Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award and Arjuna Awards 2012 [ 8/20/2012] A.

Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award - 2012: 1 Shri Vijay Kumar Shooting 2 Shri Yogeshwar Dutt - Wrestling B. Arjuna Awards 2012 Sl. No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 Name Ms. Deepika Kumari Ms. Laishram Bombayla Devi Ms. Sudha Singh Ms. Kavita Ramdas Raut Ms. Ashwani Ponnappa Mr. Parupalli Kashyap Mr. Aditya S. Mehta Mr. Vikas Krishan Mr. Yuvraj Singh Mr. Sardar Singh Mr. Yashpal Solanki Mr. Anup Kumar Mr. Samir Suhag Ms. Annu Raj Singh Mr. Omkar Singh Mr. Joydeep Karmakar Ms. Deepika Pallikal Mr. Sandeep Sejwal Ms. Ng. Sonia Chanu Mr. Narsingh Yadav Mr. Rajinder Kumar Ms. Geeta Phogat Mr. M. Bimoljit Singh Mrs. Deepa Mallick Mr. Ramkaran Singh Discipline Archery Archery Athletics Athletics Badminton Badminton Billiards & Snooker Boxing Cricket Hockey Judo Kabaddi Polo Shooting Shooting Shooting Squash Swimming Weightlifting Wrestling Wrestling Wrestling Wushu Athletics Paralympics Athletics Paralympics

Rajiv Gandhi Manav Seva Award for Service to Children [ 8/20/2012] The winners of the Rajiv Gandhi Manav Seva Award for Service to Children for 2011 have been announced by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. These are : 1. Shri R. Ravi Kumar, President Sri Gayatri Welfare and Cultural Youth Academy, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh . 2. Swami Japananda, Chairman Swami Vivekananda IRHC, Pavagada, Karnataka . 3. Shri N. Thungdemo Kikon, Founder Secretary, Wondang-Ki-Charitable Foundation, Dimapur, Nagaland .

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President Confers Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) to Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Chopra [1/28/2013] Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Chopra, an AN-32 Pilot was tasked with a Free-fall Para drop sortie for the Akash Ganga Skydiving Team with the onlookers in huge attendance. On opening the ramp for the drop at 8000 feet, one pressure door bracket was found broken. With the ramp open he completed the drop and decided to land back at Barrackpore (with the Ramp Open) to prevent any further damage to the aircraft. In this situation, any harsh manoeuvres would severely endanger the safety of the aircraft and lives on board. The delicate condition of the aircraft and the necessity to land with the ramp open along with the prevailing strong winds , turbulent conditions, short runway at Barrackpore and tall trees on approach demanded extreme caution and piloting skills to execute a safe landing. The pilot was compelled to land the aircraft with a steeper approach perspective with 38 degree flaps which is not normally practiced. Using all his piloting skills, professionalism and courage, he executed a flawless approach and carried out the stipulated three-pointer landing without any further damage to the ramp. His act of safe recovery of the aircraft ensured that the aircraft snag was rectified and further damage avoided. Flight Lieutenant Siddharth Chopra displayed exemplary courage and decision making ability by recovering the aircraft safely from a critical emergency situation and also saved the precious lives of all its occupants with his commendable flying skills. 3rd National Voters Day Celebrated Across the Country [ 1/28/2013] 25th January 2013 3rd National Voters Day Celebrated Across the Country, 2.32 Crore New Electors Registered and Handed over Voter ID Cards, National Awards Presented for best Electoral Practices Celebertion of National Girl Child Day [ 1/24/2013] The Ministry of Women and Child Development will celebrate the National Girl Child Day on the 24th January, 2013 at A.P. Shinde Symposium Hall, National Agricultural Science Centre (NASC) Complex, ICAR, New Delhi. Smt. Krishna Tirath, Minister of Women and Child Development will preside over the function and Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, former President of India will be the Chief Guest and will deliver thekeynote address. President launches the National Immunization Day, 2013 [ 1/14/2013] President of India launched the National Immunization Day, 2013 by administering polio drops to children at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Eight States to get Krishi Karman Awards for Achieving Excellence in Foodgrain Production [1/14/2013] Krishi Karman Awards for 2011-12 go to Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Manipur, Nagaland, Bihar, Haryana, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. The awards were instituted in 2010-11 for recognizing the meritorious efforts of States in foodgrainproduction. The awards announced now - for 2011-12 - will be presented by the President tomorrow to Chief Ministers or Agriculture Ministers of these States. Justice D K Jain has been appointed as the chairman of the 20th Law Commission of India [1/9/2013] Supreme Court judge Justice D K Jain has been appointed as the chairman of the 20th Law Commission of India. Justice Jain is set to retire as the apex court judge on January 24, 2013. The 20th Law Commission was constituted through a government order with effect from September 1, last. Its three-year term would end on August 31, 2015. Fourteenth Finance Commission Constituted [ 1/3/2013] As mandated by the Article 280 of the Constitution, the Government has constituted the Fourteenth Finance Commission consisting of Dr. Y.V.Reddy, former Governor Reserve Bank of India, as the Chairman and the following four other members, namely: 1. Prof Abhijit Sen, Member (Part Time) Member, Planning Commission Ms. Sushma Nath 2. Member Former Union Finance Secretary Dr. M.Govinda Rao 3. Member Director, National Institute for Public Finance and Policy, New Delhi Dr. Sudipto Mundle 4. Member Former Acting Chairman, National Statistical Commission Shri Ajay Narayan Jha shall be the Secretary to the Commission. The Commission shall make its report available by the 31 October, 2014, covering a period of five years commencing on the 1st April, 2015. PM Unveils New Science, Technology and Innovation Policy at Centenary Session of Indian Science Congress [ 1/3/2013] The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, unveiled the Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STI) 2013 by presenting its first copy to the President of India Shri Pranab Mukerjee at the inaugural session of the Centenary session of the Indian Science Congress at Kolkatta. The STI Policy seeks to send a signal to the Indian scientific community, both in the private and public domain, that science, technology and innovation should focus on faster, sustainable and inclusive development of the people. The policy seeks to focus on both STI for people and people for STI. It aims to bring all the benefits of Science, Technology & Innovation to the national development and sustainable and more inclusive growth. It seeks the right sizing of the gross expenditure on research and development by encouraging and incentivizing private sector participation in R & D, technology and innovation activities.
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18th National Level Meeting between Myanmar and India [ 1/3/2013] The 18th National Level Meeting between Myanmar and India was held on 28th -29th December, 2012 in New Delhi. The Indian delegation was led by Mr. A.K Mangotra, Secretary, Border Management, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. The Myanmar delegation was led by Brig. Gen. Kyaw Zan Myint, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. Recalling the shared culture and traditionally close relationship between India and Myanmar, Mr. Mangotra expressed Indias commitment to strengthen the cooperation between the two countries to eliminate the nexus between the drug trade, arms smuggling and extremism/terrorism. Mr. Mangotra sought Myanmars cooperation for co-ordinated patrolling along the IndoMyanmar border and dismantlingIIGs camps in Myanmar for peace and economic prosperity in the region. Brig. Gen. Kyaw Zan Myint reiterated the assurance that Myanmar would never allow insurgents and negative elements to use its own territory for activities inimical to its neighbour India . Both sides discussed and agreed to cooperate closely on issues like insurgent Groups along the border, arms Smuggling & drug trafficking, border management issues, Myanmar Fishermen in A&N jails, illegal smuggling of wild life parts, inspection and verification of pillars etc . Both sides expressed satisfaction over opening of a third Border Liaison Office (BLO) between Changlang, India and Pangsau, Myanmar. Both the leaders emphasized on nurturing BLOs to promote cooperation between law enforcement agencies of both the countries for peace and tranquility along the border. It was decided to open a fourth BLO in Nagaland sector between Ukhrul, Manipur, India and Somra, Myanmar. UN to feature Anoushka Shankar in 'One Women' song [ 3/7/2013] Sitar player Anoushka Shankar, daughter of legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, is among the 25 artists from 20 countries, to feature in "One Woman" song of the United Nations to celebrate women worldwide. A musical celebration of women worldwide, the song is to be released on Friday on the occasion of the International Women's Day. The song calls for change and celebrates acts of courage and determination by ordinary women, who daily make extraordinary contributions to their countries and communities. Initially performed during the launch event for UN Women in the UN General Assembly Hall in 2011, "One Woman" aims to become a rallying cry that inspires listeners about the mission of UN Women and engages them to join in the drive for women's empowerment and gender equality, the world body said. "One Woman gives us a message of hope and inspiration," said UN Women executive director Michelle Bachelet. "This song carries a message of unity and solidarity with women worldwide and reminds us that equality, human rights and human dignity are the birthright of all of us, every human being. I thank everyone who made this song possible." NEOSSat is launched by PSLV on 25th Feb 2013 [ 2/25/2013] NEOSSat is launched by PSLV on 25th Feb 2013, will search for asteroids heading towards Earth. Implementation of North Karanpura Super Thermal Power Project by NTPC in Jharkhand [2/24/2013] The Cabinet Committee on Investment has cleared the proposal of the Ministry of Power for setting up of the North Karanpura Super Thermal Power Plant (NKSTPP) (3 x 660 MW) by the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) in the vicinity of Tandwa town, district Chatra in Jharkhand. Safeguards according to the recommendation of the Chaturvedi Committee and accepted by the Group of Ministers (GoM) under the chairmanship of Finance Minister will apply. The Cabinet Committee on Investment also agreed to restore the original coal linkage for the project. The coal supply would be made available in the 13th Plan. The project to be set up by NTPC will be on a pit-head with environment friendly super-critical technology. The power will be generated by NTPC for about 35 years of plant life. Execution of the project would lead to generation of 1980 MW of power. This is the first project of NTPC in Jharkhand which will benefit the state and people of Jharkhand where about 26 percent of the population is tribal. Usain Bolt and Fraser-Pryce Won Athlete of the Year Award at JAAA Golden Cleats Awards Ceremony [ 2/19/2013] Usain Bolt, the fastest man of the world and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, the womens 100 m Olympic Champion won the male and female Athlete of the Year awards respectively on January 8, 2013 at Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) Golden Cleats Awards ceremony which took place at Terra Nova Hotel in St. Andrew. Saina Nehwal Clinches 2nd position in the Badminton World Federation Rankings [ 2/19/2013] Saina Nehwal, the Olympics bronze medalist on January 17, 2013 clinches her career best second rank in the lastest rankings released by the Badminton World Federation (BWF). To clinch the second position in the latest rankings released, Saina scored 80091. 7444 points and is leaded by the Chinese Li Xuerui, who has 94626. 7153 points by her name. Lionel Messi wins the FIFA Ballon dOr Award for Fourth Time [ 2/19/2013] Lionel Messi, the Argentina footballer won FIFA Ballon dOr Award on January 7, 2013 as a reward to his 91 -goal in a year for Barcelona and Argentina, in the year 2012. Messi voted to be the best player for the fourth year in row managed to beat his close competitors, Cristiano Ronaldo of Spanish Champion Real Madrid and Barcelona teammate Andres Iniesta.

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Australian Open 2013 [ 2/19/2013] Novak Djokovic from Serbia won his third straight Australian Open in 2013. Three straight wins down under is a Open Era record for the men. Djokovic defeated Andy Murray in the finals Mens Singles Winner. Victoria Azarenka from Belarus won her second straight Australian Open title in 2013, defeating Li Na in the finals in Womens Singles. President confers Indira Gandhi Prize on Ela Bhatt [ 2/19/2013] Noted social worker Ela Ramesh Bhatt is conferred the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development by President Pranab Mukherjee. Bhatt, the founder of Self-Employed Women's Association, was conferred the Indira Gandhi Prize for 2011 at a function in Rashtrapati Bhawan on 18th February 2013. Court upholds India's right on Kishanganga project [ 2/19/2013] The International Court of Arbitration at The Hague on 19th February 2013 upheld India's right to divert water from the Kishanganga hydroelectric project (KHEP). Reacting to the development, official spokesperson in the ministry of external affairs said, "The award of the Court of Arbitration at The Hague today reaffirmed validity of India's position regarding KHEP by allowing diversion of water from the KHEP as envisaged by India." Scientists claim discovery of Russian meteor fragments [ 2/18/2013] Scientists said on Monday they had discovered fragments of the meteor that spectacularly plunged over Russia's Ural Mountains creating a shock wave that injured 1,200 people and damaged thousands of homes. The giant piece of space rock streaked over the city of Chelyabinsk in central Russia on 15th February 2013 with the force of 30 of the nuclear bombs dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima during World War II. It exploded a few dozen miles (kilometres) above Earth but its pieces were widely believed to have scattered over large swathes of the industrial region. Commissioning of Indian Coast Guard Ship Rajratan [ 2/11/2013] Indian Coast Guard Ship `Rajratan, the fifth of a series of eight Inshore Patrol Vessels (IPVs) was commissioned by Director General Indian Coast Guard, Vice Admiral MP Muralidharan in Kolkata today. In his address during the commissioning ceremony, Vice Admiral Muralidharan dwelt upon the criticality of capacity building towards tackling emergent maritime challenges. He reiterated the need for continuous vigil along the nations maritime frontiers to preserve and protect our maritime interests. He further stated that several farreaching initiatives towards augmentation of manpower and force levels were underway, that would provide the requisite fillip to the Coast Guards capabilities. Indigenously built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers, Kolkata, the 50m long IPV displaces 300 tonnes and can achieve a maximum speed of 34 knots, with an endurance of 1500 nautical miles at an economical speed of 16 knots. Equipped with state-ofthe-art weaponry and advanced communication and navigational equipment, it makes an ideal platform for undertaking multifarious close-coast missions such as surveillance, interdiction, Search and Rescue, and medical evacuation. The special features of the ship include an Integrated Bridge Management System (IBMS), Integrated Machinery Control System (IMCS) and an integrated gun mount with indigenous Fire Control system (FCS). The ship is commanded by Commandant (JG) CS Joshi, and has a complement of five Officers and 30 Other Ranks. Post commissioning, ICGS Rajratan would be based at Porbandar under the administrative and operational control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (North West). Bengaluru Host Aero-India 2013 [ 2/5/2013] Aero India, the largest Air Show in Asia and one of the worlds most important military aviation exhibitions, is all set to k ick start at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru from the 06th February to 10th February 2013. This biennial air show and aviation exhibition which is organised by the Defence Ministry of India along with the Indian Air Force, Defence Research and Development Organisation, Department of Space and the Union Civil Aviation Ministry aims at showcasing the range of products and services offered by the Indian Defence Industry in the international market. It also provides an exposure to Indian Armed Forces, R & D personnel and young engineers, to the latest technologies and advancements in the Aviation and Aerospace Industries. Launch of National programme for Universal Screening of Children [ 2/5/2013] The National Rural Health Mission of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India will launch a new initiative of Child Health Screening and Early Intervention Services to provide comprehensive care to all the children. The purpose of these services is to improve the overall quality of life of children through early detection of birth defects, diseases, deficiencies, development delays including disability. The Programme will be launched by Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, UPA from Palghar, a Tribal Block in Thane district, Maharashtra tomorrow in the presence of Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare and Shri Prithviraj Chavan, Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Maharatna Status to BHEL and GAIL [ 2/5/2013] Government has approved the grant of Maharatna status to Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) and Gas Authority of India Ltd.(GAIL). This decision was communicated on 1st February, 2013. The delegation of powers, exercise of delegated powers, review of their performance and continuation/divestment of Maharatna status of the above listed CPSEs will be governed as per guidelines laid down by the Department of Public Enterprises(DPE), Government of India which provides that the exercise of delegated Maharatna powers is subject to appointment of requisite number of non-official Directors as per SEBI guidelines.

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The concerned administrative Ministries of the two CPSEs have been asked to take immediate steps to appoint requisite number of non-official Directors on the Boards of BHEL and GAIL so that the boards could exercise delegated Maharatna powers. The MNREGA Divas Sammelan [ 2/2/2013] 2nd Feburary 2013 is celebrated as MNREGA Divas at New Delhi. Record Milk Production of 127.9 Million Tonne during 2011-12 [ 5/12/2013] As per FAOSTAT, India has become the largest milk producing country in the world in 1997 and her status has been counting since then. During year 2011-12, the estimated Milk production in India is 127.9 million tonnes Plan Allocation of Rs.5,990 Crore During Xii Plan for Promoting Food Processing Industries [5/11/2013] To implement various Schemes for promotion and development of Food Processing Sector, the Government has made a plan allocation of Rs. 5990 crore during the XII Plan.The Government had launched a Centrally Sponsored Scheme National Mission on Food Processing (NMFP) during 2012-13, the first year of the XII Five Year Plan. The major programmes/Schemes covered under the NMFP during 2012-13 are: -

Scheme Scheme Scheme Scheme

for for for for

Technology Upgradation/Establishment/Modernisation of food processing industries Cold Chain, Value addition and Preservation of Infrastructure for Non-horticultural Products. Human Resource Development (HRD) Promotional activities.

The Government is implementing the Schemes of Infrastructure Development with components i.e. Mega Food Parks; Integrated Cold Chain Projects and Abattoirs; Technology Upgradation/Establishment/Modernization of Food Processing Industries; Quality Assurance, Codex Standard, R&D and other Promotional activities; Human Resource Development; National Mission on Food Processing and Strengthening of Institutions for promotion and development of Food Processing sector in the country.

Best Performing States and Panchayats Awarded on National Panchayati Raj Day on 24th April 2013 [ 5/11/2013] The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh inaugurated the National conference to celebrate the National Panchayati Raj Day. On the occasion, annual awards under Panchayat Empowerment and Accountability Incentive Scheme (PEAIS) and Rashtriya Gaurav Gram Sabha Puraskar (RGGSP)) were conferred upon the best performing States and Panchayats. 18 top ranking Gram Panchayats were awarded with Rashtriya Gaurav Gram Sabha Purskar. 193 Panchayats were also received awards for best performance. The Panchayat Strengthening Index Awards (PSI) were given to States this year. Under the Cumulative PSI Awards 1st Prize is won by Maharashtra, while 2nd Prize is bagged by Karnataka, 3rd Prize Kerala and 4th Prize Tripura. Under the Incremental PSI Awards 1st Prize is won by Karnataka, 2nd Prize Rajasthan, 3rd Prize Maharashtra and 4th Prize is won by Odisha. The prize money for Rashtriya Gaurav Gram Sabha Puraskar award is Rs. 10 lakhs. The Award money will be utilized by the Panchayats for public purposes such as augmentation of civic services like primary education, primary health care, safe drinking water, public utilities; provision rural infrastructure in the Panchayat jurisdiction. Centenary Film Festival launched from 25th April to commemorate 100 years of Indian Cinema [ 5/10/2013] To commemorate the 100 years of Indian Cinema, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is organizing a six day Centenary Film Festival to celebrate Indian Cinema in all its glory. The Festival will commence on April 25th, with the inauguration of the exhibition Indian Cinema 100 (Celebrating a Century: An Audio Visual Voyage) by the Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Sh. Manish Tewari. The highlight of the inaugural programme of the festival will be the screening of the silent film "Throw of Dice` with LIVE musical orchestra by maestro Nishat Khan. A Play on the life and times of Dadasaheb Phalke by Aamir Raza Hussain would mark the end of the festival on 30th April. In an effort to bring the festival to the doorstep of film lovers in the capital, the festival is being celebrated at the Siri Fort auditorium as well as other venues such as Jamia Milia University, Jawaharlal Nehru University and India Habitat Center. Prime Minister to Inaugurate Civil Services Day on April 21, 2013 [ 5/10/2013] Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh is to inaugurate the eighth Civil Services Day being held in New Delhi on April 21, 2013. The Prime Minister will also give away the PMs Awards for Excellence in Public Administration for the year 2011-12. The day is observed by Civil Services to rededicate and recommit themselves to the cause of the people. It provides a unique opportunity for introspection as also working out future strategies to deal with the challenges being posed by the changing times. Eighth in a row, the day is being celebrated since 2006.

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New Delhi-born Raj Chetty has won the "Baby Nobel." [ 4/16/2013] A young Indian-American economist whose pioneering work on education was cited by President Obama in last year's State of the Union address has won a prestigious award that is often called the "Baby Nobel." New Delhi-born Raj Chetty, now a professor of economics at Harvard, has been named the 2013 winner of the John Bates Clark Medal, which the American Economic Association awards annually to an "American economist under the age of forty who is adjudged to have made a significant contribution to economic thought and knowledge." Pran gets Dadasaheb Phalke Award [ 4/12/2013] Legendary actor Pran, 93, has been honoured with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award. This was announced today. In the past Dilip Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Dev Anand and Yash Chopra to name a few have received the prestigious award. Tourism Project of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Kerala approved [ 4/10/2013] Union Tourism Minister Shri K. Chiranjeevi has approved a tourism Project received from the State Government of Maharashtra. He has sanctioned Central Finance Assistance (CFA) to the tune of Rs. 43.87 crore for the development of Solapur Mega Circuit in Maharashtra.The Project will involve development of tourism facilities at Pandharpur, Akkalkot, Solapur and Tuljapur. An amount of Rs. 4.38 crore has been released as first instalment of the CFA as an advance for starting the work. The State Government of Maharashtra shall make land for the project available free of cost and also render all possible assistance for completion of the project in time. No portion of the sanctioned project should be executed/implemented in land/property owned by private individual or trust. Union Tourism Minister Shri K. Chiranjeevi has approved Central Finance Assistance (CFA) to the tune of Rs. 45.88 crore for the development of Vishakapatnam- Bheemunipatnam Beach Corridor Mega Circuit in Andhra Pradesh. The Project will involve development of tourism facilities at Bheemunipatnam, Erramattidibbalu, Kailashgiri, Mangamaripeta Beach, RK Beach, Thotlakonda, Pavuralakonda, Rushikonda, Bhavikonda and Beautification of Beach Corridor Circuit. An amount of Rs. 3.2 crore has been released as first instalment of the CFA as an advance for starting the work. The State Government of Andhra Pradesh shall make land for the project available free of cost and also render all possible assistance for completion of the project in time. No portion of the sanctioned project should be executed/implemented in land/property owned by private individual or trust. Union Tourism Minister Shri K. Chiranjeevi has approved Central Finance Assistance (CFA) to the tune of Rs. 47.62 crore for development of back water circuit in Alappuzha in back water region as a mega circuit in Kerala.The Project will involve construction of House Boat Terminals at Arookutty, Thaneermukkom, Pallathuruthy, Nedumudi, Kanjipadam, Thottappally and Kaymkullam; Night Halt Terminals at Vattakayal West and Karumadi Vilakkumaram; development of micro destinations at VayamkaraChira, Pandy, Thazhuppu and Kuthiravattomchira ; Development of beaches at Arthukal and Thottappally and development of Alappuzha town as the central destination of the circuit.

World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) and Light It Up Blue [ 4/10/2013] On the occasion of World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) on 2nd April 2013, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, National Trust for the welfare of persons with Autism and other developmental disabilities and Archaelogical Survey of India are collectively organising lighting of six historical monuments in Delhi vis a vis Qutab Minar, Humayuns Tomb, Safdarjung Tomb, Jantar Mantar, Purana Quila and Red Fort with Blue Light.Light It Up Blue is dedicated to raising awareness of autism. This initiative is intended to raise awareness of autism as a growing public health crisis.Autism is a Neuro-physiological disorder which affects the social and emotional areas of the brain. It affects as many as 1 in 110 children and 1 in 70 boys. Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism. There is no medical cure for autism, but early diagnosis and intervention helps a person to adapt and function better.National Trust is organising a function at Humayuns Tomb on the day whose highlights will be release of Book Why Me?-An Inward Odyssey by Mr Krishna Narayanan, a person with Autism and release of song Alag Hi Asha composed and sung by Vintage Taan Group. New President of International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) India [ 3/31/2013] Bharti Enterprises Vice Chairman and Managing Director Rajan Bharti Mittal has been appointed the President of International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) India. Plastic Currency Notes [ 3/12/2013] The Government of India and the RBI to introduce one billion pieces of Rs. 10 notes in polymer/plastic on a field trial basis. The field trial will be conducted in five cities viz. Kochi, Mysore, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar and Shimla with varied geographical locations and climatic conditions. Reserve Bank of India has informed that while the primary objective of introduction of polymer notes is to increase its life, it could also help in combating counterfeiting.

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Bill Introduced in the Lok Sabha for Setting UP Agricultural Biosecurity Authority [ 3/12/2013] Agriculture and FPI Minister, Shri Sharad Pawar introduced a Bill in the Lok Sabha today to provide for establishment of an Authority for prevention, control, eradication and management of pests and diseases of plants and animals and unwanted organisms. The proposed legislation will ensure agricultural biosecurity of the country for common benefit and for safeguarding the agricultural economy. It will also meet international obligations of India for facilitating imports and exports of plants, plant products, animals, animal products, aquatic organisms and regulation of agriculturally important micro organisms. The Bill seeks to bring together the plant, animal and marine protection and quarantine set ups under a high powered body an Authority - with adequate powers. The Authoritys mandate will cover the four sectors of agricultural biosecurity, viz. plant health, animal health, living aquatic resources (fisheries, etc.) and agriculturally important micro-organisms. Why the need for a common authority on agricultural biosecurity? The liberalisation of global trade in agriculture has opened new avenues for growth and diversification of agriculture, but it has also brought in many challenges. There is an increased risk of introduction of exotic pests and weeds in the country with the potential to cause serious economic losses. Advances in genetic engineering leading to the introduction and release of living modified organisms or their products (e.g. genetically modified organisms) require proper risk assessment and management. Climate change has the potential to alter the habitat of known pests and even cause introduction of new pests. We have to contend with the ever increasing threat of bio-terrorism. The emergence and spread of transboundary diseases such as the avian influenza and the Ug-99 wheat stem rust fungus pose new threats to human, animal and plant safety. A number of plant diseases, animal diseases, marine diseases and pests have been introduced into India through import of seeds, planting material, livestock and livestock products previously. Many of them, including weeds such as Parthenium, Phalaris minor and Lanatana camara, have got established in the country and continue to cause enormous economic losses every year. President Conferred first ever Tagore Award for Cultural Harmony, 2012 to Sitar Maestro Late PT. Ravi Shankar [ 3/9/2013] President Shri Pranab Mukherjee conferred the first ever Tagore Award for Cultural Harmony, 2012 to Sitar Maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Since Pandit Ravi Shankar passed away on 11th December, 2012, the Award was presented to his wife, Smt. Sukanya Shankar. The International Award carries a prize money of Rs. 1 Crore (One Crore), shawl, plaque and a citation. India Tourism Film Find What You Seek Gets First Prize at 11th Golden City Gate Awards [3/9/2013] Ministry of Tourisms new film Find What You Seek received first prize at the 11th Golden City Gate Tourism Media Awards Ceremony held in Berlin today to coincide with ITB Berlin 2013. The Golden City Gate is an international film, print and media contest for the tourism industry. The Awards ceremony is held every year at ITB Berlin, the worlds leading travel trade show. The competition provides all tourism advertisers to participate in the contest for presenting their new creatives. All entries are assessed by 45 independent international expert jurors with strong industry background. Shri K Chiranjeevi, Union Minister for Tourism had launched the new campaign Find What You Seek, the second phase of Incredible India Campaign at WTM 2012 in November last year along with the new Domestic Campaign Go Beyond. By launching new campaign, the Ministry of Tourism has made a paradigm shift by shifting the focus from destinations and products to consumers (travellers). The new campaign emphasizes that there is something for every traveller in India and every traveller can find what he or she is seeking while travelling in our incredible country. D omestic campaign Go Beyond urges travellers to travel beyond the obvious , the known destinations to the lesser known destinations. Hon. President Confers Rani Lakshimibai Award to Spirit of Nirbhaya National Stree Shakti Puruskar [ 3/9/2013] The Hon. President of India, Sh. Pranab Mukherjee today conferred the Rani Lakshmibai Award for 2012 to honour the Spirit of Nirbhaya. The Award is in recognition of the rising of millions of women and youth in the country for the cause of women and is presented to all of them. Symbolically it was received by the mother of Nirbhaya. The Award citation reads We may call her Nirbhaya, Damini or Shakti; the braveheart from Delhi symbolizes the indomitable spirit of women. Her ordeal crystallized a spontaneous and collective awakening of public consciousness against injustice to women and inspired the nation to action. Today, we salute the spirit of Nirbhaya, and acknowledge the contribution of thousands of men, women, boys and girls who turned the dark hour into a momentous cry for justice and freedom for all women from violence. The Spirit of Nirbhaya has kindled the flame of awareness on womens rights to safety and security in the country. The Spirit of Nirbhaya lives on. To acknowledge this awakening, the Rani Lakshmibai Award for 2012 honours the Spirit of Nirbhaya, symbolizing extraordinary courage, dignity in adversity and perseverance in the fight against injustice. The award carries a citation, a scroll and a cheque of Rs. 3 lakhs. In addition to the Rani Lakshmibai Award, the Hon. President of India Sh. Pranab Mukherjee conferred Stree Shakti Puruskars to five women achievers. The Rani Rudramma Devi Award for the year 2012 was awarded to Smt. Pranita Talukdar from Assam. She was honoured for her commendable work for the overall development of women. Smt. Talukdar is an eminent social worker from Barpeta, Assam. She organises functions/seminars amongst women in Assam. She writes articles on women related issues and is also a member of Kamrup District Freedom Fighters Association and Sahitya Sabha, Guwahati. Mata Jijabai Award for 2012 was given to Ms. Sonika Agarwal from Delhi in recognition of her commendable service in the areas of education and promotion of self help groups amongst women. Ms. Agarwal is a painter with over 15 solo and group shows to her credit. She has created SHGs for generating livelihood for women. Her work includes reviving handicrafts/ handlooms (19 SHGs, 308

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Women). She also uses art and culture as a tool for social change. She is also associated with education and culture centre for children (30 boys and 40 girls) and Youth Welfare Programmes. The Hon. President of India Sh. Pranab Mukherjee conferred the Kannagi Award for 2012 to Smt. Guramma H. Sankina from Karnataka. She was honoured for her commendable service in the areas of educational awareness, promotion of self help groups and income generating activities amongst women. Smt. Guramma is a child widow who has been working with nursery school students for over 35 years. She is also a poet and a singer. She is associated with formation of SHGs for income generating activities, conducting educational awareness through song and plays. She has also received various awards. Smt. Omana T.K from Kerala received the Rani Gaidinliu Zeliang Award to honour her commendable service in the areas of rehabilitation of destitute women and victims of violence, environment protection, empowerment of women and women employment. Smt. Omana overcame social pressures and family resistance to initiate a life of social service. She is involved in rehabilitation of destitute women, widows, victims of violence and atrocities. She works for the empowerment of women; initiating income generation activities like mushroom cultivation, food preservation & animal husbandry; environment protection and health &nutrition programme for tribal children. She also provides training for capacity building and initiating action against dowry & atrocities against women. Through her efforts more than 20,000 families are associated with daily thrift savings and 5000 women have got employment through short training courses. The Hon. President of India Sh. Pranab Mukherjee awarded Smt. Olga Dmello of Maharashtra with the Devi Ahilyabai Holkar awar d, 2012. The award recognizes her commendable work in the areas of health, hygiene awareness and creating consciousness on womens issues in the community. Smt. Olga Dmellos from a very young age has been working for providing education, awarenes s on hygiene, providing clothes to Adivasis, Dalit and local poor people. She also engaged the elders of the community on issues like family planning, anti-tobacco, anti-liquor efforts and participation in voting. She has also written books and is still working for social upliftment of tribal and poor. Arunima is first woman amputee to scale Everest [ 5/22/2013] Arunima Sinha, 26, became Indias first woman to conquer Mt. Everest on a prosthetic leg. A former national volleyball player, Arunima lost her left leg, having been thrown off a moving train for resisting a chainsnatching attempt by some criminals on April 12, 2011. Arunima completed her expedition from Kathmandu to the top of the peak in 52 days.As per information released by the Tata Steel Adventure Foundation (TSAF), which supported her climb, Arunima followed Susen Mahato, another climber of the Foundation, who scaled Mt. Everest on May 19, 2013. Shashi Kant Sharma, Defence Secretary Appointed as the New CAG of India [ 5/21/2013] The President of India has appointed Shri Shashi Kant Sharma, IAS, as the Comptroller & Auditor General of India, in terms of Article 148 (1) of the Constitution of India. Shri Sharma is presently holding the post of Defence Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. He will be taking over the charge of the Comptroller & Auditor General of India from 23rd May, 2013. Chief Justice for the High Court of Andhra Pradesh Appointed [ 5/21/2013] In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (1) of article 217 of the Constitution of India, the President has appointed Shri Justice Kalyan Jyoti Sengupta, Judge of the High Court of Uttarakhand, as the Chief Justice of the High Court of Andhra Pradesh with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office. Anti-Terrorism Day Observed on 21st May [ 5/21/2013] Every year it is observed throughout the country on 21st May. The day is marked by a pledge taking ceremony among other activities. The Day is observed to generate awareness in the country among all sections of people, about the danger of terrorism and violence and its effect on the people, society and the country as a whole. It was on this day in 1991 that former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi fell to the designs of terrorists. The objective behind the observance of Anti-Terrorism Day is to wean away the people from terrorism and violence. On the occasion, debates, discussions, symposia, seminars, lectures, etc. are held in schools, colleges and universities on the dangers of terrorism and violence. LS Rathore Elected as Member of Executive Council of WMO [ 5/21/2013] Dr Laxman Singh Rathore, Director General of Meteorology & Permanent Representative of India with WMO has been elected as Member of Executive Council of WMO during the 65th Executive Council of World Meteorological Organization (WMO) meeting currently being in progress at Geneva. Dr Rathore has earlier served a term as Vice President of Commission of Agriculture Meteorology of WMO and has been elected to serve the Executive Council in an individual capacity. The Council is composed of 37 Heads/directors/Director Generals of National Meteorological Services and include the President and three VicePresidents who are elected by Congress, and the presidents of the six regional associations, by whom they are

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elected. Dr Rathore is one among the 27 members who are elected. He has been elected by the Executive Council after two posts fell vacant due to retirements of the existing members. The Executive Council is the executive body of the Organization, which meets annually, implements decisions of Congress, coordinates the programmes, examines the utilization of budgetary resources, considers and takes action on recommendations of Regional Associations and Technical Commissions and guides their work programme, provides technical information, counsel and assistance in the fields of activity of the Organization and studies and takes action on matters affecting international meteorology and related activities. India's first defence university to come up in Gurgaon [ 5/19/2013] The foundation stone of Indian National Defence University (INDU), to be constituted under an Act of Parliament, will be laid by PM Manmohan Singh on May 23 President of India presents Asom Ratna Award and Srimanta Shankardeva Award [ 5/16/2013] The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presented the Asom Ratna Award (posthumously) to Late Smt. Indira Goswami and the Srimanta Shankardeva Award for the year 2008 to Smt. Sharmila Tagore on May 13, 2013 at a function at Guwahati, Assam. Speaking on the occasion, the President said he is very happy that his first visit to Assam is to confer distinction on two outstanding women of India. Both are social leaders who have contributed to the development and empowerment of women. The President congratulated Shrimati Tagore for her rich contribution to Indias cultural life. He said as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF and Chairperson of the Indian Film Censor Board, Smt. Sharmila Tagore has used her influence to promote initiatives aimed at bringing positive change in our society. Declaration of the Year 2013 as Water Conservation Year-2013 [ 5/16/2013] The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for declaring the year 2013 as Water Conservation Year 2013. A number of mass awareness activities will be undertaken during Water Conservation Year 2013 with emphasis on sensitizing the masses on water related issues, encourage them to conserve and use it judiciously. The policies and programmes of the Ministry of Water Resources will be propagated to create a sustainable society and economy. An effective and sustained mass awareness programme will be launched with the involvement of all stakeholders to achieve the objectives identified in the National Water Policy, 2012 and National Water Mission. ONGC reclaims most-valued spot; pushes TCS to second slot [ 5/16/2013] State-owned energy major ONGC today reclaimed the spot as the country's most-valued company, pushing IT giant TCS to the second slot. At the end of trade, ONGC commanded a market value of Rs 2,89,047 crore. This is about Rs 4,428 crore more than TCS's m-cap of Rs 2,84,619 crore. ONGC scrip ended 0.82 per cent higher, while TCS lost 1.02 per cent on the BSE. Reliance Industries with a market capitalisation of Rs 2,71,904 crore was at third place, followed by ITC (Rs 2,66,133 crore) and Coal India (Rs 1,88,543 crore). Scientists create embryonic stem cells from human skin [ 5/16/2013] In a major medical breakthrough, scientists have for the first time converted human skin cells intoembryonic stem cells, capable of transforming into any other cell type in the human body. The cloned embryos which produced the stem cells can make new heart muscle after they are damaged from a heart attack besides new bones, brain tissue or any other type of cell in the body. Scientists used the same cloning technique that had created Dolly the sheep, to turn human skin intoembryonic stem cells overcoming technical problems that had frustrated scientists for more than a decade on how to create batches of the body's super cells from donated skin.

Lt Gen (retd) Nirbhay Sharma appointed as governor of Arunachal Pradesh [ 5/16/2013] Lt Gen (retd) Nirbhay Sharma was today appointed as governor of Arunachal Pradesh after the term of present incumbent Gen (retd) J J Singh ended in January this year.President Pranab Mukherjee appointed Sharma as the governor and his tenure will come into effect from the day he assumes charge of his office, a Rashtrapati Bhavan communique said.

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WHO Polio Eradication Certificate for India [ 5/15/2013] World Health Organization (WHO) has removed India from the list of countries with active endemic wild polio virus transmission. Polio free is certified for WHO regions by the Regional Certification Commission and not for individual country. The South-East Asia Regional Commission for Polio Eradication (SEA-RCCPE) has examined the data of 31 states/Union Territories of India and has accepted the report of the Indian National Certification Committee for Polio Eradication and has concluded that the wild polio virus is not circulating in these states. Each region can consider certification only when all countries in the area demonstrate the absence of wild poliovirus transmission for at least three consecutive years in the presence of certification standard surveillance. In addition, all facilities holding wild poliovirus infectious and potentially infectious materials must have implemented biocontainment measures for laboratory containment of wild poliovirus. A Task Force for Laboratory containment of wild polioviruses has been constituted. The first phase of laboratory containment started by surveying laboratory to identify laboratory with wild poliovirus, infectious materials or potential wild poliovirus infectious materials and encourage them for destruction of all unneeded materials. All States/UTs have been communicated about the successful interruption of wild poliovirus transmission in India and the possible certification in 2014 and requested for political and administrative support required for completion of laboratory containment activities in their respective States. Support of WHOs National Polio Surveillance Project (NPSP) is also being obtained to survey all laboratories in their database and provide information of the Laboratories to the Task Force. An inventory of laboratories/Institutes of Department of Bio Technology (DBT) / Department of Science & Technology (DST), Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) and Indian Institutes of Technology (IITS)/ National Institute of Information Technology (NIITs), databases of bio-medical laboratories in Department of Health Research (DHR), bio-tech laboratories in Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) database has been prepared for information on storage of potentially infectious material.

Antyodaya Anna Yojana for Subsidised Foodgrains [ 5/15/2013] In order to make the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) more focused and targeted at the poorest of the poor, Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) was launched in December, 2000 in all States/UTs for one crore families to be identified from the Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. Coverage under this scheme has been expanded thrice since then i.e. during 2003-04, 2004-05 and 2005-06 covering additional 50 lakh households each time. Thus the total coverage under AAY was raised to 2.50 crore AAY families. The identification of AAY families within the target of AAY families allocated to each State/UT is the responsibility of concerned State/UT Government. Against the accepted number of 2.50 crore AAY families given to State/UT Governments, upto March, 2013, they have reported issuance of AAY ration cards to 2.43 crore AAY families. Allocation of foodgrains (rice & wheat) to these AAY families is made @ 35 kg per family per month at a highly subsidized Central Issue Price (CIP) of Rs.2 per kg for wheat and Rs.3 per kg for rice. Rs. 1693 Crore for National Mission on Micro Irrigation in 2013-14 [ 5/15/2013] Annual budget outlay of National Mission on Micro Irrigation (NMMI) scheme has been enhanced by approximately 13% from Rs.1500 crore for the financial year 2012-13 to Rs.1693 crore for the financial year 2013-14. Andhra Pradesh allotted higher sum of Rs 295.00 crore, Maharashtra Rs 250.00 crore and Gujarat gets Rs 200.00 crore under National Mission on Micro Irrigation.Under NMMI scheme, farmers are educated on the use the micro irrigation system through demonstration, training and awareness programmes. 88.90 lakh adolescent girls benefit by Sabla [ 5/13/2013] About 88.76 lakh adolescent girls have been covered under the nutrition component of the 'Sabla'scheme of the Ministry of Women & Child Development, by the end of December 2012. Under the Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls, also known as 'Sabla', 14,654 adolescent girls were mainstreamed to the school system in 2012-13 under the non-nutrition component of the scheme. The scheme is being implemented in 205 selected districts across the country, using the ICDS platform.

The Department of Space/Indian Space Research Organisation has established an endowed fellowship at the Graduate Aerospace Laboratories of the California Institute of Technology, California, USA. This fellowship is established in honor of Prof. Satish Dhawan, who was the former Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation during its formative period 1972-1984. Prof. Satish Dhawan was an alumnus of the Graduate Aerospace Laboratories at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and obtained his PhD in aerospace in 1951. He was serving as Distinguished Visiting Professor

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during 1971-72 at Caltech, immediately preceding his assumption of the Chairmanship of ISRO in 1972. Prof. Dhawan was not only a visionary leader of ISRO but also an internationally recognised researcher and a legendary teacher. He was bestowed with the Distinguished Alumni Award by Caltech in 1969, the highest alumnus honor. The Government of India honoured Prof. Satish Dhawan by awarding him Padma Vibhushan in the year 1981. Padma Shri Avinash Chander took over as Scientific Advisor to Raksha Mantri (SA to RM) [6/1/2013] Padma Shri Avinash Chander took over as Scientific Advisor to Raksha Mantri (SA to RM), Secretary Defence Research & Development and Dirctor General DRDO (Defence R&D Organization). Shri Avinash Chander has been appointed for a period of three years. The eminent Missile Scientist who envisioned and evolved the Strategies for Long Range Missiles and led the design and development of AGNI series of Missile Systems. Smt. Chandresh Kumari Katoch inaugurates Yuva Saathi- Young Volunteer Guide Programme [ 5/29/2013] The Union Minister of Culture Smt. Chandresh Kumari Katoch has said that the Yuva Saathi Programme aims to engage young minds in dialogue with the objects of National Museum to widen the understanding of the story of civilization across time and space. She was speaking at the launch of the Training of the Yuva Saathi Young Volunteer Guides for Young Visitors to the National Museum here today. She said that the training programme, Yuva Saathi, designed by the National Museum Institute aims at guiding young visitors, who come in school groups and with their families around the galleries of National Museum. DRDO Chief gets prestigious Aryabhatta award [ 5/28/2013] DRDO Chief V K Saraswat today received the prestigious Aryabhatta award by the Astronautical Society of India for his lifetime contributions to missiles and aerospace technologies. The award was conferred on him for his lifetime contributions to missiles and aerospace technologies and also in recognition of his pioneering contributions towards the growth of astronautics in the country A champion of indigenisation, Saraswat has immensely contributed to the indigenous design and development of wide range of strategic and tactical missiles, as well as a unique twin layer ballistic missile defence system in the country. Under his leadership, DRDO continued its work on development of several weapon systems, platforms and military equipment, and initiation of development of new futuristic technologies and systems.

Second SAARC Regional Workshop on Child Labour [ 5/28/2013] The 2nd SAARC Regional Workshop on Child Labour is beginning on 29th May 2013 here in New Delhi to chalk out and promote comprehensive and gender-sensitive approaches to understanding and responding to child labour; showcasing strategies and initiatives that have promoted learning and action to ending child labour and protecting adolescents at work; and fostering cooperation through the SAARC mechanisms and partnerships on the issue. The workshop will also be a platform of sharing of knowledge and experience amongst SAARC Member countries. The 03 day long workshop for SAARC Member countries is being jointly organized by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India and V.V. Giri National Labour Institute in collaboration with the International Labour Organization. Mrs. Kushal Sigh Appointed as NCPCR Chairperson [ 5/28/2013] Mrs. Kushal Singh has been appointed as the Chairperson of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. She was selected by a Committee headed by Smt. Krishna Tirath, Minister of Women and Child Development. The Secretary, M/O WCD is also a member of the Committee. Mrs. Kushal Singh has held several high level posts in the Government of Rajasthan and the Central Government. She was the Chief Secretary, Government of Rajasthan. She was also the Chairperson Board of Revenue, Rajasthan Pollution Control Board and the Commissioner for Disabled Persons, Government of Rajasthan. Mrs. Singh was the Secretary Women and Child Development and Social Welfare, Principal Secretary for various ministries such as Social Welfare and Tribal Area Development, Environment and Social Security, Government of Rajasthan. Mrs. Singh has also served as the Senior Directing Staff (Civil Services), National Defence College, Ministry of Defence. In addition to this she has been the Regional Cement Controller at Bombay for the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.

Shri R K Mathur takes over as the New Defence Secretary [ 5/25/2013] Shri R K Mathur, took over as the new Defence Secretary here today. He belongs to the 1977 Batch of the Indian Administrative Service of Manipur-Tripura Cadre. He did his B.Tech from IIT Kanpur, M. Tech from IIT Delhi and MBA from International Centre for Public Enterprises, Ljubljana.

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Shri Mathur has a rich and varied experience in the field of public administration and has held many important positions in the Government of Tripura. He has served as Principal Secretary in the Agriculture, Rural Development and Finance Departments of the Government of Tripura. He has also held the positionof Chief Secretary of Tripura. During his different stints at the Centre, Shri Mathur has served as Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) & Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Textile and as Additional Secretary and Special Secretary in the Department of Defence, Ministry of Defence. He has held Secretary level postings in the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence. Block Institutes of Teachers Education to be Established in 196 SC/ST/Minority Concentrated Districts [ 5/24/2013] The HRD Ministry has approved setting up of Block Institutes of Teachers Education in 196 districts during the current Five Year Plan. These institutes will be opened in SC/ST/Minority concentrated districts. More than 690 crore rupees have been approved with 1/3rd of this investment being made in 8 high deficit states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh. Over Rs. 6300 crore are earmarked in the 12th Five Year Plan for training of untrained teachers. Under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan more than 6 lakh in-service teachers need to be trainined. Several states including the 8 states mentioned above have requested the centre to extend time for training of these teachers. The maximum no. of 190000 teachers need to be trained in Bihar followed by Uttar Pradesh where a total number of 124000 teachers needs to be trained. While the number of teachers to be trained in Chhattisgarh is over 45000 in Madhya Pradesh the number is 35000. The training ofteachers will be through National Institute of Open schooling as in Jharkhand, State Open Universities as in Assam, State Councils of Education Research and Training as in Chhattisgarh and through State Board of Primary Education as in West Bengal. To strengthen teacher education capacity, the states have obtained recognition for opening of 81 new Government institutes. It will help in the training of more than 4000 teachers in the 8 high deficit states. The curriculum has been revised in light of National Curriculum framework for teachers education.

Indian film 'Lunchbox' wins at Cannes [ 5/24/2013] At least three Indian movies, two produced by Cannes regular Anurag Kashyap, are making waves at the film festival. Ritesh Batra's debut film Lunchbox has bagged the Critics Week Viewers Choice Award at the 66th Cannes Film Festival. Dabba ( The Lunchbox) Director: Ritesh Batras debut film starring Irrfan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Nimrat Kaur that has got the best buzz so far. Part of the Cannes International Critics Week, the film centres on how a wrongly delivered lunchbox ignites a secret romance between an unhappy housewife and a soon- to- retire government official. Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram Saving Mothers and Newborns [ 5/24/2013] About 67,000 women die in India every year due to pregnancy related complications. About 13 lakh infants die within one year of birth. Out of 9 lakh newborns that die within 4 weeks of birth, about 7 lakh die within the first week of their birth. The first 28 days of infancy period are very important for children. Both maternal and infant deaths can be reduced by ensuring timely access to public health facilities without any burden of out of pocket expenses. The launch of Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram on June 1, 2011 signals to huge leap forward in the quest to make Health for All a reality. It invokes a new approach to healthcare, placing for the first time, utmost emphasis on entitlements and elimination of out of pocket expenses for both pregnant women and neonates. The initiative entitles all pregnant women delivering in public health institutions to absolutely free and no-expense delivery. All expenses relating to delivery in a public institution are borne by the government. Under this initiative, a pregnant woman is entitled to free transport from home to the government health facility. Entitlement includes free drugs and consumables, free diagnostic, free blood, free diet for the duration of a womans stay in the facility. Similar entitlements have been put in place for all sick newborns accessing public health institutions for healthcare till 30 days after birth. They are entitled to free treatment besides free transport, both ways and between facilities in case of a referral. JSSK is estimated to benefit more than one crore pregnant women and newborns every year both in urban and rural areas. It supplements the cash assistance given to a pregnant woman under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY). JSSK will encourage pregnant women to deliver at public health institutions. It will empower service providers working at the health facilities in providing quality ante-natal, intra-natal and post-natal services at the institutions. This initiative will also help in reducing both maternal and infant mortality and morbidity.

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While Rs. 1437 crores were allocated to the states for implementation of free entitlements under JSSK during 201112, a total of Rs. 2050.78 crores were allocated during 2012-13.

World Bank funded National HIV/AIDS control support project [ 5/23/2013] The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today approved a proposal by the Department of AIDS Control, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare for the implementation of National AIDS Control Support Project (NACSP) under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP) for an amount of Rs. 2550 crore. NACP is financed by the Government of India and the World Bank in equal proportion. The primary objective of the project is to increase safe behaviour among high risk groups in pursuance of the national goal of accelerated reversal of the HIV epidemic by 2017. The primary focus of the project activities would be strengthening and scaling up of prevention interventions and related BCC strategies for sub-groups of population identified to be most-at-risk by the NACP. These include Female Sex Workers (FSW), Men who have sex with Men (MSM), Transgender (TG) / Hijra populations and Injecting Drug Users (IDU). The project would also support the planned expansion and consolidation of tailored interventions for other at-risk populations, including migrant workers and truckers which play a critical role in the transmission dynamics of HIV in the country. The BCC strategies developed under the project would provide emphasis on demand generation for prevention services among high risk groups and vulnerable populations, including a specific focus on youth. This component would also address the need for reduction of stigma associated with HIV by focused IEC to change the prevailing attitudes and perceptions. Final approval for 4-laning of Dimapur - Kohima section of NH-39 in Nagaland [ 5/23/2013] The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs today approved the implementation of the project of 4-laning of the Dimapur-Kohima section from Km. 124.1 to Km.172.9 of NH-39 (excluding Dimapur and Kohima bypass) in the state of Nagaland, under the special Accelerated Road Development Programme (SARDP-NE) Phase A in North Eastern Region on Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT - Annuity). The total length of the road will be 42.8 km. with total project cost of Rs.1089.87 crore (excluding land acquisition and pre-construction). The concessionaire will make all expenditure to complete the project and will charge the annuity from the Government. The main object of the project is to expedite the improvement of infrastructure in Nagaland. The project is one of the stretches approved by the Government under SARDP-NE. It will facilitate reducing the time and cost of travel for traffic playing between Dimapur to Kohima. It will also increase the potential of employment to local labourers for project activities.

the global list of most powerful women compiled by Forbes magazine for 2013. [ 5/23/2013] Congress President Sonia Gandhi and India-born PepsiCo chief Indra Nooyi figure among the top 10 in the global list of most powerful women compiled by Forbes magazine for 2013.Gandhi is ranked ninth while Nooyi is at the 10th place in the global list of world's 100 most powerful women.German Chancellor Angela Merkel tops the list for the third consecutive year, followed by Brazil's President Dilma Rousseff, Melinda Gates of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, US First lady Michelle Obama and philanthropist Hillary Clinton. Japanese octogenarian becomes oldest to reach Everest [ 5/23/2013] An 80-year-old Japanese mountain climber who has had four heart surgeries reached the top of Mount Everest on Thursday becoming the oldest person to conquer the world's highest mountain.Yuichiro Miura, who took the standard southeast ridge route pioneered by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay 60 years ago, reached the top of the 8,848 metre (29,028 feet) mountain at roughly 9:00 a.m. local time (0300 GMT). He was accompanied by three other Japanese, including his son, and six Nepali sherpas. Enviornment Ministry Celebrates International Day for Biological Diversity [ 5/22/2013] On 22nd May is the International Day for Biological Diversity . The theme for 2013 is Water and Biodiversity, both of which represent essential building blocks of life on Earth. The theme reflects the reality that water sustains all life on earth, and that ecosystems of our world, particularly forests and wetlands, ensure that clean water is available to us. However, despite being two sides of the same coin, they are rarely seen in unison when it comes to their conservation, use and management. The United Nations has proclaimed May 22 as the International Day for Biological Diversity to commemorate the adoption of the Convention on Biological Diversity. Celebrating International Day for Biological Diversity every year affirms our resolve and responsibility to safeguard the precious heritage of bio-resources for the future generations.

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Appointment of Mission Director, Direct Benefits Transfer Scheme [ 6/10/2013] The appointment of Shri S.Sundareshan, IAS(KL:76) (Retired) as Mission Director, Direct Benefits Transfer Scheme, Planning Commission, in the rank and pay of Secretary to the Government of India, for a period of two yeas with effect from the date of assumption of charge or until further orders, whichever is earlier. Appointment of Acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Delhi [ 6/10/2013] In exercise of the powers conferred by Article 223 of the Constitution of India, the President has appointed Shri Justice Badar Durrez Ahmed, senior-most Judge of the High Court of Delhi, to perform the duties of the office of the Chief Justice of that High Court with effect from today, the 10th of June, 2013, consequent upon the retirement of Shri Justice Darmar Murugesan, Chief Justice of the High Court of Delhi. Makarova, Vesnina win French Open womens doubles [ 6/9/2013] Ekaterina Makarova and Elena Vesnina of Russia won their first Grand Slam title by defeating defending champions Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci of Italy 7-5, 6-2 in the womens doubles final of the French Open. Nadal wins record eighth French Open crown [ 6/9/2013] Rafael Nadal made history as he beat Spanish compatriot David Ferrer 6-3, 6-2, 6-3 on Sunday to win a record eighth French Open title, in a final marred by anti-gay marriage protests in the stands and by an intruder with a flare on the court. The world number four who will drop to fifth in the ATP rankings despite his title becomes the first man in tennis history to win eight singles titles at the same grand slam in the Open era which started in 1967. Bob Bryan (USA) and Mike Bryan (USA) won the Mens Double in French Open [ 6/8/2013] Bob Bryan (USA) and Mike Bryan (USA) beat Michael Llodra (FRA) and Nicolas Mahut (FRA) in men's double. Czech Republic pair Frantisek Cermak and Lucie Hradecka won the French Open mixed doubles [ 6/8/2013] Czech Republic pair Frantisek Cermak and Lucie Hradecka won the French Open mixed doubles title by defeating Daniel Nestor of Canada and Kristina Mladenovic of France. Serena Williams Wins French Open 2013 Title, Defeats Maria Sharapova [ 6/8/2013] Serena Williams of United States of America win the French Open Tennis Women's Singles Final match against Maria Sharapova of Russia at Roland Garros on June 8, 2013 in Paris, France. Nations highest Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) [ 6/6/2013] Nations highest Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) will be set up at Nyoma, Leh district of Jammu & Kashmir at a height of about 14000 feet. The Nyoma Krishi Vigyan Kendra is likely to bring about substantial change in the lives of people of nearby areas who are mostly nomads and rear pashmina goats. This region is extremely cold and dry and therefore, it is a challenge to promote stable agriculture there. The KVK will seek to improve fodder production, provide health care to the roaming animals, introduce vegetable production under protected environment and impart training to women on animal care, etc. Raghav Joneja, 15, becomes youngest Indian to climb Everest [ 6/5/2013] At the age of 15 years and seven months, Raghav Joneja from Moradabad became the youngest Indian to scale the Mount Everest when he along with his five schoolmates summited the fifth highest peak in the world. Raghav broke the record set by Manipur's Nameirakpam Chingkheinganba, at 16 years seven months and 11 days International Labour Conferences (ILO) 102th Session Begin in Geneva, Mallikarjuna KhargeLeads Indian Delegation [ 6/4/2013] The fortnight long 102nd Session of International Labour Conference of International Labour Organisation (ILO) is beginning tomorrow in the Hague, Geneva. India will be represented by a high level tripartite delegation headed by Union Labour & Employment Minister Shri Mallikarjuna Kharge. Other members of the Indian delegation includes Minister of State (Labour & Employment) Mr. K.Suresh, State Labour Ministers of Tamil Nadu, Assam, and Tamil Nadu, representatives of Trade Union Organizations and Employers Bodies, Secretary (Labour & Employment) and other senior officers of the Ministry. The Plenary Session of the ILC will be held from 12th-20th June, 2013. Khri Kharge will address the ILC the Plenary on 13th June, 2013. He will also address the delegates of Asia-Pacific Countries, attending aDinner meeting of G20 Labour & Employment Ministers and will also be participating in the World of Work Summit.

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India and Singapore Extend by Five Years Agreement for Use of Army Training and Exercise Facilities in India [ 6/4/2013] India and Singapore last night signed a fresh agreement to extend the use of training and exercise facilities in India by the Singapore Army for a further period of five years from August this year. The agreement was signed by the Indian Defence Secretary Mr Radha Krishna Mathur and the Singaporean Permanent Secretary of Defence Mr Chiang Chie Foo in the presence of the Defence Ministers of the two countries, Mr AK Antony and Dr Ng Eng Hen. It may be recalled that a bilateral agreement for utilization of facilities in India by the Singapore Air Force and Army was signed in October 2007 and August 2008 respectively. The agreement for training and exercises of Singapore Air Force in India was extended up to October 2017 during the visit of Singapores Permanent Secretary of Defence to India in July last year. Singapore is the only country to which India is offering such facilities. Setting up of the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition (Jagdishpur) [ 6/4/2013] The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal for setting up of the Central Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition (Jagdishpur) Society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 with a funding of Rs. 47.86 crore. This will be a non-profit central autonomous society to be registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. The Memorandum of Association and rules and regulations of the society will be similar to that of other 21 Central Institutes of Hotel Management (IHMs) already in existence. The proposed Central IHM will be managed by a Board of Governors comprising 12 members, with the Chairman to be appointed by the Central Government. The Institute will be constructed in Jagdishpur, Distt Sultanpur (UP) on 5 acres of land to be provided by the Government of UP free of cost. It will have a hostel for 400 students and a 30 room Applied Training Centre (Hotel), for giving handson commercial training to students passing out from the institute.

Extension of Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana to other occupational groups [ 6/4/2013] The Union Cabinet today approved the extension of the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) to rikshaw pullers, rag pickers, mine workers, sanitation workers and auto rickshaw drivers and taxi drivers. The total number of unorganized workers estimated to be covered in these categories will be as under: i. Rickshaw drivers/pullers 13.68 lakh ii. Rag pickers 11.63 lakh iii. Mine workers 17.79 lakh iv. Sanitation workers 10.08 lakh v. Auto rickshaw drivers/taxi drivers 35.39 lakh The total financial implications for extension of RSBY to rikshaw pullers, rag pickers, mine workers, sanitation workers and auto rickshaw drivers and taxi drivers, would be around Rs.210 crore approximately for the year 201314 and Rs.419.89 crore from the year 2014-15 onwards. The exact amount will be determined on the basis of persons identified and registered under these categories during each preceding year and actual premium rates. The projected benefit would facilitates health insurance cover to rickshaw pullers, rag pickers, mine workers, sanitation workers and auto rickshaw drivers and taxi drivers. RSBY is being implemented in 28 States/Union Territories and more than 3.44 crore smart cards have been issued as on 31st March, 2013. The target for the year 2013-14 is to cover 3.60 crore Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) supported scheme to provide mobile services in areas affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE) [ 6/4/2013] The Union Cabinet today approved a proposal to install mobile towers at 2,199 locations in 9 states that is Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, which are affected by Left Wing Extremism (LWE), identified by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The project would be executed by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL). BSNL has already installed towers at 363 locations. Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) would fund the CAPEX and OPEX net of revenue for 5 years. Maximum outgo from the USO Fund is estimated to be Rs. 3,046.12 crore.

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Installation and roll out in these areas is targeted to be completed in 12 months after amendment in the Indian Telegraph Rules and signing of agreement with BSNL which will take about three months. The strengthened telecom network will result in increase in penetration of mobile connectivity in the country, especially LWE affected areas and other areas facing security challenges, resulting in affordable and equitable access of communication, information and governance to people.

Establishment of Permanent Benches of Karnataka High Court at Dharwad and Gulbarga Districts [ 6/4/2013] The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for the establishment of permanent benches of the Karnataka High Court at Dharwad and Gulbarga Districts in the State of Karnataka. Establishment of Permanent Benches of the Karnataka High Court at Dharwad and Gulbarga would facilitate better access for justice to litigants of the Districts, covered under the jurisdiction of the Dharwad and Gulbarga Benches. It will also help in speedy disposal of cases with consequent reduction in pendency in the High Court. The Requisite infrastructure facilities have been created by the State Government for establishment of the permanent benches. At present, Judges are sitting at Circuit Benches on a rotational basis for one month. To avoid inconvenience to judges, advocates and litigants, the Circuit Benches at Dharwad and Gulbarga are proposed to be made permanent.

Anil Goswami appointed as Union home secretary [ 6/29/2013] Anil Goswami, a 1978 batch IAS officer of the Jammu and Kashmir cadre, will on Sunday take over as the new home secretary, officials said. Goswami was appointed officer on special duty in the ministry of home affairs in April after his name was cleared by the appointments committee of cabinet as the new home secretary. His tenure will be for two years. Stealth Frigate INS Trikand Joins Indian Navy [ 6/29/2013] INS Trikand, the last of the three Follow On Talwar Class frigates built in the Russian Federation, was commissioned into the Indian Navy today at Kaliningrad, Russia by Vice Admiral R K Dhowan, the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Indian Navy, in a glittering ceremony marked by traditional military fervour that included the Indian and the Russian navies. Prime Minister Dedicates Pir Panjal Railway Tunnel (The Longest Transportation Tunnel of India) to the Nation [ 6/26/2013] The Indian Railways added another feather in its cap with the historic milestone of connecting Kashmir valley with the Jammu region. The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh dedicated the newly constructed railway line between Banihal (Jammu region)-Qazigund (Kashmir valley) section to the nation by flagging off the first DEMU train from Banihal through the Pir Panjal tunnel- the longest transportation tunnel of India, from Banihal Railway station in Jammu & Kashmir. India has won 2013 Champions Trophy [ 6/23/2013] M. S. Dhoni led Indian team has won the Champions Trophy 2013 defeating England by five runs in a humdinger at Edgbaston. Shikhar Dhawan has won the Golden Bat and Ravindra Jadeja has won the Golden Ball. India and World Bank Sign Us$ 216 Million Agreement for Kerala State Transport Project [6/18/2013] The Loan and Project Agreements for World Bank (IBRD) assistance of US$ 216 million for Second Kerala State Transport Project were signed between Government of India/Government of Kerala and World Bank at New Delhi today. The Loan Agreement was signed by Shri Nilaya Mitash (Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs) on behalf of Government of India and Mr. Onno Ruhl, Country Director, World Bank (India) on behalf of the World Bank. The Project Agreement was signed by Shri T.O. Sooraj, Secretary, Public Works Department on behalf of the Government of Kerala. The Objective of the project is to improve road conditions, traffic flow and road safety with a focus on vulnerable road users on selected roads in Kerala.

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Government Approves 16 Proposals of Foreign Direct Investment Amounting to About Rs.1646.875 Crore [ 6/18/2013] Based on the recommendations of Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) in its meeting held on May 10, 2013, the Central Government has approved sixteen (16) proposals of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) amounting to Rs.1646.875crore approximately. India Signs Loan Agreement with World Bank for US$ 255 Million for National AIDS Control ProjectIV [ 6/18/2013] An agreement for loan of US$ 255 million (equivalent) from World Bank for the National AIDS Control Project (NACP-IV) was signed here today between India and the World Bank. Shri Nilaya Mitash, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance signed on behalf of the Government of India and Mr.Onno Ruhl, Country Director, World Bank (India) on behalf of the World Bank. Representative(s) from Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of National AIDS Control and officials from the World Bank among others were present on the occasion. The Objective of the project is to increase safe behaviors among high risk groups in o rder to contribute to Indias national goal of reversal of the HIV epidemic by 2017. Project Component: The Project has three components that include implementation at the national, State and district levels: (i) Scaling-up Targeted Prevention Interventions; (ii) Behavior Change Communications; and (iii) Institutional Strengthening. The closing date of NACP IV is September 30, 2017. Operation Rahat Launched by the IAF [ 6/18/2013] On 16 Jun heavy rains wreaked havoc in the hill states of Uttarakhandand HimachalPradesh leaving thousands stranded including pilgrims in transit in various valleys. IAF assistance was sought for rescue operations. HQ Western Air Command(WAC) promptly responded to the requests from various states for providing flood relief. IAF undertook the task simultaneously in the sectors of Yamunanagar, Kedarnath-Badrinath axis, Rudrapyag valley, Karcham- Puh axis. Airforce station Sarsawa was made the hub centre with helicopters converging from Bhatinda and Hindon. A number of Medium lift helicopters including the newly inducted MI -17 V5 were positioned on 17 Jun at Jollygrant helipad at Dehradun despite inclement weather. On 17 Jun a total of 36 pax were evacuated from general area Karnal by MI 17 V5. In addition 21 passengers including 15 children were rescued from Nakud by ALH operating Ex Sarsawa. On 18 Jun two additional MI -17 V5 helicopters were put into service along with the NDRF teams in the general area of Rampur- Rekongpeo in Himachal Pradesh. The relief operations are in full swing providing succor to thousand of standed pilgrims and tourists.

Green Venture By NALCO - Commissioning of 2nd Wind Power Project Starts [ 6/17/2013] The National Aluminium Company Limited (NALCO), a Navratna PSU, has been foraying into other metalsand energy sectors. The company has set up its 2nd Wind Power Plant at Ludarva in Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan with a capacity of 47.6 MW. A part of the project has been commissioned successfully and power production has commenced from 18 Wind Energy Generators. The Rs. 283 crore Wind Power Project is being executed through M/s Gamesa Wind Turbines Private Ltd., which involves erection of 56 Wind Turbines, each of 850 KW rating. This is the second green initiative of NALCO towards promoting sustainable development by harnessing the unconventional and renewable energy sources, which would credit the company with incentives from the Government. The project is scheduled to be completed by August 2013. Earlier, the company commissioned its first Wind Power Plant of 50.4 MW capacity at a cost of Rs.274 crore at Gandikota in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, on 30th December, 2012. Besides, the company is also planning to set up the third wind power plant in its own mined out area of Panchpatmali Bauxite deposit in Koraput.

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Smt. Krishna Tirath Participate in the Tenth Commonwealth Womens Affairs Ministers Meeting, Dhaka [ 6/14/2013] Smt. Krishna Tirath, Minister for Women and Child Development will participate in the tenth Commonwealth Womens Affairs Ministers meeting at Dhaka on 17-19 June, 2013. The theme of the meeting is Womens Leadership for Enterprise. Deliberations on the theme will enable to elaborate on strategic measures for achieving gender equality and women empowerment across the Commonwealth countries. This meeting will facilitate exchange of views on key issues of practical policy concern. The meeting will also provide an opportunity to discuss priorities for the End Term Review Report of the Commonwealth Plan of Action for Gender Equality 2005-2015 (PoA). It will be an opportunity to share and develop collective Commonwealth perspective on the emerging post-2015 Global Development Agenda. Hosting of Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Under 17 World Cup 2017 in India [ 6/13/2013] The Union Cabinet today gave its approval to the proposal for submitting guarantees sought by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) from the Government of India for their bid to host the FederationInternationale de Football Association (FIFA) Under 17 World Cup Football Tournament in 2017 in India. The FIFA Under 17 World Cup is a prestigious event and would be held in India for the first time, if the AIFF succeeds in its bid. The AIFF have proposed holding of matches in five States, namely Delhi, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Karnataka and one among the States of Assam, Goa and Kerala.

Members Appointed to the 20th Law Commission of India [ 6/13/2013] The Central Government has appointed (i) Dr. Bijai Narain Mani, eminent law author, and (ii) Dr. Gurjeet Singh, Director General of the National Law School & Judicial Academy, Assam, as part-time Members of the 20th Law Commission of India with effect from the forenoon of the 24th May and the 31st May 2013, respectively, and up to 31st August 2015 i.e. till the end of the term of the 20th Law Commission of India. As per the 3 Notifications issued today by the Department of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Law & Justice, the Central Government has also appointed Ms. Justice Usha Mehra, retired Judge of the High Court of Delhi, as full-time Member of the 20th Law Commission of India with effect from the forenoon of the 3rd April 2013 and up to 31st August 2015.

RBI fine Axis, HDFC and ICICI Bank [ 6/11/2013] The RBI, conducting inquiries against 36 other banks following an expose made by Cobrapost, has imposed penalties of Rs. 5 crore has been imposed on Axis Bank, Rs. 4.5 crore on HDFC Bank, and Rs. 1 crore on ICICI Bank. President lays the foundation stone of Nirbhaya Bhawan [ 6/11/2013] The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee laid the foundation stone of Nirbhaya Bhawan the permanent headquarters of National Commission for Women today (June 11, 2013) at a function at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Rentala Chandrasekhar has appointed as Chairman NTRO [ 6/10/2013] Indian Police Services (IPS)lost the race for having one of its officers as the head of National Technical Research Organisation, the country's top intelligence and surveillance agency, with the government appointing a retired IAS officer to the post. Rentala Chandrasekhar, an IAS officer of 1975 batch of Andhra Pradesh cadre, who retired as Telecom Secretary on March 31 this year, was named as the Chairman of NTRO. According to an official notification, Chandrasekhar will hold the post for a period of three year from the date of assumption of the charge or until further orders. Setting up of Indira Gandhi National University for Women at Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh [7/11/2013] The Union Cabinet has approved setting up a National University for Women in Uttar Pradesh by the name of The Indira Gandhi National University for Women. This will be the first university of the country to be established exclusively for women. The university will be located at Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh. A bill, namely, the Indira Gandhi National University for Women Bill, 2013 will be introduced in the coming Monsoon Session of Parliament. After the passage of the Bill, steps will be taken to set up the University. The cost involved is Rs.500 crore during the 12th Plan period.

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Formation of National Capital Region Transport Corporation Limited (NCRTC) [ 7/11/2013] The Union Cabinet approved constitution of National Capital Region Transport Corporation Limited (NCRTC) under the Companies Act, 1956 with initial seed capital of Rs.100 crore as per Company Act, 1956 for designing, developing, implementing, financing, operating and maintaining Regional Rapid Transit system (RRTS) in National Capital Region (NCR) to provide comfortable and fast transit to NCR towns and meet the high growth in transport demand. This company may form subsidiary companies for implementing each corridor. The seed capital of Rs. 100 crore shall be contributed as follows:Central Government Ministry of Urban Development Ministry of Railways National Capital Region Planning Board State Government Government of NCT Delhi Government of Haryana Government of Rajasthan Government of UP : : : : 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% 12.5% : : : 22.5% 22.5% 5.0%

Tagore Award For Cultural Harmony, 2013 to be Conferred on Zubin Mehta [ 7/10/2013] Tagore Award for Cultural Harmony, 2013 is being conferred on the noted Maestro, Zubin Mehta. A High-level Jury under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh and comprising the Chief Justice of India, Justice Altamas Kabir, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Smt. Sushma Swaraj and Shri Gopalkrishna Gandhi after detailed discussions on 4th July, 2013, unanimously decided to select Shri Zubin Mehta to be the second recipient of the Tagore Award, 2013 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to cultural harmony. The annual award was instituted by the Govt. of India during the commemoration of 150th Birth Anniversary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. The first Tagore Award was conferred on Pt. Ravi Shankar, the Indian Sitar Maestro in 2012. The award carries an amount of Rs. 1 crore, a citation in a scroll, a plaque as well as an exquisite traditional handicraft/handloom item. The award is open to all persons regardless of nationality, race,language, caste, creed or sex. Wimbledon Tennis 2013 Winner [ 7/7/2013] Andy Murray beat Novak Djokovic 6-4, 7-5, 6-4 to become the first Briton to win the Wimbledon men's singles title since 1936. Marion Bartoli (FRA) win the Wimbledon womens single title for 2013 by defeating Sabine Lisicki(GER). Bob Bryab (USA) and Muke Bryan (USA) win the Wimbledon mens double title 2013 by defeating Ivan Dodig (CRO) and Marcelo Melo (BRA). Su-Wei Hsieh (TPE) and Shuai Peng (CHN) win the Wimbledon womens double title 2013 by defeating Ashleigh Barty (AUS) and Casey Dellacqua (AUS). Daniel Nestor (CAN) and Kristina Mladenovic (FRA) win the Wimbledon mixed double title 2013 by defeating Bruno Soares (BRA) and Lisa Raymond (USA)

Sujatha Singh Appointed as Foreign Secretary [ 7/3/2013] The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Smt.Sujatha Singh, IFS(1976), presently Ambassador of India to Germany, as the next Foreign Secretary with effect from August 1,2013 for a tenure of two years.

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Director General BPR&D Appointed [ 7/3/2013] Shri Rajan Gupta, IPS (PB:78) has been appointed as Director General, Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D) till the date of his superannuation i.e. 31.03.2015, from the date of assumption of the post or until further orders, whichever event takes place earlier. LT Gen Vijay Kumar Saxena takes over as Director General of Army Air Defence [ 7/3/2013] Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Saxena assumed the appointment of the 8th Director General of the Corps of Army Air Defence on 01 Jul 2013. The General Officer has taken over the reins from Lieutenant General Kuldip Singh who superannuated from service on 30 Jun 2013, after a distinguished career of nearly 40 years. Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Saxena, the incoming Director General is an alumni of National Defence Academy 1975 batch. Gen Saxena, is also an alumni of Defence Services Staff College, College of Defence Management and the coveted National Defence College. The Officer has had to his credit, two tenures in the Military Operations Directorate, Instructional experience in India and abroad and Commandexperience of his unit and formation in active Counter Insurgency Operations in the Northern Command. The Gen Officer has also had a stint as Brigadier General Staff (Information Warfare) at HQ NorthernCommand besides serving as Deputy Director General Equipment, as well as, Operations in Army Air Defence Directorate and Additional Director General of Army Air Defence at Army HQ. ISRO Successfully Launches Indias First Navigation Satellite IRNSS-1A [ 7/2/2013] ISROs Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV-C22, has successfully launched IRNSS-1A, the first satellite in the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. This is the twenty third consecutively successful mission of PSLV. The XL configuration of PSLV was used for the mission. Previously, the same configuration of the vehicle was used thrice to launch Chandrayaan-1, GSAT-12 and RISAT-1 satellites. IRNSS-1A is the first of the seven satellites constituting the space segment of the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System. IRNSS is an independent regional navigation satellite system designed to provide position information in the Indian region and 1500 km around the Indian mainland. IRNSS would provide two types of services, namely, Standard Positioning Services (SPS) provided to all users and Restricted Services (RS) provided only to authorised users.

Najeeb Jung to be new Delhi LG; K K Paul is Meghalaya governor [ 7/2/2013] Jamia Millia Islamia vice-chancellor Najeeb Jung was on Monday appointed Delhi lieutenant-governor replacing Tejendra Khanna while former Delhi Police commissioner K K Paul was appointed Meghalaya governor replacing Ranjit Shekhar Mooshahary. President Pranab Mukherjee also appointed former Punjab Congress chief Virendra Kataria as LG of Puducherry succeeding Iqbal Singh while Lt Gen (retired) A K Singh replaced Lt Gen (retired) Bhopinder Singh as LG of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, a Rashtrapati Bhavan statement said. Lieutenant General Anil Chait Takes over as Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to CISC [7/1/2013] Lieutenant General Anil Chait, has taken over as Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC) here today. The General Officer in his career spanning over 39 years has held various coveted Command, Staff and Instructional appointments. The General Officer has a vast operational experience across the entire spectrum of conflict. Lieutenant General Anil Chait, in his formative years has been associated with the Special Action Group(The Black Cats) of the National Security Guards and was awarded the VishishtSeva Medal. He has served with an infantry division, as Colonel General Staff on the Line of Control during Operation Parakram. The General Officer has tenanted staff assignment in the Military Secretarys Branch in the Colonels rank and the Perspective Planning Directorate in the Brigadiers rank dealing with formulation of National and Military Security Strategy & Policy. The General Officer commanded an Armoured Regiment, an Independent Amoured Brigade and an Infantry Division with distinction on the Western Borders. The General brought glory to the Indian Military and the Nation by organizing the 4th Edition of Military World Games successfully. He has the proud distinction of attending the US Army War College and being awarded the Medal of Excellence.

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Shri Bimal Julka assumes charge as Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting [7/1/2013] Shri Bimal Julka, IAS assumed charge as Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. Belonging to the 1979 batch of M.P. cadre, Shri Julka has served at the Centre and State in various capacities. Prior to his appointment as Secretary (I&B), Shri Julka held the post of Special Secretary and Financial Advisor in the Ministry of External Affairs. He has also served as Additional Secretary and Director General in the Directorate of Currency under the Ministry of Finance. Air Marshal Arup Raha Take Over as Vice Chief of Air Staff [ 7/1/2013] Air Marshal Arup Raha PVSM AVSM VM ADC, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command took over charge as the Vice Chief of Air Staff (VCAS) at Air Headquarters on 01 July 13. Having done his early schooling from Sainik School Purulia, he graduated from the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune with the Presidents gold medal in 1973. He was commissioned in the Flying Branch in December 1974. Brazil beats Spain 3-0 to win Confederations Cup 2013 [ 7/1/2013] Brazil beats Spain 3-0 to win Confederations Cup 2013. Golden boot winner Spain's Fernando Torres, silver boot winner Fred from Brazil and bronze boot winner Neymar from Brazil. India, Sri Lanka target $10bn bilateral trade in next 3 years [ 6/29/2013] India and Sri Lanka have agreed to take steps to double their bilateral trade to $10 billion in the next three years. During the talks between Indian and Sri Lankan officials held on June 24-25 in Colombo, both the sides deliberated on ways to enhance trade and investments between the two countries. P Sathasivam to be new Chief Justice of India [ 6/29/2013] Supreme court Judge P Sathasivam is appointed as the next Chief Justice of India (CJI) after the expiry of present incumbent Altamas Kabir's tenure. Sathasivam, who will be the 40th CJI, will have tenure till April 26, 2014. Union Petroleum Minister and Delhi Chief Minister launch IGL Suraksha Yojana [ 7/31/2013] Dr. M. Veerappa Moily, Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas, and Smt. Sheila Dikshit, Chief Minister of Delhi om 31st July 2013 launched IGL Suraksha Yojana, a group accident insurance scheme for nearly 2.5 lakh drivers of CNG run public transport vehicles in Delhi . Smt. Panabaaka Lakshmi, Union Minister of State for Petroleum & Natural Gas, Shri Ramakant Goswami, Transport Minister, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, Shri K.K Gupta, Chairman, IGL, Shri Narendra Kumar, Managing Director, IGL, Shri Puneet Goel, Transport Commissioner, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, Shri Rajesh Chaturvedi, Director (Commercial), IGL, officials from Delhi Government, IGL and a large number of drivers of public transport vehicles were also present on the occasion. The function was organised jointly by Transport Department, Govt. of NCT of Delhi and Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) today in Delhi Secretariat. Shri Sharad Kumar Appointed as Director General, National Investigation Agency [ 7/30/2013] Shri Sharad Kumar has been appointed as Director General of National Investigation Agency. Shri Kumar is an IPS (HY:79) officer and presently working in the cadre. India-born Mamnoon Hussain elected as Pakistan's 12th Prez [ 7/30/2013] India-born Mamnoon Hussain, a close aide of Prime Minister Nawqaz Sharif, was elected as the 12th President of Pakistan and will replace the incumbent Asif Ali Zardari in September. Ramon Magsaysay Award 2013 [ 7/29/2013] Afghanistan's first and only woman provincial governor and an aid worker from Myanmar's Kachin minority are among the winners of this year's prestigious Ramon Magsaysay awards, the award foundation said on 24th July 2013. The Manila-based Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation, named after a popular Filipino president who was killed in a plane crash, was established in 1957 to honour people or groups who change communities in Asia for the better. Both Habiba Sarabi, governor of the Afghan province of Bamyan, and Myanmar aid worker Lahpai Seng Raw did not allow their minority origins to stop them from empowering other people, said the foundation . India and Senegal sign Executive Programme for Cultural Cooperation [ 7/29/2013] India and Senegal enjoy age-old friendly relations and to reaffirm their commitment to have sustained cultural exchanges by signing Executive Programme for Cultural Cooperation between India and Senegal for the period 2013-2015 on 29th July 2013 at New Delhi. The Executive Programme for Cultural Cooperation was signed by Smt. Chandresh Kumari Katoch, Minister of Culture on behalf of Government of India and by H.E. Mr. Adboul Aziz Mbaye, Minister of Culture, on behalf of Government of Republic of Senegal. The Executive Programme for Cultural Cooperation is valid for three years. Thereafter, however, it will continue to be in force till a fresh Exchange Programme is signed.

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Ministry of Earth Sciences & Earth System Science Organisation Celebrates Its Day Function[ 7/27/2013] The Ministry of Earth Sciences ( MoES) celebrated its foundation day on 27th July here in Vigyan Bhawan New Delhi. Shri S.Jaipal Reddy, Union Minister of Earth Sciences & Science and Technology who chaired the session called upon the MoES family of professionals to rededicate themselves by building new agenda to promote and discover a new perspective for understanding Earth System Processes and to build advanced knowledge based Monitoring, Detection, Warning & Decision Support Systems (DSS) for rendering improved services in respect of weather, climate, ocean state, hazards and also build programs leading to the sustainability of earth resources. He said Government has given full support for building appropriate national and international level focused Research & Development programmes in Ocean science, meteorology, climate, environment, seismology, cryosphere and biosphere. Solar PV Modules flagged off [ 7/26/2013] The first consignment of SPV Modules from BHELs Electronics Division in Bangalore was flagged off by Shri A K Jha, Director (Technical ), NTPC Limited recently. NTPC has awarded turnkey contract for setting two GridConnected Solar Power Plants of 10 MW capacity each at Unchahar in Uttar Pradesh and Talcher Kaniha in Odisha to BHEL. NTPC is venturing into renewable energy with an objective to broad base generation mix by evaluating conventional and alternate sources of energy to ensure long run competitiveness and mitigate fuel risks. In this endeavour, NTPC has already commissioned two five MW solar PV projects each at Dadri and Portblair. Presently, 85 MW solar PV projects are under implementation. CIL Signs 82 FSAS for about 34,793 MW capacity Power Plants [ 7/26/2013] Providing a big boost to the power sector, Coal India Limited (CIL) has signed 82 FSAs as on 25.07.2013, with power stations with a capacity of 34,793 MW. This includes 16 power stations belonging to NTPC and its Joint Venture companies (JVs). 11 more FSAs are ready to be signed shortly with NTPC or its JVs, while another 23 FSAs with State and private sector entities are in the pipeline. These FSAs were part of the 131 FSAs for a capacity of 60,678 MW which CIL was directed to sign in February, 2012. This will substantially increase the power generation during the current and subsequent years. In yet another fillip to the power sector, Ministry of Coal has issued another Presidential Directive to CIL on 17.07.2013 for signing of FSAs for a capacity of 78,000 MW instead of the earlier 60,678 MW. This will not only increase the power generation further but will also fast track several power projects which are under development.

Indias Advanced Weather Satellite INSAT-3d Successfully Launched [ 7/26/2013] Indias Weather Satellite INSAT-3D, carrying advanced weather monitoring payloads, was today launchedsuccessfully by Ariane-5 (VA214) launch vehicle from Kourou, French Guiana. According to a Press Release issued by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) ,after a smooth countdown lasting 11 hours and 30 minutes, the Ariane-5 launch vehicle lifted off right on schedule at the opening of the launch windowat 01:24 hours IST today. After a flight of 32 minutes and 48 seconds,INSAT-3D was placed in anelliptical Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO),very close to the intended one. Appointment of Rajan Gupta as Director General, BPR&D [ 7/25/2013] Shri Rajan Gupta (IPS:1978 Punjab Cadre) has taken over as Director General (DG) in Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D).He is to head the Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D) in these transitional times when Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D) is expected to play a crucial role in near future as expectations from police are soaring. Govt. of India signed an agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a $60 million loan [ 7/19/2013] Government of India signed an agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for a $60 million loan for improving urban services and strengthen municipal and project management capacity in several towns in North Karnataka. The agreement is for the 3rd Project under the overall facility of $270 million for the North Karnataka Urban Sector Investment Program (NKUSIP). The third tranche loan under the North Karnataka Urban Sector Investment Program will develop sewerage networks in six towns, and help the rehabilitation and expansion of potable water systems in two more towns. More than 100,000 households will benefit from the improvements.

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Obama nominates Indian-American Nisha Biswal as assistant secretary of state for South Asia [ 7/19/2013] President Barack Obama nominated Nisha Desai Biswal, an accomplished Indian-American administrator, to head the South Asia bureau in the US state department. Desai will become the first person of Indian or even South Asian origin to head the bureau, which oversees US foreign policy and relations with India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Maldives and Bhutan. Shalini Singh bags Prem Bhatia award for political reporting [ 7/13/2013] Shalini Singh, a Deputy Editor with The Hindu, has bagged the prestigious Prem Bhatia Award for Political Reporting2013. She has been selected for her excellent coverage of several key issues, particularly her reporting of the telecom and Coalgate scandals. Veteran actor Pran passes away in Mumbai [ 7/12/2013] Legendary actor Pran, loved and feared in equal measure by moviegoers for his roles in Bollywood hits like 'Milan', 'Madhumati' and 'Zanjeer', passed away at a suburban hospital here this evening at the age of 93. Setting up of National Aviation University in India [ 7/11/2013] The Union Cabinet gave its approval to the proposal for setting up of a National Aviation University (NAU) in the name of Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University at the District of Rae Bareli in the State of U.P. as a Central University. [ 8/6/2013] As per the Provisional Estimates released by CSO on 31st May, 2013 this sector is estimated to grow at 1.9% in 2012-13 at 2004-05 prices and the contribution of agriculture to the GDP is likely to decline to 13.7 % in 2012-13. The decline in growth rate and contribution of agriculture to GDP is on account of structural changes due to a shift from a traditional agrarian economy to a service dominated one. Raghuram Rajan appointed as next RBI Governor for three years, to succeed Subbarao [8/6/2013] Raghuram Rajan, currently the Chief Economic Advisor to the government of India was on Tuesday appointed the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) governor for three years. Rajan will replace D Subbarao, who completes his five-year term on September 4, and will be the 23rd Governor of the central bank."Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has approved appointment of Raghuram Rajan as Governor of RBI for a term of three years," an official statement said.

Britain appoints Indian-origin Kumar Iyer as UKTI India head [ 8/2/2013] The British government on Thursday appointed Kumar Iyer, an Indian-origin official, as director general for UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) in India. This is a new top level post and has been created to reflect the increasing importance of business ties between the two countries. As UKTI director general, India, Iyer will have overall responsibility for the bilateral commercial and trade relationship. Iyer will also be British deputy high commissioner for western India. He will take up both positions, based in Mumbai, Aug 5. India lift SAFF U-16 football title [ 8/2/2013] Defender Jerry Lalrinzuala scored a spectacular goal through a long-ranger as India beat Nepal 1-0 to lift the South Asian Football Federation Under-16 Championships title here. India, represented by All India Football Federations Regional Academy, surged ahead in the 18th minute with Lalrinzuala unleashing a powerful leftfooted 35yard strike to beat the Nepalese goalie in the final match at the Dasharath Stadium. Ms Runa Laila, SAARC Goodwill Ambassador for HIV/AIDS made Maiden Visit to India [8/2/2013] Ms Runa Laila, SAARC Goodwill Ambassador for HIV/AIDS made official visit to India from 31st July to 2nd August 2013, with the objective to extend support to the cause of HIV/AIDS especially on the issues of Stigma and Discrimination related to People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV). Ms Runa Laila from Bangladesh has been conferred the honorary title of SAARC Goodwill Ambassador by SAARC Secretariat for the next two years along with Shri Ajay Devgan from India and Ms. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy from Pakistan. Amendment to the Government's Resolution on the Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Informers (PIDPI) Resolution. [ 8/2/2013] The Union Cabinet today gave its approval for amendment in the Resolution No. 89 dated 21st April, 2004, commonly known as the Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Informers (PIDPI) Resolution to designate the Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) of each Ministry/Department of the Government of India as the "Designated Authority" in addition to the Central Vigilance Commission to receive complaints under the PIDPI Resolution.

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The Central Vigilance Commission is the designated agency to receive complaints from whistle blowers under the PIDPI Resolution No. 89 dated 21.4.2004. The workload of the Commission has increased and the number of complaints under the PIDPI Resolution has also increased. The Government has therefore, felt a need to designate additional authorities for receiving complaints under PIDPI. Accordingly, the Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO) of each Ministry/Department of the Government of India has been now designated as the `Designated Authority` to receive complaints under the PIDPI Resolution. The proposed amendment would enable speedy disposal of the complaints and would make the public servants more responsible and accountable in their efforts in helping the Government towards combating and eradicating corruption.

Amendment to the Right to Information Act, 2005 [ 8/2/2013] The Union Cabinet has approved introduction of a Bill in the coming session of the Parliament to amend the Right to Information Act, 2005, to exclude the political parties from the definition of Public authority for the purpose of the Act. The Central Information Commission (CIC) in its decision dated 03.06.2013, has held that the political parties, namely, AICC/INC, BJP, CPI(M), CPI, NCP, and BSP are public authorities under Section 2(h) of the RTI Act. While deciding that the said political parties are public authorities, the CIC has relied mainly on the grounds that there is substantial (indirect) financing of political parties by the Central Government and they perform public duty. The political parties are registered with the Election Commission under the provisions of section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Under this section any small group of persons, if they so desire, can be registered as a political party by making a simple declaration under sub-section (5) of section 29A. With reference to the political parties, detailed provisions exist in the Representation of the People Act, 1951 which provides for dissemination of information relating to political parties, candidates and donations. Joint Development of Tourist Amenities at Amritsar & Rai Bareilli, Trivandrum, Gaya and Agra Cantt Railway Stations [ 8/1/2013] Ministry of Tourism has undertaken joint development of tourist amenities at Amritsar & Rai Bareilli, Trivandrum, Gaya and Agra Cantt Railway Stations in association with Ministry of Railways. Central Government assistance of Rs.10.28 crores, Rs.5.98 crore, Rs.5.18 crore and Rs.5.05 crore has been provided by the Tourism Ministry for the development of Amritsar & Rai Bareilli, Trivandrum, Gaya and Agra Cantt Railway Stations respectively. This financial support is being provided as part of an initiative of Dr. K.Chiranjeevi, Minister of Tourism to provide assistance to Central agencies for tourism infrastructure development. As part of the joint initiative, Ministry of Railways shall make land for the project available free of cost and render all possible assistance for completion of the project on time. The Ministry of Railways shall set up a monitoring committee with a member from the Ministry of Tourism to monitor physical and financial progress of the above projects.

Minister for MSME Inaugurates Indian School for Entrepreneurs and Enterprise Development[ 8/1/2013] The Minister for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, Shri K. H. Muniyappa inaugurated the Indian Schoolfor Entrepreneurs and Enterprise Development iSEED here today. Speaking at the inauguration the Minister stated that in the present competitive world, Innovation driven Entrepreneurship is critical for the growth of the Indian economy. Worldwide, the micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) primarily driven by first generation entrepreneurs have been accepted as the engine of economic growth and for promoting equitable development. The MSME sector is a nursery of entrepreneurship, often driven by individual creativity and innovation. To enable Indian youth in entrepreneurship and innovation, the Minister emphasized that the MSME ministry is conducting Skill Development Programmes for the entire value chain of manufacturing. 10 Tool Rooms under the Ministry are providing both long and short term training for more than one lakh persons the Minister highlighted. The Minister also said that, Entrepreneurship has a large role to play in employment creation. Therefore, the goals of MSMEs skill building initiatives include encouragement and promotion of indigenousentrepreneurship from all walks of life. According to the Minister, the Ministry of MSME is supporting the efforts of State Governments / Union Territories, Industry Associations, Financial Institutions, Technical/Management Institutions, other Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), etc. for establishment of new training institutions.

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New Secretary Assumes Charge in the Department of Justice [ 8/1/2013] Smt. Anita Kaul, a 1979 batch IAS officer of the Karnataka cadre, here today took charge as the Secretary, Department of Justice in the Ministry of Law & Justice. She brings with her rich administrative experience as she has worked in various capacities at the Centre and the State level. Immediately before joining the Department of Justice, Smt. Kaul was the Principal Secretary Planning in the Programme Implementation Department of the Govt. of Karnataka. Earlier she had served as Joint Secretary and Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Govt. of India. National Teeka Express Launched [ 8/1/2013] The National Teeka Express was launched by Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare in the presence of Shri Jitendra Singh, Minister of State (IC) for Youth Affairs & Sports at Alwar, Rajasthan today. It has been launched to protect children from life-threatening childhood diseases. It may be mentioned that under Routine Immunization Programme, ANMs collect vaccines from storage point (cold chain point) and transport them to session sites, i.e. either Sub-centre or Anganwari centre for carrying out vaccination. From 2005-06, Govt. of India is providing support for distribution of vaccine from last storage point to outreach immunization session sites at Sub-centres/Anganwaris, known as Alternate Vaccine Delivery (AVD) under NRHM. Rs. 79.3 crores was allocated to the states as support for Alternate Vaccine Delivery in 2012-13. But Government of India noticed gaps in the implementation of Alternate Vaccine Delivery in difficult areas with low access to healthcare services. Many a times ANMs have to collect the vaccines on the day preceding the immunization day, which may compromise the cold chain maintenance and possible loss of potency of vaccine. Improper storage could also lead to Adverse Events Following Immunization. Government Appoints Prof. Waman Kendre as Director of National School of Drama [8/1/2013] The Government has appointed Prof. Waman Kendre as the Director of National School of Drama (NSD). His appointment is for a period of five years w.e.f. the date of assumption of charge of the post or till superannuation on 62 years of age or until further orders, whichever is the earliest. National Archives of India Launches e-Abhilekh [ 8/1/2013] The quarterly newsletter of the National Archives of India entitled e-Abhilekh was launched by the Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Shri Ravindra Singh here today. This news bulletin has been planned with the objective of disseminating information for the development of Archives. The inaugural issue provides information about the activities of National Archives of India, States/Union Territories Archives, Archives of Business and other learned institutions for the period April-June 2013. The special feature of the issue is on International Archives Day and International Archival Organisations. E-payment gateway system for online booking of Rashtrapati Bhavan tours launched [8/1/2013] A six member team of students picked up from across the country schools which was sponsored by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), an Institution under the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai has bagged Two Silver & Three Bronze Medals at the 54th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) 2013 held at Santa Marta, Colombia during July 18-28, 2013. A total of 528 students from 97 countries participated in the prestigious world event. The winners will be falicitated today in Mumbai at the HBCSE, Mumbai. The Silver Medal winners are: Sangik Saha (Kolkata West Bengal) and Shubham Sinha (New Delhi), while the Bronze Medal winners are Pallav Goyal (Chattisgarh), Pranab Nuti (Hyderabad-Andhra Pradesh) andAnish Prasad Sevekari (Pune-Maharashtra). The team was led by Prof. C.R. Pranesachar, Mathematical Olympiad Cell, HBCSE, TFIR Bengaluru Dr. Aditi Phadke, Norrowsjee Wadia College Pune and deputy Leader, Prof. C.R. Pranesachar Leader, Dr. V.V.Acharya, Ferguson Coolege Pune (Observer). The Mathematical Olympiad Programme is organised under the aegis of the National Board for Higher Education (NBHM), Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India. E-payment gateway for e-management of visitors a system for online collection of registration charges for booking of Rashtrapati Bhavan tours was launched today (August 1, 2013) by Smt. Omita Paul, Secretary to the President. Nominal registration charges for Rashtrapati Bhavan tours will be applicable from September 1, 2013. The registration charges are as under: 1. Visitors individually or in a group of less than 30 persons will be charged @Rs 25/- per visitor per visit. 2. Visitors in a group of 30 persons will be charged Rs. 600/- in lump sum per visit. 3. Visitors in a group of more than 30 persons will be charged Rs. 600/- for 30 visitors and Rs. 25/- per visitor per

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visit for additional persons. 4. Children below the age of 12 years will be exempt from registration charges. An on-line booking system for tours of Rashtrapati Bhavan was started on January 1, 2013. Since then, over 47,000 persons have visited Rashtrapati Bhavan using the system. Bookings for tours are opened one month in advance and bookings for September 2013 are currently open.

Indian Team Bags Two Silver & Three Bronze Medals at 54th International Mathematics Olympiad [ 8/1/2013] A six member team of students picked up from across the country schools which was sponsored by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), an Institution under the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai has bagged Two Silver & Three Bronze Medals at the 54th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) 2013 held at Santa Marta, Colombia during July 18-28, 2013. A total of 528 students from 97 countries participated in the prestigious world event. The winners will be falicitated today in Mumbai at the HBCSE, Mumbai. The Silver Medal winners are: Sangik Saha (Kolkata West Bengal) and Shubham Sinha (New Delhi), while the Bronze Medal winners are Pallav Goyal (Chattisgarh), Pranab Nuti (Hyderabad-Andhra Pradesh) andAnish Prasad Sevekari (Pune-Maharashtra). The team was led by Prof. C.R. Pranesachar, Mathematical Olympiad Cell, HBCSE, TFIR Bengaluru Dr. Aditi Phadke, Norrowsjee Wadia College Pune and deputy Leader, Prof. C.R. Pranesachar Leader, Dr. V.V.Acharya, Ferguson Coolege Pune (Observer). The Mathematical Olympiad Programme is organised under the aegis of the National Board for Higher Education (NBHM), Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India. Environment Ministry confers Wildlife Awards [ 8/26/2013] Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Conservation Award 2009 has been conferred upon Shri S. P. Yadav, Deputy Inspector General in National Tiger Conservation Authority . The Amrita Devi Bishnoi Wildlife Protection Award 2010 was conferred upon in individual to Shri Saurabh Gupta and Shri Gaurav Gupta and in institutional category to Shri Dadu Paryavaran Sansthan of District Tonk in Rajasthan. Vice President Lays Foundation Stone of Central Training College OF ITBP in Ramgarh, Alwar[ 8/26/2013] The Vice President of India Shri M. Hamid Ansari Lays Foundation stone of the "Central Training College of the IndoTibetan Border Police (ITBP) in Ramgarh, Alwar (Rajasthan)". Prime Minister's Speech at the inauguration of the National Media Centre [ 8/24/2013] The prime minister inaugurate National Media Cnter Today. The National Media Centre (NMC) was initially conceptualized by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India in 1989 to facilitate greater interaction between the Government and the media with a state-of- the-art equipped media centre. The National Media Centre has been planned on the model of media centres in some of the capitals of the world such as Washington and Tokyo. It will have offices of the PIB as well as special facilities for the media to enable the Government to interact closely with the media. The National Media Centre located at 7-E, Raisina Road is in the centre of the city with proximity to Rashtrapati Bhawan, Government offices, Vigyan Bhavan and Parliament House - the news hub of Government activities. The location will cut distance and travel time between events for dignitaries and the media personnel. UN Assembly Proclaims 6 April International Day of Sport for Development, Peace [8/24/2013] The United Nations General Assembly on 23rd August 2013 proclaimed 6 April as the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, as the bodys President hailed the decision a historic step in recognizing the power of sport to erase cultural barriers and mobilize people around the world. Sport can be a powerful handmaiden for peace and reconciliation. It can b ring us closer through shared celebration of achievements of universal appeal and attraction, said Assembly President Vuk Jeremic, adding that ethnic, religious and economic divisions fall by the wayside, along with prejudice, fear and misunderstanding. Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) in Urban Areas [ 8/22/2013] The Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) covers all the Below Poverty Line (BPL) families living in the urban areas within the jurisdiction of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). This was stated by Dr. (Ms.) Girija Vyas, Union Minister of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation (HUPA), in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha today.

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The Minister further stated that the Ministry of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation is implementing the scheme of Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) which aims to provide gainful employment to the urban unemployed and under-employed poor, by encouraging setting up of self employment ventures by the urban poor living below the poverty line, skills training and also through providing wage employment by utilizing their labour for construction of socially and economically useful public assets. The Minister further stated that under the Urban Self Employment Programme (USEP) component of Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY), loan of Rs. 2,00,000/- is permissible for setting up of individual micro-enterprises with 25% central subsidy subject to maximum of Rs. 50,000/-. Under the Urban Women Self-help Programme (UWSP) component of SJSRY for setting up of group micro-enterprises, the group shall be entitled to a subsidy of Rs. 3,00,000/- or 35% of the cost of project or Rs. 60,000/- per Member of the Group, whichever is less, the Minister added. Clearance to Field Trials for Genetically Modified Plants [ 8/22/2013] The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) has approved experimental field trials for the purpose of generating biosafety data in respect of GM crops such as cotton, rice, castor, wheat, maize, tomato, groundnut, potato, sorghum, okra, brinjal, mustard, watermelon, papaya, sugarcane, rubber, banana, pigeon pea, Artemisia annua L. and chickpea. This was stated by Shrimati Jayanthi Natarajan Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment and Forests, in a written reply to a question in the Rajya Sabha today. The Minister further stated that currently about 79 applications covering 11 crops namely, cotton, rice, castor, maize, wheat, sugarcane, brinjal, potato, chickpea, mustard and sorghum are pending with the GEAC. Out of the 79 applications, 24 are awaiting NOC from the State Governments and the remaining 55 are yet to be considered by the GEAC. The Minister further stated that in view of the objections received from some of the State Governments regarding GM crop field trials in their State, the GEAC in its meeting held on 6.7.2011 decided to direct the applicants to obtain NOC from the State Government in the first instance before issuance of the approval letter. Further, the entire issue is subjudice in the Supreme Court, the Minister added.

Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards [ 8/22/2013] The National Sports Awards-2013 will be conferred upon the following sportspersons/ coaches/organizations. The Government approved their names, as recommended by the Selection Committees. A. Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award: SL. No. Name 1. Mr. Ronjon Sodhi B. Arjuna Awards: SL. No. Name 1. Ms. Chekrovolu Swuro 2. Mr. Ranjith Maheshwari 3. Ms. P.V. Sindhu 4. Ms. Kavita Chahal 5. Mr. Rupesh Shah 6. Mr. Virat Kohli 7. Mr. Abhijeet Gupta 8. Mr. Gagan Jeet Bhullar 9. Ms. Saba Anjum 10. Ms. Rajkumari Rathore 11. Ms. Joshna Chinnappa 12. Ms. Mouma Das 13. Ms. Neha Rathi 14. Mr. Dharmender Dalal 15. Mr. Amit Kumar Saroha

Discipline Shooting

Discipline Archery Athletics Badminton Boxing Billiards & Snooker Cricket Chess Golf Hockey Shooting Squash Table Tennis Wrestling Wrestling Athletics (Para)

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C. Dronacharya Awards for 2013: Sl.No. Name 1. Ms. Poornima Mahato 2. Mr. Mahavir Singh 3. Mr. Narinder Singh Saini 4. Mr. K.P. Thomas 5. Mr. Raj Singh * Lifetime contribution in coaching D. Dhyan Chand Awards : Sl.No. 1. 2. 3. 4. Name Ms. Mary Dsouza Sequeira Mr. Syed Ali Mr. Anil Mann Mr. Girraj Singh

Discipline Archery Boxing Hockey Athletics* Wrestling*

Discipline Athletics Hockey Wrestling Para Sports (Athletics)

E. Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar Sl. No. Category 1.

2. 3. 4.

Entity recommended for Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar, 2013 Community Sports Identification and Nurturing Dr. U.K. Mishra, Founder and of Budding Young Talent President,National Sports Academy, Allahabad Financial Support for Sports Excellence Services Sports Control Board Establishment and Management of Sports Pullela Gopichand Academy of Academies of Excellence Badminton, Hyderabad Employment of Sportspersons and sports welfare Petroleum Sports Promotion Board measures.

Ratan Thiyam appointed Chairperson of the National School of Drama [ 8/19/2013] Shri Ratan Thiyam has been appointed as the Chairperson of the National School of Drama Society. The President of India has appointed Shri Thiyam for a period of four years as per the relevant Rules and Regulations of the Society. Senior IPS officer Dilip Trivedi is new CRPF chief [ 8/17/2013] Dilip Trivedi was on 16th August 2013 named the CRPF chief. An IPS officer of the 1978 batch from UP cadre, Trivedi is currently special DG of the BSF. He was conducting the inquiry into BSF's firing at Ramban in Jammu & Kashmir where four people were killed last month. The post of the director-general of the CRPF, country's largest paramilitary force, fell vacant after Pranay Sahay retired on July 31. National Security Guard chief Arvind Ranjan was given the additional charge of the acting DG of the CRPF till the new chief was appointed. Khel Ratna for ace shooter Ronjan Sodhi, Virat Kohli gets Arjuna Award [ 8/13/2013] Trap shooter Ronjan Sodhi, the first Indian to win two back-to-back World Cup gold medals, was today recommended for the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, while star cricketer Virat Kohli was among the 14 sports persons picked for the Arjuna award by the selection committee. Rising badminton player P V Sindhu, who became the first Indian woman shuttler to clinch a bronze medal at the recent World Championships, was also in the list of 14 sports persons picked for the Arjuna award, sources told PTI.

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Rs. 600 Crore Released under National Agricultural Insurance Scheme so Far this Year [8/13/2013] Funds of Rs.2660 crore, Rs.360 crore, Rs.700 crore and Rs.600 crore have been released during 2010-11, 2011-12, 2012-13 and 2013-14 (till 31.7.13) respectively under the National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS). As per scheme provisions, admissible claims are worked out based on yield data arrived from Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs) and submitted by the State Governments. Normally, Agriculture Insurance Company (AIC) which is the Implementing Agency of NAIS, processes the admissible claims within one month after the receipt of yield data from the concerned State Government. Claims if any are paid immediately thereafter provided the share of funds of the Central and State Government have been received by AIC. India signs DTAC Protocol with Morocco [ 8/8/2013] India signed a Protocol amending the India - Morocco Double Taxation Avoidance Convention (DTAC) in New Delhi today. The Protocol was signed by Dr Sudha Sharma, Chairperson, Central Board of Direct Taxes on behalf of Government of India and H.E. Mr. Larbi Reffouh, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to India on behalf of Government of the Kingdom of Morocco. The Protocol is based on international standards of transparency and exchange of information. It provides for effective exchange of information including banking information between tax authorities of the two countries. It also provides that each treaty partner shall use its information gathering measures to obtain the requested information even though it may not need such information for its own domestic tax purposes. The Agreement will enhance mutual co-operation between the two countries by having effective exchange of information in tax matters.

Parliament Passes the Historic Companies Bill 2012 [ 8/8/2013] The Parliament has passed the historic Companies Bill 2012, moved by Shri Sachin Pilot, Minister of Corporate Affairs. The Bill was passed by the Rajya Sabha here today which had already been passed by the Lok Sabha many months ago (in December 2012). Shri Pilot has termed it as a historic day for the country as it will usher in a new era in the Corporate Governance. The new Companies Bill, on its enactment, will allow the country to have a modern legislation for growth and regulation of corporate sector in India. The existing statute for regulation of companies in the country, viz. the Companies Act, 1956 had been under consideration for quite long for comprehensive revision in view of the changing economic and commercial environment nationally as well as internationally. The new law will facilitate businessfriendly corporate regulation, improve corporate governance norms, enhance accountability on the part of corporates/ auditors, raise levels of transparency and protect interests of investors, particularly small investors. Conversion of Ocean Thermal Energy [ 8/8/2013] Earth System Science Organisation (ESSO) through its technical arm, National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) has been conducting laboratory level experiments for generation of electrical energy by Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC), utilizing difference in temperature between ocean surface and ocean depth around 800-1000m. No operational plant based on the principle of OTEC exists anywhere in the World. NTPC awarded for Excellence in HR [ 8/7/2013] NTPC has been conferred three Awards by the World HRD Congress & Star group at the 4th Asians Best Employer Brand Awards held at Singapore recently. The award was received by Shri S.P. Singh, General Manager (HR), NTPC.The company has been Awarded for Talent Management, Award for Excellence in HR through Technology and Asians Best Employer Brand Award (RANK 14th). NTPC currently employs about 25,000 people. Restructuring and renaming of Swarna Jayanti Shahri Rozgar Yojana as the National Urban Livelihoods Mission [ 9/3/2013] The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the proposal for restructuring of the centrally sponsored Scheme of Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY) in the 12th Plan and as the National Urban Livelihoods Mission (NULM) with an allocation of approximately Rs. 6,405 crore. The Mission of NULM is to reduce poverty and vulnerability of the urban poor households by enabling them to access gainful self-employment and skilled wage employment opportunities, resulting in an appreciable improvement in their livelihoods on a sustainable basis, through building strong grassroots level institutions of the poor. The mission would also aim at providing shelter equipped with essential services to the urban homeless in a phased manner. In addition, the Mission would also address livelihood concerns of the urban street vendors also by facilitating access to suitable spaces, institutional credit,social security and skills to the urban street vendors for accessing emerging market opportunities.

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National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) for Research and Technology [ 9/3/2013] The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal for setting up of an autonomous "National Institute of Solar Energy" (NISE) to assist the Ministry and function as the apex national centre for research and technology development and related activities in the area of solar energy technologies in the country. The National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) is to be set up immediately by converting the Solar Energy Centre (SEC),Gurgaon with a long term vision to develop it as a world class institute. Solar energy technologies are evolving continuously and the proposal to set up the National Institute of Solar Energy is an innovative idea which will accelerate the process to support induction of the latest technologies to ensure maximum cost benefit and lead to early commercialization. Solar power project developers will be motivated to use more efficient and optimized solar components. A broad based national team in the form of a Review-cum-Strategy Formulation Committee would be set up with representation from industry, the scientific community, financial institutions etc. to prepare a blue print. This committee would look at various models available in the country and outside and prepare a roadmap for the Institute. In order to enable this Institute to acquire the envisaged stature, reorientation of the present management system, better infrastructure and highly skilled manpower would be required. Public private partnership with future investment coming from both Government and private sector would be important so that the activities can be expanded.

Setting up of the Bharat Rural Livelihood Foundation (BRLF) [ 9/3/2013] The Union Cabinet today approved the proposal for setting up of the Bharat Rural Livelihood Foundation (BRLF) as an independent charitable society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 to facilitate and upscale civil society action in partnership with Government for transforming livelihoods and lives of ruralhouseholds, with an emphasis on women, particularly in the Central Indian Tribal Region. It will provide financial grants to Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to meet their human resource and institutional costs for upscaling of proven interventions; invest in institutional strengthening of smaller CSOs and capacity building of professional resources working at the grassroots. Projects supported by BRLF would be able to reach 10 lakh poor families by the end of the fifth year. BRLF would also have supported the capacity building of 1,000 CSO professionals and institutional strengthening of a significant number of smaller CSOs within the above time frame. Even though BRLF will have an India wide mandate, the initial focus of the organization will be on the Central Indian Tribal Region, centered on blocks having significant tribal population across 170 districts in the States of Odisha, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Gujarat. Rs 500 crore will be released for creating the corpus fund of the new Society, in two tranches. The society will be constituted as a partnership between Government on the one hand and private sector philanthropies, private and public sector undertakings (under Corporate Social Responsibility) on the other hand. The proposal was earlier considered by Cabinet on 18th April 2013 and referred to a Group of Ministers under chairmanship of the Finance Minister. The GoM in its meeting held on 21st August 2013 has recommended the proposal. Edward Snowden awarded with German 'Whistleblower Prize' [ 9/2/2013] Former NSA contractor Edward Snowden, who exposed the most extensive US global surveillance operations, has been awarded this year's German "Whistleblower Prize" worth $3,900 in absentia. The biennial award was given to Snowden, 31, at a ceremony in Berlin on Friday in recognition of his "bold efforts to expose the massive and unsuspecting monitoring and storage of communication data, which cannot be accepted in democratic societies," organisers of the prize said.

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Anjana Padmanabhan becomes Indian Idol Junior's first winner [ 9/2/2013] Anjana Padmanabhan from Bangalore is the first winner of the singing reality show Indian Idol Junior. Anjana received a prize money of Rs. 25 lakh from Sony Entertainment Television, a Nissan Micra Car, a fixed deposit of Rs. 5 lakhs from Kotak and Rs. 2 lakh from Horlicks. C-17 Globemaster III Inducted into the IAF [ 9/2/2013] Giving impetus to the long standing strategic airlift of the Indian Air Force, the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony on 2nd September 2013 formally inducted the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III into the IAF at a special ceremony held at Hindan airbase of the IAF.Describing the induction of the C-17 Globemaster III in the Indian Air Force as a defining moment, Shri Antony said, With this, the IAF has taken a giant stride towards its goal of acquiring multi -spectrum strategic capabilities, essential to safeguard Indias growing areas of interest. International Day of Charity [ 9/2/2013] Charity contributes to the promotion of dialogue, solidarity and mutual understanding ?among people.?Poverty persists in all countries of the world, ?regardless of their economic, social and cultural situation, particularly in developing countries. In recognition of the role of charity in alleviating humanitarian crises and human ?suffering within and among nations, as well as of the efforts of charitable organizations ?and individuals, including the work of Mother Teresa, the General Assembly of the ?United Nations in its resolution document designated the 5th of September, the ?anniversary of the death of Mother Teresa, as the International Day of Charity.? PM Dedicates Gandhi Heritage Portal to the Nation [ 9/2/2013] Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh here today dedicated the Gandhi Heritage Portal to the nation. With this dedication, the Ministry of Culture, Government of India has created a Portal to review the message of non-violence to the world at large as well as to the youth of our country, besides highlighting critical aspects of our freedom struggle and Gandhijis message and humanism. The Ministry of Culture earlier gave the responsibility of the concept design, development and maintenance of the Gandhi Heritage Portal to the Sabarmati Ashram Preservation and Memorial Trust, Ahmedabad and provided them a corpus grant of Rs 7.50 crore for this purpose. The Sabarmati Ashram is the largest repository of Gandhijis original writings and has a photo archive of over 6,000 images of Gandhiji and his associates. It also has a substantial library of over 45,000 books on and about Gandhiji and the Indian National Movement. The Gandhi Heritage Portal is conceptualised around The Collected Works of Mahatma Gandhi. It has placed the collected works in three languages: English 100 volumes, Hindi 97 volumes and Gujarati 82 volumes. These volumes are interlinked to provide easy movement from one text and language to the other. The key texts provide first editions of (when possible) of Key Texts of Gandhiji. These are: Hind Swaraj, Satyagraha in South Africa, An Autobiography or The Story of My Experiments with Truth, From Yervada Mandir, Ashram Observances in Action, Constructive Programmes: Their Meaning and Place, Key To Health and Gandhijis translation of the Gita as Anasakti Yoga. The Journals provide electronic versions of Indian Opinion, Navajivan, Young India, etc. A sub-section provides some of the journals which make for a fuller archive of the Gandhian imagination and scholarship. At present the Portal has placed as representation Gandhi Marg (Hindi & English), Bhoomi Putra, PyaraBapu and that unique handwritten journal of the Sataygraha Ashram Madhpudo, which carried Prabhudas Gandhis Jivan Nu Parodh and Kakasaheb Kalelkars Smaran Yatra. The Portal hopes to include many more journals in future.

Highest individual Twenty20 International score [ 8/31/2013] Australia's Aaron Finch set a new world record for the highest individual Twenty20 international score as he made a stunning 156 against England at Southampton. Chief Justice of The High Court of Delhi Appointed [ 8/30/2013] In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (1) of Article 217 of the Constitution of India, the President has appointed Shri Justice Nuthalapati Venkata Ramana, Judge of the High Court of Andhra Pradesh, as the Chief Justice of the High Court of Delhi with effect from the date he assumes charge of his office. UPA Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi to Launch Ahimsa Messenger Programme [ 8/30/2013] Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson, UPA will launch the Ahimsa Messenger Programme of the Ministry of Women and

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Child Development here tomorrow. The event will be presided over by Smt. Krishna Tirath, Minister, Women and Child Development in the presence of Shri V. Kishore Chandra Deo Minister, Panchayati Raj and Tribal Affairs and Shri J. P. Agarwal, Member of Parliament. Nearly 30,000 girls from Delhi NCR who have been benefitted by Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls or SABLA will also be present at the event. This initiative of the Ministry of Women and Child Development addresses violence against women in all forms through a mass movement by creating numerous Ahimsa Messengers in various parts of the country, till the grassroots level. Violence against women and girls has far-reaching consequences, harming families and communities. The Ministry of Women and Child Development has conceptualised a programme for empowering women against violence named Ahimsa Messenger. The Ahimsa Messenger as a concept had been introduced by the Ministry of Women and Child development earlier. Indias Advanced Communication Satellite GSAT-7 Launched Successfully [ 8/30/2013] Indias advanced multi-band communication satellite, GSAT-7, has successfully been launched at 0200 hrs IST today (August 30, 2013) by the Ariane-5 launch vehicle of Arianespace from Kourou, French Guiana. Ariane-5 precisely placed GSAT-7 into the intended Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) after a flight of 34 minutes 25 seconds duration. As planned, ISROs Master Control Facility (MCF) at Hassan in Karnataka started acquiring the signals five minutes prior to the separation of GSAT-7 from Ariane-5 launch vehicle. The solar panels of the satellite have been deployed and they are generating power. Initial checks have indicated normal health of the satellite. The present orbit of the satellite will be raised to Geostationary Orbit of about 36,000 km altitude through three orbit raising manoeuvres by firing of GSAT-7s Liquid Apogee Motor (LAM). Preparations are underway for the first firing, planned in the early hours of August 31, 2013. The satellite will be placed in the Geostationary Orbit by September 04, 2013.

Jitendra Singh to Lead Indian Delegation at Admm Plus in Brunei [ 8/27/2013] The Minister of State for Defence, Shri Jitendra Singh will attend the 2nd ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (Plus) ADMM Plus at Brunei on 28-29 August, 2013. He will be accompanied by an official delegation which includes the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC), Lt Gen Anil Chait and other officials from Services, Ministry of Defence and Ministry of External Affairs. Constitution of Task Force on Currency Swap Arrangements and Trade [ 8/27/2013] In view of the rising trade deficit and consequent current account deficit, a need has been felt to examine the role of Currency Swap Arrangement/Agreements in order to suggest a possible mechanism to address the issue. It has been decided to constitute a Task Force on Currency Swap Arrangements/Agreements. The Task Force will have the following Terms of Reference:

To examine various types of Currency Swap Agreements/Arrangements and their implication for Indias trade and financial system. To study the pros and cons of Currency Swap Agreement/Arrangement for Indias trade. To explore the possibility of Currency Swap Arrangement/Agreement between India and identified countries and make recommendations accordingly.

ISOPOM Scheme to Promote Cultivation of Soyabean [ 8/27/2013] A centrally sponsored Integrated Scheme of Oilseeds, Pulses, Oil Palm and Maize (ISOPOM) is being implemented in 14 major oilseed growing States to promote the cultivation of oilseeds including soyabean in the country. Under the scheme, financial assistance is provided for purchase of breeder seed, production of foundation seed, production and distribution of certified seed, distribution of seed minikits, distribution of plant protection chemicals/equipments, weedicides, supply of micro nutrients & improved agricultural implements, supply of rhizobium culture/phosphate solubilising bacteria, distribution of gypsum/pyrite/liming/dolomite, distribution of sprinkler sets and water carrying pipes, training, publicity, etc. IOC selects Tokyo as host of 2020 Summer Olympic Games [ 9/13/2013] The International Olympic Committee (IOC) today awarded the Games of the XXXII Olympiad in 2020 to Tokyo, which was chosen over fellow Candidate Cities Istanbul and Madrid after two rounds of voting during the 125th IOC Session in Buenos Aires.

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Thomas Bach was elected as the ninth President of the International Olympic Committee [9/13/2013] Thomas Bach of Germany was elected as the ninth President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) following two rounds of votes at the 125th IOC Session in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh elected as the new SEARO Regional Director [ 9/12/2013] The South East Asian Regional Organisation (SEARO) Countries have elected Indias candidate, Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh as the Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia Region. This is after a gap of 44 years that India has regained the post of the Regional Director of SEARO countries. India had occupied the post from 1948 1968, but since 1968 India has not occupied the post of the Regional Director of SEARO. Rs. 180 Crore Released to Andhra Pradesh for Development of Infrastructure in Tribal Areas [ 9/11/2013] The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has released Rs. 180 crore to Andhra Pradesh under the Special Area Programme of Grants under Article 275(1) of the Constitution of the India during the last three financial years. The grant is meant to be utilized to bridge the gaps in infrastructure in critical tribal areas and for improving the existing infrastructure . They include construction of roads, bridges, creating education , health, irrigation and drinking water facilities , construction of Ekalavya Model Residential Schools, Ashram Schools and other tribal residential Schools, hostel accommodation for tribal students , providing laboratories , furnitures, sports infrastructures and implementation of Forest Right Act and awareness creation about the Act among forest dwelling Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers. Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2012 [ 9/11/2013] The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2012 awarded to H. E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of the Republic of Liberia. The Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development was instituted in the name of former Prime Minister Late Smt. Indira Gandhi. It celebrates the values that she stood and fought for in the service of our nation and its people. Bill Gates, 5 scientists win Lasker medical prizes [ 9/10/2013] Two scientists who illuminated how brain cells communicate, three researchers who developed implants that let deaf people hear and philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates have won prestigious Lasker Awards for medical research and contributions to public health. The Albert and Mary Lasker Foundation announced the recipients of the $250,000 prizes on Monday. The awards will be presented Sept. 20 in New York City.

Central Financial Assistance of Rs.25.04 crore sanctioned for Mega Circuits in Andhra Pradesh. [ 9/10/2013] Union Minister for Tourism (I/C) Dr.K.Chiranjeevi has approved Central Finance Assistance (CFA) of Rs. 25.04 crore for the ongoing tourism mega circuit projects at Tirupati and Kadapa district in Andhra Pradesh. The mega circuit project at Tirupati has been sanctioned Rs.1395.75 lakh under the 2nd instalment. This project involves the development of tourism facilities at various temples in Chittoor District like Sri Kalyana Venkateshwara Swamy Temple, Sri Vedanaryana Swamy Temple, Srivari mettu, Chandragiri fort, Sri Kalahasteeshwara Temple and Sri Varasidhi Vinayaka Temple. These funds have been sanctioned for the construction of tourist arrival centres & tourist information centres, mini cultural auditoriums, children parks and renovation of Dwaja Stambham at various temples. An amount of Rs.1107.87 lakh has been sanctioned for the mega circuit project in Kadapa under the 2nd instalment. Kadapa was selected as a mega circuit destination because of presence of chain of temples and forts that exist since the Vijaya Nagara Empire. There are total 21 temples and related forts covered under this project in Kadapa District that include Gandikota fort, Vaidhyanatha Swami Temple, Saumya Natha Temple, Kodandarama Temple, Athirala Parasurma Temple. All these temples have immense antiquity and heritage importance. President Inaugurates 31st meeting of Ministers of Health and 66th session of the WHO Regional committee for South East Asia [ 9/10/2013] The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the 31st meeting of Ministers of Health and Sixty-sixth Session of the WHO Regional Committee for South-East Asia at Rashtrapati Bhavan today (September 10, 2013). Vice President Presents First Sree Narayan Guru Global Secular & Peace Award 2013 [9/10/2013] Vice President Presents First Sree Narayan Guru Global Secular & Peace Award 2013 to Dr. Shashi Tharoor Minister of State for Human Resources Development, Government of India at a function in Thiruvananthpuram, Kerala.

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Rafael Nadal win the US Open Tennis Men Single [ 9/10/2013] Rafael Nadal of Spain win the US Open Tennis Men Single title after defeating Novak Djokovic, of Serbia. 2013 U.S. Open tennis tournament winner [ 9/9/2013] Radek Stepanek, of the Czech Republic, and Leander Paes, of India, won the 2013 U.S. Open tennis tournament after defeating Alexander Peya of Austria and Bruno Soares of Brazil, in the men's doubles final. Serena Williams won her fifth U.S. Open championship [ 9/9/2013] Top-seeded Serena Williams won her fifth U.S. Open championship and 17th Grand Slam title overall by beating No. 2 Victoria Azarenka 7-5, 6-7 (6), 6-1 in a windy final. UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize for the year 2013 [ 9/8/2013] On the International Literacy Day, 2013 India has won the prestigious UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize for the year 2013. Tagore Award for Cultural Harmony, 2013 on Zubin Mehta [ 9/6/2013] President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee here today conferred Tagore Award for Cultural Harmony, 2013 on Maestro Zubin Mehta. Union Minister for Culture Smt. Chandresh Kumari Katoch, Home Minister Shri Sushil Kumar Shinde, former Governor of West Bengal Gopalkrishna Gandhi, Secretary, Culture Shri Ravindra Singh and several dignitaries and prominent citizens were present at the award ceremony which was held at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.The award carries an amount of One Crore Rupees (Rs. 1 Crore), a citation in a scroll, a plaque as well as an exquisite traditional handicraft/handloom item.The annual award was instituted by the Govt. of India during the commemoration of 150th Birth Anniversary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. The award is open to all persons regardless of nationality, race, language, caste, creed or sex. The first Tagore Award was conferred on Pt. Ravi Shankar, the Indian Sitar Maestro in 2012. Deepak Sandhu takes oath as new Chief Information Commissioner [ 9/6/2013] Deepak Sandhu who became the first woman Chief Information Commissioner of the Central Information Commission. A former Indian Information Service officer of 1971 batch, Sandhu has served at many keypositions like Principal Director General (Media and Communications) Press Information Bureau, Director General DD News, Director General (News) All India Radio before taking over as Information Commissioner in 2009.

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