GYANM GENERAL AWARENESS (English Version) August 2017..!!

GENERAL AWARENESS – AUGUST 2017
GENERAL AWARENESS
AUGUST 2017
Vol. 6, Issue 02
A PUBLICATION OF GYANM EDUCATION &
TRAINING INSTITUTE PVT. LTD.
SCO 13-14-15, 2ND FLOOR, SEC 34-A, CHANDIGARH
Contents
CURRENT AFFAIRS
APRIL TO JUNE 2017
03-48
BULLET NEWS
JANUARY TO MARCH 2017
49-61
LATEST 100 GK MCQs 62-68
SSC CGL - TIER - I PAPER 69-80
CURRENT GK BYTES 81-102
FIGURES TO REMEMBER
REPO RATE (04.10.2016) 6.25%
REVERSE REPO RATE 6.00%
MARGINAL STANDING
FACILITY RATE
6.50%
STATUTORY LIQUIDITY RATIO 20.00%
CASH RESERVE RATIO 4.00%
BANK RATE 6.50%
BASE RATE(s)
(of various banks)
9.10 to
9.60%
INDIA’s RANK IN
Rank in Receiving Remittances 1st
Global Retail Development Index 1st
World Competitiveness List 45th
Global Innovation Index 60th
Global Peace Index 137th
Rank in Neo-Natal Mortality 154th
Rank in Internal Displacements 03rd
Rank in Two Wheelers Sales 01st
Rank in Stainless Steel Production 02nd
Tourism as %age of GDP 7th
FDI Confidence Index 8th
World Happiness Report 122nd
Human Development Index 131st
The Global Energy Architecture
Performance Index
87th
Index of Economic Freedom 143rd
Intellectual Property Index 43rd
Global Index of Talent Competitiveness 92nd
Global Wind Power Index 4th
ICT Development Index 138th
Gender Gap Index 87th
PM MODI MEETS TRUMP
Prime Minister Modi visited three countries on
his foreign trip, starting with
and Portugal agreed to set up a joint fund of
four million Euros to support bilateral
collaboration in cutting edge technology.
Next he called upon US President, Mr. Trump
in Washington DC, USA. During the visit,
cleared the sale of
drones to boost the Indian Navy’s intelligence,
surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
Finally, he visited The Netherlands to end his
tour.
PM ATTENDS SCO IN ASTANA
Prime Minister visited Astana, capital of Kazakhstan to take p
summit of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Kazakhstan is India’s
largest trading partner in Central Asia and the total trade volume between the
two countries rose from $120 million to around $900 million in recent years.
INDIA TO
India has claimed the top spot among the remittance
surpassing China, receiving $62.7 billion in 2016.
study by the UN International Fund for Agricultural Development says that
about
remittances in 2016 to their families.
SAINT PETERSBURG DECLARATION
India
enhance cooperation. It was signed a
between Prime Minister Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Russian
port town of
AUGUST 2017
NATIONAL NEWS
PM MODI MEETS TRUMP
Prime Minister Modi visited three countries on
his foreign trip, starting with Portugal. India
and Portugal agreed to set up a joint fund of
four million Euros to support bilateral
collaboration in cutting edge technology.
Next he called upon US President, Mr. Trump
in Washington DC, USA. During the visit, the US
cleared the sale of 22 predator Guardian
drones to boost the Indian Navy’s intelligence,
surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
Finally, he visited The Netherlands to end his
tour.
PM ATTENDS SCO IN ASTANA
Prime Minister visited Astana, capital of Kazakhstan to take p
INDIA TOPS IN RECEIVING MONEY
India has claimed the top spot among the remittance
surpassing China, receiving $62.7 billion in 2016. The 'One Family at a Time'
about 200 million migrants across the world sent more than $445 billion as
remittances in 2016 to their families.
SAINT PETERSBURG DECLARATION SIGNED
India and Russia have signed Saint Petersburg Declaration
enhance cooperation. It was signed after the 18th annual bilateral summit
port town of Saint Petersburg.
3
NATIONAL NEWS
JUNE
Prime Minister visited Astana, capital of Kazakhstan to take part in the annual
India has claimed the top spot among the remittance-receiving nations,
The 'One Family at a Time'
200 million migrants across the world sent more than $445 billion as
Saint Petersburg Declaration as a roadmap to
fter the 18th annual bilateral summit

INDIA RATIFIES TIR CONVENTION
India has become the 71st country to ratify the United
Nations TIR Convention. TIR stands for "Transports
Internationaux Routiers" or "International Road
Transports". Managed and developed by IRU
(International Road transport Union), the
transport organisation, TIR is the global standard for
goods customs transit. TIR will help India to integrate
with Myanmar and Thailand as well as Bangladesh,
Bhutan and Nepal for enhancing trade through road.
INDIA TOPS IN ‘EASE OF DOING BUSINESS’
According to the 2017 Global Retail Development Index
(GRDI), India has surpassed China to secure the top
position among 30 developing countries on ease of
doing business; citing India’s rapidly expanding
economy, relaxation of FDI rules and a consum
boom as the key drivers.
EU TO SUPPORT INDIAN SMART CITIES
France and the European Union have extended a grant
of 3.5 million Euros to India under the ‘Moblise Your
City’ (MYC) initiative for reducing carbon emissions and
promote sustainability of smart city programme. Three
Indian cities- Nagpur, Kochi and Ahmadabad
the grant as part of the EU’s commitment under the
Paris Climate agreement.
AUGUST 2017
country to ratify the United
TIR stands for "Transports
Internationaux Routiers" or "International Road
Transports". Managed and developed by IRU
(International Road transport Union), the world road
transport organisation, TIR is the global standard for
goods customs transit. TIR will help India to integrate
with Myanmar and Thailand as well as Bangladesh,
Bhutan and Nepal for enhancing trade through road.
NESS’
According to the 2017 Global Retail Development Index
(GRDI), India has surpassed China to secure the top
position among 30 developing countries on ease of
doing business; citing India’s rapidly expanding
economy, relaxation of FDI rules and a consumption
EU TO SUPPORT INDIAN SMART CITIES
France and the European Union have extended a grant
‘Moblise Your
initiative for reducing carbon emissions and
of smart city programme. Three
Nagpur, Kochi and Ahmadabad -- will get
the grant as part of the EU’s commitment under the
IIT DELHI IS BEST IN INDIA
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
Indian University, scoring 172
edition of the ‘Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World
University Rankings’. IIT Bombay is nearby at 179
while otherwise leading university
Science (IISc), Bengaluru, slipped to 190
these three universities could enter the top 200 list.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology topped the list,
followed by Stanford University and Harvard University
at 2nd and 3rd rank, respectively. All three are from USA.
INDIA RE-ELECTED TO ECOSOC
India has been re-elected to the UN's principal organ
Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for another
three-year term. India was among 18 nations to win
membership to the 54 members’ body.
platform for reflection, debate, and innovative thinking
on sustainable development.
INDIA RANKS 60TH IN INNOVATION
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) in
its 10th edition of the ‘Global Innovation Index (GII)’ has
ranked India 60th on its list of 130 most innovative
countries in the world. Switzerland is at the top for the
seventh year running. India performed well on a
number of parameters, claiming top spot in ICT services
exports.
INDIA RANKS 45TH IN COMPETITIVENESS
In the world competitiveness list compiled by the World
Competitiveness Centre of the International Institute for
Management Development, Switzerland, India has been
ranked 45th, while Hong Kong topped the list, followed
by Switzerland and Singapore at second and thir
respectively.
The Center also published a separate report ranking
countries’ digital competitiveness
was at top, followed by Sweden and USA.
‘DANGAL’ CREATES HISTORY
According to Forbes Magazine's latest report, the movie
Dangal has become the first ever Indian film in history
to earn Rs 2000 crore (307 million USD) worldwide
after it earned Rs 2.5 crore on its 53rd day at the China
box office.
4
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) - Delhi is top
ersity, scoring 172nd rank in the latest
edition of the ‘Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World
University Rankings’. IIT Bombay is nearby at 179th rank
while otherwise leading university - Indian Institute of
Science (IISc), Bengaluru, slipped to 190th position. Only
these three universities could enter the top 200 list. The
Massachusetts Institute of Technology topped the list,
followed by Stanford University and Harvard University
rank, respectively. All three are from USA.
LECTED TO ECOSOC
elected to the UN's principal organ
Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for another
year term. India was among 18 nations to win
membership to the 54 members’ body. It is the central
e, and innovative thinking
IN INNOVATION
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) in
its 10th edition of the ‘Global Innovation Index (GII)’ has
on its list of 130 most innovative
Switzerland is at the top for the
India performed well on a
number of parameters, claiming top spot in ICT services
IN COMPETITIVENESS
competitiveness list compiled by the World
Competitiveness Centre of the International Institute for
Management Development, Switzerland, India has been
, while Hong Kong topped the list, followed
Switzerland and Singapore at second and third rank,
Center also published a separate report ranking
countries’ digital competitiveness wherein Singapore
ollowed by Sweden and USA.
‘DANGAL’ CREATES HISTORY
According to Forbes Magazine's latest report, the movie
l has become the first ever Indian film in history
to earn Rs 2000 crore (307 million USD) worldwide
after it earned Rs 2.5 crore on its 53rd day at the China

INDIA IS NOT ‘PEACEFUL’
As per the Global Peace Index (GPI) published by The
Institute of Economics and Peace, Sydney, India has
ranked 137th out of 163 countries. Iceland
named the world's most peaceful country f
consecutive year followed by New Zealand and
at second and third position while Syria has been named
the least peaceful country.
PACT WITH SOMALIA ON PRISONERS
Union Cabinet has approved an agreement on transfer
of sentenced persons between India and Somalia. This
will facilitate transfer Indians imprisoned in Somalia to
be near to their families in India while serving
remaining part of their sentence and shall facilitate their
social rehabilitation.
 The national function for the International Yoga Day
was held on June 21 at Ramabai Ambedkar Ground in
Lucknow where PM Modi performed yoga with over
60 thousand participants.
 The National Archives of India signed a Protocol of
Cooperation with the Portuguese Republic
of archives in Lisbon, Portugal.
 India has agreed to provide $ 318 million fresh credit
to Sri Lanka for the development of the railway
sector in the country.
 Australia allows Indians to apply for a visitor visa
online starting from first July to make visitor visas
easier and enhance the experience for Indians.
AUGUST 2017
As per the Global Peace Index (GPI) published by The
Institute of Economics and Peace, Sydney, India has
163 countries. Iceland has been
world's most peaceful country for the tenth
consecutive year followed by New Zealand and Portugal
at second and third position while Syria has been named
PACT WITH SOMALIA ON PRISONERS
Union Cabinet has approved an agreement on transfer
of sentenced persons between India and Somalia. This
Indians imprisoned in Somalia to
be near to their families in India while serving
remaining part of their sentence and shall facilitate their
The national function for the International Yoga Day
kar Ground in
Lucknow where PM Modi performed yoga with over
signed a Protocol of
he Portuguese Republic in the field
318 million fresh credit
to Sri Lanka for the development of the railway
to apply for a visitor visa
online starting from first July to make visitor visas
easier and enhance the experience for Indians.
INDIA WELCOMES PRESIDENT OF TURKEY
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
on a two day official visit. His visit was focused on trade
and about 150 businessmen accompanied him.
countries resolved to fight against terrorism.
Jamia Millia Islamia University presented him an
honorary degree of Doctor of Letters.
PALESTINIAN PRESIDENT IN INDIA
President of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas arrived in New
Delhi on a four day State visit. The two countries signed
MoUs on cooperation in various sectors. India and
Palestine enjoy historically close and friendly ties.
offers tourist visa on arrival facility to Palestinians.
MAURITIUS PM VISITS INDIA
Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, Prime Minister of Mauritius
visited India. He held discussions on bilateral issues
with top statesmen of the country.
$500 million line of credit for Mauritius. R
cent of all FDI inflows into India are from Mauritius
ICJ RULES IN FAVOUR OF INDIA
India secured a major victory when the International
Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherland, asked
Pakistan not to execute former Indian Navy official
Kulbhushan Jadhav, before the final decision of the
court. The Indian legal team was led by eminent lawyer
Harish Salve. Pakistan had arrested Mr Jadhav in
Baluchistan accusing him of spying and awarded death
sentence to him.
LONGEST ROAD BRIDGE IN INDIA
A 9.15 km long road bridge over Brahmaputra river in
Assam was opened to traffic on May 26. Supposed to be
the longest bridge in India, it connects Dhola on South
Bank with Sadia on North Bank. reducing the road
distance by over four hours. The bridge has been named
after the legendary Assamese singer and musician late
Dr Bhupen Hazarika.
5
MAY
INDIA WELCOMES PRESIDENT OF TURKEY
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan came to India
His visit was focused on trade
and about 150 businessmen accompanied him. The two
fight against terrorism. Delhi's
Jamia Millia Islamia University presented him an
honorary degree of Doctor of Letters.
PALESTINIAN PRESIDENT IN INDIA
President of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas arrived in New
Delhi on a four day State visit. The two countries signed
various sectors. India and
Palestine enjoy historically close and friendly ties. India
facility to Palestinians.
MAURITIUS PM VISITS INDIA
Prime Minister of Mauritius
discussions on bilateral issues
with top statesmen of the country. India announced a
$500 million line of credit for Mauritius. Roughly 30 per
cent of all FDI inflows into India are from Mauritius.
ICJ RULES IN FAVOUR OF INDIA
victory when the International
Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherland, asked
Pakistan not to execute former Indian Navy official
Kulbhushan Jadhav, before the final decision of the
court. The Indian legal team was led by eminent lawyer
kistan had arrested Mr Jadhav in
Baluchistan accusing him of spying and awarded death
LONGEST ROAD BRIDGE IN INDIA
A 9.15 km long road bridge over Brahmaputra river in
was opened to traffic on May 26. Supposed to be
bridge in India, it connects Dhola on South
Bank with Sadia on North Bank. reducing the road
The bridge has been named
legendary Assamese singer and musician late

INDORE IS THE CLEANEST CITY
In a government survey - Swachh Survekshan of
cities in the country, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, has been
ranked as the cleanest city in India while Gonda in Uttar
Pradesh has been ranked the dirtiest. Bhopal, another
city from MP has been ranked second foll
Visakhapatnam and Surat at third and fourth place.
The criteria for this year's ranking included 45% marks
for cities becoming open defecation free, solid waste
management (including sweeping, collection,
transportation and processing of garbage), education and
capacity building.
PM VISITS SRI LANKA
Prime Minister Modi made a two day visit to Sri Lanka.
He took part in the International Vesak Day celebrations
in Colombo. Vesak day is one of the holiest day for
Buddhists as its marks the birth, enlightenment and death
of Lord Buddha.
DHAKA, MUMBAI MOST CROWDED
In a report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) citing
UN Habitat data, two Indian cities—Mumbai and Kota
have been named among the world’s most crowded.
With a population density of 44,500 people per square
kilometre, Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is the most
crowded city on the planet, followed by Mumbai
(31,700). Kota in Rajasthan with 12,100 people per
square km was ranked seventh.
AUGUST 2017
Swachh Survekshan of 434
cities in the country, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, has been
ranked as the cleanest city in India while Gonda in Uttar
Pradesh has been ranked the dirtiest. Bhopal, another
city from MP has been ranked second followed by
Visakhapatnam and Surat at third and fourth place.
The criteria for this year's ranking included 45% marks
for cities becoming open defecation free, solid waste
management (including sweeping, collection,
education and
Prime Minister Modi made a two day visit to Sri Lanka.
He took part in the International Vesak Day celebrations
Vesak day is one of the holiest day for
lightenment and death
In a report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) citing
Mumbai and Kota
have been named among the world’s most crowded.
44,500 people per square
kilometre, Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is the most
crowded city on the planet, followed by Mumbai
Kota in Rajasthan with 12,100 people per
VIZAG IS THE CLEANEST RLY STATION
Among the 407 stations surveyed across the country for
cleanliness, Vishakhapatnam (Vizag) in Andhra ranked
first among the A1 category stations, while Beas (near
Amritsar) in Punjab topped the A category stations. The
survey was conducted by the environment and
housekeeping management directorate of the Railway
Board under the Swatch Rail Swatch Bharat mission.
FIRST SMART GRID POWER PROJECT
The Indian Institute of Engineering Science and
Technology (IIEST) in Shibpur, West Bengal has
successfully created the country's first smart grid power
project to generate power from various renewable
sources of energy. The smart grid will be synchronised
to generate power from solar, wind and vegetable
waste, depending on the weather conditions and
availability of waste products.
INDIA LAGS IN NEO NATAL MORTALITY
According to a study published on the ‘Global Burden of
Disease’ in the prestigious medical journal The Lancet,
newborns in India have a lesser chance of survival than
babies born in Afghanistan and Somalia.
154th out of 195 countries.
In the case of neonatal mortality, on a scale of 1 to 100,
India scored 14 while Afghanistan scored 19
STAMP RELEASED ON SRI RAMANUJACHARYA
Various functions are being organized in Srirangam and
Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu to culminate the
1000th birth anniversary of Vaishnavite saint Sri
Ramanuja, the Acharya who gave the Nava
the world. PM released a commemorative stamp of Sri
Ramanuja Acharya on the occasion.
INDIA 3RD HIGHEST IN DISPLACEMENTS
A report by the Internal Displacement Monitoring
Centre and the Norwegian Refugee Council
India third among nations most affected by local
displacement of people, after China and the Philippines.
Of the 2.4 million displacements in
million were associated with monsoon season floods in
Bihar between mid-July and October, 2016.
6
VIZAG IS THE CLEANEST RLY STATION
07 stations surveyed across the country for
cleanliness, Vishakhapatnam (Vizag) in Andhra ranked
first among the A1 category stations, while Beas (near
Amritsar) in Punjab topped the A category stations. The
survey was conducted by the environment and
ekeeping management directorate of the Railway
Board under the Swatch Rail Swatch Bharat mission.
FIRST SMART GRID POWER PROJECT
The Indian Institute of Engineering Science and
Technology (IIEST) in Shibpur, West Bengal has
country's first smart grid power
project to generate power from various renewable
The smart grid will be synchronised
to generate power from solar, wind and vegetable
waste, depending on the weather conditions and
INDIA LAGS IN NEO NATAL MORTALITY
According to a study published on the ‘Global Burden of
Disease’ in the prestigious medical journal The Lancet,
newborns in India have a lesser chance of survival than
babies born in Afghanistan and Somalia. India ranks
In the case of neonatal mortality, on a scale of 1 to 100,
India scored 14 while Afghanistan scored 19, Somalia, 21.
STAMP RELEASED ON SRI RAMANUJACHARYA
Various functions are being organized in Srirangam and
Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu to culminate the
birth anniversary of Vaishnavite saint Sri
Ramanuja, the Acharya who gave the Nava granthas to
released a commemorative stamp of Sri
on the occasion.
DISPLACEMENTS
A report by the Internal Displacement Monitoring
Centre and the Norwegian Refugee Council has ranked
India third among nations most affected by local
displacement of people, after China and the Philippines.
Of the 2.4 million displacements in India, more than 1.6
million were associated with monsoon season floods in
July and October, 2016.

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 29 went for a
four nation tour to Germany, Spain, Russia and
France, beginning with Berlin in Germany
 The Taj Mahal, ranked 5th, is the only Indian
monument in the world's top 10 Travellers' Choice
awards for Landmarks. Angkor Wat in Cambodia
was at top.
 The Union Cabinet approved the Joint Declaration of
Intent (JDI) with Germany for cooperation in
of alternative medicine.
 United Nations World Tourism Organisation has
revised India’s ranking for 2014 & 2015 to 24
improving 16 places from earlier 40th place.
 A three day annual meeting of the African
Development Bank was held in Ahmadabad.
quarters are in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
 The two-day ‘Start up India Summit’ was held in Abu
Dhabi, UAE to provide a common platform for the
Start up eco system in both India and UAE.
 In the Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness
Index by consultancy giant EY (Earnest and Young),
India has been placed at 2nd spot, first being China.
 India has been elected as the President of UN
an organ of the UNO, to promote sustainable human
settlements across the globe.
 India organised a cultural festival in Cairo, Egypt to
mark the 156th birth anniversary of the famous
Indian poet, Rabindranath Tagore.
 India has agreed to provide Rs 35 crore
the new 'Muktijodha scholarship' scheme for children
of freedom fighters in Bangladesh.
SHEIKH HASINA VISITS INDIA
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina came to India
on a four day visit. The two countries signed a number
of bilateral agreements including issues like cooperation
in civil nuclear usage and defence. India extended a
of Credit of $500 million to Bangladesh for defence
purchases.
AUGUST 2017
on May 29 went for a
four nation tour to Germany, Spain, Russia and
France, beginning with Berlin in Germany
, is the only Indian
monument in the world's top 10 Travellers' Choice
Angkor Wat in Cambodia
The Union Cabinet approved the Joint Declaration of
Intent (JDI) with Germany for cooperation in the field
United Nations World Tourism Organisation has
revised India’s ranking for 2014 & 2015 to 24th place,
place.
A three day annual meeting of the African
adabad. Its head
day ‘Start up India Summit’ was held in Abu
Dhabi, UAE to provide a common platform for the
Start up eco system in both India and UAE.
In the Renewable Energy Country Attractiveness
consultancy giant EY (Earnest and Young),
spot, first being China.
India has been elected as the President of UN-Habitat,
an organ of the UNO, to promote sustainable human
cultural festival in Cairo, Egypt to
birth anniversary of the famous
India has agreed to provide Rs 35 crore for funding
'Muktijodha scholarship' scheme for children
ARPIL
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina came to India
on a four day visit. The two countries signed a number
of bilateral agreements including issues like cooperation
in civil nuclear usage and defence. India extended a Line
angladesh for defence
AUSTRALIAN PM VISITS INDIA
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull arrived in
New Delhi on a four-day visit to India. A number of
MoUs and agreements were signed in the areas of
security, environment, sports, science a
and health.
INDIA GREETS PRESIDENT OF NEPAL
Nepalese President Bidya Devi Bhandari arrived in New
Delhi on a five day visit to India. This is her first foreign
trip after assuming the office in October 2015, following
the promulgation of the new Constitution in Nepal.
P M OF MALAYSIA VISITS INDIA
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak arrived in India
on an official visit. Both nations
defeat Islamic State militants and the growing threat of
radicalisation and extremism. The two countries signed
investment deals worth $36 billion or about Rs 2.45
lakh crore. This year marks the 60th anniversary of
formal diplomatic relations.
VICE PRESIDENT VISITS ARMENIA AND POLAND
Vice-President Mohammad Hamid Ansari went on a
day two nation tour to Armenia and Poland
celebrating 25 years of diplomatic relationship with
Armenia this year. His visit to Poland aims at further
deepening the economic co-operation between two
countries.
INDIA BECOMES EXPORTER OF ELECT
India has become, for the first time, a net exporter of
electricity during the April-February period. In FY17 up
to February, India had exported around 5,798 million
units to Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar, which is 213
million units more than the import of around 5,585
million units from Bhutan.
INDIA RANKS 7TH IN TOURISM TURNOVER
A report of the World Travel and Tourism Council says
that India’s travel and tourism sector
world in terms of its total contribution to the country's
GDP. The USA topped the list followed by China and
Germany at the second and third positions, respectively.
7
AUSTRALIAN PM VISITS INDIA
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull arrived in
day visit to India. A number of
MoUs and agreements were signed in the areas of
security, environment, sports, science and technology
INDIA GREETS PRESIDENT OF NEPAL
Nepalese President Bidya Devi Bhandari arrived in New
Delhi on a five day visit to India. This is her first foreign
trip after assuming the office in October 2015, following
the new Constitution in Nepal.
P M OF MALAYSIA VISITS INDIA
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak arrived in India
on an official visit. Both nations agreed to cooperate to
defeat Islamic State militants and the growing threat of
. The two countries signed
investment deals worth $36 billion or about Rs 2.45
lakh crore. This year marks the 60th anniversary of
VICE PRESIDENT VISITS ARMENIA AND POLAND
President Mohammad Hamid Ansari went on a five
day two nation tour to Armenia and Poland. India is
celebrating 25 years of diplomatic relationship with
Armenia this year. His visit to Poland aims at further
operation between two
INDIA BECOMES EXPORTER OF ELECTRICITY
India has become, for the first time, a net exporter of
February period. In FY17 up
to February, India had exported around 5,798 million
units to Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar, which is 213
the import of around 5,585
IN TOURISM TURNOVER
World Travel and Tourism Council says
travel and tourism sector ranks 7th in the
world in terms of its total contribution to the country's
topped the list followed by China and
Germany at the second and third positions, respectively.

INDIA’s LONGEST ROAD TUNNEL
The 9.2 km long Chenani - Nashri Tunnel, India's
road tunnel, built on the Jammu-Srinagar National
Highway was inaugurated by the prime minister on
April 2. The tunnel will reduce travel time between
Jammu and Srinagar by up to two hours by cutting the
distance by 31 kilometers. It will also hel
the highway open during winters when it is closed due
to heavy snowfall.
NIRF RANKINGS RELEASED
Ministry of HRD released the National Institutional
Ranking Framework- NIRF in New Delhi for ranking top
educational institutes of India. Bengaluru’s Indian
Institute of Science was declared as the best university,
while Delhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru University and Banaras
Hindu University stood 2nd and 3rd respectively.
Winners in other categories include Indian Institute of
Technology, Madras (engineering), IIM Ahmadabad
(management), Jamia Hamdard, Delhi
Delhi’s Miranda House (college).
In the overall rankings, Indian Institute of Science,
Bengaluru topped the rankings.
INDIA FARES POORLY IN ENERGY SECTOR
The Global Energy Architecture Performance Index
2017 released by the World Economic Forum ranked
127 countries on their ability to deliver secure,
affordable and sustainable energy. The index is topped
by Switzerland while India was placed at 87
AUGUST 2017
Nashri Tunnel, India's longest
Srinagar National
Highway was inaugurated by the prime minister on
April 2. The tunnel will reduce travel time between
to two hours by cutting the
distance by 31 kilometers. It will also help in keeping
the highway open during winters when it is closed due
Ministry of HRD released the National Institutional
NIRF in New Delhi for ranking top
Bengaluru’s Indian
Institute of Science was declared as the best university,
elhi’s Jawaharlal Nehru University and Banaras
respectively.
Indian Institute of
ras (engineering), IIM Ahmadabad
(pharmacy),
In the overall rankings, Indian Institute of Science,
INDIA FARES POORLY IN ENERGY SECTOR
The Global Energy Architecture Performance Index
2017 released by the World Economic Forum ranked
127 countries on their ability to deliver secure,
affordable and sustainable energy. The index is topped
by Switzerland while India was placed at 87th position.
AADHAAR CARD NOT MANDATORY
The Supreme Court has clarified that the government
cannot make Aadhaar number mandatory for availing
benefits of various welfare schemes like LPG subsidy,
foodgrains, mid day meals, etc. However, govt
stopped from using Aadhaar in other schemes like the
opening of bank accounts, issuance of PAN card, etc.
MODI, VIJAY FIGURE IN TIME LIST
Time Magazine released the annual list of 100 most
influential people of 2017 in five categories
artists, leaders, titans and icons. T
Indians are there in the list- Prime Minister Narendra
Modi (leaders) and Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar
Sharma (titans).
 President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos
Anastasiades arrived in Mum
visit.
 Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe
arrived in New Delhi on a five
economic cooperation with India.
 India and Russia are celebrating the 70
of establishment of diplomatic relations between
them.
 India ranks 40th in list of 136 countries in Travel and
Tourism Competitiveness Report by World
Forum. Spain is ranked at the top in the list.
 India has signed a joint decla
promote innovation and the R&D ecosystem
the two countries.
 International Conference and Exhibition on Steel
Industry 'India Steel 2017' was held in
 National Convention on World Homeopathy Day was
held in New Delhi on 10 April.
 A three-day National Children’s Film Festival was
held in Vishakhapatnam from April 7 to 10.
 19th Commonwealth Forestry Conference
Forest Research Institute
Uttarakhand.
 Annual meeting of the New Development Bank
(BRICS Bank) was held in New Delhi. This is the first
time the meet is happening in India.
 The World Conference on Environment
New Delhi on March 26.
8
AADHAAR CARD NOT MANDATORY - SC
The Supreme Court has clarified that the government
cannot make Aadhaar number mandatory for availing
benefits of various welfare schemes like LPG subsidy,
foodgrains, mid day meals, etc. However, govt. cannot be
stopped from using Aadhaar in other schemes like the
opening of bank accounts, issuance of PAN card, etc.
MODI, VIJAY FIGURE IN TIME LIST
Time Magazine released the annual list of 100 most
influential people of 2017 in five categories – pioneers,
artists, leaders, titans and icons. This year, only two
Prime Minister Narendra
Modi (leaders) and Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar
President of the Republic of Cyprus Nicos
Anastasiades arrived in Mumbai on a four-day India
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe
arrived in New Delhi on a five-day visit to strengthen
economic cooperation with India.
India and Russia are celebrating the 70th anniversary
of establishment of diplomatic relations between
ranks 40th in list of 136 countries in Travel and
Tourism Competitiveness Report by World Economic
Spain is ranked at the top in the list.
has signed a joint declaration with Russia to
R&D ecosystem between
International Conference and Exhibition on Steel
was held in Mumbai
World Homeopathy Day was
10 April.
day National Children’s Film Festival was
held in Vishakhapatnam from April 7 to 10.
Commonwealth Forestry Conference was held at
Forest Research Institute (FRI) in Dehradun,
Annual meeting of the New Development Bank
(BRICS Bank) was held in New Delhi. This is the first
time the meet is happening in India.
The World Conference on Environment was held in

NEWS FROM STATES
NATIONAL AWARD FOR ‘JAL SANCHAY’
A model of water conservation adopted successfully by
the authorities in Nalanda in Bihar has been selected for
the National Award for Excellence in the MNREGA by
the union ministry of rural development. The project
named Jal Sanchay made effective use of traditional local
methods of making check dams with modern techniques
to store water during rainy season.
SEPARATE TIME ZONE IN ARUNACHAL
Govt of Arunachal Pradesh has requested for a separate
time zone for the north-eastern states to improve work
efficiency and save electricity. It may be noted that i
North East India, the day starts getting brighter by 4 AM
and darker by 5 PM. Productive hours at offices, mainly
government offices, are usually for less than 7 hours.
ARUNACHAL REVIVES REFUGEE ISSUE
Arunachal Pradesh has sought help from the Union
Ministry of Home Affairs to resolve the issue of Chakma
and Hazong refugees in the state. The refugees,
originally from East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, were
relocated by the Indian government in parts of
Arunachal Pradesh in 1960’s.
Supreme Court in 2015 had directed the centre to grant
citizenship rights to these refugees. However, local people
have been demanding for ouster of these refugees from
the state.
AUGUST 2017
NEWS FROM STATES
JUNE
NATIONAL AWARD FOR ‘JAL SANCHAY’
adopted successfully by
the authorities in Nalanda in Bihar has been selected for
the National Award for Excellence in the MNREGA by
the union ministry of rural development. The project
named Jal Sanchay made effective use of traditional local
aking check dams with modern techniques
SEPARATE TIME ZONE IN ARUNACHAL
Govt of Arunachal Pradesh has requested for a separate
eastern states to improve work
ay be noted that in
North East India, the day starts getting brighter by 4 AM
and darker by 5 PM. Productive hours at offices, mainly
government offices, are usually for less than 7 hours.
ARUNACHAL REVIVES REFUGEE ISSUE
help from the Union
Ministry of Home Affairs to resolve the issue of Chakma
The refugees,
originally from East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, were
in parts of
Supreme Court in 2015 had directed the centre to grant
citizenship rights to these refugees. However, local people
have been demanding for ouster of these refugees from
NEW CRPF HELPLINE FOR KASHMIRIS
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has
helpline, ‘Madadgaar’ (helpful), with a toll
14411 to serve the Kashmiris located all over the
country. The helpline will render assistance in case of
women and public safety, medical emergencies,
disruption of civic amenities and n
calamities.
SPECIAL TRAIN FROM SABARMATI ASHRAM
Gujarat government has launched ‘Astha Tourist Train’,
a special Gandhi Darshan train from Sabarmati railway
station near Ahmadabad on the occasion of centenary
celebrations of the historic Sabarmati Ashram founded
by Mahatma Gandhi.
The train would be travelling for 10 days (to and fro trip)
to Bihar’s Bettiah and Motihari, formerly known as
Champaran, the place where Mahatma Gandhi staged his
first satyagraha in 1917 in order to r
the indigo farmers.
PENSION FOR SINGLE WOMEN
Telangana has become first state in India to launch a
pension scheme for the single
scheme, the state government would be giving a pension
of about Rs 1000 per month to single women on
humanitarian grounds.
VARANASI TO GET ‘FREIGHT VILLAGE’
Uttar Pradesh plans to develop a Rs 1,000
modal ‘freight village’ in Varanasi. The project will be
commissioned by the Inland Waterways Authority of
India. The village, first of its kind in India, will anchor
movement of goods by railways and roadwa
ultimately linking with the waterways.
A 'Freight Village' is a specialised industrial estate which
attracts companies that require logistics services and can
cluster to improve their competitiveness. This will allow
relocation of retailers, warehouse
service providers supplying the regional FMCG market.
9
NEW CRPF HELPLINE FOR KASHMIRIS
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has launched a
helpline, ‘Madadgaar’ (helpful), with a toll-free number
14411 to serve the Kashmiris located all over the
country. The helpline will render assistance in case of
women and public safety, medical emergencies,
disruption of civic amenities and natural and man-made
SPECIAL TRAIN FROM SABARMATI ASHRAM
Gujarat government has launched ‘Astha Tourist Train’,
a special Gandhi Darshan train from Sabarmati railway
on the occasion of centenary
historic Sabarmati Ashram founded
The train would be travelling for 10 days (to and fro trip)
to Bihar’s Bettiah and Motihari, formerly known as
Champaran, the place where Mahatma Gandhi staged his
first satyagraha in 1917 in order to remove the misery of
PENSION FOR SINGLE WOMEN IN TELANGANA
has become first state in India to launch a
pension scheme for the single-women. Under the
scheme, the state government would be giving a pension
of about Rs 1000 per month to single women on
VARANASI TO GET ‘FREIGHT VILLAGE’
Pradesh plans to develop a Rs 1,000-crore multi-
modal ‘freight village’ in Varanasi. The project will be
commissioned by the Inland Waterways Authority of
India. The village, first of its kind in India, will anchor
movement of goods by railways and roadways
ultimately linking with the waterways.
A 'Freight Village' is a specialised industrial estate which
attracts companies that require logistics services and can
cluster to improve their competitiveness. This will allow
relocation of retailers, warehouse operators and logistics
service providers supplying the regional FMCG market.

MYSURU STARTS BICYCLE SHARING
Country’s first public bicycle sharing project has been
launched in Mysuru, Karnataka. Named simply ‘Trin
Trin’, the project allows the general public to borrow
bicycle from any of 48 docking stations set up across the
city and return the same to a docking station nearest to
their destination.
PORTAL LAUNCHED FOR EMPLOYMENT
Maharashtra govt has launched a web
portal 'Mahaswayam' to bring all the job seekers,
employers, entrepreneurs, and training institutes at one
platform to facilitate better skill development and
employment opportunities.
TELANGANA LAUNCHES T-WALLET
The Telangana Government has launched a digital
wallet, named T-Wallet that will not charge transaction
fee from consumers. The wallet, available in Google Play
may be used for remittances under MNREGA,
scholarships for students and many such other mass
applications.
WORLD BANK LOAN FOR HIMACHAL
World Bank will provide $ 36 million loan for Himachal
Pradesh Public Financial Management Capacity Building
Programme. The project aims to improve the efficiency
of public expenditure management and tax
administration in Himachal Pradesh.
ODISHA GETS EARLY WARNING SYSTEM
Country’s first Early Warning Dissemination System that
would set off a warning in the event of the occurrence of
natural disasters like a tsunami or cyclone is likely to
become operational by July 2017 on Odisha coast.
AUGUST 2017
Country’s first public bicycle sharing project has been
launched in Mysuru, Karnataka. Named simply ‘Trin
general public to borrow
bicycle from any of 48 docking stations set up across the
city and return the same to a docking station nearest to
PORTAL LAUNCHED FOR EMPLOYMENT
Maharashtra govt has launched a web
all the job seekers,
employers, entrepreneurs, and training institutes at one
platform to facilitate better skill development and
The Telangana Government has launched a digital
that will not charge transaction
fee from consumers. The wallet, available in Google Play
may be used for remittances under MNREGA,
scholarships for students and many such other mass
million loan for Himachal
Pradesh Public Financial Management Capacity Building
Programme. The project aims to improve the efficiency
of public expenditure management and tax
ODISHA GETS EARLY WARNING SYSTEM
Country’s first Early Warning Dissemination System that
would set off a warning in the event of the occurrence of
natural disasters like a tsunami or cyclone is likely to
become operational by July 2017 on Odisha coast.
ZIKA VIRUS CASE FOUND IN AHMADABAD
The Health Ministry has confirmed that the blood
samples collected from three pregnant ladies during
laboratory surveillance from Ahmadabad
Corporation have tested positive for Zika virus.
The virus is transmitted to people through a bite of an
infected mosquito called Aedes Aegypti, which also
transmits dengue and chikungunya.
 Delhi Police launched the Bicycle Patrols for better
policing in the capital. Initially, 65 high
have been operationalised.
 The Manipur government has
village of Tamenglong district as a Biodiversity
Heritage Site of the state.
 The Law Ministry has cleared the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Bill
2017, legalising Kambala, a traditional race
involving buffaloes, popular in Karnataka.
 A joint team of the ONGC and the UNESCO has carried
out a preliminary survey for the conservation of
Chilika Lake, India’s largest coastal lagoon, to secure
the world heritage site tag for it.
 Indore, one of the cleanest cities of
the first city in India where a robot is being used
an experimental basis to regulate the city traffic.
 The Asian Development Bank has agreed to provide
$275 million loan for improving urban services in 64
small towns in Madhya Pradesh.
FIRST SHATABDI TRAIN IN ARUNACHAL
Arunachal Pradesh got its first Shatabdi Express
providing a speedier and comfortable connectivity
between Guwahati and Naharlagun, the state capital
cities of Assam and Arunachal.
Shatabdi train in the north eastern India.
the 350 km distance in six hours as against nine hours
by bus.
10
ZIKA VIRUS CASE FOUND IN AHMADABAD
The Health Ministry has confirmed that the blood
samples collected from three pregnant ladies during
Ahmadabad Municipal
Corporation have tested positive for Zika virus.
The virus is transmitted to people through a bite of an
infected mosquito called Aedes Aegypti, which also
transmits dengue and chikungunya.
Delhi Police launched the Bicycle Patrols for better
policing in the capital. Initially, 65 high-end bicycles
The Manipur government has declared Dailong
village of Tamenglong district as a Biodiversity
The Law Ministry has cleared the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals (Karnataka Amendment) Bill
2017, legalising Kambala, a traditional race
ular in Karnataka.
A joint team of the ONGC and the UNESCO has carried
out a preliminary survey for the conservation of
Chilika Lake, India’s largest coastal lagoon, to secure
the world heritage site tag for it.
Indore, one of the cleanest cities of India has become
the first city in India where a robot is being used on
an experimental basis to regulate the city traffic.
The Asian Development Bank has agreed to provide
$275 million loan for improving urban services in 64
small towns in Madhya Pradesh.
MAY
FIRST SHATABDI TRAIN IN ARUNACHAL
Arunachal Pradesh got its first Shatabdi Express
providing a speedier and comfortable connectivity
between Guwahati and Naharlagun, the state capital
cities of Assam and Arunachal. It is the first ever
train in the north eastern India. It will cover
the 350 km distance in six hours as against nine hours

‘GOOD MORNING’ SQUADS IN MAHA
The Maharashtra government has decided to form
morning’ squads to prevent and monitor open
defecation in villages and districts across the state. The
squads will be formed by taking volunteers from local
bodies, self-help groups, NGOs, students and social
workers working in the area of sanitation and
cleanliness.
MUMBAI AIRPORT IS THE BUSIEST
The Chhatrapati Shivaji International in Mumbai has
become the world’s busiest single-runway airport with
average 837 flights a day or one flight in 65 seconds on
an average in the 2016-17 fiscal year, leaving behind
London's Gatwick airport that had average of 757 flig
a day.
KERALA EXCELS IN PUBLIC AFFAIRS
A latest survey by the Bengaluru based think
‘Public Affairs Centre’ has ranked Kerala at the top for
second consecutive year, followed by Tamil Nadu and
Gujarat at second and third rank, respectively.
The ranking was done by compiling a ‘Public Affairs
Index’ based on the quality and levels of governance in
the ambit of 10 broad themes.
‘MAA’ TO WATCH MID DAY MEALS
UP government has decided to form 'Maa' committees in
primary schools to keep an eye on mid
served to students. The committee will comprise of six
mothers, from all sections of society, whose students are
studying in that school.
AUGUST 2017
has decided to form ‘good
squads to prevent and monitor open
villages and districts across the state. The
squads will be formed by taking volunteers from local
help groups, NGOs, students and social
workers working in the area of sanitation and
i Shivaji International in Mumbai has
runway airport with
average 837 flights a day or one flight in 65 seconds on
17 fiscal year, leaving behind
London's Gatwick airport that had average of 757 flights
A latest survey by the Bengaluru based think-tank
‘Public Affairs Centre’ has ranked Kerala at the top for
second consecutive year, followed by Tamil Nadu and
Gujarat at second and third rank, respectively.
ranking was done by compiling a ‘Public Affairs
Index’ based on the quality and levels of governance in
UP government has decided to form 'Maa' committees in
mid-day meals
The committee will comprise of six
mothers, from all sections of society, whose students are
NORTH EAST GETS IARI
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has
cleared the setting up of Indian Agricultural Research
Institute (lARI) in Dhemaji district of Assam.
kind in entire North East, the IARI will promote region
specific research and development of local varieties of
crops and plants.
PLASTIC PARK IN HARYANA
With the view to promote plastic industry in the state,
Haryana Government plans to develop Plastic Park
Project at Industrial Estate Panipat. It will effectively use
the plastic granules produced by the Panipat Refinery
nearby.
PUNE GETS INDIA’s FIRST BIO REFINERY
Country’s first bio refinery plant which produces
ethanol from variety of biomass such as
straw, cotton stalk, cane trash, corn cobs has been
started at Rahu in Pune district of Maharashtra.
AUTO WEATHER STATIONS IN MAHARASHTRA
In a unique project in the country, Maharashtra plans to
install 2065 automatic weather stations across the state
to measure wind direction and speed, temperature,
relative humidity and amount of rainfall in the area. The
information will be available on mobile
will help farmers to manage sowing in a much better
and planned way as per the weather conditions.
MP SWITCHES TO JAN-DEC FY
Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to
switch to the January-December
existing April-March cycle. The move breaks a 150
tradition as India started adopting the April
March financial year from 1867.
 Andhra Pradesh has been granted a Geographical
Indication (GI) tag for its famous sweet mangoes
from Banganpalle.
 A geographical indication is a name or sign used
on certain products, which corresponds to a
specific geographical location or origin.
11
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has
ian Agricultural Research
Institute (lARI) in Dhemaji district of Assam. First of its
kind in entire North East, the IARI will promote region
specific research and development of local varieties of
PLASTIC PARK IN HARYANA
to promote plastic industry in the state,
Haryana Government plans to develop Plastic Park
Project at Industrial Estate Panipat. It will effectively use
the plastic granules produced by the Panipat Refinery
PUNE GETS INDIA’s FIRST BIO REFINERY
ntry’s first bio refinery plant which produces
ethanol from variety of biomass such as rice and wheat
straw, cotton stalk, cane trash, corn cobs has been
started at Rahu in Pune district of Maharashtra.
AUTO WEATHER STATIONS IN MAHARASHTRA
unique project in the country, Maharashtra plans to
install 2065 automatic weather stations across the state
to measure wind direction and speed, temperature,
relative humidity and amount of rainfall in the area. The
information will be available on mobile network and
will help farmers to manage sowing in a much better
and planned way as per the weather conditions.
has become the first state in India to
financial year from the
The move breaks a 150-year
tradition as India started adopting the April-
Andhra Pradesh has been granted a Geographical
Indication (GI) tag for its famous sweet mangoes
l indication is a name or sign used
on certain products, which corresponds to a
specific geographical location or origin.

 Kerala organized the country's first transgender one
day athletic meet at Thiruvananthapuram.
 Assam state has been declared as a 'disturbed' area
under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act
(AFSPA) for another 3 months.
 Union Cabinet has approved setting up of a new All
India Institute of Medical Sciences in Kamrup, Assam,
a first of its kind in North East region.
 India’s first underwater rail tunnel has been
completed under the Hooghly river for establishing
metro rail link between Howrah and Kolkata.
 Nagpur in Madhya Pradesh became the first city in
the country to start the local electric vehicle taxi
service by the cab aggregator Ola.
 The 112-foot tall bust of ‘Adiyogi’ Lord Shiva at the
Isha Yoga Foundation, Coimbatore has been declared
the world’s largest bust by the Guinness Book.
NGT ORDERS FOR BELLANDUR LAKE
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed an
immediate and complete shutdown of all industries
around Bengaluru's Bellandur Lake where a mound of
garbage was set on fire in February this year.
also banned dumping of any kind of municipal solid
waste around the lake. The bench also announced a
environment penalty of 5 lakh rupees on anyone found
dumping waste in and around the lake.
AUGUST 2017
Kerala organized the country's first transgender one-
day athletic meet at Thiruvananthapuram.
'disturbed' area
under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act
Union Cabinet has approved setting up of a new All
India Institute of Medical Sciences in Kamrup, Assam,
rwater rail tunnel has been
completed under the Hooghly river for establishing
metro rail link between Howrah and Kolkata.
Nagpur in Madhya Pradesh became the first city in
the country to start the local electric vehicle taxi
foot tall bust of ‘Adiyogi’ Lord Shiva at the
Isha Yoga Foundation, Coimbatore has been declared
the world’s largest bust by the Guinness Book.
ARPIL
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed an
immediate and complete shutdown of all industries
around Bengaluru's Bellandur Lake where a mound of
garbage was set on fire in February this year. The NGT
also banned dumping of any kind of municipal solid
waste around the lake. The bench also announced an
environment penalty of 5 lakh rupees on anyone found
INDIA’s FIRST BIO GAS RUN BUS
A Kolkata based firm has launched country’s first bus
service in Kolkata that runs on the biogas from cow
dung. The 54-seater bus manufactured in association
with Ashok Leyland charges a flat fare of rupee one only.
ANDHRA, TELANGANA BEST FOR BUSINESS
In a list prepared by the World Bank and DIPP
(Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion
Pradesh and Telangana have jointl
doing business ranking, while Gujarat has slipped to the
third position.
DELHI OFFICE SPACE MOST EXPENSIVE
Delhi's Connaught Place is the world's 9th most
expensive office location with annual prime rent of $
105.71 per sq ft, says global property consultant CBRE.
With annual prime rent of $ 264.27 per sq ft, Hong Kong
(Central) is the world's most expensive office Market.
CENTENARY OF CHAMPARAN SATYAGRAHA
The Bihar Government launched year long celebrations
to mark the centenary of Mahatma Gandhi's Champaran
Satyagraha. This was Gandhi’s first Satyagraha. It was
undertaken in the Champaran district in northern Bihar
in April, 1917 to protest the abuses suffered by the
cultivators of the district as they were forced by B
planters/estate owners into growing indigo into one
third of their land. The practice was called
BHOORSINGH THE BARASINGHA
Kanha Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh has become the
first tiger reserve in India to officially introduce a
mascot, named Bhoorsingh the Barasingha. Barasingha
(swamp deer) is also the state animal of Madhya
Pradesh. The Kanha tiger reserve is the only place in the
world where this species exists.
‘OPERATION DURGA’ IN HARYANA
Haryana government has launched
form police squads that would aim to stop harassment
of women in public spaces and ensure adequate safety
for them. 24 squads have been formed for this purpose.
12
INDIA’s FIRST BIO GAS RUN BUS
A Kolkata based firm has launched country’s first bus
service in Kolkata that runs on the biogas from cow
manufactured in association
with Ashok Leyland charges a flat fare of rupee one only.
ANDHRA, TELANGANA BEST FOR BUSINESS
In a list prepared by the World Bank and DIPP
Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion), Andhra
Pradesh and Telangana have jointly topped the ease of
doing business ranking, while Gujarat has slipped to the
DELHI OFFICE SPACE MOST EXPENSIVE
Delhi's Connaught Place is the world's 9th most
expensive office location with annual prime rent of $
global property consultant CBRE.
With annual prime rent of $ 264.27 per sq ft, Hong Kong
(Central) is the world's most expensive office Market.
CENTENARY OF CHAMPARAN SATYAGRAHA
The Bihar Government launched year long celebrations
centenary of Mahatma Gandhi's Champaran
This was Gandhi’s first Satyagraha. It was
undertaken in the Champaran district in northern Bihar
in April, 1917 to protest the abuses suffered by the
cultivators of the district as they were forced by British
planters/estate owners into growing indigo into one
third of their land. The practice was called Tinkathia.
BHOORSINGH THE BARASINGHA
Kanha Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh has become the
first tiger reserve in India to officially introduce a
, named Bhoorsingh the Barasingha. Barasingha
(swamp deer) is also the state animal of Madhya
Pradesh. The Kanha tiger reserve is the only place in the
‘OPERATION DURGA’ IN HARYANA
Haryana government has launched Operation Durga to
form police squads that would aim to stop harassment
of women in public spaces and ensure adequate safety
for them. 24 squads have been formed for this purpose.

 Manipur to hold People’s Day on the 15th of every
month to enable the common public to get easy
access to the state’s top elected leaders and officials.
 Maharashtra has become the first state to launch a
special awareness drive to ensure
that transgenders in the state register as voters in
greater numbers.
GOVERNMENT
INITIATIVES
‘VAJRA’ SCHEME FOR SCIENTISTS
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) under
Ministry of Science and Technology launched the
Visiting Advanced Joint Research (VAJRA) Faculty
scheme in a bid to bring together the Indian
abroad and India-based researchers for conducting joint
researches in India. Scientists and academicians abroad
shall be invited to work in India for a period of one to
three months.
MISSION LAUNCHED FOR ARTISTS
The Culture Ministry has launched ‘National Mission on
Cultural Mapping of India’ as part of the PM's 'Ek
Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' (One India, Best India)
scheme to provide a direct channel of communication to
artistes from different fields with the gove
authorities.
The mission will cover all the blocks of the country,
involving more than six lakh villages to collect data for
preserving the scattered and near extinct art forms and
bringing all the cultural activities under one web based
umbrella for better results.
CAMPAIGN TO FIGHT DIARRHEA
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched
the Intensified Diarrhea Control Fortnight (IDCF)
intensify efforts to reduce child deaths due to
diarrhea. It aims to create mass awareness about
most effective and low-cost diarrhea treatment
combination of Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS) solution
and Zinc tablets.
AUGUST 2017
Manipur to hold People’s Day on the 15th of every
n public to get easy
access to the state’s top elected leaders and officials.
the first state to launch a
special awareness drive to ensure
state register as voters in
GOVERNMENT
JUNE
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) under
Ministry of Science and Technology launched the
Visiting Advanced Joint Research (VAJRA) Faculty
scheme in a bid to bring together the Indian scientists
based researchers for conducting joint
researches in India. Scientists and academicians abroad
shall be invited to work in India for a period of one to
The Culture Ministry has launched ‘National Mission on
Cultural Mapping of India’ as part of the PM's 'Ek
Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' (One India, Best India)
scheme to provide a direct channel of communication to
artistes from different fields with the government
The mission will cover all the blocks of the country,
involving more than six lakh villages to collect data for
preserving the scattered and near extinct art forms and
bringing all the cultural activities under one web based
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched
Intensified Diarrhea Control Fortnight (IDCF) to
to reduce child deaths due to
It aims to create mass awareness about the
treatment - a
Oral Rehydration Salt (ORS) solution
BILL TO PROTECT FINANCIAL CONSUMERS
The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal to
introduce a Financial Resolution and Deposit In
Bill, 2017. The Bill would provide a resolution for
financial sector entities to deal with bankruptcy
situation in banks, insurance companies and financial
sector entities. The law will help to protect the interests
of consumers of financial service providers in financial
distress.
OPERATION SWARN BY RAILWAYS
Indian Railways has launched ‘Operation Swarn’
to upgrade Shatabdis and Rajdhanis in the coming
months. Railway has identified 10 key areas or
parameters such as cleanliness, linen,
toilets, catering, wi-fi facility, coffee vending machines
and infotainment screens that need improvement.
ONLINE LEGAL SERVICE FOR RURAL AREAS
A video conferencing aided legal service 'Tele Law' has
been launched for the people living in
will be available across the 1,000 Common Service
Centre (CSC) network connecting the citizens to legal
service providers. The scheme will be tested as a pilot
across 500 CSCs in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
‘SATH’ LAUNCHED FOR STATES
NITI Aayog has launched SATH, a program for providing
‘Sustainable Action for Transforming Human capital’
with the State Governments. The program aims to
initiate transformation in the education and health
sectors. Initially, three states will be identified to
develop them as the future ‘role models’ for health
systems.
NEW REGULATOR FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
Govt plans to replace regulators of higher education
University Grants Commission (UGC) and All India
Council of Technical Education (AICTE) with a single
higher education regulator. The proposed agency
named ‘Higher Education Empowerment Regulation
Agency’ (HEERA) is aimed at eliminating overlaps in
jurisdiction and remove irrelevant regulatory
provisions.
13
BILL TO PROTECT FINANCIAL CONSUMERS
The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal to
introduce a Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance
Bill, 2017. The Bill would provide a resolution for
financial sector entities to deal with bankruptcy
situation in banks, insurance companies and financial
sector entities. The law will help to protect the interests
ice providers in financial
OPERATION SWARN BY RAILWAYS
Operation Swarn’ (Gold)
to upgrade Shatabdis and Rajdhanis in the coming
months. Railway has identified 10 key areas or
, linen, coach interiors,
fi facility, coffee vending machines
and infotainment screens that need improvement.
ONLINE LEGAL SERVICE FOR RURAL AREAS
A video conferencing aided legal service 'Tele Law' has
been launched for the people living in rural areas. It
will be available across the 1,000 Common Service
Centre (CSC) network connecting the citizens to legal
service providers. The scheme will be tested as a pilot
across 500 CSCs in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
‘SATH’ LAUNCHED FOR STATES
Aayog has launched SATH, a program for providing
‘Sustainable Action for Transforming Human capital’
with the State Governments. The program aims to
initiate transformation in the education and health
sectors. Initially, three states will be identified to
develop them as the future ‘role models’ for health
NEW REGULATOR FOR HIGHER EDUCATION
Govt plans to replace regulators of higher education
University Grants Commission (UGC) and All India
Council of Technical Education (AICTE) with a single
higher education regulator. The proposed agency
named ‘Higher Education Empowerment Regulation
Agency’ (HEERA) is aimed at eliminating overlaps in
jurisdiction and remove irrelevant regulatory

NATIONAL HUMAN MILK BANK LAUNCHED
Govt has launched the ‘Vatsalya – Maatri Amrit Kosh’, a
National Human Milk Bank and Lactation Counselling
Centre at the Lady Harding Medical College, New Delhi.
It is expected to be the largest centre of its kind in the
North India. It is an initiative of the LHMC
collaboration with the Norwegian government, Oslo
University and Norway-India Partnership Initiative.
3 APPS LAUNCHED BY TRAI
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India launched three
mobile Apps to provide consumer friendly monitoring
facility. The three apps, namely Mycall, Myspeed and Do
Not Disturb will help mobile phone users to rate their
experience about voice call quality in real time.
SKILL DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTH SECTOR
Health Ministry has launched – ‘Skill for Life, Save a Life’
initiative in New Delhi to promote skill development in
the health sector. The initiative aims to improve the
quality and quantity of professionals in the healthcare
system through better training.
ALL PORTS TO RUN ON SOLAR ENERGY
India plans to be the first country to h
government-owned ports running on solar and wind
energy. The government plans to install almost
megawatt solar and wind power generation capacity at
the ports by 2019.
PORTAL LAUNCHED FOR RAW MATERIAL
The National Highways and Infrastructure Development
Corporation has launched an e-commerce platform
‘inampro’ for construction and infrastructure raw
material for government and private procurement.
AUGUST 2017
NATIONAL HUMAN MILK BANK LAUNCHED
Maatri Amrit Kosh’, a
National Human Milk Bank and Lactation Counselling
Centre at the Lady Harding Medical College, New Delhi.
It is expected to be the largest centre of its kind in the
an initiative of the LHMC in
collaboration with the Norwegian government, Oslo
India Partnership Initiative.
launched three
mobile Apps to provide consumer friendly monitoring
pps, namely Mycall, Myspeed and Do
Not Disturb will help mobile phone users to rate their
experience about voice call quality in real time.
SKILL DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTH SECTOR
‘Skill for Life, Save a Life’
Delhi to promote skill development in
he initiative aims to improve the
quality and quantity of professionals in the healthcare
ALL PORTS TO RUN ON SOLAR ENERGY
plans to be the first country to have all 12
solar and wind
The government plans to install almost 200
solar and wind power generation capacity at
PORTAL LAUNCHED FOR RAW MATERIAL
Infrastructure Development
commerce platform
‘inampro’ for construction and infrastructure raw
material for government and private procurement.
 Amitabh Bachchan launched ‘Darwaja Band’ (shut
the door) campaign under ‘Swachh Bh
from Mumbai to discourage people from open
defecation.
 Govt plans to appoint retired judges as Nyaya Mitras
to expedite over 7.5 lakh cases pending for last 10
years in lower courts across the country.
 Railways launched ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’
service for buying tickets allowing passengers to
make payment within a window of 15 days.
‘SEVA’ TO MONITOR COAL MOVEMENT
With a view to increase the consumer connect as well as
the transparency and accountability in Coal dispatch,
Power Ministry launched the Saral Eindhan Vitaran
Application (SEVA). Developed in
Limited, the app tracks coal dispatch to 118 Power
Plants through Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA) of around
500 MT.
VIDYA-VEERTA ABHIYAN
Union ministry of HRD launched a
campaign, ‘Vidya-Veerta Abhiyan’, to promote
nationalism among youth by asking universities to
display portraits of Param Veer Chakra
soldiers on a wall in the campus.
‘SAMADHAN’ TO DEAL WITH NAXAL ISSUE
In a review meeting of left wing extremism affected
states, government has come out with a new doctrine
named ‘SMADHAN’ to deal effectively with the Naxal
challenge. The new doctrine will have 8 pillars as
under:
1. S- Smart Leadership
2. A- Aggressive Strategy
3. M- Motivation and Training
4. A- Actionable Intelligence
5. D- Dashboard Based KPIs (Key Performance
Indicators)
6. H- Harnessing Technology
7. A- Action plan for each Theatre
8. N- No access to Financing
14
Amitabh Bachchan launched ‘Darwaja Band’ (shut
the door) campaign under ‘Swachh Bharat’ mission
from Mumbai to discourage people from open
Govt plans to appoint retired judges as Nyaya Mitras
to expedite over 7.5 lakh cases pending for last 10
years in lower courts across the country.
‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ online
service for buying tickets allowing passengers to
make payment within a window of 15 days.
MAY
‘SEVA’ TO MONITOR COAL MOVEMENT
With a view to increase the consumer connect as well as
the transparency and accountability in Coal dispatch,
Power Ministry launched the Saral Eindhan Vitaran
Developed in-house by Coal India
Limited, the app tracks coal dispatch to 118 Power
Plants through Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA) of around
launched a nationwide
Veerta Abhiyan’, to promote
nationalism among youth by asking universities to
display portraits of Param Veer Chakra-decorated
‘SAMADHAN’ TO DEAL WITH NAXAL ISSUE
eting of left wing extremism affected
government has come out with a new doctrine
named ‘SMADHAN’ to deal effectively with the Naxal
challenge. The new doctrine will have 8 pillars as
Motivation and Training
Actionable Intelligence
Dashboard Based KPIs (Key Performance
Harnessing Technology
Action plan for each Theatre
No access to Financing

APP LAUNCHED FOR CLEANLINESS
Govt has launched the Swachh Bharat App with an aim
to involve people actively to become part of Swachh
Bharat Abhiyan. Once downloaded, it will deliver the
message about Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and will ask the
user to report the garbage around him. The App will be
monitored by the Union Ministry of Culture and will
work around various monuments and places of tourist
interest.
RAILWAY STARTS MEDICAL CARE @ Rs. 1
The railways have begun to roll out Emergency Medical
Response (EMR) units that provide medical care to
passengers for as low as one rupee. These clinics have
been started at five major railway stations in Mumbai
and soon nine more will be added.
AUGUST 2017
Govt has launched the Swachh Bharat App with an aim
to involve people actively to become part of Swachh
will deliver the
message about Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and will ask the
und him. The App will be
monitored by the Union Ministry of Culture and will
work around various monuments and places of tourist
CARE @ Rs. 1
The railways have begun to roll out Emergency Medical
provide medical care to
These clinics have
been started at five major railway stations in Mumbai
CBSE LINKED WITH E SANAD
Government has integrated CBSE's
in New Delhi with the online portal E Sanad for easy and
safe access of academic documents and records.
E Sanad is an E service for verification and attestation of
documents of Indian citizens. It is a faceless and paperless
service.
OPERATION CLEAN MONEY PORTAL LAUNCHED
Union Finance Ministry has launched Operation Clean
Money Portal with an aim to keep a tab on dishonest
citizens hiding their income from the authorities. It will
also enable citizen engagement for creating a tax
compliant society and citizens would be able to support
the Operation Clean Money.
FIRST VACCINE LAUNCHED FOR PNEUMONIA
India rolled out its first free anti-
children under five years of age to address the huge
burden of infant mortality. It will help prevent nearly
one lakh under-five deaths annually from pneumonia
caused by pneumococcal bacteria.
‘pneumococcal conjugate vaccine’ was launched from
Mandi in Himachal Pradesh.
15
CBSE LINKED WITH E SANAD
Government has integrated CBSE's academic repository
in New Delhi with the online portal E Sanad for easy and
safe access of academic documents and records.
is an E service for verification and attestation of
documents of Indian citizens. It is a faceless and paperless
OPERATION CLEAN MONEY PORTAL LAUNCHED
Union Finance Ministry has launched Operation Clean
Money Portal with an aim to keep a tab on dishonest
citizens hiding their income from the authorities. It will
also enable citizen engagement for creating a tax
liant society and citizens would be able to support
FIRST VACCINE LAUNCHED FOR PNEUMONIA
-pneumonia vaccine for
children under five years of age to address the huge
It will help prevent nearly
five deaths annually from pneumonia
caused by pneumococcal bacteria. The three-dose
‘pneumococcal conjugate vaccine’ was launched from

10 NEW NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS APPROV
The Union Cabinet approved the construction of 10
units of Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) for
nuclear power generation. This will result in
augmentation of nuclear power generation capacity by
7000 MW.
PORTAL LAUNCHED FOR TELECOM TOWERS
In its endeavour to clear misconceptions around the
issue of mobile tower emissions, Department of
Telecommunication (DoT) has launched Tarang Sanchar
Portal. It will provide a map-based search feature for
viewing the mobile towers in any locality and assessi
their EMF (Electro-magnetic field) emission level.
has prescribed standards for EMF emissions from
mobile towers that are ten times stricter than the
international standards.
SUPREME COURT GOES ONLINE
Indian judiciary crossed a milestone on May 10 when
country’s apex court – Supreme Court of India was
connected online to the Integrated Case Management
Information System-ICMIS, making it a paperless court.
In due course, all High Courts, District Courts, Sub
Division Courts and jails will be integrated with the new
system.
AUGUST 2017
10 NEW NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS APPROVED
The Union Cabinet approved the construction of 10
units of Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) for
This will result in
augmentation of nuclear power generation capacity by
PORTAL LAUNCHED FOR TELECOM TOWERS
s endeavour to clear misconceptions around the
issue of mobile tower emissions, Department of
Telecommunication (DoT) has launched Tarang Sanchar
based search feature for
viewing the mobile towers in any locality and assessing
magnetic field) emission level. DoT
has prescribed standards for EMF emissions from
mobile towers that are ten times stricter than the
May 10 when
Supreme Court of India was
Integrated Case Management
ICMIS, making it a paperless court.
In due course, all High Courts, District Courts, Sub-
ntegrated with the new
EC LAUNCHES 24X7 HELPLINE
The Election Commission of India has launched the
National Contact Centre with a toll free number
1800111950 to enable citizens to lodge 24X7 any
election related query or complaint in Hindi or Engl
THE REAL ESTATE (Regulation
Act, 2016 (RERA) came in to force w
act aims to protect the interests of homebuyers across
the country and bring transparency in the deals.
compulsory for all the builders and real estate
developers to get registered with RERA.
GOVT SCRAPS FIPB
In a move to reduce red tape in government and
facilitate ease of doing business, the government has
abolished the Foreign Investment Promotion Board
(FIPB) that approved the foreign investment proposals
up to Rs 5,000 crore. Now the concerned ministries will
grant the approval directly.
ONLINE ATAL PENSION YOJANA
With a view to digitally empower the
Yojana (APY) subscribers and improve the quality of
service, the facility of online viewing of the statement of
the transaction (e-SOT) and also the e
Retirement Account Number (e-
launched.
 To strengthen security and surveillance at railway
stations, the Railways has announced to install CCTV
cameras at more than 900 stations.
 A new coal allocation policy ‘SHAKTI’ (Scheme for
Harnessing and Allocating Koyla
India) launched for the power sector.
GST RAISES TAX EVASION LIMIT
Govt has decided to make tax evasion of over Rs 5 crore
under the proposed Goods and Services Tax
a non-bailable offence, with the police having authority
to make an arrest without a warrant.
was Rs 2.5 crore.
16
EC LAUNCHES 24X7 HELPLINE
The Election Commission of India has launched the
National Contact Centre with a toll free number-
1800111950 to enable citizens to lodge 24X7 any
election related query or complaint in Hindi or English.
THE REAL ESTATE (Regulation & Development)
came in to force w.e.f. May 01. The
act aims to protect the interests of homebuyers across
the country and bring transparency in the deals. It is
compulsory for all the builders and real estate
developers to get registered with RERA.
ape in government and
facilitate ease of doing business, the government has
abolished the Foreign Investment Promotion Board
(FIPB) that approved the foreign investment proposals
up to Rs 5,000 crore. Now the concerned ministries will
ONLINE ATAL PENSION YOJANA
With a view to digitally empower the Atal Pension
subscribers and improve the quality of
service, the facility of online viewing of the statement of
and also the e- Permanent
-PRAN card) have been
To strengthen security and surveillance at railway
stations, the Railways has announced to install CCTV
cameras at more than 900 stations.
A new coal allocation policy ‘SHAKTI’ (Scheme for
Koyla Transparently in
India) launched for the power sector.
ARPIL
GST RAISES TAX EVASION LIMIT
Govt has decided to make tax evasion of over Rs 5 crore
under the proposed Goods and Services Tax-GST regime
with the police having authority
to make an arrest without a warrant. Earlier this limit

LOK SABHA PASSES GST BILLS
After prolonged delays and several attempts, finally the
Lok Sabha on 29 March passed four Goods and Services
Tax (GST) Bills:
i. The Central Goods and Services Tax Bill, 2017 (The
CGST Bill)
ii. The Integrated Goods and Services Tax Bill, 2017 (The
IGST Bill)
iii. The Union Territory Goods and Services Tax Bill,
2017 (The UTGST Bill)
iv. The Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to the
States) Bill, 2017 (The Compensation Bill)
These GST Bills will subsume all the indirect taxes
currently levied such as the Value Added Tax (VAT),
excise duty, service tax and central sales tax. It
empowers the centre to impose an additional tax of up
to 1 per cent on the inter-state supply of goods for two
years or more.
THREE NEW LEGAL SERVICES LAUNCHED
Union Ministry of Law has launched three new services
as under:
i) Pro-bono legal services- platform for lawyers
willing to provide free services
ii) Tele-law service- to connect poor people with
lawyers through video conferencing facilities, to
be set up at Common Service Centres (CSCs).
iii) Nyaya Mitra Project- to focus on cases which
are more than ten years old.
PROG FOR FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY
Union ministry of food processing plans to launch an
umbrella programme named ‘SAMPADA’ for food
processing sector, with an outlay of Rs 6,000 crore.
Acronym ‘sampada’ stands for Scheme for
Produce Processing and Development of Agro
Processing Clusters.
AUGUST 2017
After prolonged delays and several attempts, finally the
Lok Sabha on 29 March passed four Goods and Services
i. The Central Goods and Services Tax Bill, 2017 (The
ii. The Integrated Goods and Services Tax Bill, 2017 (The
iii. The Union Territory Goods and Services Tax Bill,
iv. The Goods and Services Tax (Compensation to the
These GST Bills will subsume all the indirect taxes
currently levied such as the Value Added Tax (VAT),
excise duty, service tax and central sales tax. It
ers the centre to impose an additional tax of up
state supply of goods for two
NEW LEGAL SERVICES LAUNCHED
Union Ministry of Law has launched three new services
platform for lawyers
poor people with
lawyers through video conferencing facilities, to
be set up at Common Service Centres (CSCs).
to focus on cases which
PROG FOR FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY
Union ministry of food processing plans to launch an
umbrella programme named ‘SAMPADA’ for food
processing sector, with an outlay of Rs 6,000 crore.
Acronym ‘sampada’ stands for Scheme for Agro-Marine
Produce Processing and Development of Agro-
GOVT SAYS ‘NO’ TO RED BEACON
In a major step towards the elimination of VIP culture,
the Union cabinet has approved the notification
prohibiting the use of red beacon light on all
vehicles. Govt has decided to amend rule 108 of the
Central Motor Vehicles Rules of 1989 for this purpose.
Even the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Chief
Justice of India and Lok Sabha Speaker will NOT be
allowed to use the red beacon.
The ban will be implemented from May 1, 2017.
vehicles belonging to the fire service, police, army and
ambulances may be allowed to use red beacon to ensure
their smooth passage through traffic.
GOVT TO BUY VVPAT MACHINES
The Union Cabinet has cleared a proposal of the Election
Commission to procure VVPAT machines (
Verifiable Paper Audit Trail) for use during future
elections. The decision comes in the wake of growing
demands from opposition parties for holding all future
elections using paper trail machines along with EVMs, to
clear doubts about votes cast.
The EC has sought Rs 3,174 crore in all for procuring over
16 lakh paper trail machines to cover all polling stations
in the country.
P F ALLOWED FOR HOME LOAN
Over four crore subscribers of the Employees Provident
Fund Organisation (EPFO) will now be able to withdraw
up to 90 per cent of their accumulations in their PF
account for purchase of homes or for paying the EMIs
for home loans.
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF PETROLEUM
The Union Cabinet has approved setting up of Indian
Institute of Petroleum and Energy at Visakhapatnam
The institute will be set up as "an Institute of National
Importance" through an Act of Parliament.
GREEN GROWTH EQUITY FUND
India and the UK will set up a 240
Growth Equity Fund to finance clean energy
projects. The fund will be set up under the National
Infrastructure and Investment Fund (NIIF).
17
GOVT SAYS ‘NO’ TO RED BEACON
In a major step towards the elimination of VIP culture,
the Union cabinet has approved the notification
prohibiting the use of red beacon light on all VIP
. Govt has decided to amend rule 108 of the
Central Motor Vehicles Rules of 1989 for this purpose.
President, Prime Minister, Chief
Justice of India and Lok Sabha Speaker will NOT be
ban will be implemented from May 1, 2017. Only the
vehicles belonging to the fire service, police, army and
ambulances may be allowed to use red beacon to ensure
their smooth passage through traffic.
GOVT TO BUY VVPAT MACHINES
cleared a proposal of the Election
Commission to procure VVPAT machines (Voter-
for use during future
elections. The decision comes in the wake of growing
demands from opposition parties for holding all future
paper trail machines along with EVMs, to
The EC has sought Rs 3,174 crore in all for procuring over
16 lakh paper trail machines to cover all polling stations
F ALLOWED FOR HOME LOAN
subscribers of the Employees Provident
Fund Organisation (EPFO) will now be able to withdraw
up to 90 per cent of their accumulations in their PF
account for purchase of homes or for paying the EMIs
INDIAN INSTITUTE OF PETROLEUM
Cabinet has approved setting up of Indian
Institute of Petroleum and Energy at Visakhapatnam.
The institute will be set up as "an Institute of National
Importance" through an Act of Parliament.
GREEN GROWTH EQUITY FUND
240 million pound Green
Growth Equity Fund to finance clean energy
The fund will be set up under the National
Infrastructure and Investment Fund (NIIF).

KILKARI APP FOR PREGNANT WOMEN
The National Health Mission has launched a mobile
based application named 'Kilkari' in Haryana to create
awareness among pregnant women, parents and health
workers on the importance of ante and post natal care.
WOMEN ALLOWED TO RETAIN NAME
Prime Minister has announced that women are free to
retain their maiden names in their passports now after
the marriage. Up till now, to change the name in the
passport after marriage, one had to apply for a "re
issue" and get the specified change done in the name
GSI LAUNCHES WEB PORTAL ‘NAKSHE’ (MAPS)
Govt has launched a new web portal ‘Nakshe’ for
providing free download of Survey of India's
topographic maps of the entire country in PDF format to
Indian citizens. The maps can b e downloaded through
Aadhaar-enabled user authentication process.
The topographic maps on the scale of 1:50,000, contain
natural and man-made geographical features including
terrain or topography. The service was launched to mark
the 250th anniversary of the Survey of India.
PORTAL LAUNCHED FOR MARTYRS
Govt has launched the website and app named '
Ke Veer' to facilitate the monetary contribution to the
kin of soldiers killed in action. The website is
technically supported by National Informatics Centre
(NIC) and powered by State Bank of India.
AUGUST 2017
RI APP FOR PREGNANT WOMEN
has launched a mobile-
' in Haryana to create
awareness among pregnant women, parents and health
workers on the importance of ante and post natal care.
WOMEN ALLOWED TO RETAIN NAME
Prime Minister has announced that women are free to
names in their passports now after
the marriage. Up till now, to change the name in the
passport after marriage, one had to apply for a "re-
issue" and get the specified change done in the name
GSI LAUNCHES WEB PORTAL ‘NAKSHE’ (MAPS)
Govt has launched a new web portal ‘Nakshe’ for
providing free download of Survey of India's
topographic maps of the entire country in PDF format to
Indian citizens. The maps can b e downloaded through
enabled user authentication process.
graphic maps on the scale of 1:50,000, contain
made geographical features including
terrain or topography. The service was launched to mark
website and app named 'Bharat
contribution to the
The website is
National Informatics Centre
CENSOR BOARD GOES ONLINE
Govt has launched the online film certification system,
‘e-cinepramaan’, with a view to censor corruption and
promote clean cinema. The new system of Central
Board of Film Certification (CBFC) will make the entire
process of certification transparent and
paperless.
The payments made during the process by the producers
will go to Bharatkosh portal.
NATIONAL BOARD OF ELECTRIC MOBILITY
Government has constituted the National Board of
Electric Mobility (NBEM). The Board
formulate and propose short- as well as long
to promote electric mobility by encouraging the
manufacturing of various electrical vehicles.
TWO NEW APPS FOR TRANSPORT SECTOR
The government has launched two mobile
apps, eChallan and mParivahan.
integrated enforcement solution to manage traffic
violations while 'mParivahan' provides access to various
services, information and utilities related to the
transport sector.
POWERTEX LAUNCHED FOR WEAVERS
The Government has launched Power Tex India at over
45 locations in the country. It is a comprehensive
scheme for power loom sector development aimed at
providing one point solutions to various problems being
faced by the power loom weavers.
 Government plans to set up a Cen
Divyangs (disabled) in Uttar Pradesh.
 The FRBM committee headed by NK Singh has
recommended a fiscal deficit target of not more than
3% of GDP till financial year 2020.
FRBM: Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management
18
CENSOR BOARD GOES ONLINE
Govt has launched the online film certification system,
cinepramaan’, with a view to censor corruption and
promote clean cinema. The new system of Central
Board of Film Certification (CBFC) will make the entire
process of certification transparent and efficient and
The payments made during the process by the producers
NATIONAL BOARD OF ELECTRIC MOBILITY
Government has constituted the National Board of
The Board will examine,
as well as long-term plans
to promote electric mobility by encouraging the
manufacturing of various electrical vehicles.
TWO NEW APPS FOR TRANSPORT SECTOR
The government has launched two mobile
. First, 'eChallan' is an
integrated enforcement solution to manage traffic
violations while 'mParivahan' provides access to various
and utilities related to the
POWERTEX LAUNCHED FOR WEAVERS
Power Tex India at over
45 locations in the country. It is a comprehensive
scheme for power loom sector development aimed at
providing one point solutions to various problems being
faced by the power loom weavers.
Government plans to set up a Central university for
Divyangs (disabled) in Uttar Pradesh.
The FRBM committee headed by NK Singh has
recommended a fiscal deficit target of not more than
3% of GDP till financial year 2020.
Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management

ECONOMIC INDICATORS
GDP GROWTH SLIPS TO 7.1%
Data from the Ministry of Statistics showed that India’s
GDP grew 7.1% in the financial year 2016
than the 8% registered in 2015-16. Growth was
particularly slow in the fourth quarter of 2016
ripple effect of demonetisation, bringing down the GDP
to 6.1%.
INDIA LIKELY TO GROW BY 7.5% - MOODY’s
Moody's Investors Service in its Global Macro Outlook
has stated that India’s economic growth will accelerate
to 7.5 per cent in current fiscal and the government's
reform push will help achieve 8 per cent GDP growth
rate in about four years.
World Bank has projected a strong 7.2 per cent growth
rate for India during 2017 and likely to improve to 7.5%
in 2018 and 7.7% in 2019.
GOLD PUSHES IMPORTS BY 33%
India’s exports grew by 8.3% to $24.01 billion in May,
mainly on account of robust performance by sectors like
petroleum, chemicals, engineering goods as well as
gems and jewellery. Imports too jumped by 33% to
$37.85 billion mainly due to high gold imports, pushing
the trade deficit to $13.84 billion.
AUGUST 2017
INDICATORS
JUNE
Data from the Ministry of Statistics showed that India’s
GDP grew 7.1% in the financial year 2016-17, slower
Growth was
2016-17 due to
ripple effect of demonetisation, bringing down the GDP
MOODY’s
Moody's Investors Service in its Global Macro Outlook
has stated that India’s economic growth will accelerate
fiscal and the government's
reform push will help achieve 8 per cent GDP growth
has projected a strong 7.2 per cent growth
rate for India during 2017 and likely to improve to 7.5%
India’s exports grew by 8.3% to $24.01 billion in May,
mainly on account of robust performance by sectors like
petroleum, chemicals, engineering goods as well as
gems and jewellery. Imports too jumped by 33% to
high gold imports, pushing
 Industrial output in the country rose by 3.1 per cent
in April from a year earlier, mainly due to an increase
in electricity generation and mining.
 Growth in the country's eight core sect
2.5 per cent in April this year, mainly due to lower
coal, crude oil and cement production.
ADB PUTS INDIA’s GROWTH AT 7.4%
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
economy will grow 7.4 per cent this fiscal (2017
and 7.6 per cent in the next fiscal. India had grown 7.1
per cent in the previous fiscal.
INDIA MAY GROW BY 7.2% -
As per a report by IMF, India's growth is expected to
rebound to 7.2 per cent in the 2017
cent in 2018-19 after disruptions caused by
demonetisation.
INDIA TO GROW BY 7.1% - UN REPORT
India is expected to clock 7.1% growth this year and
may grow by 7.5% in 2018, according to a UN report,
which warned that the country faces heightened risks
related to the concentration of bad loans in the public
sector banks.
BASE YEAR REVISED FOR WPI / IIP
The government has revised the base year of Wholesale
Price Index, WPI and Index of Industrial Production, IIP
to 2011-2012 from earlier 2004
provide a more accurate picture as it will use prices
without indirect taxes. The new IIP series captures work
in progress for capital goods to avoid volatility. It has
407 item groups, as against 399 in old series.
INDIA 8TH IN ATTRACTING FDI
The FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) Confidence Index
compiled by the A.T. Kearney,
management consulting firm of USA has placed India at
the 8th spot. USA tops the index, followed by Germany
and China.
19
Industrial output in the country rose by 3.1 per cent
in April from a year earlier, mainly due to an increase
in electricity generation and mining.
Growth in the country's eight core sectors slowed to
2.5 per cent in April this year, mainly due to lower
coal, crude oil and cement production.
MAY
ADB PUTS INDIA’s GROWTH AT 7.4%
Asian Development Bank (ADB) has said that Indian
economy will grow 7.4 per cent this fiscal (2017-18),
7.6 per cent in the next fiscal. India had grown 7.1
- IMF
As per a report by IMF, India's growth is expected to
rebound to 7.2 per cent in the 2017-18 fiscal and 7.7 per
disruptions caused by
UN REPORT
India is expected to clock 7.1% growth this year and
may grow by 7.5% in 2018, according to a UN report,
which warned that the country faces heightened risks
tion of bad loans in the public
BASE YEAR REVISED FOR WPI / IIP
The government has revised the base year of Wholesale
Price Index, WPI and Index of Industrial Production, IIP
2012 from earlier 2004-05. The new WPI will
more accurate picture as it will use prices
without indirect taxes. The new IIP series captures work
in progress for capital goods to avoid volatility. It has
407 item groups, as against 399 in old series.
ARPIL
IN ATTRACTING FDI
The FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) Confidence Index
A.T. Kearney, a leading global
of USA has placed India at
USA tops the index, followed by Germany

ECONOMY & INDUSTRY
TEA OUTPUT PEAKS IN INDIA
India’s tea output reached a record high in 2016
rising by 1.4 % to 1.25 million ton, despite a 7.7 % drop
in South Indian tea crop, according to the Tea Board of
India. After China, India is the second largest producer
of tea in the world.
AFGHANISTAN OPENS AIR CARGO ROUTE
India and Afghanistan trade ties reached a new high
with the inauguration of the first-ever Afghanistan
air cargo route. The first flight departed from Kabul with
a 60-tonne consignment of goods, mostly medicinal
plants for India. The air route provides an opportunity
to both countries to bypass Pakistan that was the main
stumbling block when it came to trade between the two
via the land route.
IOC IS MOST PROFITABLE
Indian Oil Corporation has overtaken Oil and Natural
Gas Corporation (ONGC) to become India’s most
profitable state-owned company, earning net profit of
Rs. 19,106.40 crore in the FY ended March 31, 2017.
WORLD’S LARGEST OIL REFINERY
India’s three public sector oil companies
Corp. Ltd (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corp. Ltd (BPCL) and
Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd (HPCL), have joined
hands to build one of the world’s largest integrated
refinery-cum-petrochemicals complexes in Ratnagiri
district of Maharashtra. The 60 million metric tonnes
per annum (MMTPA) capacity complex is expected to be
commissioned by the year 2022.
AUGUST 2017
ECONOMY & INDUSTRY
JUNE
India’s tea output reached a record high in 2016-17
rising by 1.4 % to 1.25 million ton, despite a 7.7 % drop
in South Indian tea crop, according to the Tea Board of
India. After China, India is the second largest producer
AFGHANISTAN OPENS AIR CARGO ROUTE
India and Afghanistan trade ties reached a new high
ever Afghanistan-India
air cargo route. The first flight departed from Kabul with
mostly medicinal
plants for India. The air route provides an opportunity
to both countries to bypass Pakistan that was the main
stumbling block when it came to trade between the two
rtaken Oil and Natural
India’s most
, earning net profit of
ended March 31, 2017.
companies—Indian Oil
Corp. Ltd (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corp. Ltd (BPCL) and
Hindustan Petroleum Corp. Ltd (HPCL), have joined
hands to build one of the world’s largest integrated
petrochemicals complexes in Ratnagiri
The 60 million metric tonnes
per annum (MMTPA) capacity complex is expected to be
BACHCHAN TO PROMOTE GST
The much awaited GST will be launched from mid
of June 30-July 1. The GST launch function would be held
at Central Hall of Parliament and all MPs, CMs and state
finance ministers would be invited.
roped in Amitabh Bachchan as brand ambassador to
promote Goods and Services Tax (GST).
WOMEN EMPLOYMENT VERY LOW
According to India Development R
World Bank, India had one of the lowest female
participation in the workforce, ranking 120th among
131 countries.
As per the report, the participation level has been
dropping since 2005, despite having 42% women who
are graduates. More shocking is the fact is that most
women are employed in agriculture and less than 20 per
cent are in services and industry.
TRADE MARK FOR TAJ HOTEL
For the first time in India, a structure has been given a
trade mark. Mumbai’s Taj Mahal Palace hotel
given an image trade mark by the India’s Trade Mark
Registry. This means that no one now can make building
looking similar to the Taj Hotel.
 China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
approved $150 million equity investment loan for the
India Infrastructure Fund. It is the bank's first such
loan to fund private projects.
 National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC)
launched India's first 150 kWp canal top solar system
on cooling water channel inside its power station at
Mouda, near Nagpur in Maharashtra.
 The Asian Development Bank (ADB)
100 million loan agreement with the
Bank to finance large solar rooftop systems on
industrial and commercial buildings throughout
India.
 The World Bank has approved a Rs.283
Assam for implementing the Assam State Public
Finance Institutional Reforms project.
20
BACHCHAN TO PROMOTE GST
The much awaited GST will be launched from mid-night
July 1. The GST launch function would be held
Central Hall of Parliament and all MPs, CMs and state
finance ministers would be invited. The government has
roped in Amitabh Bachchan as brand ambassador to
promote Goods and Services Tax (GST).
WOMEN EMPLOYMENT VERY LOW
According to India Development Report released by
World Bank, India had one of the lowest female
participation in the workforce, ranking 120th among
As per the report, the participation level has been
dropping since 2005, despite having 42% women who
shocking is the fact is that most
women are employed in agriculture and less than 20 per
TRADE MARK FOR TAJ HOTEL
For the first time in India, a structure has been given a
trade mark. Mumbai’s Taj Mahal Palace hotel has been
given an image trade mark by the India’s Trade Mark
Registry. This means that no one now can make building
led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank has
equity investment loan for the
India Infrastructure Fund. It is the bank's first such
National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) has
launched India's first 150 kWp canal top solar system
on cooling water channel inside its power station at
r in Maharashtra.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed a $
100 million loan agreement with the Punjab National
finance large solar rooftop systems on
industrial and commercial buildings throughout
The World Bank has approved a Rs.283 crore loan for
Assam for implementing the Assam State Public
Finance Institutional Reforms project.

GYANM GENERAL AWARENESS (English Version) August 2017..!!

GYANM GENERAL AWARENESS (English Version) August 2017..!!

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GYANM GENERAL AWARENESS (English Version) August 2017..!!