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https://www.facebook.com/CurrentAffairsONLYOfficial/ PIB COMPILATION May 2017
S.NO. CONTENT PG.NO.

1. One IP- Two Dispensaries and Aadhaar Based Online Claim 3
Submission Schemes on International Labour Day
2. The Armoured Corps Celebrates 79th Armour Day 3
3. Wall of Valour IN Educational Institutions Launched 4
4. Cabinet approves Policy for providing preference to domestically 5
manufactured iron & steel products in government procurement
5. Cabinet approves New Central Sector Scheme SAMPADA 6
(Scheme For Agro-Marine Processing And Development Of Agro-
Processing Clusters) (Ministry of Food Processing Industries)
6. Two Launches in a row with Precise Hit of Brahmos Block 3 7
7. Cabinet approves National Steel Policy 2017 8
8. Swachh Survekshan-2017 10
9. eVIN Project of Health Ministry becomes global best practise in 11
immunization
10. The promulgation of Banking Regulation (Amendment) 13
Ordinance, 2017
11. The facility of online registration of Child Care Institutions 13
launched by the WCD Minister
12. Indian Warships visit Alexandria, Egypt 15
13. GSLV Successfully Launches South Asia Satellite 16
14. Smartgram Initiative 17
15. DIPP & WIPO to set up Technology and Innovation Support 17
Centers
16. India unanimously elected to head UN-Habitat, the United 19
Nations Human Settlements Programme
17. 29th India- Indonesia Co-Ordinated Patrol (Corpat) Commences 21
18. Measurement of Liveability Index 22
19. Project LOcal Treatment of Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy 23
Reuse- LOTUS- Ministry of Science & Technology
20. Rail Connectivity for Chardham Pilgrimage 24
21. e-Krishi Samvad 24
22. Govt. regulator gives nod for GM mustard 25
23. Measures announced by the Government to curb the menace of 26
online Child Sexual Abuse Material
24. Meeting of National Platform on Disaster Risk Reduction 27
25. Indias Ujala to light up UK homes 28
26. The Union Minister of Finance launches Operation Clean Portal 28
27. NITI Aayog Conducts First Samavesh Meeting 30
28. Boost to transform domestic nuclear industry 31
29. Minister of Railways Releases Third Party Audit Report on Station 31
Cleanliness
30. Chitale Committee recommends several measures for Desiltation 32

of Ganga
31. Study on Common Risk Mitigation Mechanism for Solar Power 34
Generation Projects
32. International Day for Biodiversity Celebrated all over the 35
Country MAY 22- UNITED NATIONS
33. The Union Minister of Finance Shri Arun Jaitley says India- 37
Africa together can shape the future of the world
34. Key achievements of Department of Economic Affairs: 39
Improvement in Indias Macroeconomic Stability
35. Petroleum Minister co chairs India OPEC Institutional Dialogue 39
at Vienna
36. Ozone2Climate Technology Roadshow 41
37. SEVA App 42
38. Reader titled Raising Happy Children and Providing Safe 43
Childhoods released
39. Joint Declaration of Intent between Germany and India 44
regarding cooperation in the sector of alternative medicine
40. Cabinet approves phasing out Foreign Investment Promotion 44
Board
41. Fund for development and maintenance of National Waterways 45
(NWs)
42. Cabinet approves policy for providing preference to Make in 46
India in Government procurements
43. Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction 48
44. National Commission for Women holds Interactive Meeting with 49
State Commissions for Women
45. Indo-Thailand Siam Bharat 17: HADR 50
46. National Award for Social Understanding and Upliftment of 51
Weaker Sections
47. ATR of DRDO 52
48. North Eastern Council 52
49. International Day of UN Peacekeepers 53
50. Important Decision of NCST 54
51. International Comparison Programme (ICP) 55
52. Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Punjab National Bank 56
(PNB) sign $100 million loan to finance Solar Rooftop projects.
(Not World Bank)
One IP- Two Dispensaries and Aadhaar Based Online Claim

Submission Schemes on International Labour Day
{Public Policy}
Source: PIB
Minister of Labour and Employment launched two schemes One IP- Two
Dispensaries and Aadhaar based Online Claim Submission on the occasion of
International Labour Day.
The Government is Committed for Job Security, Wage Security and Social Security of
the Workers
Significance of this Scheme:

Under One IP- Two Dispensaries scheme ESIC has given an option to an Insured Person
(IP) to choose two dispensaries, one for self and another for family through an employer.
This will benefit all IPs, especially migrant workers who are working in other than home
State, while their families are living in their native States.
Because of non-availability of option of second dispensary, the dependant members of
family are often deprived of medical benefits.
By introducing the concept of One IP- Two Dispensaries, IP as well as their family
members would now be able to get treatment from either of the dispensaries and in case
of emergency from any ESI Institution.
As of now, around 3 crores IPs are covered under ESIC and total number of beneficiaries
i.e. IPs and their family members is over 12 crores.
Under Aadhaar based Online Claim Submission scheme all EPF Members who have
activated their UAN and seeded their KYC (Aadhaar) with EPFO will be able to apply for
PF final settlement (form19), Pension withdrawal benefit (Form10-C) and PF part
withdrawal (Form31) from the their UAN Interface directly.
The Armoured Corps Celebrates 79th Armour Day
{Security}
Source: PIB
The Armoured Corps celebrated its 79th ARMOUR DAY on 01 May 17.
The event commemorates the mechanization of the erstwhile Indian Cavalry on 01 May
1938, when the SCINDE HORSE became the first Indian Cavalry Regiment to stable its
horses and convert to the Vickers Light Tank and Chevrolet Armoured Cars.
The elite Tank Corps celebrated the DAY with serving & veterans officers fraternity of
the Corps and other arms/services.
The elegant function truly epitomized traditional elan, camaraderie and all round
excellence that characterizes the Armoured Corps.
Organized, equipped and trained to effectively accomplish assigned mission in all types
of conventional operations in varied terrain, the Armoured Corps also contributes
substantially to the Armys counter insurgency effort with a large representation in the
Rashtriya Rifles and Assam Rifles.
It has a standing Contingent in the UN Peace Keeping Mission in Lebanon as its
representatives amidst the blue beret fraternity.
Wall of Valour IN Educational Institutions Launched
{Education}
Source: PIB
Wall of Valour in 1,000 educational institutions across the country
Portraits of Param Vir Chakra (PVC) decorated soldiers will be displayed at designated
places on educational campuses to instil sense of nationalism among the students. This
is part of a nationwide Vidya Veerta Abhiyan.
VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAN:
It Highlighting the importance of the occasion gratitude towards the most difficult
service rendered by our armed forces. We Feel secure just because of the continuous vigil
and alertness of our forces busy in securing our borders.
These are our real post-independence heroes while the freedom fighters who laid their
lives and faced atrocities for the cause of freedom are the natural heroes since the days of
Satyagraha which culminated in the revolution for getting independence from the foreign
rule.
Cabinet approves Policy for providing preference to domestically

manufactured iron & steel products in government procurement
{Public Policy}
Source: PIB
This policy seeks to accomplish the PMs vision of Make in India with objective of
nation building and encourage encourage domestic manufacturing.
Key facts:
The policy mandates to provide preference to Domestically Manufactured Iron &
Steel Products (DMI&SP), in Government Procurement. The policy is applicable on
all government tenders where price bid is yet to be opened.
The policy provides a minimum value addition of 15% in notified steel products which
are covered under preferential procurement.
In order to provide flexibility, Ministry of Steel may review specified steel products and
the minimum value addition criterion.
While implementing who shall provide the policy, it poses trust on each domestic
manufacturer who shall provide self-certification to the procuring Government
agency declaring that the iron & steel products are domestically manufactured in
terms of the domestic value addition prescribed.
It shall not normally be the responsibility of procuring agency to verify the correctness of
the claim. In few cases, the onus of demonstrating the correctness-of the same shall be on
the bidder when asked to do so.
In case any manufacturer is aggrieved, a grievance redressal committee set up under the
Ministry of Steel shall dispose of the complaint in a time bound manner, in four weeks.
There are provisions in the policy for waivers to all such procurements, where specific
grades of steel are not manufactured in the country, or the quantities as per the demand
of the project cannot be met through domestic sources.
The policy is envisaged to promote growth and development of domestic steel Industry
and reduce the inclination to use, low quality low cost imported steel in Government
funded projects. It shall be the responsibility of every Government Agency to ensure
implementation of the policy.
Cabinet approves New Central Sector Scheme SAMPADA (Scheme For

Agro-Marine Processing And Development Of Agro-Processing Clusters)
(Ministry of Food Processing Industries)
{Public Policy},{Agriculture}
Source: PIB
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri
Narendra Modi has given its approval for re-structuring the schemes of the Ministry of
Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) under new Central Sector Scheme SAMPADA
(Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing
Clusters) for the period 2016-20 coterminous with the 14th Finance Commission cycle.
The objective of SAMPADA is to supplement agriculture, modernize processing and
decrease agri-waste.
SAMPADA- Scheme:
SAMPADA is an umbrella scheme incorporating ongoing schemes of the Ministry like
Mega Food Parks, Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure, Food Safety
and Quality Assurance Infrastructure, etc. and also new schemes like Infrastructure for
Agro-processing Clusters, Creation of Backward and Forward Linkages, Creation /
Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities.
The SAMPADA is a comprehensive package to give a renewed thrust to the food
processing sector in the country.
It aim at development of modern infrastructure to encourage entrepreneurs to set up
food processing units based on cluster approach, provide effective and seamless
backward and forward integration for processed food industry by plugging gaps in
supply chain and creation of processing and preservation capacities and modernization/
expansion of existing food processing units.
The implementation of SAMPADA will result in creation of modern infrastructure with
efficient supply chain management from farm gate to retail outlet.
It will not only provide a big boost to the growth of food processing sector in the
country but also help in providing better prices to farmers and is a big step
towards doubling of farmers income.
It will create huge employment opportunities especially in the rural areas.
It will also help in reducing wastage of agricultural produce, increasing the

processing level, availability of safe and convenient processed foods at affordable
price to consumers and enhancing the export of the processed foods.
Background
Food Processing Sector has emerged as an important segment of the Indian economy
in terms of its contribution to GDP, employment and investment. During 2015-16, the
sector constituted as much as 9.1 and 8.6 per cent of GVA in Manufacturing and
Agriculture sector respectively.
Mega Food Park:

Various measures have been taken by the government to give a boost to the food
processing sector. With these measures food processing sector has grown at 7 per cent.
In order to arrest post-harvest losses of horticulture & non-horticulture produce,
the Ministry has accorded approval to 42 Mega Food Parks and 236 Integrated Cold
Chains for creation of modern infrastructure for the food processing along the value
chain from the farm to the market.
Government has taken various other measures to boost food processing sector as
follows:
To provide impetus to investment in food processing and retail sector, govt. has allowed
100% FDI in trading including through e-commerce, in respect of food products
manufactured and / or produced in India. This will benefit farmers immensely and will
create back end infrastructure and significant employment opportunities.
The govt. has also set up a Special Fund of Rs. 2000 crore in NABARD to make
available affordable credit at concessional rate of interest to designated food parks
and agro processing units in the designated food parks.
Food and agrobased processing units and cold chain infrastructure have been brought
under the ambit ofPriority Sector Lending (PSL) to provide additional credit for
food processing activities and infrastructure thereby, boosting food processing,
reducing wastage, create employment and increasing farmers income.
Two Launches in a row with Precise Hit of Brahmos Block 3
{Science and Technology}
Source: PIB
South Western Commands Corps Strike One successfully carried out the firing of the
advanced BRAHMOS Block III land attack cruise missile system in the Andaman &
Nicobar Islands.
BRAHMOS Block III
These successful firings of the supersonic cruise missile were carried out in full
operational land-to-land configurations from Mobile Autonomous Launchers
(MAL) at its full-range.
Meeting all flight parameters in a copybook manner while conducting high level and
complex manoeuvers, the multi-role missile successfully hit the land-based target
with desired precision, in both the trials demonstrating its accuracy of less than
one metre.
This is the fifth consecutive time when the Block-III version of BRAHMOS LACM has
been successfully launched and hit the land-based target in top-attack mode, an
incredible feat not achieved by any other weapon system of its genre.
Indian Army, which became the first land force in the world to deploy the
BRAHMOS in 2007, has raised several regiments of this formidable weapon. Jointly
developed by Indias DRDO and Russias NPOM, the multi-platform, multi-mission
BRAHMOS is capable of being launched from land, sea, sub-sea and air against
surface and sea-based targets.
The range of the supersonic missile was initially capped at 290 km as per the obligations
of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).
Since Indias entry into the club, the range has been extended to 450 km and the plan is
to increase it to 600km.
Cabinet approves National Steel Policy 2017
{Public Policy}
Source: PIB
New Policy A reflect of long term Vision
Focus on enhancing domestic consumption, high quality steel production and making the
sector globally competitive
The new Steel Policy enshrines the long term vision of the Government to give impetus to
the steel sector.
It seeks to enhance domestic steel consumption and ensure high quality steel
production and create a technologically advanced and globally competitive steel
industry.
Some highlights of New Steel Policy
The Indian steel sector has grown rapidly over the past few years and presently it is the
third largest steel producer globally, contributing to about 2% of the countrys GDP.
India has also crossed 100 MT mark for production for sale in 2016-17.
The New Steel Policy, 2017 aspires to achieve 300MT of steel-making capacity by 2030.
This would translate into additional investment of Rs. 10 lakh Crore by 2030-31.
The Policy seeks to increase consumption of steel and major segments are infrastructure,
automobiles and housing. New Steel Policy seeks to increase per capita steel
consumption to the level of 160 Kgs by 2030 from existing level of around 60 Kg.
Potential of MSME steel sector has been recognised. Policy stipulates that adoption of
energy efficient technologies in the MSME steel sector will be encouraged to improve the
overall productivity & reduce energy intensity.
Steel Ministry will facilitate R&D in the sector through the establishment of Steel
Research and Technology Mission of India (SRTMI). The initiative is aimed to spearhead
R&D of national importance in iron & steel sector utilizing tripartite synergy amongst
industry, national R&D laboratories and academic institutes.
Ministry through policy measures will ensure availability of raw materials like Iron ore,
Coking coal and non-coking coal, Natural gas etc. at competitive rates.
With the roll out of the National Steel Policy-2017, it is envisaged that the industry will
be steered in creating an environment for promoting domestic steel and thereby
ensuring a scenario where production meets the anticipated pace of growth in
consumption, through a technologically advanced and globally competitive steel
industry. This will be facilitated by Ministry of Steel, in coordination with relevant
Ministries, as may be required.
Background:
Steel is one of the most important products in the modern world and forms the backbone
to any industrial economy.
India being one of the fastest growing economies in the world, and steel finding its
extensive application right from construction, infrastructure, power, aerospace and
industrial machinery to consumer products, the sector is of strategic importance to the
country.
National Steel Policy 2005 (NSP 2005) sought to indicate ways and means of
consolidating the gains flowing out of the then economic order and charted out a road
map for sustained and efficient growth of the Indian steel industry, it required
adaptation in view of the recent developments unfolding in India and also worldwide,
both on the demand and supply sides of the steel market.
Swachh Survekshan-2017
{Social issue}
Source: PIB
Swachh Survekshan rankings for the year 2017 have been released.
Swachh Survekshan-2017 commissioned by the Ministry of Urban Development during

January February, 2017 aimed at capturing the improvement in sanitation scenario,
primarily based on making cities and towns Open Defecation Free and improvement in
processing of municipal solid waste. Accordingly, it is outcome oriented.
Criteria and weightages for different components of sanitation related aspects used
for the Survey are:
Solid Waste Management including Door-to-Door collection, Processing and Disposal,
ODF status etc: 45% of total 2,000 marks i.e 900 marks
Citizen feedback: 30% i.e 600 of total marks
Independent observation: 25% i.e 500 marks
Quality Council of India which conducted the survey deployed 421 assessors for on the
spot assessment of 17,500 locations in 434 cities and towns. Another 55 persons
regularly monitored the survey process in real time. Filed inspection resulted in
evidence based reports on the cleanliness situation with assessors using geo-tagged
devices.
Performance of cities:
Top 10 clean cities of India in 2017 are: Indore -1, Bhopa-2, Visakhapatnam-3, Surat-4,
Mysuru-5, Tiruchirapally-6, New Delhi Municipal Council-7, Navi Mumbai-8, Tirupati-9
and Vadodara-10.
Bottom 10 clean cities/towns of India in 2017 are: Gonda (UP)-434, Bhusawal
(Maharashtra)-433, Bagaha (Bihar)-432, Hardoi (Uttarakhand)-431, Katihar (Bihar)-430,
10
Bahraich (UP)-429, Muktsar (Punjab)-428, Abohar (Punjab)-427, Shahjahanpur (UP)-

426 and Khurja (UP)-425.
Four of the bottom 10 clean cities are from UP, two each from Bihar and Punjab and one
each from Uttarakhand and Maharashtra.
Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh account for 31 of the top 50 clean cities
with 12 in Gujarat, 11 in MP and 8 in AP. Telangana and Tamil Nadu account for 4 cities
each in top 50, followed by Maharashtra with 3.
Chandigarh, Chattisgarh, Delhi, HP, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Sikkim and UP account for one
city each in top 50 clean cities of the country.
Rajasthan and Punjab have 5 towns each in the bottom 50, followed by Maharashtra-2
and one each from Haryana, Karnataka and Lakshadweep.
Faridabad in Haryana has emerged as the Fastest Mover Big City. At the national level,
Tirupati was ranked the Cleanest Medium City while Ambikapur, Chattisgarh bagged
this honour in Small Cities category.
Rewa, Madhya Pradesh emerged as the Faster Mover in medium cities category,
Khargone, Madhya Pradesh moved the fastest by significantly improving its rank this
year over that of 2014 Survey in small cities category.
eVIN Project of Health Ministry becomes global best practise in

immunization
{Health issue}
Source: PIB
Global best practice of eVIN (electronic vaccine intelligence network) project
Indias electronic vaccine intelligence network project also known as eVIN project has
got the attention of five countries. Philippines, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nepal and
Thailand are mulling to replicate Indias immunisation project.
eVIN project:
eVIN is an indigenously developed technology system in India that digitizes vaccine
stocks and monitors the temperature of the cold chain through a smartphone application.
The eVIN is presently being implemented across twelve states in India.
11
eVIN aims to support Indias Universal Immunisation Programme by providing real-

time information on vaccine stocks and flows, and storage temperatures across all cold
chain points in states.
The project is being implemented by the United Nations Development Programme
(UNDP).
eVIN aims to strengthen the evidence base for improved policy-making in vaccine
delivery, procurement and planning for new antigens in India. eVIN provides an
integrated solution to address widespread inequities in vaccine coverage by supporting
state governments in overcoming constraints of infrastructure, monitoring and
management information systems and human resources, often resulting in overstocking
and stock-outs of vaccines in storage centres.
eVIN project focus on three things:

Technology: Under this project, technology enable an evidence-based decision-making
by making available online real-time information on vaccine stocks and storage
temperature through the eVIN application software and temperature loggers.
Governance: To ensure efficient vaccine logistics management by systemising record
keeping through standardising stock and distribution registers; identifying gaps and
improving clarity on vaccine cold chain network; drawing attention to infrastructure
upgrades; developing standard operating procedures; and encouraging good practices.
Human resources: To empower the state cold chain network by building the capacities
of government cold chain handlers; and deploying vaccine and cold chain managers in
every district for constant support to estimate vaccine requirements, supervise cold
chain handlers and coordinate with cold chain technicians across the district.
eVIN empowers the cold chain handlers by building technical capacities and providing a
robust decision-making tool for cold chain managers through a complete overview of
vaccine replenishment times, supply and consumption patterns.
By streamlining the vaccine flow network, eVIN is a powerful contribution to

strengthening health systems and ensures equity through easy and timely availability of
vaccines to all children.
12
The promulgation of Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017
{Banking Sector}
Source: PIB
The Ordinance enables the Union Government to authorize the Reserve Bank of India
(RBI) to direct banking companies to resolve specific stressed assets
The promulgation of Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 will lead to

effective resolution of stressed assets, particularly in consortium or multiple banking
arrangements.
Key facts:
The promulgation of the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 inserting
two new Sections (viz. 35AA and 35AB) after Section 35A of the Banking Regulation
Act, 1949 enables the Union Government to authorize the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to
direct banking companies to resolve specific stressed assets by initiating insolvency
resolution process, where required.
The RBI has also been empowered to issue other directions for resolution, and appoint or
approve for appointment, authorities or committees to advise banking companies for
stressed asset resolution.
This action of the Union Government will have a direct impact on effective resolution of
stressed assets, particularly in consortium or multiple banking arrangements, as the RBI
will be empowered to intervene in specific cases of resolution of non-performing assets,
to bring them to a definite conclusion.
The Government is committed to expeditious resolution of stressed assets in the banking
system.
The recent enactment of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016 has opened up
new possibilities for time bound resolution of stressed assets.
The SARFAESI and Debt Recovery Acts have been amended to facilitate recoveries. A
comprehensive approach is being adopted for effective implementation of various
schemes for timely resolution of stressed assets.
The facility of online registration of Child Care Institutions launched by

the WCD Minister
13
{Social issue}
Source: PIB
The WCD Minister, said that online registration will provide a centralized system where
all the information will be readily available about the CCIs in the country.
It will be possible to know on a real time basis as to how many children are available in
each CCI, how many are available for adoption, which children need help and what type
of assistance needs to be provided to them.
The new online registration process there will be transparency in the system now and it
will be possible to offer greater care and protection to the children.
The module for online registration of CCIs has been developed by the WCD Ministry with
the assistance of NIC. This will facilitate and streamline the functioning of State
Governments/UT Administrations and set in place a uniform registration process
throughout the country. In this regard the Ministry held various consultations and
meetings with representatives from different States/UTs, NIC to finalize the module for
registration of CCIs.
Background:
The proposed system is in accordance with Rule 21 (12) of Juvenile Justice Central Model
Rules 2016 which states that The Central Government shall facilitate developing a
model online system for receipt and processing of applications and grant or cancellation
of registration and in the interim the systems existing in the States and Union Territories
shall continue.
Further, Section 41 (1) and Section 42 of Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of
Children) Act 2015 (JJ Act), provides for mandatory registration of all Child Care
Institutions with penal provisions in case of non-compliance with imprisonment which
may extend to one year or a fine of not less than one lakh rupees or both.
At present there is a system of manual registration of CCIs followed by States/ UTs due to
which there is no national data base on the number of CCIs being registered under the JJ
Act in the country. Further there is a lack of transparency and it is difficult to monitor the
Child Care Intuitions and their functioning due to lack of data available.
The States/UTs need to designate one nodal officer at State level and one District level
nodal officer in each of the district to make them responsible in the implementation of
14
online registration process. Further, the States/UTs shall also designate an officer who
shall be the Registration Authority at State/UT level to grant registration.
Indian Warships visit Alexandria, Egypt
{International Relations}
Source: PIB
As part of the Indian Navys overseas deployment (OSD) to the Mediterranean Sea and
the West Coast of Africa, two Indian warships, INS Mumbai and INS Aditya, arrived at
Alexandria on 05 May 17 for a three-day visit.
The warships will engage extensively with the Egyptian Navy during their stay in
harbour.
Apart from professional interactions, a number of sports and social engagements are also
planned, which would go a long way in enhancing co-operation and understanding
between these two important and capable navies.
India and Egypt ties:
India and Egypt are two of the worlds most ancient civilizations with a rich history of
close contact. Building upon the rich and longstanding relations that have existed
between India and Egypt, both nations have developed warm relations in several
spheres.
Training co-operation between the two militaries exist at the highest levels. One such
significant milestone in defence cooperation was the training of Egyptian pilots by Indian
Air Force pilots and the joint venture to manufacture the famous Helwan 300 fighter jet.
The setting up of the Indo-Egypt Joint Defence Committee (JDC) in 2006 was another
significant step in strengthening the relations between the two nations. A number of such
bilateral agreements for defence co-operation and cultural exchanges exist between the
two nations, many of which were signed during the Presidential visit to India in 2013.
Trade between India and Egypt remains vibrant with many Indian corporate houses
having strong interests in Egypt.
With governments of both countries keen on sustaining strong diplomatic ties, the
current visit seeks to underscore Indias peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly
15
countries and, in particular, to strengthen the existing bonds of friendship between India
and Egypt.
GSLV Successfully Launches South Asia Satellite
Source: PIB
Indias Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F09) successfully launched the
2230 kg South Asia Satellite (GSAT-9) into its planned Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit
(GTO).
Launch of GSLV was its eleventh and took place from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish
Dhawan Space Centre SHAR (SDSC SHAR), Sriharikota, the spaceport of India.
This is the fourth consecutive success achieved by GSLV carrying indigenously
developed Cryogenic Upper Stage.
In its oval shaped GTO, the South Asia Satellite is now orbiting the Earth with a
perigee (nearest point to Earth) of 169 km and an apogee (farthest point to Earth)
of 36,105 km with an orbital inclination of 20.65 deg with respect to the equator.
Soon after separation from GSLV, the two solar arrays of the satellite were automatically
deployed in quick succession and the Master Control Facility (MCF) at Hassan in
Karnataka assumed control of the satellite.
South Asia Satellite is a communication satellite built by ISRO to provide a variety of
communication services over the South Asian region. For this, it is equipped with Ku-
band transponders.
The South Asian Satellite Some highlights
Space diplomacy has touched new heights with Prime Minister Narendra Modis unique
gift in the sky to South Asian neighbours.
The gift of a communications satellite for use by neighbours at no cost has perhaps no
precedent worldwide.
The satellite, which weighs over 2 tonnes, has been fabricated in three years at a cost of
over Rs. 230 crore.
Its footprint that extends all over South Asia.
The South Asia Satellite has 12 Ku band transponders which Indias neighbours
can utilise to increase communications.
16
Each country will get access to at least one transponder through which they could beam
their own programming.
The satellite will facilitate DTH television, VSAT links, tele-education, telemedicine and
disaster management support. It will provide critical communication links in times of
disasters such as earthquakes, cyclones, floods, and tsunamis.
Heads of Government from all the seven South Asian nations who are benefiting from the
satellite, connected via video conference, in a unique celebration of the successful launch.
Although the satellite is intended to serve the SAARC region, Pakistan has opted out of
the program, while Afghanistan has not pledged their commitment.
Smartgram Initiative
{Public Policy}
Source: PIB
The SMARTGRAM initiative of Rashtrapati Bhavan was inaugurated for five villages of
Haryana i.e. Tajnagar, Dhaula, Alipur, Harchandpur and Rojka Meo by the President of
India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee on July 2, 2016. On May 1, 2017, it was approved that the
initiative be extended to 100 villages in the vicinity of the initially selected five village of
Haryana.
The aim of the meeting was to sensitize them on the initiative and discuss plans for
implementation of various programmes in these villages.
Initiatives:
A large number of projects have been undertaken in the initially selected five villages of
Haryana under the SMARTGRAM initiative in the fields of agriculture, skill
development, energy, education, heath, employment generation, developing
entrepreneurship
These initiatives have generated a lot of enthusiasm in the nearby areas. Therefore, this
initiative was extended to 95 more villages in the vicinity of the earlier selected five
villages taking the total number of villages under the SMARTGRAM initiative to 100.
DIPP & WIPO to set up Technology and Innovation Support Centers
17
Source: PIB
The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) and World Intellectual
Property Organization (WIPO)have signed an agreement to establish Technology and
Innovation Support Centers (TISC)
WIPOs Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISC) program provides innovators
in developing countries with access to locally based, high quality technology information
and related services, helping them to exploit their innovative potential and to create,
protect, and manage their intellectual property (IP) rights.
Services offered by TISCs may include:
Access to online patent and non-patent (scientific and technical) resources and IP-related
publications;
Assistance in searching and retrieving technology information;
Training in database search;
On-demand searches (novelty, state-of-the-art and infringement);
Monitoring technology and competitors;
Basic information on industrial property laws, management and strategy, and technology
commercialization and marketing.
Background:
The Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM) is designated as the National Focal
point for the TISC national network. As the national focal point, CIPAM shall identify
potential host institutions, assess their capacities and support them in joining the TISC
project.
CIPAM will also act as the main intermediary between WIPO and TISC host institutions
and coordinate all the activities of the national TISC network.
TISC will give an impetus to Knowledge sharing, sharing of best practices among the
TISCs, capacity building, generation and commercialization of IPs.
CIPAM Ministry of Commerce and Industry
CIPAM, which functions under the aegis of the Department of Industrial Policy and
Promotion (DIPP) was set up pursuant to the National IPR Policy that envisages its
creation in order to facilitate promotion, creation, and commercialization of IP
assets.
18
CIPAM, the pivotal role of IPR Policy in protecting the public interest, as well as
promoting creativity and innovation in the country.
The CIPAM logo has been designed keeping in mind the clarion call, Creative India;
Innovative India as the Cell is tasked with the crucial role of achieving the
objectives of the IPR Policy.
WIPO
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) is the global forum for intellectual
property services, policy, information and cooperation. We are a self-funding agency of
the United Nations, with 189 member states.
Our mission is to lead the development of a balanced and effective international
intellectual property (IP) system that enables innovation and creativity for the
benefit of all. Our mandate, governing bodies and procedures are set out in the WIPO
Convention, which established WIPO in 1967.
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
Member States
WIPOs member states determine the direction, budget and activities of the
Organization through the decision-making bodies. We currently have 189 member
states.
To become a member, a state must deposit an instrument of ratification or accession

with the Director General. The WIPO Convention provides that membership is open to
any state that is:
A member of the Paris Union for the Protection of Industrial Property, or member of the
Berne Union for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works; or
A member of the United Nations, or of any of the United Nations Specialized Agencies, or
of the International Atomic Energy Agency, or that is a party to the Statute of the
International Court of Justice; or
Invited by the WIPO General Assembly to become a member state of the
Organization.
India unanimously elected to head UN-Habitat, the United Nations

Human Settlements Programme
{Global groupings}
19
Source: PIB
India has been unanimously elected as the President of the UN-Habitat, an organ of the
United Nations Organisation (UNO) that promotes socially and environmentally
sustainable human settlements across the world, after 10 years. UN-Habitat reports to
the United Nations General Assembly.
Minister of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu will chair the
four day meeting of the 58 member Governing Council of UN-Habitat in Nairobi, Kenya.
Shri Naidu will preside over the deliberations of the Governing Council of UN-Habitat for
the next two years. Since the UN-Habitat came into being in 1978, It is only the third
time that India has been elected to lead this important organization after 2007
and 1988.
Governing the council:
As an inter-governmental policy making and decision making body, the Governing
Council of UN-Habitat seeks to promote integral and comprehensive approach to human
settlements, assist the countries and regions in addressing human settlement problems
and strengthen cooperation among all countries on human settlement issue.
The theme of the 26th Meeting of the Governing Council to be chaired by Shri M.Venkaiah
Naidu from today isOpportunities for effective implementation of the New Urban
Agenda with focus on inclusive, sustainable and adequate housing for a better
future and planning and financing sustainable urbanization and integrated human
settlements. The New Urban Agenda was adopted by the world community at
Quito, Ecuador last year.
Addressing the Governing Council of UN-Habitat, Shri Naidu has stressed on the need to
reorient urban planning and execution strategies to ensure dignity of living and sufficient
means of living for people in the context of rapid urbanization, particularly, in developing
countries.
Shri Naidu elaborated on the integrated, inclusive and sustainable urban development
model of India through various new missions like Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and
Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Smart City Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission and
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. He said these missions are addressing deficits in
different kinds of infrastructure including affordable housing in a convergence mode.
Shri Naidu also to chair Bureau meeting of Asia Pacific Ministers Conference on
Housing & UD
20
UN-Habitat, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme:

UN-Habitat is the United Nations programme working towards a better urban future. Its
mission is to promote socially and environmentally sustainable human settlements
development and the achievement of adequate shelter for all.
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UNHabitat) is the United Nations
agency for human settlements and sustainable urban development. It was established in
1978 as an outcome of the First UN Conference on Human Settlements and Sustainable
Urban Development (Habitat I) held in Vancouver, Canada in 1976.
It is a member of the United Nations Development Group.
The mandate of UN-Habitat derives from the Habitat Agenda, adopted by the United
Nations Conference on Human Settlements (Habitat II) in Istanbul, Turkey, in 1996. The
twin goals of the Habitat Agenda are adequate shelter for all and the development of
sustainable human settlements in an urbanizing world.
Target:
Cities are facing unprecedented demographic, environmental, economic, social and
spatial challenges. There has been a phenomenal shift towards urbanization, with 6 out
of every 10 people in the world expected to reside in urban areas by 2030.
In many places around the world, the effects can already be felt: lack of proper housing
and growth of slums, inadequate and out-dated infrastructure be it roads, public
transport, water, sanitation, or electricity escalating poverty and unemployment, safety
and crime problems, pollution and health issues, as well as poorly managed natural or
man-made disasters and other catastrophes due to the effects of climate change.
Mindsets, policies, and approaches towards urbanization need to change in order for the
growth of cities and urban areas to be turned into opportunities that will leave nobody
behind. UN-Habitat, the United Nations programme for human settlements, is at the helm
of that change, assuming a natural leadership and catalytic role in urban matters.
29th India- Indonesia Co-Ordinated Patrol (Corpat) Commences
Source: PIB
The 29th series of IndiaIndonesia CORPAT has begun at Port Blair under the aegis of
Andaman and Nicobar Command.
21
Corpat
The Indonesian Navy and the Indian Navy have been participating in coordinated patrol
(CORPAT) twice a year since 2002 to keep this vital part of the Indian Ocean Region safe
and secure for commercial shipping and international trade.
Apart from securing the trade sea route, the coordinated patrol also serves to enhance
mutual understanding and inter-operability between the two navies. The CORPAT thus
reflects the shared concern between the two countries for a peaceful Indian ocean for the
benefit of international community.
Measurement of Liveability Index
{Urbanization}
Source: PIB
Ministry of Urban Development is planning to launch measuring of Liveability Index of
cities based on indigenously evolved Index. The Ministry has already invited bids for
selecting the agency for carrying out the assessment based on the parameters evolved
by the Ministry.
To start with, Liveability Standards of 140 cities including 53 cities with population of
one million and above and Smart Cities will be assessed.
Key facts:
The Ministry of Urban Development has come out with a detailed document on
Methodology for Collection and Computation of Liveability Standards in Cities for the
benefit of States and Cities.
Cities will be assessed on 15 core parameters relating to Governance, social
infrastructure pertaining to education, health and safety and security, economic aspects
and physical infrastructure like housing, open spaces, land use, energy and water
availability, solid waste management, pollution etc.
Cities will be ranked based on Liveability Index that would cover a total of 79 aspects.
This promotes a sense of healthy competition among cities and towns in the country to
focus their attention on improving governance and infrastructure availability.
22
Project LOcal Treatment of Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy Reuse-

LOTUS- Ministry of Science & Technology
{Health issue}
Source: PIB
Work Starts on Cleaning the Barapullah Drain under the Project LOcal Treatment of
Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy Reuse.
The on-site laboratory and pilot plant and the start of the cleaning and beautification of
the Barapullah Drain with unveiling of an art work. The art work represents Indo Dutch
collaboration for the LOTUS HR project in form of two flowers lotus and tulip,
depicting the union of Indian and Dutch strengths.
Key facts:
Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and NWO, the Netherlands Science Agency
announced a joint call for proposals for cleaning the Barapullah drain. DBT in
consultation with DDA has identified the Barapullah drain, Sarai Kale Khan, in the state of
Delhi for setting up on-site experimental testing lab and for the establishment of a pilot
plant. DDA has leased to DBT, a land measuring 200 Sq meters for a period of 5years
adjacent to the Sun Dial Park for this purpose.
The project LOcal Treatment of Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy Reuse (LOTUS HR) is
an Indo-Netherlands joint project funded by Department of Biotechnology(DBT), Govt of
india and NWO/STW, The Govt of Netherlands.
Project Stakeholders:
The project has stakeholders from both Academia and Industry from India and
Netherlands. It is coordinated by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi with
participation of The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), New Delhi and National
Environment Research Institute, Nagpur from India while Technical University Delft is
coordinating it from The Netherlands, with participation of Environmental Engineering
and Water Technology Department, UNESCO, Wageningen University and its Aquatic
Ecology Department. There is also commitment from industry, especially from The
Netherlands, in terms of both cash and kind towards the project.
Significance of this move:
23
The project aims to demonstrate a novel holistic (waste-) water management approach,
that will produce clean water that can be reused for various proposes (e.g. industry,
agriculture, construction etc.), while simultaneously recovering nutrients and energy
from the urban waste water, thus converting drain into profitable mines. Special
attention will be paid to pathogen removal and removing conventional and emerging
pollutants.
The project will develop an innovative pilot scale plant, suitable to cope with Indian
conditions in a location specific manner. The final design of the pilot plant will be
scalable and modular, to fit into the highly populated urban terrain.
Rail Connectivity for Chardham Pilgrimage
{Transport}
Source: PIB
Taking forward the vision to link the Chardham pilgrimage centres through rail
connectivity and in keeping with its budgetary commitment, the Indian Railways is taking
the significant step to commence the Final Location survey for a single BG line rail
connectivity for the Chardham Pilgrimage.
Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a Public Sector Enterprise under Ministry of Railways
has been entrusted to undertake the Final Location Survey for rail connectivity to
Chardham and Chardham Yatra (Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath & Kedarnath via
Dehradun & Karanprayag) in the State of Uttarakhand.
Chardham Pilgrimage:
Chardham, is one of the unique cornerstones of Hindu pilgrimage which is intertwined to
mystical and spiritual aspirations of every devout Hindu. Large number of pilgrims flock
to Chardham while foreign and domestic tourist are attracted to trekking & sightseeing
in the state of Uttarakhand.
Char Dham which means the four holy abodes of the almighty, mainly comprise of four
pilgrim destinations namely, Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.
e-Krishi Samvad
24
{Public Policy}, {Agriculture}
Source: PIB
e-Krishi Samvad, an online interface, was recently launched by the government.
e-Krishi Samvad
e-Krishi Samvad is internet-based interface and is a unique platform that will provide
direct and effective solutions to the problems faced by farmers and stakeholders in the
agriculture sector.
With this, people can get the appropriate solutions from the subject matter specialists
and institutes through web or SMS. Stakeholders can upload photographs related to
diseases of the crops, animals or fishes for diagnostics and remedial measures instantly
from the specialists.
The platform is helpful to get information pertaining to welfare and development of
agricultural stakeholders.
Govt. regulator gives nod for GM mustard
{Science and Technology},{Agriculture}
Source: PIB
Indias central biotech regulator, Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) has
cleared the genetically modified (GM) Mustard for commercial cultivation and
recommended its approval to the environment ministry.
What next?
The fate of this transgenic variety of oil-seed will now be in the hands of the MoS
environment Anil Madhav Dave who may either accept it, reject it or sit over the file till
the Supreme Court takes its call on a pending application on the matter.
Significance:
The GM mustard, developed by a Delhi University institution, is only the second food
crop which got its clearance from the central regulator. The GEAC had earlier in 2010
cleared the Bt Brinjal but the decision was not accepted by then environment minister
25
Jairam Ramesh. Currently, only Bt Cotton a non-food GM crop is commercially

cultivated in the country.
An application for commercial release of the GM Mustard was filed in December 2015.
The GEAC had subsequently set up a sub-committee to examine the safety aspect of the
use of transgenic variety of the mustard. The sub-committee had last year given its safety
clearance while noting that the GM Mustard is safe for human consumption and
environment.
Decision of the GEAC was, however, vehemently opposed by environmentalists and anti-
GM groups.
Measures announced by the Government to curb the menace of online

Child Sexual Abuse Material
{Rights Issues}
Source: PIB
Based on the consultations of the Inter-Ministerial Committee, the Ministry of Electronics
and Information Technology(MEITY) in collaboration with Ministry of Women and Child
Development has issued immediate interim measures to curb the menace of Online
Child Sexual Abuse Material.
MEITY has issued this Order under Section 79(2) (c) of the Information Technology Act
2000 to curb online child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Background:
The Ministry of Women and Child Development has been making several efforts to deal
with the problem of online Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).
In a major step, a stakeholder Consultation was held last year on this issue wherein it
was decided that the Ministry will establish a National Alliance against Online Child
Sexual Abuse and Exploitation, focusing primarily on the online content.
Subsequent to this decision, an Inter-Ministerial Committee(IMC) was constituted on
request of the WCD Ministry. The IMC includes MHA, MEITY, Ministry of Law, Ministry of
External Affairs and Department of Telecom.
Way ahead:
26
Under this order, the Internet Service Providers(ISPs) shall be required to adopt and
implement the Internet Watch Foundation(IWF) Resources by 31st July 2017. This
foundation maintains a dynamic global list of websites and URLs which contain CSAM.
Implementation of IWF Resources will result in the relevant content being
blocked/removed on an ongoing basis.
This is an interim measure till the IMC puts in place a centralized mechanism to monitor
online CSAM. The Order of MEITY also reiterates that the ISPs will continue to observe
due diligence requirements described under the IT Act for removing and disabling any
content which is in violation of the extant rules and regulations.
Meeting of National Platform on Disaster Risk Reduction
{Disaster management}
Source: PIB
The second meeting of National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (NPDRR).
The meeting will be attended by over 1000 distinguished guests including Union
Ministers, State Ministers, Parliamentarians, Heads of Local Self Government, Heads of
specialized disaster management agencies, academicians, representatives from private
sector organizations, media and civil society organizations.
Theme: Disaster Risk Reduction for Sustainable Development: Making India
resilient by 2030.
NPDRR
The NPDRR is a multi-stakeholders National Platform headed by the Union Home
Minister and it promotes participatory decision making in disaster management, and
strengthens federal policy of our country. It was set up through a resolution in 2013.
The National Platform aims to bring together the whole range of Indias disaster risk
community from Government, Parliamentarians, Mayors, Media, International
Organisations, NGOs, local community representatives, scientific and academic
institutions and corporate businesses etc. It will help in sharing of experiences, views
and ideas, present findings of research and action and explore opportunities for mutual
cooperation in the field of Disaster Risk Reduction. The output from the National
Platform will offer a strategic direction and a road map for the formulation of our future
national action plans on DRR.
27
Functions of the national platform:

To review the progress made in the field of disaster management from time to time.
To appreciate the extent and manner in which the Disaster Management Policy has been
implemented by the Central and State Governments, and other concerned agencies, and
to give appropriate advice in the matter.
To advise on coordination between the Central and State Governments/UT
Administrations, local self-governments and civil society organisations for Disaster Risk
Reduction.
To advise suo-moto or on a reference made by the Central Government or any other State
Government or a Union Territory Administration on any question pertaining to disaster
management.
To review the National Disaster Management Policy.
Indias Ujala to light up UK homes
{Public Policy}
Source: PIB
Union Power Minister Piyush Goyal recently launched the Ujala Scheme related to the
energy efficient LED bulbs in London.
Ujala
Ujala is globally one of the largest efficiency programmes and being run by Energy
Efficiency Services Ltd, an energy services company promoted by Indian state-run power
majors.
Through this initiative, the government plans to replace all 770 million inefficient
incandescent and CFL (compact fluorescent lamps in the country with LED (light
emitting diode) bulbs.
The programme has already turned India into the worlds LED capital, accounting for 10-
12% of the global market 4 billion bulbs.
The Ujala scheme uses economy of scale and a sustainable market mechanism.
The Union Minister of Finance launches Operation Clean Portal
28
{Indian Economy}
Source: PIB
The Union Minister of Finance, Shri Arun Jaitley, officially launched the Portal
of Operation Clean Money (https://www.cleanmoney.gov.in) Will enable citizen
engagement for creating a tax compliant society and transparent tax administration.
Operation Clean Money Phase I: 18 lakh persons identified; More than 9.72 lakh
taxpayers submitted online responses for 13.33 lakh accounts involving cash deposits
of around Rs 2.89 lakh crore, and 5.68 lakh new cases identified for e-verification
process.
The Operation Clean Money was initiated by the Income Tax Department (ITD) on the
31st January, 2017 with the launch of e-verification of large cash deposits made during
9th November to 30th December 2016.
The salient features of the Operation Clean Money Portal launched today are:
Providing comprehensive information at one placeconsisting of Step by Step Guides,

Frequently asked Questions, User Guides, Quick Reference Guides and Training Toolkits
related to verification process and other issues.
Enabling Citizen Engagement for creating a tax compliant societywhere every Indian
takes pride in paying taxes. Citizens would be able to support the Operation Clean
Money by taking pledge, contribute by engaging and educating fellow citizens, and share
their experiences and provide feedback.
Enabling Transparent Tax Administrationby sharing status reports (including
sanitized cases and explanation of verification issues) and thematic analysis reports (e.g.
taxpayer segment analysis of cash deposit data).
The ITD on-boarded two specialised data analytics agencies and a business process
management agency to augment departmental capability in analyzing large volumes of
cash deposit data, track the compliance status of taxpayers and reporting entities.
In Phase II of Operation Clean Money, the high risk cases will be handled by selecting
appropriate enforcement action (verification, search, survey, scrutiny). A targeted
campaign will be initiated in cases with identified risk issues. The key components of the
targeted campaign are:
29
Communication of specific issue through digital channels (Email, SMS etc.)

Providing detailed explanation to create environment of transparency
Sharing investigation findings for specific segments (e.g. Jewellers, petrol pump, traders,
property purchasers etc.)
Centralised monitoring and gradual escalation of inadequate response cases for
enforcement action
NITI Aayog Conducts First Samavesh Meeting
{Economic Development}
Source: PIB
NITI Aayog has conducted the first Samavesh meeting of the National Steering Group
and other knowledge partners under the co-chairmanship of Amitabh Kant, CEO and
Ratan P Watal, Principal Adviser, NITI Aayog. The meeting was also attended by
representatives of four States- Kerala, Assam, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Highlights:
The objective of the meeting was to bring together 32 premier educational and policy
research institutions to boost the development process, improve institutional capacity
and forge a field level interface with the community in pursuance with the Prime
Ministers call for a New India 2022,
In the meeting, Memorandum of Understands (MoUs) was signed between NITI Aayog
and major think tanks across the country with an aim to create an atmosphere of
evidence based policy research.
This is the first ever initiative undertaken by the government to bring a huge number of
institutions across diverse domain themes to deliberate together to promote inclusive
development of the country.
This network is expected to promote efficient knowledge sharing and information
exchange among all partners in order to achieve a sustainable and more inclusive
development in line with the National Development Agenda, Sustainable Development
Goals and the 15 year Vision, 7 year strategy and 3 year action plan.
NITI Aayog has been emphasizing upon the role that can be played by the countrys
Premier institutes to promote for inclusive development of the country.
30
As a part of Samavesh initiative, NITI Aayog will launch a new link in its website that
would serve as a major repository of knowledge based reports and case studies across
different sectors of the economy.
Boost to transform domestic nuclear industry
Source: PIB
Cabinet approves construction of 10 units of Indias indigenous Pressurized Heavy

Water Reactors (PHWR). The reactors will have a capacity of 700 MW. These reactors
will add 7000 MW capacity and will ramp up nuclear power generation in the country.
Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors:
A Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor(PHWR) is a nuclear power reactor,
commonly using unenriched natural uranium as its fuel, that uses heavy water
(deuterium oxide D2O) as its coolant and moderator
The heavy water coolantis kept under pressure, allowing it to be heated to higher
temperatures without boiling, much as in a typical pressurized water reactor.
While heavy water is significantly more expensive than ordinary light water, it yields
greatly enhanced neutron economy, allowing the reactor to operate without fuel
enrichment facilities (mitigating the additional capital cost of the heavy water) and
generally enhancing the ability of the reactor to efficiently make use of alternate fuel
cycles.
Indias first PHWR was constructed at Rawatbhata in Rajasthanin technical
cooperation with the Atomic Energy Canada Ltd (AECL). However, the Canadas support
was immediately withdrawn after Indias first nuclear experiment at Pokhran in 1974.
Indias first nuclear power plant with a different design was built at Tarapur in
Maharashtra. PHWR units are in operation in Rawatbhata, Kaiga, Kakrapar,
Kalpakkam and Narora.
Minister of Railways Releases Third Party Audit Report on Station

Cleanliness
{Public Policy}
31
Source: PIB
Minister of Railway released Third Party Audit Report on Station Cleanliness and
Inaugurated Swachh Rail Portal. Vishakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh and Beas in
Punjabis the Cleanest Station in A1, A Category Stations Respectively. Khammam
station Rank 2nd in Station Cleanliness in A Category from 285 Rank previous Year.
Minister of Railways dedicated a SWACHH RAIL PORTAL to showcase rankings of
stations and trains, methodology adopted for rankings and stations/trains specific
dashboards. This web portal http://www.railswachh.in will also be leveraged to seek
passenger feedback on cleanliness on a continual basis.
The parameters adopted for conducting the survey are: Evaluation of Process of
cleanliness in Parking, main entry area, main platform, waiting room,(33.33%) direct
observation by QCI assessors of cleanliness in these areas (33.33%) and passenger
feedback(33.33%). A 247 control room was set up and images were geo-tagged to
monitor progress.
The survey was conducted by the Quality Council of India, through interviews with
respondents on the questionnaire on cleanliness indicators, which was done face to
face by survey teams by visiting each of the 407 stations across 16 Zonal
Railways. Every passenger was asked to rate the cleanliness of stations objectively
on 40 different cleanliness parameters.
Chitale Committee recommends several measures for Desiltation of

Ganga
{Environment}
Source: PIB
Chitale committee on Desiltation of Ganga submitted its report to the government
recently.
The committee was constituted in July 2016 by the Ministry of Water Resources River
Development and Ganga Rejuvenation to prepare guidelines for desiltation of river
Ganga from Bhimgauda (Uttarakhand) to Farakka (West Bengal).
Recommendations are:
Study reach wise sediment transport processes.
Establish annual sediment budgets to guide de-silting activities.
32
Prepare annual reports (Sand registry) describing the previous de-silting/ dredging
activity and a technical institute may be entrusted to conduct the sediment budget.
Morphological and flood routing studies should be carried out to examine and confirm
the necessity of the de-silting of the reach under consideration.
It is necessary to provide the river sufficient areas of flood plain and lakes along the river
to moderate the flood level.
The de-silting of lakes, etc., should be in such a manner that the sediment
continuity is maintained and should not lead to head cut that creates safety issues
for the river crossings, water intakes or river training works locally, downstream
or upstream.
The area freed from the development in the form of oxbow lakes should be used
for flood moderation rather than reclaiming it for other purposes.
Embankments, spurs and river training measures provided to protect the banks should
not encroach upon the flood plains and delink the lakes, flood plains and other riverine
environment from the river.
De-silting of the confluence points, especially with huge silt carrying tributaries, such
as Ghagra, Sone, etc., may be necessary to make confluence hydraulically efficient.
The proposed de-silting of any river reach need to be justified bringing out clearly the
flooding caused due to siltation along with technical comparisons of the alternative flood
mitigation measures with do nothing or proposed de-silting/ dredging being other
options.
Agricultural practices along the river flood plains should be such that it does not disturb
the passage of flood by increasing the resistance to flow causing aggradations.
Any bridges across River Ganga which are causing large afflux (more than 1% of normal
depth) should be modified to reduce the afflux, which in turn will also reduce the
sediment deposition and erosion of banks on the upstream.
According to the report
The committee in its report says erosion, sediment transport and siltation are very
complex phenomena.
It is impossible to apply a one-size-fits-all approach to sediment management and
control, because the issues involved are frequently very regionally-specific.
Local factors such as topography, river control structures, soil and water conservation
measures, tree cover, and riparian land-use or land disturbance (for example agriculture,
mining, etc.) can have a large impact on sediment loads in rivers.
33
River control structures (such as reservoirs), soil conservation measures and sediment
control programmes can cause downstream sediment loads to decrease, while factors
such as land disturbance (clearing of vegetation, for example) or agricultural practices
can cause increased sediment loads.
At the same time, indiscriminate de-siltation works may result into more harm to ecology
and environment flow. Thus, there is a need to evolve Guidelines, better broad principles,
which should be kept in mind while planning and implementing de-silting works.
The committee says though de-siltation works can improve hydraulic performance of the
river and this itself can justify undertaking de-siltation, these have no direct role in
improving environment flow in the river. On the other hand, indiscriminate de-silting or
sand mining would cause adverse impacts on river e-flow.
Study on Common Risk Mitigation Mechanism for Solar Power

Generation Projects
{Sustainable Development}
Source: PIB
ISA Programme aimed at mobilising Affordable finance at scale
India and along with countries like Argentina, Burkina-Faso, Chad, France, Ivory Coast,
Mali, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Uganda and Yemen has jointly commissioned a
study to define and structure a Common Risk Mitigation Mechanism (CRMM) for solar
power generation projects in solar rich countries.
This is a major step in the implementation of the Paris Declaration of the International
Solar Alliance (ISA) adopted on November 30, 2015, and of the ISA programme aimed at
mobilising affordable finance at scale.
Key facts:
The commissioning of the study is aimed at dramatic reduction in the cost of
finance for renewable energy and the overall price of electricity.
All the countries lying fully or partially between the Tropics are also invited to join the
task force and support this initiative in order to attract investments into solar sector.
Need The Council on Energy, Environment and Water calculates the cost of capital to
form a substantial amount in the total costs of renewable energy.
In India it accounts for 70% of the total cost of solar Power.
34
In this regard, the CRMM is expected to offer a simple and affordable tool that will
develop a secure environment for private institutional investment in solar assets.
Task force:
The study was entrusted by the Interim Secretariat to a task force chaired by Terrawatt
Initiative (TWI), the World Bank Group, the Currency Exchange Fund (TCX), the Council
on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) and also the Confederation of Indian
Industries (CII).
Public and private stakeholders and partners will be consulted to contribute to the
initiative and to ensure collective buy-in and validation.
Participating countries may each appoint a qualified representative who will liaise with
the task force and convey information regarding countries specific expectations,
experience and needs.
They call all other countries lying fully or partially between the Tropics to join them and
support this initiative to attract investments into the solar sector.
ISA
COP-21 summit, the International Solar Alliance was launched by Indian Prime Minister
Narendra Modi and French President Francois Hollande as a union of countries with
abundant sunlight.
Under this alliance, 121 countries that fall within the tropics {i.e. between Tropic of
Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn} have been invited to make collaborative efforts to
harness solar energy to generate the electricity.
Most of these countries fall within Asia, Africa and South America.
There are three objectives behind the International Solar Alliance:
First is to force down prices by driving demand;
Second is to bring standardization in solar technologies and

Third is to foster research and development.
International Day for Biodiversity Celebrated all over the Country

MAY 22- UNITED NATIONS
{Bio-diversity}
Source: PIB
35
National-Level Celbrations Held at Goa
The International Day for Biodiversity (IDB) 2017 was celebrated all over the country.
Biodiversity, the variety of all life on earth, is vital to social and economic
development, and is indeed fundamental to our survival. Protecting biodiversity and
halting its loss is therefore an essential investment for our collective well-being.
The Chief Minister inaugurated an exhibition on the theme and Green Haat, which
had exhibits from 12 States including Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh,
Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh besides stalls from UNDP, GIZ, Zoological Survey
of India, Botanical Survey of India, Goa Forest Department, Goa State
Biodiversity Board and NBA.
Exhibits, posters and other material highlighting the role of biodiversity in sustaining
livelihoods were depicted at the exhibition. Several students and others interested
participated enthusiastically in the exhibition. The dignitaries too walked through the
exhibition.
2017 Theme: Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism let us all pledge to be

mindful and conscious in reducing our biodiversity footprint, including when we
travel as a tourist.
Diversity in species, ecosystems and landscapes attracts tourism and promotes

economic growth. In turn, a well-managed tourist sector can help reduce threats to
key wildlife populations, and can maintain or increase biodiversity, through tourism
revenue.
The celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity under the theme
Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism is an opportunity to raise awareness of the
important contribution of sustainable tourism both to economic growth and to the
conservation of biodiversity.
This theme has been chosen to coincide with the observance of 2017 as the
International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development and can contribute to
ongoing initiatives such as the Sustainable Tourism Programme.
Why an International Day for Biological Diversity?
While there is a growing recognition that biological diversity is a global asset of

tremendous value to present and future generations, the number of species is being
significantly reduced by certain human activities.
The Convention on Biological Diversity is the international legal instrument
for the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its
components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of
the utilization of genetic resources that has been ratified by 196 nations.
36
Given the importance of public education and awareness for the implementation of
the Convention, the General Assembly proclaimed 22 May, the date of the adoption
of its text, as the International Day for Biological Diversity by its resolution 55/201 of
20 December 2000.
Biodiversity and the Sustainable Development Goals
The objectives of halting biodiversity loss and promoting the sustainable use of
terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems are included in Sustainable
Development Goal N15.
The Union Minister of Finance Shri Arun Jaitley says India-Africa

together can shape the future of the world
Source: PIB
The Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs said that the African Development
Banks (AfDB) Annual Meeting organized in India this year is a new chapter in India
Africa relationship.
India-Africa together can shape the future of the world. Opening Session of
Annual meeting of African Development Bank themed on Africa-India
Cooperation on enhancing the High 5 Strategy at Mahatma Mandir in
Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
India-Africa partnership model is unique; the cornerstone is voluntary partnership
without any imposition on partner and the partner is free to decide what is best for
them.
African Development Bank:
The Bank has revamped the review to give greater attention to Africas fundamental
challenges and how the Bank is addressing them.
The Bank is also reorganising itself to become more agile and responsive to the
continents needs.
A new business model has been adopted and three new vice presidencies
established: on power, energy and green growth; on agriculture, human and social
development; and on the private sector, infrastructure and industrialisation.
High 5 strategy:
37
The African Development Bank is stepping up the pace by focusing on five priorities that
are crucial for accelerating Africas economic transformation. The Bank calls them the
High 5s:
Light up and power Africa,

Feed Africa,
Industrialise Africa,
Integrate Africa, and
Improve the quality of life for the people of Africa.
The High 5 priorities are an integral part of that effort:
1. Light up and power Africa About 635 million Africans still live without electricity
and demand for energy is rising rapidly. Through the New Deal on Energy for Africa,
the AfDB is working to unify efforts to achieve universal access to energy. Its new
Energy Strategy aims to increase energy production and access, and improve
affordability, reliability and energy efficiency.
2. Feed Africa More than 70% of Africans depend for their livelihoods on
agriculture. If its full potential were unlocked, agriculture could vastly improve the
lives of millions. The Bank is framing its agricultural operations within a business-
oriented approach, based on a deeper understanding of the obstacles, potential and
investment opportunities.
3. Industrialise Africa A persistent lack of industrialisation is holding back Africas
economies. Over the next 10 years, the Bank will invest US $3.5 billion per year
through direct financing and leveraging to implement six flagship industrialisation
programmes in areas where the AfDB can best leverage its experience, capabilities
and finances.
4. Integrate Africa Through its Regional Integration Policy and Strategy, the Bank
is focusing its integration efforts not just on movement of goods and services but
also on mobility of people and investment.
5. Improve the quality of life for the people of Africa Africas economic growth
has not been rapid or inclusive enough to create enough jobs and improve quality of
life. The Bank is committed to building up the availability of technical skills so that
African economies can realise their full potential in high-technology sectors.
Acknowledging the urgent need to address climate change, the Bank will nearly
triple its annual climate financing to reach $5 billion a year by 2020.
AfDB
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is a multilateral development finance

institution established to contribute to the economic development and social
progress of African countries.
The AfDB was founded in 1964 and comprises three entities: The African
Development Bank, the African Development Fund and the Nigeria Trust Fund.
38
The AfDBs mission is to fight poverty and improve living conditions on the continent
through promoting the investment of public and private capital in projects and
programs that are likely to contribute to the economic and social development of the
region
Key achievements of Department of Economic Affairs: Improvement

in Indias Macroeconomic Stability
{Indian Economy}
Source: PIB
India is one of the bright spots among the major countries in the subdued global
economic context
The key initiatives of the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance

taken in the past 3 years have led to Improvement in Indias Macroeconomic
Stability.
Today, India is one of the bright spots among the major countries in the subdued
global economic context. India recorded a growth of 7.9 per cent in 2015-16, as
compared to 7.2 per cent in 2014-15 and 6.5 per cent in 2013-14. Predictions by
expert agencies suggest that Indias growth rate is set to improve further in 2017-18.
In terms of the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) prepared by World
Economic Forum for 138 countries, India ranked 39 in 2016-17, as compared to
Indias rank in GCI of 60 (among 148 countries) in 2013-14.
Petroleum Minister co chairs India OPEC Institutional Dialogue at

Vienna
{International Relations}, {Sustainable Development}
Source: PIB
Shri Pradhan emphasised on Asian Dividend rather than paying Asian Premium
Stressed on work towards Responsible Pricing by OPEC; important for India

for socio-economic and developmental reasons
39
The production cut is an attempt to arrest slide in prices; But there is chance of
under investment and consumers needs not being met in long run
All you know about this move:
The Minister said that India had been and continued to be a reliable customer of
OPEC countries, the only big economy where the demand for crude oil continues to
rise each year.
About 86% if Indias import of crude oil, 70% of natural gas, 95% of LPG are from
OPEC countries which informed about the increasing refining capacity of India and
future expansion plans OPEC which is the expanding petrochemical sector in India.
Highlights:
Shri Pradhan reiterated that as a large import destination there should be no Asian
Premium on the crude supplied to India and Asian buyers. India provided timely
payments and honored all its contractual commitments and demanded due
acknowledgment through discount in prices for large volumes that India imports.
That for a long time OPEC subsidised western buyers at the cost of Asian buyers.
Given the importance of Asian market for OPEC, particularly fast growing Indian
market which stood by OPEC as a reliable and continued customer, Shri Pradhan
emphasised on Asian Dividend rather than paying Asian Premium.
The Minister also stressed that the OPEC should work towards Responsible
Pricing which is important for India for socio-economic and developmental reasons.
It would allow India to provide energy to the common and marginalised people who
have been deprived of access to energy so far. Higher crude prices would retard
growth rate which will result in slowing down the demand of crude oil.
Renewable energy:
The Minister highlighted that the Energy Mix in India is undergoing major changes
with renewables coming in a big way and pricing of solar energy coming down to 4
cents per unit. There is also a shift in focus to solar, wind, biomass, Electric
Vehicles, Hybrid cars etc. He emphasised that the oil Industry is at a delicate cross
road and higher crude prices will give a further push to renewables.
On the proposed plan of continued production cut by OPEC and non-OPEC
countries, Shri Pradhan said that energy security was a full circle while the
production cut is an attempt to arrest the slide in prices, however, it also has an
inherent chance of under investment and consumers needs not being met in the
long run, which is not in the interest of a balanced and healthy global oil and gas
market.
40
Ozone2Climate Technology Roadshow
{Environment}
Source: PIB
In a first, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, along with the UN
Environment OzonActions Compliance Assistance Programme, recently organized
an Ozone2Climate Technology Roadshow, post Kigali Amendment to the
Montreal Protocol, on the sidelines of the South Asia National Ozone Officers
Annual Network Meeting 2017 in Agra.
Over 200 refrigerant technicians, ozone officers, business representatives and
government officials attended the Roadshow.
Ozone2Climate technology
The Technology Roadshow was organized for the first time as part of the annual
network meeting for Ozone Officers of South Asia.
The Ozone2Climate Technology Roadshow had 13 exhibitors that promoted
ozone and climate-friendly alternative technologies to HCFCs and HFCs in the
refrigeration and air-conditioning (RAC) sector.
The Technology Roadshow showcased current refrigeration and air conditioning
equipment designed to be more energy efficient, hence with a double benefit of
saving money for consumers, and with a much lower impact on the environment.
Kigali conference 2016:
The negotiations at Kigali were aimed at including Hydrofluoro Carbons (HFCs) in

the list of chemicals under the Montreal Protocol with a view to regulate their
production and consumption and phase them down over a period of time with
financial assistance from the Multilateral Fund created under the Montreal Protocol.
The Kigali amendments to the Montreal Protocol will, for the first time,
incentivise improvement in energy efficiency in case of use of new refrigerant
and technology. Funding for R&D and servicing sector in developing countries has
also been included in the agreed solutions on finance.
The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol is legally binding and will
come into force from 1 January 2019. Under Kigali Amendment, in all 197
countries, including India have agreed to a timeline to reduce the use of HFCs
by roughly 85% of their baselines by 2045.
All signatory countries have been divided into three groups with different timelines to go
about reductions of HFCs.
41
1. Wealthy, developed countries, such as the United States and the European
Union, will start to limit their use of HFCs within a few years and make a cut of
at least 10% from 2019.
2. Rapidly developing countries, including many in Latin America, will freeze
their use of HFCs starting in 2024.
3. Developing countries, specifically India, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq and the Gulf
states, will freeze their use starting in 2028.
Climate Technology Centre and Network
The CTCN is the operational arm of the UNFCCC Technology Mechanism,

hosted by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UN Industrial
Development Organization (UNIDO).
The Centre promotes the accelerated transfer of environmentally sound
technologies for low carbon and climate resilient development at the request
of developing countries. We provide technology solutions, capacity building and
advice on policy, legal and regulatory frameworks tailored to the needs of individual
countries.
SEVA App
{Public Policy}
Source: PIB
The government has launched the Saral Eindhan Vitaran Application (SEVA),
developed in-house by Coal India Limited (CIL) for power sector consumers.
Key facts:
SEVA is a part of Digital India initiative, which is aimed at increasing the

Consumer Connect as well as the Transparency and Accountability in Coal
dispatch.
The SEVA Dashboard provides summary of quantity of coal dispatched along with
grades for the given day, month, and the latest yearly updates as well. It also
provides information on rake movement including latest status of indents of rake,
allotment and loading. This would help consumers making advance logistics
planning.
The app has a dedicated backend team to monitor the status of specific grievances
from consumers and take action on the feedback received on the app. While much
of the information on the SEVA Dashboard is available in open access, consumer
specific data would be password protected.
42
Significance:
The consumer friendly mobile app helps in tracking of coal dispatch to 118 Power
Plants through Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA) of around 500 MT besides, dispatch
through Special Forward E-Auction and Bridge Linkage from more than 200
dispatch points spread over eight states of the country.
By using this app the common man would be able to hold the Government
accountable for the coal linkage allocations and would be able to check any
pilferage or inefficiencies in coal consumption for power generation. This would, in
turn, lead to rationalization of coal linkages and finally reduction in the power prices
in the country. In near future, non-power sector mines would also be added in this
App.
Reader titled Raising Happy Children and Providing Safe

Childhoods released
{Rights Issues}
Source: PIB
The Ministry of Women and Child Development has developed a reader titled Raising
Happy Children and Providing Safe Childhoods.
Key facts:
It provides advisory guidelines to parents, teachers and community to protect

children from being involved in delinquent behavior through early detection,
counselling and positive engagement.
It draws upon basic principles laid down in the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection
of Children) Act 2015 which provides a strong formal framework for dealing with
children in conflict with the law throughout the criminal justice process.
The reader draws upon good practices across the world which have proved to be
successful in keeping children safe and away from delinquent behavior.
The reader suggests a broad framework for imbibing positive skills such as conflict
resolution and violence prevention to keep them protected and help them achieve
their full potential.
The reader is divided into three parts wherein part-I is for parents and what they can
do to prevent violence and crimes by children, followed by part-II and III for teachers
and community members respectively. Each part briefly discusses few major
problems that can push children on the wrong side of law, the early signs of this,
what can be done to strengthen protection or intervene to reduce risks.
43
Young children experience their world through their relationships with parents, teachers,
peers and other caregivers. Therefore, there is a need to create a warm, loving and
nurturing environment where their physical, emotional and spiritual needs are
recognized and honored by their family, school and community so as to allow them to
reach their full potential.
Joint Declaration of Intent between Germany and India regarding

cooperation in the sector of alternative medicine
Source: PIB
The Union Cabinet has approved the Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) between Germany
and India regarding cooperation in the sector of alternative medicine.
The financial resources necessary to conduct research, training courses,

conferences / meetings will be met from the existing allocated budget and existing
plan schemes of Ministry of AYUSH.
The signing of the JDl will enhance bilateral cooperation between the two countries
in the areas of traditional/alternative medicine. Initiation of collaborative research,
training and scientific capacity building in the field of alternative medicine under the
JDI between the two countries would contribute to the enhanced employment
opportunities in the AYUSH sector.
Cabinet approves phasing out Foreign Investment Promotion Board
{Public Policy}
Source: PIB
The Union Cabinet has given its approval to the phasing out of Foreign Investment
Promotion Board (FIPB).
The proposal entails abolishing the FIPB and allowing administrative

Ministries/Departments to process applications for FDI requiring government
approval.
44
The FIPB is the inter-ministerial body or a single window clearance mechanism

for applications on foreign direct investment (FDI) in India in sectors under the
government approval route.
Henceforth, the work relating to processing of applications for FDI and approval of
the Government thereon under the extant FDI Policy and FEMA, shall now be
handled by the concerned Ministries/Departments in consultation with the
Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion(DIPP), Ministry of Commerce, which
will also issue the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for processing of
applications and decision of the Government under the extant FDI policy.
With this, Foreign Investors will find India more attractive destination and this will
result in more inflow of FDI.
The move will provide ease of doing business and will help in promoting the
principle of Maximum Governance and Minimum Government.
FIPB:
The Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB), housed in the Department of

Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance, is an inter-ministerial body, responsible for
processing of FDI proposals and making
It considers and recommends foreign direct investment (FDI) which does not come
under the automatic route.
It provides a single window clearance for proposals on FDI in India.
The extant FDI Policy, Press Notes and other related notified guidelines formulated by
Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) in the Ministry of Commerce and
Industry are the bases of the FIPB decisions.
Fund for development and maintenance of National Waterways (NWs)
{Transport}, {Development and Employment}
Source: PIB
The Union Cabinet has accorded its approval to a proposal jointly mooted by the
Ministry of Shipping and the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) for
amendment of Central Road Fund Act, 2000 to allocate 2.5% of the proceeds of Central
45
Road Fund (CRF) for development and maintenance of National Waterways (NWs) and
a reduction in the share provided for development of National Highways.
In this regard, the Central Road Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2017 would be moved by
the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways in the ensuing Monsoon Session, 2017
of the Parliament.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has estimated that approximately Rs.
25,000 crores would be required for development of identified projects on NWs till 2022-
23. An allocation of 2.5% of CRF proceeds would provide approximately Rs.2000 crore
per annum for the development and maintenance of NWs at existing rates of duties
funding the CRF.
Central Road Fund
The Central Road Fund was established by the government as per the Central road
fund act 2000 to fund the development and maintenance of National Highways,
State Highways and Rural roads.
In order to mobilise the fund, the Central Road Fund Act 2000 proposed to levy and
collect by way of cess, a duty of excise and duty of customs on petrol and high
speed diesel oil.
The fund is utilised for the development and maintenance of National highways,
State roads, Rural roads and for provision of road overbridges/under bridges and
other safety features at unmanned Railway Crossings.
Cabinet approves policy for providing preference to Make in India in

Government procurements
{Public Policy}
Source: PIB
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister has approved a policy for providing
preference to Make in India in government procurements.
The new policy will give a substantial boost to domestic manufacturing and service
provision, thereby creating employment.
46
Keya facts:
It will also stimulate the flow of capital and technology into domestic manufacturing
and services.
It will also provide a further thrust towards manufacture of parts, components, sub-
components etc. of these items, in line with the vision of Make in India.
The new policy is the reflection of the Government of India to encourage Make in
India and promote manufacturing and production of goods and services in
India with a view to enhancing income and employment.
Procurement by the Government is substantial in amount and can contribute
towards this policy objective.
Local content can be increased through partnerships, cooperation with local
companies, establishing production units in India or Joint Ventures (JV) with Indian
suppliers, increasing the participation of local employees in services and by training
them.
The policy will be implemented through an Order pursuant to Rule 153(iii) of the
General Financial Rules, 2017 to provide purchase preference (linked with local
content) in Government procurements.
Under the policy, preference in Government procurement will be given to local
suppliers. Local suppliers are those whose goods or services meet prescribed
minimum thresholds (ordinarily 50%) for local content. Local content is essentially
domestic value addition.
In procurement of goods for Rs. 50 lakhs and less, and where the Nodal Ministry
determines that there is sufficient local capacity and local competition, only local
suppliers will be eligible.
Small purchases of less than Rs.5 lakhs are exempted. The order also covers
autonomous bodies, government companies/ entities under the governments
control.
The policy also requires that specifications in tenders must not be restrictive e.g.
should not require proof of supply in other countries or proof of exports in respect of
previous experience. They must not result in unreasonable exclusion of local
suppliers who would otherwise be eligible, beyond what is essential for ensuring
quality or creditworthiness of the supplier.
The policy lays down a procedure for verification of local content relying primarily on
self-certification. There will be penal consequences for false declarations. In some
cases, verification by statutory / cost auditors etc. will be required.
A Standing Committee in Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion will oversee
the implementation of this order and issues arising therefrom, and make
recommendations to Nodal Ministries and procuring entities.
The policy has been developed keeping in view the core principles of procurement
including competitiveness and adhering to sound procurement practices and
execution of orders. The policy would continue to maintain the balance between
47
promoting Make in India and ensuring timely, value-for-money products for the
procuring entities.
Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction
{Disaster management}
Source: PIB
The 2017 Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction is being held in Cancun, Mexico.
The Global Platform is the most important international forum dedicated to the disaster
risk reduction agenda, and this will be the first time it has been staged outside Geneva.
The 2017 Global Platform will mark the first opportunity for the international community
to review global progress on the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster
Risk Reduction, which was adopted in Japan in 2015. More than 5,000 participants are
expected, including policy makers and disaster risk managers.
Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction
The Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction is a biennial forum for information
exchange, discussion of latest developments, knowledge and partnership-building
across sectors, with the goal of improving implementation of disaster risk reduction
through better communication and coordination amongst stakeholders.
Its core function is to enable governments, NGOs, scientists, practitioners, and UN
organizations to share experience and formulate strategic guidance for the
implementation of global disaster risk reduction agreements: the 2005 Hyogo
Framework for Action and its post-2015 successor the Sendai Framework.
Sendai Framework:
The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 was adopted
during the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in Sendai,
Japan in March, 2015.
It is the first major agreement of the post-2015 development agenda, with
seven targets and four priorities for action.
It was endorsed by the UN General Assembly following the 2015 Third UN World
Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (WCDRR).
The Framework is for 15-year. It is a voluntary and non-binding agreement which
recognizes that the State has the primary role to reduce disaster risk but that
48
responsibility should be shared with other stakeholders including local government,

the private sector and other stakeholders.
The new Framework is the successor instrument to the Hyogo Framework for Action
(HFA) 2005-2015: Building the Resilience of Nations and Communities to Disasters.
The implementation of the Sendai Framework involves adopting integrated and
inclusive institutional measures so as to work towards preventing vulnerability to
disaster, increase preparedness for response and recovery and strengthen
resilience.
The Seven Global Targets:
Substantially reduce global disaster mortality by 2030, aiming to lower average per
100,000 global mortality rate in the decade 2020-2030 compared to the period
2005-2015.
Substantially reduce the number of affected people globally by 2030, aiming to
lower average global figure per 100,000 in the decade 2020 -2030 compared to the
period 2005-2015.
Reduce direct disaster economic loss in relation to global gross domestic product
(GDP) by 2030.
Substantially reduce disaster damage to critical infrastructure and disruption of basic
services, among them health and educational facilities, including through developing
their resilience by 2030.
Substantially increase the number of countries with national and local disaster risk
reduction strategies by 2020.
Substantially enhance international cooperation to developing countries through
adequate and sustainable support to complement their national actions for
implementation of this Framework by 2030.
Substantially increase the availability of and access to multi-hazard early warning
systems and disaster risk information and assessments to the people by 2030.
The Four Priorities for Action under the Framework:
1. Understanding disaster risk.

2. Strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk.
3. Investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience.
4. Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response and to Build Back Better
in recovery, rehabilitation and reconstruction.
National Commission for Women holds Interactive Meeting with State

Commissions for Women
49
{Rights Issues}
Source: PIB
The National Commission for Women recently organised an Interactive Meeting of the
State Commissions for Women with a view to strengthening the process of NCWs
networking with State Commissions for Women and to gain from each others
experience. The meeting was attended by Chairpersons, Members and Member
secretaries of various State Commissions for Women.
constitutional-provisions-relating-to-children-and-women
NCW came up with the following recommendations:
State Commissions for Women should take up with their respective State
Government for setting up of Hostels for girls and women.
State Commission should pro-actively coordinate and send feedback on the
complaint matters forwarded to them by NCW in the last six months.
SCWs may pursue with the state Government on the implementation of the
Supreme Court judgment on ban of un-regulated sale of acids with a view to prevent
horrific crimes against women specifically acid attacks.
NCW
The National Commission for Women was set up as statutory body in January 1992
under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990.
The primary mandate of the National Commission for Women and State
Commissions for Women Commission is to safeguard and protect the interests of
women. It has wide responsibility covering almost all aspects of women
development.
Indo-Thailand Siam Bharat 17: HADR
Source: PIB
50
Indo-Thailand Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Table Top

Exercise 2017 is in progress at Chiang Mai, Thailand from 22 May to 26 May 17
between the Indian Air Force and Royal Thailand Air Force (RTAF).
The eleven member IAF contingent is led by Group Captain Sucharu Rai VM. This is
second such exercise to be conducted between the two Air Forces.
Objectives:
The aim of the bilateral exercise is to evolve SOPs for planning and executing relief
missions during unforeseen natural calamities like Tsunami, earthquakes, cyclones,
floods etc.
The objective is to enhance interoperability between both the Air Forces, while
conducting combined air operations triggered by a crisis.
The exercise would assist in laying down procedures and establish decision support
system at various stages of relief operations.
National Award for Social Understanding and Upliftment of Weaker

Sections
{Rights Issues}, {Governance}
Source: PIB
The President of India Shri Pranab Mukharjee presented the Dr. Ambedkar National
Award for Social Understanding and up-liftment of Weaker Sections for the year
2011, 2012 and 2014 at a function.
The function was organized by The Ambedkars Foundation under Ministry of Social
Justice and Empowerment.
Key facts:
The award was instituted by the Government of India in the year 1992 and is given
for outstanding contribution to the promotion of Social Understanding and for the
upliftment of the Weaker sections in India.
One Award each year is presented to individuals or organizations and is presented
jointly or shared by more than one recipient or organization as may be considered
by the Jury to be equally deserving of recognition in the year.
51
As per the Code of Procedure of the National Award, one Award each year is
presented to individuals or organizations. The Award is presented jointly or shared
by more than one recipient or organization as may be considered by the Jury to be
equally deserving of recognition in the year. The award consists of a citation and Rs.
10.00 lakh as cash prize.
ATR of DRDO
Source: PIB
The Defence Minister Shri Arun Jaitley recently inaugurated the newly built
Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) of the Defence Research & Development
Organisation (DRDO) at Chitradurga in Karnataka.
It is aimed at creating conditions for research, which will in turn develop the type of
human resource in the country required in the field of aeronautical testing. The
range will cater to the needs of DRDO for testing of indigenously developed
aeronautical systems.
The ATR is the first of its kind range in the country exclusively meant to
conduct flight-tests of indigenous unmanned and manned aircrafts, developed
by the DRDO.
This outdoor testing and evaluating facility has been set up by the Aeronautical
Development Establishment (ADE), one of the premier laboratories of the DRDO.
North Eastern Council
{Governance}
Source: PIB
Plenary of the North Eastern Council was recently held under the chairmanship of Union
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region
(DoNER) Dr. Jitendra Singh.
North Eastern Council:
1. In 1971, the Indian Central government set up the North Eastern Council by an Act
of Parliament. The eight States of North East India viz. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam,
52
Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim, are members of the
council, with their respective Chief Ministers and Governors representing them.
Sikkim was added to the council in the year 2002.
2. The headquarters of the council is situated in Shillong and functions under
the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region of the (Government of
India).
3. The Council is an advisory body and may discuss any matter in which the North
Eastern States have a common interest and advise the Central Government as to
the action to be taken on any such matter. This was done so as to take care of
the economic and social planning of these states, as well as to provide
mediation in the event of inter-State disputes.
International Day of UN Peacekeepers
Source: PIB
May 29th is the International Day of UN Peacekeepers. The International Day of

Peacekeepers serves to honor the memory of UN Peacekeepers who have lost their
lives, and pay tribute to all the men and women who have served and continue to serve
in UN peacekeeping operations for their high level of professionalism, dedication and
courage.
The theme for the 2017 International Day of UN Peacekeepers is Investing in

Peace Around the World.
UN Peacekeeping
United Nations Peacekeeping was created in 1948. Its first mission involved the
establishment of the UN Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), which served
to observe and maintain ceasefire during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War.
UN Peacekeeping maintains three basic principles: Consent of the parties,
impartiality and non-use of Force except in self-defence and defence of the
mandate.
The UN Peacekeepers are led by the Department of Peacekeeping Operations
(DKPO).
There are currently 17 UN peace operations deployed on four continents.
UN Peacekeepers are from diverse backgrounds, from areas all around the world.
They include police, military and civilian personnel. They are often referred to as
Blue Berets or Blue Helmets because of their light blue berets or helmets.
53
The UN Peacekeeping Force won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1988.

The United Nations Charter gives the United Nations Security Council the power
and responsibility to take collective action to maintain international peace and
security. For this reason, the international community usually looks to the Security
Council to authorize peacekeeping operations.
Important Decision of NCST
{Rights Issues}
Source: PIB
National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) has asked the Department of
Personnel and Training to constitute a committee having minimum of two
members from ST community to investigate any matter requiring penalty on
employees belonging to Scheduled Tribes community.
As per the recommendations of the commission if ST officers are not available in the
Department or Ministry then ST officers from other Departments may be included in
the committee.
The commission has also asked the Department of Personnel and Training to issue
instructions to all Departments and Ministries so that they take necessary action on
the recommendations of NCST. If the Department face any problem than before
approaching the High Court they should take permission of the concerned
Ministry.
NCST:
NCST was established by amending Article 338 and inserting a new Article 338A in
the Constitution through the Constitution (89th Amendment) Act, 2003. By this
amendment, the erstwhile National Commission for Scheduled Castes and
Scheduled Tribes was replaced by two separate Commissions namely- (i) the
National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC), and (ii) the National
Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST).
The term of office of Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson and each member is three
years from the date of assumption of charge. The Chairperson has been given the
rank of Union Cabinet Minister and the Vice-Chairperson that of a Minister of State
and other Members have the ranks of a Secretary to the Government of India.
NCST is empowered to investigate and monitor matters relating to safeguards
provided for STs under the Constitution or under other laws or under Govt. order.
The Commission is also authorized to inquire into specific complaints relating to
rights and safeguards of STs and to participate and advise in the Planning Process
54
relating to socio-economic development of STs and to evaluate the progress of their

development under the Union and States.
The commission submits its report to the President annually on the working of
safeguards and measures required for effective implementation of Programmers/
Schemes relating to welfare and socio-economic development of STs.
International Comparison Programme (ICP)
{Global groupings}, {International Relations}
Source: PIB
India is participating in the current phase of International Comparison Programme (ICP)

with reference to 2017.
International Comparison Programme
The ICP is a worldwide statistical initiative led by the World Bank under the
auspices of the United Nations Statistical Commission, with the main objective of
providing comparable price and volume measures of gross domestic product (GDP)
and its expenditure aggregates among countries within and across regions. Through
a partnership with international, regional, sub-regional and national agencies, the
ICP collects and compares price data and GDP expenditures to estimate and
publish purchasing power parities (PPPs) of the worlds economies.
In India, Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MOSPI) will take up the
price collection work in rural and urban areas shortly all over the country.
PPPs
PPPs measure the total amount of goods and services that a single unit of a
countrys currency can buy in another country.
The PPP between countries A and B measures the number of units of country As
currency required to purchase a basket of goods or services in country A as
compared to one unit of country Bs currency to purchase a similar basket of goods
in country B. PPPs can thus be used to convert the cost of a basket of goods and
service into a common currency while eliminating price level differences across
countries. In other words, PPPs equalize the purchasing power of currencies. Due
to large differences in price levels across economies, market exchange rate-
converted GDP does not accurately measure the relative sizes of economies and
the levels of material well-being. PPPs make it possible to compare the output of
economies and the welfare of their inhabitants in real terms, thus controlling for
price level differences across countries.
55
Uses of PPPs:
Sustainable Development Goals and Millennium Development Goals (United

Nations).
Human Development Index (United Nations Development Programme).
Poverty rates at international poverty line, size of the economy, and price levels in
the World Development Indicators (World Bank).
Country group aggregates and growth rates in the World Economic Outlook and
country quota formula (International Monetary Fund).
Allocation of the European structural and investment funds (European Union).
Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Punjab National Bank (PNB) sign
$100 million loan to finance Solar Rooftop projects. (Not World Bank):
{Banking Sector}, {Sustainable Development}
Source: PIB
This is the first tranche loan of the $500 million multi tranche finance facility Solar
Rooftop Investment Program (SRIP)
Indias solar rooftop market expanding fast with an estimated total capacity
potential of 124 GW.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Punjab National Bank (PNB)
yesterday signed a $100 million loan to be guaranteed by the Government
of India that will finance large solar rooftop systems on industrial and commercial
buildings throughout India. The PNB will use the ADB funds to make further loans to
various developers and end users to install rooftop solar systems.
Target:
This is the first tranche loan of the $500 million multi tranche finance facility
Solar Rooftop Investment Program (SRIP) approved by ADB in 2016. The
financing includes $330 million from ADBs ordinary capital resources and $170
million from the multi donor Clean Technology Fund (CTF) administered by
ADB. The first tranche loan of $100 million would be financed entirely from the
CTF.
The project is aligned with the goal set by Government of India to increase the
countrys solar rooftop capacity by 40 GW by 2022, and would also contribute to
56
Governments efforts to promote solar energy solutions as affordable and

sustainable energy sources.
The entire Solar Rooftop Investment Program will cost $1 billion, inclusive of
ADB $500 million funding, and the projects financed under the program will
install solar rooftop system of around 1 GW capacity.
This will contribute to the climate change goal of reducing greenhouse gas
emissions by about 11 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent over the typical 25-
year lifetime of rooftop solar systems.
The program will contribute to the governments plans to increase solar power
generation capacity, and also help India meet the carbon emission reduction target in
line with its commitment at the recent global climate change agreement. Indias solar
rooftop market is expanding fast with an estimated total capacity potential of
124GW.
57

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com/CurrentAffairsONLYOfficial/ PIB COMPILATION May 2017

Editor-in-Chief Sandeep Sajwan.

The Information, news and facts published in the

For suggestions / feedback, Contact:-

Executive Editor: Current Affairs Only

S.NO. CONTENT PG.NO.

30. Chitale Committee recommends several measures for Desiltation 32

One IP- Two Dispensaries and Aadhaar Based Online Claim

Significance of this Scheme:

The Armoured Corps Celebrates 79th Armour Day

Wall of Valour IN Educational Institutions Launched

Cabinet approves Policy for providing preference to domestically

Cabinet approves New Central Sector Scheme SAMPADA (Scheme For

It will also help in reducing wastage of agricultural produce, increasing the

Mega Food Park:

Two Launches in a row with Precise Hit of Brahmos Block 3

{Science and Technology}

Cabinet approves National Steel Policy 2017

Swachh Survekshan-2017 commissioned by the Ministry of Urban Development during

Bahraich (UP)-429, Muktsar (Punjab)-428, Abohar (Punjab)-427, Shahjahanpur (UP)-

eVIN Project of Health Ministry becomes global best practise in

eVIN aims to support Indias Universal Immunisation Programme by providing real-

eVIN project focus on three things:

By streamlining the vaccine flow network, eVIN is a powerful contribution to

The promulgation of Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017

The promulgation of Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 will lead to

The facility of online registration of Child Care Institutions launched by

Indian Warships visit Alexandria, Egypt

GSLV Successfully Launches South Asia Satellite

{Science and Technology}

DIPP & WIPO to set up Technology and Innovation Support Centers

{Science and Technology}

To become a member, a state must deposit an instrument of ratification or accession

India unanimously elected to head UN-Habitat, the United Nations

UN-Habitat, the United Nations Human Settlements Programme:

29th India- Indonesia Co-Ordinated Patrol (Corpat) Commences

Measurement of Liveability Index

Project LOcal Treatment of Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy Reuse-

Rail Connectivity for Chardham Pilgrimage

{Public Policy}, {Agriculture}

Govt. regulator gives nod for GM mustard

{Science and Technology},{Agriculture}

Jairam Ramesh. Currently, only Bt Cotton a non-food GM crop is commercially

Measures announced by the Government to curb the menace of online

Meeting of National Platform on Disaster Risk Reduction

Functions of the national platform:

Indias Ujala to light up UK homes

The Union Minister of Finance launches Operation Clean Portal

Providing comprehensive information at one placeconsisting of Step by Step Guides,

Communication of specific issue through digital channels (Email, SMS etc.)

NITI Aayog Conducts First Samavesh Meeting

Boost to transform domestic nuclear industry

{Science and Technology}

Cabinet approves construction of 10 units of Indias indigenous Pressurized Heavy

Minister of Railways Releases Third Party Audit Report on Station

Chitale Committee recommends several measures for Desiltation of

Establish annual sediment budgets to guide de-silting activities.

Study on Common Risk Mitigation Mechanism for Solar Power

Second is to bring standardization in solar technologies and

International Day for Biodiversity Celebrated all over the Country

National-Level Celbrations Held at Goa

2017 Theme: Biodiversity and Sustainable Tourism let us all pledge to be