1 feb

Income Tax Department launches Operation Clean Money

The Income Tax Department (ITD) launched Operation Clean Money (Swachh Dhan Abhiyan), an e-platform to analyse large cash deposits made during the demonetisation window (9 November to 30 December 2016). Under it, e-verification of large cash has been done using data analytics for comparing the demonetisation data with information in ITD databases. Key Facts In the first batch of the operation,around 18 lakh persons have been identified in whose case, cash transactions do not appear to be in line with the tax payer’s profile. It comprises account-holders whose deposits did not match their incomes, as per data with the IT department, will be alerted on their e-filing portals. IT department has sent emails and phone text messages to these accountant holders to seek their explanation about the source of funds and a response within 10 days. In absence of a response, they will receive a notice from the tax department or further action. The verification will also be closed if the cash deposit is declared under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojna (PMGKY).

Government clarifies Beti Bachao Beti Padhao has no provision for cash transfer component

The Union Ministry of Women & Child Development has clarified that Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (B3P) Scheme has no provision for individual cash transfer component. It has warned the unauthorised websites/organisations, NGOs, individuals that are distributing forms in the name of cash incentives under B3P Scheme. It also has mentioned that it is illegal and serious matter as there is no cash incentive associated in any form. Government’s clarification came following reports that certain unauthorised sites, organisations, NGOs and individuals were found distributing forms in the name of cash incentive under the scheme. About Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (B3P) Scheme The B3P scheme was launched in January, 2015 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Panipat in Haryana. The scheme is aimed at promoting gender equality and the significance of educating girls. It is a social campaign that aims to generate awareness and improve the efficiency of welfare services meant for girls. It focuses on changing mindsets and deep rooted patriarchy in the societal system, advancing education of the girl child, strict enforcement of PC&PNDT Act and on issues of women empowerment. It is targeted at improving the Child Sex Ratio (CSR) through multi sectoral interventions including prevention of gender biased sex selection and promoting girls’ education and her holistic empowerment.

India, Russia holds high-level consultations on counter-terrorism

India and Russia have held high-level consultations on counter-terrorism issues in New Delhi. Both sides shared views and assessment on the threats posed by increasing terrorist activities including India’s concern on state-sponsored, cross-border terrorism. The Indian delegation was led by Preeti Saran, Secretary (East) in the Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) while the Russian delegation was headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Mr. Oleg V. Syromolotov. Highlights of Meeting Both sides shared views and assessment on the threats posed by the scourge of terrorism, including state-sponsored, cross-border terrorism faced by India. They also shared concerns regarding the emergence of Afghanistan-Pakistan (AfPak) region as the epicentre of terrorism. They discussed successful experiences in countering radicalisation and curbing terrorism. Both sides agreed that the UN Security Council (UNSC) Sanctions List 1267 processes for blacklisting various terrorist individuals and entities must be stringently complied. They also emphasized on prospects for deepening engagement on counter-terrorism under the United Nations, BRICS and SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) mechanisms. They also agreed to frame joint action plan to focus on enhancing capacity building, frequent expert-level meetings, sharing of insights, exchange of best practices in curbing terrorism and countering radicalization.

Union Cabinet gives nod to modify Scheduled Castes list in Odisha

The Union Cabinet had approved the amendments in the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950 to modify the list of SC in Odisha. It also approved amending the Constitution (Pondicherry) Scheduled Castes Order, 1964 to change the name of the Union territory to Puducherry from Pondicherry. In this regard, The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Orders (Amendment) Bill, 2017, incorporating the above changes, will be introduced in the parliament. The amendment of SC list in Odisha makes inclusion of Sualgiri/Swalgiri caste in the list as it is Sabakhia caste which is already in the list of SC in Odisha. Background The Constitution provides certain privileges and concessions to the members of Scheduled Castes, notified under the provisions of Article 341 of the Constitution. Under the provision of Article 341, first list of SCs in relation to a states/UT is to be issued by a notified Order of the President after consulting concerned state Government. But the clause (2) of Article 341 envisages that, any subsequent inclusion in or exclusion from the list of Scheduled Castes can be effected through an Act of Parliament. So far, six Presidential Orders have been issued between 1950 and 1978 for specifying SC in respect of various States/Union territories. These Orders have been amended from time to time by Acts of Parliament enacted as per Article 341(2) of the Constitution between 1956 and 2016.

Economic Survey backs Universal Basic Income

The Economic Survey 2016-17 tabled in Parliament has advocated for the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) as an alternative to the various social welfare schemes in an effort to reduce poverty. It suggests that a more efficient way to help the poor will be to provide them resources directly, through a UBI. It will be an efficient substitute for a plethora of existing welfare schemes and subsidies. What is Universal Basic Income (UBI)? A basic income is a form of social security in which all citizens of a country regularly receive an unconditional sum of money, either from a government in addition to any income received from elsewhere. It is based on the principles of universality and unconditionality. However, it forfeits other government aided benefits. Recently, government of Finland announced the introduction of a trial for UBI involving 2,000 unemployed people. In June 2016, Swiss voters in referendum had overwhelmingly rejected proposal to introduce basic income for all. Survey’s justification for introduction of UBI Promoting social justice, reducing poverty, unconditional cash transfer that lets the beneficiary decide how she uses the money, employment generation by promoting labour flexibility. It will bring in administrative efficiency as a direct cash transfer through JAM (Jan Dhan-Aadhar-Mobile) platform. It will be more efficient as compared to the “existing welfare schemes which are riddled with misallocation, leakages and exclusion of the poor. It can help to achieve considerable gains in terms of bureaucratic costs and time by replacing many of these with a UBI.

2 feb

Highlights Budget 2017-18

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley presented the Union Budget 2017. It was fourth annual budget presented by Arun Jaitley as Finance Minister. This was also first time no separate Railway Budget was presented. The 2017 Union Budget,was broadly focused on 10 themes. They are farming sector, rural population, youth, poor and underprivileged health care, financial sector for stronger institutions, infrastructure, speedy accountability, prudent fiscal management, public services and tax administration for the honest. Highlights Budget speech Demonetisation Demonetisation is expected to have a transient impact on the economy. It will have a great impact on the economy and lives of people . Demonetisation is a bold and decisive measure that will lead to higher GDP growth. The effects of demonetisation will not spillover to the next fiscal. Agriculture sector Farmer credit fixed at record level of Rs10 trillion. It will ensure adequate flow to underserved areas. Government will set up mini labs in Krishi Vigyan Kendras for soil testing. Long-term irrigation fund in NABARD increased from Rs 20,000 crore to Rs40,000 crore. Dairy processing infrastructure fund with a corpus of Rs. 2000 crore will be created. Model law on contract farming will be prepared and shared with the States. Rural population Over Rs 3 lakh crore will be spent for rural India. Government’s Mission Antyodaya targets to bring 1 crore households out of poverty by 2019. MGNREGA: 48,000 crore has been allocated. Participation of women now at 55%. Space technology to be used in a big way to ensure MGNREGA works. 5 lakh farm ponds will be taken up under MGNREGA. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana: 23,000 crore allocated. Government to complete 1 crore houses for those without homes. Prime Minister Gram Sadak Yojana: 19,000 crore allocated. Along with states, Rs. 27,000 crore will be spent in FY18. Panchayat Raj: Human resource reform programme to be launched. Mason training to be provided for 5 lakh people 100% rural electrification will be archived by May 2018 Swachh Bharat mission: made tremendous progress, sanitation coverage has gone up from 42% to 60%. For youth Education: System of measuring annual learning outcomes will be introduced with emphasis on science. Innovation fund for secondary education. Focus will be on 3,479 educationally-backward blocks. Colleges will be identified based on accreditation. Reforms in UGC: Based on ranking colleges to be identified and given more autonomy. SWAYAM platform: Leveraging information technology platform for virtual learning National testing agency will be established for all entrance exams, freeing up CBSE, AICTE and other bodies. 100 Indian international skill centres will established with courses in foreign languages. Rs. 4,000 crore allocated to launch skill acquisition and knowledge awareness. Special scheme for creating employment in leather/footwear sector. Five special zones to be set up for tourism sector. Poor and underprivileged Sum of Rs. 1,84,632 crore allocated for women and children. 500 crore allocated for Mahila Shakthi Kendras. Affordable housing will be given infrastructure status. Under a nationwide scheme for pregnant women, Rs. 6000 will be transferred to each person. Action plan to eliminate leprosy by 2018, TB by 2025, reduce IMR to 29 in 2019 Owing to surplus liquidity, banks have started reducing lending rates for housing. 5 lakh Health sub centres will be transformed into health wellness centres. Two AIIMS will be set up in Gujarat and Jharkhand and. Structural transformation of the regulator framework for medical education will be undertaken. 52,393 crore allocated for Scheduled Castes. Aadhaar-based smartcards will be issued to monitor health of senior citizens. Infrastructure and railways Railways total capex and development expenditure pegged at Rs. 1.31 trillion Railways: Passenger Safety fund corpus will be set up. Unmanned level crossings to be eliminated by 2020. Railway lines of 3,500km to be commissioned. Dedicated tourism/pilgrimage trains will be launched. 500 stations to be made differently-abled friendly Rail cleanliness: Introduction of Coach Mitra facility; By 2019, biotoilets for all coaches. Competitive ticket-booking facility will be introduced; service charge withdrawn for tickets booked on IRCTC. New metro rail policy will be announced. Roads sector: 64,000 crore allocated for national highways. Airports Authority of India Act will amended to enable monetization of land resources. Total Rs. 2 trillion will be allocated to transport sector. Telecom sector: 10,000 crore will be allocated to Bharat Net programme. Digi-gau initiative will be launched. Export infrastructure: New restructured central scheme will be launched. Total Rs. 3.96 trillion will be allocated for infrastructure. Energy sector: Strategic policy for crude reserves will be set up. Rs. 1.26,000 crore received as energy production based investments. Financial Sector Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) to be abolished Commodities market: Panel will be constituted to study legal framework for spot and derivative markets Resolution mechanism for financial firms will be set up. Cyber-security: Computer emergency response team (CERT) to be set up Listing of PSEs to foster public accountability, mechanism for time-bound listing will be revised. New exchange-traded fund (ETF) will be launched Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana: It will have lending target at Rs. 2.44 trillion. Stand-up India scheme: over 16,000 new enterprises will be set up. Digital Economy Government to launch two new schemes to promote BHIM app, including cashback scheme for merchants Aadhaar Pay will be launched for people who don’t have mobile phones. Focus on rural and semi-urban areas. Financial inclusion fund will be strengthened. Panel on digital payments has recommended structural reforms. Payment regulatory board will be created at RBI. Negotiable Instruments Act might be amended. Public Services Head post-office to be used for passport services. Defence: Centralized defence travel system will be developed. Centralized pension distribution system to be established Government recruitment: Two-tier exam system will be introduced. Government to introduce laws to confiscate assets of economic defaulters. High-level panel chaired by PM will be formed to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary Fiscal Management Total budget expenditure: 21 trillion. Defence expenditure: 2.74 trillion (excluding pensions). Fiscal deficit for FY18: Pegged at 3.2% of GDP. Revenue deficit for FY18: Pegged at 1.9% Fiscal situation. Total expenditure: 21, 47,000 crore. Plan, non-plan expenditure is abolished; focus will be on capital expenditure which will be 25.4 %. 3,000 crore under the Department of Economic Affairs for implementing the Budget announcements. Expenditure for science and technology is Rs. 37,435 crore. Total resources transferred to States/UTs is Rs 4.11 lakh crore. Amendment proposed to the RBI Act to enable issuance of electoral bonds. Tax Administration Direct tax collection not commensurate with income/expenditure pattern of India Black money: Cash transactions above Rs. 3 lakh banned. Transparency in political funding: Parties continue to receive anonymous donations; propose system of cleaning up. Political funding: Maximum amount of cash donation that can be received is Rs. 2,000. Political parties can receive donations by cheques or digitally. Every party has to file returns within specified time. Amendment proposed to RBI Act to issue electoral bonds. Personal income tax: Rate reduced to 5% for income bracket of Rs. 2.5-5 lakh; All other categories to get uniform benefit of Rs. 12,500 per person; Surcharge on income bracket Rs. 50 lakh-Rs. 1 crore will be levied Personal income tax: Simple one-page form for taxable income up to Rs. 5 lakh will be implemented. GST: Preparedness of IT system on schedule. Not many changes to excise duties in GST regime. FPI category 1 and 2 investors exempted from indirect transfer provisions. Time period of revising tax returns reduced to 12 months Real estate: Changes will be made in capital gains tax. Concessional withholding rate will be extended to 30 June 2020, rupee-denominated masala bonds to be included. MAT will be not abolished at present and will be carry-forwarded for 15 years. Corporate tax rate: MSMEs’ (annual turnover less than Rs.50crore) rate reduced to 25%. LNG: customs duty reduced to 2.5% Limit of cash donation for charitable trusts reduced to Rs. 2,000.

Cabinet approves Introduction of The Indian Institutes of Information Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2017

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for introduction of The Indian Institutes of Information Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2017 in Parliament. The amendment Bill has provision for the inclusion of Indian Institute of Information Technology Design and Manufacturing (IIITDM), Kurnool along with the other IITs in the Principal Act. With this, IIITDM Kurnool will become fifth Member as a Centrally Funded IIIT. Key Facts IITDM Kurnool inclusions will make it an institute of National Importance with the power to award degrees to students. Its academic session had commenced in two branches of study in 2015-16. The expenditure for the operationalization of IITDM Kurnool is incurred from the Plan funds of the Union Ministry of Human Resource Development. Background The Indian Institutes of Information Technology Act, 2014 confers the status of Institutions of National Importance on the IIITs. It deals with matters connected with administering these IIITs. The Andhra Pradesh as embodied in the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014 had embodied creation of a new NIT at Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh. Subsequently, Government had approved its creation. Due to addition of a new IIIT, amendment has to be made in the IIIT Act, 2014.

3 feb

Government of create five special tourism zones to boost tourism: Budget 2017-18

The Union Budget 2017-18 has announced that Government will set up five Special Tourism Zones in partnership with States. These five special zones will be anchored as Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) that will be set up in partnership with the States. In this budget, government has allocated Rs. 1,840.77 crore to the Tourism Ministry, Rs. 250 crore more in the 2017-18 fiscal. Other tourism related announcements in Budget To boost the image of India in the international travel market Incredible India 2.0 Campaign will be unveiled across the world the financial year 2017-18. 959.91 crore has been allocated for the Integrated Development of Tourist Circuits around specific themes under Swadesh Darshan scheme. 100 crore has been allocated for Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD). Rs. 412 crore provided for promotion and publicity of various programmes and schemes. Besides, Government has asked the Railways to start dedicated trains for tourism and pilgrimage purposes. Swadesh Darshan Scheme: Under it, 13 thematic circuits have been identified for development, namely North-East India Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Himalayan Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Desert Circuit, Tribal Circuit, Eco Circuit, Wildlife Circuit, Rural Circuit, Spiritual Circuit, Ramayana Circuit and Heritage Circuit. PRASAD Scheme: Under it, 13 cities Ajmer, Amritsar, Amravati, Dwarka, Gaya, Kamakhaya, Kancheepuram, Kedarnath, Mathura, Patna, Puri, Varanasi and Velankanni have been identified for development.

India, Sri Lanka signs MoU to construct new multi-ethnic tri-lingual secondary school
India and Sri Lanka have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to construct a new multi-ethnic tri-lingual secondary school in Polonnaruwa District of Sri Lanka. The MoU was signed by of India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Secretary to the Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education Sunil Hettiarachchi.  Key Facts The School will be constructed using Government of India’s grant of 30 crore rupees. It will provide opportunities to Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim students to learn in a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural environment. The project envisages construction of class rooms, library and laboratories, as well as procurement of furniture and other equipment. It will also contribute to Sri Lanka’s President Maithripala Sirisena efforts to promote and strengthen reconciliation and unity in Sri Lanka.

India signs $201.50 million Financing Agreement with World Bank for TEQIP III

The Union Government has singed Financing Agreement for IDA credit of $201.50 million with World Bank for the ‘Third Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme’ (TEQIP III). The agreement was signed by Raj Kumar, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs and Junaid Kamal Ahmad, Country Director, World Bank India. Key Facts The aim of the TEQIP III programme is to enhance quality and improve efficiency of the Engineering Education System. The objective of agreement is to improve Engineering Education sector in 8 states viz. Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan and UT of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The project has been designed as a disbursement linked one to the effect that the loan will be handed over only on completion of certain fixed outcomes. The closing date of TEQIP III is March 31, 2022. Background The TEQIP was launched by the Government in 2003 with World Bank assistance as a long term programme for transformation of the Technical Education System. It was to be implemented in three phases. TEQIP-I (first phase) commenced in 2003 and ended on March 31st, 2009. It covered 127 institutes across 13 States including 18 Centrally Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs). TEQIP-II commenced in August 2010. It had covered 23 States/Union Territories (UTs) and 191 Institutes (including 26 CFTIs). It concluded in October, 2016. Both phases of the programme had a positive impact on the infrastructure and educational standards in the technical institutions where they were taken up.

Government notifies new rules for medical devices

The Union Health Ministry has notified new rules for medical devices to remove regulatory bottlenecks and ensure availability of medical devices for patients. Under the new rules, manufactures will not be required to renew licenses periodically and submission of applications and grant of licenses will be done online. Key Features of New Rules The new rules have been framed in conformity with Global Harmonisation Task Force (GHTF) framework and conform to best international practices. Under it, medical devices are classified as per GHTF practice, based on associated risks, into Class A (low risk), Class B (low moderate risk), Class C (moderate high risk) and Class D (high risk). The new rules seek to remove regulatory bottlenecks to make in India, facilitate ease of doing business and also ensure availability of better medical devices for patients’ care and safety. It also seeks to evolve a culture of self-compliance by medical devices manufacturers. Under it, manufacturing licences for Class A medical devices will be granted without prior audit of manufacturing site. Under the new rules, there will be no requirement of periodic renewal of licences and manufacturing and import licences will remain valid till these are suspended, cancelled or surrendered. Further, the entire process, starting from submission of application to grant of licence will be processed online. Besides, timelines also have been defined for most activities at the regulators end. The manufacturers of medical devices will be required to meet risk proportionate regulatory requirements specified in the rules. System of ‘Third Party Conformity Assessment and Certification’ through Notified Bodies is envisaged to bring in the highest degree of professionalism in regulation of medical devices. These bodies will undertake verification and assessment of Quality Management System of Medical Device Manufacturers of Class A and Class B category and also Class C and D medical devices.

Mahila Shakti Kendra will be set-up at village level: Budget

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his Budget Speech 2017-18 announced corpus of Rs 500 crore for setting up Mahila Shakti Kendras in the 14 lakh ICDS Anganwadi Centres at village level. These kendras will provide one stop convergent support services for empowering rural women with opportunities for skill development, employment, health, nutrition and digital literacy. Key Facts The budget allocation for the welfare of Women and Children under various schemes across all the Ministries the has been increased from Rs. 1,56,528 crores in 2016-17 to Rs. 1,84,632 crores in 2017-18. It includes allocation of Rs 2700 crore for Maternity Benefit Programme under which Rs. 6000 each will be transferred directly to bank accounts of pregnant women undergoing institutional delivery and vaccinate their children. 16745 crore has been allocated for the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme. The allocation for flagship Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme has also been doubled to Rs 200 crore. Allocation for the Child Protection Scheme also has seen a substantially increased to Rs. 648 crore as compared to Rs 397 crore in 2106-17.

Government introduces alternative funding mechanism of electoral bonds: Budget

The Union Government has announced two measures in the Budget 2017-18 to bring in greater transparency in funding of political parties. These include capping cash funding by a single anonymous donor to Rs. 2000 (one tenth of the current limit of Rs 20,000) and introduction of the electoral bonds. It will take effect from 1 April, 2018. Key Facts The finance bill lays out the way ahead for capping cash funding and sale of electoral bonds by proposing amendments in the section 13A of the Income-Tax Act, 1961 and to Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. The amendment to I-T Act will provide political party exemption if the donation not exceeding Rs. 2,000 is received through instruments such as cheque, draft, electronic clearing system or electoral bond. The amendment of RBI Act will facilitate introduction of electoral bonds. These bonds will be instrument to donate money to political parties and the RBI will acts as the intermediary. Donors can purchase bonds only through cheque or digital mode, helping to track record of the source of the purchase. These bonds shall be redeemable only in the designated account of a registered political party and within the prescribed time limit from issuance of bond. The bond bearer’s identity will be unlikely revealed in the books of the political party and the recipient party will also remain unknown

NITI Aayog launches India Innovation Index

The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) jointly launched India Innovation Index. Besides country’s first innovation index portal was also launched. The index has been jointly developed by NITI Aayog, DIPP and CII in consultation with World Economic Forum (WEF), World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Cornell University, UNIDO, ILO, OECD, UNESCO, ITU etc. Key Facts The index’s objective is to rank Indian states on innovations through the portal that will capture data on innovation from all states on innovation and regularly update it in real time. It will provide impetus to state to build their respective innovation ecosystems and spur the innovation spirit among institutions and people to make India an innovation-driven economy It will be structured based on the best practices followed in Global Innovation Index (GII) indicators and additionally by adding India-centric parameters those truly reflect the Indian innovation ecosystem. The pillars of index include the capacity of human capital and research, strength of institutions, supporting infrastructure and the level of business sophistication, among others. The portal will coalesce, disseminate and update periodically GII indicators and India–centric data from various states. It will be hosted on the NITI Aayog website. It will be a one-stop data warehouse and will track progress on each indicator at the National level and the State level on real-time basis. Background The Global Innovation Index (GII) co-published by WIPO, Cornell University and INSEAD ranks world economies including India since 2007 according to their innovation capabilities and outcomes. It uses 82 indicators among a host of other important parameters. It has become a leading reference on innovation and a ‘tool for action’ for policy makers. Currently, India ranks 66th out of 128 countries on the 2016 Global innovation Index (GII).

4 feb

Railway Ministry, Italy’s FS group sign MOU for technical cooperation

The Union Ministry of Railways and Italy’s public sector rail company Ferrovie Dello Stato Italiane Group (FS Group) has signed MoU for technical cooperation in rail sector especially in the area of safety and modernisation. The MoU comes in the backdrop of emphasis given Railway Ministry on safety in railway operation. The Railway Board has been directed to collaborate with the international experts to identify the best practices for rail safety. Key Facts Under the MoU, cooperation areas identified includes safety audit of Indian Railways and measures required for enhancing safety in train operation. It also includes assessment and certification of advanced technology based safety products and systems to Safety Integrity Level. It also includes training and competency development with focus of safety and modern trends in maintenance and diagnostic etc. About FS Group FS Group (Ferrovie Dello Stato Italiane Group) is fully owned by Italian Government and works in the Railway Sector and is under Ministry of Treasure, Italy. It is widely recognized at international level for it technical and managerial railway expertise as well as in many fields such as design and realization of High Speed and Conventional Lines, Safety Systems, Certification, Training and Operation and Maintenance. It operates more than 7,000 trains per day, carrying over 600 million/year of passengers and 50 million tons of freight on a railway network of more than 16,700 km.

6 feb

February 6: International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation

The International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is observed every year on February 6 to raise awareness of the practice of FGM and work towards its elimination. It is sponsored by UN, 2017 Theme: “Building a solid and interactive bridge between Africa and the world to accelerate ending FGM by 2030”. What is FGM? FGM is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women. It comprises all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons. Globally, it is estimated that at least 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone some form of FGM. It cause severe bleeding and health issues including infections, cysts,  infertility as well as complications in childbirth increased risk of newborn deaths. It reflects deep-rooted gender inequality and constitutes an extreme form of discrimination against women and girls. The practice also violates their rights to health, physical integrity, security and their right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, and right to life. The 2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) calls for an end to FGM by 2030 under Goal 5 on Gender Equality, Target 5.3 Eliminate all harmful practices, such as child, early and forced marriage and female genital mutilation.

HRD ministry to set up NTA to conduct exams for higher, secondary education

The Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRB) will soon set up a department – National Testing Agency (NTA) to conduct examinations for higher and secondary education. NTA will be the single authority that will conduct entrance tests for all higher institutions like JEE, NEET, NET and other prestigious exams. Key Facts Establishment of NTA will free CBSE, AICTE and other agencies from conducting various exams and enable them to focus on their core areas and work on improving the quality of education. Its main purpose is to bring reforms in the education system. Initially examinations like IIT, NIT and even university exams will be conducted by NTA. Later on secondary school exams will also be handed over to it. Initially, the CBSE staff will be deployed in this department and but later on the specialised people will be hired in the NTA.  Background Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his Union Budget 2017’s speech had announced that a single authority National Testing Agency will be established to conduct entrance tests for all higher institutions and other prestigious exams. Earlier in 2016, Last year, the CBSE had asked the University Grants Commission (UGC) to conduct the National Eligibility Test (NET) on its own as the board wanted to focus on its core areas and work on improving the quality of education. CBSE even had conveyed to the HRD Ministry that conducting exams for various government bodies puts a lot of burden on them and stretches its resources.

Government constitutes six-member committee to improve Haj policy, look into subsidy issue
The Union government has formed a six-member committee to study the ways to improve India’s Haj policy and look into the issue of subsidy to the pilgrimage in light of a 2012 Supreme Court order on gradually reducing and abolishing it by 2022. The convenor of committee is Afzal Amanullah, former Consul-Consul General of India in Jeddah. Besides, former Bombay High Court judge SS Parkar, former Haj Committee of India Chairman Qaiser Shamim, former Air India Chairman and Managing Director Michael Mascarenhas and Muslim scholar, Kamal Faruqui, are its members. Key Facts The committee will examine implications of various directions of the Supreme Court with regard to the existing Haj policy, and suitable amendments in it. It will also review the effectiveness of Haj Committee of India’s management of pilgrims’ accommodation and air travel. It will also figure out whether the pilgrims can travel to Saudi Arabia paying less in the absence of the subsidy. It will also assess the aspects of transparency, consumer satisfaction and disclosure requirements for private tour operators to protect interest of the pilgrims to make the policy of greater assistance to the pilgrims. Background The Union Government gives Haj subsidy to Muslim Hajj pilgrims in the form of airfare subsidy as well as assistance for domestic travel to reach specially designed haj departure airport terminals. In 2012, the Supreme Court had directed the Union Government to gradually reduce and abolish Haj subsidy by 2022. It had ordered government to invest the subsidy amount (approximately Rs 650 crore a year then) on educational and social development of the community.

Union Government launches Measles Rubella vaccination campaign

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched Measles Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign in the country at Bengaluru, Karnataka. It is largest ever in any campaign against these two diseases will start from five States/UTs viz. Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Goa and Lakshadweep covering nearly 3.6 crore target children. Key Facts The MR campaign is largest ever vaccination campaign aimed to target around 41 crore children across the country against two diseases. Under it all children aged between 9 months and less than 15 years will be given a single shot of Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination free-of-cost acros irrespective of their previous vaccination status or disease status. Measles vaccine is currently provided under Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). However, rubella vaccine will be a new addition to it. After the completion of the campaign, MR vaccine will be introduced in routine immunization and will replace measles vaccine, given at 9-12 months and 16-24 months of age of child. Measles immunization will directly contribute in reduction of under-five child mortality and with combination of rubella vaccine, it will control rubella and prevent CRS (congenital rubella syndrome) in country population. About Measles Measles is a deadly disease and one of the important causes of death in children. It is highly contagious and spreads through coughing and sneezing of an infected person. It can make a child vulnerable to life threatening complications such as diarrhoea, pneumonia and brain infection. Globally, in 2015, measles killed an estimated 1, 34,200 children, mostly under-five years. In India, it killed an estimated 49,200 children. About Rubella Rubella is generally a mild infection, but has serious consequences if infection occurs in pregnant women, causing CRS, which is a cause of public health concern. CRS is characterized by congenital anomalies in the foetus and newborns affecting the eyes (cataract, glaucoma), ears (hearing loss), brain (mental retardation, microcephaly) and heart defects, causing a huge socio-economic burden on the families in particular and society in general. In 2010, an estimated 1,03,000 children were born with CRS globally, of which around 47,000 children (46%) were in South-East Asia Region.

7 feb

CBDT signs four unilateral Advance Pricing Agreements

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) under the Department of Revenue, Union Ministry of Finance has entered into four more unilateral Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs). These four APAs are related to Manufacturing, Financial and Information Technology sectors. They cover international transactions such as Contract Manufacturing, Software Development Services and IT Enabled Services. With this, the total number of APAs entered into by the CBDT has reached 130. It includes 122 Unilateral APAs and 8 bilateral APAs. In the current financial year (2016-17), total 66 APAs (5 bilateral APAs and 61 unilateral APAs) were signed. About Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs) The APA Scheme was introduced in the Income-tax (IT) Act in to provide certainty to taxpayers in domain of transfer pricing by specifying methods of pricing and determining prices of international transactions in advance. The Rollback provisions under this scheme were introduced in 2014. The scheme seeks to foster government’s aim of non-adversarial tax regime. Benefits: (i) Boost to economy and ease of doing business.  (ii) Strengthen Government’s mission of fostering a non-adversarial tax regime. (iii) Introduces certainty in tax law by reducing compliance costs and make tax regime investment friendly. (iv) Provides certainty to taxpayers regarding transfer pricing to avoid disputes between taxpayer and tax regulator.

8 feb

Union Cabinet approves Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan for rural digital literacy

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved ‘Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan’ (PMGDISHA) to make 6 crore rural households digitally literate by March 2019. PMGDISHA is expected to be one of the largest digital literacy programmes in the world. This approval comes in line with the announcement made by Union Finance Minister in the Union Budget 2016-17. Key Facts Under the scheme, 25 lakh candidates will be trained in the FY 2016-17; 275 lakh in 2017-18; and 300 lakh in 2018-19. The outlay for this project is Rs. 2,351.38 crore to usher in digital literacy in rural India. To ensure equitable geographical reach, each of the 250,000 Gram Panchayats across the country will be expected to register an average of 200-300 candidates. Digitally literate persons will be able to operate computers/digital access devices, send and receive emails, access government services, browse internet, search for information, undertaking cashless transactions, etc.. The scheme will be implemented under the supervision of Ministry of Electronics and IT in collaboration with States/UTs through their designated State Implementing Agencies, District e-Governance Society (DeGS), etc. Background As per the 71st National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) Survey on Education 2014, only 6% of the total 16.85 crore rural households have a computer. It highlights that more than 15 crore rural households i.e. 94% do not have computers. Besides, significant numbers of these households are likely to be digitally illiterate.

9 feb

Union Cabinet approves MoU between India and Senegal in Health and Medicine

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Senegal in the field of Health and Medicine. Both countries will set up a Working Group to further elaborate the details of cooperation and to oversee the implementation of this MoU. The main areas of cooperation under MoU Integrated Disease Surveillance. Medical Research. Hospital Management. Emergency Relief. Drugs and Pharmaceutical products and hospital equipments. AIDS Control. Traditional Medicine. Any other areas of mutual interest.
Union Cabinet apprised of India-Vietnam space agreement


The Union Cabinet has been apprised of the Framework Agreement between India and Vietnam on cooperation in the exploration and uses of outer space for peaceful purposes. The Framework Agreement was signed in September 2016. It will enable pursuing the potential interest areas of cooperation such as space science, technology and applications between both countries. Key Facts The agreement covers cooperation in remote sensing of the earth, satellite communication and satellite-based navigation; space science and planetary exploration. It also covers use of spacecraft and space systems and ground system and application of space technology. It will also lead to development of joint activity in field of application of space technologies for benefit of humanity. It will also provide impetus to explore newer research activities and application possibilities in field of remote sensing of earth; satellite navigation; satellite communication; space science and exploration of outer space.

Union Cabinet apprised of MoU between India and France in S&T and Innovation  

The Union Cabinet has been apprised of the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of Cooperation in the field of Science and Technology and innovation. The MoU was signed between India’s Technology Development Board (TDB), Department of Science & Technology and France’s public Investment Bank Bpifrance.  Key Facts The agreement will ensure exchange of best practices and setting up of coordinated measures to foster technological exchanges. The exchanges under it will be through collaboration between companies, organizations and institutions of France and India. The agreement also aims to carry out activities related to exchange of best practices in the field of Science & Technology through the India’s Technology Development Board and Bpifrance. About Technology Development Board (TDB) TDB is a statutory body established under Technology Development Board Act, 1995. Its mandate is to promote development and commercialisation of indigenous technology and adaptation of imported technology for wider application. It consists of 11 Board members. The board plays a pro-active role by encouraging enterprises to take up technology oriented products. The Union Government had reconstituted the board in March 2000. It is the first organization of its kind within the government framework with the sole objective of commercializing the fruit of indigenous research. It provides financial assistance to research and development institutions and equity capital or loans to industrial concerns. The loan carries a simple interest rate of 5% per annum.

India to pitch Trade Facilitation in Services at WTO

India will make a presentation on the proposed Trade Facilitation in Services (TFS) Agreement to World Trade Organisation (WTO) Director General Roberto Azevedo and India Inc. The global pact proposed by India to boost services trade at the WTO-level aims to ease norms including those relating to movement of foreign skilled workers and professionals across borders for short-term work. The proposed services pact is similar to the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in Goods adopted by the WTO Members in 2014 at Bali Summit to ease customs norms for boosting global goods trade. Some proposed features TFS Agreement Covers measures across all modes of supply for services delivery in cross-border trade, related to entry into the market as well as those applied post-entry. Seeks to ensure portability of social security contributions, as well as make sure charges or fees for immigration or visas transparent, reasonable and non-restrictive in nature. Pave the way for a single window mechanism for foreign investment approvals. Ensure cross-border insurance coverage to boost medical tourism. Ensure publication of measures impacting services trade and timely availability of relevant information in all the WTO official languages as well as free flow of data and information for cross-border supply of services.

Union Government not in favour of new law for CBI

The Union Government has turned down the recommendation of Department-Related Parliamentary Standing Committee to come up with a new law for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The parliamentary committee has recommended replacing Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946 which governs CBI. Government stated that it might impinge on the federal structure of the Constitution. Recommendations of Committee Powers given to the CBI under the DSPE Act are not adequate considering the pace of changing times as it has grown into a more dynamic agency specialising in prevention, investigation and prosecution of crimes. In this context, there is need for a separate statute for the CBI for making it an independent and accountable agency.  Government’s Position Separate statute for the CBI will necessitate amendment of Constitution which may also impinge on the federal structure of the Constitution. The mandate of Parliament to enact a law which would be in conflict with Entry 2 of List II of the Seventh Schedule which is in the domain of the States. In this case, CBI may be conferred with powers which will impinge on all the powers of investigation of offences which are conferred on the State police.  About Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) CBI is the foremost investigative police agency in India. It is non constitutional and non-statutory body. It was established in 1941 as Special Police Establishment and was renamed to present nomenclature in 1963. Headquarters: New Delhi. Motto: Industry, Impartiality, Integrity. It derives power to investigate from Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946. It is under administrative control of Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Ministry of Personnel.

India and UK sign MoU to ease restrictions on number of scheduled flight

India and United Kingdom (UK) have signed a MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) to ease restrictions on the number of scheduled flights between the two countries. The MoU was formally signed by Union Minister of Civil Aviation Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju on behalf of India and Lord Tariq Ahmad of UK during his visit to India. Under this MoU Limits on flights from key Indian cities including Chennai and Kolkata have been scrapped, allowing for a greater range of flights for passengers while providing a boost to trade and tourism for the UK and India. All destinations in the UK is opened for Indian carriers for code share flights, and UK carriers can also operate code share flights to any International Airport in India, through domestic code share arrangements. Comment The increase in number of flights between both countries will boost businesses and tourists. It will bring direct and indirect benefits to many sectors of the economies of two countries. Tourism from India makes an important contribution to the UK’s economy. In 2015, there were 422,000 visitors from India to the UK, bringing more than 433 million pounds to its economy.

Kerala’s Nilambur teak to get GI tag

Kerala’s Nilambur teak known internationally for its superior timber quality and elegant appearance will be added to the list of Kerala produces with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. In this regard, IPR Cell of the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) with the support of the Nilambur Teak Heritage Society, the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) and the Department of Forests have applied for GI tag. Key Facts Britishers were first to identify the superior and unique quality of teak from Kerala’s Nilambur plantations and forests. Later, the region became the major supplier of quality teak in the world. Nilambur was christened the Mecca of Teak. Due to its superior mechanical and physical properties as well as aesthetic appearance, the teak was exported to England and other parts of the world. However, as the fame of Nilambur teak increased, fake products with false tags also started flooding the wood and furniture markets. Produces from Kerala with GI tag: Pokkali rice, Vazhakulam Pineapple, Tirur Betel vine, Wayanadan rice varieties Jeerakasala and Gandhakasala, Central Travancore Jaggery and Chengalikodan Nendran, a banana variety. About Geographical Indication (GI) GI tag is an insignia on products having a unique geographical origin and evolution over centuries with regards to its special quality or reputation attributes. The status to the products marks its authenticity and ensures that registered authorised users are allowed to use the popular product name. Benefits of GI Status (i) Legal protection to the products (ii) Prevents unauthorised use of a GI tag products by others (iii) Helps consumers to get quality products of desired traits (iv) Promotes economic prosperity of producers of GI tag goods by enhancing their demand in national and international markets. Legal Authorities associated with GI: It is covered as an element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by World Trade Organisation’s (WTO’s) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 which came into force in September 2003. Darjeeling tea was the first product to accorded with GI tag in India.

RBI to set up committee on strengthening cyber security

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to set up an inter-disciplinary Standing Committee on cyber security to examine various threats and suggest measures to deal with it. The committee will suggest appropriate policy interventions to strengthen cyber security and resilience in a bid to strengthen cyber security system. Functions of Committee Review the threats inherent in the existing or emerging technology on an ongoing basis. Study adoption of various security standards and protocols and also act as interface with stakeholders. Suggest appropriate policy interventions to strengthen cyber security and resilience Background The committee has been set up based on the recommendations of the expert panel on information technology examination and cyber security headed by Meena Hemachandra. In recent times, banks have taken steps to strengthen their defences against cyber-attacks, but the diverse and ingenious nature of recent attacks has necessitated an ongoing review of the cyber security landscape and emerging threats. Recent Cyber-attacks In 2016, as many as 32.14 lakh debit cards were compromised in the cyber-attacks. It was the biggest-ever breach of debit card data in India. Of the debit cards affected, about 26.5 lakh were Visa and Master Card-enabled and 6 lakh were RuPay enabled. To tackle the threat, RBI had issued swift guidelines to banks, mandating cyber security preparedness for addressing cyber risks.

10 feb

India and UK sign MoU to ease restrictions on number of scheduled flights

India and United Kingdom (UK) have signed a MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) to ease restrictions on the number of scheduled flights between the two countries. The MoU was formally signed by Union Minister of Civil Aviation Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju on behalf of India and Lord Tariq Ahmad of UK during his visit to India. Under this MoU Limits on flights from key Indian cities including Chennai and Kolkata have been scrapped, allowing for a greater range of flights for passengers while providing a boost to trade and tourism for the UK and India. All destinations in the UK is opened for Indian carriers for code share flights, and UK carriers can also operate code share flights to any International Airport in India, through domestic code share arrangements. Comment The increase in number of flights between both countries will boost businesses and tourists. It will bring direct and indirect benefits to many sectors of the economies of two countries. Tourism from India makes an important contribution to the UK’s economy. In 2015, there were 422,000 visitors from India to the UK, bringing more than 433 million pounds to its economy.
Kerala’s Nilambur teak to get GI tag

Kerala’s Nilambur teak known internationally for its superior timber quality and elegant appearance will be added to the list of Kerala produces with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. In this regard, IPR Cell of the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) with the support of the Nilambur Teak Heritage Society, the Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI) and the Department of Forests have applied for GI tag. Key Facts Britishers were first to identify the superior and unique quality of teak from Kerala’s Nilambur plantations and forests. Later, the region became the major supplier of quality teak in the world. Nilambur was christened the Mecca of Teak. Due to its superior mechanical and physical properties as well as aesthetic appearance, the teak was exported to England and other parts of the world. However, as the fame of Nilambur teak increased, fake products with false tags also started flooding the wood and furniture markets. Produces from Kerala with GI tag: Pokkali rice, Vazhakulam Pineapple, Tirur Betel vine, Wayanadan rice varieties Jeerakasala and Gandhakasala, Central Travancore Jaggery and Chengalikodan Nendran, a banana variety. About Geographical Indication (GI) GI tag is an insignia on products having a unique geographical origin and evolution over centuries with regards to its special quality or reputation attributes. The status to the products marks its authenticity and ensures that registered authorised users are allowed to use the popular product name. Benefits of GI Status (i) Legal protection to the products (ii) Prevents unauthorised use of a GI tag products by others (iii) Helps consumers to get quality products of desired traits (iv) Promotes economic prosperity of producers of GI tag goods by enhancing their demand in national and international markets. Legal Authorities associated with GI: It is covered as an element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by World Trade Organisation’s (WTO’s) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 which came into force in September 2003. Darjeeling tea was the first product to accorded with GI tag in India.

HRD ministry constitute sub-committee of CABE on issues of girl’s education

The Union Human Resource Development (HRD) Ministry has constituted a sub-committee of Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) to look into issues of girl’s education. It will be headed by Telangana’s Deputy Chief Minister and Education Minister Kadiyam Srihari. It will submit its report to the Union government within one year. Terms of reference of sub-committee Examine reasons for low participation of girls in education, including the socio-economic factors with resultant gender bias and suggest ways to reduce gender disparity to achieve better gender parity index. Assess current status of enrolment of girls across the country at primary, upper primary, secondary education and senior secondary levels. Analyse girls’ participation at all levels of school education across socio-economic groups of minorities, SC/ST and in rural-urban areas and reduce existing educational disparities among them. Examine the existing schemes, incentives and measures aimed at enhancing girls’ participation and ensure their retention in education. Suggest improvements and modifications in the existing schemes. Look into the issues of safety of girl students in schools, particularly in hostels and residential schools. Identify infrastructure gaps such as non-availability or non-functionality of separated toilets for girls which impede retention of girls. Compile best practices adopted by states/UTs for raising standards of girl’s education. Hold consultations with the Central/state governments and other stakeholders.

Union Commerce Ministry approves Revenue Insurance Scheme for Plantation Crops  

 

The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched pilot Revenue Insurance Scheme for Plantation Crops (RISPC) for protecting the growers from the risks such as pest attacks, yield loss and income decline caused by fall in prices. It was announced by Union Minister of State (MoS) Commerce and Industry Nirmala Sitharaman in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha. About Revenue Insurance Scheme for Plantation Crops (RISPC) RISPC announced in September 2016 is improved form of the Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) Scheme, 2003 which was closed 2013. It was launched for protecting growers of plantation crops from twin risks of yield loss due to pest attacks, adverse weather parameters etc. and income loss caused by fall in domestic and international prices. It shall be covering tea, coffee, rubber, cardamom and tobacco plantations and shall be implemented by the commodity boards. It will be implemented on a pilot basis for two years i.e. till 2018 in eight districts in West Bengal, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Karnataka, Sikkim and Tamil Nadu. On the basis of performance of the scheme in pilot project, it will be considered for extension to other districts.

Government unveils first phase of Station Redevelopment Programme

Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu unveiled the first phase of the ambitious Station Redevelopment Programme. It is the world’s largest transit-oriented development programme ever executed. As part this programme, tenders are being floated for 23 of a total of the total 400 A1 and A category stations selected re-developing in the first phase. Stations being modernised in 1st phase: Lokmanya Tilak, Pune, Visakhapatnam, Thane,Howrah, Faridabad, Jammu Tawi, Kamakhya, Secunderabad, Udaipur City, Vijaywada, Chennai Central, Ranchi,  Kozhikode, Bangalore Cantt, Yesvantpur, Bhopal, Mumbai Central, Bandra Terminus, Borivali and Indore. Key Facts  Station Redevelopment Programme is the biggest non-fare revenue generating programme being undertaken by Indian Railways. Financial Model of the programme: It will be executed in a public-private-partnership (PPP) model through a fair bidding system. Government will not incur any expenditure as the developer will be rebuilding the railway stations and maintaining it for 15 years. In return, the developer would be granted 45 years’ leasing rights for the commercial properties developed at these stations. These properties could be hotels, malls, hospitals, among others. Selection Process: These stations will be awarded to private developers under the so-called Swiss challenge method. It involves inviting proposal online and allowing rival bidders to beat that proposal. Amenities at Revamped stations: escalators, elevators, digital signage, self-ticketing counters, executive lounges, walkways, luggage screening machines, free and paid WiFi, etc. Commercial potential of the vacant Railway land at and near the stations will be leveraged to develop world-class stations. Significance The entire programme is estimated to attract investment of upto Rs 1 lakh crore from the developers. It will help Railways will generate a surplus of Rs 10,000 crore which can be invested in other modernisation programmes. Most of the pension funds in the world and a multilateral agency like World Bank are keen to participate in this project. It will benefit more than 100 cities and 16 million passengers per day across the country.

11 feb

February 10: National Deworming Day

The National Deworming Day is observed every year on February 10 with main objective to combat parasitic worm infections among preschool and school-age children across India. This year it is third edition of the observance of this day after it was launched in 2015 by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). The goal of the day is to deworm all preschool and school-age children between the ages of 1-19 years in order to improve their overall health, cognitive development, nutritional status and quality of life. On this day, Albendazole tablets are given to all targeted children. This year for the first time, deworming tablets were given to the private schools children also. About Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH) Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH) also known as parasitic worm is a type of helminth infection (helminthiasis) caused by different species of roundworms. They are among the most common worms infections worldwide caused specifically by those worms which are transmitted through soil contaminated with faecal matter These worms interfere with nutrient uptake in small children causing parasitic infestation. They live in human intestines and consume nutrients meant for the human body. The parasitic infestation or diseases lead to severe complications among the children resulting in anemia, malnutrition and improper mental and physical development. According to WHO, India has the highest burden of STH in the world, with estimated 220 million children (aged 1-14) to be at risk of worm infections.

Senior IAS officer Ajay Tyagi appointed as SEBI Chairman

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed senior bureaucrat Ajay Tyagi (58) as the new chairman of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). Mr. Tyagi will have tenure of 5 years or till the age of 65 years or until further orders. He will succeed UK Sinha whose term ends on March 1, 2017. His name was recommended by the search-cum-selection panel headed by the cabinet secretary along with some other candidates. About Ajay Tyagi Ajay Tyagi is 1984 batch IAS (Indian Administrative Services) officer of Himachal Pradesh cadre. Prior to this appointment, he was Additional secretary (investment) in the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, handling the capital market division. He had served as the chairman of the finance ministry-appointed panel which monitored the merger of the Forward Markets Commission (FMC) with the SEBI. He had represented India at the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an intergovernmental body set up to combat money laundering, terror financing and other related threats. Currently he is also representing India at the Financial Stability Board (FSB), an international body to monitor global financial systems. He also had led the initiatives on corporate bonds markets. About Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) SEBI is the statutory regulator for the securities market in India established in 1988. It was given statutory powers through the SEBI Act, 1992. Mandate: Protect the interests of investors in securities, promote the development of securities market and to regulate the securities market. SEBI has is responsive to needs of three groups, which constitute the market, issuers of securities, investors and market intermediaries. It has three functions: quasi-legislative (drafts regulations in its legislative capacity), quasi-judicial (passes rulings and orders in its judicial capacity) and quasi-executive (conducts investigation and enforcement action in its executive function). Headquarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra.

Government constitutes inter-departmental task force to crack down on benami firms
The Union Government has constituted inter-departmental task force comprising members of various regulatory Ministries and enforcement agencies to crack down on benami firms. It is first major post-demonetisation move undertaken by Government for unearthing black money from shell companies used for large-scale money laundering and tax evasion. Key Facts The task force will be headed by Revenue Secretary and Corporate Affairs Secretary to monitor the actions taken by various agencies. The involved agencies will invoke the stringent Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016 against the shell companies and freeze their accounts and strike off the names of dormant companies. It will also initiate disciplinary action against professionals abetting the companies and entry operators, who are used to launder unaccounted-for incomes into the banking system for projecting them as white money.  Background There are about 15 lakh registered companies in India, but only 6 lakh of them file their annual returns. It has raised suspicion that a large number of these companies are indulging in financial irregularities. During a small sample analysis of such companies conducted by Government has found that Rs.1,238 crore in cash was deposited in these entities during the November-December 2016 period, after demonetisation. It also has been found that 560 beneficiaries have laundered money to the extent of Rs. 3,900 crore with the help of 54 professionals, who have been identified by the Government.

13 feb

February 12: National Productivity Day
The National Productivity Day is observed every year on February 12. Besides, February 12-18 is observed as National Productivity week throughout the country. The main observance of day is organised by National Productivity Council (NPC) for encouraging all stakeholders in implementation of productivity tools and techniques with contemporary relevant themes.  2017 Theme of National Productivity Week: “From Waste to Profits-through Reduce, Recycle and Reuse”. To mark this day, various workshops, essay/slogan/painting competitions, training programs, debates are organized during the week to spread the message of productivity About National Productivity Council (NPC) NPC is a national level autonomous organization under Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion, Ministry of Commerce & Industry to promote productivity culture in India. It was established as a registered society on 12th February 1958 by the Government with aim to stimulate and promote productivity and quality consciousness across all sectors in the country. It is a tri-partite non-profit organization (NGO) with equal representation from government, employers and workers’ organizations. It also has representatives from technical and professional institutions including members from local productivity councils and chamber of commerce on its Governing Body. It also implements the productivity promotion schemes of Government and carry out programmes of Tokyo based Asian Productivity Organization (APO), an inter-governmental body of which India is founder member.

Union Government plans to invest Rs.2,200 crore in electronic technology start-ups

The Union Government is targeting an investment of about Rs. 2,200 crore in start-ups working on new technologies in the electronic sector under the Electronics Development Fund (EDF) by 2019. This investment aims at creating an eco-system to make India a global hub for electronics manufacturing. Earlier, Government had approved Rs.681 crore as seed capital for building a total corpus of over Rs 6,800 crore under the EDF meant to support entrepreneurship and innovation in electronics and IT. About Electronics Development Fund (EDF) EDF is the mother fund or fund of funds that will contribute to various funds for those who invest the money in companies for creation of intellectual property rights (IPR) in the field of electronics and IT. It works with venture capitalists to create funds, known as ‘daughter funds,’ which provide risk capital to companies developing new technologies in the area of nano-electronics, electronics and IT. It will help attract angel funds, venture funds and seed funds towards research & development (R&D) and innovation in the specified areas. It will also help to create a battery of Fund Managers and Daughter funds who will be seeking good start-ups (potential winners) and selecting them based on professional considerations.

Government to come out with 2nd PSB recapitalisation plan Indradhanush 2.0

The Union Government is planning to come out with ‘Indradhanush 2.0’, a comprehensive plan for recapitalisation of public sector lenders. Indradhanush 2.0 will be finalised by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) after completion of Asset Quality Review (AQR) which is likely to be completed by end of March 2017. It aims to clean up the balance sheets of PSBs to ensure banks remain solvent and fully comply with global capital adequacy norms, Basel-III. Besides, revised programme of capitalisation will be also issued as part of it. Background The RBI had embarked on the AQR exercise from December 2015 and had set a deadline of March 2017 to complete the exercise. As part of it, RBI had asked banks to recognise some top defaulting accounts as non-performing assets (NPAs) and make adequate provisions for them. Under ‘Indradhanush’ roadmap announced in 2015, the Union Government had announced an infusion of Rs. 70,000 crore in state-run banks over four years. Banks also were allowed to raise a further Rs. 1.1 lakh crore from the markets to meet their capital requirement in line with global risk norms, Basel-III. In line with the plan, PSBs were given Rs. 25,000 crore in 2015-16, and a similar amount was earmarked for the current fiscal 2016-17. Besides, Rs. 10,000 crore each will be infused in 2017-18 and 2018-19.  About Basel III (Third Basel Accord) Basel III is a global, voluntary regulatory framework on bank capital adequacy, market liquidity risk and stress testing. It was agreed by Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) members in 2010–11. It focuses primarily on the risk of a run on the bank, requiring differing levels of reserves for different forms of bank deposits and other borrowings. It does not, supersedes the guidelines known as Basel I and Basel II for the most part, rather works alongside them. In March 2014, RBI had extended Basel III deadline up to March 31, 2019, instead of as on March 31, 2018. Note: Basel series of norms are broad supervisory standards formulated by BCBS to ensure that financial institutions have enough capital on account to meet obligations and absorb unexpected losses.

India to host counter-radicalisation conference with ASEAN

India is planning to host a conference on counter-radicalisation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in October 2017. It will provide common platform to countries for sharing experiences and ideas on prevention of radicalisation amid rise of Islamic State and other extremist ideologies Key Facts This conference will also help participating countries to learn from each other’s best practices on promoting deradicalisation. It will mainly deal with the growing IS threat and make effort to counter radicalisation and misuse of religion by groups and countries for inciting hatred and terrorism India will also share its experience and also benefit from that of ASEAN countries, especially Malaysia. Besides, more countries may be also invited as observers depending on the interest. UAE will one of such country as it has expertise in deradicalisation that was one of the key areas of discussions during the recent India-UAE bilateral interactions. About Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) ASEAN is a group of 10 South Asian nations is a regional organisation comprising that aims to promote intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic integration amongst its members. It came into existence on August 8, 1967 after ASEAN declaration (also known as Bangkok declaration). Motto: “One Vision, One Identity, One Community”. Headquarters: Jakarta, Indonesia. 10 Members: Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines and Thailand were founder countries. Later 5 more countries Brunei Darussalam, Lao PDR, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam were added. Cambodia was the last entrant added in the group in 1999. Principal aims: (i) Accelerating economic growth, social progress, and sociocultural evolution among its members, (ii) Protection of regional stability and the provision of a mechanism for member countries to resolve differences peacefully.

14 feb

DAE plans to develop uranium deposits in Meghalaya: Government

The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has planned to develop large deposits of uranium found in Meghalaya to tap its potential to generate substantial nuclear fuel for atomic power plants in the country. It was announced by Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (MoS) in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), which looks after DAE, in a written response to a question in the Lok Sabha. Key Facts Uranium mineralization has been found over a large area around Domiasiat, Lostoin, Wahkyn etc in the northeastern state of DAE’s Uranium Corporation of India Ltd. (UCIL) already has made a plan to develop the uranium resources at Domiasiat under the name of Kylleng Phendengsohiong Mawthabah (KPM) Uranium Mining Project. Earlier, Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) also had approved the Detailed Project Report of the KPM Uranium Mining Project. It also had received environmental clearance from Environment Ministry in December 2007. About Uranium Corporation of India (UCIL) UCIL is a centrally owned Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), under the Department of Atomic Energy for uranium mining and uranium processing. It was founded in 1967 and is responsible for the mining and milling of uranium ore in India. At present, the UCIL has uranium mining projects are in Jadugora, Bhatin, Narwapahar, Turamdih and Banduhurang[  in Jharkhand and Andhra Pradesh respectively.

India’s air pollution is world’s deadliest compared to China: Study
According to a new study of global air pollution India’s rapidly worsening air pollution is now surpassing China’s as the deadliest in the world. The report was issued jointly by Health Effects Institute, a Boston research institute focused on the health effects of air pollution, and Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation, Seattle based population health research centre. Key Highlights of report The number of premature deaths in China caused by dangerous air particles PM2.5, has stabilised globally in recent years but has risen sharply in India. About 1.1 million people to die prematurely each year in India which has registered an alarming increase of nearly 50% in premature deaths from particulate matter between 1990 and 2015 period. Global Scenario: The air pollution in recent times has worsened in parts of the world, including South Asia, but it improved in the United States and Europe. US and Europe: Environmental regulations in US and actions taken by European Commission have led to substantial progress in reducing fine particulate matter (PM) pollution from industrialisation since 1990. US has experienced a reduction of about 27% in the average annual exposure to fine PM and there has been smaller declines in Europe. that reduced emissions from industrialisation China: Premature deaths from particulate matter in China each year have stabilised at around 1.1 million since 2005. But still it is an increase of 17% since 1990, when it was a little more than 9,45,000. Particulate Matter Particulate Matters are fine particles, less than fraction of the width of a human hair. These particles are released from vehicles, particularly those with diesel engines, industry, as well as from natural sources like dust. They enter the bloodstream through the lungs, increasing the risk of stroke, heart failure and worsening cardiac disease, in addition also causing severe respiratory problems, like pneumonia and asthma.

No need to stand if National Anthem is part of film: SC

IMF opens technical assistance and training centre SARTTAC in New Delhi  

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has opened a first-of-its-kind South Asia Training and Technical Assistance Centre (SARTTAC) in New Delhi for economic capacity building in South Asia. It will work to support local member countries of South Asia viz. India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka to build human and institutional capacity and implement policies for growth and poverty reduction. About SARTTAC SARTTAC is financed mainly by its six member South Asia countries (mentioned above) with additional support from Australia, South Korea, European Union and United Kingdom. It strategic goal is to help its member countries strengthen their institutional and human capacity to design and implement macroeconomic and financial policies that promote growth and reduce poverty. It will allow the IMF to meet more of the high demand for technical assistance and training from the region. It is expected to become the focal point for the delivery of IMF capacity development services to South Asia. Background In 2016, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde and Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a capacity development centre for South Asia. The opening of SARTTAC is part of the MoU and marks a major milestone in the partnership between the IMF and its member countries in the region.

India joins UN network to halve maternal, newborn deaths

India has joined Network for Improving Quality of Care for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, a global health network focused on improving the quality of care for new mothers and babies. The network is supported by World Health Organisation (WHO), United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and other partners. Key Facts India is among nine countries that will be part of the network. Other countries are Bangladesh, A Cote d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Malawi, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda. Under this network, countries will work to improve the quality of health care facilities to mothers and babies. They will strengthen national efforts to end preventable deaths of pregnant women and newborns by 2030. Under it, counties will build and strengthen their national institutions, identify quality of care focal points at all levels of the health system. They will also accelerate and sustain the implementation of quality-of-care improvement packages for mothers, newborns and children. They will also strengthen capacity and motivation of health professional to plan and manage quality improvement, improve data collection and increase access to medicines, equipment, clean water and supplies. The network will also build a community of health practitioners from facility level and develop evidence-based strategies to improve quality of care, harvest implementation ideas, and collect information and experiences about what is working. Background According to World Health Organisation (WHO), the period around childbirth is the most critical for saving mothers and newborns, and preventing stillbirths. Every year, around 303 000 women die during pregnancy and childbirth worldwide, 2.7 million babies die during the first 28 days of life and 2.6 million babies are stillborn. Most of these deaths can be prevented with quality care during pregnancy and childbirth.

FSSAI constitutes Panel on Food Fortification and Nutrition

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has constituted a Panel on Food Fortification and Nutrition to identify critical nutritional gaps in the Indian diet in general and also in specific target groups. The 11 member panel will frame final regulations on fortification of foods and prepare strategies to address malnutrition problem. Key Facts The Panel will identify critical nutritional gaps in the Indian diet in general and also in specific target groups based on credible scientific evidence and diet surveys. It will review the standards required for all suitable food fortifying vehicles in addition to healthy dietary intake of sugar, fat and salt. It will define strategies to address nutritional needs of general population and vulnerable groups. It will also address regulatory and related technological issues, review proposals from industry using modern risk assessment methods. It will also prescribe standard test and sampling methods for effective surveillance, monitoring and enforcement of the relevant regulations. What is Food fortification? Food fortification is the process of adding micronutrients i.e. essential trace elements and vitamins into the food. It is an integrated approach to prevent micronutrient deficiencies and complements other approaches to improve health and nutrition. This enrichment process has proven as an effective strategy to meet the nutritional needs of a large number of people across various sections of the society, including the poor and underprivileged, pregnant women and young children. What are advantages of Food fortification? Food fortification does not require changes in existing food habits and patterns nor individual compliance. It does not alter characteristics of food and is socio-culturally acceptable. It can be introduced quickly and can produce nutritional benefits and improve health of people in a short period of time. It also safe and cost effective. About FSSAI FSSAI is a nodal statutory agency responsible for protecting and promoting public health in India through the regulation and supervision of food safety. FSSAI was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and operates under aegis of Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.

ISRO successfully launches record 104 satellites in single mission

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) created history by successfully launching a record 104 satellites in single mission. These satellites were launched on board of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle PSLV-C37, on its 39th mission from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.’ Key Facts  Of the total 104 satellites, three were Indian and remaining 101 belonged to international customers. India’s three satellites included earth-mapping Cartosat-2 satellite (main payload) and nanosatellites INS-1A and INS-1B. Foreign Satellites: Of the 101 co-passenger satellites, 96 belong to US and remaining 5 from Israel, Kazakhstan, Netherlands, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, respectively. Around 90 small satellites belonged to US-based company Planet Inc. They are named ‘Doves’ and their constellation will be used to image the earth at low cost. Launch Process: In this mission, PSLV first launched the Cartosat-2 and then its 103 co-passengers (together weighing about 664 kg) into the polar Sun Synchronous Orbit (SSO), about 520 km from the Earth. Cartosat-2 Satellite: It was the primary payload of the mission. It is similar to the earlier four satellites in Cartosat-2 Series. It weighs 714 kg and has a mission life of five years. It is earth observation satellite that will provide remote sensing services. Images sent by it will be useful for coastal land use and regulation, road network monitoring and creation of land use maps, among others. INS-1A and INS-1B Satellites: They are nanosatellites. INS-1A was carrying Surface Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function Radiometer and INS-1B was carrying Earth Exosphere Lyman Alpha Analyser as payloads. Launch Vehicle: For this mission, ISRO had used XL Variant of PSLV rocket standing 44.4 metres tall and weighing 320 tonnes. It is most powerful rocket of ISRO and earlier was used in launching ambitious Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM). Records Broken: This mission beat the previous record held by Russia, which in 2014 had catapulted 37 satellites in a single launch, using a modified inter-continental ballistic missile. It also broke ISRO’s previous national record set in June 2016, after it had successfully launched 20 satellites, including 13 from the US in single mission.

16 feb

CCEA approves contract awards for 44 small oil and gas fields

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved to award contract in 31 contract areas of small oil and gas fields belonging to ONGC and Oil India Limited (OIL) The contract areas include 44 fields, 28 inland and 16 offshore. The will be awarded under Discovered Small Field Policy bid round – 2016. Key Facts The award of contract is expected to provide faster development of oil and gas fields and facilitate production of oil and gas thereby increasing energy security of the country. These areas were discovered long back but could not be monetized due to various reasons such as isolated locations, high development costs, small size of reserves, technological constraints, fiscal regime etc. This move is expected to monetise in-place locked hydrocarbons volume of 40 MMT oil and 22 Billion Cubic Meters (BCM) of gas over a period of 15 years, this supplementing the domestic production. Background For early monetization of these fields, Union Cabinet had approved 69 marginal fields in September, 2015 for offer under Discovered Small Fields Policy.  Out of these, 67 small fields were clubbed into 46 contract areas and were put on offer through online international competitive bidding.  A total of 134 e-bids were received for 34 contract areas from 47 companies (43 Indian companies and 4 were foreign companies).  These contract areas were awarded under the new regime of Revenue sharing Model.

Union Cabinet approves establishment of Food Legumes Research Platform at Amlaha

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved establishment of Food Legumes Research Platform (FLRP) at Amlaha in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh with Satellite Hubs in West Bengal and Rajasthan. Cabinet approval confers FLRP an international status as contemplated in Clause 3 of the United Nations (Privileges and Immunities) Act, 1947. It authorizes the Department of Agricultural Research (DARE) on behalf of Union Government in all matters regarding establishment of the Platform. Key Facts The FLRP will be established by International Centre for Agricultural Research in Dry Areas (ICARDA) for meeting the emerging food security challenges. Under it, ICARDA will carry out research through a multi-disciplinary team of scientists for enhancing productivity of crops range-land and livestock. It will enable India to harness the best of international science in meeting the emerging food security challenges. It will help India to rapidly and effectively absorb research output in the agriculture. It will be a major international research & development (R&D) institution that will make India even bigger centre for agricultural research in the world. This in turn will attract further R&D investment in the country. The research output through this centre will benefit farmers (big, small or marginal) of all regions and technologies developed will be available for all farmers in equitable and inclusive manner. This platform will contribute significantly towards reducing poverty, improving food security, improving nutrition and health, and sustaining the natural resource base. About International Centre for Agriculture Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) ICARDA is a non-profit agricultural research for development institute that aims to improve the livelihoods of the resource-poor across the world’s dry areas. It was established in 1977. Its research activities include the development of new crop varieties, conservation agriculture, water harvesting, diversification of production systems, integrated crop/livestock production systems, and empower rural women. ICARDA has a good track record of innovation, including in climate resilient technologies such as suitable food legume varieties for dry-land production systems.

Government launches TAMRA Portal and Mobile App

The Ministry of Mines has launched Transparency, Auction Monitoring and Resource Augmentation (TAMRA) Portal and Mobile Application to ensure transparent award of statutory Clearances for mining operations The TAMRA platform was simultaneously launched across 12 mineral rich states as a part of the Ease of Doing Business in the Mining sector and to double mining contribution to GDP. Key Features The TAMRA covers block-wise, state-wise and mineral-wise information of mines to be auctioned. It monitors various statutory clearances and also highlights the additional resources generated through e-auction. It is an interactive platform to speed up mining activity by facilitating all the stakeholders to track the status of the statutory clearances associated with mining blocks. In case of delay in obtaining any statutory clearances, TAMRA platform will send triggers to the concerned authority so that they can take remedial steps immediately. The Union Ministry of Mines will also receive triggers generated by TAMRA, facilitating it in expediting clearances. Further, the status of each of the clearances will be reflected on the portal. The portal also enables successful bidder to give suggestions and inputs. It will help to establish a participative and informative network among all stakeholders.

Union Cabinet approves bill to amend Collection of Statistics Act, 2008 

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved introduction of Bill in Parliament to extend the jurisdiction of the Collection of Statistics Act, 2008 to Jammu & Kashmir. The Amendment will be pertained to statistics under Union (List-I) and Concurrent lists (List- III) in the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution and Constitution (Application to Jammu & Kashmir) Order, 1954. Key Facts about Bill It will strengthen data collection mechanism in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. It will extend the jurisdiction of the parent Act to J&K in respect of matters not reserved for the State as per the 1954 Order. It also envisages appointment of nodal officer at Centre and in each State/UT to effectively coordinate data collection activities and provide consultation to government departments to avoid unnecessary duplication. Background The Collection of Statistics Act, 2008 was enacted by the Parliament to facilitate the collection of statistics on economics, social, demographic, scientific and environmental aspects etc. The Act extends to the whole of India, except J&K. The J&K state legislature also had enacted the Jammu & Kashmir Collection of Statistics Act, 2010, which is replica of the central legislation extending to whole state. However, both central and state legislations are not applicable to statistical subjects falling in the Union List, as applicable to the J&K under the Constitution (Application to Jammu & Kashmir) Order 1954. This has created a legislative vacuum. Besides, concurrent jurisdiction to be exercised by Centre in J&K also has not been provided in the Central legislation. So the amendment is intended to address this vacuum.

Union Cabinet approves merger of SBI, 5 associate banks

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the merger of State Bank of India (SBI) with five of its associate/subsidiary banks. These five subsidiary banks are State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, State Bank of Hyderabad, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Patiala and State Bank of Travancore. The Union Cabinet also approved the introduction of a Bill in Parliament to repeal the State Bank of India (Subsidiary Banks) Act, 1959 and the State Bank of Hyderabad Act, 1956.  Key Facts The acquisition under Section 35 of the SBI Act, 1955 will result in the creation of a stronger merged entity. It will minimize vulnerability faced by subsidiary banks to any geographic concentration risks. It will improve operational efficiency and economies of scale resulting into in improved risk management and unified treasury operations. Existing customers of associate banks will benefit from SBI’s global network. The merger will lead to better management of high value credit exposures through focused monitoring and control over cash flows rather than separate monitoring by six different banks. The merger will also result in recurring savings, estimated at more than Rs. 1,000 crore in first year, because of reduced cost of funds and enhanced operational efficiency. Comment The acquisition of subsidiary banks of SBI is considered an important step towards strengthening the banking sector through consolidation of public sector banks (PSBs). It is in pursuance of the Indradhanush action plan of the Central Government. In 2015, SBI was ranked 52 in the world in terms of assets, however the merger will allow its entry un top 50. The merger does not include Bharatiya Mahila Bank (BMB) and its proposal is still under consideration.

17 feb

SC introduces Middle Income Group Scheme

The Supreme Court has introduced Middle Income Group Scheme, (MIGS) a self-supporting scheme for providing legal services to the middle and relatively lower income groups. Under this scheme, middle class people who cannot afford the expensive litigation in the apex can avail the services of the society for a nominal amount. Key Facts MIGS is a self-supporting scheme that will provide legal services to the middle income group citizens whose gross income does not exceed Rs.60, 000 per month or Rs. 7, 50, 000 per annum. A case will be registered under the MIG Legal Aid Scheme and forwarded to Advocate-on-Record/ Senior Counsel/Arguing Counsel on the panel for their opinion. If Advocate-on-Record is satisfied that case is fit, then the society will consider that applicant is entitled to legal aid. The view expressed by Advocate-on Record will be final in determining eligibility of the applicant for obtaining the benefit under the scheme. A society will be created with Chief Justice of India (CJI) as Patron-in-Chief. Attorney General will be its ex-officio Vice President, Solicitor General its Honorary Secretary and other senior advocates as its members. If an advocate, appointed under the scheme, is found negligent in pursuing the case entrusted to him, he will be required to return the brief together with the fee received by him from the applicant. The society will not be responsible for the negligent conduct and the entire responsibility will be that of the advocate. The name of the Advocate will be struck off from the panel prepared under the scheme.

India ranks 143rd in 2017 Economic Freedom Index

India was ranked 143rd out of 186 economies in the annual Index of Economic Freedom 2017 that measures the degree of economic freedom in the countries of the world. The index was released by top US based Think Tank, The Heritage Foundation. In this edition, India’s overall score was 52.6 points, 3.6 points less than scored in 2016 when it was ranked 123rd. How countries are ranked? The Index of Economic Freedom ranks countries based on score ranging 0 to 100, with 0 being the least free and 100 the most free. The score is based on ten factors of economic freedom, separated into four categories, using statistics from international organizations like World Bank, IMF, Economist Intelligence Unit and Transparency International. Based on the score, countries are grouped in 5 different categories, Free (80–100), Mostly Free (70.0–79.9), Moderately Free (60.0–69.9), Mostly Unfree (50.0–59.9) and Repressed (0–49.9). Key Highlights of 2017 Economic Freedom Index Top 5 countries in this edition of index are Hong Kong (1st), Singapore (2nd) and New Zealand (3rd), Switzerland (4th) and Austria (5th). India with 52.6 points score was ranked 143rd. It was placed in the category of “Mostly Unfree” Economies (points ranging from 50.0-59.9). India’s neighbours, Nepal (125th), Sri Lanka (112th), Pakistan (141st), Bhutan (107th), and Bangladesh (128th) have surpassed India. Only Afghanistan (163rd) and Maldives (157th) were ranked below India. China with a score of 57.4 points ranked 111th which is 5.4 points above 2016 score. United States was ranked 17th with a score of 75.1 points. The world average score was 60.9, highest recorded in the 23-year history of the index. 49 countries majority of developing countries and also Norway and Sweden have achieved their highest-ever index scores. India related facts: India’s progress on market-oriented reforms has been uneven. India has combination of advance technology and manufacturing sectors of developed world as well as traditional sectors, characteristic of a lesser developed economy. Extreme wealth and poverty coexist in India as it both modernises rapidly and struggles to find paths to inclusive development for its large population. India is a significant force in world trade, but underdeveloped infrastructure, corruption and poor management of public finance undermines its overall development. Praised efforts of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for giving a new energy and strength to Indian Foreign Policy. PM has strengthened India’s bilateral ties with US particularly in defence cooperation.

18 feb

NRAI gets highest WHO ratings for vaccine regulations

India’s vaccine regulatory body NRAI (National Regulatory Authority of India) was given the maximum ratings by the World Health Organisation (WHO) for vaccine regulations. The ratings were given by WHO after completing the assessment of the status of the NRAI system against WHO NRA Global Benchmarking Tool and measured the maturity of the system in India. Need for assessment India is one of the main players in the pharmaceutical industry worldwide and often is referred as pharmacy of the world. India, as a large vaccine producing country, is currently supplying several vaccines to the United Nations agencies (UNICEF, WHO and PAHO). A fully functional NRAI is a pre-requisite for WHO prequalification of vaccines. One of the requirements to become eligible and retain prequalification status is to get assessed. Key Facts The assessment was done in respect of 9 different functionalities by a WHO team comprising lead experts in different areas from WHO Headquarters Geneva, WHO India Country Office, experts from several countries. Based on it, NRAI was declared functional with a maturity level of 4 which is highest level as per currently evolved definitions in respect of 5 functions, and maturity level 3 in respect of 4 functions. Maturity level 4 indicates good results and sustained improvement trends, while level 3 reflects systematic process based approach, early stage of systematic improvements, data availability regarding conformance to objectives and existence of improvement trends. The result reflects growing maturity of NRAI emanating from a concerted effort by Government in consultation with WHO to build capacity and capability of NRAI over last several years. About National Regulatory Authority of India (NRAI) NRAI comprises the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), State Drug Regulatory Authorities, Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) and Pharmaco-vigilance Programme of India (PvPI) structures at the Central and States levels.

20 feb

GST council approves law to compensate states for revenue loss 
The GST Council has approved a law to compensate states for any loss of revenue from the implementation of the new nationwide indirect taxation regime. The meeting was held in Udaipur, Rajasthan first time outside national capital. It was headed by Union Finance Minister and attended by representatives from all states. Key Facts GST is a consumption based indirect tax levied on sale, manufacture and consumption on goods and services at a national level. It will replace a plethora of central and state indirect taxes. The Compensation Law provides compensation to states that will incur losses because of implementation of the Goods and Service Tax (GST) in the first five years. This law will go to Parliament for approval in the second half of the 2017-18 Budget Session beginning March 9, 2017. This meeting deferred approval for enabling laws i.e. Central GST (C-GST), Integrated GST (I-GST) and State GST (S- GST) for full fledge implementation of GST regime. Besides, Council gave its suggestions to legal sub-committee which is drafting the model laws, on issues like delegation of powers, composition of appeal at tribunal to adjudicate on disputes and exemptions during transition phase. About GST Council GST Council has been established as per Article 279A of the Constitution. It is joint forum of the Centre and the States to make recommendations on important issues related to GST. Union Finance Minister is Chairperson of the council. Besides, Union Minister of State (MoS) in-charge of Revenue of finance and Minister In-charge of taxation or finance or any other Minister nominated by each State Government are its Members.

21 feb

MoU signed for welfare of Handicraft Artisans belonging to Scheduled Castes

The Union Ministry of Textiles and Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment have signed MoU to step up interventions for the welfare and economic development of scheduled caste artisans. The MoU was signed between Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles and National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC), a CPSU under Ministry of Social Justice. The MoU aims for Continuous and extensive collaboration between NSFDC and Office of DC (Handicrafts). Assessment and gap identification through popularising various schemes by holding awareness camps. Extensive skill upgradation in the identified clusters having dominant presence of SC artisans, in the field of innovative and market-friendly designs and adoption of modern tools and techniques Enhancing participation of SC artisans and their producer groups in domestic and international marketing events. Providing working capital credit for SC artisans at concessional rates, by combining benefits provided by both ministers.

Government releases new format for recording, reporting road accident data

The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has released the new format for recording and reporting road accident data. The uniform accident-recording format has been drawn on the lines of developed countries. It has been forwarded to all state police and transport departments for adaptation and to furnish annual road accident data. Under the new format Police, transport department and other agencies rather merely putting blame on driver, should consider factor in circumstances such as road conditions, visibility, signage and weather that led to an accident first. The concerned authorities will have to furnish five-point information regarding every accident, which will be monitored centrally. These five points include the site of accident, details of vehicles involved, weather condition, victims’ details and nature of mishap. Background The new format has been designed by a high-level committee set up by the transport research wing of the ministry comprising senior officials and experts from IITs and World Health Organization (WHO).  In India, every day 1,374 roads accidents and 400 deaths are reported across the country, which translates into 57 accidents and 17 deaths every hour on an average.

Government announces expansion of rotavirus vaccine in 5 states

The Union Government has announced the expansion of rotavirus vaccine in five additional states under Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP). They are Assam, Tripura, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu. The announcement comes after 38 lakh children were vaccinated when the vaccine was first introduced in four states – Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.  Key Facts The rotavirus is one of the most common causes of severe diarrhoea in children less than 2 years of age. It is one of the biggest killers in children in India. It is responsible for nearly 78,000 deaths, 32 lakh out-patient visits and nearly 9 lakh hospitalizations every year. The vaccine will prevent Rotavirus diarrhoea in children which accounts for approximately 40% of hospitalizations from diarrhoea in India. Rotavirus vaccine supplemented by proper sanitation, hand washing practices, ORS and zinc supplementation will go a long way in reducing the mortality and morbidity due to diarrhoea in children. About Rotavirus The Rotavirus is a genus of double-stranded RNA virus in the family Reoviridae. It most common causative agent of moderate-to-severe diarrhoea (MSD) among infants below 11 months age group and death among children less than five years of age. Transmission: The virus spreads from person to person due to bacterial and parasiting agents that are primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water. Impact on Health: It causes gastroenteritis after it damages the cells that line the small intestine and causes gastroenteritis. In some cases in causes malnutrition, delayed physical and mental development among children. About Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) The UIP provide free of cost vaccines to all children across the country to protect them against 11 life threatening diseases. These 11 diseases are Tuberculosis, Pertussis, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Polio, Pneumonia and Meningitis due to Haemophilus Influenzae type b (Hib), Measles, Rubella, Rotavirus diarrhoea and Japanese Encephalitis (JE). (Rubella, JE and Rotavirus vaccine are given in select states and districts). It is the largest birth cohort in the world vaccinating around 26 million children annually.

Government launches SAATHIYA Resource Kit and SAATHIYA SALAH mobile app for adolescents
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched SAATHIYA Resource Kit and SAATHIYA SALAH mobile app for adolescents as part of the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) programme. The kit and app will help Peer Educators (Saathiyas) who are introduced under the RKSK programme. The Saathiyas act as catalyst for generating demand for adolescent health services and also impart age appropriate knowledge on key adolescent health issues to their peer groups. Need India is home to 253 million adolescents which is largest in the world in terms of absolute numbers.  Their health and wellness is utmost priority as they are the critical mass of asset which in future will be the biggest demographic dividends to the country’s economy. Key Facts The Resource Kit has been developed by United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Population Foundation of India (PFI). The kit comprises i) Activity Book, ii) Bhranti-Kranti Game iii) Question-Answer Book and iv) Peer Educator Diary. It has been designed to present the Peer Educators with key information on adolescent health, which would then enable them to communicate the same and help the adolescents at the grass root/village level’. In addition, the mobile app ‘Saathiya Salah’ acts as cost-effective information platform for the adolescents. It also has feature of toll-free Saathiya Helpline which will act as an e-counselor. About Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) programme RKSK programme was launched by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in January 2014 with an aim to cater and address health and development needs of the country’s adolescents. It introduces community-based interventions through peer educators (Saathiyas), and is underpinned by collaborations with other ministries and state governments. RKSK identifies six strategic priorities for adolescents: (i) nutrition, (ii) sexual and reproductive health (SRH), (iii) non-communicable diseases (NCDs), (iv) substance misuse, (v) injuries and violence (including gender-based violence) and (vi) mental health. To guide the implementation of this programme, the ministry in collaboration with UNFPA has developed a National Adolescent Health Strategy. Target Groups: The strategy focuses on age groups 10-14 years and 15-19 years with universal coverage. It covers males and females in school and out of school, in urban and rural, married and unmarried and vulnerable and under-served.

India, Rwanda sign MoUs in innovation, aviation and visa requirements
India and Rwanda have inked three agreements in the fields of innovation, aviation and visa requirements to boost bilateral relations. These agreements were signed in Kigali in the presence of Vice President Mohammed Hamid Ansari and Rwandan Prime Minister Anastase Murekezi during a business forum meet. Vice President is the first Indian leader to officially visit Rwanda. He launched India-Rwanda innovation growth programme. Three important agreements signed are Bilateral air service agreement between two countries. Agreement for exemption of visa requirements for diplomatic and service passports. Agreement for establishment of an Entrepreneurship Development Centre in Rwanda duly financed by India, Background Vice President Hamid Ansari visited Rwanda on the first leg of his 2-nation visit to East Africa. Later he will travel to Uganda, the second leg of his tour to another East African country. Both Rwanda and Uganda are important from India’s viewpoint of trade, especially in the pharmaceuticals, automobiles, mechanical appliances and machinery sectors. Since 2012, India’s trade with Rwanda has doubled and it is one of Uganda’s largest trading partners and largest investors. India-Africa Relations India is key partner of African nations in the 1950s and 1960s. However in the past decade, India lost influence in Africa to China and other Asian nations. In recent years, India is seeking to broaden its general outreach to resource-rich Africa and establish its footprint in sub-Saharan Africa. India has positioned itself as a partner of choice to African countries in areas such as education, healthcare, investment and trade. In 2014-15, India-Africa trade was almost $70 billion and Indian investments in Africa in the past decade was amounted to $30-35 billion. The figures, however, are low in comparison with the Africa’s trade and investment ties with China which is around $200 billion. China has built large infrastructure projects like roads, railways, airports and government buildings in Africa. Together, President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President Ansari have visited 12 African nations in 2016. This was in keeping with PM Modi’s promise to maintain the tempo of interaction with Africa, made to leaders to 54 African nations during the 3rd India-Africa summit in New Delhi in October 2015.

22 feb

February 21: International Mother Language Day

The International Mother Language Day (IMLD) was observed across the world on 21 February to promote awareness of linguistic, multilingualism and cultural diversity. This year it is the 17th anniversary of IMLD. The observance of this day signifies importance of mother language as the greatest weapon to express one’s feeling. Mother Language of one country is the sign of independence of that country. 2017 Theme: “Towards Sustainable Futures through Multilingual Education”. Background The International Mother Language Day was instituted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by passing resolution 61/266 in 2007. The resolution had called upon member states “to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by peoples of the world. Since 2007, it is observed annually by member states to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. The day was first proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 1999 to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. Bangladesh Connection The IMLD assumes special significance in Bangladesh where scores of people (activists), mostly students and teachers of the Dhaka University, were mercilessly shot down by the Pakistani army in 1952 in erstwhile East Pakistan. The activists had protested against imposition of Urdu as the national language side-stepping Bengali – their mother tongue and the protest came to be known as Language Movement.

Government launches Cyber Swachhta Kendra in New Delhi
The Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched Cyber Swachhta Kendra in New Delhi for Botnet cleaning and Malware analysis. It was launched by Union Minister of Electronics and IT Ravi Shankar Prasad as part of Union Government’s ambitious digital India initiative to create a secure cyber space by detecting botnet infections. Besides, minister also launched some cyber security tools. They are USB Pratirodh: It is a desktop security solution to protect from USB mass storage device threats. AppSamvid: It is a desktop solution to protect systems by allowing installation of genuine applications through white listing. It helps in preventing threats from malicious applications. M-Kavach: It is an indigenously developed mobile application to address the security threats in mobiles. About Cyber Swachhta Kendra The centre mission is to create a secure cyber space by detecting botnet infections in India and to notify, enable cleaning and securing systems of end users so as to prevent further infections. It is being operated by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) under provisions of Section 70B of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000. The centre complies with the objectives of the National Cyber Security Policy, 2013 which aims at creating a secure cyber eco-system in the country. It operates in close coordination and collaboration with Internet Service Providers (ISPs), academia, banks and Product and Antivirus companies. Botnet: It is a network of private computers infected with malicious software and controlled as a group without the owners’ knowledge. Such infected computer is referred to as a zombie. It is used to steal data, send spam. Botnet is a combination of the words robot and network.The popular attacks that happen these days using botnets are called the Distributed Detail of Service (DDOS) attacks. Malware: It is malicious software which is specifically designed to disrupt, damage, or gain authorized access to a computer system. It is an umbrella term used to refer to a variety of forms of hostile or intrusive malicious softwares including computer viruses, worms, trojan horses, spyware, ransomware, adware, scareware etc.

Government launches Bharat QR code

The Union Government has launched Bharat QR code, a quick response (QR) code to enable digital payments without card swiping machines. It is world’s first interoperable payment acceptance solution launched by Indian Government to move towards less-cash economy. Key facts Bharat QR code has been developed by jointly by National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), Visa, MasterCard and American Express under instructions from Reserve Bank of India (RBI). It works as common interface for the MasterCard/Visa/RuPay platforms and also facilitate acceptance of Aadhaar-enabled payments and Unified Payments Interface (UPI). It enables person to make payments to retailers without using the merchant’s ID or number. It eliminated need of using card swiping machines making digital payments. Using, BharatQR code merchants will be required to only display one QR code instead of multiple ones. Users can make payment by scanning the code. BharatQR code is of two types static and dynamic. In static QR code, first code need to be scanned and then amount is entered to make payment. In case of dynamic QR code, new QR code will be generated in real time for every transaction. In this case there is no need to enter the amount. The payment is just made by scanning and entering the PIN.  What is QR code? QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional (matrix) machine-readable bar code made up of black and white square. This code can be read by the camera of a smartphone. It is used for storing URLs or other information that link directly to text, emails websites phone numbers. It is capable of 360 degrees (omni-directional), high speed reading. QR Code can store up to 7089 digits as compared to conventional bar codes which can store max 20 digits. It encodes same amount of data in one-tenth the space of a traditional bar code. It carries information both horizontally and vertically. It has error correction capability and data stored in it can be restored even if it is partially damaged or dirty.

23 feb

Union Cabinet approves Air Services Agreement between India and Greece

Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the signing of Air Services Agreement (ASA) between India and Greece. At present there is no ASA between India and Greece. The delegations both countries in September 2016 had finalized the text of ASA. The agreement is as per latest International Civil Aviation Key features of ASA Under this agreement, both countries will be entitled to designate one or more airline. The designated airlines of either country will have right to establish offices for the promotion end sale of air services in the territory of the other country. The designated airlines of both countries will have fair and equal opportunity to operate the agreed services on specified routes. The designated Airline can also enter into cooperative marketing arrangements with the designated carriers of same party, other party and third country. As per the Route Schedule, Indian carriers can operate to Athens, HerakIion, Thessaloniki and any 3 points to be specified later in Greece from points in India. Whereas the carriers from Greece can establish direct operation to 6 metros viz. New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Chennai.  Comment The Agreement has the potential to spur greater trade, investment, tourism and cultural exchange between the both countries in tune with the developments in the civil aviation sector. Besides, it will provide enabling environment for enhanced and seamless connectivity. It will also provide commercial opportunities to the carriers of both the sides by ensuring greater safety and security.

Union Cabinet apporves agreement between India and Poland for cooperation in agriculture

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing of an Agreement between India and Poland on cooperation in the field of agriculture and allied sectors. Decision in this regard was taken by the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.  Key Facts The agreement covers various activities in the field of agriculture and allied sector including exchange of information on the current situation in agriculture. It also includes exchange of information on the phytosanitary conditions of crops, threats posed by harmful organisms and animal infectious diseases. It also covers participation in fairs, exhibitions, seminars and conferences related to agriculture and agri-food processing. It also includes undertaking and developing joint economic initiatives including the support or agrifood trade between the states of the Contracting Parties. The Agreement provides for constitution of a Joint Working Group (JWG) comprising of representatives of both countries. The JWG will prepare plans of cooperation and also provide solutions to the problems arising during the implementation of the Agreement.

CCEA approves $854.4 million investment for 900-MW Arun 3 hydropower project in Nepal
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved investment for the generation component of 900-MW Arun 3 hydropower project for an estimated Rs. 5723.72 crore ($854.4 million). The project is located on Arun River in Sankhuwasabha district of eastern Nepal. It is expected to be completed within five years from the date of financial closure, which is planned for September 2017. About Arun 3 hydropower project The project is based on Run-of-River scheme that envisages about 70 metre high concrete gravity dam and 74 Km Head Race Tunnel (HRT). It also has underground Power House containing four generating units of 225 MW each on Left Bank. Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) Limited had bagged the project through International Competitive Bidding. It had signed MoU with Nepal Government for the project in March 2008. The execution of the project will be on Build Own Operate and Transfer (BOOT) basis for a period of 30 years including five years of construction period. The Project Development Agreement (PDA) was signed in November 2014, which provides 21.9% free power to Nepal for the entire concession period of 25 years. The surplus power from the project will be exported to India from Dhalkebar in Nepal to Muzaffarpur in Bihar. It will strengthen power availability in India and also economic linkages with Nepal.

CCEA approves doubling of solar power capacity to 40000 MW

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the enhancement of capacity from 20,000 MW to 40,000 MW of the Scheme for Development of Solar Parks and Ultra Mega Solar Power Projects. The capacity of the solar park scheme was enhanced after considering the demand for additional solar parks from the States. Key Facts The enhanced capacity will ensure setting up of at least 50 solar parks each with a capacity of 500 MW and above in various parts of the country. All the States/UTs are eligible for benefits under the scheme. Under this scheme, smaller parks will also be considered in Himalayan and other hilly States where contiguous land may be difficult to acquire in view of the difficult terrain. The Solar Parks and Ultra Mega Solar Power Projects will be set up by 2019-20 with Union Government’s financial support of 8100 crore rupees. These plants after becoming operational will generate total 64 billion units of clean electricity per year. It will lead to abatement of around 55 million tonnes of CO2 per year over its life cycle. It will also contribute to long term energy security of the country and promote ecologically sustainable growth by reduction in carbon emissions and carbon footprint. It will also generate large direct and indirect employment opportunities in solar and allied industries like heavy industrial equipment, glass, metals etc. The solar parks will also provide productive use of abundant uncultivable lands which in turn facilitate development of the surrounding areas. Under the scheme, solar parks will be developed in collaboration with States/UTs. The States/UTs are required to select the Solar Power Park Developer (SPPD) for developing and maintaining the solar parks. Solar Energy Corporation India (SECI) will administer the scheme under the direction of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). SECI will release the approved grant. About SECI SECI is a not-for-profit company established in 2011 under Section-25 of the Companies Act 1956. It is a facilitation and implementation institution dedicated to Solar Energy sector under the aegis of Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

India-China first Strategic Dialogue held in Beijing

The first Strategic Dialogue between India and China was held in Beijing, capital of China to shore up bilateral ties. The meeting was co-chaired by India’s Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar and China’s Executive Vice Foreign minister Zhang Yesui. Key Facts The Strategic Dialogue mechanism between both countries was agreed to during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to India in August 2016. In the first meeting, both countries discussed all issues of mutual interest in bilateral, regional and international domain. They also discussed issues of mutual concern and interest including friction points. The dialogue strived to take a holistic view of the relations between the two countries. It also tried to an extent to accommodate each other’s concerns and interests. On the issue of 1267 Committee’s sanctions on Masood Azhar: India once again explained the rationale for its application to committee and pointed out that the issue was also pursued by other countries too. India held that Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) itself is proscribed as terrorist organisation under 1267. So it is strong proof for declaring Azhar, founder of JeM a global terrorist. On the NSG issue: China underlined that they were open to India’s application for membership. But it has own view of the procedures and processes which are different from most of the group’s members. Background In recent times, India-China ties have witnessed strain following China’s rigid stand on issues crucial to India such as membership to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and designation of JeM (Jaish-e-Mohammed) chief and Pathankot attack mastermind Masood Azhar as global terrorist by the UN under 1267 Sanctions list. In 2016, China had scuttled India’s membership bid at the meeting of NSG and also opposed banning of Azhar by the UN, apparently at the behest of Pakistan.

24 feb

Indian Railways unveils Antyodaya Express

Indian Railways has unveiled Antyodaya Express, a new train for the unreserved passengers. It was unveiled by Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu in New Delhi’s Safdarjang station. The first Antyodaya Express is slated to start between Mumbai (Maharashtra) and Tatanagar (Jharkhand) and second between Ernakulam and Howrah. Key Features of Antyodaya Express The facilities provided in Antyodaya coaches are similar in first class coaches in line with purpose of antyodaya which means upliftment of Aam Aadmi (common man). The coaches of train are fully unreserved LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) second class coaches with additional safety features manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. The interior panelling of the coaches has been done with aluminium composite panels, similar to Deen Dayalu Express introduced in mid-2016. It boasts of modern amenities such as water purifiers, toilet occupation indication display, fire extinguishers with anti-theft arrangement, cushioned luggage racks, bio-toilets, LED lights, mobile charging points etc. The exterior of the train has been given the colour scheme of red and yellow, with a design around the windows of the coaches and has pleasing interior colour scheme. The fares of the Antyodaya Express will reportedly be around 10-15% higher than the regular rate as it aims to provide enhanced passenger comfort.

CBEC launches mobile application for GST updates

The Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) has launched a mobile application for Goods and Services Tax (GST) to inform the taxpayers of the latest updates on GST. The app has been launched inline Union Government’s flagship Digital India initiative. It enables taxpayers to be well informed of the latest updates on GST. The app host of GST information such as Draft Law-Model GST Law, IGST Law and GST Compensation Law Migration to GST-Approach and guidelines for migration Draft Rules-Rules related to Registration, Payment, Returns, Refund and Invoice. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) on GST Various resources on GST such a articles, videos etc. Helpdesk/Email Contact About Central Board of Excise and Custom (CBEC) CBEC is the nodal government agency on Indirect Taxes responsible for administering Customs, Central Excise, Service Tax and Narcotics in India. Currently it operates and functions under the aegis of the Department of Revenue of Union Ministry of Finance. It was established in 1855 by the then British Governor General of India as Customs & Central Excise department. Thus, it is one of the oldest government departments of India.

Sikkim becomes 22nd State to join UDAY

Sikkim became 22nd state in the country to join Union Government’s Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY). In this regard, Central Government and the state government have signed MoU for operational improvement of Sikkim’s Power Distribution Department. Key Facts The MoU paves way to improve operational efficiency of the Power Distribution department of the State. It will derive an Overall Net Benefit of approximately Rs. 356 crores to the state. AT&C losses and transmission losses in the state will be brought down through compulsory distribution transformer metering, consumer indexing & GIS mapping of losses, upgrading transformers, meters etc. Besides, smart metering of high-end consumers, feeder audit etc, eliminating the gap between cost of supply of power and realisation will also aid to reduce loses. About Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojna (UDAY) UDAY Scheme was launched by Union Ministry of Power for financial restructuring of debt of power distribution companies. It aims for financial revival and turnaround of Power Distribution companies (DISCOMs) and also ensures a sustainable permanent solution to the problem. By becoming part of it, states power DISCOMs can convert their debt into state bonds as well as roll out number of measures to improve efficiency at power plants. It seeks to make DISCOMs financially and operationally healthy so that they can supply adequate power at affordable rates and play important role in Government’s ambition of meeting target of 100% Village electrification and 24X7 Power For All.

WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement comes into effect

The Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in Goods of World Trade Organisation (WTO) came into effect with its ratification by two-thirds members of WTO including India. The TFA in Goods was adopted by the WTO Members in 2014. It aims to streamline, simplify, standardise and ease customs procedures and norms. It will help to cut trade costs around the world. About Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) The TFA in Goods is the WTO’s first-ever multilateral accord that aims to simplify customs regulations for the cross-border movement of goods. It was outcome of WTO’s 9th Bali (Indonesia) ministerial package of 2013. The agreement includes provisions for Lowering import tariffs and agricultural subsidies: It will make it easier for developing countries to trade with the developed world in global markets. Abolish hard import quotas: Developed countries would abolish hard import quotas on agricultural products from the developing world and instead would only be allowed to charge tariffs on amount of agricultural imports exceeding specific limits. Reduction in red tape at international borders: It aims to reduce red-tapism to facilitate trade by reforming customs bureaucracies and formalities. Comment The implementation of the TFA in Goods has the potential to create US 1 trillion dollars’ worth of global economic activity and trade which may add 21 million new jobs and lower the cost of doing international trade by 10 to 15 per cent. TFA will help India’s ongoing reforms to bring in simplification and enhanced transparency in cross border trade in goods. It will further help India to boost economic growth by reducing trade costs and supporting its integration into the global economy. Trade Facilitation in Services (TFS) Agreement Recently, India submitted a legally vetted proposal on Trade Facilitation in Services (TFS) Agreement, a global services pact on the lines of the TFA in Goods to the WTO. Now the proposal for TFS Agreement will be taken up by an expert committee at the WTO headquarters in Geneva and later it will be put up for discussion among all the WTO members. It aims to ease norms for movement of skilled workers across borders for short-term work, ensure portability of social security contributions, single window mechanism for foreign investment approvals and cross-border insurance coverage to boost medical tourism.

Bet Dwarka Darshan Circuit in Gujarat to be developed under HRIDAY

The Union Ministry of Urban Development approved development of 6 km long Bet Dwarka Darshan Circuit in Gujarat under Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY). Decision in this regard, was taken HRIDAY National Empowered Committee meeting chaired by Urban Development Secretary in New Delhi. Key Facts The circuit will connect famous Dwarkadish Haveli and Hanuman Dandi (only temple housing Hanumanji and his son Makardhwaj) in Dwarka district of Gujarat at a cost of Rs. 16.27 crore. There are two important water bodies along the circuit viz., Shankhudhar Lake and Ranchod Talav. Under this project development works will be undertaken along the circuit. About Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY)  The HRIDAY scheme was launched in January, 2015 with a focus on holistic development of heritage cities. The scheme aims to preserve and revitalise soul of the heritage cities across the country to reflect their unique character by encouraging aesthetically appealing, accessible, informative & secured environment. It supports development of core heritage infrastructure projects that include revitalization of urban infrastructure for areas around heritage assets identified/approved by Ministry of Culture, state Governments. The development initiatives covered it includes improvement of water supply, sanitation, drainage, waste management, footpaths, approach roads, street lights, electricity wiring, tourist conveniences, landscaping and such citizen services. Since its launch, the scheme has been implemented in 12 identified heritage cities namely, Ajmer, Amaravati, Amritsar, Dwarka, Badami, Gaya, Mathura, Puri, Kanchipuram, Varanasi, Velankanni and Warangal.

27 feb

 

India, Bangladesh ink MoU to provide financial assistance for development of Sylhet city

India and Bangladesh have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the sustainable development of Sylhet, a metropolitan city in northeastern Bangladesh with financial aid from India. The signing of MoU comes after Indian Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar’s visit to Bangladesh to discuss preparatory aspects of PM Sheikh Hasina’s proposed visit to India in April 2017 and other aspects of bilateral relations. Key Facts Under the MoU, three projects construction of six-storeyed Cleaner Colony Building and Development of Dhupa Dighipar area, a five-storeyed Kindergarten and High School Building. The signing of MoU was the follow-up of an earlier MoU which was signed between both countries in April 2013 for implementation of sustainable development projects in socio-economic sectors of Bangladesh. India will also carry out similar sustainable development projects for Rajshahi under a MoU signed recently in this regard. India also sanctioned an amount of Taka (currency of Bangladesh) 120 million for the sustainable development of Khulna city. MoU in this regard will be signed shortly. Sylhet is an ancient city and a historically vibrant city. It part of the former Assam province of India before Independence. It was focal point for 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War between India and Pakistan. It is a also hub of commercial activities.

India, Germany ratify 2011 Pact on Social Security Investment

India and Germany have ratified a comprehensive Social Security Agreement (SSA) to improve investment flows between the two countries. The agreement was signed in October 2011 and its instruments of ratification were exchanged in February 2017. It will come into force from May 1, 2017. Key Facts The SSA establishes the rights and obligations of nationals of both countries and provides for equal treatment and unrestricted payment of pensions even in case of residence in the other contracting state. It also integrate the provisions of the 2008 social insurance pact and is expected to reduce the operational costs of companies on both countries active in either of the countries. Under it, requirements to be entitled to pension can be met by aggregating periods of insurance completed in India and Germany, whereby each country only pays pension for insurance periods covered by its laws. This comprehensive SSA will favorably impact the profitability and competitive position of Indian and German companies with foreign by reducing their cost of doing business abroad. It will also help promote more investment flows between the two countries. Background India and Germany had earlier signed an Agreement on Social Insurance in October 2008. It exempted detached workers of the two countries from making social security contributions in either countries as long as they were making such contributions in their respective countries. Later, both countries, negotiated for a wider encompassing SSA including totalisation of benefits and was signed in October 2011. So far, India has signed and operationalised similar agreements with 18 countries, including Australia, Canada, France, South Korea, Belgium and Japan

India, ADB ink $375 million loan pact for East Coast Economic Corridor

India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed $375 million pact for loans and grants to develop 800 km Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor. It is the first phase of a planned 2,500-km East Coast Economic Corridor. Earlier in September 2016, ADB had approved $631 million in loans and grants for the industrial corridor. Key Facts The loans comprises $500 million multitranche facility to build key infrastructure in the four main centres along the corridor — Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, Amaravati, and Srikalahasti (Yerpedu) in Andhra Pradesh. The first tranche of $245 million will finance subprojects to develop high-quality internal infrastructure in 2 of the 4 nodes of the corridor — Visakhapatnam and Yerpedu—Srikalahasti. It also has $125 million policy-based loan that will be used for capacity development of institutions engaged in corridor management. It will also provide support to enhance ease of doing business and for supporting industrial and sector policies to stimulate industrial development.  About East Coast Economic Corridor (ECEC) ECEC is India’s first coastal economic corridor along eastern coast. It stretches about 2,500 kms from Kolkata (West Bengal) in the north to Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu) in the south. It will connect long eastern coastline and strategically located ports with the multiple international gateways to connect India with global value chains (GVCs) in East and Southeast Asia. It supports Union Government’s flagship Make in India campaign, which aims to boost manufacturing by attracting foreign investment and facilitating the establishment of manufacturing hubs. ECEC also aligns with port-led industrialisation under Sagarmala initiative and Act East Policy by linking domestic companies with vibrant global production networks of East and Southeast Asia. ADB: It is Manila based regional development bank. It was established in 1966 and is owned by 67 members of which 48 are from the Asian region.