was also given.

94 - WCD Ministry launched ‘#Childline1098’ Contest

The Ministry of Women and Child Development has launched a contest, #Childline1098, inviting people to share images of the Childline 1098 logo that they spot at unique locations and send it with a tagline, to mark World Day against Trafficking in Persons on July 30. CHILDLINE is India's first 24-hour, free, emergency phone service for children in need of aid and assistance.

To familiarise children with Childline 1098, Human Resource Development issued orders to publish the information regarding Childline (1098) on the back side of the front cover of all NCERT course books from Class 6 to Class 12.

95 - India, Rwanda sign eight agreements in various fields

India and Rwanda signed eight agreementsin the fields of defence, trade, agriculture, leather and allied products and dairy. India also extended two Lines of Credit of 100 million US$ each - one for development of industrial parks and Kigali Special Economic Zone, and the other for three agricultural projects in Rwanda.

India is in process of opening a High Commission in Rwanda which will not only establish communication between the governments of the two countries but also enable facilities for consular, passport and visa.

96 - Union Government launched National Viral Hepatitis Control Program

The Union Government launched the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program to mark the World Hepatitis Day, 2018. The programme is aimed to combat viral hepatitis and reduce mortality and morbidity associated with it. It is also aimed at eliminating the deadly condition by 2030.

The programme has been developed in association with all stakeholders who have worked at the grass-root level and has been launched in accordance with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), 2030. The programme proposes to offer free drugs and diagnostics for hepatitis B and C at all government hospitals.

97 - Invest India and UAE Ministry signed MoU for technological cooperation

Invest India and the UAE Minister for Artificial Intelligence (AI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for India - UAE Artificial Intelligence Bridge in New Delhi. This partnership will generate an estimated USD 20 billion in economic benefits during the next decade for both countries. The MoU will spur development across areas like Blockchain, AI and Analytics. By 2035 AI can potentially add USD 957 billion to the Indian economy.

The UAE has invested over USD 5.3 billion in India. The UAE has committed USD 75 billion towards infrastructure development in India.

98 - Indian Railways launched “Mission Satyanishtha”

In first of its kind event held by any government organization, the Indian Railways organized a programme on Ethics in Public Governance and Launched “Mission Satyanishtha” at a daylong event held at National Rail Museum, New Delhi.

The objectives of the Mission are −

To train every employee to understand the need and value of ethics in Personal and Public life
To deal with ethical dilemmas in life and Public Governance
To help understand the policies of Indian Railways on ethics and integrity and the employee’s role in upholding the same
To develop inner governance through tapping inner resources

99 - NITI Aayog & MyGov launched “Innovate India Platform”

Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog & MyGov launched the “#InnovateIndia Platform”, a citizen centric platform of the Government of India. The #InnovateIndia portal will serve as the common point for all the innovation happening across the nation.

Some of the features of this platform are −

The platform is open to all Indian citizens
The users can View, comment, share, and rate the innovations crowdsourced on the #InnovateIndia platform
View the leaderboard which is calculated based on the votes on each innovation.
Citizens can share their/organizations/someone else’s innovation on the platform by login to the MyGov website
These innovations can also be shared on various social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter

100 - 282 Crores spent on Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) Scheme in the last 3 years.

The details of funds spent under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) Scheme during the last three years and current year are as under −

S.No	Financial Year	Funds spent (Rs. in crore)
1	2015-16	59.37
2	2016-17	28.65
3	2017-18	169.10
4	2018-19(till july)	25.40*

Out of 161 selected districts under BBBP, sex ratio at birth (SRB) has shown improving trend in 104 districts (1 district stable trend) in the period between 2015-16 and 2016-17.

101 - Lok Sabha passed Trafficking of Persons Bill, 2018

The Lok Sabha passed the Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill 2018. The Bill provides for the prevention, rescue, and rehabilitation of trafficked persons and seeks to establish a National Anti-Trafficking Bureau to investigate trafficking cases.

It also provides for the setting up of Anti-Trafficking Units (ATUs) at the district level which will deal with the investigation, prevention, rescue, and protection of victims and witnesses. Under the Bill, buying and selling of human beings have been made cognizable offence for the first time and it will hit the organised manner of trafficking.

102 - Government of India launched Samagra Shiksha

The Government of India launched Samagra Shiksha - An Integrated Scheme for school education which is an overarching programme for the school education sector extending from pre-school to class XII and aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education at all levels of school education.

The Samagra Shiksha scheme supports States for strengthening of school infrastructure including in rural areas. The scheme provides for infrastructural strengthening of existing government schools and provides for annual maintenance and repair of existing school buildings, toilets and other facilities to upkeep the infrastructure in good condition.

103 - Ministry of Rural Development implemented National Electronic Fund Management System

Ministry of Rural Development Government of India

To streamline the fund flow mechanism and bring down delay in payment of wages, the Ministry of Rural Development implemented National Electronic Fund Management System (NeFMS) in 24 States and 1 Union Territory. This process reduces the delay in allocation of funds for payment of wages to the States and removes parking of funds at various levels. As per NREGASoft, around 99% of the wages are being paid electronically into the Bank accounts of MGNREGA workers through Electronic Fund Management System.

The Ministry along with the States/UTs has been making concerted efforts for improving the timely payment of wages.