GK and Current Affairs Updates

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

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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.

Important Current Affairs 28th April 2017 with Free PDF

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Current Affairs 28th April 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

India ranks 136 in press freedom

India slipped three places in the 2017 world press freedom rankings to 136th among 180 countries, the dismal performance blamed on “Modi’s nationalism” and growing “self-censorship” in the mainstream media.
●    In the index released on Wednesday, India was ranked just three places above Pakistan and was one notch below violence-torn Palestine. 
●    India’s neighbours Bhutan and Nepal were placed at 84th and 100th rank, respectively.
●    The report mentioned that journalists were increasingly targets of online smear campaigns and threats.
●    The watchdog was also critical of a social media and internet gag in Kashmir and said that in the absence of any “protective mechanism, coverage of sensitive regions continued to be “very difficult”.
●    Norway, Sweden, Finland and Denmark took the first four positions in the rankings. The United States was at the 43rd position. 
●    Large swathes of sub-Saharan Africa, including dictator-ruled Zimbabwe, performed better than India.

PayTM launches feature to digitally buy and sell gold

Payments app Paytm on 27 April 2017 launched ‘Digital Gold’ on its platform to allow customers to buy and sell gold through electronic platform.
●    This first wealth management product was launched in partnership with gold refiner MMTC-PAMP. It offers a real-time international pricing mechanism for the customers.
●    Using Paytm mobile wallets, consumers can purchase 24K 999.9 purity gold online and store it in MMTC—PAMP’s secure vaults free of charge. 
●    Customers can buy and sell gold either by money (starting Re 1) or by weight (starting 0.1 gram).
●    Customers can even request for their gold to be delivered at their homes in the form of minted coins. 
●    Moreover, if the consumer wants to sell the gold, MMTC-PAMP will buy the gold back from them and the money will be transferred to the user’s bank account.

4th National Standards Conclave

Department of Commerce, Government of India in collaboration with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB) and other knowledge partners is organizing the 4th National Standards Conclave on 1-2 May 2017 at New Delhi. 
●    The objective of the two day Conclave is to bring awareness and prepare Industries, Central Government Ministries, State Governments, regulatory/standards setting and conformity assessment bodies on the growing importance of “Standards” in the changing scenario of global trade.
●    The Standards Conclave is being held in the backdrop of diminishing importance of tariffs and rising influence of standards and regulation both in goods and services trade.
●    It must be recognized that the days of differential standards – low for domestic market and high for exports - are over and if the Indian industry has to survive and thrive, it has to adopt global standards. 
●    The Ministries/ regulators/ state governments have to also realize that their initiatives and schemes have to be built around global standards if they have to succeed in their objectives.

Signing of Tripartite MOU for broadband services to Post Offices

A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding has been signed today among BBNL, Department of Posts and BSNL for providing broadband connectivity of BharatNet to Post Offices in rural areas. 
●    The MoU signed under the chairmanship of Minister of Communications Shri Manoj Sinha is the first tri-partite agreement to provide broadband connectivity to about 1.3 lakh, post offices in rural areas and 25,000 sub-post offices for high speed internet connectivity to the rural masses.
●    Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sinha said that the first phase of connecting about one lakh Gram Panchayats is nearing its completion and in the remaining one and a half lakh Gram Panchayats 100 mbps broadband connectivity will be completed by December, 2018. 
●    In reply to a question, the Minister said that BharatNet is one of the 9 pillars of realising the Prime Minister’s vision of Digital India.

‘Oorja’ –CAPFs Under -19 Football Talent Hunt Tournament-2017 begins in Goa from Monday

India is hosting FIFA Under – 19 World Cup in October this year. The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has called for the support of not only children, but also parents to encourage boys and girls to play football and develop both skill and fitness. 
●    The tournament will be a milestone event in many ways, but perhaps most lasting aspect will be Mission XI Million, which is a grassroot programme designed to encourage children to play this popular game.
●    Keeping in view of the appeal of the Prime Minister, the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) have been tasked to conduct ‘Oorja’, - CAPFs Under-19 Football Talent Hunt Tournament – 2017. 
●    CAPFs will be jointly organizing the tournament under the aegis of All India Police Sports Control Board throughout the country from May 1-15, 2017. 
●    The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is tasked to conduct the tournament for the States of Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Goa and the Union Territories of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu.
●    In Goa, CISF is organizing the Oorja – 2017 for Boys and Girls under the age of 19 from May 1-10, 2017. 
Opening Ceremony is  scheduled on May 1, 2017 at Bambolim Football stadium, Goa in which Governor of Goa, Smt. Mridula Sinha will be the Chief Guest.

Current Affairs 28th April 2017: PERSONS

Nita Ambani made Member of IOC's Olympic Channel Commission

Nita Ambani in April 2017 was made a member of two important commissions of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) governing body.

Ambani was made as a member of the prestigious Olympic Channel and Olympic Education Commission. She replaced International Paralympic Committee President Philip Craven to be one of the 16 members of the Olympic Channel Commission headed by United States Olympic Committee Chairman Lawrence Francis Probst.

Ambani already holds the distinction of being India’s first woman IOC member. She was elected as an individual member of International Olympic Committee in the year 2016. She will serve the position till she turns 70.

On the other hand, the International Olympic Committee also announced the composition of 26 commissions for the year 2017. The composition of the IOC commissions for 2017 has seen a 70 per cent increase in female participation since September 2013.

Current Affairs 28th April 2017: OBITUARY

Actor Vinod Khanna passes away

Veteran actor Vinod Khanna passed away on 27 April 2017 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He was 70.
●    Khanna was reportedly battling with cancer for years.
●    Born on 6 October 1946 in Peshawar, Vinod Khanna acted in lead roles in many superhit Bollywood movies.
●    He is best remembered for his performance in films like Mere Apne, Mera Gaon Mera Desh, Gaddaar, Jail Yatra, Kuchhe Dhaage, Amar Akbar Anthony, Rajput, Qurbani, Dayavan, and others.
●    He was popularly hailed as one of the most handsome lead actors ever in Bollywood, along with Dharmendra, Rajesh Khanna and Shammi Kapoor.
●    He made his debut in Bollywood in the year 1968. He first acted in small second lead roles or negative roles.
●    At the peak of his film career in 1982, he temporarily quit the film industry to follow his spiritual guru Osho Rajneesh.

Oscar winning director Jonathan Demme passes away

Jonathan Demme, the Oscar-winning director of The Silence of the Lambs, passed away on 26 April 2017. He was 73.
●    The cause of Demme's death is said to be esophageal cancer.
●    Born on 22 February 1944, Robert Jonathan Demme was an American film director, producer, and screenwriter.
●    He started his career into feature film working with film producer Roger Corman, co-writing and producing Angels Hard as They Come and The Hot Box.
●    He then moved on to directing three films for Corman's studio New World Pictures.
●    In 1977, he directed the comedy film Handle with Care for Paramount Pictures. The film was well received by critics.
●    He rose to prominence in the 1980s with his comedy films Melvin and Howard, Swing Shift, Something Wild.
●    He is best known for directing the movie The Silence of the Lambs, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Director. 
●    It was one of only three films to win all the major categories, Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actor and Best Actress.

Important Current Affairs 27th April 2017 with Free PDF

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Current Affairs 27th April 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Uma Bharti to launch Water Conservation Programme for Bundelkhand

Union Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Minister Sushri Uma Bharti will launch extensive water conservation programme for drought prone areas of Bundelkhand, Marathwada, Kalahandi, Bolangir and Koraput in Odisha. 
●    Sushri Bharti will formally launch the programme on April 28, 2017 at Bandri, Sagar (Madhya Pradesh).
●    Announcing this in New Delhi today the Minister said that her Ministry has prepared a master plan for artificial recharge of groundwater in Bundelkhand region. 
●    In UP region of Bundelkhand, around 1100 percolation tanks, 14000 small check dams/Nala bunds and 7200 Recharge pits/shafts have been identified. 
●    In MP region of Bundelkhand, around 2000 percolation tanks, 55000 small check dams/Nala bunds and 17000 Recharge shafts have been identified. 
●    She said as a part of ground water exploration, 234 wells in UP are proposed to be constructed in five districts of Bundelkhand i.e., Banda, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Chitrakoot and Mahoba. 
●    As a part of ground water exploration, 259 wells in MP are proposed to be constructed in six districts of Bundelkhand.

Venkaiah Naidu Launches Micro and Small Enterprise Facilitation Council (MSEFC) Portal and MyMSME Mobile App

Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu, Union Minister for Urban Development, Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation and Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting launched two important initiatives of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (Ministry of MSME), viz. Micro and Small Enterprises Facilitation Council (MSEFC) portal and MyMSME Mobile App on the occasion of the 15th Meeting of the National Board for MSME here today. 
●    Union Minsiter for MSME Shri Kalraj Mishra and Minister of State for MSME Shri Haribhai Parthibhai Chaudhary were present on this august occasion
●    Shri Kalraj Mishra, speaking on the occasion, said that Micro and Small Enterprises Facilitation Council (MSEFC) portal on http://msefc.msme.gov.in, would facilitate implementation of the delayed payment provisions of the MSMED Act 2006 and also assist in monitoring of delayed payment cases. 
●    This online platform is expected to be a significant step in the direction of Digital India from the perspective of the MSME Sector in the country. 
●    With the access to this platform, micro and small enterprises would be able to file their delayed payment related grievances online. 
●    The grievance filed would be communicated through email and SMS to the parties involved. It would also help officers of the Ministry of MSME as well as the State Government concerned in monitoring the progress of cases both at the State and National levels. 
●    He also informed that most of the States have already uploaded the information regarding delayed payment cases on MSEFC portal. 
●    As on 31.03.2017, 3690 cases involving an amount of Rs.1660 crore are being considered by various MSEFCs. 
●    In fact, the online portal would be of great help to start-ups since delayed payment is probably the single biggest problem for start-ups.

Government revamps jobs on compassionate ground for Gramin Dak Sevaks

Department of Posts has revamped the existing compassionate engagement scheme offered to the dependent family members of Gramin Dak Sevak. 
●    A GDS who dies in harness, the dependents of such GDS will benefit from a liberalized and time bound procedure for engagement on compassionate grounds. 
●    Henceforth, any death of a Gramin Dak Sevak while on engagement would be compensated by a compassionate engagement to a dependent family member irrespective of the circumstances or indigence. 
●    Upper age limit of the applicant could also be relaxed wherever found to be necessary. 
●    Thus the new scheme of compassionate engagement will provide greater relief to the members of the family of the deceased GDS who belong to weaker and poorer sections of the society and are thrown into penury and hardship.
●    The ambit of dependent family member has also been expanded to include:
●    Married son living with parents and dependent for livelihood on the GDS on the date of death of the GDS
●    Divorced daughter wholly dependent on the GDS at the time of death of the GDS
●    Daughter in law of the deceased GDS who is wholly dependent on the GDS, if the only son of the GDS is pre deceased.

Joint Review Meeting for revival of Closed Fertilizer Plants held 

Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Ananthkumar presided over a Joint review meeting on revival plans for closed fertilizer projects under Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers here today. 
●    The review was jointly held with Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines, Shri Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (IC) for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan and Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Shipping, Chemical & Fertilizer, Shri Mansukh Lal Mandaviya. 
●    Senior officers from the three Ministries were present during the meeting.
●    Addressing the media after the meeting, Shri Ananthkumar informed that with the revival of the fertilizer projects, Gorakhpur, Barauni, Sindri and Talcher, an additional annual production capacity of 75 LMT would be created making India self-reliant in meeting the annual domestic demand of around 320 LMT, from being a net importer currently. 
●    Financial allocations and the ground level work would start in 2017 and the five plants would become fully functional by 2020-21, he added.

India successfully test-fires Agni-III ballistic missile

India on 27 April 2017 successfully test-fired 3000 kilometre range Agni-III ballistic missile from Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha coast. 
●    The test was aimed at re-establishing the operational effectiveness of the weapon system.
●    The test was carried by the Strategic Forces Command with logistics support from Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO).
●    Agni-III’s first user successful trial was carried out on 21 September 2012.
●    This Surface-to-Surface nuclear capable intermediate-range ballistic missile can hit targets in the range of around 3000 km.
●    The two-stage solid-propelled missile has a length of 17 metres, 2 metres diameter and its launch weight is around 50 tonnes.
●    It can carry a warhead of 1.5 tonne which is protected by carbon all composite heat shield.
 

Current Affairs 27th April 2017: AWARDS

President confers the 52ND Jnanpith Award on Prof. Sankha Ghosh 

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee conferred the 52nd Jnanpith Award on Prof. Sankha Ghosh in New Delhi today (April 27, 2017). 
●    Speaking on the occasion, the President said that a poet and critique par excellence, a teacher of reputation, a recipient of the Sahitya Akademi award, way back in 1977, Padma Bhushan Prof. Sankha Ghosh is indeed the most deserving recipient of this award. 
●    A professor of Bengali and an authority in his own right on the works of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, Prof. Sankha Ghosh represents the fluid brilliance that characterizes India’s multifarious literary genius. 
●    It is indeed an example of his brilliant fluidity that an author who strove to master Bengali academically, expressed himself in perhaps the most difficult literary genre of poetry. 
●    The President said that in conferring the award on Prof. Sankha Ghosh the selection board noted that his poetic idiom and experiments with various poetic forms mark his greatness as a creative talent. 
●    They also observed that Prof. Ghosh’s poetry, while conveying messages, have remained free from polemics. 
●    One look at his works, be it Adim Lata- Gulmomay, Murkho Baro Samajik Noy or Baborer Prarthana, to name a few, and one would be left in no doubt about every word of the observations mentioned by the selection board to be to the point and correct. 

President of India presents CII president’s Award for Lifetime Achievement and CII Foundation Woman Exemplar Award

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presented CII President’s Award for Lifetime Achievement to Mr. Rahul Bajaj and CII foundation Woman Exemplar Award in New Delhi today (April 27, 2017). 
●    Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated all the awardees – Mr. Rahul Bajaj, Chairman, Bajaj Auto Ltd. for receiving this year’s CII President’s Award for Lifetime Achievement and those conferred with Woman Exemplar Awards. 
●    He said that the institution of the CII Foundation Woman Exemplar Award in 2005 is a welcome initiative to promote women’s empowerment at the community level by discovering and recognizing those who have, against all odds, excelled and contributed significantly to the development process in India. 
●    This will be a great encouragement for the countless number of women who are contributing in different ways to strengthening our nation and its economy. 
●    The President reminded Industry that just as much as funds, the country also needs their ideas, energy and drive. 
●    He urged them to leverage CSR to re-imagine interventions and transformative solutions to address the higher developmental challenges in India. 
●    He emphasized that they should have a pan-Indian outlook and not limit themselves to a few geographies for CSR development. He stated that given the magnitude of the challenges before our country and the relatively short time available to address them, partnerships will play a very crucial role. 
●    It is important to collaborate for achieving scale, developing solutions to complex social problems and for technology development.
 

Current Affairs 27th April 2017: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

India & Cyprus sign Work Plan for 2017–18 in the Agriculture Sector

India and Cyprus here today signed Work Plan for 2017–18 to implement an already signed MOU for cooperation in the agriculture sector. 
●    It covers areas such as joint research projects, training/exchange programme for scientists/experts working in the specific fields in various institutes of the two countries, exchange of germplasms and technology, promotion of private sector participation and joint workshops and conferences etc.
●    Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare welcomed Shri Nicos Kouyialis and said that India’s relations with Cyprus have always been warm and friendly with the two countries supporting each other's’ views on various international matters. 
●    Shri Singh said that India has achieved tremendous progress in the Agriculture and Allied Sectors, which remains a principal source of income in the country. 
●    The government is working not only to accelerate agricultural production to meet the rising demand for food, but also to increase the income of those dependent on agriculture. 
●    Union Agriculture Minister said further said the government has set a target of doubling farmers’ income by 2022 and briefly highlighted the initiatives taken in this regard.

Important Current Affairs 26th April 2017 with Free PDF

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Current Affairs 26th April 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

President of India addresses first convocation of the English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee addressed the first convocation of the English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad in Hyderabad today (April 26, 2017). 
●    Speaking on the occasion, the President said on the august occasion of the first convocation of the English and Foreign Languages University, as we celebrate the impressive achievements of this University, he wanted to share with them some enduring reflections that ought to guide us in advancing our vision of education. 
●    He stated that to his mind, knowledge must pave the path of life; and living must essentially encompass pursue the path of learning. From times immemorial the continent of Asia, and South East Asia in particular, opened up novel paths of learning. 
●    Wherever the Buddha traversed - seeds of knowledge sprouted and flourished. Nalanda, after Takshashila, held the beacon of light very high for over a millennium across lands and seas and welcomed drifting seekers of knowledge and provided them a lasting resting place. 
●    The President said that today sustaining and reinvigorating higher education, in India as well as in other parts of the world, has become a major challenge, especially so in public institutions. Challenges exist for such institutions, both from outside and inside. 

NCST SEEKS Information on Fake ST Certificate

National Commission for Schedule Tribes (NCST) has asked Uttar Pradesh Government to furnish information on fake certificates of Gond tribal community. 
●    The Secretary, NCST in his letter to Chief Secretary, UP has said that it has been brought to the notice of the Commission that many persons from Nayak Brahman and Brahman Ojha community in Gorakhpur, Devaria, Maharajganj, Basti, Aajamgarh, Mau and Balia districts have obtained fake certificates of Gond tribal community to get Govt Jobs. 
●    The Chief Secretary, UP has been asked to furnish the information of total population of ST community and percentage along with population and percentage of Gond community in the State. 
●    He has also been asked to furnish the details of the persons from Nayak Brahman and Brahman Ojha community who have been issued the certificates of Gond tribal community. 
●    The Commission has also asked that whether any civil or criminal action been taken against persons having fake certificates of Gond tribal community. 
●    The Commission has taken the cognizance of the issue on the representation from an NGO. 

Over Rs.one lakh cr investment approved for housing of urban poor

Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation has sanctioned 1,00,537 more houses for urban poor under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) with an investment of Rs.4,200 cr taking the total investment so far approved to Rs.1,00,466 cr. 
●    This is 307% more than the investment approved of Rs.32,713 cr during 2004-14 for affordable housing in urban areas.
●    With the latest sanctions, the Ministry has so far approved construction of 18,75,389 houses for Economically Weaker Sections under PMAY(Urban) in 2,151 cities and towns in 34 States/UTs as against 13.80 lakh houses sanctioned during 2004-15 with an approved investment of Rs.32,009 cr.
●    The total investment approved so far includes central assistance of Rs.29,409 cr, assistance from State Governments and beneficiary contribution.
●    In the latest sanctions, Madhya Pradesh got 57,131 houses, Tamil Nadu-24,576, Manipur-6,231, Chattisgarh-4,898, Gujarat-4,261, Assam-2,389, Kerala-643, Jharkhand-331 and Daman & Diu-77.
●    With total houses sanctioned of 2,66,842, Madhya Pradesh has emerged the leader for the first time  in approvals under PMAY(Urban) with a total investment of Rs.18,283 cr. 
●    Tamil Nadu is second with 2,52,532 houses with a total project cost of Rs.9,112 cr.

Shri Narendra Modi will Flag-off First UDAN Flight under RCS

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will flag off the first UDAN flight under RCS on Shimla-Delhi sector on 27th April, 2017. 
●    Simultaneously, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will also flag off the inaugural UDAN flights on Kadapa – Hyderabad and Nanded-Hyderabad sectors.
●    The Ministry of Civil Aviation is committed to providing air connectivity to currently underserved and unserved airports. To make air travel accessible to citizens in regionally important cities, the Ministry launched ‘Ude Deshka Aam Naagrik’ (UDAN) Regional Connectivity Scheme in October, 2016. 
●    The UDAN Scheme was developed through extensive consideration of various issues and consultations with stakeholders. 
●    This is a first-of-its-kind scheme globally to stimulate regional connectivity through a market-based mechanism.  
●    The UDAN Scheme is a key component of the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) which was released by the Ministry of Civil Aviation on 15th June, 2016. 
●    The AAI followed a transparent bidding process by inviting interested bidders and airline operators to submit their Initial Proposals under the provisions of Regional Connectivity Scheme and subsequently inviting counter proposals against such Initial Proposals.
●    The routes and networks are awarded to bidders who submitted valid proposals and quoted the lowest viability gap funding (VGF) from the government for such routes and networks.
 

Orientation programme for establishment of Spice Farmers Producer Companies in Arunachal Pradesh 

Commerce and Industry Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, inaugurated the orientation programme for establishment of Spice Farmers Producer Companies (SFPCs) and a buyer-seller meet organized by Spices Board in Itanagar today to highlight the promotion of spices and herbs being grown in the hill State of Arunachal Pradesh and integrate the farmers of the State with markets in India and abroad. 
●    Shri Kiren Rijiju, Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Wangki Lowang, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Trade & Commerce and Shri Tamiyo Taga, Minister of Power, Industries, Textiles & Handicraft, Government of Arunachal Pradesh also participated in the programme. 
●    “As part of Government of India Look East to Act East policy, North East region is given priority and actions are being initiated in the region for development. 
●    There is scope for export of spices like large cardamom, ginger, turmeric etc., which area produced naturally organic in Arunachal Pradesh. 
●    In order to aggregate the farmers’ produce, Spice Farmers Producer companies shall be formed” said Smt. Sitharaman. She further added that Spices Board, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), Small Farmers' Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC), Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDONER), North Eastern Council (NEC) and Government of Arunachal Pradesh are to work together for materializing the establishment of SFPCs. 
●    The first SFPC in the country will be established in the State of Arunachal Pradesh.
 

Current Affairs 26th April 2017: APPOINTMENTS

Rajiv Rai Bhatnagar appointed as DG, CRPF; Shri RK Pachnanda to be next DG, ITBP

The Government has appointed Shri Rajiv Rai Bhatnagar, IPS (UP:1983), Director General, Narcotics Control Bureau to the post of Director General, Central Reserve Police Force, from the date of joining the post and up to December 31, 2019 i.e. the date of his superannuation or till further orders, whichever is earlier. 
●    The Government has also appointed Shri R. K. Pachnanda, IPS (WB:1983), Director General, National Disaster Response Force to the post of Director General, Indo-Tibetan Border Police, vice Shri Krishna Choudhary, IPS (BH:1979), DG, ITBP due to retire on superannuation on June 30, 2017, from the date of joining the post and up to October 31, 2018 or till further orders, whichever is earlier.
 

Current Affairs 26th April 2017: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Union Home Minister calls on the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka

The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh called on the Prime Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe here today. 
●    In his meeting with the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, the Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh welcomed the Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe and emphasised the close political ties shared between the two countries. 
●    Both the leaders expressed concern over the growing threat from the terrorism and agreed that there should be continuous dialogue between the security organisations of the two countries, to thwart any attempt by the terror outfits to destabilise the stability and peace in the region. 
●    The issues concerning the fishermen who inadvertently cross the International Maritime Boundary Line were also discussed and it was felt that the same should be resolved at the earliest with no more loss of lives.
 

Current Affairs 26th April 2017: GLOBAL NEWS

China's first home-built aircraft carrier hit water

China launched its first domestically built aircraft carrier on 26 April 2017, transferring the ship from a dry dock into open water in Dalian, a port city in China’s Liaoning Province.
●    The launch ceremony was held at 9 am in the morning, three days after the 68th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy that was on 23 April 2017.
●    The launch ceremony was chaired by Fan Changlong, the Vice-Chairman of the powerful Central Military Commission.
●    The carrier, temporarily named Type 001A, is China’s second aircraft carrier after the Liaoning, former Soviet Union made carrier that was refurbished extensively before being commissioned to the PLA Navy in 2012.
●    It is slightly larger than the Liaoning.
●    While its length is 315 m, its width is 75 m and it has a cruising speed of about 31 knots and a displacement of 70,000 tonnes.
 

Important Current Affairs 25th April 2017 with Free PDF

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We bring you Important Current Affairs 25th 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 25th April 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

M. Venkaiah Naidu inaugurates 47th Foundation Day of HUDCO

The Minister of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu inaugurated the 47th Foundation Day of Housing and Urban Development Corporation Ltd. (HUDCO) today and said that HUDCO is playing an important role in taking financial inclusion forward in the country, as it is taking care of the housing finance needs of the economically deprived sections.
●    Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu said that in the last 47 years, HUDCO had constructed 16 million residential units across the country and over 92 per cent of these dwelling units have benefited the economically weaker sections and low income groups. 
●    He further said that HUDCO has assisted in the construction of about 67 lakh, viable & low cost sanitation units.
●    Shri Naidu said that HUDCO executed 51 MoUs with various Primary Lending Institutions for Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme- Economically Weaker Section/ Low Income Group (CLSS-EWS/LIG) and 21 MoUs for Credit Linked Subsidy Scheme for Middle Income Groups (CLSS-MIG). 
●    He highlighted that HUDCO has achieved the MoU targets in respect of overall sanctions and disbursements and from the past 5 years, HUDCO is continuously getting excellent rating, with Perfect 1 (One) ‘MoU Rating’ in 2015-16.

Shri Singh inaugurates two-day National Conference on Agriculture for Kharif Campaign-2017 

The National Conference on Agriculture for Kharif Campaign – 2017 is being organised on 25th and 26th April, 2017 at New Delhi.  The Conference was inaugurated by Shri Radha Mohan Singh, Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and also addressed by Shri Parshottam Rupala and Shri Sudarshan Bhagat, Ministers of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.   
●    The Conference was attended by Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers’ Welfare, besides Agriculture Production Commissioners / Principal Secretaries / Secretaries / Directors of the State Departments of Agriculture, Horticulture and Agriculture Marketing, Senior Scientists from ICAR and other officials from relevant Ministries and agencies.
●    In his inaugural address, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare applauded efforts of the Central and State Governments in attaining an estimated record production of about 272 million metric tons in foodgrains and 33.6 million tons oilseeds. 
●    Shri Singh particularly referred to the expected quantum jump in pulses production, which is estimated at a record breaking 22.14 million metric tons as per the second Advance Estimates. Shri Radha Mohan Singh pointed out to the encouraging first stage forecast of the South West monsoon during Kharif 2017 and exhorted the States to make all necessary arrangements of agricultural inputs for our farmers.  
●    Shri Singh further stressed on the commitment of the Government to double the income of farmers by the year 2022 and the initiatives taken by the Central Government towards this end.  
●    A roadmap has been prepared to scale up pulses production to 24 MMTs by 2021.

Rajnath Singh pays tribute to the martyred CRPF personnel

The Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh paid tributes to the martyred CRPF personnel, in Raipur, Chhattisgarh today. The Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Dr. Raman Singh and the Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Hansraj Gangaram Ahir also paid tributes to the bravehearts who sacrificed their lives in a Naxal attack in Sukma district of Chhattisgarh yesterday. 
●    While paying tributes to martyred CRPF personnel, Shri Rajnath Singh said that their sacrifice will not go in vain. 
●    The Home Minister said that the attack in Sukma is a cold blooded murder by LWE groups and it is an act of cowardice. He said that it is an act of desperation and we have accepted it as a challenge. 
●    He said that the Government will review the strategy and if necessary, will revisit it. Shri Rajnath Singh said that the Government is working to root out the problem of Left Wing Extremism and LWE groups are anti-development & they do not want development in the area. 
●    Later, Shri Rajnath Singh visited the injured CRPF personnel at the Ramkrishna Care Hospital, in Raipur and enquired about their health. 
●    The Union Home Minister and the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh also reviewed the LWE situation in the state at a meeting in Raipur.

Centre Takes Ten New Swachh Iconic Places under Swachh Bharat Mission

The second quarterly review meeting on the Swachh Iconic Places (SIP), an initiative of Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation under Swachh Bharat Mission, was held today at Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir. 
●    Ten Swachh Iconic Places are already implementing action plans in phase 1. 
●    The meeting was attended by the Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Shri N.N. Vohra; Union Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water and Sanitation, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar; Union Minister of State, Dr. Jitendra Singh; Minister of State, J&K, Shri Ajay Nanda; Secretary, Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Shri Parameswaran Iyer and senior officials from the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ministry of Urban Development, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture, States, partnering PSUs and other local bodies. 
●    On this occasion, Shri Narendra Singh Tomar announced ten new Iconic places to be taken under the Phase II of Swachh Iconic Places initiative. 
●    These ten new iconic places which are to be brought to a higher standard of swachhta and visitors’ amenities are : 1. Gangotri, 2. Yamunotri. 3. Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain, 4. Char Minar, Hyderabad, 5. Church and Convent of St. Francis of Assissi, Goa, 6. Adi Shankaracharya’s abode Kaladi in Ernakulam, 7. Gomateshwar in Shravanbelgola, 8. Baijnath Dham, Devghar, 9. Gaya Tirth in Bihar and 10. Somnath temple in Gujarat. 

Prakash Javadekar inaugurates National Consultation on revised Accreditation Framework

Union Minister of Human Resource Development Shri Prakash Javadekar today inaugurated the one day National Consultation on Revised Accreditation Framework here in New Delhi. 
●    Highlighting the importance of quality education the Minister said any accreditation process or any certification or assessment process must also take into account the final product of it. 
●    Subject knowledge is one thing, the delivery of subject knowledge, infrastructure and building skill component in a student are another part. 
●    But ultimately the aim of education should be to build a good human being and only that kind of education could be termed creative that is capable of doing so and hence it should also be checked whether the parameters of intention, policy and schemes are getting reflected in the very institution, he said.
●    Shri Javadekar appreciated the observations of MoS Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey in this connection and emphasised to think of education in totality and said it must reflect in the ranking of institutions He said quality of education imparted by any institution will be reflected in its adaptability to change.

Tripartite meetings with various communities from Assam held today

Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs, held tripartite talks with Govt. of Assam, Six Communities, Adivasi National Convention and all-Koch Rajbongshi Students’ Union (P) here today. 
●    Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Kiren Rijiju and Shri Chandra Mohan Patowary, Minister for Commerce & Industry, Transport & Parliamentary Affairs, Govt. of Assam met the representatives of these delegations. 
●    Senior Govt. of India and Govt. of Assam officials were present during the talks. 
●    The Six Communities namely Koch Rajbongshi, Moran, Motok, Tai Ahom, Chutia and Adivasi (Tea Tribes) have been demanding Scheduled Tribe status to these Communities. 
●    Adivasi National Convention has been demanding ST status for Adivasi Communities in Assam and settlement for the militant groups which surrendered in 2012. 
●    All Koch Rajbongshi Students’ Union (P) has been demanding ST status for Koch Rajbongshis and protection of their political, cultural and linguistic rights. 
●    All the three meetings were held in cordial atmosphere.
 

Current Affairs 25th April 2017: AWARDS

Aamir Khan receives Dinanath Mangeshkar Award 2017

Superstar Aamir Khan was on 25 April 2017 honoured with the 75th Master Dinanath Mangeshkar Award for his film Dangal, which was one of the biggest hits of 2016. The award was bestowed upon him by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.
●    By receiving the award, Aamir Khan broke his own record of not being part of any awards functions. 
●    He last attended an award show 16 years ago when Lagaan film was nominated in the Best Film category at the Academy Awards.
●    Legendary actress Vyjayanthimala Bali was also honoured with Master Dinanath Vishesh Puraskar for her achievements in Hindi cinema. 
●    Mohan Wagh Award for best drama was presented to Sunil Barve for Amar Photo Studio Subak Sanstha. 
●    Uday Nirgudkar received an award for his editorial work while Kaushiki Chakraborty was awarded for her endeavour in the field of music.
 

Current Affairs 25th April 2017: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Cuba and Morocco re-establish diplomatic ties after 37 years

Cuba and Morocco in the third week of April 2017 signed an agreement to re-establish diplomatic ties after a gap of 37 years.
●    The announcement was made by the Cuban Foreign Ministry.
●    The agreement, which states "Guided by the mutual will to develop friendly relations, the two governments agreed to reestablish ties as well as political, economic and cultural cooperation," was signed by the two countries' envoys to the United Nations in New York.
●    Morocco's King Mohamed VI has already ordered the opening of an embassy in Havana. Cuba is one of the few Latin American countries where Rabat was not represented to date.
●    After Cuba’s diplomatic reestablishment with Morocco, South Korea, Somalia and Israel are the only remaining countries that do not have any ties with the Latin American nation.

Important Current Affairs 24th April 2017 with Free PDF

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We bring you Important Current Affairs 24th 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 24th April 2017: NATIONAL NEWS

Induction Ceremony of SU 30 MKI to the Valiants

In a solemn ceremony on 24 Apr 17, the Su30 MKI aircraft was inducted into 221 Squadron, ‘Valiants’, of the IAF. Air Marshal C Hari Kumar AVSM VM VSM ADC, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command IAF was the chief guest for the occasion. 
●    Among the distinguished guests were Mr Daljeet Singh, CEO, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and other officials from HAL.
●    The ‘Valiants’ which flew Mig-23 aircraft till 2009, is now equipped with the formidable Su30 MKI aircraft. The Su 30 MKI is a state of the art all weather multi role fighter aircraft capable of undertaking varied air combat and ground attack missions.
●    The ’Valiants’ were formed as an offensive fighter squadron on 14 Feb 1963 at Barrackpore with Sqn Ldr N Chatrath as the first Commanding Officer. 
●    The Squadron was than equipped with three types of aircraft namely the Vampires, Spitfire, Hurricane and Su-7 aircraft. The squadron has changed many bases during its fifty four years long journey and has taken part in 1971 War and Kargil operations. 
●    Su-7 aircraft of the Valiants roared over East Pakistan in support of the Indian Army’s blitzkrieg advance in 1971. 
●    The ‘Valiants’, operating the MiG-23s, were the first ones to fire weapons on the enemy during the Kargil war. Many of the squadron pilots have been decorated with gallantry awards over the years.

Government Printing Press to be upgraded at a cost of Rs.338 cr

Modernisation and redevelopment of Government of India Printing Press at Minto Road in New Delhi will be taken up at a cost of Rs.338.56 cr.
●    Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu has accepted the recommendation of the Standing Finance Committee in this regard.
●    The present building of the Press will be redeveloped at a cost of Rs.238.56 cr into three blocks of Ground plus six floors suitable to locate the modern technology and equipment to be installed at a cost of Rs.100 cr.
●    At present, the machines and equipment being used are of 1980-2005 vintage and some of them installed as early as in 1968, resulting in high cost of production, demand for printing not being met in time besides non-availability of spare parts requiring their refabrication.
●    With redevelopment and modernisation, the production capacity of the Government of India Printing Press at Minto Road in the national capital will increase from the present 16 lakh pages per day (60 cr pages per year)of A-5 size to 45 lakh pages per day (164.96 cr pages per year) marking an increase of 177% in production capacity. Multi-colour printing, which is not available presently will be made available.

ECI issues letter of intent for purchase of 16,15,000 VVPATs

Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a letter of intent for purchase of 16,15,000 Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails( VVPATs) at an estimated cost of Rs 3,173.47 crore during 2017-18 and 2018-19 from PSUs BEL and ECIL. 
●    In its letter sent to CMDs of ECIL and BEL on Friday (21st April) , the Commission has communicated its intent for purchase 8,07,500 VVPATs from each PSUs by September 2018.
●    These VVPATs shall be manufactured by both PSUs only as per the design approved by the Commission based on recommendation of the Technical Experts Committee on EVMs constituted by the Commission & comprising of eminent technical professors from IITs. 
●    The Commission shall closely monitor the production of VVPATs for timely delivery well before General Elections 2019.
●    On 19th April, 2017, in compliance of the order of Hon’ble Supreme Court and as per the recommendation of the Election Commission of India, the Government had approved Rs 3173.47 crore for the procurement of 16,15,000 VVPATs to be used in ensuing elections and General Elections 2019.

Make in India gets metro boost; local procurement made mandatory

With rapid expansion of metro rail projects in the country, Ministry of Urban Development has taken several far reaching decisions to promote Make in India campaign. 
●    These include stipulating certain mandatory conditions to be incorporated in Tender Documents of metro companies for procurement of metro cars and related critical equipment and subsystems, procurement of only Made in India signaling equipment besides standardizing technical parameters for rolling stock (metro coaches) and signaling equipment.
●    The new mandatory Tender Conditions and standardized norms for a wide range of equipment, approved by the Minister of Urban Development Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu have been circulated to all the metro companies on Friday this week making them effective immediately.
●    These initiatives will incentivize  setting up manufacturing facilities in the country by increasing the volumes of procurement of rolling stock and all kinds of equipment by removing variations in the present technical norms for rolling stock and signaling equipment. 
●    This will in turn result in reduction of cost through economies of scale.

Current Affairs 24th April 2017: AWARDS

Film Director & Actor Shri Kasinadhuni Viswanath to be conferred Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2016

Renowned Film Director & Actor Shri Kasinadhuni Viswanath is to be conferred the 48th Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2016. I&B Minister Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today approved the recommendation of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award committee.
●    The Award is conferred by the Government of India for outstanding contribution to the growth and development of Indian Cinema. The Award consists of a Swarn Kamal (Golden Lotus), a cash prize of Rs. 10 lakhs and a shawl. 
●    The Award shall be conferred by the President of India At a function on May 3rd2017 at Vigyan Bhawan.
●    A presenter of classical and traditional art, music and dance, Shri K Viswanath has been a guiding force in the Indian film industry. 
●    As a director he has made fifty films since 1965 known for their strong content, endearing narrative, honest handling and cultural authenticity. 
●    His films on wide range of social & human issues had great appeal to the masses.
●    Shri K Viswanath was born in February 1930 at Gudivada In Andhra Pradesh. An ardent art lover, he made a series of films based on varied themes of art, music and dance. 
●    His films empathized with courage and frailty, aspirations and convictions, perseverance and distractions, social demands and individual struggle and at the core believed in the goodness of the human spirit.

Current Affairs 24th April 2017: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Indian Warships Visit Toulon, France

In continuation of the Indian Navy’s overseas deployment to the Mediterranean Sea and West Coast of Africa, three Indian warships INS Mumbai, Trishul, and Aditya, arrived at Toulon for a three day visit today. 
●    The ships were warmly received by the Administration in Toulon and the French Navy at Toulon Naval Base in coordination with the Embassy of India. 
●    The visiting ships are a part of the Indian Navy’s Western Naval Command and the Task Group is headed by Rear Admiral RB Pandit, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, who is flying his flag on the guided missile destroyer, INS Mumbai. 
●    On completion of the visit at Toulon, bilateral exercise Varuna between the Indian Navy and the French Navy is scheduled from 24 to 30 Apr 17. 
●    The VARUNA series of exercises began in 2000 and have grown into an institutionalised form of interaction between the two navies. The last VARUNA exercise was held off the Indian coast. 
●    The current visit seeks to underscore India’s peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly and like minded countries towards ensuring good order in the maritime domain and to strengthen the existing bonds between India and France. 
●    The visit of Vice Admiral Girish Luthra, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Naval Command to France, coinciding with the visit of the IN ships to France and conduct of Exercise VARUNA, amply demonstrate the Indian Navy’s engagement with the French Navy.

1st ‘India Indonesia Energy Forum’ held in Jakarta 

Union Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines, Shri Piyush Goyal and H.E. Mr. Ignasius Jonan, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, Republic of Indonesia met on 20th April, 2017 for the 1st ‘India Indonesia Energy Forum’, held in Jakarta, Indonesia. 
●    The Energy Forum was preceded by 2nd Joint Working Group (JWG) on Oil and Gas, 4th Joint Working Group on Coal and 1st Joint Working Group on New and Renewable Energy. 
●    The reports of three Joint Working Groups were presented to two Ministers during the Energy Forum. 
●    The 2nd JWG on Oil and Gas discussed policy framework of India and Indonesia, oil and gas infrastructure development, cooperation opportunities in capacity building and business opportunities in oil and gas sector in both countries. 
●    Representatives of major Indian companies in oil and gas sector such as ONCG Videsh Limited, Petronet LNG Limited, Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) participated in the JWG. 
●    Indonesian companies such as PT Pertamina, PT Triputra, PT Nusantara Regas, Medco Energy and PT PGN were also represented.