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Capsule on Current Affairs November, 2016

National School of Banking H.O.: Mumbai

Hyderabad & Vijayawada Branches

Hyderabad: 103, First Floor, Delta Chambers, Opp. to Kakatiya Mess, Lane adjacent to Chennai Shopping Mall, Ameerpet, Hyderabad – 500 016. Ph: 9908600600 Vijayawada: Second Floor, Above Canara Bank, Nandamuri Road, Lane adjacent to Chandana Grand, M.G.Road, Vijayawada 500 020. Ph: 8142600600

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National School of Banking H.O.: Mumbai Hyderabad: 9908600600 Vijayawada: 8142600600

Nov 1, 2016 World’s largest Marine Protected Area declared in Antarctica The Ross Sea, a deep bay of the Southern Ocean in Antarctica, was declared as world’s largest Marine Protected Area (MPA) on 28 October 2016. With this, there will be a blanket ban on commercial fishing across about three quarters of that area for 35 years. India wins five-match ODI series against New Zealand, 3-2 India on 29 October 2016 won the five-match ODI series against New Zealand, 3-2. In the fifth match played at Visakhapatnam, India defeated New Zealand by 190 runs. India, Palestine sign MoU for setting up of Techno Park in Ramallah India and Palestine on 31 October 2016 signed a Memorandum of Understanding for setting up of Palestine-India Techno Park in Ramallah. India has announced grant of 12 million US dollars for setting up the Park. Palestinian side has made the land available for the project. India beats Pakistan to win Asian Champions Trophy India on 30 October 2016 won the 4th edition of the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy for men. India defeated Pakistan 3-2 to reclaim the Asian Champions Trophy title. Lewis Hamilton wins 2016 Mexican Grand Prix Lewis Hamilton on 30 October 2016 outpaced Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg to win the 2016 Mexican Grand Prix. Rashtriya Ekta Diwas observed across India Rashtriya Ekta Diwas was observed across India on 31 October 2016 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Iron Man of India Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Himachal Pradesh becomes India’s second open defecation free state Himachal Pradesh on 28 October 2016 was declared India’s second Open Defecation Free (ODF) State. The first state to achieve the feat was Sikkim. 51st Haryana Day observed The 51st Haryana Day was observed on 1 November 2016. The day was observed as Haryana Golden Jubilee (Swarna Jyanti) across the state. Union Government notifies rules for Real Estate Act for five UTs The Union Government on 31 October 2016 notified the rules for Real Estate (Regulation and Development) (General) Rules, 2016 that seeks to regulate the housing sector besides bringing transparency and ensuring timely completion of projects in five Union Territories. 10th Indo-Nepal joint exercise Surya Kiran commences Indo-Nepal joint military exercise Surya Kiran-X commenced on 31 October 2016 at Army Battle School, Saljhandi, Nepal. The exercise will conclude on 13 November 2016. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel remembered on his 141st birth anniversary Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Home Minister of India and former Deputy Prime Minister, was in news on 31 October 2016. The Iron Man of India came into news on his 141st birth anniversary. His

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birth anniversary is celebrated as National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas). The theme for the 2016 Rashtriya Ekta Diwas was Integration of India. Nov 2, 2016 Sushil Chandra takes over as Chairman of CBDT Indian Revenue Service Officer Sushil Chandra on 1 November 2016 took over as the Chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). Benami Transactions Amendment Act to curb black money comes into effect The Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016 came into effect on 1 November 2016. The Act was formulated to curb black money. State-wise Ease of Doing Business rankings released Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Nirmala Sitharaman on 31 October 2016 released State-wise Ease of Doing Business rankings in New Delhi. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have topped the list in the Ease of Doing Business rankings. International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists observed globally 2 November: International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists was observed globally on 2 November 2016. Candidate’s election could be annulled for declaring false educational qualifications: SC Supreme Court on 1 November 2016 ruled that election of a candidate could be set aside for making false declaration on educational qualifications in the nomination paper. It held that the right to vote would be meaningless unless citizens were well-informed about the antecedents of candidates, including their educational qualification. CVC asked banks to report frauds of Rs one crore and above The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) in October 2016 asked the public sector banks to share their reports relating to all loan frauds involving funds over one crore rupees. Till date, such reports were shared with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) only. Maharashtra most farmer friendly state: NITI Aayog Index NITI Aayog on 31 October 2016 launched the first ever Agricultural Marketing & Farm Friendly Reforms Index. The index was topped by Maharashtra. Vigilance Awareness Week observed across India Vigilance Awareness Week was observed across India beginning from 31 October 2016 to promote probity in public life and achieve a corruption free society. Kerala becomes third open defecation-free state of India Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on 2 November 2016 declared Kerala as Open Defecation Free” (ODF) state. With this, Kerala became third state to achieve this status.

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IFFI to honour Im Kwon-taek with Lifetime Achievement Award Union Information and Broadcasting Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu on 1 November 2016 announced that renowned South Korean director Im Kwon-taek will be honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the upcoming 47th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. Arnab Goswami resigns as Editor-in-Chief of Times Now Arnab Goswami on 1 November 2016 resigned as the Editor-in-Chief of Times Now, the Bennett Coleman & Co. Ltd-run news channel. Rishi Jaitly, Twitter’s India head, resigns Twitter India Head Rishi Jaitly on 1 November 2016 resigned from the company. He made the announcement on his twitter handle. Nov 3, 2016 Indian shuttler Pratul wins men’s singles title at Bahrain International Challenge Indian shuttler Pratul Joshi on 30 October 2016 won the men’s singles title of the Bahrain International Challenge badminton tournament. This was his maiden international title. Bindeshwar Pathak appointed as brand ambassador of Swachh Rail Mission Ministry of Railways on 2 November 2016 appointed Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, the founder of Sulabh International, as a Brand Ambassador for Swachh Rail Mission. Minister of Railway Suresh Prabhu felicitated Pathak at a function in New Delhi. PM Narendra Modi launches Saur Sujala Yojana in Chhattisgarh Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 1 November 2016 launched the Saur Sujala Yojana in Chhattisgarh. The scheme aims at providing solar powered irrigation pumps to farmers at a subsidized price. Freedom of the Press 2016 report released Freedom House, a non-government watchdog, on 2 November 2015 released the Freedom of the Press 2016 report. The report was released with theme, The Battle for the Dominant Message. As per the annual report, press freedom declined to its lowest point in 12 years in 2015. It happened because the political, criminal, and terrorist forces sought to co-opt or silence the media in their broader struggle for power. Sarabjit Singh Marwah becomes Canada’s first Sikh Senator Kolkata-born Sarabjit Singh Marwah on 2 November 2016 became the first Sikh to be appointed to the Canadian Senate. SC grants pension to fake freedom fighters The Supreme Court (SC) on 2 November 2016 granted pension to the fake freedom fighters on humanitarian grounds. However, on the other hand, the court ordered inquiry into alleged forging of freedom fighter certificates to claim pension. PM Narendra Modi presents Ramnath Goenka Awards for Excellence in Journalism Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 2 November 2016 presented the Ramnath Goenka Awards for Excellence in Journalism at a function in New Delhi.

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NASA completes construction of James Webb Space Telescope The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on 2 November 2016 completed the construction of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) after more than 20 years of hard work. RBI directs banks to dispense more 100 rupees notes through ATMs The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 2 November 2016 directed all the banks to dispense more 100 rupees notes through ATMs within the next 15 days. IISER researchers develop Gelator to scoop out marine oil spills The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Thiruvananthapuram, developed a compound, called Gelator, to scoop out marine oil spills. Sports Ministry tells NSFs to identify 2020 Olympics Medal Prospects The Union Sports Ministry on 2 November 2016 directed the National Sports Federations (NSFs) to shortlist names of potential medalists along with their support staff for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. They have been asked to submit the list by 30 November 2016. Kristalina Georgieva appointed as CEO of IBRD & IDA of World Bank Kristalina Georgieva was on 2 November 2016 appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank Group with effect from January 2017. Mariano Rajoy re-elected as Prime Minister of Spain Mariano Rajoy on 29 October 2016 was re-elected as the Prime Minister of Spain after winning a parliamentary vote. 170 lawmakers voted for him, 111 against and 68 abstained. Nov 4, 2016 Union Government to set up $2 bn clean energy equity fund for additional renewable energy Union Government in November 2016 decided to launch a 2 billion US dollar clean energy equity fund. The fund is being created to support government’s ambitious target of adding 175 GW renewable energy generation capacity by 2022. Dubai International Film Festival to honour Rekha with a Lifetime Achievement Award Indian actor Rekha will be honoured by the upcoming Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF) with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The festival will commence on 7 December 2016 and will conclude on 14 December 2016. UK High Court puts brakes on BREXIT; Britain government to fight ruling The High Court of United Kingdom on 3 November 2016 ruled that Government does not have the power to invoke Article 50 of the European Union treaty. It held that Prime Minister Theresa May can’t start the BREXIT process without approval from Parliament. Shamik Chowdhury wins the German Green Talent award Indian researcher Shamik Chowdhury in the last week of October 2016 was awarded the German Green Talent Award. His name is among the list of 25 young researchers who have been honoured with the award.

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NDTV India ordered to be taken off air for 24 hours An Inter-Ministerial Committee of the Information and Broadcasting Ministry in the first week of November 2016 asked for one-day ban on a leading Hindi News Channel, NDTV India from 12.01 A.M. of 9 November to 12.01 A.M. of 10 November 2016. Sanjiv Arora appointed as India’s Ambassador to Lebanon Sanjiv Arora, an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, was on 31 October 2016 appointed as the Ambassador of India to the Republic of Lebanon by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Lebanon, officially known as the Lebanese Republic, is a sovereign state in Western Asia. Paris Agreement on Climate Change officially enters into force The Paris Agreement officially entered into force on 4 November 2016. The agreement deals with greenhouse gases emissions mitigation, adaptation and finance. Sri Lankan singer Pandit Amaradeva passes away Gegendary Sri Lankan singer and composer Pandit Amaradeva passed away on 3 November 2016 following a cardiac arrest. He was 88. GST Council fixes four tier tax structure under Goods and Services Tax The GST council on 3 November 2016 approved four tier tax structure of 5, 12, 18 and 28 percent under the proposed Goods and Services Tax (GST). Nov 5, 2016 Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2016 observed Global Media and Information Literacy Week 2016 observed from 31 October to 5 November 2016. The Global MIL Week was organised under the theme Media and Information Literacy: New Paradigms for Intercultural Dialogue. Google ties up with ASI for virtual tour of monuments Google on 3 November 2016 tied up with Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for 360 degree virtual tour of 280-odd monuments across the country. First World Tsunami Awareness Day observed The First World Tsunami Awareness Day was observed across the world on 5 November 2016. The theme for the year is Effective Education and Evacuation Drills. In December 2015, the United Nations General Assembly designated 5 November as World Tsunami Awareness Day. 6th Indo-Bangla joint military exercise SAMPRITI commences Indo-Bangla joint military training exercise SAMPRITI commenced on 5 November 26 at Tangail, Dhaka. Nov 6, 2016 Parminder Singh resigns as Managing Director of Twitter’s MENA region Parminder Singh on 3 November 2016 resigned as the Managing Director (MD) of Southeast Asia, India, Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region of Twitter.

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Former J&K Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma passes away Former Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma passed away on 3 November 2016 following a prolonged illness. He was 85. He is survived by six sons. International Day for Preventing Exploitation of Environment in War and Armed Conflict observed 6 November: International Day for Preventing Exploitation of Environment in War and Armed Conflict The International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict was observed globally on 6 November 2016. Nov 7, 2016 Indian Women’s hockey team defeated China 2-1 to lift Asian Champions Trophy 2016 Indian Women’s hockey team on 5 November 2016 lifted the Asian Champions Trophy 2016 in Singapore. In the summit clash, India defeated China 2-1. Petra Kvitova wins 2016 WTA Elite Singles Trophy Czech Republic’s Petra Kvitova on 6 November 2016 won the 2016 WTA Elite Singles Trophy. She defeated Ukrainian Elina Svitolina 6-4, 6-2 to grab the title at Zhuhai, China. Henri Kontinen and John Peers win 2016 BNP Paribas Masters Doubles title Henri Kontinen and John Peers on 6 November 2016 won the ATP World Tour Masters 1000 team title at the BNP Paribas Masters in Paris. India rises to second spot on global business optimism index: IBR Report Grant Thornton released its International Business Report 2016. The report ranks India at the second position on the global business optimism index during the third quarter (July-September 2016). New Delhi Declaration, Sendai Framework Plan adopted at AMCDRR 2016 The Asian Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR) 2016 on 5 November 2016 came to an end with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration and the Asian Regional Plan for Implementation of the Sendai Framework. Researchers discover biomarkers to identify drug-resistant TB Researchers from Mumbai in November 2016 identified two biomarkers in serum samples that could help in TB diagnosis and TB disease prognosis. The identified microRNA biomarkers could be used for drug-sensitive pulmonary TB and multi-drug resistant TB (MDR-TB) patients. World’s first zero-emissions hydrogen train, Coradia iLint, unveiled in Germany World’s first hydrogen-powered and zero-emission passenger train was unveiled in September 2016 in Germany. HCC becomes first company to get RBI approval for debt recast under S4A scheme The RBI-mandated Overseeing Committee (OC) under the S4A approved HCC’s 5107 crore rupees debt recast that was passed by ICICI Bank-led joint lender forum in September 2016. Aniruddha Rajput elected as Member of International Law Commission of UN Indian lawyer Aniruddha Rajput was on 4 November 2016 elected as a Member of International Law Commission (ILC), a top body of legal experts of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

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Operation School Chalo launched in South Kashmir Indian Army in the first week of November 2016 launched ‘Operation School Chalo’ in South Kashmir. The operation is aimed at providing students with free coaching after their regular education system was interrupted by spiraling violence, protests by militants and their supporters triggered by the encounter killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani. Nov 8, 2016 Union Government launches Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan The Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare J P Nadda in the first week of November 2016 launched Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) in New Delhi. Indian Army’s Demchok mission completed The Indian army on 6 November 2016 successfully completed its task of laying an irrigation pipeline in the Demchok region of Eastern Ladakh despite a three-day face-off with the Chinese troops over the construction work. RBI issues Clarifications on Hedging for External Commercial Borrowings The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 7 November 2016 issued the Clarifications on hedging for External Commercial Borrowings (ECB). India, UK signed two pacts including cooperation in the field of intellectual property India and the United Kingdom on 7 November 2016 inked two pacts to boost cordial relations between the two nations. The pacts were inked during the visit of Theresa May, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom to India. Vice President Hamid Ansari releases book titled An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India: Shashi Tharoor M. Hamid Ansari, Vice President of India, on 5 November 2016 released the book titled An Era of Darkness: The British Empire in India. The book is authored by Shashi Tharoor. Hadi Abdullah wins 2016 RSF-TV5 Monde Press Freedom Prize Syrian freelance journalist Hadi Abdullah on 8 November 2016 was awarded with Reporters Borders (RSF)-TV5 Monde prize. Abdullah, 29, was awarded in the journalist category for reporting from some of the most perilous zones in his country’s five-year-old war. Ratnesh Kumar appointed MD and CEO of BoB Capital Markets Bank of Baroda (BoB) on 7 November 2016 appointed Ratnesh Kumar as Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its wholly-owned investment banking subsidiary, BoB Capital Markets Ltd. President Pranab Mukherjee presents Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam IGNITE Awards President Pranab Mukherjee on 7 November 2016 presented the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam IGNITE Awards to the winning children of IGNITE competition at Rashtrapati Bhavan. IGNITE competition was organized by the National Innovation Foundation (NIF). Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam IGNITE competition It is a national competition of original technological ideas and innovations by children up to class 12 or those out of school up to the age of 17 years.

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Union Government approves liberalised blacklisting norms for arms companies The Defence Acquisitions Council (DAC), under the Union Government, on 7 November 2016 approved the guidelines for suspension or banning of business dealings with arms companies. Pinaka multiple-launch rocket systems It approved the tender for 6 more Pinaka regiments for 14633 crore rupees. Army has already inducted 2 of the 4 Pinaka regiments cleared earlier. Janet Reno, first female U.S. Attorney General, dies Janet Reno, the first woman to serve as U.S. Attorney General, passed away on 7 November 2016 at Miami, Florida. She was 78. India and UK released Joint Statement India and the United Kingdom released a Joint Statement on 7 November 2015 to strengthen their strategic partnership. The joint statement was released after meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Theresa May in Delhi. Vinod Rai appointed as Chairman of Fund Trustee and Advisory Commission of Kerala Vinod Rai was on 7 November 2016 appointed as the Chairman of Fund Trustee and Advisory Commission of Kerala. 39 th Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation Awards conferred The 39th Jamnalal Bajaj Foundation Awards for the year 2016 were conferred on 7 November 2016 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Government Bans Tender of Rs 500 & Rs 1000 Currency 08 November 2016 Midnight Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that 1000 and 500 rupees notes will cease to be legal tender from midnight 8-9 November 2016. The announcement was made via a special nationwide televised address on 8 November 2016. Nov 9, 2016 RBI issues new series of Rs 500 & Rs 2000 notes with improved features The Reserve Bank of India on 8 November 2016 issued new series of notes for 500 rupees and 2000 rupees denomination with improved features and newer sizes. Both the designs will be very friendly towards the visually-impaired by having features which make it accessible for all sections. The RBI said, 2000 rupees note, which is a first under the denomination, will be called as the ‘Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series’ and has a design of the low-cost mission to Mars, the Mangalayan, on the reverse. It said that the base colour of the note will be magenta. SC asks government to devise Common Minimum Programme to deal with pollution The Supreme Court on 8 November 2016 asked the Union Government to devise a common minimum programme to deal with rising pollution. It has given 48 hours to the government to respond. Amitav Ghosh to be honored with Tata Literature Live! Lifetime Achievement Award Tata on 8 November 2016 announced that Tata Literature Live! Lifetime Achievement Award for 2016 will be conferred on acclaimed author Amitav Ghosh.

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Withdrawal of Legal Tender Character of the existing Bank Notes and associated FAQs The Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a special nationwide televised address on 8 November 2016 announced that the 1000 and 500 rupees notes will cease to be legal tender from midnight 8- 9 November 2016. Uttarakhand High Court directs declaring hill stations as eco-sensitive The Uttarakhand High Court on 8 November 2016 ordered all hill stations and glaciers in the state to be declared as eco-sensitive within three months. The order also demands putting a ban on all construction within 25 km radius of the glaciers. Seventh edition of the Conference of the Parties begins in Noida The seventh session of the Conference of the Parties (COP7) to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) kicked off on 7 November 2016 in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. RBI notifies withdrawal of Legal Tender Character of existing 500 and 1000 rupees bank notes The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 8 November 2016 notified withdrawal of legal tender of 500 and 1000 rupees denominations of Bank Notes of the existing series issued by RBI with effect from 9 November 2016. Narendra Modi to be mascot of Incredible India campaig The Union Tourism Ministry is all set to name Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the mascot of its ‘Incredible India’ campaign. US Presidential Elections 2016: Donald Trump declared winner US Republican Donald Trump on 9 November 2016 won the US presidential elections in a stunning victory. He won the elections by 276 seats. Nov 10, 2016 Global Rajasthan Agritech meet begins in Jaipur Global Rajasthan Agritech Meet (GRAM), a three-day international event, began in Jaipur on 9 November 2016. The main focus of the meet is to double the income of farmers through suitable technologies and agricultural activities. India’s first LNG-powered bus launched in Kerala India’s first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) driven bus was launched on 8 November 2016 in Kerala. Deposits above Rs 2.5 lakh to face tax, penalty on mismatch Union Government on 9 November 2016 announced that cash deposits above 2.5 lakh rupees threshold under the 50-day window could attract tax plus a 200 percent penalty in case of income mismatch. Public Opinion on withdrawal of biggest notes of Indian Currency On 8 November evening, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a nationwide televised address announced that 1000 and 500 rupees notes will cease to be legal tender from midnight 8-9 November 2016.

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Kamala Harris becomes first ever Indian-American to win U.S. Senator seat California’s Attorney General Kamala Harris on 9 November 2016 became the first India- American to win the U.S. Senate seat from the state. Protocol amending India-Japan tax pact released A protocol amending the Double Taxation Avoidance Convention (DTAC) signed between India and Japan came into force on 29 October 2016 on completion of procedural requirements by both the countries. The amendment aims to promote transparency and cooperation between the two countries. The DTAC pact for avoidance of double taxation and prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income was signed on 11 December 2015. Scientists detect water on metallic asteroid Psyche Scientists have recently detected the presence of water on the metallic asteroid named Psyche. Psyche is the largest metallic asteroid in the solar system. The study was published in the Astronomical Journal in November 2016 under the auspices of the US Geological Survey and NASA. The Study was authored by Joshua Emery, Associate Professor of Planetary Science and Driss Takir, a US Geological Survey scientist based in Flagstaff, Arizona. Pramila Jayapal becomes first Indian-American woman to be elected to U.S. House Pramila Jayapal on 9 November 2016 became the first Indian-American woman to be elected to the U.S. House of Representative. She won the Senate seat from state of Washington. 1st International Agro-biodiversity Congress concluded with adoption of Delhi Declaration The 1st International Agro-biodiversity Congress that was held in New Delhi from 6 November to 9 November 2016 concluded with adoption of Delhi Declaration on Agro-biodiversity Management. The event saw participation of 900 participants from 60 countries. Union Government launches Pradhan Mantri Yuva Yojana The Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) on 9 November 2016 launched the Pradhan Mantri YUVA Yojana to boost up an ecosystem of entrepreneurship for young people. World Science Day for Peace and Development 2016 observed across the world 10 November: World Science Day for Peace and Development The World Science Day for Peace and Development 2016 was observed on 10 November 2016 across the world. The theme for 2016 is Celebrating Science Centres and Science Museums. Trump surprises with a gracious victory speech! The United States of America on 9 November 2016 chose Republican candidate Donald J Trump as its new President elect. Trump defeated Democrat opponent Hillary Clinton with a massive sweep in votes. Nov 11, 2016 Union Government launched Healthy India Initiative magazine and No More Tension mobile app The Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, J P Nadda, on 9 November 2016 launched Healthy India Initiative/Swastha Bharat-ek pehal magazine and No More Tension mobile App. The initiatives were launched for promotion of health and to strengthen the health communications programmes.

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Radio Kashmir Jammu starts Morning Gojri News Bulletin The regional news Unit of Radio Kashmir Jammu on 10 November 2016 started morning news bulletin in Gojri language. The five minutes Gojri news bulletin will be aired at 10:15am daily from the transmitters of Radio Kashmir Jammu. Anil Bokil: The real brain behind the currency withdrawal move he sudden and path-breaking decision of the withdrawal of 500 and 1000 Rupee currency notes by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi managed to create inconvenience among people at all levels. After the announcement, many people were seen in queues near the ATMs. Mumbai’s Western Railways wins Surjit Trophy Mumbai’s Western Railways women’s team on 10 November 2016 won the 33rd Indian Oil Servo Surjit Hockey Tournament. Union Government launches digital initiative Smart India Hackathon 2017 Union Human Resource Development (HRD) Minister Prakash Javadekar on 10 November 2016 inaugurated Smart India Hackathon 2017, world’s largest digital national building initiative. The Government also unveiled the first set of 250 problem statements that the students will be required to solve during the Hackathon that will take place in early 2017. Competition Commission of India selected to host ICN 2018 Annual Conference The International Competition Network (ICN) on 9 November 2016 announced that the Competition Commission of India (CCI) would host the 2018 ICN Annual Conference. Punjab’s 2004 law terminating SYL agreement unconstitutional: Supreme Court The Supreme Court of India held Punjab Government’s 2004 law, terminating the Sutlej- Yamuna Link (SYL) canal water sharing agreement, as unconstitutional. Marta Jakimowicz selected for Lifetime Achievement Award 2016 by Lalithakala Academy Poland-born art critic Marta Jakimowicz was on 10 November 2016 selected for the Lifetime Achievement Award 2016 by the Karnataka Lalithakala Academy. Guy Ryder re-elected as Director-General of International Labour Organization Guy Ryder on 7 November 2016 was re-elected as the Director-General (DG) of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) for another five-year term. He will assume the post the on 1 October 2017. Nov 12, 2016 China launches pulsar navigation satellite XPNAV-1 China on 10 November 2016 launched a pulsar test satellite XPNAV-1 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. The satellite was carried by a Long March-11 rocket. Noted geophysicist Janardhan Negi passes away Noted geophysicist Janardhan G Negi passed away on 10 November 2016 in Hyderabad following a brief illness. He was 81. Twitter’s Chief Operating Officer Adam Bain quits Twitter on 9 November 2016 announced that Adam Bain, its Chief Operating Officer (COO), plans to leave the company.

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Jacob Zuma survives opposition’s no-confidence motion Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa, survived yet another no confidence vote in the parliament. The country’s ruling party, African National Congress (ANC) voted against opposition’s motion demanding for Zuma’s removal. India, Japan signed 10 agreements including nuclear deal, space, agriculture India and Japan signed ten agreements to boost the bilateral cooperation between the two nations. The agreements were inked on 11 November 2016 in presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe. Nov 13, 2016 Meng Hongwei elected as Interpol President Meng Hongwei, a top-level Chinese Security Minister was elected as the president of the International Crime fighting and police cooperation organization (Interpol). Meng will serve as President until 2020. INSV Mhadei Flagged Off with an all-women crew Indian Navy Sailing Vessel (INSV) Mhadei with an all-women crew was flagged off from Goa to Cape Town, South Africa. The vessel was flagged-off at the Boat Pool of INS Mandovi on 9 November 2016 by Rear Admiral Monty Khanna, Commandant Naval War College. Sharapova to return as UN goodwill ambassador United Nations in a statement said that the tennis star Maria Sharapova will once again be its goodwill ambassador. She will be re-appointed as UN Goodwill ambassador after her doping ban expires in April 2017 and she returns to international tennis competition. Nov 14, 2016 Union Government launches ‘Kahin Bhi-Kabhi Bhi’ medical facilities for ESIC beneficiaries of Delhi Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) launched ‘Kahin Bhi-Kabhi Bhi’ medical facilities for its beneficiaries of Delhi. Kahin Bhi means any dispensary/Hospital and Kabhi Bhi means anytime. Gujarat government to open generic medicine stores for poor patients Gujarat government has decided to start Deendayal generic medicine stores to sell generic medicines. These stores will remain open 24 hours and sell around 1000 generic drugs to the poor patients at 40 to 80 percent lower rates. Tejaswin smashes 12yr old national senior record in high jump Tejaswin Shankar, a 17-year-old boy from Delhi, smashed the 12-year-old national senior record of high jump with an effort of 2.26 meter. World Diabetes Day 2016 observed across the world 14 November: World Diabetes Day The World Diabetes Day 2016 was observed across the world on 14 November with the theme Eyes on Diabetes. Nov 15, 2016 World Pneumonia Day observed with theme Keep the Promise, Stop Pneumonia Now 12 November: World Pneumonia Day

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World Pneumonia Day 2016 was observed on 12 November 2016 across the world with the theme Keep the Promise, Stop Pneumonia Now. Aditi Ashok becomes first Indian to win Ladies European Tour title Indian golfer Aditi Ashok on 13 November 2016 became the first Indian woman to win a Ladies European Tour title by clinching the Hero Women’s Indian Open. India, US launched USD 95 million clean energy projects As part of its efforts to continue the global transition to zero-and-low carbon energy sources, the United States (US) has announced two financial projects worth 95 million US dollars for India. The projects announced on 14 November 2016 aims at bringing more energy-efficient appliances to rural sector of the country. First set of new 500 banknotes rolled out in SBI branches The State Bank of India (SBI) launched the first set of newly issued 500 rupee notes in their Bhopal branch on 13 November 2016. Jackie Chan receives Honorary Oscar at 8th Annual Governors Awards Action movie star, writer, director and martial artist Jackie Chan on 12 November 2016 was awarded the honorary Academy (Oscar) Award for his extraordinary achievements in the movies. 2 Lakh diesel vehicles go off road in Delhi The order covers all diesel vehicles older than 15 years. Along with barring them from the roads, the NGT has also banned them from being parked in the capital. 2016 likely to be hottest year on record: World Meteorological Organization The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on 14 November 2016 announced that the year 2016 is very likely be the hottest year on record. It stated that 2016 will likely surpass the previous hottest year, 2015. New trade route via Gwadar port inaugurated in Pakistan Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, on 13 November 2016 inaugurated the operational activities of the strategic Gwadar Port, located in the south-western Balochistan Province. Nov 16, 2016 Narinder Batra elected as International Hockey Federation’s President Narinder Batra, chief of Hockey India was elected as the new president of International Hockey Federation (FIH) on 12 November 2016 at the 45th FIH Congress held in Dubai. Amoung 118 voters, only 110 voted while eight chose not to vote. India and ADB sign 500 million US dollar loan to build country’s longest river bridge across Ganges River The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India on 15 November 2016 signed a 500 million US dollar loan to build a 9.8 km long road bridge across the Ganges River. This will be India’s longest river bridge.

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India, Israel inked two agreements on water resource management and Agriculture India and Israel inked two agreements in the field of water resources management and agriculture. The agreements were inked on 15 November 2016 after the delegation level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Israeli President Reuven Rivlin in New Delhi. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin is on an eight-day visit to India (from 14 November to 21 November 2016). This was his first ever visit to India and first by any Israeli President in past two decades. The last and first President of Israel to visit India was Ezer Weizman in 1997. Task force led by SS Mundra formed to recalibrate ATMs Following the existing problem in which the Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are failing to cope with the huge cash demand of people, Reserve Bank of India on 14 November 2016 constituted an eight-member task force to re-calibrate all ATMs. Bodies involved in re-calibration Re-calibration of ATMs involves multiple agencies like banks, ATM manufacturers, Switch Operators, National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI), and more. These multiple activities make re-calibration a complex operation and require coordination among all these agencies. Tata Global Beverages replaces Cyrus Mistry as Chairman The Board of Tata Global Beverages on 15 November 2016 voted to remove Cyrus Mistry as the Chairman of the company. Padmini Rout wins National Women Premier Championship for third time International Chess Master Padmini Rout on 14 November 2016 won the National Women Premier Chess Championship for the third time. APEC Forum’s Week begins in Lima The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum’s week kicked off at Lima, capital city of the South American country Peru. The week that began on 14 November 2016 will run on till 20 November 2016. International Day for Tolerance 2016 observed across the world 16 November: International Day for Tolerance The International Day for Tolerance was observed globally on 16 November 2016. The Day aims at educating masses about the need for tolerance in society and helping them understand the negative effects of intolerance. Lewis Hamilton wins Brazilian Grand Prix Lewis Hamilton beat against all odds to secure first position at the recently concluded Brazilian Grand Prix 2016 in Interlagos circuit, Sao Paulo. Heavy downpour made the race one of the wettest ever. Maharashtra becomes first Indian state to adopt Fly Ash Utilisation Policy Maharashtra on 15 November 2016 became the first Indian state to adopt Fly Ash Utilisation Policy. The policy will pave way for prosperity by creating wealth from waste, and environment protection. Union Cabinet approves creation of ‘Special committee for inter-linking rivers’ project The Union Cabinet gave its approval for creation of a ‘special committee’ in accordance to an order passed by the Supreme Court in 2012 for inter-linking of Indian rivers.

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Nov 17, 2016 SBI writes off debts owed by 63 willful defaulters The State Bank of India (SBI), has decided to write off loans worth almost 7016 Crore Rupees, owed to it by 63 willful defaulters including Vijay Mallya’s Kingfisher Airlines. Revamped Aadhaar toll-free helpline number launched The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on 16 November 2016 launched a revamped version of its toll-free helpline number 1947. The number is revamped to handle more incoming calls. Hunar Haat organised at 2016 India International Trade Fair Hunar Haat: An exhibition to promote arts and crafts of traditional artisans The Union Government on 15 November 2016 inaugurated Hunar Haat (Skill Haat) exhibition at India International Trade Fair (2016) at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. The exhibition aims at supporting and promoting artisans from minority communities and providing them domestic as well as international market to display and sell their products. “Post-truth” named Word of the Year for 2016 by Oxford Dictionaries The word Post Truth was named as word of the year 2016 by Oxford Dictionaries on 16 November 2016. The word was selected after research conducted by Oxford Dictionaries revealed a fact that the use of word post-truth saw an increase of about 2000 percent over its usage in 2015. 20 nations sign Framework Agreement of International Solar Alliance More than 20 countries, including Brazil, France and India, on 15 November 2016 signed the framework agreement of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) at Marrakech, Morocco. Chhattisgarh: First state to adopt resolution on demonetisation Chhattisgarh became the first state of India to adopt a resolution that welcomes the demonetisation scheme of the union government. The resolution was moved in the state assembly by Chief Minister Raman Singh. World Philosophy Day 2016 observed globally Third Thursday of November: World Philosophy Day The World Philosophy Day was observed globally on 17 November 2016. This year, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) organised the special events from 16 November to 18 November. Indo-China joint military exercise Hand in Hand 2016 begins The sixth India China joint training exercise Hand- in- Hand 2016 commenced on 16 November 2016 at the parade ground in Aundh Military Camp, Pune. The exercise will terminate on 27 November 2016. CRPF for first time deploys women commandos for anti-Maoists operations In a first, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) deployed a team of 135 women commandos in anti-Naxal operations in Jharkhand. Google launches PhotoScan App to scan physical photographs Search Engine Google on 16 November 2016 launched the scanning app Google PhotoScan to scan and digitise physical photographs.

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Union Government announced new measures to tackle demonetization problems To contain the problems being faced by people following the demonetisation of 500 and 1000 rupees currency notes, the Union Government on 17 November 2016 announced new measures to contain the problem. DRDO successfully carries out maiden flight of UAV RUSTOM-II The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) on 16 November 2016 successfully carried out maiden flight of TAPAS 201 (RUSTOM – II), a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). SSP Chawrasia wins 2016 Resorts World Manila Masters Nov 18, 2016Indian golfer SSP Chawrasia on 13 November 2016 won his first Asian Tour title outside the country. He won the 1 million US dollar Resorts World Manila Masters. Former J&K Governor Lt Gen SK Sinha died Former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Lt Gen Srinivas Kumar Sinha died on 17 November 2016 at the Army Research and Referral (R&R) hospital, New Delhi. He was 92. Russia withdraws from International Criminal Court Vladimir Putin, President of Russia signed an order on 16 November 2016 withdrawing Russia’s signature from the International Criminal Court treaty (ICC). Union Government bans Zakir Naik’s controversial NGO The Union Government has declared Zakir Naik’s NGO, Islamic Research Foundation (IRF), as an ‘unlawful organisation’ and banned it for five years on 15 November 2016. Naik’s Terror Background Naik’s terror links came under scanner when Rohan Imtiaz , one of the accused of 1 July 2016 Dhaka terror attack quoted Naik in a propaganda he ran on Facebook last year. Hindu widow’s adopted kid has claim only to her assets: SC The Supreme Court (SC) on 17 November 2016 held that a child adopted by a Hindu widow will not have any rights on the property of the woman’s deceased husband. The child can claim only over the property inherited by his mother. NADA bans sprinter Dharambir Singh for eight years Haryana sprinter Dharambir Singh in the third week of November 2016 was handed an eightyear ban by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). Mehbooba Mufti launches World Bank funded Jhelum-Tawi Flood Recovery Project Mehbooba Mufti, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, on 14 November 2016 formally launched the World Bank-funded Jhelum-Tawi flood recovery project in Srinagar. Patel most common Indian surname in UK According to a newly released Oxford Dictionary, Patel is one of the most common Indian surnames in the United Kingdom.

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IOC Strips 10 athletes of their Olympic Medals The International Olympic Committee stripped ten athletes of their medals from 2008 Olympics. The move came after these athletes were tested positive for various banned steroids during the retest of their samples from the games. Union Government announces new set of measures to ease demonetization policy The Union Government on 17 November 2016 announced another set of measures to ease the impact of demonetisation policy on the people. Nov 19, 2016 China’s Sunway TaihuLight named world’s fastest supercomputer China’s Sunway TaihuLight was recently declared the world’s fastest supercomputer. The revelation was made in the latest edition of the semi-annual TOP500 Supercomputer list that was released on 14 November 2016. World Toilet Day observed with theme ‘toilets and jobs’ 19 November: World Toilet Day World Toilet Day was observed on 19 November 2016 with an aim to motivate millions across the world on issues of sanitation. The theme for 2016 World Toilet Day is ‘toilets and jobs’. Indian Navy inducts four underwater SONAR systems developed by DRDO The Indian Navy on 18 November 2016 inducted four types of indigenously developed SONAR systems. The sonar systems are capable of boosting the Navy’s underwater surveillance capabilities. The four sensors were handed over to the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba by Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. World Internet Conference 2016 concludes in Wuzhen, China The 2016 World Internet Conference concluded on 18 November 2016 in Wuzhen, China. Nov 20, 2016 Universal Children’s Day observed on 20 November 20 November: Universal Children’s Day Universal Children’s Day was observed across the globe on 20 November 2016. The day is observed with an aim to promote the ideals and objectives of the United Nation’s Charter and the welfare of the children of the world. World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims 2016 observed globally Third Sunday of November: World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims was observed globally on 20 November 2016 with the theme Vital post-crash actions: Medical Care, Investigation, Justice!. Jagdish Singh Khehar appointed Executive Chairman of National Legal Services Authority The Union Government on 18 November 2016 announced the appointment of Jagdish Singh Khehar as the Executive Chairman of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA). Nov 21, 2016 PV Sindhu wins China Open Super Series title PV Sindhu on 20 November 2016 won the 700000 US dollars China Open badminton tournament. This was the first Super Series Premier title for the Indian Olympic silver medallist and two-time bronze medallist at World Championship.

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Al Nahyan granted Mother Teresa International Award Shaikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan was awarded the prestigious Mother Teresa International Award by the Mumbai-based NGO Harmony Foundation. Compensations to the families of deceased and injured people Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu announced 3.5 lakh rupees compensation to each of the families of the dead. Islamic Window to be considered in conventional banks The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in a letter to the finance ministry has put forward a proposal to open an ‘Islamic window’ in conventional banks. The move is a stepping stone to its consideration of introducing Islamic banking in the country. The Parallel Economy of Old 500 and 1000 Rupee Notes Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision of demonization of 500 and 1000 rupee notes has taken a new turn. It has given birth to a new kind of economy that thrives on the old illegal tender. The new parallel economy welcomes the old notes, but at a price- at a discounted value- that often amounts to about 30%. India elected as Vice Chair of Kimberly Process Certificate Scheme 2018 India was on 19 November 2016 elected as Vice Chair of Kimberly Process Certificate Scheme (KPCS) 2018 and as the Chair for 2019 of KPCS. The announcement was made during the KP Plenary Meeting 2016 at Dubai. Climate Change Performance Index 2017 released Germanwatch and Climate Action Network Europe released the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2017 on 16 November 2016. The CCPI confirms that there is a boost for renewable energy and positive developments in energy efficiency. UP CM Akhilesh Yadav launched integrated emergency services UP-100 The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Yadav launched state-wide integrated emergency services UP-100. The service was launched on 19 November 2016 from Lucknow. PM Narendra Modi launches Housing for All scheme in rural areas Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 20 November 2016 formally launched the “Housing for All scheme” in rural areas to provide an environmentally safe and protected ‘pucca house’ to every rural household by 2022. Olympic Champion Eliud Kipchoge Wins Delhi Half Marathon As expected, Eliud Kipchoge, Kenya’s reigning Olympic marathon champion bagged the winner’s title in Delhi Half Marathon on 20 November 2016. While he was declared winner in men’s category, Ethiopia’s Worknesh Degefa claimed the women’s title. Nov 22, 2016 Radhika Menon awarded IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea Captain Radhika Menon on 21 November 2016 was bestowed with the 2016 International Maritime Organization (IMO) Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea at IMO Headquarters in London, United Kingdom.

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Haryana: Fitment of auto-dippers mandatory in vehicles Haryana Government in November 2016 made the fitting of auto-dippers mandatory in fourwheel transport vehicles as a road safety measure. It was done in accordance with the terms of Rule 106 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. Akshaya Mukul wins Shakti Bhatt First Book Prize 2016 Senior journalist Akshaya Mukul on 21 November 2016 won the Shakti Bhatt First Book Prize 2016 for his book Gita Press and the Making of Hindu India. Six Winners of Infosys Prize 2016 Announced The Infosys Science Foundation declared the names of six individuals as the winners of Infosys Prize 2016 on 18 November 2016. The prize, which is given to recognize and celebrate the talent and contribution of some of the best researchers and scientists today, is running into its eighth consecutive year. Supreme Court asked Union Government to frame rules for consumer courts The Supreme Court (SC) of India on 21 November 2016 directed the Union Government to frame model rules prescribing objective norms for the administration of consumer courts. It should be done within four months. Zak Brown appointed as Executive Director of McLaren Technology Group The McLaren Technology Group on 21 November 2016 announced the appointment of Zak Brown as its Executive Director. Naidu Inaugurates Multimedia Exhibition- Aazadi 70 Saal, Yaad Karo Kurbani The Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting, M Venkaiah Naidu inaugurated a multimedia exhibition with the theme ‘Aazadi 70 Saal, Yaad Karo Kurbani’ at the 47th International Film Festival of India in Panaji on 21 November 2016. Scientists discover a super-Earth orbiting around red dwarf star A team of scientists has recently discovered a super-Earth orbiting around a red dwarf star just 32.7 light years away. The discovery was published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics on 5 November 2016. 7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Japan Triggering off Tsunami Warnings An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 hit the coast of Fukushima, in Japan, triggering off tsunami scares on 22 November 2016. Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn conferred first World Sanskrit Award Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, Princess of Thailand, on 21 November 2016 was conferred with the first World Sanskrit Award. She was honoured for her exemplary contribution for the promotion of Sanskrit language for the year 2015. Guided Missile Destroyer INS Chennai inducted into Indian Navy Guided Missile Destroyer INS Chennai was on 21 November 2016 commissioned into the Indian Navy by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai.

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Nov 23, 2016 Renowned Hindi & Bhojpuri writer Dr Viveki Rai passes away Dr Viveki Rai, the renowned Hindi and Bhojpuri litterateur, died on 22 November 2016 in a hospital in a hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. He was 92. Former ISRO Chairman MGK Menon passes away Renowned physicist MGK Menon passed away on 22 November 2016. He was 88. India and Switzerland signed Bank Information Sharing deal India and Switzerland signed a Joint Declaration for implementation of Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) between the two countries. The declaration was signed in respect to accounts of Indians held abroad and vice versa. The deal was inked on 22 November 2016 in New Delhi. Gaganjeet Bhullar wins 2016 Indonesia Open Gaganjeet Bhullar on 21 November 2016 won the Bank BRI-JCB Indonesia Open. He emerged victorious in the 300000 US dollar tournament for the second time in his career after closing with a four-under-par 68. India becomes Associate Member of CERN, Geneva India on 21 November 2016 became an Associate Member State of European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) by signing an agreement with the organisation. Pankaj Patel elected President of FICCI The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) on 21 November 2016 announced Pankaj R. Patel as its newly elected President for 2017. Union Government constitutes committee to review status of demonetisation drive The Union Finance Ministry on 18 November 2016 constituted a committee with an aim of assessing the status of implementation of demonetisation drive in the country. Barack Obama awards Presidential Medals of Freedom US President Barack Obama on 22 November 2016 presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honour, to 21 artists, sports figures, scientists and philanthropists. Among the honourees were Robert Redford, Bill and Melinda Gates, Tom Hanks and Diana Ross. RBI relaxes prudential norms on Income Recognition, Asset Classification The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 21 November 2016 relaxed the prudential norms on income recognition, asset classification and provisions pertaining to advances. Veteran Carnatic Music exponent Balamuralikrishna passes away M. Balamuralikrishna, an Indian Carnatic vocalist, died on 22 November 2016 in Chennai. He was 86. Balamuralikrishna, a recipient of Padma Vibhusan, was suffering from age-related geriatric problems. South Korea approves deal on North Korea with Japan South Korea on 22 November 2016 approved a deal to share intelligence on North Korea directly with Japan. The agreement will come into effect after it is signed in the South Korean Parliament. The pact known as the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) was inked in Seoul,

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South Korea. This pact will help the two countries to pool military intelligence on Pyongyang’s nuclear programme. World Robot Olympiad to be held for the first time in India The 13th World Robot Olympiad will be held in India for the first time ever. It will be organised jointly by NCSM under the aegis of Ministry of Culture and India STEM Foundation (ISF) from 25 November to 27 November 2016 at the India Expo Mart, Greater Noida. Nov 24, 2016 Portuguese PM Antonio Costa to be Chief Guest at Pravasi Bharatiya Divas The Union Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, on 21 November 2016 announced that Antonio Costa, the Prime Minister of Portugal, accepted the proposal be the Chief Guest at the 14th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. Truph names South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley as UN envoy Donald Trump, the President-elect of the United States of America (USA), on 23 November 2016 named South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley as the US Ambassador to the United Nations. With this, Haley becomes the first non-white female cabinet- level official to be appointed within the Trump administration. Ex - Governor of Madhya Pradesh Ram Naresh Yadav passes away Ram Naresh Yadav, former Governor of Madhya Pradesh, passed away on 22 November 2016 following a prolonged illness at a hospital in Lucknow. He was 90. Turkey to chair 2017 Energy Club of Shanghai Cooperation Organization Turkey will chair the Energy Club of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in 2017. With this, it became the first non full member country to be the chairman of a club in the organisation. National Green Tribunal orders green audit of all government buildings of Delhi The National Green Tribunal (NGT) on 23 November 2016 ordered environment audit of all the government buildings, including offices and hospitals, in Delhi to control pollution. CCEA approves setting up of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas in 62 districts The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on 23 November 2016 approved the setting up of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) in 62 uncovered districts with an outlay of Rs.2871 crore. IBBI notifies three sets of regulations under Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board (IBBI) of India on 23 November 2016 notified three sets of regulations- (Insolvency Professional) Regulations, 2016; Regulations inter alia provide for registration, Regulation and oversight of insolvency professionals. 24th APEC Summit concludes in Peru The 24th edition of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit concluded on 20 November 2016 in Lima, Peru. The summit ended with adoption of the 2016 Leaders Declaration. The summit also closed with a joint pledge to work toward a new free trade agreement that would include all 21 members as a path to “sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth.”

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Malini Subramaniam wins 2016 CPJ International Press Freedom Award Indian journalist Malini Subramaniam on 23 November 2016 won the International Press Freedom Awards given by Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City. Union Cabinet approves introduction of Merchant Shipping Bill, 2016 Union Cabinet on 23 November 2016 approved the introduction of Merchant Shipping Bill, 2016 in the Parliament. Simultaneously, the cabinet also approved repealing of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 and the Coasting Vessels Act, 1838. ITU released Measuring the Information Society Report 2016 UN International Telecommunication Union (ITU) released the 2016 edition of the Measuring the Information Society Report. The report was launched on 22 November 2016 during the World Telecommunication/ICT Indicators Symposium (WTIS). Palampur Assembly Constituency becomes first e-Assembly of nation The Palampur Assembly Constituency of Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh became the first e-assembly constituency of the country. The system was inaugurated by State Assembly speaker Brij Behari Lal Butail at a function held in Palampur on 22 November 2016. Yudhvir Singh Malik appointed Chairman of NHAI Yudhvir Singh Malik in the third week of November 2016 was appointed the new Chairman of National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Upgraded Jaguar DARIN III aircraft receives IOC The upgraded Jaguar DARIN III twin-seat aircraft on 24 November 2016 received the Initial Operation Clearance (IOC). IOC is a significant milestone for India’s military aviation sector. NASA develops Snack Bars for breakfast in Deep Space Missions NASA food scientists have developed snack bars, a healthier and convenient alternative to the regular breakfast that astronauts carry with them into space. Airtel launches India’s first Payments Bank in Rajasthan Airtel Payments Bank Limited on 23 November 2016 launched India’s first live Payments Bank in Rajasthan. The bank will provide an interest of 7.25% per annum on deposits. Manoj Bajpayee wins 10th Asia Pacific Screen Award in Best Actor Category Bollywood actor Manoj Bajpayee on 24 November 2016 won the Best Actor Award at the 10th Asia Pacific Screen Awards, beating Nawazuddin Siddiqui who was awarded a special mention in the same category. Colombian Government and FARC rebels sign revised Peace Agreement Juan Manuel Santos, President of Colombia, and Rodrigo Londono, the leader of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), signed a new peace agreement on 24 November 2016. Union Government announces major changes in the demonetisation plan The Union Government on 24 November 2016 announced major changes in the demonetization plan after due consideration of all relevant aspects.

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7000-year-old city discovered in Egypt Egypt recently uncovered a lost city, more than 7000 years old dating right back to its first dynasty in the southern province of Sohag. International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 2016 observed across the world The 2016 International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women was observed across the world on 25 November 2016. The theme for the day was “Orange the World - raise funds to end violence against women”. Journalist Dilip Padgaonkar passed away Noted journalist and former Editor-in-Chief of the ‘Times of India’, Dilip Padgaonkar passed away on 25 November 2016, following a heart attack and multi-organ failure. He was 72. Nov 26, 2016 Smart cane for blind can remotely sense obstacles: Scientists Scientists in the third week of November 2016 developed a new smart cane that can help transform the lives of the blind and visually impaired by allowing them to sense the obstacles which are beyond the physical length of their walking stick Mary Kom to receive Legends Award on December 20 MC Mary Kom, the Olympic bronze-medal winning boxer from India, will receive the ‘Legends Award’ on 20 December 2016. She will receive the award from the International Boxing Association (AIBA) on its 70th anniversary. Union Government slaps safeguard duty on certain steel imports To protect domestic manufacturers from cheap imports, the Union Government on 24 November 2016 slapped safeguard duty on import of certain steel products. Steel products on which the safeguard duty was slapped include hot-rolled flat sheets and plates (excluding hot-rolled flat products in coil form) of alloy or non-alloy steel. Cuba’s Fidel Castro dies aged 90 Fidel Castro, the revolutionary leader of Cuba, died on 25 November 2016. He was 90. News of his death was announced on national television by President Raul Castro. Nov 27, 2016 Mariamma Koshy is new Hockey India President Former Hockey player Mariamma Koshy on 25 November 2016 took charge of Hockey India as its president with immediate effect. Hockey India, during its 41st Hockey India Executive Board meet, announced that Koshy will head the national body. Death Under the Deodars authored by Ruskin Bond released Death Under The Deodars: Ruskin Bond The much-popular writer, storyteller Ruskin Bond has returned after a long sabbatical with a brand new collection of stories titled ‘Death under the Deodars: The Adventures of Miss Ripley- Bean’.

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Nov 28, 2016 George Yeo, Chancellor of Nalanda University, resigns The Chancellor of Nalanda University, George Yeo, resigned on 25 November 2016. He cited that when he was invited to take charge he was “repeatedly assured that the University would have autonomy. This appears not to be the case now”. Sachin Singh wins gold at the AIBA Youth World Championships Sachin Singh on 27 November 2016 became the third Indian boxer to bag gold medal at the AIBA Youth World Championships. In the summit clash at St Petersburg, Russia, Sachin recorded a stunning unanimous victory over Cuban national champion Jorge Grinan in the 49kg weight class. Sachin defeated his rival 5-0 to record a rare Indian triumph over a Cuban boxer. 16-year-old Sachin has joined Thokchom Nanao Singh (2008) and Vikas Krishan (2010) in the Indian youth world championships gold club. Aditi Ashok wins inaugural Qatar Ladies Open Indian golfer Aditi Ashok on 27 November 2016 won the inaugural Qatar Ladies Open in Doha. With this, she recorded her second straight victory on the Ladies European Tour. Amitabh Kant Committee constituted to push cashless transactions The Union Government in the last week of November 2016 announced the formation of new committee to form a strategy to accelerate the process of transforming India into a cashless economy. The committee will be headed by Niti Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant. The other members of the committee are the Secretary of the Department of Financial Services, Secretary of Department Of Industrial Policy & Promotion and Secretary of Department of Investment and Public Asset Management, Secretaries of the IT and Rural Development Ministries, Managing Director of the National Payments Corporation of India and the Chairman of National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Third Gender to be included in Rail reservation forms In a historic move, the Indian Railways and Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) have included ‘transgender as the third gender’ in the gender option along with male and female in the railway ticket reservation and cancellation forms. National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) vs Union of India case Momentous decision by the Supreme Court of India that granted transgender people the right to identify themselves as male, female or as the ‘third gender’. Brown Carbon can warm atmosphere: Study at IIT A team of researchers from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur in their study highlighted that carbonaceous aerosols such as black carbon (BC) and certain organic carbon species called brown carbon (BrC) have the potential to warm the atmosphere by absorbing light. Lieutenant-General Qamar Javed Bajwa appointed Pakistan’s 16th Army Chief Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on 26 November 2016 appointed Lieutenant-General Qamar Javed Bajwa as the 16th Chief of Pakistan Army. Bajwa will replace General Raheel Sharif, who will retire on 29 November 2016.

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Pink invited for special screening at UN HQ Pink, the Amitabh Bachchan starrer Bollywood film, has been invited by the Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations for a special screening at its headquarters in New York, USA. National Milk Day observed in memory of Verghese Kurien 26 November: National Milk Day The National Milk Day was on 26 November 2016 observed across India to mark 95th birth anniversary of Dr Verghese Kurien, the Father of the White Revolution. Tata Steel replaces Cyrus Mistry as Chairman The Board of Tata Steel on 25 November 2016 voted to remove Cyrus Mistry as the Chairman of the company. Melting of Arctic ice cap could trigger catastrophic climate change Arctic scientists have warned that the rapid melting of ice cap stands at a risk of triggering 19 ‘tipping points’ in the region. According to the Arctic Resilience Report, this arctic warming could cause uncontrollable climate change across the globe, affecting even far-off areas like the Indian Ocean and leading to devastating consequences. Noted Marathi author Anand Yadav passes away Anand Yadav, the Sahitya Akademi awardee Marathi author, died on 27 November 2016 in Pune. He was 80. Francois Fillon wins France’s Conservative Presidential primary Former Prime Minister, Francois Fillon has won France’s conservative presidential primary, defeating opponent Alain Juppe by a landslide. Nov 29, 2016 Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2016 introduced in Lok Sabha Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on 28 November 2016 introduced the Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2016 in the Lok Sabha. The Bill that amends tax laws seeks to impose a higher rate of tax and penalty in respect of undisclosed incomes. Argentina defeats Croatia to win 2016 Davis Cup Argentina on 27 November 2016 won its maiden Davis Cup title after defeating Croatia in the final. ‘Xenophobia’ is Dictionary.com’s Word of the Year for 2016 The website Dictionary.com named the word ‘Xenophobia’ as the Word of the Year for 2016. According to Dictionary.com, there was a massive surge in lookups for the word ‘Xenophobia’ that was larger than any of the peaks seen in 2016. This rise in lookups was connected to attacks on foreign workers and overall rising xenophobia in South Africa. Conflicts of Interest: My Journey through India’s Green Movement authored by Sunita Narain Conflicts of Interest: My Journey through India’s Green Movement: Sunita Narain The book titled Conflicts of Interest: My Journey through India’s Green Movement was in news in the last week of November 2016 as it was acquired by Penguin India.

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Goa to become India’s first cashless state Amidst the confusion created by demonetization, the Indian state of Goa prepares itself to become the first state to operate cashless in the country from 31 December 2016. RBI relaxes cash withdrawal limits from bank accounts The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 28 November 2016 relaxed the cash withdrawal limit from the bank accounts with an aim to spur the deposits. 47th IFFI Concluded in Goa The 47th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which was inaugurated by noted filmmaker Ramesh Sippy on 20 November 2016, came to a close on 28 November in Goa, India. Key Highlights Legendary Korean filmmaker Im Kwon-Taek was honoured with ‘The Lifetime Achievement Award’. He has a lot of acclaimed pieces of work to his name including films like Chunhyang, Chihwaseon, and Mandala. Union Government launches e-Pashuhaat portal to connect breeders and farmers Radha Mohan Singh, Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, on 26 November 2016 launched e-Pashuhaat portal (www.epashuhaat.gov.in). Lt-General A K Bhatt appointed as Director-General of Military Operations Lt-General A K Bhatt was on 28 November 2016 appointed as the Director-General of Military Operations (DGMO). Akodara in Gujarat becomes India’s first Digital Village Akodara village in Sabarkantha district of Gujarat recently has earned the title of becoming first digital village in India. Amazon to sell Amul products online in the US In an exclusive association, e-commerce giant Amazon is going to sell popular Indian dairy brand Amul’s products online in the United States. Plane carrying Brazilian first division football team crashes in Colombia An aeroplane carrying 81 people on board including Brazilian first division soccer team crashed on its way to Medellin’s international airport. The Brazilian soccer team was travelling to Colombia for a regional tournament final. Bangladesh to honour 1668 martyrs of the Indian Army Bangladesh will honour the families of 1668 martyrs of the Indian Army who fought in the 1971 India-Pakistan war, which resulted in the liberation of East Pakistan (Bangladesh), on the event’s 45th anniversary. Nov 30, 2016 M M Kutty appointed Chief Secretary of Delhi Senior IAS officer M. M. Kutty on 29 November 2016 was appointed the Chief Secretary of Delhi.

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Son has no right to reside in parent’s house: Delhi HC The Delhi High Court on 29 November 2016 held the son, irrespective of his marital status has no legal right to live in his parent’s house. Parent’s house means, the house self-acquired by the father/mother. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef suffers worst coral die-off on record The Australians scientists on 29 November 2016 announced that the Great Barrier Reef suffered from its worst coral die-off ever recorded. Kerala’s Padmanabhaswamy temple relaxes dress code for women In a historic first, Kerala’s Sree Padmanabhaswamy temple decided to ease the dress norms for women devotees, allowing them to wear salwar kameez and churidar while offering their prayers at the shrine. Parliament of Thailand invites Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn to become king The Parliament of Thailand on 29 November 2016 invited Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn to be the new king of the country. The invitation completes a formal step for the heir apparent to take the throne following the death of his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, in October 2016. Trump nominated Seema Verma to head Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Trump, the new President-elect of the United States, nominated Seema Verma to the post of Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Supreme Court directs cinema halls to play National Anthem before film screening The Supreme Court (SC) on 30 November 2016 ordered all cinema halls across India to play the National Anthem before the screening of films. Lok Sabha passes Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2016 The Lok Sabha on 29 November 2016 passed the Taxation Laws (Second Amendment) Bill, 2016 to amend the Income Tax Act, 1961 and Finance Act, 2016. Astronaut vision may be impaired by spinal fluid changes: Study A recent research has found that astronauts may experience blurry vision and impaired eyesight after long spaceflights due to changes in spinal fluid that occur while in microgravity. The research was presented at annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), Chicago on 28 November 2016. Asia’s first and longest cycle highway inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh Asia’s first and longest cycle highway was on 26 November 2016 inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh by UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. It is also India’s first cycle highway. RBI limits cash withdrawal from Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana accounts The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 29 November 2016 reduced the cash withdrawal limit from the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) accounts to Rs 10000 a month only with an aim to protect farmers and rural Jan Dhan account holders from money launderers.

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