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Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I

27th January to 2nd February 2019 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 9thto 15th

September 2018

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27th January to 2nd February 2019 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 9thto 15th

September 2018

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Table of Contents

Awards & Honours .................................................................................................................................................................................... 3

Days & Events ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 3

International Affairs .................................................................................................................................................................................. 3

National Affairs ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 4

Personalities in News ................................................................................................................................................................................ 6

Enviornment ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 6

Government Policies & Schemes .............................................................................................................................................................. 7

Science & Technology ............................................................................................................................................................................... 8

Committees & Recommendations ............................................................................................................................................................ 8

Business & Economy ................................................................................................................................................................................. 8

Sports ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 9

Defence ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10


27th January to 2nd February 2019 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 23rdto 29th

September 2018 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 16thto 22nd

September 2018 Current Affairs Weekly Capsule I 19th to 25th

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Awards &Honours

Tamil Nadu won the Swasth Bharat Yatra award

Tamil Nadu won the 'Swasth Bharat Yatra' award under ‘The Best Performing State’ category on 29 January 2019.

Madurai and Sivakasi were also recognised as the ‘Best Performing Cities’.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) organised the Swasth Bharat Yatra to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi from October 2018 to January 2019.

Piyush Goyal Presented with Carnot Prize

Union Minister of Railways & Coal Piyush Goyal was formally presented with fourth annual Carnot Prize at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on 30th January, 2019.

The prize was presented by Kleinman Center for Energy Policy at the University of Pennsylvania School of Design.

The Carnot Prize is intended to honour distinguished contributions to energy policy through scholarship or practice.

Sahitya Akademi Awards 2018 presented

On January 29, 2019 Sahitya Akademi presented the Sahitya Akademi Award 2018 at a function in New Delhi during the Festival of Letters.

The awards were presented for writings in 24 different Indian languages.

Renowned Hindi writer Chitra Mudgal, Dogri writer Inderjeet Kesar, Kannada writer KG Nagarajappa and Kashmiri story writer Mushtaq Ahmad Mushtaq were among the 24 winners.

India wins Award of Excellence at Travel Show

India bagged the Award of Excellence for ‘Best in Show’ at New York Times Travel Show 2019.

The show was held from 25th to 27th January in New York, USA.

Many India centric activities were held at the show including Indian cultural performances, Indian Culinary Demonstrations, Food tasting, etc.

Indian was delegation led by Yogendra Tripathi, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, GoI.

'Kisan Gandhi' tableau wins first prize.

The Indian Council of Agricultural Research tableau in the Republic Day Parade has won the first prize for its Kisan Gandhi theme.

The ICAR tableau with the theme "Mishrit Kheti, Khushiyon Ki Kheti" portrayed Gandhi with goats and a cow and Kasturba engaged with charkha and caring animals.

The tableau showcased a view from Bapu Kuti at Wardha Ashram.

SAG awards 2019

Black Panther has won the top film award in at the 25th Screen Actors Guild Awards in Los Angeles.

The best actor awards for film went to Glenn Close for The Wife and Rami Malek for his performance as Queen frontman Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody.

Emily Blunt won the award for best female actor in a supporting role in the horror film, A Quiet Place.

Days & Events

UN declares 2019 as Year of the Periodic Table

The United Nations announced 2019 as the International Year of the Periodic Table (IYPT) of the Chemical Elements.

IYPT commemorates the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the Periodic Table of Chemical Elements,

The periodic table was first published in 1869.

It was first designed by the Russian scientist Dmitri Ivanovich Mendeleev.

World Wetlands Day: 2 February

World Wetlands Day is celebrated every year on 2 February.

It marks the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) in Ramsar, Iran, on 2 February 1971.

The international theme for World Wetlands Day 2019 is 'Wetlands and climate change'

World Wetlands Day was first celebrated in 1997.

'Artisan Speak' organised by Textile Ministry

Ministry of Textiles presented an event named 'Artisan Speak' at Elephanta Caves near Mumbai on January 28, 2019.

The event showcased the rich handloom and textile tradition of India.

The event will display the potential of GI (Geographical Indication) textiles so as to promote and build awareness of such products and to strengthen skills and supply chain capacity of grassroots stakeholders.

8th Annual Pulicat Day to be observed on 2 Feb

The eighth annual 'Pulicat Day' will be observed on 2 February at Pulicat in Tamil Nadu.

The aim of the day is to create awareness among people about the importance of protecting the Pulicat lagoon.

Pulicat lake was once a prominent port of south-east coast for cotton export which attracted the Arabs in 700AD, Europeans in 1502 and Japanese in 1619 in AD.

International Affairs

'Africa Centre for Climate' launched in Rome

The 'Africa Centre for Climate and Sustainable Development' was launched in Rome on 29 January 2019.





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The centre has been set by the government of Italy and the United Nations.

The centre will develop innovative solutions for sustainable development, implement the goals of the UN's 2030 Agenda.

It is located near the headquarters of the Food & Agriculture Organisation in Rome.

UNSC extends sanctions against CAR

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has adopted a resolution to extend sanctions against the Central African Republic (CAR) for another year.

The resolution was adopted unanimously by the 15-member council on Jan 31, 2019.

These sanctions include an arms embargo, a travel ban and an asset freeze till January 31, 2020.

Germany, France, UK set up INSTEX

Germany, France and the UK have set up a payment channel with Iran called INSTEX.

This was done to help continue trade with Iran and overcome US sanctions.

This special payment system will help save the Iran nuclear deal by allowing Tehran to keep trading with EU companies.

US had reimposed sanctions on Iran after US President Donald Trump abruptly quit the nuclear accord in 2018.

Malaysia crowns Sultan Abdullah as King

Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah of central Pahang state was crowned as Malaysia’s 16th king on 31 January, 2019.

The move came nearly a month after the sudden abdication of Sultan Muhammad V.

Sultan Abdullah is a council member of the world football governing body FIFA, president of the Asian Hockey Federation, and an executive board member of the International Hockey Federation.

UAE, Saudi Arab launch digital currency

The central banks of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia have launched a common digital currency called ‘Aber’.

The central bank-based digital currency will make cross-border financial transactions more secure and financially efficient.

Dirham is the currency of UAE while Saudi Riyal is the currency of Saudi Arabia.

Strategic MoUs between Syria and Iran

Syria and Iran signed 11 agreements and MoUs including a "long-term strategic economic cooperation" deal on January 29, 2019.

The agreements cover various fields including economy, culture, education, infrastructure, investment and housing.

They were signed during a visit to Damascus by Iran's First Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri.

NASA solar probe begins second orbit of Sun

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has begun its second orbit of the Sun and is on track for its closest approach to our star.

Just 161 days after its launch, the Parker probe completed its first orbit of the Sun on January 19.

The spacecraft has now begun the second of 24 planned orbits, on track for its second perihelion, or closest approach to the Sun, on April 4.

Tornado hits Cuba

A huge tornado hit the Cuban capital, Havana, had left four people dead and 195 injured.

It is the strongest tornado to hit Cuba in nearly 80 years.

Miguel Angel Hernandez of the Cuban Center for Meteorology said the tornado was a Category F3, with winds between 155 and 199 miles per hour, produced when a cold front hit Cuba's northern coast.

Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel.

US imposes sanctions on Venezuela

In USA, the Trump administration imposed sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil company, PDVSA.

PDVSA is OPEC nation Venezuela's largest source of revenue and owns US refining arm Citgo Petroleum, Venezuela's most important foreign asset.

Nicolas madurothe is the 46th President of Venezuela since 2013.

Suman Kumari Pak 1st Hindu woman judge

Suman Kumari has become the first Hindu woman in Pakistan to be appointed as a civil judge.

She hails from Qambar-Shahdadkot, will serve in her native district.

The first judge from the Hindu community was Justice Rana Bhagwandas, who served as the acting chief justice for brief periods between 2005 and 2007.

National Affairs

Dolphin declared as state aquatic animal

On 1 February 2019, the endangered Indus River dolphin was declared as Punjab's State aquatic animal.

In Punjab, the Indus River Dolphins are found mainly in the Sutlej and Beas rivers.

The decision was taken in the Punjab State Wildlife Board presided over by the Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh.

NAHEP launched by ICAR





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The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) launched the National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP) to attract talent and strengthen higher agricultural education in the country.

This project will be funded by the World Bank and the Indian Government on a 50:50 basis.

The second Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) was established in Barahi, Jharkhand.

Two Railway projects launched in West Bengal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the electrification project of 294 kilometres long 'Andal- Sainthia-Pakur-Malda' and 'Khana- Sainthia' railway sections in West Bengal on 2 February 2019.

Electrification of these sections will ease the transportation of coal, stone chips and ballast to North and North East India.

He also inaugurated the Hijli-Narayangarh railway line.

'Road Safety Week' will be launched on 4 Feb

The 30th 'National Road Safety Week 2019' will be inaugurated in New Delhi on 4 February 2019.

It will be attended by a host of school children, NGOs, and stakeholders in road safety from Government and industry.

A Motorcar Rally will also be flagged off on the occasion to commemorate the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Interim Budget 2019-20: Allocation

The Railways has been allocated Rs.64,587 Cr in the Interim Budget 2019-20.

Infrastructure allocation for north eastern areas was increased by 21% to Rs. 58,166 Cr in 2019-20.

Rs 1330 Cr was provided for the Mission for Protection and Empowerment for Women for 2019-20.

Defence budget was hiked to Rs 3,05,296 Cr

Interim Budget 2019-20:Rural development

Government has allocated Rs 60000 crore for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

Rs 19000 crore has been allocated for Gram Sadak Yojana for construction of more rural roads.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana and 2.5 crore rural households were electrified.

No Income Tax for incomes up to ₹5 lakh

Govt. announced that individual taxpayers with annual income up to ₹5 lakh will not have to pay any Income Tax.

Those with gross income of up to ₹6.5 lakh also won't have to pay any tax if they make investments in prescribed methods.

This will give ₹18,500 cr tax benefit to 3 cr middle class people.

He also said that Income Tax returns will be processed in 24 hours and refund initiated.

Bharat Parv concluded on Jan 31 in Delhi

The closing ceremony of ‘Bharat Parv’ took place in Delhi on 31st Jan, 2019 in the presence of Union Tourism Minister K.J. Alphons.

The Parv was organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India at the Red Fort, New Delhi from 26th to 31st January, 2019.

27 States participated in the event by setting up of Stalls, Showcasing their food, handicrafts and tourism products.

PETROTECH-2019 from 10-12 Feb, 2019

13th International Oil & Gas Conference & Exhibition 'PETROTECH-2019' will be organised from 10th to 12th February, 2019 in New Delhi.

It is being organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, GoI.

The PETROTECH-2019 Exhibition will see participation of over 13 country pavilions and about 750 exhibitors from over 40 countries

OPD Wing of ESIC Hospital inaugurated

Minister of State (I/C) for Labour & Employment S.K. Gangwar, inaugurated OPD Wing of ESIC AYUSH Hospital, Narela in Delhi.

This is the first dedicated Ayush Hospital of Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) and is being constructed with a cost of Rs. 30 crores.

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All the facilities under Ayush such as Ayurvedic, Homeopathic, Siddha, Unani and Yoga will be provided in this hospital.

DAC Approves 6 Project 75(I) Submarines

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved indigenous construction of six submarines for the Indian Navy on 31st January, 2019.

This is the second project under MoD’s Strategic Partnership (SP) model and will cost over Rs 40,000 crores.

The DAC also approved the acquisition of approximately 5000 Milan Anti Tank Guided Missiles for the Army.

IndiGo to build its 2nd MRO at Bengaluru

InterGlobe Aviation Ltd., which owns and operates air carrier IndiGo, has entered into a 20-year agreement with Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL).

The agreement is to sub-lease five acres of land at Bengaluru Airport to build a Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul (MRO) facility.

This will be IndiGo’s second MRO, after the one in Delhi. The facility will become operational by 2020.

Automatic listing of fresh cases in SC

The Supreme Court launched its new system of automatic listing of fresh cases within three to seven days on January 30, 2019.

The step was taken in a bid to do away with the system of mentioning of matters for urgent listing every day.

The new mechanism will come into effect from February 4.

World’s biggest cyclothon ends in Delhi

World’s biggest cyclothon 'The Swasth Bharat Yatra' concluded in New Delhi on January 29, 2019.

The aim of this Yatra was to spread the message of ‘Eat Safe, Eat Healthy and Eat Fortified.'

The Yatra began from six different locations - Leh, Panaji, Thiruvananthapuram, Puducherry, Kolkota and Agartala.

This Yatra was led by Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

New Campus of NMI Inaugurated at Noida

The new Campus of the National Museum Institute was inaugurated by Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar in Noida on 30th January 2019.

The foundation stone for this 3 acre campus was laid on 31st January, 2015.

Four new courses namely, Archaeology; Palaeography, Epigraphy and Numismatics; Structural Conservation and Cultural & Heritage Management are expected to be commenced at the campus.

Madras HC Allows Online Sale of Medicine

The Madras High Court has extended the permission given for the online sale of pharmaceuticals till 20th March, 2019.

The HC had earlier banned sale of drugs online, pending the framing of regulations by the Centre for such sale.

The Center had sought more time for framing regulations for the online sale of medicines.

CPRI Regional Testing Lab at Nashik

Union Minister of State (IC) for Power and New & Renewable Energy, R K Singh laid the foundation of Regional testing laboratory of Central Power Research Institute (CPRI) at Nashik, Maharashtra on Jan 30, 2019.

The lab will test and certify electrical equipment manufactured in the western region as per national and international standards.

CPRI is an autonomous body under Ministry of Power.

Budget session of Parliament Begins

The budget session of Parliament started on 31st January, 2019 with President Ram Nath Kovind's address to the joint sitting of both the Houses.

The Budget will be presented on 1st February, 2019.

The session will conclude on the 13th February, 2019.

LKA Exhibition Commemorating Gandhi

Lalit Kala Akademi (LKA) has organised an exhibition titled 'Mahatma Gandhi and World Peace' at the Lalit Kala Akademi Art Galleries of in New Delhi.

This was done to commemorate 150th Birth Anniversary of Gandhi and highlight his principles of non-violence and peace.

The show has been organised in association with Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai.

Mahatma Gandhi's 71st death anniversary

India is paying homage to Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi on his 71st death anniversary on 30th January, 2019.

He was assassinated by Nathuram Godse on this day in 1948.

The day is also observed as Martyrs' Day.

PM Modi to visit Surat and Dandi in Gujarat

PM Narendra Modi will lay the Foundation Stone for extension of Terminal building at Surat Airport on 30 January, 2019.

The terminal is being constructed at a cost of Rs. 354 Crore.

PM will also interact with the youth at the New India Youth conclave in Surat.

In Dandi, he will dedicate the National Salt Satyagraha Memorial to the nation on Mahatma Gandhi's death anniversary.

Pariksha Pe Charcha 2.0: New Delhi





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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked students to stay focused, manage time well and not to succumb to stress.

He was interacting with 2000 students, parents and teachers in the 2nd edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha in New Delhi.

The PM said students should focus on acquiring knowledge to enrich their lives, without worrying about examination results.

Beating the Retreat ceremony: 29th January

Beating the Retreat ceremony, marking the culmination of four day long Republic Day celebrations, will be held at the historic Vijay Chowk in New Delhi on 29th January.

As many as 27 performances at Vijay Chowk will enthrall the spectators with captivating and foot-tapping music of the bands from the Army, the Navy, the Air Force and the State Police and Central Armed Police Force.

Tripura CM inaugurates exhibition centre

Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Monday 29th Jan inaugurated an international indoor exhibition center here, the largest facility of its kind in the Northeastern region.

Built at a cost of Rs 66.52 crore at Hapania with an area of 10,800 sq metre

The indoor centre has the capacity to house 170 stalls and accommodate 10,000 visitors.

First Astro Turf Football Pitch inaugurated

Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio inaugurates state’s first Astro Turf Football Pitch at Indira Gandhi Stadium in Kohima on the occasion of 100th Birth Anniversary of the legendary footballer, Dr. T. Ao

The project was conceived in the year 2013-14 with total cost of 498 lakh rupees.

The Astro turf has been installed following specifications of FIFA.

The size of the play field is 105x66 meters.

Four highway projects launched in Rajasthan.

Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of four National Highway projects in Rajasthan.

The project worth over 3 thousand 237 Cr. rupees.

The Project include three projects in Bikaner and one in Nagaur District.

1st Geographical Indication Store in Goa

Union Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu inaugurates India's 1st Geographical Indication (GI) Store at Goa International Airport in Dabolim.

It is located on the 1st floor on Departure Terminal and set up by Airports Authority of India and The Cashew Export Promotional Council of India.

The products from the self-help groups, artisans and farmers' produce will be also displayed.

Nari Shakti is the Hindi Word of the year

On January 26, the Oxford Dictionaries announced ‘Nari Shakti’ as the 'Hindi Word of the Year 2018'.

The word, Nari Shakti, has been derived from Sanskrit and when broken down, the word ‘nari’ means women and ‘shakti’ means power.

The announcement was made during a session at the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF).

Oxford had named 'Aadhaar' as its Hindi Word of the year 2017.

PM Modi inaugurates IREP in Kochi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited's Integrated Refinery Expansion Project Complex (IREP) in Kochi on 27 January 2019.

IREP will be a modern expansion complex and will be equipped for production of cleaner fuels for India.

It will double the production of LPG & diesel and commence production of feedstock for petrochemical projects

Ministry of Defence Launches ‘RDP INDIA 2019’

Ministry of Defence launched a mobile app 'RDP India 2019' on 26 January 2019.

The aim of the app is to show the highlights of the Republic Day event, not only to the spectators at Rajpath, New Delhi but also to the general public all over the world.

This app contains information about the Parade on Rajpath, New Delhi, including Order of the March, details of the tableaux presented etc.

'Atal Setu' inaugurated in Goa

A 5.1-km long cable-stayed bridge named 'Atal Setu' on the Mandovi river was inaugurated in Goa on 27 January 2019.

The bridge was constructed by the Goa Infrastructure Development Corporation and Larsen and Toubro.

The bridge has 88 high tensile strength cables in the state-of-art single place harp type cable stay system and a real-time force monitoring mechanism.

Personalities in News

Vani becomes 1st Indian to get a LPGA card

On 1 February 2019, golfer Vani Kapoor became the first Indian to earn a card for the Australian Ladies PGA Tour (LPGA).

She earned the card in the Qualifying Tournament at the Ballarat Golf Club.

The top-20 from a field of 81 earned playing rights on the Australian LPGA.





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Other Indian girls in the Australian LPGA Qualifying were Diksha Dagar, Astha and Ridhima.

T Gehlot in Port Blair on one day visit

Union Minister for Social Justice & Empowerment, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, is on one day visit to Port blair.

The Minister will distribute Aids and Assistive Devices to the Divangjans and Senior Citizens under Assistance to Disabled Persons and 'Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana' during the visit.

"RVS" provides Physical Aids and Assisted-living devices for Senior Citizen belonging to BPL category

All-Men Contingent lead by Lt. Bhavana Kasturi

On 26 January 2019, Lieutenant Bhavana Kasturi became the first woman officer to lead an all-men Army contingent in the Republic Day parade.

She led the Army Services Corps contingent.

An all-women contingent of the Assam Rifles was led by Major Khushboo Kanwar.

Captain Shikha Surbhi of the Army Signals Corps performed a standing salute on a moving motorcycle.

Environment

Travelogue show launched on Doordarshan

Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Road Transport & Highways and Shipping, Shri Nitin Gadkari launched travelogue show “Rag Rag Mein Ganga” on Doordarshan in New Delhi.

It has been made by DD in collaboration with National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) to relay the need of rejuvenating River Ganga.

He also launched the quiz show “Meri Ganga".

PETROTECH-2019 from 10-12 Feb, 2019

13th International Oil & Gas Conference & Exhibition 'PETROTECH-2019' will be organised from 10th to 12th February, 2019 in New Delhi.

It is being organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, GoI.

The PETROTECH-2019 Exhibition will see participation of over 13 country pavilions and about 750 exhibitors from over 40 countries

Government Policies & Schemes

DIPP renamed by Government of India

The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) was renamed as the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade.

It will look into matters related to promotion of internal trade, the welfare of traders and their employees, facilitating ease of doing business and start-ups.

The matters related to internal trade were earlier under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

'Jiban Sampark' project launched in Odisha

Odisha's Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched the 'Jiban Sampark' project in partnership with UNICEF India on 27 January 2019.

The aim of the project is to generate awareness about the development and welfare initiatives of state government among the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups of the state.

The project's focus areas will include skill development and empowering communities.

Interim Budget 2019-20: Allocation

The Railways has been allocated Rs.64,587 Cr in the Interim Budget 2019-20.

Infrastructure allocation for north eastern areas was increased by 21% to Rs. 58,166 Cr in 2019-20.

Rs 1330 Cr was provided for the Mission for Protection and Empowerment for Women for 2019-20.

Defence budget was hiked to Rs 3,05,296 Cr

Panel for Nomadic Communities

A Committee under NITI Aayog will be set-up to identify De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic communities not yet formally classified.

The Govt will set up a Welfare Development Board under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment for implementing welfare programmes for these communities.

Govt also proposed increase in allocation for welfare of the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes.

Interim Budget 2019-20: Initiatives

Govt announced to set up the ‘Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog’ for production and productivity of cows on Feb 1, 2019.

Rs 750 crore was allocated for Rashtriya Gokul Mission in the current year.

It also announced setting up a ‘Department of Fisheries’ to boost the fisheries sector.

The interim budget proposed to provide 2% interest subvention for farmers pursuing animal husbandry and fisheries.

Interim Budget 2019-20:Rural development

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Government has allocated Rs 60000 crore for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

Rs 19000 crore has been allocated for Gram Sadak Yojana for construction of more rural roads.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana and 2.5 crore rural households were electrified.






Interim Budget 2019-20: Pension Scheme

Center has announced its proposal to launch a pension scheme for workers in the organised and unorganised sectors who have a monthly income below ₹15,000.

The scheme called Pradhan Mantri Shramyogi Maandhan Yojana will assure a monthly pension of ₹3000 on retirement.

It is expected to benefit 10 crore workers in the unorganized sector.

Interim Budget 2019-20: Agriculture

Union Interim Finance Minister Piyush Goyal presented the Interim Budget 2019-20 on Feb 1, 2019.

Govt. has introduced the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (KISAN) scheme to provide assured income to small and marginal farmers.

Under the scheme, vulnerable farmers with 2 hectares of land will get direct income support of ₹6000 per year.

It is expected to benefit 12 crore farmer families.

4,78,670 Houses Sanctioned Under PMAY

Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs has approved the construction of 4,78,670 houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY-Urban).

This approval was given in the 42nd meeting of the Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee held in New Delhi on January 30, 2019.

The total number of houses sanctioned under PMAY(U) so far is 72,65,763.

GST on Haj reduced to 5%

Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi announced that the GST on Haj has been reduced from 18 per cent to 5 per cent.

The move will save Haj pilgrims’ Rs 113 crore this year by lowering the airfare.

He also inaugurated a new conference hall and passport section at the Haj House in Mumbai.

Hike in Research Fellowship

Central Government has enhanced the fellowship of Science & Technology Ph.D students and other research personnel w.e.f. January 1, 2019.

Junior Research Fellows will now receive ₹31,000 per month in the first two years of Ph.D programme instead of ₹25,000.

Fellowship for Senior Research Fellow in the remaining tenure of Ph.D is increased to ₹35,000 per month from previous ₹28,000.

Maha Govt scheme to curb infant deaths

Maharashtra government launched a special scheme to curb infant deaths on January 29, 2019.

The scheme involves distributing baby-care kits to the children born in primary health centres and government hospitals.

The scheme is only applicable for the first child and it is expected to benefit around four lakh women across the state.

The government has allocated ₹ 20 crore for the scheme.

Alphons inaugurated tourism project in Sikkim

Union Minister for Tourism K.J. Alphons inaugurated first “Development of North East Circuit” project in Gangtok, Sikkim on 30th January 2019.

This project was sanctioned under Swadesh Darshan Scheme by the Ministry of Tourism in June 2015.

Swadesh Darshan Scheme is one of the flagship schemes of Ministry of tourism for development of thematic circuits in the country in a planned manner.

₹7,214.03 Cr For States Hit By Disasters

A High Level Committee approved Central assistance of ₹7214.03 crore from National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) to 6 States and one UT affected by natural disasters.

These included Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Puducherry.

The Committee was headed by Union Home Minister, Shri Rajnath Singh.

CIAL donated Rs.10 crore to CMDRF

Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has donated Rs.10 crore to the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF).

CMDRF is an emergency assistance release mechanism granting immediate relief to families and individuals distressed by calamity, loss of life due to accidents and chronic diseases.

MHRD grant Rs 50 crores to Madras University





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The University of Madras has received ₹50 crore from the Ministry of Human Resource Development for upgrading its research capabilities.

A total of 10 universities belonging to category I will get ₹100 crore and 17 universities falling into category II will receive of ₹50 crore.

University of Madras is one of the oldest educational institutions in India established in the year 1857.

Employment scheme launched in Madhya Pradesh

The government of Madhya Pradesh launched the 'Yuva Swabhiman Yojana' on 26 January 2019.

It aims to provide employment to the youth belonging to the weaker section of the society mainly in urban areas of the state.

Under this scheme, 100 days of employment will be provided to youngsters from economically weaker sections of the society in urban areas.

Kerala to launch NRI pension scheme

On 25 January 2019, Kerala Governor P. Sathasivam announced that the Kerala government will soon launch a 'Pravasi Dividend Pension Scheme'.

It will provide regular pension to Non Resident Keralites on a one-time payment of Rs 5 lakh

The one-time payment of Rs 5 lakh will be deposited with KIIFB (Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board) for financing infrastructure projects.

Science & Technology

Arianespace to launch GSAT-31 on February 6

India will launch its communication satellite, GSAT-31, on 6 February 2019 from French Guiana.

The satellite will be launched by European launch services provider Arianespace's launch vehicle named Ariane-5.

GSAT-31 will be used for supporting VSAT networks, Television uplinks, Digital Satellite News Gathering, DTH-television services.

GSAT-31 is India’s 40th communication satellite.

AI That Translates Thoughts Into Speech

Scientists have created an artificial intelligence (AI) based system that directly translates thoughts into understandable, recognisable speech.

The AI system will help people who cannot speak regain their ability to communicate with the world.

The technology has been created by researchers at Columbia University in the United States of America.

Hike in Research Fellowship

Central Government has enhanced the fellowship of Science & Technology Ph.D students and other research personnel w.e.f. January 1, 2019.

Junior Research Fellows will now receive ₹31,000 per month in the first two years of Ph.D programme instead of ₹25,000.

Fellowship for Senior Research Fellow in the remaining tenure of Ph.D is increased to ₹35,000 per month from previous ₹28,000.

Artificial Pancreas App for Diabetics

Scientists, including those from Harvard University have developed an artificial pancreas smartphone app that will help in regulating blood sugar levels in diabetes patients.

The app is effective in regulating glucose levels under challenging conditions and is suitable for use in unconstrained environments.

The study was published in the journal Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics.

NASA solar probe begins second orbit of Sun

NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has begun its second orbit of the Sun and is on track for its closest approach to our star.

Just 161 days after its launch, the Parker probe completed its first orbit of the Sun on January 19.

The spacecraft has now begun the second of 24 planned orbits, on track for its second perihelion, or closest approach to the Sun, on April 4.

Committees & Recommendations

Panel to explore prepaid payments by discoms





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The government of India has constituted a panel under the Central Electricity Authority (CEA) on 1 February 2019.

The panel will look into problems of delayed payments from distribution companies to power generators.

The committee constitutes Chairmen of distribution companies of Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, representatives from Union Power Ministry and power associations.

IRDAI sets up a panel

On 23 January 2019, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI) has set up a panel to identify Systemically Important Insurers (SII).

The panel will be headed by Pravin Kutumbe, Member-Finance & Investment, IRDAI.

The panel will also develop a paper on assessment methodology for SIIs in India and recommend enhanced supervision for them.

Business & Economy

Government revises FY18 GDP growth rate

According to the first revised estimates of GDP, the Indian economy grew at 7.2% in 2017-18, as compared to earlier estimates of 6.7%.

The Nominal GDP or GDP at current prices for 2017-18 has been revised to 11.3% from 10.0%.

The real GDP growth rate has been revised to 8.2% from 7.1% for 2016-17।

BoM, BoI and OBC removed from PCA framework

The RBI removed Bank of India (BoI), Bank of Maharashtra (BoM) and Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC) from Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework.

BoI and BoM have met the regulatory norms including Capital Conservation Buffer (CCB) and have Net NPAs (non-performing assets) of less than 6%.

In case of OBC, the net NPA has come down to less than 6% after the government's capital infusion.

Manufacturing PMI rises to 53.9 in January

The Nikkei India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) increased from 53.2 in December 2018 to 53.9 in January 2019.

This is the 18th consecutive month that the manufacturing PMI remained above the 50-point mark.

A mark above 50 means expansion, while a mark below 50 denotes contraction.






Fiscal Deficit will be 3.4% of GDP in 2019

Finance Minister Piyush Goyal said the fiscal deficit will be at 3.4 per cent of GDP in 2019 while presenting the interim budget on Feb 1, 2019.

He also said that current account deficit is likely to be 2.5 per cent of GDP this year.

He added that capital expenditure is pegged at 3.36,292 lakh crore.

FDI worth $ 239 bn in last 5 years

India has received foreign direct investment (FDI) worth $ 239 billion in the last five years.

The main sectors that received the maximum foreign inflows were services, computer software and hardware, telecommunications, trading, automobile, construction, and power.

The top sources of FDI included Mauritius, Singapore, Netherlands, the US and Japan.

GST collections in Jan over ₹1 lakh cr

The GST collections in January 2019 have crossed one lakh crore rupees mark.

In January 2018, the GST collection was 89 thousand crore rupees.

Finance Ministry said that this is a significant improvement in comparison to GST collection over 94 thousand crore rupees during December 2018.

Indian Oil Q3 profit down by 91%

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) reported a net profit of ₹716.82 crore in the third quarter of financial year 2018-19.

The net profit was down 78% from the previous quarter and down 91% from the same quarter of the previous year.

The variation was majorly due to inventory losses arising out of falling crude oil prices

Revenues of IOC grew 6% to ₹1.6 lakh crore against ₹1.5 lakh crore.

ICICI Bank sacks Chanda Kochhar

ICICI Bank terminated the contract of former managing director and CEO Chanda Kochhar for violating the bank’s code of conduct.

In June last year, the bank formed the one-member panel to look into the allegations of conflict of interest against her for a loan given to Videocon Industries.

Ms. Kochhar, assumed charge as MD and CEO of ICICI Bank on May 1, 2009 and resigned in October 2018.

SEBI: Relaxed Norms for REITs, InvITs





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Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) proposed a new set of relaxed norms for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs) on 30th Jan, 2019.

This new framework will provide flexibility for fund raising and will boost investments in REITs and InvITs.

REITs and InvITs are listed entities that invest in income-producing assets like infrastructure.

New Packaging Norms Mandatory By July 1

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said that food businesses need to comply with new packaging regulations by July 1.

The new regulations prohibit packaging material made of recycled plastics including carry bags for packaging, storing, carrying or dispensing articles of food.

Pawan Agarwal is the CEO of FSSAI.

Steel Min to set up Safety Directorate

Union Steel Ministry announced to set up a 'Safety Directorate' to oversee safety standards in steel industry on January 28, 2019.

This decision was taken during the Consultative Committee Meeting of the Ministry in Goa which was chaired by Union Minister of Steel, Chaudhary Birender Singh.

It also plans to draft the 'National Scrap Policy' to make available nearly 7 MT scrap in the country.

RBI to inject ₹37,500 in February

The Reserve Bank of India will inject Rs 37,500 crore into the system through purchase of government securities in February to increase liquidity.

The purchase will be done under Open Market Operations (OMOs) for an aggregate amount of ₹375 billion.

Three auctions of ₹125 billion each will be held during the 2nd, 3rd and 4th week of February.

Anti-dumping duty imposed on MPDA

The government of India has imposed an anti-dumping duty on Meta Phenylenediamine (MPDA) imported from China.

The duty has been imposed for five years to protect domestic producers of the chemical intermediate from cheap shipments.

MPDA is a chemical intermediate used for manufacturing dyes, engineering polymer and in photography and medical applications.

Sports

INS Dronacharya won the Regatta trophy

The INS Dronacharya team won the Regatta trophy in the 'Kochi Area Pulling Regatta 2019' of the Southern Naval Command (SNC) on 31 January 2019.

The Boat Pulling Regatta is one of the most prestigious and traditional naval sporting activities conducted by the Navy.

Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) School got second position & Diving School secured the third position.

Mithali is first woman to play 200 ODIs

Indian captain Mithali Raj has become the first female cricketer to play 200 ODIs on February 1, 2019.

The 36-year-old achieved this feat against New Zealand at Hamilton.

Mithali made her ODI debut in 1999 and has also played 10 Tests and 85 T20s.

Viswanathan Anand finishes joint third

Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand played out an exciting draw with Ding Liren of China to move to joint third spot.

Viswanathan Anand finished with 7.5 points at the Tata Steel Masters chess tournament.

Anand registered three victories, one defeat and nine draws in the tournament.

Magnus Carlsen won a super tournament for the seventh time.

Ambati Rayudu banned from bowling by ICC

India's Ambati Rayudu has been banned from bowling in international cricket because of a suspect action.

The suspension was done in "accordance with clause 4.2 of the ICC regulations" which deals with the legality of bowling actions.

He is a right-handed middle-order batsman, who occasionally keeps the wicket, and a right-arm off break bowler.

Novak Djokovic won the Australian Open title

Tennis player Novak Djokovic won the Australian Open Men's Singles title at Melbourne on 27 January 2019.

He defeated Rafael Nadal in the final match.

It was his 7th Australian Open Men's Singles title.

He won the Australian Open Men's Singles title in 2008, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015 and 2016.

He also broke a tie with Pete Sampras, for third-most Grand Slam trophies.

Saina Nehwal wins Indonesia Masters title

Badminton player Saina Nehwal won her first Indonesia Masters title 2019 on 27 January 2019.

She won the finals after Spain's Carolina Marin limped out of the final due to a leg injury.

Saina had won a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and the bronze medal at the 2018 Asian Games.

Kartik Sharma won the Golf Championship

India's Kartik Sharma won the New South Wales men's Amateur Golf Championship in Australia.





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He defeated Australia's Nathan Barberie in the scheduled 36-hole final to emerge as champion.

He had also won the Indian golf 'Union Western India Amateur Golf Championship 2018'.

Defence

Successfully testing of Anti-Radiation Missile

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the test of New Generation Anti-Radiation Missile (NGARM) on 24 January 2019.

The missile is capable of destroying the enemy radars, tracking system and communication facilities.

The NGARM has a strike range of over 100 km.

This missile is first of its kind in India and can be launched from a range of altitudes.

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