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Current Affairs [PDF] - January 1-15, 2021
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Last Updated: January 18, 2021
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Contents
......................... ......... ..... ......... ......... ........ ......................................
News Headlines ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
January 1, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 3
January 2, 2021 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
January 3, 2021 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
January 4, 2021 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
January 5, 2021 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
January 6, 2021 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
January 7, 2021 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
January 8, 2021 ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
January 9, 2021 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
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January 10, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
January 11, 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
January 12, 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
January 13, 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
January 14, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
January 2, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 22
LYNX U2 GFCS ................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Light House Project ............................................................................................................................................................................. 22
Sea Wing Underwater Drones ........................................................................................................................................................... 23
RBI Digital Payments Index ............................................................................................................................................................... 24
SII's Covishield gets emergency-use nod from DGCI ................................................................................................................. 25
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana ......................................................................................................................................................... 25
Kisan Kalyan Mission of Uttar Pradesh ........................................................................................................................................... 26
Assam Ease of Doing Business (Amendment) Bill, 2020 ........................................................................................................... 27
Australia makes changes to its National Anthem ......................................................................................................................... 27
Punjab State Data Policy ..................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Argentina Abortion Laws ................................................................................................................................................................... 29
Reliance Industries Fined .................................................................................................................................................................... 29
RoDTEP Scheme .................................................................................................................................................................................. 30
January 4, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 30
World Braille Day: January 4 ............................................................................................................................................................. 30
National Defence Authorisation Act, 2021 ...................................................................................................................................... 31
Ice Age Woolly Rhino .......................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Japan Solution for Space Debris ....................................................................................................................................................... 32
FSSAI new Trans Fat levels ............................................................................................................................................................... 33
National Metrology Conclave ............................................................................................................................................................ 33
India approved two COVID-19 vaccines for Emergency Use .................................................................................................... 34
IFSCA in IOSCO .................................................................................................................................................................................. 35
Malala Yousafzai Scholarship Act ..................................................................................................................................................... 36
Delhi Government to set up Tamil Academy ................................................................................................................................ 36
Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline .......................................................................................................................................... 37
Sagarmala Seaplane Services Project ............................................................................................................................................... 38
Bird Deaths in Pong Dam Sanctuary ............................................................................................................................................... 39
January 5, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 39
ADB signs 100 million USD loan to boost power supply in Bengaluru .................................................................................. 39
ISRO decade plan ................................................................................................................................................................................ 40
TRIFOOD Parks in MP ...................................................................................................................................................................... 40
40th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica ............................................................................................................................. 41
NHRC recommendations on Manual Scavenging ........................................................................................................................ 42
India’s Rice Exports to Vietnam ........................................................................................................................................................ 42
Where is Jack Ma? Reasons of Disappearance .............................................................................................................................. 43
Floating Solar Energy Project ............................................................................................................................................................ 43
Supreme Court approves Central Vista Project ............................................................................................................................ 44
Assam Rifles Public School launched as Khelo India Sports School ........................................................................................ 45
Statement on Climate of India during 2020 ................................................................................................................................. 45
Alphabet Workers Union ...................................................................................................................................................................
© 2021 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 2
Draft Arctic Policy of India ................................................................................................................................................................ 47
January 6, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 47
What is National Atomic Time Scale? ............................................................................................................................................ 47
WHO: UK Variant of COVID-19 in 41 countries ......................................................................................................................... 48
Rashtriya Kamadhenu Aayog announces Online Exam .............................................................................................................. 49
DRDO Biodigester Mk II technology in metro rail ..................................................................................................................... 49
World Bank’s 105 million USD loan to improve Waterways in West Bengal ........................................................................ 50
UJALA and SLNP schemes complete six years ............................................................................................................................... 51
Global Economic Prospects Report ................................................................................................................................................... 51
Delhi School Bag Policy ...................................................................................................................................................................... 52
Bird Flu outbreak in India .................................................................................................................................................................. 52
Bharat Griha Raksha Policy: The Home Insurance Policy .......................................................................................................... 53
GoI sets up control room to control spread of Bird Flu ............................................................................................................. 54
AI based Survey of African Elephants ............................................................................................................................................. 54
India-Japan Partnership in Specified Skilled Worker .................................................................................................................... 55
January 7, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 56
Payment Infrastructure Development Funds ................................................................................................................................. 56
Advisory for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management ................................................................................................................... 56
United States Capitol Protests, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................ 57
Committee formed for preservation of Ladakh’s land, culture and language ........................................................................ 58
RBI forms Academic Advisory Council for Supervisory College .............................................................................................. 59
India's first double stack long-haul container train ...................................................................................................................... 59
Food Price Index of FAO ................................................................................................................................................................... 60
Rewari-Madar freight corridor section ............................................................................................................................................ 61
India-France Annual Strategic Dialogue .......................................................................................................................................... 61
January 8, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 62
Central Government Scheme for Industrial Development of J&K ............................................................................................ 62
What is 25th Amendment of US Constitution? ............................................................................................................................ 63
January 9, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 63
January 9: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas ................................................................................................................................................... 63
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India to chair 3 UNSC Committees ................................................................................................................................................. 64
January 11, 2021 ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 65
National Youth Parliament ................................................................................................................................................................. 65
WHO Map of India .............................................................................................................................................................................. 65
Single Window Clearance System for Coal Mines ....................................................................................................................... 66
DRDO Landing Gear System for UAV ........................................................................................................................................... 67
What is Vanadium? .............................................................................................................................................................................. 67
Khadi Prakritik Paint ........................................................................................................................................................................... 68
NASA to test the most powerful rocket ever built ...................................................................................................................... 69
ISRO to adopt 100 Atal Tinkering Labs ......................................................................................................................................... 69
January 12, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 70
Heritage Conservation Committee .................................................................................................................................................. 70
Legal Entity Identifier System ............................................................................................................................................................ 71
Pope’s Amendment of Church Law ................................................................................................................................................. 71
National Youth Day: January 12 ........................................................................................................................................................ 72
Sea Vigil 2021 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 72
One Planet Summit .............................................................................................................................................................................. 73
Management report of National Park and Wildlife Sanctuaries ................................................................................................ 74
Henley Passport Index - Update (January, 2021) .......................................................................................................................... 75
Supreme Court suspends implementation of Farms Laws ......................................................................................................... 75
US names Cuba as State Sponsor of Terrorism ........................................................................................................................... 76
Global Ebola vaccine stockpile .......................................................................................................................................................... 76
What is Insect Apocalypse? ............................................................................................................................................................... 77
January 13, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 78
New Foreign Trade Policy ................................................................................................................................................................. 78
India’s Eight Point Action Plan to UNSC to combat terrorism ................................................................................................. 79
Health Ministry Kayakalp Awards ................................................................................................................................................... 79
India-UAE MoU for Scientific and Technical Cooperation

Tsar Icicle ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 81
120 Multiple Choice Questions ................................................................................................................................................................. 82

News Headlines
January 1, 2021
Here are Today’s News Headlines by GK Today for January 1, 2021
India
AIIMS Rajkot: PM lays foundation stone
On December 31, 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid foundation stone of AIIMS Rajkot through a video
conference.
Colonel Narinder Kumar dies
Colonel Narinder “Bull” Kumar died in New Delhi at the age of 87. He played a major role in securing the
heights of Siachen Glacier in 1984. Also, he played a major role in Operation Meghdoot.
Kerala Assembly resolution against Farm Laws
On December 31, 2020, the Kerala Assembly passed a resolution demanding the scrapping of the three farm
laws. The resolution demands to scrapping of the three laws.
Economy and Corporate
Interest rate on NSC, PPF and other small savings schemes unchanged Join @aspirants85
The Government of India has kept the interest rates on small savings schemes unchanged. The interest
rates for various schemes were fixed as follows
Interest rates of Public Provident Fund (PPF) and National Savings Certificate (NSC) will continue to
remain at 7.1% and 6.8%.
Five Year Senior Citizens Savings Scheme: 7.4%
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: 7.6%
Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP): 6.9%
Eight core industries output contracts
The output of eight crore infrastructure dropped by 2.6% in November 2020. Fertilizer, Barring coal and
electricity recorded negative growth.
Upgraded e-Ticketing website and mobile app
On December 31, 2020, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal launched an upgraded e-ticketing website and mobile
app to book online railway tickets. Under the new initiative, the train search and selection has been
simplified. This has been done by putting all the information on one page to reduce the time used by
passengers and enhance booking experience.
Agriculture Minister inaugurates Virtual agri-Hackathon, 2020
On December 31, 2020, the agriculture and farmers welfare minister Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurated the
Virtual Agri-Hackathon, 2020 in New Delhi. The hackathon will focus on precision agriculture, farm
mechanization, food technology, supply chain, green energy and waste to wealth.
Labour Ministry to notify 8.5% interest on Employment Provident Find for 2019-20
The Ministry of Labour will notify 8.5% rate of interest on Employees Provident Fund. It accounts to over six
crore subscribers.
FASTag rollout
The Hybrid lanes at Toll Plaza are to remain operation till February 15, 2021 to avoid inconvenience to
people.
Suneet Sharma appointed as new Railway Board Chairman and CEO
On December 31, 2020, the former Eastern Railway General Manager will be appointed as the new Railway
Board Chairman and CEO.
ADB to provide 231 million USD for 120 MW hydroelectric power plant
The Asian Development Bank is to provide 231 million USD loan to increase the electricity generation
capacity in Assam through construction of 120 MW hydroelectric power plant.
Reliance Jio Makes domestic calls free
The Reliance Jio recently announced that the interconnect usage charge (IUC) the company had levied a few
months back will be revoked. This means that the voice calls from the network are free for its users.
IDBI sells 23% stake in IDBI Federal Life Insurance Company to Ageas
The Private lender IDBI recently concluded that the sale of 23% in IDBI Federal Life Insurance Compny to
Ageas Insurance International NV for Rs 507 crores.
World
Indian Army Chief to hold talks with South Korean counterpart
The Chief of Army Staff General M M Naravane to hold extensive talks with his South Korean counter part to
boost bilateral military ties. He also visited the Demilitarised Zone. It is a heavily fortified buffer zone that
separates North and South Korea since the Korean war in 1950s.
China completes Railway line in Tibet
On December 31, 2020, China completed the track laying work for railway line in linking cities of Lhasa and
Nyingchi in Tibet. The railway line is close to Indian border in Arunachal Pradesh.
Sports
Michael Kondo: Former Hockey player died
On December 31, 2020, the former hockey player Michael Kondo died. He was a member of Indian Hockey
team that won gold in 1975 World Cup.
January 2, 2021
Here are today’s news headlines by GK Today for January to, 2021
India
Prime Minister Lays Foundation stone of Light House projects
On January 1, 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid Foundation stone of 6 Light house projects as a part
of Global Housing Technology Challenge India initiative. The programme aims to build thousand houses in
cities such as Indore, Rajkot, Chennai, Ranchi, Agartala and Lucknow.
Draft of 5th National Science, technology and innovation policy released
The Department of Science and Technology recently released the draught of fifth national science
technology and innovation policy. The policy is now available for public consultation. The policy will bring
about profound changes by building nurture ecosystem that promotes Research and innovation.
Government staff to get disability compensation
On January 1, 2021 the Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced that the disability compensation has been
extended to all the Central Government employees who get disabled in the line of Duty. These employees
are retained in service in spite of such disablement. This will provide greater relief to the central Armed
Police Force personnel, border security forces, Central industrial security forces.
Economy and corporate
SEBI fined Mukesh Ambani and Reliance India Limited
On January 1, 2021 the capital market regulator SEBI imposed penalties on Reliance Industries Limited and
its chairman Mukesh Ambani and two other entities for actions of manipulate trading in the shares of
Reliance Petro Limited in 2007. A fine of 25 crores of Rupees and 15 crores of Rupees were imposed on the
Reliance Industries Limited and on Mukesh Ambani respectively
IFSCA becomes member of IOSCO
On January 1, 2021, the International Financial Services Centre authorities has become an associate
member of the International Organisation of Securities Commissions. The IOSCO works closely with the G20
and financial stability board to set up standards for strengthening the security markets.
Reserve Bank of India launches Digital Payments Index
On January 1, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India launched the Digital Payment Index with March 2018 as base

period. The index comprises of five broad parameters such as payment enablers, payment performance,
payment infrastructure – demand side factors and supply side factors and consumer centricity.
Foreign Exchange Reserves declined by 290 million USD
In the week ended December 25, 2020, the Foreign Exchange Reserves of India declined by 290 million USD
to 580.841 million USD. The gold reserves decreased by 308 million USD. The foreign currency assets
decreased by 253 million USD. The special drawing rights with the International Monetary Fund decreased
by 4 million USD to 1.5 billion USD.
RBI launches Inflation Expectation Survey of Households
On January 1, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India announced the launch of household surveys to capture
Inflation Expectations and consumer confidence. The Inflation Expectations Survey of Households aims to
capture subjective assessments on price movements and inflation from about 6,000 households based in
18 cities.
Asian Development Bank and India signed 10 million loan agreement
The Asian Development Bank and the Government of India recently signed a 10 million USD project to
support the horticulture in Himachal Pradesh.
Dharmendra Pradhan launches missed call facility for LPG refill booking
On January 1, 2021, the petroleum and natural gas and Steel Minister Dharmendra Pradhan launched the
missed call facility for LPG customers. The customers can use single missed call number 845 495 5555 for
refill booking.
Government of India allows import and export of covid-19 vaccine without any value limitation
The Government of India recently allowed the import and export of covid-19 vaccine without any value
limitation. This has been done to ensure a speedy clearance and distribution of covid-19 vaccine.
Soma Mondal: New Chairperson of SAIL
Soma Mondal has taken over as the new chairperson of Steel Authority of India Limited, SAIL from January
1, 2021.
World
Australia changes word in its National Anthem
The Australian government has changed a word in its national anthem to honour the indigenous population
of the country. The words “for We Are Young and free” has been changed to “for We Are One And free”.
India and Pakistan exchange list of their prisoners
On January 1, 2021, Pakistan handed over a list of 319 Indian Prisoners including 270 fisherman and 49
civilians to the High Commission of India as a part of a bilateral agreement. The Indian government also
shared the list of 340 Pakistani prisoners in India including 77 fisherman and 263 civilians with the High
Commission of Pakistan in New Delhi.
January 3, 2021
India
Expert panel gives go ahead for COVISHIELD
On January 2, 2021, the expert panel sent COVISHIELD vaccine for approval by the Drugs Controller General
of India. The committee also recommended COVAXIN for restricted use in an emergency situation subject
to multiple regulatory conditions. The Subject Expert Committee operates under the central drugs standard
control organisation.
ICMR cultures new covid-19 train that was first reported in UK
On January 2, 2021, the Indian Council of Medical Research announced that India has successfully cultured
the new coronavirus strain that was first reported in the UK.

National Police K-9 Journal
On January 2, 2021, the home minister of India Shri Amit Shah released the National Police K-9 Journal in
New Delhi. The publication is first of its kind in the country on the subject of police service K9s, police dogs,
etc.
New major general led Human Rights cell
The Indian Army recently created a new Human Rights cell headed by major General of India. The cell has
been created for Greater transparency and probity in the functioning of Indian Army in disturbed areas such
as north east and Jammu and Kashmir. General Gautam Chauhan has taken charge as the first additional
director general Human Rights at the army headquarters in New Delhi.
IIM Sambalpur
On January 2, 2021, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the permanent campus
of IIM Sambalpur in Odisha.
Legal age of smoking
The Government of India has recently prepared a bill to increase the age of shopkeepers selling cigarettes
and tobacco products from 18 years to 21 years.
Buta Singh dies
On January 2, 2021, Buta Singh Senior Congress leader died at the age of 86. He served as the Union Home
minister in the Rajiv Gandhi government from 1986 to 1989. Also, he was a fourth time member of
parliament from Rajasthan. He also held portfolio of Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, civil supplies and
Public Distribution between 1995 and 1996. He was the chairman of National Commission for Scheduled
Caste between 2007 and 2010. He is served as governor of Bihar between 2004 and 2006.
Indian Army to procure 12 patrol boats
The Indian Army has finalised procurement of 12 high performance patrol boats for surveillance of large
water bodies. The boats are to be deployed in Pangong Tso Lake in Eastern Ladakh. To procure these 12
fast Patrol boats the Indian Army has inked an agreement with the Goa Shipyard Limited.
World
Pakistan Government to buy houses of Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar in peshawar
On January 2, 2021, the Pakistan government approved the release of 2.35 crore rupees to purchase the
ancestral houses of Bollywood actors Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar located in Peshawar. These houses are to
be converted into Museum after procurement.
Kazakhstan abolishes death penalty
Kazakhstan recently abolished the death penalty making permanent early to freeze on capital punishment in
the authoritarian Central Asian country.
Sales tax on women’s sanitary products abolished in UK
On January 1, 2021, the British government abolished the tampon tax on women sanitary products .
Iran to enrich uranium up to 20%
Iran recently announced the United Nations nuclear Watchdog International atomic energy agency that it
has planned to enrich uranium to 20% purity. This was the level it achieved before 2015 Accord.
January 4, 2021 Join @aspirants85
Here are Today’s News Headlines for January 4, 2021
India
COVAXIN, COVISHIELD approved for Emergency use
The Drugs Controller General of India recently approved two vaccines, COVAXIN and COVISHIELD for
“Restricted Emergency Use” in India.

Phase III trials of ZYCOV-D vaccine approved
On January 3, 2021, the DCGI approve the Phase III trials of ZyCoV- vaccine of Zydus Cadila to be held in
India.
Digital Channels of Prasar Bharati record more than 100% digital Growth in 2020
Prasar Bharti registered more than 100% growth in 2020. Pakistan has the second highest audience for
Doordarshan and All India Radio.
Karnataka: Shops with more than 01 people can be open
On January 2, 2021, the Karnataka Government permitted all the shops with more than ten people to be
opened 24/7.
World
India sends relief materials to Fiji
On January 2, 2021, India sent relief materials to the cyclone affected Fiji. Fiji was hit by Yasa, a Category-5
tropical cyclone.
January 5, 2021
Here are today’s news headlines by GK today for January 5, 2021.
India
National Metrology Conclave 2021
On January 4, 2021, the Council of scientific and Industrial Research-National Physical Laboratory
organised the National Metrology Conclave. During the conclave the Prime Minister Narendra Modi
dedicated the National Atomic Time Scale and Bhartiya Nirdeshak Dravya to the nation. He also laid
Foundation stone to the National Environmental Standard Laboratory.
40th Indian scientific expedition to Antarctica
On January 4, 2021, 40th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica was launched. The expedition was
flagged off from Goa with 43 members.
Supreme Court repeals confiscation of cattle
On January 4, 2021, the Supreme Court asked the centre to repeal its three-year-old law which allowed
seizure of livestock from people even before they were found guilty of cruelty towards them. The 2017 law
allowed authorities to seize cattle over suspicion of cruel treatment.
Foundation stone of Engineering and Management courses buildings at JNU
On January 4, 2021, Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank laid the foundation stone of
buildings for School of Engineering and Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship
at the Jawaharlal Nehru University.
TRIFED signs MoU to set up TRIFOOD parks
The TRIFED signed MoU with the Akhil Bhartiya Vanvasi Kalyan Kendra to set up TRIFOOD parks in Madhya
Pradesh.
Manufacturing sector shows marginal improvement in December
According to the Purchasing Managers Index the manufacturing sector activities showed marginal
improvement in December as compared to the previous month. However, Employment generation remained
low.
World
World Braille Day: January 4
On January 4, 2021, the United Nations observed the World Braille Day. The day is being marked since 2019.
Malala Yousafzai Scholarship Act
The US Congress recently passed the Malala Yousafzai scholarship act. The act will expand the number of

scholarships been awarded to the Pakistani women. The scholarships provided for Pakistani women to
receive higher education top
Nancy Pelosi re-elected as speaker of House of Representatives
On January 3, 2021, the Congresswoman Nancy pelosi was re-elected as the speaker of US House of
Representatives for the 117th Congress.
Brian Urquhart dies
on January 2, 2021, the British diplomat Brian Urquhart who is known for developing the United Nations
practice of peacekeeping died at the age of hundred and one.
Google workers form Union
more than 200 Google employees have formed a workers Union in the United States. The union aims to
ensure that employees work at a fair wage, without fear of abuse or discrimination.
Sports
Teimour Radjabov wins Airthings Masters
Teimour Radjabov won 200,000 USD Airthings Masters online rapid chess final on January 3, 2021.
Khelo India Sports: Assam Rifles Public School wins first prize
on January 4, 2021, the Union Minister for youth affairs and sports Kiren rijiju launched the Assam Rifles
Public School in Shillong. It is the Sports School. Sofa nine such sports schools have been approved across
the country. In the North Eastern region Assam Rifles Public School is the first Sports School under khelo
India programme.
January 6, 2021
Here are today’s news headlines by GK today for January 6, 2021
India
Supreme Court clears Central Vista project
On January 5, 2021, the Supreme Court gave its nod to the New Central Vista project. The project includes a
common Secretariat, Parliament building and renovated rajpat is switching between India Gate and
Rashtrapati Bhavan.
PM CARES fund for oxygen generation
The Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situation fund is to be used for medical
oxygen generation. Around 201.58 crores of Rupees have been allocated for this purpose.
First all women team of NDRF
An All women NDRF team was recently deployed on the banks of Ganga River for contingency duties in Uttar
Pradesh to.
Swasth Vayu ventilator
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research scientists have designed and developed and non invasive
ventilator called Swasth Vayu. It has been recently approved by the Director General of Health Services.
World Bank provides 105 million USD loan for waterways in West Bengal
On January 5, 2021, the World Bank and the Government of India signed a 105 million USD agreement to
improve the inland water transport infrastructure in Kolkata, West Bengal.
Tamilnadu Government permits 100% Occupancy in cinema theatres
On January 4, 2021, State Government of Tamil Nadu ordered to permit 100% Occupancy in cinema theatres
in the state. The decision has created high debate all over the state.
Alexander Ellis appointed new High Commissioner of UK to India
The British government recently appointed Alexander Ellis as the new high commissioner to India. He is
succeeding Sir Philip Barton.
Argentine film maker will head the international jury of 51st IFFI
Pablo Caesar of Argentina was announced as the head of the international jury of International Film Festival

of India. The Other jury members are present from shrilanka, Priyadarshan of India, Abu Bakr of Austria and
Rubaiiyat Hossain of Bangladesh.
TRIFOOD parks in MP
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED recently signed a memorandum of understanding with the Akhil
Bhartiya Vanvasi Kalyan Kendra to set up TRIFOOD park in the state of Madhya Pradesh .
Global economic prospects report of world bank
On January 5, 2021, the World bank released the Global Economic Prospects. According to the report, the
Global economic output is projected to grow by 4% in 2021. India is expected to grow at 5.4 % in 2021-22.
On January 4, 2021, the World Braille Day was celebrated.
Toycathon 2021
Union Education Minister Ramesh pokhriyal nishank and the Union Minister of textiles and women and child
development Smriti Irani launched Toycathon 2021. It will promote manufacturing of indigenous toys. It will
also focus on conceptualising new and innovative toys using local material.
Freight Business Development Portal
On January 5, 2020 Railway Minister Piyush Goyal launched a fried Business Development portal of a one.
Solution for all the needs of right customers .
PM inaugurated Kochi kottanad Bengaluru LNG pipeline
On January 5, 2021, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated of 450 km long Kochi koottanad
Bengaluru LNG pipeline through video conferencing. The plan is to increase the share of Natural Gas in
energy sector from 6 % to 15% by 2030.
Bharat Biotech and Sairam Institute of Technology pledge for smooth vaccine rollout
On January 5, 2021, the hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech and pune-based Serum Institute of Technology
issued a joint statement pledging to provide covid-19 vaccines to India and the world in a smooth way.
SIDBI and TATA Power offer rooftop solar financing for MSMEs
On January 5, 2021, the TATA Power and SIDBI announce their partnership to provide a finance scheme to
the MSMEs in solar rooftop segment. According to TATA Power, easy financing is one of the barriers for
penetration of solar energy in the MSME sector.
Saudi Arabia to lift Qatar Embargo
On January 4, 2021, the Foreign ministry of Kuwait announced that Saudi Arabia will open its air and land
borders with Qatar. These are the first steps towards ending a diplomatic crisis that deeply divided the
regional you was released since 2017. Since the mid of 2017, most of the only land border of Qatar was
closed. Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and UAE had launched a blockade against Qatar accusing it of
supporting islamist groups. Qatar was also accused of having warm ties with Iran .
Highest number of babies born on new year in India: UNICEF
UNICEF recently announced that more than 371,504 babies were born in India. This is the highest number of
births on the new year according to UNICEF.
Pakistan supreme court orders reconstruction of vandalize Hindu temple
On January 5, 2021, the Pakistan Supreme Court ordered the Evacuee Property Trust Board to reconstruct a
century year old Hindu temple. The temple was vandalized and set on fire by a mob in Karak district on
December 30, 2020. The attack has caused International embarrassment to the country.
Sports
Former tennis coach Bob Brett dies at 67
The Australian coach Bob Brett who trained Boris Becker passed away on January 5, 2021.

January 7, 2021
India
Bird Flu: 5 states confirmed
On January 6, 2021, the Minister of State for animal husbandry Sanjeev Baliyan confirmed that five states
have been affected by bird flu. The states are Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Kerala and Madhya
Pradesh.
Longitudinal ageing study of India
On January 6, 2021, the Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan released the Longitudinal Ageing Study of
India. It is a full scale National survey of scientific investigation of economic, health and social
determinants and consequences of population ageing in India.
Government of India approves human wildlife conflict advisory
The National Board of Wildlife recently approved the advisory for management of human wildlife conflict.
The advisory envisages to empower the gram panchayats to deal with human wildlife conflict under the
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Sabarimala rail project cost to be shared between Kerala and Centre
On January 6, 2021, the State Cabinet of Kerala decided to make available funds from Kerala Infrastructure
Investment Fund Board. Alongside the Kerala government has agreed to bear 50% of the cost of the
Sabarimala rail project along with the centre.
Supreme Court to study anti conversion laws
on January 6, 2021, the supreme court agreed to examine the constitutional validity of the anti-conversion
law was enacted by the state such as Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. These laws criminalize religious
conversion via marriages. They mandate prior official clearance before marrying into another faith.
Bombay High Court: using God’s name to sell articles is illegal
The Bombay High Court recently declared that the advertisement of an article using the name of god and
claiming that it has Supernatural qualities is illegal. The declaration has been made under the Maharashtra
prevention and eradication of human sacrifice and other human, evil and Aghori practices and black magic
act.
Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh get additional financial assistance for completing citizen centric reforms
The Government of India has provided additional financial assistance of 344 crores of Rupees to Madhya
Pradesh and 660 crores of Rupees to Andhra Pradesh for capital expenditure after they completed three out
of four citizen-centric reforms. The states have completed ease of doing business reforms, one ration card
reforms and urban local body reforms.
PMI falls to 52.3 from 53.7
The Purchasing Managers Index fell from 53.7 to 52.3 in December.
KVIC signs MoU with ITBP
On January 6, 2021, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission signed a Memorandum of Understanding
with the Indo Tibetan Border Police to supply 1,72,000 cotton durries every year.
World
BRICS Bank Agreememt
on January 5, 2021,the Brazil economy ministry said it has defaulted on its penultimate capital installment
to the new Development bank. In 2015, Brazil agreed to pay its contribution to capitalise the bank in 7
installments.
PM Modi holds video conference with the German chancellor
On January 6, 2021, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi held video teleconference with his German

counterpart Dr Angela Merkel. The leaders discussed the key issues such as covid-19 pandemic, bilateral
ties and issues related to India and European Union relations.
Government of India clears India Japan mobility of skilled workers
On January 6, 2021, the Union Cabinet approved the signing of agreement between India and Japan to
institutionalize a mechanism for cooperation in sending skilled Indian workers to Japan. The Indian skilled
workers should have qualified in Japanese language test.
External affairs minister meets his Srilankan counterpart
On January 6, 2021, the External Affairs minister S Jaishankar met his Srilankan counterpart Dinesh
Gunawardena.
Sports
Claire Polosak becomes first woman to officiate in men’s test match
Claire Polosak of Australia has become the first woman to match official in men’s test. She is to take up as
the fourth umpire role in the third test of Australia-India series starting at Sydney Cricket Ground.
Book on India-Australia cricket tours released
The Journey to Triumph in Australia book was released on January 6, 2021. It reflects on previous 12 tours
of India.
January 8, 2021
India
EDUCON 2020
On January 7, 2021, the union Education Minister Ramesh pokhriyal nishank inaugurated at today virtual
International Akhand conference EDUCON 2020. Theme: envisioning education for transforming youth to
restore global peace. The conference is organised by Central University of Punjab and global Educational
Research Association .
Central sector scheme for Industrial development of Jammu and Kashmir
On January 6, 2021, the cabinet committee on economic affairs shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
approved the proposal of department for promotion of industry and internal trade. The DPIIT proposed for
the central sector scheme for Industrial development of Jammu and Kashmir.
Panel set up to look into issues of culture and language in Ladakh
On January 6, 2021, the ministry of home affairs announced that a panel has been set up under the
chairmanship of Kishan Reddy to find solutions on the issues related to language, culture and conservation
of land in the union territory of Ladakh due to developmental activities .
Free sanitary pads to high school and college girls by Punjab
On January 7, 2021, the Punjab Chief Minister Amrendra Singh announced a slew of welfare schemes. He
also launched a scheme to provide free sanitary pads to high school and college girls. Also he launched the
Basera program to give property rights to slum dwellers.
Telangana High Court gets first woman chief justice
on January 7, 2021, justice Hima Kohli was sworn in as the chief Justice of High Court of Telangana.
Satya Paul dies at 79
On January 6, 2021, the fashion designer Satya Paul passed away at the age of 79. He launched the first
saree boutique in India L’Affaire.
GDP of India to decline by 7.7% in 2020- 21
The Ministry of statistics recently announced that the gross domestic product of India will shrink by 7.7 % in
the financial year ending March 2021. Accordingly, the agriculture is projected to grow at 3.4 %,
manufacture sector is to contract by 7.4%, transport, hotel and trade are projected to contract by 21.4%.

306 kilometre of Western dedicated freight corridor section dedicated to the nation
on January 7, 2021, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated 306-kilometre Rewari-Madar section of
Western dedicated freight corridor.
World first double stack long haul 1.5 km long container train in India
on January 7, 2021, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the first double stack long haul 1.5 km
train hauled by electric traction.
Urban local bodies reforms by Telangana
after Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh telangana has become the third state to successfully
undertaken the urban local body reforms stipulated by the Ministry of Finance. It has become eligible to
mobilize additional financial resources of 2508 roads of rupees through open market borrowings.
World
US Capitol Building Protests
Four people died as supporters of President Donald Trump violently attacked the US Capitol.
US Congress certifies Joe Biden’s victory
on January 7, 2021, joint session of US Congress formerly certified the electoral victory of Joe Biden and
Kamala Harris.
US democrats take control of US Senate
the democratic party captured the control of Senate in the run off election in Georgia.
New York Stock Exchange delists three Chinese Companies
On January, 7, 2021, the NEw York Stock Exchange delisted three Chinese telecom companies.
Indian-American appointed as US Army first Chief Information Officer
The US Trade Representative concluded the digital taxes imposed on India, France, ITaly and Turkey against
US Tech firms such as Facebook, Google, Apple and amazon.com.
China denies entry of WHO team investigating origin of COVID-19
China has denied the entry of WHO team to probe the origins of COVID-19.
Pakistan test fires rocket system
On January 7, 2021, successfully completed the test flight of an indigenously developed rocket system
named Fatah-1. It is capable of delivering conventional warheads with a maximum range of 140 kilometres.
January 9, 2021
India
Over half of Army personnel under severe stress: USI Study
The Indian Army has been losing more personnel every year in suicides, fratricides and untoward incidents
than in any enemy action, terrorist activities and over half of its soldiers seem to be under severe stress
presently, said a study by think tank United Service Institution of India (USI).
Subodh Kumar Jaiswal takes charge as new DG of CISF
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) got a new chief in Subodh Kumar Jaiswal, who took over as the
new Director General of the force on January 8, 2021. Prior to CISF, Jaiswal was serving as Director General
of Police of Maharashtra.
Diplomatic Adviser to French President meets PM Modi in Delhi
Diplomatic Adviser to the President of France Emmanuel Bonne on January 8, 2021 called on Prime Minister
Narendra Modi in New Delhi discussed wide-ranging bilateral and global issues. The Prime Minister
expressed satisfaction on the progress both countries have made on key aspects of the India-France
Strategic Partnership, including counter-terrorism, cyber-security, defence and strategic cooperation.
SC asks Centre to arm forest officers in fight against poachers
The Supreme Court on January 8, 2021 urged the government to arm forest officers and provide them with

bullet-proof vests and vehicles when told that India recorded the “greatest number of mortal fatalities”
among forest officials in the world. Advocate Shyam Divan said India accounted for 30% of fatalities among
forest rangers in the world.
NIXI offers free domain name in local Indian languages
The National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) announced that it will offer a free Internationalized Domain
Name (IDN) in any of the preferred 22 official Indian language along with every IN domain booked by the
registrant. Applicant will also get a free email in local language. This offer has been created to stimulate the
adoption of भारत IDN domain name and proliferation of local language content. This offer is valid for new .in
users who register up to 31st of January. This offer is also extended to those existing in users who renew
their domain in the month of January 2021.
GoI launches digital calendar and diary for 2021, instead of printing them
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on January 8, 2021 launched Government of India’s digital
calendar and diary for 2021, instead of printing them. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar unveiled the
Android and iOS mobile applications of the calendar and diary in an event held at New Delhi. Launched in
Hindi and English, the ‘GoI Calendar’ app is free and accessible to all and will be soon made available in 11
other regional languages.
26th Kolkata International Film Festival inaugurated
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on January 8, 2021 virtually inaugurated the 26th Kolkata
International Film Festival (KIFF) that will conclude on January 13 and allowed full occupancy of cinema
halls in the state with adherence to COVID safety protocols.
Tamil Nadu withdraws order permitting 100% occupancy in cinema halls
The Tamil Nadu government has revoked its earlier order permitting 100% occupancy in cinema halls and
theatres. Only 50 per cent occupancy will be permitted as per the new order. However, the State allowed
additional shows.
Israel appoints Joyshree Das Verma Honorary Consul in Northeast India
The Embassy of Israel in India has appointed Joyshree Das Verma as Honorary Consul in the North East
with jurisdiction over the States of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya,
Tripura and Sikkim. She will be based in Assam. The appointment was announced by Ambassador of Israel
in India Ron Malka.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s niece Chitra Ghosh dies
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s niece and eminent academician Chitra Ghosh died at the age of 90 on
January 8, 2021. She was the former head of the political science department at Lady Brabourne College in
Kolkata.
Economy & Corporate
Online sale of expensive items through Canteen Stores Department enabled
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched a portal on January 8, 2021 for the online sale of expensive items,
including washing machines, microwave ovens, refrigerators, air-conditioners, television sets and laptops,
through the (Canteen Stores Department) canteens. The armed forces personnel and the ex-servicemen use
the CSD canteens.
WTO members praise India’s GST, ease of doing business, other structural reforms
Members of the World Trade Organization on January 8, 2021 appreciated India’s goods and services tax,
reforms on taxation, trade facilitation and improving the ease of doing business, and liberalised regimes for
FDI and intellectual property rights at the final session of its Trade Policy Review (TPR). The TPR is an
important mechanism under the WTO’s monitoring function in which member countries’ trade and related
policies are examined with an aim to contribute towards improved adherence to WTO rules, while providing
feedback to the member under review.
India urges WTO to resolve issue of public stock holding for food security purposes
India on January 8, 2021 urged the members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to work on finding a
permanent solution to the issue of public stock holding for food security purposes. Commerce Secretary
Anup Wadhawan said the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has again brought to the fore the importance of food
and livelihood security. Under WTO norms, a country’s food subsidy bill should not breach the limit of 10%
of the value of production based on the reference price of 1986-88. Apprehending that the full
implementation of food security programme may result in breach of WTO cap, India has been seeking
amendments in the formula to calculate food subsidy cap.
World
India to chair 3 key subsidiary bodies of UN Security Council
Permanent Representative of India at United Nations Security Council, TS Tirumurti on January 8, 2021
informed that India will chair 3 key subsidiary bodies of UN Security Council. The three committees are
Taliban Sanctions Committee, Counter-Terrorism Committee (for 2022) and Libya Sanctions Committee.
India asks China to allow crew change for stranded sailors
India’s Ambassador to China Vikram Misri has raised with China the issue of stranded Indian sailors in two
ships off Chinese ports, asking the authorities to allow an early approval for a crew change. Two ships, MV
Jag Anand and MV Anastasia, are among several carrying Australian coal that have been unable to offload
their cargo after China banned coal imports from Australia. There are 23 Indian sailors on the bulk carrier
MV Jag Anand since June and 16 others on MV Anastasia since September.
Pakistan: 26/11 Mumbai attacks mastermind Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi jailed
Mumbai attack (26 November 2008) mastermind and Lashkar-e-Taiba operations commander Zaki-ur-
Rehman Lakhvi was sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment by a Pakistani anti-terrorism court in Lahore in
a terror financing case on January 8, 2021.
January 10, 2021 Join @aspiranys85
India
COVID-19 vaccination process to start from Jan 16: Health Ministry
The COVID-19 vaccination drive in India will begin on January 16, with priority being given to an estimated
three crore healthcare workers and frontline workers, the Health Ministry said on January 9, 2021. This
would be followed by the voluntary vaccination of people above 50 and those below 50 with co-morbidities,
numbering around 27 crores. The announcement followed a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra
Modi to review the status of the pandemic in the country along with the preparedness of the States and the
Union Territories for the vaccination programme. The Drugs Controller General of India (DGCI) had granted
Emergency Use Authorisation to two vaccines — Covishield and Covaxin.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention held in virtual format
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention was organised on January 9, 2021. It was by inaugurated
Prime Minister Narendra Modi through virtual mode. President of Suriname Chandrika Persad Santokhi was
the Chief Guest of the convention. The theme of PBD 2021 is “Contributing to Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.
Suriname President among 30 Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awardees
Suriname President Chandrika Persad Santokhi, Curacao Prime Minister Eugene Rhuggenaath and New
Zealand minister Priyanca Radhakrishnan were among 30 NRIs, and Indian-origin people and organisations
who were conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award on January 9, 2021. President Ram Nath Kovind
presented the awards at a virtual event on the third and final day of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
celebrations.
High Level Committee for 125th birth anniversary of Subhas Chandra Bose set up
A High-Level Committee, headed by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has been constituted to
commemorate the 125th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. It will decide on the activities for
a one-year long commemoration, beginning 23rd January 2021. The Members of the Committee include
distinguished citizens, historians, authors, experts, family members of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, as well
as eminent persons associated with Azad Hind Fauj.
India’s ‘Institutions of Eminence’ can now set up campuses in foreign countries
Indian universities and colleges with the Institutions of Eminence (IOEs) tag, which include several IITs, will
now be able to set up campuses in foreign countries with the University Grants Commission (UGC) issuing
fresh guidelines on the same. They will, however, require approval from as many as three ministries —
education, home and external affairs — before they can venture out. The Education Ministry had launched
the IoE scheme in 2018 as per which 20 institutions were to be selected — 10 public and 10 private ones —
that would enjoy complete academic and administrative autonomy.
MP’s anti-conversion ordinance gets governor’s nod, becomes law
Madhya Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel on January 9, 2021 gave assent to an ordinance which
penalizes religious conversions through fraudulent means including those for the sake of marriage. The
Madhya Pradesh Freedom of Religion Ordinance, 2020, provides for ten years in jail in some cases.
Madhavsinh Solanki, former External Affairs Minister and Gujarat CM, dies
Congress veteran Madhavsinh Solanki, who served as chief minister of Gujarat in 1976-77, 1980-85 and
1989-90, died in Gandhinagar on January 9, 2021 at the age of 93. He had also served as External Affairs
Minister from June 1991 to March 1992.
Jose K. Mani of Kerala Congress (M) resigns from Rajya Sabha
Kerala Congress (M) chairman Jose K. Mani has resigned from the Rajya Sabha. His party is a constituent
of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala.
Economy & Corporate
Japan extends fresh loan to India to combat socio-economic impacts of Covid
Japan on January 8, 2021 decided to assist India by providing a loan of up to 30 billion yen (appx. INR 2,129
Crore) for its efforts to mitigate socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 in India. The Exchange of Notes for
the COVID-19 Crisis Response Support Loan for Social Protection were signed by Suzuki Satoshi,
Ambassador of Japan to India and Dr C. S. Mohapatra, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic
Affairs.
DGCA issues guidelines for safe carriage of COVID-19 vaccines by air
The DGCA on January 8, 2021 issued guidelines for safe carriage of COVID-19 vaccines, allowing airlines to
pack them in dry ice in order to maintain temperatures ranging from -7 degree Celsius and -70 degree
Celsius. The aviation safety regulator has allowed airlines to carry dry ice as a refrigerant material in aircraft
belly and the passenger cabin. The special permission was necessary as dry ice is classified among
dangerous goods as it turns into carbon dioxide under low pressure situations.
Indian Railways enhances its maximum speed to 130 kmph
Indian Railways has started the New Year by achieving a landmark achievement by drastically enhancing the
maximum speed to 130 kilometres per hour for 1,280 km length out of 1,612 Km in Golden Quadrilateral –
Golden Diagonal route. This covers the entire GQ-GD route over South Central Railway, except Vijayawada –
Duvvada section, where signalling up-gradation work is in progress.
World
Indian sailors stuck at Chinese port since June 2020 to return
23 Indian sailors onboard Indian ship M. V. Jag Anand which has been stuck at Chinese port of Jingtang
since June 2020, have finally got respite as the ship is all set to sail to Chiba, Japan for a crew change. This
was announced by Shipping Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on January 9, 2021.

Boeing 737-500 plane of Indonesia’s Sriwijaya Air crashes
A passenger plane of Indonesia’s Sriwijaya Air carrying 62 people on board crashed into waters off Jakarta
on January 9, 2021. The Boeing 737-500 was on an estimated 90-minute flight from Jakarta to Pontianak,
capital of West Kalimantan province on Indonesia’s Borneo island.
Twitter permanently suspends account of outgoing President Donald Trump
Twitter has announced that it had permanently suspended the account of outgoing President Donald Trump
due to “risk of further incitement of violence”, three days after his supporters stormed the US Capitol and
five people died in the violence. The unprecedented move by the social media platform comes after Trump
tweeted that he would not attend the inauguration of his successor Joe Biden on January 20.
Sports
Agnes Keleti, the oldest living Olympic champion, turns 100
Agnes Keleti, the oldest living Olympic champion, turned 100 on January 9, 2021. She won 10 medals for
Hungary in gymnastics at the Olympic Games including 5 golds — 1 at Helsinki in 1952 and 4 at Melbourne
in 1956.
January 11, 2021
India
Education ministry issues guidelines for continued education of migrant children
Education minister recently issued guidelines to state and union territory for admission, identification and
continued education of migrant children. This was done to mitigate the impact of disruptions caused by
covid-19. The main features of the guidelines are identifying out of school children, providing continued
education for out of school children, and enrollment drives.
CoWIN to form foundation of covid-19 inoculation drive
On January 10, 2021, the Government of India announced that CoWIN will monitor covid-19 vaccine delivery
and form the foundation of anti-coronavirus inoculation drive.
Infrastructure for safe movement of Wildlife on National Highways created
The Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar recently announced that more than 2,200 crores of rupees is
to be spent by the road transport and Highway ministry to create infrastructure for safe movement of
wildlife or National Highway.
World Hindi Day: January 10
The World Hindi Day was observed on January 10, 2021. The day is celebrated every year to promote the
use of Hindi language abroad.
Landing gear system for UAV handed over to Indian Navy
The combat vehicles research and development establishment in Chennai operating under DRDO recently
handed over the retractable landing gear system for TAPAS unmanned aerial vehicle. These tears systems
are to be used by the Indian Navy.
Tamilnadu college students receive free data card
Tamilnadu Government provided free data card of 2GB per day to over 9.69 lakh college students. This is
being done to enable the students attend online classes at ease.
Busses to provide free travel to women and senior citizens in Guwahati
The Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal recently flagged off 25 buses under “Bhraman Sarathi”
scheme for senior citizens and women. The beneficiaries can travel for free in the buses within the
Guwahati city.
PM-KISAN: 1,364 crores of Rupees to under serving beneficiaries
The Government of India has paid 1354 crores of Rupees to 20.48 lakhs under serving beneficiaries under

its PM-KISAN scheme. The information was provided by the union agriculture ministry you in reply to Be
Right to Information query.
World
US voids restriction on the climatic contracts with Taiwan
On January 9, 2021, the United States secretary of state Mike pompeo announced that the state department
is voiding long-standing restrictions on how the United States deployments and others have contact with
their counterparts in Taiwan. These restrictions were created by previous administration to appease a
communist Regime in China according to the secretary.
UK raises 1 billion USD to support COVID-19 vaccination
The UK recently raised 1 billion USD from global donors to fund vaccination campaigns against COVID-19 in
developing countries.
Storm Filomena
The storm Filomena has brought the heaviest snowfall in decades all over Spain and has killed more than 4
people. The Spanish Government will send Convoys carrying COVID-19 vaccine and food supplies.
Sports
African Runners win Dhaka Marathon
African Runners won Dhaka Marathon 2021. It was organised to commemorate the return of Bangabandhu
Sheikh Mujbur Rahman from Pakistan jail to Bangladesh in 1972.
January 12, 2021
Here are today’s news headlines by GK today for January 12, 2021:
India
Supreme Court Slams Centre over farmers protest
On January 11, 2021, Supreme Court stayed the implementation of the controversial agricultural laws. The
apex court has proposed to constitute an independent committee chaired by Chief Justice of India to
resolve the standoff between the farmers and the union government.
Government of India places order of 11 million doses of COVISHIELD
On January 11, 2021, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the state governments need not pay
for vaccinating the priority group of three core health and Frontline workers. The cost or to be Borne by the
Central Government. The Government of India has place a purchase order of 11 million doses of
COVISHIELD with the Pune based Institute of India. The cost of one dose is 210 rupees including GST.
Government of India order state governments not to shutdown poultry markets
On January 11, 2021, the central government asked the state governments not to shutdown poultry markets.
According to the World Health Organisation the virus will be destroyed if the poultry products are cooked at
70 degree Celsius and above .
ISRO to adopt hundred Atal tinkering labs
On January 11, 2021, Niti Aayog, Atal innovation mission and the Indian Space Research Organization
announced that the ISRO will be adopting 100 Atal tinkering lab. This is being done to promote space
education and space Technology related innovations for school students.
Heritage conservation committee approves construction of new Parliament building
On January 11, 2021, the Heritage conservation committee approved the construction of new parliamentary
building. The committee is headed by the secretary of housing and urban affairs ministry.
Environment Minister releases management effectiveness evaluation of 146 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries
On January 11, 2021, the minister of environment in, forest and climate change Prakash Javadekar released
management effectiveness evaluation of 146 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the country. The
management effectiveness is required to assess the efficacy of protected areas in the country. Currently
India has a network of 903 protected areas covering 5% of the total Geographic area of the country.

Khadi Prakritik Paint
The Khadi and Village Commission is to introduce Khadi Prakritik Paint. The paint has antifungal and
antibacterial properties. The main ingredient of the paint is cow dung.
Sea-Vigil 21 exercise
The Indian Navy is to organise a mega defence exercise called Sea Vigil-21. The exercise will cover the
7516 kilometres of coastline and the Exclusive Economic Zone.
Air India operates longest non-stop Flight operated by an all women crew
Air India recently operated the longest non-stop Flight operated by an all women cockpit group. The flight
recently landed at the Kempegowda international airport in Bengaluru. They flew for 17 hours.
Kerala government wave entertainment tax for Cinemas
On January 11, 2021, the Kerala government waved entertainment tax for Cinemas to help the film
industries in the state.
Abhilash Tomy retires
On January 10, 2021, commander Abhilash Tomy retired from Indian Navy. He was the first Indian to
circumnavigate the globe solo and unassisted in a sail yacht.
Turlapati kutumba Rao dies
On January 11, 2021, the veteran journalist and Padma Shri awardee Kutumba Rao died in Vijayawada at
age of 87.
Bangladesh to be the country of focus at the 51st international film festival of india
At the 51st international film festival of India, Bangladesh should be the country of focus. The festival is to
be organised from January 16 to January 24, 2021 in Goa. In paragraph economy and corporate
Single window clearance portal of coal ministry launched
On January 11, 2021, the ministry of coal launched single window clearance portal. It is a unified platform
to facilitate approvals required for starting a coal mine in India.
World
India hands over Chinese soldiers
The Indian Army recently handed over the People’s Liberation Army Soldiers who strayed into Ladakh
region.
Tenzin Lekphell appointed as new secretary general of BIMSTEC
Tenzin Lekphell has been appointed as the new secretary general of BIMSTEC. BIMSTEC initiative for multi-
sectoral technical and economic cooperation .
William J Burns to Lead The Central Intelligence Agency
On January 11, 2021, the US President elect Joe Biden announced that he has nominated the former career
diplomat William J Burns to lead the Central Intelligence Agency.
Ved Prakash Mehta dies
On January 9, 2021, the Indian American novelist and journalist Ved Prakash Mehta died at the age of 86.
Sports
Cheteshwar Pujara crosses 6,000 run mark in Test cricket in his 80th match played in Sydney.
January 13, 2021
India
SC stays implementation of three new farm laws
The Supreme Court has put a stay on the implementation of three new farm laws until further orders. “The
implementation of the three farm laws 1) Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and
Facilitation) Act, 2020; (2) Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020; and (3) Farmers (Empowerment
and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020, shall stand stayed until further

orders,” it said. The bench was hearing a batch of petitions regarding the Constitutional validity of three
farm laws passed by Parliament and a plea to disperse the protesting farmers. It has also set up a
committee of agricultural experts to facilitate talks between the Centre and farmers’ unions to resolve the
impasse. The four-member panel comprises agriculture economist Ashok Gulati, former Director for South
Asia, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Pramod Kumar Joshi, National President of
Bhartiya Kisan Union & All India Kisan Coordination Committee, Bhupinder Singh Mann, and Shetkari
Sanghatana President Anil Ghanwat.
Kayakalp awards given to Public and Private Health Facilities
Public and Private Health Facilities across the country were on January 12, 2021 felicitated with Centre’s
Kayakalp award for high standards of Sanitation and Hygiene. The government had launched a National
Initiative ‘Kayakalp’ on 15th May 2015 to ensure hygiene, sanitation and cleanliness in Public Health
Facilities in the country.
Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda celebrated as National Youth Day
Birth Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda was celebrated as National Youth Day on January 12, 2021. Swami
Vivekananda became popular in the western world after his famous speech at the World’s Parliament of
Religions held in Chicago in 1893. He was the chief disciple of the 19 th century mystic Ramakrishna
Paramhansa and was the founder of the Ramakrishna Math and the Ramakrishna Mission.
PM addresses valedictory function of National Youth Parliament Festival
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the valedictory function of the second National Youth Parliament
Festival (NYPF) on January 12, 2021 via video conferencing. The objective of NYPF is to hear the voice of
youth between 18 and 25 years of age.
Committee on TRPs of TV channels submits report to I&B minister
The committee constituted to make the Television Rating Points (TRPs) of TV channels more transparent,
submitted its report to the Union Information and Broadcasting (I&B) Minister Prakash Javadekar on
January 12, 2021. A committee was formed under the chairmanship of Prasar Bharati CEO Shashi Shekhar
Vempati on November 4, 2020 to make the TRP system more transparent. Following the report, guidelines
would be issued to the rating agency, Broadcast Audience Research Council.
Women to be inducted as Army pilots: Army Chief
Women will be inducted as pilots in the Army Aviation Corps from next year, Indian Army Chief General
Manoj Mukund Naravane said on January 12, 2021. Till now, women are only part of ground duties in the
Army Aviation Corps (AAC). The Indian Army raised the AAC on November 1, 1986 and it comprises
helicopters that fly in conflict and peace zones.
Economy & Corporate
CPI-based inflation eased to 4.59% in December
Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation eased to 4.59% in December 2020 compared to 6.93% in
November, according to government data released on January 12, 2021.
Industrial output contracts by 1.9% in November 2020
The country’s industrial output, measured in terms of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), contracted by
1.9% in November as against 3.6% growth in October, according to data from the Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation.
KVIC launches eco-friendly “Khadi Prakritik Paint”
Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways & MSME Nitin Gadkari launched an innovative new paint
developed by Khadi and Village Industries Commission on January 12, 2021. The eco-friendly, non-toxic
paint, called “Khadi Prakritik Paint” is a first-of-its-kind product, with anti-fungal, anti-bacterial properties.
Bharat Biotech to supply Covaxin to Brazil
Covaxin maker Bharat Biotech has signed an agreement with Precisa Medicamentos, a firm in Brazil, to

supply the COVID-19 vaccine candidate to the Latin American country. Twelve million doses of the
indigenous vaccine are likely to be supplied over a period of time.
World
India to set up financial facility for academic collaboration with Arab World
India on January 12, 2021 decided to set up one-billion-dollar facility for academic collaboration with the
Arab World. This was decided at third Senior Officials Meeting of the Arab-India Cooperation Forum held via
video conference. The financial facility will be a rolling one and continue to be replenished.
Private messages will continue to be encrypted end-to-end: WhatsApp
In the wake of a backlash over its updated privacy policy, Facebook-owned WhatsApp on January 12, 2021
clarified that the update would not affect users’ messages to friends or family. The changes only relate to
messaging a business using the platform, the messaging service provider said. In an FAQ posted on its
website, WhatsApp added that this update includes changes related to messaging a business on WhatsApp,
which is optional.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un given title of general secretary of ruling party
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un was given the title of general secretary of the ruling Workers Party
formerly held by his late father Kim Jong Il, and grandfather, Kim Il Sung. Kim already was the party’s top
leader. During a 2016 party congress, he was named party chairman and before that had led the party with
the title of first secretary.
Malaysia: King declares emergency till August 1 to fight Covid-19
Malaysia’s king on January 12, 2021 declared a nationwide state of emergency to fight a coronavirus surge.
Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah agreed to declare an emergency until August 1 following a request from
Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin in a meeting on January 11, the national palace said in a statement.
U.S. rebrands Cuba as state sponsor of terrorism
President Donald Trump’s outgoing administration on January 11, 2021 returned Cuba to the U.S. blacklist
of state sponsors of terrorism. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo cited Cuba’s ties with Colombian rebels,
alliance with leftist Venezuela and sanctuary to several U.S. fugitives in justifying the blacklisting. The terror
designation only be removed after a formal review by the new Joe Biden administration.
Casino mogul Sheldon Adelson dies at 87 in US
Sheldon Adelson, the billionaire mogul and power broker who built a casino empire spanning from Las
Vegas to China, died at the age of 87 on January 11, 2021. He was the Chairman and CEO of the Las Vegas
Sands Corporation.
January 14, 2021
India
NIC and CBSE to jointly launch CollabCAD Software
National Informatics Centre and Central Board of Secondary Education, CBSE will jointly launch CollabCAD
Software on January 14, 2021 to provide a total engineering solution for students and Faculty of
Engineering Graphics Curriculum. This initiative aims to provide a platform to students across the country
to create and modify 3D digital designs. This software will enable students to collaborate over designs
across the network and concurrently access the same design data for storage and visualization.
SC takes cognizance of pollution in Yamuna river by Haryana
The Supreme Court on January 13, 2021 took suo motu cognizance of pollution in the Yamuna after Delhi
Jal Board (DJB) alleged that water containing high pollutants is being released in the river from Haryana.
DJB recently moved the top court alleging this and a sought a direction to Haryana to ensure that pollutant
free water is released in the river.

Publication of notice under Special Marriage Act optional: Allahabad HC
In a significant judgment affecting inter-faith couples seeking to get married under the Special Marriage Act,
1954, the Allahabad High Court has ruled that it would be optional and not mandatory for them to publish a
notice about their intended marriage. The provision for mandatory publication of notice, derived through
“simplistic reading” of the particular law, “would invade in the fundamental rights of liberty and privacy,
including within its sphere freedom to choose for marriage without interference from state and non-state
actors, of the persons concerned,” the court said in a judgment delivered on January 12.
BSF finds 150-metre cross-border tunnel along J&K border
A 150-m tunnel constructed along the International Border (IB) to facilitate infiltration of terrorists into
Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistan was detected by Border Security Force (BSF) personnel in Hiranagar
sector of Kathua district on January 13, 2021.
Noted social activist D. Prakash Rao dies in Cuttack at 63
Noted social activist and 2019 Padma Shri awardee D. Prakash Rao passed away in Cuttack on January 13,
2021 at the age of 63. Despite having only, a modest tea stall in Cuttack, he ran a small school to provide
education to slum kids free of cost.
Economy & Corporate
Govt. approves procurement of 83 LCA-Tejas from HAL for IAF
Government has approved procurement of 83 Light Combat Aircraft, LCA, Tejas worth about Rs 48,000 crore
from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the Indian Air Force.
RBI sets up panel to suggest measures for promoting digital lending
Amid rising incidents of harassments relating to online lending, the Reserve Bank on January 13, 2021
constituted a working group to suggest regulatory measures to promote orderly growth of digital lending.
The working group, chaired by RBI Executive Director Jayant Kumar Dash, will consist of both internal and
external members, and submit its report within three months.
Funds spent by corporates on Covid vaccination drive to count as CSR activity
The ministry of corporate affairs (MCA) has permitted the funds spent on awareness programmes and
public outreach campaigns regarding the Covid-19 vaccination drive, to be classified as corporate social
responsibility (CSR) activity. These would fall under the permitted CSR activities as per the seventh
schedule of the Companies Act, 2013, the ministry said in a circular on January 13, 2021.
CBDT launches e-portal for reporting tax evasion, ‘benami’ assets
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has launched an e-portal for filing complaints about tax evasion,
‘benami’ properties and undisclosed assets overseas. “Taking another step towards e-governance and
encouraging participation of citizens as stakeholders in curbing tax evasion, the CBDT has launched an
automated dedicated e-portal on the e-filing website of the Department [Income-Tax] to receive and process
complaints of tax evasion, foreign undisclosed assets as well as complaints regarding ‘benami’ properties,”
it said on January 12, 2021.
U.S. says India’s Digital Services Tax discriminatory
The U.S. has determined that India’s Digital Services Tax is discriminatory and has an adverse impact on
American commerce and is actionable under the trade act. At the same time, the outgoing Trump
administration has left the onus of taking any action against India under Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act
to the incoming Biden administration. Publishing the results of the investigation on the Digital Service Tax
(DST) in the Federal Register on January 12, 2021, the U.S. Trade Representatives (USTR) said that it had
consultations with the Indian Government on the issue on November 5, 2020.
World
Trump impeachment: US House approves 25th Amendment resolution
The US House of Representatives on January 13, 2021 passed legislation calling on Vice President Mike

Pence to use his constitutional authority to remove President Donald Trump from office in response to the
President’s role in the deadly mob attack on the Capitol on January 7. The bill passed 223-205. However,
Vice President Mike Pence, in a letter to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, said that he would reject the call
to invoke the 25th Amendment to remove President Donald Trump.
Estonia’s PM Juri Ratas resigns over corruption scandal in his party
Estonia’s prime minister Juri Ratas has handed in his resignation to the Baltic country’s president after a
corruption scandal investigated by the police and prosecutors in his Center Party led to key party officials
resigning overnight. The move automatically prompts the resignation of Estonia’s three-party coalition
government.
January 2, 2021
LYNX U2 GFCS
The Ministry of Defence recently signed an agreement with the Bharat Electronics Limited to supply ten
LYNX U2 GFCS.
What is LYNX U2 GFCS?
It is a Naval Gun Fire Control System. It has been designed to track and engage targets amidst sea clutter. It
can accurately track air and surface targets. Also, it can generate required target data to predict weapon
aiming points. The target engagement is done using Russian A190, AK176 and AK630.
The Gunfire Fire Control System is designed with open and scalable architecture that permits simple and
flexible implementation in different configurations.
How long has LYNX U2 GFCS been in service in the Indian Defence Force?
It has been in service in Indian Navy for more than two decades now. It has been meeting tactical
requirements in the Indian Navy meeting the requirements of Indian Naval ships of different classes such as
frigates, destroyers, missile boats, corvettes.
Where will the LYNX U2 GFCS being acquired from BEL be deployed?
The ten LYNX U2 GFCS being acquired from BEL is to be installed on Naval Offshore Patrolling Vessel
Talwar and Teg class of ships.
What are the main features of LYNX U2 GFCS?
The system has servo and weapon control modules, tracking radars. It ensures maximum up-time. The
current LYNX U2 GFCS proposed in the contract is of the fourth generation and is completely indigenized.
What is the aim of GoI in regard to the current LYNX U2 GFCS?
The LYNX U2 GFCS is to be acquired from BEL. This is developed in true spirit of Atma Nirbhar Bharat (self-
reliant India). India has been trying to increase its domestic defence production lately. The agreement will
help India in increasing its domestic production.
What is cost of LYNX U2 GFCS?
All the ten Lynx U2 Gun Fire control System are to be purchased from Bharat Electronics Limited at a cost of
Rs 1,355 crores. It is to be purchased under Buy (Indian) Category.
Light House Project Join @aspirants85
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently laid the foundation of the Light House Project in six states.
Where are the Light House Projects being implemented?
The Light House Projects are to be implemented in Agartala (Tripura), Ranchi (Jharkhand), Lucknow (Uttar
Pradesh), Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Rajkot (Gujarat) and Chennai (Tamil Nadu) under the Global Housing
Technology Challenge-India.
Which Ministry is to implement the Light House Project?
The Light House Project is to be implemented by Union Urban Ministry.

What are the Key Features of Light House Project?
Under the Light House Projects, people are provided sustainable housing considering the local
climate and ecology.
Under the project, cheap and strong houses are built using special techniques.
The Beam-columns and panels of the houses are to be prepared from factories and brought to the
place of construction.
The entire carpet area of this project will be in 34.50 square meters.
Under this, 14-storey towers will be built.
A total of 1,040 flats are to be built. Each flat will be 415 square feet.
What are the benefits of Light House Project project?
The main advantage of the project is that the duration and cost of construction is reduced. The houses
built under the Light House project will be completely earthquake resistant. They will be durable and
environmentally friendly due to the use of pre-fabricated materials.
What are the advanced technologies to be used in Light House Project?
Under the project, the houses being built in Indore will not have brick and mortar walls, but a pre-
fabricated sandwich panel system will be used in it.
Monolithic concrete is to be used in the houses to be built in Rajkot. This technology of France will
give momentum and the new one will be able to withstand more disaster.
Canada technology is being used in a house built in Lucknow, it will have walls already made, there is
no need to plaster and paint these walls.
The technology of steel frames is to be used in Agartala. This technology has been sourced from New
Zealand.
In Chennai, Finland’s and America’s precast concrete system will be used.
In Ranchi, 3-D construction system of Germany is to be used to construct houses.
What is the cost of the Light House Project?
The cost of houses is Rs 12.59 lakh. Out of this, Rs 7.83 lakh will be provided by the Central Government
and State Government. The rest of the 4.76 lakh rupees will have to be paid by the beneficiaries.
In 2017, the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry asked the states and union territories to select six
locations for the light house project under GHTC-India. As per the standards, the GoI announced to start the
Light House Project in the 6 states and Union Territories that received the highest marks.
Sea Wing Underwater Drones
China has recently deployed underwater drones called Sea Wing Glider in the Indian Ocean region. The Sea
Wing Glider Drone is used for Naval surveillance. It can operate for months under the sea.
What is Sea Wing Glider Drone?
The Sea Wing Glider Drone is a type of an uncrewed underwater vehicle. It was launched in December 2019.
What are the other places where China has deployed Sea Wing Glider Drone?
Apart from Indian ocean region China has also deployed the Sea Wing Glider Drone in the Arctic Ocean.
Also, these drones are deployed in South China Sea, East China Sea and other waters of the Western
Pacific.
What is China’s stand in use of Sea Wing Glider Drone?
According to the Chinese, Sea Wing Glider Drones have been deployed for research and development
purposes.
What are the intentions of Chinese with Sea Wing Glider Drones?
According to Defence ministry, around 14 Sea Wing Glider Drones have been deployed in the Indian Ocean
region. Our only 12 are being used. They have been employed for long range missions.

With the help of Sea Wing Glider Drone the Chinese are gathering oceanography data in the Indian Ocean
region. It gathers information such as salinity, seawater temperature, turbidity, oxygen content, chlorophyll
and ocean current changes.
What are the concerns of GoI in regard to the Sea Wing Glider Drones?
The Sea Wing Glider Drones are capable of carrying acoustic sensors such as acoustic Doppler current
profile sensor, hydrophones and underwater acoustic communication devices. According to the Government
of India, the Chinese might use these drones to listen to Indian Naval communication and might track Indian
Naval ships in the Indian Ocean region.
China has been increasing its presence in International waters in the name of research and development.
According to India, with this the Chinese are trying to disturb the sovereignty of international waters. This is
against the UNCLOS (United Nations convention for the Law of the Sea).
RBI Digital Payments Index
The Reserve Bank of India recently released the Digital Payments Index to measure the growth in cashless
transactions in India.
What are the parameters of the Digital Payments Index?
The Digital Payments Index comprises of five broad parameters. These parameters have different weight to
measure the penetration of digital payments in the country. The parameters of the Digital Payments Index
and its penetration are as follows:
Payment Enablers: 25%
Payment Infrastructure-Demand Side factors: 10%
Payment Infrastructure-Supply Side factors: 15%
Payment Performance: 45%
Consumer Centricity: 5%
What are the sub parameters of Payment Enablers of Digital Payments Index?
The sub factors of the payment enablers of the Digital Payments Index comprises of internet, mobile, bank
account, merchants and participants.
What are the sub parameters of Payment Infrastructure of Digital Payments Index?
The sub parameters for the Payment Infrastructure of Digital Payments Index comprises of credit card,
prepaid payment instruments, debit card, point-of-sale terminals, quick response codes, automated teller
machines.
What are the sub parameters of Payment Performance of Digital Payments Index?
The Payment Performance carries the highest weightage in the Digital Payments Index. The Sub parameters
of Payment Performance of Digital Payments Index are paper clearing, cash withdrawal rules, e volume and
value of digital payments, unique users and currency in circulation.
What are the sub parameters considered under Consumer Centricity of Digital Payments Index?
The RBI would consider customer education and awareness, complaints, frauds, system declines under the
consumer centricity of the Digital Payments Index.
What is the base year of Digital Payments Index of RBI?
The Reserve Bank of India has set the base year of Digital Payments Index as 2018.
What was the Digital Payments Index for the year 2019 and 2020?
The Digital Payments Index for the year 2019 was 153.47 and for that of 2020 was 207.84 respectively.
When will the Digital Payments Index be released?
The Reserve Bank of India is to publish the Digital Payments Index on a semi-annual basis from March
2021.

Why is the Digital Payments Index needed?
The digital payments in India have seen a rapid increase in adoption of digital platforms lately. According to
the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), in December 2020 around 223 crores of transactions worth 4.16 lakh
crores of rupees were made as compared to that of 221 crores of transactions worth 3.9 lakh crores of
rupees in November 2020. This clearly shows that the digital transactions in the country are increasing day
by day. Therefore, it is essential to measure its growth and launch respective initiatives to support the
growth.
SII's Covishield gets emergency-use nod from DGCI
The Subject Expert committee that is advising the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) recommended
restricted Emergency Use Authorisation for COVISHIELD. COVISHIELD vaccine was developed by Serum
Institute of India.
Who manufactures COVISHIELD?
The COVISHIELD the vaccine is developed by the University of Oxford and the British Pharmaceutical major
Astra Zeneca. In India, the vaccine is to be made and marketed by Pune Serum Institute of India.
How does the COVISHIELD vaccine work?
The COVISHIELD vaccine uses harmless virus to transport genetic material in order to trigger the immune
response to the COVID-19 virus.
How does COVISHIELD vaccine differ from the others?
The COVAXIN of Bharat Biotech is a whole virus inactivated vaccine. The vaccine developed by Pfizer takes
messenger RNA approach. It Transforms the the human body cells into vaccine making factories.
Who conducted the COVISHIELD the trials in India?
The COVISHIELD trials in India were conducted by the Serum Institute of India.
How were the trials of COVISHIELD conducted in India?
Around 1600 volunteers were injected with the vaccine during the COVISHIELD trials in India.
What were the concerns raised from COVISHIELD trials?
One serious adverse event with neurological disorder was reported in Chennai after COVISHIELD trials.
What is the dosage of COVISHIELD vaccine?
Two full doses of COVISHIELD vaccine are to be given in India.
How many covid-19 doses will India need to vaccinate its essential service workers?
India will need 30 million doses of covid-19 vaccine to vaccinate the essential service workers including
Healthcare professionals, police staff and Municipal staff.
What is the current scenario of covid-19 vaccines in India?
Around 6 vaccines are under various stages of clinical trials in India. Of these four are being indigenously
developed. The clinical trials of COVAXIN by the Bharat Biotech is under phase 3. Bharat Biotech is
conducting the largest trials of COVID-19 vaccine. It is testing the vaccine on more than 26,000 volunteers.
The Vaccine of Zydus Cadila is under Phase II clinical trial. The Dr Reddy’s Laboratories is conducting the
Phase II and Phase III clinical trials of the Russian vaccine Sputnik V.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas recently announced that more than 14 crores of free of cost
cylinders have been provided under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana to the beneficiaries of the scheme
during covid-19 crisis.
What is the current scenario of prices of LPG in India?
The price of non-subsidised Liquefied Petroleum Gas cylinders of 14.2 kg is to remain at 694 rupees per
cylinder. The commercial customers will have to pay an additional amount of 17 rupees per cylinder. Also,
the new rate of 19-kilogram LPG cylinder in Delhi has increased to 1349 rupees as compared to the previous
price of 1332 rupees. In Kolkata the price has increased by 23 rupees and in Chennai the prices have
increased by 17 rupees.
What is the reason behind the recent LPG price rise?
The Oil marketing companies revise the prices of gas cylinders on the first day of every month. The price
revise is based on the international market rates. The recent price rise is due to changes in international
price changes.
How are LPG prices fixed in India?
The LPG pricing in India is done on the basis of Import Parity Price. The Import Parity price is determined
based on LPG prices in the international market. It is based on LPG prices of Aramco of Saudi Arabia. It also
includes free on-board prices, custom duty, Ocean freight charges, insurance, port dues, etc. The retail
selling price of the non-subsidised LPG cylinder include the cost of Inland right, GST, bottling charges,
marketing costs and margins charged by the Oil Companies, dealer Commission.
Therefore, a weak performing rupee will also lead to higher prices of LPG in India. The current price rise in
the recent past few months is due to this reason.
What is Import Parity Price?
According to the United Nations World Food Programme, the Import Parity Price is the price at the border of
a goods being imported. It includes International transport cost and tariffs.
Kisan Kalyan Mission of Uttar Pradesh
The Uttar Pradesh Government is to launch Kisan Kalyan mission.
What are the key features of Kisan Kalyan mission?
The Kisan Kalyan mission aims to double the farmer income covering all the Assembly constituencies
of the state of Uttar Pradesh. This is to be achieved through campaigns that create awareness among
farmers on how to reduce agricultural caused by using fertilizers in a balanced manner.
The mission will also encourage farmers to time their cultivation of crops according to the demand of
the market.
The mission aims to create agricultural diversification.
Under the mission several programmes such as exhibition of agriculture and associate sector
including products of MSME missions and livelihood missions are to be launched.
The mission will act as a unified platform for several state government departments such as Mandi
Parishad, animal husbandry, Horticulture, sugarcane food and supply, fisheries and Panchayati Raj.
The mission will provide contemporary information about saving the Rabi crop. It will also provide
solutions on preventing the next crops from damage.
The mission will also distribute Kisan credit cards.
What is the role of Kisan Vigyan Kendras in Kisan Kalyan Mission?
The Kisan Kalyan mission is to deploy the experts of Krishi Vigyan Kendras. These experts are to share their
knowledge on advanced techniques of farming and how to increase income of farmers. Krishi Vigyan
Kendras are agricultural centres that focus on agricultural research in practical and localised setting. These
centres are linked to Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
What are the activities undertaken by Kisan Kalyan mission?
It will provide 100% coverage to bovine vaccination for foot and mouth disease.
it will cover eradication of sheep and goat plague.
Distribution of mini kits of oilseeds and pulses.
Artificial insemination
demonstration programs on micro irrigation
demonstrations of integrated cropping practice

What is Kisan Kalyan Abhiyan?
The Kisan Kalyan Abhiyan was launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Agriculture and farmers welfare. It aims
to help farmers in improving their farming techniques. The objectives and intention of Kisan Kalyan Abhiyan
is same as that of Kisan Kalyan Mission.
What is the main difference between Kisan Kalyan Abhiyan and Kisan Kalyan Mission?
This Kisan Kalyan Abhiyan is being implemented by the central government. On the other hand, the Kisan
Kalyan Mission is implemented by UP State Government. The Kisan Kalyan Abhiyan has chosen 112
aspirational districts in the country. The aspirational districts with more than thousand population have
been selected. The factor of aspirational district in absent in Kisan Kalyan Mission of UP Govt.
Assam Ease of Doing Business (Amendment) Bill, 2020
The Assam assembly recently passed the Assam Ease of Doing Business (Amendment) Bill, 2020. The bill
makes amendments to the Assam ease of doing business act, 2016. The amendment will avail 0.25%
additional borrowing from the centre.
What are the key features of Assam Ease of Doing Business (Amendment) Bill, 2020?
The new bill will simplify procedures and bring transparency and efficiency in the system.
Under the new Amendment Bill, the government has committed to create an investor friendly
atmosphere in the state of Assam.
The Government of Assam is to do away with all types of renewal certificate, permissions and
licences under be Assam is of doing business Amendment Bill . This is being done because a large
number of renewable applications are pending at different levels in Assam. This causes unreasonable
delay .
A computerized Central random inspection system is to be implemented. Under the system allocation
of inspectors will be done centrally at random. The allocation is to be done by the competent
authorities. The amendment makes sure that same Inspector is not assigned to the same unit in the
subsequent year.
What is Assam Ease of Doing Business Act?
The Act was enacted in 2016. The Act aimed to streamline the regulatory structures and processes
and simplify the procedures related to renew license, certificate, permissions in setting up of
Enterprises and industries in the state of Assam.
Assam Bureau of Investment Promotion was established by the act. It oversees the overall
supervision and administration of speedy processing of applications.
How does Assam Ease of Doing Business Act facilitate doing business in the state?
After an application is received, the system will automatically forward it to the competent authority. The
system will then handover hard copies such as applications to the concerned officer of the competent
authority. The officer is responsible to get clearance within the stipulated time frame. Also, the system will
generate a report to the Bureau about the status of applications received, pending, disposal and the reasons
for pending on monthly basis.
Therefore, the act has created a monitoring mechanism and a tracking mechanism to facilitate ease of
doing business in the state.
Australia makes changes to its National Anthem
The Australian Government recently announced certain changes to its National Anthem “Advance Australia
Fair”.
What were the changes made to Australian National Anthem?
The second line of the National Anthem has been changed from ‘For we are young and free’ to ‘For we are
one and free.’

What was the issue with the National Anthem of Australia?
The Australian National Anthem, “Advance Australia Fair” was written in 1878. It became official National
Anthem of Australia only in 1984. According to the critics, the words “for we are young and free” destroy the
50,000 years of history of Australia. The word young imply that the Australian history started only with
Colonisation. Accordingly, it is believed that the national anthem celebrates British colonisation. This is
unacceptable by the indigenous communities of the island nation who till date celebrate Australia Day as
Invasion Day.
What is Australia Day?
The Australia Day is celebrated on January 26. It marks the date when the “First Fleet” sailed into Sydney in
1788. This fleet carried troops from Britain.
When was the last change made to the Australian National Anthem?
1984.
Who composed Australian National Anthem?
The National Anthem of Australia was composed by Peter Dodds McCormick.
Who are the indigenous people of Australia?
The indigenous people make up to only 2.4% of the Australian population. The indigenous population of
Australia is made of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
What are the other issues with the National Anthem of Australia?
The National Anthem is also criticised for its fourth line of the anthem. That is, the fourth line, “Our Home is
girt by sea”. This line is criticised for using the word “Girt”. According to the critics the word is archaic and
impossible to understand.
What was the previous National Anthem of Australia?
Prior to “Advance Australia Fair”, “God Save the Queen” was the national anthem of Australia. It was the
national anthem in number of Commonwealth realms and British Crown dependencies. The commonwealth
realms were sovereign states that had Elizabeth II as its Head of the state.
Punjab State Data Policy
The cabinet of Punjab recently approved the Punjab state data policy. The policy aims to track progress and
provide citizens access to services. With this Punjab has now become the first state in India to formulate a
comprehensive data policy.
What is Punjab State data policy?
The Punjab state data policy will leverage data and technology to optimize Service Delivery and citizen
access. It will also increase the participation of citizens through user friendly and secure e-governance
systems.
What are the key features of Punjab state data policy?
The policy will create a unified and interoperability data infrastructure for the state of Punjab.
It will recognise the potential utility and importance of data generated by government organisations
to, departments and institutions in the state.
The policy will act as a guiding principle for all departments to collect, manage, process and use data
for effective, efficient, transparent and accessible Service Delivery to the citizens of the state.
It will facilitate easy access and sharing of government data. This will support the sustainable and
inclusive governance and effective planning.
The policy will also help to collect data that will help in implementing and monitoring the
developmental programs, scientific research and managing and mitigating disasters.
What are the other approvals made by the cabinet?
The Punjab Cabinet also approved to create new block Patiala (rural) and ensure all round development in

the villages falling under it. The new block will include 26- and 32-Gram Panchayat of Patiala and Nabha
block respectively.
Amendments to Punjab Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1966 were also approved. The rules were
remanded to maintain high ethical standards of honesty and integrity by public servants and professor bit
sexual harassment of working women. This has been done in line with Central Civil Services (conduct)
Rules, 1964 and All India Service (conduct) rules.
Argentina Abortion Laws Join @aspirants85
Argentina recently became the largest Latin American country to legalize abortion.
What are the key features of new Argentina abortion law?
Under the new law Argentina has legalised abortion up to the 14th week of pregnancy. In India, abortion is
legal till 24th week of pregnancy according to medical termination of pregnancy (Amendment) act, 2020.
Earlier it was 20 weeks.
Why is the new Abortion law of Argentina considered historic?
The new abortion laws of Argentina is considered historic because prior to the passing of the bill abortions
were permitted only in cases of rape or he’ll help. The activist of Argentina have been campaigning for a
new law to overturn this rule since 1921.
How will the new abortion law help the women of Argentina?
Prior to the new law the women and girls were forced to turn towards unsafe and illegal procedures. The
scope of access to safe medical procedures of abortion was even narrower to the women from
disadvantaged backgrounds. According to human rights watch, abortion was the leading cause of maternal
mortality in Argentina. Such was the ill effects of unsafe illegal abortion in the country.
What are the impacts of Argentina Abortion laws?
The passage of this law will have huge impact in other Latin American countries. Currently abortions are
illegal in El Salvador, Nicaragua and Dominic Republic. In some countries such as Cuba, Uruguay, Guyana,
women can request for abortion only in specific cases. Some of these countries even have imprisonment as
punishment to illegal abortion.
Why did Abortion laws face obstacles in Argentina?
The Catholic Church and the Evangelical community in Argentina hold immense power and influence in the
country. These communities strongly opposed the concept of abortions and steps taken to legalise
abortions.
Reliance Industries Fined
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) recently fined the Reliance Industries Limited and its
Managing Director Mukesh Ambani. SEBI also fined two other entities. The fine was imposed for carrying
out manipulative trade in Reliance Petroleum Limited.
What was the fine imposed on Reliance by SEBI?
SEBI imposed Rs 25 crores on Reliance India Limited and Rs 15 crores on its Managing Director Mukesh
Ambani. Besides Reliance, the Mumbai Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and Navi Mumbai SEZ have been
ordered to pay a fine of Rs 10 crores and Rs 20 crores respectively.
Why was the fine imposed on Reliance by SEBI?
The fine was imposed on Reliance India Limited because the company violated the Prohibition of Fraudulent
and Unfair Trade Practices (PFUTP).
In 2017, SEBI observed that Reliance along with 12 other unlisted trading houses carried out unlawful
transactions in the shares of Reliance Petroleum Limited. They first bought the shares of Reliance
Petroleum Limited (RPL) in 2007. They then took short positions, that is, bets that the share prices of RPL
will fall.

Later RIL sold 4.1% its stake in RPL. This brought down the prices of the shares. Eventually RIL won its bets
making huge profits.
The bets were placed before starting to sell the shares of RPG in the share market. Technically shares were
first sold in future market and then in spot market.
What are the accusations of SEBI in simple words?
In simple words, bets were first placed and later actions were carried out accordingly to win the bet. This is
unjust according to PFUTP as the other shareholders are losing fraudulently and at the benefit of RIL.
What is Manipulative Trading?
The actions of the RIL in the case of RPL is called Manipulative Trading. It refers to artificially inflating or
deflating the shares in the market. It also refers to influencing the behaviour of the market for personal
gain.
RoDTEP Scheme
The Government of India recently announced that the benefits of RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes
on Exported Products) scheme is to be extended to all goods.
What is RoDTEP Scheme?
The RoDTEP Scheme was launched in 2020 to boost exports of India in International markets. Under the
scheme, a mechanism will be created for reimbursement of levies, taxes or duties at central, state and local
levels. Prior to the scheme, the reimbursements were not done under any mechanism.
Which scheme was replaced by RoDTEP Scheme?
Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS). It was introduced to offset infrastructural inefficiencies
and associated costs involved in exporting goods that are produced in India.
Why was Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) replaced with RoDTEP Scheme?
The MEIS was not WTO-compliant.
How is RoDTEP Scheme WTO-compliant?
The RoDTEP Scheme will coordinate with the World Trade Organization to reduce the post production
transaction costs for the exporters. In order to achieve this, the RoDTEP Scheme implementation measures
must provide production-oriented processes. This is in accordance to WTO rules. This will help to boost the
production of MSMEs.
Also, under the scheme the indirect taxes are consumed in production process. This is also consistent with
WTO. In simple words, according to WTO principles, indirect taxes on exports shall be reimbursed to boost
the exports.
What are the benefits of RoDTEP Scheme?
Under the RoDTEP Scheme, the exporters of India will meet international standards for exports. This will
boost the value of Indian products in the international market. It is being achieved through certification and
affordable testing that will be provided under the scheme rather than relying on international organizations.
By replacing MEIS, the RoDTEP Scheme created an automated route for the Input Tax Credit. The Input Tax
Credit is provided to set off the taxes paid on purchase of consumables, raw materials that are used in the
manufacturing goods and services. Therefore, it helps to avoid double taxation.
January 4, 2021
Every year, the World Braille Day is celebrated on January 4 by United Nations and several other
international organizations. The day is celebrated to create awareness of the importance of Braille as a
means of communication in the realization of human rights for the blind.
Why is World Braille Day celebrated on January 4?
It is celebrated on January 4 because the day marks the birthday of Louis Braille, the creator of this writing
system. He was born in France in 1809.
When was the first World Braille Day celebrated?
2019.
What is Braille?
Braille is the representation of alphabetic and numerical symbols using six dots. The dots represent the
letters and numbers and mathematical, musical and scientific symbols as well.
Who invented Braille?
Braille was invented by Louis Braille in the 19th century in France.
Braille Language in India
India adopted the uniform Braille codes for different languages in 1951. India established the first ever
Braille plant called Central Braille Plant in Dehradun. In 1954, Central Braille press was established to
manufacture Braille appliances. The press produces simple equipment such as Braille slate, stylus and
arithmetic Braille slate.
What are the steps taken by GoI to support the people with disabilities?
The GoI enacted the Persons with Disabilities Act, 1995. The act provides special category called ‘low
vision’ along with blind. Also, the act meets the stipulations of the United Nations Convention on Rights of
Persons with Disabilities.
India accepted several United Nations resolutions on disabled people. This includes Observance of
International Year of Disabled Persons in 1981, observance of UN Decade for the disabled 1983-92. India
also observed Asia-Pacific Decade for the Disabled declared by ESCAP. ESCAP is Economic and Social
Commission for Asia and the Pacific. It is a regional think-tank that provides analytical opinions on social,
economic and environmental dynamics in the region.
National Defence Authorisation Act, 2021
The National Defence Authorisation act, 2021 was enacted by United States to specify budget, expenditure
and policies of United States Department of Defence for the fiscal year 2021. The act determined the annual
budget of United States as 740.5 USD. The first National Defence authorisation act, 2021 was passed in
1961. Since then, the act has been passed every year.
Why is the act named after William M Thornberry?
The act has been named the William M thornberry National Defence authorisation act. It has been named
after William m Thornberry to honour him. He served as the chair of the house armed services committee.
The committee is responsible for funding and oversight of department of Defence in the United States.
What is the recent issue in regard to National Defence authorisation act?
The outgoing US President Donald Trump recently vetoed the National Defence Authorisation act, 2021
arguing that the act affected national security. He also disagreed with its provisions of renaming military
installations after confederate general. However, the House of representatives voted to override the veto
power of President Trump.
What are Veto powers of the US President?
The President of United States may choose to veto or reject the legislation on rare occasions. However, the
lawmakers can override the Veto and enact bills into law by proving two-thirds of votes in both the
Chambers of Congress.
Every Bill for resolution approved by the United States Congress is presented to the president for his
approval. Once the bill is presented, the president may sign the bill into law within 10 days or may reject the
bill by returning to the Congress with reasons of objections. If the president does not do anything with the
bill, the bill automatically becomes a law after 10 days.
The term Veto does not appear in the Constitution of United States.

Ice Age Woolly Rhino
A perfectly preserved woolly Rhinoceros was found by scientists in Yakutia in Russia.
Where was the Ice Age Rhino found?
The Ice Age Rhino was discovered on the bank of Tirekhtyakh river.
What are findings about the Ice Age Rhinos?
Most of the intestine of the Rhino was intact. Also, the Rhino had perfectly preserved hair, soft tissue and a
lump of fat. Its horn was found near its uncovered site. According to scientists, the animal died when it was
three to four years old. The age of the carcass has been dated as 20,000 to 50,000 old.
How was the Ice Age Woolly rhino found?
It was revealed due to the melting of permafrost in Russia. Several other animals such as Mammoths, cave
lion and foals have been found in the region due to permafrost melting.
How will Permafrost Melting affect Russia?
Around 65% of Russia is covered by permafrost. Currently Russia is warming 2.5 times faster than the other
regions of the world that is causing the permafrost in the region to melt rapidly.
The Norlisk Oil Spill is the major industrial disaster that occurred in May 2020 due to melting of permafrost.
What is Norilsk Oil Spill?
state emergency was declared in June 20-22 to the oil spill. This was the second largest oil spill in Russian
history. Around 20,000 tonnes of diesel were leaked into Ambarnaya river. The oil spill turned the river into
Crimson red.
What is Permafrost?
Permafrost is the ground that remains completely frozen for at least two years. Permafrost is defined based
on temperature and duration. The permafrost are Grounds that are known to be below 22% of the land
surface on the earth. They are mostly located in polar zones and regions with high mountains. The
permafrost is found in Russia, Canada and Alaska.
Japan Solution for Space Debris
In order to solve the problem of space debris, Japanese researches are to launch wooden satellites by
2023.
What are wooden satellites?
These satellites are made of wood. They will burn up without releasing harmful substances into the
atmosphere when they plunge back to the earth. With this the satellite will not leave out any waste in space
after it completes its service or when it becomes de functional.
Who is designing wooden satellite?
The wooden satellites are being designed by the Sumitomo Forestry and Kyoto University. The Sumitomo
Forestry is a 400-year-old wood working company of Japan. Both the entities will research on tree growth
and use of wood materials in space. They will experiment different types of wood in extreme environments
on the earth.
What is the issue of space debris?
All the satellites that re-enter the earth atmosphere burn and create tiny Alumina particles. These particles
float in upper atmosphere for many years. According to NASA, 95% of man-made objects in orbit were
space junk. These objects are dangerous to functioning live satellite.
How are space debris created?
According to European space agency, there are 128 million pieces of debris in the orbit. Out of these only
34000 objects are larger than 10. However, when these larger objects collide, they produce smaller ones.
The smaller particles can travel more than 20000 miles per hour that collide with other particles to make
even more smaller particles.

Why are wooden satellites needed?
According to World Economic Forum there are more than 6000 satellite circling the earth. Out of these 60%
of them are de-functional. It is estimated that thousand satellites will be launched every year this decade.
With this there will be 15000 satellite by 2028. Therefore, potential damages to live satellites will increase.
In 2006 a very tiny piece of space debris collided with the International Space Station and took out a chip of
the heavily reinforced window. This costed severe damages. Therefore, it is essential to develop solutions
like wooden satellites to completely remove space debris.
FSSAI new Trans Fat levels
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India recently announced that all edible refined oils, vegetable
fat spreads, Vanaspati, margarines, Bakery shortening and mixed fat spreads can contain only 3% or less
trans fats. This is to be implemented by January 2021. By January 2022, this is to be further reduced to
2%. This is being introduced because the World Health Organisation has called for global elimination of
trans fat by 2023.
How are trans fats created?
The trans fats are created artificially during the hydrogenation process of vegetable oils. They result in
partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. These partially hydrogenated vegetable oils are the major source of
Trans fats. Some trans fats are also formed during manufacturing processes. For instance, trans fats are
formed during high temperature refinement process used in making vegetable oils.
What are the risks of Trans fats?
Consumption of Trans fats results in heart diseases. In 2017, the Global market volume of partially
hydrogenated oils (the main source of Trans Fats) was 13.6 million tonnes. Eliminating trans fats can save
more than 17 million lives in next 25 years.
Why is the regulation made by FSSAI important?
India has the highest burden of heart diseases due to high trans-fat in the world.
According to REPLACE annual report of World Health Organisation that was released in September 2020,
more than 40 countries have implemented the “Best practice policies to eliminate trans fats”. The best
practice policies limit trans fats to 2% or less. India has so far not implemented the practice. Therefore, the
recent regulation introduced by FSSAI is important.
What is REPLACE?
It was launched by the World Health Organisation in 2018. REPLACE is six areas of actions as follows
REview dietary sources of industrially produced trans fats
Promote the replacement of industrially produced trans fats with healthy oils and fats
Legislate regulatory actions to eliminate trans fats
Assess trans-fat content in food supply and changes in trans-fat consumption
Create awareness about the ill effects of Trans fats
Enforce complaint policies and regulations
National Metrology Conclave
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to deliver an inaugural address at the National Metrology Conclave on
January 4, 2021.
What is the theme of National Metrology Conclave 2021?
Metrology for the Inclusive Growth of the Nation.
Who is organising the National Metrology Conclave?
The National Metrology Conclave is organised by the Council of scientific and Industrial Research-National
Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL).

Where is the National Metrology Conclave held?
New Delhi
What is the significance of 2021 National Metrology Conclave?
It is held on the 75th foundation day of CSIR, January 4, 2021.
What are the key events of 2021 National Metrology conclave?
The National Atomic Time Scale is to be dedicated to the nation.
Bhartiya Nirdeshak Dravya is to be dedicated to the nation.
Foundation stone of National Environmental Standards Labs to be laid.
What is National Atomic Timescale?
The National Atomic Timescale will create the Indian Standard Time with 2.8 nanoseconds of accuracy. The
National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is called the Timekeeper of India. The time scale is maintained with the
help of five cesium atomic clocks. Time scale is the time standard.
What is Bhartiya Nirdeshak Dravya?
It is a laboratory to support, test and calibrate Quality Assurance. Currently the Government of India is
focusing to support nanotechnology, material science, Ayush, Food and Agriculture and biologics through
Bhartiya Nirdeshak Dravyas.
What is the role of National Environmental Standards lab?
It will focus on self-Reliance in certification of ambient air and industrial emission monitoring equipment.
The Global market value of air pollution monitoring system is to reach 7000 million USD by 2025. The
Ministry of environment, forest and climate change has designated the CSIR-NPL the for verifying and
certifying the emission and ambient air pollution monitoring equipment. Thus, CSIR-NPL is launching the
dedicated National Environmental Standards Laboratory.
What are the key objectives of National Metrology Conclave?
The conclave will strengthen the role of Precision measurement in various segments that has direct
implication in the economic growth of India. It will mainly focus on establishing and developing primary
standards, accreditation, quality systems and standardization, regulations and Legal Metrology, conformity
assessment.
India approved two COVID-19 vaccines for Emergency Use
The Drug Controller General of India recently announced that it has authorised two COVID-19 vaccines for
restricted Emergency Use in India.
What are the two COVID-19 Vaccines approved by DGCI for emergency use?
COVAXIN and COVISHIELD
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What is COVAXIN?
The COVAXIN is the COVID-19 vaccine developed by Bharat Biotech and ICMR (Indian council of Medical
Research). It was the first indigenous COVID-19 vaccine to be developed in the country.
What is COVISHIELD?
The COVISHIELD vaccine was developed by Oxford University and Astra Zeneca, the pharmaceutical
company.
What are the COVID-19 vaccines in India?
Apart from COVAXIN and COVSHIELD the following are the other COVID-19 vaccines in India
ZyCoV-D
Sputnik V
NVX-Cov 2373
Biological E Limited Vaccine
HGCO19

What is ZyCoV-D?
ZyCoV-D is a covid-19 vaccine that has been approved by the DCGI in India. The vaccine was developed by
Zydus Cadila.
What is Sputnik V?
Sputnik V is a Russian vaccine that is under phase 2 and phase 3 clinical trials in India. It was developed by
the Gameleya institute of Russia. The clinical trials of the vaccine is being conducted by Dr Reddys
Laboratories in India. The Government of India has planned to make 300 million doses of Sputnik V vaccine.
What is NVX-Cov 2373?
NVX-Cov 2373 is a covid-19 vaccine developed by serum Institute of India in collaboration with an American
company NovaVax. The Phase III trial of the vaccine is under consideration .
What is Biological E Limited Vaccine?
The Biological E Limited is to start large scale stage trials of COVID-19 vaccine in India. The company has
started early and mid stage human trials of its vaccine in India. The vaccine is being developed in
collaboration with us-based dynavax Technologies and baylor college of medicine in Houston.
What is HGC019?
It is a mRNA vaccine candidate developed by Pune based Gennova biopharmaceuticals. The vaccine is
supported by Ind-CEPI mission. Gennova is to start the Phase 1 clinical trial of the vaccine in January 2021.
IFSCA in IOSCO
The International Financial Services Centres Authority recently became an associate member of the
International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO).
What are the benefits of IOSCO membership?
The IOSCO works closely with the Financial Stability Board (FSB) and the G20 nations, to set up the
standards that strengthen the securities markets.
According to FSB, IOSCO membership is one of the key standards for sound financial system. This
will increase the reputation of the member in the global market.
IOSCO membership will provide the International Financial Services Centres Authority a platform to
interchange information at global level and at regional levels.
What is IOSCO?
The International Organization of Securities Organizations is an association of national securities
regulatory commissions spread all over the world.
It includes, the Financial Service Authority (UK), Exchange commission & Securities in (US) and 100
other similar bodies.
What are the key roles of IOSCO members?
To cooperate in developing, implementing, promoting and obeying internationally recognized and
consistent standards of regulations and enforcement
To protect the investors and to maintain fair and efficient markets. This will address systematic risks
To promote investor confidence in rightness of securities markets through strengthened information
exchange and enforcement against misconduct
Interchange information at both global and regional levels
To help in strengthening infrastructure of markets
What was the most important agreement signed by IOSCO and IFRS?
IFRS is International Financial Reporting Standards. The IFRS and IOSCO signed an agreement in 2013 on a
set of protocols to improve the consistency in the implementation of IFRS. This agreement increased the
reputation of IOSCO members further.

What are the new areas supported by the agreement signed between IOSCO and IFRS?
IOSCO on IFRS identifies four new areas for mutual supportive work:
Use of IFRS’s jurisdictions- IOSCO and IFRS foundation will frequently share information to maintain
accurate data
Security Regulators affected by IASB standards- IFRS foundation will note and explain
implementation aspects of IASB’s new amendment standards.
IFRS enforcement matters- IOSCO will organize annual IFRS discussion sessions to clarify the issues
and other enforcement matter with IASB members.
Timely input of IFRS foundation will help IOSCO members to make opinions.
Malala Yousafzai Scholarship Act
The United States recently passed the Malala Yousafzai Act for Pakistani Women.
What are the Key Features of the Malala Yousafzai Scholarship Act?
The Act requires the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to award at least
50% of scholarship to Pakistani women between 2020 and 2022.
It requires the USAID to leverage investments by Pakistani private sector in the United States. This is
being done to improve and expand access to education programs in Pakistan.
The act makes it mandatory for the USAID to brief the US Congress about the number of scholarships
provided under the programme. This includes percentage of recipients who are involuntarily pushed
out of the programme for their failure to meet programme requirements as well.
What is the role of USAID in the scholarship programme?
The USAID has so far awarded more than 6000 scholarship to the young women of Pakistan since 2010.
These scholarships help the Pakistani women to receive Higher Education in Pakistan. The Malala
Yousafzai Scholarship Act aims to expand this programme.
Who is Malala Yousafzai?
Malala is a Pakistani activist for female education. She is also the Youngest Nobel Prize Laureate. She
fought against the Taliban for women education. The Taliban had banned girls from attending schools.
On October 2012, Yousafzai was shot by Pakistani Taliban Gunman in retaliation for her activism. She was
hit in the head with bullet and remind unconscious. She was later transferred to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in
United Kingdom.
What is Malala Day?
On July 12, 2013, Malala spoke at the United Nations to call for worldwide access to education. This was on
her 16th birthday coincidentally. The United Nations had dubbed the event as Malala Day.
What is USAID?
It is an interdependent agency of the United States that is responsible for administering foreign aid. It is one
of the largest aid agencies in the world with a budget of 27 billion USD.
Delhi Government to set up Tamil Academy
Delhi government recently announced that it is to set up a Tamil Academy to protect the Tamil language and
culture.
Who is the vice chairman of the Tamil Academy set up by Delhi government?
The Ex-Councilor N Raja has been appointed as the vice chairman of the newly set up Tamil Academy.
What are the functions of Tamil Academy?
The newly created Tamil Academy will organise Tamil language classes, give new awards and
organise cultural events to promote and recognise literary works in Tamil.
Delhi government is to provide language courses through the Tamil Academy.

What are the other Language Academies setup by Delhi government?
The Delhi government already runs Sanskrit, Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, Hindi, Maithili and Bhojpuri Academies.
How important is Tamil language in India?
Tamil was the first language to be classified as a classical language in India.
It is the official language of Tamil Nadu and to other countries such as Singapore and Sri Lanka and
also the official language of Union Territory of Puducherry.
The earliest period of Tamil literature called the Sangam literature dates back to 300 BC to 300 ad.
The most prominent visual art forms of Tamil Nadu are Chola Bronze cultures, Tanjore paintings.
They have received worldwide recognitions.
Why is it important to set up the Tamil Academy in Delhi?
The number of people born outside Delhi was 3.7 million in 1991. This is more than half of population of
Delhi. Delhi holds large number of immigrants from South Indian states such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala,
East Indian states such as Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha and Bengal. Therefore, it is important to give equal
importance to all the languages and cultures of people from different parts of India.
Apart from Hindi, the other languages that have official language status in Delhi are Urdu, Punjabi and
English.
Why is Delhi so diverse in culture?
The people residing in the banks of Yamuna river were the original natives of Delhi. On the other hand, the
city has attracted a large number of immigrants as a historical capital and the prominent City. When the
Britishers shifted their capital from Kolkata to Delhi a large number of Bengalis migrated to Delhi. Also, after
the partition of India in 1947 and large number of people, especially the Punjabis and sindhis migrated to
Delhi.
Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to dedicate the Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline to India on
January 5, 2021.
What are the Key Highlights of the Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline?
The pipeline is 444 kilometres long.
The pipeline is to carry natural gas from the Liquefied Natural Gas regasification terminal at Kochi to
Mangaluru. In its way it will pass through Ernakulam, Palakkad, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kannur,
Kozhikode and Kasaragod districts. Around 8 districts are to benefit from the pipeline project.
The main junction of the pipeline is at Koottanad. At the junction, the pipeline bifurcates towards
Bengaluru and Mangaluru.
The pipeline is expected to fulfil the gas demand of 80 to 90 million cubic metres of gas per annum.
What is the cost of Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline project?
The average cost of the project is Rs 5,750 crores.
When was the Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline project launched?
It was launched in 2009.
How much Tax Revenue will the Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline project bring in?
The pipeline is expected to bring in tax revenue of thousand crores of Rupees.
Who built the Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline?
GAIL.
What is the transportation capacity of Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline?
12 million metric standard cubic metres per day.
What were the challenges faced during the construction of Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline?
The major construction challenge faced in laying Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipelineis that it had to

cross water bodies in more than 100 locations.
What technology was used to overcome the challenges in Kochi-Mangaluru Natural Gas Pipeline?
Horizontal directional drilling method.
What is horizontal directional drilling method?
This method is used for long distances such as under the rivers, lagoons or highly urbanized areas.
The horizontal directional drilling method involves three main stages. They are:
drilling a pilot hole
enlarging The Pilot hole
full back installation of the carrier pipe
The main advantage of the method is the combination of speed and reliability with the minimal
environmental impact in installation.
Sagarmala Seaplane Services Project

The Government of India is to initiate the project of Sagarmala Seaplane Services on selected routes.
Which ministry is implementing the Sagarmala Seaplane services?
Ministry of sports, shipping and waterways.
What is the main objective of Sagarmala Seaplane services?
The project aims to provide air connectivity to numerous tourist, religious, remote and unexplored locations
near water bodies. This is to make the journey easier and simulate tourism on these new locations.
Ultimately the project will contribute to boost the GDP of the country in the long run.
Under which Central Government scheme will the seaplane services operate?
Udan. Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik scheme.
What are the proposed locations for sagarmala seaplane services?
The locations included under the Sagarmala Seaplane Services are as follows:
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Lakshadweep Islands
Guwhati riverfront
Yamuna riverfront
Umrangso reservoir
Mumbai as a hub
Dwarka
Kandla
Khindsi dam
Erai Dam
What is the seaplane service that is already in operation in India?
The sea plane service between kevadiya and Sabarmati riverfront in Ahmedabad is already in Operation. It
was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 31, 2019.It is operated by SpiceJet
subsidiaries Spice shuttle. Currently this is the only seaplane service that is operational in the country.
Why are the Seaplane Services needed?
The seaplane services are to act as a game changer in providing faster and comfortable
transportation all over India.
It will provide air connectivity to various tourist and religious places. Therefore, it will bring in huge
tourism revenue.
The seaplane services will save travel time.
It will stimulate localised short distance travelling in hilly regions and across rivers and lakes.

Increasing connectivity across India will improve tourism and make India as an attractive destination
for tourists.
Bird Deaths in Pong Dam Sanctuary
More than 1700 migratory birds died in Pong Dam of Himachal Pradesh under mysterious circumstances.
How did the birds die?
The scientist believe that the birds would have died of viral or bacterial infections. Also, they believe that it
might be a flu as the birds are dying in large numbers.
What steps have been taken to find out the cause of death?
The forest officials have collected more than15 samples from different locations. These samples have been
sent to Indian veterinary Research Institute in Uttar Pradesh Bareilly, high security animal disease laboratory
is situated in Bhopal and to the northern regional disease Diagnostic laboratory in Jalandhar to determine
the cause of death.
Which birds died in pong dam?
Around 95% of birds that were found dead in the Pong Dam Sanctuary were the Bar Headed Geese that
migrate from Siberia and Mongolia.
About Pong Dam Sanctuary
Around 1.15 to 1.2 lakh birds migrate to Pong Dam Bird Sanctuary during winters every year. They nest up to
four months in the sanctuary.
The Pong Dam is also called the Beas dam. It is an artificial embankment Dam constructed across the Beas
river in Himachal Pradesh. The Reservoir created by the dam is called Maharana Pratap Sagar and is a
renowned Bird Sanctuary. The dam was constructed for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation.
The Maharana Pratap Sagar is located in the wetland zone of Shivalik Hills.
Is Maharana Pratap Sagar Reservoir one of the International wetland sites of Ramsar convention?
Yes.
What are the other recent mass wildlife deaths in India?
Recently bird flu virus was detected in around 50 crows in Madhya Pradesh. They were infected with
H5N8 virus.
Also, bird flu virus was detected in crows of Rajasthan. Around 47 crows have died in Kota, 72 in
Baran and hundred in Jhalawar till now.
January 5, 2021
ADB signs 100 million USD loan to boost power supply in Bengaluru
The Asian Development Bank recently signed an agreement of 100 million USD modernize and upgrade the
power distribution in Bengaluru city.
Key Highlights
The 100 million USD loan is to be used to enhance the quality and reliability of electricity supply in
Bengaluru city under the Bengaluru Smart Energy Efficient Power Distribution Project. Also, the loan will be
used to install 2,800 km of fiber optical cables. These fiber optical cables are to be laid in parallel to the
underground distribution cables. This parallel laying of the electrical and communication lines will help to
reduce technical and commercial losses by 30%.
The fiber optical cables are to be used for smart metering systems and distribution automation system in
the distribution grid. Also, the project will install 1,700 automated ring main units to control the distribution
line switch gears.
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Bengaluru Smart Energy Efficient Power Distribution Project
The Project aims to convert the overhead distribution lines into underground cables.
It will also install optical fiber cables in parallel to the underground cables.
Install automated ring units in six divisions of Bengaluru city
Increase the institutional operational capacity of BESCOM (Bangalore electricity Supply Company)
ADB Loan Approvals
On December 1, 2020, the ADB signed 132.8 million USD loan to strengthen Meghalaya Power
Distribution sector.
On December 8, 2020, the Asian Development Bank approved two loans. A 500 million USD loan to
construct new metro lines in Bengaluru and 300 million USD to strengthen primary health care in
urban areas.
On December 18, 2020, the Asian Development Bank signed 300 million USD loan to upgrade rural
power distribution to provide reliable electricity supply to the rural areas of Uttar Pradesh.
In January 2021, India and ADB signed 231 million USD of loan to increase power generation in
Assam.
The Asian Development Bank is mainly assisting India in transport and power projects of India helping
towards modernization of the country.
ISRO decade plan
The Indian Space Research Organization recently released the plan for the decade. The plan included
reusable satellite launch vehicle, heavy lift rocket and semi-cryogenic engine.
What are the key highlights of the ISRO Decade plan?
ISRO is to complete its moon mission Chandrayaan-3, the solar mission Aditya-L1 and first Indian Data
Relay Satellite in the decade 2021-2030. Also, the space agency will complete the first developmental flight
of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle.
The Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre will help to boost the Semi-Cryogenic Propulsion capability. With this,
the Indian rockets will be able to carry 5.5 tonnes to the Geostationary Transfer Orbit.
What is Aditya Mission?
The Aditya-L1 mission is the first Indian scientific expedition to the sun. the Aditya space probe will be
placed at a point in space called the L1 Lagrange point and hence the name Aditya-L1 mission. The mission
will study the photosphere, chromosphere, corona of the sun. It will also study solar winds, solar emissions
and solar flares and Coronal Mass Ejections.
What is Chandrayaan-3?
It is the planned third lunar mission of the ISRO. It is very much similar to Chandrayaan-2. Under
Chandrayaan-2 mission, the lander failed to land on the lunar surface as it crashed towards the ground. The
Chandrayaan-3 is thus a mission repeat. The Chandrayaan-3 is to include only Rover and lander. It will not
have an orbiter.
What is Indian Data Relay Satellite?
India is to launch India Data Relay Satellite System series to track the space assets and enable
communication between space-to-space assets. The IDRS is important to track the Indian satellites and
stay in touch with then. ISRO has planned to launch three of the satellites in the series. Each satellite will
cover a third of the earth.
TRIFOOD Parks in MP
The TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India) operating under Ministry of
Tribal Affairs signed a memorandum of understanding with Akhil Bhartiya vanvasi Kalyan Ashram to setup
TRIFOOD parks in Madhya Pradesh.
What are the key highlights of the Memorandum of understanding?
According to the MoU, TRIFED and Akhil Bhartiya vanvasi Kalyan Ashram will together implement Van Dhan
Yojana. This is to be achieved through mobilization of self help groups, TRIFOOD parks, Van Dhan Vikas

Kendra. They will together provide machinery and equipment, identify self help groups, organised training
and building infrastructure. They will also focus on other activities such as Horticulture, fisheries,
floriculture, animal husbandry and craft. They will mainly work to to improve the livelihood of tribals.
What is TRIFOOD?
The TRIFOOD is a joint initiative of Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Ministry of food processing industry and
TRIFED. It was launched under Van Dhan Yojana in August 2020. The TRIFOOD Parks are food processing
centres. They will aim to promote value addition to the minor forest produce.
What are the main functions of TRIFOOD?
The TRIFOOD Parks will procure raw materials from Van Dhan Kendras. They will then be processed and
sold across the country through the tribes India outlets.
Who decides the minimum support price for minor forest produce?
Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It is revised once in three years by the pricing cell constituted under the ministry.
Who decides the minimum support price of food crops?
The minimum support price of food crops other than the minor forest produce is set by Commission for
agricultural costs and prices operating under Department of Agriculture and cooperation.
The minimum support price are set twice a year for 24 commodities.
Do the minimum support prices have legal backing?
There are no laws in India that protect or support the minimum support prices.
40th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica
The Government of India recently launched the 40th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica.
Which ministry launched the Indian scientific expedition to Antarctica?
Ministry of Earth science.
Which vessel has been deployed for the 40th Indian scientific expedition to Antarctica?
Ice class vessel MV Vasiliy Golovin.
What are the main objectives of the 40th Indian scientific expedition to Antarctica?
The expectation will e take a team of 40 members to Antarctica and return by April 2021. XL Indian
Antarctica expedition has been Limited due to existing challenges of covid-19. It will mainly focus on
ongoing scientific projects on ocean observations, climate change, electric and magnetic flux
measurements, geology, Re supplying of food, environmental monitoring, fuel, and accomplish the return of
the winter crew.
When did the Indian scientific expedition to Antarctica begin?
1981.
What is the name of the Indian Research base stations in Antarctica?
Dakshin Gangotri, Bharti, Maitri.
What is the role of Dakshin Gangotri in Antarctica?
It was the first permanent settlement of India built in 1983. It was excavated in 1989 and is being used as
supply base and transit camp .
What is the role of Maitri?
It was the second permanent settlement of India in Antarctica. The station is located close to Lake
Priyadarshini. It accomplished the mission of geomorphological mapping of Schirmacher Oasis.
What is the role of Bharti ?
It was established in 2015. It will collect evidence of Continental break up to reveal the 120-million-year-old
Ancient History of Indian subcontinent.
Who manages the Indian research base stations in Antarctica?
National Centre for polar and ocean research located in Goa.

Is India a signatory to Antarctic treaty?
Yes. The Indian Antarctic program was launched in 1981 after India signed the Antarctic treaty .
What is Antarctic treaty?
The Treaty was signed in 1961. Currently there are 54 signatories to the Treaty. It is an arms control Treaty
signed during cold war.
NHRC recommendations on Manual Scavenging
The National Human Rights Commission recently made recommendations to achieve Zero Manual
Scavenging in the country.
Why were the recommendations made?
According to the National Human Rights Commission, several States make tall claims that they have
achieved zero manual scavenging and Nil sanitary latrines. However, based on regional workshops held by
the National Human Rights Commission the claims are far from the truth. Therefore the commission has
recommended certain regulations to be followed while reporting by the concerned authorities.
What are the recommendations?
The rehabilitation process of manual scavengers should be linked to schemes. By this the manual
scavengers can immediately start earning. The authorities should revisit to see how their families or
doing after rehabilitation.
The compensation amount being paid as one-time cash assistance for the rehabilitation of manual
scavengers should be enhanced to Rs 1 lakh. Currently, the one-time cash assistance of rehabilitation
paid to manual scavengers is 40,000 rupees.
The role of middlemen in making provisions such as direct benefit transfer for collaboration with
Non-Governmental organisations should be removed.
Strict actions should be taken against local authorities for employing manual scavengers. A toll free
number and mobile application for registration of complaint should be launched.
The National Crime Record Bureau should monitor the sewer deaths and include their death in its
report.
The Ministry of Finance should designate a particular nationalized bank for each state to extend
loans to the manual scavengers up to 10 lakhs of rupees.
The National Safai Karmachari Finance and Development Corporation should provide financial
assistance to manual scavengers. This will help them startup working in the domain of sanitation.
The Government of India should plan adequately to facilitate investments in shifting towards
Technology based sanitary cleaning. Also, the workers should be trained to operate the technology.
A Vigilance committee and a monetary mechanism should be established.
A police investigation officer with special training has to be deployed.
India’s Rice Exports to Vietnam
Vietnam recently started to buy food grains, especially rice, from India due to its attractive prices. Vietnam
has started to import rice from India in spite of the fact that the country (Vietnam) is the third biggest
exporter of rice in the world.
Why did Vietnam begin to import rice from India?
Vietnam has begun to import rice from India because the local prices in the country jumped to the
highest in nine years due to Limited domestic supplies. This is mainly because Vietnam has begun to
stockpile huge quantity of rice for future.
Also, the Indian prices of rice are highly attractive. The huge price differences is forcing Vietnam
Government to import rice from India.
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At what price will India export rice to Vietnam?
The Indian traders are to export 70,000 tonnes of rice at around 310 USD per ton to Vietnam. India is to
export broken rice to Vietnam during January and February, 2021.
How is stockpiling of rice in Vietnam inducing rice imports from India?
The Global pandemic has prompted Vietnam and other countries to stockpile rice. This is because the
shrinking supplies of food grains are increasing concerns about food insecurity.
Vietnam is planning to stockpile 270,000 USD of rice to ensure food availability amidst covid-19
supply chain disruptions worldwide. Thus, it is facing shortage and is relying on imports.
Why did the international market value of Indian Rice increase?
India is offering broken rice at 381 USD to 387 USD per ton. On the other hand, Vietnam is offering broken
rice at 500 USD to 505 USD per ton. This attractive price of Indian rice has increased its demand from Asian
and African countries. It is expected that the other Asian countries like Thailand are to shift towards India
for rice imports.
What is the current scenario of paddy cultivation and exports in Vietnam?
The total output of Vietnam in 2020 fell by 1.85 % compared to 2019. Also, the rice exports of Vietnam in
2020 have fallen by 3.5% as compared to 2019.
Where is Jack Ma? Reasons of Disappearance
The Chinese billionaire, Alibaba founder, Jack ma has not been seen in public since October 2020. At the
same time the billionaire had hit out against the ruling communist Regime in China.
What is the issue?
The speculation around the founder of Alibaba, Jack Ma recently peaked after he failed to appear in the
final episode of his own Talent Show Africa’s business heroes. The show aimed to provide a space to the
African entrepreneurs in competing for 1.5 million USD price. Jack ma was replaced by an Alibaba executive
in the finals of the show.
What are the recent Chinese government actions against Jack ma and his Enterprises?
In December 2020, the market Watchdog of China began investigating alleged anti competition
practices of Alibaba. Rectification plan for Jack Ma’s fintech venture and group has been laid out.
The people’s Bank of China (the apex bank of the country) has summoned Alibaba and group for
regulatory Talks. The bank has also announced a sweeping plan for the fintech firm to rectify its
regulatory violations.
China had suspended the Ant Group 37 billion USD Initial Public Offer (IPO). The IPO was halted just
before 48 hours of its listing on Hong kong and Shanghai stock exchanges.
What are Alibaba’s investments in India?
The investment of Alibaba in India includes Paytm, food delivery startup Zomato, online retailer Snapdeal,
online grocer big basket, Logistic firm Xpressbees.
Who is Jack Ma?
Jack Ma is an English school teacher turned entrepreneur. As of July 2020, his net worth was of 48.2 billion
USD and is the second wealthiest person in China. In 1994, Jack ma started his first company Hangzhou
Haibo translation agency. In 1995, he started a website call China Yellow Pages with the help of his friends.
In 1999 he launched Alibaba. In 2012 the online transaction volume of Alibaba exceeded 1 trillion Yuan. He
founded a business school in 2016. He stepped down from the board of Alibaba in September 2019.
Floating Solar Energy Project
The Government of India is to construct the largest floating solar energy project in the world. The project is
to be constructed at Omkareshwar Dam on Narmada river. The project will begin its power generation by
2022 to 2023.

What is the energy capacity of the project?
600 megawatts of solar energy.
What is the estimated cost of the project?
Three thousand crores of Rupees
Which international organisations are to provide financial assistance to the project?
International Finance Corporation and World bank.
Which Indian organisation is to provide financial assistance to the project?
Power Grid.
What are the key features of the project?
The project is to have floating solar panels of 600 megawatts of power generation capacity.
The solar panels are to be installed over the backwaters of the Omkareshwar Dam.
The project is to be completed in two years.
The electricity is to be generated in about two thousand hectares of water area by installing solar
panels in the dam.
The solar panels will automatically adjust upward and downward based on the water level of the Dam.
The floods and strong waves will not have any effect on the solar panels. The solar panels are to float
on the surface of water.
What is floating solar power plant?
The floating solar power plant refers to solar panels installed on structures that float on surface of the
water.
What are the two types of floating Solar Power Plant?
Floating photovoltaic Solar Power plant that uses photovoltaic panels installed on floating platform
Floating concentrated solar power System. It uses mirrors to redirect the solar power to a tower.
What are the advantages of floating Solar Power Plant?
No land Occupancy
They help to reduce water evaporation. Therefore, is highly water saving.
Solar power plants have a natural cooling system generated by the water layer beneath the panels
Supreme Court approves Central Vista Project
On January 5, 2020, the Supreme Court allowed the Central Vista Project to go ahead.
What is the Central Vista Project?
The Central Vista project aims to renovate 86 acres of land in the Lutyen’s Garden in New Delhi. It includes
Landmark structures of Indian government such as Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament, India Gate and North
and South Block.
What is the background of recent Supreme Court judgement on Central Vista project?
In April 2020, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court challenging the centre’s decision to renovate the 86
acres of Lutyens Garden. According to the petitioner, the decision violated the Right to Life of citizens
guaranteed under article 21. This is because the plan deprived people of open and green spaces. Also, the
petition argued that the plan violated the Master plan of Delhi 2021.
What were the actions of Supreme Court in response to the petition against the central Vista project?
The Supreme Court heard the challenge on the basis of three main Grounds. They were violations of
Municipal Law, change of land use and violations of environmental law.
Why is a new Parliament required? Join @aspirants85
The current Parliament was built in 1927. It was not intended to house a bicameral legislature. Rather it was
built to house Legislative Council. Also, the current Parliament House signifies an Imperial origin. It is not in
accordance with the aspirations of independent Indian citizens.

The current parliamentary Complex was built by the British. There are International examples of Building
New parliamentary structures immediately after independence. For instance, USA constructed its capitol
building within 25 years of its independence. The existing building does not abide by safety norms and is
not earthquake proof. The 2001 parliamentary attack is the best example questioning the safety of the
current parliamentary building.
Assam Rifles Public School launched as Khelo India Sports School
The Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Shri Kiren Rijiju recently launched the Assam Rifles Public
School as a Khelo India Sports School.
Where is Assam Rifles Public School located?
Shillong.
Is Assam Rifles Public School a Khelo India Sports School?
Yes.
What are Khelo India Sports School?
The main objective of Khelo India Sports school is to integrate sports with education.
The Government of India will bear the expenses of the students in Khelo India Sports School. It
includes expenses of education, boarding, lodging, competition exposure.
The Khelo India Sports school will help in identification and upliftment of talent from the North
Eastern regions, tribal areas and rural areas.
Is Assam Rifles Public School the first Khelo India Sports School in the North East?
Yes.
How many Khelo India Sports Schools are there in India?
Currently, there are nine Khelo India Sports Schools in India. Out of these five are managed by Paramilitary
and Defence forces.
Why was Assam Rifles Public School designated as the Khelo India Sports School?
The Assam Rifles Public School had a good track record in sports and academics, sufficient space to
develop sports facilities, adequate lodging and boarding. Also, it has good inclination to develop Olympic
sports under the inter-ministerial partnership between the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Youth
Affairs and Sports. For these reasons, the Assam Rifles was designated as the Khelo India Sports School of
India.
What is Khelo India?
The Khelo India was launched in 2018. It aims to improve sports culture in the country. The Khelo India was
launched by consolidating the Rajiv Gndhi Khel Abhiyan, National Sports Talent Search System and Urban
Sports Infrastructure Scheme. The programme promotes “sports for all” and also “sports for excellence”.
Statement on Climate of India during 2020
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recently released its Statement on Climate of India during
2020. According to IMD, 2020 was the eight warmest year on record since 1901.
What are the Key Highlights of the Statement on Climate of India, 2020?
Around twelve out of fifteen warmest years since 1901 were between 2006 and 2020.
The rainfall as a whole during South West Monsoon was above normal. It was 109% of the Long
Period Average (calculated between 1961 and 2010).
The past decade, 2019-20 was the warmest decade on record.
Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were the hardest hit states due to adverse weather. More than 350 deaths
were reported in these two states sue to thunderstorms. Cold wave events and lightning.
Thunderstorm and Lightning caused 815 deaths in 2020.
The average Land Surface Air Temperature over India in 2020 was 0.29 Degrees Celsius above

normal.
The mean temperature during winters was also above normal. It was recorded as 0.140 degrees
Celsius greater than the normal.
The Monsoon and post monsoon seasons recorded mean temperature anomalies of +0.430 degrees
Celsius and +0.53 degrees Celsius respectively.
According to the World Meteorological Organization, the Global mean surface temperature anomaly
was recorded as +1.2 degrees Celsius.
What were the Cyclones formed during 2020?
There were five cyclones formed in the North Indian Ocean in 2020. They were Super Cyclonic Storm
AMPHAN, Cyclonic Storm BUREVI, Severe Cyclonic Storm NISARGA and Very Severe Cyclonic Storm NIVAR
and GATI. Of these cyclones, Nisarga and Gati formed over Arabian Sea and the remaining formed in Bay of
Bengal.
Under which Ministry does IMD operate?
Ministry of Earth Sciences.
Where are regional offices of IMD located?
Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Nagpur and Guwahati.
Which regions are under the monitoring of IMD?
Northern Indian Ocean including Malacca Straits, Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, Persian Gulf. It mainly
monitors formation of cyclones and issues warnings to these regions.
Alphabet Workers Union
More than two hundred engineers and workers have formed the Alphabet Workers Union capping years of
growing activism in the company.
What is the main objective of Alphabet Workers Union?
The Alphabet Workers Union will strengthen the growing labour movement at Alphabet and serve as a
vehicle for workers to voice their concerns.
Is Alphabet a subsidiary of Google?
No. Alphabet was formed through restructuring Google. Alphabet has now become the parent company of
Google and Waymo (a self-driving car company).
What is the stand of National Labour Relation Board on Alphabet?
According to the National Labour Relation Board of the US, Alphabet is conducting unlawful monitoring and
questioning of workers. The employees are fired for unionization attempts which is unlawful according to
the board.
Why did Alphabet employees form the Union?
The Alphabet Employees have been protesting against several actions of the company. Some of the major
issues where the employees protested in large scale against the company are as follows:
Sexual exploitation case
In 2018, Google faced severe condemnation of employees in the sexual exploitation case of women. At that
time, more than 20 thousand employees of the company left the work and took to the streets.
Artificial Intelligence controversy
Google employees opposed the Maven project to be held in 2018 with the US Ministry of Defense. In this
project, the government wanted to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology for the army. Then more than
3100 employees wrote to the company that Google should not enter the war business.
Transparency issues
There are controversies that Google is secretly working on a search engine for China. When the company
openly named it Dragon Fly and brought out that the controversies were true, the employees got angry. They

were angered that they were working on search engine projects of China. The employees then asked the
company to bring transparency in their work. Dragon Fly was designed to be compatible with China’s State
Censorship provisions.
Draft Arctic Policy of India
The Government of India recently released the Draft Arctic Policy.
What is the main objective of the Policy?
The policy ensures that the Arctic resources are explored and used sustainable. Under its policy, India will
make sure the it abides by rules and regulations of Arctic Council. India became the observer of Arctic
Council in 2013 and its membership as an observer was renewed in 2018 for another five years.
What are the five main pillars of Arctic Policy?
The main five pillars of Arctic Policy are as follows:
Science and Research
Economic and Human Development
Transportation and Connectivity
National Capacity building
Governance and International Cooperation
Who is to implement the Arctic Policy?
The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research that operates under the Ministry of Earth Sciences will
serve as the nodal agency in implementing the Arctic Policy.
How does Arctic Policy connect India and Arctic region?
The policy envisages to connect the Arctic residents, especially the indigenous communities with those
living in the Himalayan regions. The policy aims to create opportunities where the Indian enterprises can be
involved to become part of the international commerce businesses and promote traditional indigenous
knowledge.
India and Arctic Research
India signed the Svalbard Treaty in Paris. The treaty allowed free access to the Arctic region along
with the commitment of not militarizing it.
India launched its first scientific expedition to Arctic in 2007.
In 2008, India established a research base called Himadri at Ny Alesund, Svalbard, Norway.
In 2014, India deployed IndArc. It is a multisensory observatory in Kongsfjorden.
In 2016, India set up Gruvebadet Atmponsheric Laboratry at Ny Alesund, Svalbard.
How will Arctic Policy help India achieve its SDGs?
The Arctic Policy has been synchronised and adapted to the Goal 11 of Sustainable Development Goals. The
Goal 11 of SDG is “Sustainable cities and Communities”.
January 6, 2021
What is National Atomic Time Scale?
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated the National Atomic Scale at the National
Meteorology Conclave.
What is Atomic Time?
Atomic Time provides the exact speed at which the clock ticks. In technical words, it measures the actual
length of a second. Atomic Clocks deviate only one second in up to 100 million years.
The International System of Units (SI unit) define one second (in atomic time) as the time taken by the
Cesium-133 atom in the ground state to oscillate 9,192,631,770 times. In simple words, the atomic clocks
count one second after the Cesium-133 atom has oscillated 9,192,631,770 times.

What is the significance of National Atomic Time?
With the newly inaugurated National Atomic Time, India has become self-reliant in measuring time within
the range of nanosecond. It has now achieved the accuracy level of 2.8 Nanosecond matching the
International Standard Time.
Why is Atomic Time so important?
Reaching an accuracy of 2.8 Nanoseconds in atomic time is of great help to ISRO. Atomic time pay huge
role in cutting edge technology. Also, accurate atomic time measurement is essential in the field of weather
forecast, disaster management, telecom, Defence, Railways and Banking.
What is International Atomic Time?
It is calculated by taking weighted average of more than 300 atomic clocks. These clocks are located at
more than sixty timing laboratories around the world. It is also called Astronomical time that refers to the
Earth rotation. It is computed by the International Bureau of Weights and Measures (BIPM) located in Paris,
France.
What is Universal Time?
The Universal Time is the time standard based on the rotation of the earth. This is was in use for several
decades. However, this is not accurate as the earth’s rotation is not constant and is affected by the celestial
bodies around it. The Greenwich Meridian Time is a Universal Time.
WHO: UK Variant of COVID-19 in 41 countries
The World Health Organisation recently announced that the United Kingdom covid-19 variant has been
detected in more than 41 countries. The VOC-202012/01 the was first detected in South Africa. This variant
is 70% more transmissible than the other covid-19 mutants.
Has VOC-202012/01 reached India?
Yes. Around 38 people have been found infected with the mutant. It has been detected in 10 samples at the
National Institute of Mental Health and neurosciences, 11 samples at the Council of Scientific and Industrial
Research-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB), three samples at the Centre for Cellular
and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad and in 5 samples at the National Institute of Virology, Pune.
Which Indian institute has successfully isolated and cultured the UK covid-19 variant?
National Institute of virology, Pune has successfully isolated VOC-202012/01. It is to test the virus on
COVID-19 vaccines that are developed and also on vaccines that are currently under trials in India.
What is India doing to fight against the UK covid-19 variant?
As soon as the UK variant covid-19 began to spread to different parts of the world, India temporally
suspended all the flights coming from UK.
India also made it mandatory to test all the UK return air passengers through RT-PCR.
Standard Operating Protocol was issued to the states and union territories to tackle the mutant
variant.
India launched INSACOG. The identified new covid-19 variant is sent to INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2
Genetic Consortium) labs.
What is INSACOG?
INSACOG was launched in the backdrop of the emergence of UK variant. INSACOG aims to accelerate
virus surveillance, characterisation and genome sequencing.
It is a consortium of ten labs namely DBT-NIBMG, DBT-ILS, ICMR-NIV, DBT-NCCS, CSIR-CCMB, DBT-
CDFD, DBT-InSTEM, NIMHANS, CSIR-IGIB and NCDC. These labs are now called INSACOG labs.
INSACOG will have inter-ministerial steering committee. The committee will provide guidance and
oversight to the Consortium.
In future, INSACOG will help in developing vaccines, diagnostics and potential therapeutics.

A road map for INSACOG has been prepared by the Department of Biotechnology, CSIR and ICMR.
Rashtriya Kamadhenu Aayog announces Online Exam
The Rashtriya Kamadhenu Aayog recently announced that it is to conduct a National-level “Gau-Vigyan”
(Cow Science) online exam. This is being done to generate interest among the students and public about
the indigenous cow and its benefits.
About the Exam
The exam is to be held on February 25, 2021.
All students of primary, secondary and college level can participate in te exam without any fee.
The exam is to be held every year starting from 2021.
The exam is first of its kind in the country.
All the participants of the exam are to be provided with certificates and the exam results will be
declared immediately after the exam.
The Rashtriya Kamadhenu Aayog has prepared a study material on cow science to help the exam
aspirants.
What is the significance of the exam?
The exam will infuse curiosity to all Indians about cows and make them aware of the business opportunities
and unexplored potential a cow can offer after it stops giving milk.
What is Rastriya Kamadhenu Aayog?
The Rashtriya Kamadhenu Aayog was constituted to organize animal husbandry in lines of modern and
scientific approaches. It will take steps to improve cow breeds, prohibit cow slaughtering. It functions as an
integral part of Rashtriya Gokul Mission.
What are the functions of Rashtriya Kamadhenu Aayog?
It will review existing policies, laws and suggest optimum economic utilization of cow wealth.
It will guide and advise state and central governments on policy matters concerned to protection,
conservation, development and welfare of cows.
It will promote schemes that encourage use of organic manures. Also, it will promote schemes that
provide incentives for use of cow urine, cow dung in organic manure.
It will provide solutions to problems related to abandoned cows.
What is Rashtriya Gokul Mission?
The mission aims to conserve and develop indigenous bovine breeds. It was launched in 2014 under the
National Programme for Bovine Breeding and Dairy Development.
DRDO Biodigester Mk II technology in metro rail
The Defence Research and Development Organisation recently signed a memorandum of understanding
with the Maha Metro. Maha Metro is Maharashtra metro rail Corporation. It is a joint venture company of
the Government of India and Government of Maharashtra.
What are the key features of the agreement?
The agreement will render technical support to implement the advanced biodigester Mk II technology to
treat human waste in Metro Rail Network.
What is the current status of bio digester in Indian Railways?
The Indian Railways has already installed more than 2.4 Lakh biodigester in its passenger coaches.
How will Bio digester help to control Dal Lake pollution?
DRDO recently demonstrated a customised version of bio digester to treat human waste generated from the
houseboats in the Dal lake. Around hundred units of biodigester are to be procured for civil Habitat around
the lake to minimise water pollution. This project is being monitored by a committee of experts constituted
by the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir.

Why was the Biodigester technology developed?
The biodigester technology was basically developed by DRDO for the Indian armed forces in high altitude
Himalayan regions.
What is biodigester technology?
The biodigester technology degrades and converts human waste into usable water and gases. The
generated gas is used for cooking and water for irrigation purposes. This is done in an eco-friendly manner.
What is the working of bio digester technology?
The biodigester technology involves bacteria that feed upon fecal matter. The fecal matter is dumped into a
tank along with the bio digesting bacteria. The bacteria through anaerobic process will degrade the fecal
matter. During the process water and methane gas are released.
What is an anaerobic process?
It is the process that occurs in the absence of free or combined oxygen.
World Bank’s 105 million USD loan to improve Waterways in West Bengal
The World bank, Government of India and Government of West Bengal recently signed a 105 million US the
agreement. The fund has been allocated to the West Bengal inland water transport, logistics and special
development project.
What are the key features of the agreement?
According to the agreement the one hundred and five million USD fund is to be used to improve the
inland water transport infrastructure in Kolkata, West Bengal.
With the help of the allocated fund the West Bengal inland water transport, logistics and special
development project will facilitate freight and passenger Movement in the Hooghly river.
The project will also undertake a spatial planning to improve accessibility in the Kolkata Metropolitan
Area.
The project will enhance the quality of life of the residents through inexpensive waterways and
increased connectivity.
It will contribute to the growth of the logistics sector of West Bengal.
What is West Bengal inland water transport, logistics and special development project?
During the first phase the project will enhance the the capacity of Inland water transport system. This
includes rehabilitating existing jetties, installing electronic Gates and buying new ferries.
During the second phase the project, it will support long term investments for passenger movements.
Also, it will improve the design of Inland water transport vessels and ensure night navigation on the
most trafficked and hazardous routes. It will encourage the private sector to invest in Ro-Ro vessels
to facilitate easier movement of trucks across the Hooghly river.
What are the benefits of the project?
The Hooghly river is a distributary of river Ganga. It separates the Kolkata port, from its large consumption
centres, that is, the vast hinterland comprising of the two landlocked neighbouring countries such as Nepal
and Bhutan and the entire North East. Therefore, it is essential to increase the water way transport on
Hooghly river. More than 80% of passenger and freight traffic currently cross the river.
Why is the project needed?
Currently the Kolkata city has restricted the movement of trucks to the port through the bridges and for
limited hours. This reduces the access to the port and increases cost of logistics. The ferries of West
Bengal provide efficient, flexible mode of transport to both freight and the passengers. They also save
operating costs and travel time as compared to the road Journeys. However, the ferry system currently
caters to only 2% of passenger traffic and very small portion of freight movement. The project will increase
the number of ferries operating and will also increase the waterway connectivity.

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UJALA and SLNP schemes complete six years
The UJALA (Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All) and SLNP (Street Lighting National Programme)
completed six years of successful implementation. The two programmes revamped household and public
lighting system across the country.
What are the achievements of UJALA in six years?
Under UJALA, the EESL distributed 6.69 crores of LED bulbs. It has installed more than 1.14 crores of
LED street lights. This has helped to save more than 55.33-billion-kilowatt hour of energy per year.
The scheme helped to reduce Greenhouse gas emissions by 38.59 million tonnes of carbon dioxide
per year.
The scheme distributed 72 lakhs of LED tube lights and 23 lakhs of energy efficient fans at affordable
prices.
What are the achievements of SLNP in 6 years?
The EESL installed more than 1.1 crores of LED street lights under SLNP. This helped to save 7.67-
billion-kilowatt hour of energy per year.
The scheme helped to reduce the greenhouse gas emission by 5.29 million tonnes of carbon dioxide
per year.
With the help of the scheme the municipalities were able to save 5,210 crores of Rupees in their
electricity bills.
What are the awards received by the schemes?
SAPIA, 2017 (South Asia Procurement Innovation Award) for innovative use of IT in SLNP
CIO 100 in 2019
Global Solid State Lighting Award for excellence in transformational contribution to LED sector
CII National Award for Excellence in Energy Management, 2020
What are the overall achievement of the schemes?
The schemes have helped in the growth of domestic LED markets.
They have helped to bring down the average household electricity bills by 15%.
The schemes have helped families to access better brightness in their homes and thereby improved
their quality of life.
Way Forward
WoThe SLNP has plans to bring investment of Rs 8,000 crores by 2024 to cover entire rural India. More than 30
million LED street lights are to be installed by EESL in coming years.
Global Economic Prospects Report
The World Bank recently released the Global Economic Prospects report.
What are the key findings of the Global Economic Prospects report?
According to the report the Indian economy is to contract by 9.6% in 2020-21. The Indian economy is
to recover 5.4 percent in 2021-22. The contraction in Indian economy will be mainly due to sharp
decline in household spending and private investment. The informal sector that accounts to four fifth
of employment in the country has been badly affected.
On the other hand, the world economy is to expand by 4% in 2021.
The services and manufacturing sector are gaining Momentum.
According to World Bank India is facing its first technical recessionary phase.
What is Technical recessionary phase?
When the GDP growth is negative for two consecutive quarters or more than the period it is called technical
recessionary phase. In India, the Gross Domestic Product declined by 23.9 percent between April and June
quarter. The Gross Domestic Product growth rate contracted by 7.5 % during the July and September

quarter. This clearly shows that the GDP growth of India has been negative for two consecutive quarters.
Thus, India is in a technical recessionary phase.
What is the state of unemployment in India?
According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy more than 50 lakh salaried persons lost their jobs
during the covid-19 pandemic.
What are the predictions made by other Global rating agencies?
Several Global rating Agencies have made their predictions for Indian economy. In September 2020 the
switch agency sharply lowered its growth forecast of India. It said that the gross domestic product of the
country for the financial year 2020-21 is expected to contract by 10.5%. Earlier it had predicted a
contraction of 5%. The Asian Development Bank predicted that India’s growth will contract by 9% in
2020-21.
Delhi School Bag Policy
The Delhi Government recently issued guidelines to reduce the weight of school bags of students in the
National Capital Region under its Delhi School Bag Policy.
What are the Key Features of the Delhi School Bag Policy?
According to the new Delhi School Bag Policy, the weight of the school bag of students between
Class 1 and Class 10 should not be more than 10% of their body weight.
The policy suggests that the schools should follow and use textbooks prescribed by NCERT, SCERT
and CBSE only.
The schools should also formulate thoughtful time table so that the students need not carry too many
books on a single day.
The policy envisages to promote holistic development of students through participation in games, art
and culture, sports and other creative activities.
The students should be practiced with the habit of reading library books.
Only single notebook should be carried by class 1 and class 2 students. For students of other classes
one notebook per subject should be prescribed.
No homework should be issued to students of class 1 and class two students.
What is the class-wise weight limits prescribed for school bags?
The Delhi government has also issued class wise weight limit for school bags in order to avoid confusion in
implementation of the policies.
Accordingly, the pre-primary classes should not carry bags and should not be issued with the homeworks.
The class 1 and class 2 students with average body weight of 16 to 22 kg have been recommended
with bag weight of 1.6 kg 2.2 kg.
The class three, class 4 and class 5 students with average body weight of 17 to 25 kg have been
recommended with bag weight of 1.7 kg to 2.5 KG .
The Class 6 and class 7 students with average body weight of 20 to 30 kg have been recommended
with bag weight of 2 to 3 kg.
The class 8 students with an average body weight of 25 to 40 kg have been recommended with the
bag weight of 2.5 kg to 4 kg.
The class 9 and class 10 students with average body weight of 25 to 45 kilograms have been
recommended with the bag weight of 2.5 kg to 4.5 kg.
The class 11 and class 12 students with average bag weight of 35 to 50 kg have been recommended
with bag weight of 3.5 kg to 5 kg.
Bird Flu outbreak in India
The Bird Flu in India has been reported in wild Geese in Himachal Pradesh, ducks in Kerala, crows in

Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Also, in Haryana more than one lakh poultry birds have died mysteriously in
the last few days. The Kerala Government recently declared Avian Influenza as State Disaster. In Kerala
more than 1,700 ducks have died due to flu.
How severe is the Bird Flu in India?
Kerala Government has started culling of ducks and chicken.
The Tamil Nadu and Karnataka Government have stepped up surveillance and formed guidelines.
In Madhya Pradesh more than 155 crows died of H5N8 strain.
Migrant birds died in Pong Dam Lake Sanctuary due to H5N8 infections.
In Rajasthan, birds in Kota and Baran were found dead with the infection.
What is Avian Influenza or Bird Flu?
It is a contagious viral disease caused by Influenza Type A virus. It usually affects poultry birds such as
Turkeys and Chickens. There are several types of Influenza Type A virus. Some of the virus may cause low
egg production and others result in early cracking of egg shells.
When did the Bird Flu start infecting humans?
The humans were first known to have contracted with bird flu in 1997. The H5N1 strain was the first
Influenza virus to infect humans. It occurred following an outbreak in a live bird market in Hong Kong.
According to the World Health Organization, the H5N1 does not spread from person to person. Also,
according to WHO, there are no evidences that the virus can spread through properly cooked poultry. The
virus is highly sensitive to heat and dies in cooking temperature.
Why is the Bird Flu outbreak creating havoc in the country?
The H5N1 is deadly. Around six out of ten bird flu cases have led to deaths in humans. The virus if mutated
becomes easily transferable from person to person by altering its shape to grab human cells. This might
result in a pandemic. Thus, the bird flu is currently creating a havoc in the country. The pandemic and
seasonal flu have jumped from birds to humans through mutation.
Bharat Griha Raksha Policy: The Home Insurance Policy
The IRDAI is to introduce standard products covering the risk of fire and allied perils. The policy being
introduced is to replace the Standard Fire and Special Perils Policy. It has three main components namely
the Bharat Griha Raksha, Bharat Laghu Udyam Suraksha and Bharat Sookshma Udyam Suraksha.
What is Bharat Griha Raksha?
Under the Bharat Griha Raksha policy, the IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory Development Authority of India) will
introduce a standard home insurance policy that will cover risk of fire and other related dangers.
What are the key features of Bharat Griha Raksha Policy?
The policy will cover a wide range of dangers such as Natural catastrophs like cyclone, storm,
tsunami, Hurricane, floods, earthquake, landslide, fires, bushfires, impact damages of any kind, strike,
riot, acts of terrorism, malicious damage of, overflowing of water tanks, pipe leakage from automatic
sprinkler installations, bursting of water tanks and test within 7 days from the occurrence.
The policy will also offer “General Home Content Insurance” apart from insurance coverage for home
building.
The policy will offer 20% of sum insured for the building subject to a maximum of 10 lacs of rupees.
There are two optional covers offered by the policy. They are insurance for valuable content such as
jewellery and insurance for personal accident of insured and spouse due to and insured danger under
the policy.
The policy provides complete waiver of Under insurance. If the sum of the insured general home
content is less than that declared, the policy will still pay the entire amount. For instance, assume
that, the policyholder has insured home content for 50,000 rupees. On the other hand, the actual value

of the home content is 1 lakh rupees. This means that the insured value is less than the actual value.
In such cases the policy will pay the entire sum insured and not in proportion in spite of the fact that
the insured value is less.
What is Bharat Sookshma Udyam Suraksha?
It is the standard product for enterprises for which the total risk value of up to Rs 5 crores. It will provide
coverage to machinery, buildings, plant, stocks and other assets.
What is Bharat Laghu Udyam Suraksha?
It will cover enterprises for which the total value of risk across the insurable asset classes in the location
exceeds Rs 5 crores.
GoI sets up control room to control spread of Bird Flu
The Department of Animal Husbandry has set up a control room after confirmation of Bird Flu in Rajasthan,
Madhya Pradesh, Kerala and Himachal Pradesh.
What are the functions of the control room?
The control room will watch the situation and take stock on daily basis of the preventive and control
measures undertaken by the respective State Governments. The control room will also abide by the National
Action Plan of Avian Influenza.
What is National Action Plan of Avian Influenza?
The National Action Plan on Avian Influenza comprises of the following divisions:
Advises to the States and Union Territories on preparedness against Avian Influenza outbreaks.
The second part of the action plan indicates the actions to be taken if an outbreak of the Avian
Influenza is suspected.
The third part describes the actions during the outbreak of the disease.
The fourth part identifies the persons who will handle Avian Influenza infected poultry. The person
will advise on biosafety and biosecurity measures.
What are the different types of Avian Influenza virus?
The Influenza virus is grouped into Type A, B and C. Type A Influenza Virus is known to infect animals only
and is zoonotic. This means Type A can infect humans as well. The subtypes of Avian Influenza are H5N1,
H7N9 and H9N2. The subtypes are classified based on surface proteins called Newuraminidase and
Hemagglutinin.
What is GISRS?
It is Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System launched in 1952 by the World Health Organization.
It monitors seasonal trends and potentially pandemic Influenza in the world. It is the backbone to the Global
Alert System for Influenza.
What is Global Influenza Strategy?
It was launched by World Health Organization for 2019-2030. It aims to prevent seasonal influenza and
control the spread of the virus from animals to humans.
AI based Survey of African Elephants
An International Team of researchers led by University of Oxford have developed a new approach to survey
African Elephants using satellite images and Artificial Intelligence.
What is the new approach?
The method uses satellite orbiting in space that is capable of capturing more than five thousand
square kilometres of images. The captured images is then processed through deep learning model
that will detect elephants eliminated other objects.
The International team used a customised dataset to cover more than thousand elephants in South
Africa.

The method eliminates the risk of double counting. Also, it makes it possible to conduct repeat
surveys in short intervals.
The method is capable of identifying calves separately.
What are the current methods used to count elephants?
Manual counting and Manned Aircrafts for aerial counts are current methods. Of this, the manned aircrafts
for aerial counts is highly expensive. Also, such methods are hindered by poor visibility and are highly
challenging. The other manual counting methods might lead to erroneous counting. This might result in
misallocation of scarce conservation resources and misunderstanding of population trends.
Elephants in India
The population of elephants in India is 27,312. The Indian Elephants are one of the three subspecies of
Asian elephants.
Conservation of Elephants
In 1986, the Asian elephants were listed as “Endangered” in IUCN Red List. They have been listed under
CITES Appendix I. India launched Project Elephant in 1992 to provide financial and technical support of
wildlife management efforts. The project aims to increase the life of the elephants in their natural habitats
by protecting their habitats and migration corridors.
Elephant Corridors in India
There are 138 elephant corridors in India. Of these 28 are interstate and seventeen are international state
corridors. The Elephant corridors are narrow strips of land that connects two large habitats of elephants.
They are crucial to reduce animal fatalities due to accidents.
India-Japan Partnership in Specified Skilled Worker
The Union Cabinet recently approved the Memorandum of Understanding between India and Japan on
“Specified Skilled Worker”.
What are the Key Features of the MoU?
Under the agreement, India will send skilled labours to Japan.
The MoU will set an institutional framework for cooperation between India and Japan for accepting
skilled workers. The only condition is that the workers should have qualified in the required skill test
and in Japanese language test.
According to the MoU, the qualified Indian workers can work in fourteen specified sectors in Japan.
The Indian workers are to be provided new status of residence of “Specified Skilled Worker”
according to the agreement.
A joint Working Group is to be set up to implement the Memorandum of Understanding.
The MoU will also enhance people to people contacts. Also, it will foster mobility of workers and
skilled professionals from India to Japan.
What are the 14 sectors included in the MoU?
The fourteen sectors are Industrial machinery, building cleaning, nursing care, material processing industry,
electric and electronic information related industry, industrial machinery manufacturing industry,
shipbuilding and ship-related industry, aviation, automobile maintenance, lodging, aviation, fisheries,
agriculture, food and beverages manufacturing industries, food service industry, construction.
What is India-Japan Nuclear Deal?
The Nuclear deal between India and Japan was signed in 2016. The deal raised concerns as India was a
non-Nuclear Proliferation Treaty member. The deal was very much needed for India as it was key to India’s
deals with French and US nuclear firms that had stakes in Japan or were owned by Japanese firms.
What are the key India-Japan projects?
In 2015, India agreed to introduce the Shinkansen system, the high-speed bullet train of Japan.

India and Japan had formed Act East Forum that aims to expand the collaboration between India in
North East and Japan.
January 7, 2021
Payment Infrastructure Development Funds
The Reserve Bank of India recently announced operational guidelines to Payment Infrastructure
Development Funds. The main aim of the funds is to deploy more digital payment infrastructure across
tier-3 to tier-6 centres and in the north eastern states.
What are the guidelines issued by RBI?
The Central Bank has constituted an advisory council under the chairmanship of B P Kanungo. The
advisory council will basically govern the funds. On the other hand, the funds will be administered and
managed by RBI.
The fund is to be operational for two years, 2021 and 2022.
The fund has a corpus of 345 crores of rupees. Of this, 250 crores will be contributed by RBI and 95
crores of rupees by card networks operating in India.
What is the main function of the advisory council?
The advisory council will plan a transparent mechanism to acquire banks, non-banks in different locations.
This will help to increase the banking infrastructure of the country.
Who are the primary targets of the scheme?
Merchants providing essential services such as hospitality, transport, health care facilities, public
distribution systems.
Why is Payment Infrastructure Development Fund needed?
The payment ecosystem in the country has evolved with wide range of options such as mobile phones, bank
accounts, cards, etc. It is essential to provide further fillip to the digitization of payment system to provide
impetus to accept infrastructure in the country accordingly. The enhanced ability of Point-of-Sale
infrastructure will reduce the cash demand over time. By 2021, there will be more than five million active
Point-of-sale by 2021.
What is Acceptance Development Fund?
The Acceptance Development Fund was proposed by the RBI in 2019 to develop card acceptance
infrastructure such as swipe machines in Tier III and Tier VI cities. The fund will ensure growth of card
acceptance infrastructure such as swipe machines in the country especially in Tier III and Tier VI cities.
Advisory for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management
The National Board of Wildlife recently approved advisory for Human-Wildlife Conflict Management.
About the Advisory
The advisory empowers the Gram Panchayats to deal with problematic wild animals according to the
Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
It encourages to use the crop compensation allocated under Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
against crop damage due to human-wildlife conflict.
The Inter-Departmental Committees at state and local level should adopt early warning systems and
dedicate circle wise control rooms. They should operate toll free numbers that could be operated
24/7.
Caracal
Apart from providing the advisory the National Board of Wildlife has also included Caracal into list of
critically endangered species. Caracal is a medium sized wild cat found in Currently there are twenty-two
wild life species under the programme for Critically Endangered species.

What is the Recovery Programme for Critically Endangered Species?
It is one of the three components of centrally funded scheme Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats.
The programme was started in 2009. The Critically Endangered species included under the Recovery
Programme for Critically Endangered Species are as follows:
Snow Leopard
Bustard (includes Floricans)
Solphins
Hangul
Nilgiri Tahr
Marine Turltes
Edible Nest Swiftlet
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Asian Wild Buffalo
Manipur Brow-antlered Deer
Nicobar Megapode
Vultures
Malabar Civet
Asiatic Lions
Indian Rhinoceros
Swamp Deer
Jerdon’s Courser
Norther River Terrapin
Clouded Leopard
Arabian Sea Humpback Whale
Red Panda
What is Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat?
It was launched during the eleventh five-year plan. The Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitat is an
ongoing Centrally sponsored scheme. The three main components of the programme are as follows:
Support to Protected Areas
Recovery Programme to save Critically Endangered Species
Protection of wildlife outside protected areas
United States Capitol Protests, 2021
On January 5 to January 6, 2021, the US President Donald Trump supporters gathered in Washington DC to
protest against the results of recent US President Elections
What are the United States Capitol Protests?
On January 6, 2021, the protesters gathered for the “Save America” rally. During the rally the attendees
heard speeches of President Trump. The rally culminated in a riot. Eventually the protesters invaded the
United States Capitol building. President Trump instructed his supporters to march into the Capitol building
to overturn the elections. It ended up in an armed standoff. The storming of the building and the riots are
being described as sedition, infection and domestic terrorism. Some sources even refer it to an attempted
coup. The series of these incidents leading to the invasion of US Capitol building are called United States
Capitol Protests.
What are the key events of United States Capitol Protest?
Trump rally in Washington
On January 6, 2021, protestors gathered around the Washington monument to Rally against the recent US

elections and its results. At the rally the President Trump told his supporters to March on the Capitol
building.
What is Washington Monument?
It is an obelisk that was built to commemorate George Washington. He once served as the commander in
chief of the continental Army. He was the first president of United States.
Rioting in the capitol building
The rioters attempted to storm the buildings in the US Capitol Complex. The buildings in the complex were
evacuated and rioters broke passed the security and entered the national statutory hall. The protestors were
so violent that the law enforcement had to use tear gas within the building.
What is National Statutory Hall?
It is a chamber in the United States Capitol building that is devoted to sculptures of prominent Americans.
What was the reaction of the US government?
A one thousand one hundred strong force of the DC National Guard was sent to quell the violence. The order
was initially resisted by President Trump and was signed by the Vice President.
What is United States Capitol Complex?
The complex is a group of more than a dozen of buildings that is located in Washington DC. The buildings
are used by the US Federal Government. The Capitol Building in specific is the meeting place of the United
States Congress. It is also the seat of the legislative branch of the United States Federal government. It was
built in 1800. Earlier to this violent protest, the Capitol building faced similar attacks during burning of
Washington in 1814.
What is Burning of Washington?
On August 24, 1814, during the Battle of Bladensburg, a British force led by major general Robert Ross Set
Fire to multiple government buildings including the White house and the Capitol Building. This is referred to
as burning of Washington.
Committee formed for preservation of Ladakh’s land, culture and language
The Government of India recently formed a committee to protect language, land, culture of Ladakh and
ensure participation of citizens in the development of Union Territory. The Committee is to be headed by
Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy. It will include elected representatives from Ladakh, central
government and Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development council.
Why was the Kishan Reddy Committee formed?
A ten-member delegation from Ladakh met Home Minister Amit Shah to express their concerns about the
threat to the unique culture, language and demography of the region in the development process. Concerns
have also been raised about the rights and demand for the inclusion in the sixth schedule. Earlier, the
National Commission for Scheduled Tribes had recommended the inclusion of Ladakh under the sixth
schedule.
What are the main provisions of Sixth Schedule?
The Sixth Schedule has provisions for the administration of tribal areas in the states of Meghalaya,
Assam, Tripura, Mizoram.
The sixth schedule has provisions for constitution of autonomous districts and councils to frame
laws to protect interests of the tribal.
The Sixth Schedule was constituted under Article 244.
It currently holds provisions for the administration of tribal areas in Meghalaya, Assam, Tripura and
Mizoram. It was passed by the Constituent Assembly in 1949. It seeks to safeguard the Autonomous
District Councils.

Why should Ladakh be included in Sixth Schedule?
More than 90% of Ladakh population is tribal. The primary Scheduled Tribes of Ladakh are Bot, Balti Beda,
Brokpa, Changpa, Mon, Garra and Purigpa. Including Ladakh in the sixth schedule will help to enhance the
transfer of funds for speedy development of the region.
What is National Commission for Scheduled Tribes?
The commission was established under the 89th Amendment Act, 2003. It monitors matters related to
safeguards provided for the Scheduled Tribes under the Constitution. It advises the planning process of
socio-economic development of Scheduled Tribes. It also evaluates the development in the union and in the
state.
RBI forms Academic Advisory Council for Supervisory College
The Reserve Bank of India recently formed an advisory council under former deputy governor N S
Vishwanathan to advise the director of the central bank on supervisory colleges.
What is the role of the council?
The council will identify areas where upskilling and building are required in supervisory colleges.
Also, the council will plan and develop curricula of all programmes and benchmark the programmes
with international standards and best practices.
The council will develop appropriate teaching methods. The council will also benchmark the
programmes with the international standards and improve the teaching methods.
What is RBI Supervisory College?
The Reserve Bank of India Supervisory Colleges were introduced to reinforce supervisory skills among its
regulatory bodies. This was done to facilitate unified and focused training inputs to the supervision staffs.
Why did RBI establish Supervisory Colleges?
The Reserve Bank of India established supervisory colleges to monitor Indian banks abroad.
To which banks were the Supervisory College established?
The Supervisory colleges were established for six banks namely State Bank of India, ICICI Bank, Bank of
Baroda, Axis Bank, Bank of India and Punjab National Bank. These banks have significant international
presence.
What are the main objectives of Supervisory Colleges?
The main objectives of Supervisory colleges are to improve understanding of risk profile of the banking
group, to enhance information exchange and cooperation among supervisors and facilitate effective
supervision of internationally active banks.
Why is it important to promote international banking?
The International Banks provide more protection during economic shifts.
They minimize tax obligation.
They provide broader access to investment opportunities.
They enjoy competitive currency exchange rates.
They ease access to accounts.
Why is Banking Supervision needed?
The Banking Supervision is needed to ensure safety of the banking system. It will help the banks to reduce
their risk taking.
What forced RBI to launch Supervisory Colleges?
India launched the Supervisory colleges after the PMC Bank scam. The Supervisory colleges were launched
to prevent PMC Bank scam scenarios in the future.
India's first double stack long-haul container train
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently flagged off the first double stack long-haul container train from

New Ateli in Haryana to New Kishanganj in Rajasthan.
What are the Key Features of the Double Stack Long-Haul Container Train?
The train is to be operated in the 360-km long Rewari-Madar Section of the Western Dedicated Freight
Corridor.
The train is 1.5 kilo metres long.
It is hauled by Electric traction.
What is the speed limit of freight trains in India?
Currently, the freight trains are operated at maximum speed of 75 kilometres per hour. The speed is to be
increased to 100 km/hr. The average speed of the freight trains are to be increased from 26 km/hr to 70
km/hr.
What is Mission Sheeghra?
The Indian Railways operated Mission Sheeghra in Uttar Pradesh. It was launched by the Lucknow Division
of Indian Railways. Under the mission, the trains attained a maximum permissible speed of 100 km/hr.
Why are speed limits important in trains?
High speeds are not a problem if trains are travelling in a straight line. However, the bends and ups and
downs might derail the trains when appropriate speeds are not maintained at these points. In India, the
speed limits to the trains are universal, that is, applicable to all trains in the country.
What are Dedicated Freight Corridors?
The Dedicated Freight Corridors are high speed high capacity railway corridors that are exclusively meant
for transportation of freight. The Western Dedicated Freight Corridor is from Jawaharlal Nehru Port in
Mumbai to Dadri on Uttar Pradesh. The eastern Freight Corridor connects Dakuni in West Bengal and
Ludhiana in Punjab. The South-West Dedicated Freight Corridor connects Chennai and Goa.
How are Dedicated Freight Corridors beneficial?
They reduce Logistics cost. They are more environment friendly. They help in faster movement of goods.
They are huge boost for the real estate sector.
Food Price Index of FAO
The Food and Agriculture Organization recently released the Food Price Index. The Food Price Index has
been released for the seventh consecutive month in December 2019.
Key Highlights
The food price index for the month of December was 100 7.5 points.
The food price index for the month of November was 105.2
the Food and Agriculture Organisation calculates the food price index measuring the monthly
changes of a basket of oilseeds, cereals, meat, dairy products and sugar.
The food crisis of all the major categories increased for the seventh consecutive month barring
sugar.
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For the year of 2020, the food price index was 97.9 point. This is a three-year high and 3.1 % increase
as compared to that of 2019.
The historical peak of the food price index occurred in 2011.
Oil prices
The vegetable oil prices increased by 4.7 % in December 2019 as compared to that of the previous month.
This price increase was mainly due to the supply restrictions in major oil producing countries. Especially the
trade of palm oil was affected due to a sharp hike in the export duties of Indonesia. Also, the prices of soy
oil increased due to the prolonged strikes in Argentina.
Cereals
The price rise of cereals increased by 1.1 % in December 2019. For the year 2020 the price rise of the

cereals was 6.6 % more than that of 2019 level. The export prices of sorghum, wheat, rice and Maize
increased mainly due to price rise in North and South American countries as well as Russia.
Dairy
The price rise of dairy products increased by 3.2 % in December 2019 as compared to that of the previous
month. In 2020, the overall price of dairy products was one percent less than that of 2019.
Meat
The meat index increased by 1.7% in the month of December 2019. The prices of poultry in December 2019
rebounded due to the outbreak of Avian influenza in Europe. The Pig meat trade declined due to the
suspension of German exports to Asian Markets and also due to African swine fever outbreak.
Rewari-Madar freight corridor section
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently dedicated the Rewari-Madar section of the Western Dedicated
Freight Corridor. The Prime Minister also flagged off the world’s first double stack long haul 1.5 km
container train.
About the Rewari-Madar Section
It is situated in Haryana and Rajasthan. It runs for 227 km in Rajasthan. It crosses through Sikar, Jaipur,
Ajmer, Nagaur and Alwar districts.
Why is Rewari-Madar Freight Corridor Section important?
Currently, the freight traffic does not get priority over passenger trains. After completion, at least 70% of the
freight trains will be transferred to the DFCCIL (Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India) network.
This will help in timely movement of cargo.
With the new track, the freight trains are to run at maximum speed of 100 km/hr. This is because, the Indian
Railways is planning to increase the maximum speed of freight trains to 100 km/hr. The line has compatible
to achieve such speeds. The weight carrying capacity of the wagons in this route has been increased by
14%.
How will Rewari-Madar Freight Corridor Section help businesses?
The Rewari-Madar Freight Corridor section will be of great help to the E-Commerce companies such as
Flipkart and Amazon. Apart from the E-commerce sector, the freight corridor will also open up doors for
automobile sectors.
Which trains will use Rewari-Madar Freight Corridor?
The Rewari-Madar section will help to decongest the existing Kanpur-Delhi main line traffic. The Kanpur-
Delhi line handles 150% of line capacity of Indian Railway. The section has more than 50 passenger trains
and sixty goods trains. With the new route, more passenger trains and goods trains can be pumped in.
The route is highly important for the transport of food grains and fertilisers from the northern region to the
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eastern and north eastern regions. Also, the northern region receives coal, jute, iron ore, petroleum products
from the eastern parts through this route.
India-France Annual Strategic Dialogue
India and France held their annual strategic dialogue in New Delhi.
What are the key takeaways from the India-France Annual Strategic Dialogue?
The countries mainly focused on COVID-19 vaccines, nuclear, Indo-Pacific, space, environment, maritime
safety, digital economy, environment and defence sectors.
Why is France important to India in terms of Indo Pacific?
France has a deep presence in the Indian Ocean Region. The territories of Mayotte Island and Reunion
Island are under French control. These overseas areas provide France an area of 28 lakh square kilo metres
in the Indian Ocean Region as Exclusive Economic Zone under the UNCLOS Treaty.
China has increased its presence in the Indian Ocean with its presence in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka,

Djibouti and Maldives. On the other hand, the French has established permanent Naval Bases in Abu Dabi
and Djibouti.
What are the recent military agreement signed by India and France?
India and France recently signed a logistics sharing agreement. This enables the countries to use the
military facilities of the other. This is highly significant in terms of growing Chinese influence in the Indian
Ocean Region.
About India-France Strategic Dialogue
The India-France Strategic dialogue is held annually with the countries alternating as hosts. The India-
France Strategic Dialogue, 2020 was held in Paris.
India-France Trade
French companies are one of the top investors of India. India-France trade stands at 13 billion USD. The
French imports from India are helicopters, satellites, airplanes, spacecraft launch vehicles.
India-France Relations
The countries have “Special Relationship” with each other. India and France signed the landmark Nuclear
Agreement in 2008. According to the Agreement, France constructed six European Pressurised Reactors
each of 1,650 MW.
France was the first country to sign a nuclear deal with India following India-specific NSG waiver.
January 8, 2021
Central Government Scheme for Industrial Development of J&K
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs recently chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved an
ambitious scheme to boost the industrial development of Jammu and Kashmir. The Government of India
has allocated 28,400 crores of Rupees for the industrial development of Jammu and Kashmir scheme. The
funds are to be used to develop industrial sector of the territory till 2037.
What are the key features?
The main objective of the scheme is to generate jobs that will lead to economic development and
boost industry and service later development of the union territory. This in turn will attract new
investment.
The scheme is ambitious as it offers attractions to both large and small industrial units.
What are the incentives offered by the scheme?
The scheme offers incentives as follows:
The scheme will provide capital investment incentive at 30% in zone.
It will provide investment incentive of 50% in Zone B. This includes investment in manufacturing and
construction sector.
The maximum limit of incentive is 5 crores of Rupees in zone a and 7.5 crores of Rupees in Zone B
respectively.
The scheme will provide interest subvention at an annual rate of 6 pc for 7 years on loan amounts up
to 500 Crores of rupees.
The GST linked incentive will be three hundred percent of the eligible value of actual investment.
The amount of incentive provided should not exceed one tenth of the total eligible amount of
incentive.
What are the employment benefits of the scheme?
The scheme is expected to attract major investments and provide 4.5 lacs of direct and indirect
employment in the region.
What are the investments made by the GoI in J&K after Abrogation of Article 370?
So far, the central government has invested a total of 1123 crores of Rupees as a part of industrial policy in

the region of Jammu and Kashmir.
What is 25th Amendment of US Constitution?
The United States Capitol Protests, 2021, has induced calls to invoke 25th Constitutional amendment.
What is 25th Amendment of US Constitution?
The 25th Constitutional amendment lays out how a US President or a Vice President can be replaced or
succeeded. It includes resolve issues revolving around unfortunate situations like death, resignation to
removal of US President and actions to be followed after a President becomes disabled to such a degree
that he is unable to fulfil his responsibilities. The amendment has four sections.
What are the four sections of the amendment?
The vice president would assume the position and title of the president in the event of the resignation
of the president. Which will effectively prevent the departing current from returning to office.
The second section of the amendment includes provisions of vacancies in the office of vice
president.
the third section of the amendment provides provisions to determine that a city of presidents to
discharge his powers and duties.
The vice president can take over as acting president if the president declares his or her inability to act
as president. When the president is unable to declare his or her incompetent then the fourth section
of the amendment is invoked. This section requires the vice president and the cabinet to jointly prove
the incompetence of the Vice-President.
Currently, citizens and leaders of the United States of America or insisting vice president Pence to
invoke this fourth section of the 25th Constitutional Amendment against President Trump.
When was the 25th US Constitutional Amendment introduced?
The 25th US Constitutional amendment was proposed in 1965 and was ratified by the states in 1967.
Has the fourth section of 25th US Constitutional Amendment invoked so far?
No.
Why did Trump supporters storm the US Capitol?
The Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol building as Trump repeatedly asserted that the US
Presidential Election, 2020, in which he lost was rigged.
January 9, 2021
January 9: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Every year the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is celebrated on January 9.
What is the theme of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, 2021?
Theme: Contributing to Atma Nirbhar Bharat.
Why is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrated?
It is celebrated to mark the contribution of overseas Indian community towards the development of India.
Why is important to celebrate Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?
It is important to celebrate the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas as it reconnects the Non-Resident Indians with their
roots. Also, it celebrates their achievements. It acknowledges the difficulties faced by the Indian expatriate
workers living abroad. The day acts as a platform to create a network of NRIs in all the countries and
connect the younger generation with immigrants. This will help the immigrants to evolve and contribute
significantly to the development of the country.
What is Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?
The Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was celebrated by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on January 8,
2021.

What is the theme of Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?
Bringing together Young Achievers from India and Indian Diaspora.
What is Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards?
The Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards are presented to recognize the achievements of NRIs, PIOs or
organizations established by NRIs.
Who confers Pravasi Bhratiya Samman Awards?
President of India.
Why is Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrated on January 9?
It is celebrated on January 9 to mark the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to Mumbai on
January 9, 1915.
When was the first Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrated?
2000
Who sponsors Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?
It is sponsored by the Ministry of External Affairs, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and
Industry, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, Confederation of Indian Industries.
Which committee recommended Pravasi Bharatiya Divas?
L M Singhvi Committee. The L M Singhvi committee was set up by the late PM Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
India to chair 3 UNSC Committees
The Ambassador of India to the United Nations recently announced that India has been asked to chair three
important committees of the Security Council.
What are the three UNSC committees to be chaired by India?
Counter-Terrorism Committee, Libya Sanctions Committee and Taliban Sanctions Committee.
What is the Counter-Terrorism Committee?
The Counter-Terrorism committee of the United Nations Security Council was established in the wake
of 09/11 terrorist attack in the United States.
Earlier India had chaired the Counter-Terrorism Committee in 2011-12.
It monitors and implements counter terrorist activities.
Who are the member states of Counter-Terrorism Committee?
There are fifteen member states of Counter Terrorism committee. They are Belgium, Dominic Republic,
China, Germany, France, Niger, Indonesia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Russia, South Africa, UK,
Vietnam and US.
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What is Libya Sanctions Committee?
The Libya Sanctions Committee of the United Nations Security Council implements the sanctions
regime in Libya.
It also monitors two-way arms embargo on Libya, travel ban, asset freeze.
It measured the illicit export of petroleum in the country.
The member states of the committee are required to prevent sale of arms supply and related material
to Libya.
What are UN Sanctions on Libya?
The United Nations imposed an Arms Embargo on Libya since February 2011. It is related to the supply of
arms and military equipment to and from Libya.
Why did UN impose sanctions on Libya?
The UN imposed sanctions in Libya in response to the violence and use of armed forces against civilians in
Libya and systematic violations of human rights by the former Qadhafi Regime.

What is Taliban Sanctions Committee?
The Taliban Sanctions Committee works to promote stability, peace and security of Afghanistan.
It is also called the 1988 Sanctions Committee.
When can the United Nations Security Council impose sanctions?
The Unite Nations Security Council can impose sanctions in response to threat to international peace and
security.
January 11, 2021
National Youth Parliament
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to address be National Youth Parliament. The top winners of the National
Youth Parliament will speak before the Prime Minister on January 12 valedictory function.
When was the first National Youth Parliament held?
The first National Youth Parliament was held in 2019 under the theme “be the voice of new India and find
solutions and contribute to policy”.
Why is the National youth parliament organised?
The National Youth Parliament is organised to hear the voice of the youth between the age of 18 and 25
years.
Why is National Youth Parliament held on January 12?
It is held on January 12 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. Also, the Government
of India celebrates the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda as National Youth Day.
How is the National youth parliament held?
It is held at three levels. They are district youth parliament at district level, state youth parliament at state
level, National youth parliament at National level.
What is the importance of National Youth parliament?
The National Youth Parliament will encourage the youth of the country to engage and understand the public
issues in the view of a common man and form opinion and express them in an articulate manner. Their
strong voices will be captured and documented to make them available to policymakers and implementers
to take it forward.
Who organises the National Youth parliament?
The National Service Scheme operating under Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
What is National Service Scheme?
The National Service Scheme (NSS) is a central government scheme. It provides opportunity to students of
class 11 and 12, graduate and postgraduate students at colleges and Universities to participate in various
government alert community services.
What is the objective of National Service Scheme?
The main objective of the scheme is to provide hands on experience to young students in delivering
community service.
When was the National Service Scheme started?
1969.
WHO Map of India
The World Health Organization recently released a new map. The map differentiated Jammu and Kashmir
and Ladakh from the rest of Indian mainland with a different colour.
What is the new WHO map of India?
The new WHO map of India has marked the newly created Union Territories of India, Ladakh and Jammu and
Kashmir in grey colour. Also, it has marked the disputed Aksai Chin region in grey colour with blue stripes.
The blue stripes are in identical shade as that of China. The map shows India in navy blue colour.
What is India’s stand on the new map?
India is not pleased with the new map. India believes that China has a big role in the new map of WHO. The
influence of China on the World Health Organization is high as the country provides huge funding to the
organization.
What are other recently map discrepancies of India?
India recently had tussled with Nepal and Pakistan regarding discrepancies depicted in maps.
What is India-Nepal map issue?
In May 2020, Nepal released a new political map that claimed regions of Kalapani, Lipulekh and
Limpiyadhura. Nepal released the map after India inaugurated a motorable link road connecting India and
China. The road passes through Lipulekh pass. This region is claimed by Nepal as its own territory.
What is India-Pakistan map issue?
In August 2019, Pakistan released a map that showed the geographical areas of Jammu and Kashmir and
Ladakh within its area. Also, the Junagadh of Gujarat was shown as its own territory. The map was released
a day before Indian Government rolled back the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Also, the it was a
counter action for India’s inclusion of Pakistan occupied Kashmir as part of the Unin Territory of Jammu
and Kashmir.
Single Window Clearance System for Coal Mines
The Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently launched the “Single Window Clearance System” for coal
mines.
What is Single Window Clearance System?
The Single Window Clearance System for Coal Mines is an online platform launched to obtain clearances for
smooth operationalisation of coal mines. It is aimed at allowing coal bidders to obtain all required
clearances from a single portal. Currently, a company has to receive 19 major approvals to start a coal
mine. Now with the single Window Clearance System, all the 19 approvals can be obtained in one place.
This is one of the major steps in Coal Sector reforms of Government of India.
What are the recent coal sector reforms?
The Government of India recently introduced several coal sector reforms. They are as follows
Commercial mining of coal was allowed with fifty blocks offered to private sector.
Coal blocks were offered to private companies on revenue sharing basis.
Coal Bed Methane extraction rights are to be auctioned from Coal India’s coal mines.
Why were coal sector reforms introduced?
Coal Sector reforms were introduced to reduce coal imports in the country. Despite of the fact that India is
the fourth largest producer of coal in the world, the country is the second largest importer of coal in the
world. Therefore, the coal sector reforms were introduced to make India self-reliant in coal sector.
What are the benefits of coal sector reforms?
In 1973, the coal sector was nationalised. This meant that domestic coal can only be mined by public sector
companies. However, the coal demand continued to grow at a faster rate. Because of this, the coal imports
increased. The coal imports stood at 23% between 2009 and 2014. Introduction of commercial mining of
coal will help to increase the coal production and bridge the supply gap. The Commercial coal mining will
increase investment opportunities and save foreign exchange.
What is Coal Bed Methane?
It is a form of natural gas extracted from coal beds.
What are Coal Bed Methane reserves of India?
2,600 billion cubic metres.

Where are Coal Bed Methane reserves found in India?
Majority of the coal bed methane reserves are found in the Gondwana sediments of eastern India.
DRDO Landing Gear System for UAV
The Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment operating under DRDO recently developed
the Retractable Landing Gear System for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, TAPAS. These landing gear systems are
to be used by the Indian Navy.
What are Retractable Landing Gear System?
The Retractable Landing Gear System consists of a hydrogas shock strut integrated with wheel and brake
system. It absorbs and dissipates landing impact load to safeguard the aircraft. It has nitrogen combined
with hydraulic fluid to absorb and dissipate impact loads.
What is new in Retractable Landing Gear System?
It absorbs and dissipates landing impact load to safeguard the aircraft. Also, it supports the aircraft during
ground manoeuvrings. Also, the Hydro-Gas Strut is new in the design.
What is the purpose of Landing Gearing Systems?
The main purpose of Landing Gear systems in Drones is to facilitate safe take-off and landing of Unmanned
Aerial Vehicle.
What is TAPAS UAV?
TAPAS is Tactical Airborne Platform for Aerial Surveillance beyond horizon. It is also known as RUSTOM-2.
It was developed by India on the lines of American Predator Drones. The first flight of TAPAS took place in
2016.
Why are Unmanned Aerial Vehicles important?
They are important for search and strike missions. It is expected that by 2050, at least 50% of combat
missions will be designated to UAVs.
Where is India in UAV technology?
India is at its infancy stage in UAV. Israel and US are the leaders of UAV technology. India has signed
several agreements with these countries to develop its UAV technology. India has also procured UAVs from
Israel and USA. The Heron UAV fleet of India was procured from Israel.
The production of an Indian Combat Mission capable UAV is at least a couple of decades away.
What is Vanadium?
The Geological Survey of India has found promising concentrations of Vanadium in the Tamang and Depo
areas of Arunachal Pradesh.
What are the new explorations of Vanadium in India?
According to Geological Survey of India, the Vanadium mineralisation is geologically similar to the “Stone
Coal” Vanadium deposits of China. The GSI has discovered about seven metre thick carbonaceous phyllite
for a length of more than six kilo metres in Depo area. Vanadium was also found in Subansiri district for a
length of 15.5 km and thickness of 7 metres.
What is Vanadium?
Vanadium is a by-product obtained from the processing of Vanadiferous magnetite ores. In its pure form,
Vanadium is soft, ductile and grey in colour.
How much Vanadium reserves does India hold?
According to Indian Bureau of Mines, the total estimated reserves of Vanadium in India is around 24.63
million tonnes. Of this, the estimated Vanadium Pentoxide is 64,594 tonnes.
What is the Vanadium consumption of India?
India consumes 3,360 metric tonnes of vanadium annually. This is 4% of Vanadium consumed by the world.
Globally, 84,000 tonnes of Vanadium is consumed annually.

What is the Vanadium production and consumption in China?
China consumes 44% of world Vanadium production. And China produces 57% of the world Vanadium.
What are the characteristics of Vanadium?
Vanadium alloys are durable in extreme environments. They are corrosion resistant. They improve tensile
strength of steel and reinforce steel bars used for tunnels, buildings and bridges. Their atomic number is
23.
What are the major applications of Vanadium?
The Vanadium Pentoxide is used as a catalyst in the production of Sulphuric acid.
85% of the Vanadium produced in the world are used as steel additive. Vanadium steel is used in
gears, bicycle frames, axles and other critical components.
Vanadium Dioxide is used in production of glass coatings that blocks infrared radiation.
Khadi Prakritik Paint
The Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari is to launch “Khadi Prakritik Paint”.
Who Developed Khadi Prakritik Paint?
Khadi and Village Industries Commission.
What is Khadi Prakritik Paint?
The Khadi Prakritik Paint is a non-toxic eco-friendly paint with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is
the first-of-its kind product.
What is the main ingredient of Khandi Prakritik Paint?
The Khadi Prakritik Paint was developed with cow dung as its main ingredient. It is odourless and cost-
effective.
Is Khadi Prakritik Paint certified by Bureau of Indian Standards?
Yes.
What are the two forms of Khadi Prakritik Paint?
The Khadi Prakritik paint is available in two forms namely plastic emulsion paint and distemper paint.
What are the main advantages of Khadi Prakritik paint?
The paint is free from heavy metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic, chromium, cadmium.
The paint will help in doubling farmers income. This is because, the technology adopted in the
making of Khadi Prakritik paint will increase consumption of cow dung as raw material for eco-
friendly products. This will generate additional revenue to Gaushalas and farmers. The Khadi Prakritik
paint is expected to generate an additional income of Rs 30,000 per annum per animal to farmers. On
the other hand, utilisation of cow dung will prevent clogging of drains and will clean the environment.
Who tested Khadi Prakritik Paint?
National Test House, Mumbai, National Test House, Ghaziabad and shri Ram Institute for Industrial
research, New Delhi.
What are the environmental impacts of normal paint?
They are high in Chromium and Lead. The conventional paints used in day-to-day life release Volatile
Organic Compounds during the drying process, that is, after the coating is applied.
What are the environmental labels of paint cans?
The paints are labelled in the following way based on the release of Volatile Organic Compounds:
To be labelled as Low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC), the paint should contain less than fifty
grams per litre of VOC.
To be labelled as Zero-Volatile Organic Compound, the paint should contain less than five grams per
litre of VOC.

NASA to test the most powerful rocket ever built
NASA is to launch the mot powerful rocket in the world on January 17, 2021. NASA has named it as the
“Space Launch System”.
What are the Key Features of Space Launch System?
The Space Launch System is to carry the first woman and the next man to the moon.
It is 98 metres tall. On the other hand, Saturn V that carried Astronauts to the moon in 1960s was 110
metre tall.
It has capacity to carry more than twenty-seven tonnes.
The Space Launch System is to be hauled into the Lower Earth Orbit.
It has four RS-25 engines.
How does the giant rocket of NASA work?
The Space Launch System consists of a giant core. It has two solid rocket boosters. Apart from these, the
core has two large storage tanks. One tank stores liquid hydrogen and the other stores liquid oxygen. When
the liquid oxygen and hydrogen are fed into the engine chambers, the chemical reaction produces vast
amount of energy and steam. This steam exits engine nozzles at speeds of 16,000 km/hr to generate force
that propels the rocket through the air.
What is the use of Solid Rocket Booster in SLS?
The Solid Rocket Boosters provide extra power to escape gravity clutches. These solid boosters provide
75% of the total thrust. They will burn six tonnes of Solid Rocket Booster every second.
Why is SLS the most powerful rocket?
The SLS will generate 39.1 mega Newtons of thrust at launch. This is 15% more than Saturn V. This is
the highest thrust level ever achieved.
In 1960, Soviet Union built N1. N1 was built to reach moon. It could produce 45.4 mega Newtons of
thrust. However, the N1 mission ended in failure.
What are the future high power rockets?
The future version of SLS is called Block-2 cargo. It is expected that Block-2 of SLS will reach the
thrust levels of N1.
The vehicle called Starship being built by SpaceX is capable of producing 66.7 Mega Newtons of
thrust. When launched, this will the most powerful rocket in the world.
ISRO to adopt 100 Atal Tinkering Labs
The Indian Space Research Organization recently announced that it is to adopt 100 Atal Tinkering Labs
across the country.
How will ISRO help the Atal Tinkering Labs?
By adopting hundred Atal Tinkering Labs, ISRO is to facilitate mentoring and coaching of students in cutting
edge technologies. It includes technologies related to space as well.
How will the initiative benefit the students?
ISRO will promote scientific temperament among students and will encourage them for space related
technologies. The students will gain practical and application-based knowledge of STEM through the
programme.
What is the current scenario of Atal Tinkering Labs in India?
There are more than seven thousand Atal Tinkering Labs in India. It helps more than three million students
to acquire problem solving, innovative and tinkering mindset.
Who establishes Atal Tinkering Labs?
NITI Aayog.
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Under which programme are Atal Tinkering Labs established?
Atal Innovation Mission.
What is Atal Innovation Mission?
The Atal Innovation Mission was launched to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in the country. It has
two core functions namely entrepreneurship through self-employment and innovation promotion.
What are the major initiatives of Atal Innovation Mission?
Atal New India Challenges fosters product innovations. It aligns them to the needs of various
ministries.
Atal Incubation Centres fosters world class startups and will add a new dimension to the incubator
model.
Mentor India Campaign is a national mentor network that is launched in collaboration with corporates
and public sectors to support all the initiatives of Atal Innovation Mission.
ARISE is Atal Research and Innovation for Small Enterprises. It stimulates research and innovation in
MSME industry.
AIM-iCREST is Incubator Capabilities Enhancement Programme that is focused on creating high
performing startups. It was designed to support established incubators of AIM in the country.
January 12, 2021
Heritage Conservation Committee
The Supreme Court recently cleared the Central Vista Project that covers a three kilo metre stretch between
the Rashtrapati Bhavan and India Gate. Following this, the Heritage Conservation Committee has approved
the construction of a new parliament.
What is Heritage Conservation Committee?
The Heritage Conservation Committee is set up under the chairmanship of Additional Secretary, Ministry of
Urban Affairs under the provisions of Section 23 in Delhi Building Byelaws, 1983 to protect heritage
buildings. Only buildings in and around Delhi are governed by these laws. Similar conservation committees
are set up at state levels as well. The local authority should consult the Heritage Conservation Committee
before granting permission. The heritage buildings are graded by the Heritage Conservation Committee for
developmental activities.
What are the gradings offered by the Heritage Conservation Committee?
The Heritage conservation Committee offers three grades. They are as follows:
Grade I: The buildings under Grade I includes buildings of historic importance. No interventions are
permitted either on the interior or exterior of the Heritage buildings unless it is essential in the interest of
strengthening the life of the building.
Grade II: These buildings comprises of regional or local importance processing architectural merit or
historical significance. Internal changes are allowed in these buildings. Also, adaptive reuse shall be
allowed.
Grade III: It comprises of buildings that evoke architectural or sociological interest. Both internal changes
and adaptive reuse of these buildings are allowed.
What is the applicability of Heritage Conservation Committee?
The regulations of Heritage Conservation Committee applies to heritage sites such as artifacts, buildings,
areas and structures that are listed in Unified Building Bye Laws for Delhi, 2016.
What are the notified Heritage buildings?
There are 886 buildings notified in the list. The list is prepared by the National Disaster Management
Committee, Delhi Development Authority.

Legal Entity Identifier System
The Reserve Bank of India recently announced the introduction of Legal Entity Identifier System.
What is Legal Entity Identifier System?
The Reserve Bank of India introduced the Legal Entity Identifier system for all payment transactions
of fifty crores and above through NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer) and RTGS (Real Time
Gross Settlement).
The system is being introduced to identify the legal entities involved in financial transaction. The
central bank has adopted the system to improve the quality and accuracy of the financial data
systems.
Under the system, the banks have to include information of the remitter and beneficiary.
Under which act has the Legal Entity Identifier system introduced in India?
Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.
What is Legal Entity Identifier?
It is a twenty-digit unique number. It is a global identifier for entities participating in financial transactions.
It is developed by International Organization for Standardization.
What is the validity of Legal Entity Identifier?
One year from the period of registration.
Why was Legal Entity Identifier System introduced?
During the financial crisis of 2008, the international regulators realized that there was no single code to
each financial institution with which it can be identified in all countries universally. Every country had their
own set of identity numbers. This made it difficult to assess the risk exposures, analyzing and resolving
risks across the market.
When was the first LEI issued?
2012.
Does Legal Entity Identifier follow ISO?
Yes, it follows International Organization for Standardization.
What is the code structure of LEI?
It is an alpha-numeric string. The first four characters identify the local operating unit. The characters five
to eighteen are assigned by the Local Operating Unit. The last two characters are Checksum digits. The
Checksum digits are used to identified the errors that occur during the process of transaction.
Pope’s Amendment of Church Law
Pope Francis recently changed the Church laws to allow women to do more things during Mass. The law
that defines proceedings during Mass and in Altar is called Code of Canon Law. This law has now been
amended to allow women to serve in Altar.
Can women become priests under the new laws?
No.
What are the amendments made to the Code of Canon Law?
The new amendments will allow women to do more things during Mass.
Women can read the Gospel and serve at the Altar as ministers. Previously such roles were reserved
only to men.
Women can be allowed to play the role of Lectors and Acolytes. Lectors are persons who reads
lessons in a church service. An Acolyte is a person assisting the celebrant in a religious service or
procession.
Pope Francis has created a second study commission to study if women could be deacons. The first
commission failed to reach a consensus.

What is Code of Canon Law?
The Code of Canon Law is the code of ecclesiastical laws that govern the Catholic Church.
It is also called the Johanno-Pauline Code. It is the fundamental laws of Latin Church. It was promulgated
by John Paul II and took legal effect in 1983. It replaced the Code of Canon Law, 1917. The Code of Canon
Law was promulgated by Benedict XV.
Which was the first Code of Canon Law?
The Code of Canon Law, 1917 promulgated by Benedict XV was the first.
What is Canon?
It is the Greek word for rule.
Who are controlled by the Code of Canon Law?
Only those who are baptized in the Catholic Church are bound by the laws. It does not apply to travelers or
locals who are not baptized.
What is Baptism?
Baptism is the Christian religious rite of sprinkling water to a person’s forehead symbolizing purification
and admission to the Christian Church.
National Youth Day: January 12
Every year National Youth Day is celebrated on January 12. It is also called the “Yuva Diwas”. The National
Youth Day is celebrated to create awareness about rights of people in India. It educates people to behave
properly in the country.
What is the theme of National Youth Day, 2021?
YUVAAH-Utsah Naye Bharat Ka
Why is National Youth Day celebrated on January 12?
The National Youth Day is celebrated to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.
Why is National Youth Day celebrated?
The National Youth Day is celebrated to propagate ideals and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda.
When is International Youth Day celebrated?
The International Youth Day is celebrated on August 12. The International Youth Day is celebrated by the
United Nations and several other international organizations. The first International Youth Day was
celebrated in 2000.
Why is International Youth Day celebrated?
The International Youth Day is celebrated to draw attention to a given set of cultural and legal issues
surrounding the youth.
About Swami Vivekananda
He was born on January 12, 1863. In 1881 he met Shri Ramkrishna Pramahamsa at the Dakshineswar Kali
Temple and became his disciple. He introduced the principles of Yoga and Vedanta to the western world.
Swami Vivekananda represented India at the Parliament of the World Religion in 1893. It was held at
Chicago.
How does India celebrate National Youth Day?
India organizes National Youth Festival to celebrate National Youth Day. The National Youth Festival is
organised by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. The National Youth Parliament is held as a part of
National Youth Festival. This year, in 2021, PM Narendra Modi is to address the National Youth Parliament.
The first National Youth Festival was celebrated in 1995. National Youth Festival is organised by the
National Service Scheme every year.
Sea Vigil 2021
The second edition of coastal Defence Exercise Sea Vigil-21 is to be conducted between January 12 and

January 13, 2021.
What is Sea Vigil Exercise?
The Sea Vigil exercise will be undertaken along the 7,516 kilo metres coastline. It involves all the thirteen
coastal states, Union Territories and the Exclusive Economic Zone. Also, the exercise involves the fishing
and coastal communities. The exercise is conducted by the Indian Navy.
The Sea Vigil is a build-up towards the major theatre level exercise TROPEX that the Indian Navy conducts
every two years. Both Sea Vigil and TROPEX will together cover the entire spectrum of maritime security
challenges. This includes transition from peace to conflict.
What is Exclusive Economic Zone?
An Exclusive Economic Zone is an area in the sea where a sovereign state has special rights regarding the
exploration and use of marine resources. The Exclusive Economic Zone are demarcated according to the
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
When was the first Sea Vigil exercise held?
2019.
How frequently is the Sea Vigil exercise held?
Once in two year. Sea Vigil is a biennial exercise.
What is TROPEX?
TROPEX is Tropical Level Readiness and Operational Exercise. It is an inter-service military exercise that
involves the participation of Indian Air Force, Indian Army and Indian Navy. It is generally held at the
beginning of the year. The exercise is held to test the combat readiness of the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force,
Indian Army and Indian Coast Guard. The first TROPEX was held in 2005.
How is the TROPEX conducted?
The TROPEX is conducted in three phases namely independent workup phase, tactical phase and joint
workup phase.
What is the significance of the exercises?
According to the US Pentagon, the Chinese PLA Navy is the largest navy in the world. Therefore, it is
important for India to maximize its potential in the Indian Ocean region.
One Planet Summit
The One Planet Summit was held on January 11, 2021. The summit aims to advance the protection of
nature.
What is One Planet summit?
The One Planet summit is an international event that focused on biodiversity to mobilize commitments to
protect the ecosystems and make links to human health.
What is the aim of One Planet summit?
The One Planet Summit aims to promote worldwide ecological transformation. The summit will measure
environmental and climate protection combined with innovation and economy.
What is the theme of One Planet Summit, 2021?
Let’s act together for nature
Who organizes One Planet Summit?
United Nations, World Bank and France.
Why is One Planet Summit important?
The COVID-19 has reminded the importance of nature for our daily lives and economies. It is highly
challenging to reverse trend set by the pandemic. The One Planet Summit will help to transform the value
chains, consumption habits and business models.
With the global economic powers like the United States withdrawing from Paris Agreement, it is important

for international organizations act swiftly. The One Planet Summit will help the world in this direction.
When was the first One Planet Summit held?
2017. The first One Planet Summit was organised two years since the historic Paris Agreement. It then
adopted twelve international commitments. They are as follows:
Responding to the Extreme Events in Island states
Protecting land and water against climate change
Mobilizing researchers and young people to work for the climate
Public procurement and access for local government to green financing
Zero emission targets
Sectoral shifts towards a decarbonized economy
Zero-pollution transport
Work towards a carbon price compatible with the Paris Agreement
Anchoring climate issues at the centre of decisions of financial actors
International mobilization of development banks
Commitment by sovereign funds
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Mobilizing institutional investors
Management report of National Park and Wildlife Sanctuaries
The Union environment Minister shri Prakash Javadekar recently released Management Effectiveness
Evaluation report of 146 National Parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The report is first of its kind in the country
What are the Key findings of the report?
Around 60% of leopard population, 70% of Asiatic lions and 70% of global tiger population are the
main reasons for the thriving of the National parks and wild life sanctuaries in the country.
The top five national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India are Jaldapara National Park of West
Bengal, Raiganj wildlife sanctuary, Tirthan wildlife sanctuary, Sainj wildlife sanctuary of Himachal
Pradesh and the Great Himalayan National Park.
The Turtle Wildlife Sanctuary of Uttar Pradesh, Jai Prakash Narayan Bird Sanctuary of Uttar Pradesh
were ranked at the bottom most. The other three bottom most wildlife sanctuaries were located in
Rajasthan, Haryana and Assam.
There are 903 protected areas in the country. These areas cover five percent of the total geographic
area.
What were the highest performing wildlife sanctuaries?
In the northern region, Great Himalayan and Tirthan Wildlife sanctuary scored the highest. In the southern
region, Someshwara wildlife sanctuary and Gulf of Mannar marine national park scored the highest. In the
eastern region, Jaldapara Wildlife sanctuary and Raiganj wildlife sanctuary were the highly performers. In
the western region, Kuno-Palpur wildlife sanctuary and Pachmarhi wildlife sanctuary were the highest
performers. In the north-eastern region, Khangchendzonga National Park and Nongkhyllem wildlife
sanctuary of Meghalaya were the highest performers.
What are the other announcements made by the minister?
The minister also announced that from 2021, ten best national parks, top five zoos, top five coastal and
marine parks are to be ranked in the country.
From where was the assessment process of the report adopted?
International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and World Commission on Protected Areas
(WCPA)
What are the key features of the report?
The report was generated based on thirty headline indicators developed under six elements of the

Management Effectiveness Evaluation framework.
Henley Passport Index - Update (January, 2021)
The Henley Passport Index was launched by the International air Transport Association. Around 227
different travel destinations are considered to launch the index. The index is released based on the number
of destinations the holders can access without visa.
What are the Key findings of Henley Passport Index?
Nepal at rank 104 and Pakistan at 107 continue to be the “Worst passports to hold” category.
Pakistan had a visa-free score of 32 countries and Nepal had a score of 38 countries.
The countries such as Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria were the countries with the worst passport to hold
with a score of 26, 28 and 29.
The report said that Japanese citizens can travel to 191 countries and Japan was the top performer.
Singapore was in second position with a score of 190.
South Korea and Germany were at third position with a score of 189.
Countries such as UK, USA, New Zealand and Switzerland were at the seventh position. They are
considered as the most powerful passports in the world. Their score was 185.
Australia was at eighth position with a score of 184.
What was the rank of India in Henley Passport Index?
India ranked 85th in the Henley Passport Index. India scored 58 in the Henley Passport Index.
What is new about Henley Passport Index, 2021?
Over the past sixteen years, the top positions of Henley Passport Index were taken by the European Union
countries, USA and UK. This year, the Asia Pacific countries have become the top performers.
What is Passport Index?
The Passport Index is an online tool. It provides insights about visa-free travel option. The Passport Index
includes World Openness score, Visa-free scores and Global mobility scores.
What are Visa free destinations?
There are 58 destinations in the world that does not require prior visa. Of these twenty are in Africa and
eleven are in Asia.
Supreme Court suspends implementation of Farms Laws
The Supreme Court recently suspended the implementation of three farm laws to end the disagreement
between the farmers and Government of India.
What was the judgement pronounced by the Supreme Court?
The Supreme Court has directed to form a committee to resolve the issue. The apex court also indicated
that it was highly disappointed with the negotiation process between the farmers union and the union
government. The central government and the farmer unions were unable come to a conclusion even after
eight rounds of talks.
What are the Farm Laws?
The three farm laws that were recently enacted by the Union Government are as follows:
Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020.
This act creates a national framework for contract farming between farmer and buyer.
Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020. The act permits inter-
state and intra-state trade of farmers produce beyond the premises of Agricultural Produce Market
Committee (APMC). The act abolished market fee. It allows electronic trading. Also, it facilitates
lucrative prices for the farmers through alternative trading channels to promote barrier free inter-state
and intra-state trade of agricultural produce.
Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020.

Why are the farmers protesting against the Farm Laws?
The laws lay the framework to sell the produce directly to the corporates. The farmers do not trust the
corporates. According to the farmers, this might end the Minimum Support Price system in the country.
Why are the protests high in Punjab and Haryana?
The agriculture in Punjab and Haryana is high as Green revolution was first introduced in these states. So
are the MSP procurement in these states. Around 89% of rice produced in Punjab and 85% produced in
Haryana are procured by the Government.
US names Cuba as State Sponsor of Terrorism
The United States recently designated Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism.
What is US list of State Sponsors of Terrorism?
The United States lists the countries that repeatedly provide support for acts of international terrorism
under the State Sponsors of Terrorism. The list was first released in 1979 with Iraq, Libya, Syria and South
Yemen in it.
What is the history of US list of State Sponsors of Terrorism?
Cuba was added in 1992, Iran in 1984. Later North Korea and Sudan were added in 1988 and 1993
respectively. Later South Yemen was removed in 1990. Iraq has been removed twice from the list, once in
1982 and then again in 2004. Libya was removed in 2006. North Korea was removed in 2008 and again re-
added in 2017. Cuba was removed in 2015 and has now been re-added.
What are the other countries that are currently in the list of state sponsors of terrorism?
Iran, Syria and North Korea.
Which country was recently removed from the list of state sponsors of terrorism?
Sudan.
Why was Sudan removed from the list of state sponsors of terrorism?
Sudan was recently removed to sign Israel-Sudan Normalisation Agreement. The agreement was signed in
October 2020 to normalize relations between Israel and Sudan. The agreement was signed after Bahrain
and UAE signed peaceful agreements with Israel.
What are the issues between Cuba and US?
Between 1908 and 1902, Cuba had become a US protectorate as per Treaty of Paris. By 1958, after Cuban
revolution, the US-Cuba relations had further deteriorated. Later again in 2016, a peculiar syndrome had
affected US diplomats visiting Havana. It was named the Havana Syndrome and it further soured the
relationship between the countries.
What sanctions can US place listing a country under State Sponsor of Terrorism List?
The United States can place four categories of sanctions on countries that are part of the list. They are as
follows:
Restrictions on US foreign assistance
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Controls over exports of dual use items
Miscellaneous financial and other restrictions
Global Ebola vaccine stockpile
The Global Ebola Vaccine stockpile was recently established by four international health and humanitarian
organizations.
What are the four international organizations that established Global Ebola Vaccine Stockpile?
World Health Organization (WHO), Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), International Federation of Red Cross
and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and UNICEF.

What is International Coordinating Group (ICG)?
Together WHO, MSF, UNICEF and IFRC (the above 4 organizations) are called the International Coordinating
Group.
Who is to provide financial support to the Global Ebola Vaccine Stockpile?
GAVI (Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation), the vaccine alliance.
What is the current status of Ebola vaccine?
The Ebola Vaccine was licensed by the European Medicines Agency in November 2019. The vaccine was
pre-qualified by World Health Organization. It has also been licensed by US Food and Drug Administration.
Also, the vaccine has been licensed in eight African countries.
Who is to manage the Ebola vaccine stockpile?
UNICEF is to manage the Ebola vaccine stockpile on behalf of ICG.
What are the other vaccines stockpiles managed by UNICEF?
Meningitis, Cholera and Yellow Fever vaccine stockpiles.
How will the vaccines be delivered under the Global Ebola Vaccine Stockpile?
The decision to allocate the vaccine is to be made within 48 hours of receiving the request from a
country.
The vaccines are to be made available together with ultra-cold chain packaging.
The overall delivery time of the vaccine from the stockpile to the countries is seven days.
Are there natural markets for Ebola Vaccine?
No. This is because, the Ebola outbreaks are rare and unpredictable. Therefore, there is no natural markets
for Ebola currently.
Is Global Ebola Vaccine Stockpile the only way to obtain Ebola vaccine?
Yes.
What is SAGE-recommended requisite of an emergency stockpile of vaccine?
500,000 doses. This means that when a stockpile of vaccine is established, it should have at least 500,00
doses.
What is SAGE?
SAGE is Strategic Advisory Group of Experts operating under WHO.
What is Insect Apocalypse?
The entomologists from all over the world attended the proceedings of National Academies of Sciences
recently. According to the entomologists, the insect population is declining at rapid rate. The scientists
have named this as Insect Apocalypse.
What is Insect Apocalypse?
The Earth is losing 2% of its insects every year. This is being termed as “Insect Apocalypse”.
What are the main reasons for the Insect Apocalypse?
The main reasons of Insect Apocalypse are as follows:
Insecticides
Climate Change
Light Pollution
Herbicides
Invasive Species
Changes in land use
Intensive agriculture
Which two insects best illustrate insect decline?
Honey Bees and Butterflies.

What are the main reasons for the decline of honey bees?
Lack of food, insecticides, herbicides and parasites.
How bad is insect decline?
Insect decline is the worst in North America and in parts of Europe. The first Global Scientific review
published in the Biological conservation journal has found the following:
A third of the insect species have become endangered.
More than 40% of insect species have declined.
The rate of extinction of insects is eight times faster than that of birds, mammals and reptiles.
At the rate of insect apocalypse, insects could vanish within a century.
Why are insects important?
Insects outweigh humanity by seventeen times. They are essential for the proper functioning of the
ecosystem as pollinators, food for other creatures and as recyclers of nutrients.
When was the insect decline discussed internationally for the first time?
The United Nations Conference of Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS COP-13) discussed
the effects of insects decline on migratory species for the first time. According to the Convention on
Migratory Species, insect extinction is to begin. A draft resolution was prepared at the convention. The
resolution will help understand die off of the insects and its effects on migratory species.
January 13, 2021
New Foreign Trade Policy
The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry recently announced that the new Foreign Trade Policy.
2021-26 is to come into effect from April 1, 2021.
What is the goal of New Foreign Trade Policy?
To make India a 5 trillion USD economy.
What are the Key Highlights of the new Foreign Trade Policy?
The District Export hubs are to play a major role in the new Foreign Trade Policy.
The policy will aim to boost exports.
It will enhance ease of doing business.
It will bring improvements in the operations of domestic manufacturing and services sector through
infrastructure support.
The policy will bring changes to regulatory and operational framework and lower transactional costs.
Who are the largest trading partners of India?
Bangladesh, UK, USA, Bhutan, UAE, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Israel, Nepal, Singapore, Hong
Kong, Germany, Iraq.Which is the biggest export of India?
Pharmaceuticals
By which year has India set to achieve the target of 5 trillion USD?
2024
Can India achieve the target of 5 trillion USD?
If India grows at 12% nominal growth then from the 2018 levels of 2.7 trillion USD, India can achieve 5
trillion USD by 2024.
What are challenges India should address to become a 5 trillion USD economy?
Under-employment.
Slowdown in agriculture
Funding issues
Slow pace of infrastructure development
Export issues

What was the previous Foreign Trade Policy?
The previous foreign trade policy was implemented between 2015 and 2020. This policy aimed to boost
“Make in India” initiative. The policy merged five different schemes under “Merchandise Export from India
Scheme” (MEIS). The five different schemes were Market Linked Focus Product Scheme, Focus Product
Scheme, Focus Market scheme, VKGUY and Infrastructure Incentive Scrip. Also, the Served from India
scheme was replaced with Service Exports from India Scheme.
India’s Eight Point Action Plan to UNSC to combat terrorism
The External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar recently addressed the United Nations Security Council open
debate. During his address, the minister proposed eight-point action plan.
What is the eight-point action plan proposed by India?
All the member nations should fulfil their obligations in international counter-terrorism conventions
and instruments.
The countries should not bring in double standards in the battle. For instance, there are countries that
support terrorism by offering financial support. Such countries are black listed by the international
bodies such as FATF (Financial Action Task Force). These countries are being referred to double
standard countries.
The working methods of the committees dealing with counter-terrorism should be reformed.
The enlisting and delisting of individuals and entities under the United Nations should be done
objectively and not for political and religious considerations.
The linkages between transnational organised crime and terrorism should be addressed vigorously.
The FATF should continue to identify weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror
financing frameworks.
Adequate funding should be allocated to the UN Counter terrorism bodies.
Who chaired the United Nations Security Council open debate?
Tunisia. Because Tunisia is the current President of the fifteen member UNSC body.
Who are the current 15 members of UNSC?
The UNSC is made of five permanent members and ten non-permanent members. The five permanent
members are China, UK, France, Russia an USA. The ten non-permanent members are India, Estonia, Kenya,
Ireland, Mexico, Norway, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Vietnam and Tunisia.
How are non-permanent member seats of the UNSC distributed?
Of the ten non-permanent member seats in the United Nations Security Council, five are for Asian and
African countries, one for Eastern European countries, two for Latin American and Caribbean countries and
two for western European countries.
There is an informal understanding between Asia and the African group to reserve one seat for an Arab
country. The Africa and Asia Pacific group takes turn for every two years to put up an Arab candidate.
Does a non-permanent member enjoy voting rights at the decisions of the United Nations Security
Council?
Yes.
Health Ministry Kayakalp Awards
The Kayakalp Awards are presented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare annually to the health
facilities with the highest standards of sanitation and hygiene. Recently, the Kayakalp awards for the year
2019-20 was presented.
Key Highlights
The Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) was
awarded the second prize under the Kayakalp Awards scheme. JIPMER received the prize under the

Group A Central facilities category, hospitals having more than thousand beds. Earlier, it had received
second place in 2018-19 and third place in 2017-18.
AIIMS Bhubaneswar has received the best central government hospital under Category B of the
Kayakalp Awards for cleanliness for the third consecutive time. Earlier, it had received the award in
2018 and 2019 becoming the second cleanliest hospital in the country. Category B holds hospitals
with less than thousand beds.
The Rairangpur Sub Divisional Hospital of Mayurbhanj district was felicitated as the best Sub-
divisional hospital community health centre category.
Rani Durgavati Hospital received the award for the fourth time consecutively.
What are the factors considered to present Kayakalp Awards?
Waste Management, Hospital Upkeep, Sanitation and Hygiene, Infection Control, hygiene promotion, support
services and beyond hospital boundary.
When was the Kayakalp Award Scheme launched?
2015.
What are the objectives of Kayakalp Awards Scheme?
The scheme aims to incentivize public health care facilities that show high performance in following
protocols, infection control, cleanliness and sanitation.
It inculcates a culture of peer review of performance related to sanitation, hygiene, infection control.
It shares and create sustainable practices related to improving cleanliness in public health facilities.
What is Swachh Swasth Sarvatra? How is it related to Kayakalp Awards?
Swachh Swasth Sarvatra scheme was launched in 2016. The main objective of Swachh Swasth Sarvatra is
to strengthen community health centres in open defecation blocks, especially in the region of those Public
Health Centres or hospitals that have received the Kayakalp Awards. The following are the three main
objectives of Swachh Swasth Sarvatra:
To enable Gram Panchayats where the Kayakalp awarded Public Health Centres are located to
become Open Defecation Free.
To strengthen the Public Health Centres to reach the Kayakalp standards through support of Rs 10
lakhs under the National Health Mission.
To build capacity through training in sanitation, water and hygiene.
India-UAE MoU for Scientific and Technical Cooperation
The Union Cabinet recently approved India-UAE Memorandum of Understanding for Scientific and Technical
Cooperation.
What are the Key Features of India-UAE MoU?
The MoU provides sharing of knowledge between the countries
It will also allow to share information of data from satellites, radar, tide gauges, meteorological
stations.
MoU also allows the countries to share knowledge of operational products for seismological and
oceanic services.
To exchange experiences in terms of research scholars, scientists, specialists, etc.
To exchange technical and scientific information.
To deploy meteorological observation networks
Cooperation in early warnings of dust and sand storms through exchange of knowledge
Cooperation in the field of seismology. This includes study of seismic activities that has potential to
generate Tsunami waves in Oman sea and Arabian sea.
Sharing of real time seismic data

Cooperation to support Tsunami Early Warning Centre designed to support Tsunami forecasting
operations.
Why is the MoU important?
The weather services enhance the efficiency of weather dependent sectors of the economy. This includes
agriculture and transport. The global cooperation in this field is highly important to modernize weather and
forecasting services. This in turn will strengthen the resilience of the countries to fight against climate
change and related disasters.
Also, both UAE and India are located in the same region of the World Meteorological Organization. The
WMO divides the countries into six regions. The WMO is a specialised agency that promotes international
cooperation in climatology, science, hydrology and geophysics. Therefore, it is important for India to sign
such MoUs to increase cooperation among its regional partners.
India-UAE
UAE occupies key role in West Asia Policy of India. UAE accounts to 8% of oil imports of India.
Tsar Icicle
The Tsar Icicle recently collapsed killing four tourists in Russia.
What is Tsar Icicle?
The Vilyuchinsky waterfall in winter is called Tsar Icicle. The Vilyuchinsky waterfall lies in Kamchatka
peninsula. It is home to more than one hundred and sixty volcanoes. Of these twenty-nine are still active.
Many of these volcanoes are capped with glaciers. As these glaciers melt during warm weather, they form
waterfalls. One such waterfall is the Vilyuchinsky waterfalls.
What is an Icicle?
Icicle is a spike of ice formed when water falling from an object freezes.
About Vilyuchinsk town
The Vilyuchinsk town is a closed town under Krai jurisdiction. The town served as a base for submarine
construction.
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Is Vilyuchinsk Waterfall located in Ring of Fire region?
Yes.
Why is it called the Ring of Fire?
Because it forms a track around the rim of the pacific ocean. More than 75% of the earth’s volcano is
located in ring of fire.
What are the main features of ring of fire?
It has oceanic trenches, plate movements and volcanic arcs. More than 80% of the world largest
earthquakes occur along the circum-pacific belt.
What is the Ring of Fire found in Planet Venus?
While the ring of fire of the earth is formed by plate tectonics, the ring of fire of Venus is formed by
volcanism. In other words, the ring of fire in Venus is created by the same phenomenon that produced
Hawaiian islands.
The Magnellan spacecraft of NASA captured images of Venus that had unusual circular structures called
coronae. According to the scientists, the coronae were produced by the mantle plumes of Venus. Group of
these coronae have formed the ring of fire in Venus.
How were the coronae formed in planet venus?
The hot molten rocks were carried upwards by convection current that formed a mushroom like shape at the
top. As the molten rocks melted the crust, the head of the plume expanded to form the circular structure
called coronae.

GKTODAY
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Last Updated: January 18, 2021

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120 Multiple Choice Questions
1. Which state announced that it will include the History of Sikh gurus in school curriculum?
[A] Bihar
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Gujarat
[D] Madhya Pradesh
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Answer: Uttar Pradesh
The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced that the history of Sikh gurus will be
included in the school curriculum.
He also declared that ‘Sahibzada Diwas’, which marks the martyrdom of four sons of 10th Sikh Guru
Gobind Singh and his mother, will be celebrated in all schools.
2. Sunil Kothari, who recently passed away, was associated with which profession?
[A] Dance Historian
[B] Cricket commentator
[C] Businessman
[D] Scientist
Answer: Dance Historian
Veteran Dance historian and critic Sunil Kothari passed away at the age of 87. He has authored several
books on Indian dance forms
Sunil Kothari received many titles and awards including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the Gaurav
Puraskar by the Gujarat Sangeet Natak Akademi and the Padma Shri award. He was also an elected
Fellow of Sangeet Natak Akademi.
3. An archaeological site named Pompeii, which was making news recently, is located in which
country?
[A] France
[B] Italy
[C] Germany
[D] Greece
Answer: Italy
Archaeologists have discovered a 2000-year-old food and drinks shop in the site of Pompeii, the site
which was buried in a volcanic eruption in 79 AD.
They have also found traces of food in some of the deep terra cotta jars containing hot food in the shop
known as termopolium (Latin for hot drinks counter). It was discovered in the archaeological park’s
Regio V site, near the coast of Bay of Naples, in Italy.
4. Which leading Global Car manufacturer is to start its sale operations in India in 2021, as per the
Road Transport Ministry?
[A] Tesla
[B] Ferrari
[C] Lamborghini
[D] Porsche
Answer: Tesla
Billionaire Elon Musk’s Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla is to start selling cars in India in early 2021.
This was announced by Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Real Transport and Highways. Elon Musk also
tweeted about the company’s plans for India. The Company would consider to establish manufacturing
and assembly units in India, as per the Minister.
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5. Which Indian Public sector bank has launched a Digital Lending Platform (DLP) for retail loans?
[A] Union Bank of India
[B] Bank of Baroda
[C] Bank of Maharashtra
[D] Canara Bank
Answer: Bank of Baroda
Bank of Baroda (BoB) has recently launched a Digital lending platform (DLP) to enable retail clients to
get loans digitally through a paperless process.
Under the platform, ‘In Principle approval’ for Home Loans, Car loan and Personal Loans are granted in
30 minutes without human intervention. Micro personal loans are also offered to shop through partner
channels and pay later in EMIs.
6. Dulanga coal mine, which became commercially operational recently, is located in which state?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Odisha
[D] Telangana
Answer: Odisha
State-owned Electric power distribution company NTPC has announced that its Dulanga coal mine is
commercially operational from October 1, 2020.
The mine has an annual capacity of 7 Million Tonnes Per Annum, at its peak. Out of the ten blocks
allotted to NTPC by the Government, three mines are in operation. The PSU also incorporated NTPC
mining Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary, for its coal mining business.
7. Which country’s new rules on drones, permit them to fly over people and at night in the country?
[A] China
[B] Russia
[C] United States
[D] South Korea
Answer: United States
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the United States has recently issued new guidelines on
Drones also called as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
As per the rules, small drones will be allowed to fly over people and at night in the United States. The
Drone manufacturers and operators require a Remote ID, under the new rules. This will increase security
by identification of the UAVs from the ground.
8. Which country is set to join as the sixth member of the ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence network?
[A] India
[B] Japan
[C] UK
[D] Brazil
Answer: Japan
‘Five Eyes’ is an intelligence network of five nations namely Australia, Britain, Canada, New Zealand and
the US.
The collaborative network was formed to respond to the threats posed by North Korea and China. As per
media reports, Japan had provided intelligence to the US and the UK on China’s forceful detainment of
Muslim Uyghurs, last year.
9. India’s highest meteorological centre has been inaugurated in which state/UT?

[A] Sikkim
[B] Ladakh
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Uttarakhand
Answer: Ladakh
Union Earth Sciences Minister Harsh Vardhan has recently inaugurated the country’s highest
meteorological centre in the Union Territory of Ladakh.
The centre located above 3500 metres, would provide localised weather forecasts and early warning for
Leh and Kargil districts of the Union Territory as well as various tourist places.
10. Which country released a bill that would increase monitoring of civil society groups?
[A] Turkey
[B] United States
[C] Germany
[D] North Korea
Answer: Turkey
The Parliament of Turkey approved a law that would increase monitoring of civil society groups. It was
proposed by the ruling party of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
The bill also allows the annual inspection of non-governmental organizations, to combat terrorism
financing. Several rights groups have expressed their concern that the bill would violate the freedom of
association.
11. The fighter jets of India and which other country is to organise an exercise named ‘SKYROS’?
[A] France
[B] Germany
[C] United Kingdom
[D] Russia
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Answer: France
The Rafale fighter jets of India and France are set to carry out wargames named SKYROS in Jodhpur,
Rajasthan.
The exercise is to be organised in the third week of January next year. This would be the first major
wargame of the Indian Air Force involving the Rafale fighters which were inducted into the service in
August 2020.
12. Which country generated over half of its power from wind, due to the Storm Bella?
[A] United States
[B] United Kingdom
[C] Italy
[D] Germany
Answer: United Kingdom
Recently, the Strom Bella hit parts of France and United Kingdom and caused heavy rain and winds in
Northern France.
The United Kingdom created a record of generating over 50 per cent of the country’s electricity
generation from wind. This was generated from the heavy winds of speed up to 100 miles per hour. It
also enabled the country to record the ‘Greenest year’.
13. Pierre Cardin, who recently passed away, was a famous Designer of which country?
[A] United States
[B] France
[C] Germany
[D] Italy
Answer: France
The famous French designer Pierre Cardin, who created an iconic brand in his name, recently passed
away at the age of 98.
He licensed thousands of products in his name and they were sold across over several outlets
worldwide. Beyond his designer clothes, he also licensed products like Perfumes, Makeup, Porcelain,
Chocolates among others.
14. Indian Railways completed the trial runs of new Vistadome tourist coaches, manufactured by
which unit?/
[A] Banaras Locomotive Works, Varanasi
[B] Integral Coach Factory, Chennai
[C] Modern Coach Factory, Raebareli
[D] Rail Wheel Plant, Bela
Answer: Integral Coach Factory, Chennai
Indian Railways has successfully completed the 180kmph trial run of the new Vistadome tourist
coaches.
The luxurious coaches were manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai. The Vistadome
coaches have see-through glass rooftops and wide windows offering panoramic view. At present, there
are 13 Vistadome coaches that are operational.
15. Which organisation releases “Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in India”?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] Reserve Bank of India
[C] Finance Ministry
[D] Finance Commission
Answer: Reserve Bank of India
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the country’s Central bank, releases the “Report on Trend and Progress
of Banking in India”.
The RBI recently released the latest edition of the report, which is a statutory publication as per the
Banking Regulation Act, 1949. It highlights the performance of the banking sector during 2019-20 and
2020-21 so far.
16. Who has been nominated to the board of the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation
(GAVI) from India?
[A] Rajiv Kumar
[B] Narendra Modi
[C] Harsh Vardhan
[D] Amitabh Kant
Answer: Harsh Vardhan
Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Harsh Vardhan has been nominated by the Global Alliance
for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) as a member on the GAVI Board.
The Minister is to succeed Mr. Myint Htwe of Myanmar and will represent the South East Area Regional
Office (SEARO)/ Western Pacific Regional Office (WPRO) constituency from 1st January 2021 until 31st
December 2023.
17. Kuttanad, where over 20000 ducks died recently, is located in which state?
[A] Tamil Nadu

[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Kerala
[D] Karnataka
Answer: Kerala
Last week, around 22,000 ducks died in Kuttanad and upper Kuttanad, in the state of Kerala. The
preliminary tests could not find the certain reason for the deaths.
Recently, the samples of affected birds are to be sent to the National Institute of High-Security Animal
Diseases (NIHSAD), Bhopal, to analyse and ascertain the reason.
18. Which committee recommended the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC)?
[A] Raghuram Rajan
[B] Urjit Patel
[C] Nandan Nilekani
[D] Michael Patra
Answer: Nandan Nilekani
The Reserve Bank of India constituted a High-Level Committee on Deepening of Digital Payments under
the Chairmanship of Nandan Nilekani in January 2019.
This committee recommended various measures to strengthen digital payment including the idea of
National Common Mobility Card. Recently, the Prime Minister launched the NCMC service for the Delhi
Metro’s Airport Express Line.
19. 'Malayali Tribes', seen in the news recently, are the tribal people belonging to which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Karnataka
Answer: Tamil Nadu
Malayali is a tribal group from the Eastern Ghats residing in North Tamil Nadu. They also form the
largest Scheduled tribes in that region, with over 3.5 lakh population.
Giant Rock Bee Honey sourced from the Tribes was recently added to Tribes India Collection, as per the
press release by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Over 35 new organic tribal products have been listed in
the Tribes India outlets and website under 'From Our Home to your Home' campaign.
20. Which country’s space agency has recently approved two Sun-exploration heliophysics missions?
[A] India
[B] United States
[C] Russia
[D] China
The United States’ space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has announced
that it has given approval to two Sun exploration heliophysics missions.
Under these missions, researchers study the Sun and relate them to the events taking place in the solar
system. The missions include NASA-led Electrojet Zeeman Imaging Explorer (EZIE) mission and Japan-
led Extreme Ultraviolet High-Throughput Spectroscopic Telescope Epsilon Mission (EUVST) mission.
21. Which type of Ethanol is made from sources like molasses, sugarcane, sugar beet, sorghum and
edible oil seeds?
[A] 1G ethanol
[B] 2G ethanol

The Union Cabinet has recently approved a modified scheme to enhance ethanol distillation capacity in
[C] 3G ethanol
[D] Clean Ethanol
Answer: 1G ethanol
the country, to produce 1st Generation (1G) ethanol.

1G Ethanol is produced from edible seeds, molasses, sugarcane, sugar beet, sorghum among others.
While 2G biofuels use non-edible oilseeds, used cooking oil, agriculture residue, the 3G biofuels use
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industrial waste, municipal solid waste.
22. Which state has been declared a “Disturbed area” for six more months, by the Home Ministry?
[A] Assam
[B] Nagaland
[C] Mizoram
[D] Manipur
Answer: Nagaland
As per the recent notification of the Ministry of Home Affairs, the entire state of Nagaland was declared
a “disturbed area” for six more months.
The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has been in force in Nagaland for several decades.
With this move, the act would be continued in the state, for six months with effect from 30th December
2020.
23. The Ministry of Electronics and IT is set to impact assessment of which mobile application?
[A] My FASTag
[B] UMANG
[C] DigiLocker
[D] Arogya Setu
Answer: UMANG
The Ministry of Electronics and IT (Meity) is to select an agency that will do an impact assessment of
the UMANG application.
UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) app was launched in 2017. It aimed to
provide over 2000 government services on a single platform. The Government wants to analyse why
some citizens are not using the application.
24. Which sportsperson has been awarded knighthood in the UK Honours list?
[A] Wayne Rooney
[B] Lewis Hamilton
[C] Rory McIlroy
[D] Andy Murray
Answer: Lewis Hamilton
British Racing Driver Lewis Hamilton has been knighted in the traditional New Year Honours list of the
United Kingdom.
The list recognises outstanding achievements in various fields including business, sport and politics
among others. Lewis Hamilton, this year, equalled the record of seven Formula One world titles held by
legendary racer Michael Schumacher.
25. Two Industrial Corridor nodes at Krishnapatnam and Tumakuru, have been approved under
which Industrial corridor?
[A] Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor
[B] Bengaluru-Mumbai Industrial Corridor

[C] Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor
[D] Vizag-Chennai Industrial Corridor
Answer: Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has recently approved industrial corridor nodes at Andhra
Pradesh's Krishnapatnam and Karnataka's Tumakuru.
The nodes are approved under the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC). The project cost of the
former node is approved at Rs 2139 crores and the latter is Rs 1701 crores. This will create huge
employment opportunities, state-of-the-art infrastructure and connectivity.
26. Multi Modal Logistics Hub and Multi Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) have been approved at
which city?
[A] Pune
[B] Greater Noida
[C] Gurugram
[D] Jodhpur
Answer: Greater Noida
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by the Prime Minister has approved to set
up Multi Modal Logistics Hub (MMLH) and Multi Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) at Greater Noida.
The estimated cost of the hubs in the city in Uttar Pradesh is Rs 3,883.80 crores. As per the Ministry of
Commerce and Industry, the projects are estimated to generate employment for about 1 lakh persons by
2040.
27. Three 10-metre short span bridges, which were recently inducted, were manufactured by which
company?
[A] Tata
[B] L&T
[C] HAL
[D] BHEL
Answer: L&T
The first three sets of a 10-metre short-span bridge, designed and developed by the Defence Research
and Development Organisation (DRDO), were inducted to the Indian Army.
The bridges are manufactured at the Larsen & Toubro facility at Talegaon in Pune. The bridges were
developed by the Research and Development Establishment (Engineers), DRDO in Pune. The DRDO has
also developed five metre and 15 metre types of the bridge.
28. The European Union has signed an investment treaty with which Asian country recently?
[A] China
[B] Russia
[C] Singapore
[D] South Korea
Answer: China
The European Union and China have recently agreed to the long-awaited investment treaty, which aims
to open up new corporate opportunities.
The accord was confirmed by China’s president Xi Jinping and EU leaders including European
Commission president Ursula von der Leyen. This is also the most ambitious treaty China has ever
agreed with a third country.
29. National Pension System (NPS) is managed by which organisation?
[A] IRDAI

[B] PFRDA
[D] RBI
Answer: PFRDA
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has announced that subscribers can
now use online mode also to exit from the National Pension System (NPS).
The National Pension System (NPS) was implemented with effect from the 1st January, 2004. It was
extended to all citizens of the country from 2009 on a voluntary basis. PFRDA regulates the National
pension system (NPS) as well as the pension sector.
30. CSIR-NIIST, which has discovered an alternative technology to single-use plastics, is located in
which state?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Kerala
[D] Telangana
Answer: Kerala
CSIR- National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST) has discovered an
alternative technology to single-use plastics.
The NIIST scientists have developed a technology for manufacturing biodegradable cutleries from
agricultural residues and by-products.
31. What is the name of the online event launched by Agriculture Ministry, to promote innovation in
agriculture?
[A] Atmanirbhar Agri
[B] Agri India Hackathon
[C] Kisan Mela
[D] Krishi Sammelan
Answer: Agri India Hackathon
Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurated the Virtual Agri
India hackathon 2020 in New Delhi.
It is the largest virtual gathering to organise dialogues and promote innovations in agriculture. This year,
the event organized by Pusa Krishi, ICAR - IARI, ICAR & Department of Agriculture, Cooperation &
Farmers’ Welfare. 24 best innovations will be awarded 1 lakh cash award and incubation support.
32. Who has been appointed as the new Railway Board Chairman and CEO?
[A] A K Antony
[B] Suneet Sharma
[C] Pradeep Kumar
[D] P S Mishra
Answer: Suneet Sharma
Former General Manager of the Eastern Railway, Suneet Sharma has been appointed as the new
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Railway Board (Ministry of Railways).
He will also serve as the ex-officio Principal Secretary to Government of India. After the completion of
the term of incumbent chief V K Yadav, the appointments committee of the Cabinet has approved Suneet
Sharma as the new Chairman & CEO.
33. China has completed a railway line linking the Tibetan cities of Lhasa and Nyingchi, near the
border of which Indian state?
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[A] Sikkim
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Meghalaya
[D] Manipur
Answer: Arunachal Pradesh
As per media reports, China has recently completed the track-laying work for a railway line which links
the cities of Lhasa and Nyingchi in Tibet.
The cities are close to the Indian border in Arunachal Pradesh. This Sichuan-Tibet Railway is the second
railway into Tibet, which starts from the capital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu and enters Tibet.
34. ‘NAVARITIH’, which was released by the Prime Minister, is a certification course associated with
which sector?
[A] Culture
[B] Construction Technology
[C] Artificial Intelligence
[D] Microbiology
Answer: Construction Technology
Prime Minister released a certification course on innovative construction technologies named
NAVARITIH (New, Affordable, Validated, Research Innovation Technologies for Indian Housing).
He also laid the foundation stone of Light House projects (LHPs) under Global Housing Technology
Challenge (GHTC)- at six sites across six states.
35. Which private sector bank sold its stake to Ageas Insurance, which led to the new brand named
Ageas Federal Life Insurance?
[A] ICICI Bank
[B] Yes Bank
[C] IDBI Bank
[D] Axis Bank
Answer: IDBI Bank
Private sector bank of India, IDBI Bank has completed the sale of 23 per cent stake in IDBI Federal Life
Insurance Company Ltd (IFLI) to Ageas Insurance International.
With the deal amounting Rs 507 crore, Ageas will hold 49 per cent stake in the insurance company, while
IDBI will hold 21 per cent. The company is now rebranded as Ageas Federal Life Insurance Company.
36. Asian Development Bank (ADB) is to provide USD 231-million loan for electricity generation in
which state?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Assam
[C] Odisha
[D] Bihar
Answer: Assam
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India signed a loan agreement recently.
As per the agreement, the ADB will provide a USD 231-million loan to improve electricity generation
capacity in Assam by construction of a 120- (MW) hydroelectric power plant. The proposed hydroelectric
project is a project over Kopili river.
37. Michael Kondo, who passed away recently, was associated with which profession?
[A] Politician
[B] Sportsperson

[C] Writer
[D] Musician
Answer: Sportsperson
Michael Kondo, who was a veteran Indian Hockey player, died at the age of 73 recently. He was awarded
the Arjuna Award in 1972.
He was a member of the first and only World Cup-winning team in 1975 in Kuala Lumpur. He was also a
member of the team that won a bronze medal in the 1972 Olympics in Munich, where he scored three
goals.
38. Which financial institution has launched “Digital Payments Index (DPI)”?
[A] RBI
[B] NPCI
[D] State Bank of India
Answer: RBI
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has developed the Digital Payments Index (DPI), to record the expansion
of digitisation of payments across the country.
The index has been constructed with March 2018 as the base period. As per the RBI, the DPI for March
2019 and March 2020 stand at 153.47 and 207.84 respectively. The index includes 5 parameters with
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the highest weightage for Payment Performance.
39. Which organisation is to provide a USD 10 million to expand horticulture in Himachal Pradesh?
[A] AIIB
[B] FAO
[C] ADB
[D] IMF
Answer: ADB
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India on signed a USD 10 million agreement,
which aims to finance the projects expanding horticulture production and farm household income in
Himachal Pradesh.
Some of the pilot activities to be held are rehabilitation of irrigation schemes, developing plots for high-
density production of fruits, fencing horticulture plots and forming community horticulture production.
40. Soma Mondal is the new Chairperson of which Public sector enterprise?
[A] SAIL
[B] ONGC
[C] PFC
[D] BEL
Answer: SAIL
Soma Mondal has recently taken charge as the new Chairman of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL).
Prior to this, she was the Director (Commercial) of the Public Sector enterprise. She replaces the
incumbent Chairman Anil Kumar Chaudhary
Soma Mandal also had served as the Director (Commercial) at another CPSE, the National Aluminium
Company Limited (NALCO), before her venture in SAIL.
41. Which Union Ministry releases the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)?
[A] Ministry of Labour and Employment
[B] Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
[C] Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
[D] Ministry of Home Affairs
Answer: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) releases the quarterly Periodic
Labour Force Survey (PLFS).
As per the recent quarterly PLFS, the unemployment rate in urban areas increased to 9.1 per cent in
January-March 2020 from 7.9 per cent in October-December 2019. Labour force participation rate
increased to over a five-quarter high of 37.5 per cent.
42. Which Indian city is to play host to the 51st edition of the International Film Festival of India
(IFFI)?
[A] Goa
[B] Chennai
[C] Cochin
[D] Kolkata
Answer: Goa
The 51st edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) to be held in Goa from 16th to 24th of
January, 2021.
Recently, the registrations have commenced for media delegates, who desire to attend the event, which
will be held in a hybrid mode, on account of the Covid-19 pandemic. The registration will be open till
January 10, 2021.
43. Which Central Asian country has recently abolished the death penalty?
[A] Kazakhstan
[B] Uzbekistan Join @aspirants85
[C] Kyrgyzstan
[D] Turkmenistan
Answer: Kazakhstan
International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

It is a document which commits the signatories to abolish capital punishment. Life imprisonment was
introduced in the country in 2004 as an alternative punishment. While ICCPR was adopted in 1966, the
second optional protocol was adopted in 1989.
44. K-9 Journal, which was recently released, is associated with which field?
[A] Medicine
[B] Policing
[C] Pandemic
[D] Robotics
Answer: Policing
The Parliament
Union Home of Minister
KazakhstanAmitsigned the ratification
Shah released of theissue
the inaugural Second Optional
of the Protocol
National to the
Police K-9 Journal in New
Delhi.
It is the India’s first such publication on the subject of Police Service K9s, which is the name given for
Police Dogs. A special Police K9 Cell was set up in November 2020. The biannual journal will be
released in April and October, with sections in Hindi and English.
45. Sambalpur, where the Prime Minister of India, laid the foundation stone of IIM, is located in
which state?
[A] West Bengal
[B] Odisha

[C] Bihar
[D] Uttarakhand
Answer: Odisha
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the permanent campus in the Indian Institute
of Management (IIM) Sambalpur in Odisha.
The institute has been functioning in a makeshift campus for more than five years, since it was launched
as a third-generation IIM, in the year 2015-16.
46. Asian Waterbird Census 2021, which was seen in the news recently, is to be conducted in which
state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Andhra Pradesh
The annual waterbird census is to be conducted in the state of Andhra Pradesh, by the state forest
department.
The regions included are the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, areas near Godavari estuary, Kolleru Lake,
Atapaka Bird Sanctuary and Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary in Krishna estuary. Bombay Natural History
Society (BNHS) and Wetland International will provide technical support.
47. Which organisation is to provide USD 100 million to improve power distribution in Bengaluru?
[A] AIIB
[B] World Bank
[C] ADB
[D] IMF
Answer: ADB
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is to provide a USD 100 million loan to upgrade the power
distribution system in Bengaluru city.
Another USD 90 million loan will also be provided to the Bangalore Electricity Supply Company. The
project also includes laying over 2500 km of fibre optical cables and moving distribution lines
underground.
48. Pong Dam sanctuary, which was seen in the news recently, is located in which state?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Sikkim
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Himachal Pradesh
Over 1700 migratory birds were found dead in the Pong Dam sanctuary in the state of Himachal Pradesh,
under mysterious circumstances.
Recently, it was found that those birds have tested positive for bird flu. This makes Himachal Pradesh to
join the list of states to report cases of the avian influenza after Rajasthan and Kerala.
49. Covaxin, which was approved for Emergency Use in India, is developed by which pharma major?
[A] Bharat Biotech
[B] Serum Institute of India
[C] Dr Reddys Labs
[D] Biocon

Answer: Bharat Biotech
The Committee of Central Drugs and Standards Control Organisation (CDSCO) has approved the
vaccines – Covishield manufactured by Serum Institute of India and Covaxin manufactured by Bharat
Biotech for emergency use.
These vaccines are to be initially administered to 3 crore front line workers for free by the Government
of India.
50. Which research body has organized the National Metrology Conclave 2021?
[A] ISRO
[B] DRDO
[C] CSIR
[D] IIT Bombay
Answer: CSIR
The National Metrology Conclave 2021 has been organized by the Council of Scientific and Industrial
Research-National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL), New Delhi.
This research organization has entered its 75th year of inception. The theme of the function was
'Metrology for the Inclusive Growth of the Nation’. The inaugural function was attended by the Prime
Minster of India via video conferencing.
51. Which Indian city has the maximum CCTV coverage, according to recent report published in
South Asia Journal?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Chennai
[C] Delhi
[D] Hyderabad
Answer: Chennai
According to a recent report published in South Asia Journal, Chennai has the maximum CCTV coverage
per square kilometre and per 1,000 population.
The report records the prevalence of CCTV cameras in 130 of the most populous cities in the world. The
report also highlights that China and India have the highest densities of CCTV surveillance cameras in
urban areas.
52. Which county has announced its plan to enrich uranium to 20 per cent?
[A] USA
[B] China
[C] Japan
[D] Iran
Answer: Iran
Iran has announced to International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that it plans to enrich its uranium to
20% purity, which was a level achieved before 2015 accord. This is supposed to be done at its Fordow
site which is buried into a mountain.
Iran has been continuously breaching the 2015 deals with IAEA since 2019, in response to USA’s
withdrawal from the agreement and imposition of sanctions against Iran.
53. Britain has recently ended taxation on which product?
[A] Mobile Phones
[B] Sanitary Products
[C] Laptops
[D] Paracetamol tablets

Answer: Sanitary Products
Britain became the latest nation that has eliminated taxation on women’s sanitary products. These taxes
were called “tampon tax” has been completely abolished in the country.
This decision was earlier announced in the country’s annual budget by its Treasury chief, but has been
implemented only now, when Britain has left the European Union.
54. A three-judge bench headed by Justice A M Khanwilkar delivered verdict on which case, by 2:1
majority?
[A] Hathras Case
[B] Central Vista Project Case
[C] Ayodhya Land Case
[D] Covid-19 vaccination case
Answer: Central Vista Project Case
The Supreme Court’s three-judge bench headed by Justice A M Khanwilkar delivered its verdict on
Central Vista Project Case.
The bench approved the re-development project by a 2:1 majority and upheld the exercise of power by
the Centre as just and valid. It also confirmed the modifications in the change in land use and the
recommendations of the environmental committee.
55. As per the recent statement of UNICEF, which country recorded the highest number of births on
the New Year’s Day?
[A] China
[B] India
[C] United States
[D] Indonesia
Answer: India
According to the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), over 371,500 babies were born on New Year's
Day across the world.
It also revealed that India has recorded the highest number of births at around 60,000. India is followed
by China, Nigeria and Pakistan. It also estimated that 140 million children are estimated to be born in
2021 with average life expectancy of 84 years.
56. ‘Freight Business Development Portal’, which was making news, was launched by which Union
Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
[B] Ministry of Railways
[C] Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
[D] Ministry of MSME
Answer: Ministry of Railways
Union Minister of Railways Piyush Goyal has recently launched the Freight Business Development Portal.
The portal aims to reduce the costs for logistics providers, provide online tracking facility for suppliers
and to simplify the process of goods transportation. The portal, which aims to improve ease of doing
business, can be accessed via the Indian Railways website.
57. What is the name of the webinar serried launched by the Commerce Ministry, along with NPC
and QCI?
[A] Atmanirbhar Industries
[B] Udyog Marathon
[C] MSME Marathon

[D] Self-Reliance Series
Answer: Udyog Marathon
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, is
organizing ‘Udyog Manthan’, in association with Quality Council of India, National Productivity Council,
and major Industry bodies
It is a series of sector-specific webinars to promote the quality and productivity in Indian Industries. The
webinar marathon focussing on both manufacturing and services is being held from January 4, 2021 to
March 2, 2021.
58. Which organisation has issued a Statement on Climate of India during 2020?
[A] India Meteorological Department
[B] Ministry of Earth Sciences
[C] Indian Institute of Tropical Studies
[D] DRDO
Answer: India Meteorological Department
The Climate Research and Services (CRS) of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has released a
Statement on Climate of India during 2020.
As per the statement, the annual mean land surface air temperature over India was above normal during
the year 2020. The year 2020 was also named the eighth warmest year on record.
59. Which technology major has collaborated with the Health Ministry, to develop a mobile
application for managing Non-communicable diseases?
[A] Dell
[B] Apple
[C] Amazon
[D] Samsung
Answer: Dell
Dell Technologies announced that they have developed a new mobile application in collaboration with
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and Tata Trusts.
The application aims to support the management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) at the
government primary health centres (PHCs) across the country. It strengthens the NCD IT system, which
is already existing.
60. What is the accuracy of 'National Atomic Timescale', which was recently launched?
[A] 2.8 nanoseconds
[B] 20.8 nanoseconds
[C] 2.8 milliseconds
[D] 20.8 milliseconds
Answer: 2.8 nanoseconds
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the 'National Atomic Timescale', during the inauguration of the
National Metrology Conclave.
than 3 nano seconds. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of the 'National Environmental
Standards Laboratory'.
61. Kottayam, where H5N8 – avian influenza has been confirmed recently, is located in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Rajasthan

[D] Madhya Pradesh
Answer: Kerala
Several ducks in Kottayam city of Kerala state have been found to be infected with Avian influenza -
H5N8.
The state and district administration have initiated war-footing steps to prevent further spread of the
disease. It has been stated that the virus killed 1,700 ducklings in the city which are around 70 days old.
62. Due to sudden surge in price of local rice, which country has started to import rice from India,
after a decade?
[A] USA
[B] Canada
[C] Japan
[D] Vietnam
Answer: Vietnam
The world’s 3rd largest rice exporter – Vietnam has started buying the grain from India, due to sudden
surge in price of local rice.
The price rise of the grain has been the highest in 9 years in Vietnam. It is said that Indian rice is
attractive in price and the huge price difference is making exports from India possible.
63. Which organisation has recommended for action against incorrect data reporting related to
manual scavengers?
[A] National Human Rights Commission
[B] National Safai Karmachari Finance and Development Corporation
[C] National Green Tribunal
[D] National Commission Weaker Section
Answer: National Human Rights Commission
The National Human Rights Commission has recommended for strict action against Government
Officials who reported incorrect data on number of manual scavengers in India.
It made a remark that many states have reported NIL manual scavengers, which is not realistic. NHRC
recommended to expand the definition of manual scavenging in order to cover other hazardous cleaning
and to enact a new law for hazardous cleaning.
64. TRIFED is a federation under which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Human Resources
[B] Ministry of Social Justice
[C] Ministry of Agriculture
[D] Ministry of Tribal Affairs
Answer: Ministry of Tribal Affairs
The TRIFED (Tribal Co-operative Marketing Federation) is a federation under the Ministry of Tribal
Affairs.
It has recently entered into an MoU with Akhil Bhartiya Vanvasi Kalyan Kendra of Madhya Pradesh which
has been working for the welfare of tribal population. The MoU envisages to setup TRIFOOD Parks in 5
districts in Madhya Pradesh.
65. India's 40th Scientific Expedition to which destination is being fuelled by Indian Oil?
[A] Antarctica
[B] Arctic Ocean
[C] Mt. Everest
[D] Sentinel Islands

Answer: Antarctica
Researchers of National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) are on a voyage to Antarctica,
which marks the 40th Indian Scientific Expedition.
Fuel for the expedition is provided by the Indian Oil. The expedition is flagged off from Mormugao Port,
Goa with 43 members on board the expedition vessel. Jet A1 fuel, lubes and Marine Gas Oil (MGO) have
been offered by Indian Oil.
66. When is World Braille Day observed every year, across the world?
[A] January 3
[B] January 4
[C] January 5
[D] January 6
Answer: January 4
World Braille Day is observed annually on 4 January, after it was established by the UN General
Assembly in December 2018.
The date also marks the birth anniversary of Louis Braille, who invented the system for reading and
writing, used by people who are visually impaired. This year, the UN highlights the importance of the
universal touch-based communication system.
67. The employees of which MNC has recently formed a Union in the United States?
[A] Microsoft
[B] Tesla
[C] Google
[D] Apple
Answer: Google
Over 200 Google engineers and other employees have recently formed a Union in the United States,
which is seen as a rare move in the Silicon Valley.
After the increasing demands by Google employees for policy changes on pay, harassment and ethics,
the “Alphabet Workers Union” has been formed. It is affiliated with the US-based leading union, the
‘Communications Workers of America’.
68. The PM CARES Fund Trust has allocated Rs 201 crores for installation of which equipment?
[A] Oxygen Generation Plants
[B] Air Purifiers
[C] RO- Water Purifiers
[D] Make Shift Hospitals
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Answer: Oxygen Generation Plants
The Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM CARES) Fund Trust has
allocated Rs 201.58 crore rupees for installation of 162 dedicated Medical Oxygen Generation Plants.
The Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) plants are to be procured by the Central Medical Supply Store, an
autonomous body under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The PSA plants are source of
medical-grade oxygen.
69. Which organisation recently deployed its all-women team for contingency duties?
[A] Central Armed Police Force
[B] Indo-Tibetan Border Police
[C] National Disaster Response Fund
[D] Central Industrial Security Force
Answer: National Disaster Response Fund

An all-female team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) was recently deployed for contingency
duties in Uttar Pradesh’s Garh Mukteshwar town, on the banks of the Ganga river.
The team who are professionally trained handled the rescue boats and related equipment. The first
batch of over a hundred women disaster combatants and rescuers was also inducted in the NDRF.
70. How many Ministries have partnered for the Toycathon Initiative, which was recently launched
[A] Two
[B] Four
[C] Five
[D] Six
Answer: Six
The Government of India has launched a new initiative called the ‘Toycathon’, to promote indigenous toy
industry and reduce imports.
Six Ministries, including Education, Women & child development, Textile, Commerce and industries,
MSME, I&B and AICTE are collaborating for this initiative. Students, Teachers, Design experts and start-
ups will work together to develop indigenous toys and games.
71. Which company has partnered with SIDBI, to provide a finance scheme to MSMEs in rooftop
solar segment?
[A] Tata Power
[B] Mahindra & Mahindra
[C] L&T
[D] Ashok Leyland
Answer: Tata Power
Tata Power has partnered with Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), to provide a finance
scheme to the MSMEs in the rooftop solar segment.
Under the financing solution, MSMEs will be able to get financial aid without any collateral at an interest
rate of less than 10 per cent. The loan will also be sanctioned and disbursed in a quick manner.
72. Which state launched ‘Kisan Kalyan Mission’ to promote the income of farmers?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Bihar
[D] Jharkhand
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath launched Kisan Kalyan Mission, to promote the
income of farmers.
The scheme aims to double the income of the farmers in Uttar Pradesh by 2022. The Chief Minister also
ensured that the development schemes for farmers will be launched in 825 localities across the state.
73. Which institution is to conduct the National Cow Science Examination?
[A] Blue Cross
[B] Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA)
[C] National Institute of Animal Welfare
[D] People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
Answer: Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA)
Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (RKA) is set to conduct a national level Cow Science Exam, to educate
students on the importance of cows.
Called as the ‘Kamdhenu Gau Vigyan Prachar
country. RKA is a government body set up for cow welfare under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal
Husbandry and Dairying.
74. Which organisation is to provide USD 105 million loan to improve water transport in West
Bengal?
[A] ADB
[B] AIIB
[C] World Bank
[D] IMF
Answer: World Bank
The Government of India, West Bengal state government and the World Bank signed a USD 105 million
project to improve the inland water transport infrastructure in Kolkata, West Bengal, according to the
Ministry of Finance.
Called as the ‘West Bengal Inland Water Transport, Logistics and Spatial Development Project’, it will
improve passenger and freight movement across the Hooghly river and improve accessibility in Kolkata
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Metropolitan region.
75. Which Indian state/UT has introduced a new “School bag policy”?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Odisha
[C] Delhi
[D] Rajasthan
Answer: Delhi
The Delhi Government has introduced a new “School bag policy”, to reduce the weight of school bags of
the students, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP).
The Government also directed the schools in the National Capital Region to implement the policy soon.
As per the policy, the weight of school bags for students between classes 1-10 should not be more than
10 per cent of their body weight.
76. As per the recent WHO statement, what is the ideal interval between two doses of Pfizer and
BioNTech vaccine?
[A] 10-14 days
[B] 15-18 days
[C] 18-24 days
[D] 21-28 days
Answer: 21-28 days
As per the World Health Organisation’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE), the
two doses of the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine should be administered within a period of 21 to 28 days.
However, the United Kingdom is said to have extended the gap between the first and second dose of
Pfizer’s vaccine by more than the prescribed interval.
77. What is the minimum market value of a start-up firm, which is termed as a ‘Unicorn’ company?
[A] USD 1 million
[B] USD 10 million
[C] USD 1 billion
[D] USD 10 billion
Answer: USD 1 billion
A unicorn is a term, which is used to indicate a private start-up company, who market value is at over
USD 1 billion.

Recently, India’s Ambassador to the U.S. Taranjit Singh Sandhu said that according to a recent report,
Indian start-ups raised USD 9.3 billion until mid-December, during this year. India is the third-largest
start-up ecosystem in the world with 21 unicorns valued at USD 73.2 billion.
78. The Indian Government has set up a control room to control the spread of Bird Flu in which
state/UT?
[A] Kerala
[B] Delhi
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Answer: Delhi
The Central Government has set up a control room in the national capital, amidst the spread of the bird
flu or avian flu viruses across the country in four states.
The control room aims to monitor the situation and record the preventive and control measures
undertaken by the state authorities, on a daily basis.
79. The IRDAI is to introduce a standard insurance policy to cover the risk of fire and allied threats
in which sector?
[A] Automobile
[B] Housing
[C] Health
[D] Agriculture
Answer: Housing
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) is set to introduce a standard
home insurance policy.
Named the ‘Bharat Griha Raksha’, the policy aims to cover the risk of fire and some allied dangers.
Natural Catastrophes, Riot, Strike, theft among others. Along with the home building, the policy also
covers 'General Home Contents' automatically.
80. Which two states are the first to complete three out of four citizen-centric reforms directed by
the Finance Ministry?
[A] Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh
[B] Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh
[C] Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra
[D] Kerala and Karnataka
Answer: Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh have become the first states to complete three out of four citizen-
centric reforms directed by the Ministry of Finance.
The two states completed the One Nation, One Ration Card reforms, Ease of Doing Business reforms,
and Urban Local Bodies reforms. Hence, the Ministry is to provide an additional financial assistance of
Rs 1,004 crore for Capital Expenditure.
81. Which Union Ministry launched the ‘Longitudinal Ageing Study of India (LASI)’ report?
[A] Ministry of Earth Sciences
[B] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
[C] Ministry of Commerce and Industry
Answer: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan released the India report on Longitudinal Ageing Study of India

(LASI) Wave-1.
LASI is a nation-wide survey of scientific investigation of the health, economic, and social factors and
consequences of the ageing population in India. The report will be used as a basic framework for
developing programmes in national and state-level.
82. How many wildlife species are under recovery programme for critically endangered species in
India?
[A] 12
[B] 16
[C] 22
[D] 35
Answer: 22
The Standing Committee of National Board of Wildlife (SC-NBWL) has recently approved the advisory for
management of Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) in the country.
The Committee also approved the inclusion of Caracal, a wild cat found in some parts of Rajasthan and
Gujarat, in the list of critically endangered species. At present, there are 22 wildlife species under
recovery programme for critically endangered species.
83. Angamaly-Azhutha Sabari rail project, which was making news recently, is to be constructed in
which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Kerala
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Telangana
Answer: Kerala
The Union Cabinet approved to use funds from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB),
for the Angamaly-Azhutha Sabari rail project.
The Railways will undertake the construction and maintenance of the project, while development of
station will be through public-private partnership and a special purpose vehicle. The income will be
shared between the State Government of Kerala and the Railways after deducting the expenses.
84. Who is the author of the book titled ‘India’s 71-Year Test: The Journey to Triumph in Australia’,
which was released recently?
[A] Ravi Shastri
[B] Sunil Gavaskar
[C] R Kaushik
[D] Sanjay Manjrekar
Answer: R Kaushik
The head coach of Indian cricket team and former India all-rounder Ravi Shastri launched a book titled
‘India’s 71-Year Test: The Journey to Triumph in Australia’.
The book is authored by the cricket journalist R Kaushik and it is an initiative of Bradman Museum. It
describes the first 12 tours of India to Australia. It also includes over 200 rare pictures from the
Bradman Museum. A portrait of former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar was unveiled at the Sydney
Ground.
85. Who is the head of the panel for conserving Ladakh’s land and culture?
[A] Amit Shah
[B] G Kishan Reddy
[C] Rao Inderjit Singh

[D] Jitendra Singh
Answer: G Kishan Reddy
The Government of India has decided to form a committee to protect the language, culture and land of
Ladakh.
The Committee will be headed by the Minister of State for Home G Kishan Reddy. It will also include
elected representatives from Ladakh, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, central
government, and the Ladakh administration.
86. In the Spectrum Auction beginning this March, the airwaves of which type of spectrum are to be
sold?
[A] 2G
[B] 3G
[C] 4G
[D] 5G
Answer: 4G
As per the notification from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), the Government will start
bidding for the next round of spectrum auction from March 1.
During the auction, airwaves of the 4G spectrum in seven bands ranging from 700 MHz to 2500 MHz,
worth Rs 3.92 lakh crore will be auctioned. Leading Telecom companies including Reliance Jio and Airtel
are expected to take part.
87. The Rewari-Madar section, which was recently inaugurated, is a part of which Industrial
corridor?
[A] Western Dedicated Freight Corridor
[B] Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor
[C] North-South Dedicated Freight Corridor
[D] East Coast Dedicated Freight Corridor
Answer: Western Dedicated Freight Corridor
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated Rewari-Madar section, which is a part of the Western
Dedicated Freight Corridor.
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The Rewari-Madar section is situated in Haryana and Rajasthan. It consists of nine newly-built Dedicated
Freight Corridor stations. With this launch, several industries in the region will enjoy seamless
connectivity.
88. As per the recent statement of the NITI Aayog, which country is the biggest gainer after the
pandemic economic situation?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] United States
[D] Russia
Answer: China
As per the Experts of the NITI Aayog, China is the biggest gainer in the post-pandemic economic
situation globally.
The experts also opined that the economic recovery for India is likely to be slow. They told the standing
committee of finance that several manufacturing units should move out of China and shift to India in the
upcoming years.
89. Which organisation releases the World Food Price Index?
[A] UNICEF

[B] FAO
[C] WWF
[D] WFP
Answer: FAO
The United Nations food agency, the Food and Agriculture Organization releases the World Food Price
Index.
As per the latest edition, the World food prices increased for a seventh consecutive month in December
at 107.5 points against 105.2 in November. All major categories of the food index recorded rise, except
sugar.
90. Who is the Chairperson of the academic advisory council, recently set up by the Reserve Bank of
India (RBI)?
[A] B P Kanungo
[B] R Gandhi
[C] N S Vishwanathan
[D] Urjit Patel
Answer: N S Vishwanathan
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set up an academic advisory council to advise the full-time director
of the RBI’s College of Supervisors (CoS).
Former RBI Deputy Governor N S Vishwanathan has been named the chairperson of the council. This
move aims to strengthen supervision over regulated entities and supervisory skills among its regulatory
and supervisory staff.
91. ‘Basaveshwara’ is a famous statesman-saint of which Indian state/UT?
[A] Kerala
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Karnataka
Answer: Karnataka
Basavanna also called as ‘Basaveshwara’ was a 12th-century statesman, Lingayat saint during the reign
of the Kalyani Chalukya dynasty. He is considered a famous icon of the Lingayat community in
Karnataka.
Recently, the Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa laid the foundation stone for the Rs 500-crore
project ‘New Anubhava Mantapa’ in Basavakalyan. It is considered as the place where the philosopher
lived.
92. ‘Dheeiyan Di Lohri’ and ‘BASERA’ are the recently launched scheme of which Indian state?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Punjab
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Bihar
Answer: Punjab
The Chief Minister of Punjab, Captain Amarinder Singh announces several welfare schemes for the
state.
He also dedicated the January month to girl child through ‘Dheeiyan Di Lohri’ programme. He also
announced to provide free sanitary pads for girl students of high schools and colleges. ‘BASERA’
scheme was also announced for slum dwellers.
93. ‘Fatah-1’, which was successfully tested, is the indigenous Rocket system of which country?

[A] UAE
[B] Israel
[C] Pakistan
[D] Afghanistan
Answer: Pakistan
Pakistan has successfully conducted the test-flight of an indigenously developed Guided Multi Launch
Rocket System.
Named as ‘Fatah-1’, the system is capable of hitting targets up to a range of 140 km. The Guided Multi
Launch Rocket System can deliver conventional warheads with utmost precision, as per the Army
sources of the country.
94. Justice Hima Kohli sworn in as the first woman chief Justice of which state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Telangana
[C] Kerala
[D] Odisha
Answer: Telangana
Justice Hima Kohli became the first woman Chief Justice of Telangana High Court when she sworn in, in
the presence of Governor of the state.
She was earlier serving as a Delhi High Court judge, prior to this promotion. She had also served as the
Standing Counsel and Legal Advisor to the New Delhi Municipal Council. The present Chief Justice of
Telangana Raghavendra Singh Chowhan is transferred to Uttarakhand High Court.
95. Which country is to chair the Taliban and Libya sanctions committees and the Counter-Terrorism
Committee of UNSC?
[A] United States
[B] India
[C] China
[D] Sweden
Answer: India
India has been asked to chair three important committees in the UN Security Council. India has just
begun its two-year tenure as non-permanent member of the powerful 15-nation Council.
The Taliban Sanctions Committee (also known as the 1988 Sanctions Committee), the Libya Sanctions
Committee (also called the 1970 Sanctions Committee) and the Counter-Terrorism Committee are the
crucial committees.
96. ‘Pioneers’ is a programme of which country’s space agency?
[A] India
[B] UK
[C] USA
[D] Germany
Answer: USA
The Pioneers Program was started by US space agency NASA in 2020, which aims to research on
astrophysics science using smaller hardware.
Recently, NASA has approved four small-scale astrophysics missions as a part of the Pioneers Program.
The concepts include small satellites named Aspera, Pandora and StarBurst and a balloon mission
named PUEO. These missions will help study about cosmic phenomena.
97. The President has promulgated an ordinance to merge the officers of which cadre with AGMUT
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cadre?
[A] Assam and Meghalaya
[B] Manipur and Tripura
[C] Jammu & Kashmir
[D] Delhi and Puducherry
Answer: Jammu & Kashmir
The President of India has promulgated an an ordinance to amend J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019, to
merge the Jammu and Kashmir cadre IAS, IPS and IFS officers with that of Arunachal Pradesh, Goa,
Mizoram and Union Territory (AGMUT).
This step will allow the officers posted in these states and UTs to work in the UT of Jammu & Kashmir
and vice versa.
98. Which is the first Indian airline to use robotic technology to disinfect aircraft interiors?
[A] Vistara
[B] Air India Express
[C] Spice Jet
[D] IndiGo
Answer: Air India Express
The Air India Express has become the first airline in India to use robotic technology to clean and
disinfect the interiors of aircrafts.
It used an ultraviolet Robotic device, fitted with UV disinfection lamping system to disinfect its Boeing
737-800 aircraft. This technology was launched in India in association with ground handling agency
AISATS.
99. Who is the Chairperson of the advisory council set up by RBI to manage the Payments
Infrastructure Development Fund (PIDF)?
[A] Usha Thorat
[B] B P Kanungo
[C] R Gandhi
[D] N S Vishwanathan
Answer: B P Kanungo
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced operational guidelines for the Payments Infrastructure
Development Fund (PIDF) scheme.
It aims to aimed to promote usage of more digital payments infrastructure across tier-3 to tier-6 centres.
It also constituted an advisory council under the chairmanship of Deputy Governor B.P. Kanungo to
manage the fund.
100. As per the recent announcement of the Lok Sabha speaker, which campaign is to be undertaken
in schools and colleges?
[A] Know your MLA
[B] Know your MP
[C] Know your constituency
[D] Know your Constitution
Answer: Know your Constitution
The Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla recently chaired the event organised by the Uttarakhand Panchayati raj
department.
During the occasion, he announced that the Central Government would soon undertake a campaign
named “know your Constitution” in schools, colleges and universities across the country. It aims to

create awareness about various aspects of the Constitution.
101. Trade Policy Review (TPR), which was making news recently, is associated with which
organisation?
[A] World Bank
[B] WTO
[C] IMF
[D] FAO
Answer: WTO
Trade Policy Review (TPR) is a mechanism under the World Trade Organisation (WTO), in which trade
and related policies of members are examined, to improve compliance to its rules.
Recently, India’s seventh Trade Policy Review (TPR) at the WTO concluded in Geneva. India's previous
TPR was conducted in the year 2015. India backed a set of measures to increase manufacturing
capacity and timely availability of new diagnostics and vaccines for Covid-19.
102. IREDA, which was making news recently, is an organisation under which Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Power
[B] Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
[C] Ministry of Communication
Answer: Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) is a Mini Ratna company under the
administrative control of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
Recently, IREDA has signed an agreement with the Power Ministry’s PSU, NHPC Limited, to collaborate in
renewable energy (RE) projects. IREDA will also provide knowledge and technology transfer, and
consultancy services.
103. Which institution revealed that over half of Indian Army personnel are under severe stress?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] United Service Institution of India
[C] Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses
[D] Centre for Policy Research
Answer: United Service Institution of India
United Service Institution of India (USI) is a security and defence service think tank based in New Delhi.
As per the recent study of the think tank, over half of Indian Army personnel are under severe stress. It
also revealed that the Army has been losing more personnel due to suicides, fratricides and other
incidents than in situations of enemy or terrorist activities.
104. The Embassy of which country has appointed a Honorary Consul in the North-Eastern region?
[A] Japan
[B] Singapore
[C] Israel
[D] Thailand
Answer: Israel
The Embassy of Israel in India has appointed Joyshree Das Verma as Honorary Consul in the North-
eastern region.
With an aim to increase the collaboration with India, the country’s embassy has made this appointment,
with jurisdiction over eight states, namely Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram,
Meghalaya, Tripura and Sikkim.

105. As per the recent Bloomberg Billionaires Index, which businessperson is the richest person in
the world?
[A] Elon Musk
[B] Warren Buffet
[C] Bill Gates
[D] Larry Page
Answer: Elon Musk
As per the recent Bloomberg Billionaires Index, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, is the richest person in the
world, with a net worth of USD 188.5 billion
He has overtaken the Amazon founder Jeff Bezos on the index, which is a ranking of the world’s 500
wealthiest people. Last year, the share price of Tesla surged by over 700% after consistent profits and
inclusion in S&P 500 Index.
106. Which Indian state/UT launched a mobile application named ‘Satark Nagrik’?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Jammu & Kashmir
[C] Gujarat
[D] Bihar
The Lieutenant General of the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha launched a mobile application
named ‘Satark Nagrik’.
The application aims to enable citizens submit their grievances related to corruption and communicate
the information about corruption faster. He also launched the Departmental Vigilance Officers (DVO)
Portal.
107. The first edition of National Youth Parliament Festival was held in which year?
[A] 2015
[B] 2017
[C] 2019
[D] 2020
Answer: 2019
The first National Youth Parliament Festival (NYPF) was organised in February 2019 at District, State
and National levels.
The second edition of the festival was launched in the month of December 2020. After District and
State-level events, the final event was held recently Central Hall of Parliament. Youth between 18 to 25
years will speak before the National jury and out of them, three will be declared winners.
108. The LiDAR survey was started for which high speed rail project, from Noida?
[A] Delhi-Varanasi High-Speed Rail Corridor
[B] Delhi-Patna High-Speed Rail Corridor
[C] Mumbai–Ahmedabad High Speed Rail Corridor Join @aspirants85
[D] Chennai-Bengaluru High Speed Rail Corridor
Answer: Delhi-Varanasi High-Speed Rail Corridor
The Light Detection and Ranging Survey (LiDAR) for Delhi-Varanasi High-Speed Rail (DVHSR) Corridor
was recently started from Greater Noida.
Under the survey, a helicopter is fitted with the Aerial LiDAR and imagery sensors. The first flight
captured the data and details related to ground survey in three-four months. The survey uses 60-
megapixel cameras, to capture minute details.

109. 'Bhraman Sarathi' buses were recently launched by which Indian state/UT?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Gujarat
[C] Assam
[D] Bihar
Answer: Assam
Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inagurated 25 pink buses for free and dedicated service to
women and senior citizens.
Named as the 'Bhraman Sarathi' scheme, this free transport service has been introduced by the Assam
State Transport Corporation (ASTC), for the first time in Guwahati.
110. The United States has recently announced to lift the restrictions imposed on which country?
[A] Vietnam
[B] China
[C] Taiwan
[D] Switzerland
Answer: Taiwan
The United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced that the State Department is lifting
longstanding restrictions with Taiwan.
With this, all restrictions on how U.S. diplomats and other officials communicate with their counterparts
in Taiwan. This step seeks to strengthen bilateral relations of the U.S. with Taiwan.
111. Which country raised USD 1 billion to fund Covid-19 vaccination campaigns in developing
countries?
[A] United States
[B] Germany
[C] France
[D] United Kingdom
Answer: United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has raised USD 1 billion from global donors to fund COVID-19 vaccination
campaigns in developing countries.
This fund is including the USD 744.5 million of the pledged UK aid, with the remaining fund from global
donors, under COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC). It aims to distribute one billion doses of
coronavirus vaccines to 92 developing countries.
112. Storm Filomena, which was making news, has hit which country?
[A] France
[B] Italy
[C] Spain
[D] Australia
Answer: Spain
The Storm Filomena hit Spain and has brought one of the heaviest snowfall in decades, across the
central regions of Spain killing four people.
The Government is to send COVID-19 vaccine and food supplies to the areas cut off by the storm. As the
temperatures are expected to fall to up to minus 10 degree Celsius, more dangerous situations are
forecasted.
113. The DRDO handed over its ‘Landing gear systems for unmanned aerial vehicles’, to which
armed force?

[A] Indian Army
[B] Indian Navy
[C] Indian Air Force
[D] Indian Coast Guard
Answer: Indian Navy
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has handed over its ‘Landing gear
systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV)’ to the Indian Navy.
The retractable landing gear systems for the TAPAS UAV and landing gear system to the SWiFT UAV
have been indigenously built by the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment
(CVRDE), Avadi, a unit of the DRDO.
114. A new species of which insect has been recently named after Siruvani, an ecological hotspot in
the Western Ghats?
[A] Fruit Fly
[B] Spider
[C] Honey Bee
[D] Beetle
Answer: Fruit Fly
A new species of fruit fly which was discovered from Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu has been named
after Siruvani.
Siruvani is considered as an ecological hotspot in the Western Ghats. The fruit fly ‘Euphranta siruvani’,
which is the new addition to the list of 104 known species across the world and 14 species across India.
The new fruit fly has a unique ‘V’ shaped black band on the wing.
115. Which is the second Indian company to reach the market capitalisation of Rs 12 lakh crore?
[A] RIL
[B] HDFC
[C] TCS
[D] ICICI
Answer: TCS
The market capitalisation of Tata Consultancy Services has recently touched Rs 12 lakh crore, after the
company poster its strongest growth in third-quarter.
The profits of the company increased by 7.1 per cent on a year-on-year basis. Reliance Industries (RIL)
became the first Indian company to achieve this feat of Rs 12 lakh crore m-cap, in July 2020.
116. 'Prarambh', which was making news recently, is a summit related to which scheme?
[A] Khelo India
[B] Start-Up India
[C] Ayushman Bharat
[D] PM Awas Yojana
Answer: Start-Up India
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is
to organise ‘Prarambh’ - Startup India International Summit, on 15 and 16 January 2021 in a virtual
format.
The summit is expected to bring together top policy makers, academia, industry, start-ups and
innovators from around the world.
117. What is the rank of India in the ‘Digital Evolution Scorecard’, prepared jointly by Mastercard?
[A] Second

[B] Fourth
[C] Sixth
[D] Eighth
Answer: Fourth
The ‘Digital Evolution Scorecard’ is developed by Fletcher School, Tufts University in partnership with
Mastercard.
In the recently released third edition of the index, India is ranked fourth among the ‘Break Out
Economies’, which means the countries that are digitalising very fast. China leads the index with high
demand and innovation.
118. Siruvani hills, which has been identified as a butterfly super-hotspot, is located in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Karnataka
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Answer: Tamil Nadu
After a six-year study conducted by ‘The Nature and Butterfly Society (TNBS)’, the Siruvani hills in the
state of Tamil Nadu has been identified as a butterfly super-hotspot.
240 out of the total 325 species found in Tamil Nadu, are from the hills between 2015 and 2020. As per
TNBS, if 25% of the state checklist species are found in a single area, it can be identified as a hotspot.
Here around 74 per cent of the total species is found in the hills, from six families.
119. Which country’s space agency is to test fire the Space Launch System (SLS), the most powerful
rocket ever built?
[A] Japan
[B] China
[C] United States
[D] Germany
The U.S space agency NASA is set to ignite the most powerful rocket it's ever built on January 17, 2021.
This is also the first test-fire of the Space Launch System (SLS), the rocket ship to be used for non-
commercial human space flight. It is the core system of NASA's Artemis program, which aims to land a
man-woman duo on the moon. The SLS can carry over 27 tons to the moon.
120. What is ‘Khadi Prakritik’, which was making news recently?
[A] Fabric
[B] Foot-wear
[C] Sanitiser
[D] Paint
Answer: Paint
Khadi Prakritik Paint is the first-of-its-kind paint product, which has been developed by the Khadi and
Village Industries Commission.
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It is an eco-friendly, non-toxic paint which is also claimed to have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial
properties. The paint is based on cow dung as its main ingredient and has been certified by Bureau of
Indian Standards.

REVA | [email protected] |
GKTODAY
Last Updated: February 2, 2021

Current Affairs [PDF] - January 16-31, 2021
Contents
......................... ......... ....... ...... . ......... ..............................................
News Headlines ............................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
January 16, 2021 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
January 17, 2021 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
January 18, 2021 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
January 19, 2021 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
January 20, 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
January 21, 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 10
January 22, 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 11
January 23, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
January 24, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
January 25, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
January 26, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
January 27, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
January 28, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
January 29, 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................................. 20
January 30, 2021 ................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
January 16, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 23
India-Japan MoU in ICT sector ......................................................................................................................................................... 23
Prarambh: Startup India International Summit ............................................................................................................................. 24
Impeachment of Donald Trump ....................................................................................................................................................... 25
Pakistan permits Dubai Royals to hunt “Houbara Bustard” ....................................................................................................... 25
Office for International Affairs in Education institutions ............................................................................................................. 26
Jallikattu event in Tamil Nadu ........................................................................................................................................................... 27
January 18, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Drone Swarming .................................................................................................................................................................................. 27
Iron Ore Policy, 2021 .......................................................................................................................................................................... 28
US National Rifle Association ............................................................................................................................................................ 28
Flint Water Crisis .................................................................................................................................................................................. 29
Ndrangheta ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 30
Difficult Four Countries ...................................................................................................................................................................... 30
SAKSHAM Awareness Campaign .................................................................................................................................................... 31
International Migration 2020 ............................................................................................................................................................. 31
Aero India 21 app ................................................................................................................................................................................. 32
Thiruvalluvar ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Central Adoption Resource Authority ............................................................................................................................................. 33
Open Skies Treaty ............................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Special Marriage Act ........................................................................................................................................................................... 35
January 19, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 35
PM Modi to attend G7 Summit [All about G7] ........................................................................................................................... 35
Jammu & Kashmir: GI tag for Gucchi Mushroom ....................................................................................................................... 36
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary .......................................................................................................................................................... 36
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WE Hub: Women Entrepreneurs Hub ............................................................................................................................................. 37
Malaysia’s 3.7 billion USD package ................................................................................................................................................. 38
DRDO Rakshita Bike Ambulance ..................................................................................................................................................... 38
Flight Lieutanant Bhawana Kanth .................................................................................................................................................... 39
Davos Agenda Summit, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................... 40
Mt Trishul: Indian Mountaineering Foundation approves winter climbing ........................................................................... 40
Ex-Desert Knight 21: India-France Military exercise ..................................................................................................................... 41
January 20, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
Global Firepower Index, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................... 41
India Innovation Index, 2020 ............................................................................................................................................................ 42
Parakram Diwas ................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Apartheid State: The Israel-Palestine Conflict ............................................................................................................................... 43
Mitochondrial DNA based COVID-19 test .................................................................................................................................... 44
What is Keystone Pipeline Project? .................................................................................................................................................. 44

STARStreak Air Defence System: India-France sign Agreements ........................................................................................... 45
Tropical Rain Belt: Climate Change to alter its position ............................................................................................................. 46
Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries ...................................................................................................................................... 46
Article 19 of the UN Charter: Iran loses voting rights in the United Nations General Assembly ..................................... 47
LauncherOne launched by Virgin Orbit .......................................................................................................................................... 47
January 21, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 48
Kamalam: Gujarat renames Dragon Fruit ...................................................................................................................................... 48
Salvator Mundi: 500-year-old stolen Copies recovered ............................................................................................................. 49
Quantum Computing Application Lab: GoI and Amazon Partnership .................................................................................... 49
Avalokana Software launched in Karnataka .................................................................................................................................. 50
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti celebrated in India .............................................................................................................................. 51
National Democratic Front of Bodoland ......................................................................................................................................... 51
Gujarat Horticulture Development Mission ................................................................................................................................... 52
Regulatory Compliance Portal lunched by DPIIT ......................................................................................................................... 52
What is 1776 Commission? ............................................................................................................................................................... 53
Ratle Hydropower Project .................................................................................................................................................................. 54
Abell 370: NASA shares picture ...................................................................................................................................................... 54
January 22, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 55
Exercise Kavach: To be held under Andaman and Nicobar Command .................................................................................. 55
SAAW: Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon of DRDO ............................................................................................................................ 56
Global Risks Report, 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................. 56
What is Root Zone Moisture? ........................................................................................................................................................... 57
What is Great Green Wall Initiative? ............................................................................................................................................... 58
What is LongOps Project? .................................................................................................................................................................. 58
Risa in the Culture of Tripura ........................................................................................................................................................... 59
UVIT of ISRO: Rare UV-Bright Stars spotted ............................................................................................................................... 59
What is Sudden Stratospheric Warming? ....................................................................................................................................... 60
Section 32A of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code ......................................................................................................................... 61
January 23, 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 61
Rapid Assessment System: Feedback on COVID-19 Vaccination .............................................................................................. 61
Kraken Mare in Titan is 1000 feet deep ........................................................................................................................................ 62
What is Hum of the Universe? .......................................................................................................................................................... 63
WASP-107b: Giant Exoplanet has low core mass ........................................................................................................................ 63
Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons ................................................................................................................................... 64
UN resolution on safeguarding religious sites ............................................................................................................................... 65
New START Treaty ............................................................................................................................................................................ 65
Operation Sard Hawa ......................................................................................................................................................................... 66
MeerKAT Radio Telescope: Two Giant Radio Galaxies discovered ........................................................................................ 66
Europe’s Largest Solar Power Plant: Francisco Pizzaro .............................................................................................................. 67
January 25, 2021 .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 68
Election Commission to Launch Digital Voter-ID Cards ............................................................................................................ 68
What is “Blue Jet Lightning”? ........................................................................................................................................................... 68
ZSI: Sunderbans is home to 428 species of birds ........................................................................................................................ 69
Satellite images for Elephant Survey ............................................................................................................................................... 70
Maharashtra to begin ‘Jail Tourism’ ................................................................................................................................................ 70
Paperless Budget: Mobile app launched ahead of Budget 2021 ................................................................................................ 71
India’s take on “Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons” ................................................................................................... 72
Draft policy on "Udyog Sahayak Enterprises Network" ............................................................................................................. 72
4-tier structure for Tighter Regulation of NBFCs ....................................................................................................................... 73
Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2021 ................................................................................................................................ 73
UN: China overtakes US for Foreign Direct Investment ............................................................................................................ 74
Oxfam Report: The Inequality Virus ................................................................................................................................................ 75
Nepal’s Political Dilemma: PM Oli got expelled from Party ....................................................................................................... 75
January 26, 2021 .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 76
SpaceX Launched 143 Satellites on Single Rocket ....................................................................................................................... 76
AMPHEX 21: A Tri-Services Exercise ............................................................................................................................................. 76
Padma Awards 2021 ........................................................................................................................................................................... 77
DRDO successfully test fires Akash-NG missile ........................................................................................................................... 78

January 24: National Girl Child day ................................................................................................................................................ 79
What is Green Tax? ............................................................................................................................................................................ 79
Rajasthan’s New M-sand Policy-2020 ............................................................................................................................................ 80
Climate Adaptation Summit 2021 .................................................................................................................................................... 80
National Mission for Edible Oil (NMEO) ........................................................................................................................................ 81
Bharat Parv 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................................. 82
UN report: World Economy Expected to regain 2020 losses .................................................................................................... 82
India-UK: Cooperation against Cross-Border Terrorism ............................................................................................................ 83
Global Climate Risk Index 2021 ....................................................................................................................................................... 84
January 27, 2021 .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 84
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Punjab Defeats Karnataka ................................................................................................................ 84
U.S. President signs “Buy American” Executive Order ............................................................................................................... 85
World Economic Outlook, 2021 ....................................................................................................................................................... 85
NASA finds the 'Lost Galaxy' ............................................................................................................................................................ 86
Rajasthan: “School of Public Health” launched ............................................................................................................................. 87
Bangladesh Forces takes part in Republic Day Event .................................................................................................................. 87
India’s New Central Bank Digital Currency .................................................................................................................................. 88
What is Alpha Global Union? ............................................................................................................................................................ 89
What is Economic Survey? ................................................................................................................................................................ 89
India-UN: India pledges $150,000 for UN Peacebuilding .......................................................................................................... 90
UN Global Climate Survey- Key Findings ...................................................................................................................................... 90
Kolkata’s First Young Readers' Boat Library .................................................................................................................................. 91
Govt approves hike in MSP for Copra ............................................................................................................................................ 92
January 28, 2021 .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 92
What are Off-Budget Borrowings? .................................................................................................................................................. 92
MoSPI report on Cost Overruns of Infrastructure Projects ....................................................................................................... 93
Finance Ministry releases grants to Rural Local Bodies .............................................................................................................. 93
National Non-Communicable Disease Monitoring Survey (NNMS) ...................................................................................... 94
UN report on Ageing Dams .............................................................................................................................................................. 95
Mt Merapi: Indonesia's most Active Volcano ................................................................................................................................ 95
India- IEA MoU for Global Energy Security ................................................................................................................................. 96
January 27: International Holocaust Remembrance Day ............................................................................................................ 97
PM to address World Economic Forum’s Davos Dialogue ........................................................................................................ 97
Cabinet Clears Policy on PSU Privatization .................................................................................................................................... 98
UK launched Global Platform to track new COVID-19 variants .............................................................................................. 99
Reliance Jio- Fifth Strongest Brand Globally ................................................................................................................................. 99
Rajasthan- 5th state to complete Urban Local Bodies Reforms .............................................................................................. 100
January 29, 2021 ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 101
UNEP Global Climate Litigation Report 2021 .............................................................................................................................. 101
Jarosite: Rare Mineral Found in Antarctica ................................................................................................................................... 101
'Vaccine Maitri Initiative' extended to Sri Lanka ......................................................................................................................... 102
Kerala’s Gender Park- Key Facts to know ................................................................................................................................... 103
National Marine Turtle Action Plan Launched ............................................................................................................................ 104
Indo-French Ecological Partnership ............................................................................................................................................... 104
What are Neglected Tropical Diseases? ........................................................................................................................................ 105
India- Japan 5th Act East Forum Meet .......................................................................................................................................... 105
India’s Rank on Covid-19 Response Index ................................................................................................................................... 106
What is STARS Project? ................................................................................................................................................................... 107
CSIR-Ladakh inks MoU for S&T Development .......................................................................................................................... 108
Economic Survey 2021- Key Highlights ....................................................................................................................................... 108
India to Launch ‘Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme’ ................................................................................................................. 109
January 30, 2021 ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 110
L&T Bags contract for Bullet Train Project .................................................................................................................................. 110
Asia-Pacific Personalised Health Index ........................................................................................................................................... 110
Chauri Chaura Centenary celebrations to be inaugurated ......................................................................................................... 111
NSO released Revised Estimates of Economic Growth .............................................................................................................. 112
Decommissioning of IN FAC T-81 ................................................................................................................................................. 112
Republic Day Parade 2021 Awards ................................................................................................................................................. 113

125th Anniversary of “Prabuddha Bharat” .................................................................................................................................... 114
join @aspirants85
World Leprosy Day 2021 .................................................................................................................................................................. 114
National Infrastructure Pipeline: Financing Bank to be set up .................................................................................................. 115
UAE’s new Citizenship Policy ........................................................................................................................................................... 116
UNWTO report: 2020 is Worst Year on Record ........................................................................................................................ 116
Who has been appointed as New Chief Executive of Ayushman Bharat? ............................................................................. 117
New Industrial Policy of Tamil Nadu ............................................................................................................................................. 117
120 Multiple Choice Questions ................................................................................................................................................................ 118

News Headlines
January 16, 2021
India
Army Day celebrated on January 15
The 73rd Army Day was celebrated on January 15, 2021. The day marks the taking over of Lt Gen K M
Cariappa (later Field Marshal) as commander-in-chief of the Indian Army in 1949 from General Francis
Butcher, the last British commander-in-chief of India. During the Army Day parade in New Delhi, the Indian
Army carried out a live demonstration of Drone Swarming capability using 75 indigenously designed and
developed drones which executed an array of Artificial Intelligence (AI) enabled simulated offensive
missions and close support tasks.
EAM S. Jaishankar holds discussions with Nepalese counterpart in Delhi
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on January 15, 2021 held talks with his Nepalese counterpart
Pradeep Kumar Gyawali in New Delhi with a focus on various key aspects of the bilateral relations.
Ministry of Tribal Affairs wins SKOCH Challenger Award for e-Governance
Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda will virtually receive SKOCH Challenger Award conferred to the Ministry
of Tribal Affairs for e-Governance on January 16, 2021. The award has been given to the Ministry for its IT-
led initiatives and other transformational initiatives leading to outcome-based performance improvement.
EC approves use of its data for vaccination drive by govt. Join @aspirants85
The Election Commission is said to have promised to extend “full assistance” to the government in
identifying targeted beneficiaries at the polling station level for the COVID-19 vaccination drive, but wants
health authorities to delete the data once the inoculation exercise is over.
Economy & Corporate
‘Prarambh’ Start-up India International Summit being held in New Delhi
The two-day ‘Prarambh’ Start-up India International Summit is being organised in New Delhi on January
15-16, 2021. Members of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic
Cooperation) countries participated in the inaugural event. The summit is being organized by the
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade. The Summit was inaugurated by Commerce and
Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.
Third Phase of PMKVY launched in 600 districts
The Third Phase of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana was launched on January 15, 2021 in 600 districts
across the country. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, this phase will
focus on new-age and COVID-related skills. Skill Development Minister Dr Mahendra Nath Pandey interacted
with various students of the skill development centres. Skill India Mission-PMKVY 3.0 envisages training of
eight lakh candidates over a scheme period of 2020-2021 with an outlay of Rs 949 crore. Prime Minister
Narendra Modi launched the Skill India Programme in 2015.
India and Japan sign MoU to enhance cooperation in the field of ICT
India and Japan signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in the field of
Information and Communications Technologies on January 15, 2021. The MoU was signed by Minister for
Communications, Electronics and IT Ravi Shankar Prasad and the Japanese Minister for Internal Affairs and
Communications Takeda Ryota. It was exchanged through a video conference.
1st indigenously developed Driverless Metro Car unveiled at BEML, Bengaluru
BEML, a defence public sector equipment manufacturer under the Ministry of Defence (MoD), on January
15, 2021 unveiled ‘Driverless Metro Car’ for Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled ‘Driverless Metro Car’ at a function held at BEML’s Bangalore
Complex. Singh also virtually launched the Aerospace Assembly Hangar, situated within BEML’s Bangalore
Complex, and unveiled the first indigenously manufactured Tatra Cabin by BEML.
Govt brings forward target of 20% ethanol-blending with gasoline by 2025
India plans to achieve 20% ethanol-blending with gasoline by 2025, five years ahead of its previous target, to
help reduce its dependence on costly oil imports, the government said on January 14, 2021. In 2020, the
government had set a target of reaching 10% ethanol-blending by 2022 – meaning 10% of ethanol mixed
with 90% of gasoline – and 20% by 2030. India relies on foreign suppliers to meet more than 80% of its
demand.
Foreign exchange reserves surge 748 million to $586.082 billion
India’s foreign exchange reserves surged 748 million to $586.082 billion in the week to January 8, 2021, the
Reserve Bank of India’s data showed on January 15, 2021. Foreign currency assets rose by $150 million to
$541.791 billion. Gold reserves rose by $568 million to $37.594 billion. The special drawing rights (SDR)
and the central bank’s reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) rose marginally by $5
million and 35 million respectively. They closed the week at $1.5 billion and $5.1 billion respectively.
India took ‘decisive’ steps to deal with coronavirus pandemic: IMF
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has praised India for taking “very decisive” steps to deal with
the coronavirus pandemic and its economic consequences and asked the country to do more this year to
support an accelerated transformation of the economy.
World
Indonesia: 6.2-magnitude earthquake on Sulawesi island kills 10
A 6.2-magnitude earthquake on Indonesia’s Sulawesi island killed at least 10 people and injured hundreds
on January 15, 2021. Straddling the so-called Pacific ‘Ring of Fire’, Indonesia, a nation of high tectonic
activity, is regularly hit by earthquakes. In 2018, a devastating 6.2-magnitude quake and subsequent
tsunami struck the city of Palu, in Sulawesi, killing thousands of people.
Four UN peacekeepers killed in terror attack in Timbuktu region of Mali
Four peacekeepers of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali
(MINUSMA) from Cote d’Ivoire were killed in a terrorist attack in Timbuktu region of Mali on January 13,
2021.
Sports
Snesarev appointed as middle- and long-distance coach of Indian athletics team
Government has approved the appointment of Belarussian coach Nikolai Snesarev as the middle- and long-
distance coach of the Indian athletics team. The 72-year-old has been appointed till the end of September, a
period which will coincide with the Tokyo Olympics scheduled to take place in July-August.
January 17, 2021
India
Covid-19: Over 1.91 lakh beneficiaries vaccinated across country on day one
Government on January 16, 2021 said that more than 1.91 lakh beneficiaries have been vaccinated, on day
one, of the massive nationwide vaccination drive against Covid-19. No case of post-vaccination
hospitalisation has been reported so far.
Panchayati Raj Ministry wins SKOCH Challenger Award
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj won the SKOCH Challenger Award under “Transparency in Governance”
category for IT-led initiatives and transformational reforms leading to outcome-based performance
improvement, better transparency and strengthening of the e-Governance in Panchayati Raj Institutions
(PRIs) across the country.
51st IFFI: Biswajit Chatterjee conferred Indian Personality of the Year Award
The 51st edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Goa has conferred Biswajit Chatterjee,
veteran actor, producer, director and singer of Hindi and Bengali cinema, with the Indian Personality of the
Year Award.
Karnataka: Foundation stone for RAF unit laid in Shivamogga district
Home Minister Amit Shah on January 16, 2021 laid the foundation stone for establishing a unit of the Rapid
Action Force (RAF) at Bhadravati in Shivamogga district of Karnataka. The RAF, the specialised wing of the
Central Reserve Police Force, will be the first battalion of its kind in the State. The unit at Bhadravati will
cater to the needs of 39 districts spread over Karnataka, Kerala, and Goa. The RAF is specialised in handling
riots and other major law and order situations.
Karnataka: Anti-cow slaughter Ordinance comes into effect
The Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Ordinance, 2020, to ban slaughter of
cattle, will come into effect from January 18. The State government issued a notification to this effect on
January 16. The Ordinance bans slaughter of cows, bulls, and bullocks of all ages, besides he or she
buffaloes aged below 13.
President donates Rs. 5,00,100 for Ram temple construction in Ayodhya
The trust set up to oversee the construction of a Ram Mandir in Ayodhya started a nationwide drive on
January 15, 2021 for collecting funds, with President Ram Nath Kovind making the first contribution. Kovind,
along with his family, donated a cheque for Rs. 5,00,100 to a delegation of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad
(VHP) and the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi.
Economy & Corporate join @aspirants85
PM announces setting up of Rs 1,000-crore ‘Startup India Seed Fund’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 16, 2021 announced a seed fund worth Rs 1,000 crore for
startups to provide them with initial capital to start and grow their business. Modi made this announcement
in his address to the BIMSTEC countries at the 2-day ‘Prarambh: Startup India International Summit’,
organised by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
PCRA launches SAKSHAM campaign to spread awareness about green energy
The Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry on
January 16, 2021 launched month-long mass awareness campaign ‘SAKSHAM’ to spread awareness about
green and clean energy. The pan-India campaign will focus on adoption of cleaner fuels.
World
India has the largest diaspora population in the world at 18 million: UN
India has the largest diaspora population in the world with 18 million people from the country living outside
their homeland in 2020, according to a report by the United Nations, which says the United Arab Emirates
(3.5 million), the US (2.7 million) and Saudi Arabia (2.5 million) host the largest number of migrants from
India. The report titled ‘International Migration 2020 Highlights’ was released by the Population Division of
the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) released on January 15, 2021.
After U.S., Russia pulls out of Open Skies treaty
Russia announced on January 15, 2021 it was pulling out of the Open Skies treaty, saying that the pact,
which allows unarmed surveillance flights over member countries, had been seriously compromised by the
withdrawal of the United States. The US left the Open Skies arms control and verification treaty in
November, accusing Russia of violating it.
Russia withdrawing 300 military instructors from Central African Republic
Russia has informed the United Nations that it is sending home 300 military instructors it sent to the Central
African Republic to help train its army, which was facing an offensive by rebel groups. The rebels are
protesting the reelection on Dec. 27 of President Faustin-Archange Touadera.
Netherlands: Govt. of PM Mark Rutte resigns over child welfare scandal
Mark Rutte, Prime Minister of Netherlands, and his entire Cabinet resigned on January 15, 2021 to take

political responsibility for a scandal involving investigations into child welfare payments that wrongly
labelled thousands of parents as fraudsters.
Fiji wins presidency of UN Human Rights Council
The UN Human Rights Council elected Fiji’s Ambassador as its 2021 President in an unprecedented secret
ballot after a diplomatic stand-off blocked the usual consensus decision. Fiji’s Ambassador in Geneva,
Nazhat Shameem Khan, who served as the council’s Vice-President in 2020, won with 29 out of 47 votes.
WhatsApp delays new privacy policy by 3 months
WhatsApp announced delaying by three months (till May 15) the implementation of a new privacy policy that
has faced massive backlash with tens of millions of its users moving from the platform to rivals like Signal
and Telegram. The policy change was originally scheduled to come into effect on February 8.
Uganda: Yoweri Museveni re-elected President
Uganda’s Electoral Commission said on January 16, 2021 that President Yoweri Museveni won a sixth five-
year term, extending his rule to four decades. The Electoral Commission said Museveni received 58% of
votes while top opposition challenger Bobi Wine got 34%. Voter turnout was 52%. The vote followed the
East African country’s worst pre-election violence since the 76-year-old Mr. Museveni took office in 1986.
Tintin comic book art by Herge breaks auction record at $3.1 million
A Tintin drawing by the Belgian artist Herge whose real name was Georges Remi, sold on January 14, 2021
in Paris for 2.6 million euros (USD 3.1 million), breaking the record for the most expensive comic book art in
history. The 1936 work in Chinese ink, gouache and watercolour was destined as a cover for “The Blue
Lotus,” the fifth volume of the adventures of Tintin, a young reporter created by Herge.
Sports
Olympic women’s 100m hurdles champion suspended for doping violation
Olympic women’s 100m hurdles champion Brianna McNeal has been provisionally suspended for doping
violations, the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) announced on January 15, 2021. The 29-year-old American, who
claimed Olympic gold in Rio de Janeiro in 2016 and also won World gold in Moscow in 2013, was charged
with “tampering” with part of a doping control, AIU said.
January 18, 2021
India
Himachal Pradesh: India’s first voter votes in panchayat elections
India’s first voter Shyam Saran Negi (103) voted in the panchayat elections in Kinnaur district of Himachal
Pradesh on January 17, 2021. Believed to the first voter in the 1952 General Election, Negi was born on July
1, 1917 and retired as a schoolteacher.
Classical musician Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan (89) dies
Legendary Indian classical musician Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan died in Mumbai on January 17, 2021 at
the age of 89. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1991, followed by Padma Bhusan in 2006 and Padma
Vibhushan in 2018. In 2003 he was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi award.
Union Education Minister honoured by Canada’s Hindi Writers Guild
Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ was honoured by the Hindi Writers Guild, Canada for
his literary work on January 16, 2021. Nishank was conferred with the “Sahitya Gaurav Samman” through a
virtual programme. India’s High Commissioner in Canada Ajay Bisaria was also present on the occasion.
Karnataka: Union Home Minister inaugurates farmer-friendly projects in Bagalkot
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on January 17, 2021 inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various
farmer-friendly projects in Bagalkot, Karnataka.
Kerala: India’s first ‘Labour Movement Museum’ to be set up in Alappuzha
The country’s first Labour Movement Museum, showcasing the history of world labour movement, would be

launched in Alappuzha, Kerala. The museum will feature a huge repository of documents and exhibits that
shaped the labour movements across the continents, state Tourism department said on January 17, 2021.
Economy & Corporate
Pm flags off 8 trains to boost connectivity to Statue of Unity at Kevadia, Gujarat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 17, 2021 flagged off eight trains connecting different parts of the
country to Kevadia in Gujarat, via video conferencing. Kevadia is famous for world’s tallest statue, the
Statue of Unity of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, which Modi inaugurated in October 2018. These trains will
connect Kevadia to Varanasi, Dadar, Ahmedabad, Hazrat Nizamuddin, Rewa, Chennai and Pratapnagar. The
Ahmedabad-Kevadia Jan Shatabdi Express, one of the eight trains, has been equipped with the ‘Vista-dome
tourist coach’ which offers large viewing areas with rooftop glasses and seats for passengers.
World
Boris Johnson invites PM Modi to UK for G7 summit in June
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has invited his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi for the G7 summit on
January 17, 2021 for the high-level meeting to be presided over by Britain in Cornwall between June 11 and
13. India was chosen alongside South Korea and Australia as guest countries of the multilateral summit.
The Group of Seven (G7) comprises the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US.
Norway: 29 elderly die after receiving Pfizer-BioNTech SE vaccine for Covid-19
Norway expressed increasing concern about the safety of the Pfizer-BioNTech SE vaccine for Covid-19 on
elderly people with serious underlying health conditions after raising an estimate of the number who died
after receiving inoculations to 29.
Unidentified gunmen kill two women judges in Afghan capital
Gunmen fired on a car in northern Kabul on January 17, 2021, killing two women judges who worked for
Afghanistan’s high court.
Sports
Sports Ministry to name all new, upgraded SAI facilities after sportspersons
The Sports Ministry on January 17, 2021 said it has decided to name all the upcoming and upgraded
facilities of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) after renowned athletes who have brought accolades for the
country.
January 19, 2021
India
DRDO Rakshita
On January 18, 2021, the Institute of Nuclear medicine and allied Sciences (INMAS) operating under DRDO
handed over 21 bike ambulances called Rakshita to the Central Reserve Police Force. The ambulances have
been created on Royal Enfield Classic motorcycles.
Burns and plastic surgery block created at AIIMS, Delhi
on January 18, 2021, the Union Health Minister Dr Harshvardhan inaugurated burns and plastic surgery
block in in AIIMS Delhi. The unit will provide state-of-the-art care in the field of burns management and
Research. The Minister dedicated the block to Sushruta, father of plastic surgery.
Ex-Desert Knight 21
Join @aspirants85
India and France are to conduct a 5 day air exercise Ex-Desert Knight 21 near Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The
exercise will provide operational exposure and will share best practices towards enhancing combat
capability .
National Road Safety Month
On January 18, 2021, the Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the
National Road Safety Month.

Quaide Milleth Awards
Bilkis dadi, the face of the Shaheen Bagh anti-CAA protests, and social activist and writer Harsh Mander of
Karwan-e-Mohabbat were presented the Quaide Milleth Award for Probity in Political and Public Life at the
India Islamic Cultural Centre, New Delhi.
Bhoomi Pooja for Ahmedabad Rail projects
On January 18, 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi performed Bhoomi Pooja of Ahmedabad metro rail
project Phase II and Surat metro rail project.
Memorandum of Understanding signed between India and japan
On January 18, 2021, India and Japan signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote the movement of
skilled workers from India to Japan. The agreement covered for 14 categories of specified skills.
World
Nepali climbers are the first to climb the world’s second highest mountain K2 in winter
On January 17, 2021, Pakistan felicitated a team of 10 Nepali climbers for making history by becoming the
first to scale the world’s second highest mountain K2 in winter. The Mountain is located in Gilgit-Baltistan
side of Karakoram range.
UK set new laws to protect historic statues
On January 18, 2021, the UK Government unveiled a new laws to protect the cultural and historical heritage
of the country in the form of statues and monuments. This was done to ensure that they are not removed at
a whim.
Phil Spector dies
The music producer Phil Spector died at the age of 81 in the US on January 16, 2021. He was a revolutionary
music producer who transformed rock music with his wall of sound method.
Sports
Khelo India State Centre of Excellence inaugurated in Pune
On January 18, 2021, the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiju launched the Khelo India
state centre of Excellence.
January 20, 2021
India
Parakram Diwas
On January 19, 2021, the Union Culture Ministry announced that the birth anniversary of Subhash Chandra
Bose is to be celebrated as Parakram Diwas every year .
PM Modi named Somnath Temple Trust chairman
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was chosen as the new chairman of the trust that manages the world famous
Somnath Temple in Gujarat. Prime Minister Modi is the second person to hold the post after the former
Prime Minister Morarji Desai.
Uttarakhand increases number of working days from hundred to 150 under MGNREGA
The Uttarakhand government recently announced that it is increasing the working days under the Mahatma
Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act from hundred to 150.
Science City at Tepesia, Assam
On January 19, 2021, The Assam Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of the Science City at Tepesia,
Assam.
Kiren Rijiju assigned additional charge of Ministry of Ayush
The Ayush Minister Shripad Naik is hospitalized following a road accident. Therefore, the Union Minister
Kiren Rijiju has been assigned the additional charge of Ministry of Ayush.

Oncologist Shanta dies at 93
The renowned oncologist Dr Shanta recently died in Chennai at the age of 93. She was the chairperson of
Adyar Cancer Institute. She has received Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan.
Azim Premji wins Press Club of Bangalore award
The Founder chairman of Narayana health Dr Devi Prasad Shetty and the chairman of Wipro Limited Azim
Premji have been selected for the annual awards given by the Press Club of Bangalore.
Task force on marriage age submit report to the Prime Minister Office
The task force set up to relook the marriage age of women has submitted its report to the Prime Minister
office and the Ministry of Women and Child development. The committee was formed under Jaya Jaitley in
June 2020.
ICICI, SBI and HDFC remain Domestic Systematically Important banks
On January 19, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India said that SBI, ICICI and HDFC banks continue to be
Domestic Systematically Important Banks.
National startup advisory council
The Government of India has decided to nominate non official members on the National Startup Advisory
Council for a term of 2 years.
Madhya Pradesh gets additional financial resources
The Department of Expenditure has granted permission to mobilize additional financial resources of 1,423
crores of rupees to the Madhya Pradesh government. This is because, the state of Madhya Pradesh has
successfully completed one out of three stipulated reforms in the power sector.
Compensation charges levied on air pollution non-compliant entities
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recently announced that the inspection teams
constituted to abate air pollution has levied environmental compensation charges of 76 lakhs of rupees on
non-compliant entities.
National Conference of States on logistics
On January 19, 2021, the Union Minister of Railways, Commerce and Industry Consumer Affairs Shri Piyush
Goyal addressed the first National Conference of States on logistics.
India Digital summit
On January 19, 2021, the India Digital Summit was organised by the Internet and Mobile Association of
India.
Airport Authority of India sign agreement with the Adani group to manage Thiruvananthapuram airport
On January 19, 2021, the Airport Authority of India signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Adani
group to manage and develop the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in spite of the opposition from
the state and cases in the supreme court.
World
India to supply covid-19 vaccines to 6 countries
On January 19, 2021, India announced that it will supply covid-19 vaccines to Maldives, Bhutan, Bangladesh,
Nepal, Seychelles and Myanmar.
S400 training for Indian Military Specialist in Moscow
By the year end the Indian military specialists are to receive S400 training in Moscow. In October 2018, India
signed a 5.43 billion USD of deal with Russia for 5 S400 missiles in spite of objections from the United
States and threat of CAATSA.
Iran and six other countries lose Right to vote in United nations
On January 18, 2021, the United Nations announced that Iran and six other countries have lost their rights to
vote in United Nations General Assembly. This is because these countries have not paid their dues. The

countries are Libya, Niger, Congo Brazzaville, Central African Republic, Zimbabwe and South Sudan.
Turkey slaps advertising ban on Twitter in interest
On January 19, 2021, Turkey slapped advertising ban on Twitter and pin interest over their non-compliance
with a new controversial law that requires social media platforms to appoint legal representatives in the
country.
World Economic Forum announces Davos Agenda Summit
The World Economic Forum recently announced that the Davos Agenda Summit is to be held between
January 25 and January 29, 2021.
Sports
India wins four test series in Australia
On January 19, 2021, India defeated Australia by three wickets in the fourth and final test in Australia and
retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
January 21, 2021
India
India Innovation Index
Karnataka topped India Innovation Index of NITI Aayog. Maharashtra ranked second and Tamil Nadu ranked
third respectively.
Howrah -Kalka Mail rechristened as Netaji Express
The Ministry of Railways has rechristened the Howrah-Kalka Mail as “Netaji Express”.
Uttrakhand increases number of working days from hundred to 150 under
Urban Affairs and Commerce Ministry to work on logistics planning
The Commerce Ministry along with the housing and urban affairs ministry is to work on fifty cities for
logistics planning. It will promote ease of doing business in the country.
Cabinet approves 850 MW Ratle Hydro Power Project
The Union Cabinet recently approved the Ratle Hydro Power project on River Chenab on Jammu and
Kashmir.
Madhya Pradesh gets additional financial resources
The Department of Expenditure has granted permission to mobilize additional financial resources of 1423
crores of Rupees into the Madhya Pradesh government. This is because, the state of Madhya Pradesh has
successfully completed one out of three stipulated reforms in the power sector.
Financial Assistance to UP under PMAY
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi released Rs 2,691 crores to six lakh beneficiaries of UP under the Pradhan
Mantri Awas Yojana.
Three Day Ports Review Meet
Chintan Baithak, a three-day ports review meet was held at Kutch, Gujarat. The review meet was chaired by
Minister of Shipping and Waterways.
DRDO MoRTH sign MoU
The DRDO and MoRTH have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen the collaboration in the
field of technical exchange. This will promote safety of road users in National Highways and will safeguard
them from landslides and other natural calamities.
Mangesh Kale dies
The Co-founder of Precision Automation and Robotics India (PARI), Mangesh Kale died in Pune. PARI is a
leading turn key solution provider in robotic automation. It was sold to WIPRO in 2020.

world
Rajnath Singh holds meet with his Singapore Counterpart
The Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently held a virtual meet with his Singapore counterpart. The leaders
discussed on implementing the agreement on Submarine Rescue support and cooperation signed between
the countries.
Pakistan test fires Shaheen III missile
Pakistan recently test fired Shaheen III missile. The missile is of 2,750 kilo metres range. It is a surface-to-
surface ballistic missile.
January 22, 2021
India
Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur celebrate Statehood Day
On January 21, 2021, Meghalaya, Manipur and Tripura celebrated their statehood day. The three states
gained their statehood on January 21, 1972.
Exercise Kavach
The larges scale joint military exercise Kavach involving Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force is to
be held in January 2021 under the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
HAL test fires SAAW
On January 21, 2021, the HAL successfully test fired the Smart Anti Airfield Weapon, SAAW from the Hawk
aircraft.
Fire at Serum Institute of India, Vaccine works unaffected
On January 21, 2021, a major fire broke out at the building of Serum Institute of India in Pune. The Manjri
facility located in the outskirts of Pune is where the COVISHILED vaccine is produced.
Election Commission allows those excluded from NRC to vote in assembly poll
On January 20, 2021, the Election Commission announced that those excluded from the National Register of
Citizens will be eligible to vote in the upcoming Assam assembly poll.
Indian Army sign MoU with SIDM
The Indian Army signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers
to provide impetus to indigenization and achieve strategic independence to reduce dependence on foreign
origin equipment.
MASCRADE 2021 organised
On January 21, 2021, the Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan inaugurated the seventh edition of
“MASCRADE 2021”. MASCRADE is Movement against Smuggled and Counterfeit Trade. It is organised by
FICCI.
Centre proposes suspending implementation of three new Farm Laws for 1.5 years
The Central Government recently proposed to suspend the implementation of farm laws up to a year and a
half. According to the Government, this is being done to arrive at a consensus with the farmer union. The
farmer union announced that they will revert on January 22, 2021.
PMAY-Urban: Centre approves construction of 168,000 houses
The Government of India recently approved the construction of 1.68 lakhs of houses in urban areas under
the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. This will increase the total sanctioned houses under the scheme to 1.1
crores.
SEBI nods to Reliance-Future deal
On January 20, 2021, SEBI approved the Future Group’s Scheme of arrangement. Also, SEBI approved sale
of assets of Reliance.

Shyam Srinivasan named Business Standard Banker of the Year 2019-20
Shyam Srinivasan, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Federal Bank was named as the
Business Standard Banker of the year for 2019-20.
January 23, 2021
Here are today’s headlines by GK Today for January 23, 2021:
India
Exercise Desert Knight 21
On January 21, 2021, India and French Air Forces conducted Exercise Desert Knight 21 in Jodhpur. The
Rafale fighter jets participated in the exercise.
IIT Roorkee and Ministry of Road Transport sign MoU
On January 22, 2021, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and IIT Roorkee signed a Memorandum
of Understanding in New Delhi. Under the agreement, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is to
focus on research and development and training, in the area of development of highway infrastructure.
India in third position in scientific publication
On January 22, 2021, the Department of Science and Technology announced that India is currently in third
position in scientific publications after China and US. According to DST, the initiatives such as National
Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations have played a crucial role to reach this position.
Bhajan Singer Narendra Chanchal dies
On January 22, 2021, the popular Bhajan Singer Narendra Chanchal died at the age of 80.
BSE Sensex crosses 50,000
On January 21, 2021, the BSE Sensex crossed 50,000 for the first time.
RBI discussion paper proposes four tier structure for NBFC regulations
On January 22, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India released a discussion paper. The paper aimed to initiate a
regulatory framework for the Non-Banking Financial Corporation. The four structures of the regulatory
framework include base layer, middle layer, upper layer and top layer.
ShramShakti
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The Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Arjun Munda recently launched “ShramShakti”. It is a National Migration
Support Portal.
World
Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons enters into force
On January 22, 2021, the first treaty to ban nuclear weapons called the “Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear
Weapons” came into force. The treaty was approved by United Nations General Assembly in 2017. It was
supported by 120 members of the UN. However, none of the nine members of the UN that possess nuclear
weapons supported it. These nine countries are US, Britain, Russia, China, France, Pakistan, India, Israel and
North Korea.
Asia Cooperation Dialogue held virtually
On January 21, 2021, the Asia Cooperation Dialogue was held virtually under the theme “The new Normal
and Safe and Healthy Tourism”. The Asia Cooperation Dialogue countries also adopted the “Ankara
Declaration “in the end of the meet.
United Nations adopts resolution to safeguard religious sites
The United Nations recently adopted a resolution to promote a culture of peace and tolerance. The
resolution aims to safeguard religious sites spread all over the world.
Sri Lanka sets up panel to probe findings of previous commissions
On January 21, 2021, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa appointed a three-member panel to probe
the findings of previous commission that investigated the alleged rights abuses committed by both LTTE

and the government troops during the 2009 armed conflict.
January 24, 2021
India
Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar given
Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society (SEEDS) has won the Subhash Chandra Bose
Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar in ‘institution’ category while Dr. Rajendra Kumar Bhandari has won the
Puraskar in ‘individual’ category for their excellent work in Disaster Management. Union Home Ministry
announced the award every year on 23rd January, the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The
award carries a cash prize of 51 lakh rupees and a certificate in case of an institution and five lakh rupees
and a certificate in case of an individual.
Parakram Diwas celebrated on Jan 23
The nation paid homage to the freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his 125th birth anniversary
on January 23, 2021 that was celebrated as Parakram Diwas. Netaji was born in Cuttack, Odisha on this day
in 1897.
PM distributes land allotment certificates to indigenous people in Assam
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Assam on January 23, 2021 and distributed land pattas/allotment
certificates to indigenous people in Sivasagar, under the state government programme to one lakh
beneficiaries.
Amit Shah launches Ayushman Bharat scheme for personnel of CAPFs
Union Home Minister Amit Shah January 23, 2021 launched the Ayushman CAPF health scheme in Guwahati
for about 28 lakh personnel of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and their families in all the states
where Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana is operational.
Punjab govt. hikes grant for marriage of daughters of construction workers
The Punjab government has hiked the grant for the marriage of daughters of construction workers from Rs
31,000 to Rs 51,000 under its ‘Shagun’ scheme from April 1, according to an official statement issued on
January 23, 2021.
Covid-19: Barbados PM requests India for access to vaccine
Amid the rising health and economic woes caused by the pandemic, Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley
has requested India for access to vaccines to provide immunisation coverage for their country, which has
been ravaged by COVID-19. Mottley has asked access to 200,000 doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine
being manufactured in India.
WHO chief thanks PM Modi for ‘continued support’ to global COVID-19 response
World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on January 23, 2021 thanked Prime Minister
Narendra Modi for his continued support to the global COVID-19 response, saying acting together, including
sharing of knowledge, will help in combating the novel coronavirus.
‘Chintan Baithak’ of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways concludes
The three day ‘Chintan Baithak’ of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and waterways concluded at Dhordo, Kutch,
Gujarat on January 23, 2021. Chintan Baithak was an extensive brainstorming session, chaired by Mansukh
Mandaviya, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways with chairpersons of all Major Ports and senior
officials of the ministry.
BSF detects underground tunnel along International Border in Jammu
A cross-border tunnel — around 150-metre-long and 30-foot-deep — was unearthed by the Border Security
Forces along the International Border in Pansar area of Jammu on January 23, the fourth such tunnel found
in the past six months.

India doesn’t support ‘The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons’: MEA
As the first-ever treaty to ban nuclear weapons entered into force, India’s External Affairs Ministry said on
January 22, 2021 said that it does not support the treaty and shall not be bound by any of the obligations
that may arise from it. The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons came into force on January 23.
None of the nine countries including India that are known or believed to possess nuclear weapons
supported it.
Economy & Corporate
Union Budget Mobile App launched for access of Budget documents
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on January 23, 2021 launched the “Union Budget Mobile App” for
hassle-free access of Budget documents by Members of Parliament (MPs) and the general public using the
simplest form of digital convenience. In this unprecedented initiative, Union Budget 2021-22 will be
delivered in paperless form for the first time.
Companies selling soy and almond milk replace word ‘milk’ with ‘beverage’
Companies selling soy and almond milk have started replacing the word ‘milk’ with ‘beverage’ or ‘drink’ to
comply with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s proposed regulation which said that the
term ‘milk’ can only be used if the product is derived from cows and buffaloes.
Fire at Serum Institute of India: Production of BCG, Rotavirus vaccines impacted
Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII) on January 22, 2021 said the fire at its Manjari production facility
near Pune will impact the production of BCG and Rotavirus vaccines. Five people were killed in the fire that
broke out in an under-installation building at the facility on January 21.
Draft policy to help grow nano, micro enterprises formulated by FICCI, TISS
A new policy on the anvil, the Udyog Sahayak Enterprises Network (USENET), may give a major fillip to the
growth-stunted nano and micro-enterprises in India’s informal sector. The proposed framework, whose draft
was jointly put together by the Azim Premji University, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and
Industry (FICCI), and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), is aimed at providing a slew of growth-
driven services to over 62 million nano and micro-enterprises that currently employ over 100 million people.
World
Deal with Pfizer to allow poor countries to start vaccinating in Feb: WHO
The World Health Organization said on January 23, 2021 it had reached an agreement with Pfizer for 40
million doses of its vaccine against COVID-19 on non-profit basis, allowing it to begin vaccinating people in
poor and lower-middle income countries under its COVAX programme in February.
Palestinian PM, new UN envoy discuss stalled peace process
Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Ishtaye and new UN envoy Tor Wennesland discussed reviving the
stalled peace process. In a statement, Ishtaye said that he held a telephone conversation with Wennesland,
the Special Coordinator for Middle East Peace Process, and expressed the Palestinian side’s openness to
any political process sponsored by the Quartet (US, the UN, Russia and the European Union).
US: Larry King, program host who interviewed presidents, dies at 87
Larry King, the broadcast interviewer whose nonconfrontational style attracted celebrities and newsmakers
as guests and made him the star of a top-rated U.S. cable talk show, died at the age of 87 on January 23,
2021. King vaulted into nationwide prominence after CNN owner Ted Turner persuaded him to join his
fledgling network in 1985. His show, “Larry King Live,” became a popular TV interview program.
US: Senate confirms Lloyd Austin as Secretary of Defense
The U.S. Senate confirmed retired general Lloyd Austin as the Secretary of Defense on January 23, 2021, the
first African-American to lead the Pentagon.
January 25, 2021

India
UP govt. to provide free coaching to students for competitive exams
Uttar Pradesh will launch a state-wide, free coaching programme named ‘Abhyudaya’ from February. This
coaching programme will help students to prepare for various competitive examinations.
Assam: 1st Bodoland Territorial Region Accord Day celebrated at Kokrajhar
Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, attended the first BTR (Bodoland Territorial Region) Accord Day
celebration at Kokrajhar in Assam. The first BTR was celebrated on January 24, 2021. Shah assured the
Bodo people on preserving the Bodo language and the culture & political rights of Bodo people.
National Girl Child Day celebrated on Jan 24
The National Girl Child Day is celebrated every year on January 24, 2021. It is an initiative of the Ministry of
Women and Child Development.
32 children awarded Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar
Thirty-two children, from the 32 districts of 21 states and Union Territories, have been awarded the ‘Pradhan
Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar’ this year for their exceptional abilities and outstanding accomplishments in
the fields of innovation, scholastics, sports, arts, culture, social service and bravery.
Economy & Corporate
First commercial flight service between Delhi and Sikkim begins
The first commercial flight services between Delhi and Sikkim commenced on January 23, 2021 with a
Bombardier Q400 aircraft of SpiceJet airline. The flight landed at Pakyong airport in the Himalayan state
with 57 passengers.
World
International Day of Education observed on 24 January
The International Day of Education was observed on January 24, 2021. The United Nations General
Assembly had adopted the resolution proclaiming 24 January as International Day of Education on
December 3, 2018.
Nepal: PM KP Sharma Oli removed from ruling Nepal Communist Party
The rival faction of the ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) removed Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli from
the party on January 24, 2021. He was removed because of increasing political unrest after his decision to
dissolve the lower house of the Parliament.
Dhaka International Film Festival organised from Jan 16 to 24
The 19th Dhaka International Film Festival (DIFF) was organised from January 16 to 24, 2021. Kyrgyz film
‘The Road to Eden’ jointly directed by Bakyt Mukul and Dastan Zhapar won the best film award. While, the
Best Director award was given to Ksenia Langutina for the film ‘Farida’. The film is jointly produced by
Azerbaijan and Russia.
China empowers its coastguards to fire on foreign ships to prevent threats
China passed its coastguard legislation that allows it to fire on foreign vessels. This move could stoke
tensions with its neighbours in contested waters.
China: 11 workers rescued from gold mine in Shandong province
Eleven workers who were trapped by an explosion inside a Chinese gold mine in Shandong province from
January 10, were brought safely to the surface on January 24, 2021.
Ageing dams in India, U.S., other nations pose growing threat: UN report
UN report ‘Ageing water infrastructure: An emerging global risk’ highlights that, over a thousand large dams
in India will be roughly 50-years-old in 2025 and such aging structures across the world pose a growing
threat. most people on Earth will live downstream of tens of thousands of dams built in the 20th century.
Sports

Thailand Open badminton: Carolina Marin, Viktor Axelsen win singles titles
Spain’s Carolina Marin beat Tai Tzu-ying (Chinese Taipei) 21-19, 21-17 in the final to win the women’s
singles title at Thailand Open badminton on January 17, 2021. Viktor Axelsen (Denmark) won men’s singles
title by beating Hans-Kristian Solberg Vittinghus (Denmark) in the final 21-11, 21-7.
January 26, 2021
India
President approves conferment of 119 Padma Awards
President of India approved conferment of 119 Padma Awards on January 25, 2021. The list comprises 7
Padma Vibhushan, 10 Padma Bhushan and 102 Padma Shri Awards.
1. Padma Vibhushan (7): Shinzo Abe (Public Affairs, Japan), S P Balasubramaniam Posthumous (Art,
Tamil Nadu), Dr. Belle Monappa Hegde (Medicine, Karnataka), Narinder Singh Kapany Posthumous
(Science & Engineering, USA), Maulana Wahiduddin Khan (Others- Spiritualism, Delhi), B. B. Lal
(Others- Archaeology, Delhi), Sudarshan Sahoo (Art, Odisha).
2. Padma Bhushan (10): Krishnan Nair Shantakumari Chithra (Art, Kerala), Tarun Gogoi Posthumous
(Public Affairs, Assam), Chandrashekhar Kambara (Literature & Education, Karnataka), Sumitra
Mahajan (Public Affairs, Madhya Pradesh), Nripendra Misra (Civil Service, UP), Ram Vilas Paswan
Posthumous (Public Affairs, Bihar), Keshubhai Patel Posthumous (Public Affairs, Gujarat), Kalbe
Sadiq Posthumous (Others-Spiritualism, UP), Rajnikant Devidas Shroff (Trade & Industry,
Maharashtra), Tarlochan Singh (Public Affairs, Haryana).
President approves conferment of 455 Gallantry & other Defence Decorations
The President has approved awards of 455 Gallantry and other Defence decorations to Armed Forces
personnel and others on the eve of 72nd Republic Day celebrations. These include one Mahavir Chakra, 05
Kirti Chakras, 05 Vir Chakras, 07 Shaurya Chakras.
1. Mahavir Chakra (1): Colonel Santosh Babu (posthumous), Commanding Officer of 16 Bihar Regiment.
2. Kirti Chakra (5): Sanjiv Kumar (posthumous), Subedar, 4th Parachute Regiment, Pintu Kumar Singh,
Inspector/GD, CRPF (posthumous), Shyam Narayan Singh Yadava, Head Constable/GD, CRPF
(posthumous), Vinod Kumar, Constable, CRPF (posthumous), Rahul Mathur, Deputy Commandant,
CRPF.
3. Vir Chakra (5): Naib Subedar Nuduram Soren (posthumous), Havildar K Palani (posthumous), Sepoy
Gurtej Singh (posthumous), Havildar Tejinder Singh and Naik Deepak Singh (posthumous).
4. Shaurya Chakra (7): Major Anup Sood (posthumous), 21st Battalion, Rashtriya Rifles; Rifleman
Pranab Jyoti Das, 6th battalion, Assam Rifles; Paratrooper Sonam Tshering Tamang, 4th battalion The
Parachute Regiment (Special forces); Arshad Khan (posthumous), Inspector, J&K Police; Ghulam
Mustafa Barah (posthumous), SGCT, J&K Police; Naseer Ahmad Kolie (posthumous), Constable, J&K
Police; Bilal Ahmad Magray (posthumous), Special Police Officer, J&K Police
President approves conferment of 40 Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards
President Ram Nath Kovind has approved the conferment of Jeevan Raksha Padak Series of Awards – 2020
for 40 persons. The awards include Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak to one person, Uttam Jeevan Raksha
Padak to eight persons and Jeevan Raksha Padak to 31 persons. Muhammed Muhsin of Kerala has been
awarded with Sarvottam Jeevan Raksha Padak posthumously.
National Voters’ Day celebrated on Jan 25
The National Voters’ Day (NVD) was celebrated on January 25, 2021 to encourage, facilitate and maximize
enrolment, especially for the new voters. The Day is celebrated on the 25th of January every year since
2011, to mark the foundation day of Election Commission of India (ECI) that was set up on the 25th January
1950. The theme for this year’s National Voters’ Day is ‘Making Our Voters Empowered, Vigilant, Safe and
Informed’.
Akash-NG (new-generation) surface-to-air missile test fired
India on January 25, 2021 successfully test-fired the Akash-NG (new-generation) surface-to-air missile from
an integrated test range off the Odisha coast. The missile will be used by the Indian Air Force to intercept
high-manoeuvring low radar cross-section aerial threats.
Revamped website about gallantry award recipients launched
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 25, 2021 unveiled a revamped website that provides information
about gallantry awards in India and their recipients since Independence. Along with portal, he also launched
a gallantry award quiz competition and an e-magazine ‘Shauryawaan’.
e-EPIC (Electronic Electoral Photo Identity Card) programme launched
Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad launched the e-EPIC (Electronic Electoral Photo Identity Card)
programme on the occasion of National Voters’ Day (NVD) on January 25, 2021. e-EPIC, a digital version of
the Elector Photo Identity Card can be accessed through the Voter Helpline App and websites.
Integrated Weapons System Design Centre inaugurated in Hyderabad
Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu inaugurated the Integrated Weapons System Design Centre at DRDO’s
APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad on January 25, 2021. The facility would enhance the
capability in design and development of command-and-control systems for surface-to-air missile (SAM)
systems and ballistic missile defence (BMD) systems.
Himachal Pradesh celebrates 50th Statehood day on Jan 25
Himachal Pradesh celebrated its 50th Statehood day on January 25, 2021. It was on this day, the year 1971
when the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi addressed people at the historic Ridge Maidan of the Shimla,
the Summer capital of Himachal.
Economy & Corporate
FDI in India rose 13% to $57 billion in 2020: UNCTAD
Foreign Direct Investment into India rose by 13 per cent in 2020, boosted by interest in the digital sector,
and while fund flows “declined most strongly” in major economies such as the UK, the US and Russia due to
the COVID-19 pandemic, India and China bucked the trend, the UN has said. An ‘investment trends monitor’
issued by UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) on January 24, 2021 showed
that FDI in India rose 13% to $57 billion in 2020. Global FDI collapsed in 2020 by 42% to an estimated USD
859 billion from USD 1.5 trillion in 2019.
Nitin Gadkari approves levy of “Green Tax” for older, polluting vehicles
The government has proposed to levy a “green tax” on old polluting vehicles, in a bid to control the rising
levels of pollution in the country. Union minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari has approved
the proposal, a government statement said on January 25, 2021. According to the proposal, transport
vehicles older than eight years could be charged Green Tax at the time of renewal of fitness certificate, at
the rate of 10 to 25 % of road tax, while personal vehicles to be charged Green Tax at the time of renewal of
registration certification after 15 years.
Finance Minister inaugurates Chennai Bench of NCLAT
Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Chennai Bench of
National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) through virtual mode on January 25, 2021. The Chennai
Bench of NCLAT shall have jurisdiction to hear the Appeals arising out of the orders passed by the benches
of NCLT having jurisdiction of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Lakshadweep and
Puducherry.
World
Estonia: Reform Party’s Kaja Kallas to become first woman PM
Estonia’s two biggest political parties have signed a deal to form a new government that will be led by a

female prime minister for the first time in the Baltic country’s history. The new government will be replacing
the previous Cabinet that collapsed into a corruption scandal. The party councils of the opposition Reform
Party and the ruling Center Party are expected to vote in favour of joining a Cabinet headed by Reform
Party’s prime minister-designate and chairwoman Kaja Kallas.
Oxfam releases ‘Inequality Virus Report’ at WEF in Davos
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Indian billionaires increased their wealth by 35% during the lockdown to ₹ 3 trillion, ranking India after U.S.,
China, Germany, Russia and France, according to Oxfam’s ‘Inequality Virus Report’ released on the opening
day of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland on January 25, 2021.
Jayati Ghosh in UN’s high-level advisory board on economic, social affairs
Indian development economist Jayati Ghosh is among 20 prominent personalities appointed by the United
Nations to a high-level advisory board that will provide recommendations for the U.N. Secretary-General to
respond to the current and future socio-economic challenges in the post-COVID-19 world. Ghosh, 65, is a
professor of economics at University of Massachusetts Amherst. She has taught economics at Jawaharlal
Nehru University for nearly 35 years and has authored several books.
Portugal: Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa re-elected president
Portugal’s president Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa was returned to office for a second term on January 24,
2021.
January 27, 2021
India
Bharat Parv 2021 being organised on a virtual platform
Bharat Parv 2021, a festival to celebrate the spirit of India, is being organised on a virtual platform from
January 26 to 31, 2021. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated the Bharat Parv-2021.
Bangladesh tri-service contingent marches in Republic Day parade
As New Delhi and Dhaka celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1971 Liberation War, a 122-member tri-Service
contingent of Bangladesh marched on Rajpath at the Republic Day parade in New Delhi on January 26, 2021.
It had soldiers drawn from the units of 1971.
Akshay Kumar launches mobile action game FAU-G
Akshay Kumar launched the mobile action game ‘Fearless and United Guards (FAU-G). The initial episode of
the game is based in the Galwan Valley in Ladakh and the rest of the episodes will be set in other Indian
battlegrounds. The game is free to download and play while the users will have to pay for several premium
features like skins of their avatars.
Economy & Corporate
India’s economy to grow 11.5% in FY22 fiscal, 6.8% in FY23 fiscal: IMF
India’s economy is expected to bounce back strongly in the next fiscal year with 11.5% growth, the
International Monetary Fund (IMF) said in its World Economic Outlook (WEO) update released on January
26, 2021. India is the only major economy forecast to grow in double digits next year and forecast to follow
that up with the highest 6.8% rise in the FY23 fiscal.
India’s economy to grow at 7.3% in 2021: UN DESA
India’s economy is projected to grow at 7.3 per cent in 2021, even as it is estimated to contract by 9.6 per
cent in 2020 because of lockdowns and other efforts to control the Covid-19 pandemic slashed domestic
consumption, the World Economic Situation and Prospects 2021, produced by the United Nations
Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), revealed.
Dhanlaxmi Bank Board approves appointment of Shivan as MD and CEO
Board of Directors of Kerala-based Dhanlaxmi Bank have given approval to appoint J K Shivan as managing
director and CEO of the Bank.
World
US: President Joe Biden signs ‘Buy American’ executive order
President Joe Biden signed an executive order on January 25, 2021 to boost government buying from U.S.
manufacturers. Biden’s order would modify the rules for the Buy American program, making it harder for
contractors to qualify for a waiver and sell foreign-made goods to federal agencies. It also changes rules so
that more of a manufactured good’s components must originate from U.S. factories.
US: Joe Biden signs order to reverse Trump’s transgender military ban
President Joe Biden signed an executive order that brought in a policy of including all qualified Americans
to serve in the US military, effectively overturning a ban on transgender persons that was introduced by the
former Trump administration, the White House said on January 25, 2021.
US: Senate confirms Janet Yellen as first woman treasury secretary
The United States Senate on January 25, 2021 confirmed economist and former Federal Reserve
Chairperson Janet Yellen as first woman Treasury Secretary of the United States.
January 28, 2021
India
Home Ministry extends COVID-19 guidelines till February 28
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order on January 27, 2021 extending the COVID-19 “guidelines for
surveillance, containment and caution” till February 28. The guidelines permit opening of cinema halls and
theatres at a higher capacity as opposed to 50% seating strength allowed till now. Swimming pools have
also been permitted to open for all.
Statue Govind Ballabh Pant unveiled at its new location in Delhi
A statue of freedom fighter Govind Ballabh Pant that was removed from the Parliament premises recently
was unveiled at its new location, a roundabout opposite Gurdwara Rakab Ganj on Pandit Pant Marg in New
Delhi on January 27, 2021. Pant served as Union Home Minister from 1955 to 1961.
Economy & Corporate
International Customs Day observed on Jan 27
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) observed the International Customs Day on
January 27, 2021. The theme for this year as given by World Customs Organisation (WCO) is “Customs
bolstering Recovery, Renewal and Resilience for a sustainable supply chain”.
Textiles Ministry signs MoU with Nissenken Quality Evaluation Centre, Japan
The Textiles Committee of the Ministry of Textiles has signed a Memorandum of Understanding- MoU with
Nissenken Quality Evaluation Centre, Japan to boost export of Textile and Apparel to Japanese market. The
main objective of the MoU is to provide required support to textile’s trade and industry for ensuring quality
as per the requirement of Japanese buyers.
India’s new farm laws have potential to raise farm income: IMF
India’s recently-enacted agri laws have the potential to increase farmers’ income, but there is a need to
provide a social safety net to the vulnerable cultivators, IMF’s Chief Economist Gita Gopinath has said.
World
India inks MoU with IEA for global energy security, sustainability
India on January 27, 2021 inked a strategic partnership agreement with the International Energy Agency
(IEA) to strengthen cooperation in global energy security, stability and sustainability. This partnership will
lead to an extensive exchange of knowledge and would be a stepping stone towards India becoming a full
member of IEA. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Power Secretary Sanjiv Nandan
Sahai and IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol.

India pledges $150,000 for UN peacebuilding as a token of engagement
1. S. Tirumurti, permanent representative of India to the United Nations, on January 26, 2021 announced
a pledge of USD 150,000 to activities of the UN fund this year.
International Holocaust Remembrance Day observed on Jan 27
International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust (International Holocaust
Remembrance Day) was observed on January 27, 2021. The day commemorates the tragedy of the
Holocaust during the Second World War. On January 27, 1945, Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi
concentration and death camp, was liberated by Soviet Union’s Red Army.
Russia’s lower house approves extension of arms control treaty with US
Russia’s lower house of parliament, State Duma, on January 27, 2021 approved an extension of the New
START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) with the United States for five years. The treaty limits the
numbers of strategic nuclear warheads, missiles and bombers that Russia and the United States can
deploy. The Kremlin said that the two countries had reached a deal to extend the pact which was signed in
2010 and is set to expire by the end of January 2021.
Indonesia: 2,968-m Mount Merapi volcano erupts
Mount Merapi, Indonesia’s most active volcano, erupted on January 27, 2021 with a river of lava and searing
gas clouds flowing down its slopes. The 2,968-meter volcano is on the densely populated island of Java and
near the ancient city of Yogyakarta. Merapi’s last major eruption in 2010 killed 347 people.
Italy: PM Giuseppe Conte resigns
Italy’s Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte resigned on January 26, 2021. He tendered his resignation to
President Sergio Mattarella who invited him to stay on in a caretaker capacity. The coalition government
has been fatally weakened by the withdrawal of Italia Viva party.
Antony Blinken sworn in U.S. Secretary of State
Antony Blinken was sworn in U.S. Secretary of State on January 26, 2021 after his 78 to 22 confirmation at
the Senate.
January 29, 2021
India
PM addresses the rally of NCC in New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the rally of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) at Cariappa Ground in
Delhi on January 28, 2021. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin
Rawat and the Chiefs of Army, Navy and Air Force were present on the occasion.
Indo-French year of Environment launched
Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on January 28, 2021 launched the Indo-French year of
Environment with his French counterpart Barbara Pompili. The basic objective is to strengthen Indo-French
cooperation in sustainable development, increase the effectiveness of actions in favor of global
environment protection and give them greater visibility.
National Marine Turtle Action Plan launched
Considering the need to have a conservation paradigm for marine mega fauna and marine turtles, the
Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has released ‘Marine Mega Fauna Stranding
Guidelines’ and ‘National Marine Turtle Action Plan’ in New Delhi January 28, 2021.
Dr. Harsh Vardhan addresses WEF’s event on Restoring Cross Border Mobility
Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare addressed the event on Restoring Cross
Border Mobility by World Economic Forum’s Common Trust Network on January 28, 2021 through video
conference. The purpose of the event was to discuss the policies, practices and partnerships needed to
reopen borders and enable essential travel, tourism and commerce in a safe and sustainable way.

India, Japan review progress of projects in Northeastern region
India and Japan on January 28, 2021 reviewed progress of various ongoing projects in the Northeastern
region in areas of connectivity, hydropower, sustainable development and harnessing of water resources.
The review was carried out at the fifth joint meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum. The meeting was
co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Japanese Ambassador Suzuki Satoshi.
NSA Ajit Doval, his US counterpart Jake Sullivan held discussions
Indian National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and his American counterpart Jake Sullivan discussed
continuing close co-operation in the Indo-Pacific region and promoting regional security, according to the
White House.
PM Modi addresses WEF’s Davos Dialogue virtually
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Davos Dialogue via video
conferencing on January 28, 2021.
Economy & Corporate
National Informatics Centre Services Inc. celebrates 25 years of its establishment
National Informatics Centre Services Incorporated (NICSI), a Public Sector Enterprise under National
Informatics Centre (NIC), Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), celebrated 25 years of
its establishment on January 28, 2021. Ravi Shankar Prasad, Union Minister for Communications,
Electronics & Information Technology and Law & Justice attended the event as the Chief Guest.
Suspension of scheduled international passenger flights extended till Feb 28
The coronavirus-induced suspension of scheduled international passenger flights has been extended till
February 28, aviation regulator Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said on January 28, 2021.
Scheduled international passenger services have been suspended in India since March 23 due to the
coronavirus pandemic. But special international flights have been operating under the Vande Bharat Mission
since May and under bilateral “air bubble” arrangements with selected countries since July.
World
NZ and Vietnam top COVID-19 “performance index”
New Zealand and Vietnam were ranked the best performing countries in their response to the pandemic
according to a COVID-19 “performance index” put together by the Lowy Institute, an Australian think-tank,
which sought to assess the impact of geography, political systems and economic development in assessing
outcomes. India ranked 86 out of 98 countries.
NZ and Denmark top Corruption Perception Index
India’s rank has slipped six places to 86th among 180 countries in corruption perception index (CPI) in 2020.
For 2020, Transparency International (TI)’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI) was released on January 28,
2021. The index, which ranks 180 countries and territories by their perceived levels of public sector
corruption according to experts and business people. New Zealand and Denmark were ranked first.
World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day to be observed on Jan 30
January 30, 2021 will mark the second annual World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day, highlighting
the global community’s commitment to ending Neglected Tropical Diseases that cause immeasurable
suffering among the world’s most marginalized communities. India joins the world to Combat Neglected
Tropical Diseases. On this day the Qutub Minar will be lit up along with other landmarks across the world.
Oscar-winning actress Cloris Leachman passes away at 94
Cloris Leachman, an American actress whose career spanned more than seven decades, died on January
27, 2021 at the age of 94. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘The Last
Picture Show’ in 1971.
January 30, 2021
India
Jat Regimental Centre is best marching contingent at Republic Day Parade
The Jat Regimental Centre marching contingent has been adjudged as the best one among the three
Services and the Delhi Police marching unit chosen as the best among the Central Armed Police Forces
(CAPF) and other auxiliary forces during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi on January 26, 2021.
Tableau of UP adjudged best at Republic Day Parade
The tableaux of States and UTs, Uttar Pradesh, Tripura and Uttarakhand were chosen first, second and third
respectively during the Republic Day parade in New Delhi on January 26, 2021. The Department of
Biotechnology was chosen the best tableau among the Central Ministries, departments, the CAPF and other
auxiliary forces.
GoI, World Bank sign STARS Programme to improve quality of Indian schools
Agreement for the financial support of the implementation of Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results
for States (STARS) project of Ministry of Education was signed between Department of Economic Affairs
(DEA) and World Bank along with Ministry of Education. The total project cost of STARS project is Rs 5718
crore with the financial support of World Bank amounting to US $ 500 million and rest coming as State
share from the participating States, over a period of 5 years. Aim of STARS is to improve the quality and
governance of school education in six Indian states: Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh,
Maharashtra, Odisha, and Rajasthan.
SC stays Bombay HC order in groping case under POCSO Act
The Supreme Court stayed a controversial Bombay High Court verdict, which acquitted a man found guilty of
assault under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act on the grounds that he groped
his victim over her clothes and there was no “skin to skin” contact between them.
Nagaland Chief Secretary Temjen Toy dies at 57
Nagaland chief secretary Temjen Toy passed away on January 29, 2021 at the age of 57. A 1989 batch IAS
officer, Toy took over the charge of Nagaland chief secretary in March 2018.
EAM S. Jaishankar addresses All India Conference of China Studies
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on January 28, 2021 addressed the All India Conference of China
Studies (AICCS) organised by the Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS), Delhi and Indian Institute of
Technology, Madras (IIT-M) China Studies Centre.
Economy & Corporate
Economic Survey 2020-21 tabled in Parliament
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on January 29, 2021 presented the Economic Survey that details the
state of the economy ahead of the government’s Budget for fiscal year beginning April 1, 2021. Authored by
a team led by Chief Economic Adviser Krishnamurthy Venkata Subramanian, the survey details the state of
different sectors of the economy as well as reforms that should be undertaken to accelerate growth.
According to the survey, India’s GDP is estimated to contract by 7.7% in FY2020-21. Agriculture to clock
3.4% Growth, while industry and services to contract by 9.6% and 8.8% respectively in FY2020-21.
GDP growth rate for 2019-20 revised downwards to 4% from 4.2% earlier
The government has revised downwards the economic growth rate for 2019-20 to 4% from 4.2% estimated
earlier. “Real GDP or GDP at constant (2011-12) prices for the years 2019-20 and 2018-19 stands at Rs
145.69 lakh crore and Rs 140.03 lakh crore, respectively, showing growth of 4.0% during 2019-20 and 6.5%
during 2018-19,” National Statistical Office said in revised national account data released on January 29,
2021.
Eight core industries’ output contracts 1.3% in Dec 2020
The output of eight core infrastructure sectors contracted by 1.3% in December 2020 dragged down by poor
show by crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertiliser, steel and cement sectors. The production of

eight core sectors had expanded by 3.1% in December 2019, according to the data released by the
Commerce and Industry Ministry on January 29, 2021.
Foreign exchange reserves rise to USD 585.334 billion in the week ended Jan 22
The country’s foreign exchange reserves rose by USD 1.091 billion to USD 585.334 billion in the week ended
January 22. Foreign current assets, a major component of the overall reserves, increased by USD 685
million to USD 542.192 billion. The gold reserves rose by USD 398 million to USD 36.459 billion in the week
ended January 22. The special drawing rights (SDRs) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) rose by
USD 1 million to USD 1.513 billion. The country’s reserve position with the IMF also increased by USD 7
million to USD 5.171 billion in the week.
India’s April-December fiscal deficit hits 145% of full-year target
Union government’s fiscal deficit soared to Rs 11.58 lakh crore or 145.5% of the budget estimate at the end
of December 2020, mainly on account of lower revenue realisation. According to the data released by the
Controller General of Accounts (CGA), the fiscal deficit at the end of December in the previous financial year
was 132.4% of the Budget Estimate (BE) of 2019-20. In absolute terms, the fiscal deficit stood at Rs
11,58,469 crore at December-end, as per the data.
Gold demand in India hit a 25-year low in 2020: World Gold Council
Gold demand in India hit a 25-year low at 446.4 tonnes in 2020, compared with 690.4 tonnes in 2019 due to
the COVID-19 induced lockdown and on account of record high prices, the India office of the World Gold
Council said. Total jewellery demand in India for 2020 was down by 42% at 315.9 tonnes compared with
544.6 tonnes in 2019. The value of jewellery fell 22% to ₹1,33,260 crore, from ₹1,71,790 crore in 2019. Total
investment demand for the calendar year was down by 11% at 130.4 tonnes in comparison with 145.8
tonnes in the previous year.
World
WEF launches cross-sector alliance to close digital divide
The World Economic Forum on January 28, 2021 announced the launch of an Essential Digital Infrastructure
and Services Network (EDISON) Alliance that will work towards ensuring global and equitable access to the
digital economy. The alliance will be steered by a multi-sector board, to be chaired by Verizon’s Chairman
and CEO Hans Vestberg.
Portrait of Italian artiste Botticelli sells for $92.2 million at Sotheby’s auction
A 15th century portrait of Italian artiste Sandro Botticelli called ‘Young Man Holding a Roundel’ sold for $92.2
million at auction at Sotheby’s in New York on January 28, 2021.
January 16, 2021
India-Japan MoU in ICT sector
India and Japan recently signed Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation in the field of
Information and Communications Technology. The agreement included standardization of 5G as well.
Key Features of the Agreement
India and Japan will enhance cooperation in the field of telecom security, 5G technologies, submarine
optical fiber cable system to islands of India, smart cities, spectrum management, high altitude platform for
broadband in unconnected areas, public safety and disaster management.
India-Japan
In September 2020, India and Japan signed Military Logistics Agreement. The agreement allowed the
countries to exchange supplies and services on a reciprocal basis. Japan was the sixth country with which
India signed the agreement after US, France, Singapore, South Korea and Australia.
Japan has committed to manufacture 30% of Indian aircrafts. This will increase defence manufacturing of
India.

India-Japan Nuclear Deal
India and Japan signed the nuclear deal in 2015. Under the agreement, Japan can supply nuclear reactors,
fuel and technology to India. The Agreement allows India to purchase nuclear reactors with more than 1,000
MW capacity. India will get nuclear breeder technology and nuclear fuel fabrication technology from Japan.
India is the only non-NPT (Non-Proliferation Treaty) signatory with which Japan has entered into a civil
nuclear deal.
Military Exercises
India and Japan Armies held the first “Dharma Guardian” exercise in 2018. Also, the Indian and Japanese
Air Force held their first bilateral exercise called “Shinyuu Maitri” in 2018. India, United States and Japan
hold Malabar Naval exercise annually on regular basis.
Maritime Domain Awareness join @aspirants85
The defence cooperation between India and Japan has helped in steady progress of Maritime Domain
Awareness. The Maritime Domain Awareness is the understanding associated with global maritime domain.
India has two centres specially dedicated for Maritime Domain Awareness. They are as follows
Information Management and Analysis Centre, IMAC
Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR)
The centres are located at Gurugram.
Prarambh: Startup India International Summit
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to interact with the startups and address Startup India International
Summit, Prarambh.
About the Summit
The Startup India International Summit is organised by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal
trade (DPIIT) and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The summit is being organised as a follow-up of
the announcement made by the prime minister Modi at the 4th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-sectoral
Technical and Economic cooperation, BIMSTEC Summit held in 2018 at Kathmandu, Nepal. During the
Summit India also committed to host the BIMSTEC Startup Conclave.
Significance of the Summit
The Summit will bring together speakers from all over the world. This will facilitate discussions on
innovation, technologies, robust policies and enable international organisations and governments to
share their views and thereby driving them to solve the problems and challenges.
The Summit also marks the 5th anniversary of Startup India initiative. The startup India initiative was
launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 16, 2016.
The Summit will be the largest startup conclave being organised by the Government of India since the
launch of startup India initiative. More than 25 countries and 200 global speakers are to participate in
the Summit.
Objective of the Summit
The main objective of the Summit is to focus attention of global capital for startups in India, provide
opportunities for accessing International markets to the startups in the country, mobilize domestic capital
and evolve enabling policy provisions.
Startup India
The Startup India initiative was launched to promote and support the startup in India by providing bank
finances. The three main pillars of the startup India scheme are as follows:
To provide funding support and incentives to the startup in the country
To provide industry Academy partnership
Simplification and handholding

Also, the Startup India initiative focuses discarding restrictive state government policies such as Land
permissions, licence Raj, foreign investment proposals and environmental clearance rest.
Impeachment of Donald Trump
The US President Donald Trump has become the first president of the country to be impeached twice.
Impeachment of Donald Trump
The House of Representatives of the United States recently voted to charge President Trump with inciting
mob attack on US Congress. Recently President Trump instructed his supporters to March into the US
Capitol building to overturn the US Presidential elections held in 2020. This ended up in an armed standoff.
US Constitutional Provisions
The United States constitution says that there are two ways to punish an impeached official. One is to
remove the impeached official from his office and disqualify him to hold any office of honour, profit or trust
under the United States Government. The second way is to remove an official by convicting with two third
majority from the US Senate. Only a simple majority is needed for disqualification.
Grounds of impeachment of US President
The US President can be impeached based on accusation such as treasons, high crime, bribery and
misdemeanors.
On what grounds is an Indian President impeached?
Violation of constitution.
Process of impeachment of US President
Firstly, the House of representatives of the United States has to vote for the charges framed against
the president.
After the passage of votes with simple majority, the president is impeached. However, he is not
removed from the office.
In the next phase of the impeachment process, US Senate, that is, the upper house is convened like a
court. The hearings are held and the President shall be removed from office only if two thirds of the
Senate vote for it.
Process of impeachment of an Indian President
The impeachment charges of an Indian President are initiated either in Lok Sabha or in Rajya Sabha.
After the impeachment resolution is passed by majority of two thirds in one house, it is sent to the
other house. The other house investigates the charges.
If the other house also sustains the charges, an impeachment resolution is brought in.
If the impeachment resolution is passed with two-thirds majority, the president is said to be
impeached.
Pakistan permits Dubai Royals to hunt “Houbara Bustard”
Pakistan recently issued special permits to Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum and five
other members of their family to hunt Houbara Bustard during the 2020-21 hunting season.
Key Highlights
The controversial private hunting expeditions of Houbara Bustard by the Dubai Royals date back over four
decades. The hunting continued even after the Pakistan Supreme Court imposed a blanket ban on the killing
of Houbara Bustard in 2015. However, the order was reversed.
About Houbara Bustard
The Houbara Bustard is a large terrestrial bird found in the parts of Asia, Africa and middle east. After
breeding in central Asia during spring, the Houbara bustards migrate south to spend the winter in Pakistan.
International Fund for Houbara Conservation
According to the International Fund for Houbara Conservation, currently there are only 42,000 Asian

Houbara Bustards and 22,000 North African Houbara Bustard.
What are the concerns?
Over the four decades, the Pakistan foreign ministry extended yearly invitations to the wealthy and powerful
Arabs for hunting the Houbara Bustard in the deserts of Punjab and Balochistan to strengthen their relations
with the Arabs. The Arabs kill the birds for sport and also for their meat. The meat of Houbara Bustard is
said to have aphrodisiac qualities.
Pakistan permits the Arabs to hunt a total of 100 bustards in a designated area during a ten-day safari.
However, in 2014, a Saudi Arabian prince shot more than thousands of Houbara bustards during a three-
week hunting safari. This created nationwide outrage from conservationists.
India and Arab in hunting
Similar expeditions had taken place in India as well in the borders of Rajasthan. The Arabs used to hunt
Great Indian Bustard in the borders. The practice was banned in 1972.
Conservation
Great Indian Bustard: Critically Endangered (IUCN)
Houbara Bustard: Vulnerable (IUCN)
Office for International Affairs in Education institutions
The University Grants Commission (UGC) recently asked the higher education institutes across the country
to establish an office for international affairs.
About the Office of International Affairs
The Office of International Affairs will be an integral part of internationalisation of higher education in
India.
They will be responsible for academic and research collaborations with foreign institutes.
The Offices will act as a liaison body between foreign students and sponsoring agency.
It will address the grievances of foreign students.
The Office for International affairs will facilitate networking and extend all support to foreign
students to adapt to the country.
The office will disseminate information related to admission process among prospective foreign
students.
It will engage in promotional activities and brand campaigns abroad.
The Office will coordinate all matters related to welcoming and supporting foreign students.
Background
Under the New Education Policy, 2020, the Government of India asked colleges to expand global outreach of
Indian higher education institutes to promote India as a global study destination. The offices are being set
up to achieve this goal of the policy.
Recent Developments
The UGC recently amended its regulations allowing Institutions of eminence to set up campuses abroad.
The Institutions of Eminence have to receive No-Objection certificates from Ministry of Home Affairs and
Ministry of External Affairs to set up their campuses abroad. Currently there are eighteen Institutions of
Eminence.
Institutions of Eminence
The UGC has nominated twenty Institutions as Institutions of Eminence. The nominations were made based
on the recommendations of Empowered Expert Committee headed by N Gopalaswami. Only those
institutions that appear in the global or national ranks shall be recommended for the Institutions of
Eminence status. The public institutions are assessed based on the QS-2020 world ranking. The private
institutions are assessed based on National Institution Ranking Framework (NIRF). The institutes that do

not appear in QS-2020, QS-2019, NIRF are excluded from the Institutes of Eminence tag.
Jallikattu event in Tamil Nadu
With the assembly elections are to be held in Tamil Nadu in 2021, Jallikattu, a traditional bull-taming sport
of the state has caught the attention of the political parties in the country. The Congress leader Rahul
Gandhi recently attended the Jallikattu event.
About Jallikattu sport
The Jallikattu is a two-thousand-year-old competitive sport and an event that honours bull owners who rear
them for mating. It is a violent sport. During Jallikattu, the contestants try to tame the bull for a prize. If the
contestants fail, the bull owner wins the prize.
Why is Jallikattu important?
The sport is a traditional way of preserving pure breed native bulls for the peasant community. Currently,
cattle breeding has become an artificial process. The conservationists argue that Jallikattu is the best way
to protect the male animals which otherwise are used only for meat.
What are the popular native cattle breeds used in Jallikattu?
Pulikulam, Kangayam, Umbalachery, Malai and Bargur are the popular native cattle breeds used for
Jallikattu.
What were the issues related to Jallikattu?
In 2011, the central government added bulls to the list of animals whose training and exhibition were
prohibited. Later in 2014, the Supreme Court banned Jallikattu sport. Currently, the state government of
Tamil Nadu has legalised Jallikattu events. In 2018, the Supreme court referred the case of Jallikattu to a
constitutional bench. The case is still pending.
Concerns were raised under Article 29(1) against ban on Jallikattu. Article 29 (1) provides rights to Indian
citizens to preserve their script, language and culture.
Jallikattu in other states
In Karnataka Jallikattu is called Kambala. The Karnataka Government too passed a law to save the sport.
Except in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, the sport is banned in other states such as Punjab, Andhra Pradesh
and Maharashtra.
January 18, 2021
Drone Swarming
Recently on Army Day (January 15, 2021), the Indian Army displayed its combat drones that are part of the
Swarm Technology.
What are Swarm drones?
Swarm drones are lightweight drones that carry multiple packages to a single destination at a time. In
simple words, multiple drones are engaged in a single operation. Here, multiple drones receive commands
from a single drone. They overcome single drone’s payload and battery limitations. They work on swarm
intelligence. Swarm Intelligence is the collective behaviour of decentralized and self-organized Systems.
Key features
The Swarm drones of Indian Army has a range of 50 kilometres. These drones can make deep in
roads behind enemy lines with the capability to hit the target from a distance of 500 metres.
The drones carry out randomised sonic missions using artificial intelligence. They are driven by
continuous satellite feeds.
These drones can also be used for dropping food, ammunition, medicine and other special needs for
soldiers positioned in locations cut away from supply lines.
Child Drone and Mother Drone
In the Swarm Drone Technology, the unmanned aerial vehicle has a mother drone that is attached to a child
Drone. The child Drone is meant to fire and self-destroy after hitting the target.
Current Scenario
The Indian Army had only 5 combat drones in August 2020. The Drone capabilities of the Indian Army has
been enhanced with the induction of 75 indigenous unmanned aerial vehicles. These UAVs can be used
for surveillance and also to carry out targeted strikes.
Background
The Indian Army has purchased more of combat drones as the tensions escalated with China in the region
of Ladakh. Also, the ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the line of control has increased.
Artificial intelligence offensive Drone operations
The Indian Army has taken up several technology initiatives in coordination with startups. The Artificial
Intelligence Offensive Drone Operations is one such project that has been incubated with an Indian startup.
It aims to develop high tech swarm drones for Indian Army.
Iron Ore Policy, 2021
The Ministry of Railways recently approved a new Iron Ore Policy. The policy is to come into effect on
February 10, 2021. The Iron Ore Policy governs the allocation of rakes and transportation of iron-ore.
About Iron Ore Policy
The rake allotment system module is to be updated by the Centre for Railway Information Systems
(CRIS).
The policy will provide high priority to the movement of iron-ore for domestic manufacturing activity.
Within the domestic movement, higher priority is to be provided to steel, sponge iron, pig iron, pellet
or sinter plant owning customers with private sliding at loading and unloading ends. These customers
will be followed by those with private sliding of their own and relying on public goods sheds.
The policy has categorized movement of iron ore based on the availability of railway infrastructure
developed by customers. Also, the nature of movement will be in such a way to maximize iron-ore
movement by rail.
Iron Ore and Indian Railways
Iron ore is the second most important stream of traffic of Indian Railways. Iron ore and steel together
account for more than 17% of total freight loading of Indian Railways (2019-20 data). The total freight
loading of Indian Railways is 1,210 tonnes. Of this, 153.35 million tonnes are of iron ore and 53.81 million
tonnes are of steel.
Centre for Railway Information System
The Centre for Railway Information System designs, develops, implements and maintains the information
system of Indian Railways. It was established in 1986. The major projects of CRIS are computerization of
freight operations, passenger reservation system, NGeT (Next Generation e-ticketing), computerization of
Indian Railways Unreserved ticketing system, national train enquiry system, rail budget compilation system,
etc.
Iron Ore in India
The total recoverable reserves of iron ore in India are 9,602 million tonnes of hematite and 3,408 million
tonnes of magnetite. The principal states producing iron ore in India are Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Madhya
Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan.
US National Rifle Association
The United States National Rifle Association recently filed for bankruptcy under Chapter 11 of the
bankruptcy code. The association filed for bankruptcy in order to avoid being investigated by New York
Attorney General.

Background
The New York Attorney General had sued the National Rifle Association in August 2020 based on
allegations that the association top executives diverted millions of dollars for their personal trips.
United States Rifle Association
It is a non-profit organisation formed by the civil war veterans General George Wingate and Colonel William
C Church in 1871. The organization was formed to promote and encourage rifle shooting on scientific basis.
It is considered as the most influential pro-gun organisation in the US. The critics believe that the
organisation is an enabler of gun violence in the country.
NRA teaches firearm safety and competency. It publishes several magazines and sponsors competitive
marksmanship events. As of December 2018, the NRA consisted of more than five million members.
The major efforts of NRA were the Firearm Owners Protection Act that lessened the restrictions of the Gun
Control Act of 1968 and the Dickey amendment that blocked the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention
from using federal funds to advocate for gun control.
The US National Rifle Association was formed in line with the British National Rifle Association that was
formed a year and a half earlier.
American Civil War
The American Civil War was fought between 1861 and 1865. The civil war began as a result of long-standing
enslavement of Black people. The NRA is believed to be an outcome of the civil war.
Arms Trade Treaty
The National Rifle Association recently opposed the Arms Trade Treaty. The Arms Trade Treaty is a
multilateral treaty that regulates international trade. More than 109 states have ratified the treaty. The
treaty is an attempt to regulate international trade of conventional weapons.
Flint Water Crisis
Nine former officials who served in the Michigan, US and the state’s former governor Rick Snyder were
recently charged in connection with a criminal investigation into the Flint Water crisis.
Flint Water Crisis
The Flint Water Crisis is an ongoing investigation on public health crisis. The issue began when the City of
Flint in the state of Michigan shifted its water supply from Lake Huron to Flint river. The city has a
population of 100,000 people. The shift caused water distribution pipes to corrode. This resulted in leaching
of lead and other contaminants into the municipal drinking water. The city suffered from an outbreak of
Legionnaires’ disease due to the leaching of lead. This is referred to as Flint Water crisis.
The main reason behind crisis is that the officials failed to apply corrosion inhibitors to the water.
Legionnaires’ disease
The disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. According to US Centre for
Disease Control and Prevention, people get sick from the disease if they breathe or accidentally swallow the
bacteria containing water. There are no vaccines available for the disease. The disease can be prevented by
good maintenance of water systems.
State Emergency due to Flint Water Crisis
The outbreak of the disease was very serious that the State of Michigan declared a state of emergency in
2016. The residents were advised not to drink municipal tap water unless it was filtered.
Flint river
The Flint river is also called the Thronateeska river.
Lead Poisoning
It is a type of metal poisoning caused by lead. Lead poisoning causes almost 10% of intellectual disability
and can result in behavioural problems. Pre-industrial human Blood Lead Level are estimated to have 0.016

micro grams of lead per deci-litres. This increased from 0.8 to 3.2 micro grams per deci litres. The US
Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has identified 10 micro grams per deci litres of lead in blood level
as a level of concern.
Ndrangheta
The Italian authorities believe that the Ndrangheta Mafia is responsible for controlling the massive amount
of cocaine entering Europe from South America. This was confirmed by the Italian Government after a
massive mafia trial targeting the Ndrangheta group.
Ndrangheta
The Ndrangheta is a prominent Italian Mafia based in the region of Calabria. The Mafia has been in
existence since 18th century. The first official report of Ndrangheta was submitted in 1792 during the reign
of the Bourbons of Naples. The House of Bourbon ruled Southern Italy and Sicily for more than a century
during 18th and 19th century. join @aspirants85
According to the US, money laundering activities, narcotics trafficking account to 3% of Italy’s GDP. The
annual revenue of Ndrangheta is about 50 billion USD to 60 billion USD.
Ndrangheta is also active in other countries such as Albania, Australia, Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Brazil,
Colombia, Netherlands, Germany, Malta, Switzerland, Slovakia, UK, Uruguay and USA.
According to EUROPOL (European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation), Ndrangheta is the most
powerful organized crime groups in the world.
EUROPOL
EUROPOL was formed in 1998 to handle criminal intelligence and combat serious international organised
crime and terrorism. EUROPOL has no executive powers. The officials of EUROPOL cannot arrest the
suspects without prior approval from competent authorities.
Calabria
Calabria is the region where the Ndrangheta are highly powerful. The region is located in southern Italy. The
region is bordered by Ionian sea in the east and Tyrrhenian sea in the west. The Strait of Messina separate
Calabria from Sicily. The Sicilian Mafia is considered to be one of the closest allies of Ndrangheta.
Allies of Ndrangheta
The allies of Ndrangheta mafia are Camorra, Sacra Corona Unita, Societa foggiana, Stidda, Albanian Mafia,
American Mafia, Primeiro Comando da Capital.
The Camorra, Sicilian Mafia, Sacra Corona Unita, Stidda and Societa foggiana are located in Italy. Primeiro
Comando da Capital is located in Brazil.
Difficult Four Countries
The Chatham House recently published a report proposing a blueprint for foreign policy of UK after Brexit.
The report classed India as one of the “difficult four” countries along with China, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
Key Highlights of the report
The report was titled “Global Britain, Global Broker”.
The report points that the complex fragmented domestic politics in India makes it one of the
countries resistant to open trade and foreign investment.
The report raises concerns over pursuance of India in extreme right-winged policies.
With Indian politics entering ethno-nationalist phase, D10 coalition might end up as D9 damaging the
relations between India and UK. Ethnonationalism is a form of nationalism where the nation and
nationality are defined in terms of ethnicity.
The report criticizes India for its diplomatic behaviour. According to the report, India did not join the
group of countries that criticized China at the United Nations General Assembly held in 2019. The UN
Members criticized China for its human rights violations in Xinjiang. Also, India stayed silent over the

National Security Law in Hong Kong.
Implication of India as a Difficult Four countries
By grouping India as one of the Difficult Four countries, UK has destined India to count among its rivals or
awkward counterparts as it pursued global goals.
Chatham House
The Chatham House is also called the Royal Institute of International Affairs. The Chatham House aims to
promote debate on significant developments in international affairs and policy responses. It is usually used
as a source of information by experts on matters involving major international issue.
D10
The D10 group of countries was proposed by Britain. The D10 group will include all the G7 countries and
additionally India, Australia and South Korea. D10 means Ten biggest democracies in the world.
SAKSHAM Awareness Campaign
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas recently launched SAKSHAM awareness campaign. The
campaign was launched to spread awareness about green energy.
About SAKSHAM
The campaign will spread awareness about clean energy. It is a one-month long people centric fuel
conservation campaign. The campaign is to be launched by the Petroleum Conservation Research
Association (PCRA). The campaign is to create awareness in seven key drivers namely greater reliance on
domestic sources to drive bio-fuels, moving towards gas based economy, cleaner use of fossil fuels,
achieving renewable targets with the set deadlines, increased use of electric vehicles to decarbonize
mobility, increased use of cleaner fuels and digital innovation across all energy systems.
Green Energy Schemes in India
Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM)
The PM-KUSUM scheme covers grid connected renewable energy power plants, grid connected agriculture
pumps and solar water pumps. The scheme aims to install 10,000 MW of decentralised grid connected
renewable energy power plants. It will install standalone off grid solar water pumps to fulfil irrigation needs.
Also, it will solarise the existing grid-connected agriculture pumps. With this the farmers can sell the surplus
solar power generated to the Discoms.
Grid Connected Roof top Solar Programme
The programme aims to achieve a cumulative capacity of 40,000 MW of Rooftop solar power projects by
2022. In a grid connected rooftop solar power project, DC power generated is converted into AC power
using power conditioning unit and is then fed into the grid. The main objective of the solar programme is to
promote solar power generating plants among the residential, institutional and community establishments.
National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy
The main aim of the policy is to provide a framework to promote large grid connected wind-solar hybrid
system. It aims to encourage new technology and way-outs involving combined operation of solar and wind
power plants.
National Offshore Wind Energy Policy
The policy was notified in 2015. The main objective of the policy is to develop offshore wind energy in the
Indian Exclusive Economic Zone. The policy has identified eight zones that have cumulative offshore wind
energy potential of 70 GW.
International Migration 2020
The United Nations recently released the report “International Migration 2020 Highlights”. According to the
report, the Indian diaspora is the largest in the world. More than 18 million people from India were living
outside India as of 2020.

Key Findings of the report
The other countries with large diaspora are Mexico, China, Russia and Syria.
According to the report, India’s diaspora is distributed across a number of major countries such as
UAE (3.5 million), Saudi Arabia (2.5 million) and US (2.7 million).
The other countries hosting large number of migrants from India are Oman, Australia, Kuwait, Canada,
Qatar, Pakistan and UK.
Between 2000 and 2020, the size of migrant population has grown in all countries. During his period,
India experienced the largest gain at nearly ten million. India was followed by Syria, Venezuela, China
and Philippines. The countries where the migrant population increased during this period are
Armenia, India, Ukraine, Pakistan, Tanzania, Ukraine.
The migration of India was motivated by labour and family reasons.
The United States was the largest country of destination of international migrants. There were more
than 51 million migrants in the US as of 2020. This is equal to 18% of the total migration population
of the world.
The US was followed by Germany. Germany hosted the second largest migrants worldwide holding
more than 16 million migration population. Germany was followed by Saudi Arabia, Russia and the
UK.
The COVID-19 has slowed down the growth in the stock of international migrants by around two
million by mid-2020. This is 27% less than the growth expected since 2019.
The growth in the number of international migrants has reached 281 million. It was 173 million in
2000 and 221 million in 2010. Currently, the total international migrants are about 3.6% of the world
population.
In terms of regional migration corridors, the central and southern Asia to Northern Africa and Western
Asia grew the most. In these corridors the migrant population almost tripled between 2000 and 2020.
Aero India 21 app
The Aero India-21 mobile application was recently launched by the Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The mobile app will act as a handy interactive interface for all the issues related to Aero India 2021. The
application has features to support the attendees, exhibitors and media of Aero India 21.
Aero India 21
The Aero India is a biennial air show held in Bengaluru. It is organised by the Defence Exhibition
Organisation operating under the Ministry of Defence. This year, the Aero India is being conducted
under the theme “Runaway to a Billion Opportunities”. Aero India-21 is the first hybrid event where the
business element will happen both physically and virtually.
The first edition of Aero India was held in 1996.
The Aero India 21 is to be held in line with the Draft Defence Production and export Promotion Policy
2020.
Defence Exhibition Organisation
The Defence Exhibition Organisation was established in 1981. It was established to promote the export
potential of the Indian defence industry. It is responsible for organizing international exhibitions such as
DEFEXPO.
Draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy, 2020
Currently the size of the Defence industry is Rs 80,000 crores. Of this the contribution of public sector
is Rs 63,000 crores and that of private sector is Rs 17,000 crores. The policy aims to increase the
participation of the private sector helping India achieve its Atma Nirbhar goals.
The main objective of the policy is to achieve a turn over of Rs 1,75,000 crores including exports of Rs

35,000 crores by 2025.
The policy aims to reduce defence imports and boost “Make in India” initiative.
A negative list of weapons was notified The policy aims to update the list at least once a year.
The two defence corridors in the country located in Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh are to e targeted by
providing additional support.
Thiruvalluvar
The state of Tamil Nadu celebrates Thiruvalluvar Day during Pongal celebrations. Every year, the
Thiruvalluvar Day is celebrated on the second day of Tamil month “thai”.
Thiruvalluvar
Thiruvalluvar is a Tamil poet and is best known as the author of Thirukkural. Thirukkural is a
collection of couplets on political and economic matters, ethics and love.
There are no known details about the life of Thiruvalluvar. However, he is believed to have lived near
Chennai between fourth and sixth century.
In 2005, a research team from the Kanyakumari Historical and Cultural Research Centre (KHCRC)
claimed that Valluvar was born in Thirunayanarkurichi, Kanyakumari. This claim was based on an old
Kani tribal leader. According to the research team, Thiruvalluvar ruled the Valluvanadu territory in the
hilly tracts of Kanyakumari.
Apart from Thirukkural, Thiruvalluvar has also written “Gnana Vettiyan” and “Pancharathnam”. These
books contribute to tamil science, siddha medicines and literature.
About Thirukkural
The Kural (couplet) literature has three parts. They are aram (virtue), porul (wealth) and inbam (love). The
couplets aim at attaining ultimate salvation.
Tribute to Thiruvalluvar
In 1976, Valluvar Kottam was built in Chennai. It houses one of the largest auditoriums in Asia. A 133-foot-
tall statue of Thiruvalluvar was built at Kanyakumari. The number 133 has its significance. Thirukkural
written by the legend has 1330 couplets and the couplets are divided into 133 sections. Thus the height of
the statue of Thiruvalluvar is 133 foot.
G U Pope
George Uglow Pope translated Thirukkural in English. He came to India under Anglican Christian Missions
He lived in 19th century. He spent more than forty years in Tamil Nadu and translated tamil literature in
English.
Other translations of Thirukkural
Thirukkural was translated into Latin in 1730. This helped to make the work known to European
intellectuals.
Central Adoption Resource Authority
The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) recently celebrated its 6th annual day on January 15,
2021. The annual day is celebrated on January 15 because CARA was granted the status of statutory body
on this day under Section 68 of the Juvenile Justice act, 2015.
About CARA
Central Adoption Resource Authority operates under the Ministry of Women and Child development. It
acts as the nodal body for the adoption of Indian children. It monitors and regulate inter country and
in country adoptions.
CARA has been designated as the central authority to deal with intercountry adoption according to
the provisions of Hague convention on intercountry adoption, 1993. India ratified Hague convention in
2003.

CARA mainly deals with the adoption of abandoned, for fun and surrendered children through its
recognised adoption Agencies.
Hague convention
The convention protects children against the risks of irregular, illegal and premature adoptions all over the
world. It has created safeguards to make sure that the intercountry adoptions are in the best interests of the
children.
Challenges faced by CARA
Between 2015 and 2019, CARA faced several instances of disruption. Disruption are those circumstances
where an adoption is stopped after the child is placed in an adoptive home. According to CARA, six in 400
children are being returned at advanced stages of adoption.
Between countries that are not signatories of Hague convention, the authorities in both countries do not
agree in certain terms.
Adoptions in India
On an average there are 4000 legal adoption in India.
Way forward
The major challenge faced by Central Adoption Resource Authority is that the child is unable to forget the
relationship it had developed with the earlier family. In order to resolve this, post adoption trauma therapy
shall be adopted. Psychological conditions of the parents and their background should be checked properly
before adoption.
Open Skies Treaty
Russia recently announced that it is withdrawing from the “Open Skies Treaty”. The treaty allows the
signatories to carry out unarmed surveillance flights over each other’s territories. In 2020, the US
announced that it is to leave the Open Skies Treaty.
Open Skies Treaty
The Open Skies Treaty was signed in 1992 after the Disintegration of the Soviet Union. It was first proposed
by the former US President Dwight Eisenhower in 1955 to deescalate cold war tensions. The treaty was
signed between NATO (Non-Atlantic Treaty Organization) members and the former Warsaw Pact countries.
In 2002, more than 35 countries had signed the treaty. This included US and Russia as well. India is not a
signatory of the Open Skies Treaty.
Key Features
The Open Skies Treaty aims to build confidence among its signatories. According to the treaty, a member
state can spy on any part of the host nation only after receiving its consent. Also, a member state can take
aerial images of the host state after providing a notice before 72 hours. The Open Skies Treaty regulations
covered territories such as mainland, territorial waters and islands.
Russia and US
The US left the Open Skies Treaty accusing that Russia is non-compliant with the Open Skies Treaty. On the
other hand, according to Russia, withdrawal of US from the treaty has created imbalance in its
implementation. This is the reason for Russia’s withdrawal.
Also, the Open Skies Treaty was signed during a time where satellite surveillance did not exist. This puts the
treaty in async with the satellite surveillance technology which is currently the preferred mode of
intelligence gathering.
Other treaties
The US and Russia left the Intermediate Range Nuclear Force Treaty (INF) in 2019. According to INF, the
countries agreed to destroy lethal missile systems from their own stocks as a means to decelerate the
nuclear arms race.

Special Marriage Act
The Allahabad High Court recently ruled that couples planning to marry under Special Marriage Act shall
choose not to publish thirty-day notice before registering their marriage. According to the judgement, the
provisions of the act invade the fundamental rights of liberty and privacy. That is, putting a prior notice that
provides the details of the bride and groom invades their privacy.
Special Marriage Act, 1954
It is an act that was enacted to provide special form of marriage in certain cases. This includes validating
and registering interreligious and inter caste marriages. The three main objectives of Special Marriage act
are as follows:
To provide registration for certain special marriages
To provide special form of marriage in certain cases
To provide divorce
Applicability of Special Marriage Act, 1954
The Special Marriage Act is applicable to:
Any person irrespective of his or her religion
All the Indians living abroad
Requirements under Special Marriage Act, 1954
The Special Marriage Act does not demand rites or ceremonies. Rather it is a civil contract. Both the parties
signing the contract have to file a notice of intended marriage to the Marriage Registrar of the district. In
this, one of the parties should have resided in the district for not less than thirty days. After thirty days of
such notice and if the marriage is not objected by any person the marriage may be solemnized. Now, this
formality of thirty-day notice has been cancelled by the Allahabad High Court under the Special Marriage
Act, 1954.
Conditions in Special Marriage Act, 1954
The conditions under the Special Marriage Act, 1954 are as follows:
The marriage should be monogamous for both the partners.
The bride should have attained the age of 18 years and the groom should be at least 21 years old.
Both the parties should be competent in regard to their mental capacity to give consent for the
marriage.
January 19, 2021
PM Modi to attend G7 Summit [All about G7]
The UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson recently invited PM Modi to attend G7 summit. UK has invited
Australia and South Korea as well. Earlier, UK had proposed the idea of D10. D10 includes members of G7
and India, Australia and South Korea.
About G7
G7 was originally formed in 1975. The members are USA, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, Italy, UK. Russia
was formally inducted as a member of the group in 1998. With this G7 became G8. However, when Russia
moved its troops into eastern Ukraine and conquered Crimea in 2014, the other G8 countries criticized
Russia heavily. They subsequently suspended Russia from G8. With this, the G8 again became G7 in 2014.
For a country to become the member of G7, it must hold high net national wealth and high Human
Development Index.
Working of G7 summit
The G7 annual summit is presided over by leaders of its member countries on rotational basis. The summit
is an informal gathering that is held for two days. During the summit, the leaders discuss global issues. The
ground work of the summit is done by the “Sherpas”. Sherpas are the personal representatives or members
of ambassadors of G7 members.
Importance of G7
The decisions taken at G7 have huge impact globally as the members are the major economic powers. They
represent 58% of global net wealth. However, the decisions taken at G7 are not legally binding but has
strong political influence.
Five of the seven members of G7, US, Italy, Japan, France, Germany have the largest proven reserves of
gold.
Criticisms
G7 attracts thousands of protestors. The protestors claim that G7 has no representatives from Africa and
other middle eastern countries. The protest groups use worldwide platform as a stage to loby and campaign
on issues that are important to them. Also, several claim that G7 is increasing the gap between the
developed and developing countries and is making the fight against poverty more difficult.
Jammu & Kashmir: GI tag for Gucchi Mushroom
The Jammu and Kashmir Government recently sought GI tag for Gucchi mushroom. The Gucchi mushrooms
are highly expensive and are full of health benefits. 500 grams of Gucchi mushrooms cost Rs 18,000.
Recently, GI Tag was provided to Saffron of Jammu and Kashmir.
About Gucchi mushrooms
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Gucchi mushroom is a species of fungus belonging to the family Morchellaceae. They are pale yellow in
colour with large ridges and pits on their cap. They are raised on a large white stem. The Gucchi
mushrooms are locally called “Thuntoo”.
The Gucchi mushrooms prefer soil with limestone base. They also grow in acid soils. The Gucchi
mushrooms are usually found in early spring.
They are referred to “May Mushrooms” in North America.
The time of fruiting of the mushrooms varies locally from February to July. In Canada, they appear only after
June.
Expensive
The Gucchi mushrooms cannot be cultivated commercially. They grow in the conifer forests of Uttaranchal,
Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. It takes months for the villagers to collect these mushrooms,
dry them and bring them to the market. The Gucchi mushrooms grow in clusters on logs of decaying wood,
humus soil and leaves. They may not grow in the same spot the next season. This makes the process of
collection more tedious. Due to these reasons, the Gucchi mushrooms are highly expensive.
The Guchhi mushrooms cannot be cultivated commercially for their nature of germination. They germinate
and grow in low temperature soil. They usually appear after fires. The fruiting of Gucchi mushrooms require
alkaline conditions produced by wood ash mixed with water. These criteria make commercial cultivation of
Gucchi highly challenging.
Health Benefits
The Gucchi mushrooms are rich in vitamins, potassium and copper. They are also rich in Vitamin-D. further
they are rich in antioxidants that prevent health issues such as heart diseases and diabetes.
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
A bird festival is to be organised at Mahananda wildlife Sanctuary in West Bengal. The festival is first of its
kind. It is to be organised by Darjeeling Wildlife Division. The Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary has been
identified as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area.
Important Bird Area
An Important Bird and Biodiversity Area is identified using internationally agreed set of criteria that are
globally important for conservation of bird population. The Important Bird Area concept was developed by

Birdlife International.
Currently there are 12,000 Important Bird Area spread all over the world. The thresholds of the Important
Bird Areas are set by the respective national governing organisations. In order to be listed under Important
Bird Area, the site must satisfy at least one of the following criteria:
A1: Globally threatened species
The site should hold population of bird species listed as Critically Endangered, vulnerable or endangered
under IUCN red list.
A2: Restricted range species
The site should be an Endemic bird Area. The Endemic Bird Area is identified by the Birdlife International as
those habitats that contains restricted bird species that are endemic to them. Around 218 Endemic Bird
Areas have been identified by the Birdlife International. Endemic means the species is native to a single
geographic location and not found elsewhere.
A3: Biome-restricted range species
The site should hold restricted biome species. The site should form a set of selected adequate
representation of all species in that biome. That is, the species living in the site should be endemic and
should be found only in that particular biome (not anywhere else in the world).
A4: Congregations
This applies to waterbirds, seabirds and wetland birds. This has been created based on Ramsar Convention.
Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
It is located in the foothills of Himalayas between Teesta and Mahananda rivers. It was provided the status
of sanctuary mainly to protect Indian bison and Royal Bengal Tiger.
WE Hub: Women Entrepreneurs Hub
WE Hub recently announced its partnership with i-Hub. I-Hub operates under Government of Gujarat. WE
Hub operates under Government of Telangana.
WE Hub
WE Hub is Women Entrepreneurs Hub. It is a startup incubator, that is, it provides an environment for the
women entrepreneurs to grow their business. It aims to support women entrepreneurs with solutions,
innovative ideas and entitles to focus on emerging areas. It also supports unexplored and under explored
sectors along with service sectors. The main goal of WE Hub is to eliminate financial and societal barriers
for women.
i-Hub
i-Hub is Student Startup and Innovation Hub. It aims to develop end-to-end innovation and entrepreneurial
ecosystem in the state of Gujarat. Also, it provides amenities such as futuristic and advanced technology
labs, techno-commercial mentoring, networking and regulatory and advisory services. It was created under
the Student Startup and Innovation Policy of Gujarat.
Student Startup and Innovation Policy
The Student Startup and Innovation Policy aims to assist student-led startups. It aims to create a common
platform for the students to showcase their innovation and set up an end-to-end support system in
education institutions.
Student Startup
According to the Student Startup and Innovation Policy, a student startup is a student-led innovation-based
startup that was founded by the efforts of one or more students or alumni (not more than five years from
graduation).
Background
These hubs were created to achieve the goals of Startup India mission. The National Startup India action
plan aims to support the following:
Student startups and university innovation-based enterprises
Startups at post-incubation stages
Top performing startups that need regulatory supports
Startup India was launched in 2015 at Red Fort. It was introduced to develop seventy-five startup support
hubs in the country. According to Startup India State Rankings 2019, Gujarat was the best performer.
Karnataka and Kerala were ranked as the top performers.
Malaysia’s 3.7 billion USD package
The Malaysian Government recently unveiled 3.7 billion USD package to help the economy recover from
impacts of COVID-19. The package amounts to 1.1% of GDP of Malaysia. The package was announced as
the country struggled to curb its third wave of COVID-19 infections.
About the package
The 3.7 billion USD package of Malaysia includes cash support to the poor, wage subsidies, tax breaks. The
Malaysian Government is to implement twenty-two initiatives under the new package.
Objectives of the package
The 3.7 billion USD package of the Malaysian Government mainly focuses on the following objectives:
To combat COVID-19
To protect the welfare of people of Malaysia
To support business continuity in the country
Background
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the Malaysian Government had launched four economic stimulus
packages. They together amount to 73.2 billion USD. This is more than 20% of the GDP of the country.
Economy of Malaysia
According to International Monetary Fund, Malaysia is the sixth largest economy in the Southeast Asia. The
major export of Malaysia is Palm oil. Malaysia is the second largest exporter of palm oil in the world after
Indonesia. India is the largest importer of palm oil in the world. India accounts to 23% of total global
demand of palm oil. join @aspirants85
Prior to COVID-19 pandemic, the Malaysian economy was facing Middle Income Trap. According to World
Bank and International Monetary Fund, the Middle-Income Trap faced by Malaysia is mainly due to
Bumiputera policies. The Bumiputera or Bumiputra is a term used in Malaysia to describe the indigenous
people of Malaysia.
Middle-Income Trap
Middle-Income Trap is an economic situation where a country gets stuck at a level after attaining a certain
income level. In such cases, the country will be unable to keep up with more developed economies and will
also begin to lose its competitive edge in the export of manufactured goods.
DRDO Rakshita Bike Ambulance
The Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)
recently developed a bike ambulance called “Rakshita”. The bike ambulance will attend the evacuation
needs of the CRPF personnel during emergency or battle injury. The ambulance was developed by INMAS
(Institute of Nuclear and Allies Science) operating under DRDO. The ambulances have been developed on
Royal Enfield bikes.
Importance
The Rakshita ambulance will be of great help in the areas such as Sukma, Bijapur and Dantewada where the
CRPF cannot take big vehicles or ambulances inside the jungle. These are Naxalite zones with narrow
roads.

Naxalism in India
The Left-Wing Extremism is known by other names such as Naxalism and Maoism. The Left-Wing
extremists are those who reject parliamentary democracy and aim at waging an armed revolution against
the government.
The origin of Left-Wing Extremism in India can be traced back to 1967. It mainly emerged in three areas
such as Naxalbari, Khoribari and Phansidewa in West Bengal. The term “Naxalism” has originated from
“Naxalbari”. The term Naxalism is used only in India. While in rest of the world, it is termed as Maoism.
Red Corridor
The red corridor is the region in eastern, central and southern parts of India where the Naxalite and Maoist
activities are higher. It roughly extends from the India-Nepal border in the north till the fringes of Tamil
Nadu. The districts affected by Naxalism and Maoism are the poorest in India. Also, they have very low
literacy rate.
Operation SAMADHAN
The Government of India launched Operation SAMADHAN in 2015 to tackle Left Wing Extremism in the
country. Operation SAMADHAN stands for S- Smart Leadership, A- Aggressive Strategy, M- Motivation and
Training, A- Actionable Intelligence, D- Dashboard Based KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), H- Harnessing
Technology, A- Action plan for each Theatre, N- No access to Financing.
Also, the GoI is focusing to build up the infrastructure in these regions. In 2017, Rs 11,000 crores was
allocated to build road connectivity in all forty-four Moist affected areas. In 2018, 1,326 kilo metres of road
was built in Naxal affected areas of Chhattisgarh.
Flight Lieutanant Bhawana Kanth
Bhawana Kanth is to become the first woman fighter pilot to take part in the Republic Day parade. She was
one among the first women fighter Pilots inducted in Indian Air Force in 2016. The other fighter pilots
inducted into the Indian Air Force were Avani Chaturvedi and Mohana Singh.
Bhawana Kanth
In 2019, Bhawana Kanth became the first female fighter pilot of India to qualify to undertake combat
missions. She received the Nari Shakti Puraskar from President of India Ramnath Kovind in March 2020.
Republic Day parade, 2021
The Republic Day parade of 2021 will feature the newly acquired Rafale fighter jets. The Rafael Jets will be a
part of the Ekalavya formation. The Ekalavya formation will include one Rafale jet, two MiG 29s and two
Jaguars.
The fly past is to culminate with a single Rafale jet that will carry out Vertical Charlie formation.The vertical
Charlie formation is when an aircraft flies at lower altitude and conducts rolls before stabilizing at higher
altitude.
About the Parade
The Republic Day parade marches from Rashtrapati Bhavan till India Gate along the Rajpath. The first
Republic Day parade was held in 1950. The chief guest of the first Republic Day parade was the then
President of Indonesia Sukarno. Prior to the parade the Prime Minister lays a floral Wrath at Amar Jawan
Jyoti. The Amar Jawan Jyoti is a Memorial to the fallen soldiers at the India Gate. Following this 2-minute
silence in the memory of the soldiers is observed.
Republic Day parade begins with flag hoisting by the President of India and the Independence Day parade
begins with the flag hoisting by Prime Minister of India.
Awards at Republic Day Celebrations
Awards presented during the Republic Day celebrations are Kirti chakra and Ashok Chakra. These awards
are presented by the President of India. The Ashok Chakra award is presented on Independence Day as well.

Davos Agenda Summit, 2021
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Chinese President Xi Jing Ping are to participate in the Davos
Agenda Summit. The Davos Agenda Summit is organised by the World Economic Forum. The “Great Reset
Initiative” of the World Economic Forum is to be launched during the Davos Agenda Summit.
The theme of the Davos Agenda Summit, 2021 is “Stakeholders for a cohesive and sustainable world”.
Objectives
The four major objectives that are to be discussed during the Davos Agenda Summit, 2021 are as follows:
To address the urgent climate and environmental challenges harming the global economy
To transform industries into more inclusive business models
To Govern technologies driving the fourth industrial revolution
To adapt to social, demographic and technological trends reshaping employment, education and
entrepreneurship
Key Highlights of Davos Agenda Summit, 2021
The following discussions will be the key focus at the Davos Agenda Summit, 2021:
America First: The America First policy of USA has created huge breakdown in international
agreements in the last few years. It has undermined several global agreements including Paris
Climate Change deal.
Tensions in Iran: Upon the authorisation of the US President Donald Trump, General Qasem Soleimani
was killed by the US army in a drone attack. This has increased the geopolitical tensions between
USA and Iran.
Russia’s annexation of Crimea has strained the tensions between US and Russia more than at any
time since the cold war.
Great Reset Initiative
In 2021, the World Economic Forum has brought up a new twin-summit format in its Davos meeting. One of
the meets is the usual Davos Agenda Summit and the other is the new Great Reset Initiative. Just like the
Davos Agenda Summit, the Great Reset Initiative will bring the world leaders and will primarily focus on
managing direct consequences of COVID-19 crisis. Basically, the Great Reset Initiative is being started to
recover global economy from COVID-19 crisis.
Mt Trishul: Indian Mountaineering Foundation approves winter climbing
The Indian Mountaineering Foundation recently approved a three-member team of mountaineers led by
Arjun Vajpai for winter climbing expedition to Mount Trishul. In India, the mountaineering expeditions are
taken up only during pre-monsoon and post-monsoon period. For the first time, the Indian Mountaineering
Foundation has approved the concept of winter mountaineering.
Arjun Vajpai
Arjun Vajpai is the youngest Indian to climb Mount Everest at the age of 16 in 2010.
Mount Trishul
The Mount Trishul is a group of three Himalayan peaks that form the shape of a trident. The three peaks are
named Trishul I, Trishul II and Trishul III. Mount Trishul is located at a Massif. The massif runs north-south.
Massif is a section of earth’s crust demarcated with faults. The Mount Trishul was first scaled by a British
mountaineer Tom Georage Longstaff.
Indian Mountaineering Foundation
The Indian Mountaineering Foundation is the apex body that organises rock climbing and mountaineering at
high altitudes in the Himalayas. The foundation also promotes environmental protection works in the Indian
Himalayas. The Indian Mountaineering Foundation was established in 1957.
It is also the regulatory body for the competitive Olympic sport of Sport Climbing.

Kumaon
Mount Trishul is located in the western Kumaon of Uttarakhand. The people in Kumaon region are called
Kumaonis and they speak Kumaoni language. The UNESCO Atlas of the World’s Languages has placed
Kumaoni in the unsafe category. In 2010, a private member bill was introduced to include Kumaoni in the
eighth schedule of the constitution.
The Kumaon region is home to one of the highly decorated regiments of Indian Army called Kumaon
Regiment. It mainly consists of Ahirs, Rajputs and Brahmins. The regiment traces its origin to eighteenth
century. The regiment has fought both the world wars, Indo-Pakistan war of 1971, Indo-Pakistan war of
1965 and also Sino-Indian War of 1962.
Ex-Desert Knight 21: India-France Military exercise
India and France are to hold Ex-Desert Knight 21 exercise. It is a bilateral air exercise to be held between
Indian Air Force and French air and Space Force. The Ex-Desert Knight 21 is to be held in Jodhpur,
Rajasthan. Rafale Fighter Jets are to participate in the exercise.
Background
Under the Indo-French Defence Cooperation, the French Air and Space force and the Indian Air Force have
so far held six editions of air exercise called “Garuda”. The last of the six exercises was held in Air Force
Base Mont-de-Marsan, France in 2019. The Ex-Desert Knight 21 is being held in addition to the Garuda
series exercise.
About Ex-Desert Knight 21
The main objective of the exercise is to provide operational exposure and share best practices. From the
French Air and Space Force, Rafale Flighter Jets, Multi-role Tanker Transport and around 175 personnel will
participate in the exercise. From the Indian Air Force, Su-30 MKI, Mirage 2000 and IL-78 flight refuelling
aircraft are to participate in the exercise.
Defence Exercises
The regular defence exercises held between India and France are as follows:
Exercise Shakti is held between the Armies of India and France
Exercise Varuna is held between Indian Navy and French Naval Forces
Exercise Garuda is held between the Air Forces of the two countries
India-France
The three main pillars of India-France strategic partnership are space, defence and civil nuclear
cooperation. France has been a continued support of India’s permanent membership at the United Nations
Security Council. France had also been a great supporter of India for its membership at the Missile
Technology Control Regime, Wassenaar Arrangement, Australia Group and Nuclear Suppliers Group.
India joined the Wassenaar Arrangement as the 42nd member. Also, India joined Missile Technology Control
Regime in 2018. India’s entry to NSG is being opposed widely as India is a non-signatory of Non-
Proliferation Treaty.
January 20, 2021
Global Firepower Index, 2021
The Global Firepower Index ranks the countries based on their potential military strength. India was ranked
fourth in the index. The Global Firepower Index ranked 138 countries. The countries were evaluated based
on prolonged offensive and defensive military campaigns.
Rankings
The United States topped the index with 904 attack helicopters and eleven aircraft carriers. Also, the
country has sixty-eight submarines and 40,000 armoured fighting vehicles.
The US was followed by Russia with 189 fighter aircrafts and 538 attack helicopters. Russia has
13,000 tanks and 64 submarines.
China was ranked third with 1,200 combat aircrafts and 327 attack helicopters and seventy-nine
submarines. Also, China has 35,000 armoured vehicles.
India was ranked fourth in the Global Firepower Index with 542 combat aircraft, 17 submarines, 4,730
tanks and 37 attack helicopters.
Japan was ranked fifth in the Global Firepower Index with 2 helicopter carriers, 27 destroyers.
South Korea was ranked sixth in the world and North Korea was ranked 28th.
About Global Firepower Index, 2021
The Global Firepower Index is calculated using fifty individual factors from geography to logistical
capability. It also includes manpower, land forces, airpower, natural resources, naval forces, logistics and
financials. Under manpower, the factors considered are total population, paramilitary, reaching military age
annually, active reserves and active services. Under equipment, the factors considered are trainer fleet,
aircraft fleet strength, helicopter fleet, attack fleets, rocket projectors, tank strength, towed artillery, aircraft
carriers, naval fleet strength, destroyers, submarines, coastal patrol craft, frigates, mine warfare craft,
coastal patrol craft and tanker fleets. The finance factors include external debt, defence budget, reserves of
foreign exchange and gold and purchasing power parity.
Pakistan
Pakistan was ranked the tenth most powerful country in the Global Firepower Index. Pakistan has
surpassed Israel, Indonesia, Iran and Canada in terms of military power. Currently Pakistan dedicates 7
billion USD from its annual budget for defence purposes.
India Innovation Index, 2020
The NITI Aayog is to launch the second edition of India Innovation Index. The Index ranks states of the
country based on how they support innovation. The first edition of India Innovation Index was launched in
2019.
About India Innovation Index
The India Innovation Index was developed on the lines of Global Innovation Index. It attempts to create an
extensive framework for the continuous evaluation of the innovation environment of the states and union
territories in India.
The index is calculated as the average of scores of two dimensions namely enablers and performance. The
enablers provide the innovative capacities of the states and the performers give the benefits derived by the
nation from the state’s innovation. The enablers are human capital, investment, business environment,
knowledge workers and safety and legal environment. The performance parameters are knowledge
diffusion and knowledge output.
Importance of India Innovation Index
India has huge opportunities and potential to become the innovation leader of the world. The Innovation
Index will act as an evaluator of innovation in the country. This will help to channelize the improvement of
innovation environment. Also, it will promote competitive federalism among the states.
India Innovation Index, 2019
Karnataka emerged as the topper in overall rankings in the category of major states in India Innovation
Index, 2019. Maharashtra performed the best in the dimension of Enablers. Sikkim topped the ranking in
north eastern states category and Delhi topped the list in the category of Union Territories.
Way forward
There is a need to improve the capability of top rung education institutions in the country to produce greater
innovation outputs. Also, the spending on research and development should be increased with greater
collaboration between the educational institutions and industries. A collaborative platform with innovators,

investors and researchers will strengthen industry-academia linkages and will ease the technology transfer
processes.
Parakram Diwas
The Government of India recently announced that the birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose is
to be celebrated as “Parakram Diwas”. Parakram Diwas means Courage Day. Netaji was born on January 23,
1897.
The Central Government and the Bengal Government are to begin the year long celebrations of 125th birth
anniversary year on January 23, 2021.
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose
Netaji was an Indian nationalist. He was born in Cuttack to an affluent family. He acquired a degree in
philosophy and was later selected for the Indian Civil Services. He refused to join as he did not want
to serve the British Government.
Netaji joined the Indian National Congress in 1921.
Netaji started a newspaper called “Swaraj”. He had written a book called “The Indian Struggle”. The
book covers the Indian Independence movement between 1920 and 1942.
The term “Jai Hind” was coined by Netajji Subhash Chandra Bose.
Netaji in Indian independence struggle
Netaji was prisoned in 1925 for his nationalist activities. Later released in 1927. After his release, he
became the general secretary of the Indian National Congress.
He formed the All India Forward Bloc as a part of the Indian National Congress in 1939.
During the second world war, Netaji protested the British Raj for not consulting the Indians before
pulling them into the war. He was arrested for his protests. Later he was released and was kept under
surveillance. In 1941, Bose escaped to Germany via Afghanistan and Soviet Union. In Germany, Netaji
met German leaders and other Indian students and European political leaders.
He founded the Indian Legion with 4,500 Indian soldiers. These soldiers were taken as prisoners by
the Germans from North Africa. In 1943, he left for Japan and revived the Indian National Army.
The Indian National Army supported the Japanese army in their invasion of Northeast India. They
together tool control of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Apartheid State: The Israel-Palestine Conflict
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Israel has been recently banning the human rights groups in the country that called Israel to be an apartheid
state.
Apartheid
Apartheid is a system of institutionalized racial segregation.
Israel and Apartheid Analogy
Israel is being criticized to be an Apartheid State for its actions against Palestinians. The actions of Israel
occupying the West Bank region is criticized as being apartheid.
West Bank Occupation Join @aspirants85
Israeli occupation of the West Bank began in 1967 during a six-day war and is continuing till date. The
status of West Bank as an occupied territory has been affirmed by the International Court of Justice. Israel
cites Balfour Declaration for retaining West Bank.
Balfour Declaration
It was a public statement made by the British Government during the first World War. Under the Balfour
Declaration the British extended its support for the establishment of a national home for Jewish people in
Palestine. The Balfour declaration is the founding document of Mandatory Palestine that later became
Israel and Palestine.

The Balfour Declaration is considered as the principal cause of the ongoing Israeli-Palestine conflict.
Israel-Palestine Conflict
The establishment of Palestine as the national home of Jews by the Balfour declaration created tension in
the region between the Jews and the Arabs. The conflict widened after the 1947-1949 Palestine war. It
further increased after Israeli military occupation of Palestinian territories in 1967 after a six-day war.
The United Nations has called for “Two State Solution” to end the Israel-Palestine conflicts.
Two State Solution
According to the Two State solution, one would be a state of Jews and the other would be the state of
Palestinian Arabs. The idea however is rejected by the Arabs.
Current Scenario
More than 83% of world countries have recognized Israel as a sovereign state. Recently, UAE, Sudan and
Bahrain normalized their ties with Israel.
Mitochondrial DNA based COVID-19 test
The United States scientists have developed a new rapid COVID-19 test to measure mitochondrial DNA in
the blood sample of the COVID-19 patients. The test will be highly helpful to identify people at the highest
risk of the virus.
About the test
The mitochondrial DNA is a unique type of genetic material that normally resides inside the energy factories
of the cells. However, in COVID-19 patients the mitochondrial DNA is spilling out of the body cells into the
bloodstream. This leads to cell death. Eventually the COVID-19 patients go into hyperinflammatory death.
According to the scientists, the spill out of mitochondrial DNA is the main reason for tissue damage and
eventual organ failure especially in lungs, kidney and heart in COVID-19 patients.
Mitochondrial DNA
The Mitochondrial DNA is located in the mitochondria of the body cells. Mitochondria converts chemical
energy in food into Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). The ATP provides energy for muscle contraction and
nerve impulse propagation.
The mitochondrial DNA is inherited from the mother.
Apart from humans, the mitochondrial DNA is also found in algae and fungi.
Mitochondria
Mitochondria is called the power house of the cell. They are membrane bound organelle. It functions as the
digestive system of a cell. It promotes growth of new cells and cell multiplication. It is found in both plant
cell and animal cell.
Necrosis
The violent death of cells is called necrosis. It is common in COVID-19 patients. Necrosis is a form of cell
injury that results in premature death of cells. This occurs when too little blood flows into the tissue.
Reactive Oxygen Species
The major side effect of COVID-19 is inducing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. The Reactive Oxygen
Species are highly reactive chemical molecules. They are formed due to electron acceptability nature of
oxygen. Some of the Reactive Oxygen Species are superoxide, peroxides, hydroxyl radical, alpha-oxygen.
What is Keystone Pipeline Project?
The US president elect Joe Biden is expected to cancel the Keystone XL pipeline project.
Keystone pipeline system
The keystone pipeline system is an oil pipeline system in the United States and Canada. It was
commissioned in 2010 and is owned by the Government of Alberta and TC Energy. The pipeline runs from
the Western Canadian sedimentary basin in Alberta to the Refineries in Texas and Illinois.

What is the issue?
Recently a proposed fourth phase of the keystone pipeline system attracted opposition from
environmentalists over climate change and fossil fuels. In 2015, President Obama delayed the
implementation of the 4th phase of the project. In 2017, President Trump permitted the completion of the
pipeline. In 2021, President elect Biden has planned to cancel the project.
Environmental Concerns
The major environmental concern raised against the project is that the pipeline spill will threaten Ogallala
aquifer. Ogallala aquifer is one of the largest freshwater reserves in the world. It supports more than 2
million people by providing drinking water to them. Also, the aquifer supports 20 billion USD of agricultural
activities. It is located beneath The Great Plains in the United States.
Oil Spills in Keystone Pipeline System
In 2016 more than 400 barrels of oil leaked from the keystone pipeline network due to weld anomaly. In
2017 the pipeline leaked more than 9600 barrels of oil. In 2019, the pipeline spilled more than 9000 barrels
of oil.
Oil Sand Concerns
The environmental organisations also opposed the project due to its transportation from Oil Sands. The oil
Sands are technically called bituminous sands. These are unconventional petroleum deposits. They occur
naturally in the mixture of sand, water, and clay. The petroleum in oil sands is highly viscous. Large
quantities of natural bitumen deposits are found in Russia, Venezuela, Canada and Kazakhstan.
The major concern of extracting Petroleum from oil sands is that it releases 17% more greenhouse gas
emissions than the conventional oil extraction.
STARStreak Air Defence System: India-France sign Agreements
Thales, a French Multinational Company has signed an agreement with the Bharat Dynamics Limited, a
Government of India enterprise to jointly work on STARStreak Air Defence System
STARStreak Air Defence System
The STARStreak is a short-range surface-to-air missile. It was earlier called as the Shorts Missile
System. It travels at Mach 3 speed, that is, the speed of the missile is three times the speed of sound.
STARStreak has been in service with the British Army since 1997.
The minimum range of the system is 0.3 km and the maximum range is 7 km. The range of
STARStreak System II variant is more than 7 km.
The other variants of the STARStreak system are air to air system that can be fired from helicopters.
The Light Weight Multiple Launcher variant of the STARStreak system can be used mounting on a
stationary vehicle.
The surface to air missile installed in the STARStreak Air Defence System is currently the fastest
short-range surface to air missile in the world. After being fired from the system, the missile picks up
speed greater than Mach 4 level.
The missile is made of three LASER guided Darts. Usually, the missile systems have only one LASER
guided dart that increases the probability of missing the target. On the other hand, STARStreak
systems have three darts that increases the accuracy of reaching the target position.
Advantages of STARStreak Air Defence System
The STARStreak Air Defence System cannot be jammed by infrared countermeasures.
The STARStreak Air Defence System has been optimised to engage attack helicopters.
The speed of the system makes it difficult for the pilots to evade.
The STARStreak Air Defence System cannot be suppressed with anti-radar missiles.
It has high speed that reduces the amount of time for a counter measure such as illuminating the

guidance laser source or beam manoeuvring.
Disadvantages of STARStreak Air Defence System
The STARStreak Air Defence System does not have proximity fuse. This makes it compulsory for its
missiles to collide with the target in order to harm it.
The high speed of the system makes it difficult to intercept a fast-moving aircraft. However, it can
intercept the fast-moving targets that are head on with the missile.
Tropical Rain Belt: Climate Change to alter its position
The researchers from the University of California recently predicted that the future climate change will
cause an uneven shifting of the tropical rain belt. This might threaten food security for billions of people.
Key Findings
According to the study, the shift of the tropical rain belt over the Indian Ocean and Eastern Africa will result
in drought stress in south eastern Africa and Madagascar. Also, it will increase the flooding in southern
India. The southward creeping of the tropical rain belt over the Atlantic Ocean and eastern Pacific Ocean
will cause greater drought in Central America.
Tropical Rain Belt
The tropical rain belt is the region around the tropics that receives abundant rainfall. It is largely the
manifestation of the ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone).
During October to March, the tropical rain belt lies in the southern hemisphere of the Indian Ocean and the
western Pacific Ocean. The northern tropics are dry during this period. Between April and September, the
tropical rain belt occurs in the northern hemisphere and the southern hemisphere goes dry then.
The belt shifts roughly between the equator and the fifteenth parallel north (south) latitude. Near these
latitudes one dry and one wet season occurs. On the other hand, there are two wet and two dry seasons in
the equator as the belt passes through the equator twice.
Abundant rain in Tropical Rain Belt
The air in the tropics warm up quickly. The warm air rises up. As the hot air rises, the cold air occupies the
vacant spaces. As more and more cold air replaces the warm air, the tropics lose their ability to hold
moisture. As a result, the excess moisture turns into rain showers and thunderstorms. This is the main
reason for abundant rain in the tropics
Intertropical Convergence Zone
The region is called Doldrums by the sailors because of its windless weather. This is the region where the
south east and north east trade winds converge.
Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries
The top palm oil producers for the first time are looking for opportunities to run an advocacy campaign in
Europe. The largest oil producers of the world Indonesia and Malaysia have sent proposals to hire an
advocacy firm to run campaign in Europe through the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries.
What is the issue?
According to the European Union, the producers of palm oil primarily Malaysia and clear vast areas of
biodiversity rich rainforest in South East Asia exploiting migrant workers. The Union is to ramp up
legislations on deforestation as a part of European Green Deal. This could restrict the use of palm oil in fuel
and food. Therefore, the CPOPC dominated by Indonesia and Malaysia are looking for opportunities to
launch campaigns to change the perceptions of European countries.
Background
The European Union had finalised a rule in 2019 to phase out palm oil from renewable fuel by 2030 mainly
due to deforestation concerns.
Malaysia and Indonesia account to 85% of the global palm oil output. Indonesia alone produces 60% of

world’s palm oil. India and China are the biggest buyers of palm oil.
Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries
It is an intergovernmental organisation. It was established in 2015. Indonesia and Malaysia are the founding
fathers of the Council of Palm Oil Producing countries. The council aims to promote and strengthen
cooperation in oil palm cultivation. It enhances welfare of oil palm stakeholders. It addresses the
impediments to palm oil trade. The six main focus areas of cooperation of the council are sustainability of
palm oil, research and innovation, productivity of small holders, industrial cooperation towards value added
production, trade policy issues and technical regulations and standards.
European Green Deal
The European Green Deal is a set of policy initiatives of the European Union to make Europe climate neutral
by 2050.
Article 19 of the UN Charter: Iran loses voting rights in the United Nations General Assembly
Iran and six other countries have lost their voting rights in the United Nations General Assembly as they had
not paid their dues. The other countries that lost their voting rights were Niger, South Sudan, Zimbabwe,
Congo Brazzaville, Central African Republic and Libya. On the other hand, three other countries such as
Comoros, Somalia, Sao Tome and Principe will be allowed to vote despite of their missing dues.
The actions of suspending the members from voting has been taken under Article 19 of the United Nations
Charter.
Article 19 of UN Charter
According to the Article 19 of the UN Charter, a member shall have no voting rights if it has arrears in the
payment of its financial contributions to the UN. The Charter provided two years of grace period. That is, if
the arrears are pending for more than two years, then the voting rights are suspended.
Iran
Iran owes 16.2 million USD to the United Nations. According to Iran, the US sanctions is troubling the
country in paying its contribution to the UN.
United Nations Budget Contributions
The US is the highest contributor of the UN. The United States contributed 22% of the UN budget, China
contributes 12%, Japan contributes 8.574% and Germany contributes 6.090%. These four countries together
finance 49% of the entire UN budget.
India
India is one among the thirty-four United Nations members to pay the budget dues on time. In January 2020,
India paid 23, 396, 496 USD to the United Nations as its contribution.
Determination of UN Budget
Every three years, the UN Members collectively decide on the formula called “Scales of Assessment”. The
formula decides how much currency should each member contribute to the UN regular budget and to peace
keeping operations.
The formula is highly complicated. It begins with the Gross National Income of the country. Later
adjustments are applied taking account where the country is relative to average global income per head. A
ceiling and a minimum floor is applied to Least Developed Countries.
LauncherOne launched by Virgin Orbit
Virgin Orbit recently launched its LauncherOne rocket to the orbit. This is the first successful flight of the
rocket. Earlier an unsuccessful launch attempt was made in May 2020.
LauncherOne
LauncherOne is a two-stage orbital launch vehicle. It is an air-launched rocket. It is capable of
carrying small satellite payloads up to 300 kilograms. The LauncherOne rocket is carried to the upper

atmosphere on Boeing 747 called “Cosmic Girl”. During the first attempt in May 2020, LauncherOne
failed to reach the space.
During the recent second launch, the LauncherOne delivered ten CubeSats to the Low Earth Orbit.
LauncherOne is the first all liquid fuelled air-launched orbital rocket.
LauncherOne places the satellites in Sun Synchronous Orbit.
Sun Synchronous Orbit
The Sun synchronous Orbit is nearly a polar orbit around a planet. In this orbit, the satellite passes over a
given point at the same local mean solar time. That is, it maintains the same relationship with the sun every
year. This orbit is generally used for spying and imaging.
CubeSats
The CubeSats are miniature satellites for space research. They are made of multiple cubic modules that are
of 10 cm × 10 cm × 10 cm size.
ElaNa 20
The launch of ten CubeSats by LauncherOne is a part of ElaNa Mission. ElaNa is Educational Launch of
Nanosatellites. The mission made partnerships with the universities in the US to launch research satellites
called CubeSats. ElaNa 1 was launched in 2011. It carried three CubeSats. LauncherOne is the 20th mission
of ElaNa programme.
Air-Launch-to-orbit
LauncherOne was launched by Air Launch to Orbit method. In this method, the rockets are launched at an
altitude from a conventional aircraft. The aircraft carries the rocket to the low earth orbit and the rocket is
then launched from there. This reduced the mass, thrust and cost of the rocket as compared to the
conventional vertical rocket launches.
January 21, 2021
Kamalam: Gujarat renames Dragon Fruit
The Gujarat Government is to patent the Dragon Fruit in the name of “Kamalam”. Kamalam is also the name
of the BJP state party headquarters in Gujarat.
Dragon Fruit
The Dragon fruit is a cactus variety fruit. It is widely cultivated in South east Asia, United States,
Australia, India, Caribbean islands and Mesoamerica.
The total lifespan of a Dragon fruit plant is fifteen to twenty years. They grow in regions where
summer temperatures rise above forty degrees Celsius.
Dragon Fruits grow only during summers. They do not grow in the rest of the year. However, when
they grow their growth is rapid.
Dragon flowers bloom only at night. It occurs only once in a year. They rely on nocturnal pollinators
such as moths and bats for fertlization.
Dragon Fruit Cultivation and Demands in India
India imports 95% of its Dragon fruit from Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. The Dragon Fruit has
great export potentials to countries such as USA, Gulf and European. The farmers in the states of Gujarat,
Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka have taken up Dragon Fruit Cultivation only in the recent years.
Vietnam is the largest producer and exporter of Dragon Fruit. The fruit was brought here by the French.
Farmer Benefits
The Dragon Fruit plants are raised on poles. One pole can support four plants. In an acre, more than
300 poles can be installed. Commercial planting is highly beneficial as they can be planted in
clusters. Thus space consumption in dragon fruit cultivation is very minimal.
They will require only one to two litres of water per day. This can easily be achieved through drip

irrigation.
Also, Dragon fruits fetch good rates. They are sold for Rs 300 to Rs 400 per kilogram.
In India, Dragon fruits are consumed for their taste and health benefits.
Salvator Mundi: 500-year-old stolen Copies recovered
The Italian Police recently recovered a sixteenth century copy of “Salvator Mundi”. Salvator Mundi is the
world most expensive painting of Leonardo da Vinci.
Salvator Mundi
Salvator Mundi is a painting by the Italian renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. The painting depicts
Jesus in Renaissance dress making the sign of cross with his right hand. Also, he holds a transparent
crystal orb in his left hand in the painting. The painting represents “Celestial Sphere” of the heavens.
There are twenty other variations of the same work by the students of Leonardo da Vinci. However,
the original painting was created by the legend himself.
The Salvator Mundi is one of the few of the twenty-known works of Leonardo.
Salvator Mundi is the most expensive painting in the world. The painting was sold at 450 million USD
in 2017. It was sold to Saudi Prince Badr bin Abdullah. He is the current Minister of Culture of Saudi
Arabia. Since then, the painting holds the place of the most expensive painting of the world till date.
Scholars believe that the Salvator Mundi might have been painted for Louis XII of France. It might
have been presented to him after the Second Italian War. Louis fought the war to claims on the
thrones of Naples and Milan.
Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci was an Italian polymath. Polymath is an individual whose knowledge spans a
substantial number of subjects. He knows to draw on complex bodies of knowledge to solve a
particular problem. join @aspirants85
He is considered as one of the most diversely talented individuals during his era. He became known
for his notebooks where he made notes on his scientific inventions. His inventions involved variety of
subjects such as botany, astronomy, anatomy, painting, cartography and palaeontology.
Some of the popular works of Leonardo were Annunciation, Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, Lady with an
Ermine.
Quantum Computing Application Lab: GoI and Amazon Partnership
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in partnership with the Amazon Web Services is to
establish Quantum Computing Applications Lab. The lab will identify quantum computing problems faced by
Central and State Governments and also by the research institutions. The chosen proposals from these
entities will get access to Amazon Web Services to use computing cloud platform from Amazon. Also, it will
provide access to simulators and programming tools at no cost.
National Mission on Quantum Technology and Applications
It is to be implemented by the Department of Science and Technology operating under Ministry of
Science and Technology.
The mission focuses on fundamental science, technology development and addresses the issues
concerning the national priorities.
It will prepare next generation skilled manpower and encourages entrepreneurship and startup
ecosystem development.
The Union Budget 2020-21 had proposed to spend Rs 8,000 crores on the National Mission on
Quantum Technologies and Applications.
Quantum Technology
The Quantum Technology is based on principles of quantum physics. That is, it is based on quantum theory.

In simple words, it is the behaviour of energy and material in atomic and subatomic levels. It will help
achieve information processing that will go beyond the limits of classical world. A conventional computer
will process in bits. On the other hand, a quantum computer will process in quantum bits.
Applications of Quantum Technology
The major applications of Quantum technology are as follows:
Communication: The Quantum Technology is used by China to link its terrestrial stations and
satellites. As the technology promises fast computing, it is significant to military and cyber security.
The Quantum technology will help in solving fundamental questions related to black hole and gravity.
The Quantum Technology will give boost to Genome India Project. It is a collaborative project of
twenty institutions.
With Quantum technology, natural disasters such as tsunamis, drought, earthquakes and floods
become highly predictable.
The technology will reduce the time frame of discovery of new molecules in the field of
pharmaceuticals.
Quantum technology will help to augment industrial revolution 4.0.
Avalokana Software launched in Karnataka
The Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa recently launched Avalokana software. The software will
enable the state government to access data on expenditures and sanctions incurred on 1,800 programmes.
Avolokana software
It is a transparent e-governance tool that will provide Assembly constituency wise release of government
grants and allocations to different government programmes. This will help the government to decide on
releasing funds based on the expenditure incurred by the department. It will eventually increase the
government hold over resources.
The software provides a focused view on scheduled caste sub plan, sustainable development goals and
tribal sub plan and centrally sponsored scheme.
Funds of Central Government of India
There are three types of funds that are available with the Government of India. They are
Consolidated Fund of India
Contingency Fund of India
Public Account of India
Consolidated Fund of India
The Consolidated Fund of India are filled by the indirect and direct taxes. Also, it is filled by the interests on
loans. Article 266 of the Indian Constitution provides the provisions of these funds. In order to withdraw
money from the Consolidated Funds of India, the Government of India has to get parliamentary approval.
Contingency Fund of India
The Contingency Fund of India has a corpus of Rs 500 crores. The provisions of this fund is provided under
Article 267 of Constitution of India. The fund is used to meet unforeseen expenditure. The State
governments have their own contingency funds.
Public Account of India
All the other money that are not covered in Consolidated Fund of India and received by the Government of
India are credited to Public Accounts of India. It is made of National Investment Fund (that is the money
earned by GoI through disinvestment), National Small Savings Funds, postal insurance, provident funds,
defence funds, bank savings account of different ministries. Unlike Consolidated Fund of India, GoI need
not take permission to take advances from this account.

Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti celebrated in India
India celebrated Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti on January 20, 2021.
Guru Gobind Singh Jayanti
Guru Gobind Singh was the last of the ten Sikh Gurus. He was born on December 22, 1666 in Patna. His
birthday is celebrated according to the Nanakshshahi calendar. Accordingly, this year, the birth anniversary
of Guru Gobind Singh was celebrated on January 20, 2021.
Nanakshahi Calendar
The Nanakshahi Calendar is a solar calendar used by the Sikhs. It is based on Barah Maha. The Barah
Maha was composed by Sikh Gurus. It is a poem that translates the twelve months in a year.
The calendar is named after the founder of Sikh religion Guru Nanak.
The first year of Nanakshi calendar starts in 1469. It is the year of the birth of Guru Nanak.
Magh Mela held in Punjab is celebrated according to Nanakshahi calendar.
Guru Gobind Singh
Guru Gobind Singh was nine years old when his father Guru Tegh Bahadur was beheaded on the
orders of Mughal ruler Aurangzeb.
He established the Khalsa in 1699. The Khalsa was a warrior community. A male Khalsa is titled as
“Singh” and a female as “Kaur”.
The five ‘K’ tradition for the Khalsa was started by Guru Gobind Singh. They are as follows:
Kesh-Uncut hair
Kanga-wooden comb
Kara-Iron or steel bracelet
Kirpan-Dagger
Kacchera-short breeches
The 5 Ks are the five articles of faith that a Khalsa should always adorn.
He also laid down several other rules for the Khalsa such as abstaining from halal meat, alcohol and
tobacco products.
The Khalsa warriors are duty bound to protect the people from persecution.
He named the religious text of Sikhs Guru Granth Sahib as the next guru of the Sikhs and Khalsa.
The literary contributions of Guru Gobind Singh are Benti Chaupai, Jaap Sahib, Amrit Savaiye.
National Democratic Front of Bodoland
The Assam Chief Minister Sarbanada Sonowal recently provided four lakh rupees to around 1,279
surrendered cadres of National Democratic Front of Bodoland.
National Democratic Front of Bodoland
The National Democratic Front of Bodoland is an armed separatist that seeks to obtain sovereign
Bodoland for the Bodo people. The Government of India has designated the National Democratic
Front of Bodoland as the terrorist organisation.
The NDFB is a militant group that was created in 1986. The group has conducted several attacks
targeting non-Bodo civilians. The NDFB mainly targets Munda, Santhal and Oraon tribes. These tribal
people were brought to Assam as tea labourer by Britishers.
In 1990s, the NDFB established twelve camps along the Bhutan-Assam border. The Bhutan
Government launched Operation All Clear to drive away them from Bhutan border. The Indian
Government launched Operation Bajrang and Operation Rhino against the Assam separatist groups.
Bodo Accord 2020
The Bodo Peace Accord, 2020 was signed between All Bodo Students Union, Assam Government and the
National Democratic Front of Bodoland. Following the accord, the GoI announced Rs 1,500 crore package

for Bodo Areas of Assam.
In twenty-seven years of conflict, the Government of India has signed three agreements with the Bodo
tribes. In 1993, an agreement signed with the All-Bodo Students Union resulted in the creation of Bodoland
Autonomous Council. The 2003 agreement was signed with Bodo Liberation Tigers.
Bodos
Bodos are the single largest tribal community of Assam. They make up 5% to 6% of the state’s population.
They are a part of the Bodo-Kachari family spread across the North East India. They speak Boro language.
The Boro Language is recognised as one of the twenty-two languages in the Indian Constitution.
The Bodos are recognised as plains tribes in the sixth schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Gujarat Horticulture Development Mission
The Gujarat chief Minister recently announced the “Horticulture Development Mission”. It is also called
“Bagayat Vikas Mission”. The main objective of the mission is to double the income of the farmers involved
in horticulture and medicinal farming.
Key Features of Horticultural Development Mission
Under the mission, the waste land of the State Government of Gujarat is to be provided on thirty year
lease for farming medicinal and horticulture crops. Currently, the Gujarat Government holds 50,000
non-cultivated waste lands. A list of waste lands available for allotment is to be released on I-Khedut
portal.
The mission is to give priority to farmers using sprinkler and drip irrigation.
The first phase of the mission is to be implemented in Surendranagar, Kutch, Sabarkantha and Patan
districts.
The tax on land conversion is to be waived off under the mission.
The mission has fixed the lease amount as Rs 100 to Rs 500 per year per acre.
The mission allows the lease holders to set up wind mills and solar panels to generate power.
However, they are not allowed to sell the instalments.
No compensation will be paid to the farmers if the land is returned before the end of lease period.
A high-power committee chaired by the Chief Minister of the State of Gujarat is to be set up. The
committee will make final decisions on land allotment.
The progress made on the land under the mission is to be evaluated in once five years.
The farmers receiving lands under the mission can only grow fruits and medicinal plants. They cannot
grow cash crops or grains.
I Khedut Portal
The main aim of the portal is to provide information about various schemes related to farmers. Also, it
provides information about weather conditions, market price of the crops and many more. The farmers can
also apply for tractors through the portal. The State Government will provide assistance to such
applications under “The Scheme for Khetiwadi”.
Regulatory Compliance Portal lunched by DPIIT
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recently launched a regulatory
compliance portal. The portal is to act as a bridge between the industries, citizens and the government in
minimising burdensome compliances.
About the Portal
It is the first central online repository portal for all state and central level compliances.
The portal will capture and track the following actions:
The Central ministries, states, union territories and other departments will examine regulations,
laws and rules under their purview.

They will then implement an action plan to simplify these processes.
They will mainly remove burdensome compliances, repeal redundant acts and decriminalise
laws. These actions are to be tracked by the portal.
The portal will also allow stakeholders of CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) to submit
compliances and recommendations.
Training sessions are being conducted by DPIIT for the government officials to get familiarised with
the portal.
Objective of the portal
To reduce compliance burden
To simplify interfaces between government and citizens
To increase manufacturing scale by reducing compliance burden
To remove obsolete acts
To make Indian industries competitive
Significance
The portal will increase ease of doing business in India. India ranked 142nd in 2014 in the World Bank’s Ease
of Doing Business ranking. In 2019, India ranked 63rd. Also, the portal will be instrumental in achieving the
vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat.
Other Steps
The GoI has lately taking several measures to boost the industrial sector of the country. In 2015, the
Business Reform Action Plan (BRAP) was begun. In 2019, BRAP with a list of eighty reforms were
implemented. These reforms were related to labour, environment, access to information and single window
system. Industrial Corridors were set up. Invest India was launched to transform the investment climate in
the country by simplifying business environment for investors.
What is 1776 Commission?
The White House recently released the 1776 Commission report. The 1776 Commission was setup by
President Trump when he was lagging behind the president elect Joe Biden during the US President Election
2020.
The 1776 Commission
The 1776 Commission was a counter to the 1619 project. It was an eighteen-member commission. It did not
include any historians. Rather, it comprised of conservative politicians and activists. It was an advisory
commission. The commission recently released its report on Martin Luther King Day (January 18, 2021).
About the 1619 project
The 1619 project is a collection of essays on African American history of past four centuries. It is also a
Pulitzer prize winner. The essays of 1619 project explores the contribution of black community towards
nation-building. It covers the period between the era of slavery and modern times.
Key Findings of 1776 Commission
The commission has identified racism, progressivism and identity politics as the challenges to the United
States of America.
The report refers John Calhoun as the leading fore runner of identity politics. John Calhoun was an
American politician who held important positions including Vice President of US (1825-1832). He strongly
supported slavery.
Identity Politics
It refers to political positions based on the perspectives and interests of social groups. For instance, it
includes social organisations based on social class, age, caste, culture, sex.

Identity Politics in India
In India, religious identities, rise of low castes and linguistic groups have contributed to identity politics.
The other impacts of identity politics in India are as follows:
Formation of coalition government based on ideology and identity
The rise of state and regional parties. For example, Shiv Sena, BSP, etc.
On the positive side, the political parties are able to focus on particular sections that are deprived of
economic opportunities in identity politics.
On the negative side, it has sowed seeds of enmity and hatred among different sections of the
society based on religion, castes and ethnicity.
Ratle Hydropower Project
The Union Cabinet recently approved the Ratle Hydropower Project of 850 MW. The cabinet has nodded to
an investment of Rs 5,281.94 crores in the project. The project is located in River Chenab.
About the Ratle Hydropower Project
It is a joint venture of Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation and National
Hydroelectric power corporation. The share of NHPC in the project is 49% and that of Jammu and
Kashmir State Power Development Corporation is 51% respectively.
The project is to be commissioned within sixty months.
The project is expected to provide direct and indirect employment to more than four thousand
individuals.
The project includes 133 metres tall gravity dam and two power stations.
The main power station of the project will contain four 205 MW Francis Turbines.
The auxiliary power station of the project will contain 30 MW of Francis Turbine.
The foundation stone to construct the dam was laid by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2013.
Status of the Project
The project did not start till 2015.
In 2017, the World Bank allowed India to construct the dam. The Indus Water Treaty was signed after
nine years of negotiations between India and Pakistan with the help of World Bank.
The project received severe objections from Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Stand on the Ratle Hydropower Project
According to Pakistan, the Ratle Hydropower Project violates Indus Water Treaty. According to Indus Water
Treaty, the western rivers such as Indus, Chenab and Jhelum were allocated to Chenab. According to
Pakistan, as the project is built across Chenab, it violates the treaty. However, the treaty also says that the
waters can be used by India for specified domestic and agricultural use as provided by the treaty. The
eastern rivers such as Beas, Ravi and Sutlej are to be used by India. Accordingly, India has constructed
Bhakra Dam on Sutlej, Thein on Ravi and Pandoh and Pong dam on Beas.
Abell 370: NASA shares picture
NASA recently shared the picture of a huge cluster of galaxies called Abell 370.
Abell 370
It is a galaxy cluster located four billion light years away from the earth. The galaxy cluster is located
in the constellation called Cetus.
The core of Abell 370 is made of more than hundred galaxies.
The Galaxy was catalogued by George Abell and hence the name.
Abell 370 has several arcs of light. These arcs are the mirages caused by gravitational lensing of
dark and massive objects located between the observer and the distant galaxies.
The Abell 370 galaxy cluster was first discovered in 2002 using the lensing effect.

What is Gravitational Lensing?
As light emitted by galaxies (located in far distances) passes by massive objects, the gravitational pull from
these objects tend to bend or distort the light. This is called Gravitational lensing.
Cetus Constellation
Cetus is a sea monster in Greek Mythology.
Cetus constellation is located in the region of the sky where the other constellations such as Pisces,
Aquarius and Eridanus are located.
There are fourteen stars in Cetus Constellation.
Mira was the first star discovered in the Cetus constellation.
Tau Ceti of the constellation is the nearest sun-like star.
Nick Name: The Dragon
Abell 370 Galaxy is also nick named as The Dragon by the NASA scientists. This is mainly because in 2009,
a study on Abell 370 revealed a group of galaxies in the background of the cluster. The grouping was lensed
and distorted by the cluster as a dragon. The head of the dragon was made of spiral galaxy. These galaxies
were five billion light years away from each other.
Spiral Galaxy
The spiral galaxy is a class of galaxy that consists of a central concentration of stars called bulge and flat
rotating disk containing gas, stars and dust. Pinwheel Galaxy is a spiral galaxy.
January 22, 2021
Exercise Kavach: To be held under Andaman and Nicobar Command
The Indian Army is to conduct a large scale joint military exercise Kavach in the Andaman Sea and Bay of
Bengal. The exercise is to be held under the aegis of Andaman and Nicobar Command.
About the Exercise
The Joint Military Exercise Kavach will involve Indian Navy, Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian
Coast Guard.
During the exercise, the joint forces will execute high density offensive and defence measures in the
Andaman sea and Bay of Bengal. Also, they will carry out amphibious landing operations, helicopter
borne insertion of special forces from sea culminating in tactical follow-on operations on land.
The exercise is to fine tune the joint war capabilities of all the three forces of India.
Kavach Exercise will also involve coordinated air and maritime strikes, synergized application of
maritime surveillance assets, air defence and landing operations.
Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Exercise
Along with Kavach Exercise, the Joint Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR) Exercise will also be
held. The ISR will validate capabilities of intelligence gathering. Also, it will validate capabilities of
information sharing from space, land, air and sea.
Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance of India
The Heron Unmanned Vehicle of the Indian Air Force has been assigned the task of intelligence and
surveillance. Heron UAV Fleet was bought from Israel. The ground based ISR capabilities of India
includes Daksh. Daksh is a remote ground-based sensor. The regiment of artillery is using Israeli
assisted SATA. SATA is Searcher for Surveillance and Target Acquisition.
The Black Hornet UAV is used by the National Security Guards for reconnaissance purpose.
India is focusing on helicopters, UAVs and aircrafts to increase its ISR roles.
China’s Surveillance
China has developed ELINT (Electronic Intelligence) and SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar). SAR cover a small
area, while ELINT covers al larger area for Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance Exercises.

SAAW: Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon of DRDO
The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited recently test fired the SAAW (Smart Anti Airfield Weapon) from Hawk
aircraft successfully. SAAW was developed by Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO). SAAW
is the first smart weapon fired from an Indian Hawk.
About SAAW
SAAW is a long-range precision guided anti-airfield weapon. The weapon is capable of engaging
ground targets with precision up to a range of hundred kilo metres.
Basically, SAAW is a bomb. It is designed to destroy targets such as bunkers, runways, reinforced
structures and aircraft hangers.
The SAAW project was approved by Government of India in 2013.
So far, eight successful tests of SAW have been conducted.
In 2020, the Government of India approved SAAW project for Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.
Hawk aircraft
It is a tandem seat aircraft developed by HAL. The aircraft has an integrated attack system and radio and
inertial navigation system. It is spin resistant.
Indian Defence System
The Government of India is currently planning to increase indigenous defence production of the
country. Eventually the plan is to reduce the imports and increase the exports. The GoI has set a
target of defence exports of Rs 35,000 crores. This is to be achieved by 2025. In order to achieve the
target, the Union cabinet recently approved the exports of Akash missile system. The Akash surface
to air missile has a range of twenty-five kilometres. It was inducted in the Indian Air Force in 2014.
Besides Akash, the GoI is also planning to export radars, coastal surveillance system and air
platforms.
In 2018-19, the defence exports of India was Rs 10,745 crores.
India’s share in global arms exports in only 0.17%.
Current Scenario
According to SIPRI report published in 2020, India ranked 23rd in the list of major arms exporters. India
ranked fourth in Defence Firepower Index, 2021.
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Global Risks Report, 2021
The World Economic Forum recently released the sixteenth edition of the Global Risks Report, 2021. The
report was released based on the Global Risks Perception Survey undertaken by more than 650 members of
World Economic Forum.
According to the report, the following will be the short-term (0 to 2 years) risks:
Infectious diseases
Extreme Weather Events
Livelihood Diseases
The medium term (3 to 5 years) risks are:
IT Infrastructure Breakdown
Asset Bubble Burst
Price Instability
The long term (5 to 10 years) risks are:
State Collapse
Weapons of Mass Destruction
Biodiversity losses

Top Risks identified by the report
The top three risks by likelihood that are to happen in the next ten years are climate action failure, extreme
weather and human environmental damage. The top three risks by impact are climate action failures,
infectious diseases and weapons of mass destruction. In 2020, the Global Risks report ranked infectious
diseases on tenth position in the list of most critical threats. Though the carbon emissions have declined
due to COVID-19 related lock down, they are expected to increase when the economic recovery begins.
About the Report
The report was released before the upcoming Davos Agenda Summit of World Economic Forum. This year,
in 2021, the World Economic Forum is to launch the Great Reset Initiative alongside Davos Agenda Summit.
The main aim of the report is to prepare the Government and other international communities during the
times of crisis.
Suggestions
The report makes the following suggestions to the global communities to draw lessons from the responses
to COVID-19:
To formulate analytical frameworks
To build trust through clear and consistent communication
To create new forms of partnerships
World Economic Forum
Earlier in October 2020, the World Economic Forum released The Future of Jobs Report, 2020. According to
the report, the COVID-19 will disrupt more than eighty-five million jobs by 2025.
What is Root Zone Moisture?
NASA recently released the estimates of soil moisture in the root zone (the top 39 inches of soil) as of
January 11, 2021. Accordingly, the Konya Plains had the lowest “root zone moisture”. The estimate was
done based on the GRACE-FO satellite data.
Key Findings
The Konya Plains located in Turkey received 38% less rainfall in 2020 as compared to 2019. This is
the main reason for the region to become the lowest “root zone moisture” area in the world.
The wetness percentile of Root Zone Moisture in western India was between 80% and 98%. In eastern
India, the wetness percentile was between 30% and 70%. In Northern India it was less than 10%
The Surface Soil Moisture along the coasts of Western Ghats was above 95%. In the rest of the
country, it was less than 30%. In northern India, it was less than 10%.
The Report on Root Zone Moisture
The decline in Root Zone Moisture in the Mediterranean countries have put agriculture in the region
under threat.
The South African city Cape Town witnessed severe droughts. The water reservoirs that supply water
to more than 3.7 million people had dipped to below 20%. This has further contributed to the root
zone moisture decline in these regions.
The water reserves of Istanbul have the lowest volumes of water in fifteen years.
About Root Zone Moisture
The water and moisture in the soil to a depth of 39 inches is called root zone moisture. It takes a lot of time
for the aquifers to recover from droughts in the absence of rain. The aquifers rely on surface moisture to
percolate through soil and rocks. When there are no rains and surface moisture, the root zone moisture
might vanish completely. This eventually will make the soil unfit for trees and plants.
Root Zone Irrigation
Root Zone Irrigation is the only solution to soils that have decreased root zone moisture. Root zone

irrigation is expensive than the surface drip irrigation. However, root zone irrigation is more effective than
the surface drip irrigation. Currently, root zone irrigation is being used in cultivation of grapes.
What is Great Green Wall Initiative?
The Great Green Wall for Sahel and Sahara Initiative recently received 14 billion USD funds at the recent One
Planet Summit for Biodiversity. The funding is to be used to restore degraded land, strengthen resilience,
create green jobs and protect biodiversity. Among the financiers, the World Bank has committed 5 billion
USD, African Development Bank committed 6.5 billion USD and Government of France committed 14 billion
USD.
What is Great Green Wall Initiative?
The Great Green Wall initiative aims to transform the lives of 100 million Africans by growing 8,000 kilo
metre long and fifteen kilo metre wide mosaic of trees, vegetation, grasslands, plants.
The Great Green Wall is an African-led initiative. It was started in 2007 by the African Union to combat
desertification, land degradation, drought. The project aims to restore 100 million hectares of degraded
land by 2030. So far between 2007 and 2019, the Great Green Wall initiative has restored only four million
hectares of land.
Key Objectives of Great Green Wall Initiative
The initiative aims to sequester 250 million tonnes of carbon and create ten million green jobs. It will
support the African communities to grow fertile land and increase economic opportunities for the youngest
population. The project will help to create climate resilience in the region where temperatures are rising
faster than the rest of the earth.
Sustainable Development Goals
The Great Green Wall initiative will contribute fifteen of the seventeen United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals. The main objective of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification is to
reach Land neutrality by 2030. Thus, the Great Green Wall initiative will help achieve this.
What are the countries that are selected as intervention zones for the Great Green Wall initiative?
Chad, Burkina Faso, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Mali, Niger, Mautitania, Nigeria, Sudan, Senegal, Djibouti.
What is LongOps Project?
The LongOps Project is a collaboration between UK and Japan. Under the operation, the scientists from
Japan and UK will develop new and safe technologies to dismantle old nuclear facilities such as the
Fukushima that were severely damaged by tsunamis and earthquakes.
About LongOps Project
The project is to use long-reach robotic arms and hence is called “LongOps Project”. The project will
reduce the risks to human health and will speed up decommissioning of nuclear reactors that are
non-operational.
The LongOps project is to be implemented at a cost of 12 million Euros (Rs 120 crores).
It will focus on fast decommissioning of nuclear sites.
Apart from dismantling nuclear fission sites, the project will also focus on automating parts of
nuclear fusion power generation process.
The project will also help to improve and dismantle nuclear fusion facilities such as the Joint
European Torus. Joint European Torus is a nuclear fusion experiment located in Culham Centre for
Fusion Energy, UK. It was the first reactor to run on the production fuel of 50-50 mix of tritium and
deuterium. It was shut down in 2009 to adopt concepts used in ITER project.
ITER Project
ITER is International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor. India is also a part of ITER. The other countries
involved in ITER are China, Russia, Japan, European Union, US and South Korea.

Digital Twin Technology
Digital Twin Technology is a part of the LongOps Project. It will analyze data from decommissioning sites
and predict operational and maintenance challenges.
Disasters
In Sellafield more than twenty-one serious incidents of radiological releases occurred between 1950
and 2000. Sellafield is located in United Kingdom. It is a former nuclear power generating site. As of
August 2020, the activities in the site includes nuclear fuel reprocessing, nuclear decommissioning
and nuclear waste storage.
In 2011, the Fukushima Daiichi reactors were severely damaged by an earthquake and tsunami in
2011. The incident displaced more than 150,000 people. Also, the flora and fauna in the surrounding
areas were severely contaminated.
Risa in the Culture of Tripura
The Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb recently wore “Risa” on Kokborok Day. The Chief Minister of
late has made Risa, his style statement. The Government of Tripura is to promote Risa at national and
international level.
What is Risa?
Risa is the traditional dress of Tripura. Risa is worn by both men and women of Tripura.
The dress for women in the upper half of the body has two parts namely Risa and Rikutu. Risa covers
the chest part and rikutu covers the whole upper part. The dress of women that covers the lower half
of the body is called Rigwani or Rignai.
Each clan of Tripura has their own “Rignai” pattern and design. The clans of Tripura are identified
based on the Rignai.
Men of Tripura use Risa for head turban and also for tying the waist over Dhuti. When men wear Risa,
it gives them strength and indicates the status of the person. It is also used as muffler in winter
season.
Risa is also used in Tripura culture to hold baby.
“Risa Sormani” is an adolescent ceremony of a Tripuri girl child. On this day, the 12-14 year old girl is
given risa to wear for the first time.
History of Risa
The history of Tripuri attire originated before Manikya kings’ rule.
In ancient period, the intelligence of a woman in the community was judged based on her woven Risa
and Rignai designs.
The Manikya king Maharaj Trilochana had invented 250 Rignai and Risa designs for his 250 wives.
However, most of these designs were lost with passage of time. The Tripura Government is therefore
trying to promote Risa and other traditional attire of Tripura.
Kokborok Day
Kokborok Day is celebrated in Tripura to celebrated the development of Kokborok language. Every year, the
day is observed on January 19. The Kokborok is the official language of Tripura. January 19 was chosen to
celebrate Kokborok Day as the language was recognized as an official language on this day in 1979.
UVIT of ISRO: Rare UV-Bright Stars spotted
The Astronomers have spotted massive hot UV-Bright stars in Milky Way Galaxy with the help of UVIT. UVIT
is Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope. It is placed in Astrosat satellite. The Astrosat is the first multi wavelength
space satellite of India.
UV-Bright Star: Recent Observation of UVIT
The Astronomers have successfully distinguished the UV-bright star cluster from relatively cooler red

giant stars and other main sequence stars. More than thirty-four UV-bright stars were discovered
using the UVIT.
From the images, the team also derived properties of the stars such as luminosities, temperature and
radii. The derived properties of the stars were placed in Hertzsprung-Russel diagram. It is the diagram
that shows relationship between stars’ absolute magnitudes and luminosities versus their effective
temperatures (or stellar classification). The diagram was first created in 1910 by Ejnar Hertzsprung
and Henry Norris Russell.
What is a UV Bright Star?
A UV-Bright Star is brighter than the horizontal branch and bluer than the red giant branch. According to the
astronomers, the inner core of the stars spotted are almost exposed. This is making them extremely hot.
They were evolved from a solar stage called “Horizontal Branch Stars”. Such stars do not have an outer
envelope. These stars are in their late stages of evolution just like the sun. Apart from UVIT, the
astronomers also used Gaia telescope and space telescope to identify the stars.
UVIT
The Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope is a three in one imaging technology. It can observe in Near
Ultraviolet, visible and far-ultraviolet wavelengths.
The UVIT has two telescopes. One works in visible range, that is, 320 nano metres to 550 nano
metres. The other works in Near Ultraviolet wavelength, that is, 200-300 nano metres.
UVIT is three times better than GALEX of NASA. GALEX is Galaxy Evolution Explorer. It was an
Ultraviolet Space Telescope launched in 2003 and decommissioned in 2013.
Earlier Observations of UVIT
So far UVIT has carried out 1166 observations of 800 unique celestial sources.
It has explored several star clusters and mapped large and small satellite galaxies near Milky Way
Galaxy called Magellanic Clouds.
Astrosat
The Astrosat was launched in 2015. It was the first multi wavelength space observatory of India. It was
launched to observe the universe in ultraviolet, visible and low and high energy X-rays. The mission has put
ISRO in an exclusive club of nations that currently own space-based observatories. They are US, Japan,
European Space Agency and Russia.
What is Sudden Stratospheric Warming?
The Southern India received excessively heavy rainfall (ten times the normal) between January 1, 2021 and
January 17, 2021. This winter rain, according to the scientists, is due to sudden stratospheric warming that
occurred in Arctic region.
Sudden Stratospheric Warming
The Sudden Stratospheric Warming is an event where the polar stratospheric temperature increases
up to fifty degrees Celsius. It is preceded by a situation where the polar jet stream of westerly winds
in the northern hemisphere is disturbed by natural weather patterns. This is usually addressed as
polar vortex.
The polar vortex is a whirling cone of low pressure over the poles. The polar vortex is the strongest in
winter. It spins in the stratosphere.
During winter, the polar vortex is the strongest due to the difference in temperature between polar
and mid latitude regions.
When the polar vortex is the strongest, it forms a wall protecting the mid-latitudes from cold Arctic
air. When Polar Vortex weakens, the stratosphere begins to warm and the event is called Sudden
Stratospheric Warming.

2021 Sudden Stratospheric Warming
The Sudden Stratospheric Warming occurred on January 5, 2021 according to weather forecast models. The
Stratosphere is the layer of the atmosphere at a height of ten to fifty kilo metres above the earth surface.
During Sudden Stratospheric Warming, the polar stratospheric temperature might increase up to fifty degree
Celsius. Around forty Sudden Stratospheric Warming events have occurred in the last sixty years.
2019 Sudden Stratospheric Warming
Very rarely the SSW also occurs in South Pole. The last SSW in south pole occurred in 2019. During the 2019
SSW, the north pole vortex split into three smaller vortices. This released cold winds into the southern
regions below it. Lake Michigan was frozen in Chicago due to this weather condition.
2018 Sudden Stratospheric Warming: Beast from the East
The 2018 Sudden Stratospheric Warming was referred to “Beast from the East” as it brought in unusually
cold weather conditions in UK and also in several other parts of the world.
Usually, the Beast from the East term is used to describe cold conditions in the UK. The condition occurs
due to the Easterly winds that flows from Siberia towards the UK.
Section 32A of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code
The Supreme Court recently upheld the validity of Section 32 A of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.
Under its judgement, the apex court pronounced that the successful bidders for a corporate debtor will be
immune from any investigations conducted by an investigating agency (like Enforcement Directorate or
other statutory bodies such as SEBI) under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.
Supreme Court Judgement
The SC said that it is important for IBC to attract bidders who will offer a fair value for the corporate debtor.
This is essential to ensure timely completion of corporate insolvency resolution process. The SC also said
that these bidders should be provided protection from misdeeds of the past. The protections should also
extend to the assets of the corporate debtor.
Section 32A of IBC
Under the section the corporate debtor who has committed an offence prior to the commencement of the
insolvency resolution process will not be prosecuted.
The Section 32A provides immunity to the corporate debtor and its property. However, the protection is
provided when there is an approval of resolution plan that leads to change of management of control.
The petitioner argued in the Supreme Court that this provision is constitutionally incorrect. This is because
it provides an undeserved immunity to the property.
Justification in Simple Words
According to the SC, the Section 32 A is essential to avoid delay in several big-ticket cases. For instance,
take the case of Bhushan Power and Steel. The company became bankrupt and admitted to insolvency in
2017. It owed more than Rs 47,000 crores to banks and Rs 780 crores to creditors. After hard prolonged
battle JSW Steel won the rights to take over Bhushan Power and Steel. Meanwhile, before JSW Steel could
take over, the Enforcement Directorate came in and alleged Bhushan Power with fraud of Rs 4,000 crores in
a bank loan under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Ethically, the actions of ED are right! However,
the company is facing bankruptcy due to such wrong deeds and cannot be sued further. Therefore,
according to SC during Insolvency Resolution, focus should be on resolving the issue.
January 23, 2021
Rapid Assessment System: Feedback on COVID-19 Vaccination
The Government of India is to use Rapid Assessment System for the feedback on COVID-19 vaccination.
About Rapid Assessment System
The system sends SMS to people vaccinated in a span of four days. It sends SMS with ID AX-GOVRAS
and asks citizens if social distancing was maintained at vaccination sites, if information about
adverse effects of vaccination was provided, etc.
The information such as names and mobiles numbers of the people vaccinated are received by Rapid
Assessment System from Co-WIN platform.
If the user does not send feedback through SMS within twenty-four hours, a call is made for
assessment.
It was developed by a division of Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
The SMS are sent in local languages. It is available in Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Marathi,
Malayalam, Punjabi, Telugu and Tamil.
What is CO-WIN?
It is a digital platform used for COVID-19 Vaccine delivery. The CO-WIN platform records vaccine data
collected through CO-WIN mobile application. The platform is used to record vaccine data. Apart from this,
the app will collect database of health care workers as well. It uses temperature loggers (of cold chain) for
accurate remote temperature monitoring in real time.
It has five different modules namely administrator module, vaccination module, registration module,
beneficiary acknowledgement module and report module.
The CO-WIN is based on eVIN (Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network)
Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network
It was an indigenously developed technology that digitises vaccine stocks. It monitors temperature of cold
chain through smartphone applications. It was first launched in twelve states in 2015. eVIN supports the
Universal Immunization Programme of Government of India.
NEGVAC
NEGVAC is National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration. It is a group of experts formed by Government
of India to guide the strategies of vaccine introduction.
Kraken Mare in Titan is 1000 feet deep
The researchers have recently found that the largest sea in Titan (moon of Saturn) is thousand feet deep in
its centre. Also, it is the size of five great lakes combined together.
About Kraken Mare
Kraken Mare is huge liquid body located in the north pole of Titan.
It is made of ethane and methane.
The sea covers 154,000 square miles.
Kraken Mare was discovered by the space probe Cassini. Cassini was developed under the
collaboration of NASA, Italian Space Agency and European Space Agency. Cassini was the first space
probe to orbit Titan.
The fact that Titan consists of sea of hydrocarbons was discovered through radar images.
An island in Kraken Mare has been named “Mayda Insula”. It is the first island to be named on a
planet or moon other than the earth.
To study about Kraken Mare and its composition, “Titan Saturn System Mission” is to be launched.
Titan Saturn System Mission
It is a joint mission of NASA and European Space Agency. The mission is to be developed at a cost of
2.5 billion USD. It is a four-year mission. It includes two-year Saturn tour, two months of Titan aero-
sampling and twenty-month Titan orbiting phase.
The mission consists of an orbiter and two titan exploration probes. The exploration probes include a
hot air balloon and a lander. The hot air balloon will float in Titan clouds and the lander will splash
down on one of the methane seas of Titan.

A mission to Jupiter called the Europa Jupiter System Mission-Laplace is delaying the Titan Saturn
System Mission.
Europa Jupiter System Mission-Laplace
It is a joint project of European Space Agency and NASA. The project is to focus on the moons of Jupiter
such as Europa and Ganymede and magnetosphere of Jupiter. The magnetosphere is a region in space
where the charged particles are affected by the magnetic field of an object.
What is Hum of the Universe?
The Hum of the Universe was recently detected by the North American Nanohertz Observatory for
Gravitational Waves (NANOGrav). According to the researchers, the hum was produced by gravitational
waves.
About the Hum of the Universe
The Hum of the Universe comes from a type of dead star called a “Pulsar”. These stars are basically
neutron stars. They are oriented in such a manner that they flash beams of radio waves from their
poles as they rotate.
This is the first time the humming sound has been heard from a pulsar collision. Earlier scientists
have observed such humming sound. However, they were from black hole mergers. The humming
sound from blackhole mergers were detected by LIGO observatories. LIGO is LASER Inferometer
Gravitational Wave Observatory.
The discovery of humming sound from pulsars is to be a great step for the members of Pulsar Timing
Array.
Blackhole Hum
Similar humming sounds are produced when black holes collide. Such sounds are called Black Hole hums.
On an average more than hundred thousand mergers of black holes occur in the universe in a year.
NANOGrav
NANOGrav is North American Nano hertz Observatory for Gravitational Waves. The main objective of
NANOGrav is to detect gravitational waves. The project is implemented by Parkes Pulsar Timing Array,
International Pulsar Timing Array and European Pulsar Timing Array.
Pulsar Timing Array
It is a programme of regular, timing observation of widely distributed array of millisecond pulsars. A
millisecond pulsar is a pulsar with rotational period smaller than about ten milli seconds. A millisecond
pulsar is a pulsar with rotational speed smaller than ten milli seconds.
Indian Pulsar Timing Array
It is a project of National Centre for Radio Astrophysics, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research. It aims to
detect nano-hertz gravitational waves by precision timing.
WASP-107b: Giant Exoplanet has low core mass
The researchers studying about the WASP-107b have recently found that the core mass of the giant
exoplanet is much lower than what was previously assumed.
Recent Study on WASP-107b join @aspirants85
WASP-107b is an exoplanet and was discovered in 2017. Earlier, the scientists believed that the planet was
huge in size due to its huge gas envelope that surrounded the planet. Also, the scientists believed that such
huge gas envelopes are possible only with massive and dense cores. However, the recent study says that
the cores of WASP-107b are not as dense as thought earlier.
About WASP-107b
WASP-107b is a super-Neptune exoplanet. A super-Neptune exoplanet is a planet that is more
massive than Neptune. Sometimes, a planet falling in this range is also called “sub-Saturn”. They are

five to seven times as large as the earth.
It orbits the star WASP-107.
It is 200 light years away from the earth.
It is located in the constellation Virgo.
The unique feature of WASP-107b is that the planet migrated inward from its birth orbit. This,
according to the scientists might have occurred due to the interaction with a heavier planet.
The atmosphere of WASP-107b is made of Helium. Discovery of helium in WASP-107b in 2018, was
the first-time helium was discovered in an exoplanet.
Though the planet is huge (of the size of Jupiter), its mass is less than one-tenth of Jupiter. This
makes it one of the lowest density exoplanets.
Comet like tail in WASP-107b
WASP-107b has a comet-like tail. This is because, the helium absorption occurring in the atmosphere of the
planet has increased the temperature to five hundred degrees Celsius. This makes it one of the hottest
known exoplanets. Such huge temperatures are boiling off its surfaces. This leaves a comet like tail as
WASP-107b is revolving around its star.
Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
The Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons was adopted on July 7, 2017. The treaty entered into force on
January 22, 2021. The treaty is the first legally binding international agreement that aim to eliminate nuclear
weapons completely.
Signatories
The treaty was approved by the United Nations General Assembly in 2017. However, only 120 members have
signed the treaty. The major nuclear powers of the world including India have not supported the treaty. The
other major nuclear powers that did not support the treaty were China, US, France, Japan, North Korea,
Russia, Pakistan and Israel.
Key Features
The treaty prohibits the use of nuclear weapons on national territories.
The signatories should provide adequate assistance to individuals affected by the testing of nuclear
weapons. They should also take required environmental remediation in areas under its jurisdiction
that was contaminated as result of nuclear weapon testing.
A state party joining the treaty should declare if it has eliminated its previous nuclear weapon
programme. The party should also disclose if it holds nuclear weapons of other countries in its
territories. In case if the party holds other countries’ nuclear weapons it must remove them before
signing the treaty.
The non-nuclear weapon states should have a minimum safeguards agreement with the International
Atomic Energy Agency.
India’s Stand
India does not support the Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. India is committed to the policy of
“No First Use” against nuclear weapon states and non-use against non-nuclear weapon states. India is also
committed to negotiations regarding the Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty. FMCT is a proposed international
agreement. The agreement prohibits production of enriched Uranium and Plutonium.
India has also not signed Non-Proliferation Treaty and the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.
Nuclear Warheads
According to 2020 estimates, the estimated global nuclear warhead inventories are 13,500. Of this, more
than 90% belongs to Russia and the US. India holds 150 nuclear warheads. Russia holds 6,375 nuclear war
heads and US holds 5,800 nuclear warheads. China holds 320.

UN resolution on safeguarding religious sites
The United Nations General Assembly recently adopted a resolution on safeguarding religious sites across
the world. The resolution was titled “Promoting a culture of peace and tolerance to safeguard religious
sites”. India supports the resolution.
Key Features of the Resolution
The resolution condemns offences against religious sites and symbols.
It rejects the use of violence to express a point of view (related to protecting religious practices).
The resolution also condemns forcible conversions of religions.
It condemns acts of violence that destructs religious sites all over the world.
United Nations Plan of Action to safeguard religious sites has been adopted.
United Nations Plan of Action to safeguard Religious Sites
In order to remind the universality of religious sites, mapping of religious sites all over the world is to
be developed.
The following principles have been adopted under the plan
Respect for the people all over the world irrespective of their faith, history and culture.
Responsibility to build cooperation among member countries.
Dialogues for better communication among member countries. The World Forum on
Intercultural Dialogue organised biennially is one of the main global platforms for promoting
intercultural and interreligious dialogue. It is organised by Azerbaijan in cooperation with
Islamic education, scientific and cultural organisation, Council of Europe. The dialogue is
organised biennially.
Standing together and Staying Together as one to ensure unity.
Promotion of education programmes on protecting the religious sites. Education is to be used as a
tool to address hate speech issues. The United Nations Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech
has been launched to reduce hate speech and violence related to hate speech in the world.
India-Pakistan irritants over the resolution
Pakistan was one of the co-sponsors of the resolution along with Saudi Arabia and other twenty countries.
According to India, the co-sponsoring of Pakistan was a great irony. This is because, Hindu temples were
attacked in Karak, Pakistan. In December 2020, the supporters of Jamiat Ulema e Islam party attacked and
burned a temple in Karak district.
New START Treaty
The US President Joe Biden recently proposed to extend New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty)
Treaty by five years. Russia has welcomed the proposal.
Key Features of New START Treaty
The New START Treaty was signed between United States and Russia in 2010 in Prague (capital of
Czech Republic). It entered into force in 2011.
The formal name of New START Treaty is “Measures for the further reduction and Limitation of
Strategic Offensive Arms”.
The treaty was signed to reduce nuclear arms production and utilisation by US and Russia.
Under the treaty, the countries will reduce their strategic nuclear missile launchers by half.
The treaty established an inspection and verification regime replacing SORT.
It reduced the number deployable strategic nuclear warheads to 1,550. This was 10% lower than the
strategic warhead limit set by Moscow treaty signed by the countries in 2002.
It reduced the number of submarine-launched ballistic missiles, inter-continental ballistic missile
launchers, heavy bombers equipped for nuclear armaments to 800.

It reduced the number of heavy bombers equipped nuclear armaments to 700.
The treaty replaced Treaty of Moscow, also called SORT (Strategic Offensive Reduction Treaty). The
term Strategic offensive arms means nuclear warheads deployed by Strategic Nuclear Delivery
Vehicles.
It is the successor of START I framework signed between the counties in 1991 that limited the
warheads of the countries to 6,000 and strategic delivery vehicles to 1,600. The START II treaty never
entered into force and the negotiations of START III treaty never concluded.
The New START Treaty is to lapse in February 2021.
Time Line set by New START Treaty
The above obligations of reducing the nuclear warheads were to be achieved within a time frame of seven
years from the date, the treaty entered into operation. The treaty will last for ten years. The countries may
renew it till five years upon agreement by both the parties.
Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces Treaty
The INF Treaty was signed between US and Russia during the cold war period. It was signed in 1987. Under
the treaty, the countries agreed to eliminate their stocks of short range and intermediate range missiles.
The US withdrew from the treaty in 2019.
Operation Sard Hawa
The Operation Sard Hawa was launched by the Border Security Force in the western border of Rajasthan.
The main purpose of the operation is to check the instances of infiltration due to dense fog in the region.
The Operation has also been launched to enhance the security ahead of Republic Day. The operation is to
run till January 27, 2021.
About Operation Sard Hawa
The operation was launched to keep a hawk’s eye in the international border.
Under the operation, the jawans will patrol with advanced weapons in the police station areas near to
the border.
The number of jawans deployed in the border has been increased under the operation.
The intelligence wing of Border Security Force is also to be in active mode during Operation Sard
Hawa.
Importance of Operation Sard Hawa
Due to dense fog in desert areas in winter, there are possibilities of infiltration in the region. There have
been attempts to infiltrate from across the border taking advantage of this haze. During such situations, the
border security forces increase patrolling under special operations like that of Operation Sard Hawa. They
also monitor the borders through vehicles along with trekking. The jawans also conduct foot point trekking.
During foot point trekking, the camels, vehicles and pedestrian intrusions used by intruders are detected.
Border Security Force
The Border Security Force of India is also called the “First Wall of Defence of Indian Territories”. It was set
up in the wake of 1965 Indo-Pakistan war. The main function of the Border Security Force is to ensure the
security of borders of India. It is headed by an officer from Indian Police Service. The BSF also undertakes
defensive actions during wartime to free up Indian Army troops for offensive operations. The BSF also
assists Central Reserve Police Force and the Indian Army in counter-insurgency operations.
The BSF has marine wing, air wing, commando units and artillery regiment. Currently, the BSF is the world
largest border guarding force.
MeerKAT Radio Telescope: Two Giant Radio Galaxies discovered
The MeerKAT Radio Telescope recently discovered two giant radio galaxies. The galaxies were discovered
under the MIGHTEE survey. The discovered galaxies are bigger than 93% of any other giants discovered

before. They were 62 times the size of Milky Way. Light takes 6.5 million light years to travel from one end
to the other.
MeerKAT Radio Telescope
The MeerKAT Radio Telescope is located in Northern Cape of South Africa. It is a radio telescope
with sixty-four antennas.
The array configuration of MeerKAT Radio Telescope has 61% of antennas located within one kilo
metre diameter circle and the remaining 39% is distributed to a radius of four kilo metres.
MeerKAT is a follow up to Karoo Array Telescope (KAT 7). In simple words, KAT 7 is a precursor to
MeerKAT. KAT 7 has seven dishes of Prime Focus Reflecting Telescope.
It is built in the semi-desert Karoo region of Northern Cape.
It will address key questions of astrophysics such as how did the galaxies evolve, how are the
galaxies formed, etc.
MeerKAT is one of the four precursors to the final Square Kilometre Array. The SKA is an
intergovernmental radio telescope project built in South Africa and Australia.
Square Kilometre Array
The receiving stations of SKA are to extend out to a distance of 3,000 kilometres. The SKA is being built in
Australia and South Africa. The four precursor facilities of the project are as follows:
MeerKAT
Hydrogen Epoch of Reionization Array in South Africa
Murchison Widefield Array in Western Australia
Australian SKA Pathfinder
The SKA is an international effort to build the world largest radio telescope. The Karoo region in South
Africa and the Murchison Shire region in Australia were chosen for technical and scientific reasons. The
atmospheric above the deserts are favourable with clear sky and provide maximum radio quietness.
Europe’s Largest Solar Power Plant: Francisco Pizzaro
Spain and France have recently signed an agreement to build 590 MW of solar power plant. This will be the
largest solar power plant in Europe. The agreement was signed between Iberdola of Spain and Donone of
France.
About the Power Plant
The solar power plant is to be built at a cost of 364 million USD.
The solar power plant is to be located in the western province of Caceres located in Spain.
The solar power plant will avoid emission of 245,000 tonnes of Carbon Dioxide.
It is to supply power to 375,000 people per year.
The project is to begin supplying power in 2022.
Spain
Spain is currently the busiest subsidy free photo-voltaic market of Europe. In 2020, Spain commissioned 2.9
GW of solar power. In 2019, Spain added 729 MW of solar power. Hence, the 2020 addition is four times
that of the 2019 addition.
France
France has set a target of installing 18 to 20 GW of solar power by 2023. In 2016, France along with India
laid the foundation of International Solar Alliance. Though France is not a country located in the tropics, it
has joined hands with India in International Solar Alliance. This is mainly because the International Solar
Alliance was framed and announced at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, 2015
(the Paris agreement conference) hosted by France.
The International Solar Alliance mainly aims to bring about major decrease in cost of solar energy. This is to

be achieved by involving countries rich in solar energy, that is, those countries located between the Tropic
of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn.
Solar Energy in India
India has been increasing its solar power capacity. As of November 2020, the installed solar power of India
was 36.9 GW. India has established 42 solar parks to make land available to the promoters of solar plants.
India has set a target of achieving 100 GW of solar power by 2022.
January 25, 2021
Election Commission to Launch Digital Voter-ID Cards
The Election Commission of India (ECI) is all set to launch the Electronic Electoral Photo Identity Card (e-
EPIC) programme on the occasion of National Voter’s Day. The new digital card is being launched by
keeping in view the upcoming polls in five states namely, Kerala, Puducherry, Assam, Tamil Nadu and West
Bengal.
What is e-EPIC?
This is the electronic version of the Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC).
It is a secure portable document format (PDF) version as is non-editable.
The e-EPIC comprises of a secured QR code along with the image and demographics including the
serial number and part number.
This portable version can be downloaded on a mobile or a computer.
This portable ID will be launched in addition to the physical or the conventional IDs which can be
digitally stored.
How this initiative will be rolled out?
The e-EPIC initiative will be launched in two phases.
The first phase will be from January 25 to 31. In this phase, new voters will get the voter-ID simply by
downloading the e-EPIC after authenticating their mobile number.
Second phase will be rolled out from February 1 in which general voters will get the voter-ID.
Significance of the digitalisation of Voter-ID
The electronic card will help the EC to save the printing and distributing cost of the hard copies.
This would do away the need of carrying or producing the voter’s slip on the day of voting.
Election Commission of India (ECI)
It is an autonomous constitutional authority that administers the election processes in India at
national as well as the state level.
It also organises the elections to Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, state Legislative Assemblies and state
legislative Councils.
Elections to offices of President and Vice President is also organised by the ECI.
The body was established on 25th January 1950 under the authority of Constitution as per Article
324.
National Voters’ Day
The national voter’s day is observed on January 25 to mark the foundation day of Election commission of
India. The day is being observed since 2011. This year, the election commission will observe the 11th voter’s
day. Theme of the day for the year 2021 is “Making Our Voters Empowered, Vigilant, Safe and Informed”.
The day is observed to encourage, facilitate and maximize the enrolment of the new voters.
What is “Blue Jet Lightning”?
The Scientists from the International Space Station (ISS) have observed a bright-blue lightning bolt that is
shooting upward from the thunderclouds. Such blue jets are hard to observe from the ground because the
electrical discharges emerge from the tops of thunderclouds. But from space, one can easily observe the
phenomenon.
Highlights
The instrument at the space station had captured a blue jet shooting from the thunderstorm cell near
a small island in the central Pacific Ocean on February 26, 2019.
Scientists had observed the five intense flashes of blue light.
Each of the lighting lasting about 10 to 20 milliseconds.
After that, the blue jet moved out from the cloud towards a narrow cone shape stretching into the
stratosphere.
What are blue jets?
Blue jets are initiated as “normal” lightning discharges.
It emerges between the upper positive charge region in a thundercloud and a negative screening layer
above the charge region.
The positive end network fills the negative charge region and after that the negative end fills the
positive charge region.
After that, the positive end exits the cloud and starts propagating upward.
Earlier, it was believed that blue jets are directly related to lightning flashes but it is the result of the
hails.
The blue jets are brighter than sprites and are blue in colour.
The blue colour of the jets is the result of blue and near-ultraviolet emission lines from neutral and
ionized molecular nitrogen.
The blue jets were recorded on October 21, 1989 for the first time.
Thunderstorm
It is also known as an electrical storm or a lightning storm. It is characterized by the presence of lightning
and the acoustic effect on the Earth’s atmosphere that is thunder. This phenomenon is usually taking place
in the cumulonimbus cloud, the thunderstorm is also accompanied by strong winds and heavy rain. It could
also lead to snow, sleet, or hail.
Cumulonimbus Cloud
It is a dense and towering vertical cloud. This cloud is formed by the water vapor which is carried by the
powerful upward air currents.
ZSI: Sunderbans is home to 428 species of birds
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) recently published the “Birds of the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve” in
which ZSI highlighted that the Indian Sunderbans is home to 428 species of birds.
About Indian Sunderbans
It is a mangrove area in the Delta formed by the rivers Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna in the Bay of
Bengal.
It covers the area from the Hooghly River in West Bengal to the Baleswar River in Bangladesh over an
area of about 10,000 km2.
It comprises of closed and open mangrove forests.
The land of the Sundarbans is used for agricultural purpose, mudflats and barren land.
Protected Areas in Sundarbans
The Four protected areas in the Sundarbans have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are
Sundarbans National Park, Sundarbans South Sundarbans West and Sundarbans East Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Threat
Indian Sundarbans were tagged as endangered under the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems framework in 2020.

Flora and Fauna
The Sundri Tree and gewa tree are the most abundant tree species. The mangroves forests provide habitat
to several faunal wildlife. It includes 428 species of birds, 120 fish, 42 mammal, 35 reptile and 8 amphibian
species.
The Sundarbans National Park
It is a national park, tiger reserve, and biosphere reserve situated in the state of West Bengal. It is part of
the Sundarbans on the Ganges Delta. It is situated adjacent to the Sundarban Reserve Forest in
Bangladesh. It is covered by mangrove forests. It is considered as one of the largest reserves for the Bengal
tiger. The national park was declared as the core area of Sundarban Tiger Reserve in the 1973. It was also
declared as a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1977. While in the year 1984, it was declared a national park.
The park is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Ramsar site since 2019.
Satellite images for Elephant Survey
Recently, the researchers from the University of Oxford Wildlife Conservation Research Unit and Machine
Learning Research Group have detected the elephants in South Africa using the Artificial Intelligence from
space. This survey is being claimed as more accurate as compared to the detection by Human. For the
purpose of survey, researchers used the highest resolution satellite imagery called Worldview3.
Background
Earlier, the elephants were traced by manned aircrafts methodology. It was the most common method of
survey to keep eyes on elephant populations in savannah environments. Under it, aerial counts were
undertaken from manned aircraft.
What was the need for new methodology?
The manned aircrafts methodology was not delivering the accurate results. This is because, under the
methodology, observers on aircraft are prone to get exhausted. Because of this, the survey was getting
delayed and sometimes getting hindered by poor visibility. Inaccurate survey was also leading to the
misallocation of resources and misunderstanding of the population trend. Further, the aerial surveys are
costly and logistically challenging.
About the new methodology
Under the new methodology, the satellite images are appeared as grey blobs depicting as elephants
wandering through the trees. These elephant counting is done through machine learning which is a
computer algorithm that has been trained to identify elephants.
Significance of AI based methodology
The new methodology us accurate. Thus, it will help in and improve the Conservation of the elephant. It will
also help in counting and monitoring the movement of the elephants which in turn would help in anti-
poaching work.
Elephant count in South Africa
There are some 24,000 elephants in South Africa. The population of elephant has risen from the 1920s. In
1920s there were less than 150 elephants there. In one of the famous parks of South Africa, Kruger Park,
there are about 17,000 elephants against its planned limit of about 7,500.
Maharashtra to begin ‘Jail Tourism’
The government of Maharashtra has decided to start a ‘jail tourism’ from the Yerawada prison of Pune. It
will start on January 26, 2021. This initiative is being launched in the state with the aim of facilitating the
people to visit and see the historical prisons in the state. This is being done as memories of many freedom
fighters who were once imprisoned in the jail have been preserved. Some of the freedom fighter who were
imprisoned in Yerawada jail under the British rule include Mahatma Gandhi, Motilal Nehru, Lokmanya Tilak,
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Sarojini Naidu, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Subhas Chandra Bose.

Yerwada Central Jail
It is a noted high-security jail in Yerwada, Pune. It is the largest jail in the state of Maharashtra. The jail is
also the largest prisons in South Asia. It can house 5,000 prisoners. The jail was built in the year 1871 by
the British. It is protected by protected by four high walls and has been divided into various security zones
and barracks. It also comprises of egg-shaped cells for high-security prisoners. However, the jail is highly
criticized for its overcrowding and poor living conditions.
Mahatama Gandhi In Yerwada Jail
Mahatma Gandhi had spent several years in Yerwada Jail during India’s freedom struggle in 1932. When he
was imprisoned in the year 1932, he sat on an indefinite fast to protest against the Communal Award for
depressed classes. He opened his fast after signing an agreement called the Poona Pact. Gandhi was
released in May 1933. He was again imprisoned in the year 1942 during the Quit India movement.
Quit India Movement
The Quit India movement is also known as the August Movement or the Leave India movement. The
movement was launched at the Bombay session of the All-India Congress Committee in 1942 by Mahatma
Gandhi. It was launched during World War II with the aim of ending the British rule in India.
Paperless Budget: Mobile app launched ahead of Budget 2021
The Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman, has launched the “Union Budget Mobile App” ahead of
the presentation of the Union Budget on February 1, 2021. The mobile app was launched for hassle-free
access of Budget-related documents by Members of Parliament (MPs) and the public. The budget will
completely be paperless for the first time after. This decision was taken in the light of ongoing coronavirus
pandemic.
About Union Budget Mobile App
The mobile app will provide access to 14 Union Budget documents that includes the Annual Financial
Statement or the Budget, Demand for Grants (DG) and the Finance Bill.
The interface of the app has been designed in a user-friendly manner.
It comprises of the features like downloading, printing, search, zoom in and out, table of contents and
external links.
It is a bilingual app (English and Hindi).
National Informatics Centre (NIC) has developed the app under the guidance of the Department of
Economic Affairs (DEA).
Key Facts about Union Budget
The term Union Budget has not been mentioned in the constitution. But the “Annual Financial
Statement” is commonly known as Budget.
This annual financial statement is prepared in accordance with Article 112 of the Constitution of
India.
Union Budget was announced at 5:00 pm until 1999 on last working day February. Since the Budget
1999, the change in timing to 11 am was made.
In 2016, Narendra Modi shifted the date of Budget presentation to February, 1.
In 2016, the Rail Budget was also merged with union budget.
The printing of budget documents starts with the customary Halwa ceremony in which the Halwa is
served by the Finance Minister.
The tradition of carrying budget in a leather briefcase was also changed in July 2019 when the
finance minister carried the budget in a Bahi-Khata.
National Informatics Centre (NIC)
NIC works under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). It provides infrastructure

that support the delivery of IT services by the government and the delivery of initiatives under the Digital
India Mission.
India’s take on “Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons”
India recently made an announcement that it does not support the “Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear
Weapons” and it is not bound by any of the obligations of the treaty.
Highlights
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had approved the “Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear
Weapons” in the year 2017.
However, the nine countries that possess the nuclear weapons did not support it.
The treaty was not supported by the NATO alliance as well.
Despite that, the treaty came into force on January 22, 2021.
India’s stand
India maintains that, it will continue to provide the high priority and remain committed to the
universal, non-discriminatory and verifiable nuclear disarmament.
The Ministry of external affairs further said, since India did not participate in negotiations on the
Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, it will not become a party to the Treaty.
However, India showed its support to the commencement of negotiations on a “comprehensive
Nuclear Weapons Convention in the Conference on Disarmament”. It is the only multilateral
disarmament negotiating forum that works on the basis of consensus.
Why India does not support the treaty?
India does not support the treaty because, India believes, the treaty does not constitute or contribute to the
development of customary international law. Further, the treaty does not provide for any new standards or
norms.
Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons
The treaty is also called as the Nuclear Weapon Ban Treaty. It is the first legally binding international
agreement. It prohibits the nuclear weapons and aims for the total elimination of such weapons. The treaty
was adopted on July 7, 2017. For the member nations, the treaty prohibits development, testing,
production, stockpiling, transfer and use of nuclear weapons. The recognized “Nuclear weapon States” are
United States, Russia, United Kingdom, China and France. The states that have declared possessing the
nuclear weapons include India, Pakistan and North Korea while, Israel is the state that indicated for
possessing the nuclear weapons. join @aspirants85
Draft policy on "Udyog Sahayak Enterprises Network"
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Tata Institute of Social Sciences
(TISS) and Azim Premji University have put forward the Udyog Sahayak Enterprises Network (USENET)
framework draft policy.
USENET Framework draft policy
The Udyog Sahayak Enterprises Network (USENET) framework approach has been set on the basis of
the belief that India should focus on helping the existing MSEs to grow rather than creating more
nano-entrepreneurs.
This framkework has been created with the aim of providing a growth-driven services to over 62
million nano and micro-enterprises. Such nano and micro-enterprises currently employ over 100
million people in India.
The draft framework further aims to create a countrywide entrepreneurial network.
Purpose of the framework
The framework has been prepared with the purpose of providing information on policies, government

schemes, credit options and visibility to lenders and customers to the nano and micro-enterprises who are
facing growth challenges. It will also create a support system that will help the enterprises to adopt new
technologies and increase the productivity.
Significance of the framework
The draft policy will provide a major stimulus to the nano and micro-enterprises that are facing the
challenge of growth in informal sector of the economy. The framework could help in creating an additional
10.3 million jobs in the five years by enabling the scale-up of nano and micro enterprises. Thus, the
framework has the potential to grow and create a large number of jobs. Further, it could boost the value-
added per worker potential. This in turn could bring in a 12% nominal growth in gross asset value (GVA).
Gross Asset Value (GAV)
It is the sum of value of property that a company owns. It is a common key performance indicator for
property funds that measures the success of the fund manager.
4-tier structure for Tighter Regulation of NBFCs
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently proposed for a four-tier structure for tighter regulatory
framework of the Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
About Regulatory and Supervisory Framework
The responsibility of regulation and supervision has been entrusted with the Department of Non-
Banking Supervision (DNBS) of RBI under the regulatory – provisions of the Reserve Bank of India Act,
1934.
The framework will provide for the registration and prudential regulation of NBFC. It will also issue
the directions on acceptance and surveillance of the sector.
About 4-Tier Structure
The proposed 4-tier are understated:
1. NBFC-Base Layer– under this layer, least regulatory intervention is warranted for the NBFCs. RBI has
proposed the classification of Non-Performing assets (NPAs) of this layer NBFCs from 180 days to
90 days.
2. NBFC-Middle Layer– this layer has a stricter regulation as compared to the base layer. Under it, the
banks can be addressed for NBFCs falling so as to reduce the systemic risk spill-overs.
3. NBFC Upper Layer– It comprises of the NBFCs which have large potential of systemic risks and those
impacting the financial stability. The regulatory framework under this layer will be bank-like.
4. NBFC Top Layer– This layer is supposed to be empty unless supervisors take a view on specific
NBFCs.
Aim of the proposed framework
The RBI has proposed the new framework with the aim of protecting the financial stability. It will further
ensure that smaller NBFCs continue to enjoy light regulations.
Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC)
It is a company registered under the Companies Act, 1956. It is engaged in the business of loans and
advances. NBFC cannot accept the demand deposits. They are not the part of the payment and settlement
system. Further, they cannot issue cheques drawn on itself. The depositors of the NBFCs are not provided
with the deposit insurance facility of Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation.
Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2021
Thirty-two children have been awarded with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar in the year 2021. The
award has been given to these children for their tremendous and outstanding accomplishments and
exceptional abilities in fields including the innovation, scholastics, sports, social service, arts, culture and
bravery.

Highlights
As per the statement of The Ministry of Women and Child Development these awardees have been
selected from the 32 districts of 21 states and Union territories.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually interacted with the awardees because of COVID-19 pandemic.
The award will help to motivate the children so as to push for excellence and get inspired to perform
better.
Seven awards were given in the field of art and culture, nine in the field of innovation and five in the
field of scholastic achievements while Seven children have won the award in sports category. Three
more children have been awarded for bravery and one child for her efforts in the social service.
Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar
The award is formerly known as the National Child Award for Exceptional Achievement.
This is Highest Civilian Honour in India that is given to the exceptional achievers under the age of 18.
A child must be an Indian Citizen and reside in India in order to get the award.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development has instituted the purashkar in the 1996.
This purashkar recognizes the children with exceptional abilities and outstanding status in fields
including the arts, culture, academics, research, social service, design, innovation and sports.
The President of India confreres the award in the week preceding the Republic Day.
The awardees also participate in the Republic Day Parade.
It is presented in the Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.
The individual award comprises of a medal, cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000, citation and a certificate.
Who finalize the names of awardees?
The names of the awardees for the award is finalized by a National Selection Committee which is headed by
the Minister of Ministry of Women and Child Development.
UN: China overtakes US for Foreign Direct Investment
Recent figures by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development highlights that, China has
surpassed the United States as the world’s top destination for the foreign direct investment (FDI) in the year
2020.
Highlights
The eastward shift of the destination was the result of Covid-19 pandemic from which the United
States is still recovering.
The New investments by overseas businesses into the US fell by 49 percent in the year 2020.
China has attracted the new investments in 2020 while, US maintained the higher position with
respect to the total stock of foreign investment.
The higher stock shows that the US has been most attractive location for foreign businesses since
decades.
FDI scenario in US
The Foreign investment in the U.S. started picking up in the year 2016. Till 2016, the investments stood at
$472 billion in contrast to total foreign investment of $134 billion in China. However, since 2017 the
investments in China continued to rise while in U.S. continued to fall.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
The investment in the form of controlling ownership of a business in one country by an entity which is based
in another country is called as the foreign direct investment. Thus, it is distinguished from a foreign
portfolio investment with respect to the direct control. The origin of the investment does not impact the
definition of the FDI.

Foreign portfolio investment
It is a grouping of assets like stocks, bonds and cash equivalents. Such investments are held directly by an
investor or it is managed by the financial professionals. In the economics, such investments mean entry of
funds into a country where foreigners deposit their money in a country’s bank or when they make purchases
in the country’s stock and bond markets.
Oxfam Report: The Inequality Virus
The Oxfam has recently published its report titled “The Inequality Virus”. In its report, the Oxfam finds that
the COVID-19 pandemic has deepen the existing inequalities in India and across the world.
As per the report, the pandemic has stalled the economy that in turn has forced millions of poor
Indians out of job.
However, the richest billionaires in India have increased their wealth by 35 percent during the
lockdown. Thus, India has been ranked at sixth in the world following the US, China, Germany, Russia
and France.
The report calculates that, India’s top 100 billionaires have increased their fortunes by Rs 12.97
trillion. Such amount is enough to give around 95000 Rupees for each one of the 138 million poorest
Indians.
Report further highlights that, 170,000 people lost their jobs every hour in the April 2020.
India’s large informal workforce accounts for 75 per cent of the 122 million jobs that were lost.
Informal workers had lesser opportunities to work from home.
Impact on Education
As education made a shift to online platforms, India witnessed the digital divide that worsened the
inequalities. As per the report, 3 per cent of the poorest 20 per cent of Indian households had access to a
computer while 9 per cent had access to the internet.
Impact on Education
The report finds that, India does not report case data desegregated by socio-economic or social categories.
Thus, distribution of disease among the communities is difficult to find. But India has become the world’s
second-largest country with respect to the number of COVID-19 positive cases.
Impact on Poor communities
Covid-19 disease also impacted the poor communities who were living in crammed areas. This is because
of poor sanitation. As per the report, only 6 per cent of the poorest 20 per cent households had access to
non-shared sources of improved sanitation as opposed to 93 per cent of the top 20 per cent households in
India.
Impact on gender disparity
As per the report, unemployment rate among women have risen to 18 percent from 15 per cent before
COVID-19. This could result in a loss to India’s GDP by 8 per cent or $218 billion.
Nepal’s Political Dilemma: PM Oli got expelled from Party
The Prime Minister of Nepal, KP Sharma Oli, has been expelled from the ruling Nepal Communist Party
(NCP). He was expelled from the party following his decision to dissolve the Parliament. He was expelled
from his party by a Central Committee at a meeting of the party’s splinter group.
Highlights
The splinter group of the party was led by former Prime Ministers Pushpa Kamal Dahal and Madhav
Kumar.
Both the members had earlier asked PM Oli to explanation for his unconstitutional decisions. They
sent letter to seek clarification. But the PM Oli failed to do so.

Background
The Prime Minister Oli has recommended for the resolution of the Parliament on December 20, 2020.
He took this decision after a tussle with former PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda for power.
Following this the President of Nepal, Bidhya Devi Bhandari, had accepted the recommendations of
the Prime Minister. And thus, the Parliament was dissolved.
The elections to the Parliament are now scheduled for April 30 and May 10, 2021.
Nepal Communist Party
It is the ruling political party in Nepal. The party is considered as the largest communist party in South Asia
while the third largest in Asia. The party was founded on May 17, 2018. It was formed after the unification
of two leftist parties namely the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist–Leninist) and Communist Party
of Nepal (Maoist Centre). This party is the largest political party in House of Representatives and National
Assembly. It is also the largest among all provincial assemblies except No. 2. Former Prime Minister of
Nepal Pushpa Kamal Dahal is currently serving as the chairmen of the party alone after PM Oli has been
expelled. Following the removal of PM Oli, the NCP has split into two divisions.
January 26, 2021
SpaceX Launched 143 Satellites on Single Rocket
Elon Musk’s SpaceX has created a new world record. It has launched 143 satellites on a single rocket called
Falcon 9 rocket. With the new record, SpaceX has broken the record of Indian Space Research Organization
(ISRO) that has deployed 104 satellites on a single launch in February 2017. For the purpose of delivering
these satellites to a polar sun-synchronous orbit, Space X charges a price of 15,000 dollars per kilogram for
each satellite.
Which satellites were launched?
The 143 satellites that were launched include the commercial and government satellites namely the
CubeSats, microsats and 10 Starlink satellites.
A spacecraft of Nasa was also launched.
Aim of the launch
SpaceX has launched these satellites with the aim of providing the near-global broadband internet coverage
all across the world by the end of 2021.
Space Exploration Technologies Corp. (SpaceX)
It is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company. It has been
headquartered in Hawthorne, California. The agency was founded in the year 2002 by Elon Musk. The
agency was established with the goal to reduce the space transportation costs in order to enable the
colonization of Mars. It is the first privately funded liquid-propellant rocket of the world that has reached to
the orbit by the launch of Falcon 1 in 2008.
Falcon 9 rocket
This rocket is a partially reusable two-stage-to-orbit medium-lift launch vehicle. It has been designed and
manufactured by SpaceX. The launcher uses cryogenic liquid oxygen and rocket-grade kerosene (RP-1) as
propellants. The name has been derived from the fictional Star Wars spacecraft, the Millennium Falcon.
Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO)
It is also called as the heliosynchronous orbit. This is a polar orbit around a planet. In the orbit, satellite
passes over any given point of the planet’s surface at the same local mean solar time.
AMPHEX 21: A Tri-Services Exercise
The Indian Armed forces conducted a large-scale tri-service joint amphibious exercise AMPHEX – 21 in
Andaman and Nicobar group of islands in between 21 to 25 January 2021.

Highlights
In this exercise, the Naval ships, amphibious troops of the Army and different types of aircraft from
the Air force participated.
The exercise was conducted with the aim of validating India’s capabilities to safeguard the territorial
integrity of the island territories.
The exercise was also aimed at enhancing the operational synergy and joint warfighting capabilities
between the three Services.
In the exercise there were a series of engagements ranging from the multi-faceted maritime
operations by synergised employment of amphibious assault ships, execution of maritime airstrikes,
surveillance platforms and complex manoeuvres at sea.
The exercise also involved the Airborne insertion of Marine Commandos of Navy and Special Forces
of the Army, naval gunfire support, the amphibious landing of forces and follow-on operations.
Exercise KAVACH for the defence of Andaman & Nicobar Islands was also the part of AMPHEX – 21.
Exercise KAVACH
It is also a tri service Military exercise. The exercise was conducted along with the AMHEX-21 in January
2021. The exercise was conducted under the aegis of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) which
happens to be the only Joint Forces Command of India. The exercise was participated by the Indian Army,
Indian Navy, Indian Air force and the Indian Coast Guard. It involves the synergised application of maritime
surveillance assets, air and maritime strikes besides the air defence, submarine and landing operations.
This exercise was conducted with the aim of set up the joint war-fighting capabilities and the Standard
Operating Procedures (SOPs) so as to boost the operational synergy between all the services.
Significance of such exercises
Such exercises help in keeping the check on the preparedness of all the agencies to deal with any threat
and enhance the coastal security. These exercises become more significant in the light of 1993 Bombay
Bombings and the 2008 Mumbai Attacks that took place because of unsecure maritime border.
Padma Awards 2021
nd
On the evening of 72 Republic Day, India has honored 119 people from diverse field with the Padma
Awards.
Highlights
These awards are conferred by the President of India at ceremonial functions at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
In the year 2021, the President has approved conferment of 119 Padma Awards.
In the list, there are 7 Padma Vibhushan, 10 Padma Bhushan and 102 Padma Shri Awards.
Women awardees counts at 29.
It also includes 10 persons from the category of Foreigners or NRI or PIO or OCI,16 Posthumous
awardees and 1 transgender awardee.
Shri Ram Vilas Paswan was conferred the award (Posthumous) in Public Affairs Bihar category.
Padma Awards
It is one of the highest civilian Awards of the country.
This award is given in three categories namely, the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma
Shri.
It is given in various disciplines and fields of activities including the art, public affairs, social work,
Trade and industry, science and engineering, medicine, literature, education, sports and civil service.
Padma Vibhushan
It is the second-highest civilian award of the Republic of India.
The award was Instituted on January 2, 1954.

This award is given for the “exceptional and distinguished service”.
It does not differentiate between race, occupation, position, or sex.
The award is given for the exceptional and distinguished service.
Satyendra Nath Bose, Zakir Hussain, Balasaheb Gangadhar Kher, Nand Lal Bose were among the first
recipient of the award in 1954.
In the year 2021, this award was given to:
1. Shri Shinzo Abe – Public Affairs – Japan
2. Shri S P Balasubramaniam (Posthumous) – Art – Tamil Nadu
3. Shri Sudarshan Sahoo – Art – Odisha
4. Belle Monappa Hegde – Medicine – Karnataka
5. Shri B. B. Lal Others – Archaeology – Delhi
6. Shri Narinder Singh Kapany (Posthumous) – Science and Engineering – United States of America
7. Maulana Wahiduddin Khan – Others – Spiritualism – Delhi
Padma Bhushan
It is the third-highest civilian award in India. The award is preceded by the Bharat Ratna & Padma Vibhushan
while followed by the Padma Shri. The award was Instituted on January 2, 1954.
Padma Shri
It is the fourth-highest civilian award of India after Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan. It
is awarded by the Government of India every year on the occasion of republic day since 1954.
DRDO successfully test fires Akash-NG missile
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully test-fired the surface-to-air
Akash-NG (New Generation) Missile off the Odisha coast. The missile can intercept the aerial threats. The
missile has been launched in order to boost the Indian Air Force (IAF) defence system.
Akash-NG
Akash-NG is a medium-range mobile surface-to-air missile defense system.
It has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The missile has been produced jointly by the Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) that developed the
Missile Systems and the Bharat Electronics (BEL), Tata Power Strategic Engineering Division & Larsen
& Toubro that developed the radars, control centers, launcher systems.
The missile has the capability of targeting the aircraft up to 50-60 km away at altitudes of 18,000 m.
The missile can neutralize the aerial targets such as the fighter jets, cruise missiles and air-to-surface
missiles.
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Missile is in operation with the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.
It utilizes an integrated ramjet-rocket propulsion system. This propulsion system provides sustained
thrust for the missile after initial rocket motor burnout until its interception.
In December 2020, the Cabinet Committee on Security chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi
cleared the exports of Akash Missile defence system. Following that, the countries including the
Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Belarus, UAE and Vietnam have shown their interest in Akash missile
system.
Characteristic of Akash-NG
The Akash battery comprises of a single Rajendra 3D passive electronically scanned array radar or Simple
the Rajendra Radar and four launchers with three missiles each. Each battery can track up to 64 targets and
attack up to 12. It comprises of a 60 Kg high-explosive, pre-fragmented warhead. The missile is capable of
protecting the moving convoy of vehicles. It provides air defence missile coverage for the area of 2,000
km².

Passive Electronically Scanned Array (PESA)
It is also called as the passive phased array. PESA is an antenna in which beam of radio waves can be
electronically directed to point in different directions in which all the antenna elements are connected with
the single transmitter. PESA is highly used in radars.
January 24: National Girl Child day
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi said that the central government has taken many initiatives that
focus on empowering the girl child. He highlighted that, the initiatives also provide a better access to
education, better healthcare and improves the gender sensitivity. This statement was made by him on the
occasion of National Girl Child Day.
National Girl Child Day
The National Girl Child Day is observed on January 24 every year.
It is an initiative was started by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in 2008.
The day is observed with the objective of providing all support and opportunities to the girls in India.
It further aims to promote the awareness about the rights of the girl child and to increase awareness
on the importance of education, and health and nutrition of the girl.
National Girl Child day 2021
This year the day was celebrated with the objective to awareness on the issue of declining Child Sex
Ratio (CSR).
The day also marked the anniversary of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme.
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme
This scheme was launched in 2015 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare and the Ministry of Human Resource Development. The scheme has been implemented
through a national campaign and focussed multi sectoral action in selected 100 districts which have low
CSR. The scheme covers all States and Union Territories (UTs). The scheme mainly targets the states like
Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Punjab and Bihar.
Why this scheme was needed?
The scheme was launched in the view of declining sex ratio because of sex-selective abortions or female
foeticide, pre-birth and post-birth discrimination against girls. As per the census 2011, there was a decline
in CSR from 945 in 1991 to 927 in 2001 and further to 918 in 2011.
Objectives of BBBP scheme
The scheme was launched with the objective to prevent the gender biased sex selective elimination, to
ensure the survival & protection of the girl child and to ensure the education and participation of the girl
child.
What is Green Tax?
The Ministry of road transport has decided to impose the additional taxes on old vehicles that are no more
fit on road. This additional tax is being called as the “Green Tax”. Th decision was taken to curb pollution. It
will also motivate people to switch to environment-friendly alternatives to the vehicles.
Highlights
The Green tax will reduce the pollution level.
It will also make the polluter to pay for creating pollution.
Revenue collected from the green tax will be kept in a separate account. The amount will be used for
tackling the problem of pollution.
The states have been asked to set up state-of-art facilities to monitor the emission.
How the vehicles will be taxed?
Under the Green Tax norms, the transport vehicles older than eight years will be charged with the

green tax at the time of renewal of fitness certificate. They will be charged at the rate of 10 to 25% of
road tax.
While, the Public transport vehicles like city buses will be paying lower Green Tax.
However, the vehicles used in farming like tractor and harvestor will be exempted from the tax.
What is Green tax?
Green tax is also called as the pollution tax or environmental tax. The tax is an excise duty on goods that
results into the environmental pollutants. An economic theory says, that if taxes will be charged on
emissions causing pollution will lower the environmental impairment in a cost-effective manner. The tax will
encourage the behavioural changes in households and firms that are required to reduce the pollution. The
tax mainly aims to ensure that polluters are duly punished for their pollution creating activities.
Green Tax in India
This tax in India is relatively new trend. However, the RFID tags are being given and CCTV cameras have
been deployed at border entry points. With this, the commercial vehicles that enter the city are monitored
for emissions. In the cities like Delhi, Environmental Compensation Charge (EEC) is imposed on pollutants
depending upon the vehicle’s size.
Rajasthan’s New M-sand Policy-2020
The Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ashok Gehlot, has released the new M-Sand Policy of Rajasthan in light
with the government’s commitment to meet the quantity of sand which is needed for construction work.
M-Sand Policy
The M-sand policy has been launched with the aim of reducing the dependency on the traditional
sand from rivers.
Through this policy, the use and production of manufactured sand or M-sand in the state will be
encouraged.
With this policy, problem of waste generated from the mines in the mining areas of Rajasthan will
also be solved.
This will also create huge employment opportunities at the local level.
The policy designated the M-sand units the status of an industry.
What was the need of this policy?
In the state of Rajasthan, the availability of sand is not as per the requirement of construction works. There
is a demand of around 70 million tonnes of river sand for various construction work. But, only 20 M-sand
units are operating in the state. These 20 units produces 20,000 tonnes of M-sand every day. Now, this new
M-sand policy will be promoting it as a long-term alternative to gravel and help in setting up of new mining
units.
What is M-Sand?
The policy defines the M-Sand as the manufactured sand produced by crushing the minerals. The M-sand
meet the standards of ISO code 383: 2016. The sand is derived from the minerals which are locally available
such as granite, silica, basalt, sandstone and quartile. The sand is produced by crushing the minerals into
stones of size 150 microns. The crushed material is then segregated and used in differently based on the
size. In order to reduce the impurities, the sand is washed after crushing it to make it more durable and
suitable for construction process.
Climate Adaptation Summit 2021
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, in his addressed to the Climate Adaptation Summit 2021 said that by
the year 2030, India will target 450 gigawatt of renewable energy capacity. He also said that India is
promoting the LED lights and is also saving 38 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year. He also
highlighted that, by 2030 India will restore 26 million hectares of degraded land.

About Climate Adaptation Summit 2021
The climate adaptation summit was hosted by the Netherlands government on January 25, 2021. The
summit was held online and it is being called “CAS Online”.
The summit was built on the advances of the UN Climate Action Summit.
The summit also showcased the pioneering solutions of the climate emergency and sustaining
momentum through UNFCCC’s COP26.
CAS will help in delivering the action and inspire the change to help the societies build back better.
The organizers of the summit also called for major new funding for agricultural research.
They also expanded the access to farmer advisory services, risk management and financial services.
Aim of CAS
The summit was organized with the aim of realizing the transitions which is required for a climate-
resilient world.
The summit focuses on securing the new investments in order to ensure that millions of smallholder
farmers could adapt to the impact of climate on food production.
India’s Commitment
India has committed to provide the clean cooking fuel to 80 million rural households during the summit. It
also committed to connect the 64 million households with the piped water supply.
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The 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference is also known as COP26. It is the 26th United Nations
Climate Change conference. It will be held in Glasgow, Scotland from November 1 to 12, 2021. The United
Kingdom will chair the summit. The conference will incorporate the 26th Conference of the Parties to the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), third meeting of the parties to the
Paris Agreement (CMA3) and the 16th meeting of the parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP16).
National Mission for Edible Oil (NMEO)
The Ministry of Agriculture has proposed for the National Mission for Edible Oil in order to increase the
domestic availability and reduce the import dependency. The mission has been proposed for next five years
in the span of 2020-21 to 2024-25.
About National Mission for Edible Oil (NMEO)
The NMEO comprises of the three Sub-Missions into it with the objective of increasing the production of
oilseeds and edible oils from the three sources:
1. Primary Sources- it includes the Annual Crops, Plantation Crops and Edible TBOs
2. Secondary Sources- it includes the Rice bran oil and Cotton seed oil.
3. Consumer Awareness to maintain the edible oil consumption constant at 19.00 kg per person per
annum.
Aim of the Mission
The mission has been proposed with the aim of increasing the production from 30.88 to 47.80 million
tonnes of oilseeds. It seeks to produce 7.00 to 11.00 million tonnes of edible oils from Primary Sources by
2024-25. Also, the edible oils from secondary sources will be doubled from existing 3.50 to 7.00 million
tonnes.
Challenges of oilseed production
In India, the major challenges associated with the oilseed production are:
1. Rain-fed conditions in 70% area.
2. High seed cost for Groundnut and Soybean.
3. Small holding capacity with limited resources.
4. Low seed replacement rate and

5. Low productivity.
Oil consumption in India
In India, there is a requirement of 25 million tonnes of edible oils so as to meet the requirement of current
consumption level of 19 kg per person annually. Out of these, 10.50 million tonnes are produced
domestically from primary sources like Soybean, Groundnut, Rapeseed & Mustard, Niger, Sunflower, &
Safflower and the secondary sources like Coconut, Oil palm, Rice Bran, Cotton seeds & Tree Borne Oilseeds.
The 60%, of the requirement is met by the import. Though, the production of oilseeds is increasing rapidly
but there exists a gap between the demand and supply of oilseeds. This is increased the dependency on
imports.
Bharat Parv 2021
The annual event Bharat Parv that celebrates the spirit of India is being organised virtually from January 26,
2021 till January 31, 2021. Bharat Parv is being organised with the overall theme focusing on the
Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat.
Highlights
Under the virtual event, themed pavilions of States and Union Territories will showcase their tourism
destinations, handicrafts, cuisine and other features.
It was inaugurated by the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
About Bharat Parv
The Bharat Parv is organized by the Ministry of Tourism every year.
It was started in the year 2016.
The event is organised in front of the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of Republic Day
Celebrations.
The events are organised with the aim of generating patriotic fervour. It also showcases the rich and
varied cultural of India.
The handicrafts, music, dance, handlooms, paintings, literary material and other features from across
the country are showcased by Central Ministries and other organizations such as Ministry of Culture,
Ministry of Ayush, media units of I&B Ministry, Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Consumer Affairs,
Archaeological Survey of India, Lalit Kala Academy, National Museum, National Gallery of Modern
Arts, Khadi & Village Industries Commission.
About Bharat Parv-2021
In the virtual event of Bharat Parv, glimpses of Republic Day Parade and recorded performances of Armed
forces music bands will also be available. In the event, Central Institutes of Hotel Management and the
Indian Culinary Institute will also display their culinary delight and recipe through videos. The online event
will also showcase the videos, films, images, brochures and other information.
Contribution from the ministry
Prasar Bharati has set up its virtual stall that will showcase its efforts in promoting the Ek Bharat-Shrestha
Bharat. While, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Bureau of Outreach and Communication will
focus on the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. It will exhibit the photos, videos, animation
related to Swachch Bharat, Sashakt Bharat, Bapu Ke Sapno Ka Bharat’. The Publications Division of Prasar
Bharti will participate in the first Virtual event on the theme of विरासत शब्दों की, भाव भारतीयता का.
UN report: World Economy Expected to regain 2020 losses
The United Nations World Economic Situation and Prospects report has said that, the world economy is
expected to recover slightly by 4.7 percent in the year 2021. The economy had declined by 4.3 percent in
2020 because of COVID-19 pandemic. The report highlights that, this loss in 2020 was more than double the
impact of the global financial crisis in 2009.

Findings of the report
The report highlights that the developed economies were shrank by 5.6 percent in 2020. But in 2021,
they are projected to recover by 4 percent.
It further highlights that, the developing countries were contracted by 2.5 percent and it will grow by
5.7 percent in 2021.
As per the report, 131 million more people were pushed into poverty in the year 2020.
World Economic Situation and Prospects (WESP) report
The report is released jointly by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), five
United Nations Regional Economic Commissions and United Nations Department of Economic and Social
Affairs (UN DESA).
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)
The UNCTAD was established in the year 1964 by the United Nations General Assembly as a permanent
intergovernmental body. It has been headquartered in Geneva. The body is the part of the United Nations
Secretariat that deals with trade, investment, and other development issues. UNCTAD works with the
objective of maximizing the trade, investment and development opportunities of developing countries. It
also seeks to assist them in their efforts to integrate into the world economy equally. The organisation
submits its reports to the UN General Assembly and United Nations Economic and Social Council. UNCTAD
works with the objective of formulating the policies related to all aspects of development such as aid, trade,
finance, transport, and technology. The organisation held its meeting once in four years.
India-UK: Cooperation against Cross-Border Terrorism
India and the United Kingdom recently held the 14th meeting of the India-United Kingdom Joint Working
Group on Counter-Terrorism. The meeting was held virtually on January 21-22, 2021.
Highlights
Under the meeting, both the nations strongly condemned the terrorism in all its forms and
manifestations.
Both the countries emphasized on the demand of strengthening the international cooperation so that
they could combat the global problem of terrorism completely besides combating the cross-border
terrorism in South Asia.
The countries reviewed the threats by the United Nations prescribed terrorist entities and terrorist.
Both of the countries also exchanged their views on the assessment of the terrorist entities and
individuals as a tool to counter the terrorism.
They also exchanged the ideas in order to further strengthen the bilateral cooperation to combat the
counter-terrorism, extremism & radicalization, financing of terrorism, preventing the internet
exploitation for terrorism, information sharing, cooperation between law enforcement, capacity
building and maritime & aviation security.
Further, the challenges faced to counter the terrorism in the COVID-19 pandemic situation were also
discussed.
Both the countries concluded by asking the other nations to take an immediate step in order to
ensure that no territory under their control has been used for terrorist activities. They also asked the
nations that, if any attack executes from a particular territory, the respective nation must take actions
against it.
India-UK counter terrorism cooperation
Both the nations have showed and shared a strong interest in preventing terror attacks on their mainland.
They have suffered such attacks such as a terrorist attack on British soil in London on July 7 2005 and
Mumbai attack on 26-28 November in 2008. In the line, the Prime Minister Modi during visit to the UK in

November 2015, he explicitly named Lashkar-e-Taiba for the Mumbai attack. In the 13th meeting of the
India-UK Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism in London on 25-26 November 2019, both the countries
had committed to work together to counter the terrorism in all its forms.
Global Climate Risk Index 2021
The Global Climate Risk Index was recently released by Germanwatch-a NGO based in Bonn, Germany. In the
index, India has been ranked at seventh position among the countries that are most effected by climate
change in 2019.
As per the report, monsoon continued for a month longer than normal in India in the year 2019.
In the period of June to September 2019, 110% of the long-period average was recorded.
Heavy rain caused the severe flooding in India that resulted into death of 1,800 across14 states. The
flood also caused the displacement of 1.8 million people.
As per the report, eight tropical cyclones cam in India. Six of them intensified to be very severe.
Report further highlights that, ‘Extremely severe’ cyclone Fani affected 28 million people and killed 90
people in India and Bangladesh.
Around 4,75,000 people have lost their lives as a direct result of more than 11,000 extreme weather
events globally in between the 2000 to 2019.
For the period of 2000 to 2014, the economic losses in terms of purchasing power parity accounts to
around US $2.56 trillion because of extreme weather conditions.
The report also highlights that, around 11.8 million people were affected by intense monsoon globally
that in turn resulted into economic damage of US $10 billion.
The Global Climate Risk Index (CRI)
The Global Climate Risk Index is annually published by the Germanwatch. The index analyses the impact of
extreme climate events on the country and the economy. It analyses how countries have been affected by
the impacts of weather-related loss events. The index is prepared on the basis of data from Munich Re’s
NatCatSERVICE.
Germanwatch
It is a non-profit non-governmental organization that was founded in 1991. The NGO is based in Bonn,
Germany. It was established with the objective of influencing the public policy on trade and environment.
January 27, 2021
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Punjab Defeats Karnataka
Punjab has defeated champions Karnataka by nine wickets in the Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy recently. The
defeat, at the Motera Stadium, was the result of Siddharth Kaul’s three-wicket haul and Prabhsimran Singh’s
unbeaten 49-run knock. Following the win, Punjab has reached to the semi-finals on the other hand,
Karnataka has been knocked out. Now, Punjab will face the winner of the Baroda-Haryana match in the
second semi-final.
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
This trophy is a Twenty20 cricket domestic championship which is organized by Board of Control for Cricket
in India (BCCI). The matches are organised among the teams from Ranji Trophy. The trophy was started in
2009-10 season. It has been named Indian cricketer, Syed Mushtaq Ali.
Ranji Trophy
It is a domestic first-class cricket championship. It is played between multiple teams representing the
regional and state cricket associations. Currently, 38 teams take part in the trophy. It has been named after
the first Indian cricketer who played international cricket, Ranjitsinhji (‘Ranji’).

Syed Mushtaq Ali
He was a right-handed batsman. He was the first Indian player who scored the first overseas Test century.
He had scored 112 against England at Old Trafford in the year 1936. He was also a left arm orthodox spin
bowler.
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)
It is the governing body for cricket in India. It was established in December 1928 as a society. It is
registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act. The headquarters of the body is in Wankhede
Stadium, Mumbai. Grant Govan was the first president of the body while Anthony De Mello the first
secretary. Currently, Sourav Ganguly is its President.
Twenty20 cricket or Twenty-20
This is the shorter form of cricket which was first introduced by England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) in
the year 2003. Under it, the match is restricted to 20 overs. It is recognised by the International Cricket
Council (ICC) as being at the highest international or domestic level
U.S. President signs “Buy American” Executive Order
The President of U.S., Joe Biden, signed the executive order in a bid to tighten the “Buy American”
requirements in the federal government procurement. This move by the President is the first step toward
fulfilling his campaign promise.
Highlights
In 2019, federal government spent $586 billion on contracts for goods and services
The President vowed to invest hundreds of billions of dollars to buy American products and materials
to modernize our infrastructure.
This in turn, will help in increasing the competitive strength in the competitive world.
They also promised to invest heavily in strategic sectors like the artificial intelligence in order to
increase American competitiveness.
This move was also targeted to counter the “Made in China 2025” campaign by Chinese government.
Aim of the Executive Order
The executive order was signed with the objective of Strengthening the manufacturing sector in the
country.
Further, the government wants to make it harder for government agencies to purchase foreign
products.
It also aims to raise the percentage of local content (U.S. Made).
The order will also include job creation in the definition of U.S.-made.
Lastly, it seeks to extend the provisions to information technology which is currently exempt.
Buy American Act
This act was passed in 1933 by Congress and signed by President Hoover on his last full day in. The act
ensures that the United States government is preferring the U.S.-made products in its purchases. This act is
different than the “Buy America Act”. Under the act, exceptions could be given in certain cases if the
domestic product is 25% or more expensive than a similar foreign-sourced product or if it is being done in
the public’s interest. This act can be waived by the President.
Section 165 or the “Buy America” Act
The act applies to mass-transit-related procurements. The act was established to give preference to the use
the domestically produced materials on any procurements funded by the federal funds.
World Economic Outlook, 2021
Recently, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has released the “World Economic Outlook, 2021” report.

Key Findings of report
The report highlights that, India will witness the strongest growth among the main economies.
India’s economy will expand by 11.5 percent in 2021 as opposed to the 8.8 percent growth that was
predicted in October 2020.
However, for the year 2022, the growth has been predicted to be 6.8 percent.
The report further highlights that the global growth for 2021 will be 5.5 percent as compared to 5.2
percent October 2020.
The economic growth of the world is projected at 4.2 percent in 2022.
It further estimated that there will be 3.5 percent contraction in global growth in 2020.
As per the report, U.S. will experience the growth to 5.1 percent in 2021 from 3.1 percent in 2020.
Report projects that, there will be slight variation in China’s growth in 2021. The growth will lower
down to 8.1 percent from 8.2 percent.
Concerns raised by report
The report however highlighted that access to medical interventions, exposure to cross-country
effectiveness of policy support, exposure to cross-country spill overs, and structural characteristics are
entering into crisis. This might result into the variations in the strength of the recovery across countries.
International Monetary Fund (IMF)
IMF is an international financial institution. It is headquartered in Washington, D.C. The institution
comprises of 190 countries that works together to boost the global monetary cooperation, facilitate
international trade, secure financial stability, promote high employment and sustainable economic growth.
It depends on the World Bank for its resources. It was established in the year 1944 at the Bretton Woods
Conference. However, it formally came into existence in 1945 when there were 29 member countries.
World Economic Outlook (WEO)
This report is prepared by the International Monetary Fund. It analyses key parts of the IMF’s surveillance of
economic developments and policies. The report is usually prepared twice a year.
NASA finds the 'Lost Galaxy'
Recently, the Hubble Space Telescope of NASA captured the images of the NGC 4535 which is also known
as the “Lost Galaxy”. The image highlights that the young and hot stars that hang out are the bright blue
spots. On the other hand, older and cooler stars are highlighted by the bright shades nearer to the center.
Background
An amateur astronomer Leland S. Copeland fixed his telescope lens on a distant galaxy in the Virgo
constellation first in 1950s. He then withnessed an eerie spiral that was shrouded in dust. He named the
spiral as “The Lost Galaxy”.
About the Lost Galaxy
It is also known as NGC 4535.
The galaxy is one of the largest of some 2,000 galaxies in the Virgo Cluster.
The galaxy is located about 50 million light-years from Earth.
It is a barred spiral galaxy that means a vast swirl of stars having a distinct bar structure at its center.
The galaxy gives the yellowish glow at its central bulge. The yellowish glow suggests the way to the
oldest and coldest retinue of stars in the Lost Galaxy.
The Galaxy was discovered in 1785 by William Herschel who found the planet Uranus.
The galaxy was termed as the Lost Galaxy by Copeland because then he had a glimpse of NGC 4535
using his small yard lenses.
Spiral galaxy
The concept of the Spiral Galaxy was first described by Edwin Hubble in 1936 The Spiral galaxy is the most

common type of galaxy in universe. It has a spiral shape because of long arm full of stars. The galaxy
extends from the center into the galactic disc. The galaxy comprises of a flat, rotating disk containing the
stars, gas and dust, and a central concentration of stars called as bulge. It is surrounded by a much fainter
halo of stars.
Rajasthan: “School of Public Health” launched
Rajasthan has launched a new School of Public Health. The school was launched in order to make the policy
intervention to build the public health capacity and skills. It will also help in bridging the gaps between
education and practices in Rajasthan.
Highlights
It is expected that the school will play an important role in the healthcare management after the state
is completely recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The school has been named after the Indian Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR).
D. Gupta has been appointed as the chairman of the school.
The chairman will provide the technical support to health systems and help the state government in
harnessing the new technologies.
The digital health technology and evaluation of surveillance mechanisms are the significance
features of the school. These features will help the policy makers to identify the challenges and to
bring the changes. This will help in ensuring “equity and inclusion” in public health.
First Project
The school of Public Health has taken up a study on non-communicable diseases, climate change and
antimicrobial resistance in the first instance of its project. The project was undertaken in order to identify
priority areas in public healthcare. Study will be conducted if the data analytics and artificial intelligence are
the segments for the public health sector or not.
Public health
The science and art of preventing disease is called as Public Health. This science helps in prolonging life
and improving the quality of life through the organized efforts and informed choices of society, different
public & private organizations, communities and individuals. Public Health analyses the determinants of
health and the threats faced by the population. This concept incorporates the physical, psychological, and
social well-being. The World Bank Organization says, the public health is not only the absence of disease or
infirmity but a resource for everyday living.
Bangladesh Forces takes part in Republic Day Event
India celebrated its 72nd Republic Day. The Republic Day Parade this year was though muted amid the
COVID-19 pandemic and no chief guest was invited. But this year, Bangladesh Army contingent marched
down the Rajpath.
Why Bangladesh Forces marched?
The Bangladesh Army Contingent participated in the parade to mark the completion of 50 years
of the liberation of Bangladesh from Pakistani rule. The victory was one of the finest military victories and
the world has rarely witnesses the military campaign like India-Pakistan war of 1971. Thus, to mark the
Golden Jubilee of the war, Bangladesh Forces marched along with the Indian Forces.
Background
The War was fought with the Pakistan in which Indian forces and Bangladesh Forces were united. 122-
personnel strong contingent from Bangladesh fought alongside the Indian Army in the war. War continued
for 14-day and resulted in the largest surrender of an opposing army.
Mukti Bahini
Mukti Bahini is the Bangladesh Forces. The force was the guerrilla resistance movement that comprises of

the Bangladeshi military, paramilitary and civilians in the War of Liberation. It was earlier called as the Mukti
Fauj. Mukti Bahini also comprise of the civilian Gonobahini meaning the People’s Force). Z Force led by
Major Ziaur Rahman, K Force led by Major Khaled Mosharraf and S Force led by Major K M Shafiullah were
some of the prominent forces during the war.
India-Bangladesh Relation
The relation between India and Bangladesh is defined on the basis of civilisation, cultural, social and
economic. A shared history and common heritage, linguistic and cultural ties, Literature, passion for music
and arts are some of the areas that unites both the countries. For Instance, Rabindranath Tagore wrote the
national anthems of both Bangladesh and India in 1905 and 1911 respectively. The cooperation and
coordination between the Indian Army and Bangladeshi Mukti Bahini dates back to March 1971 or the India-
Pakistan war of 1971. Now that cooperation and coordination is part of folklore and shared history of both
the nations.
India’s New Central Bank Digital Currency
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is in process of examining if India needs a new central bank digital currency
(CBDC) and is exploring ways to operationalise the digital currency.
Highlights
The statement from the RBI has come in the light of gaining popularity of the private digital
currencies, virtual currencies and cryptocurrencies.
These currencies are not operational in India because regulators and governments have always been
sceptical about the risks associated with these currencies.
Thus, RBI is exploring the possibility if there is a need for a digital version of fiat currency.
Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC)
It is a legal tender and a central bank liability in digital form. The digital currency is denominated in a
sovereign currency. It also appears on the balance sheet of the central bank. This is an electronic version of
currency which can be converted or exchanged with the similar denominated cash and the traditional
central bank deposits.
Background
The Reserve Bank of India in the RBI bulletin of the February cited that central banks have conducted the
survey by the Bank for International Settlements. During the survey, it was found that around 80 percent of
the 66 responding central banks have started projects to explore the use of CBDC.
Why India did not use cryptocurrencies?
India has always been skeptical of the privately owned cryptocurrencies. The RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das
himself did not support the cryptocurrencies. He cited that; the sovereign can be the only issuer of currency
in India. Later in December 2019, said that it is early to talk about a central bank-issued digital currency
because of the technological handicaps. Further, the central government has also been against the privately
issued cryptocurrencies. The government has also introduced the bill in Parliament that seeks to ban the
privately held digital currencies completely. However, the bill is lying dormant.
Supreme Court’s stand
Recently, In March 2020, Supreme Court of India also upturned the RBI’s ban on banks dealing with crypto
exchanges. Thus, the decision has allowed crypto exchanges to restart their operations India.
Cryptocurrency
It is a digital asset that work as a medium of exchange. In the system, individual coin ownership records are
stored in a ledger in the form of computerized database. To secure the transaction, strong cryptography is
used. The currency does not exist in the physical form or paper money form. Bitcoin is the first
decentralized cryptocurrency that was released in 2009.

What is Alpha Global Union?
Recently, the Google workers from all around the globe have formed an international union called the “Alpha
Global”. The new union has been named after Google’s parent company Alphabet. The union was formed in
coordination with UNI Global Union.
About Alpha Global
The Alpha Global union comprises of 13 different unions.
These 13 unions represent the workers in 10 countries like United States, Switzerland, Germany,
Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
The grouping has been formed with the aim to “build a more ethical and accountable company.
It also aims to bring together the direct Alphabet employees besides the temporary, vendor, and
contract workers.
For now, Alpha Global will not have a legally binding agreement with the company.
What is the need of Global Union?
The problems created by Alphabet are not limited to any one country. It is problematic to all of them. These
problems can easily be addressed on a global level. Formation of such global Unions will help in finding
solutions.
Alphabet Workers Union (AMU)
The alphabet workers union was launched by the United States and Canada. It is a minority union. It initially
had over 200 workers affiliated with the Communications Workers of America. Within a week, AWU grew to
over 700 members.
UNI Global Union
It was earlier known as the Union Network International (UNI). It is a global union federation for skills and
services. It helps in gathering the national and regional trade unions. It is based in Nyon, Switzerland. This
union federation represents more than 20 million workers from over 150 different countries in the skills and
services sectors. The union represents the Cleaning & Security, Graphical & Packaging, Hair & Beauty,
Information, Communication, Technology and Services Industry (ICTS). It also includes the Media, post and
logistics, Entertainment and Arts, Private Care and Social Insurance, Women and Youth.
What is Economic Survey?
The economic survey for 2020-2021 will be tabled in the parliament on January 29, 2021 days before the
presentation of Union Budget on February 1, 2021.
Key Facts
The Economic survey will be released with the focus on the impact of lockdown and COVID -19 on the
economy.
It is expected that, the survey will provide an overview of how much did the COVID 19 pandemic
affect the economy.
It will also provide a road map to revive the Indian economy.
The road map for the 5 trillion economy is also expected to be laid down.
What is economic survey?
The Economic Survey is a flagship annual document that reviews the development in the Indian
economy.
The survey reviews the development of economy over the past fiscal year and presents a holistic
preview of the Budget.
It is released by the Department of Economic Affairs of the Ministry of Finance.
The survey is prepared by the country’s Chief Economic Advisor and tabled in both houses of
Parliament one day before the budget presentation.

The document is also discussed by the Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) and his team during a press
conference.
Presently, Krishnamurthy Subramanian is the CEA of India.
Significance of the Economic Survey?
The document helps in reviewing the development of the Indian economy over the past year. It also
summarises the performance on major development programs besides highlighting the policy initiatives of
the central government. The economic survey also projects the India’s GDP growth for the next fiscal and
suggests measures to boost the growth. For the year 2020, the Economic Survey had projected growth of
Indian economy by 6 to 6.5 per cent and had suggested new ideas for boosting the manufacturing like
‘assemble in India for the world’ which in turn created jobs. However, the growth was disrupted because of
Covid-19 outbreak.
India-UN: India pledges $150,000 for UN Peacebuilding
The permanent representative of India to the United Nations, TS Tirumurti, announced the pledge of USD
150,000 to fund for the activities of the UN peacebuilding as a token for the engagement of both the
countries.
Highlights
India highlighted that; it has extended the support to the activities of the peacebuilding fund.
India is conscious to prioritize the building of governance structure so as to strengthen the
democracy and the rule of law.
India also recognized the critical role played by women and youth in activities related to the
peacebuilding activities.
Further, India also focused on the security structures and civilian structure engaged in the good
governance.
United Nations Peacebuilding
The United Nations Peacekeeping operations are policing and peacebuilding actions. It is carried out by the
United Nations to bring order and stability in the nations affected by the war. The UN Peacekeepers are
known as ‘Blue Helmets’ or ‘Blue Berets’. They are the personnel comprising of the soldiers, military
officers, police officers and civilian personnel from other countries. The Department of the Peace Operation
is headed by the “Jean-Pierre”.
Functions of United Nations Peacekeepers
The United Nations Peacekeepers works to ensure peace agreements or the peace accords are successfully
implemented in war prone zones. They also help in confidence-building measures, electoral support,
improving law and order and boosting the social development in the region to bring peace.
How the peacekeepers get power?
The United Nations Security Council empowers the United Nations Charter to take measures to maintain the
international peace and security. Thus, the UN Security Council is engaged in deploying the peacekeepers to
ensure stability and security in war prone regions.
India’s role in UN Peacebuilding
India actively takes part in the UN peacebuilding operations. So far, India has taken part in 49 Peacekeeping
missions. Around 180,000 Indians troops are engaged in the mission. The most recent cooperation was in
the South Sudan Conflict in the year 2014.
UN Global Climate Survey- Key Findings
The United Nations has released its biggest ever opinion poll on climate change that is “UN Global Climate
Survey”. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) conducted the “Peoples’ Climate Vote” for
1.2 million people from 50 countries to prepare the report.

Key Findings of the survey
In the survey, the UN finds that two-thirds of people think it is a “global emergency”.
The survey highlights that the people across the world support the climate action. They also give
politicians a clear mandate to take the major action so as to find solutions.
As per the survey, young people showed the greatest concern. 69% of people aged 14-18 said there is
a climate emergency while 58% of those above 60 agreed with it. Thus, there is no generational divide
on the climate concerns.
People strongly supported the renewable energy in the countries where fossil fuels are a major
source of emissions. For Instance, US 65% in favour of renewable energy in US, 76% in Australia and
51% in Russia.
People also supported the conservation of trees in the countries where the destruction of forests is a
big cause of emissions. This gets 60% support in Brazil while 57% in Indonesia.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
UNDP is the global development network of United Nations (UN) headquartered in New York City. The
organisation promotes the technical and investment cooperation among nations. It is engaged in giving the
expert advice, training and grants support to the developing countries. It works with nations on their own
solutions to meet the global and national development challenges. UNDP help the nations only if different
nations request for the help. The UNDP is funded by voluntary contributions from UN member states,
completely. UNDP is operational in 177 countries. It also helps the countries to achieve the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). It also focuses on poverty reduction, Social development, democratic
governance, HIV/AIDS, energy & environment and crisis prevention & recovery.
Kolkata’s First Young Readers' Boat Library
The West Bengal Transport Corporation has launched the First Young Readers’ Boat Library. The library has
been launched in collaboration with a heritage book store. It has been launched on a boat making it first of
its kind initiative.
Why this library has been launched?
The boat library was launched with the motive that one can read books while appreciating the beauty of
Kolkata.
About the Boat Library
The boat library will cruise on the Hooghly river.
The library will provide the options for Children to choose from a selection of 500 titles in English and
Bengali.
The boat library will provide people a three-hour-long trip.
The library trip will start at Millenium Park.
It will travel to Belur Math jetty and return.
The boat will be providing three trips on all weekdays.
It has the facility of a free wifi facility as well.
The ride will cost Rs 100 for adults and Rs 50 for children.
It will also host activities like storytelling, poetry sessions, dramatised readings, poetry sessions,
music and book launches.
Millennium Park
It a private park in Kolkata which is situated along the Strand Road on eastern shore of Hooghly River. It
stretches for 2.5 km near Fairlie Ghat. The park comprises of the landscaped gardens and children’s
amusement rides. The park was inaugurated on December 1999 along the riverside to provide a green area
for the polluted waterway in Kolkata.

The Hooghly River
It is also called as the Bhagirathi-Hooghly, Ganga and Kati-Ganga. The river runs approximately for 260-
kilometre as a distributary of the Ganges River in West Bengal. It is divided into Padma and Hooghly near
Giria, Murshidabad. Another man-made bifurcation of the river upstream is situated at Farakka. The Padma
river flows eastward into Bangladesh while the Hooghly flows south through West Bengal.
Govt approves hike in MSP for Copra
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has
approved the Minimum Support Prices (MSPs) for milling copra and ball copra.
Key Facts
The government has increased the MSP of copra by ₹375 from 2020.
Thus, the Copra would cost ₹10,335 per quintal and contributes in boosting the farmers’ income.
This hike in MSP for copra will be impacting the farmers of 12 coastal states.
MSP of both milling and ball copra have been increased.
Cost of production for both the variants of copra is Rs. 6,800. The government will be giving 52% and
55% more than the cost of production.
The increase in the MSP was in line with the recommendations of the Swaminathan.
Minimum support price (MSP)
MSP is an agricultural product price which is set by the Government of India. On this price, the government
purchases the commodities directly from the farmer. The MSP is not enforceable by law. MSP seeks to
safeguard the farmer interest by providing them a minimum profit for their harvest in case the open market
has lesser price than the actual cost incurred. The price of the 23 commodities is set by the government
twice a year. The MSP is fixed based on the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and
Prices (CACP). CACP sets the price since 2009 on the basis of cost of production, demand & supply, price
fluctuations, market price trends, international market prices and agricultural wage rate.
List of Commodities for which MSP is set join @aspirants85
A total of 23 commodities are covered by the MSP. They are:
Among Cereals– Paddy, Maize, Wheat, Barley, Sorghum, Pearl millet and Ragi.
Among Pulses-Chickpea or Gram, Moong, Tur, Urad and Lentil.
Among Oilseeds– Peanut, Rapeseed, Sesame, Soyabean, Sunflower Safflower, Niger seed and
Among Commercial crops– Copra, Cotton, Sugarcane and Raw jute.
January 28, 2021
What are Off-Budget Borrowings?
The Government of India is all set to present the Union Budget 2021 on February 1, 2021. This year, the
focus of the budget will be on off-budget borrowings so as to reduce the Fiscal Deficit.
What are off-budget borrowings?
The loans that are taken by any public institution and not by the Centre directly are called as the “Off-
Budget Borrowings”. The public institution borrows on the directions of the central government.
These borrowings are used to fulfil the expenditure needs of the government.
Under such borrowing norms, Centre use to finance its expenditures while keeping the debt off the
books. Thus, the debt is not counted while calculating the fiscal deficit.
The liability of the loan is not formally on the Centre and is not included in the national fiscal deficit.
Thus, it helps in keeping the fiscal deficit of the country within acceptable limits.
How the borrowings are raised?
Government can raise the borrowings by asking the implementing agency to raise the required funds
from the market by loans or by issuing bonds.
The borrowings can also be raised through the Public Sector Banks (PSBs) where the PSBs can be
asked to fund off-budget expenses. For example, loans from PSBs were utilized for meeting the
shortfall in releasing the fertilizer subsidy.
What is the importance of off-budget borrowings?
The fiscal deficit in the Union Budget is the most wanted details. Fiscal deficit is the gap between what the
central government spends and what it earns. It helps in understanding the financial health of the
government. This figure is highly watched by the rating agencies across the world. As a result, the
government always wants to restrict the fiscal deficit at certain number. This can be restricted by “off-
budget borrowings”.
Implications
There are various sources of the off-budget borrowings. Thus. It becomes difficult to calculate the true
debt.
MoSPI report on Cost Overruns of Infrastructure Projects
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) recently released its report on Cost
Overruns of the Infrastructure Projects. The ministry monitored the infrastructure projects worth Rs 150
crore.
Key Findings of report
As per the report, around 450 infrastructure projects have been hit by the cost overruns. Each of the
project is worth Rs 150 crore or more.
The cost overrun amount stands at Rs 4.28 lakh crore.
The figure says, out of 1,687 projects, 450 reported cost overrun while 558 were delayed.
Further, the expenditure on these projects till December 2020 was Rs 12,17,692.37 crore. This
amounts to 47.33 per cent of the anticipated cost of the projects.
The report however highlights that the number of delayed projects decreased to 408 in case the delay
is calculated on the basis of latest schedule of completion.
The year of commissioning or the tentative gestation period has not been reported for 923 projects.
Why there are cost overruns?
The project implementing agencies cited several reasons for time overruns. The reasons include- delay in
land acquisition, delay in obtaining forest and environment clearances and lack of infrastructure support
and linkages. Further, the report highlights that these projects were delayed because of state-wise
lockdown due to COVID-19.
However, the report cited that the Project agencies are not reporting their revised cost estimates and
commissioning schedules for many projects. So, time and cost overrun figures are under-reported.
What is Cost Overrun?
Cost overrun is also called as cost increase or budget overrun. It simply means the unexpected incurred
costs. Such costs exceed the budgeted amounts because of underestimation of the actual cost during
budgeting. The Cost overrun is different from the cost escalation. Cost escalation is an anticipated growth
in a budgeted cost because of factors like inflation.
Finance Ministry releases grants to Rural Local Bodies
The Department of Expenditure of Ministry of Finance has recently released Rs 12,351 crore to 18 States in
order to provide grants to the Rural Local Bodies.
Highlights
The amount is the 2nd instalment of basic grants released in the current financial year.
The grant has been released after the states provided the Utilisation Certificate for the first
instalment.

The States will now transfer the grants to the Rural Local Bodies within 10 working days of receipt
from the Central Government.
Till date, Grant of Rs 45,738 crore has been released to Rural Local bodies in 2020-21.
Why this grant has been released?
The grant was released on the recommendation of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and in accordance
with the recommendation of the 15th Finance Commission.
It will be used to create the community assets and improve the financial viability of the Rural Local
Bodies.
It will further enable the pooling of resources across blocks and villages in the states.
Local bodies (LBs)
LBs are institutions of the local self-governance. It looks after the administration of an area or small
community like villages, towns, or cities. The Local bodies in India are classified into two categories:
1. Rural Local bodies (RLBs)- RLBs are constituted for local planning, development and administration
in the rural areas. These are called Panchayats.
2. Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)- ULBs are constituted for local planning, development and administration
in the urban areas. These are also called as Municipalities.
Grants to Rural Local Bodies
As per the recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission, there are two types of grants for the Rural
Local Bodies:
1. Basic Grants– Such grants can be used by the Rural local bodies for the location-specific needs.
However, such grants cannot be used for the salary or any other establishment expenditure.
2. Tied Grants– Such grants are used by the Rural Local Bodies to maintain the Open Defecation Free
Status and sanitation, supply of clean drinking water, rainwater harvesting and water cycling.
National Non-Communicable Disease Monitoring Survey (NNMS)
The National Non-Communicable Disease Monitoring Survey (NNMS) was recently released in India by the
Ministry of health. The survey was conducted for the period of 2017-18. This is the first of its kind of a
comprehensive survey on NCDs. It covers the age groups of 15-69 years, males and females from the urban
and rural areas.
Findings of the NNMS report
The report highlights that, two in five adults have three or more risk factors for non-communicable
diseases (NCD) in India.
Further, the status of health system to respond to the disease burden is underscored.
It also states that more than one in every four adults and 6.2% adolescents were overweight or obese.
Three out of ten adults had raised blood pressure.
3% had raised blood glucose.
It also shows that more than two in five adults and one in four adolescents were doing insufficient
physical activity. The average daily intake of salt was 8 gms for these children.
One in every three adults and more than one-fourth proportion of men were involved in tobacco
consumption and consumed alcohol in past 12 months.
About NNMS
It is the largest comprehensive national Survey on risk factors and health systems preparedness of non-
communicable disease (NCD). It also provides framework on the use of telemedicine for cancer, heart
diseases, diabetes, and stroke. The survey was conducted with the purpose of collecting the reliable
baseline data on key indicators such as select NCDs, risk factors and health systems response related to
the National NCD monitoring framework and its Action Plan. The survey also highlights the need of

improving the comprehensive multi-sectoral approaches that focussed on both prevention and management
of NCDs.
World Health Organisation (WHO) survey on NCDs
The WHO survey found that 45% of NCDs are caused due to physical inactivity.
Government Measures to tackle NCDs
The government launched the Fit India Movement that gained momentum to raise awareness. More gyms
and exercise centers will also help inn reducing the need for hospital infrastructure. A Framework for
Telemedicine use in Management of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke in India was also
released. Telemedicine comprising of the tele-consultation, tele-monitoring and tele-triage will help in
building the continuum of care model for major NCDs.
UN report on Ageing Dams
United Nations have released its report titled ‘Ageing water infrastructure: An emerging global risk’ on the
ageing of the dams in India. The report was compiled by compiled by United Nations University’s Canadian-
based Institute for Water, Environment and Health. The analysis was done on the dam decommissioning or
ageing from the USA, Canada, France, Japan, India, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Findings of the report
The report highlights that, some thousand large dams in India will be around 50 years old in 2025.
It warns that such aging structures across the world pose a growing threat.
The report also notes that, by 2050 most people on Earth will live downstream of the thousands of
dams that were built in the 20th century.
As per the report, 58700 large dams worldwide were constructed in between 1930 and 1970. Those
dams have the design life of 50 to 100 years.
Report also highlights that, the world will witness another large dam-building revolution like it was in
mid-20th century. But these dams will then be showing their age.
It highlights, 32,716 large dams which accounts for 55 percent of the world’s total are found in four
Asian countries namely China, India, Japan, and South Korea.
Approximately 3.5 million people are at risk if India’s Mullaperiyar dam in Kerala will fail. The dam
was built over 100 years ago. It is constructed with concrete ‘surkhi’ which is a combination of
limestone and burnt brick powder.
What are the ageing signs?
Some of the signs of ageing include:
1. Increase in the cases of dam failures,
2. Increasing costs of dam repair and maintenance,
3. Increase in the reservoir sedimentation, and
4. Loss of functionality and effectiveness of the dams “strongly interconnected” manifestations.
Mullaperiyaru Dam
It is a masonry gravity dam on the Periyar River in Kerala. It is located 881 m above mean sea level. It
stands on the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats in Idukki District of Kerala. The dam was constructed
between 1887 and 1895 by John Pennycuick. The Periyar National Park is alsp located around the dam’s
reservoir. It is built at the confluence of Mullayar and Periyar rivers. The dam is located on the river Periyar
in Kerala but is operated and maintained by Tamil Nadu.
Mt Merapi: Indonesia's most Active Volcano
The most active volcano of Indonesia, Mt Merapi, recently erupted with a river of lava and searing gas
clouds. The lave and clouds flown for 1,600 meters down its slopes.

Highlights
This was the biggest lava flow of the Mount Merapi.
Sound of eruption was heard 30 kilometers away.
The last major eruption of the Merapi was in 2010 that had killed 347 people.
Mount Merapi
The Mount Merapi is the Fire Mountain in Indonesia and Java.
It is an active stratovolcano that is located on the border between the Central Java and Yogyakarta
provinces, Indonesia.
It is considered as the most active volcano in Indonesia and is erupted regularly since 1548.
It is the youngest group of volcanoes in southern Java that is situated at a subduction zone of the
Indo-Australian Plate and Sunda Plate.
At this subduction zone, the Indo-Australian Plate subducts under the Sunda Plate.
About Indonesia
Indonesia, the archipelago of 270 million people, is situated in the Southeast Asia and Oceania between the
Indian and Pacific oceans. It comprises of more than seventeen thousand islands, including Java, Sumatra,
Java, Sulawesi, parts of Borneo (Kalimantan) and New Guinea (Papua). It is considered as the world’s
largest island country and the 14th-largest country with respect to area. The country is also the 4th-most
populous country in the world. It is also the most populous Muslim-majority country. The most populous
island of Indonesia is Java which is also the most populous island in the world. The country is prone to
earthquakes and volcanic activity as it sits along the “Pacific Ring of Fire”.
Pacific Ring of Fire
The region sits around rim of the Pacific Ocean which is prone to volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. It is a
horseshoe-shaped belt which is about 40,000 km in length. It includes the Pacific coasts of South America,
North America and Kamchatka apart from the western Pacific Ocean areas.
India- IEA MoU for Global Energy Security
India has signed a Framework for strategic partnership agreement with the International Energy Agency
(IEA), recently.
Highlights
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) seeks to strengthen the cooperation in global energy
security, stability and sustainability.
It will also help in extensive exchange of knowledge between the two.
The MoU is also a stepping stone towards India’s full membership to IEA.
The MoU will also strengthen the mutual trust & cooperation and enhance the global energy security,
stability and sustainability.
The agreement was signed between Power Secretary Sanjiv Nandan Sahai and IEA Executive Director
Fatih Birol.
The IEA Secretariat will implement the cooperative activities in India.
IEA will also facilitate the discussion between the IEA members and India in order to develop the
strategic partnership.
International Energy Agency (IEA)
IEA is a Paris-based autonomous intergovernmental organisation that was established in the year 1974 in
the aftermath of 1973 oil crisis. It was established in the framework of the Organisation for Economic Co-
operation and Development (OECD).
Functions of IEA
The IEA was established with the objective of responding to physical disruptions in the supply of oil

apart from serving as information source on statistics of the international oil market.
It now also acts as a policy adviser to its member states.
IEA also works with non-member states like China, India, and Russia.
The agency focusses on the “3Es” of effectual energy policy namely the energy security, economic
development, and environmental protection.
It also promotes alternate energy sources such as in renewable energy, multinational energy
technology co-operation and rational energy policies.
Why IEA is criticized?
IEA is criticized for providing a highly inaccurate forecasts of both fossil fuel and renewable energy. It is
also criticized for failing to comply and create the 1.5°C scenario. All the members of IEA have signed the
Paris Agreement that seeks to limit warming to 1.5°C but, IEA’s Sustainable Development Scenario projects
for net-zero emissions in 2070 two decades later the 2050 target set by the Paris Agreement.
January 27: International Holocaust Remembrance Day
The International Holocaust Remembrance Day was observed on January 27 at the Bengaluru International
Centre. A small ceremony was organised and memorial candles were lit by clergy of various religious
communities to mark the International Holocaust Remembrance Day. The ceremony was organised in
accordance with the UN’s theme: “Facing the Aftermath: Recovery and Reconstitution after the Holocaust”.
About International Holocaust Remembrance Day
It is an international Memorial Day that is observed to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust.
Holocaust refer to the genocide of European Jews by Nazi Germany during 1941-1945.
January 27 was chosen to commemorate the liberation of Auschwitz concentration camp by the Red
Army in 1945.
The day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly resolution on November 1, 2005 in
the wake of 60th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration camps.
The day marked the unwavering commitment of the international communities to counter the
antisemitism, racism, and other forms of intolerance that could result into group-targeted violence.
Background
During 1941-1945, Nazi regime and its collaborators led to the killing of 6 million Jews and 11 million
others.
Nazi Germany
Nazi Germany was a German State in between 1933 and 1945. It was officially known as the German Reich
and also Greater German Reich.
United Nations General Assembly Resolution
The resolution is a declaration that is voted on by all member states of the United Nations in the General
Assembly. The resolution usually requires a simple majority to pass. The General Assembly resolutions are
non-binding towards member states. However, the internal resolutions may be binding on the operation of
the General Assembly.
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)
It is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations (UN). It serves as the main deliberative, policy-
making and representative organ of the UN. The body is responsible for the UN budget. It is also involved in
appointing the non-permanent members to the Security Council. UNGA is the only UN organ where all
member states have equal representation.
PM to address World Economic Forum’s Davos Dialogue
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, will address the Davos Dialogue of World Economic Forum on
January 28, 2021 virtually.

Highlights
The virtual session will be attended by more than 400 top industry leaders from across the world.
PM Modi will be delivering his speech on the “Fourth Industrial Revolution- using technology for the
good of humanity”.
Prime Minister will also be interacting with the CEOs during the Davos Dialogue.
About Davos Dialogue 2021
This is the 51st annual meeting of the World Economic Forum.
The World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos will bring together the top leaders of the world.
These leaders will help in shaping the regional, global, and industry agendas for 2021.
The Davos Dialogue 2021 will also significant in the light of the launch of the “Great Reset Initiative”
by the World Economic Forum in the post-COVID-19 world.
The theme of the annual meeting was announced as ‘The Great Reset’
Great Reset Initiative
The Great Reset Initiative is the 50th annual meeting of WEF that was organised in June 2020. The initiative
had brought together the high profile political and business leaders who were convened by WEF and Prince
of Wales. The meeting was organised under the theme of Rebuilding the society and economy in a
sustainable way for the post-COVID-19 world.
World Economic Forum (WEF)
WEF is an international NGO. It was founded on January 24, 1971. The NGO was established with the
objective of improving the condition of the world. It seeks to improve the condition by engaging the
academic leaders, business leaders, political leaders and other such leaders of the society. The leaders
help in shaping the industry and regional agendas. The annual meeting of WEF is held in Davos, Switzerland
every year at the end of the month January.
Cabinet Clears Policy on PSU Privatization
The Union Cabinet has cleared the policy on the privatization of public sector undertakings (PSUs). The
details regarding the policy will be announced in the upcoming Union Budget that will be presented on
February 1, 2021.
About the Policy
The policy will present a road map for the presence of government-owned entities in strategic and
non-strategic sectors.
This policy was the part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat package that was announced by the Finance
Minister in May 2020.
It was announced as a coherent policy wherein all the sectors would be opened for private sector
participation.
The government had also announced to limit the presence of PSUs to one to four in strategic sectors.
The government wanted to privatize, merge or bring the remaining companies under a holding
company.
After this policy will come into force, the government will completely exit from the companies in non-
strategic sectors.
The timing of the privatization of non-strategic sector companies will be decided on a case-by-case
basis.
Strategic sectors
The Department of Investment and Public Asset Management had classified 18 sectors as strategic
sectors. It includes- fertilisers, telecom, power, banking, defense, and insurance. These sectors have been
categorized as the mining & exploration, manufacturing & processing and services.

Pubic Sector Undertaking (PSU)
The state-owned enterprise is called a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) or a Public Sector Enterprise in
India. The PSU is owned by the union Government or one of the state or territorial governments. It can also
be owned by both in parts. The majority of the stock of the company in a PSU owned by the government.
PSUs are of two types- central public sector enterprises (CPSUs, CPSEs) or state level public enterprises
(SLPEs). PSUs are administered by the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises.
Number of PSUs in India
Till the year 1951, there were just 5 enterprises in the public sector. Over the time the number has
increased. As of March 2019, the number has increased to 348.
UK launched Global Platform to track new COVID-19 variants
The United Kingdom has launched a New Global Platform to track the new COVID-19 variants. The platform
will provide world-leading genomics expertise from the country to identify the new variants of the virus.
Highlights
The platform was launched as part of the UK’s Presidency of the G7.
In the line, the UK also put forward the vision for a stronger, more collaborative and effective global
health system to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and to ensure that the international community is
better prepared for future threats.
The platform will help to better understand the virus. It will also help to understand how it spreads.
The platform is led by the Public Health England (PHE) that also worked with NHS Test & Trace,
academic partners and the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) SARS-CoV-2 Global Laboratory
Working Group.
It will also be led by the National Institute for Health Protection (NIHP) and will involve the PHE
laboratories and staff.
New Variant of Corona Virus
The Variant of Concern 202012/01 is the new variant of the Corona virus (SARS-CoV-2). The new variant is
also known as lineage B.1.1.7, 20I/501Y.V1 and it is commonly known as UK coronavirus variant since the
virus emerged in the UK. The new variant is 36%–75% more transmissible than wild-type SARS-CoV-2. The
virus was first detected in November 2020 from a sample taken in September 2020. The virus started to
spread quickly in mid-December.
SARS-CoV-2 virus
SARS-CoV-2 is the abbreviation for “Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2”. The virus caused the
coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
It is a contagious disease which is caused by SARS-CoV-2. The first case of the disease was identified in
December 2019 in Wuhan, China. The disease spread across the world from which the world is still
recovering. Symptoms of COVID-19 are variable which begin one to fourteen days after exposure to the
virus.
Reliance Jio- Fifth Strongest Brand Globally
The Reliance Jio venture of billionaire Mukesh Ambani has become the fifth strongest brand globally. It now
stands behind the brands like Ferrari and Coca-Cola. This venture has achieved this milestone in just four-
odd-years.
Key Facts
This ranking has been provided by the “Brand Finance Global 500 ranking 2021” of the strongest
brands.
This ranking determines the relative strength of brands.

As per the annual report on most valuable and strongest global brands has been is topped by
WeChat.
The Reliance Jio was founded in 2016 and has become the largest mobile network operator in India.
It has also become the third-largest mobile network operator in the world. The network operator has
almost 400 million subscribers, as of now.
The brand Ferrari is ranked second, Russian bank Sber is ranked third while Coca-Cola is ranked
fourth.
Reliance Jio has got the BSI score of 91.7 out of 100 and is given elite AAA+ brand strength rating.
How this ranking was decided?
The assessment of stakeholder equity was done through the original market research data. The data was
analysed for over 50,000 respondents in 30 countries and across 20 sectors.
Reliance Jio
It is an Indian telecommunications company and a subsidiary of Jio Platforms. It is headquartered in
Mumbai, Maharashtra. The company operates a national LTE network and is covering all the 22 telecom
circles. The operator does not provide 2G or 3G service. It only uses voice over LTE to provide the voice
service on its 4G network. It was launched in December 2015 with a beta for partners and employees. In
September 2016 it was launched for public. Jio also launched a fiber to the home service which offers
broadband, television, and telephone services.
Brand Finance
It is an independent branded business valuation consultancy that advises branded organizations on how to
maximize their value through effective management. It has been certified with ISO 10668:2010.
Rajasthan- 5th state to complete Urban Local Bodies Reforms
Rajasthan has become the 5th state in the country to successfully complete the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs)
reforms. This was specified by the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.
Benefits
Rajasthan now become eligible for additional reform linked borrowing.
Thus, the State has been granted permission by the Department of Expenditure an additional financial
resource of 2,731 crore rupees.
The State will get this amount through Open Market Borrowings.
Other States to complete the reforms
Other states that have completed the Urban Local Bodies Reforms include- Manipur, Andhra Pradesh,
Madhya Pradesh and Telangana. In total, these five states have been granted a total additional borrowing
permission of 10,212 crore rupees after completing the reforms.
Reforms in ULBs
The Reforms in the Urban Local Bodies and urban utilities reforms were done with the aim of strengthening
the finance of the ULBs in the States. It also seeks to enable the states to provide better public health and
sanitation services. Once the ULBs are economically rejuvenated it will be able to create good civic
infrastructure.
What are those reforms?
The reforms that have been put forward by the Department of Expenditure are:
1. State is required to notify floor rates of property tax in ULBs as well as the floor rates of user charges
with respect of the provision of water-supply, drainage and sewerage.
2. State needs to place a system of periodic increase in floor rates of property tax or user charges with
respect to the price increases.

Background
In the light of covid-10 pandemic, the government had identified Four citizen centric areas for reforms in
order to meet the demand of resources. Those areas include- the Implementation of One Nation One Ration
Card System, Ease of doing business reform, Urban Local body or utility reforms and Power Sector reforms.
10 States have implemented the One Nation One Ration Card System, 7 States have worked on the ease of
doing business reforms while 5 States have implemented the local body reforms; so far.
January 29, 2021
UNEP Global Climate Litigation Report 2021
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has released its “Global Climate Litigation Report
2021”. The report was published by the UNEP in cooperation with the Sabin Center for Climate Change Law
at Columbia University. The report highlights that the Climate litigation cases have increased in recent
years. The litigations have made the courtroom increasingly relevant to efforts to address the climate
change across the world.
As per the report, climate cases have nearly doubled over the last three years.
Increasing climates cases are increasingly compelling the governments and corporate actors to
implement their climate commitments.
The cases are also compelling the government to pursue more ambitious climate change mitigation
and adaptation goals.
As per the data provided by the report, in 2017 884 cases were brought in 24 countries. While as of
2020, cases have increased to 1,550 filed in 38 countries and the European Union courts.
Report finds that the climate litigation continues to be concentrated in high-income countries and the
trend might further grow in the global south.
The report has also identified the trends in climate litigation like Violations of “climate rights”. That
means the cases are increasingly relying on fundamental human rights such as right to life, food,
health and water.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
UNEP, which is also called UN Environment, was established by Maurice Strong in June1972 following the
UN conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm. The organisation involves in coordinating the
responses to environmental issues within the United Nations system. It provides the leadership, deliver
science and develop the solutions on issues like climate change, management of marine & terrestrial
ecosystems and green economic development. It also develops the international environmental agreement
and helps in achieving the environmental targets. The primary aim of the UNEP is to help the world to meet
the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Environmental agreements such as the Minamata Convention on
Mercury, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and Convention on Migratory Species are organised by UNEP. It
also helps in implementing the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol and Global
Environment Facility (GEF).
Jarosite: Rare Mineral Found in Antarctica
A rare maritime mineral, Jarosite, has been found in the Antarctica ice. It was discovered after drilling deep
into Antarctic ice.
What the discovery signifies?
The recently discovered mineral was examined and it was found that it was formed in pockets within the
ice. This supports the theory of presence of jarosite on MARS in as similar manner. It signifies that, the
minerals are able to form in thick deposits on mars because the planet is a lot dustier than Antarctica.
What is Jarosite?
Jarosite is a mineral from mars which is scarcely seen on earth.
It is a sulphate of potassium and iron.
The mineral can be formed by both water and acidic conditions.
It was first discovered on Mars in 2004 by a rover named “opportunity”.
Other Jarosite minerals include silver, sodium, lead and ammonium.
It can be found are in the mining and ore processing wastes where they act as sinks for other toxic
elements such as lead and arsenic.
When the jarosite is broken, it releases metals such as iron, potassium besides the hydrogen ions and
sulphate.
Jarosite is used in hydrometallurgy to control impurities.
The name Jarosite was derived from a Spanish name of a yellow flower of genus Cistus.
The mineral was described in 1852 by August Breithaupt for the first time.
It is yellow to yellowish-brown in colour. It is brittle, hard and has crystal structure. The mineral
appears translucent and opaque sometimes.
Why Jarosite is found on Mars?
The reason for the presence of the mineral on the Mars (Red Planet) is not yet determined. The scientists
believe that when the planet was covered with ice millennials ago sulphate, iron, and potassium might get
trapped in the form of dust. This believe is not accepted because dust and ice have never chemically
reacted to form minerals. Though ice provided a suitable environment for the transformation of dust to the
mineral.
'Vaccine Maitri Initiative' extended to Sri Lanka
India has extended its “Vaccine Maitri Initiative” to Sri-Lanka now. As per the agreement, India dispatched
500000 doses of Covishield vaccines to Sri Lanka as grant assistance. The vaccine maitri initiative has
delivered nearly five million doses to seven countries in the neighbourhood, till date.
Background
The delivery of vaccines which has been made by the Serum Institute of India is in light with the Prime
Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the Sri Lankan counterpart Mahinda Rajapaksa during. PM Modi
had committed in September 2020 during a virtual summit to provide all the possible support in order to
minimise the health and economic impacts of the pandemic in Sri Lanka.
Vaccine Maitri Initiative
The Vaccine Maitri or the Vaccine Friendship initiative was started on January 20, 2021.
Under the initiative, India will supply Made-in-India Covid-19 vaccines to its neighbouring. Other key
partners of the Neighbourhood First Policy will also be getting the vaccine.
Bhutan and Maldives were the first country to get the vaccines.
Both the countries are followed by Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar and Seychelles.
Sri Lanka get the vaccine doses after regulatory approval.
Afghanistan and Mauritius will also get doses after they give necessary regulatory approvals.
Pakistan has not been named as a neighbouring country by India to deliver the vaccine.
Till date, India has provided 150,000 doses of vaccine to Bhutan, 100,000 doses to Maldives, 2 million
doses to Bangladesh, 1 million doses to Nepal, 1.5 million doses to Myanmar, 50,000 doses to
Seychelles and 100,000 doses to Mauritius.
Commercial supplies of Covishield
India has also supplied the two million doses of Covishield to each of Brazil and Morocco, and five million
doses to Bangladesh. Further, the doses will be supplied to South Africa and Saudi Arabia.

India’s Vaccine Diplomacy
The delivery of vaccines as grant assistance is in line with India’s neighbourhood first policy and
SAGAR doctrine.
India is actively supplying doses to comply with its role as the first responder to the pandemic in the
region.
India-Sri Lanka: In 2020, India had extended a $400-million currency swap facility to Sri Lanka in
order to ensure financial stability. India also provided aid of 26 tonnes of essential lifesaving
medicines and equipment.
India also actively supplied Hydroxychloroquine, Remdesivir, Paracetamol tablets, diagnostic kits,
masks, gloves, ventilators and other medical supplies to many countries during the pandemic.
India has also provided training to its neighbouring countries so as to enhance their clinical
capabilities under the Partnerships for Accelerating Clinical Trials (PACT) programme.
PACT programme
The PACT programme was launched to support the COVID-19 vaccine development activities in partnering
countries. Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) and Clinical Development Services
Agency (CDSA) under the aegis of the National Biopharma Mission and Ind-CEPI Mission of DBT are the
implementing agencies of the programme.
Kerala’s Gender Park- Key Facts to know
The Gender Park in Kozhikode, Kerala will open from next month. The park will become functional on the
occasion of the second edition of the International Conference on Gender Equality (ICGE-II).
Highlights
The park will be inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan, in between February
11-13 that will also mark the inauguration of second edition of ICGE-II.
On this occasion, foundation of the International Women’s Trade and Research Centre (IWTRC) will
also be laid down.
The IWTRC will be established with the objective of providing a secure and sustained ecosystem for
women entrepreneurs. It will also provide women a space to market products.
International Conference on Gender Equality (ICGE-II)
The ICGE is an initiative by the Gender Park. The second edition of the conference will be inaugurated with
the objective of exploring the measures to boost the economic potential of women and transgender
persons. It will help them to be equipped as sustainable entrepreneurs. The conference will be organised
under the theme: “Gender in Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Social Business: The Mediating Role of
Empowerment”. This event will be organised in collaboration with the UN Women.
The Gender Park
The gender park was established by the government of Kerala in 2013. It is an initiative that work towards
gender equality and empowerment in Kerala. The headquartered for the initiative is in the capital of Kerala,
Thiruvananthapuram. However, the main campus is at Silver Hills, Kozhikode. The campus has an area of
24-acre. The park has been set with its main focus on gender justice. The platform will provide an
environment for policy analysis, research, capacity development, advocacy, economic and social initiative.
The park will be operational under the Department of Social Justice. This space is first of its kind across the
world.
Aim of Gender Park
The gender park was established with the aim of creating relevant interventions so as to address a range of
gender-based issues. It includes both off-campus and on-campus activities and other projects that work to
empower the individuals and communities.

National Marine Turtle Action Plan Launched
The Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has released ‘Marine Mega Fauna
Stranding Guidelines’ and ‘National Marine Turtle Action Plan’ recently to create a conservation paradigm
for the marine mega fauna and marine turtles.
Highlights
The documents were released containing the ways and means to promote the inter-sectoral action for
conservation. join @aspirants85
The documents also suggest for improving the coordination amongst the government, civil society
and all relevant stakeholders so as to response to the cases of stranding, injury or mortality of marine
mammals.
It also suggests coordinated efforts for the conservation of marine turtles.
The documents contain the actions that are required to handle the stranded animals on shore.
It will also look after the stranded or entangled animals in the sea or on a boat.
It comprises of the management actions for improved coordination, rehabilitation of degraded
habitats, reducing threats to marine species habitats, advance scientific research, enhancing people’s
participation and exchange of information on marine mammals & marine turtles.
What was the need of action plan?
India has a rich marine biodiversity along its coastline of over 7,500 km. It comprises of sharks, whale
sharks, colorful fish, dolphins, turtles, big mammals such as whales and dugongs.
The bright corals marine habitats harbor the diverse species and provide various resources essential
for human wellbeing.
Millions of people depend on these resources. The resources range from the maritime trade &
transport, mineral resource, food, cultural traditions, spiritual values & inspiration. All these resources
also attract tourists from across the world.
Thus, India needs to conserve the marine resources to meet the demands and increasing people’s
participation.
Challenges faced by Marine Resources
The marine resources and habitats have immense economic, ecological and cultural values in India. But, the
marine mega fauna species and marine turtles face a wide variety of challenges. The challenges include
stranding and entanglement.
Indo-French Ecological Partnership
India and France will launch the Year of Environment. It will be launched by the Environment Minister
Prakash Javadekar and his French counterpart Ms. Barbara Pompili in a bid to strengthen the ecological
partnership.
Highlights
Indo-French partnership on Environment, Biodiversity, Climate Change and other allied areas will be
an example for the world.
India and France have already undertaken several environment projects in Assam, Rajasthan.
Another project will start in Jharkhand.
Indian side said that the year 2021 will also enhance the cooperation in sustainable development and
increasing the effectiveness of actions for the global environment protection.
Agenda of the meeting
Both sides will work towards deepening the Indo-French cooperation on sustainable development in
the field of renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, plastic waste management and smart cities.
The Indo-French initiative also aim to boost the cooperation between the two countries on climate

issues and jointly boost the global momentum throughout 2021. The year 2021 is a key year to fight
against climate change and the erosion of biodiversity.
Both sides will hold talks on joint efforts in order to promote the renewable energy and smart grids.
They will also discuss to strengthen and universalise the International Solar Alliance. an international
organisation initiated by France and India.
They will enhance the bilateral technical cooperation on high-efficiency solar panels.
Further, new investments will be made from French companies in solar power projects and smart
grids in India.
India’s achievement in climate change action
India has made significant efforts in the climate change action. India achieved 26 per cent of reduction of
emission intensity so far. The renewable capacity in India stands at 90 Giga Watt as of 2020. It also
includes 36 Giga Watt of solar energy and 38 Giga Watt of wind energy
What are Neglected Tropical Diseases?
Recently, India joined the world and Light Up Qutub Minar as a sign of unity to combat the Neglected
Tropical Diseases (NDT).
Highlights
This was done to mark the second annual World NTD Day that will be observed on January 30th.
The World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day highlights the global community’s commitment to end
the diseases.
The NDT diseases cause immeasurable suffering among the most marginalized communities of the
world.
On the occasion of World NTD day, 50 landmarks representing the 25 nations of the world will be lit
up. They will celebrate how far the world have come together in beating the NTD.
What are Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD)?
The NTDs are a diverse group of communicable diseases that prevail in tropical and subtropical
conditions.
These diseases affect more than one billion people every year. In combating the disease, the
countries invest billions of dollars every year.
The Populations who are living in poverty, where there is no adequate sanitation, those who are in
close contact with infectious vectors, domestic animals & livestock are highly affected by such
diseases.
As per the WHO major NTDs are: Buruli Ulcers, Chagas Disease, Dengue, Chikungunya, Sleeping
Sickness (Human African Trypanosomiasis), Hansen’s Disease (Leprosy), Trachoma Mycetoma,
chromo-blastomycosis, deep mycoses etc.
NTD cases in India
As per the data, one in five people across the world are affected by NTD.
India is home to the world’s largest absolute burden of 11 of the major neglected tropical diseases.
World NTD Day
It is an awareness day that addresses the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). World NTD Day was
celebrated on January 20, 2020 for the first time. The date, January 30, marks the anniversary of the 2012
London Declaration on NTDs. The London declaration had unified the partners across sectors, countries
and disease communities for a greater cooperation, investment and action on NTDs.
India- Japan 5th Act East Forum Meet
The fifth joint meeting of the India-Japan Act East Forum was held between India and Japan on January 28,
2021. The meeting was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla and the Ambassador of

Japan to India, Suzuki Satoshi.
Highlights
At the Act East Forum, India and Japan reviewed the progress of ongoing projects in the North
Eastern Region of India.
These projects were launched in the areas ranging from the hydropower, connectivity, harnessing of
water resource, sustainable development, and skill development.
Both the countries also discussed several ongoing new projects under India-Japan bilateral
cooperation.
They also exchanged their views on cooperation in new areas including agro-industries, healthcare
and SMEs, Smart city, tourism, bamboo value chain development, and people-to-people exchanges.
Both the sides also appreciated the role played by the Act East Forum, ever since it was established
in the year 2017, in streamlining India-Japan bilateral cooperation.
They highlighted how the forum has helped in the modernization of the North Eastern Region.
The Act East Forum also provides a platform for India-Japan collaboration in the North Eastern
Region in accordance with the India’s Act East Policy and Japan’s vision for a “Free and Open Indo-
Pacific”.
Act East Forum
The act east forum was established in the year 2017. The agreement to established the forum was signed in
September 2017 during the visit of Prime Minister Abe to India. This platform works in line with the Japan’s
vision for a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” and India-Japan collaboration in the North Eastern Region under
India’s “Act East Policy”.
Act East Policy
The act east policy was launched in November 2014 at the East Asia Summit in Myanmar. The policy was
launched with the focus on the economic and security integration. The policy mainly focusses on the area
like South East Asia and the East Asia. This policy is said to be the modification of the Look East Policy.
Look East Policy
The look east policy of India was launched by the former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao in the year
1991. This policy was launched then with the aim of shifting the India’s trading focus from the west and
neighbours to the South East Asian countries. This policy was discontinued in 2014 with the enactment of
Act east policy.
India’s Rank on Covid-19 Response Index
The Covid-19 Response Index was provided by Sydney-based Lowy Institute, recently. The study was based
on the number of key indicators such as confirmed cases, cases per million people, deaths and deaths per
million people.
Key findings of the index
India was ranked 86th in a coronavirus performance index among the 98 countries.
Report highlights that, New Zealand handled the pandemic more effectively than any other country
across the world.
Brazil was ranked at the bottom of the list.
In the index, New Zealand was followed by Vietnam, Taiwan, Thailand and Cyprus.
US was ranked as the fifth-worst performing country.
Sri Lanka was placed at 10th position in handling the Covid-19 pandemic.
The report further reveals that, the smaller populations, cohesive societies and capable institutions
were big factors to successfully deal with the pandemic.
China was not included in the study since its testing rates are not publicly available.

India has so far reported 1.07 crore infections and 1,53,847 deaths – one of the world’s lowest
fatality rates from the disease, attributed partly to its younger population.
About the Index
The indicators used for ranking the countries point out that how well or poorly countries have managed the
pandemic. An average of the rankings was given across the six indicators. Then it was normalised for each
country so as to produce a score between 0 for the worst performing and 100 for best performing. The
study was conducted for 36 weeks.
The Lowy Institute
It is an independent think tank that was founded in April 2003. It was founded by Frank Lowy. The think tank
is involved in conducting the original, policy-relevant research about the international political, strategic and
economic issues. The institute is based in Sydney, Australia. The institute is funded by donations from the
investment management firm, Manikay Partners.
What is STARS Project?
The Department of School Education and Literacy under the Ministry of Education, and the World Bank have
signed the Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States Program (STARS) project on January 28,
2021. The project is a financial support agreement.
STARS Project
STARS project is a centrally sponsored scheme that seeks to strengthen the school education
system.
The agreement has been signed with an aim of improving the quality and governance of school
education in six states of India.
The 6 Indian states include- Kerala, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh,
Rajasthan, and Odisha.
The STARS project will be benefitting approximately 250 million students in the age group of 6 to 17
years coming from the 1.5 million schools.
Apart from the students, the project will also benefit 10 million teachers across the six states.
The project was launched with the aim of strengthening the public-school education.
It also supports India’s aim of “Education for All”.
The STARS Project carry forward the vision of the National Education Policy 2020 that envisages the
equitable education for all.
Funding to the Project
The total cost of the STARS project is Rs 5718 crore.
The world bank has provided financial support worth $500 million which stands around Rs. 3700
crores.
This loan has been provided by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)
which is the lending arm of the World Bank.
The world bank has provided the final maturity of 17.5 years for the $500 million along with a grace
period of 5 years.
Background
The STARS project was approved by the Union Cabinet under NEP 2020 in October 2020.
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)
It is an international financial institution. It was established in the year 1944. The IBRD is headquartered in
Washington, D.C., United States. IBRD is the lending arm of World Bank Group. It offers loans to the middle-
income developing countries.

CSIR-Ladakh inks MoU for S&T Development
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the union territory of Ladakh recently signed an
agreement for the development of the Union Territory through Science and Technology (S&T) interventions.
About the MoU
The agreement was signed by CSIR-IIIM Director D. Srinivas Reddy and Rigzin Samplel who is the
Commissioner Secretary Agriculture and Horticulture, Ladakh UT.
The MoU was signed with the aim of establishing a knowledge partnership between CSIR and the
Ladakh UT.
It seeks to develop the areas like exploration of natural resources, introduction of cash crops in the
region and bioresource utilization which is endemic to Ladakh.
Various CSIR Institutes will now start research and development, extension and societal projects in
accordance with the agreement. The projects will be based on their core competencies in the region.
In the first phase institutes like CSIR-IIIM, CSIR-CMERI, CSIR-NBRI, CSIR-IHBT, CSIR-CLRI and CSIR-
NGRI will provide extensive knowledge and technological support in the Union territory. For this
purpose, CSIR-IIIM, Jammu will be the nodal institution.
Major areas of interest include the aromatic and nutraceutical plants or crops, Geophysical mapping,
eco-friendly leather processing, bioprospection of endemic microbial, industrial agriculture with a
focus on commercialization of endemic & other high-value medicinal, plants diversity, and
microbiological & biotechnological interventions.
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
CSIR was established by the Government of India in September 1942. It was established as an autonomous
body which now is the largest research and development organisation in India. The body is mainly funded
by the Ministry of Science and Technology. It is functional as an autonomous body under the Societies
Registration Act, 1860. The body is involved into various research and development activities such as
structural engineering aerospace engineering, ocean sciences, metallurgy, chemicals, food, life sciences,
petroleum, leather, and environmental science.
Economic Survey 2021- Key Highlights
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabled the Economic Survey 2020-21 in the Lok Sabha on
January 29, 2021.
Highlights
The Economic Survey 2021 presented an estimation of the progress that the Indian economy has
made in the last 12 months.
The survey highlights that the real growth rate for Financial Year 2021 was taken as -7.7% as per
MoSPI while the real growth rate for Financial Year 2022 is assumed was taken as 11.5 % on the
basis of estimates provided by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
It further highlights that, the gross domestic product (GDP) was contracted by a record 23.9 per cent
in April-June 2020 while it contracted by 7.5 percent in the second quarter.
For the full fiscal, the survey projected a contraction of 7.7 per cent while a V-shaped recovery in the
next. GDP growth will be expanding by 11 per cent in the 2021-22 fiscal.
As per the survey, there was de-growth for the first time.
It highlights that the Indian economy is technically in a recession as it has witnessed a contraction in
the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the last two consecutive quarters.
The Survey also provided a detailed analysis of India’s V-shaped economic recovery after it was
affected due to corona pandemic. It highlights that mega vaccination drive supports the V-shaped
recovery.

As per the survey, Agriculture sector has remained the silver lining in the growth trajectory even
during the pandemic however, contact-based services such as manufacturing and construction faced
sharp decline due to the corona pandemic.
It highlights that how Healthcare sector has taken centre stage in the economy where the government
took part actively in shaping and structuring the healthcare market in the country.
The Economic Survey of India
It is the flagship annual document released by the Ministry of Finance. The document is presented in the
parliament just before the Union Budget by the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance. The
document is prepared under the guidance of the Chief Economic Adviser of India. During the budget
session, this document is presented to both the houses of the parliament. The document is non-binding in
nature.
Background
The first ever Economic Survey of India was presented in 1950-51. It was presented as a part of the Union
Budget. The survey got separated from the Union Budget after the year 1964.
India to Launch ‘Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme’
The government has announced for the launch of Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) on January 29,
2021.
Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS)
The scheme will be launched with a corpus of Rs 945 crore.
The scheme was launched with the aim of providing the financial assistance to start-ups for the
product trials, market-entry, proof of concept, prototype development and commercialization.
The funds under the Start-up India Seed Fund Scheme will be disbursed through the selected
incubators across the country.
The scheme will be in mission mode for the year 2021-25.
The official notification on the launch of SISFS was released by the Department for Promotion of
Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
The overall execution and monitoring of the SISFS will be done by the DPIIT. The DPIIT will form an
Experts Advisory Committee (EAC) to look after the same.
The Expert Advisory Committee (EAC) will evaluate and select the incubators in order to allot the
Seed Funds, take all required measures for efficient utilization of funds and to monitor the progress.
The seed support will be provided only once to any start-up.
Which start-ups are eligible under the scheme?
The funds under SISFS can be availed by a start-up that are incorporated not before the 2 years ago at
the time of application.
The Start-ups will be recognized by the DPIIT.
The start-up seeking funds under the scheme must have a suitable commercially viable business idea
and it should use technology in its core product or service.
The notification highlights that, preference will be given to start-ups that create innovative solutions
in sectors such as waste management, social impact, healthcare, textiles, agriculture, water
management, defence, food processing, education, energy, railways, financial inclusion, mobility,
space, oil, gas and biotechnology.
Start-ups should not have received monetary support of more than Rs 10 lakh under any other central
or state government scheme.
It should have at least 51% shareholding by Indian promoters at the time of application to the
incubators in accordance with the Companies Act, 2013 and SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2018.

Conditions for Incubators
As per the eligibility conditions, the incubators must be legal entities. It must be operational for at least 2
years on the date of application to the scheme. Further, it should have at least five start-ups undergoing
incubation physically and should have the seating capacity for at least 25 individuals. They should have a
full-time CEO and a capable team.
January 30, 2021
L&T Bags contract for Bullet Train Project
The Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has bagged a contract worth Rs 1390 crore for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet
train project. This project is India’s first such project. L&T has bagged the contract for the project from the
National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL).
Highlights
The contract for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet corridor have been given to Larsen & Toubro (L&T) –
IHI Infrastructure Systems Consortium.
L&T has been given the contract for the procurement and fabrication of 28 steel bridges for Crossing
Over Rivers, roads, railway lines, highways and other structures for the Mumbai Ahmedabad high-
speed rail corridor.
About Bullet Train Project
The bullet rain project or the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed rail corridor is being executed by the
National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL).
The NHSRCL have stated that, about 70,000 MT of steel will be used for the fabrication of 28 steel
bridges under the project.
Steel for the fabrication of structures for these steel bridges will be procured from the steel
manufacturers through bid.
Bidding for steel bridges
Financial bids for the procurement of steel bridges were opened on December 18, 2020.
In the bidding, a total of eight bidders participated. Out of eight bidders, four were qualified.
Qualified bidders include- Tata projects Limited, Larsen & Toubro- IHI Infrastructure Systems
Consortium, Afcons Infrastructure Limited, and NCC Limited.
Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet Train Project
The Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train Project is a 508 km long corridor. It will operate at speed of 320
km/hour. The train corridor will pass through Gujarat, Maharashtra and Dadra & Nagar Haveli. The train will
complete the distance of 508 kms in just 2-3 hours. There will be 12 stations along the corridor. The bullet
train project is also funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
It is a governmental agency that engages in delivering the bulk of Official Development Assistance (ODA)
for the government of Japan. It assists in the economic and social growth of the developing countries.
Asia-Pacific Personalised Health Index
Asia-Pacific Personalised Health Index was recently released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). The
index measures the readiness in adopting the personalised healthcare of 11 health systems in the Asia-
Pacific region.
Asia-Pacific Personalised Health Index
This is a newly launched index. It measures the progress of a health system towards personalised
healthcare.
It evaluated the 11 health systems in the Asia-Pacific region.
The health systems that were evaluated includes: India, China, Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, Taiwan,
Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, and New Zealand.
It measured the performance across 27 indicators of the personalised health across 4 categories that
are called as the ‘Vital Signs’.
The four vital signs include Policy Context, Health Information, Personalised Technologies and Health
Services.
Report highlights that Singapore was the best performer among all the 11 health systems.
Taiwan bagged the second position while Japan, and Australia stands at the third and the fourth
position of the index respectively.
India was ranked at 10th position out of 11 health systems.
Indonesia was ranked last at 11th
India’s rank
Though, India was ranked at 10th position overall. But in the four vital categories India’s rank is- 10th in the
health information indicator, 11th in the health services, 9th in the Personalised Technologies indicator while
5th in the Policy Context indicator.
Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)
It is the research and analysis division of Economist Group. It provides the forecasting and advisory
services by doing research and analysis. It provides- five-year country economic forecasts, monthly country
reports, country risk service reports and industry reports. It has several offices across the world including
two offices in China and one in Hong Kong.
Asia-Pacific
It is the part of the world in the Western Pacific Ocean. This part varies in area on the basis of context, but it
generally includes the Oceania, East Asia, South Asia and Southeast Asia.
Chauri Chaura Centenary celebrations to be inaugurated
The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, will inaugurate the Chauri Chaura Centenary celebrations on
February 4, 2021. The celebrations will be inaugurated by PM virtually and it will be held in Uttar Pradesh.
Highlights
On the occasion, the Prime Minister will also release a postal stamp that will be dedicated to the
centenary year of the Chauri Chaura incident.
The celebrations will also be joined by the families of martyrs and freedom fighters.
The state-wide celebration will also be held and it will begin from 4th February, the celebration will
continue for a year.
Chauri Chaura incident
The Chauri Chaura incident took place, in British India, on February 4, 1922 at Chauri Chaura. Chauri
Chaura is a place in Gorakhpur district of the modern Uttar Pradesh.
In the incident a large group of protesters who were participated in the Non-cooperation movement
clashed with police and the police opened fire on them.
In return, the protestors attacked and set fire to a police station.
This incident led to the killing of all of its occupants.
In the incident, three civilians and 22 policemen were died.
Those protesters were protesting in the light of “Non-Cooperation Movement” called by Mahatma
Gandhi.
Following the incident, Mahatma Gandhi halted the non-co-operation movement on February 12, 1922.
Non-cooperation movement
This movement was launched on September 4, 1920 by Mahatma Gandhi. This movement was started with

the aim of self-governance and obtaining full independence or Purna Swaraj. This was started in the light of
withdrawal of the support by Indian National Congress (INC) for British reforms following the Rowlatt Act
and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
Rowlatt Act of March 1919
This act was passed to suspend the rights of political prisoners in sedition trials. This act motivated
Mahatma Gandhi to follow the idea of satyagraha (truth).
NSO released Revised Estimates of Economic Growth
The National Statistical Office (NSO) has released the revised estimates of Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
data on January 29, 2020. The data was revised for the for the fiscal years 2017-18 to 2019-20.
Highlights
The first revised estimates figured the GDP growth at 4 percent for the fiscal year 2019-20. This was
20 basis point lower than the provisional estimates of 4.2% growth that was released in 2020.
This highlights that, the projected contraction of GDP at 7.7% in 2020-21 will increase to 7.8%.
The second revised estimate of GPD for 2018-19 is 6.5 percent while the third revised estimates of
GDP growth for 2017-18 is 6.8 percent.
Earlier, the GDP growth for 2018-19 and 2017-18 was 6.1 percent and 7 percent.
Further, this revised estimates for 2019-20 have reduced growth in the primary and secondary
sectors. However, it projects a positive growth trajectory for the tertiary sector.
The Gross Value Added (GVA) in the secondary sector shows a 1.1% contraction in 2019-20 while the
GVA for the Tertiary sector is expected to grow at 7.2 percent in the revised estimate.
National Statistical Office (NSO)
The National Statistical Office (NSO) was formed through the merger of the National Sample Survey Office
(NSSO) with the Central Statistics Office (CSO). The NSO is headed by Secretary of the Statistics and
Programme Implementation (S&PI). NSO have three Director Generals (DG) namely the DG of Statistics, DG
of Coordination, Administration and Policy and DG of National Sample Survey. They all reports to the
Secretary (S&PI). The NSSO and CSO was merged together with the objective of streamlining and
strengthening the nodal functions of the ministry. It also seeks to bring in more synergy by integrating the
administrative functions within the ministry. NSO works under the aegis of Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
Gross domestic product (GDP)
It is a monetary measure of the market value for all the final goods and services that are produced in a
specific time period.
Gross value added (GVA)
It is the measure of the value of goods and services that are produced in an area, industry or sector of the
economy. It is the value of output minus the value of intermediate consumption.
Decommissioning of IN FAC T-81
The Indian Naval Fast Attack Craft, IN FAC T-81, of the Super Dvora MK II class was decommissioned on
January 28 2020 in Mumbai.
Highlights
The IN FAC T-81 was decommissioned after providing service for more than 20 years.
The event for decommissioning was held at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai.
The Chief Guest of the event was Rear Admiral V Srinivas who is the Flag Officer Commanding
Maharashtra Naval Area.
About IN FAC T-81
It is a 25 meters long vessel having 60 tonnes of displacement.

The craft was built at Goa Shipyard Ltd. in collaborations with M/s Ramta of Israel.
It was commissioned into the service of Indian Navy on June 5, 1999.
The commissioning of the craft was done by the then Governor of Goa, Lt Gen JFR Jacob (Retd).
It was specially designed for shallow waters.
It has the capability of day or night surveillance and reconnaissance.
The craft was also involved in the beach insertion, extraction of Marine Commandoes, high-speed
interception of intruder craft and Search & Rescue.
The craft could achieve the speeds up to 45 knots.
It was the 2nd ship of the Extra Fast Attack Craft (XFAC) Super Dvora MK II Class.
Super Dvora Mark II-class patrol boats
It is a high-speed class of patrol boats. He boats are meant for a variety of naval missions ranging from the
typical off-shore coastal patrol mission profiles to a high-speed, high-manoeuvre littoral warfare. It is built
by Israel Aerospace Industries for the Israeli Sea Corps. It is the successor to the Dvora-class fast patrol
boats. He boats have been employed by the Sri Lanka Navy to counter the LTTE operations at sea.
Fast attack craft (FAC)
FAC is a small, fast, agile and offensive warship that are armed with anti-ship missiles, gun or torpedoes.
They are operated in close proximity to land. They lack seakeeping and all-round defensive capabilities to
survive in blue water. They can reach up to the speeds of 25–50 knots.
Republic Day Parade 2021 Awards
The Union Sports Minister, Kiren Rijiju, has presented the Republic Day Awards for 2021 Parade Tableaux.
Key Facts
In the parade of 72nd Republic Day, 32 tableaux participated.
Those Tableaux were selected from the 17 States and Union Territories (UTs).
6 of the Tableaux were from the Defence Ministry while 9 were from other ministries, departments
and paramilitary forces.
Best Tableau Award
The Uttar Pradesh tableau was given the award for best tableau out of total 32.
The theme of the UP tableau was “Ayodhya: Cultural Heritage of Uttar Pradesh”.
The tableau of Tripura was chosen as the second-best tableau.
The Tripura tableau displayed the eco-friendly traditions to achieve the self-reliance in the socio-
economic parameters.
The third best tableau award was presented to the tableau of Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand Tableau was displayed with the theme of the “Dev Bhoomi– The Land of the Gods”.
Other Awards
Out of 9 tableaux of the different ministries, departments, and paramilitary forces, the Department of
Biotechnology tableau was chosen for the top award. The department had presented the Tableau with
the theme of “Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan: COVID vaccine development”.
Apart from that, a special prize was given to the tableau of the Central Public Works Department
(CPWD). CPWD was given the award for paying the tribute to the heroes of the Armed Forces. Theme
of the CPWD tableau was ‘Amar Jawan’.
The award for best cultural performance was given to student of Mount Abu Public School and Vidya
Bharti School Rohini, Delhi. In their performance they had displayed the vision for Self-Reliant India-
Atmanirbhar Bharat.
How these Tableaux are selected?
The tableaux are selected by the Ministry of Defence for the Republic day parade. In order to shortlist the

tableaux, an expert committee is set up by the defence ministry comprising of the distinguished people
from various fields of arts. The expert committee consists of prominent persons from the field of art,
painting, culture, music, architecture, sculpture and choreography. States are given representation on a
rotational basis.
125th Anniversary of “Prabuddha Bharat”
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, will address the 125th anniversary celebration ‘Prabuddha Bharata’
which is scheduled to be organized on January 31, 2021. It will be organized by the Advaita Ashrama,
Mayavati
Prabuddha Bharata
It is a monthly magazine of the Ramakrishna Order.
This magazine was founded in the year 1896 by P. Aiyasami, B. R. Rajam Iyer, G. G. Narasimhacharya,
and B. V. Kamesvara Iyer under the guidance of Swami Vivekananda.
Prabuddha Bharata magazine was of great significance in spreading the message of the ancient
spiritual wisdom of the country.
The magazine comprises of the articles and translations by monks, scholars and other writers on
humanities and social sciences.
Background
The publication of the Prabuddha Bharata magazine was started from Madras (Present day Chennai). The
journal was published in Chennai for 2 years. After that, the magazine started publishing from Almora. From
April 1899, the magazine started publishing from Advaita Ashrama. Since then, Advaita Ashram
continuously edit the magazine and it is published and printed in Kolkata.
Contributors of the magazine
In the history, many great personalities have contributed to the magazine namely, Bal Gangadhar Tilak,
Former President Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Sister Nivedita and Sri Aurobindo.
Presently, it is edited by Swami Vireshananda.
Advaita Ashrama
This ashrama was founded in the year 1899. It was a branch of the Ramakrishna Math. The ashrama is
located in Uttarakhand.
Ramakrishna Order
It is the monastic lineage founded by Ramakrishna. It was founded in January 1886 at the Cossipore House.
It is different from the Ramakrishna Math. Ramakrishna Math is a legal entity that trains the young monks
and directs the spiritual duties of the Swamis of the Ramakrishna Order.
World Leprosy Day 2021
The last Sunday of January is celebrated as the World Leprosy Day every year. The day is observed all
across the world.
Highlights
The day is celebrated to raise knowledge about the leprosy.
It also seeks to propagate the need and importance of eradicating the disease.
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the goal of the observance of the day in year 2021 is to
beat leprosy by spreading more information regarding the disease.
The day will be celebrated to spread the knowledge that the disease is curable.
Leprosy cases across the world
As per the report, there were 2,08,619 new leprosy cases globally registered in the year 2018. This figure
has come from 159 countries.

Leprosy day in India
In India, the day is being observed on January 30 in the year 2021.
January 30 is selected as a remembrance of the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
What is leprosy?
Leprosy is also known as Hansen’s disease.
It is an infectious disease which is caused by a bacillus Mycobacterium leprae.
The disease has been named after Gerhard Henrik Armauer Hansen who was a Norwegian physician.
Hansen proved that leprosy is not a hereditary disease but is caused by a bacterium.
The disease is a curable disease and treatment at the early stage can prevent any disability.
It can cause a progressive and permanent damage to the skin, nerves, limbs and eyes if it is left
untreated.
The incubation period of the disease is 5 years usually. Symptoms of the disease can be seen within
1 year but it could also take 20 years or even more years to occur.
How it spreads?
The disease spreads through the droplets either from the nose or mouth when the affected person sneezes
or coughs.
National Infrastructure Pipeline: Financing Bank to be set up
The government is considering to introduce a new bill “National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and
Development Bill, 2021” in the ongoing budget session of the parliament. This bill will be passed with the
objective of setting up a new development finance institution (DFI) so as to finance the infrastructure
projects.
What is Development Finance Institution (DFI)?
The finance ministry had started working on the structure of a new DFI in the year 2020.
DFI will be a specialized institution to provide funds for the infrastructure projects. The DFI will be
backed by government.
The DFI will help in funding the projects under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP).
The new DFI will act as a provider, enabler and catalyst for infrastructure financing.
It is also the principal financial institution and development bank to build and sustain a supportive
ecosystem during the life cycle of the infrastructure projects.
National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP)
NIP is a group of social and economic infrastructure projects. The project has been launched for a period of
five years. The project has an initial sanctioned amount of ₹102 lakh crore. The pipeline project was first
announced by the Prime Minister of India during the 2019 Independence Day speech.
The Parliament of India
It is the supreme legislative body of India. Parliament is a bicameral legislature that comprises of the
President of India and the two houses namely the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha. The President being the
head of legislature has powers to summon and prorogue either house of Parliament. He has also the power
to dissolve the Lok Sabha. However, he can exercise these powers only on the advice of the Prime Minister
and his Union Council of Ministers.
Sessions of the Parliament
The period for which the House of the parliament meets to conduct its business is called a session. The
Constitution of India has given power to the President to summon each House. The Gap between two
sessions of the parliament should not be more than a six-month. Thus, the Parliament must meet at least
twice in a year. The Parliament conducts three sessions every year in India:
1. Budget session that runs from January or February to May

2. Monsoon session that runs from July to August or September
3. Winter session that runs from November to December.
UAE’s new Citizenship Policy
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced its new citizenship policy. The government has planned to
offer citizenship to a select group of foreigners. The UAE has thus become the first Gulf Arab nation that
formalized the process of giving expatriates a bigger stake in the economy.
Aim of the policy
The new citizenship policy has been announced with the aim of attracting the talent to the UAE in order to
boost the growth. The country is considering longer residency and limited citizenship for foreigners
because it seeks to attract the investment and diversify from oil.
Background
UAE earlier used to give citizenship in the UAE to some foreigners in special cases. They were given
citizenship for providing service to the state.
Foreign Residents in UAE
The Foreign residents accounts for more than 80% of the total population od UAE. The residents are thus
the mainstay of UAE’s economy since decades.
Who can be given citizenship?
The government has formulated following conditions to provide citizenship:
1. Investors should own a property in the UAE.
2. They are required to obtain one or more patents approved by the UAE Ministry of Economy or any
other reputable international body.
3. Doctors and specialists should be specialised in a unique scientific discipline or the scientific
principles that are highly required in the UAE.
4. Scientists should be an active researcher in a university or research center. They should have
practical experience of at least 10 years in the same field.
5. Individuals with creative talents like intellectuals and artists should be pioneers in the culture and art
fields. They should be a winner of one or more international award.
Withdrawal of Citizenship
The citizenship of the individual can be withdrawn if there is a breach of the conditions.
UNWTO report: 2020 is Worst Year on Record
The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has highlighted that the year 2020 the worst year
on record.
Key findings of the report
The UNWTO has made this statement in the light that global tourism suffered massively because of
the international travel bans that was into force in order to contain the COVID-19 outbreak.
As per the report, the international arrivals have dropped by 74 percent.
Further, the destinations across the world allowed 1 billion fewer international arrivals than it was in
2019.
The report further highlights that, the restrictions in the international travel has resulted in the loss of
USD 1.3 trillion in export revenues.
This loss in the export revenues is more than 11 times the loss that occurred during the global
economic crisis in 2009.
As per the report, the COVID-19 crisis has an impact on 100-120 million direct tourism jobs. Many of
them are in the small and medium-sized enterprises.
Report highlighted that, the nature of pandemic is evolving due to which many countries are

reintroducing the stricter travel restrictions such as changes in the quarantine rules, mandatory
testing and complete closure of borders in some countries.
UNWTO’s take on Vaccine
The UNWTO report states that the countries are gradually rolling out the COVID-19 vaccine. The
organization expects that this will help in restoring the consumer confidence and will contribute in easing
the travel restrictions. Thus, the travel will slowly normalize in 2021 ahead.
UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
UNWTO is the United Nations specialized agency. The agency is involved in the promotion of responsible,
sustainable and universally accessible tourism. It is headquartered in Madrid, Spain. UNWTO is the leading
international organization in the field of tourism. It promotes the tourism as a driver of economic growth.
The agency serves as a global forum for tourism policy issues.
Who has been appointed as New Chief Executive of Ayushman Bharat?
Recently, R. S. Sharma has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Ayushman Bharat
scheme or the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana which is an insurance scheme by the National Health
Authority’s (NHA).
Highlights
1. The newly appointed chief executive, RS Sharma, will replace Indu Bhushan.
2. He was appointed after Indu Bhushan has completed the 3-year tenure as the CEO of Ayushman
Bharat.
Who is RS Sharma?
RS Sharma has worked as the Chairman of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
He is also the head of the Empowered Group on Technology and Data Management to combat the
Covid-19 and the Covid-19 vaccine delivery technology platform—Co-WIN.
He also works as a member of the National Expert Group on Covid-19 Vaccine Administration.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY)
The Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana is a component under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme. This scheme
by the central government offers free healthcare services to 40% of people of the country. The PMJAY
scheme is in mission mode as a second component of Ayushman Bharat. The first component of the
scheme is the Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) which provide the primary health care to the people
close to their homes. The scheme was launched on September 23, 2018, in Ranchi, Jharkhand by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi. It provides a cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year. The scheme covers the
secondary and tertiary hospitalization in all the private and public hospitals of India. It was launched with
the aim of achieving the Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
New Industrial Policy of Tamil Nadu
The State Cabinet meeting which was chaired by the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Edappadi K Palaniswami,
cleared the 34 major investment proposals with a total investment of Rs 52,257 crore.
Highlights
These new Industrial Policy have the potential to create 93,935 jobs.
These investments will be done in the sectors including automobiles & auto components, electronics,
solar cell manufacturing and including electric vehicles.
The Cabinet also cleared the Tamil Nadu Industrial Policy, 2021.
These incentive packages have been formulated in such a way that it will suit the requirement of each
investor.
Some of the investment policy that cabinet cleared includes
1. Rs 5,763 crore-worth mobile phone components manufacturing unit by Tata Electronics in Krishnagiri

district. It has the potential to create 18,250 jobs.
2. Rs 4,629 crore-worth investments by SunEdison that produce solar PV models. It has the potential to
create 5,397 jobs.
3. Rs 2,500 crore worth lithium-ion batteries manufacturing plant in Tiruvallur district by Lucas TVS. It
has the potential to create 3,500 jobs.
Industrial Policy of Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu has always been the forefront of economic growth in India. The Government of Tamil Nadu has
made significant growth in the field of automobiles, textile, engineering, Information Technology, leather,
electric hardware and hi-technology industries over time. To maintain the pace the Government has
formulated Tamil Nadu Industrial Policy which the aim of providing the necessary infrastructure in order to
ensure the sustained industrialisation in Tamil Nadu.
Objectives of the industrial policyjoin @aspirants85
Tamil Nadu Industrial Policy was formulated with the objective of:
1. Obtaining boost the average growth rate of manufacturing sector.
2. Achieving the sustainable industrial development.
3. Providing employment opportunities in the state.
4. Enhance the growth of high technology (Hi-Technology) industries such as aerospace and
nanotechnology.
120 Multiple Choice Questions
1. Where is the headquarters of the 'National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO)' located?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Delhi
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Kolkata
Answer: Delhi
The National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) organised its first ever Red Ribbon club Quiz
Competition.
NACO was established in 1992 as a division of Health Ministry. Headquartered in NeW Delhi, it is
implementing the ‘Adolescence Education Programme’ in schools, in association with NCERT. It has
also established 12,500 Red Ribbon Clubs (RRCs) to create awareness among the college youth.
2. Which arm of the Indian Army is to recruit women as Pilots for the first time from next year?
[A] Corps of Signals
[B] Armoured Corps
[C] Army Aviation Corps
[D] Corps of Engineers
Answer: Army Aviation Corps
As per the recent announcement of the Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane, women will
be inducted as Pilots in the Army Aviation Corps from next year.
Prior to this, women were being allotted only ground duties in the Army Aviation Corps. Women pilots
would fly helicopters and be part of operations at the borders.
3. The UN and its partners are seeking USD 1.3 billion, for which country affected by war?
[A] Syria
[B] Iraq
[C] Afghanistan
[D] Palestine

Answer: Afghanistan
The UN and its humanitarian partners in Afghanistan are seeking USD 1.3 billion to assist over 16 million
people, affected by war.
Six years ago, only 2.3 million people were targeted for assistance, which has now increased 6 times.
The people are in need of life-saving assistance after decades of conflict, natural disasters and the
prevalent Covid-10 pandemic.
4. The Union Cabinet has approved a MoU with which country on scientific and technical
cooperation?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] UAE
[C] France
[D] Germany
Answer: UAE
The Union Cabinet has recently approved a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on scientific and
technical cooperation between India and UAE
India’s Ministry of Earth Sciences and UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology will collaborate to share
knowledge and oceanic services, deploy meteorological observation networks. The countries also aim to
support the Tsunami Early Warning Centre (TEWC).
5. With reference to Defence, what is ‘ASMI’, that was seen in the news recently?
[A] Machine Pistol
[B] Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
[C] Anti-tank Guided Missile
[D] Artillery Gun
Answer: Machine Pistol
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has recently developed the country's first
indigenous machine pistol.
Named ‘ASMI’, the pistol has been developed by the DRDO along with the help of Indian Army. It is set to
replace the 9mm pistols which are currently used in the Defence forces.
6. Rushikulya beach, which was making news recently, is located in which Indian state/UT?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Odisha
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Kerala
Answer: Odisha
The Zoological Survey of India has started tagging endangered olive ridley turtles in the Rushikulya
beach, one of the largest mass-nesting sites for the turtles.
Six turtles floating in the deep water of the Bay of Bengal were attached with tags and released them
back. This will enable them to track the migration path of the turtles. The ZSI is also set to tag 30,000
turtles.
7. Who was the Chairperson of a Committee set up by the Centre to review the guidelines on
television rating agencies?
[A] Amitabh Kant
[B] Shashi S Vempati
[C] Prakash Javadekar
[D] Salim Varma

Answer: Shashi S Vempati
The Central Government had set up a committee to review the guidelines on television rating agencies
under the chairmanship of Prasar Bharati CEO Shashi S Vempati.
The committee has recently submitted its report to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry. The
Ministry will evaluate the recommendations made by the committee in the report
8. India has decided to set up one-million-dollar facility for academic collaboration with countries of
which region?
[A] Europe
[B] South America
[C] Arab
[D] Asia
Answer: Arab
India has decided to establish a one-million-dollar facility for academic collaboration with the Arab
World. This was decided at the 3rd Senior Officials Meeting of the Arab-India Cooperation Forum.
The meeting was held in a virtual format. The proposal for establishing the facility for academic
collaboration is expected to have far reaching impact on contacts between India and Middle east.
9. Which company has been ranked at the top in the “2020 Hurun Global 500” list?
[A] Apple
[B] Amazon
[C] Walmart
[D] Space X
Answer: Apple
As per the ‘2020 Hurun Global 500’ list, Apple is the world’s most valuable company with a value of USD
2.1 trillion followed by Microsoft and Amazon with USD 1.6 trillion each.
The 2020 Hurun Global 500 is a list of 500 most valuable non-state-controlled companies in the world.
11 Indian firms are a part of the list, which is led by Reliance Industries worth USD 169 billion.
10. The national initiative named “Kayakalp” was launched by which Ministry in 2015?
[A] Ministry of Science
[B] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
[C] Ministry of Agriculture
[D] Ministry of Women and child development
Answer: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
The national initiative named “Kayakalp” was launched by the Union Ministry of Health and Family
welfare in the year 2015. The initiative aimed to improve hygiene, sanitation and cleanliness in Public
Health Facilities in India.
Recently, Kayakalp award was given to Public and Private Health Facilities for high standards of
Sanitation and Hygiene.
11. The researchers of Durham University have developed a supercomputer simulation to explain the
formation of which space body?
[A] Moon
[B] Mars
[C] Sun
[D] Earth
Answer: Moon
Recently, researchers of Durham University have developed a supercomputer simulation to explain the

formation of moon.
The researchers have stated that Earth collided with a Mars like planet named Theia about 4.5 billion
years ago. The resulting debris is found to be a self-gravitating body, which has a great resemblance to
moon in term of mass and ferric properties.
12. Google has removed the Personal Loan applications in which country, amid safety concerns?
[A] China
[B] India
[C] Pakistan
[D] Bangladesh
Answer: India
Technology major Google has reviewed hundreds of personal loan apps in India that were flagged by
users and government agencies.
It has also removed those apps which were found to violate its user safety policies. Earlier, the RBI had
warned the public not to fall prey to the unauthorised digital lending platforms and mobile apps. Google
mandates the developers of financial services app to disclose all key information.
13. Who is/was the first U.S President to be impeached twice?
[A] Bill Clinton
[B] Andrew Johnson
[C] Donald Trump
[D] Ronald Reagan
Answer: Donald Trump
United States House of Representatives has voted to impeach President Donald Trump after the riots at
the Capitol building.
With this round of impeachment, the Donald Trump becomes the only US president to be impeached a
second time. The House impeached him on the charge of incitement of insurrection for his role in the
recent riot by his supporters, at the US Capitol.
14. A team of scientists from which organisation has entered China, to probe the source of
Coronavirus?
[A] FAO
[B] WHO
[C] CDC
[D] John Hopkins University
Answer: WHO
A team of Scientists from the World Health Organisation arrived in Wuhan province of China, to
investigate the origins of the coronavirus pandemic.
In December 2019, the disease emerged from the central Chinese city after which it spread to the entire
world. Earlier, WHO claimed that China has not permitted WHO to undertake the COVID-19 origin
mission.
15. Which country has recently unveiled the USD 1.9 trillion Covid-19 relief package?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] United States
[C] Australia
[D] Germany
US President-elect Joe Biden has announced a USD 1.9 trillion plan to revive the country's economy and

combat the coronavirus.
The plan has proposed to provide eligible individuals with USD 14000 as stimulus payment. It also seeks
to provide USD 130 billion to help the schools in the country to safely reopen.
16. As per a recent study, ‘Huntsman spiders’ present in which country eat tree frogs?
[A] India
[B] Madagascar
[C] Singapore
[D] Brazil
Answer: Madagascar
As per a recent study, ‘Huntsman spiders’ present in Madagascar eat tiny tree frogs. The Scientists
predict that the spiders catch prey, by weaving traps made of leaves.
Earlier, a spider was spotted by the Scientists which preyed on Tree frog trapped on a pocket on the tree
with spider silk sealing the edges. The frogs think these as a shady place to protect themselves from the
sun.
17. Who is the head of RBI’s working group on regulation of Digital lending space?
[A] AK Mohanty
[B] Jayant Kumar Dash
[C] Raghuram Rajan
[D] Injetti Srinivasan
Answer: Jayant Kumar Dash
The Reserve Bank of India has formed a 6-member working group headed by its Executive Director
Jayant Kumar Dash, on regulation of digital lending space.
The committee would study digital lending in regulated as well as unregulated financial sector to devise
a regulatory framework for the same.
18. Padma Shri awardee D Prakash Rao, who was seen in news recently, was associated with which
field?
[A] Cricket
[B] Music
[C] Social Activism
[D] Sports
Answer: Social Activism
The noted social activist and Padma Shri awardee D Prakash Rao, died recently in Cuttack. He was 63
years and died of brain stroke.
He is known for his significant contribution for uplifting and imparting education to slum and orphan
children of Cuttack. He started the school named 'Asha O Ashwasana' in Cuttack to provide free
education to children residing in slums.
19. What is the name of the software jointly launched by National Informatics Centre (NIC) and
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)?
[A] CollabCAD
[B] AutoCAD
[C] Solidworks
[D] CADable
Answer: CollabCAD
The National Informatics Centre and Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) jointly launched a
software named CollabCAD. The software would allow students to create and modify 3D digital designs

with a free flow of creativity and imagination.
The NIC, CBSE, and Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) will also jointly release a comprehensive e-book on
CollabCAD 3D modeling.
20. Which country’s Mars Digger probe named the ‘Mole’ was declared dead recently?
[A] China
[B] UAE
[C] USA
[D] Israel
Answer: USA
The Mars Digger probe named the ‘Mole’ was deployed on the Mars by NASA’s InSight Lander. The probe
has been recently declared dead by the Scientists, as it failed to burrow deep into the Mars.
The heat probe was developed and built by the German Aerospace Center (DLR). It has been trying since
2019, to dig deep and find the internal temperature of the Mars. The InSight lander will continue working
till 2022.
21. 20-crore project to build workstations, Digital Platform for ‘Work from Home’ jobs, featured in
the budget of which Indian state?
[A] Telangana
[B] Kerala
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Odisha
Answer: Kerala
The Finance Minister of Kerala TM Thomas Isaac launched the state government’s action plan for the
next five years, if re-elected.
The main focus was on tackling unemployment in the state. The Minister proposed a 20-crore project to
build workstations, a digital platform to directly hire job-seekers for ‘work from home’ or ‘work near
home’ models.
22. Indian Institute of Spices Research, which was seen in the news, is headquartered in which
state/UT?
[A] Jammu & Kashmir
[B] Kerala
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Karnataka
Answer: Kerala
The Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) is an autonomous organization and a subsidiary of Indian
Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), under the Ministry of Agriculture, India.
It is engaged in agricultural research related to spices in India and is headquarters in Kozhikode, Kerala.
Recently Principal Horticulture Scientist J Rema assumed charge as the new Director of Indian Institute
of Spices Research (IISR).
23. ‘Jallikattu’ is an event celebrated in which Indian state/UT?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Kerala
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Karnataka
Answer: Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami flagged off the famous jallikattu event at

Alanganallur in Madurai District of the state.
Jallikattu is a bull-taming sport traditionally organised in the state, as an important part of the Pongal
Festival called the ‘Maatu Pongal’. Amidst concerns on animal rights, the event is continued after the
state passed an ordinance to conserve the tradition.
24. What is the name of the Start-up India International Summit organised by DPIIT?
[A] Shuru
[B] Prarambh
[C] Prerna
[D] Vyuham
Answer: Prarambh
The “Start-up India International Summit” named Prarambh is organised by Department for Promotion of
Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce. It is a 2-day event.
The summit aims to bring some of the leading minds from around the world on one platform and
deliberate about the collaboration between countries on start-up ecosystems.
25. What is ‘MINUSMA’, which was making news recently?
[A] Name of new star
[B] Name of new planet
[C] UN Peacekeeping mission in Mali
[D] USA’s Federal tax law
Answer: UN Peacekeeping mission in Mali
UN - Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) is a peace keeping mission of
the United Nations in Mali, which was established in 2013. It is considered to be the most dangerous UN
operations in the world.
join @aspirants85
Recently, the peacekeepers’ convoy was attacked by an improvised explosive device (IED) by
unidentified gunmen of Mali. The attack led to death of 4 peacekeepers and 5 were wounded.
26. As of January 2021, What is India’s revised target for achieving 20% ethanol-blending with
gasoline?
[A] 2022
[B] 2025
[C] 2030
[D] 2050
Answer: 2025
India has planned to achieve 20% ethanol-blending with gasoline by the year 2025, which is 5 years
ahead of its previous target. This is aimed to reduce India’s dependence on crude oil import and narrow
down the Current Account Deficit (CAD).
India is the world’s third largest importer of oil, relying on foreign suppliers to meet more than 80% of its
demand.
27. Which company has manufactured India’s first driverless metro cars?
[A] HAL
[B] BMEL
[C] DRDO
[D] Alstrom
Answer: BMEL
India’s first state of the art driverless metro cars have been manufactured by BMEL Limited. It has been
manufactured at its manufacturing facility at Bangalore and was unveiled by the Union Defence Minister.

The unit is made up of stainless-steel body that has a carrying capacity of 2280 passengers.
BMEL has obtained orders for manufacture of 576 such cars for Mumbai Metropolitan Region
Development Authority (MMRDA)'s MRS1 project.
28. India has signed a MoU with Japan recently, in which field?
[A] Air Travel
[B] Defence
[C] Information and Communication Technology
[D] Metro Rail Manufacturing
Answer: Information and Communication Technology
India and Japan have recently entered into a MoU in the field of Information and Communications
Technology (ICT), including 5G standardisation.
As per the terms of MoU, both the countries will enhance cooperation in 5G technologies, telecom
security, submarine optical fibre cable system to islands, spectrum management, smart cities etc.
29. What is the name of Traditional kite flying festival celebrated in Bangladesh?
[A] Shakti
[B] Shakrain
[C] Srushti
[D] Patang
Answer: Shakrain
The traditional kite flying festival of Bangladesh Shakrain was celebrated in several parts of Dhaka on
Thursday.
This is a centuries old tradition that is celebrated on the last day of Bengali month of Paush. On this
occasion, people engage themselves in kite flying and fireworks among many other recent additions like
‘DJ Party’.
30. What amount of funds (in Rupees) has been sucked out of the financial system by RBI through its
recent Reverse REPO operation?
[A] 1 Million
[B] 1 Trillion
[C] 2 Trillion
[D] 2 Billion
Answer: 2 Trillion
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently drained Rs 2 trillion of liquidity from the system using its
14-day reverse repo auction.
This is a part of Reserve Bank’s process of normalising liquidity operations. The present Reverse Repo
rate is 3.35%, while the cut off rate for the said auction was set at 3.55%. RBI has stated that it has got
bids worth Rs 3.06 trillion.
31. India’s first Labour Movement Museum is to be launched in which state/UT?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Kerala
[C] West Bengal
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Answer: Kerala
India’s first Labour Movement Museum is to be launched in the Houseboat tourism hub, Alappuzha in
the state of Kerala.
The Museum aims to showcase the history of world labour movement, by showcasing the important

documents of the World Labour movement and the exhibits of Kerala’s labour movement. Conservation
architect Dr Benny Kuriakose is leading the project of outlay Rs 9.95 Crore.
32. Bhadravati Rapid Action Force (RAF) unit, which was making news recently, is the first such unit
of which state?
[A] Telangana
[B] Karnataka
[C] Kerala
[D] Odisha
Answer: Karnataka
Union Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation stone for establishing a unit of the Rapid Action
Force (RAF) at Bhadravati, Shivamogga district in the state of Karnataka.
RAF is the specialised wing of the Central Reserve Police Force. This unit will be the first battalion of
CRPF in the state and the State government has provided 50.29 acres of land for the purpose, to the
CRPF. He also inaugurated various farmer-friendly projects in Bagalkot, Karnataka.
33. The Prime Minister of India recently laid foundation stone of Metro Service and flagged off eight
trains in which State?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Bihar
[C] Gujarat
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Answer: Gujarat
The Prime Minster of India Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of Ahmedabad Metro Rail Project
(Phase-II) and Surat Metro Rail Project.
The Metro Projects are said to be environment friendly ‘Mass Rapid Transit Systems’. The Prime
Minister also flagged off 8 trains connecting Kevadiya in Gujarat, where the Statue of Unity is located, to
various parts of the country.
34. Yoweri Museveni, who is seen in news recently, is the President of which country?
[A] Uganda
[B] Yemen
[C] Oman
[D] Kenya
Answer: Uganda
Yoweri Museveni, has been re-elected as the President of Uganda, a land locked country in East Africa.
He won almost 59% of the votes, while his main opponent Bobi Wine trailed with about 35% votes.
This makes Yoweri Museveni assume President’s office for the 6th term since 1986.
35. Which social media giant has delayed the implementation of a new privacy policy by 3 months?
[A] Telegram
[B] WhatsApp
[C] Instagram
[D] Twitter
Answer: WhatsApp
The Facebook owned social communication giant “WhatsApp” has announced that, the implementation
of its new privacy policy has been delayed by 3 months. The privacy policy was to originally come into
force on Feb 8, 2021.
The new privacy policy has come under severe criticism from public and has led to massive migration of

users from WhatsApp to other platforms like Signal and Telegram.
36. The Prime Minister and Cabinet of which country resigned over wrong-doings in child welfare
payments?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] Netherlands
[C] Japan
[D] Austria
Answer: Netherlands
The Prime Minster of Netherlands Mark Rutte along with the entire cabinet of Ministers have stepped
down from power, taking responsibility for a scandal involving investigations into child welfare
payments.
Earlier, thousands of families were wrongly accused of child welfare fraud and told to pay money back
to the government.
37. What is the corpus of “Startup India Seed Fund” announced by the Prime Minster recently?
[A] Rs.100 crore
[B] Rs.500 crore
[C] Rs.1000 crore
[D] Rs.2000 crore
Answer: Rs.1000 crore
On the occasion of 'Prarambh: Startup India International Summit’, the Prime Minster Narendra Modi
announced the launch of Startup India Seed Fund with a corpus of Rs.1000 crore.
The fund is intended to provide initial capital for startups, which would promote the setting up of new
startups and promote their growth. The 'Prarambh’ summit marked the 5th anniversary of the Startup
India initiative, launched in the year 2016.
38. Which country has recently exited from the ‘Open Skies Treaty’?
[A] China
[B] Japan
[C] Russia
[D] India
Answer: Russia
The Government of Russia has recently announced its decision on pulling out of the Open Skies treaty.
The treaty came into effect in 2002, which permits a member country to spy on any part of the host
nation, with the latter’s consent. As per the treaty, any signatory country can make aerial imaging over
the host nation after giving a notice of 72 hours and sharing the exact flight path.
39. What is the name of the awareness campaign organised by Petroleum Conservation Research
Association (PCRA)?
[A] Utkarsh
[B] Utsaah
[C] Saksham
[D] Sanskrith
Answer: Saksham
The Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) of Union Petroleum Ministry has launched a
month-long awareness campaign named SAKSHAM.
It is intended to create awareness among common public about fossil fuels, the health & environmental
impacts of increasing carbon footprints. The campaign would strive consumers to adopt cleaner fuel

and bring about efficient use of fossil fuels.
40. Which country has withdrawn its support of 300 military instructors from Central African
Republic (CAR)?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] USA
[D] Russia
Answer: Russia
Russia has recently informed the United Nations that it is withdrawing and sending home 300 military
instructors sent to Central African Republic (CAR), intended to train the African Nation’s Army.
The army of CAR was facing stiff offensive reactions from rebel groups ahead of last month’s elections.
41. The first-ever National Road Safety Month was observed in which year, in India?
[A] 2010
[B] 2015
[C] 2017
[D] 2021
Answer: 2021
The Union Road Transport Minister and Union Defence Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the first-ever
National Road Safety Month on January 18, 2021.
The campaign seeks to build awareness on road safety and reduce road accidents in India. In the recent
past, only ‘Road safety week’ was being organised. The Minister also presented various awards
including best performing State in Road Safety works, Good Samaritan award, Best State Transport
Corporations, among others.
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42. Which country chaired the recent session of Executive Board of WHO, held in January 2021?
[A] United States
[B] India
[C] China
[D] Australia
Answer: India
Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan chaired the 148th session of the Executive Board of the World
Health Organization, through video conference.
He also said that the year 2020 is described as the Year of Science, while the Year 2021 would be the
year of global solidarity and survival. He also sought for fair and equitable distribution of the COVID
vaccines.
43. The Central Soil and Materials Research Station (CSMRS), which was making news, functions
under which Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Home Affairs
[B] Ministry of Jal Shakti
[C] Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development
[D] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Answer: Ministry of Jal Shakti
The Central Soil and Materials Research Station (CSMRS) is an attached office of the Department of
Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Jal Shakti ministry.
Based at New Delhi, it deals with investigations and research in Geotechnical engineering, construction
materials and river valley projects. It helps in development of water resources sector in the country,

through Central Water Commission. Minister of State Jal Shakti conducted a Review Meeting of CSMRS
recently.
44. ‘Davos Agenda’, which was making news recently, is the online event of which organisation?
[A] International Monetary Fund
[B] World Economic Forum
[C] G-7 Association
[D] International Olympic Committee
Answer: World Economic Forum
Davos Agenda is the online event of World Economic Forum's annual meeting held at Davos,
Switzerland. The rich and powerful of the world are said to be the participants.
This year, the five-day meeting is scheduled to be held between January 25 and 29, in the virtual mode,
on account of Covid pandemic. WEF's 'Great Reset Initiative' is also to be launched during the meeting.
Several Union Ministers and top businesspersons from India are to attend the event.
45. Siang river, which was making news with reference to Red Panda species, is located in which
state?
[A] Sikkim
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Assam
[D] Meghalaya
Answer: Arunachal Pradesh
As per the recent study by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Both the species of Panda, namely
Himalayan red panda (Ailurus fulgens) and the Chinese red panda (Ailurus styani) are present in India.
It also revealed that the Siang river in Arunachal Pradesh serves as the boundary by splitting the red
panda into these two genetic species. As per another study, the Himalayan red panda was affected more
during the Pleistocene glaciation.
46. In which Indian train, the concept of “Push-Pull mode” has been implemented recently?
[A] Shatabdi
[B] Rajdhani
[C] Tejas
[D] Uday
Answer: Rajdhani
Indian Railways has introduced the technology of “Push-Pull mode” in Central Railway’s Rajdhani
Express that connects New Delhi with Mumbai.
The train will be run with one engine at the front and one in the rear. This setup saves time and fuel by
eliminating the need to attach and detach bankers in the ghat section.
47. Which article of Indian Constitution deals with “Borrowings by States”?
[A] Article 14
[B] Article 21
[C] Article 226
[D] Article 293
Answer: Article 293
The Article 293 of the Indian Constitution deals with “Borrowings by States”.
Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has recently stated that the borrowings made by the
Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) for funding its critically important projects have
overshot the borrowing limits set by the Government under Article 293 of the Indian Constitution. CAG

has mentioned that such borrowings do not have legislative approvals.
48. Who is the Chairperson of the task force set up by Government of India on “age of marriage for
women”?
[A] Maneka Gandhi
[B] Usha Thorat
[C] Jaya Jaitley
[D] G Rohini
Answer: Jaya Jaitley
The Government of India had earlier set up a task force under the chairmanship of Jaya Jaitley, to revisit
the apt age for marriage of women. This committee was set up in accordance to the Prime Ministers
Independence Day speech on “right age of marriage for women”.
Recently, the panel has submitted its findings in the form of a report to the Ministry of Women & Child
Development and to the Prime Minister’s Office.
49. Which Indian IT major has recently obtained Google Cloud Partner status?
[A] HCL
[B] Wipro
[C] Infosys
[D] TCS
Answer: Infosys
The Indian technology major ‘Infosys’ has been accredited with the Google as Cloud Partner with
specialization in the data and analytics space. The company has successfully demonstrated end to end
capabilities on Google Cloud.
By this, Infosys become one among the top global players to be accredited with this specialization.
50. Which Indian personality has been chosen as the Chairman of Shree Somnath Trust?
[A] Anandiben Patel
[B] Narendra Modi
[C] Ram Nath Kovind
[D] Yogi Adityanath
Answer: Narendra Modi
The trustees of Shree Somnath Trust, Gujarat have unanimously chosen the Prime Minister Narendra
Modi to be the Chairman of the trust. The responsibility has been accepted by the Prime Minister.
Shree Somnath Temple is located in the eastern coast of India at Gujarat. The previous Chairman of the
trust Keshubhai Patel, former chief minister of Gujarat, died in October 2020.
51. Which institution releases the ‘India Innovation Index’?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] CSIR
[C] RBI
[D] ISRO
Answer: NITI Aayog
India’s think tank NITI Aayog released the second edition of its India Innovation Index, which ranks
different states and UTs based on the basis of their support to innovation.
The first edition of the index was launched in October 2019. The states and UTs have been divided into
17 ‘Major States’, 10 ‘North-East and Hill States’, and 9 ‘City-States and UTs’. Karnataka retained the first
spot in this year's index followed by Maharashtra.
52. DPIIT of India, recently took part in the first ever dialogue with which global association, on
Intellectual Property Rights?
[A] BRICS
[B] European Union
[C] G-7
[D] G-20
Answer: European Union
The first India-European Union Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) dialogue between the European Union
(EU) Commission and Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) was recently
held.
The Dialogue aims to meet the objectives proposed in the National IPR policy 2016. Enforcement of
Intellectual Property Rights and Free Trade Agreements.
53. The Ministry of Electronics and IT has asked which company to withdraw its privacy policy?
[A] Google
[B] WhatsApp
[C] Microsoft
[D] Amazon
Answer: WhatsApp
The Ministry of Electronics and Information technology (MeitY) has recently asked WhatsApp to
withdraw its new privacy policy.
The Ministry has termed the policy as unilateral, unfair and unacceptable and asked the firm to
reconsider its approach to data privacy and data security. Detailed information about the data sharing
protocols was also sought.
54. Tepesia, which was making news recently, is located in which Indian city?
[A] Bihar
[B] Meghalaya
[C] Assam
[D] Sikkim
Answer: Assam
The Assam Chief Minister laid the foundation stone of Science City at Tepesia, in the outskirts of
Guwahati.
It would be built at a total expenditure of Rs. 184 crores. The main building is being built by National
Council of Science Museum, Union’s Cultural Affairs department and state’s Science and Technology
Department.
55. As per the RBI’s recent announcement, how many banks in India are classified as Domestic
systemically important banks (D-SIBs)?
[A] Two
[B] Three
[C] Five
[D] Six
Answer: Three
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has retained State Bank of India, ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank as domestic
systemically important banks (D-SIBs), by data collected as on March 31, 2020.
D-SIBs are also called as the banks which are considered as “too big to fail” meaning its failure will
impact the country significantly. As per the D-SIB framework, RBI declares the names of the D-SIB banks
and fixes additional common equity requirement.

56. The ‘National Logistics Policy’ sometimes seen in the news, is associated with which Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Communication
[B] Ministry of Commerce & Industry
[C] Ministry of Railways
Answer: Ministry of Commerce & Industry
The ‘National Logistics Policy’ is being developed by the Government and proposes to improve the
logistic sector in the country, by reducing the logistics cost by less than 10 per cent by 2022, from the
present 14 per cent.
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal attended the first ever National Conference of States on Logistics. The
Policy is under consultation with National Logistics Council and State Logistics Coordination
Committee.
57. Which famous commercial passenger train has been renamed as the ‘Netaji Express’?
[A] Howrah-Kalka Mail
[B] Mumbai-Thane Mail
[C] Lucknow-Delhi Mail
[D] Kanpur-Delhi Mail
Answer: Howrah-Kalka Mail
The Indian Railways has recently renamed one of the oldest trains, the Howrah-Kalka Mail, as the ‘Netaji
Express’.
The Mail was started in the 19th Century as one of the early commercial passenger train services in
India. This has been announced as a part of the 125th birth anniversary of Subash Chandra Bose. It is
said Netaji took this train from Bihar, when he escaped from his house in Kolkata in 1941.
58. The Cabinet approved the MoU between India and which country in Solar Energy sector?
[A] France
[B] Uzbekistan
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Nepal
Answer: Uzbekistan
The Union cabinet approved the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between India and
Uzbekistan for solar energy cooperation.
Under the MoU, the two countries will identify research and pilot projects in fields such as solar
photovoltaic, storage technologies and technology transfer. National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE),
Ministry of New & Renewable Energy is involved in the projects.
59. Indian Military team is to train on the S-400 Air Defence Systems in which country?
[A] France
[B] Russia
[C] Germany
[D] Japan
Answer: Russia
The first group of Indian military experts is set to attend the training to operate the S-400 air defence
systems.
India and Russia signed the USD 5.4 billion deal for five S-400 systems in October 2018 and Russia is to
deliver the first batch by the end of 2021. Earlier, the US had imposed sanctions on Turkey, for procuring
the systems from Russia.

60. Road Transport and Highways Ministry has partnered with which organisation for Geo-hazard
management?
[A] ISRO
[B] DRDO
[C] BARC
[D] CSIR
Answer: DRDO
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) signed an agreement with the Defence Research
and Development Organisation (DRDO) to collaborate in sustainable geo-hazard management.
The expertise of one of the DRDO labs, Defence Geo Informatics Research Establishment (DGRE), would
be used. This move aims to ensure Road safety of users on National highways (NHs) against the effects
of landslides and other natural calamities.
61. ‘Chintan Baithak’ is the Brainstorming Conference cum Review Meeting of which Union
Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Communication
[B] Ministry of Culture
[C] Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
[D] Ministry of Tourism
Answer: Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways
Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has organised a three-day Ports Review Meeting named
‘Chintan Baithak’ at Kutch, Gujarat.
Chairpersons of Major Ports and Officials of the Ministry will participate in the brainstorming
conference. The resulting ideas from the meeting will be used to finalise the Maritime Vision-2030.
Improving Port performance, infrastructure and Ease of Doing Business are focus areas.
62. India signed an agreement with which country for Submarine Rescue Support and cooperation
between the Navies?
[A] Japan
[B] Singapore
[C] France
[D] Sri Lanka
Answer: Singapore
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh co-chaired the 5th India-Singapore Defence Ministers Dialogue along
with the Minister for Defence, Singapore.
During the dialogue, the Implementing Agreement on Submarine Rescue Support and cooperation
between the Indian Navy and Singapore Navy were signed.
63. Which Public sector Unit has joined hands with Himachal Pradesh, to improve telecom
connectivity in the hilly areas?
[A] PFC Ltd
[B] PowerGrid
[C] REC Ltd
[D] GAIL Ltd
Answer: PowerGrid
The Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID), PSU under Ministry of Power, has recently
signed an agreement with Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board.
Under the agreement, the PSU aims to provide telecom connectivity in the hilly areas of the state
including Kangra, Una, Mandi, Kullu, Bilaspur, Sirmour, Palampur, Sundernagar among others. The state
has been facing limited telecom connectivity due to rough weather conditions and landslides.
64. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry is to partner with which Ministry to improve logistics
planning in the country?
[A] Ministry of Housing and urban affairs
[B] Ministry of MSME
[C] Ministry of Communication
[D] Ministry of Power
Answer: Ministry of Housing and urban affairs
The Commerce Ministry is to work with the Housing and Urban affairs Ministry to focus on logistics
planning in 50 cities.
The Ministries aim to promote the ease of doing business in the country. During the National Conference
with States on Logistics, the Commerce Ministry announced that State-level coordination committees on
logistics will be formed.
65. Ratle hydropower project, which was making news recently, is is being set up in which state/UT?
[A] Uttarakhand
[B] Sikkim
[C] Jammu & Kashmir
[D] Arunachal Pradesh
The Union Cabinet has recently approved investment of Rs 5281.94 crore investment for the Ratle
hydropower project in Jammu and Kashmir.
The 850-megawatt (MW) plant is to be set up on Chenab river, which flows from India into Pakistan. A
new Joint Venture Company (JVC) of National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) and Jammu and
Kashmir State Power Development Corporation Ltd (JKSPDC) will also be formed.
66. Which is the venue of the first Khelo India Zanskar Winter Sports Festival?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Ladakh
[C] Sikkim
[D] Uttarakhand
Answer: Ladakh
The Union Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju launched the first Khelo India Zanskar Winter
Sports Festival in Zanskar of Kargil district, Ladakh. join @aspirants85
The 13-day festival festival, organised by the Ladakh UT Administration, aims to promote Zanskar as an
important destination for the winter tourists. The Sports Ministry is to promote Ladakh as a centre for
Ice Hockey.
67. Which species found predominantly in North America is recently found to be at the verge of
extinction?
[A] Bald Eagle
[B] Polar Bear
[C] Western monarch butterfly
[D] American Alligator
Answer: Western monarch butterfly
In a recent annual study and winter count by Xerces Society, it is found that number of western monarch
butterflies has been falling down rapidly. The count is found to be less than 2000 and the insect is said
to be in the verge of extinction.

This butterfly is most familiar in North America and is a well-known pollinator species.
68. Which organization has released the book on “Faecal sludge and septage management in urban
areas”?
[A] WHO
[B] NITI Aayog
[C] IMF
[D] United Nations
Answer: NITI Aayog
India’s think tank “NITI Aayog” has recently released a book on “faecal sludge and septage management
in urban areas”. This has been jointly developed by National Faecal Sludge and Septage Management
(NFSSM) Alliance.
The book is in the form of a report, that enlists 27 case studies on implementation of faecal sludge and
septage management (FSSM) initiatives.
69. First Virtual Expo 2021 for R&D has been organized recently in which sector?
[A] Telecommunication
[B] Marine Technology
[C] Health Care
[D] Food Processing
Answer: Food Processing
The First Virtual Expo 2021 for R&D in processed food sector has been organized recently by the Union
Ministry of Food Processing and Industries.
The expo is aimed to showcase the outcomes of projects supported by the Ministry through some of its
leading food technology institutions. A portal displaying various researches undertaken in the food
processing sector, was also launched during the expo.
70. The socio-economic survey report of which state / UT has been released recently?
[A] Jammu and Kashmir
[B] Delhi
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Answer: Delhi
The report of socio-economic survey of Delhi, conducted between November 2018 and November 2019
has been finalized and released recently.
As per the report, 10% of children aged between 6 and 17 are either school drop outs or have never
attended formal schooling on account of financial disabilities.
71. Scientists have spotted rare hot UV-bright stars in a cluster, using the telescope onboard which
satellite?
[A] AstroSat
[B] CartoSat-2
[C] Risat-7E
[D] Insat- 4E
Answer: AstroSat
Scientists at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) an autonomous institute of the Department of
Science & Technology, have spotted rare hot UV-bright stars in a massive cluster in our Galaxy called
NGC 2808.
The Astronomers have used the Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT) onboard the first multi-wavelength

space satellite of India, AstroSat.
72. When is the statehood day of the three states of Meghalaya, Manipur & Tripura celebrated?
[A] January 19
[B] January 21
[C] January 23
[D] January 25
Answer: January 21
Meghalaya, Manipur & Tripura celebrated their 49th statehood day on January 21, 2021.
On January 21, 1972, these three states became full-fledged states under the North Eastern Region
(Reorganisation) Act of 1971. It also led to the formation of the Union territories of Mizoram and
Arunachal Pradesh, which were declared as states on February 21, 1987.
73. Hawk-I platform, which was making news recently, is owned by which organisation?
[A] DRDO
[B] BHEL
[C] HAL
[D] Ordnance Factory Board
Answer: HAL
The Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) has been indigenously developed by the Defence Research and
Development Organisation’s research centre Imarat.
Recently, the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) successfully test fired a Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon
(SAAW) from a Hawk-I aircraft, off the coast of Odisha. HAL deploys its Hawk-I platform for certification
of systems and weapons.
74. What type of body is the ‘Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM)’, which was making
news recently?
[A] Statutory Body
[B] Autonomous Body
[C] Not-for-Profit Association
[D] Public Company
Answer: Not-for-Profit Association
‘Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM)’ is a Not-for-Profit Association, which aims to facilitate
the indigenous production in Indian Defence industry.
Recently, an MoU between the Indian Army & Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) was
signed to boost use of indigenous spare parts. This took place on the occasion of the 25 years of
partnership of the Indian Army with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
75. ‘MASCRADE 2021’, which was making news, is an initiative of which Indian body?
[A] CII
[B] FICCI
[C] CAIT
[D] ASSOCHAM
Answer: FICCI
The 7th Edition of ‘MASCRADE 2021’- Movement against Smuggled & Counterfeit Trade has been
organised by FICCI Committee Against Smuggling and Counterfeiting Activities Destroying the Economy
(CASCADE).
Union Minister of Health and Family welfare Harsh Vardhan has inaugurated the event, which aims to
discuss innovative policy solutions to curb counterfeit and smuggled products.

76. The Supreme Court recently upheld the validity of which law/act, to protect the bidders for
corporate debtors?
[A] Foreign Exchange Management Act
[B] Insolvency Bankruptcy Code
[C] Consumer Protection Act
[D] SARFAESI Act
Answer: Insolvency Bankruptcy Code
The Supreme Court upheld the validity of Section 32 A of the Insolvency Bankruptcy Code (IBC) in its
recent judgement.
The apex court held that the successful bidders for a corporate debtor under the Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Code (IBC) would be immune from any investigations being conducted by investigating
agencies such as the ‘Enforcement Directorate’ or statutory bodies such as SEBI.
77. Electronics and IT Ministry is to collaborate with which company to set up a Quantum
Computing Applications Lab?
[A] Microsoft
[B] Amazon
[C] Apple
[D] Google
Answer: Amazon
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has announced to set up a Quantum
Computing Applications Lab in association with Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Through this step, the researchers in educational institutions or start-up ecosystem, will get access to
quantum computing hardware, simulators, and programming tools through Amazon Braket service, at no
cost.
78. Which personality announced to give away USD 100 million for the best carbon capture
technology?
[A] Bill Gates
[B] Elon Musk
[C] Mark Zuckerberg
[D] Jack Ma
Answer: Elon Musk
Tesla Chief Executive Officer the world's richest person at present, Elon Musk announced that he has
decided to give away USD 100 million as prize for the best carbon capture technology.
Carbon dioxide, released in electricity generation and industrial processes can be captured using various
methods including post-combustion, pre-combustion and oxyfuel. The International Energy Agency also
stated about the role of carbon capture technology in net-zero emissions recently.
79. Which Indian mathematician has been named the winner of the 2021 Michael and Sheila Held
Prize?
[A] Nikhil Srivastava
[B] C. S. Seshadri
[C] Manindra Agrawal
[D] Sujatha Ramdorai
Answer: Nikhil Srivastava
Nikhil Srivastava, a young Indian mathematician, has been named winner of the prestigious 2021
Michael and Sheila Held Prize.
He has been named the co-winner of the USD 100,000 award, along with two others for solving long-
standing questions on the Kadison-Singer problem and on Ramanujan graphs. The mathematician is
Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of California, at present.
80. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) proposed a four-tier regulatory framework for which type of
financial institutions?
[A] Payment Banks
[B] NBFCs
[C] Small Finance Banks
[D] Foreign Banks
Answer: NBFCs
Reserve Bank of India recently released a discussion paper on revised regulatory framework for Non-
Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs).
As per the paper, the regulatory and supervisory framework of NBFCs shall be based on a four-layered
structure namely Base Layer, Middle Layer, Upper Layer and a possible Top Layer. RBI also
recommended more power for the NBFC Boards on capital and risk management.
81. Road Transport Ministry signed MoU with which institution for Research and Development?
[A] IIT Roorkee
[B] NIT Warangal
[C] Central Institute of Road Transport
[D] IIT Chennai
Answer: IIT Roorkee
The Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT),
Roorkee has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to continue the MoRTH Professorial Chair
focusing on research and development.
The Chair focusses on teaching and training in the field of Development of Highway Infrastructure. The
Ministry aims to develop indigenous technologies to lower cost of construction and reduce construction
period of transport projects.
82. Which is the venue of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) Defence Ministers Conclave, to be hosted
by India in 2021?
[A] Goa
[B] Bengaluru
[C] Lucknow
[D] Vishakhapatnam
Answer: Bengaluru
India is to host the Defence Ministers of the countries of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) in Bengaluru city
on February 4, 2021.
This conclave will be organised alongside the upcoming Aero India in Bengaluru. The theme of the
conclave will be 'Enhanced Peace, Security and Cooperation in the Indian Ocean'.
83. Which country proposed a five-year extension of New START Treaty with Russia?
[A] United States
[B] United Kingdom
[C] China
[D] Japan
US President Joe Biden has recently proposed a five-year extension of New START Treaty with Russia.
The treaty limited the United States and Russia to 1,550 nuclear warheads each. It expires on February 5

this year since the former President Donald Trump stopped negotiations and tried to include China in the
treaty.
84. ‘Lambayeque’, which was making news recently, is an archaeological city of which country?
[A] Brazil
[B] Peru
[C] Russia
[D] Philippines
Answer: Peru
A team of archaeological experts have discovered tombs with the remains of two children claimed to
have belonged to the Incan empire.
The tombs were discovered as part of excavations at the ‘Huaca de las Abejas’ complex in the
Lambayeque city. The Incan Empire was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. The Inca
civilization is said to have arisen from Peru in the early 13th century.
85. Which State / UT government has decided to raise a sum of Rs.250 crore by sale of securities?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Kerala
[C] Puducherry
[D] Jammu and Kashmir
Answer: Puducherry
The UT Government of Puducherry has decided to sell Government securities of 4 years maturity,
through which it aims to raise a capital of Rs.250 crore.
The sale would be conducted by the Reserve Bank of India – Mumbai. The securities would be in the
denomination of Rs.10,000 and multiples thereof.
86. An FIR has been filed by which organization against Cambridge Analytica and Global Scientific
Research for data theft in India?
[A] CBI
[B] Enforcement Directorate
[C] Directorate General of Telecommunication
[D] National Investigation Agency
Answer: CBI
Recently, the Central Board of Investigation (CBI) has filed a First Information Report (FIR) against two
UK based firms Cambridge Analytica and Global Scientific Research.
The FIR has been filed after 30 months since probe was initiated against these two firms, based on a
complaint by the IT Ministry. Investigation have revealed that the firm Global Scientific Research has
illegally harvested Indian data and passed on to Cambridge Analytica for commercial gains.
87. Which country has recently revealed a “Draft Arctic Policy”?
[A] China
[B] USA
[C] India
[D] South Africa
Answer: India
A new draft ‘Arctic’ policy has been released recently by the Government of India. The draft policy would
be available for public opinion till Jan 26, 2021. It has been prepared after deliberations with several
Ministries.
The policy aims to expand India’s scientific research, sustainable tourism and mineral oil and gas

exploration in the Arctic region.
88. As per the release by Department of Science and Technology, what is India’s position in number
of scientific publications?
[A] First
[B] Third
[C] Fifth
[D] Tenth
Answer: Third
Department of Science and Technology has stated recently that the number of scientific publications
from India has increased exponentially over the last 10 years and that India stands at 3rd position
globally in number of scientific publications.
China and USA are ahead of India in the list. In the year 2017-18, 1,937 out of the total 13,045 patents
were filed by Indians.
89. Which organization has adopted a resolution titled “Promoting a culture of peace and tolerance
to safeguard religious sites”?
[A] WHO
[B] WTO
[C] United Nations
[D] WIPO
Answer: United Nations
A resolution titled “Promoting a culture of peace and tolerance to safeguard religious sites” has been
adopted in the United Nations General Assembly recently.
The resolution calls for efforts to promote a culture of tolerance and peace at all levels. It also invites
the Secretary General to convene a global conference to advance the UN’s “Plan of Action to Safeguard
Religious Sites”.
90. Which Ministry has launched a National Migration Support Portal named “ShramShakti”?
[A] Union Labour Ministry
[B] Union Home Ministry
[C] Union Ministry of women and child welfare
[D] Union Tribal Affairs Ministry
Answer: Union Tribal Affairs Ministry
The Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs has launched a dedicated portal that would help in formulation of
state and national-level programme for migrant workers.
The portal is named ‘ShramShakti’ and was launched by the Union Tribal Affairs Minister at Goa. He also
launched a training manual for the migrant workers named ShramSaathi.
91. The government of which state has decided to establish India’s biggest multi-model logistics
park?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] West Bengal
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Gujarat
The state Government of Gujarat has entered into an MoU with Adani Ports and SEZ Limited. The MoU
aims to establish India’s biggest multi-model logistics park at Virochan Nagar, near Sanand in
Ahmedabad.

The park would be constructed at 1,450 acres and would have an investment of Rs.50,000 crore. It is
expected to provide direct and indirect employment to 25,000.
92. Which organization has issued Purple Notice to member countries against investment frauds via
dating applications?
[A] UNFCCC
[B] International Court of Justice
[C] World Trade Organization
[D] Interpol
Answer: Interpol
The Interpol has issued “Purple Notice” to all its member countries. The notice warns all the member
countries against investment frauds via dating applications.
It has been stated that artificial romance is established with users of the apps in the initial stages and
once a certain level of trust is achieved, criminals encourage users to join ponzi investment schemes.
93. Rajendra Kumar Bhandarim, who was seen in news recently, is the winner of which award?
[A] Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar
[B] Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar
[C] Jeevan Raksha Awards
[D] Ashoka Chakra
Answer: Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar
The Ministry of Home Affairs has recently announced the Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan
Puraskar for 2021.
As per the notification, Rajendra Kumar Bhandari has been selected in the individual category of the
award, while the Sustainable Environment and Ecological Development Society (SEEDS) has been
selected for the award in the institutional category.
94. The World Health Organization (WHO) has collaborated with which company to distribute Covid
vaccines under Covax alliance?
[A] Pfizer
[B] Roche
[C] Merck
[D] Johnson & Johnson
Answer: Pfizer
The World Health Organization (WHO) has collaborated with the American pharmaceutical firm Pfizer
recently.
As per the deal, 40 million doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine will be distributed for poor
and lower-middle income countries under its COVAX programme.
95. Mohammed Ishtaye, who was seen in the news recently, is the Prime Minister of which country?
[A] Palestine
[B] Israel
[C] Peru
[D] Argentina
Answer: Palestine
Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Ishtaye was seen in the news recently as he had a discussion
with the new UN envoy on reviving the stalled peace process.
The UN envoy Tor Wennesland, is the Special Coordinator for Middle East Peace Process. He also
highlighted the openness of the country on any political process sponsored by the Quartet, comprising

of the US, the UN, Russia and the European Union.
96. India celebrates National Voters Day on January 25, to commemorate which event?
[A] Universal Adult Franchise
[B] First Independent Elections
[C] Foundation of Election Commission of India
[D] Adaptation of Constitution
Answer: Foundation of Election Commission of India
India celebrates National Voters Day on January 25 every year to commemorate the foundation day of
the Election Commission of India.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) was founded in 1950 on the same day and this occasion was
first celebrated in 2011. This year's theme is "Making Our Voters Empowered, Vigilant, Safe and
Informed". ECI launched e-EPIC (Electronic Electoral Photo Identity Card), as a part of celebration.
97. Carolina Marin, who won the singles women title at the Thailand Open badminton tournament, is
from which country?
[A] Switzerland
[B] Japan
[C] Spain
[D] Thailand
Answer: Spain
Reigning Olympic champion, Carolina Marin from Spain and former World Champion Viktor Axelsen from
Denmark recently claimed their second Thailand Open badminton men’s and women’s singles titles
respectively.
The 27-year-old Carolina Marin went into the final without losing a single game across both
tournaments. The Badminton World Federation World Tour Finals will be contested by the top eight of
each discipline.
98. By which year, the Geological Survey of India (GSI) is set to complete National Geochemical
Mapping (NGCM) programme?
[A] 2022
[B] 2024
[C] 2025
[D] 2030
Answer: 2024
The central Government has recently stated that, Geological Survey of India (GSI) is in the process of
expediting some of its important national level surveys. The GSI has proposed to complete its National
Geochemical Mapping (NGCM) programme by 2024. join @aspirants85
The GSI has also commenced an initiative named National Geoscience Data Repository (NGDR) for
collecting all the geoscience data of the country.
99. What is the name of the public awareness campaign program on Ayurveda organised recently by
the All-India Institute of Ayurveda?
[A] Ayush Vedha
[B] Ayu Samvad
[C] Arogya Setu
[D] Covishield
Answer: Ayu Samvad
Recently, the All-India Institute of Ayurveda - New Delhi has conducted a large largest public awareness

campaign program on Ayurveda and Covid 19 pandemic and it has been named as “Ayu Samvad”.
This campaign is supported by Ministry of Ayush. More than 5 lakh lectures were organised across the
country by Ayurveda Physicians, during the campaign.
100. Which Indian state has celebrated its Golden Jubilee statehood day on January 25, 2021?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Kerala
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Telangana
Answer: Himachal Pradesh
The Himalayan state of Himachal Pradesh has celebrated recently its 50th statehood day on January 25,
2021.
In 1970, the State of Himachal Pradesh Act was passed in the Parliament and the state came into
existence from January 25, 2071. It is the 18th Indian state to be formed in the country. Dr Yashwant
Singh Parmar was its first chief minister.
101. Which organisation has released the report titled “The Inequality Virus”?
[A] WHO
[B] NITI Aayog
[C] IMF
[D] Oxfam International
Answer: Oxfam International
The report titled “The Inequality Virus” has been released recently by Oxfam International. The report has
found that the Covid pandemic has deepened the existing inequalities.
The report has made a comparison that during the national lockdown in India its top 100 billionaires saw
their fortunes increase by Rs 12.97 trillion while 70,000 people lost their jobs every hour in the month of
April 2020.
102. As per UN, which country has become the world’s top destination for new foreign direct
investment last year?
[A] India
[B] Japan
[C] South Korea
[D] China
Answer: China
As per the United Nations data, China has become the world’s top destination for new foreign direct
investment in the year 2020. China overtook USA and gained the top spot in the world.
New overseas investments for USA fell by 49% in 2020 whereas in case of China, the FDI increased by
4%.
103. K.P. Sharma Oli, who was seen in news recently, was the Former Prime Minister of which
country?
[A] Nepal
[B] Thailand
[C] Bhutan
[D] Sri Lanka
Answer: Nepal
Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli belonging to the ruling communist party of Nepal, has been expelled
from the party by leaders Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ and former PM Madhav Kumar.

This decision has been made by the party, after the PM P. Sharma Oli dissolved the Lower House of the
Parliament called “Pratinidhi Sabha”.
104. Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is awarded by which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Defence
[B] Ministry of Home Affairs
[C] Ministry of External Affairs
[D] Ministry of women and child development
Answer: Ministry of women and child development
32 children across the county have been recently awarded the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar,
2021.
Union Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India has been giving away this award
to children with outstanding abilities and accomplishments in the fields of innovation, scholastics,
sports, arts & culture, social service and bravery.
105. The ‘Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons’ was approved by the United Nations
General Assembly in which year?
[A] 2000
[B] 2003
[C] 2012
[D] 2017
Answer: 2017
The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons was approved by the United Nations General
Assembly in 2017.
Recently, this first treaty came into force and in response, India announced that it does not support the
treaty. None of the nine countries said to possess nuclear weapons and the NATO alliance supported
the treaty.
106. Which country hosted online international Climate Adaptation Summit (CAS Online)?
[A] Sweden
[B] Netherlands
[C] United Kingdom
[D] Australia
Answer: Netherlands
The Netherlands government played host to an online international Climate Adaptation Summit (CAS
Online) on 25 January 2021, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Rutte. It aims to help the
countries build a climate-resilient ecosystem back after the pandemic
Indian Prime Minister participated in the virtual conference and addressed the members. The Global
Center on Adaptation (GCA) released a "State and Trends in Adaptation 2020", which said global funding
must be increased ten-fold, to meet the UNEP’s climate risk mitigation data.
107. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has been re-elected as the President of which nation?
[A] Portugal
[B] Italy
[C] Germany
[D] France
Answer: Portugal
Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has been re-elected as the President of Portugal. The right-wing President won
the elections with 60.7 percent of the vote.

Although the Prime Minister Antonio Costa is a Socialist, the President has a prominent role in the
nation’s polity with superior role in foreign policy and national security. President of Portugal has the
power to dissolve the Parliament.
108. What is the name of the Tax to be imposed in India on pollution causing vehicles?
[A] Green Tax
[B] Pollution Tax
[C] Fuel Tax
[D] Environment Tax
Answer: Green Tax
The Union Ministry of Road transport and highways has approved a proposal to impose green tax on
some category of vehicles that are old and causes pollution.
This move is seen as a means to phase out old and pollution causing vehicles from the country. The
ministry has also approved a policy for deregistration and scrapping of vehicles owned by government
departments which are more than 15 years old.
109. DRDO’s Integrated weapons system design centre has been inaugurated in which city?
[A] Mumbai
[B] New Delhi
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Kochi
Answer: Hyderabad
The DRDO’s Integrated weapons system design centre has been inaugurated by the Vice President M
Venkaiah Naidu at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex – Hyderabad.
This centre would set an all-new platform for enhanced design - development for surface to air missile
(SAM) systems and ballistic missile defence (BMD) systems.
110. Which Indian organisation is examining about the need and operationalization of digital
currencies in India?
[A] SEBI
[B] RBI
[C] NPCI
[D] NITI Aayog
Answer: RBI
The nation’s central bank - Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has stated that it is examining the need to
introduce central bank digital currency (CBDC) in the country. Also, if the need is felt, RBI is also working
on the means to operationalize the digital currency in India.
This move comes against the back of increase in private digital currencies, virtual currencies.
111. The Armed Forces of which country participated in the Republic Day Parade of India in the year
2021?
[A] Nepal
[B] Bangladesh
[C] United Kingdom
[D] Bhutan
Answer: Bangladesh
A 122-member armed forces contingent of Bangladesh participated in the Rajpath at the Republic Day
parade of India. join @aspirants85
This comes as a part of celebration of the 50th anniversary of the 1971 Liberation War, by India and

Bangladesh. While Bangladesh takes part in the parade for the first time, it is the third foreign country
after France (2016) and the UAE (2017) to take part in India’s Republic Day parade.
112. Which organisation releases the ‘World Economic Situation and Prospects 2021’?
[A] World Bank
[B] International Monetary Fund
[C] United Nations
[D] Asian Development Bank
Answer: United Nations
The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) released the World Economic
Situation and Prospects 2021.
As per the report, India's economy is projected to grow at 7.3 per cent in 2021 while it is estimated to
contract by 9.6 per cent in 2020. According to the UN, the reasons for the contraction are the lockdown
and the fallen domestic consumption.
113. As per the International Monetary Fund, which is the only key country that would record a
double-digit growth in FY22?
[A] China
[B] India
[C] United States
[D] Germany
Answer: India
The International Monetary Fund released its latest World Economic Outlook Update recently. As per the
report, Indian economy would grow 11.5 per cent in FY22. It has revised the earlier forecast of 8.8 per
cent growth.
As per the IMF, India would be the only key country to record a double-digit growth and reclaim the
status of the fastest-growing major economy of the world.
114. Giuseppe Conte, who recently resigned, was the Prime Minister of which country?
[A] France
[B] Brazil
[C] Italy
[D] Peru
Answer: Italy
Giuseppe Conte resigned as Italian prime minister, as he lost the majority in the Senate due to a recent
coalition rupture.
The Italian President Sergio Mattarella is set to hold formal consultations with all the parties before
deciding the course of action.
115. The space agency of which country has recently released the images of the "The Lost Galaxy" of
the Virgo Cluster?
[A] India
[B] U.S.
[C] Japan
[D] China
Answer: U.S.
NGC 4535 is a famous galaxy and is one of the largest of the Virgo constellation. It is also dubbed as
the "The Lost Galaxy”.
Virgo Cluster is located about 50 million light-years from Earth. The Scientists at NASA have spotted the

spiral galaxy through their Hubble Space Telescope and released its images. It is a vast swirl of stars
containing a distinct bar structure at its center.
116. “Partnering for Racial Justice in Business”, which was making news recently, is an initiative of
which organisation?
[A] IMF
[B] World Bank
[C] WEF
[D] UN
Answer: WEF
World Economic Forum (WEF) launched a global coalition at the ongoing Davos Agenda Summit to end
racism at work place.
It has been named as “Partnering for Racial Justice in Business” initiative. Recently, Indian companies
Infosys and Tata Consultancy Services joined the alliance, whose founding members include 48
organisations including Google, Microsoft, Deutsche Bank, EY, among others.
117. What is the name of the virtual intelligence tool recently launched, which can help in
Government’s policy decisions?
[A] Apna
[B] Tejas
[C] Surya
[D] Vishnu
Answer: Tejas
Minister of Electronics and IT and Communications has recently launched virtual intelligence tool Tejas.
The tool can extract critical information for policy decisions thereby improving efficiency in government
services. The Minister also launched a virtual portal to access routine office applications called 'Work
from Anywhere' portal and 'e-Auction India'.
118. Which country announced a pledge of USD 150,000 for UN peace building operations?
[A] China
[B] India
[C] Japan
[D] Germany
Answer: India
India announced a pledge of USD 150,000 to the programmes and activities of the UN peacebuilding
fund this year.
TS Tirumurti, permanent representative of India to the United Nations announced this in a virtual address
to the High-Level Replenishment Conference for the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund.
119. Which Indian city recently unveiled a first-of-its kind Young Readers' Boat Library?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Kolkata
[C] Ahmedabad
[D] Cochin
Answer: Kolkata
The West Bengal Transport Corporation in association with a heritage book store has launched a Young
Readers' Boat Library.
Under the initiative, children can choose from a selection of 500 titles in English and Bengali on cruising
on the waters of Hooghly river on a three-hour-long trip.

120. Who is the Chairperson of the panel set up to review the proposed ban on 27 widely used
pesticides?
[A] TP Rajendran
[B] K Vijay Kumar
[C] C Sylendra Babu
[D] K Sivan
Answer: TP Rajendran
As per media reports, the Government has appointed an expert panel to review industry’s objections to
the proposed ban on 27 widely used pesticides.
join @aspirants85
Former assistant director general of ICAR, TP Rajendran is to chair the committee, which will submit the
report in next three months. The Government has proposed to ban 27 pesticides, which are said to be
harmful to animals and humans.

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