Important Current Affairs 30th November 2017

Current Affairs 30th November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Cabinet approves MoU between India and Italy for cooperation in Agriculture and Phytosanitary issues 

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Italy for cooperation in Agriculture and Phytosanitary issues. 
●    It replaces the earlier MoU signed in January, 2008 which is going to expire in January, 2018. 
●    The MoU provides for cooperation in the fields of Phytosanitary issues, agricultural production and a wide range of other sectors including animal husbandry, agricultural research, food processing and other additional fields as may be mutually decided by both the sides.
●    The MoU has provision for exchange of information on the situation of agriculture and rural development, strengthening of technical exchange and production cooperation in respect of agricultural mechanization/farm machinery and agro-industrial infrastructures, removal of technical barriers and exchange experiences in animal husbandry sector including modern scientific researches and technologies etc.
●    The MoU provides for setting up of a Joint Working Group in order to promote bilateral exchanges in the field of agriculture, consider long-term initiatives for agricultural cooperation, and promote cooperation in order to reduce phytosanitary risks in exported goods also through the definition of specific joint procedures.
 

Cabinet approves transfer of landed assets owned by Hindustan Vegetable Oils Corporation Ltd. to Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs 

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for transfer of all land assets owned by Hindustan Vegetable Oils Corporation Ltd (HVOC) to Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) or its authorized agency for appropriate utilization/ disposal.
●    In lieu of the transfer of the land assets of HVOC, complete liabilities of HVOC towards loans taken from the Government including interest would be written off. 
●    The Government shall also take care of all contingent liabilities of HVOC that may arise in future due to pending cases in various courts/tribunals/authorities.
●    The land located in seven cities are lying unutilized for many years. 
●    The transfer of the properties to MoHUA would enable use of the land for public purpose. 
●    This will facilitate early winding up of HVOC, which is a sick PSU under liquidation.

MoS Home Kiren Rijiju to inaugurate three-day Kathakar: International Storytellers Festival

The Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju will inaugurate 7th edition of three day ‘Kathakar: International Storytellers Festival’ tomorrow at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts ( IGNCA), New Delhi. 
●    Member of Parliament, Shri Manoj Tiwari, Filmmaker and composer Shri Vishal Bhardwaj, singer and musician Shri Mohit Chauhan, Australian High Commissioner to India Mr Harinder Sidhu and Member Secretary, IGNCA, Dr Sachchidanand Joshi will also participate in the event tomorrow.
●    Kathakar is the only oral storytelling festival in India and is a part of Ghumakkad Narain- the Travelling Literature Festival which was started under the aegis of UNESCO in 2010. 
●    Kathakar is an attempt to not just preserve the art form but also create new audiences for the same.
●    Another highlight of the inaugural session is the launch of the book 'Curious Tales from the Himalayas' co-authored by Shaguna Gahilote and Prarthna Gahilote. 
●    For the first time, the festival in Delhi will also have a circus Act performed by children from the slums trained by Swedish Circus master Andreo. 

6th International Tourism Mart being organized in Guwahati, Assam from 5-7 December 2017

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in association with the North Eastern States is organising the “International Tourism Mart” (ITM) in Guwahati, Assam from 5-7 December, 2017. 
●    The event will be held in Taj Vivanta, and will be inaugurated on 5th December by His Excellency, Shri Jagdish Mukhi, Governor of Assam in the presence of Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Chief Minister Assam and Shri K.J Alphons MoS (IC), Ministry of Tourism & MoS, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Union Secretary Smt. Rashmi Verma and other dignitaries from Central Ministries and North Eastern States.
●    The 6th International Tourism Mart, will put the spotlight on India’s “Act East Policy”, blossoming ties with ASEAN and the larger East Asia region, home to the world’s rapidly growing economies and India’s emerging tourism markets. 
●    Besides deliberations on promotion of tourism in the Northeast Region in general, keeping the objectives of the ''Act East Policy” in view, the panel discussions will also focus on promoting cultural ties, people-to-people contact with countries in the ASEAN region providing enhanced connectivity to the States of North Eastern Region with other countries in our neighbourhood, thereby developing inter-regional tourism between the ASEAN and North East Region of India. 
●    The ITM 2017 will also see an active participation by the Ministry of DONER to synergize the process of development of tourism of the North East Region.

Current Affairs 30th November 2017: INTERNATIONAL RELATION

Cabinet approves investment cooperation and facilitation treaty between India and Brazil 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for signing and ratification of the Investment Cooperation and Facilitation Treaty (ICFT) between India and Brazil.
●    The Treaty will result in increase of investment flows between the two countries.
●    The ICFT between India and Brazil will provide appropriate facilitation to Brazilian investors in India and Indian investors in the Brazil. 
●    It is likely to increase the comfort level and boost the confidence of investors by assuring a level playing field and non-discrimination in all investment facilitation matters, thus providing conducive investment climate to investors. 
●    It would help project India as a preferred Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) destination to all Brazilian investors.

Current Affairs 30th November 2017: ECONOMY

Anil Ambani to file a defamation case against Singhvi for Rs 5,000 crore

Reliance Group, led by Anil Ambani, said today that he will register a case of defamation of Rs 5,000 crore against Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi for giving false and defamatory statements.
●    The Reliance Group spokesman said, Abhishek Singhvi has given a hoax, abusive and malicious statement against the group.
●    We will file a lawsuit of Rs 5,000 crore against Singhvi for such false and insulting statements.
●    Earlier, in the day, Singhvi did not waive any debt of industrialists regarding this statement of V. Minister Arun Jaitley, accusing them of fooling people.
●    Singhvi claimed that the government deliberately put a debt of Rs 1.88 lakh crore to those who did not return the debt.
●    Singhvi said, one of them publicly declared last month that he will close his telecom business, which is owed to the banks of Rs 45,000 crore.

Current Affairs 30th November 2017: GLOBAL NEWS

Google's new App Daytally

Google, a leading technology company, introduced a new app, daytally today, which will help users to monitor mobile data usage and save data.
●    According to the company's official blog, mobile users can track their data usage accurately through the data-line.
●    This app will recommend saving data and information about public WiFi availability nearby.
●    According to this, this app will run only on Android 5.0 and above.
●    It can be downloaded from the Google Play Store.
●    Vice President Next billion user in Google, Cesar Sengupta has said in this blog that mobile data is expensive for many people in the world.
●    The biggest problem is that people do not know where the data expense is going on, so Google has prepared this app.

Current Affairs 30th November 2017: DAYS AND DATES

One rupee note turns 100 years today

One rupee note has become 100 years old today.
●    The history of coining silver coins in place of silver coins on November 30, 1917 goes to the era of World War I.
●    During World War I used to run a coin of silver which used to be silver, but due to the war the government was unable to make a silver coin, and for the first time on November 30, 1917, a rupee note came to the public.
●    It replaced the silver coin.
●    On the note of this first one rupee printed on hand-made paper, a picture of King George V of the UK was printed on the left.
●    It was also signed by three Finance Secretary MMS Gabbay, AC McWaters and H. Denning.
●    Later, the printing of this note was started again in 2015.
●    The most notable thing about this note is that it does not issue the Reserve Bank of India like other Indian notes, but the Government of India itself prints it.
●    It is not the Governor of the Reserve Bank but the signature of the Secretary of the country.
 

Important Current Affairs 29th November 2017

Current Affairs 29th November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

National Consultation on Accelerating Implementation of Urban Missions-Pmay-Urban- Strategies & Way Forward 

A day long national Workshop on National Consultation on Accelerating Implementation of Urban Missions-PMAY(Urban) was inaugurated by Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of state for Housing and Urban Affairs(I/C) here last Friday. 
●    The Workshop chaired by Sh Durga Shankar Mishra, Secretary in the Ministry was attended by nearly 170 participants including Principal Secretary (Urban Development) of states, state Mission Directors for SBM, Municipal commissioners and other officials of cities with population of 5 lakh and above, and of nearby cities of NCR area, as well as representatives from Ministry partners.
●    The Ministry proposes to launch the Global Housing Construction Technology Challenge (GHCTC) to globally identify best technologies which are suitable for mass housing. 
●    Through this challenge, all entrepreneurs, technology providers, institutions, academia and other stakeholders across the globe are proposed to be invited to contribute to the future of India's Housing Development. 
●    The Ministry also proposes to conduct Region/ State wide demonstration of technologies to explore and identify appropriate technologies as a way forward.
●    The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has been implementing PMAY (U) which aims at providing pucca houses to all eligible urban poor including slum dwellers. 

Ministry of Railways launched 1ST Swarna Rajdhani

To improve passenger experience, Ministry of Railways decided to upgrade Premium Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains under Project ‘Swarna’. 
●    With improved passenger amenities, aesthetics and hygiene standards, Country’s first Swarn Rajdhani (Train no 12313 New Delhi – Sealdah Rajdhani Express) was launched in New Delhi today i.e. 29th November, 2017 at New Delhi Station. 
●    Member, Rolling Stock Shri Ravindra Gupta was especially present to introspect the revamped rake.
●    For this programme, Ministry had formed nine teams of two officers each from Railway Board to monitor the progress of work under each dimension of Project Swarna. 
●    14 Rajdhani trains & 15 Shatabdi trains have been selected for the first phase of this Project.
●    The first revamped rake of Rajdhani under the project was rake of Sealdah Rajdhani (12314 New Delhi-Sealdah) which was launched today from New Delhi.
●    An expenditure about Rs. 35 lakhs has gone into this rake which translates into less than Rs.2 lakh per coach.

Hyderabad open metro rail for public

The commercial operation of the Hyderabad metro rail has started from today.
●    During this time people shared their convenient and comfortable experiences.
An elderly Dampi who traveled through the metro said that he is very excited to travel to Metro for the first time and hoped that sanitation will be maintained at the stations with the help of the public.
●    A software professional woman said, this is amazing. This will free us from being caught in the jam and save time.
●    It is a convenient way of transport and comfortable ride.
●    At the same time, a businessman in the city said that traveling between Miyapur and Ameerpet usually takes 45 minutes, but due to the arrival of Metro, it takes me 20 minutes to get to the destination.
●    The passengers also thanked the Telangana Government, Central Government and Hyderabad Metro Rail Ltd for providing metro service.
●    L &T Metro Rail Hyderabad Ltd said in a statement that Metro Rail operations have been started between Nagaland from Miyapur.

Current Affairs 29th November 2017: SPORTS

Indian Competition Commission imposes Rs 52.24 crore penalty on anti-competitive attitude on Board of Control of Cricket

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has found Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to be in contravention of the provisions of Section 4(1) read with Section 4(2)(c) of the Competition Act, 2002 (Act) for its assurance to the broadcasters of Indian Premier League (IPL) that BCCI shall not organize, sanction, recognize, or support another professional domestic Indian T20 competition that is competitive to IPL, for a sustained period of ten years.
●    After a detailed investigation by the DG, CCI found that BCCI enjoys a dominant position in the market for organisation of professional domestic cricket leagues/ events in India. 
●    Based on the nature of activities performed, BCCI has been held as an enterprise and thus, would come under the purview of the Act. 
●    While recognising the role of sports federation in taking measures to serve the integrity or development of the sport, CCI held that the impugned restriction had no nexus to the legitimate interest of cricket in the country. 
●    Rather, the restriction was pursued to enhance the commercial interest of the bidders of IPL broadcasting rights and the consideration in turn received by BCCI. 
●    Therefore, the impugned restriction has been held to be in contravention of Section 4(1) read with Section 4(2)(c) of the Act.

Current Affairs 29th November 2017: DEFENCE

Rear Admiral Sandeep Beecha takes over charge as the Commandant, Naval War College 

Rear Admiral Sandeep Beecha took over the reins of the Naval War College from Rear Admiral Monty Khanna, AVSM, NM as its third Commandant, at a ceremonial parade held at INS Mandovi, Goa on Wednesday. 
●    Naval War College is the pre-eminent Iconic Institution facilitating Higher Education, War gaming and Cutting Edge Research on Maritime Security and Warfare at Strategic and Operational level.
●    Rear Admiral Sandeep Beecha is an alumnus of Naval Academy and was commissioned in the Indian Navy on 21 Jul 1986. 
●    He is a Navigation and Direction Specialist. 
●    He has commanded CGS C-05, INS Ajay, INS Vindhyagiri, INS Rajput and he has earlier served at Goa as Commanding Officer of INS Mandovi. 
●    His staff appointments include Joint Director Staff Requirements, Naval Assistant to the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff and Principal Director Foreign Cooperation, all at Naval Headquarters, New Delhi.
●    The officer has undergone the Principal Warfare Officers (PWO Basic) Course at HMS Dryad (UK), the Staff Course at the Defence Services Staff  College, Wellington and the Naval Higher Command Course at Mumbai. 

Current Affairs 29th November 2017: INTERNATIONAL RELATION

India and Italy sign MoU for enhanced cooperation in the health sector 

India and Italy signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for enhanced cooperation in the health sector, here today. 
●    Shri J P Nadda, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Ms. Beatrice Lorenzin, Health Minister of Italy signed the MoU in the presence of senior officers from the Health Ministry and a high level delegation from Italy.
●    Shri J P Nadda stated that both the countries share a strong and rich traditional relationship which has been enhanced by high level visits. 
●    Also, there is a mutual interest in the promotion of stronger ties in the health sector, he added. 
●    The MoU recognizes the potential for exchanges in the health sector between the two countries and the need to tap the capabilities and opportunities in a focused and comprehensive manner, Shri Nadda stated.
●    The objective of this MoU is to establish comprehensive inter-ministerial and inter-institutional cooperation between the two countries in the field of health by pooling technical, scientific, financial and human resources with the ultimate goal of upgrading the quality and reach of human, material and infrastructural resources involved in health care, medical education & training, and research in both countries.

Current Affairs 29th November 2017: ECONOMY

Higher Education Funding Agency (HEFA) approves projects for Rs. 2,066.73 Cr to six higher education institutions. 

For providing additional funds for research and related infrastructure, Higher Education Funding Agency (HEFA), has started its operations. 
●    The HEFA Board had held its 2nd meeting today and approved projects for Rs. 2,066.73 Cr for six institutions – IITs Bombay, Delhi, Madras, Kharagpur, Kanpur and NIT Suratkal. These funds would be used to improve the research infrastructure in these institutions to further improve their standing at the global level.
●    These institutions can avail of these funds as per the progress of the project and complete them. 
●    The funding under HEFA would be in addition to the grants being given to these institutions.
●    Expressing happiness over the approval of interest-free loans by HEFA Board, Union HRD Minister Shri Prakash Javadekar said that today is a historic day for financing the needs and promotion of research and innovation beyond budgetary allocations. 
●    The Union Budget gives ample allocation and grants to Higher Education institutions but still there is a greater need. 

Current Affairs 29th November 2017: DAYS AND DATES

Three day India-Afghan Cultural Festival inaugurated in New Delhi today 

The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Culture, Dr. Mahesh Sharma and Minister of Culture and Information of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, His Excellency Prof. Moh. Rasool Bawari inaugurated the India-Afghan Cultural Festival in New Delhi today. 
●    The Festival has been jointly organized by the Government and Embassy of Afghanistan along with the Government of India and ICCR.
●    Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mahesh Sharma said that India and Afghanistan enjoy age old cultural and civilisational ties and the deep-rooted linkages in the fields of music, art, architecture, language and cuisine constitute an important bond of friendship between the people of the two countries.
●    While exponents of Afghan classical music such as Ustad Sarahang were trained in the Patiala Gharana, the popular Indian music of bollywood resonates in Afghan homes, Dr. Mahesh Sharma explained. 
●    The central Bamyan province of Afghanistan is an epitome of our shared Buddhist heritage, he added. 
●    Dr. Mahesh Sharma said that Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore’s ‘Kabuliwala’ has connected Indians with the honest and large-hearted Afghans.

Important Current Affairs 28th November 2017

Current Affairs 28th November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Vice President Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu will inaugurate the Annual Conference on Right to Information on December 6

The Central Information Commission is organizing the 12th Annual Conference on "Right to Information" on December 6, 2017.
●    Vice President Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu will inaugurate this conference and address the function.
●    The Central Information Commission conducted the annual conference on 7 and 8 November last year.
●    This conference has been organized to celebrate the Right to Information Act, 2015 and to understand the implementation of Right to Information Act in the country.
●    In this conference, the information commissioners of all the states and partners from all over the country will participate.
●    In this year's conference, two seminars have been organized in May and July this year to discuss the Right to Information Act 2005- and 'Right to Information Act'.
●    The Central Information Commission has invited such exhibitions of teachers, businessmen, researchers, NGOs / civil society groups, students and other partners in the conference which have been thoroughly researched.

Skil India signed an agreement with the Airbnb for the capacity development of entrepreneurs in the hospitality sector.

This partnership takes the commitment towards the skill India campaign of the Airbnb, under which it will assist in the preparation and empowering of 50,000 generals in India in the field of hospitality.
●    Today, a three-party agreement signed between National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), Tourism and Hospitality Area Skills Council (THSC) and Airbnb, a leading global company in the field of hospitality, was signed in New Delhi.
●    Under the MoU, skill will be provided to the micro entrepreneurs of India in the field of hospitality.
●    There are immense possibilities in the field of domestic tourism in India and this partnership will help the ecosystem by creating opportunities for women and youth.
We will do everything possible to develop India as a favorite tourist destination. "
●    The signing of the agreement is in line with the skill development program of the Government of India, under which the government is trying to promote entrepreneurship.
●    NSDC is the implementing body of the Government of India's skill and entrepreneurship development.

Pavilion of Ministry of Water Resources won Gold medal in Indian International Trade Fair

Pavilion of Central Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Conservation Ministry got gold medal for outstanding performance in the Ministry / Department category in 2017 at Indian International Fair held in New Delhi.
●    During the two-week long fair, a large number of students, youths and others observed the pavilion and showed special interest in the pictures and models displayed there.
●    During the exhibition, competitions were also organized on various subjects to make people aware about water conservation in the Pavilion.
●    Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Shri C.R. Choudhary gave this gold medal to Joint Secretary of the Ministry, Shri Akhil Kumar at a function held in New Delhi yesterday.
●    Pavilion of National Clean Ganga Mission has received incentive prizes for outstanding performance in the public sector, bank and other government departments / organizations.
●    Various pictures and models related to the government's ambitious Namami Ganges program were displayed in the Pavilion, in which the audience was very interested.
●    The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri C.R. Chaudhary gave this incentive award to Shri D.P. Mathuria, Executive Director (Technical), National Clean Ganga Mission, at a function held in New Delhi yesterday.

Thaawarchand Gehlot leads Indian Delegation to Beijing for The Cause of Divyangjan 

Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment will be leading the Indian delegation to attend the High Level Inter-Governmental Mid-Point review meeting of Asia and Pacific Decade for Persons with Disabilities, 2013-2022 in Beijing from 29th November to 3rd December, 2017. 
●    The delegation includes Secretary of the Department and other senior officers. This meeting is being organised by United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) in cooperation with Government of China. 
●    The main objective of the meeting is to review the progress made by the member States during the Decade at the mid-point in 2017 with regard to Incheon Strategy 'to make the right real' for persons with disabilities in Asia and Pacific. 
●    Incheon Strategy has been adopted to achieve the goals mentioned in UN Convention for Rights or Persons with Disabilities. 
●    Another objective of the meeting is to discuss the future policy action for building disabilities-inclusive societies in the region, bearing in mind the synergies between the Incheon Strategy and 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

Current Affairs 28th November 2017: AWARDS

Atom Egoyan receives the Lifetime Achievement Award 

The 9 day long International Film Festival of India 2017 concluded today in a colourful closing ceremony held at Goa. 
●    The theme of this year’s IFFI was ‘Connecting the World through Stories’. 
●    Various prestigious awards including Golden Peacock, Silver Peacock, Lifetime Achievement Award and Indian Personality of the Year Award were conferred during the star studded ceremony.
●    French movie ‘120 Beats per Minute’, directed by Robin Campillo bagged the award for Best Film in IFFI 2017. 
●    The award came with the Golden Peacock trophy, certificate and a cash prize amount of Rs. 40, 00,000 shared between the Director and the Producer equally. 
●    Nahuel Pérez Biscayart, for his role in 120 Beats per Minute bagged the best actor award, picking up the Silver Peacock. 
●    120 Beats per Minute tells the story of a group of activists in Paris in early 1990’s, taking on government agencies and major pharmaceutical companies, battling for HIV/AIDS patients.

President will confer National Award for Divyang Jan Empowerment 2017 on International Day of Persons with Disabilities

 
The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind will confer the “National Award for Divyang Jan, 2017” at a function organized by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyang Jan) under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment on International Day of Persons with Disabilities i.e. 3rd December, 2017 in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. 
●    On this occasion, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister of States for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar and Shri Ramdas Athawale will also grace the occasion.
●    On International Day of Persons with Disabilities i.e. 3rd December  the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyang Jan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment presents National Awards to Individuals, Institutions, Organisations, State/District etc for their outstanding achievements and work done towards empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
●    Within stipulated date, out of the above 14 categories, 984 applications were received from 13 categories. 
●    Four Scrutiny Committees constituted by the Department as per the rules have scrutinized the nominations and were their recommendations are considered by the National Selection Committee. 
●    The National Selection Committee met on 10th and 16th November and recommended 52 persons / institutions for the awards.

Current Affairs 28th November 2017: SCHEMES 

SAUBHAGYA Scheme launched in Manipur 

The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (SAUBHAGYA) was launched in Manipur today, by Union Minister of State (IC) for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Shri R.K. Singh and Shri N. Biren Singh, Chief Minister of Manipur. 
●    A total of approximately 1.75 lakh households (1.62 lakh rural households and 0.13 lakh urban households) of Manipur are proposed to be included under the Scheme. 
●    Addressing the media at the function, Shri R.K. Singh said that Manipur is the fastest reforming state in Power sector in the country and the Manipur Government is performing well in terms of power sector in the State. 
●    Shri R.K. Singh further said that it is the vision of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to provide electricity to every household of the country. 
●    Now the Government would come to people’s doorstep to provide power connection to every household. 
●    This is such a scheme where the poorest of the poor can afford electricity in their homes.
●    The Minister promised that people would get 24x7 power supply by March, 2019. 

Current Affairs 28th November 2017: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

India and UK to sign an MoU in the Urban Transport Sector 

India and United Kingdom will soon sign an MoU in the urban transport sector for cooperation in policy planning, technology transfer and institutional organisation. 
●    The Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation Shri Nitin Gadkari met Rt Hon Chris Grayling, Secretary of State for Transport in the Government of UK in London yesterday, when the two sides discussed a draft MoU in this regard.
●    The draft MoU seeks to facilitate cooperation in the transport sector and enable the sharing of expertise and latest technology to promote efficient mobility solutions. 
●    It is also expected to usher in policy reforms that can transform the transport sector through improved customer service/data analysis and better use of IT systems. 
●    The MOU will also help in promoting digital transactions and induction of high capacity diesel/electric vehicles in India. 
●    This MOU will also establish the terms on which such assistance can be provided.
 

Important Current Affairs 27th November 2017

Current Affairs 27th November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Rajnath Singh and his Russian counterpart sign an Agreement on Cooperation in Moscow 

The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh arrived in Moscow, Russia yesterday on a three day (27th-29th November) visit there. 
●    He was received by Mr. Igor Zubov, State Secretary and Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation at Vnukovo International Airport, Moscow. 
●    Shri Rajnath Singh met Mr. Vladimir Kolokoltsev, Minister for Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation, today during which the Ministers emphasized the strength of the relationship between India and Russia that has been consolidated in the past 70 years in all areas. 
●    The Ministers underlined that cooperation in the field of security is an important aspect of this bilateral relationship further strengthen cooperation to combat terrorism, extremism and radicalism. 
●    They agreed that terrorism must be fought unitedly and there were no good or bad terrorists. 
●    They also agreed to cooperate in combating new challenges, enhance exchange of information, cooperate in building a data base, and in training of police and investigative agencies. 

Maneka Sanjay Gandhi launches an intensive program to train Elected Women Representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions 

The Minister of Women and Child Development, Smt Maneka Sanjay Gandhi launched an intensive training program for Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) of Panchayati Raj Institutions and Master Trainers, in New Delhi today. 
●    This capacity building program is being organized by National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development (NIPCCD) of the WCD Ministry which will ultimately train approximately twenty thousand EWRs covering nearly 50 EWRs from each district by March, 2018. 
●    Addressing the participants at the inauguration of the program, Smt Maneka Sanjay Gandhi said that this is an historic step since for the first time ever an initiative of this scale has been taken up to train EWRs who will go out and administer the villages professionally. 
●    It will help prepare women as political leaders of the future. 
●    The training program will include simple engineering skills will give them an insight into women’s issues as well as focus on education and financial matters, Smt Maneka Gandhi explained. 
●    The Minister disclosed that awards will be given to the Master Trainers to those who have succeeded in empowering EWRs of their areas. 

Atom Egoyan conducts a Master Class at IFFI 2017

Canadian stage and film director, writer and producer Atom Egoyan hosted a special Master Class on Day 8 at the 48th International Film Festival of India.
●    Atom Egoyan is one of Canada’s most celebrated directors and was knighted by the French government and is a Companion of the Order of Canada, the country’s highest honour. 
●    While his film Exotica, which won the FIPRESCI Prize at Cannes’94, was his first international breakthrough, The Sweet Hereafter, his most critically acclaimed film, received two Academy Award nominations. 
●    His other films Where the Truth Lies, Adoration and The Captive have all competed for the Palme d’Or in Cannes.
●    Exotica talks about a dutiful wife and mother re-examining her veneration of her husband after she finds another woman’s underwear in his laundry. 
●    Her quest to find the truth leads her to an unexpected journey of liberation.
●    The IFFI 2017 Atom Egoyan's Master Class held on 27th November was a treat for budding filmmakers and cinema aficionados, as he discussed his filmmaking style and other aspects of direction. 

Health Ministry wins Bronze Medal at the India International Trade Fair 2017 for its creative and informative display 

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has been awarded the Bronze Medal for its creative and informative display at the 37th India International Trade Fair 2017 being held at Pragati Maidan, here today. 
●    The award was presented by Shri C R Chaudhary, Minister of State (Commerce and Industry) at a function organized to award the winners. 
●    Smt. Vandana Gurnani, Joint Secretary (RCH, IEC) at the Health Ministry received the award on behalf of the Ministry. 
●    Shri L C Goyal, CMD, ITPO and senior officers of the Ministry were also present at the function. 
●    The Health Ministry pavilion highlighted programmes and initiatives of the Health Ministry such as Mission Indradhnaush for expanding full immunization coverage, introduction of new vaccines, Pradhan Mantri Matritva Suraksha Yojana (PMSMA), Mother’s Absolute Affection (MAA) for encouraging breastfeeding, Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY) for strengthening the tertiary health sector. 
●    Jansankhya Sthirta Kosh (JSK) also participated in the exhibition through a unique selfie corner which encouraged couples to adopt small family norms. 
●    It created awareness about various schemes for population stabilization through nukkad natak and street plays at Pragati Maidan. 
 

Old tariff approved for renewable energy in Karnataka

Power regulator and Discom had earlier refused to accept the power purchase agreement made with Renewable Energy companies on higher tariffs due to the shortage of power tariff during the last few months, but now they have started to change their attitude.
●    A dispute between the power regulator and the state government in Karnataka has now been resolved.
●    The regulator has now started accepting the PPA signed on the tariff of Rs 4.50 per unit.
●    However, Chairman of the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission, MK Shankarlinge said, "All PPAs will not be approved. We are evaluating each project separately. '
●    However, a developer who holds wind projects in the state told that the Karnataka Discom has informed that the company's PPA will be sanctioned on tariff of Rs 4.50 per unit.
●    ET has seen November 23 letter which clearly states that the 270.5 MW PPA signed before March 31, 2017 will be approved on a tariff of Rs 4.50 per unit.
 

Current Affairs 27th November 2017: AWARDS

President of India confers 3rd ICCR Distinguished Andrologist award on Professor Hiroshi Marui 

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, conferred the 3rd ICCR Distinguished Andrologist Award on Professor Hiroshi Marui of Japan today (November 27, 2017) at a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. 
●    Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated Professor Hiroshi Marui for receiving the Distinguished Andrologist Award and thanked him for his exemplary contribution to Indology. 
●    He said that Professor Marui has spent over 40 years working on Indian philosophy and Buddhist Studies. 
●    His many acclaimed publications and research papers are considered a final authority on several subjects the world over.
●    As President of the Japanese Association of Indian and Buddhist Studies, he has made a significant contribution to Indology in Japan. 
●    He expressed confidence that such endeavours will lead to a greater interest in not only classical Indology but also study of India in all its aspects.

Current Affairs 27th November 2017: ECONOMY

The company that publishes the famous Time Magazine will sell for $ 3 billion

On Sunday night, the contract for sale of Time Inc., the company which published the prestigious magazine 'Time', was signed and a long chapter in media history suddenly ended.
●    Time Inc. has also been publishing famous magazines like Sports Illustrated and People.
●    Family Circle, Better Homes and Gardens and Allrecipes agreed to buy the publishing company The Meredith Corporation, Time Inc..
●    For this, Time Inc will get around $ 3 billion (about $ 193 billion) of cash
●    This deal was possible only when two billionaires, Charles G and David H. Coke found $ 65 million (about 42 billion rupees) from the richest equity arm.
●    Both brothers are famous for using their money and their political reach in promoting conservative ideology.
●    'Time' is the same magazine which is ranking the world leader every year.
 

Current Affairs 27th November 2017: GLOBAL NEWS

China Development Bank's application for bankruptcy against RCom

The China Development Bank (CDB) has filed an application for bankership in the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) against Reliance Communications, the loss-making Anil Ambani.
●    CDB gave Rcom a loan of $ 1.78 billion.
●    The CDB filed this application on November 24.
●    Any possibility of agreement outside the court with RCom in the CDB's petition has been denied.
●    It is also expected to affect RCom's strategic debt restructuring which Indian banks started in December.
●    Senior advocate Darish Khambata of the Bombay High Court is lobbying for the case on behalf of the CDB.
●    CDB has nominated Abilash Lal as an Independent Resolutions Professional in his application and has given an affidavit that Alvarez and Marshall will be his advisor to take over the company.
●    A person familiar with the matter said that Alvarez and Marshall could offer a resolution plan after taking over a month.

Important Current Affairs 26th November 2017

Current Affairs 26th November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Instructions for checking the revised income tax returns given by the Direct Taxes Board

The CBDT, the Central Board of Direct Taxes, has asked tax officials to go to the bottom of such cases, in which any taxpayer has filed an amended income tax return after issuance.
●    On getting the connection with black money, the board has instructed to levy more taxes in these cases.
●    The Board had issued guidelines for two pages on November 24 to all the Regional Heads of the Department.
●    In this, the board clarified the methods of investigating cases of suspected financial activities.
●    He said, the unaccounted income found in the investigation is taxable at a higher rate under the Income Tax Act.
●    A senior income tax officer said that, following the guidelines of the CBDT, it has been considered that the legal facility for filing a revised and delayed income tax return should not be misused and it should not be used to show black money to the black money after the ban.

Current Affairs 26th November 2017: DAYS AND DATES

NCC Commemorates Its 69th Raising Day 

National Cadet Corps (NCC), the largest uniformed youth organisation in the world, is celebrating its 69th Raising Day today. 
●    On this solemn occasion, Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra and Officiating DG, NCC Maj Gen B K Guha laid wreaths on behalf of the entire NCC fraternity by paying homage to the martyrs who made their supreme sacrifices for the country, at Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate here yesterday. 
●    The NCC raising day was also celebrated all over India with cadets participating in marches, cultural activities and social development programmes. 
●    The NCC is at the forefront of contribution towards social causes and community development activities. 
●    Its cadets have done the nation and the organisation proud by their remarkable achievements in the fields of sports and adventures. 
●    They have also won laurels in the National Shooting and Equestrian competitions and other events. 
●    During the current year, the NCC was awarded a Certificate of Excellence by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for its contribution towards Swacchta Abhiyan. 

Current Affairs 26th November 2017: SPORTS

Jung Yang won the title in Hong Kong Open

Indian star badminton player PV Sindhu's spectacular tour ended with disappointment when she faced a second loss in the hands of world number one Chinese Taipei's Tai Jun Ying in the title of the $ 4 million Hong Kong Super Series on Sunday. .
●    Continuing its fifth tournament title, Sindhu had recorded 3-7 against Tai before the match but she did not show anywhere in fitness and continued to compete throughout the match, but in 44-minute women's singles final, the defending champion 18-21 18-21.
●    This is the second defeat of Sindhu in the four finals of this season. He had lost to Japan's Nozomi Okuhara in the final of the World Championship, while he made two titles in Indian and Korea.
●    The opening game lasted 21 minutes, in which Tai made a 3-0 lead, after which Sindhu collected the first point on the baseline.
●    However, Tai made the best stroke and fastest 7-2.

India won 5 gold medal in world women's youth boxing championship

On the last day of the AIBA World Women's Youth Boxing Championship organized in Guwahati, Indian boxers made history by winning five golds.
●    On Sunday, Nitu (48kg), Jyoti Gulia (51kg), Sakshi Chaudhary (54kg), Shashi Chopra (57kg) and local boxer Ankushita Boro (64kg) were in the ring in the final of the championship.
●    These five defeated the opposition boxer with their punch and won the gold.
Apart from these, Neha Yadav (+81 kg) and Anupama (81kg) won the Bronze Medal.
●    This is the best performance ever in India's championship.
●    India won gold in the championship for the first time since 2011. Then he was given only one gold by Sarjubala Devi.
 

Current Affairs 26th November 2017: ECONOMY

LIC's 1.5 lac crore investment in railways, gets Green signals of Ministry of Finance

Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) can now go ahead with the plan to invest Rs 1.5 lakh crore in railways.
●    The Ministry of Finance has given a green signal for this.
●    Insurance regulator had earlier expressed concern over this plan and said that the government's demand for bond should be sought for investment.
●    LIC had signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Railways two years ago.
●    Accordingly, the government had to invest this by buying bonds issued by Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC).
●    However, due to this, LIC's stake in IRFC's net worth exceeded 25%, so the Insurance Regulator asked the government to guarantee the bond.
●    He had also said that issuing Gazette notifications like oil bonds would give it a special bond status.
●    The Finance Ministry has issued the order in this case.
●    He has said that IRFC's bond exposure is valid for investment of more than the limit.

Government refuses to bring Islamic banking

Union minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, in-charge of minority affairs said today that the government does not intend to launch Islamic banking in India because adequate network of different types of banks is accessible to meet the needs of the people.
●    Islamic banking is based on Shariah principles in which interest is not applied.
●    Naqvi said, in India, the government will not allow Islamic banking because it is a secular and democratic country.
●    He said that many government and scheduled banks are working in the country.
●    The existing banking system is open to everyone, so there is no reason to start the banking system based on Islamic concept.
●    He said that some organizations and individuals have given a recommendation about this but we have no such intention.
●    In response to another question, Naqvi said that the government is ready to discuss all the important issues in the winter session of Parliament.
●    He expected the support of the main Opposition Congress for the smooth conduct of the proceedings of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

Mercedes requests financial incentives from the government for BS-6 standard

In order to speed up the process of adoption of the provisions of India Stage-6 in the country, the government should provide financial incentives to the companies.
●    Luxury vehicle manufacturer Mercedes-Benz today said this.
●    Mercedes-Benz India MD and CEO Rolah Folzer told PTI that availability of BS-6 fuel before the deadline should be ensured in other cities of the country other than Delhi.
●    He further said, in addition to this, to make this process more effective and faster, the Government should provide financial incentives to such vehicles which meet the needs of BS-6 before 2020.
●    Welcoming the move of the government, Folzer said, the government is thinking in the right direction.
●    It demonstrates determination to solve the issue of pollution.
●    When asked about the company's preparation to introduce the BS-6 vehicle, he said that Mercedes-Benz has the capacity to offer such vehicles in 2018 only.

U hostels to invest up to 300 crores

U hostels are going to create 10-12 premium hostels in metro cities for the working class of the country.
●    For this, he plans to invest up to Rs 300 crore in the next 2-3 years.
●    Sudhir Sinha, Managing Director of the company said, "Our plan is to invest up to 300 crore rupees to make 10-12 premium hostels in India's metro cities.
●    Three or four star facilities will be available for working people in these hostels.
●    This area is untouched by now.
●    At present, if the working people want to live in a city for a long time, then they have limited options.
●    U hostel Sinha and Franchise India have a partnership.
●    It is going to create 50-80 hostels in the next seven years.
●    There will be about 100 rooms in each hostel.
●    These hostels will be in metro cities like Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru and Chennai.

Important Current Affairs 25th November 2017

Current Affairs 25th November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Union Home Minister chaired the 12th meeting of the Standing Committee of Interstate Council

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today presided over the 12th meeting of the Standing Committee of Interstate Council (ISC) here today.
●    While addressing the meeting, Shri Rajnath Singh said that the Central Government has taken several steps in the recent years to promote mutual cooperation based federalism.
●    He said that the Inter-State Council meeting was held in July 2016 after the interval of 10 years.
●    After this, the meeting of the Standing Committee of the ISC is being held regularly for the purpose of accelerating the process of making the State State relations goodwill.
●    He expressed satisfaction over the fact that the meetings of regional councils are being organized regularly.
●    It is our endeavor to have at least one meeting in the year of all regional councils.
●    He mentioned that the meetings of the states which are being raised in these meetings and the solution of central state affairs are settled in these meetings.
●    In 2015, 82 issues and 2016 resolved 140 issues.
 

Current Affairs 25th November 2017: DEFENCE

Naval Chief Admiral Sunil Lamba, PVSM, AVSM, ADC will travel to Bangladesh

Indian Naval Chief Admiral Sunil Lamba, PVSM, AVSM, ADC will visit Bangladesh from November 26-28, 2017 to participate in international multilateral maritime search and rescue practice (IMMSAERX) on invitation from Bangladesh.
●    This event is being organized under the auspices of the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS).
●    The IONS initiative was launched by the Indian Navy in 2008, which has become an important organization with 23 member states and 9 observer countries.
●    Bangladesh is the current President of IONS, which is conducting this exercise for the first time under the IONS Charter.
●    This exercise will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister of Bangladesh on 27th November, 2017 in the Cox Market.
●    Indian Air Force ship Ranvir, Sahyadri, Gingival and Sukanya and a marine surveillance aircraft P-8i will participate in this exercise.
●    Apart from this, there will be an IOS meeting in Cox Market on November 28, 2017 in which the Naval Chief of the member countries will participate.
●    In this meeting, topics such as progress made by the working group HADR of IONS, maritime security and information sharing and interactive operations will be reviewed.

Current Affairs 25th November 2017: GLOBAL NEWS

South Africa court gives Pistorius over 13 years in custody

A South African court on Friday extended the sentence of paralympic champion Oscar Pistorius to 13 years and five months for the murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.
●    Local media provided this information. Pistorius, known as 'Blade Runner' in the world of athletics, was sentenced to 6 years in prison.
●    The Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein has more than doubled Pistorius's sentence, known as 'Blade Runner'.
●    He was sentenced to six years ago, but the court decided to extend his sentence.
●    Pistorius, who inspired millions of people not to give up in life, won huge races with fake feet and he has 6 Paralympic gold medals in his name.
●    Pistorius's life, which earned name and fame in the world of sports, suddenly changed one night in February 2013, accusing him of killing his girlfriend Rewa.
 

Current Affairs 25th November 2017: ECONOMY

Government announces many discount proposals to increase garment exports

Exemption from state-level taxes on ready-made garments and clothes exports. In order to present claims under ROSL's scheme, the government has declared goods and services after GST rates.
●    This step has been taken by the government with the purpose of promoting exports.
●    A plan of commercial export promotion has doubled the rate of incentive given by the government to the garments and clothes prepared under the MEIS to four percent. 
●    This rate will be effective from 1st November.
●    Union Textile Minister Smriti Irani said in a twitter message after one by one that rates after GST have been announced for exemption from state taxes.
●    Apart from this, the increase in the rates of Enhanced Merchandise Export to India Scheme MEIS will increase the export of apparel and textiles.
●    Irani has said that under the scheme of apology for state level charges, new rates will be considered effective from October.
●    AEPC, an organization of apparel exporters, says that the rates of MEIS will help to complete the order of Christmas festivals in the coming time and also help in the restructuring of the restructured capital.

Notice of Rs 1000 Crore of Enforcement Directorate Against Non Resident Indian Businessman

Enforcement Directorate ED has issued a new show-cause notices to the alleged violation of foreign exchange laws in the case of foreign currency transactions equivalent to Rs 1000 crore to a resident Indian NRI businessman C. C. Thampi.
●    The matter is related to the purchase of large areas of land in Kerala.
●    ED has issued these notices against Thampi and his wife M. Rodriguez and their companies under the Foreign Exchange Management Act FEMA.
●    In this, cleanliness has been sought from them regarding the transactions of foreign exchange equal to Rs 1,014.75 crores.
●    Officials said Thampi is a non-resident Indian and for this reason he can not buy land in the country.
●    The Thampi family is also in the investigation of relations with many political families and officials.
●    In February this year, ED also issued similar notice to Thampi and his company for buying 927 acres of land in Delhi and adjoining areas under FEMA for Rs 288 crore.
●    He said, in the investigation of the Kerala case, it was found that Thampi adopted the same method in which it was adopted in the Delhi case.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos's property crosses $ 100 billion, breaking Bill Gates's 18-year-old record

Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon, the world's largest e-commerce company, broke Bill Gates's 18-year-old record in terms of assets.
●    After Black Friday Sales, the company's shares rose by 2 percent in the shares of Bezos by $ 2.4 billion to $ 100.3 billion (about Rs 6,46,575 crore).
●    He is such a person whose assets exceed $ 100 billion.
●    Earlier in 1999, Microsoft founder Bill Gates had achieved this position.
●    Bezos's property has increased by $ 32.6 billion this Thursday.
●    Amazon has increased by 5 percent this week.
●    With the rise of Bezos's property, this question will be asked more about what he wants to do with it.
●    Leaving behind Bill Gates in October, Bezos Gates, or the richest person in the world, is far behind in donations compared to Warren Buffett.

Current Affairs 25th November 2017: SPORTS

Qatar's Barshim and Belgium Thiam declared the best athlete

Qatar's high jump player Mutaz Essa Barshim and Belgium's Heptathlon champion Nafissatou Thiam have been declared the best IAAF male and female athlete of the year.
●    World champion Bashish will replace the retired leg spinner Usain Bolt recently.
●    Barshim was selected from the list of players, including long distance runner Mo Farah and champion Wade Van Nei Karker of South Africa 400 meters race.
●    In the Olympics and world championships, Thiam defeated the Olympic champion, Almaz Ayana, and Greek Polwalt star Ekaterini Stefanidi of Ethiopia's 10,000 m race for the title.
●    Usain Bolt of Jamaica, called Magician of Speed, was given the President's Prize at this respect ceremony in Monaco.

Wrestler Ritu Phogat won silver in under-23 senior world championship

Indian woman wrestler Ritu Phogat has won silver medal in the Under-23 Senior World Wrestling Championship.
●    In this championship held in Poland, the season suffered due to the gold medal.
●    The 23-year-old Ritu had named the gold medal in the Commonwealth Wrestling Championship last year, but she could not repeat her golden performance here.
●    Turkey's Wrestler Demirhan defeated the season in the gold medal
●    Earlier, in the quarterfinal match, Indian woman Wrestler Ritu had defeated Bulgaria's Sailishka by a margin of 4-2.
●    Season had defeated Wrestler Jiang Zu of China 4-3 in the semi-final to win gold medal.
●    Ritu had earlier won the national championship in Indore.
●    In the same month, in the national wrestling championship in Indore, the season gave birth to the gold medal.

Important Current Affairs 24th November 2017

Current Affairs 24th November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

President attends Closing Ceremony of 42nd ICMM World Congress on Military Medicine 

The President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind attended the closing ceremony of the 42nd ICMM World Congress on Military Medicine, where 1,187 delegates from 74 member countries participated, at Vigyan Bhavan here today. 
●    Speaking on the occasion, the President said the theme of this year’s World Congress has been is appropriately kept as ‘Military Medicine in Transition’, which portrays both the dynamic and evolving nature of medical science per se and the ever changing and volatile environment of the practice of military medicine in particular.
●    Complementing the Congress for addressing aspects of training and research, Shri Kovind said that in keeping with the present world scenario, it was important that we focus on two aspects of medicine, that is, training and medical research. 
●    He said both are progressive and mandated requirements of the medical profession, which help the organisation and individual to constantly grow and expand. 
 

Multi State Mega Mock Tsunami Exercise 2017 held 

The Ministry of Home Affairs through National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) today conducted a first-of-its-kind multi-State mega mock exercise on tsunami preparedness covering the entire eastern coastline of the country.
●    Simulation exercises were conducted simultaneously in 35 coastal districts across four States of West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh & Tamil Nadu and Union Territory of Puducherry along the entire East Coast, to assess and improve the early warning and response mechanism to mitigate the impact of a high-intensity tsunami.
●    The NDMA experts, who led the exercises from the State Capitals, briefed the participants about the proceedings of the day. 
●    The exercise scenario depicted a high intensity earthquake near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, at about 0930 hrs. 
●    Within moments, the Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC), INCOIS, issued a massive tsunami threat notification for the eastern coast through e-mails, fax and SMSes. 
●    It also put out detailed bulletins on its website.

36th International Geological Congress on the Visit of the IUGS Delegation 

A high level delegation of the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS) comprising its President, Prof. Qiuming Cheng; Prof. S C Finney, Secretary General; and Prof. H Kitazato, Treasurer visited India during 20-24 November 2017 to discuss the preparatory aspects of the 36th International Geological Congress (IGC) to be held in Delhi, India in the year 2020.
●    Described as the Olympics of Geosciences, the IGCs are held quadrennially under the aegis of the IUGS through a process of global bidding. 
●    India won the bid in 2012 at Brisbane, Australia to host the Congress in 2020. 
●    The win is a remarkable achievement as the event makes a come back to the Indian soil after nearly 6 decades much to the excitement of the entire geoscientific community.
●    The event is being jointly funded by the Ministry of Mines and Ministry of Earth Sciences with the active support of the Indian National Science Academy (INSA), and the Science Academies of the other neighbouring co-host countries, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
●    The delegation, during its visit, inspected the India Expo Mart Limited, the venue for the event and expressed its satisfaction over the facilities available and its convenient location. 

Current Affairs 24th November 2017: DEFENSE

Defence of Andaman & Nicobar Islands Exercise

Defence of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Exercise (DANX) was conducted under the aegis of Andaman & Nicobar Command.  
●    The five day exercise started on 20 Nov 2017 and culminated on 24 Nov 2017.
●    From the planning stage onwards, joint planning and integrated approach was adopted for synergistic application of forces.
●    Main objective of the exercise was to practice & validate procedures and drills of all the Command forces aimed at defending Andaman & Nicobar Islands. 
●    Accretional forces from the mainland including fighters, Special Forces, Naval ships and heavy lift transport aircraft participated in the exercise. 
●    The highlights of the exercise were fighter ops, night para jumps at sea, slithering of troops from helicopters and amphibious landings of troops by ships.  

Current Affairs 24th November 2017: ECONOMY

30.76 Lakh Houses Sanctioned So Far Under PMAY (U) 

Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of State(I/C) Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has informed that since launch of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) (U) on 25th June 2015, the Government has sanctioned a total of 30.76 lakhs houses across all verticals. 
●    Currently, 15.65 lakh houses have been grounded and are at various stages of construction and about 4.13 lakh houses have been constructed since the launch of the mission. 
●    Inaugurating the National workshop on Accelerating Implementation of Urban Missions: PMAY(Urban) and Swachh Bharat mission(Urban) here today, the Minister stated that the Urban India is undergoing a transition in terms of physical forms, demographic profile and socio-economic diversity. 
●    The important role of cities in national economic process and their global linkages demand more attention for their development, than being hitherto given. 
●    Cities are expected to perform efficiently in keeping with emerging demands for employment, commerce, trade, industry and other services.  
 

Current Affairs 24th November 2017: SCHEMES 

Cabinet approves continuation of the scheme on Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs beyond the 12th Plan Period 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for continuation of the scheme on Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA) for another three financial years (FYs 2017-18 to 2019-20) and providing Grants-in-aid of Rs.18 crore to the Institute.  
●    It will make the Institute self-sustainable by the end of FY 2019-20.
●    The training programs, research activities and projects conducted by the Institute in partnership with public and private sector in the niche areas of Corporate Governance will enhance the skill sets resulting in increased employability of students as well as professionals.
●    The thrust of the Institute is to become a prestigious Institute in the field of Corporate Laws while enhancing its resources and revenues.
●    It is envisaged that IICA will be an Institute of National importance thereby becoming an engine of growth leading to increased economic activity. 
●    The improvement in the professional competence is also expected to help the professionals in tapping employment opportunities in emerging corporate areas including those in overseas.
 

Cabinet approves "Mission For Protection And Empowerment For Women" and introducing a new scheme ' Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra' 

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval for expansion of the schemes of Ministry of Women and Child Development under Umbrella Scheme "Mission for Protection and Empowerment for Women" for a period 2017-18 to 2019-20. 
●    CCEA has also given approval to the new scheme called ‘Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra', which will empower rural women through community participation to create an environment in which they realize their full potential. 
●    Expansion under Beti Bachao Beti Padhao has also been approved based on the successful implementation in 161 districts.
●    The financial outlay during 2017-18 to 2019-20 will be Rs.3,636.85 crore with a Central Share of approximately Rs.3,084.96 crore.
●    The approved sub-schemes are social sector welfare schemes especially for care, protection and development of women. 
●    It will also aim at improvement in declining Child Sex Ratio; ensuring survival. & protection of the girl child; ensuring her education, and empowering her to fulfil her potential. 

Current Affairs 24th November 2017: AGREEMENT 

Cabinet approves signing of India - Russia Agreement on cooperation in combating terrorism 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval for signing an Agreement on Cooperation between India and Russia in the field of combating all forms of terrorism and organized crime. 
●    The Agreement is proposed to be signed during the upcoming visit of Indian Delegation, led by Home Minister, to Russia from 27-29 November, 2017. 
●    India and Russia have a long history of close cooperation in international fora on matters of mutual interest. 
●    With the rise in terrorism and organized crime across the world, it is imperative for countries to work together to combat all forms of terrorism. 
●    The proposed Agreement, which will replace the Agreement of October, 1993, is a step towards consolidating the benefits accrued in the field of security and seeks to jointly fight the new and evolving risks and threats. 
●    The Agreement would reinforce the relationship between India and Russia through exchange and sharing of information, expertise, best practices and would help in curbing terrorism and enhancing, security in the region.

Important Current Affairs 23rd November 2017

Current Affairs 23rd November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

 President approves Ordinance for amendment in Bankruptcy and Bankruptcy Code, 2016

The purpose of the ordinance is to make necessary arrangements for preventing undesirable and unscrupulous people from abusing the provisions of the aforesaid Code or making them ineffective.
●    The purpose of the amendments is to keep those people out of the purview of those who have deliberately defaulted or who are related to stranded loans (NPAs) and who are habituated to not complying with the rules and thus, those who successfully resolve the bankruptcy disputes of a company Is considered as a hindrance.
●    In addition to prohibiting such people from participating in such dispute resolution or liquidation process, it has also been specified for the prevention of the above mentioned amendment that before the approval of the committee of lenders, the profitability of the dispute resolution scheme and Will ensure the probability.
●    Indian Bankruptcy and Bankruptcy Board (IBBI) have also been given additional rights.
●    The rules and regulations of IBBI have also been revised recently, in addition to information related to the predecessor of the applicant who has submitted the dispute resolution, along with information related to priority, low evaluation or fraud related transactions, the lending committee , So that he can make appropriate decisions on the basis of proper information.
●    In addition to taking other steps for better compliance, keeping out of undesirable elements in the banking sector through reform and reconciliation process is also a part of the current reforms of the government.

Center has announced the Indian Forest (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 to encourage bamboo cultivation in non-forest areas

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change has said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Central Government has announced a historic initiative in the Indian Forests (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017, in which non-forest areas Exemption of planted bamboo to be brought under the definition of tree and thereby requiring demolition / transit permit for its economic use Could be granted an exemption from Ykta.
●    Bamboo, however, comes under the definition of the grass, but it is defined as the Indian Forest Act, 1927 legally as a tree.
●    Prior to this amendment, the provisions of the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (IFA, 1927) were enforced on the demolition / transit of bamboo grown on any forest and non-forest land.
●    This was a major hindrance in farmers' way of cultivating bamboo on non-forest land.
●    Earlier, in the chairmanship of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet had yesterday made an ordinance on this amendment on amendment of section 2 (7) of the Indian Forest Act, 1927.
●    Dr. Harsh Vardhan emphasized that this amendment was to encourage the cultivation of bamboo in non-forest areas to achieve the double goal of raising the income of a major eminent farmers and increasing the green cover of the country.
●    He also said that the bamboo grown in forest areas will still be governed by the provisions of the Indian Forest Act, 1927.

Bharti family to donate Rs 7,000 crore

Chief industrialist Sunil Mittal on Thursday said that the Bharti family will invest 10 percent of their property on charity.
●    He said that the family has committed to give 10% of their assets to the activities of the group's welfare work for the activities of the Bharti Foundation.
●    Overall, the amount of Rs 7,000 crore is made.
●    Founder Chairman of Bharti Enterprises Mittal said that the amount included in the above mentioned amount comprises 3 percent of the family in Bharti Airtel.
●    He said that the Bharati family will set up Satya Bharati University for free education to the deprived youth of the poor sections of the society.
●    This new generation university will focus on science and technology, including Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things and Robotics.
●    The proposed University will be set up in North India by 2021.
●    Mittal said that the amount of money that the Bharti family has taken will be looked at in the university project.
●    The decision of the land is to be decided for the university and it has plans to impart education to 10,000 students.

Supreme Court directs Sahara's Amby Valley auction

Sahara Group's Embe Valley can be auctioned soon.
●    The Supreme Court directed the receiver of the Bombay High Court to help Liquidator in the auction of Ambli Valley on Thursday.
●    Chief Justice Deepak Mishra and Justice Ranjan Gogoi and AK Sikri's Bench said, "We want to auction the property.
●    Until then we will appoint the receiver of Bombay High Court to help with the auction. "
●    The bench also asked the official liquidator, who took over the responsibility of the auction, to seek directions from the judge or the Bombay High Court.
●    Sahara Group had earlier asked for an 18-month time to repay the remaining Rs 9,000 crore from the original amount of Rs 24,000 crore.
●    On October 12, the Supreme Court had strongly objected to the Sahara Group's interruption in the process of the auction of Amby Valley and warned that anyone blocking will be guilty of contempt and will be sent to jail.
●    Market regulator SEBI had told the court that Sahara group had allegedly blocked the auction process allegedly by writing a letter to the Pune Police on the issue of law and order in Ambi Valley.

Lotte confectionery has bought havmor icecream for Rs 1,020 crores

South Korea's Lotte Confectionery has announced the purchase of Havmor Ice Cream Limited in a cash deal of Rs 1,020 crore.
●    This deal will help the loss confectionery maker to make a lot of chocolate pie in India's Rs 5,000-crore ice cream market.
●    HIL, the China family company of Ahmedabad, got 2.5 times more than its turnover in this deal.
●    In 2016-17, the turnover of the company was Rs 400 crore and its CAG was 23-25%.
●    Havmor managing director Ankit Chona told ET that he would continue to help in the business of the Lotte as the CEO-Advisor of the brand.
●    Lotte Confectionery said, "The company has decided to buy 100% of HIL's 100% shares in its board meeting held on November 23.
●    Lotte confectionery plans to spread its marketing power from north-west India to the whole country as well as entering India's ice cream market.
●    Havmor was started by Satishchandra Chona in Karachi in 1944, but he had to come back to India after settling his business within three years.
●    He started ice cream business after settling in Ahmedabad in 1951.

Current Affairs 23rd November 2017: ECONOMY

HDFC Bank to develop 1,000 villages in the country under CSR

Private sector HDFC Bank will rejuvenate 1,000 villages.
●    HDFC Bank today said that it has targeted to improve the living standard in 1,000 villages under Corporate Social Responsibility CSR till March 2019.
●    Under the overall rural development program HRDP, the bank has already strengthened 750 villages deprived of basic facilities.
●    Paresh Sukankar, Deputy Managing Director, HDFC Bank said here, the Board of Directors has decided to develop such 1,000 villages by March 2019.
●    This initiative has so far influenced the lives of more than 10 lakh people in 16 states across the country.
●    The aim of the HRDP is to raise the livelihoods in the villages by improving the five major areas such as education, water and drainage and financial inclusion.
●    Bank claims that 550 residents of Umpathaw village now have access to clean toilets with potable water and a smart school.
●    The most recent village of the 750 villages made by the bank so far is Empathy.

EPFO Approves Proposal to Put the ETF Units in PF Accounts

Employees Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) has allowed the proposal to put Exchange Traded Funds (ETF) units into provident fund (PF) accounts.
●    The number of EPFO shareholders is 4.5 million.
●    Shareholders of EPFO can see ETF units in their PF accounts by the end of March next year.
●    Labor Minister Santosh Gangwar told reporters after a meeting of the EPFO decision-making body, the Central Board of Trustees (CBT) here on Thursday that the CBT has approved the accounting policy for evaluation of equity investment and accounting policy.
●    It has been prepared after consultation with the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore (IIM-Bengaluru).
●    Gangwar is also the chief of CBT.
●    He said that the findings of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) have also been included in the accounting policy.
●    When asked, when EPFO will start putting ETF units in its accounts of its shareholders, EPFO's Central Provident Fund Commissioner said that it would be possible by the end of this financial year.
●    EPFO invests 15% of its corpus in equity traded funds through equities.
 

Current Affairs 23rd November 2017: GLOBAL

Prime Minister  Narendra Modi Inaugurates The 5th Global Conference On Cyberspace, 2017
Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India inaugurated the Global Conference on Cyberspace 2017 in the Capital today in the presence of His Excellency, Mr. Ranil Wickramasinghe, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad, Hon’ble Minister for Electronics & Information Technology and Law & Justice, Government of India, Shri Manoj Sinha, Minister of State(IC), Department of Telecommunication, Government of India, Shri KJ Alphons, Minister of State, Tourism, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, Government of India, Secretary General of International Telecommunication Union, Mr. Houlin Zhao amongst other dignitaries.
●    The Prime Minister also launched the UMANG App that aims to bring 162 government services on a single mobile app, with a larger goal to make the government accessible on the mobile phone of our citizens.
●    Themed on Cyber4All: A Secure and Inclusive Cyberspace for Sustainable Development, this is the fifth edition of GCCS wherein international leaders, policymakers, industry experts, think tanks and cyber experts will gather to deliberate on issues and challenges for optimally using cyber space. 
●    The overall goals of GCCS 2017 are to promote the importance of inclusiveness and human rights in global cyber policy, to defend the status quo of an open, interoperable and unregimented cyberspace, to create political commitment for capacity building initiatives to address the digital divide and assist countries, and to develop security solutions in a balanced fashion that duly acknowledge the importance of the private sector and technical community.

Important Current Affairs 22nd November 2017

Current Affairs 22nd November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Cabinet approves agreement between India and Philippines on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the signing and ratifying of an Agreement between India and Philippines on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters. 
●    The Agreement will help in the availability of relevant information for the prevention and investigation of Customs offences. 
●    The Agreement is also expected to facilitate trade and ensure efficient clearance of goods traded between the countries.
●    This Agreement shall enter into force after the necessary national legal requirements for entry into force of this Agreement have been fulfilled by both the countries. 
●    The Agreement would provide a legal framework for sharing of information and intelligence between the Customs authorities of the two countries. 
●    It would help in the proper application of Customs laws, prevention and investigation of Customs offences and the facilitation of legitimate trade. 
●    The draft text of the proposed Agreement has been finalized with the concurrence of the two Customs Administrations. 

Cabinet approves signing of India - Russia Agreement on cooperation in combating terrorism and organized crime 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval for signing an Agreement on Cooperation between India and Russia in the field of combating all forms of terrorism and organized crime. 
●    The Agreement is proposed to be signed during the upcoming visit of Indian Delegation, led by Home Minister, to Russia from 27-29 November, 2017. 
●    India and Russia have a long history of close cooperation in international fora on matters of mutual interest. 
●    With the rise in terrorism and organized crime across the world, it is imperative for countries to work together to combat all forms of terrorism. 
●    The proposed Agreement, which will replace the Agreement of October, 1993, is a step towards consolidating the benefits accrued in the field of security and seeks to jointly fight the new and evolving risks and threats. 
●    The Agreement would reinforce the relationship between India and Russia through exchange and sharing of information, expertise, best practices and would help in curbing terrorism and enhancing, security in the region.

Cabinet approves revised salaries, gratuity, allowances and pension for the Judges of the Supreme Court and the High Courts 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the revision in the salaries, gratuity, allowances, pension etc. of the Judges of the Supreme Court and the High Courts and retired Judges of Supreme Court and High Courts. 
●    It follows the implementation of recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission in respect of Civil Servants. 
●    The approval will pave the way for necessary amendments in the two laws viz. Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1958 and High Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1954, which govern the salaries of Chief Justice of India (CJI), Judges of Supreme Court of India, Chief Justices and all Judges of High Courts. 
●    The increase in the salary and allowances etc. will benefit 31 Judges of Supreme Court of India (including the CJI) and 1079 Judges(including the Chief Justices) of High Courts. 
●    Besides, approximately 2500 retired Judges will also be benefited on account of revision of pension/gratuity etc. 
●    Arrears on account of revised salaries, gratuity, pension and family pension w.e.f 01.01.2016 will be paid as one time lump sum payment.
●    Salaries, gratuity, pension, allowances etc. in respect of Judges of Supreme Court are governed by the Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1958. 
●    Salaries etc. of Judges of High Courts are governed by High Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1954. 

Cabinet approves setting up of the 15th Finance Commission 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the setting up of the 15th Finance Commission. Under Article 280 (1) of the Constitution,it is a Constitutional obligation. 
●    The Terms of Reference for the 15th Finance Commission will be notified in due course of time. 
●    In keeping with this requirement, the practice has generally been to set up next Finance Commission within five years of the date of setting up of the previous Finance Commission. 
●    Fourteen (14) Finance Commissions have been constituted in the past. 
●    The 14th Finance Commission was set up on 02.01.2013 to make recommendations covering the period of five years commencing on 1st April, 2015. 
●    The Commission submitted its Report on 15th December, 2014. 
●    The recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission are valid upto the financial year 2019-20. 

Ram Vilas Paswan chairs the first meeting of the Governing Council of Bureau of Indian Standard 

Shri Ram Vilas Paswan, Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution said that services to consumers should be of standard level. 
●    Shri Paswan said that all efforts should be made to provide facilities to consumers.
●    Shri Paswan said that BIS must ensure to use world’s best technology at their laboratories to provide international standards. 
●    Shri Paswan stated it while chairing the first meeting of the Governing Council of Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS), in New Delhi today. 
●    It was the first meeting of the Governing Council after enforcement of the new BIS Act 2016. 
●    Shri Paswan mentioned that the new BIS Act passed by the Parliament has been implemented with effect from 12 October 2017. 
●    This act has provisions for safeguarding the interests of consumers. 
●    The new Act casts an obligation not only on manufacturers but also on the players in the distribution chain regarding the quality of products.  

Consultative Workshop on New National Policy on Biofuels and Pradhan Mantri Ji- Van Yojana 

A consultative workshop on New National Policy on Biofuels & Pradhan Mantri Ji- Van Yojana (VGF for 2nd Generation Ethanol Bio Refineries) was organised here today by Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas for inviting suggestions for drafting a suitable roadmap for Biofuels in India. 
●    The workshop was organised as the government is promoting Biofuels with an objective to reduce dependency on import of crude oil, savings in foreign exchange, provide better remuneration for the farmers and address growing environmental concerns in the light of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Commitment at COP 21. 
●    During the day long workshop 5 Working Groups on 1-G Ethanol, 2-G Ethanol, Biodiesel, Municipal Solid Wastes to Fuel & Bio-CNG comprising of all the stakeholders (producers, bankers and buyers) deliberated issues related to their segment in detail and came up with many constructive suggestions and inputs. 
●    Minister of Petroleum and natural Gas, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Shri Dharmendra Pradhan in his speech said that 1-G and 2-G Ethanol, Biodiesel, MSW to Fuel and Bio-CNG together with Methanol(DME) have huge potential in augmenting economic growth, generating employment and doubling farmers’ income. 
●    He said this will be instrumental in achieving the target of 10% import reduction by 2022 set by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. 

Smt. Anupriya Patel inaugurates the National Biomaterial Centre 

Smt. Anupriya Patel, Minister of State (HFW) today inaugurated the National Biomaterial Centre (National Tissue Bank) at the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organization (NOTTO). 
●    The main thrust & objective of this centre is to fill up the gap between ‘demand’ and ‘supply’ as well as ‘quality assurance’ in the availability of various tissues.
●    Speaking at the function, Smt Anupriya Patel stated that it is important to understand that in India it is mainly the living donors who are donating organs and only about 23% of the organ transplant is being done with organs obtained from the cadavers. 
●    “There is a need to promote cadaver or deceased organ donation rather than relying on living donors in order to avoid the risk of commercial trading of organs and also to avoid the inherent risk to the health of the living donor,” Smt Anupriya Patel added.
●    Addressing the participants, Smt Anupriya Patel further stated that it’s high time we understand, and also spread awareness in the community at large, that a living person can save the life of only one person but a deceased or cadaver organ donor can save up to 9 lives by donating vital organs. 
●    “Apart from promoting organ donation it is also important to improve the infrastructure and capacity of government hospitals to undertake transplantation so that the poor and needy could benefit,” she said.

Current Affairs 22nd November 2017: DEFENCE

Brahmos Flight test from IAF’s Su-30MKI fighter aircraft 

Brahmos, the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile created history on 22nd Nov 2017 after it was successfully flight-tested first time from the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) frontline fighter aircraft Sukhoi-30MKI against a sea based target in the Bay of Bengal. 
●    The missile was gravity dropped from the Su-30 from fuselage, and the two stage missile’s engine fired up and straightway propelled towards the intended target at the sea in Bay of Bengal.
●    The successful maiden test firing of Brahmos Air Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM) from Su-30MKI will significantly bolster the IAF’s air combat operations capability from stand-off ranges. 
●    Brahmos ALCM weighing 2.5 ton is the heaviest weapon to be deployed on India’s Su-30 fighter aircraft modified by HAL to carry weapons. 
●    Brahmos, the world-class weapon with multi-platform, multi-mission role is now capable of being launched from Land, Sea and Air, completing the tactical cruise missile triad for India. 
●    Brahmos is a joint venture between DRDO of India and NPOM of Russia.

Important Current Affairs 21st November 2017

Current Affairs 21st November 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Review Meeting to examine the draft of National Policy of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (Maps) of India to be held tomorrow 

Ministry of AYUSH is organising a day long review meeting on “Draft of National Policy of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) of India” tomorrow at Pusa Campus, New Delhi. 
●    The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH Shri Sripad Yesso Naik will address the inaugural session of this meeting. 
●    To improve and finalize the proposed draft Policy Document, National Medicinal Plant Board along with Federation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Stakeholders are jointly organizing the one day review meeting.
●    Shri Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary, Ministry of AYUSH; Ms. Shomita Biswas CEO, National Medicinal Plants Board; Mr. Pankaj Asthana, IGF, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Ms. Alka Bhargava, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; Mr. Rajiv Kumar, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology will also be present on this occasion. 
●    This will be followed by 8 brainstorming sessions of more than 35 panellists on various topics.
●    The important areas of Medicinal Plants Sector like Forest & Conservation, Infrastructure, Marketing & Trade, Cultivation, Sustainable Harvesting & Post harvest Management, Quality & Certification, Research & Development, Regulatory & Legal framework, Networking & IT/Space Intervention, Finance and Information, Education & Communication and Capacity Building are proposed to be covered in the 8 sessions by specialists from all over the country.

India, the second largest fish producing country in the world

Union Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Minister, Shri Radha Mohan Singh has said that the previously implemented "Letter of Permit" or "L.O.P." system in the E.E.E. has been stopped since January, 2017. 
●    Besides, specific decisions have been taken to safeguard the interests of traditional fishermen in the area of EEZ beyond 12 nautical miles, which is regulated by the Government of India, such as the traditional fishers have been exempted from the fishing ban implemented during monsoon period in the EEZ; use of LED lights/other artificial lights for fishing as well as practice of bull-trailing or pair-trailing have been completely banned, recently on 10th November, 2017. 
●    The duration of fishing ban has also been increased from 47 days to 61 days, with the consent of all coastal State Governments.
●    Shri Singh has said that the scheme 'Blue Revolution' has been launched with the outlay of Rs. 300 crore for the integrated development of the Fisheries sector in the country. 
●    As a result, overall fish production has registered an increase of about 18.86% in comparison to the last three years, whereas inland fish production has registered a growth of more than 26%. 

J P Nadda inaugurates ‘1st World Conference on Access to Medical Products and International Laws for Trade and Health’ 

“India is deeply committed nationally and globally to achieving all public health goals and also focusing on developing India as a hub for affordable medical devices.” 
●    This was stated by Shri J P Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare at the inauguration of ‘1st World Conference on Access to Medical Products and International Laws for Trade and Health in the Context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development’, here today. 
●    The Health Minister further stated that there is a need for promoting industry and academia collaboration for developing affordable medical products such that innovations and advances in medical sector reach a vast population. 
●    Smt. Anupriya Patel, Minister of State (HFW), Dr. V.K. Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, Govt. of India, Smt Preeti Sudan, Secretary (Health), Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Secretary, Dept. of Health & Research (DHR) and DG, ICMR and Dr. Jagdish Prasad, Director General Health Services also graced the occasion. 
●    Highlighting the importance of transparency between regulatory authorities and pharma sector, Shri Nadda stated that the coordination between the National Regulatory Authorities and pharmaceutical sector will enable launch and registration of new health technologies. 

Word Class Center of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding to come up in Mumbai and Vishakhapatnam 

A world class Center of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding (CEMS) is being set up by Ministry of Shipping in collaboration with  Siemens and Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) under the Ministry’s flagship Sagarmala Programme. 
●    CEMS will have  campuses at Visakhapatnam and Mumbai, and will provide industry-relevant skill development, equip students with employable engineering and technical skills in the port and maritime sector and contribute to the Government of India’s ambitious Sagarmala programme. 
●    Shri Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Shipping, Road Transport & Highways, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation had announced this at an event in Kochi last week. 
●    CEMS is being set up to meet the domestic skill requirement in ship design, manufacturing, operating and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO),  and  aims to become an international nodal centre in South Asia, attracting students from neighboring countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia for skill development in the Port and Maritime sector. 

Thaawar Chand Gehlot Visits Stalls of M/O Social Justice & Empowerment at Iitf-2017 

The Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot visited the annual fair of artisans from across the country, belonging to the weaker sections of the society, at the ongoing India International Trade Fair 2014. 
●    Speaking to the media on the occasion the Minister expressed his happiness that the Ministry has taken this innovative step to focus on the Ministry's developmental programmes and highlight its achievement through exhibitions by artisans. 
●    The Minister congratulated the artisans, who have come from almost all parts of the country and the Ministry, CMDs and MDs of the Apex Corporations and their officers for organizing the event and suggested that such exhibitions should be held from time to time in various cities where the artisans of the target groups can be invited to showcase their products and skill.     
●    The Minister also stressed the need for upgradation of skill and asked the Ministry and the Apex Corporations to take necessary action in the direction of providing skill development and including technological inputs in skill upgradation of the traditional art and craft of the target groups. 
●    40 stalls have been allotted to artisans form States/UTs of Assam, Karnataka, Gujrat, Delhi, Puducherry, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal etc. to display and sell their products like wooden toys, pearl jewelry, dress material, shawls, Tie and dye products, Sanganer print, handloom, painting, wood inlay, Banarasi sarees, Bamboo craft, Sozni work, Leather items etc.

 
 Subhash Ghai Releases special edition of FTII academic journal "Lensight" at IFFI Goa. 

Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) Pune released a special issue of its quarterly academic journal LENSIGHT in Panaji, Goa today to coincide with the ongoing International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
●    Subhash Ghai, renowned film maker and FTII alumnus launched the October-December 2017 issue of the prestigious journal on film and media which has been standing out for its scholarly content since last 26 years. 
●    Bhupendra Kainthola, Director FTII Pune and Amit Tyagi (Dean Films) were present at the launch.
●    "LENSIGHT journal publishes articles and research papers by film scholars, researchers, academicians and various other subject experts in the field from India and abroad. 
●    There's a need to have more such journals to broaden and deepen the understanding of cinema", said Subhash Ghai in his address.

India's Dalveer Bhandari became International Court of Justice

Indian Judge Dalveer Bhandari has won the battle in the international court of The Netherlands.
●    Justice Dalveer Bhandari got 183 votes in General Assembly whereas Justice Bhandari got 15 votes in the Security Council.
●    Bhandari was contesting from Britain's candidate Christopher Greenwood.
●    This victory of India is very special because the match of the fifth judge of the international court was very interesting.
●    Justice Dalbir Bhandari was ahead in the General Assembly till 11th but he had fewer votes than Christopher Greenwood in the Security Council.
●    But in the 12th round, UK candidate Greenwood withdrew from the ground while looking forward to the defeat.
●    To become a judge in the international court, it was extremely important to win both the Security Council and the General Assembly.
●    After this, the 12th round was held on Monday, November 20 in which Dalveer Bhandari got 183 votes.
●    He also secured all 15 votes of the Council of Security.
 

Current Affairs 21st November 2017: AWARDS

Monetary Allowance for Widows of Gallantry Awards Recipients 

Recipients of the gallantry awards are entitled to the monetary allowance as per the letter of 1972 of Ministry of Defence (MoD), superseded by letter in 1995 of the MoD, which have been revised from time to time. 
●    As per the existing condition for grant of monetary allowance, the allowance shall be admissible to the recipient of the award and on his death to his widow lawfully married by a valid ceremony. 
●    The widow will continue to receive the allowance until her remarriage or death. 
●    The payment of the allowance will, however, be continued to a widow who remarries the late husband’s brother and lives a communal life with the living heir eligible for family pension. 
●    Representations were received from various quarters to remove the condition of the widow’s remarriage with the late husband’s brother for continuation of the monetary allowance. 
●    This issue was considered by the Government of India and it has now been decided to remove the condition of the widow’s remarriage with the late husband’s brother for continuation of the monetary allowance vide MoD letter dated November 16, 2017.