Important Current Affairs 18th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 18th May 2017 in English and Hindi, which will update you with latest headlines, news from various domains i.e: National News, Sports, Business, Awards & recognition. It is useful for the preparation of competitive exams like: SSC, SBI, IBPS PO, Clerk, Railways & Various other Entrance examinations.

Current Affairs 18th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

CIC to organise a Seminar on implementation of the Right to Information

The Central Information Commission (CIC) is organising a Seminar on implementation of the Right to Information here tomorrow. 
●    The Chief Information Commissioner Shri Radha Krishna Mathur will deliver the Inaugural Address and Information Commissioner, CIC, Prof. M. Sridhar Acharyulu, will give a talk on “Scope of Privacy of Public Servant”. 
●    Information Commissioner, CIC, Shri Yashovardhan Azad will deliver the address at the Valedictory Session.
●    Academicians, practitioners, researchers, NGOs/civil society groups and other stakeholders will be giving well researched original presentations, including case studies during the Seminar. 
●    Speakers of eminence will include Ms. Anjali Bhardwaj, co-Convenor, National Campaign for People's Right to Information (NCPRI), Shri Sanjoy Hazarika, Director, Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI), Ms. Amrita Johri, Member, NCPRI, Shri S.C. Agrawal, RTI Activist, Shri Venkatesh Nayak of CHRI, Ms. Pankti Jog of Mahiti Adhikar Gujarat Pahel, Dr. Susanta Kumar Mallick, Lecturer, Department of Political Science, Savitri Women’s College,  Odisha, Shri B.H. Veeresha, Trustee, Mahithi Hakku Adhyayana Kendra, Shri Rajesh Mehtani, U.P. State Resource Person (RTI), Shri Deepak Singh, Sr. Telecom Office Assistant, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd. and Commodore Lokesh Batra (Retd.). 
●    Presentations will focus on important aspects of the implementation of the Right to Information Act 2005. 

Standard Operating Procedure for cases of Missing Children developed by WCD Ministry

The Ministry of Women and Child Development has developed a Standard Operating Procedure for tracing of missing children as per the direction of the Hon’ble Supreme Court dated January 13, 2015 in the matter of Bachpan Bachao Andolan v. Union of India & Ors, Writ Petition (Civil) No. 75 of 2012. 
●    The Apex court had observed that there are many Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) developed by States to trace out missing children and therefore, had directed the Ministry of WCD, to take help of TISS to compile a model SOP which may be used by all States/UTs to deal with cases of missing children and to follow a uniform procedure throughout the country.
●    The SOP for tracing of missing children is finalized in consonance with the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Model Rules 2016. 
●    The SOP mainly deals with the tracking of missing children and their rehabilitation after recovery. 
●    It defines roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders such as Police, Child Welfare Committees (CWCs), Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs) etc.
●    Rule 92(1) of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Model Rules 2016 defines a missing child as – a child whose whereabouts are not known to the parents, legal guardian or any other person or institution legally entrusted with the custody of the child, whatever may be the circumstances or causes of disappearance, and shall be considered missing and in need of care and protection until located or his safety and well-being established.

Minister of Railways Inaugurates Round Table Conference with Non Railway Stakeholders on Railway Security Issues 

Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu inaugurated the Round Table Conference with non Railway Stakeholders on Railway Security Issues.
●    Minister of State for Railways Shri Rajen Gohain was specially be present to grace the occasion. Chairman, Railway Board, Shri A. K. Mital, Member (Staff) Railway Board Shri Pradeep Kumar, other Railway Board Members and senior officials were also present on the occasion. Shri S.K. Bhagat, DG/RPF summed up the deliberations at the end of the daylong session. 
●    The inputs by various stakeholders were submitted in course of the discussion and effort will be made to implement them.
●    Speaking on the occasion Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu said that Safety and Security on Railways has always been challenging and hence have acquired great importance. 
●    There are lot of challenges in safe & secured running of trains. In India there are various vulnerable sections in our network. Indian Railways is looking at different ideas from different stakeholders for improving the security issues in Railways. 
●    For Example Indian Railways has started Central monitoring system for monitoring security in Konkan Railways. Railways is now giving more emphasis on intelligence gathering and forensic issues. 
●    Indian Railways is taking various additional measures to improve the security of women passengers across its network. 
●    Indian Railways has to closely work with local police as the Law & Order is a State Subject. This ideation is needed to meet new challenges in Security issues of Indian Railways.

Separate Department of Disability Affairs to be set up by States

Shri Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment while addressing the “15th National Review Meeting of State Commissioners for Persons with Disabilities on Implementation of Act-1995” stressed for the need that States should create/setup separate Department of Disability Affairs with appointment of full time Independent State Commissioner in accordance with provisions of PwD Act, 1995 for effective implementation of the Act as well as welfare Programmes & Schemes of Education, Training, Skill Development and rehabilitation of the Disabled (Divyangjan) in the society.
●    He chaired the opening session of the 2-day long National Review Meeting, which was attended by 11 States Commissioners and 15 representatives of the State Commissioners/State Government and representatives from Central Ministries and National Bodies under Ministry of Social Welfare.  
●    He stated that there is great need for empowering and strengthening the Divyangjan in the Country by safeguarding their rights and privileges entrusted by the Act.  
●    The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has become an important & prominent among all Ministries of the Central Government for making all round efforts for better education, vocational training & rehabilitation of the Divyangjan in society so that could lead a respectable life.

Current Affairs 18th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Cabinet approves MoU between India and Australia on Cooperation in Combating International Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given ex-post facto approval to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Australia on Cooperation in Combating International Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime. 
●    The proposed MoU would strengthen the relationship between India and Australia for building peace and stability in the region through exchange of information, expertise, experience and capacity building. 
●    The MoU is an effective framework to deal with all issues requiring interaction and cooperation in the areas identified. 
●    The mutual cooperation would facilitate the institutional interactions between the two countries. 
●    The MoU, once in force, would help in curbing combating International Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime.

ICJ stays Kulbhushan Jadhav's execution till final order

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) on 18 May 2017 stayed the execution of Kulbhushan Jadhav till its final decision. 
●    Ruling in favour of India, the Court asked Pakistan to keep it informed about the measures, including on consular access, taken by it in this connection.
●    Reading out the verdict at The Hague, Netherlands, ICJ President Ronny Abraham said that India has the right to consular access to Jadhav under Vienna convention. 
●    He said the court considers that it has prima facie jurisdiction in the matter as there is a dispute between the parties.
●    He said acts alleged by India fall in the Vienna convention which guarantees state to be given access to its citizen. 
●    He added the rights invoked by India under the Vienna Convention are plausible.
●    After the order, the External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said the ICJ order has come as a great relief to the family of Kulbhushan Jadhav and people of India. 
●    She also said that the union government is grateful to Harish Salve for presenting India's case so effectively before ICJ.
●    Swaraj assured the nation that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the government will leave no stone unturned to save Jadhav.
 

Current Affairs 18th May 2017: AWARDS

Indian scientist Shrinivas Kulkarni wins Dan David Prize 2017

Indian scientist Shrinivas Kulkarni on 18 May 2017 won the prestigious Dan David prize 2017 for his contribution in the field of astronomy. 
●    He was awarded in the 'Future' category which is dedicated to astronomy this year.
●    He will share the award with Andrej Udalski of the University of Warsaw and Neil Gehrels of NASA for their discoveries on time-domain astrophysics.
●    Kulkarni is a professor of astrophysics and planetary science at California Institute of Technology in Pasadena. 
●    He is a pioneer and leading figure in time-domain astrophysics across the electromagnetic spectrum who built and conducted the Palomar Transient Factory, a large-area survey of the night sky in search of variable and transient phenomena.

Important Current Affairs 17th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 17th May 2017 in English and Hindi, which will update you with latest headlines, news from various domains i.e: National News, Sports, Business, Awards & recognition. It is useful for the preparation of competitive exams like: SSC, SBI, IBPS PO, Clerk, Railways & Various other Entrance examinations.

Current Affairs 17th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Cabinet approves setting up of Indian Agricultural Research Institute (lARI) in Assam

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved the setting up of Indian Agricultural Research Institute (lARI) in Assam.  
●    The proposal of Department of Agriculture Research and Education (DARE) / Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) under the scheme, the establishment of the "Indian Agricultural Research Institute (lARI)-Assam" seeks to set up the Institute on 587 acre of land provided by the Govt. of Assam.
●    lARI-Assam would be a Post-Graduate Institution of higher learning in Agricultural Education.   
●    It will have the hallmark identity of an IARI including all sectors of agriculture like field crops, horticultural crops, agro-forestry, animal husbandry, fisheries, poultry, piggery, silk rearing, honey production, etc.
●    It will be an off-campus of IARI, New Delhi and integrated multi-disciplinary research would be undertaken in school mode i.e. Schools of Crop Sciences, Natural Resource Management, and Animal Sciences & Fisheries.

Thaawarchand Gehlot Inaugurates ‘15th National Meeting of State Commissioners for Persons with Disabilities’

Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment inaugurated the “15th National Meeting of the State Commissioners for Persons with Disabilities (PwD)” to review Implementation of the Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of rights and Full Participation) Act-1995 here today. 
●    The two days meeting has been organized by the Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities under Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
●    Shri Kamlesh Pande, Chief Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities and Shri N.S. Kang, Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, M/o SJ&E were also present. 
●    State Commissioners for PwD from States and Union Territories are attending the meeting and presenting their Reports on the implementation of the Act in their States.
●    Addressing on the occasion, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot said that during past during past three years, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has become very active and vibrant. 

Mukesh Ambani sole Indian among Forbes' list of Global Game Changers

Forbes magazine has named Reliance Industries (RIL) Chairman Mukesh Ambani as the topmost among its "Global Game Changers" who are transforming their industries and changing the lives of billions around the world.
●    Ambani features at the top of the Forbes' second annual Global Game Changers' list of 25 "intrepid business leaders unsatisfied with the status quo" who are "transforming their industries and changing the lives of billions of people around the globe."
●    The American magazine referred to the Ambani-led Reliance Jio mobile network's efforts to spread internet penetration in India.
●    "Oil and gas tycoon entered the country's telecom market with a bang, offering fast internet at dirt-cheap prices. 
●    Gained 100 million customers in six months and set off a wave of consolidation in the market," Forbes said.
●    Forbes said those on the latest game changers' list are re-imagining the many facets of everyday life, from health to money transfers through digital means.

Govt approves new coal linkage policy

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a transparent mechanism for coal allocation and signalled a renewed focus on nuclear power generation.
●    At the meeting, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) secured coal supplies to stranded power projects and approved allocation of such linkages through an auction process.
●    Linkages are awarded to projects which do not have captive coal mines and need to source coal commercially from state-owned Coal India Ltd (CIL).
●    A cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi also approved the addition of 7,000 megawatt (MW) of nuclear capacity that can potentially generate up to Rs70,000 crore of orders for domestic industry.
●    Not only do these two key decisions signal the government’s commitment to good governance, the accent on nuclear power emphasizes its commitment to move away from fossil fuels. 
●    This aside, it also opens up new investment opportunities for Indian businesses, which have been struggling to find its mojo.

Union Government launches EPFO’s Citizens’ Charter 2017

●    Union Minister of Labour & Employment Bandaru Dattatreya on 16 May 2017 launched EPFO’s Citizens’ Charter 2017 and E-Court Management System along with it.
●    Citizens’ Charter 2017 of EPFO is an attempt to bring transparency and accountability on the part of EPFO.
●    It will also offer social security coverage to all employees as well as implementation of policies for benefit of all stakeholders with adequate support level of social security. 
●    The charter will make service delivery system and grievance redressal mechanism more efficient so that it delivers goods and services to its all stakeholders in a time bound manner with a reduced timeline from earlier timeline of 30 days. 
●    The timeline in case of claim settlements is 10 days and 15 days in case of grievance redressal management.
 

Current Affairs 17th May 2017: DAYS AND DATES

World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2017 observed

The 2017 World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD) was observed on 17 May 2017.
●    The theme for WTISD-17 is Big Data for Big Impact. 
●    The theme focuses on the power of Big Data for development and aims to explore how to turn imperfect, complex, often unstructured data into actionable information in a development context.
●    The theme for WTISD-17 is in line with ITU's work highlighting the technological developments that have facilitated the emergence of Big Data, developing standards related to Big Data and identifying sources and uses of Big Data, including use of Big Data technologies for developing and monitoring improvements in information societies.
●    The purpose of WTISD is to help raise awareness of the possibilities that the use of the Internet and other information and communication technologies can bring to societies and economies.
 

Current Affairs 17th May 2017: OBITUARY

Veteran actress Reema Lagoo passes away

Veteran actress Reema Lagoo died Veteran actress Reema Lagoo died on 18 May 2017 at Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai. 
●    She reportedly suffered a massive cardiac arrest. She was 59.
●    Lagoo who appeared in several Hindi and Marathi films also acted in numerous television shows like Tu Tu Main Main and Shrimaan Shrimati.
●    Born in 1958, Reema Lagoo has had a presence on Marathi stage for nearly four decades.
●    Married to actor Vivek Lagoo, she began her acting career in the late 1970s.
●    She played the role of a mother in several Bollywood films like Maine Pyar Kiya, Aashiqui, Saajan, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, Vaastav, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Aruna Raje's Rihaee, Gumrah, Jai Kishen, Gumrah and Hum Saath-Saath Hain.
●    Her mother Mandakini Bhadbhade was also an actor and a well-known name in the Marathi theatre.
●    Now, Reema Lagoo is survived by daughter Mrunmayee Lagoo.

Current Affairs 17th May 2017: DISCOVERY 

Dinosaur mummy discovered in Canada with all skin intact

Palaeontologists in Canada have unveiled a dinosaur mummy that had been encased in stone for over 110 million years. 
●    The remains of the armour-plated nodosaur, which is a 3000-pound plant-eating horned creature, went on display at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology in Alberta on 12 May 2017.
●    Speaking on the remarkable discovery, Caleb Brown, a postdoctoral researcher at the museum stated that they don’t just have a skeleton, they have a dinosaur as it would have been.
●    The dinosaur mummy has all the skin and gut contents intact.
●    It is also a never-seen-before species of nodosaur, as well as the oldest dinosaur ever found in Alberta. 
●    Its preserved skin and gut contents could provide invaluable clues on the extinct species. 
●    The fossil was accidentally discovered by miners six years ago. 
●    Since the last five years, researchers have spent more than 7,000 hours chiselling away at the fossil’s surrounding rock to expose the incredible creature.

Important Current Affairs 16th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 16th May 2017 in English and Hindi, which will update you with latest headlines, news from various domains i.e: National News, Sports, Business, Awards & recognition. It is useful for the preparation of competitive exams like: SSC, SBI, IBPS PO, Clerk, Railways & Various other Entrance examinations.

Current Affairs 16th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Minister of Railways Inaugurates various Passenger Amenities in various Mumbai Suburban Railway Stations

Minister of Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu inaugurated various Passenger Amenities in various Mumbai Suburban Railway Stations. 
●    Minister of State for Railways Shri Rajen Gohain was specially present to grace the occasion. 
●    Chairman Railway Board, Shri AK Mital, other Railway Board Members, and senior officials from Railway Board were also present on the occasion.
●    Speaking on the occasion, Minister of Railways Shri Suresh Prabhu said that the inauguration of passenger amenities at various station of Mumbai is an important event. 
●    Mumbai is the commercial capital of India. 
●    Around 80 lakhs passenger travel in the Mumbai Suburban Railways, Railways is trying its best to provide better passenger amenities. 
●    Lift, escalators, Foot  over bridges are to be provided at small stations too. Railways need cooperation of the travellers in maintaining its property. 
●    Railways is working with State Government to form Joint Venture so that other Rail Development projects are initiated soon.

Minister of Railways Inaugurates Round Table Conference on Data Analytics for Indian Railways

Minister of Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu inaugurated Round Table Conference on “Data Analytics for Indian Railways”. 
●    Chairman Railway Board, Shri AK Mital, other Railway Board Members, representatives and dignitaries from industry and senior officials from Railway Board were also present on the occasion.
●    Speaking on the occasion Shri Suresh Prabhu said that a series of Round Table Conferences are being conducted to ideate on various issues concerning Indian Railways. 
●    This Round Table Conference is to ideate on Data Analytics on Indian Railways. He also said that Data creation is phenomenal in Indian Railways to carry out commercial and operational opportunity. 
●    Data Analytics must be studied, analysed and monitored to improve Indian Railways’ program. Technology is ever evolving, need of the hour is to progress with Data Analytics. 
●    Indian Railways shall be the growth engine. 
●    Data Analytics can help to create a system that may benefit Railways immensely.  

Pragati Maidan Complex to be Redeveloped into a World Class State-of-The-Art Exhibition-Cum-Convention Centre

The existing Pragati Maidan Complex that so far used to organise National and International Exhibitions and facilitate holding of various other events, is set to get all new face with its upcoming redevelopment into a World class state-of-the-art Integrated Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre (IECC). 
●    At a joint Press Conference by Shri L. C. Goyal, CMD, India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) and Dr. Anoop Kumar Mittal, CMD, NBCC (India) Limited, held in New Delhi today, announced the launch of this sophisticated Project to be implemented by the latter at a cost of approx. Rs 2,500 Crore. 
●    Shri Goyal and Dr. Mittal on the occasion, released the layout and the design of IECC and an outline of comprehensive solutions to decongest traffic in and around Pragati Maidan. 
●    Once redeveloped, IECC will be a landmark spot in Delhi and a symbol of Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of ‘New India’, they informed. 
●    Conceived by NBCC in association with M/s ARCOP Associates Pvt. Ltd. and Aedas Pte. Ltd. of Singapore, the IECC shall be developed with latest architectural design along with basement parking facility of 4800 vehicles and comprehensive traffic congestion interventions. 
●    The Convention Centre will be 32.4 mtr. tall landmark building on par with the best in the world. 
●    This structure will be on an elevated podium with unique sloping facade incorporating rich architectural heritage of Delhi. 

Bandaru Dattatreya launches EPFO’s Citizens’ Charter 2017 & e-court management system 

The Minister of State for Labour & Employment(IC), Shri Bandaru Dattatreya launched EPFO’s Citizens’ Charter 2017 and e-court management system in Bangalore, today. 
●    Citizens’ Charter 2017 is an attempt to bring transparency and accountability on the part of EPFO and make service delivery system and grievance redressal mechanism more efficient so that it delivers goods and services to its all stakeholders in a time bound manner with a reduced timeline from earlier timeline of 30 days. 
●    The timeline in case of claim settlements is 10 days and 15 days in case of grievance redressal management. 
●    The citizens’ charter has been launched with the vision of social security coverage to all employees as well as implementation of policies for benefit of all stakeholders with adequate support level of social security. 
●    EPFO e-court Management System has been launched which is in tune with the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi of digital India. 
●    The objective of the project is a transparent and electronic case management system which will cater to aspirations of all stakeholders – the employers, the employees, litigants and CBT. 

Venkaiah Naidu announces separate 24x7 DD Channel for Jharkhand 

Minister for Information & Broadcasting Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu has announced a separate 24x7 DD channel for the state of Jharkhand. 
●    The Government was putting up a vision document for a 24x7 DD Jharkhand channel for the people of the state and the proposal was included in the 3 years Action Plan of DD. 
●    However till the launch of 24x7 channel, DD Ranchi programmes would be telecast on DD Bihar. 
●    Jharkhand related programmes would be provided a special window in already available 24x7 satellite channel- DD Bihar. 
●    The Minister stated this at the review meeting of the programs & initiatives of Ministry of I&B held at Ranchi, Jharkhand today. 
●    Chief Minister of Jharkhand Shri Raghubar Das was also present during the review meeting.
●    While giving an overview of issues discussed during the review meeting, Shri Naidu said that Government of Jharkhand has been requested to provide a dedicated power supply through separate feeders to All India Radio & Doordarshan Stations in the state.

J.P. Nadda inaugurates National Training for Universal Screening and Control of Common NCDs

“In the last three years our efforts have been towards building a ‘Swasth Bharath’ and as such prevention of diseases and timely intervention will always remain in the forefront, whether for Communicable or Noncommunicable Diseases,” stated Shri J P Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare. 
●    He was speaking at the inauguration of National Training for Universal Screening and Control of five Common Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes and three common cancers: cervix, breast and oral cavity, here today. Also present was Smt Anupriya Patel, Minister of State (Health & Family Welfare). 
●    Speaking at the occasion, Shri J P Nadda stated that under the universal screening of common NCDs program, everyone above the age of 30 years will be screened in the 100 districts of the country in the first phase.
●    Gradually, it will cover the entire country and around 50 crore people will be covered so that timely intervention can reduce the disease burden in the country, Shri Nadda said. 
●    “NCDs are acquired lifestyle ailments, which places a very high burden through the healthcare cost,” Shri Nadda added. 
●    The Health Ministry is working through a two-pronged strategy, he stated. 
●    This included healthy children through the total immunization program whereby in the past three years, the basket of vaccines has been increased from providing cover to 11 vaccine preventable diseases, from the earlier six. 

India’s longest bridge to be inaugurated near China border

India’s longest river bridge, capable of withstanding the weight of a 60-tonne battle tank, will be inaugurated in Assam close to the border with China on May 26 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
●    With the inauguration of the 9.15-km-long Dhola-Sadiya bridge over the Brahmaputra river, the prime minister will kick off the celebrations of the NDA government’s three years in office from this easternmost part of Assam.
●    The construction of the bridge is seen as an attempt by India to shore up its defence infrastructure along the Sino-Indian border. 
●    It is also part of the Centre’s endeavour to improve connectivity in the region.
●    It is 3.55 km longer than the Bandra-Worli sea link in Mumbai, making it the longest bridge in India.
●    “The prime minister will dedicate the strategically important bridge to the nation on May 26. 
●    It will bolster road connectivity in the Northeast as the bridge will be used by people of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh besides defence forces extensively.
 

Current Affairs 16th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Indian warships visit Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

As part of the Indian Navy’s overseas deployment to the West Coast of Africa  and the Mediterranean Sea, three Indian warships, INS Mumbai, INS Trishul and INS Aditya, arrived at Jeddah today (16 May 17) for a three-day visit. 
●    The warships will engage extensively with the Saudi Arabian Navy during their stay in the country. 
●    Apart from professional interactions, sports and social engagements are also planned, which would go a long way in enhancing co-operation and understanding between these important navies of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
●    The visiting ships, headed by Rear Admiral RB Pandit, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet (FOCWF), who is flying his flag on the guided missile destroyer INS Mumbai, are part of the Indian Navy’s Western Naval Command and are based at Mumbai.
●    India and Saudi Arabia enjoy cordial and friendly relations, reflecting centuries old economic and socio-cultural ties. 

Important Current Affairs 15th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 15th May 2017 in English and Hindi, which will update you with latest headlines, news from various domains i.e: National News, Sports, Business, Awards & recognition. It is useful for the preparation of competitive exams like: SSC, SBI, IBPS PO, Clerk, Railways & Various other Entrance examinations.

Current Affairs 15th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

President of India delivers first Bhairon Singh Shekhawat Memorial Lecture 

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee delivered the 1st Bhairon Singh Shekhawat Memorial Lecture on the topic “History of Parliamentary Democracy in India” today (May 15, 2017) in Jaipur, Rajasthan. 
●    He also presented the 1st Bhairon Singh Shekhawat Life Time Achievement Honour in Public Service to Shri Pawan Kumar Chamling, Chief Minister of Sikkim on the occasion. 
●    Addressing the gathering the President said he was honoured to be invited to deliver the inaugural Memorial Lecture instituted in memory of our former Vice-President Shri Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, an outstanding statesman and a man of the masses. 
●    The President stated that Shri Shekhawat and he shared a long history of friendship. Both of them served together in the Rajya Sabha in the 1970s. 
●    Later, while Shri Shekhawat was Chief Minister of Rajasthan and the President was Vice Chairman of the Planning Commission, he had opportunity to see Shri Shekhawat’s extensive knowledge about problems being faced by citizens of Rajasthan, and his will to eradicate these day to day problems. 
●    He was deeply impressed by Shri Shekhawat’s commitment to the downtrodden and poor.

Rajnath Singh inaugurates second meeting of National Platform on Disaster Risk Reduction 

The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the two-day second meeting of National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (NPDRR) here today. 
●    The theme of the Second meeting of NPDRR is “Disaster Risk Reduction for Sustainable Development: Making India resilient by 2030”. 
●    The Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Harsh Vardhan, the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju and Additional Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Dr. P. K. Mishra were also present on the occasion. 
●    The NPDRR is a multi-stakeholders National Platform headed by the Union Home Minister and it promotes participatory decision making in disaster management, and strengthens federal policy of our country. 
●    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh said that NPDRR is a multi-stakeholders National Platform for sharing the experiences in disaster management and for making a collective effort for disaster risk reduction.  
●    He emphasized the role of prevention and mitigation in reducing disaster losses. He pointed out that 1 extra Rupee spent on disaster preparedness and mitigation could save 10 Rupees of disaster loss. 
●    He recollected global agreements like Sendai Framework, Sustainable Development Goal and Paris Agreement on Climate Change (COP21) for disaster risk reduction. 

Indian Navy and Space Application Centre, Ahmedabad Sign Memorandum of Understanding 

Vice Admiral SN Ghormade, AVSM, NM, Director General Naval Operations and Mr Tapan Misra, Director, Space Application Centre (SAC) signed a ‘Memorandum of Understanding on Data Sharing and Scientific cooperation in the field of Meteorology and Oceanology’ on 15 May 2017 at SAC, Ahmedabad. 
●    With this initiative, both the organisations have embarked on a common platform of mutual cooperation, wherein the scientific advancements and expertise achieved by SAC would be synergised into the Indian Naval efforts to keep the Nation’s Defence Forces in step with rapid development in the field of Environment Sciences and Satellite Data acquisition technology. 
●    This has further boosted the already established collaboration between the two organisations. 
●    The broad areas of cooperation include, sharing of non-confidential observational data for pre-launch sensor calibration and post launch satellite data validation, operational use of SAC generated weather products, provisioning expertise for installation of various satellite data processing modules at Naval METOC organisations, carrying out calibration and validation for ocean models, transfer of technology to generate weather information, training on latest technology and sharing of subject matter experts between the organisations for effective knowledge transfer.

V.O. Chidambaranar Port Trust and TANGEDCO Sign MoU to upgrade Coal Jetty-I&II

V.O. Chidambaranar Port is all set for a four-fold increase in the capacity of two of its Coal Jetties – Jetty I and II from 6.25 MTPA to 24 MTPA. 
●    The VOCP Trust signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Limited (TANGEDCO) for the upgradation of Coal Jetty I and II in New Delhi today. 
●    The Minister of Shipping and Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari and Minister for Electricity, Prohibition and Excise, Government of Tamil Nadu Shri P. Thangamani were present on the occasion. 
●    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Gadkari said that the project would benefit both TANGEDCO and the VOCPT. 
●    It would make coal handling by the jetties much more voluminous and efficient, and thus bring down logistics costs. 
●    He said this would also allow for cheaper production of electricity, which would be very beneficial for industrial growth.

NHAI signs MoU with TIDCO for Development of Multimodal Logistics Park in Tamil Nadu

The National Highways Authority of India signed an MoU with the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited (TIDCO) in New Delhi today, for the development of a Multimodal Logistics Park in the Ponneri Industrial Node area near Kamarajar Port in Tamil Nadu. 
●    The MoU was signed in the presence of the Road Transport and Highways and Shipping Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari and Shri M.C. Sampath, Minister for Industries of Tamil Nadu government.
●    Speaking on this occasion, Shri Gadkari said that it is an important agreement for the development of an integrated, multi-modal transport infrastructure in the country.
●    The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is planning to develop Multimodal Logistics Parks in under its Logistics Efficiency Enhancement Programme (LEEP) in 15 locations all over India at a cost of Rs 33,000 crore, including Rs 1295 crores investment for the Chennai Region. 
●    The proposed logistics parks will bring down the overall freight costs, reduce vehicular pollution and congestion and will enable reduction of warehousing costs.  
●    All this is expected to result in lower logistics costs.

Light Combat aircraft Tejas successfully test-fires air-to-air missile

Tejas, the Light Combat Aircraft on 12 May 2017 successfully fired Derby Air-to-Air BVR missile in RADAR guided mode, demonstrating an Air-to-Air Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile firing capability.
●    The flawless launch was demonstrated with all onboard systems performing up to the mark and the missile scored a direct hit on the target, completely destroying it.
●    The launch was performed in Lock ON after Launch mode for a BVR target in the look down mode and the target was destroyed.
●    The objective of the test was to assess the Derby integration with aircraft systems on-board Tejas including the aircraft avionics, fire-control radar, launchers and Missile Weapon Delivery System and verify its performance.
●    The Derby test was conducted on a Manoeuvrable Aerial Target at the Interim Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.
●    The sensors at ITR also tracked the target and missile.

Mumbai airport busiest with 1 flight every 65 seconds

The Mumbai airport, Chhatrapati Shivaji International, has become the world’s busiest single-runway airport with 837 flights a day or one flight in 65 seconds on an average in the 2016-17 fiscal year.
●    The airport has even overtaken London's Gatwick airport that had 757 flights a day. The city also tops in terms of the number of passengers with almost 45.2 million people flying in and out in fiscal 2017 as against 44 million at Gatwick airport.
●    No other large city in the world is served by one airport that too with a single-runway.
●    All the leading cities in the world including New York, London, Dubai, and Singapore have more than one airport with multiple runways.
●    The New Delhi airport also has in use three parallel runways at any given time.
●    In comparison, Mumbai works with just a single runway for both passenger and cargo aircraft and when it is shut for repairs, it uses the secondary runway.
●    The scarcity of land doesn’t restrict the flight network of the city, as it operates to about 95 domestic and international destinations.

Current Affairs 15th May 2017: SPORTS

Arjun Maini becomes first Indian driver to win a GP3 race

Jenzer Motorsports' Indian driver Arjun Maini, who is supported by JK Racing and TVS, created history on Sunday as he became the first Indian to win a race in the GP3 Series with a dominant victory. 
●    This is Arjun's first victory in the GP3 Series and this win moves him into third place in the driver's championship standings.
●    This victory capped off an amazing week for the young Indian who earlier this week was signed by Haas F1 team as a development driver. 
●    Maini finished seventh in Race 1 of the first round of the GP3 season on Saturday. 
●    After qualifying at sixth in the morning, Race 1 began with Arjun having a good start and moving up one place on the opening lap. 
●    But he could not keep up with the leaders and only managed to hold onto 7th place to claim 6 points.

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Current Affairs 14th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

One Rupee Clinics now open at Mumbai railway stations

To help its commuters in case of medical emergency, Central Railway along with 'Magicdil' have established 24X7 'One Rupee Clinics' at 14 different stations. 
●    These clinics will be providing timely medical assistance to rail accident victims as well as commoners at a token charge of Re 1.
●    After PIL filed in Bombay HC in March by rail activist Samir Zaveri on the issue of lack of prompt medical help in case of accidents on railway tracks, the Bombay High Court ordered the Railways to set up EMRs at all stations on the Central and Western Line in a phased manner.
●    The five EMRs have been set up at Dadar, Kurla, Wadala, Mulund and Ghatkopar stations, in association with city-based medical firm Magicdil Health For All Pvt Ltd. 
●    While choosing the station to establish 'One Rupee Clinic', Magicdil asked for data from railway authority regarding where most number of accidents take place and which are the most crowded stations.
●    These 24X7 EMRs will be having a team of 3 to 4 MBBS doctors. 
●    Magicdil is planning to start OPD of specialists doctors for masses at the cost of Just Re 1 as consultation charge.

Drug-resistant TB cases may spike in India by 2040: Study

A new study has found that India could witness an alarming spike in cases of multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis by the year 2040.
●    The study was published on 9 May 2017 in the prestigious medical journal The Lancet.
●    The study indicates that drug-resistant TB could make up one in ten cases of the disease in the country in the next two decades.
●    A similar spike has been forecasted for Philippines, Russia and South Africa too.
●    The study forecasted the percentage of MDR tuberculosis among incident cases of tuberculosis.
●    As per the study, it will make up 12.4% of the TB cases in India, 8.9% in the Philippines, 32.5% in Russia, and 5.7% in South Africa in 2040.
●    It also predicted the percentage of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) tuberculosis among incident MDR tuberculosis to increase, reaching 8.9% in India, 9.0% in the Philippines, 9.0% in Russia, and 8.5% in South Africa in 2040.
●    By 2040, a third of tuberculosis cases in Russia are predicted to be drug-resistant, compared with one in ten in India and the Philippines, and one in 20 in South Africa.

Current Affairs 14th May 2017: ECONOMY

Bank loan recovery time period reduced

Earlier, banks had to wait for 90 days before starting loan recovery proceedings. However, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has now ruled that for an account to be formally classified as non-performing, banks don't have to wait for a deadline to start loan recovery.
●    "Under the ordinance, we have clarified that the default will be considered as per bankruptcy laws, which means if the payment is missed it turns into a default the next day," .
●    This would prompt banks to plan their recovery strategies in advance.
●    India's banks , especially the ones run by the state, have a lot of bad debts to take care of, which directly impacts their financial performance, lending ability and the economy as a whole.
●    "The Reserve Bank should clarify what should be the provisioning requirement for companies going under bankruptcy in the first day of default, in the event a bank decides to file it the same day," said Sapan Gupta, partner at law firm Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co.
 

Current Affairs 14th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Implementation of the expanded India-Chile PTA

India and Chile have entered into another milestone in their trade relations as an agreement on expansion of India-Chile PTA which was signed on 6th September, 2016 is finally being implemented on 16th May, 2017. 
●    The Union Cabinet had approved the expansion of PTA in April, 2016. 
●    The expanded PTA would immensely benefit both sides as a wide array of concessions has been offered by both sides on a number of tariff lines which will facilitate more two way trade. 
●    India and Chile had earlier signed a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) on March 8, 2006 which came into force with effect from August, 2007. 
●    The original PTA had a limited number of tariff lines wherein both sides had extended tariff concessions to each other. 
●    India’s offer list to Chile consisted of only 178 tariff lines whereas Chile’s offer list to India contained 296 tariff lines at 8-digit level. 
●    The expanded PTA has a wider coverage wherein Chile has offered concessions to India on 1798 tariff lines with Margin of Preference (MoP) ranging from 30%-100% and India has offered concessions to Chile on 1031 tariff lines at 8-digit level with MoP ranging from 10%-100%. 

Current Affairs 14th May 2017: APPOINTMENTS

Justice Mukul Mudgal appointed as Chairman of FIFA Governance Committee

Justice Mukul Mudgal, retired judge of Delhi High Court, on 12 May 2017 was elected as the Chairman of FIFA Governance Committee.
●    The appointment was made at the world football governing body’s 67th Congress at Manama, Bahrain.
●    Mudgal, who until now served as the Deputy Chairman of the Committee, will take the office for four years effective immediately.
●    Finland’s Olli Rehn, who is the former Vice-President of the European Commission, will be the Deputy Chairman of the FIFA Governance Committee.
●    Justice Mudgal was the first choice for the FIFA Council and his name was proposed for the vacant position after Miguel Maduro was removed for his role.
●    Maduro allegedly played a role in blocking Russian World Cup official Vitaly Mutko from retaining his seat on ruling council.
●    The FIFA Governance Committee deals with, and advises and assists the Council on all FIFA governance matters.

Aruna Sundararajan appointed as Secretary of Department of Telecommunications

Aruna Sundararajan was on 10 May 2017 appointed as Secretary of Department of Telecommunications. 
●    However, she will continue to serve as the Secretary for Union Ministry of Electronics and IT (Meity).
●    Aruna succeeds PK Pujari, who was appointed to the post temporarily in March 2017. Sundararajan’s Secretary position will also be temporary.
●    Sundararajan is an IAS officer who played an important role in creating an IT department for the Kerala government in 1998. 
●    She has rich experience in overseeing operations of Kerala Government’s Bharat Broadband Scheme which provides subsidized broadband connections. 
●    Her previous important posts include IT secretary for Kerala Government and CEO of National Common Service Centre.
●    The post of full time Secretary of DoT has been lying vacant since the removal of J S Deepak from the post in March 2017.

V K Saraswat appointed as Chancellor of JNU

Eminent scientist V K Saraswat was on 12 May 2017 appointed as the Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).  
●    He succeeds former ISRO chairman K Kasturirangan, who completed his term on 30 March 2017. 
●    Saraswat will serve five years term at JNU. He is currently serving as the Member of NITI Aayog.
●    As the Chancellor of JNU, Saraswat will discharge functions such as presiding over the convocation ceremony for awarding degrees. 
●    Apart from being a member of the JNU court, he will be the competent authority to sanction leave to the vice-chancellor.
●    A PhD in Combustion Engineering, Saraswat played a very significant role in the development of the country’s first liquid propulsion engine- Devil.
●    He is credited with the development of other rocket engines such as Prithvi, Dhanush and Prahaar. 
●    He earlier served as the Director General of Defence Research and Development Organisation.
 

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Current Affairs 13th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

INS Darshak completes hydrographic surveys in Sri Lanka

INS Darshak of the Eastern Naval Command which has been on a two month deployment to Sri Lanka has successfully completed surveys of Weligama Bay and Southern coast of Sri Lanka. 
●    The result of the surveys were formally handed over by Captain Peush Pawsey, Commanding Officer, INS Darshak to Vice Admiral RC Wijegunaratne, WV, RWP & Bar, RSP, VSV, USP, ndc, psn, the Commander of Sri Lanka Navy, in a ceremony held at Colombo on 12 May 17.
●    The survey operations were undertaken in three phases and ship also visited Colombo and Galle harbour. 
●    The ship and ship’s survey motor boats fitted with multi beam systems were extensively deployed and the hydrographic survey data for more than 7000 nautical miles was collected. 
●    Ship’s integral Chetak helicopter also participated in the operations. 
●    The Officers and sailors of Sri Lanka Navy had embarked ship during the conduct of joint survey operations and were also imparted training on various aspects of hydrographic surveying. 
●    In addition, the sailors of both the navies interacted during ship’s stay at Colombo and Galle and played friendly football, volleyball and basketball matches. 
●    Beach cleaning drives were also conducted as part of interaction.

INS Rajput on a 3-day visit to Yangon

INS Rajput, Indian Navy's front line guided missile destroyer entered Yangon, Myanmar for an Operational Turn around (OTR) from 11-13 May 17. 
●    The ship was given a traditional welcome and received by Commodore Thant Sin Lay Deputy Commander Naval Dockyard. 
●    Captain RA Shah, Commanding Officer INS Rajput called on Commodore Nay Win , Commander, Ayeyarwady Naval Regional Command. 
●    Later, Capt RA Shah, Commanding Officer, INS Rajput laid wreath for the Martyrs of the First and Second World War at Yangon War cemetery. 
●    He also called on His Excellence V Misra, the Indian Ambassador of Myanmar. 
●    During the visit, 35 Indian Naval officers visited the Myanmar Naval Training Command and 35 Myanmar Navy officers and 160 under trainee sea cadets visited the ship and were given a guided tour of the ship. 
●    The sea cadets interacted with the junior officers of the ship during the visit. 
●    A friendly volleyball match was also with Myanmar navy personnel.

J P Nadda launches Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)

“No child should die in the country from Vaccine Preventable Diseases” is the Goal & Commitment of our government. 
●    We stand committed to reducing child deaths and providing a healthier future to our children.” 
●    Shri J P Nadda, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare stated this as he announced the introduction of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) in the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) of the country in a function at Mandi, today. 
●    Terming this as an historic moment and an exemplary step in India’s immunization programme, the Union Health Minister added that the Government is committed to reducing morbidity and mortality in children. 
●    Strengthening routine immunization is an essential investment in India’s children and will ensure a healthy future of the country, he noted. 
●    PCV protects children against severe forms of pneumococcal disease, such as pneumonia and meningitis. 
●    Currently, the vaccine is being rolled out to approximately 21 lakh children in Himachal Pradesh and parts of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in the first phase. 
●    This will be followed by introduction in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan next year, and eventually be expanded to the country in a phased manner. 
●    Shri Kaul Singh Thakur, Minister of Health, Government of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Ram Swaroop Sharma, Member of Parliament, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh and Shri Sanjeeva Kumar, Additional Secretary, Health, were also present at the function.

Massive ‘Ransomware’ attack hits 99 countries around the world

A large-scale cyberattack has spread across  99 countries, including the UK, US, China, Russia, Spain, Italy and India. 
●    The cyberattack has affected the IT systems of banks, telephone companies and hospitals.  
●    No instance of the vulnerability being exploited in India has come to light yet.
●    Cyber-security firm Avast, a provider of Antivirus, said it had seen at least 75,000 computers been infected by the malware, dubbed ‘WannaCry’. 
●    Among the government agencies and companies affected include UK’s National Health Service, FedEx, Spain’s communications giant Telefonica and the Russian Interior Ministry.
●    Unknown hackers apparently launched ‘ransomware’ attacks, which basically encrypt  files and demands a Bitcoin (a form of virtual currency) payment to regain access. 
●    The message displaying on NHS computers has been circulated on social media and victims of the attack needs to send $300 or $600 to a bitcoin address.

Narendra Modi announces direct Varanasi-Colombo flight from August

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a two-day visit to Sri Lanka, announced that from August this year, Air India will operate direct flights between Colombo and Varanasi.
●    “My Tamil brothers and sisters will also be able to visit Varanasi, the land of Kashi Viswanath,” he said while addressing a crowd at the opening ceremony of International Vesak Day at Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
●    Varanasi is the Prime Minister’s Lok Sabha constituency. In a similar 2014 visit to Japan, Modi had signed a partnership agreement between Varanasi and Kyoto, both historically significant cities, making them sister cities.
●    PM Modi is participating in the International Vesak Day celebrations in the island country. 
●    Later in the day, he will inaugurate the 150-bed multi-specialty Dickoya Hospital which has been built with Indian assistance.
●    Upon his arrival in Sri Lanka on Thursday, PM Modi met President Maithripala Sirisena and PM Ranil Wickremesinghe, who had earlier visited India in April. 

Current Affairs 13th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Brazil declares end to Zika emergency

Brazil on 11 May 2017 declared an end to public health emergency for the Zika virus after about 18 months of fight against this mosquito-borne virus.
●    The Zika virus emergency fell upon Brazil when the country was preparing to host the 2016 Olympics, fuelling the concerns that Rio Olympics could spread the virus. 
●    In response to the outbreak, Brazil launched a mosquito-eradication campaign which resultantly helped to dramatically reduce cases of Zika. 
●    From January till mid-April 2017, Brazil recorded 95 percent fewer cases than during the same period in 2016 when there were 170535 cases.  
●    The number of cases of microcephaly fell as well.
●    In November 2016, the World Health Organisation (WHO) lifted its own international health emergency status for Zika.

Current Affairs 13th May 2017: SPORTS

VVS Laxman awarded honorary life membership of Marylebone Cricket Club

V S Laxman on 11 May 2017 was awarded an honorary life membership to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC).
●    Laxman is the fifth Indian to receive the honour, after Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and Zaheer Khan.
●    Born on 1 November 1974, Vangipurapu Venkata Sai Laxman is a former Indian cricketer.
●    He was a right-hand aggressive batsman, who played mostly in the lower middle order.
●    He is specifically known for his numerous match-winning and saving innings.
●    His knock of 281 against them in Eden Gardens in 2001 is often considered as the greatest ever test-innings.
●    In 2011, he was awarded the Padma Shri award.
●    He is one of the few players who have played 100 Tests but have never played in a Cricket World Cup.

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Current Affairs 12th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Immediate Interim Measures announced by the Government to curb the menace of online Child Sexual Abuse Material 

The Ministry of Women and Child Development has been making several efforts to deal with the problem of online Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). 
●    In a major step, a stakeholder Consultation was held last year on this issue wherein it was decided that the Ministry will establish a National Alliance against   Online Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation, focusing primarily on the online content. 
●    Subsequent to this decision, an Inter-Ministerial Committee(IMC) was constituted on request of the WCD Ministry. 
●    The IMC includes MHA, MEITY, Ministry of Law, Ministry of External Affairs and Department of Telecom.  
●    Based on the consultations of the Inter-Ministerial Committee, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY) in collaboration with Ministry of Women and Child Development has issued immediate interim measures to curb the menace of Online Child Sexual Abuse Material. 
●    MEITY has issued this Order under Section 79(2) (c) of the Information Technology Act 2000 to curb online child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

Central Government notifies Exemption from Quoting Aadhaar / Enrolment ID to certain individuals

The Central Government vide notification dated 11th May, 2017 has notified that the requirement of quoting of Aadhaar / Enrolment ID shall not apply to the following individuals if they do not possess the Aadhaar / Enrolment ID:
●    An individual who is residing in the state of Assam, Jammu and Kashmir and Meghalaya.
●    An individual who is a non-resident as per the Income-tax Act, 1961.
●    An individual of the age of eighty years or more at any time during the previous year.
An individual who is not a citizen of India.
●    The notification is available on the Income Tax website www.incometaxindia.gov.in
●    Section 139AA of the Income-tax Act, 1961, as inserted by the Finance Act, 2017 provides for mandatory quoting of Aadhaar / Enrolment ID of Aadhaar application form for filing of return of income and for making an application for allotment of Permanent Account Number with effect from 1st July, 2017. 
●    Section 139AA (3) of the Act empowers the Central Government to notify the person(s) or State(s) to which the requirement of quoting of Aadhaar / Enrolment ID shall not apply.

CSL Constructing Four Passenger-cum-Cargo Vessels for A&N Island under ‘Make in India’ Initiative

Cochin Shipyard Ltd is constructing four passenger-cum – cargo vessels for Andaman & Nicobar Administration under the ‘Make in India’ initiative of Government of India. 
●    As per orders placed by the A&N Administration, two of these vessels will have a capacity of 500 persons-cum-150 tonne cargo and the remaining two will have a capacity of 1200 persons-cum-1000 tonne cargo. 
●    These vessels will have state of the art facilities for passengers and comply with latest international/national rules and regulations. 
●    They will be fitted with diesel electric propulsion plants driving two azimuth thrusters for good manoeuvrability. 
●    The smaller vessels of 500 passenger capacity will be ocean going for all weather operation, and be employed in Northern and Southern group of A&N Islands or for inter island service They will also be capable of making occasional voyages between mainland and islands. The construction of these vessels is on.

NHAI Masala Bond Launched at London Stock Exchange 

The Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Shipping  Shri. Nitin Gadkari yesterday launched the NHAI Masala Bond issue at the London Stock Exchange. 
●    The NHAI issue witnessed an overwhelming response from a wide range of investors, some of them being first timers to participate in the Masala Bond market.  
●    The initial benchmarked issue of INR 1500 crore was upsized to INR 3000 crore by yesterday 3.00 PM (GMT) at a price yielding 7.30% annually  in view of the highly positive response from the investor market. 
●    The transaction marks the largest ever 5 year issuance and the largest inaugural transaction in Masala Bond market. 
●    Some of the leading investors were still showing interest in the NHAI issue who may be brought into the fold in the near future.   
●    It is interesting to note that the NHAI Masala Bond issue has attracted investors from across the spectrum with Asia contributing 60% of the subscription and the balance 40% coming from Europe. 
●    Further, 61% of the amount comes from the Fund Managers or Insurance, 18% from the Banks and 21% from the private banks. 
●    The spectrum of investors shows bright prospects of the Masala Bond as an instrument of raising rupee denominated resources internationally. 
●    On this occasion London Stock Exchange presented a Memento to Shri Nitin Gadkari.

Election Commission of India Launches National Contact Centre

The Election Commission of India has launched National Contact Centre with a toll free number- 1800111950.
●    The move would enable any citizen from any part of the country to call on the toll-free number and get their query or complaint addressed at any time of the day in Hindi or English.
●    The callers would be able to enquire on subjects such as elections, voting dates, electoral roll and online registration.
●    They would also be able to register their complaints by simply dialling the toll free number.
●    The executives at the Contact centre would also be making outbound calls to educate the electors and spread voter awareness.

India test-fires surface-to-air missile ‘Spyder’

India on 11 May 2017 test fired a surface-to-air missile ‘Spyder’ from a test range in Odisha as part of missile launch practice of a series of tests of the short-range quick reaction. 
●    Spyder was test fired from a mobile launcher at launch complex 3 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur and targeted a pilotless target aircraft.
●    Spyder (Surface-to-air PYthon and DERby) is an acquired missile system from Israel which is a short-range, quick reaction surface-to-air missile. 
●    It comprises two missiles- Python and Derby, with an active onboard radar which makes the Spyder system more lethal. Both the missiles are smokeless which makes it harder to detect them visually.
●    It can neutralise enemy targets up to a distance of 15 km and at heights between 20 and 9000 metres.
●    Besides aircraft and UAVs, it can also neutralise low-level cruise missiles.

Current Affairs 12th May 2017:DAYS AND DATES

International Nurses Day Celebrated

Army Hospital (Research & Referral), Delhi Cantonment, celebrated International Nurses Day, here today, to honour and respect the nurses for their incredible and selfless dedication towards patient care. 
●    On the occasion, a special event was organised where Additional DGMNS Maj Gen Sushila Shahi, addressed the gathering. Commandant AH (R&R) Lt Gen A K Das and Maj Gen Shahi, distributed ‘Certificates of Excellence’ to the deserving nursing officers from various departments. 
●    Principal Matron of AH (R&R) Maj Gen Elizabeth John, addressing the gathering, emphasised on the spirit of nursing among nursing staff. 
●    The event was marked by the presence of veteran nurses of the military nursing service and nurses from the civil hospitals. 
●    International Council of Nurses commemorates this day annually around the world on 12th of May as the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. 
●    The theme of this year is “Nurses: A Voice to lead, achieving the sustainable development goals.”

Current Affairs 12th May 2017:SPORTS

Asian Wrestling Championship: Indian wrestlers take two bronze on 2nd day

Anil Kumar and Jyoti provided India two bronze medals with contrasting performances in their respective weight categories on the second day of the Asian Wrestling Championship, at New Delhi on Thursday.
●    While Anil registered a thrilling come-from-behind 7-6 victory over Uzbekistan's Muhammadali Shamsutdinov to clinch the bronze medal in the Greco-Roman 85kg category, Jyoti (women's 75kg) won the bronze after she lost in the semifinal to Japan's Masako Furuichi, as the Japanese girl made it to the gold medal round.
●    Anil fought hard to climb up the podium on the day when India bagged two medals out of five outings.
●    Having entered the bronze medal play-off after his opponent, who defeated him in the quarterfinal match, made the gold medal round, Anil showed fabulous skills and technique to finish third.
●    Lagging behind 1-6 and being pinned down by his Uzbekistan rival during the bronze medal bout, Anil did extremely well to not just release himself from his opponent's grip of his opponent but also managed to take him down to earn two points.

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Current Affairs 11th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

5 world class educational institutions will be established to provide education in technical, medical, Ayurved, Unani etc. fields

Minister of State for Minority Affairs (Independent Charge) & Parliamentary Affairs Shri Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi has said that is ministry will launch two schemes in this year. 
●    The USTTAD Samman Samaroh will be launched during Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya birth centenary under which the artisans and craftsmen of the Minorities will be honoured. 
●    The other scheme Campaign for Education will be launched on the anniversary of former president A. P. J. Abdul Kalam on 15th October 2017. This campaign will be held during 2017-18 and one hundred districts have been identified for this.
●    Addressing a press conference in New Delhi today on the achievements of the Ministry of Minority Affairs during three years of NDA regime Shri Naqvi said that the Government has been successful to bring the poor, backward and weaker sections of the Minorities into the mainstream of the development through “3E”- Education, Employment and Empowerment. 
●    He emphasized that our “Empowerment without Appeasement” policy has created an “atmosphere of development and trust” among Minorities. 
●    Schemes/programmes such as “Garib Nawaz Skill Development Centre”, “Usttad”, “Nai Manzil”, “Nai Roshni”, “Seekho aur Kamao”, “Padho Pardes”, “Progress Panchayat”, “Hunar Haat”, multi-purpose “Sadbhav Mandap”, “PM’s new 15 point programme”, “Multi-sectoral Development Programme”, “Begum Hazrat Mahal Scholarship” for girls, etc. have ensured development of every needy person belonging to the Minority communities.

Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister launch e-Krishi Samvad, an online interface

Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, here today launched at Krishi Bhawan. 
●    Shri Singh informed that the e-Krishi Samvad is internet-based interface and is a unique platform that will provide direct and effective solutions to the problems faced by farmers and stakeholders in the agriculture sector. 
●    Union Agriculture Minister said that people can directly connect to the ICAR website http://icar.org.in and get the appropriate solutions from the subject matter specialists and institutes through web or SMS. 
●    Stakeholders can upload photographs related to diseases of the crops, animals or fishes for diagnostics and remedial measures instantly from the specialists.
●    Shri Singh further said that those who have internet facility on the mobile phone can also avail this facility. e-Krishi Samvad is useful to get information pertaining to welfare and development of agricultural stakeholders. 
●    Dr. T. Mohapatra, (DG, ICAR), Shri C. Roul (Secretary, ICAR), Dr. AK Singh (DDG, Agricultural Extension) and Dr. SK Singh (Project Director, DKMA) and other senior officials of ICAR were also present on the occasion.

Rajnath Singh launches the MHA Mobile Application for Grievances Redressal of CAPF personnel

The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh launched the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) Mobile Application for grievance redressal of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) personnel, here today. 
●    The Union Home Minister also launched BSFMyApp on the occasion.
●    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh said that he had proposed this App at the DGPs conference held in Hyderabad last year. 
●    He said that he wished to relate to every jawan working for nation. He congratulated the BSF for developing this App in short span of time. 
●    He said that the CPAFs are one of the most disciplined forces. If they are disciplined, this does not mean that they do not have emotions, he added. 
●    He said that they also have some personal problems and the system keeps on resolving their problems from time to time. 
●    Shri Rajnath Singh said that this App is required when the jawans feel that their problems need attention of the Ministry of Home Affairs. 
●    This has given a ‘Digital Option’ to jawans to lodge their grievances and he is just one click away from jawans, the Home Minister said.  
●    Shri Rajnath Singh said that he will review the dashboard of the App every month and check the status of redressal of grievances. 
●    The MHA will intervene, wherever required, he said. 
●    He said that everybody should get benefitted from the telecom revolution.

SOP on rehabilitation of children in conflict with law developed by WCD Ministry

The Ministry of Women and Child Development has developed a Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for rehabilitation of children in conflict with law under the Juvenile Justice System. 
●    The said SOP aims to emphasize the cause of rehabilitation and social re-integration by providing for types of institutional care, after care services, foster care and sponsorship to such children. 
●    The SOP is based on the principles of presumptive innocence and best interest of the child. 
●    The objective of the SOP is to reduce incarceration while protecting children from violence, abuse and exploitation. 
●    The SOP promotes rehabilitation that involves families and communities as a safer, more appropriate and effective approach than punitive measures. 
●    The SOP has been designed to be a useful guide for stakeholders while dealing with children in conflict with law such as functionaries of child care institutions, Juvenile Justice Boards/ Children’s Courts, National and State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, State/UT Governments and Police etc.
●    The Ministry adopted a consultative process in developing the SOP by engaging with experts and advocates on issues of child rights and National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR). 
●    It was also placed on the website of the Ministry of WCD for seeking comments from various stakeholders.   

Technology Day Commemorates India’s Success In Taking Science And Technology To The Service Of The Country

India is now one of the world’s fastest growing centers for S&T entrepreneurship, said the Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Dr. Harshvardhan.  
●    The Minister was speaking at the Technology Awards Ceremony on the occasion of National Technology Day in New Delhi today.
●    Technology Day commemorates India’s success in using science and technology to address the challenges facing the country. 
●    On 11 May 1998 the Pokhran test was conducted. 
●    Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee declared India a full-fledged nuclear state after operation ‘Shakti’ and it made India the 6th country to join the Nuclear Club. 
●    India is now one of the world’s fastest growing centres for S&T entrepreneurship. Start-ups and entrepreneurship are the key to a nation’s economic growth and employment.  
●    The Ministry of Science & Technology through its various programmes have funded and supported thousands of start-ups, incubators and developed new technologies that have reached the market. 
●    In keeping with the theme of the day on Technology for Inclusive and Sustainable Development, the DST has catalyzed the development relevant rural micro-industry models.

Indian Railways To Acquire System To Run Trains Without Guards

The Indian Railways will float global tenders worth over Rs 100 crore for acquiring sophisticated equipment to run 1000 trains without guards. 
●    The End of Train Telemetry (EoTT) equipment is used to establish communication between the locomotive driver and the last wagon of the train to ensure that the train is running with all coaches/wagons as a complete unit.
●    The equipment is designed to do the guard's job by giving indication to the loco driver in case of parting of coaches or wagons from the rear side of the train. 
●    Each set of EoTT device is estimated to cost approximately Rs 10 lakh.
●    EoTT system comprises two units one unit called cab display unit (CDU) fitted on the locomotive and the other is sense and brake unit (SBU) fitted on the last coach or wagon of the train.
●    Both the units are fitted with radio transmitter which communicate with each other.
●    In case of a train parting, the system is designed to indicate to the driver the parting of the train and to apply brakes to the rear unit, thus averting collision of the rear portion with the front portion of the train.
●    Railways will acquire 1000 EoTT equipment to begin with for its container operations and later more such unit will be procured for all trains.

Natco Pharma launches generic blood cancer drug in India

Natco Pharma on Wednesday said it has launched a generic version of pomalidomide capsules, used in treatment of a type of blood cancer, in India.
●    “Pomalidomide is a thalidomide analogue indicated, in combination with dexamethasone, for patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least two prior therapies including lenalidomide and a proteasome inhibitor and have demonstrated disease progression on or within 60 days of completion of the last therapy,” Natco said in a Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) filing.
●    Myeloma is a type of blood cancer. Natco has launched pomalidomide capsules in strengths of 1 mg, 2 mg and 4 mg in India. 
●    Pomalidomide is sold by Celgene Inc., in the US, under the brand name POMALYST.
●    Natco Pharma said it will market generic pomalidomide capsules under its brand name POMALID in India. 
●    Natco has priced its generic medicine of POMALIS 1 mg, 2 mg, and 4 mg capsules at an MRP Rs5,000, Rs10,000 and Rs20,000 respectively, for a monthly pack of 21 capsules, the company said.

Five SC judges of 5 different religions begin hearing pleas challenging Triple Talaq

The five-member bench of the Supreme Court of India on 11 May 2017 began hearing the pleas and final arguments over the constitutionality of the Islamic practice of Triple Talaq.
●    These five judges of five different religions are Chief Justice JS Khehar (Sikh), Justice Kurian Joseph (Christian), Justice Rohinton Nariman (Parsi), Justice Uday Lalit (Hindu) and Justice Abdul Nazeer (Muslim).
●    On the first day of hearing, the court ruled that it will examine whether the practice of triple talaq among Muslims is fundamental to their religion or not. 
●    However, it may not deliberate upon the issue of polygamy as it began hearing petitions challenging the practice.
●    Moreover, it also ruled that each side can argue whatever they want but there should not be any repetition. 
●    Their focus shall only be on the validity of triple talaq.
●    The bench cumulatively will hear seven petitions relating to the issue of triple talaq for seven days, with the lead petition titled as 'Quest for Equality vs Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind'.

Important Current Affairs 10th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 10th May 2017 with Free PDF in English and Hindi, which will update you with latest headlines, news from various domains i.e: National News, Sports, Business, Awards & recognition. It is useful for the preparation of competitive exams like: SSC, SBI, IBPS PO, Clerk, Railways & Various other Entrance examinations.

Current Affairs 10th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Municipal corporations for Ayodhya-Faizabad, Mathura-Vrindavan

Two new municipal corporations for Ayodhya-Faizabad and Mathura-Vrindavan will come up soon, the Uttar Pradesh government decided today.
●    The decision was taken at a meeting of the state cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath here.
●    The idea behind the decision is to provide better amenities to pilgrims, UP cabinet minister Shrikant Sharma told reporters.
●    The Ayodhya Municipal Corporation will cover the twin cities of Faizabad and Ayodhya, while Mathura-Vrindavan Municipal Corporation will look after the civic needs in the two pilgrim towns, he said.
●    Sharma said once these civic bodies are in place, more funds will be available from the government for ensuring better facilities for the local areas.

PM Modi launches integrated case management system of Supreme Court

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi launched the integrated case management system of the Supreme Court on 10 May 2017 at a function in New Delhi.
●    The inaugural event was attended by the Chief Justice of India, Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and judges of the apex court.
●    The Integrated Case Management System will be connected with the Supreme Court website.
●    This move is the apex court’s first step towards becoming a paperless, digital court.
●    The new digital system will enable the litigants to access their data and retrieve any information required online.
●    Chief Justice of India, Jagdish Singh Khehar has proposed to integrate the system with all the 24 high courts and subordinate courts in the country.
●    Such a system will help bring in more transparency in the system, reduce manipulation and make the litigant aware about the progress of the case on a real time basis.

Vijay Goel Flagged Off four Clean Himalaya Expeditions

Minister of Sports, Vijay Goel flagged off four Clean Himalaya expeditions and a Medical Mountaineering expedition to Mt Satopanth (7075 Mtrs) on 9 May 2017 at the Indian Mountaineering Foundation (IMF)in Delhi.
●    Speaking on the occasion, Goel said that such initiatives by the IMF will not only help in ensuring safe practices during the conduct of adventure activities but will also add to the skill levels of the youth, enhancing their employability, discipline and courage.
●    The Minister while interacting with the team members also stressed upon the need to address environmental concerns while promoting adventure tourism.  
●    He further added that adventure tourism holds great potential in boosting the country’s economic growth.
●    IMF has launched four Himalaya Cleaning expeditions to popular destinations in Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand & Arunachal.
●    The expedition is an effort to extend Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan to the Himalayas.

India to replace its research station in Antarctica

India has decided to replace its Maitri research station in Antarctica with a new one in the next three to four years. 
●    The same was announced by Madhavan Nair Rajeevan, Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences on 9 May 2017.
●    Rajeevan made the announcement while speaking on the sidelines of a programme to formally commence ship building by Titagarh Wagons Ltd in Kolkatta, India. 
●    He also stated that India is poised to expand its research activity in the coldest continent and a new ship, with a special ice-cutting facility, will be procured for the purpose.
●    He further added the India is also drafting its own laws to safeguard its interest in Antarctica, as it is currently governed by international laws.
●    The Indian Antarctic Program is a multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional program under the control of National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India.

Two Indian warships visit Egyptian port city

Two Indian warships INS Mumbai and INS Aditya arrived in Alexandria, the Mediterranean port city in Egypt on 5 May 2017.
●    The warships visited Egypt as a part of Indian Navy's overseas deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and the west coast of Africa. 
●    They are a part of Indian Navy's Western Naval Command based in Mumbai.
●    Upon their arrival, the warships engaged extensively in professional interactions with the Egyptian navy.
●    The ships also engaged in a number of sports and social engagements with their Egyptian counterparts.
●    India and Egypt being two of the world’s most ancient civilisations have shared a rich history of close contact.
●    Both nations have developed warm relations in several spheres.

Current Affairs 10th May 2017: AWARDS

Konkona Sen Sharma bags Best Director and Best Actress awards at New York Indian Film Festival

Konkona Sen Sharma in the first week of May 2017 grabbed the top honours at the 2017 New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF).
●    Konkona won the Best Director award for her directorial debut A Death in the Gunj and the Best Actress award for Lipstick Under My Burkha at 2017 NYIFF.
●    A Death in the Gunj is a drama thriller, which stars Kalki Koechlin, Vikrant Massey, Jim Sarbh and Tanuja. 
●    The film also features one of the last performances by veteran actor Om Puri, who passed away in January 2017.
●    Born on 3 December 1979, Konkona Sen Sharma is an Indian actress and director.
●    She is the daughter of veteran filmmaker and actress Aparna Sen.
●    She mainly appears in Indian arthouse and independent films.

Current Affairs 10th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Moon Jae-in sworn in as President of South Korea

Liberal politician Moon Jae-in on 10 May 2017 was sworn in as South Korea's President in a ceremony at the National Assembly Seoul.
●    Moon won South Korea's presidential election in a victory that ends nearly a decade of conservative rule.
●    The liberal’s victory will end months of political turmoil that led to parliament's impeachment of conservative former President Park Geun-hye over an extensive corruption scandal, which a court upheld in March 2017. 
●    With this, Park became the first democratically elected leader in South Korea to be removed from office.
●    Official results showed that Moon achieved a decisive victory with the highest turnout in 20 years despite drizzly weather in South Korea. 
●    He won 41.1% of the votes compared with 24% for conservative candidate Hong Joon-pyo and 21.4% for centrist candidate Ahn Cheol-soo.

Current Affairs 10th May 2017: SPORTS

Jhulan Goswami becomes highest wicket taker in Women's One Day Internationals

Indian women's team fast bowler Jhulan Goswami on 9 May 2017 became the highest wicket-taker in the history of Women’s One-Day Internationals.
●    Goswami broke the decade-long record Australian Cathryn Fitzpatrick’s 180 wickets from 109 matches.
●    Goswami dismissed South Africa's Raisibe Ntozakhe in an ongoing Women's Quadrangular Series in South Africa to claim her 181st victim in the 50-over format.
●    Born on 25 November 1982, Jhulan Nishit Goswami is an all round cricketer who plays for the India national women's cricket team.
●    She also plays for Bengal Women, East Zone Women as well as the Asia Women XI women's cricket team.
●    She is noted for both her batting and bowling capabilities.

Important Current Affairs 9th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 9th May 2017 with Free PDF in English and Hindi, which will update you with latest headlines, news from various domains i.e: National News, Sports, Business, Awards & recognition. It is useful for the preparation of competitive exams like: SSC, SBI, IBPS PO, Clerk, Railways & Various other Entrance examinations.

Current Affairs 9th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Minister of State for Railways Shri Rajen Gohain inaugurates “Udaan- A Sports Conclave” 

Shri Rajen Gohain, Minister of State for Railways inaugurated “Udaan- A Sports Conclave” organized by Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) under Ministry of Railways here today. 
●    Chairman, Railway Board Shri A.K.Mital, & Member Staff Shri Pradeep Kumar, Secretary, Ministry of Sports Shri Injeti Srinivas were present to grace the occasion. 
●    The Conclave was attended by various eminent sportspersons like Ms. Mary Kom, Sushil Kumar, Ms. Sakshi Malik, Shri Bhaichung Bhutia, Gymnastics Coach Shri B.S. Nandi. 
●    Ms. Rekha Yadav, Secretary, Railway Sports Promotion Board and Col. Satyavrat Sheoran from Services Sports Control Board were also present on the occasion. 
●    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu, Minister of Railways said through video conferencing that the conclave is an effort to bring all stakeholders on one platform. 
●    Railways is proud to have sportspersons who have made the country’s flag fly high. The idea behind the conclave is to get inputs to explore more opportunities in making Railways a better organisation in terms of sports. 
●    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Manoj Sinha, Minister of State for Railways and Minister of State for Communications (Independent Charge) said through video conferencing that Railway Sports Promotion Board is doing a commendable job in promoting sports in India. 
●    One third of Sportsperson are from Railways. Railway Sports Promotion Board is also empowering women by promoting women employees for sports. 
●    Efforts of Railway Sports Promotion Board can help India reach to the next level in Sports. He congratulated the organisers for organising the event. 

Nitin Gadkari to Open Trading and Address London Stock Exchange On May 11th, 2017 

The Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Shipping Shri Nitin Gadkari has been invited by the London Stock Exchange to address its guests and the media on the Government of India’s initiatives in infrastructure and opportunities for investors to participate in India’s growth story. 
●    The Minister will also open the market for the LSE for trading on the 11th of May 2017.
●    Shri Gadkari’s trip may also coincide with the culmination of the NHAI’s debut Masala Bond issuance which is expected to list on the LSE shortly.
●    Masala Bonds are a major initiative being encouraged by our Government . They have been gaining in popularity among foreign investors. 
●    Until recently, the ability of Indian companies and other issuers to borrow from the overseas markets was predominantly limited to foreign currencies, but Masala Bonds have finally taken off, giving Indian companies from various sectors the ability to access the international capital markets and raise financing without taking on the attendant exchange rate risk. 
●    What Indian companies need to do now, is to access the Masala Bond market to enhance its liquidity and give international investors the opportunity of exposure to the Indian Rupee.
●    It is with this objective that the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) decided to access the Masala Bond Market. 

Every house in Haryana to get a smart ID

In Haryana, detailed data will be collected of every resident and every house would be allotted a smart house ID under a special mission.
●    It was announced by the state’s Chief Secretary, D.S. Dhesi while presiding over a meeting of the Deputy Commissioners of the state through video conferencing on 7 May 2017 in Chandigarh. 
●    Dhesi stated that the smart house ID would be generated through a tablet by visiting every house.
●    The work on the project is expected to commence from 15 June 2017 and would be completed by 15 August 2017.
●    A real time-based survey would be conducted to gather the socio-economic data.
●    The teams of Saksham and e-Numerator would be visiting each house to feed their GPS location in the tablets and create a smart house ID online thereby linking the houses with biometric.
●    During the survey, details including address of each house, photo, location, electricity connection, water connection, electronic devices, bank account numbers, IFSC code, Aadhaar and personal details of the house owner such as mobile number, e-mail ID, educational qualification and religious affiliation would be gathered.
●    The data collected is expected to help in getting details of land, pension, scholarship, MGNREGA, loan and LPG.
●    The state government would make sure that benefits of 150 servi 

Current Affairs 9th May 2017: OBITUARY

Legendary Sitarist Rais Khan passes away

Renowned Sitar maestro Ustad Rais Khan passed away on 6 May 2017 in Karachi, Pakistan. He was 77.
●    Ustad Rais Khan was born in Indian city of Indore, Madhya Pradesh, on 25 November 1939.
●    The Sitarist’s maternal grandfather Inayat Ali Khan was also considered one of the finest sitar players in the subcontinent.
●    Ustad Rais Khan was regarded as one of the greatest sitar players of all times.
●    He grew up in Mumbai.
●    In 1986, he moved to Pakistan, seven years after marrying his fourth wife - a Pakistani singer named Bilqees Khanum.
●    He belonged to the Mewati gharana, which is connected to Indore gharana.
●    As Rais Khan's mother was a singer and his father was a beenkar, a unique combination of khayal, dhrupad and thumri – 'angs' (approaches) developed in his playing.
●    He gave his first public concert at Sunderbai Hall in the presence of the then Governor of Bombay Sir Maharaja Singh.
 

Current Affairs 9th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

China proposes 4-point initiative to improve ties with India

Amid increasing strain in Sino-India ties, China has proposed a four-point initiative to overcome differences and deepen relations which includes aligning its 'One Belt One Road' project with India's 'Act East Policy' and restarting negotiations on a free trade pact.
●    The proposal put forward by Chinese envoy Luo Zhaohui also includes starting negotiations on a 'China-India Treaty of Good Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation' and prioritising finding an early solution to the border dispute between the two countries.
●    "Firstly, start negotiation on a China-India Treaty of Good Neighbourliness and Friendly Cooperation. 
●    Secondly, restart negotiation of China-India Free Trade Agreement. Thirdly, strive for an early harvest on the border issue. 
●    Fourthly, actively explore the feasibility of aligning China's 'One Belt One Road Initiative' (OBOR) and India's 'Act East Policy'," he said.
●    The Chinese envoy made the remarks while speaking at defence think-tank United Service Institution on Friday but the text of his closed-door address was released by the Chinese Embassy on Monday.
●    Referring to Indo-Pak ties, Luo said China is willing to mediate to resolve differences between the two countries if both sides accept it.
●    He said good ties between the two countries were conducive to regional stability and in China's interests. 
●    The development of China, India, Pakistan and the stability of the whole region call for a stable and friendly environment, he said.

India and Japan on 8 May 2017 affirmed plans to strengthen their defence cooperation amid rising tension in the Asian region.
●    Defence Minister Arun Jaitley during his visit to Japan informed his Japanese counterpart, Tomomi Inada that India hopes to pursue a strategic partnership with Japan for regional peace and stability. 
●    His visit comes at a time of rising tension in the region, including territorial rows in the South China Sea and nuclear and missile threats from North Korea.
●    Besides, Jaitley also welcomed a planned trilateral naval exercise involving the United States, India and Japan in July 2017 as a way of strengthening cooperation in the Asia-Pacific.
●    Jaitley, who also holds Finance portfolio, visited Japan to attend an annual meeting of the Asian Development Bank that ended on 7 May 2017.
●    India–Japan relations have traditionally been strong as people of the two nations have been engaged in cultural exchanges since centuries. 
●    The exchanges can be linked to Buddhism. Besides, the two nations, which are the oldest and largest democracies in Asia, have a high degree of congruence of economic, political and strategic interests. 
 

Current Affairs 9th May 2017: SPORTS

Olive Ridley to be mascot of Asian Athletics Championships

The logo and mascot of the Asian Athletics Championships were released on 8 May 2017. 
●    The sea turtle, Olive Ridley was declared the mascot of the Championship. 
●    The logo depicts an athlete crossing the finishing line with historical tourist attractions of Odisha.
●    The logo and mascot of the Asian Athletics Championships were released by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in the presence of Olympians PT Usha and Anju Bobby George. 
●    The two Olympians were also felicitated during the programme. The championship is scheduled to be held from 6 to 9 July 2017 at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.
●    The mascot is named as OLLY and represents the sea turtles that annually migrate to coastal Odisha for mass nesting. 
●    The nesting process starts between November and December and continues until April and May. 
●    On the occasion, the Chief Minister formally announced the commencement of the mega international sports event where more than 700 athletes from nearly 45 countries would participate in 42 sports events during the four-day sports extravaganza.