GK and Current Affairs Updates

Important Current Affairs 13th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 13th 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 13th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

INS Darshak completes hydrographic surveys in Sri Lanka

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

INS Rajput on a 3-day visit to Yangon

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

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

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

Massive ‘Ransomware’ attack hits 99 countries around the world

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

Narendra Modi announces direct Varanasi-Colombo flight from August

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

Current Affairs 13th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Brazil declares end to Zika emergency

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

Current Affairs 13th May 2017: SPORTS

VVS Laxman awarded honorary life membership of Marylebone Cricket Club

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

Important Current Affairs 12th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 12th 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 12th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

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

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

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

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

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

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

NHAI Masala Bond Launched at London Stock Exchange 

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

Election Commission of India Launches National Contact Centre

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

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

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

Current Affairs 12th May 2017:DAYS AND DATES

International Nurses Day Celebrated

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

Current Affairs 12th May 2017:SPORTS

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

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

Important Current Affairs 11th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

important Current Affairs 11th 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 11th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Indian Railways To Acquire System To Run Trains Without Guards

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

Natco Pharma launches generic blood cancer drug in India

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

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

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

Important Current Affairs 10th May 2017

Dear Aspirants,

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

Current Affairs 10th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Municipal corporations for Ayodhya-Faizabad, Mathura-Vrindavan

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

PM Modi launches integrated case management system of Supreme Court

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

Vijay Goel Flagged Off four Clean Himalaya Expeditions

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

India to replace its research station in Antarctica

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

Two Indian warships visit Egyptian port city

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

Current Affairs 10th May 2017: AWARDS

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

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

Current Affairs 10th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Moon Jae-in sworn in as President of South Korea

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

Current Affairs 10th May 2017: SPORTS

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

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

Important Current Affairs 9th May 2017

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

Current Affairs 9th May 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

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

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

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

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

Every house in Haryana to get a smart ID

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

Current Affairs 9th May 2017: OBITUARY

Legendary Sitarist Rais Khan passes away

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

Current Affairs 9th May 2017: INTERNATIONAL NEWS

China proposes 4-point initiative to improve ties with India

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

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

Current Affairs 9th May 2017: SPORTS

Olive Ridley to be mascot of Asian Athletics Championships

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

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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.

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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 

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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 

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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 

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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.