June 4, 2016

NASA scientists finds 39 unreported sources of SO2 pollution

NASA scientists using a new satellite-based method have located 39 unreported and major human-
made sources of toxic sulphur dioxide (SO2) emissions that cause pollution. The unreported emission
sources were found in the analysis of satellite data from 2005 to 2014. These sources are clusters of
coal-burning power plants, oil and gas operations and smelters notably found in West Asia, Mexico
and parts of Russia. SO2 is a known health hazard and cause of acid rain. Currently, SO2 monitoring
activities include the use of emission inventories that are derived from ground-based measurements
and factors, such as fuel usage. Key facts The satellite-based estimates of the emissions were 2 or 3
times higher than those reported from known sources in these regions. The unreported and under-
reported sources account for about 12% of all human-made emissions of SO2. This discrepancy can
have a large impact on regional air quality.

Scientists create Bionic leaf that turns sunlight into liquid fuel

A team of scientists from Harvard University (United States) has created a unique bionic leaf that
uses sunlight (solar energy) to split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen and hydrogen-eating
bacteria to produce liquid fuels from CO2. This artificial photosynthesis device has been dubbed
bionic leaf 2.0. The new system can convert solar energy to biomass with 10% efficiency. Its
efficiency is much higher than the 1% seen in the fastest growing plants. Scientists had used a new
cobalt-phosphorous alloy catalyst for this experiment in order to increase efficiency. The catalyst
chemical design allows the system to self-heal i.e. doesn’t allow material to leech into solution.
Significance: This artificial photosynthesis system can be used to generate usable fuels. This artificial
leaf use solar power to split water and make hydrogen fuel.

Assam Assembly passes Ease of Doing Business Bill, 2006

Assam Assembly has passed Assam Ease of Doing Business Bill, 2016 to facilitate ease of doing
business in the state. The bill seeks to attract fresh investment in the state through an easy
computerised clearance system. Key Facts The bill has the provision for speedy processing of
applications and issue of clearances for setting up industries. The basic aim of the bill is to create an
investment-friendly environment for economic development of the state. The bill provides for
establishing a bureau under the name of Assam Bureau of Investment Promotion for the purpose of
overall supervision and administration of the speedy processing of applications and issue of various
clearances.

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali passes away

American boxing icon Muhammad Ali passed away after 32-year battle with Parkinson’s disease in
Phoenix, Arizona. He was 74. He was former three times world heavyweight champion (1964, 1974
and 1978) who had record-setting boxing career, which had made him one of the best-known figures
of the 20th century. He was also known globally for his civil rights activism. About Muhammad Ali
Born as Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr. on January 17, 1942 in Louisville, Kentucky, US. He had started
his boxing career at young age of 12 years. In 1964, at the age of 22 he had won the world
heavyweight championship from Sonny Liston. In 1975, he had converted to Sunni Islam and
changed his name to Muhammad Ali. 30 years later began adhering to Sufism. In 1967, he was
stripped of his boxing title after refusing to be conscripted into US military, citing his religious beliefs
and opposition to American involvement in the Vietnam War and was convicted. Later in 1971, US
Supreme Court overturned his conviction. His actions as a conscientious objector to the war made
him an icon for the larger counterculture generation. In boxing career, he was nicknamed The
Greatest, and was involved in several historic boxing matches. Some of his notable matches were the
first Liston fight, three with rival Joe Frazier, and one with George Foreman, in which he regained
titles that were stripped in 1967. Honours: Sports Illustrated had crowned him as “Sportsman of the
Century” and BBC had named him as “Sports Personality of the Century”. Books: He had written
several best-selling books about his career including The Greatest: My Own Story and The Soul of a
Butterfly.

Haryana Government launches Asia’s first Gyps Vulture Reintroduction Programme

Haryana Government has launched Asia’s first ‘Gyps Vulture Reintroduction Programme’ at the
Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre at Pinjore. It was launched by state Chief Minister Manohar Lal
by releasing 2 captive bred Himalayan Griffons vultures in the pre-release aviaries close to the
breeding centre at Pinjore. The vultures were released as part of the soft release or reintroduction
programme, in a pre-release aviary where they would have an unobstructive view of the surrounding.
This would help them in getting used to the habitat in which they would be released in the wild in
future. These birds have been wing-tagged and were leg-ringed for identification. Himalayan Griffon
vultures: They are closely related to the critically endangered resident Gyps species of vultures but
are not endangered. The IUCN has listed this species as Near Threatened . They are scavengers,
preying on dead animals as they have a robust digestive system which can even digest disease-
causing pathogens found in rotting meat of dead. Thus, they help in keeping environment clean.
Decline in vulture population The main reason for rapid decline in population of vulture is due to
Diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug which is given to cattle in inflammation and pain.
Though vultures have robust digestive system, they are not able to break down Diclofenac and die of
renal failure or kidney failure after eating carcasses of cattle administered with the drug. Preventive
steps taken by Government The Diclofenac drug was banned by Union Government of India for
veterinary use in 2006. It was banned to bring down prevalence of the drug in cattle carcasses and
make the environment safe for vultures. Later in July 2015, the multi-dose vials of Diclofenac drug for
human use were banned by the Drug Controller General of India.

India, Singapore agree to enhance scale of military interaction

India and Singapore have agreed to enhance the scale of existing bilateral military interaction and
decided to expand the interaction between the armed forces. Decision in this regard, was taken at
inaugural Singapore-India Defence Ministers’ Dialogue (DMD). The Dialogue was co-chaired by
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar and his Singapore counterpart Dr. Ng Eng Hen. Besides, both
ministers issued a joint statement after the meeting to strongly condemned terrorism and renewed
their commitment to cooperation in counter terrorism efforts. It also emphasised the importance of
safeguarding maritime security in international waterways. Both countries also agreed cooperation
between Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Singapore research agency
on research-oriented projects. They also agreed to collaborate between industries under ‘Make in
India’ initiative. India and Singapore had signed a Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA) in 2003
which was revised in 2015. During the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Singapore in
November 2015, defence cooperation was identified as a key sector under the India-Singapore Joint
Declaration on Strategic Partnership. In May 2016, both countries also had convened the first meeting
of their Defence Industry Working Group. In it both sides agreed to set up industry level working
mechanisms to foster cooperation in aerospace, electronics and other areas of mutual interest.
India ranks 70th on 2015 Good Country Index

In recently released 2015 Good Country Index (GCI), India has been placed at 70th position in the list
of 163 countries. The list has been topped by Sweden as the best country in the world when it comes
to serving the interests of its people and contributing to the common good of humanity. Key facts Top
10 Countries in 2015 GCI: Sweden, Denmark, Netherlands, United Kingdom, Germany, Finland,
Canada, France, Austria and New Zealand. Libya was ranked as the least good country in the world
in 2015 GCI. Indian Scenario: Ranked 70th position in the list. India’s best ranking (27th) was in
‘international peace and security’ parameter of index and was the worst (124th) in ‘prosperity and
equality’. India stood at 37th position in health and wellbeing and 62nd in science and technology. It
was placed at 119th position in culture, 106th position in climate and 100th position in world order.
About Good Country Index (GCI) The biannual index founded by Simon Anholt, a British government
adviser with an aim is to find ways of encouraging countries to collaborate and co-operate more, and
compete less. The index seeks to measure how countries contribute to the global good. Methodology:
The index measure each country’s contribution to the common good of humanity and what it takes
away, relative to its size The countries are ranked by taking 35 different UN and World Bank indices
into account, including global contributions to science, peace and security, culture, climate change,
health and equality.

P Dhanapal re-elected as Speaker of Tamil Nadu Assembly

Ruling AIADMK P Dhanapal was unanimously re-elected as Speaker of the 15th Tamil Nadu
Legislative Assembly. With this, he becomes first speaker to be elected for a consecutive second term
in the state’s legislative history. Besides, Pollachi V Jayaraman of ruling AIADMK was unanimously
re-elected as the Deputy Speaker of the legislative assembly. Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa had
proposed their names as Speaker and Deputy Speaker respectively and the state Finance Minister O
Panneerselvam had seconded the proposal when the Assembly met. Both of them earlier had served
as Speaker and Deputy Speaker during the 2011-16 AIADMK regime. Mr Dhanapal was re-elected to
the Assembly from Avinashi (Reserved) constituency for sixth term and Mr Jayaraman was re-elected
from Pollachi seat for fourth term. Mr Dhanapal was elected Speaker for the first time in 2002 in then
AIADMK regime. Also, he was the first Dalit to become Speaker after 1955. J Sivashanmugam Pillai
was the first Dalit Speaker between 1946 and 1955 of the then Madras Legislative Assembly.

Two Indian-origin women named in Forbes’ Self-Made American Women List

Two Indian-origin women have been named in the Forbes’ second annual list of America’s wealthiest
and most successful self-made women. The list includes names of 60 most successful self-made
women who have crashed ceilings through invention and innovation. The women in the list have been
categorized into Youngest, Technology, NewComers, Entertainment and Founders. Two Indian-origin
women are Neerja Sethi: She was placed at 16th position in Forbes ‘America’s Richest Self-made
Women’ list. She had co-founded IT consulting and outsourcing firm Syntel with her husband Bharat
Desai. Her assets account for a net worth of US 1.1 billion dollars. She is vice president of Syntel’s
corporate affairs. Her company employs more than 25000 people. Jayshree Ullal: She has been
placed at 30th position in the list. Since 2008, she is president and CEO of Arista Networks. Other
Facts This edition of list was topped by Diane Hendricks who is owner of largest wholesale distributor,
ABC Supply. Her assets have net worth of US 4.9 billion dollars. List also includes other notable
names such as TV czar Oprah Winfrey (2nd), Hewlett Packard CEO Meg Whitman (6th), Facebook’s
chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg (14th), designer Tory Burch (19th), singer Madonna (25th)
and Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer (33rd) etc.

Nita Ambani nominated for International Olympic Committee

Nita Ambani, Founder and Chairperson of Reliance Foundation has been nominated as a candidate
to be a new member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). She is the first Indian woman to
be nominated to the IOC and is being considered in the category of volunteers who represent the IOC
and Olympic Movement in their country. If she gets elected at the IOC Session scheduled from
August 2 to 4, 2016 at the 129th IOC Session in Rio de Janeiro, she will become the first Indian
woman to be on the apex sporting body. Sir Dorabji Tata was the first Indian representative in the IOC
while Raja Randhir Singh was a member from 2000-2014 and is currently a honorary member of the
IOC. Nita Ambani spearheads all sports initiatives of Reliance Industries’, notably cricket, football,
kabaddi, basketball, tennis and golf either through company, foundation or its joint ventures. About
International Olympic Committee (IOC) The IOC is the supreme authority of the Olympic Movement
headquartered at Lausanne, Switzerland. It shepherds success through a wide range of programmes
and projects. It acts as a catalyst for collaboration between all parties of the Olympic family It ensures
the regular celebration of the Olympic Games, supports all affiliated member organisations of the
Olympic Movement and strongly encourages, by appropriate means, the promotion of the Olympic
values.

June 3, 2016
India, Tunisia sign two MoUs for co-operation in handicrafts and IT sector

India and Tunisia have signed two Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for co-operation in
Information Technology (IT) and promotion of traditional handicrafts. These MoUs were signed in the
presence of Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari and Tunisian Prime Minister Habib Essid in
Tunis. Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari visited Tunisia on the final leg of his two- nation trip
after visiting Morocco. Key facts MoU on traditional handicraft promotion: Under it, both countries will
promote each other’s traditional handicraft. MoU in IT sector: Under it, both countries will increase
mutual cooperation in the IT and related sectors, including digital economy Besides singing MoUs,
both countries also decided to enhance co-operation in counter terrorism. Discussion on bilateral ties
focused on economic partnership and adding new areas of collaboration in IT and education were
also held. India also appreciated Tunisia’s support to India’s candidature to the expanded United
Nations Security Council.

Scientists discover rare Einstein ring

An international team of astrophysicists have discovered an unusual astronomical object — an

Einstein ring. This phenomenon was predicted by Einstein’s theory of General Relativity and has been
given its own name “The Canarias Einstein ring”. What is Einstein ring? In observational astronomy,
an Einstein ring (Einstein-Chwolson ring) is the deformation (distortion) of the light from a source
(such as a star or galaxy) into a ring through gravitational lensing of the source’s light by an object
with an extremely large mass (such as a black hole or another galaxy). The distortion is produced by
the bending of the light rays from the source due to a massive galaxy is termed the It lies between
source and the observer. Advertisement The strong gravitational field produced by the lens galaxy
distorts the structure of space-time in its neighbourhood. It attracts objects which have a mass and
bends paths of light. When the two galaxies are exactly aligned, the image of the more distant galaxy
is converted into an almost perfect circle which surrounds the lens galaxy. The irregularities in the
circle are due to asymmetries in the source galaxy.

Asia’s largest annual security forum Shangri-La Dialogue opens in Singapore

Asia’s largest annual security forum Shangri-La Dialogue was inaugurated in Singapore to talk about
security issues in the Asia-Pacific region. The forum has been organised by the London-based
International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). The three day event will be attended by at least 20
Defence Ministers from Asia-Pacific countries including India represented by Union Defence Minister
Manohar Parrikar. Key facts Territorial disputes in the South China Sea, North Korea’s military
provocations and Islamist extremism, migration, cybersecurity, counterterrorism and military
competition are expected to dominate discussions this year. The dialogue gathers military
representatives from world’s most powerful countries to discuss pressing and significant defence and
security issues. It also provides opportunities to defence ministers, military chiefs and high-ranking
defence officials to hold bilateral meetings on its sidelines. The dialogue is also attended by
legislators, academic experts, journalists and business delegates from around the globe. It generally
acts as a vehicle for public policy development and discussions on defence and security in the Asia-
Pacific. Background The IISS Asia Security Summit was launched in 2002 by the Singaporean
government and British think tank the International Institute for Strategic Studies. This annual
dialogue got its name from the location of the meeting, the Shangri-La hotel in Singapore.

BRICS bank to issue first Yuan-denominated bonds

The New Development Bank (NDB) of the BRICS countries is set to issue its first yuan-denominated
bonds to finance sustainable development projects. The NDB’s first five-year yuan-denominated
bonds (or green bonds) will be issued after receiving a rating from international ratings agencies as
well as getting authorities’ approval. Further, the NDB plans to release more bonds in local currencies
including in Indian Rupee if the bank’s board and local authorities endorse the project plans The
Shanghai-based New Development Bank (NDB) has been founded by Brazil, Russia, India, China
and South Africa (BRICS). It is headed by eminent Indian banker K V Kamath. The bank plans to
finance sustainable development projects in the emerging markets and developing countries. It
announced its first batch of loans on April 2016, providing US $300 million to Brazil, US $81 million to
China, US $250 million to India and US $180 million to South Africa.

TRAI launches mobile app for subscribers to register complaints against pesky calls, SMSes

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has launched a DND (do not disturb) services
mobile application for telecom subscribers to register their complaints against pesky calls and SMSes.
The new mobile app will help people in easily filing complaints and help the authority in monitoring
such activities. Key Features of DND app The DND services mobile app is an easy alternative for
filing pesky calls and SMS complaints. The app is available on Android and will be soon launched for
Apple compatible iOS. It will also ease filing of complaints and also help us in monitoring action taken
by telecom operators on complaints. Thus, help to tighten the noose on telemarketers. It will show
SMS in a list form and mobile numbers from the source. Customers just need to click on the check
box to select such SMSes or calls and then report option to file complaint. As per rule, Trai has
mandated all telecom operators to disconnect telephone numbers from which a pesky call or SMS
has originated on receipt of the first complaint Earlier, subscribers had option of filing complaint by
forwarding SMS to 1909 which they received from telemarketers and mention mobile number from
which they have received it along with date of receiving.

LDF’s P Sreeramakrishnan elected speaker of Kerela Assembly

Ruling Left Democratic Front’s (LDF) candidate P Sreeramakrishnan was elected as speaker of the
14th legislative assembly of Kerala. In the voting held in the 140-member legislative assembly, P
Sreeramakrishnan secured 92 votes against opposition United Democratic Front’s (UDF) V.P.
Sajeendran who got 46 votes. P Sreeramakrishnan is two-time legislator from Ponnani constituency.
He was elected for the first time in 2011 and again in 2016. He is state committee member of CPI(M)
and the Ex- President of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI). Background In the 2016
State Assembly Election, the CPI (M)-led left Democratic Front (LDF) had emerged victorious by
winning 91 seats in the 140 member Assembly. The veteran CPI-M leader Pinarayi Vijayan was
sworn-in as 12th Chief Minister of Kerala. The LDF had returned to power in Kerala after 5 years,
while then ruling UDF had emerged as largest opposition front by winning 47 seats. The remaining
two seats were won by BJP and Independent candidate each.

India, US ink MoU for exchange of information on terror database

India and United States (US) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to join the global
terror database maintained by the Terrorist Screening Center (TSC) of US. Under this MoU, both
sides will give each other access to terrorism screening information through designated contact
points, subject to domestic laws and regulations. The real time exchange of intelligence on terror
would enhance the counter terrorism cooperation between India and the US TSC is a multi-agency
organisation administered by Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) which consolidates several
terrorist watch lists maintained by different US government agencies into single terrorist database on
terror suspects. It has details of 11,000 terror suspects on its database, including nationality, photos,
finger prints (if any), date of birth and passport number. So far US has finalised such agreements with
30 countries. Comment By signing this MoU, India has formally entered into the US Homeland
Security Presidential Directive-6 (HSPD-6). It will enable India to access ‘unclassified biographic
information of known and suspected terrorists’ maintained by the US on a reciprocal basis.
Background The proposal in this regard was initially made by the US in 2012, but had made little
progress due to objections raised by Indian security agencies. The Intelligence Bureau (IB) and
Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW) had opposed giving the US unhindered access to the database
of terror suspects in India

Navin Agarwal appointed as DG of NADA

Senior IPS officer Navin Agarwal was appointed Director General (DG)/ Chief Executive Officer (CEP)
of National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). His appointment was confirmed by the Appointments
Committee of Cabinet (ACC) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He has been appointed to the
post for five years. Navin Agarwal is a 1986 batch IPS officer of Jammu and Kashmir cadre. Prior to
this appointment he was working in his cadre state J&K. About National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA)
NADA was set up as registered society under the Societies Registration Act of 1890 in November
2005 with a mandate for Dope free sports in India. It is national organization responsible for
promoting, coordinating, and monitoring doping control program in sports in all its forms. It functions
under the aegis of Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The primary objectives of NADA are:
Implement anti-doping rules as per World Anti-Doping Code, Regulate dope control programme,
Promote education and research and Create awareness about doping and its ill effects.
Universe expanding faster than expected

Astronomers using NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope have discovered that the universe is expanding
5 percent to 9 percent faster than expected. Discovery in this regard was made by an international
team of researchers of the Space Telescope Science Institute and The Johns Hopkins University.
How it was discovered? Astronomers made this discovery by developing innovative techniques that
helped to improve the precision of distance measurements to faraway galaxies. They looked for
galaxies containing both Cepheid stars and Type Ia supernovae. They measured about 2,400
Cepheid stars in 19 galaxies and compared the observed brightness of both types of stars. It helped
them to accurately calculate distances to roughly 300 Type Ia supernovae in far—flung galaxies.
Finally, astronomers compared those distances with the expansion of space as measured by the
stretching of light from receding galaxies. Cepheid stars: These stars pulsate at rates that correspond
to their true brightness. This can be compared with their apparent brightness as seen from Earth in
order to accurately determine their distance. Type Ia supernovae: It is another commonly used cosmic
yardstick. They are exploding stars that flare with the same brightness and are brilliant enough to be
seen from relatively longer distances. Key findings Astronomers have made the most accurate
measurements so far of the universe’s rate of expansion following the Big Bang 13.8 billion years ago.
The universe is expanding 5 per cent to 9 per cent faster than expected and the finding may be
explained by a mysterious force called dark radiation. It has prompted a rethink of our understanding
of the universe and in particular, the concepts of dark matter and dark energy.

Odisha becomes first state to give social welfare benefits to transgender community

Odisha became the first state in the country to give transgender people social welfare benefits – such
as a housing, pension and food grains. This move seeks to give the transgender community in the
state same benefits as those living below the poverty line (BPL) in order to improve their overall social
and economic status. Benefits to transgender community Members of the transgender community will
be given BPL cards that will allow them to access benefits under various government welfare
programmes. Henceforth they will get benefits such as free housing, pensions loans to start up their
own businesses and 100 days of paid work annually. They would also be entitled 5 kg of food grains
every month under National Food Security Act. Issues faced by transgender community Due to social
exclusion, most transgender people are in very bad social and economic conditions. Many of them
face ostracism and discrimination, as well as verbal, physical and sexual abuse. They also lack of
access to education and employment opportunities, ending up into organised groups, forced begging
or demanding money. Supreme Court Judgement In a landmark judgment in April 2014, Supreme
Court had recognised transgender as a legal third gender and called on the government to ensure
their equal treatment. The apex court had recognised them as a marginalised group and directed
government authorities to implement policies and schemes to improve their socio-economic status. It
also had directed government that all identity documents must recognise the third gender and certain
number of public sector jobs, seats in schools and colleges must be allocated to third-gender
applicants.

June 2, 2016

India joins the Hague Code of Conduct against Ballistic Missile Proliferation

India has joined the Hague Code of Conduct against Ballistic Missile Proliferation (HCoC), a global
ballistic missile proliferation regime. India has joined the Code highlighting its readiness to further
strengthen global non-proliferation objectives. However, India has made it clear that it will not have
any impact on the national security as well as country’s missile programmes. What is Hague Code of
Conduct against Ballistic Missile Proliferation (HCoC)? The HCoC is a voluntary, legally non-binding
international confidence building and transparency measure that seeks to prevent the proliferation of
ballistic missiles that are capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction (WMD). It was
established on 25 November 2002 as a result of international efforts to regulate access to ballistic
missiles which can potentially deliver WMDs The HCOC does not ban ballistic missiles, but it calls for
restraining their production, testing, and export. It is the only normative instrument to verify the spread
of ballistic missiles. Ballistic Missile: It is a missile with a high, arching trajectory which is initially
powered and guided, but falls under gravity on to its target. Most of its trajectory is unpowered and
governed by gravity and air resistance if it is in the atmosphere. In contrasts, cruise missiles are
aerodynamically guided in powered flight.

Gotthard Base Tunnel: World’s longest and deepest rail tunnel inaugurated

The world’s longest and deepest railway tunnel Gotthard Base Tunnel was inaugurated in
Switzerland. The full service of twin-bore tunnel will begin in December 2016. The Gotthard Base
Tunnel is 57-kilometer long and connects northern and southern Europe and also shortens travel time
for many rail routes. It has overtaken Japan’s Seikan tunnel, which measures 53.9 kilometers, as the
longest rail tunnel in the world. Key Facts The twin-bore Gotthard Base Tunnel is the first flat low-level
route through the Alps Mountain and is situated 2.3 km deep under the Alps. It was built in 17 years
by 2,400 workers, at a cost of over 12 billion dollars as a part of the AlpTransit project, also known as
New Railway Link through the Alps (NRLA). The project consists of two single-track tunnels
connecting Erstfeld (Uri) with Bodio (Ticino) and passing below Sedrun (Graubünden). The
construction of the tunnel began in 1996 after 64% of Swiss voters in a 1992 referendum had
accepted the AlpTransit project. The drilling operations in the eastern tunnel were completed in
October 2010. Main purpose of the Gotthard Base Tunnel: (i) Increase total transport capacity across
the Alps, especially for freight. (ii) Shift freight volumes from road to rail to reduce fatal crashes and
environmental damage caused by ever-increasing numbers of heavy lorries. (iii) Provide a faster
connection between northern and southern Europe, cutting journey time for passenger trains by about
an hour.

India inks MoU with US to enhance cooperation in energy security & other areas

India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States to enhance
cooperation in energy security, clean energy and climate change. The MoU will boost energy ties
between the two countries through increased bilateral engagement. Key Facts The objective of the
MoU is to boost energy ties between the two countries through increased bilateral engagement and
further joint initiatives. It intends to increase incentives for innovation including R&D and voluntary and
mutually-agreed technology transfer, as well as the deployment of clean energy technologies. It also
seeks to contribute to a global effort to curb the rise in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and
enhance resilience to the impacts of climate change. Under the MoU, the priority initiatives are US-
India Energy smart Cities Partnership, greening the grid, promoting Energy Access through Clean
Energy (PEACE) expansion. It also includes energy efficiency including space cooling, energy
security, renewable energy, clean energy finance and US-India partnership for Climate Resilience etc.

Prime Minister releases National Disaster Management Plan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP) to make
India disaster resilient and reduce loss of lives. The first of its kind of national plan is based on the
four priority themes of the “Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-30”. They are (i)
Understanding disaster risk (ii) Improving disaster risk governance (iii) Investing in disaster risk
reduction (through structural and non-structural measures) and (iv) Disaster preparedness, early
warning and building back better in the aftermath of a disaster. Salient Features of the Plan The plan
covers all phases of disaster management: prevention, response, mitigation and recovery. It provides
for vertical and horizontal integration among all the Government agencies and departments. It also
spells out the roles and responsibilities of all levels of Government right up to Urban Local Body (ULB)
and Panchayat level in a matrix format. The plan has a regional approach, which will be beneficial for
disaster management and also for development planning. It has been designed in such a way that it
can be implemented in all phases of disaster management in a scalable manner. The plan also
identifies major activities such as early warning, medical care, information dissemination, fuel, search
and rescue, transportation, evacuation, etc. to serve as a checklist for agencies responding to a
disaster. It also provides a generalized framework for recovery and offers flexibility to assess a
situation and build back better. It emphasizes on a greater need for Information, Education and
Communication activities to prepare communities to cope with disasters. The plan incorporates
provisions for strengthening disaster risk governance and lays down six thematic areas. They are
integrated and mainstream disaster risk reduction, promoting participatory approach, capacity
development, working with elected representatives, grievance redress mechanism and promoting
quality standards, certification and awards for disaster risk management. Background The National
Disaster Management Plan has been mandated Section 11 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
As per the Act, the national plan must lay down the guidelines for preparation of state-level disaster
management plans as well as plans by each Central ministry and department.

Union Cabinet approves setting up of India Post Payments Bank

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for setting up the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) as a
Public Limited Company under the Department of Posts. It will have 100% Government of India (GOI)
equity and shall be established with total expenditure of 800 Crore rupees. Now, the IPPB will obtain
banking licence from RBI by March 2017 and by September 2017. Key Facts IPPB will start
operations in March 2017 in about 50 districts and will cover the entire country by the end of FY 2018-
19. It will generate employment opportunities for about 3,500 skilled banking professionals, will set up
650 branches and 5,000 ATMs across the country. Services of IPPB will be available across the
country through its 650 payments bank branches. Its services will be linked post offices and
alternative channels riding on modern technology including ATMs, mobiles, simple digital payments
and PoS/m-PoS devices etc. It will also generate opportunities for propagating financial literacy
across the country and help furthering the cause of financial inclusion. The Secretary, Department of
Posts will be the Part time, Non-Executive Chairman of the Bank. Comment The India Post Payments
Ban will benefit all citizens, especially the 40% of the country’s population that is outside the ambit of
formal banking in the country. It will leverage the Department of Post’s network, resources and reach,
to make simple, low-cost, quality financial services easily accessible to customers all over the country.
Background Setting-up of the IPPB to further financial inclusion was one of the budgetary
announcements during 2015-16. In September 2015, the Department of Posts along with other 10
entities had received in-principle approval of the RBI to set up Payments Bank. Some of functions of
Payments Bank: (i) It can hold a maximum balance of 1 lakh rupees per customer. (ii) It can an issue
ATM/debit cards but not credit cards (iii) Offer payments and remittance services (iv) Deal in simple
financial products like insurance products and mutual fund units. (v) It cannot undertake lending
service.

India, World Bank sign agreement for efficient bus service

The Union Government and World Bank have signed a US 9.2 million dollar grant agreement for the
Efficient and Sustainable City Bus Service Project. The grant agreement was signed under World
Bank-Global Environment Facility (GEF) Programme. Key Facts The Efficient and Sustainable City
Bus Service Project aims at improving the efficiency and attractiveness of city bus transport and
reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in select Indian cities. These select demonstration cities are
Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), Chandigarh, Jaipur (Rajasthan) and Mira Bhayandar municipality in the
Thane district of Maharashtra. The project has been designed to specifically focus on identifying
institutional, regulatory and fiscal constraints to operation of sustainable city bus services. The
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) will be the implementing agency of
the GEF for the project. The project will complement Union Government’s Bus Funding Scheme
which was launched to promote public transport in cities by modernizing their bus services. It will
introduce modern Management Information Systems and Intelligent Transport Systems for better
planning and management of operations. It will also provide technical support to drivers and vehicles
for better fuel efficiency, among others.

Union Cabinet approves MoU between DGCA and French Civil Aviation Authority

The Union Cabinet has given its ex-post facto approval to the signing of MOU between the
Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India (DGCA) and the French Civil Aviation Authority –
Direction Generale de l’Aviation Civile (DGAC). The MoU seeks to implement Technical Cooperation
Programme (TCP) for implementation and promotion of Standards and Recommended Practices of
the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The TCP will be beneficial for enhancement of
expertise and skills of DGCA’s officers. Implementation of the cooperation between the two parties for
imparting training of technicians, engineers, managers etc. The MoU will also include any other
subject that is relevant to the common DGAC and France’s DGCA areas of interest. For this purpose,
both signatory parties will undertake to cooperate through the following actions: Exchange information
concerning the various techniques used to reach the objectives. Send French instructors or experts to
India for training missions Receive instructors or experts of India in France for training missions

Dr. R Seetharaman conferred with 2016 Green Economy Visionary Award

Dr. R Seetharaman, Group CEO of Doha Bank, has been honoured with the 2016 Green Economy
Visionary Award. He has been awarded with this award for his contribution in environment-friendly
activities and thereby promoting green economy for nearly two decades. The award was bestowed
upon him by Mohammed Jarrah Al-Sabah, Chairman of Union of Arab Banks at the 2016 Union of
Arab Banks (UAB) International Banking Summit held in Rome. About Dr. R Seetharaman In 2015,
business magazine Forbes had ranked Seetharaman sixth in the Forbes’ Top Indian Leaders in the
Arab World 2015 list. R Seetharaman is a recipient of multiple doctorates, first in Global Governance
from the European University (2013) and the second in Green Banking and Sustainability from Sri Sri
University (2015). He also has received an honorary degree (Doctorate of Laws) from the Washington
College. He was named CEO of Doha Bank in September 2007. Since then, he has overseen the
bank’s expansion from its base in Qatar to the UAE, India, Singapore and China and other countries.
Doha Bank was incorporated in 1978 and commenced its banking business including its International
Banking services in Doha, Qatar in March 1979.

June 1, 2016
India, Morocco launch Chamber of Commerce and Industry to boost trade

India and Morocco have launched the India-Morocco Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IMCCI) in
Moroccan capital city Rabat. The IMCCI was jointly launched by visiting Indian Vice President Hamid
Ansari and Moroccan Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane. Hamid Ansari’s visit is the first by an Indian
Vice President in 50 years to Morrocco. Key Facts The IMCCI was launched to boost trade and
accelerate the pace of economic development between two countries. It will help India to tap Morocco
as the hub for its economic activities in the resource-rich western Africa region in the globalised world.
The bilateral trade between two countries stood at 1.26 billion dollars in 2015 with Indian exports
forming roughly 25% of the trade volume. In recent times, Morocco has emerged as a favoured
destination for investments by Indian firms. Indian companies have cumulatively invested more than
320 million dollars in Morocco, including in the flagship project, Indo-Maroc Phosphore SA joint
venture. Besides launching IMCCI, India and Morocco also signed five Memorandums of
Understanding (MoUs) covering various fields such as television broadcasting, water resources,
institutional cooperation and educational and cultural exchanges.

Rahul Johri takes charge as first ever CEO of BCCI

Rahul Johri took charge as first ever chief executive officer (CEO) of the Board of Control for Cricket
in India (BCCI) at its headquarters in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The appointment and creation of post of
BCCI CEO was based on the lines of key recommendations of the three-member Justice RM Lodha
Committee. As a CEO, Mr. Johri will directly report to the BCCI secretary Ajay Shirke and shall have
freedom to work independently in BCCI’s set-up that was traditionally controlled by honorary office-
bearers. He will be responsible for the smooth functioning of operations, stakeholder management of
BCCI and also build robust strategies for further promoting the sport of cricket. About Rahul Johri
Prior to this appointment, he was working as Asia Pacific’s Executive Vice-President for Discovery
Networks and General Manager (GM) for South Asia. He has rich experience of 20 plus years in the
media industry and is widely respected in the broadcasting industry for converting Discovery to a 11-
channel bouquet. He was associated with Discovery Networks for the last 15 years and was leading
its South Asia operations for the past 8 years.

Union Cabinet approves MoU between US and India to enhance cooperation in wildlife conservation

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
between India and United States (US) to enhance cooperation in the field of wildlife conservation and
combating wildlife trafficking. With this approval, India will benefit from the expertise of the US
Institutions in the field of (i) Wildlife conservation (ii) Combating illegal trade of wildlife and their
derivatives (iii) Management of wildlife areas. The MoU seeks cooperation in the following areas
Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Genetics: it will be useful in the efforts of species conservation
and better scientific evidence collection in wild life crimes that will lead to better enforcement. Natural
World Heritage Conservation: Facilitate the existing institutional capacity of UNESCO Category-two
centre at Wildlife Institute of India (WII). Nature Interpretation and Conservation Awareness: Use of
information technology (IT) to strengthen interface of forest managers with the people for sensitising
them especially the children and youth in understanding complex issues of conservation of
biodiversity. Background India and US are endowed with rich biodiversity and natural heritage. Both
countries also have established a network of Protected Areas in their respective territories. As both
countries similarities in the field of wildlife conservation and combating wildlife trafficking there is
common scope for them to share professional expertise to address priority in this field and the MoU
would provide a convenient platform for collaboration.

Former Delhi Police Commissioner BS Bassi appointed UPSC member

President Pranab Mukherjee has appointed former IPS officer Bhim Sain Bassi as a member of Union
Public Service Commission (UPSC) as per provisions of Article 316 of Constitution. He will hold the
constitutional post till February 2021 i.e. maximum tenure of six years or till he attains the age of 65
years. About BS Bassi He was an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of 1977 batch of Arunachal
Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory (AGMUT) cadre. He had started his career as an Assistant
Superintendent of Police in Pondicherry and retired as Delhi Police chief in February 2016. During his
career spanning over 38 years he had held several important positions like Delhi Police
Commissioner, Delhi Police Special Commissioner (Traffic), Delhi Police Special Commissioner
(Vigilance), Inspector General of Chandigarh and DGP, Goa Police. About Union Public Service
Commission (UPSC) UPSC is constitutional body which conducts the prestigious civil services
examination to select IAS, IFS and IPS officers among others. It has been established under Article
315 of the Constitution and consists of a Chairman and ten Members; appointed and removed by
President. The chairman and members of the Commission hold office for a term if six years or until
they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. Present Composition of UPSC: Deepak Gupta
(Chairman). Other members include Alka Sirohi, Manbir Singh, David R Syiemlieh, former Navy Vice
Chief DK Dewan, Chhatar Singh, Prof Hem Chandra, Vinay Mittal, Arvind Saxena and Prof Pradeep
Kumar Joshi.

31 May: World No-Tobacco Day

World No-Tobacco Day (WNTD) is observed every year across the world on 31 May. This day
highlights the health risks associated with consumption all forms of tobacco and advocating for
effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. 2016 Theme: “World No Tobacco Day – Get ready
for plain packaging”. The theme seeks to highlight this new trend packing trend in global efforts to
control tobacco products, which kill almost 6 million people annually. What is Plain Packing? Plain
packaging of tobacco products prohibits or restricts the use of logos, brand images, colours and
promotional information on packaging other than brand and product names displayed in a standard
colour and font style. How plain packaging works? Plain packaging reduces the attractiveness of
tobacco products. It restricts tobacco advertising and promotion. It kills the glamour, which is
appropriate for a harmful product that kills people. It limits misleading labelling and packaging. It
increases the effectiveness of health warnings. Plain packaging has been recommended in WHO
Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) guidelines as part of a comprehensive approach
to tobacco control. Australia was the first country to fully implement plain packaging in 2012. France
and United Kingdom and Northern Ireland also have started implementation of plain packaging from
May 2016. Background In 1988, World Health Assembly of WHO had passed a resolution calling for
the celebration of World No Tobacco Day, every year on May 31. Since then, the WHO has supported
World No Tobacco Day (WNTD) every year, linking each year to a different tobacco-related theme.
WNTD is one of eight official global public health campaigns marked by the WHO.

AR Rahman conferred with Japan’s Fukuoka prize 2016

Legendary Oscar winning Indian music composer A R Rahman was awarded Japan’s Fukuoka prize
for the year 2016. He has been conferred with this award in the Grand Prize category for his
outstanding contribution towards creating, preserving and showcasing South Asian traditional fusion
music. Besides, Philippines’ historian Ameth R Ocampo and Pakistani singer Yasmeen Lari have also
won the 2016 Fukuoka prize in Academic and Arts and Culture categories respectively. About AR
Rahman A R. Rahman (full name Allah-Rakha Rahman) is one of the most globally popular Indian
music icons. His work is well known and renowned for inter mixing Eastern classical music with
electronic music and traditional orchestral arrangements. He has won multiple international awards
including 2 Academy Awards (famously known as Oscars), 2 Grammy Awards, BAFTA Award and
Golden Globe Award. About Fukuoka Prize Fukuoka Prize is an annual prize that honours the
outstanding work of individuals or organizations in preserving or creating Asian culture. It was
established in 1990 by the Japanese city of Fukuoka and the Yokatopia Foundation. The prize has
three categories Grand Prize, Academic Prize, and Arts and Culture Prize. The award ceremony is
held in every year in September (which is also known as Asian Month in Fukuoka) along with the
public forums by the prize winners. Previous winners from India include dancer Padma
Subrahmanyam, sitar player Ravi Shankar, sarod maestro Amjad Ali Khan and historians Romila
Thapar and Ramachandra Guha (2015).

China successfully launches three satellites

China has successfully launched three (one domestic and two foreign) satellites namely Ziyuan III 02
satellite and two NewSat satellites. They were launched on the back of a Long March 4B rocket from
the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre in northern Shanxi Province. It was the 228th flight mission by a
Long March carrier rocket. Key facts Ziyuan III 02 satellite: It is new civilian high-resolution mapping
satellite and second in the remote-sensing mapping system that China plans to build by 2030. It will
join its predecessor Ziyuan III 01 to form a network and capture high-definition 3-D images and
multispectral data. Ziyuan III 02 is capable to collect 3-D images of objects 2.5 metres or longer and is
able to reduce deviation of vertical positioning to 1 metre using an onboard laser range finder. It will
be used for land resource surveys, agricultural development, natural disaster prevention, water
resource management and urban planning, among others applications. Two NewSat satellites: They
have been developed by URUGUS S A, the Uruguayan subsidiary of Argentine company Satellogic.

Government doctors’ retirement age extended to 65 years

Union Government has extended the retirement age of government doctors’ to 65 years with effect
from 31 May 2016 to strengthen the healthcare sector in the country. In this regard, Prime Minister
Narendra Modi has approved proposal forwarded by Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
The proposal wanted to enhance the age of superannuation of all doctors of the Central Health
Service to 65 years. This decision will cover all Government doctors whether serving under States or
the Central dispensation. Benefits of this decision Enable the government to retain experienced
doctors for a longer period. Provide better services in its public health facilities, particularly to the
poorest, who are entirely dependent on public facilities. It will help in providing additional doctors in
the health pool of the country. Strengthen the efforts of Health Ministry in conceptualising and rolling
out various people-oriented welfare schemes which need the services of doctors in implementing
them. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made announcement regarding enhancing the age
of superannuation doctors to 65 years at his Saharanpur rally in Uttar Pradesh.

Admiral Sunil Lanba takes charge as Navy chief

Admiral Sunil Lanba (58) took charge as Chief of the Naval Staff. He will be 23rd chief of Indian Navy
and 21st as an Indian. He succeeded Admiral Robin K. Dhowan who will superannuate from the post.
He shall hall have full three-year-term in office till 31 May 2019. About Sunil Lanba Prior to this
appointment, he was Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) Western Naval Command. He is
a specialist in Navigation and Direction and an alumnus of National Defense Academy (NDA) and
Defence Services Staff College He has very rich staff and operational experience over a career
spanning more than three decades with the Indian Navy. Important Assignments: He was
commissioned into the Executive Branch of Indian Navy in 1978. He has served as Navigating Officer
of INS Dunagiri (Frigate) and INS Sindhudurg (Corvette). He also had commanded four frontline
warships namely, INS Kakinada (Minesweeper), INS Ranvijay, INS Himgiri (Frigate) and INS Mumbai
(Destroyers). He also had held important staff assignments such as Fleet Operations Officer of the
Western Fleet and Chief of Staff, Southern and Eastern Naval Commands. He also had been the Flag
Officer Commanding Maharashtra and Gujarat Naval Area, Flag Officer Sea Training, Commandant
at National Defence College and Vice Chief of Naval Staff. Awards and Honours: For his
distinguished service of an exceptionally high order, was awarded with the Param Vishist Seva Medal
and Athi Vishist Seva Medal.

Noted Kannada writer D Javare Gowda passes away

Noted Kannada writer and language activist D Javare Gowda passed away due to heart failure in
Mysuru, Karnataka. He was 101. He was popularly known as De Ja Gow and was a disciple of
famous Kannada poet K V Puttappa. About D Javare Gowda He also had served as Vice-Chancellor
of University of Mysuru (UoM) from 1969 to 1975. He had penned several books including
Lakshmishana Jaimini Bharata (1957), Kanakadasara Nalacharitre (1959), Chikkupadyayana
Rukmangada Charitre (1964) and Andayyana Kabbigara Kavya (1965) etc. He had chaired the Akhila
Bharata Kannada Sahitya Sammelana held in Bengaluru in 1970. Language Activist: He had played
an important role in protecting Kannada language and promoting it as a medium of instruction in
schools. He also had played an important role in getting the classical language status for Kannada
(One of the six classical languages). His autobiography: ‘Sahithigala Sangadalli Horatada Baduku’.
Awards and Honours: Pampa Prishathi (1998), Padma Shri (2001), Guru Award (2003), Nadoja title
(2003), Karnataka Government’s Karnataka Ratna (2008).

Lewis Hamilton wins 2016 Monaco Grand Prix of F1

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton from Great Britain has 2016 Monaco Grand Prix title of Formula One.
It was the sixth round of the 2016 season and was held at the Circuit de Monaco. It is Lewis
Hamilton’s first title of the season. Rankings after 2016 Monaco Grand Prix 1st position: Lewis
Hamilton (Britain) of Mercedes. 2nd position: Daniel Ricciardo (Australia) of Red Bull. 3rd position:
Sergio Perez (Mexico) of Force India. 4th position: Sebastian Vettel (Germany) of Ferrari. 5th
position: Fernando Alonso (Spain) of McLaren-Honda. Top 5 Teams: Mercedes, Red Bull, Force
India, Ferrari and McLaren-Honda.

Sonia Lather wins silver medal in Women’s World Boxing Championships

Indian boxer Sonia Lather has won the silver medal at the AIBA Women’s World Championships held
in Astana, Kazakhstan. In the final match of featherweight 57kg category, she was defeated by the
gold medalist Mesiano Alessia of Italy by 2-1 score. Sonia Lather was the only medal winner in this
edition of tournament. In 2010, MC Mary Kom had won the gold medal in the 48kg category which
was her fifth world title. In the 2016 edition of AIBA World Championships of Boxing Kazakhstan
finished on top of the table with 4 gold and 2 bronze medals. China was the runners-up with 2 gold
and silver medals.