Important Current Affairs 8th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 8th 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 8th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

India unanimously elected to head UN-Habitat, the United Nations’ Human Settlements Programme

India has been unanimously elected as the President of the UN-Habitat, an organ of the United Nations’ Organisation (UNO) that promotes socially and environmentally sustainable human settlements across the world, after 10 years. 
●    UN-Habitat reports to the United Nations General Assembly. 
●    Further to today’s election, Minister of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu will chair the four day meeting of the 58 member Governing Council of UN-Habitat in Nairobi, Kenya from today. 
●    Shri Naidu will preside over the deliberations of the Governing Council of UN-Habitat for the next two years.  
●    Since the UN-Habitat came into being in 1978,  It is only the third time that India has been  elected to lead this important organization after 2007 and 1988. 
●    As an intergovernmental policy making and decision making body, the Governing Council of UN-Habitat seeks to promote integral and comprehensive approach to human settlements, assist the countries and regions in addressing human settlement problems and strengthen cooperation among all countries on human settlement issue. 

DIPP & WIPO to set up Technology and Innovation Support Centers 

The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)have signed an agreement to establish Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISC)
●    WIPO’s Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISC) program provides innovators in developing countries with access to locally based, high quality technology information and related services, helping them to exploit their innovative potential and to create, protect, and manage their intellectual property (IP) rights.
●    Services offered by TISCs may include:
●    Access to online patent and non-patent (scientific and technical) resources and IP-related publications;
●    Assistance in searching and retrieving technology information;
●    Training in database search;
●    On-demand searches (novelty, state-of-the-art and infringement);
●    Monitoring technology and competitors;
●    Basic information on industrial property laws, management and strategy, and technology commercialization and marketing.

NAFED procures more than 8.76 Lakh MTs of Pulses in 2016-17

NAFED, a National Level Cooperative Marketing Federation of India, has set a record of procurement of Pulses and Oilseeds during the year 2016-17. 
●    NAFED has emerged as the leading agency of the Government of India for undertaking procurement of Pulses and Oilseeds in the country. 
●    During the financial year just ended, it has achieved procurement of more than 8.76 Lakh MTs of Pulses (Gram 0.20 Lakh MTs, Masoor 0.03 Lakh MTs, Moong 1.29 Lakh MTs, Urad 0.59 MTs and Toor 6.65 Lakh MTs) and more than 2.20 Lakh MTs of Groundnut, Copra and other oilseeds and benefitted the farming community at large by providing them remunerative price for their produce and helping the country in creating buffer stocks and stabilizing the prices of Pulses and Oilseeds. 
●    NAFED has also started disposal of the buffer stocks. A substantial quantity would be supplied to Para-military forces and Defence Sector and also State Government as per their requirements under PDS and other such schemes. 
●    NAFED has undertaken procurement of various commodities to the tune of Rs 5916.00 Crore approximately in this year and earned tentative profit of Rs. 106.00 Crore before interest which is the highest in the last decade and helped turn around financially. 
●    The Federation has strongly positioned itself as the “Pulse Arm” of the Government.

Gadkari inaugurated country’s 1st bio refinery plant

Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways inaugurated India’s first biorefinery plant that produces ethanol from a variety of biomass in Pune on 7 May 2017.
●    Speaking on the occasion, Gadkari stated that such projects will help stage a great revolution in India’s agriculture sector. 
●    The project is located at Rahu, a village in Daund Taluka in Pune District of Maharashtra.
●    The newly set up plant is capable of producing one million litres of ethanol per annum by processing a variety of agricultural residue including rice and wheat straw, cotton stalk, cane trash, corn cobs with superior product yields.
●    It is a facility that integrates biomass conversion processes and equipment to produce fuels, power, heat, and value-added chemicals from biomass.
●    The concept is similar to today’s petroleum refinery, which produces multiple fuels and products from petroleum.
 

Current Affairs 8th May 2017: RANKINGS AND REPORTS

Hinduja brothers top UK's 2017 list of the richest people

The Hinduja brothers have topped the 2017 list of the richest people in the UK with an estimated fortune of 16.2 billion pounds, a massive 3.2 billion pound hike in their fortunes over the previous year.
●    Srichand and Gopichand Hinduja, aged 81 and 77, lead an elite group of 134 UK-based billionaires in the list and have made their fortune from investments in industries such as oil and gas, automotive, IT, energy, media, banking, property and healthcare sectors.
●    Their latest 350-million-pound project is converting the Old War Office in London into a five-star hotel and luxury apartments, the newspaper notes.
●    Another set of India-born entrepreneurial brothers, David and Simon Reuben, who had topped the list last year have moved down to third place with a fortune of 14 billion pounds and steel tycoon Lakshmi N.
●    Mittal is at fourth with 13. 2 billion pounds.

Current Affairs 8th May 2017: RANKINGS AND REPORTS

Sachin Tendulkar conferred with Fellowship Award in UK

India's cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar plans to support charities and various initiatives to help the underprivileged people in the second innings of his life.

●    Tendulkar, 44, made the remarks here while receiving the Fellowship Award at the 7th annual Asian Awards last night.
●    He said playing for India for 24 years was a memorable journey and winning the world cup was icing on the cake.
●    Now in the second chapter of his life he plans to support charities and various initiatives to help the underprivileged people. 
●    Providing solar lights to poor people in India was one of them, Tendulkar said.
●    He called on the stage 8-year-old Hollywood star Sunny Pawar and said, "when I was his age, my dream was to play cricket for India."
●    Hollywood child actor Pawar earlier won the Rising Star award for his role in the film 'Lion'.
●    The ceremony, which celebrates excellence in the global Asian community, also paid tribute to Indian actor Om Puri.
●    The award for outstanding achievement in Cinema was posthumously conferred on Om Puri who died earlier this year at the age of 66.
 

Current Affairs 8th May 2017: SPORTS

Asian Boxing Championship: Shiva Thapa clinches silver

Fourth seed Shiva Thapa (60kg) became the first Indian boxer to clinch three consecutive Asian Championships medals, while Sumit Sangwan (91kg) notched up his maiden podium finish as both boxers settled for silver medals at the continental showpiece in Tashkent on Saturday.
●    Shiva, up against second seed and local favourite Elnur Abduraimov, lost in a split verdict after a head-butt from his opponent resulted in a cut above his right eye.
●    It was in the final few seconds of the opening round when Shiva sustained the cut, forcing a stoppage by the referee.
●    Sumit, on the other hand, lost to Kazakhstan's top-seeded Vasiliy Levit in a unanimous verdict. Levit is the silver- medallist from last year's Rio Olympic Games.
●    For Shiva, it was a historic milestone as the silver is his third successive medal at the continental showpiece after a gold in 2013 and a bronze in the 2015 edition.

Jitu Rai, Heena Sidhu win gold in 10m Air Pistol mixed team event at Shooting World Cup

India finally got their first gold medal at the on-going Shooting World Cup at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range as the duo of Jitu Rai and Heena Sidhu beat Japan in the final on Monday. 
●    However, the mixed event is a test-only event which means there are no official World Cup medals and no official scores added to the shooters’ accolades.
●    ISSF has introduced mixed events to add a certain bit of drama to the sport which has been an individual sport so far with men and women competing in different events based on the categories. 
●    The world body hopes that the new event can add unpredictability to the sport where despite one shooter’s good performance, the other one could bring the score down.
●    The mixed event got its start with the 10m Air Rifle event at the World Cup on Saturday with China winning the gold medal over Japan.

Important Current Affairs 7th May 2017 

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 7th 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 7th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Union Cabinet approves modifications in 7th CPC recommendations

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 3 May 2017 approved modifications in the recommendations of 7th CPC (Central Pay Commission) on pay and pensionary benefits in the course of their implementation.
●    Earlier, in June 2016, the Union Cabinet had approved implementation of the recommendations of 7th Pay Commission with an additional financial expenditure of Rs 84933 crore for 2016-17 including the arrears for 2 months of 2015-16.
●    The benefit of the proposed modifications will be calculated with effect from 1 January 2016, the date of implementation of 7th CPC recommendations.
●    The modified formulation of pension revision will lead to an additional benefit to the pensioners and an additional expenditure of approximately Rs 5031 crore for 2016-17 over and above the expenditure already incurred.  
●    It will benefit over 55 lakh pre-2016 civil and defence pensioners and family pensioners.

Civil aviation ministry announces new rules for unruly behaviour

Forced to act after Shiv Sena MP Ravindra Gaikwad’s assault on an Air India staff member, the civil aviation ministry on Friday announced new guidelines for the unruly behaviour of passengers on flights, news agency ANI reported. 
●    Civil Aviation Secretary RN Choubey while addressing a press conference announced that the ministry has put instances of unruly behaviour into 3 categories and falling in these brackets can lead to flight bans for passengers. 
●    According to the news agency Reuters, the step has been taken as India is looking at creating a national no-fly list of unruly passengers. 
●    The list will be maintained by the country’s civil aviation regulator, Civil Aviation Secretary R.N. Choubey said.
●    Disruptive Behaviour: Level 1 will be disruptive behaviour like physical gestures etc. The punishment in this category is a suspension for 3 months.
●    Physical Abuse: level 2 offences will include physical abuses like pushing, kicking, sexual harassment etc. 
●    The punishment in the 2nd category is a suspension for 6 months.
●    Life Threats: Level 3 offences will include life-threatening behaviour. In this case, the passengers can be suspended for up to 2 years.

Black money worth $ 770 billion entered India in 2005-2014

An estimated US$ 770 billion in black money entered India during 2005-2014, US-based think tank Global Financial Integrity (GFI) has said in its latest report. 
●    Nearly US$ 165 billion in illicit money exited the country during the same period, the global financial watchdog said. 
●    During 2014 alone, about US$ 101 billion black money entered the country while US$ 23 billion exited, the report added.
●    “Illicit financial flows (IFFs) from developing and emerging economies kept pace at nearly US$ one trillion in 2014,” it said.
●    Titled ‘Illicit Financial Flows to and from Developing Countries: 2005-2014’, the report is the first global study to place equal emphasis on illicit outflows and inflows. 
The report said total illicit financial outflow was three per cent (about US$ 165 billion) of India’s total trade of US$ 5500.744 billion between 2005-2014.

99% urban kids use Internet, 54% have weak password: Study

As much as 98.8 per cent of children in urban areas use Internet and 54.6 per cent have weak password, making them vulnerable to cyber criminals, says a survey.
●    The survey was conducted across 13 cities in the country, covering 2,700 students by Telenor India.
●    "A whopping 98.8 per cent of children in urban areas are using Internet and 54.6 per cent of those surveyed use 'weak passwords' that is passwords with only alphabets or numbers and which are less than 8 characters," Telenor India's WebWise report said.
●    The survey noted that 54.82 per cent children share their passwords with their friends, family or relatives, hence creating a threat to their digital security.
●    The WebWise report found that 83.5 per cent students aged between 6 to 18 years are active on social media, and hence are likely to have a higher threat perception.
●    As per the study, over 35 per cent children have experienced their account being hacked while 15.74 per cent said that they have received inappropriate messages.

The Alfred High School where Mahatma Gandhi studied makes way for a museum

The Alfred High School here — a 164-year-old institution where Mahatma Gandhi studied — has been shut down by the authorities to make way for a museum.
●    The proposal to convert this state-run Gujarati medium school, also known as Mohandas Gandhi High School, into a museum was accepted by the Gujarat government last year.
●    Mahatma Gandhi passed out from the school in 1887 at the age of 18.
●    Going ahead with the decision, school authorities have started issuing school leaving certificates to all 125-odd students, said officials.
●    Last year, the Rajkot Municipal Corporation (RMC) had sent a proposal to the state government to shut down the school and convert it into a museum.
●    Upon receiving the proposal, the Gujarat government had recently asked the Education department to start the process of handing over the school building to the RMC, said Rajkot Municipal Commissioner B N Pani.

Current Affairs 7th May 2017: ECONOMY

Union Cabinet approves issuing ordinance to resolve NPAs of banks

To eliminate the problem of bad loans, the Union Cabinet on 3 May 2017 approved an ordinance to amend the Banking Regulation Act for dealing with the non-performing assets (NPAs) in the banking system.
●    Details of the ordinance will be revealed after President Pranab Mukherjee gives his assent to an ordinance to amend the Banking Regulation Act to resolve the Non-Performing Assets crisis.
●    The promulgation of the ordinance was given a green signal during the cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
●    Parliamentary Standing committee on Finance tabled report on NPAs of Public Sector Banks
●    The set of measures includes the promulgation of an Ordinance to amend the Banking Regulation Act to give more powers to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and its committees to act on behalf of banks while deciding on NPAs.
●    Reports suggest that the ordinance seeks to amend Section 35A of the Banking Regulation Act. 
●    This section of the act empowers the Reserve Bank to issue directions to the banks in the public interest and depositors.

Current Affairs 7th May 2017: DISCOVERY

New test kit can detect cancer with just one drop of blood

Chinese scientists have invented a new test, which could help diagnose multiple kinds of cancer by examining just one drop of human blood.
●    The test kit of Hsp90a protein has been developed by the researchers at Tsinghua University's School of Life Sciences for clinical use.
●    The scientists had previously identified a kind of heat shock proteins (HSP) called Hsp90a that exist within the human body and can be used as a cancer biomarker.
●    Leading on from there, lead researcher Luo Yongzhang along with his team produced an artificial Hsp90a protein that gains structural stability by regrouping proteins.
●    This feat indicates that the protein can be created in any quantity and at any time.
●    The test kit was used for clinical trials that involved around 2347 patients in eight Chinese hospitals.
●    The protein passed the clinical trial, first such one to see if it could be used as a tumour biomarker for lung cancer.
●    The kit has now received approval to enter the Chinese and European markets, almost 24 years after the protein was first discovered.

Current Affairs 7th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

U.S. House approves tighter North Korea sanctions

The U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved legislation on Thursday to tighten sanctions on North Korea by targeting its shipping industry and companies that do business with the reclusive state.
●    The vote was 419 to 1.
●    Supporters said the legislation was intended to send a strong message to North Korea, amid international concern over the escalation of its nuclear program.
●    The measure would have to be approved by the Senate before it could be sent to the White House for President Donald Trump to sign into law.
●    Although legislation addressing North Korea has been introduced in the Senate, there was no immediate word on when or if the Senate might take up a bill.
●    Any new U.S. sanctions against North Korea would likely affect China, the North's most important trade partner.

Important Current Affairs 6th May 2017 

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 6th 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 6th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

BRO Celebrates 6th Raising Day

Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is at the threshold of major transformation, across a wide spectrum of activities, including equipment, procedures and technology as it celebrates its 57 years of glorious service to the nation on 07 May 2017. 
●    The organisation is confident of overcoming the challenges of terrain, climate and security, through dedicated team effort. 
●    It has resolved to be steadfast in its commitment and ensure flawless and efficient execution of assigned targets. 
●    One of the premier road construction agencies of the nation, the BRO has grown in strength over the years and has carved a pivotal role for itself in the arena of infrastructure development, imperative for national security. 
●    The works executed by BRO, apart from being strategically significant, have contributed immensely in the socio-economic development of remote and inaccessible border areas of the country. 
●    BRO has also been a potent ambassador of the nation’s message of peace and prosperity through developmental works in several friendly foreign countries. 

International publication ‘Condé Nast Traveller’ lists Ganga cruise as one of the ‘six river cruises to take in 2017’ 

A reputed US based international media house in the latest issue of its publication ‘Condé Nast Traveller’ has listed the river cruise on Ganga as one of the ‘six river cruises to take in 2017’. 
●    The media house has placed the luxury cruise vessel Ganges Voyager II which sails on the Ganga from Kolkata to Varanasi, in the league of cruises on Mekong and Yangtze in China, Amazon in South America, Volga in Russia and Irrawaddy in Myanmar. 
●    Conde Nast’s endorsement of Ganga as a cruise destination is a shot in the arm for river tourism in the country. 
●    The Inland Waterways Authority of India facilitates cruise operations on NW-1 (river Ganga) from Kolkata to Varanasi in collaboration with private cruise operators. 
●    The facilities provided by IWAI include navigation aids including night navigation facility, embarking and disembarking at designated locations, facilitating expeditious crossing of Farakka Navigation Lock, pilotage, and assistance in distress.

Textiles Minister launches Helpline for Handicraft Artisans

The Union Textiles Minister Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani has said that the Geographical Indication tag helps not only weavers and artisans, but also the consumers. 
●    The Minister said that the GI tag is an assurance of getting the right product at the right price, directly from the weaver/artisan. 
●    Smt. Irani highlighted the importance of building consumer awareness on this matter, while addressing the inaugural session of the two-day “National Workshop on Promotion of Unique Textiles and Handicrafts for GI and Post-GI Initiatives”, being held under the aegis of the Ministry of Textiles, in Constitution Club of India, New Delhi.
●    Noting that many of the challenges in GI are faced after obtaining GI registration, the Minister called for the need to build a wider appreciation of the value of GI among all stakeholders, in order for better implementation of the legal provisions.
●    Smt. Irani announced that a GI help-desk would soon be set up in every Service Centre run by the Government for weavers and artisans. 
●    She said this would help bridge the information gap between Centre and the field, and would assist weavers and artisans in availing the benefits of Geographical Indications. 
●    The Minister said that this is being done to maximize governance, in line with the Government’s developmental philosophy of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas.

Chief Minister Raghuvar Das announced the implementation of new pension policy in Jharkhand

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das today said that labourers, who are getting Rs 500 as pension per month, will now get Rs 750 while beneficiaries of family pension will get Rs 500 from the current Rs 300.
●    Addressing "Shramik Samman Samaroh" here on the occasion of Labour Day, the chief minister said that both the announcements would be effective from today.
●    The government would also open sports school for the children from poor background so that they could make sports career.
●    Stating that the youth in the remote areas were deviating from the mainstream due to lack of employment, Das said the government is continuously making efforts to get the youth employed.
●    The government has made efforts in providing 900 youths from extremist-affected areas Pesrar, Jhumra and Gurabandha - jobs in private security agencies and they are getting Rs 8,500 per month.

From the banks of Rupnarayan to the shores of Ganga : Integrated cargo transport along multiple waterways begins 

MV V. V. Giri, a vessel of the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) began a landmark pilot movement on April 23rd 2017 from Kolaghat in East Midnapore district of West Bengal to Bhagalpur in Bihar with a cement consignment of 240 tonnes. 
●    The vessel's journey commenced from Kolaghat on Rupnarayan river (National Waterway- 86) to reach Bhagalpur via river Ganga (NW-1). 
●    This marks the beginning of an integrated cargo movement involving two different NWs - NW-86 and NW-1. 
●    Rupnarayan river (NW-86) connects with river Ganga (NW-1) at Geokhali near Haldia. On its return trip, the vessel will bring fly ash/pet coke. 
●    A private cement company has committed a consignment of 1.20 lakh tonnes of cement per annum from its plant at Salboni in East Midnapore district in West Bengal to various destinations on river Ganga (NW-1) in the states of Jharkhand and Bihar. 
●    Earlier this year, an IWAI vessel MV Zakir Hussain had transported 350 tonnes of cement consignment from Haldia to Patna. 
●    The Government of India plans to make cargo movement on NW-1 (Ganga river) a regular feature.
 

Current Affairs 6th May 2017: AWARDS

Kasinadhuni Viswanath honoured with Dadasaheb Phalke Award

President Pranab Mukherjee on 3 May 2017 conferred filmmaker Kasinadhuni Viswanath with the prestigious Dada Saheb Phalke Award at the 64th National Film Awards ceremony in New Delhi.
●    Viswanath is the 48th recipient of the Phalke award, the highest recognition in Indian cinema.
●    Born on 19 February 1930, Kasinadhuni Viswanath is an Indian photographer turned director, screenwriter, and character actor known for his works in Telugu, Tamil and Hindi cinema.
●    He is a recipient of five National Film Awards, six state Nandi Awards, ten Filmfare Awards South, and a Bollywood Filmfare Award.
●    In a film career spanning sixty years, he directed fifty three feature films in a variety of genres.
 

Current Affairs 6th May 2017: GLOBAL NEWS

China to launch own encyclopaedia to rival Wikipedia

China plans to launch its own online encyclopaedia next year, hoping to build a "cultural Great Wall" that can rival Wikipedia as a go-to information source for Chinese Internet users who Beijing fears are being corrupted by foreign influences.
●    China is under pressure to write its own encyclopaedia so it can guide public thought, according to a statement by the project's executive editor Yang Muzhi published last month on the website of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
●    He once listed Wikipedia, which is available in China, and Britain's Encyclopaedia Britannica as potential rivals and said the project aims to exceed them, according to an article he wrote late last year.
●    The project, which will be under the guidance of the state-owned China Publishing Group, "must have Chinese characteristics," he wrote, adding it would be a "symbol of the country's cultural and technological development" and increase its soft power and international influence.
●    Unlike Wikipedia—and its Chinese version Baidu Baike—which are written by volunteers and are in a constant state of revision, the new project, which was approved in 2011, will be entirely written by professionals.

Important Current Affairs 5th May 2017 

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 5th 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 5th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

GSLV Successfully Launches South Asia Satellite 

India's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F09) successfully launched the 2230 kg South |Asia Satellite (GSAT-9) into its planned Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) today (May 05, 2017). 
●    Today’s launch of GSLV was its eleventh and took place from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR (SDSC SHAR), Sriharikota, the spaceport of India. 
●    This is the fourth consecutive success achieved by GSLV carrying indigenously developed Cryogenic Upper Stage. 
●    In its oval shaped GTO, the South Asia Satellite is now orbiting the Earth with a perigee (nearest point to Earth) of 169 km and an apogee (farthest point to Earth) of 36,105 km with an orbital inclination of 20.65 deg with respect to the equator. 
●    Few seconds before the launch countdown reached zero, the four liquid propellant strap-on motors of GSLV-F09, each carrying 42 tons of liquid propellants, were ignited. 
●    At count zero and after confirming the normal performance of all the four strap-on motors, the 139 ton solid propellant first stage core motor was ignited and GSLV lifted off at 16:57 IST. 
●    The major phases of the flight occurred as scheduled. About seventeen minutes after lift-off, South Asia Satellite was successfully placed in GTO. 

Facility of online registration of Child Care Institutions launched by Smt Maneka Sanjay Gandhi 

The facility of online registration of Child Care Institutions across the country was launched by the Minister of Women & Child Development, Smt Maneka Sanjay Gandhi in New Delhi today. 
●    The Minister of State for Women & Child Development, Smt Krishna Raj, Secretary WCD, Ms. Leena Nair and senior officers of the Ministry, CARA and Childline among others were present on the occasion. 
●    Speaking on the occasion, Smt Maneka Sanjay Gandhi said that online registration of CCIs is a very important part of good governance. 
●    It will now make it easy for CCIs to register themselves, she added. 
●    The WCD Minister, Smt Maneka Sanjay Gandhi said that online registration will provide a centralized system where all the information will be readily available about the CCIs in the country. 
●    It will be possible to know on a real time basis as to how many children are available in each CCI, how many are available for adoption, which children need help and what type of assistance needs to be provided to them, she added. 

MoUs Worth Rs 2 Lakh Crores Signed in the India Integrated Transport & Logistics Summit 

Thirty-four MoUs amounting to about Rs 2 lakh crores were signed in the three day India Integrated Transport and Logistics Summit that was concluded in New Delhi today. 
●    These MoUs were in the areas of port connectivity, Integrated Check Posts (ICP) in the states of Bihar, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Manipur, access to land port in Tripura, Assam and Mizoram, development of Logistics Parks in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, Mizoram, development and furthering of multi modal logistics parks in Mumbai and Bengaluru and Haryana,  exploring investment opportunities in logistics sector, dredging of inland waterways, implementation of 79 port connectivity projects under Sagarmala, development of port roads to Chennai and Vishakhapatnam ports, and connectivity to airport in Navi Mumbai, among others. 
●    Some of these MoUs are between Government agencies while others are between Government to Business and Business to Business.
●    The Summit was attended by around 3000 delegates from India and abroad, which included central and state government organizations , international organizations like World Bank and ADB, delegates, global transport and supply chain experts and representatives of private companies. 
●    The sessions focused on six major themes that included Multi Modal Logistics Parks, New developments in Urban Transportation, Freight Corridors for Economic Development, Supply Chain Transformation- Storage Innovations, GST and Role of Digitization for Decongestion and Standards and Skills for Logistics. 
Fifty speakers from across the globe shared their views, expertise and experience about developing the logistics and integrated multi modal transport sector in India.

Cabinet approves Vijayawada Airport as International Airport

The Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 3 May 2017 approved the declaration of Vijayawada Airport as International Airport, as per the provisions of Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014.
●    The move will help enhance connectivity to the State capital. 
●    It will also expand the choice of services for the air travellers and that too at competitive costs. 
●    This will encourage more international passengers to visit the city thereby, boosting domestic and international tourism and the socio-economic development of Andhra Pradesh.
●    An airport is declared as an International airport depending upon its traffic potential and demand from airline operators for the operation of international flights.

Current Affairs 5th May 2017: ECONOMY NEWS

Union Cabinet approves issuing ordinance to resolve NPAs of banks

To eliminate the problem of bad loans, the Union Cabinet on 3 May 2017 approved an ordinance to amend the Banking Regulation Act for dealing with the non-performing assets (NPAs) in the banking system.
●    Details of the ordinance will be revealed after President Pranab Mukherjee gives his assent to an ordinance to amend the Banking Regulation Act to resolve the Non-Performing Assets crisis.
●    The promulgation of the ordinance was given a green signal during the cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
●    Parliamentary Standing committee on Finance tabled report on NPAs of Public Sector Banks
●    The set of measures includes the promulgation of an Ordinance to amend the Banking Regulation Act to give more powers to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and its committees to act on behalf of banks while deciding on NPAs.
 

Current Affairs 5th May 2017: GLOBAL NEWS

Archaeologists uncover 4000-year-old model garden outside Egypt tomb

A group of archaeologists discovered the remains of a nearly 4000 year old model garden outside a tomb in the ancient Egyptian capital of Thebes, today known as Luxor.
●    The discovery was announced by Egypt’s Antiquities Ministry said on 3 May 2017.
●    The discovery was made by a Spanish team in the Draa Abul Nagaa necropolis across the Nile from the modern-day city of Luxor. 
●    The Draa Abul Naga necropolis lies near the Valley of the Kings, where many of the pharaohs, including Tutankhamun, were buried.
●    The garden was discovered during excavations in an open courtyard outside a Middle Kingdom tomb.
●    It is a small rectangular garden that has an area of three by two meters.
●    It is divided into equal square plots, each about 30 centimetres across.

Current Affairs 5th May 2017: SPORTS NEWS

India placed at 100th spot in FIFA Rankings after 21 years

FIFA World Rankings The Indian football team made it into the top 100 of the FIFA World Rankings for the first time in 21 years.
●    The team is placed at 100th alongside Nicaragua, Lithuania and Estonia. The FIFA rankings were released on 4 May 2017.
●    India's rise in the rankings has been due to triumphs over Cambodia and Myanmar.
●    It was in February 1996 that India was placed on the 94th spot, which is the country's best ever FIFA ranking.
●    The FIFA World Ranking is a ranking system for men's national teams in association football.
●    The teams of the member nations of FIFA are ranked based on their game results with the most successful teams being ranked highest.
●    The rankings were introduced in December 1992.
 

Important Current Affairs 4th May 2017 

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 4th 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 4th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Anant Geete Inaugurates CSR Fair 2017 

Shri Anant G. Geete, Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises today inaugurated the three day long CSR Fair 2017 at Pragati Maidan here in New Delhi. 
●    This mega event is organised by The Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises; PHD Chamber in collaboration with ONGC, to provide a platform to all stakeholders, including Central Ministries/Departments, CPSEs/State PSUs, Private Companies, NGOs/Foundations etc. for showcasing their CSR activities, sharing of their best practices and also an opportunity to connect with other stakeholders.
●    In his welcome address Dr. Madhukar Gupta Additional Secretary in the Department of Public Enterprises highlighted the importance of this event and appreciated the overwhelming response of the participants.
●    Union Minister Shri Anant Geete exhorted upon the CPSEs to focus on core areas of social sector especially the Swachtha Abhiyaan, Education and Drinking Water on priority basis. 
●    He said, though the  amendments carried out in the Companies Act, 2013 making it mandatory for the establishments to incur 2 percent spending on CSR activities from their profit, be it in private sector or the CPSEs, still a voluntary approach and mind set in this regard is capable of bringing sea changes.

Air Cargo To Grow at 9 per cent in Next Few Years

While delivering the keynote address at the India Integrated Transport & Logistics Summit 2017, the Minister for Civil Aviation, Shri Ashok Gajapathi Raju said that the country has seen significant growth in domestic air traffic and infrastructure development. 
●    He said that his Ministry is taking steps to make air transport affordable to the common man through the Regional Connectivity Scheme. 
●    He also said that air cargo which is likely to grow 9% in a next few years and hence logistic parks will help that growth. 
●    Speaking at the plenary session of the Summit, the Secretary of Ministry of Civil Aviation, Shri R.N. Choubey informed that air cargo globally and domestically constituted just 1% in terms of volume, but almost 25% in terms of value as air cargo was mostly valuable, perishable and time sensitive. 
●    He said that a Common Framework would be created in a year's time for air cargo so that freight operators, airlines, security as well addressee's come within one system. This will bring efficiency in handling air cargo.
●    The Secretary also informed that Common User Cargo Terminals would be created at 17 airports. He also said that the free period for air cargo had been brought down from 72 to 48 hours to ensure faster movement out of terminals. 
●    He said that Civil Aviation would be a great beneficiary of all the steps taken to improve transport and logistics in the country and therefore had great expectations from the Summit.

Maneka Sanjay Gandhi to inaugurate the first ever workshop for Chairpersons of ICCs of Government Ministries/Departments

The Ministry of Women & Child Development is organizing the first ever one day awareness program for chairpersons of Internal Complaints Committees constituted in all Central Government Ministries/departments under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The training program is being organized in collaboration with the Institute of Secretariat Training and Management and will be held at New Delhi tomorrow. 
●    It will be inaugurated by the Minister of Women & Child Development, Smt Maneka Sanjay Gandhi. 
●    Minister of State for Women and Child Development, Smt Krishna Raj will also remain present. 
●    There will be 60 participants in the workshop, mainly chairpersons of Internal Complaints Committees constituted in all central government ministries/departments. 
●    The workshop is being held for capacity building of chairpersons of ICCs to ensure its effective implementation. 
●    The workshop will have session on Gender Discrimination and Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace, Salient features of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 by eminent resource person Ms. Jyotika Kalra, Advocate and Hon’ble Member NHRC. 
●    This will be followed by a Mock Session of Internal Complaint Committee by Ms. Mayuri Raghuvanshi, Advocate, Supreme Court of India.

Two-day State Power Ministers’ Conference concludes in New Delhi

“Ït has been one of the most successful, productive and outcome oriented State Power Ministers conference till date”, said Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines, while addressing the media on the concluding day of the two-day State Power Ministers’ Conference here today. 
●    Informing about the outcomes of the conference, Shri Goyal stated that there was a wide consensus amongst all the Chief Ministers of States/UTs present to achieve the target of 24x7 affordable and quality power for all citizens of the country by December 2018, thereby reinforcing the Vadodara resolution. 
●    Talking about conference as a forum for open minded discussion on issues of the respective sectors, Shri Goyal informed that certain new issues were also discussed during the conference. 
●    He informed that the issues included mandatory recycling of waste water from power plants for usage for drinking, better management of Dry Ash by encouraging setting up of cement plants in proximity of power plants for its consumption etc. 
●    The Minister said that all the states have collectively decided to work on deriving innovative solutions to the problems of the power and mining sectors. 

Indore emerges as the Cleanest City of India

Indore has emerged as the India’s Cleanest City in the Swachh Survekshan-2017 conducted in 434 cities and towns, the results of which were announced here today by the Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venakaiah Naidu.
●    Bhopal, Visakhapatnam, Surat, Mysuru, Tiruchirapally, New Delhi Municipal Council, Navi Mumbai, Vadodara and Chandigarh are among the Top 10 clean cities in that order.
●    10 towns that came at the bottom of the 434 surveyed are; Gonda (UP) ranked 434 followed by Bhusawal (Maharashtra), Bagaha (Bihar)- 433, Hardoi (UP)-432, Katihar (Bihar)-431, Bahraich (UP)-429, Muktsar (Punjab)-427, Muktsar (Punjab)-426 and Khurja (UP)-425.
●    Announcing the Survey Results, Shri Naidu described Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand and Chattisgarh followed by Andhra Pradesh and Telangana as the Movers and Shakers for having significantly improved their rankings from that of the Survey conducted in 2014 before the launch of Swachh Bharat Mission in October, 2014. 
●    Swachh Survekshan conducted in 2016 covered 73 cities with over million population each besides capital cities.
●    The Minister further informed that in Swachh Surekshan-2017,  all the cities surveyed in Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand have substantially improved their rankings over that of 2016 and 2014.
●    Gujarat did so in respect of all cities excepting Rajkot and similar being the case in respect of Chattisgarh except Bilaspur. 

Nitin Gadkari inaugurates India Integrated Transport and Logistics Summit 

The Minister of Road Transport and Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the three day India Integrated Transport and Logistics Summit (IITLS) organized by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in New Delhi today. 
●    Speaking on the occasion, he said that “Antyodaya” or the welfare of the weakest person in society is the foremost aim of this Government. 
●    To achieve this aim it is necessary to boost economic growth in the country. From the present GDP of around 7.5 percent we need to achieve double digit growth figures. 
●    Shri Gadkari said that for India, one of the major impediments to such growth is our high logistics cost. 
●    If our economy is to flourish and if we want to ensure sustainable and balanced growth in the country, we urgently need to reduce our logistics cost to globally comparable rates. 
●    The Minister further said that our high logistics costs are a result of the various modes of transport growing and developing in silos, in an un-integrated manner. 
●    Integrated, multi modal transport planning will help us to achieve a healthy modal mix of transport, which is efficient, faster, safer, import substituting, cost effective and pollution free. 
●    He also said that the logistics and transport sector has a very high potential for employment generation. 
●    It can provide jobs to the local youth after proper skill training. It can also provide employment opportunities in rural areas.

Venkaiah Naidu releases set of books titled ‘Swachh Jungle ki kahani – Dadi ki Zubani’ 

Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu, Minister for Information & Broadcasting today released a set of books titled ‘Swachh Jungle ki kahani – Dadi ki Zubani’ published by Publications Division. 
●    The books aimed at sensitizing and creating awareness amongst children would provide a fillip to the Prime Minister’s Swachh Bharat Abhiyan which has become a Jan Andolan across the nation. 
●    The set of four books written in a storytelling format by renowned children’s author Dr. Madhu Pant would convey the message in an interesting manner through the clean Jungle tales. 
●    The books contain lot of interesting and eye-catching illustrations made by young artists.
●    The series of books had been published in 15 Indian languages and would help develop a habit of cleanliness among school going children. 
●    Children had been the best ‘medium’ to bring about behavioural change in the society and motivate their parents, relatives and friends to adopt cleanliness.

Current Affairs 4th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL RELATION

First Home Affairs Dialogue between India and UK held

The First Home Affairs Dialogue between India and UK was held today. The Indian side was led by Union Home Secretary, Shri Rajiv Mehrishi and the UK delegation was led by Ms. Patsy Wilkinson, Second Permanent Secretary, Home Office, Government of UK. 
●    The meeting was held as a follow up of UK Prime Minister’s visit to India in November, 2016 and the commitment of the two Prime Ministers for enhanced and strengthened Dialogue.
●    Both sides expressed satisfaction in matters relating to extradition of wanted persons. 
●    The process involved in matters of extradition and the need to further improve them, were also discussed. 
●    Both sides agreed to address the challenges of illegal migrants. 
●    The two sides will work together to ensure smooth return of Indians overstaying in UK subject to nationality verification. 

Important Current Affairs 3rd May 2017 

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 3rd 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 3rd May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

CCRUM holds a three day National Workshop on e-Granthalaya

The Central Council for Research in Unani Medicine (CCRUM) has organized a three-day National Workshop on e-Granthalya 4.0 for Automation and Networking of Government Libraries in New Delhi from 2nd-4th May, 2017. 
●    With the objective to train library professionals on e-Granthalya 4.0, the latest version of the library management software developed by National Informatics Centre (NIC), the workshop comprises of theoretical and hands-on training sessions on its admin, cataloging, circulation and serial modules. 
●    Inaugurating the workshop, Prof. Vd. K.S. Dhiman, Director General I/C, CCRUM said that we are living in a world where not everyone is able to spare time to visit physical libraries and networking of libraries in such a condition can be very helpful in conducting research and academic activities efficiently. 
●    He further said that e-libraries could also be a tool for transmission from physical books to e-books that can preserve our environment apart from saving a lot of money spent on procurement of physical books. 
●    He urged the participants to get used to the e-Granthalaya software and adopt it for automation and networking of libraries at their respective institutions in order to ease the dissemination of knowledge.

CSR Fair 2017 to begin tomorrow

Shri Anant G. Geete, Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises will be inaugurating a three day long CSR Fair from tomorrow (4th to 6th May, 2017) at Hall no. 11 Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. 
●    This mega event is being organised by The Department of Public Enterprises, Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises; PHD Chamber in collaboration with ONGC, to provide a platform to all stakeholders, including Central Ministries/Departments, CPSEs/State PSUs, Private Companies, NGOs/Foundations etc. to showcase their CSR activities, sharing of their best practices and also an opportunity to connect with other stakeholders.
●    The uniqueness of this event lies in the activities as there will be:
●    Three days of dedicated information packed sessions on CSR
●    Never before opportunity to meet Who’s Who of CSR
●    Personalized solutions from CSR experts
●    Innovative case study presentations of successful CSR interventions by the leaders
●    Side Events: Exhibition by all stakeholders, including Central Ministries/Departments, CPSEs/State PSUs, Private Companies, NGOs/Foundations etc.
●    Launch of CSR Compendium, it will be an exhaustive review of success stories of CSR initiatives of CPSEs/State PSUs, Private Companies, NGOs/Foundations etc.

National Youth awards for 25 Individual and 10 awards for Organisation category announced

Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Youth Affairs & Sports, Shri Vijay Goel announced the formalization of new National Youth Awards, here today.  
●    The initiatives have been taken in an effort to make the National Youth AwardS (NYA) more broad-based and to promote transparency in the selection process.   
●    The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports confers the National Youth Award (NYA) every year to young persons to give recognition to the outstanding work and to motivate them to achieve excellence in the field on National Development and Social Service, to encourage them to develop a sense of responsibility to the community and also to improve their own potential as a good citizen. 
●    Some of the key features of the initiatives on NYA include:
●    ONLINE APPLICATION:- For the first time, it has been decided that the nomination for the National Youth Awards  (NYA) should be received and processed through online mode, on the lines of the Padma Awards announced by the  Prime Minister recently, to cover the people on pan-India basis.  
●    Earlier, the nominations were received only through State/UT Governments with the restriction that they should nominate only 5 names for Individuals and 2 nominations in Voluntary Organizations Category.  
●    It was a routine affair and no adequate publicity was given by the State Governments/UTs to popularize the Awards and seek varied nominations.

Two Launches in a row with Precise Hit of Brahmos Block 3

South Western Command’s Corps ‘Strike One’ successfully carried out the firing of the advanced BRAHMOS Block III land attack cruise missile system in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands on the 3rd of May 2017 for the second consecutive day. 
●    The successive launches reinforce the formidable weapon’s precision strike capability. The long-range tactical weapon was successfully tested from the same location on the 2nd of May, 2017.
●    These successful firings of the supersonic cruise missile were carried out in full operational land-to-land configurations from Mobile Autonomous Launchers (MAL) at its full-range. Meeting all flight parameters in a copybook manner while conducting high level and complex maneuvers, the multi-role missile successfully hit the land-based target with desired precision, in both the trials demonstrating its accuracy of less than one metre.
●    This is the fifth consecutive time when the Block-III version of BRAHMOS LACM has been successfully launched and hit the land-based target in “top-attack” mode, an incredible feat not achieved by any other weapon system of its genre. 
●    Indian Army, which became the first land force in the world to deploy the BRAHMOS in 2007, has raised several regiments of this formidable weapon. 
●    Jointly developed by India’s DRDO and Russia’s NPOM, the multi-platform, multi-mission BRAHMOS is capable of being launched from land, sea, sub-sea and air against surface and sea-based targets.

Minister of Railways Inaugurates Two Day Global Technology Conference

Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu inaugurated the two day Global Technology Conference for Leveraging World Class Technology (International Conference on Development & Adaptation of Advance Technology for Railways) here today.
●    Chairman, Railway Board, Shri A. K. Mittal and other Railway Board Members, DG Research Design & Standards Organization (RDSO) and GM Northern Railway Shri R. K. Kulshrestha and senior officials were also present on the occasion.
●    Research Design & Standards Organization (RDSO) is the nodal organization for this Conference, supported by Ministry of Railways and by Institute of Rolling Stock Engineers (IRSE) and Institution of Railway Signal & Telecommunication Engineers (IRSTE). 
●    The Conference is focusing on critical areas of Indian Railways - Reliability, Safety and Customer Service.

Rajghat set to go digital for interactive experience on life and works of Mahatma

To enable enhanced experience for the large numbers of visitors to Gandhi Samadhi at Rajghat in the National Capital, several works worth about Rs.3.00 cr were approved today.
●    Setting up three digital screens, an Interpretation Centre for interactive learning about the life and works of Mahatma, widening of pathway, providing ramps to enable easy access for differently abled persons, granite flooring, development of 2 meter wide 1.10 km long peripheral pathways around Rajghat, providing seats/benches for visitors, toilets accessible for all, hedge barriers, Foot Over Bridge across Lotus Pond etc will be provided.
●    Rajghat Samadhi Committee chaired by Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu approved these works today. Shri Udit Raj, MP, Shri Rajmohan Gandhi, former MP and grandson of Gandhiji, Shri Dipak Nair and other members of the Committee attended the meeting.
●    Shri Dipak Nair said “ I have been on this Committee for a long period and am pleased with the current efforts for making a visit to Gandhi Samadhi a happy and learning experience”.

“Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra” to be set up by “Swachh Bharat Mission” at Gandhi Smriti & Darshan Samiti, Rajghat

“Rashtriya Swachhata Kendra” will be set up by “Swachh Bharat Mission” Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation at Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS), Rajghat by “Swachh Bharat Mission” Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the vision of Prime Minister during the centenary year of  Champaran Satyagraha and the Ministry of Culture is considering to provide space for the purpose. 
●    This was announced by Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State (I/C) for Culture and Tourism while addressing media persons on the culmination of “Swachhata Pakhwada” of Ministry of Culture here today. Shri Narendra Singh Tomar, Minister for Rural Development, Pachayati Raj and Drinking Water & Sanitation was also present.
●    Dr. Sharma informed the media persons that Ministry of Culture dedicated a total of 275 effort hours for cleanliness and awareness during Swachhata Pakhwada. A total of 82 activities/events were organised by the Ministry and its organizations during the Swachhata Pakhwada. 
●    He said that to create awareness on “Swachhata”, Ministry of Culture has developed “e-guide (Audio-Visual) App  e3.eguide.net.in” to create awareness for the tourists visiting National Museum.
●    Addressing on the occasion, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar said that that Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) is not only the top priority of the Government but it has become a national mission for the people of India and positive results are pouring in from every nook and corner of the country. 
●    He said that since the launch of SBM on 2nd October, 2014, till date more than 4 crore individual household latrines have been built and one lakh, 94,000 villages and 135 districts have become Open Defecation Free, ODF. 
●    He added that apart from Sikkim, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh which are ODF Sates, 6 to 7 more States will soon declare them ODF as the work is going on a rapid scale.

“Remaining 4141 Villages to be Electrified by 2018”: Shri Piyush Goyal

“Power is the fulcrum around which an ecosystem can be created to give better quality of life to every citizen of India”. 
●    While delivering the inaugural address at the two-day State Power Ministers’ Conference here today, Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines, Shri Piyush Goyal said that the objective of the conference is to review the work done in the sectors of power, coal, renewable energy and mining by State Governments/ Union Territories in last six months. 
●    Further, the conference intends to forge new policies for achieving the goal of providing 24x7 quality and affordable power for all in the stipulated time, upholding Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘New India’, Shri Goyal added. 
●    Addressing the august gathering, the Minister stressed that this conference is an ‘Outcome focussed gathering’ while reiterating the resolution taken in last State Power Ministers’ conference in Vadodara to provide electricity to every household in the country by December 2018. 
●    He also noted that the challenges in achieving 24x7 Power for all are not over yet and in the next 3-4 months, a final push is needed to electrify remaining 4141 un-electrified villages in the country.

Important Current Affairs 2nd May 2017 

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 2nd 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 2nd May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Real Estate Act comes into effect, 13 states notify rules

The Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act, 2016, the landmark realty law that aims to protect home buyers from deceitful developers came into effect on 1 May 2017. 
●    The move ends a nine-year long wait.
●    The implementation of the act means regulation of the real estate sector, which hosts over 76,000 companies across the country.
●    The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Bill, 2016 was passed by the Parliament in March 2016.
●    The act partially came into force in May 2016 with 59 of its 92 notified sections put to force.
●    Now, all the 92 sections of the Act have come into effect.
●    The states were given the task of notifying to the realty rules and set up a Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) by 30 April 2017, without which the law will not become operational.

Naval Commanders’ Conference Commences in New Delhi

A four day Naval Commanders’ Conference commenced this morning at New Delhi. 
●    Hon’ble Defence Minister Shri Arun Jaitley addressed the Naval Commanders’ and interacted with them along with Hon’ble RRM Dr Subhash Bhamre, Defence Secretary and other senior functionaries of the Ministry of Defence. 
●    At the outset, the Hon’ble Defence Minister complimented the Indian Navy for its professionalism & deep commitment towards protecting the maritime interests of the country including the huge maritime boundary as also meeting a large number of international obligations, in line with the country’s defence diplomacy requirements. 
●    During his address the Hon’ble Defence Minister spoke about the prevailing & emerging security situation in the sub continent as also the expanding presence of the extra regional powers in India Ocean Region. 
●    He also referred to the situation on the Western Border and its linkage to the internal security. 
●    He urged the Commanders’ to be prepared at all times as “Preparedness is the best Deterrent”. 

Rajnath Singh to inaugurate the two-day 2nd meeting of National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction on 15th May

The 2nd meeting of National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (NPDRR) will be held in New Delhi on May 15-16, 2017 on the theme ‘Disaster Risk Reduction for Sustainable Development: Making India Resilient by 2030’. 
●    The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh will preside over the Inaugural Session on May 15, 2017 while the Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju will address the Valedictory Session on May 16, 2017. 
●    It will have an exclusive Ministerial session besides Plenary session on the theme “National Perspective on Disaster Risk Reduction: Sendai and Beyond”. There will also be five Technical sessions  on the themes “Understanding Disaster Risk”, “Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance to Manage Disaster Risk”, “Investing in Disaster Risk Reduction for resilience”, “ Enhancing Disaster Preparedness for Effective Response and to Build Back Better in Recovery, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction” and “Sendai Framework for DRR: Monitoring”.
●    The National Platform aims to bring together the whole range of India's disaster risk community from Government, Parliamentarians, Local Self Governments, Media, International Organizations, NGOs, local community representatives, scientific and academic institutions and corporate businesses etc. 
●    It will help in sharing of experiences, views and ideas, present findings of research and action and explore opportunities for mutual cooperation in the field of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).

Prakash Javadekar Launches VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAN 

Union Minister of Human Resource Development Shri Prakash Javadekar today launched the VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAN here in New Delhi.  
●    He was accompanied by Minister of State for Defence Dr. Subhash Ramrao Bhamre, writer Shri Tarun Vijay, Senior Officers from Indian Army, Air Force and Navy Lt. General Sarat Chandra, Air Marshal H.N.Bhagwat, Rear Admiral K.K.Pandey, Paramveer Chakra recipient Grenadier Sanjay Kumar and Subedar Yogendra Singh Yadav on this occasion. 
●    A collage of photo portraits and book on Paramveer Chakra recipients was also released and presented to Vice-Chancellors of universities.
●    Highlighting the importance of the occasion Shri Javadekar expressed his gratitude towards the most difficult service rendered by our armed forces. 
●    He said we feel secure just because of the continuous vigil and alertness of our forces busy in securing our borders. 
●    The Minister said these are our real post independence heroes while the freedom fighters who laid their lives and faced atrocities for the cause of freedom are the natural heroes since the days of Satyagraha which culminated in the revolution for getting independence from the foreign rule.
 

Current Affairs 2nd May 2017:  DAYS AND DATES

International Labour Day 2017 observed globally

International Labour Day 2017 was celebrated across the world on 1 May 2017. The day is also known as International Worker's Day and May Day.
●    The day is celebrated by the working classes and is promoted by the international labour movement, socialists and communists.
●    The International Labour Day is celebrated to commemorate the happenings of 4 May 1886, the Haymarket affair (Haymarket Massacre) in the Chicago. 
●    It was a big event as workers were on the general strike for their eight-hour workday and police were doing their job of dispersing the general public from the crowd. 
●    Suddenly, a bomb was thrown over the crowd and then police started firing over the workers and four demonstrators were killed.
●    It was due to the sacrifice of these workers that eight-hours was declared as the legal time for the workers in the National Convention at Chicago in 1884 by the American Federation of Labor.

Anthony Lianzuala takes over as the New Controller General of Accounts (CGA) 

Mr. Anthony Lianzuala took over as the New Controller General of Accounts (CGA) in national capital here today. 
●    Earlier, the Government of India had appointed Mr. Anthony Lianzuala, a 1982-batch Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) Officer, as the new Controller General of Accounts (CGA), Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance with effect from May 1, 2017. 
●    He will be the First person from the North-Eastern Region to hold this position. 
●    Mr Lianzuala, a graduate from the Hindu College of Delhi University, has vast and rich experience in the government both at the Centre and the State levels. 
●    He worked at higher positions in the Central Board of Direct Taxes(CBDT), Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Rural Development.

Coca-Cola India names TKK Krishnakumar as president

Coca-Cola India on Friday announced that T. ‘KK’ Krishnakumar will take over as president of the company’s India and South West Asia operations from Venkatesh Kini. 
●    Krishnakumar is currently chief executive officer and South West Asia regional director of Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt. Ltd, the company-owned bottling unit. The appointment is effective 1 May.
●    Kini, who has been president of the Atlanta-based beverages company’s India and South West Asia business since 1 July 2013, has quit. 
●    “I have decided to go back to the US and look for opportunities outside,” said Kini, who will continue for three more months to handle the transition.
●    Kini moved to India in October 2012 as senior vice-president from the company’s global juice business, and went on to head the Indian arm after his predecessor Atul Singh moved to a global role.
●    While Coca-Cola did not specify reasons for Kini’s exit, two people in the know indicated that falling sales was the key reason.
 

Current Affairs 2nd May 2017:  SPORTS

Hockey India recommends Sardar Singh for Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna

Sardar Singh recommended for Khel Ratna Hockey India on 1 May 2017 recommended senior player and former captain Sardar Singh for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, India's highest sporting honour.
●    In 2008, Sardar was the youngest player to captain India when he led the Indian side at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup.
●    He played his debut match for India in the junior team during Poland tour in 2003-04.
●    In 2006, he was promoted to the senior men side of the National Hockey team and his first match in senior team was against Pakistan.
●    In 2010 and 2011, he was part of the 18-men FIH All Star team.
●    In 2012, he was conferred with the Arjuna Award.
●    In 2015, he was honoured with Padma Shri.
●    In addition to Sardar’s name, the Hockey India had recommended names of some other players for the Arjuna Award, the Dhyan Chand Award and the Dronacharya Award.

Leander Paes won Tallahassee Challenger Men’s Doubles title

Indian tennis player Leander Paes along with his American partner Scott Lipsky on 30 April 2017 won Tallahassee Challenger Men’s Doubles title.
●    The duo defeated Argentine third seeds Leonardo Mayer and Maximo Gonzalez 4-6 7-6(5) 10-7 in the summit clash.
●    It was the second Challenger title of the season for Paes, who earned 80 ranking points for his effort.
●    On the other hand, India’s Ramkumar Ramanathan finished up as a runner-up in the Tallahassee Challenger Men’s Singles event. The title was won by Slovenia’s Blaž Rola.
●    The Tallahassee Tennis Challenger is a professional tennis tournament.
●    It is played on outdoor hard courts.
●    At present, it is a part of the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Challenger Tour.
●    It has been held annually at the Forestmeadows Tennis Complex in Tallahassee, Florida, United States, since 2000.

International Cricket Council rankings: India move to third spot in ODIs

India have gained a spot and moved to the third in the latest ICC ODI team rankings released on May 1. 
●    India, who will defend the Champions Trophy title in England and Wales in June, have swapped places with 2015 World Cup finalists New Zealand.
●    Both sides have gained points following the update but India’s five-point gain against New Zealand’s increase of three means the Virat Kohli-led side are now third with 117 points with the Black Caps fourth with 115.
●    Meanwhile, South Africa have retained the numero uno spot in the rankings.
●    The Proteas have gained four points following the annual update and are now on 123 points while world champions and second-ranked Australia have stayed on 118.

Important Current Affairs 1st May 2017 

Dear Aspirants,

Important Current Affairs 1st 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 1st May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Swachhta Pakhwada being observed by the Ministry of Textiles throughout the country

The Ministry of Textiles is observing Swachhta Pakhwada from May 1 – 15, 2017. 
●    The fortnight-long observance of programmes to spread the message of cleanliness and make it a part of our lives, was inaugurated by the Minister of State, Textiles, Shri Ajay Tamta, in Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi, today.
●    The Minister administered the Swachhta Pledge to the officers and staff of the Ministry. 
●    Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the mission of Swachh Bharat will become a reality if every one of India’s 125 crore citizens makes up one’s mind to neither litter nor let others litter. 
●    Having watched the Swachh Bharat song, the Minister said that playing the song to children in the morning would instill in them the importance and divinity of cleanliness. 
●    Shri Tamta said that Swachhta should be looked upon as everyone’s responsibility, not just that of the workers involved in cleaning.

J.P. Nadda inaugurates the first-ever Induction Training Programme for new recruits of Central Health Services (CHS)

The Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri J.P. Nadda today inaugurated the first-ever induction training programme for the newly appointed General Duty Medical Officers (GDMOs) of the Central Health Service Cadre at National Institute of Health and Family Welfare (NIHFW), at New Delhi, today. 
●    Shri Faggan Singh Kulaste and Smt Anupriya Patel, Ministers of State for Health and Family Welfare, also graced the occasion. 
●    In his motivational address, Shri Nadda congratulated NIHFW and the Ministry for designing this nine week training module for the new recruits.
●    Shri Nadda urged them to keep an open mind and imbibe new thoughts and experiences. “Please switch on your receptors for communication to take place. 
●    The more you learn, you will understand that you know so little,” Shri Nadda said. “ This is the first time such a foundation training programme is being undertaken. 
●    This will also orient you to your roles and responsibilities about healthcare delivery systems in the country, legal ethical issues, and schemes programme of the Ministry, OPD, emergencies, pharmacies, administration AYUSH, Yoga, etc. You will learn new things,” Shri Nadda mentioned.

Bandaru Dattatreya Launches “One IP- Two Dispensaries” and “Aadhaar Based Online Claim Submission” Schemes on International Labour Day

Minister of State (I/C) for Labour and Employment, Shri BandaruDattatreya launched two schemes “One IP- Two Dispensaries” and “Aadhaar based Online Claim Submission” on the occasion of International Labour Day today.
●    Under One IP- Two Dispensaries schemeESIC has given an option to an Insured Person (IP) to choose two dispensaries, one for self and another for family through an employer. 
●    This will benefit all IPs, especially migrant workers who are working in other than home State, while their families are living in their native States. 
●    Because of non-availability of option of second dispensary, the dependant members of family are often deprived of medical benefits. 
●    By introducing the concept of ‘One IP- Two Dispensaries’, IP as well as their family members would now be able to get treatment from either of the dispensaries and in case of emergency from any ESI Institution.
●    As of now, around 3 crores IPs are covered under ESIC and total number of beneficiaries i.e. IPs and their family members is over 12 crores.

Eastern Peripheral Expressway to be ready in August: Gadkari

India’s first smart and green highway – Eastern Peripheral Expressway – for decongesting Delhi will be completed in August this year, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said on Friday.
●    “The project, most likely, will be completed in August this year. We have spent ₹5,900 crore on land acquisition.
●    The expressway will reduce traffic congestion in Delhi. It will have the best automatic traffic management system, landscaping and wayside amenities,” he said.
●    The Eastern Peripheral Expressway will set a benchmark in highway construction by being environment-friendly with world-class safety features and smart/interactive infrastructure, the minster said.
●    The project, launched on September 14, 2015, consumed a million tonnes of flyash from NTPC’s various thermal plants for road-laying.
●    The greenfield project will divert around 2 lakh vehicles passing through the national capital daily to this bypass, cutting out pollution.

Bhagyalakshmi Yojana Launched in UP

Bhagyalakshmi Yojana in UP Online Form Registration for Rs 50,000 given to Birth of Girl Children Apply Now Bhagyalakshmi Yojana in Hindi Form.
●    Bhagyalakshmi Yojana Online Registration Form started in UP & to apply for UP Bhagyalakshmi Scheme 2017 which will give Rs 50,000 in bank account of Girl who newly born in Uttar Pradesh. 
●    Bhagyalakshmi Scheme was launched at the year 2006-07 its main objective to promote the birth of girl in BPL (below poverty line) families to equalize the status of the girl child in the family and society of India. 
●    Bhagyalakshmi Yojana Financial assistance is provided to the girl child through her mother/father they are required to submit Bhagya lakshmi Yojana Application Form with Below Document Required.
●    All girl children born in BPL families under the Chief Minister Mahant Aditya Nath Yogi are eligible to be enrolled as a beneficiary under the scheme. 
●    Enrollment is allowed up to one year of the birth of child and Original Mother and Father have to show production of birth certificate.
●    The benefits of the Bhagyalakshmi scheme are restricted only to 2 girl children of a BPL family

Current Affairs 1st May 2017:  APPOINTMENTS

Anthony Lianzuala takes over as the New Controller General of Accounts (CGA) 

Mr. Anthony Lianzuala took over as the New Controller General of Accounts (CGA) in national capital here today. 
●    Earlier, the Government of India had appointed Mr. Anthony Lianzuala, a 1982-batch Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) Officer, as the new Controller General of Accounts (CGA), Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance with effect from May 1, 2017. 
●    He will be the First person from the North-Eastern Region to hold this position. 
●    Mr Lianzuala, a graduate from the Hindu College of Delhi University, has vast and rich experience in the government both at the Centre and the State levels. 
●    He worked at higher positions in the Central Board of Direct Taxes(CBDT), Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Rural Development.

Coca-Cola India names TKK Krishnakumar as president

Coca-Cola India on Friday announced that T. ‘KK’ Krishnakumar will take over as president of the company’s India and South West Asia operations from Venkatesh Kini. 
●    Krishnakumar is currently chief executive officer and South West Asia regional director of Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt. Ltd, the company-owned bottling unit. The appointment is effective 1 May.
●    Kini, who has been president of the Atlanta-based beverages company’s India and South West Asia business since 1 July 2013, has quit. 
●    “I have decided to go back to the US and look for opportunities outside,” said Kini, who will continue for three more months to handle the transition.
●    Kini moved to India in October 2012 as senior vice-president from the company’s global juice business, and went on to head the Indian arm after his predecessor Atul Singh moved to a global role.
●    While Coca-Cola did not specify reasons for Kini’s exit, two people in the know indicated that falling sales was the key reason.
 

Important Current Affairs 30th April 2017 with Free PDF

Dear Aspirants,

We bring you Important Current Affairs 30th April 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 will help you in preparation of competitive exams like: SSC, SBI, IBPS PO, Clerk, Railways & Various other Entrance examinations.

Current Affairs 30th April 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

India's first village of books to come up in Maharashtra

A hamlet in Satara district of Maharashtra, popular for its strawberries is all set to embrace the tag of India's first 'village of books', a concept inspired by Britain's Hay-on-Wye, a Welsh town known for its book stores and literature festivals.
●    Bhilar village located near picturesque hill station Panchgani will see this state government initiative being inaugurated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on May 4.
●    Led by Education minister Vinod Tawde, this project was undertaken by the Marathi Bhasha department wherein 25 artistically decorated locations around the village will turn into reader hot spots with display of books ranging from literature, poetry, religion, women and children, history, environment, folk literature, biographies and autobiographies to festival specials.
●    Also, the state has provided several facilities such as chairs, tables, decorated umbrellas and glass cupboards to local villagers to help them enhance the reading experience of literary connoisseurs visiting there.
●    The state government had announced its plans to launch such a book village and literary festivals concept in Maharashtra two years back on February 27, 2015 - Marathi Language Day.

Kerala organises India's first transgender athletic meet

Kerala on Friday successfully organised a sports meet for transgenders, the first of its sort in the country.
●    At least 130 athletes belonging to the third sex participated in the event that was well appreciated by a good crowd of onlookers at the central stadium at the heart of the state capital.
●    Some of the events like 100m sprint witnessed a photo finish. 
●    “It was a runaway hit. This time there was no age bracket. But next time we will classify events as junior, senior and other levels. It will be an annual event now,” said Sreekutty president of the Sexual and Gender Minority, an organisation working for the uplift of third sex.
●    As a maiden meet, there were only six disciplines — 100, 200 and 400m sprints and 4x100m relay, shot put and long jump. 
●    Next time organisers are planning to introduce more events.
●    “It is a good beginning. Kerala sport council will give all support to the next meet year,” said sports council vice-president Mercy Kuttan, a former Indian long jumper.

NAVAL COMMANDERS’ CONFERENCE 02-05 MAY 2017

A four day Naval Commanders’ Conference is scheduled at New Delhi from 02 - 05 May 17. The Chief of the Naval Staff, with the Commanders-in-Chief, will review major operational, training and administrative activities undertaken in the last six months and deliberate the way ahead on important activities and initiatives in the near future. 
●    The Hon’ble Defence Minister would address and interact with the Naval Commanders on the opening day of the Conference. 
●    The Conference is also the platform for institutionalised interaction between the naval top-brass and senior Govt officials as also with the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Air Staff. 
●    Admiral Sunil Lanba, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, Chief of the Naval Staff would chair the Conference and deliberate/ focus on Indian Navy’s plans for sustained operational effectiveness, combat readiness and improved maintenance philosophy to carry out its roles and missions. 
●    The Commanders would also brainstorm synergising the Navy’s role in a joint/ unified structure in the future. 
●    In the backdrop of terrorist threats and the prevailing security scenario, the Conference would review the security measures for naval assets, bases and air stations, and the overall operational readiness of units with particular emphasises on indigenisation towards achieving greater self-reliance and support the “Make in India” initiative. 
●    The IN’s approach to the increasing Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) to strengthen maritime security would also be discussed.

Two day conference of States Power Ministers to be held in New Delhi

A two-day conference of Ministers for Power , New & Renewable Energy & Mines of States & Union Territories will be held on 3rd & 4th May in New Delhi  The Conference will be inaugurated by Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines. 
●    The aim of this two-day conference is to review the implementation of various ongoing Schemes/ Programmes & deliberate on a host of issues pertaining to Power, Coal, Renewable Energy and Mines sectors.
●    Ministers and Secretaries of the States and Union territories and senior officials of the four sectors and Public Sector Undertakings under them will meet up to discuss issues like implementation of 24x7 Power for All , Strategies and action plan for 100% household electrification and Smart metering power reforms, Energy conservation , Energy efficient Agriculture Pumps , cyber security & promotion of digital payments in power sector.
●    In the area of Renewable Energy, the Ministers will discuss guidelines for Renewable projects.
●    In the Coal sector, deliberations will focus upon issues like  flexibility in utilisation of domestic coal for reducing cost of power generation and use of domestic coal instead of imported coal .
●    In the Mining sector, deliberations will concentrate upon important issues such as  Auction Preparedness of blocks for 2017-18 already under preparation by the States , Status of project implementation under Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY), Curbing illegal mining through Mining Surveillance System (MSS) with Specific Reference to Illegal sand Mining and Minor mineral rules.

Karnataka tops list of most-corrupt states: Report

A survey that pooled responses from 3,000 individuals across the country found that more than half felt corruption fell during the demonetisation phase, from November to December.
●    There are graft indexes, and then there are the latest findings from the Centre for Media Studies (CMS) on corruption perception. 
●    As per a Times of India report, CMS’s survey that pooled responses from 3,000 individuals across the country found that more than half felt corruption fell during the demonetisation phase, from November to December.
●    This may bring some relief to the Modi government that is yet to clearly state how much of an impact demonetisation had on black money. The study found that the total bribe paid by households across 20 states and 10 public services in 2016, at 6,350 crore, had fallen to under a third of the 20,500 crore paid in 2005.;
●    What is interesting, as far as perceptions of corruption are concerned, is that the most significant improvement has been in the states that were known most for the abject levels of graft. 
●    For instance, Bihar, Odisha and Chhattisgarh have shown remarkable fall in graft levels, with Chhattisgarh the third least corrupt state, after Himachal Pradesh and Kerala. Surprisingly, the richer Southern states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka figure prominently in the list of the most-corrupt. 
●    Karnataka, in fact, is perceived to be the most corrupt.

Current Affairs 30th April 2017: SPORTS

Pankaj Advani wins silver at Asian Snooker Championship

India's top cueist Pankaj Advani lost to China's Lv Haotian in the summit clash of Asian Snooker Championship here today, as he failed in his bid to win the continental double of billiards and snooker titles in the same year.
●    Advani lost 3-6 in the final to his Chinese opponent and it meant that he could not become the first player to win both Asian titles in Billiards and Snooker in same calendar year.
●    The defeat in the final also meant that Advani could not complete a career Grand Slam in cue sport.
●    Having won all the major events -- Nationals, Asian and World Championships in both Billiards and Snooker and in both the long and short formats, this is the one title (15-red Asian Snooker) that has eluded Advani.
●    A victory will make Advani only player in history to win all Majors in two sports at all levels and across all formats.
●    The Chinese player took the first frame before Advani drew parity. 
●    This was the only time the two finalists were on equal terms.
●    From there, Haotian was on song as he scored heavily to always keep the sixteen-time world champion Indian at bay.

Indian lifter Sushila Panwar banned after failing dope test

Indian +75 kg category woman weightlifter Sushila Panwar has been sentenced to provisional suspension after her failure in the dope test conducted by the Indian Weightlifting Federation. 
●    Her ‘A’ sample was tested positive for a banned substance terbutaline which caused her the suspension.
●    This news surfaced only a few days after the suspension of Arjuna awardee Indian footballer Subrata Paul due to failure in the tests conducted prior to the Cambodian tour.
●    The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) conducted dope tests on all the national campers on March 25 in Patiala.
●    The 2016 South Asian Games gold medallist, Panwar had been in the news last year after she won the title in February 2016 defeating Ishani Annushka of Sri Lanka and Tara Devi Pun of Nepal.
 

Important Current Affairs 29th April 2017 with Free PDF

Dear Aspirants,

We bring you Important Current Affairs 29th April 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 will help you in preparation of competitive exams like: SSC, SBI, IBPS PO, Clerk, Railways & Various other Entrance examinations.

Current Affairs 29th April 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Centre releases Rs. 19000 cr for J&K

The Centre has released an amount of Rs 19,000 crore out of the Rs 80,000 crore development package for Jammu & Kashmir announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
●    This was disclosed at a high-level inter-ministerial meeting chaired by home minister Rajnath Singh here Thursday, home ministry officials said.
●    Singh reviewed the progress in implementation of the mega package and works of various development initiatives announced for Jammu & Kashmir, which has been witnessing unrest lately.
●    It was conveyed in the meeting that 25 per cent of funds from the total package, around Rs 19,000 crore, has been released so far and related works were going on, an official said.
●    The meeting was attended by representatives from various central ministries and departments, and the state government.
The successful implementation of the mega package is key to assuage the feeling of alienation in Jammu and Kashmir, the officials said.

Hero Moto Corp named 'Indian MNC of the year'

Pawan Munjal-led Hero MotoCorp was conferred the ‘Indian MNC of the Year’ award by the All India Management Association (AIMA) on Thursday.
●    The award comes as the two-wheeler maker is set to enter the potentially lucrative markets of Brazil, Latin America’s largest two-wheeler market with annual sales in excess of two million units, and Mexico, which has a market size of more than half a million units per year.
●    “We are looking at launching our products in Brazil and Mexico soon,” Munjal said.
●    AIMA Managing India Awards 2017 was attended by railways minister Suresh Prabhu and minister of state for heavy industries and public enterprises Babul Supriyo. 
●    Awards were conferred in 15 different categories.
●    “Brand Hero has expanded to 35 countries spread across Asia, Africa and Central and South America in a very short span of time since charting its solo journey in 2011. 
●    We added Argentina, the second largest two-wheeler market in Latin America, to our international footprint in January this year, where we also unveiled the new Glamour motorcycle in our first global product launch,” Munjal said.
●    Hero MotoCorp, which sold more than 6.6 million two-wheelers in FY’17, is the only Indian two-wheeler company to have a manufacturing facility in Latin America. 
●    Hero’s manufacturing plant is situated in Vila Ricca, Colombia.

Current Affairs 29th April 2017: OBITUARY

Tamil Actor Vinu Chakrabarty passes away

Veteran Tamil actor and scriptwriter Vinu Chakravarthy passed away on 28 April 2017 following a prolonged illness in Chennai. He was 71. He is survived by his wife, son and a daughter.
●    He was well known for his unique villainous roles and trade mark pauses in dialogue delivery. Chakravarthy has acted in over 1000 Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Badaga and Malayalam languages films.
●    Vinu Chakravarthy was the one who introduced iconic actress Silk Smitha to the silver screen in the 1980 movie Vandi Chakkaram.
●    He had been a notable figure in several films of actor Rajinikanth including Guru Sishyan, Raajathi Raja and Annamalai.
●    He was seen in a prominent role in Muni, the 2007 horror-comedy film directed by Raghava Lawrence.
●    Born in 1945, he began his career as a scriptwriter and worked under Kannada director Puttanna Kanagal.
●    In 1977, he was spotted by producer Tirupur Mani, who gave him his first acting break in Kannada film Parasangada Gendethimma.
 

Current Affairs 29th April 2017: PERSONS

Shah Rukh Khan becomes first Indian actor to deliver Ted Talk

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan on 27 April 2017 became the first Indian actor to deliver TED speech in Vancouver, Canada.
●    He spoke out on various issues beginning from his stardom to the changes world has experienced with the introduction of the internet. He left the audience in splits with his witty one-liners.
●    Moreover, Shah Rukh Khan also partnered with TED to host the Hindi version of the famous talk show.
●    A successful actor, businessman and a philanthropist, Khan is also a brilliant speaker. Shah Rukh has also delivered some motivational and inspirational speeches earlier when he was conferred with honorary doctorate from the University of Edinburgh and Hyderabad's Maulana Azad National Urdu University.
●    Founded in 1984, TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design.

Ms. Shrishti Kaur named Miss Teen Universe 2017

Adding her name to the growing list of gorgeous Indian women who have made a mark on the international scene is Noida-resident Srishti Kaur, who was crowned Miss Teen Universe 2017 on April 25. 
●    The glamorous event was held the Ruben Dario National Theatre in the Nicaraguan capital of Managua, in which Kaur defeated contestants from 25 countries to bag the much-coveted title.
●    A student of  London College of Fashion,the 19-year-old Kaur was joined in the final three with runners-up Samantha Pierre from Canada and Ary Trava from Mexico.
●    Kaur also won the best national costume at the event for a stunning peacock gown designed by Devashish Majumdar and Melvyn Noronha.
●    Xirelle Agustin from Philippines won in the Teen Popularity category, while Nicole Obando from Costa Rica won the award for Teen Charm.
●    The six-year-old beauty pageant, which is conducted by the Miss Universe Organisation, saw participation of teenagers in the age group of 15-19 years. Generally teens from from Latin America and the Caribbean, participate in the pageant.

Current Affairs 29th April 2017: DAYS & DATES

Ganga Swachhta Sankalp Divas on May 02, 2017

National Mission on Clean Ganga (NMCG) will be observing Ganga Swachhta Sankalp Divas on May 02,2017 at 12 locations, namely- Kanpur, Allahabad, Varanasi, Patna, Bhagalpur, Sahibganj, Kolkata, Raj Ghat (Hardoi), Bithoor, Srinagar ( Uttarakhand), Vidhur Kuti (Bijnor) and Devprayag. 
●    The event would also be organized at more than 30 other locations through Ganga Vichaar Manch, local NGOs and volunteer support.
●    Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation  Sushri Uma Bharti would attend the events at Vidhur Kuti , Srinagar and Devprayag. 
●    Events at other locations shall be presided by various Central and State level dignitaries and functionaries, and senior officials from Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation and NMCG.
●    The objective of the Ganga Swachhta Sankalp Divas is to spread awareness and evoke active involvement of the masses through Ganga Swachhta Sankalp (Pledge) reiterating their commitment to Swachh Ganga through a series of events like Swachhta sandesh rally, Shram daan, plantation, Swachhta sankalp etc.  to develop a sense of pride and ownership among citizens to engender support for Namami Gange programme.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work observed globally

The World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2017 was observed across the world on 28 April 2017 with the theme 'Optimize the collection and use of OSH data'.
●    This year, ILO’s campaign focuses on the critical need for countries to improve their capacity to collect and utilize reliable occupational safety and health (OSH) data.
●    Every day, 6300 people die as a result of occupational accidents or work-related diseases which means that there are more than 2.3 million deaths per year. 
●    317 million accidents occur on the job annually; many of these result in the extended absences from work. 
●    The economic burden of poor occupational safety and health practices is estimated at 4 per cent of global Gross Domestic Product every year.