JUNE MONTHLY CURRENT AFFAIRS 2022: Monthly Current Affairs are very important for every competitive exam and as we all know, in the upcoming months, many government exams.
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National parks, wildlife sanctuaries must have ESZ (Eco Sensitive Zone) of 1 km from
boundary: SC
– eSanjeevani integrated with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission of National Health
Authority
– 41 candidates declared elected unopposed to Rajya Sabha; election for remaining 16
seats to be held on June 10
– Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Dhami wins Assembly bypoll from Champawat seat
– PM attends Ground Breaking Ceremony @3.0 of the UP Investors Summit at Indira
Gandhi Pratishthan, Lucknow
– Country’s foreign exchange reserves increased by $3.854 billion to $601.363 billion in the
week ended May 27
– RBI launches annual survey on foreign liabilities, assets of mutual funds, AMCs
– Govt ratifies 8.1% EPF interest rate for 2021-22, lowest since 1977-78, when it was 8%
– In a first, IIM-Ahmedabad brings out agriculture land price index; according to IIM-A, the
index will be a reliable source in benchmarking land prices in rural and semi-urban areas
and help in signalling converting agricultural land into real estate
– Stockholm+50 conference being held to mark the 50 years of the 1972’s first UN
conference on human environment
– Singer Jennifer Lopez awarded Generation Award at MTV Movie & TV Awards
– Instagram expands Reels duration from 60 to 90 seconds
– World Bicycle Day celebrated on June 3
– President Ram Nath Kovind attends Centenary Celebrations of Gita Press in Gorakhpur (UP)
– Tourism Ministry launches National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Traveller
Campaign
– Rajasthan becomes 2nd state after Gujarat to join Save Soil programme launched by Sadhguru, Founder of Isha Foundation
– India delivers 3.3 tons of essential medical supplies to Sri Lanka
– About 13,000 lives saved under ‘Farishtey Dilli Ke’ scheme to help accident victims so far: CM Arvind Kejriwal
– Tata Projects wins bid to build Noida International Airport at Jewar in UP
– Turkey changes its official name at the UN to Turkiye
– International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression observed on June 4
– China blocks moves to step up protection of emperor penguins in Antarctica
– US state of New York passes world’s first ‘right to repair’ law for digital electronics
– Khelo India Youth Games 2021 inaugurated in Panchkula, Haryana
– ISSF World Cup Rifle/Pistol/Shotgun in Baku, Azerbaijan: Swapnil Kusale and Ashi Chouksey win gold in 50m rifle 3 positions (3P) mixed team event
– Sakshi Malik, Divya Kakran, Mansi Ahlawat win gold medals at Bolat Turlykhanov Cup wrestling in Kazakhstan
– French Open tennis: Iga Swiatek of Poland wins Women’s Singles Title
– PM launches Global initiative ‘Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) Movement; Calls for human centric and collective efforts that further sustainable development
– India achieves 10% ethanol blending target in petrol ahead of schedule: PM
– President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurates Sant Kabir Academy and Research Centre at Sant Kabir Nagar in UP
– Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare and Chemicals and Fertilizers Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurates National Food Laboratory of FSSAI at Raxaul in Bihar
– Punjab and Himachal Pradesh to ban single-use plastic from July
– NGT (at Sant Kabir Nagar) orders West Bengal govt to close all hotels, restaurants in Buxa Tiger Reserve in two months
– 12 killed in boiler blast at chemical factory in UP’s Hapur district
– Appointments Committee of Cabinet clears 3 names to head three public sector banks: A
Manimekhalai: MD & CEO at Union Bank of India; Ajay Kumar Srivastava: MD & Indian Overseas Bank and Swarup Kumar Saha: MD and CEO of Punjab & Sind Bank
– Three astronauts enter China’s space station module called Tianhe after successful launch from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre
– Bangladesh: 35 killed, over 450 injured in fire at chemical container depot in Chittagong
– World Environment Day celebrated on June 5; this year’s campaign: #OnlyOneEarth
– International Day for the Fight against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing observed on June 5
– French Open tennis: Spain’s Rafael Nadal defeats Norway’s Casper Ruud in final to win the men’s singles title
– Defence Ministry approves procurement of military equipment, platforms worth Rs 76, 000 crores
– Nuclear-capable Agni-IV missile of 4,000 km range successfully test-fired
– ‘Shershaah’ wins Best Picture award at International Indian Film Academy Awards in Abu Dhabi
– PM launches new series of coins with Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav design
– PM launches ‘Jan Samarth portal’ — a credit-linked portal of 12 government schemes
– Indian Railways increases limit of online booking of tickets through IRCTC website and app; max 12 tickets can be booked by a user ID which is not Aadhaar-linked, 24 by user ID which is Aadhaarlinked
– IIT, Madras launches free course on “Out of the Box Thinking” through mathematics to encourage innovative thinking
– 14-day multinational peacekeeping exercise-Ex Khaan Quest 2022- begins in Mongolia
– NATO holds Baltic Sea naval exercise ‘BALTOPS’ with Finland, Sweden, 14 other nations
– Bolat Turlykhanov Cup wrestling in Almaty, Kazakhstan: Aman Sehrawat wins gold in the men’s 57kg
– India beat Poland 6-4 in final to clinch inaugural FIH Hockey 5s championship at Lausanne,
Switzerland
– Govt widens eligibility for CDS (Chief of Defence Staff) appointment; Includes serving or retired three-star Army Lt General, Air Marshal and Vice Admiral for the post
– India-Bangladesh Joint Military Exercise Sampriti being held at Jeshore in Bangladesh from June 5 to 16
– Conference of Vice-Chancellors of Central Universities and Directors of Institutions of National
Importance being held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on June 7-8
– Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurates newly-built National Tribal Research Institute at India
Institute of Public Administration Campus in New Delhi
– Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya launches logo for Ayurveda Aahar
– Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya releases Food Safety and Standards Authority of India’s
(FSSAI) 4th State Food Safety Index (SFSI)
– World Bank cuts India’s economic growth forecast to 7.5% for FY23
– Alok Kumar Choudhary appointed MD of SBI for a period of two years
– 25th Founding Day of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and
Economic Cooperation) celebrated in Dhaka on June 6
– World Food Safety Day observed on June 7; slogan: “Food safety, everyone’s business”
– Wrestling: India return from Bolat Turlykhanov Cup at Almaty in Kazakhstan on 2nd position with 12 medals
– Union Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia announces first ever National Air Sports Policy 2022
– Volume-IV of selected speeches of President Ram Nath Kovind named ‘Loktantra Ke Swar’ and
‘Republican Ethics’ released
– EAM S Jaishankar holds talks with Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in New Delhi
– India, Vietnam ink military logistics support pact & vision document to expand defence ties during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Hanoi
– Cabinet approves signing of MoU between India & USA in health sector
– RBI raises repo rate to 4.9%; inflation forecast increased to 6.7% for FY23; GDP forecast retained at 7.2%
– RBI raises limit of individual housing loans provided by cooperative banks; raised for Tier I cities from Rs. 30 to Rs. 60 lakh and from Rs. 70 lakh to Rs. 1.40 crore in case of Tier II cities
– RBI raises limit for e-mandate based recurring payments from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 15,000
– RBI proposes to allow linking of credit cards to Unified Payments Interface
– Cabinet hikes MSP for Kharif crops for season 2022-23
– Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approves enhancement of funding under Technology Development Fund scheme enhanced to Rs 50 cr per project from Rs 10 crore
– NHAI sets new Guinness World Record, lays 75-km long highway in 105 hrs
– Cabinet allows transfer of 10 In-orbit Communication Satellites from Govt of India to New Space India Ltd
– Virtual meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors of BRICS chaired by China
– World Oceans Day celebrated on June 8; theme: “Revitalization: collective action for the ocean”
– Avani Lekhara wins gold medal in Para Shooting World Cup in women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 in France
– India women’s cricket team’s ODI and Test captain Mithali Raj retires
– Govt launches Rashtriya Puruskar Portal for inviting nominations for various awards to ensure transparency and public partnership
– Awards for Excellence in District Skill Development Planning (DSDP) given; Rajkot in Gujarat, Cachar in Assam and Satara in Maharashtra ranked top three
– Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru emerges as the best higher education institution in India, ranking 155th globally in the latest edition of the Quacquarelli Symonds (OS) World University Rankings
– Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hands over 12 high-speed guard boats to Vietnam
– India, UAE aim to sign MoU in Industries & Advanced Tech to push commercial ties
– SC pulls up Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) over 1,450 vacant seats in NEET-PG ‘21
– Nirmala Sitharaman launches EASE (Enhanced Access and Service Excellence) 5.0 ‘Common reforms agenda’ for Public Sector Banks (PSBs)
– FM Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurates Mega exhibition on Nation Building and Central Public Sector Enterprises in Gujarat’s Gandhinagar
– PM opens 2-day Biotech Startup Expo-2022 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
– India’s economy to grow at 6.9% in FY23: OECD global macroeconomic report
– India’s FDI rank rises to 7th position despite falling inflows, says UNCTAD; flows to India declined to $45 bn in 2021 from $64 billion in the preceding year
– Ninth Summit of the Americas being held in Los Angeles (US): June 6-10; theme: “Building a Sustainable, Resilient, and Equitable Future”
– European Parliament votes to ban sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2035 to fight climate
change
– US: House of Representatives votes to raise nationwide age limit for buying semi-automatic
weapons from 18 to 21
– IAEA’s 35-nation board passes resolution chiding Iran on uranium traces
– Iran to remove 27 surveillance cameras from nuclear sites, says Rafael Mariano Grossi, IAEA director-general
– Gujarat: PM opens HQ of IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre) in Ahmedabad
– PM Modi inaugurates development projects worth over Rs 3,000 crore under Gujarat Gaurav
Abhiyan
– Bangladesh-India bus service connecting Dhaka to Kolkata resumes after two years
– Foreign exchange reserves decline by USD 306 million to USD 601.057 billion in the week ended June 3
– DIPAM (Department of Investment & Public Asset Management organises Conference on the theme “Creating Wealth through Market”
– Govt issues new guidelines to curb misleading ads; bans surrogate ads
– 5 countries elected as non-permanent members of 15-nation U.N. Security Council; Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique and Switzerland
– Capitol riot panel blames Donald Trump for January 6, 2021 “‘attempted coup”
– Thailand decriminalizes cannabis, becomes first Asian country to remove ban; ban on consumption in public remains
– 19th Shangri-La Dialogue being held in Singapore from June 10 to 12
– Indian national Krishna Srinivasan to head IMF’s Asia-Pacific dept
– A chess knight named ‘Thambi’ unveiled as mascot of 44th Chess Olympiad in Chennai in July-August 2022
– BJP wins 8 out of 16 Rajya Sabha seats in Maharashtra, Karnataka Rajasthan and Haryana;
Congress bags five seats
– Nagaland Police frames charges against 30 soldiers over 2021 killing of civilians
– 4 Holy Relics of Lord Buddha from India to be taken to Mongolia for 11-day exposition as part of celebrations of Mongolian Buddha Purnima
– FM Nirmala Sitharaman dedicates to nation Dharohar – National Museum of Customs and GST in Goa
– RBL Bank appoints R Subramaniakumar as new MD & CEO
– India extends Sri Lanka $55 mn credit line for fertiliser imports
– WTO Ministerial Conference to begin from June 12 in Geneva; Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal to lead Indian delegation
– Senior Indian diplomat Amandeep Singh Gill appointed by UN chief Antonio Guterres as his Envoy on Technology
– 17 countries elected into UN Economic and Social Council for 3-year term
– United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopts India-sponsored resolution on multilingualism
that mentions the Hindi language for the first time
– Bangladesh: Women’s Hostel funded by Indian govt inaugurated in Sylhet
– In a first, Canada to require a warning be printed on every cigarette
– Norway’s Magnus Carlsen wins Norway Chess 2022 at Stavanger; India’s Viswanathan Anand is third
– R. Praggnanandhaa wins Norway Chess Group A open chess tournament
June 13, 2022
– J&K ranks highest among UTs in national e-governance service delivery assessment (NeSDA)
– Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah chairs 25th meeting of the Western Zonal Council meeting at Diu
– Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah Amit Shah inaugurates memorial museum at decommissioned warship INS Khukri at Diu
– Doordarshan and Doordarshan News Director-General Mayank Kumar Agrawal given additional
charge of Prasar Bharati CEO
– China’s Tencent buys stake worth $264 million in Flipkart from Binny Bansal
– RTS (Radio Technical Systems) of Russia signs contract with AAI to supply 34 sets of instrument landing system
– New guidelines for celebrity endorsements issued; endorsements must reflect the honest opinions, belief or experience of the endorsers
– World Day Against Child Labour celebrated on June 12; theme: “Universal Social Protection to End Child Labour”
– WHO advisory group suggests Huanan seafood market in China’s Wuhan played important role in amplification of Covid-19 pandemic
– New school building inaugurated in Sarlahi, Nepal under grant assistance from India
– Avinash Sable creates new national record of 8:12.48s in men’s 3000m steeplechase
– Manpreet Kaur creates new national record in women’s shot put with a throw of 18.06
– Fortified rice to be distributed in 291 aspirational and high-burden districts across country through PDS (Public Distribution System) in 2022-23: Govt
– Rice fortification is a process of adding micronutrients like Iron, Folic Acid and Vitamin B12 to address the challenge of anaemia
– West Bengal Assembly passes bill to replace governor with CM as chancellor of state universities
– Information and Broadcasting Ministry advises media to refrain from advertising online betting platforms
– Union MoS Dr Bharati Pravin Pawar launches Intensified Diarrhoea Control Fortnight
– Navies of India, Indonesia holding coordinated patrol exercise in Andaman Sea and Malacca Strait from June 13 to 24
– Pradhan Mantri National Apprenticeship Mela to be hosted in 200 locations
– Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched “Start-Ups for Railways” in New Delhi
– Retail inflation eases to 7.04% in May
– International Albinism Awareness Day observed on June 13; theme: “United in making our voice heard”
– Khelo India Youth Games 2021 conclude at Panchkula in Haryana; hosts top medals tally
– Gurunaidu Sanapathi becomes India’s first weightlifter to win a gold at the IWF Youth World Championships in Leon, Mexico
– Max Verstappen of Red Bull wins Formula One Azerbaijan Grand Prix at Baku
– Indonesia Masters badminton: Denmark’s Viktor Axelsen and China’s Chen Yufei win singles titles
– Home Ministry to give priority to Agniveers who complete 4 years of service under Agnipath
scheme in recruitment of CAPFs, Assam Rifles
– IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) to offer a special three-year programme for ‘Agniveers’
– President Ram Nath Kovind lays foundation stone of new Raj Bhavan building at Dona Paula in Goa
– First National Conference of Chief Secretaries being held at Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh on
June 15-17
– EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar holds meeting with Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares Bueno in
New Delhi
– India’s Life Expectancy at Birth Grows by 2 Years to 69.7 in 2015-19; Still Below Global Average of
72.6
– India ranks last in World Bank’s Environment Performance Index 2022 among 180 countries
– Air pollution reducing Indians’ life expectancy by 5 years, says University of Chicago study
– 12th meeting of BRICS National Security Advisors held virtually
– China lifts 2-year Covid visa ban on Indians
– Surat to be the first city in the country to get processed steel slag road
– Denmark tops World Competitiveness Index of 63 economies compiled by the Institute for
Management Development; India 37th
– Govt to auction 5G spectrum for 20 years; allows private captive networks
– 90% of business leaders feel GST made doing business easy: Deloitte survey
– France’s TotalEnergies to buy 25% stake in Adani Group’s hydrogen unit
– World Elder Abuse Awareness Day observed on June 15
– Egypt hosts Eighth Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians in Sharm El Sheikh
– Sri Lanka: Govt. imposes 2.5% social contribution tax on companies with an annual turnover of Rs 120 million
– Neeraj Chopra set a new national record of 89.30 metres in men’s javelin throw
Shimla Garib Kalyan Sammelan
The ‘Garib Kalyan Sammelan’ in Shima, Himachal Pradesh was addressed by PM Narendra
Modi. This programme was organized to mark the completion of eight years of the
Narendra Modi-led government. It has been organized across the nation at District
Headquarters, State Capitals, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
What is the sammelan about?
The Sammelan has been organized so that the elected public representatives from across
India directly interact with the public to get their feedback regarding the various welfare
programmes that are being run by the central government. On this occasion, the PM also
interacted with various beneficiaries of PM-KISAN from across the nation.
What was released by the PM at this sammelan?
PM Modi also released the 11th instalment of financial benefits that are given by the
central government under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme.
Under the 11th instalment, an amount of around Rs. 21,000 crores will be distributed to
over 10 crore beneficiary farmer families across the country.
What did the PM stress upon at this sammelan?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the need of working together for the bright
future of the nation’s coming generations. He stressed that the citizens of the nation must
work toward making an identity for India which will not be about deprivation but about
modernity. The PM also highlighted that India is one of the world’s fastest-growing
economies with record foreign investment flowing into the country.
Rajasthan: Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award and Rural Olympics
Ashok Gehlot, the Chief Minister of Rajasthan has announced that Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna
Award will be introduced in the state for various sportspersons. The Rajasthan
government is taking big decisions to develop sports in the state, and the incentive
amounts received by the medal-winners will increase with time.
What did the Chief Minister inaugurate?
The Chief Minister also inaugurated:
Rajasthan High-Performance Sports and Rehabilitation Centre
Renovated Synthetic Hockey Astro Turf
Badminton Indoor Hall, Olympic
He also awarded the players of the Commonwealth Games 2022, the Asian Games 2022,
and the medalists of Para Olympic.
When will the Rajiv Gandhi Rural Olympics begin?
On 29th August 2022, the Rajiv Gandhi Rural Olympics will begin. In this event, over 27 lakh
players of all ages will be taking part. This event will be utilized by the state as a platform
for talent hunting and will also create a sporting atmosphere. The winners of the Rural
Olympics will be given priority in the recruitment of vacant posts in the state’s Panchayat
cadre. The torch of the Rural Olympics was also launched by the CM at the ceremony.
What online portal has been launched?
The chief minister announced that the medal-winning players will not be required to visit
the Sports Council for receiving grant money. An online portal has been launched by the
State Government to make this process easy and accessible. Around 229 players in
Rajasthan who have excelled in various sports have been appointed to various
government services by the state government under the out-of-turn policy. Also, a 2 per
cent reservation has been made for the players. Pension will also be awarded to the
Dronacharya and Arjuna awardees along with Para Olympic, Olympic, Commonwealth and
Asian Games medal-winners.
India’s Textiles Exports in FY 2021-22
In the financial year 2021-22, India recorded its highest-ever apparel and textiles exports
which stood at USD 44.4 billion. The exports tally also includes handicrafts and indicates a
substantial increase of 41 per cent and 26 per cent in comparison to the corresponding
figures recorded in FY21 and FY20, respectively.
What were the top export destinations?
The top export destinations of textiles from India were:
1. USA: It was the top export destination for the textiles products of the country. It
accounted for 27 per cent of all apparel and textiles exports.
2. European Union: Exports to the EU stood at 18 per cent of the total.
3. Bangladesh: Exports stood at 12 per cent of the total.
4. UAE: Exports to the UAE stood at 6 per cent of the total.
What is the export value in terms of product categories?
Export of cotton textiles: Cotton textiles export stood at USD 17.2 billion with a 39
per cent share. This product category registered a growth of 54 per cent and 67 per
cent during 2021-22 in comparison to FY2020-21 and FY2019-20, respectively.
Export of ready-made garments: Ready-made garment exports stood at USD 16
billion with a share of 36 per cent. This product category showed a growth of 31 per
cent and 3 per cent during 2021-22 in comparison to FY2020-21 and FY2019-20,
respectively.
Exports of Man-made textiles: The exports of man-made textiles stood at USD 6.3
billion with a share of 14 per cent. This shows a growth of 51 per cent and 18 per cent
during 2021-22 in comparison to FY2020-21 and FY2019-20, respectively.
Export of handicrafts: Handicraft exports stood at USD 2.1 billion with a share of 5
per cent. This showed a growth of 22 per cent and 16 per cent during 2021-22 in
comparison to FY2020-21 and FY2019-20, respectively.
The numbers were released by the Ministry of Textiles.
National Education Ministers’ Conference
The two-day National Education Ministers’ Conference began on 1st June 2022 in Gujarat.
The focus of the conference will be the implementation of the new National Education
Policy (NEP).
Who are the participants of this conference?
This conference is being attended by Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Education Minister
of India as well as other education ministers of various states and union territories across
the country.
Which organization has organized this conference?
This conference has been organised by the Human Resource Development department in
Gandhinagar in collaboration with the Ministry of Gujarat. The ministers also visited the
Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG), the
Vidya Samiksha Kendra (VSK), the International Automobile Centre of Excellence (iACE),
and the National Forensic Science University (NFSU).
What is the aim of this conference?
The aim of this two-day conference is to focus on strengthening the country’s education
ecosystem. The conference also focuses on implementing the National Education Policy
2020, skilling in various schools of the nation, and digital initiatives such as the National
Educational Technology Forum (NETF), National Digital Education Architecture (NDEAR),
etc. The conference also aims to leverage technology to minimise the non-academic work
of teachers, strengthen the base of numeracy and literacy, and ensure holistic evaluation
of teachers, students, and schools so as to cultivate a vibrant learning and teaching
environment.
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) Public Dashboard
The National Health Authority (NHA) launched a public dashboard for real-time
information under its scheme Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM). This public
dashboard will be utilized as a one-stop solution to finding out information regarding the
mission’s progress at the state level.
What information will be available on this dashboard?
This dashboard will be displaying detailed information about the core registries under the
mission which are:
Healthcare Professionals Registry (HPR)
Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) numbers
Health Facility Registry (HFR).
This dashboard captures data about the number of ABHA generated, the number of
healthcare professionals like nurses, doctors, etc registered, and ABHA-linked digital
health records. To date, the recently revamped ABHA app has more than 5.1 lakh
downloads, on the HPR more than 16.6 thousand healthcare professionals have
registered, 22.1 crores ABHAs have been created, on the HFR more than 69.4 thousand
health facilities have registered, and over 1.8 lakh health records have already been linked
by users.
The ABDM dashboard has been built keeping in mind the principles of transparency,
accessibility, interoperability, and inclusivity. This dashboard will highlight all information
related to the scheme with the aim of ensuring that all stakeholders have access to the
data in a transparent manner, thus, giving a clear picture of the progress that has been
made by the ABDM ecosystem partners.
How will the data be displayed on this platform?
The dashboard will also be providing details regarding:
the number of health facilities such as laboratories, hospitals, etc, registered on a
daily basis along with cumulative data to date.
On this dashboard, partner-wise data of ABHA generation created as well as digital
health records linked are also available.
This data is further divided into several key components giving updates about the
progress of the scheme in specific areas. The dashboard will also provide a transparent
view of the number of ABHA generated at the national, state, and UT levels. The numbers
will be further divided into several categories such as age and gender. The number
generation facility of ABHA is also made available by the government through several
digital health applications such as:
PMJAY
CoWIN
e-Sushrut Railway Hospital
Aarogya Setu, etc.
The dashboard also displays the performance of each partner and the number of health
records that have been linked by each partnering app. For HFR, data is presented by the
dashboard in infographic format based on:
ownership (private or government)
systems of medicine such as Allopathy, Sowa- Rigpa, Ayurveda, Unani, Physiotherapy,
Siddha, Dentistry, Homeopathy, etc,
State-wise facilities that have been registered under the ABDM.
HPR data is segregated on the dashboard on basis of employment type (private or
government), UTs and states from where the applications have been received, and
systems of medicine.
Har Ghar Dastak 2.0 Campaign
On 1st June 2022, the Har Ghar Dastak 2.0 campaign began across the nation to ensure
that all eligible beneficiaries receive complete Covid-19 vaccination. This campaign gives
special focus on the vaccination of those aged between 12 to 14 and precaution doses for
those above the age of 60. This is a two-month-long door-to-door campaign that will go
on from 1st June to 31st July 2022.
When was the first Har Ghar Dastak campaign conducted?
In November 2021, the first Har Ghar Dastak campaign was conducted. So far, across the
nation, 193.6 crore doses of vaccines have been administered. Around 96.3 percent of
those aged 15 years and above have received at least one vaccination dose and 86.3
percent have received both doses.
Why was the Har Ghar Dastak campaign 2.0 launched?
The Union Health Ministry raised concerns about the slow pace of Covid vaccination.
Hence, on 20th May the ministry advised all Union Territories and States to hold a two-
month-long Har Ghar Dastak 2.0 campaign with detailed plans for all blocks, districts, and
villages. The aim of this campaign is to vaccinate all the eligible population groups across
the country for the first, second, and precaution doses via door-to-door campaigns. This
campaign will be focusing on:
old age homes
colleges
schools
out-of-school children (for coverage of children between 12 to 18 years of age)
brick kilns
prisons, etc.
The states have been asked by the ministry to make micro-plans to widen the coverage of
the campaign.
Which organization is supporting the Health Ministry in this campaign?
This Health Ministry is being supported by UNICEF in this campaign. The Ministry had
pointed out that the sub-optimal coverage of persons with precautionary doses for those
aged 60 years and above, along with the slow coverage speed for those aged between 12
to 14 years of age is of huge concern. Hence, this second round of the campaign will be
focusing on children aged between 12 to 18 years. The campaign will also include a
school-based campaign which includes private, government, and informal schools such as
Day Care Schools, Madrasas, etc. A round of this campaign will also be held for those
whose schools are closed for summer vacations.
GST Collections in May 2022
In the month of May 2022, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) revenue stood at around Rs
1.41 lakh crore. This is a 44 percent increase in comparison to May 2021. The GST
collection in May was lower than what was recorded in April 2022 which stood at Rs 1.68
lakh crore. The GST collections in March 2022 stood at Rs 1.42 lakh crore, while in February
2022 it was Rs 1.33 lakh crore.
What were the CGST, SGST, and IGST collected in May 2022?
In May 2022, the GST revenue collected was Rs 1,40,885 crore which is divided into:
CGST: Rs 25,036 crore
SGST: Rs 32,001 crore
IGST: Rs 73,345 crore which includes Rs 37469 crore collected on import of goods
Cess: Rs 10,502 crore which includes Rs 931 crore collected on import of goods.
What was the GST collected in May 2022 in comparison to April 2022?
In May 2022, the revenues collected were 44 percent higher than what was collected in
March 2021 which stood at Rs 97,821 crore. This is for the fourth time that the GST
collection of a month has crossed the Rs 1.40 lakh crore mark since GST’s inception. This is
also the third straight month since March 2022 that GST collections have crossed the Rs
1.40 lakh crore mark. Generally, the collections of May have always been less than that in
April. In April, the total number of e-way bills that were generated stood at 7.4 crore,
which is 4 percent less than the e-way bills generated in March 2022 which stood at 7.7
crore.
Bihar Caste-based Census
The government of Bihar will soon be conducting a caste-based census in the state. This
decision was taken at an all-party meeting that was chaired by Nitish Kumar, the Chief
Minister of the state on 1st June 2022.
What is the name of this exercise?
The Chief Minister announced that the exercise would be named Jaati Aadharit Ganana.
The decision to go ahead with this exercise was unanimously taken by all the political
parties of the state that were present at the meeting, including the BJP. The state
government will be ensuring that the entire exercise is completed within a stipulated time.
This census will be conducted for people belonging to every caste and religion.
What is the purpose of the exercise?
This exercise will be conducted with the purpose of carrying out developmental work for
people of the state who are deprived. A proposal to conduct this census will be soon
brought before the state’s cabinet for approval, following which this exercise will begin.
Conducting this caste-based census will be a difficult task involving huge expenditures for
which necessary arrangements have to be made. The people who will be involved in the
data collection for this exercise will be given proper training. The data that will be
gathered will be released by the State Government through advertisements in
newspapers. The details of the census will also be shared with all relevant stakeholders
and other authorities including all political parties.
An app named “ACB 14400” has been launched by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh,
YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. This app was launched to curb corruption at government offices
across the State.
Which organization has developed this app?
This app has been developed by the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). Through this app, the
people can lodge corruption-related complaints against any government officials in the
State. Prior to this, people could file a complaint through a toll-free number, 14400, but
they didn’t submit evidence with it. Hence, the ACB could not be able to solve the lodged
cases as there wasn’t enough evidence to incriminate the guilty or probe the matter.
Seeing the difficulty in the previous process, the CM directed officials to develop an app
through which all problems can be solved thus ensuring a foolproof solution for the
people of the state. By using this mobile application, people can attach proof such as
videos, audio, and images while reporting any corruption case.
How does the app work?
The ACB 14400 app can be downloaded from the Google play store. An OTP will be to the
mobile number through which registration is being done, and once registered, the app
will be ready to use. This app has two key features:
One is to live record audio, photo, or video and lodge a complaint instantly.
Another method is to send the videos, photos, documents, as well as other proofs
and lodge a complaint.
After a complaint is lodged, a reference number will be sent to the registered mobile
number. The IOS version of this app will soon be launched. Any person who has been
asked for a bribe from any government official including the RDO office, collector office,
Mandal level office, sub-registrar office, police station, etc, must download this app and
record the conversation following which it would reach the ACB. The ACB has been
directed to report to the Chief Minister’s office.
Also, to educate the people, the officials have planned to conduct various seminars at the
municipality, district, panchayat, and Mandal levels through the ward and village
secretariat system.
Cooperatives in Government-e-Marketplace (GeM) Platform
The Union Cabinet has expanded the scope of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) to
allow cooperative societies to register as buyers on this portal.
How will this decision help the cooperatives?
This decision will help the cooperatives of the nation to get competitive prices via a
transparent and open process. Due to this decision, over 8,54,000 registered cooperatives
along with their 270 million members will be benefitted. The cooperative societies have
over 270 million members, thus, procurement through the GeM portal will economically
benefit the common man, and would also boost cooperatives’ credibility. Currently,
cooperatives could not register as “buyers” on the GeM platform and it was only made
accessible for procurement by:
The departments of the state governments
The departments of the central government
Local and autonomous bodies
public sector undertakings (PSUs)
While private players cannot use this portal for buying, still the private sector along with
the government can become suppliers on this platform.
How will the cooperatives be boarded on this platform?
A validated list of cooperatives will be boarded on this portal for the pilot and it will be
scaled up subsequently. This onboarding will be decided by the Ministry of Cooperation in
consultation with GeM. A dedicated onboarding process will be offered by the GeM for the
cooperatives. Technical infrastructure will also be provided to support additional users.
The Ministry of Cooperation will be issuing advisories to encourage the cooperative
societies of the country to make use of this platform for the procurement of services and
goods. Also, to ensure timely payments and to protect the interest of the sellers, the
payment system modalities will be decided by the GeM in association with the cooperation
ministry.
What is the GeM portal?
This portal was launched by the government in August 2016 as an end-to-end e-
marketplace with the aim of facilitating efficient and transparent e-procurement of
commonly-used services and goods that are required by the states, the Centre, and the
PSUs. The GeM is a government-to-business platform.
Punjab ‘e-stamp’ Facility
The government of Punjab has abolished physical stamp papers with the aim of bringing
more efficiency and checking the pilferage of the state revenue. After this decision, stamp
papers of any denomination can currently be obtained via e-stamp (computerized print-
out) from any authorized banks or stamp vendors. Earlier, the e-stamping facility in the
state was applicable only for valuations of above Rs 20,000 but according to the new rules,
this facility has been extended for all denominations starting from One Rupee.
How will this facility help?
This decision to launch the e-stamp facility was taken by the state government of Punjab
and will help save Rs 35 Crore annually. This cost is incurred on the printing of stamp
papers. This e-stamp facility will help the public to acquire stamp papers in a hassle-free
manner as the general public had to face difficulty in acquiring stamp papers when it was
not available with the vendors and had to purchase them at higher prices.
How much commission will be paid to the stamp vendors?
A commission of 2 percent will be paid by the Punjab Government to the stamp vendors
on e-stamps that will range from Rs.1 to Rs 19,999. The general public will be obtaining the
stamp paper at the actual rate, which means that they have to shell out only Rs 100 for a
stamp paper of Rs 100 and there will be no extra commission. This step will also help to
curb stamp paper-linked frauds.
What other e-facilities have been launched by the revenue department of Punjab?
Five more e-facilities have also been launched by the revenue department which are:
Loan/Hypothecation Agreement
Affidavit & Declaration
Agreement of Pledge
Indemnity Bond
Demand Promissory Note
These documents can also be issued to the public directly through the computer.
NITI Aayog CEO on Aadhar
Amitabh Kant, CEO of NITI Aayog has said that Aadhaar has become the substructure for
various government welfare schemes. Aadhar, which is issued by UIDAI, has saved more
than Rs 2 lakh crore for the government by eliminating duplicate and fake identities. The
NITI Aayog CEO has said that Aadhaar is one of the world’s most-successful biometric
identity programs.
Which workshop was being attended by the NITI Aayog CEO?
Amitabh Kant was speaking at a workshop on ‘Recent Initiatives for Simplifying Aadhaar
usage’ in Delhi. With the help of Aadhar, various government schemes are being
implemented across the country. Also, Aadhar ensures faster transfer of benefits without
any intermediaries or intervention and has helped save a lot of the government’s money.
How many government schemes are leveraging Aadhar for effective delivery?
Across the nation, 500 State schemes and 315 Central schemes are being leveraged by
Aadhaar to ensure effective service delivery.
What is Aadhar?
The Aadhar is a 12 -digit random number that is provided by the UIDAI to residents of
India after the competition of a verification process. Any Indian citizen residing in the
country, regardless of gender or age, can freely enroll for receiving an Aadhaar number.
While enrolling, the person must provide basic biometric and demographic c information.
A person can register for Aadhar once and only one Aadhaar thus ensuring uniqueness.
The Aadhar number that is generated is resilient and distinct enough to eliminate any
form of fake and duplicate identities. The Aadhar can also be used as a form of
identification for various government assistance programmes.
THE Asia University Rankings 2022
On 1st June 2022, the latest edition of the Asia University Rankings was released by the
Times Higher Education (THE). The 2022 edition of the rankings comprises 616 universities
from 31 countries and territories across Asia. India is the third most-represented country
in this 2022 rankings with 71 institutions making this list. In 2021, 62 Indian institutions
made it to the rankings list.
Which is the top-ranking university on this list?
The only institute that has made it to the top 50 on the list is the Indian Institute of Science
(IISc), Bangalore with a rank of 42. The JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research has
made its debut on this list with a rank of 65. It is followed by the Indian Institute of
Technology (IIT) Ropar with a rank of 68 and IIT Indore with a rank of 87. Compared to the
positions achieved in 2021, all the Indian institutes that were placed in the top-100 have
slipped down. Among the top 200, there are 17 Indian universities in this year’s rankings
whereas in 2021 there were 18. Of the 14 that have made it to the ranking in both years,
eight have risen.
What are the ranks of the Indian universities?
Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore- 42
JSS Academy- 65
Indian Institute of Technology Ropar- 68
Indian Institute of Technology Indore- 78
Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar- 120
Alagappa University- 122
Thapar Institute – 127
Saveetha University- 131
Mahatma Gandhi University- 139
Delhi Technological University- 149
Banaras Hindu University- 153
Institute of Chemical Technology- 158
Jamia Millia Islamia- 160
Jawaharlal Nehru University- 167
International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad- 174
Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology- 177
Panjab University- 197
Which is the most represented country on this list?
Japan is the most-represented nation on this list, with 118 institutions making it this year,
up from 116 in 2021. The top two universities on this list are from China for the third
consecutive year. They are Tsinghua and Peking universities holding the first and second
places, respectively. In this list, there are 97 mainland Chinese universities, while in 2021 it
was 91, making it the second most-represented nation. A university from Palestine has
been ranked for the first time and the representations from Saudi Arabia increased in the
top 100 from four to six.
Asia Cup Hockey Tournament: India Wins Bronze
In the eight-team Asia Cup hockey tournament, India beat Japan for the second time to
win the bronze medal. This match was held at the GBK Sports Complex in Jakarta. Raj
Kumar Pal scored in the seventh minute which saw India clinch the medal with a 1-0 score.
Which team won this tournament?
In the final of the tournament, South Korea beat Malaysia 2-1 to win the gold medal. South
Korea has won this tournament for the fifth time, the most successful team on the list.
India and Pakistan have won this tournament thrice.
In which years did India win this tournament?
India won this tournament in the years 2003, 2007, and 2017.
What is the Asia Cup Hockey Tournament?
The Men’s Hockey Asia Cup is an international men’s field hockey tournament that is
organized by the Asian Hockey Federation. The team that wins this tournament becomes
the champion of Asia and also qualifies for the FIH Hockey World Cup. This tournament
was founded in the year 1982 with Pakistan winning the inaugural tournament.
What do you know about the Asian Hockey Federation?
The governing body for field hockey sport in Asia is the Asian Hockey Federation.
Currently, it has 31-member associations. This organization is affiliated to the
International Hockey Federation (FIH). Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah is the
current president of the Asian Hockey Federation.
PFC: Green bonds on Luxembourg Stock Exchange
State-owned Power Finance Corporation (PFC) has announced that its maiden green
bonds worth 300 million euros have been listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange (LSE).
RS Dhillon, PFC Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) rang the bell during the listing
ceremony that was held in GIFT IFSC Gujarat.
The listing has been done under which agreement?
This listing has been done under the cooperation agreement that has been signed
between LSE and India INX. This agreement was signed to encompass the areas of mutual
interest in ESG space and Green bonds. PFC has listed its maiden green bonds on
Luxembourg Stock Exchange (LSE), which is the world’s largest green bond listing
platform.
How would this listing help PFC?
In the year 2021, PFC announced that the organization will be issuing bonds worth 300
million euros for seven years. With this, the company would be foraying into the European
markets for the very first time. By listing on the LSE, PFC would be able to strengthen its
presence in the European market, which will help facilitate future financing so that the
green energy goals set by the Indian government can be achieved. The listing will also
give PFC an opportunity to boost its visibility amongst the European investors.
What is Power Finance Corporation?
The PFC is an Indian financial institution that falls under the ambit of the Ministry of
Power. This organization was established in the year 1986 and is the financial backbone of
the Indian Power Sector. PFC is India’s largest non-banking financial corporation (NBFC) in
the power sector.
What are Green Bonds?
Green bonds are types of fixed-income instruments that are used to raise money for
environmental and climate projects. These bonds are generally asset-linked and are
backed by the balance sheet of the issuing entity, hence, they carry the same credit rating
as the other debt obligations of the issuer.
First Commercial Flight from Yemen to Egypt
The first commercial flight from Sanaa Airport, Yemen to Cairo, Egypt has been welcomed
by the United Nations. The first commercial flight between both took off on 1st June 2022.
This was the seventh flight that was operated under the terms that were brokered by the
United Nations for two months of nationwide truce.
How many Yemenis have travelled between Sanaa, Cairo, and Amman?
So far 2,495 Yemenis have travelled between Amman, Sanaa, and Cairo. The UN has
extended its thanks to the Yemen and Egyptian governments for providing invaluable
support as well as for the constructive role they played to bring about this nationwide
truce.
What does the UN say about the humanitarian needs of Yemen?
The United Nations have pointed out that the humanitarian needs of Yemen still remain
high. The organization has reported that around 19 million people in Yemen will not have
enough food supply for this year, including over 1,60,000 people who will be facing
famine-like conditions. Since the beginning of the Yemen Civil War over 4 million people
have been displaced across the nation. The UN has reported that there are severe needs
across all sectors, that need to be addressed. The aid agencies working in the nation need
USD 4.28 billion this year to assist the 17.3 million people living in the country. As of now,
only 26 per cent of the fund has been received. Due to this, core programmes such as
healthcare, food assistance, and other activities are being scaled down instead of being
expanded.
What do you know about the Yemen Civil War?
In 2014, the Yemen civil war erupted after the Houthis seized the capital of the country,
Sanaa, and forced the government into exile. In early 2015, the Saudi-led coalition entered
the war in a bid to restore the government. Despite daily violations being reported by
both sides, major air and ground clashes have reduced and the rebels have stopped their
attacks on the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) under Operation Mahila Suraksha has rescued 150
women and girls from falling into the trap of human trafficking syndicates.
What was the duration of this operation and why was it conducted?
This month-long operation which began on 3rd May and concluded on 31st May was
conducted with the aim of rescuing women and girls from human trafficking. This
operation witnessed heroic acts from the personnel of the railway police who put their
own lives at stake to save the lives of the girls and women. During this drive, over 7000
persons were arrested by the RPF who were travelling unauthorizedly in the women’s
reserved coaches. Also, 150 women and girls were rescued by the RPF from becoming
human trafficking victims. A program named ‘Meri Saheli’ is also being run by the
Railways.
What is the Meri Saheli initiative?
This initiative is being run by the railways with the aim of providing security to women
while they travel on trains. This initiative has the objective of providing enhanced security
and safety to the lady passengers who are travelling by train for their entire journey. This
is a pan India initiative. 283 teams of trained Mahila personnel and officers covering 223
stations were also deployed with an average of 1125 lady RPF personnel deployed per day.
They interacted with over 2 Lakh 25 thousand ladies and provided them end to end
security coverage.
What other awareness campaigns were launched?
Moreover, 5472 awareness campaigns have been conducted by the railways about the dos
and don’ts while travelling in trains. The RPF personnel also risked their lives to save the
lives of 10 women while alighting and boarding the train. Also, train escort duties with a
mixed composition of female and male RPF personnel were also deployed.
PM Shri Schools
The central government is planning to set up state-of-the-art ‘PM Shri schools’ with the
aim of preparing students for the future and these schools will act as the laboratory of the
new National Education Policy (NEP). The announcement of the ‘PM Shri Schools’ was
made by Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan who was addressing the two-day
National Education Minister’s Conference in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This event was
attended by the education ministers of 32 union territories and states while Tamil Nadu
boycotted this meeting.
What did the education minister urge?
The Indian states and UTs were urged by the education minister to share their feedback
regarding the education ecosystem with the aim of making futuristic benchmark
standards in the form of PM Shri Schools. The next 25 years are very important to
establish the country as a knowledge economy showing commitment to global welfare.
What will be the structure of the PM Shri Schools?
The education minister spoke about the 5+3+3+4 approach of the NEP covering pre-school
to secondary while stressing on Early Childhood Care and Education Programme (ECCE),
teacher training, adult education, integrating skill development with school education, and
prioritising learning in one’s mother tongue. These are the measures that are required for
training global citizens of the 21st century. Furthermore, it was highlighted that
experience and knowledge sharing from all state Education Ministers in a structured
manner at the conference would help move towards elevating the country’s learning
landscape, in line with the NEP 2020. The PM Shri Schools will also help bolster the
education system across the country.
Maharashtra Faceless Regional Transport Offices
On 2nd June 2022, the government of Maharashtra launched the faceless Regional
Transport Offices (RTOs) to help the citizens of the state avail facilities such as driving
licences, etc, without the need of being physically present at the RTOs. This initiative was
launched by the Minister of State for Transport Satej Patil.
What are the services that will be available at the faceless RTOs?
Six RTO services will be available online via the faceless RTOS. The six services include:
duplicate driving license
driving license renewal
change of address on a licence
change of address on the issued RC book of an individual
duplicate RC book
no-objection certificate of a licence.
With this move, the citizens will not have to visit the RTOs for the six services. Only those
needing a permanent driving licence or for the verification for an international driving
licence will need to be physically present at the RTOs. The six faceless services will be
Aadhar based, hence, there is no chance of cheating or duplication. These services have
been made available with immediate effect. It will help in saving paper and the citizens will
have to link their Aadhaar number with their mobile phones to take part in the Faceless
RTO scheme.
How many services are being provided online by the transport department of Maharashtra?
At present, the transport department of Maharashtra is providing 118 different services,
out of which 80 are online with 6 more services having been included under the new
initiative.
India-Israel Vision Statement on Defence Cooperation
India and Israel have signed a ‘vision Statement’ with the aim of further deepening the
long-standing defence cooperation between both nations. This statement was signed at a
meeting held between Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Benny Gantz, defence minister
of Israel. Israel’s defence minister emphasized the need to invest further in defence
cooperation between both countries.
How will this vision statement help further ties between both nations?
Israel is a technological superpower while India is an industrial superpower, thus,
cooperation between both nations will help in expanding the individual capabilities. India
and Israel are facing similar challenges, including fighting terrorism and border security.
Hence, both nations by working together will be able to boost their capabilities and ensure
the economic and security interests of both countries. A Letter of Intent was also
exchanged between both ministers to enhance cooperation in the field of futuristic
defence technologies.
What topics were discussed?
The discussion held included topics such as:
military cooperation
strategic global challenges
joint Research and Development
defence industrial cooperation
The ministers also discussed a cooperation agreement that was signed between the
Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel’s Directorate
for Defence R&D. This agreement will help enable the expansion of developmental and
technological collaboration between both nations. Also, the Ministers discussed
partnerships about:
military training
defensive capabilities
technological cooperation focusing on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV)
When did India and Israel agree to form a task force to formulate to identify new areas of cooperation?
In October 2021, Israel and India had agreed to form a task force with the aim of
formulating a 10-year roadmap to identify new cooperation areas so as to further the
defence cooperation. This was agreed upon at the 15th India-Israel Joint Working Group
(JWG) meeting on bilateral defence cooperation that was held on 27th October 2021 in Tel
Aviv, Israel. The JWG is the apex body to guide and review all aspects of bilateral defence
cooperation between both nations. Also, a Sub Working Group (SWG) on defence industry
cooperation was formed to enable efficient utilisation of resources, effective technology
flow and sharing of various industrial capabilities.
World Bicycle Day: ‘Fit India Freedom Rider Cycle Rally’
Anurag Thakur, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports has launched a nationwide ‘Fit
India Freedom Rider Cycle Rally’ on 3rd June 2022 from Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, Delhi.
This rally was launched on the occasion of World Bicycle Day 2022. A distance of 7.5 km
was covered by the Union Minister along with 750 young cyclists during the cycle rally that
commenced from the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium.
Why is World Bicycle Day observed?
This day is observed on 3rd June across the world. This day is observed to spread
awareness regarding the benefits of using a bicycle. This day highlights the longevity,
uniqueness, and versatility of the bicycle. This day is being observed since 2018 after a
resolution was passed by the United Nations, during the UNGA’s 72nd Regular Session.
What is the aim of this day?
This day highlights the benefits of using the bicycle which is an affordable, simple,
environmentally fit, clean, and sustainable means of transportation. On this day a number
of seminars and activities are organised across the world to encourage people to take up
bicycling as a sustainable mode of transportation and for fitness.
Why were bicycle rallies held in India on World Bicycle Day?
Over 9.68 lakh kilometres were covered by around 1.29 lakh young cyclists through
various proposed bicycle rallies that were organized on the occasion of World Bicycle Day
2022. In India, bicycle rallies were held with the aim of encouraging and motivating people
to adopt cycling in their daily lives. The rallies were also organized to generate awareness
about physical fitness and other health disorders such as stress, obesity, anxiety, etc. The
cycle rallies across the country on the occasion of World Bicycle Day have been organized
as part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
IIM-A Agriculture Land Price Index
IIM-Ahmedabad (IIM-A) has collaborated with SFarms India, an e-marketplace for
agricultural land to develop a farm land price index that is based on the purchases and
sales done on the platform. This index has been designed with the aim of recording and
presenting quality-controlled data on the prices of agricultural land in India.
What will be the work of the index?
This index will be tracking the price movements in the marketplace (SfarmsIndia)
and will be coming up with a composite pricing mechanism on a monthly basis.
This will be updated twice a year.
This index is being launched under the Misra Centre for Financial Markets and
Economy at IIM-A and will be hosted on its official website.
It will be named IIM-Ahmedabad SFarmsIndia Land Price Index (ISALPI).
The index will not be having any correlation with circle rates but will be using the
quoted prices in the online marketplace as the base value for the purpose of
research.
This index will be a reliable source for benchmarking land prices in semi-urban and
rural areas of the country and will be helping to convert agricultural land into real
estate.
The index will benefit various stakeholders such as local governments, policymakers,
investors, environmentalists, financiers, real estate developers, etc.
The index can also be used by the local governments to compensate those people
who lose their land for highway expansion projects.
Why was the index developed and where has it been started on a pilot basis?
This index has been developed to address disparities as well as to ensure accuracy as it is
very complex to develop an index for land parcels as there are price differences. ISALPI
has been started on a pilot basis in:
Karnataka
Andhra Pradesh
Tamil Nadu
Maharashtra
Uttar Pradesh
Telangana
More data is being awaited from other states of the country. After acquiring more data,
this index will be offering a superior representation at the regional and national levels.
June 4, 2022
Satyendranath Bose
Satyendranath Bose (1894-1974) was an Indian Physicist best known for his role in particle
Physics. He was born in Calcutta; he was the eldest of the 7 children of his father
Surendranath Bose. Bose was a specialist in mathematical physics. A fellow of the Royal
Society, Bose was awarded Padma Vibhushan in 1954, incidentally, the Padma Vibhushan
was awarded for the first time in 1954 only.
Bose never received a doctorate nor was he awarded a Nobel Prize. He is largely forgotten and
Nobel Committee has recognized all other scientists that did work on the concept, whose
historic father was Satyendra Nath Bose.
Contribution to Indian Science
Meghnad Saha was his classmate and J C Bose as his teacher. In 1921, he joined the
then newly created Dacca University as Reader in Physics. While teaching, he wrote a
paper for deriving the Planck’s Law. His paper was titled ‘Planck’s Law and Light
Quantum Hypothesis.‘
In 1900, Max Planck had explained in the theory of black body radiation that light is
emitted in discrete amounts (quanta) rather than as a continuous wave. But his
derivation of this formula was not satisfactory to other scientists, in fact even to
himself. Later, Albert Einstein explained the photoelectric effect based on Planck’s
quanta as photons in 1905 in a paper. Einstein was awarded the Nobel Prize for this
paper, not for his papers on Relativity!
However, many of his colleagues were not fully convinced of his yet-to-be-developed
photon theory. Under these circumstances, Bose re-sent the paper to Albert Einstein
in June 1924, with a fervent appeal for his perusal. Einstein immediately recognised
the significance of this paper. This paper was going to substantiate and revolutionise
his theory of photoelectric effect. Einstein himself translated Bose’s paper into
German and sent it to Zeitschrift für Physik with his endorsement for publication. With
his demigod status, Einstein’s words carried much weight. It was promptly
published, and immediately Bose shot into prominence.
After this, Einstein personally invited Bose to work with him, and their efforts
culminated in the Bose-Einstein statistics, an important and seminal phenomenon in
quantum physics. His work was wholeheartedly supported and appreciated by the
leading lights in quantum theory, such as Louise de Broglie, Erwin Schroedinger,
Paul Dirac and Heisenburg.
In honour of Bose’, Paul Dirac coined the word ‘Boson’ for those particles which
obey Bose’s statistics. In atomic theory, only Fermions (named after Enrico Fermi)
and Bosons were named after physicists.
India-Senegal MoUs
Vice President of India, M. Venkaiah Naidu, reached Senegal (West Africa), on June 2, 2022
and led delegation level talks with President of Senegal (H.E. Mr Macky Sall).
Highlights
During the talks, Vice President of India assured India’s continued commitment to
Senegal, in a bid to support socio-economic development of Senegal by means of
bilateral, regional and international frameworks.
Both sides signed three MoUs, to deepen bilateral partnership across various areas.
About the signed MoUs
First MoU is related to visa-free regime for Diplomatic and Official passport holders.
This would help in strengthening the cooperation between both the countries by
providing seamless travel of officials or diplomats.
Second MoU is related to renewal of Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) for year
2022-26.
Third MoU is related to enhancing bilateral cooperation in youth matters.
India–Senegal relations
India and Senegal share a close and cordial relations since 1960, after Senegal gained
independence from France. India has an embassy in Dakar since 1962 and Senegal in New
Delhi. However, people to people relation are limited. Only some 300 individuals running
businesses or involved in execution of projects being undertaken to Senegal under lines of
credit provided by India. In the recent years trade and investment between both the
countries have been increasing steadily. Both the countries share common values of
democracy, development and secularism. Senegal supports India’s quest for membership
in Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
India-Senegal Cultural Relations
Senegal is described as the most Indophile of West African nations. It is highly influenced
by several Indian cultural institutions like Hindi cinema, concept of caste and outcastes.
There exists several Indo-Senegalese film clibs and friendship societies. Indian music and
cuisine are popular in Senegal. Senegalese singer Akon became a sensation in India.
Trade and Investment
India imports Phosphates and iron scrap from Senegal, while it exports food items,
textiles, automobiles and pharmaceuticals. India is counted among Senegal’s top trade
partners. Senegal imports rolling stock from India, for its railways. India has invested in
several sectors in Senegal, including textiles, manufacturing and chemicals.
Instagram Amber Alerts to find Missing Children
Recently, Meta announced to roll out ‘AMBER alerts’ to Instagram across 25 countries.
Key Facts
AMBER alerts will help users to get notifications of missing children in the area.
This feature was already present on Meta’s Facebook app since 2015, that has helped
in finding hundreds of children.
If law enforcement activate AMBER Alert and people are in the designated search
area, alert will now appear in the Instagram feed.
Who developed the AMBER Alerts for Instagram?
‘AMBER alerts’ for Instagram was developed in association with various organisations
such as, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) in United States and
International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children.
Working Mechanism
AMBER alerts will be specific to the search area. Thus, if any user receives one, it will imply
that, search for a missing child is in progress across their vicinity. This mechanism will use
following information to decide if the alert should be sent or not:
City listed on user’s Instagram profile
User’s IP address and location services (if turned on).
The AMBER alert will include important details about child like photo, location of the
abduction, description, and other available information. People would also be able to
share the alert with friends to further spread the word.
Countries that will get AMBER alerts
Support for AMBER alerts will be available with 25 countries including the United Kingdom,
the United States, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, Canada, Greece, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Ecuador, Guatemala, Jamaica, Ireland, Korea, Luxembourg, Lithuania, Malta, Mexico,
Malaysia, the Netherlands, Romania, Ukraine, South Africa, Taiwan, and the United Arab
Emirates. Instagram is also working to bring this feature to more regions in near future.
About Instagram
Instagram was founded in 2010 as a photo and video sharing social networking service. It
was founded by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger. But later, it was acquired by Facebook
Inc (Now called Meta).
India’s first liquid mirror telescope first came to light in early 2022. This telescope will
observe asteroid, space debris, supernovae, and all other celestial objects from an altitude
of 2,450 metres in Uttarakhand.
What is international liquid-Mirror Telescope?
It is world’s first liquid-mirror telescope, that was commissioned for astronomy.
Other liquid-telescopes were previously built either to track satellites or were used
for military purposes.
International Liquid-Mirror Telescope (ILMT) was set up at the Devasthal
Observatory campus, which is owned by Aryabhatta Research Institute of
Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital in Uttarakhand.
ILMT will be the third telescope facility at Devasthal, that has become world’s pristine
sites for obtaining astronomical observations.
When will it be operational?
ILMT is set to commence its full-scale scientific operations in October 2022. It will work
along with 3.6-metre Devasthal Optical Telescope (DOT), which is India’s largest
telescopes in operation.
How is ILMT different?
Liquid-mirror telescopes are stationary telescopes which is used to image a strip of
the sky at a given point of time at night as opposed to the conventional telescope
which is steered to point towards celestial source of interest in sky for observations.
The liquid-mirror telescope will survey and capture all possible celestial objects
ranging from stars, galaxies, asteroids, supernovae explosions to space debris.
Conventional telescopes comprise of highly polished glass mirrors, either single or a
combination of curved ones. These glasses are steered in a controlled fashion to
focus on targeted celestial object on specific nights. This light is then reflected to
create images. While the liquid-telescope is made up of mirrors with reflective liquid.
In ILMT, mercury has been used as reflective liquid.
Conventional telescopes help in observing specific stellar sources for fixed hours in
accordance with study requirement and time allotted by respective telescope time
allotment committee. While, ILMT will help in capturing images of sky on all nights
between two successive twilights.
Countries that developed ILMT
India, Canada, Belgium, Poland and Uzbekistan are the main countries to collaborate on
setting up the ILMT. It was designed and built at Advanced Mechanical and Optical
Systems Corporation and Centre Spatial de Liège in Belgium.
Painted Leopard Gecko
A new colourful species of leopard named “Eublepharis pictus” was recently identified by
researchers. The species is also known as Painted Leopard Gecko.
Key Points
Painted Leopard Gecko differs from all members of the genus Eublepharis except
for E hardwickii.
Eublepharis is a genus of terrestrial geckos, which is native to eastern and
southwestern Asia.
It lives in dry evergreen forests mixed with scrub and meadows.
It is strictly nocturnal, actively foraging along trails in forest after dusk.
The species is common in forests of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. And geographically
appears to be separated by Brahmani River.
With this, the gecko genus Eublepharis now has 7 species.
About Geckos
Geckos are reptiles, that are found on all continents except Antarctica. These colourful
lizards have adapted to habitats ranging from rainforests, deserts, to cold mountain
slopes. Most of the geckos are nocturnal, i.e., they are active at night. However, day
geckos are active during the day. They depend on fruits, flower nectar and insects.
Family of Geckos
Geckos are spread across six families namely Carphodactylidae, Diplodactylidae,
Gekkonidae, Eublepharidae, Sphaerodactylidae and Phyllodactylidae.
Species of Gecko in India
Indian Golden Gecko, belonging to family Gekkonidae, is native to India states of
Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh. It is listed in Schedule 1 of Wildlife Protection
Act. In IUCN list, it is categorised as Least Concern (LC) species.
Tokay Gecko belonging to family Gekkonidae is widespread in Indo-Malayan region It is a schedule 4 species of wild life protection act and Least Concern (LC) species of
IUCN list.
Puri Heritage Corridor Case
Residents of Puri had moved the High Court alleging that, structural safety of 800-year-old
Jagannath Temple could be in danger, if land surrounding the temple were dug up.
Highlights
They also allege that; state government has insulted the devotees by demolishing
mutts in order to clear roads to Shri Jagannath temple. These roads were closely
linked with different rituals of 12th century shrine because of ongoing Srimandir
Parikrama Project.
Case has also been taken up in the Apex count at times, when Orissa High Court is
hearing a plea against construction.
About Srimandir Parikrama Project
The foundation stone for the Rs 800 crore Srimandir Parikrama Plan (also called Jagannath
Temple corridor project) was laid by CM of Odisha in November 2021. Under this project,
area within 75-metre perimeter of Jagannath Temple was to be transformed into a
heritage corridor, in order to attract devotees from world. It has been modelled on the
line of Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project of Varanasi. It will have amenities for pilgrims
like cloak rooms, reception centre, restrooms, etc. Project was scheduled to be completed
by May 2023. Its construction has been taken up by Odisha Bridge and Construction
Corporation (OBCC) of state government, while Tata Projects is running it on ground. Its
construction also took into consideration a Supreme Court judgement in 2019, that
suggested to clear all structure around 75-metre radius for the safety, scrutiny and
improvement of the temple.
Temple governance
The Jagannath Temple is a centrally protected monument and ASI is its custodian. Thus,
100 metre around the perimeter of temple is considered as inviolate, where no
construction can be taken in accordance with the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological
Sites and Remains (Amendment and validation) Act (AMASR Act), unless National
Monuments Authority (NMA) gives nod to it. NMA had issued a no objection certificate
(NOC) in 2021 for the construction of a shelter pavilion, cloakroom, toilets etc. within the
prohibited 75-metre zone, based on the fact that public amenities do not come under
definition of construction.
What is the controversy?
The Puri Corridor Project came into controversy when government agencies dug huge pits
within 100 m from the boundary of temple, which is categorised as protected zone,
without getting permission from Archeological Survey of India (ASI).
About National Monuments Authority (NMA)
NMA functions under the Union Ministry of Culture. It was set up in 2011 to protect and
preserve monuments and sites through management of prohibited and regulated area
across centrally protected monuments.
Canada’s Historic Tribal Land Claim Settlement
On June 2, 2022, Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau signed a USD1 billion deal, to
settle a century-old land claim of Blackfoot tribe.
Key Points
Government took around half of the reserve lands of tribes in Alberta province in
1910, in order to use it for resources development as well as to sell to settlers.
Land was taken even though 115,000 acres in the western prairies region was
secured for the community in a treaty earlier.
Settlement deal is one of the largest agreements of its kind in Canada. It seeks to
correct the mistakes when Canadian government broke promise and took half of
Siksika Nation’s reserve land to sell to settlers.
Land Claims in Canada
Indigenous peoples demand to have their land rights and Aboriginal titles respected by
Canadian government. These outstanding land claims are the main political issues that
Indigenous peoples are facing today. Canadian government started recognizing
Indigenous land claims in 1973. These claims were divided in two categories by Federal
policy:
Comprehensive claims and
Specific claims
Comprehensive claims deal with Indigenous rights of Métis. Metis is the First Nations and
Inuit communities that did not sign treaties with Canadian Government. While, Specific
claims are filed by First Nations communities over the issue of Canada’s breach of the
Numbered Treaties, Indian Act or any other agreements between the First Nations and
Crown. However, these land claims have been problematic as there has been a shift with
respect to how Canadian Government views these claims. This shift started since early
1980’s because of ideology that these claims would be an effective approach for
improving socio-economic circumstances of Indigenous Canadians.
The Métis
The Metis are a group of Indigenous peoples, inhabiting the three Prairie Provinces of
Canada as well as parts of Ontario, Northwest Territories, British Columbia, and the
Northern United States. They have a shared history and culture. They also are of mixed
Indigenous and European ancestry.
US: Reconstruction of 3D Ear
Recently, a 20-year-old woman received a 3-D printed ear implant as she was born with a
small and misshapen right ear.
Highlights
The 3-D printed ear implant was made from her own cells.
This transplant was a part of first clinical trial of successful medical application of this
technology and turned as an advance in the field of tissue engineering.
The ear was developed by 3DBio, the first company which implant 3D-bioprinted
living tissues in humans.
About the 3-D printed ear
The new ear was printed in a shape, precisely matching the left ear of women. It will
continue to regenerate cartilage tissue. Thus, it will give the look and feel of a natural ear.
The ear was transplanted in March 2022. Clinical trial of 11 patients is still going on.
Are there chances of failure?
It is possible that this transplant could fail or might bring unanticipated health
complications. However, the cells of the ear were originated from patient’s own tissue, it is
unlikely to be rejected by body.
Journey of 3DBio
3D Bio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company. It is the leader in terms of regenerative
medicine using novel 3D-bioprinting. The company delivers safe, functional and
personalized living tissues and organs using material technologies. Daniel Cohen is the
CEO and Co-founder of 3DBio Therapeutics. Before this, he was Engagement Manager at
McKinsey & Company in New York. He was focused on manufacturing, healthcare,
industrials, and 3D printing.
What is 3D bioprinting?
3D Bioprinting is the technology or method to print biomedical structures by using viable
cells, biomaterials and biological molecules. Simply, it is the deposition of biological
material in layer-by-layer fashion, in a bid to create 3D structures like tissues and organs.
Türkiye: Turkey’s new official name
At the United Nations, Turkey will now be known as Türkiye. This decision was taken after
intergovernmental body agreed to a formal request of Ankara for the name change.
Key Points
United Nations had received a request from Ankara in May 2022.
Acceptance of this name change at United Nations marks the start of similar process
of adoption by similar bodies and international organisations.
Process of rebranding countries’ name
The process of rebranding the name started in the year 2021. This name was selected as
Turkiye represents and expresses the culture, civilisation, and values of Turkish nation in
the best way. Local people refer the country as Turkiye, but internationally, its anglicised
version “Turkey” was adopted.
Reason for the name change
According to a report by state broadcaster TRT, ‘Turkey’ word was adopted after country’s
independence in 1923. In the past, Europeans have referred Ottoman state and Turkiye by
many names. But the name that has stuck most is “Turquia” and “Turkey”. Thus, country’s
government was not happy with the Google search results for the word ‘Turkey’. Some
results included a large bird which is served for Christmas meals and Thanksgiving in
North America. furthermore, government also objected Cambridge Dictionary’s definition
of “turkey”, meaning “a stupid silly person” or “something that fails badly”.
Re-branding Campaign
The government of Turkey has started re-branding campaign. It will start featuring “Made
in Türkiye” on all exported products. Government also launched a tourism campaign with
“Hello Türkiye” as the tag line.
Which countries have changed their names?
Few more countries have changed their names earlier, either to drop colonial legacies or
rebrand, as is the case with Turkey. For instance,
The Netherlands was changed from Holland
Macedonia changed its name to North Macedonia because of political disputes with
Greece
Iran changed its name from Persia in 1935
Siam changed its name to Thailand
Rhodesia changed its name to Zimbabwe.
Integration of eSanjeevani with ABDM
On June 3, 2022, the National Health Authority (NHA) announced that government’s
‘eSanjeevani’ telemedicine service has been integrated with Ayushman Bharat Digital
Mission.
Key Facts
This integration will help existing eSanjeevani users to easily create their Ayushman
Bharat Health Account (ABHA).
Users would also be able to use it to link and manage their existing health records.
Users can further share their health records with doctors on eSanjeevani, which in
turn will help in better clinical decision making and ensuring the continuum of care.
The Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission aims to build digital highways, in a bid to
bridge the gaps in existing digital health solutions and stakeholders in India.”
Significance of the integration
Integration of eSanjeevani with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission is an example where 22
crore ABHA holders would be able to link and store their health records, that has been
created through eSanjeevani in health lockers of their choice. They would also be able
share their previously linked health records with doctors on eSanjeevani. Thus, entire
consultation process would become paperless.
Variants of eSanjeevani Service
The eSanjeevani service is available in two variants:
1. eSanjeevani Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centre (AB-HWC)- It a
doctor-to-doctor telemedicine service, using which the beneficiaries visiting a health
and wellness centre would be able to virtually connect to doctors in the hub acting as
a tertiary healthcare facility, a hospital or a medical college. It will enable the
government in providing general and specialised health services in rural areas as
well as to isolated communities.
2. eSanjeevani OPD- This platform is serving patients across India by connecting them
directly to doctors from their homes.
Both the variants of eSanjeevani services have been integrated with the ABDM platform.
With this integration, this platform has now joined other 40 digital health applications that
have completed their ABDM integration.
Stockholm+50 Conference -Highlights
On June 4, 2022, the Scientists, researchers and activists from across the world gathered in
Stockholm. They were expected to issue a strong resolution for to phase out fossil fuels as
well as to support developing nations in their transition to clean energy.
Key Points
This conference, was held to commemorate 50 years since the first meeting. The first
meeting was held when the world confronted the idea initially that, development
needs to be environmentally sustainable.
It involved scientists, researchers and activists.
Proposed resolutions
1. United Nations system should “facilitate multilateral processes in a bid to ensure a
just and equitable phase out of fossil fuels and finance for transition in achieving
sustainable development and eradication of poverty”.
2. Private sector to strengthen application of their creativity and innovation to solve
sustainable development challenges, while respecting and promoting human rights,
health standards and labour and environmental rights.
Concerns with the proposed resolution
The draft resolution doesn’t talk about sharing and distribution of public goods.
It does not mention “overconsumption” or “cutting back on consumption”, the main
reasons of climate crisis.
Letter to fellow citizens
Recently, several climate, environment and social scientists wrote a letter, “to fellow
citizens of Earth”, which was published in Journal Nature. It is similar to Menton Message,
which was signed by 2,200 scientists, before 1972 Stockholm conference. It called for
“attention of fellow beings” to the impending environmental crisis. The Menton Message
highlighted issues of contamination and had called attention to hunger, population,
overcrowding, and war. While, in 2022 letter, focus is on consumption and its impact.
What is Stockholm+50?
It is an international meeting, led by the United Nations General Assembly. It is a global
treaty, that aims to protect human health and environment from the effects of persistent
organic pollutants (POPs). It was recently held in June 2022, to commemorate 50 years
since the 1972 United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, that made
environment a global issue for the first time.
Mandatory Eco-sensitive Zone (ESZ)
Recently, the Apex Court directed that every protected forest, national park and wildlife
sanctuary across India should have a mandatory eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of minimum 1
km, starting from demarcated boundaries.
Highlights
This direction came from a three-judge Bench comprising of Justices L. Nageswara
Rao, Aniruddha Bose and B.R. Gavai.
It highlighted how India’s natural resources have been for years ravaged by
mining and other activities.
It held that, government should not only act like a facilitator of economic activities
for immediate upliftment of the fortunes of State.
Mining within the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries will not be permitted.
Extent of the buffer zone
Supreme court has fixed a minimum of 1 km, starting from the demarcation line, would
act as buffer zone. In case, the national park or protected forest already has a buffer zone,
beyond one km, it will prevail. In case, the question of extent of buffer zone is pending for
any judgement, then court’s direction to maintain 1 km safety zone would be applicable
till the final decision is taken under the law.
Direction to Officials
Supreme Court has directed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests as well as Home
Secretaries of States for the compliance of this judgement. They have been directed to
make a list of subsisting structures within the ESZs and submit reports to the court in
three months.
Views of Court on Sustainable Development
The State will have to act as trustee for the benefit of public with respect to natural
resources, in a bid to achieve sustainable development in the long term.
What is Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ)?
ESZ are areas in India, that are notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change (MoEFCC), across the Protected Areas, National Park and Wildlife sanctuaries. ESZs are declared for the purpose of creating some kind of a “shock absorber” for
protected areas. These zones act as a transition zone from high protection zones to lesser
protected zones. ESZs could go up to 10 Kms around Protected Areas or beyond. In such
zones, activities like industries causing pollution Commercial mining, establishment of
major hydroelectric projects (HEP), saw mills, commercial use of wood, Tourism,
production of hazardous substances and discharge of effluents or any solid waste are all
prohibited. Activities like felling of trees, commercial use of natural water, establishment
of hotels and resorts, erection of electrical cables etc are regulated. While, activities like
agricultural or horticultural practices, organic farming, rainwater harvesting, use of
renewable energy sources, adoption of green technology etc are permitted.
The SHRESHTHA scheme was launched by Union Minister for Social Justice and
Empowerment Dr Virendra Kumar on June 3, 2022.
About SHRESHTHA scheme
This scheme was launched for Scheduled Castes, as they have faced historical
injustices in a hierarchical based society and education is the most powerful tool to
empower them as a community.
Scheme will provide a level playing field to the poor and meritorious SC students.
It was launched with the aim of providing quality education & opportunities to 3,000
students, who belongs to scheduled caste category.
It envisions high quality free residential education for meritorious SC students of
class 9th to class 12th to meritorious students from SC communities.
Who will be covered under the scheme?
Scheme will cover students whose parental annual income is up to Rs. 2.5 Lakh per
annum.
Selection of students
Approximately 3000 students will be selected through National Entrance Test for
SHRESHTA (NETS). They will be admitted in Best Private Residential-CBSE affiliated School
in classes 9th and 11th, for completion of education till 12th standard. The best performing
private residential-CBSE affiliated schools will be selected on the basis of specific
parameters. Entire cost of school fee and hostel fee as well as food charges will be borne
by the government. Maximum limits set to cover all these expenses are:
9th class: 1,00,000 Rs p.a. per student
10th class: 1,10,000 Rs p.a. per student
11th class: 1,25,000 Rs p.a. per student and
12th class: 1,35,000 Rs p.a. per student
Provision of Bridge Course
Another feature of this scheme is the “provision for bridge course”. This will help students
in adapting to the new school environment. This course will be provided for 3 months to
students from state schools and rural areas.
Decommissioning of INS NISHANK and INS AKSHAY
On June 3, 2022, the Indian Navy Ships Nishank and Akshay were decommissioned, after
rendering 32 years of glorious service to India.
Key Facts
Decommissioning event was conducted at Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.
In the traditional ceremony, the national flag, the naval ensign and the
decommissioning pennant of both the ships were lowered for last time at sunset.
Commissioning date
INS Nishank was commissioned on September 12, 1989. On the other hand, INS Akshay
was commissioned on December 10, 1990 at Poti, Georgia. INS Nishank was a part of 22
Missile Vessel Squadron while INS Akshay was a part of 23 Patrol vessel Squadron, under
operational control of Flag Officer Commanding, Naval area of Maharashtra. They were in
service for more than 32 years. During this, they participated in several naval operations
including Operation Talwar during Kargil War and Operation Parakram in 2001.
About INS Nishank (K43)
INS Nishank is a Veer class corvette, having the length of 56 m (184 ft). It can attain the
speed of 32 knots (59 km/h) and a range of1,650 mi (2,660 km).
Veer class corvettes
Veer class corvettes are a customized Indian variant of Soviet Tarantul class. They form
22nd Killer Missile Vessel Squadron.
INS Akshay
INS Akshay refers to following vessels of the Indian Navy:
INS Akshay (P3136)- It is an Ajay-class patrol vessel that was completed in 1962. In
1973, it was given to Bangladesh where she served as BNS Padma.
INS Akshay (P35)- It is an Abhay-class corvette commissioned in 1990.
About Indian Navy
Indian Navy is the naval branch of Indian Armed Forces. The President of India acts as the
Supreme commander of Indian Navy. Navy is commanded by the Chief of Naval Staff, a
four-star admiral. Indian Navy operates in Persian Gulf Region and Horn of Africa to the
Strait of Malacca. It also conducts two to three month-long deployments in South & East
China sea, and western Mediterranean Sea simultaneously.
Chandigarh IAF Heritage Centre
Chandigarh Administration was decided to set up a “Chandigarh IAF Heritage Centre” in
Chandigarh.
About Chandigarh IAF Heritage Centre
Chandigarh IAF (Indian Air Force) Heritage Centre will be set up in a bid to showcase the
role of Indian Air Force in several wars and overall functioning. It will be set up jointly by
the force and Chandigarh administration. For this purpose, an MoU was signed between
the Union Territory of Chandigarh and the IAF. It will be India’s first such centre. It is being
set up at erstwhile printing press in Sector 18 of Chandigarh.
Purpose of the Heritage Centre
The Chandigarh Heritage Centre will comprise of artefact, simulators and interactive
boards, in order to highlight various facets of IAF. It will showcase the important role
played by service in assistance rendered for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief,
besides the war. It will also house the vintage aircraft.
When will it be completed?
The centre has planned to complete the project by October 2022.
Who is the maintaining authority?
This heritage centre will be maintained by the UT administration. On the other hand,
Indian Airforce will set up weapons and other equipment.
When government decided to set up the centre?
The Chandigarh administration had decided to set up the Heritage centre in 2019, when
they had shut down the Government Printing Press. This was tipped as a dream project of
former administrator VP Singh Badnore. Later, the administration decided to set up a
heritage furniture item museum alongside the vintage car museum. The administration
and the Indian Air Force agreed to build a vintage aircraft museum on August 27, 2021.
NCC ‘Puneet Sagar Abhiyan’
NCC started the ‘Puneet Sagar Abhiyan’ on May 30, 2022. It continued till June 5, 2022, that
marks the World Environment Day.
About the campaign
Around 74,000 cadets from 10 States and 4 Union Territories participated in the
campaign.
NCC cadets were also joined in by NCC Alumni, locals and tourists in several places
across India.
Waste collected during the campaign was disposed of in an environment friendly
manner, in association with the cooperation with Government/Private agencies.
During the campaign, drawing, essay writing, poster making, article writing, poetry,
debate, etc were also conducted at various locations.
Why was the campaign launched?
The Puneet Sagar Abhiyan was launched by NCC, in a bid to clean Sea Shores or Beaches
and other water bodies including rivers & lakes, by removing plastic & other waste. The
campaign seeks to increase awareness amongst local population about importance of
keeping beaches and river fronts clean. It seeks to educate locals and sensitise about
‘Swachh Bharat’.
When was campaign launched?
The campaign was launched on December 1, 2021 by the National Cadet Corps, to keep
seashores and beaches free from plastic & other waste materials.
National Cadet Corps (NCC)
NCC is the youth wing of Indian Armed Forces. It is headquartered in New Delhi, India. It is
open to students from schools and colleges on voluntary basis as a Tri-Services
Organisation. It comprises of the Army, the Navy and the Air Wing. The wing is engaged in
developing the youth into disciplined and patriotic citizens. The cadets are recruited from
high schools, higher secondary, colleges and universities by the soldier youth foundation
in India. In the camp, cadets are given basic military training in small arms and drill.
Emblem of the NCC
The emblem of NCC comprises of 3 colours namely, red, dark blue and light blue. Red
colour represents he Indian Army, dark blue represents the Indian Navy while light blue
represents the Indian Air Force. The 17 lotuses on it, indicate 17 directories of India.
World Environment Day 2022
The World Environment Day 2022 was observed on June 5. It is led by the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP).
Why World Environment Day is celebrated?
The World Environment Day is celebrated raise awareness on degrading environmental
conditions as well as to encourage people worldwide to take positive environmental
actions in order to help in creating a better future.
Background
The United Nations Conference on Human Environment or the Stockholm conference was
held in 1972. It was the first world conference with environment as its major agenda. It
declared “right to live in a healthy environment” as “basic human right”. With this, the
idea of World Environment Day was formalized. This conference also led to the creation of
United Nations Environment Programme.
Significance of the Day
In the last century, progress of mankind led to a massive increase in exploitation of
natural resources. Environmental issues like climate change, marine pollution, and
depletion of flora and fauna have only increased with passing decade. Thus, World
Environment Day has become a global platform for people to participate in
several campaigns to spread awareness on environmental protection. This day is
celebrated under a specific theme and slogan that addresses the major environmental
concern of the time. Year 2022 is more significant because it marks 50 years since 1972
Stockholm conference.
Host country
The World Environment Day is hosted by a different country each year. For year 2022,
Sweden is the host country.
Slogan of the day
Slogan for World Environment Day 2022 is “Only One Earth”. It focuses on living
sustainably in harmony with nature.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
UNEP was established by Maurice Strong, following the June 1972 United Nations
Conference on Human Environment. It is responsible for coordinating responses to
environmental issues. Maurice Strong was its first director.
Jan Samarth Portal
On June 6, 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a “national portal for credit-
linked government schemes” called “Jan Samarth Portal”.
Highlights
Portal was launched during the ‘Iconic Week Celebrations’ of Ministry of Finance and
Ministry of Corporate Affairs at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi.
The week, starting from June 6 to June 11, is being celebrated as part of ‘Azadi Ka
Amrit Mahotsav’.
What is Jan Samarth Portal?
Jan Samarth Portal is a one-stop digital portal, that links the government credit schemes.
It is first of its kind platform, connecting beneficiaries directly to the lenders. This portal
has been launched in a bid to encourage inclusive growth and development of several
sectors by guiding and providing them the right government benefits by means of simple
and easy digital processes. It ensures end-to-end coverage of all the linked schemes.
How many schemes will be linked to single platform?
Jan Samarth Portal is a unique digital portal, that will link 13 Credit Linked Government
schemes on a single platform.
Significance of the Portal
This portal will help in improving the lives of students, businessmen, farmers, MSME
entrepreneurs as well as help them in realizing their dreams. The Portal has an open
architecture, which will help state governments and other organisations to add their plans
on it, in future.
Digital Exhibition
On the occasion, Prime Minister also inaugurated a Digital Exhibition. The exhibition
traces the journey of Ministry of Finance as well as Ministry of Corporate affairs in past
eight years.
New coins
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also released special series of Rs 1, Rs 2, Rs 5, Rs 10
and Rs 20 coins. These special series of coins have the theme of logo of Azadi ka Amrit
Mahotsav. These coins can easily be identified by visually impaired persons.
French Open Tournament 2022- Highlights
On June 5, 2022, Rafael Nadal won the 14th French Open. With this win, his record
extended to 22nd Grand Slam title. He became the oldest male champion at Roland
Garros.
Highlights
In the final, Nadal won 6-3, 6-3, 6-0. The victory came 17 years to the day since he
won the first French Open in 2005.
He won the last 11 games of final.
He stands two Slams ahead of old rivals Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.
Nadal is the oldest winner, since a 34-year-old Andre Gimeno won in 1972.
Rafael Nadal Parera
Rafael Nadal is a Spanish professional tennis player. Association of Tennis Professionals
(ATP) has ranked him world no. 4. Earlier, he was ranked world No. 1 for 209 weeks. He
has even finished as year-end No. 1 five times. Till date, he has won 22 Grand Slam men’s
singles titles, including a record of 14 French Open titles. He has won 92 ATP singles titles,
which also include 36 Masters titles. He won 63 out of 92 ATP singles titles on clay.
The French Open
French Open is also known as Roland-Garros. It is a major tennis tournament, which is
held for two weeks at Stade Roland Garros in Paris, France. It starts in late May, every year.
This tournament has been named after French aviator Roland Garros. French Open is the
premier clay court championship. It is the only Grand Slam tournament that is held on this
surface. It is the second tournament of four annual Grand Slam tournaments. Other three
tournaments include Australian Open, The US Open and Wimbledon.
The Grand Slam
Grand Slam is an achievement of winning four major championships in one discipline in a
calendar year. It is also called as “Calendar-year Grand Slam” or “Calendar Slam”.
Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP)
ATP is the governing body of men’s professional tennis circuits namely ATP Tour, ATP
Champions Tour and ATP Challenger Tour. It was created in September 1972 by Donald
Dell, Cliff Drysdale and Jack Kramer for protecting the interests of professional tennis
players. Drysdale was its first President.
China: 3rd Crewed Mission to New Space Station
On June 5, 2022 China successfully launched the 3rd Crewed Mission to its New Space
Station.
Key Facts
Three Astronauts will continue the construction work for six months.
Astronauts were lifted off on Shenzhou-14 spacecraft.
It was launched by a Long March 2F rocket from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center,
located in Gobi Desert of Inner Mongolia.
Who are the crew members?
The crew includes Chen Dong, Cau Xuzhe and Liu Yang.
Work assigned to the crew
They will live and work at Tianhe core module of Tiangong Space Station for six months.
They are scheduled to return to Earth in December 2022. They will dock with the space
station about 6.5 hours after launch.
Mission Commander
Chen Dong is the mission commander. In 2016, he was aboard China’s Shenzhou-11
manned space mission. He holds the record for longest stay in space by a Chinese
astronaut. In 2012, Liu Yand became the first ever Chinese woman in space on Shenzhou-9
mission. This mission is going to be the first mission of Cau Zuzhe in space. They will carry
out the Shenzhou-14 spaceflight mission.
3rd Crewed Mission in Space
This is China’s third crewed mission during construction of Its space station. China has
planned to have fully crewed and operational space station by December 2022. The first
crewed mission was completed in September 2021, when astronauts stayed for three-
months. The second mission was Shenzhou-13, in which three astronauts spend six
months for the first time. Overall, China has planned six space missions before the end of
2022, including another crewed mission, two cargo missions and two laboratory modules.
The team aboard Shenzhou-14 will help om docking, setting up and testing of two
laboratory modules called Wentian and Mengtian. Wentian will be launched in July 2022
and Mengtian will be launched in October 2022. These modules will be assembled in T-
shaped structure along with the main living space (Tianhe core cabin) for the astronauts.
UIDAI: Training for postmen for Aadhaar Service
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is set to roll out ‘door-to-door
Aadhaar seva”. For this purpose, around 48,000 postmen are being trained.
Key Facts
UIDAI is rolling out this service as government has decided to make Aadhaar the
cornerstone of identity for Indians.
UIDAI is training the postmen of India Post Payment Bank, to go door to door across
India and link Aadhaar number with mobile number, update details as well as
conduct enrolment of children at doorstep.
Apart from IPPB postmen, UIDAI is also looking to onboard around 13,000 banking
correspondents who are currently working with the Common Service Centre under
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
UIDAI Expansion Plans
Postmen are being trained as a part of UIDAI’s expansion plans, which aims to reach out
to more people and enrol as many citizens as possible. The authority also seeks to cover
all 150,000 postal officers in the second part of the plan. As of now, UIDAI has run pilots on
IPPB postmen through tablet and mobile-based kit for child enrolment. Now, expansion
plan has been made in order to enable them to update Aadhaar details in remote areas
through laptop or a desktop.
Aadhaar Seva Kendra
UIDAI has also planned to start an Aadhaar Seva Kendra across 755 districts of India, so
that Aadhaar details updated and collected by CSC banking correspondents and postmen
can be updated fast. Currently, 88 UIDAI Seva Kendra are working in 72 cities. But plan has
been made to reach the remotest corners of country.
Mini Aadhaar Seva Kendra
UIDAI also seeks to open ‘mini’ Aadhaar Seva Kendra across 7224 blocks of India, that
have required set up to link PAN and mobile to Aadhaar card, as well as updating details
such as phone number or address.
About Aadhaar
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identity number, generated by UIDAI. This number can be
obtained voluntarily by citizens of India or any resident foreign nationals who have lived
here for more than 182 days in twelve months immediately before the date of application
for enrolment.
Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)
UIDAI is a statutory authority, which was established in January 2009, under the
jurisdiction of Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
LiFE-Lifestyle for Environment Movement
Global initiative “Lifestyle for Environment Movement” was launched by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi on the occasion of “World Environment Day” on June 5, 2022.
Highlights
During the launch of initiative, PM noted that, challenges on earth are well-known to all.
Thus, there is a need of human-centric, collective efforts and robust action to strengthen
the sustainable development.
Vision of LiFE initiative
LiFE initiative was launched with the vision of living a lifestyle, which is in line with planet
Earth and does not harm it. People living such a lifestyle are called as “Pro-Planet People”.
LiFE initiative borrows from the past, operates in present as well as focuses on future.
LiFE Global Call for Papers
The launch also initiated ‘LiFE Global Call for Papers’, and invited ideas and suggestions
from universities, academics, and research institutions etc in a bid to influence and
persuade individuals, organisations and communities across the globe in a bid to adopt an
environment conscious lifestyle.
How was idea of LiFE introduced?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the idea of LiFE, in 2021 during the 26th United
Nations Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP-26) in Glasgow. The idea of LiFE
promotes an environment conscious lifestyle, focusing on deliberate and mindful
utilisation instead of destructive and mindless and consumption.
World Environment Day
The World Environment Day is observed on June 5 every year. It is observed by United
Nations’ principal vehicle to encourage awareness and action for protecting environment.
It was first observed in 1973. This platform is used for raising awareness on environmental
issues like marine pollution, global warming, overpopulation, wildlife crime and
sustainable development.
Ex SAMPRITI-X: India Bangladesh Joint Military Exercise
Joint Military Exercise between India and Bangladesh, Ex SAMPRITI-X, was started from
June 5, 2022 at Jashore Military Station in Bangladesh. It will be concluded on June 16,
2022.
About Ex SAMPRITI-X
The Ex SAMPRITI-X is being conducted with the aim of strengthening interoperability
between both the armies and to understand each other’s operational techniques
and tactical drills.
Indian contingent is being represented by the Battalion of DOGRA Regiment.
During the exercise, armies of India and Bangladesh will share expertise in simulated
scenarios of Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief, Counter Terrorism, and UN
Peacekeeping Force under the mandate of United Nation.
It is an important bilateral defence cooperation, that is conducted by both the
countries alternately.
Recently, the National Stock Exchange of India witnessed a freak trade in weekly Nifty 50
options contact. It led to a loss of around Rs 200 crore for traders. Such freak trades are
called as Fat finger Trade.
Background
Recent freak trade is not just a one instance. India have witnessed such instances in
past as well.
One such freak trade at the National Stock Exchange had catapulted Chitra
Ramakrishna in April 2013.
On October 5, 2012, fat finger trade had triggered a huge flash crash, leading to loss
of Rs 10 trillion of investors’ wealth at NSE.
NSECEO Ravi Narain had to pay the price, while baton was passed to Ramakrishna.
What is a fat-finger trade?
A fat-finger trade is a human error, when an order is punched. Such error can include
entering a wrong value with respect to price or quantity or selection of wrong execution
action like buy or sell. When the freak trade is executed, the price hits an abnormal level
for some second but later returns to the level where it should actually be. For instance, in
the recent freak trade, trader executed a sell order at Rs 0.15, in Nifty 14,500 call option.
Impact of Fat-finger trade
Freak trades or fat-finger trade not only result in a loss to trader punching the order. But it
also results in loss for others who may have placed a Stop Loss order to their open
positions, because Stop Losses may have got triggered due to abnormal price movement.
How Fat-finger trade can be avoided?
The fat-finger trades can be avoided if they are caught in time. Exchanges and brokerages
have been making constant efforts to avoid such trades by placing some preventive
measures. They are set filters to give alert to traders while placing orders outside the
parameters of market. Furthermore, price movements are also capped by placing circuit
filters and cooling off period.
Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) design coins
On June 6, 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a special series of coins. These
coins have also been made visually impaired friendly.
Key facts
The coins of Re 1, Rs 2, 5, 10 and 20 denominations were launched.
These coins will have the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (AKAM) design.
Coins are not commemorative coins but will be a part of circulation.
Significance of the coins
These new series of coins will remind citizens of the goal of amrit kal. It will also motivate
people to work towards development of India. Coins were launched on the occasion of
‘Iconic Week Celebrations’ of Ministry of Finance.
Distribution of coins
The new special series of coins will be distributed through select branches of banks.
Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav
Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav is an initiative of Government of India, launched to honour and
celebrate 75 years of independent India. The initiative also seeks to celebrate and honour
the magnificent history of India’s culture, people, and accomplishments. It is dedicated
Indian people, who have been contributing in driving India thus far on developmental
front and who hold potential to facilitate Prime Minister’s dream of triggering India 2.0.
This initiative is also fuelled by the vibrancy of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
When was Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav Started?
Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav officially started on March 12, 2021, and will be completed on
August 15, 2023. Initiative was started from Ahmedabad, Gujarat by flagging off Dandi
March from Sabarmati Ashram. It is now getting launched from cities, that contributed in
India’s freedom battle. It included Sabarmati Ashram, Cellular Jail in Andaman and
Nicobar Island and Jallianwala Bagh in Punjab, etc.
Who can mint coins in India?
Government of India is authorized and have right to mint coins in country. Right for
coinage vests with the Government in accordance with Coinage Act, 2011. Coins in various
denominations are designed and minted by Government of India only. Coins are minted
at India Government Mints at Mumbai, Saifabad in Hyderabad, Alipore in Kolkata, Noida in
UP and Cherlapally in Hyderabad. However, coins are issued for circulation only through
the Reserve Bank, in accordance with RBI Act.
Bihar: Elephant rescue Centre at Valmiki Tiger Reserve
An elephant rescue centre has been established by the forest department of Bihar at Valmiki Tiger Reserve at West Champaran district of Bihar.
Highlights
The elephant rescue centre will be used to rehabilitate stray, abandoned and injured
elephants.
This facility is yet to be approved by central government.
About Valmiki Tiger Reserve
Valmiki Tiger Reserve is located in West Champaran district of Bihar, spreading over 899
square kilometres. Nepal is located to its north while Uttar Pradesh is located to its
west. The tiger reserve provides perfect atmosphere for elephant habitation. There are 40
tigers in the reserve.
Stray Elephants
In recent time, several elephants stray into the Tiger reserve from neighbouring Chitwan
National Park in Nepal. They stayed for a few months and returned soon. It suggests that,
friendly habitat of Valmiki Tiger Reserve attracts them. Currently, there are four elephants
at rescue centre in eastern state. Forest department had brought them from Karnataka in
2018. Forests in Bihar don’t have any elephants currently.
Training to forest officials
Forest officials will be trained by experts from forest and wildlife institute of Dehradun, to
rescue stray elephants as well as take care of them in natural habitat.
Drawbacks of the plan
There is a risk of human-animal conflicts. It is not a new thing but chances will
remain high.
Elephants stray into Bihar either from Parsa and Chitwan wildlife sanctuary of Nepal
or forest of Jharkhand. They have damaged thatched houses, attacked people as well
as damaged standing maize crops in Seemanchal region.
Stray elephants also enter populated areas, mostly rural, for food and favorable
habitat.
Chitwan National Park
It is a preserved area, located in Terai Lowlands of south-central Nepal. It is known for its
biodiversity. Dense forests and grassy plains of the park are home to rare mammals such
as Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinos. A Hindu pilgrimage site, Balmiki Ashram, is
located inside the National Park.
What is Direct-to-mobile (D2M) Technology?
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), in association with public service
broadcaster Prasar Bharat, is exploring the feasibility of a Direct-To-Mobile’ (D2M)
technology.
What is Direct-to-mobile (D2M) technology?
The D2M technology allows to broadcast video and other multimedia content directly
to mobile phones, without active internet connection.
It is based on the convergence of broadband and broadcast. Using this technology,
mobile phones will be able to receive terrestrial digital TV.
It is similar FM radio on mobile phones, in which phone can tap into radio
frequencies.
It improves utilisation of spectrum and consumption of broadband.
What are the uses of D2M technology?
This technology can be used to directly broadcast content related to citizen-centric
information.
It will help in countering fake news, issuing emergency alerts as well as offering
assistance in disaster management.
It can also be used to broadcast live sports and news on mobile phones.
Significance of the D2M technology
Through the D2M technology, consumers would be able to access multimedia
content from Over The Top (OTT) or Video on Demand (VoD) content platforms
without exhausting mobile data.
This service would be provided at a nominal rate. It will also allow people from rural
areas, where internet access is not present or is limited, to watch video content.
D2M technology will also enable the telecom service providers to offload video traffic
for businesses for their mobile network on the broadcast network. It will thus help
them in decongesting valuable mobile spectrum.
The technology would improve usage of mobile spectrum and free up bandwidth,
thus reducing the call drops and increasing data speeds etc.
What are the challenges?
To bring key stakeholders like mobile operators onboard is going to be “biggest
challenge” in launching D2M technology on a wider scale.
Initiatives by Government
A committee has been set by Department of Telecommunications (DoT), to study
the feasibility of spectrum band, in order to offer broadcast services directly to
smartphones of users. Band 526-582 MHz is envisaged for working in coordination with
broadcast services and mobile services.
National Tribal Research Institute
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to inaugurate the National Tribal Research
Institute in Delhi on June 7, 2022.
Highlights
National tribal Research Institute will be inaugurated as a part of “Azadi ka Amrit
Mahotsav” by Tribal Affairs Ministry.
During the event, an exhibition showcasing the achievements of Ministry of Tribal
Affairs will also be displayed.
Over 100 tribal artisans and tribal dance troupes across India will showcase their
indigenous products and performances.
About National Tribal Research Institute
The National Tribal Research Institute will be a premier national level institute. It will
become a nerve centre of tribal concerns, matters and issues in academic, legislative and
executive fields.
Functions of National Tribal Research Institute
It will network and collaborate with reputed research institutes, organisations,
universities, resource centres and academic bodies.
The institute will monitor projects of Tribal Research Institutes (TRIs), research
scholars of NFS and Centres of Excellence (CoEs).
It will also set up norms to improve in quality of research and training.
Its other activities will be to provide policy inputs for Ministry of Tribal Affairs and
State Welfare Departments programs and design studies that support or improve
socio-economic aspects of tribal lifestyles, provide guidelines in setting & running
Tribal Museums as well as create and maintain a Database of PMAAGY.
Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY)
This scheme was launched on the line of Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY).
These villages have tribal population of over 500 and 50% tribals. Rs. 1354 cr. has been
allocated for this scheme.
Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAGY)
PMAGY is a rural development programme, launched in 2009-10 by Union government in
India. It was launched for developing the villages that have higher ratio (more than 50%)
of people belonging to scheduled castes. It converges the central and state schemes.
Financial funding is allocated on a per village basis.
India: Prophet Remarks Row
On June 5, 2022, the BJP suspended its national spokesperson Nupur Sharma as well
expelled its Delhi spokesperson Naveen Kumar Jindal, after their comments about Islam
and the Prophet recently.
Highlights
This was done after three Gulf countries, Kuwait, Iran and Qatar, had summoned the
Indian ambassadors to their nations for registering their protest. The countries also
demanded for public apology from India.
Later on, the UAE, Oman, Iraq, Indonesia, Jordan, the Maldives, Bahrain and Libya
have joined the growing list of Nations in Islamic world condemning the remarks.
Saudi Arabia had also issued a strongly worded statement.
Over the row, Indian diplomats have been trying to placate these countries because,
India shares good relations with them.
What is the controversy?
Nupur Sharma is at the centre of this controversy. She was a spokesperson of the
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In May 2022, she remarked over the Prophet, in a televised
debate. Apart from her, Naveen Jindal, who was media head of Delhi unit of BJP, had also
posted a provocative tweet on this issue.
What does critics say?
As per critics, comments from both the person reflect deep religious polarisation in India,
being witnessed over the past few years. Hate speech and attacks against Muslims have
increased sharply since BJP came to power in 2014.
Comments from OIC and Pakistan
The Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) and Pakistan also criticised
India. However, New Delhi criticised back stating that, their comments were “unwarranted
and narrow-minded”.
India’s trade with GCC
Trade of India with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), that includes countries lime Qatar,
Kuwait, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman and the UAE, was USD 87 billion in 2020-21. Many
Indians live and work in these countries. They send dollars in remittances back home. This
region is also the top source for energy imports in India.
Draft amendments to IT Rules 2021
Government has released draft amendments to IT Rules 2021 and sought public
comments on some amendments to it.
New IT rules 2021
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) had released new IT rules
in 2021.
It came into effect from May 26, 2021.
These rules provide a framework for content regulation by online publishers of
current affairs content and news content, as well as curated audio-visual content.
These rules were put forward with the aim of making social media and internet
companies, that have over five million users.
Rules had mandated that social media intermediaries should publish rules to stop
posting and sharing of content which is inflammatory, hateful, objectionable,
ethnically and racially objectionable etc.
Online intermediaries were also asked to appoint nodal officer in India, who can be
available round-the-clock in order to help law enforcement agencies.
Through these rules, government provided a three-tier grievance redressal
mechanism.
Under the rules, big social media platforms, like Facebook and Twitter, were
mandated to enable identification of ‘first originator’ of any information
undermining the sovereignty of India, public order or security of the state.
Draft Proposals
In a new proposal, MritY provided for setting up a government panel for addressing
such grievances. Before that, if any user was not satisfied with any grievance
redressal system of social media platform, he had only one option to approach court.
Government would set up one or more Grievance Appellate Committees, comprising
of a chairperson and other members appointed by government. Under the
amendment, user will be able to appeal a grievance officer’s order to committee
within 30 days of receiving it.
Draft proposals add another level. This level will reduce the quantum of social media
litigation. An intermediary would acknowledge the complaint of user received by its
grievance officer within 24 hours.
Approval for procurement of Military equipment
On June 6, 2022, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the procurement of
military equipment platform from domestic industries, of worth Rs 76,390 Crore.
Key Points
Procurement proposals were approved by DAC, which is headed by Defence Minister
Rajnath Singh.
DAC also gave approval for procurement of next generation corvettes (NGCs), for the
Indian Navy. This was approved at an estimated cost of Rs 36,000 crore.
DAC further approved a proposal for manufacturing Su-30 MKI aero-engines and
Dornier aircraft by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), with a focus on enhancing
indigenisation.
Next Generation Corvettes (NGCs)
NGCs will act as versatile platforms for a variety of roles including surveillance
missions, deterrence, escort operations, Surface Action Group (SAG) operations,
attack and search and coastal defence.
NGCs would be constructed on the basis of a new in-house design of Indian Navy
and it will use latest technology of ship building.
Procurement for Indian Army
DAC approved for the procurement of Rough Terrain Fork Lift Trucks (RTFLTs), for the
Indian Army. Wheeled Armoured Fighting Vehicles (Wh AFVs), Bridge Laying Tanks (BLTs),
and Weapon Locating Radars (WLRs) were also approved through domestic sources.
Emphasis has been put on indigenous design and development.
Digital Coast Guard project
In line with government’s vision of digital transformation in defence, the DAC approved
the ‘Digital Coast Guard’ project under ‘Buy’ (Indian) category. Under this project, a pan-
India secure network for digitising several surface and aviation operations, finance,
logistics, and HR processes in Coast Guard will be established.
Defence Acquisition Council
It is the highest decision-making body in Defence Ministry. It decides on new policies and
capital acquisitions for three services including Army, Navy and Air Force as well as Indian
Coast Guard. Defence Minister is the chairman of the council.
Maharashtra State Board for Wildlife (MSBWL) recently approved 12 new conservation
reserves and 3 wildlife sanctuaries, for boosting wildlife conservation movement and
environment protection movement.
Key Facts
These protected areas (PAs) will have an area of around 1,000 sq km. In this, an area
of 692.74 sq km will be for conservation reserves while an area of 303 sq km will be
for wildlife sanctuaries.
Approval was given for notification of following conservation reserves:
1. Chivatibavari and Alaldari in Dhule
2. Kalwan, Muragad, Triambakeshwar and Igatpuri in Nashik
3. Raigad and Roha in Raigad district
4. Bhor in Pune
5. Dare Khurd (Mahadare) in Satara
6. Masai plateau in Kolhapur and
7. Mogarkasa in Nagpur.
With this approval, state will also get 3 new wildlife sanctuaries:
1. Extension of the Lonar wildlife sanctuary
2. Kolamarka in Gadchiroli- This region is affected by presence of Left-wing extremists.
It has endangered Asiatic Wild buffaloes. In 2013, it was notified as conservation
reserve.
3. Muktai Bhawani in Jalgaon
Why is consent of wildlife board required?
According to the provisions of Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, consent of wildlife board
is required, in order to notify any fresh protected areas in the state.
Till date, 15 conservation reserves were notified in Maharashtra. With the addition of
12 new conservation reserves, the number will increase to 27.
Challenges in notifying area
Whenever an area is notified as a wildlife sanctuary, it leads to opposition from
stakeholders and local residents because it becomes an eco-sensitive zone (ESZ), in which
no developmental activities are allowed. However, no restrictions involve with the
conservation reserves. They connect existing Protected Areas such as sanctuaries and
national parks and act as wildlife migration corridors.
Cost of the project
It is a Rs 1,595 crore project and will be undertaken by the Maharashtra State Road
Development Corporation (MSRDC).
National Parks in Maharashtra
Maharashtra has six national parks, besides 15 conservation reserves and 50 sanctuaries.
It has six tiger projects, namely, Melghat, Pench, Tadoba-Andhari, Navegaon-Nagzira, Bor
and Sahyadri. According to ‘Status of Tigers in India, 2018’ report, which is published by
National Tiger Conservation Authority’s (NTCA), estimated number of tigers in the state
was 312 as opposed to 190 in 2014.
Ex Khaan Quest 2022 Peacekeeping Exercise
Ex Khaan Quest 2022, a multinational peacekeeping exercise, has commenced in
Mongolia. It will continue for 14 days. The exercise features participation of military
contingents from 16 countries, including India.
Highlights
It was inaugurated by President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh.
Indian Army is being represented by contingent from the Ladakh Scouts.
Aim of the exercise
The Ex Khaan-Quest 2022 aims to enhance interoperability, build military to military
relationships, military readiness and develop peace support operations among
participating nations. This exercise will enhance the level of defence co-operation between
these countries.
What is Ex Khaan-Quest?
It is a multinational peacekeeping operations exercise. It comprises of a United Nations
Peacekeeping Mission command post exercise, which is a UN Peacekeeping Operation
Mission field training exercise. This exercise has been designed for improving
peacekeeping capabilities, enhancing core UN doctrine Peace Keeping Operation
capabilities of participating countries, and strengthening military-to-military relationships.
Doctrine of 2008
The 2008 doctrine provides and re-confirms a contemporary understanding of how
practitioners might apply three basic peacekeeping principles of UN, viz., impartiality,
consent, and non-use of force, except in self-defence and defence of this mandate.
Significance of the exercise
This exercise will enable sharing of best practices between Armed Forces of participants. It
will include field training exercises, lectures, combat discussions, and demonstration. It
will enhance the level of defence co-operation between participating countries and Indian
Army. This in turn will enhance bilateral relations between the countries.
Assam Baikho Festival
The Baikho festival is celebrated in the state of Assam, which is called as gateway to
northeast India. It is celebrated by Rabha tribes of India.
About Assam
Assam is the state of natural beauty and scenic scapes. It stretches across the
Brahmaputra River and encircled by verdant hills. It is having a diverse flora and fauna. It
is also known as land of Red River and Blue Hills. It is a nucleus, that inhibits beautiful
biodiversity of India.
About Rabhas Tribes
Rabhas are a Tibeto-Burman community. They reside in Lower Assam in Garo hills and
Dooar region of West Bengal. They are among the plains tribe in state. They are an
agriculture-based community. They have distinctive culture and celebrations.
About Baikho Festival
The Baikho festival is celebrated annually. It is celebrated to bring in auspicious harvest
season and to fill it with abundant crops and good health. This is a celebration of good
harvest. It is an ancient tradition. It is predominantly observed by Rabha Tribe. However,
people from other communities also harmonise in the celebrations.
Celebration in 2022
For celebration in 2022, locals in Gamerimura village gathered on June 4 to celebrate the
festival. One can witness vibrant and holy hues of rituals, fun, customs, and frolic on this
day.
How is this festival celebrated?
During this festival, various rituals are carried out for warding off evil spirits, for bringing
good will to community and sparking ample rains. In the afternoon, people dress in
traditional attire and dance to the drum beats. In the evening, they set alight a tall
structure made from bundles of bamboo. After the sun sets, priests offer prayers to the
God of harvest. After the prayers priests run over hot coals, which are left simmering by
the fire. This act is meant to honour the harvest deity. Later, women wash the feet of
priests and serve them food. In another unique customs, Rabha Tribes smear their faces
with rice flour and pour rice beer for others.
Training launch of Agni 4 Missile
On June 6, 2022, India successfully carried night launch of nuclear-capable Agni-4 ballistic
missile. It was launched from APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha.
Range of the missile
Agni-4 ballistic missile has a range of around 4,000 kilometres.
Significance of the Missile
It marks significant boost to India’s military capabilities.
It is being considered as a part of India’s deterrence against China.
It also reaffirms country’s policy of having a ‘credible minimum deterrence
capability’.
It was part of routine user training launches and was carried out under Strategic
Forces Command.
It validated all operational parameters as well as the reliability of system.
Recent launch by India
In the recent months, India test-fired an extended range version of BrahMos
supersonic cruise missile. It was the first launch of extended range version of
BrahMos missile from Su-30MKI aircraft.
Indian Navy and Andaman and Nicobar command test-fired an anti-ship version of
BrahMos supersonic cruise missile on April 27, 2022.
Agni-IV Missile
It is the fourth in Agni series of missiles. It was earlier known as Agni II prime. It has been
developed by DRDO. It is a light-weight and comprises of two stages of solid propulsion
and a payload, along with the re-entry heat shield. It is having a range of 4,000 km. Missile
is capable of striking targets in almost all of mainland China, in case launched from
northeast India.
Testing of Agni-IV
Agni-IV missile has been tested for seven times, over six years. It was successfully test
fired for the first time on November 15, 2011 from a road-mobile launcher. It followed its
trajectory and attained a height of 900 km. It reached the pre-designated target in Bay of
Bengal.
2022 Environmental Performance Index (EPI)
2022 Environmental Performance Index (EPI) was released recently, ranking 180 countries
on 40 performance indicators in 11 issue categories of climate change performance,
ecosystem vitality and environmental health.
Key Facts
In the index, India has been ranked at 180th position, bottom of the 2022 Index.
India has scored lowest among 180 countries.
The index measured the environmental performance of all the 180 countries.
India’s score
In the Index, India scored 18.9 and has been ranked last. In last decade, performance of
India has decreased by 0.6 scores. Three primary categories in which countries were given
scores are ecosystem vitality, environmental health and climate change performance.
India scored 19.3 on the ecosystem vitality of the index. It scored 12.5 on health, which
means poor air quality, poor drinking water and poor sanitation. India’s waste
management with respect to solid wastes, ocean plastics, and recycling is also poor.
Rank of other countries
Neighbouring countries of India have scored slightly better. Pakistan has been ranked at
176th position while Bangladesh at 177.
How was the report prepared?
According to the report, the countries are scored and ranked in the 2022 Index based on
environmental performance. It made use of available data from recent year. The scores
are calculated for observing how countries have improved or changed as compared to
previous years.
Who is involved in the analysis of performance?
Analysis of the environmental performance of these countries for the Index is being done
by the researchers at Columbia University and Earth Institute of Yale.
Top 5 Countries
In the Index 2022, Denmark has been ranked 1st with EPI score of 77.90. It is followed by
United Kingdom with score of 77.70. Finland is ranked 3rd, followed by Malta and Sweden.
Goa Beach Vigil App
Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, launched the “Beach Vigil App”, by keeping in light
the tourism sector and beaches of Goa.
Why was this app launched?
The app was launched with the aim of benefiting travellers as well as those working
in tourism sector.
It aims to holistically manage the beaches.
How is this app going to help?
This app will cover everything, ranging from reporting illegal hawkers to beach
cleanliness.
Through this app, people can file complaint regarding any illegal activity or violation.
It will also open several future avenues in collaboration of information technology
and tourism sector.
Through this app, it would be easier for Drishti workers, police and other
stakeholders to raise issues, for safeguarding travellers’ interest.
It will also help stakeholders in beach cleaning initiatives.
Government’s plan
Government of Goa is in process of finalising an integrated plan for beach cleaning.
Government also plans to make Goa among top 25 destinations for start-ups in Asia by
2025.
Why is beach cleaning important for Goa?
Tourism activity in Goa is usually promoted along the coastal areas and on beaches. This
state is a destination of choice for Indian as well foreign tourist, especially Britons and
Russian travellers. It stands 6th among top ten Nightlife cities worldwide in National
Geographic Travel. Water sport is the main attraction of state. Popular beaches include
Baga and Calangute, which offer jet-skiing, banana boat rides, water scooter rides,
parasailing etc. Patnem beach in Palolem was ranked third in top 20 beaches of CNN
Travel, in Asia.
Historical Sites in Goa
State of Goa has two popular World Heritage Sites, viz., Convents of Old Goa and Bom
Jesus Basilica & Churches. Bom Jesus Basilica is the showcase of mortal remains of St.
Francis Xavier, which is honored by Catholics as patron saint of Goa. Important forts in
Goa include Chapora, Tiracol, Corjuem, Reis Magos, Aguada, Mormugao, Nanus, Cabo de
Rana and Fort Gaspar Dias.
Blue Duke: State butterfly of Sikkim
During the celebration of World Environment Day 2022; the Chief Minister of Sikkim, P.S.
Golay, declared Blue Duke as “State Butterfly of Sikkim”.
Highlights
This was announced at Saramsa Garden near Ranipool, in an event organized by
Forest department.
Blue Duke edged past Krishna Peacock, which was to be announced as State
Butterfly of Sikkim.
Both the butterflies were shortlisted for “State butterfly” nominations, among 720-
odd butterfly species.
Online Voting
As per Forest Department, an online voting was done between April and September 2021
for select State Butterfly. Out of 4036 votes, 57% of the votes went to Blue Duke and 43%
votes went to Krishna Peacock.
About Blue Duke
Blue Duke is a native butterfly species of Sikkim. It represents Sikkim with its two unique
colours. Blue colour represents sky while white colour depicts snow clad mountains of
Himalayas. The butterfly is befitting to Sikkim and its unique identity. It is found in
Himalayas, at an altitude below 1,500 metres. Places where it is commonly found include
Pakyong, Hee-Gyathang and Pssingdong in Dzongu, Yangsum in West Sikkim and Lingee
in South Sikkim. It is also found in places closer to State capital, like Tadong and Ranka.
When was this species found?
The Blue Duke butterfly was founded by Nosang in 2012. It was found around the Nar
Bahadur Bhandari Degree College at Tadong in Gangtok. Since then, Nosang has been
approaching state government to recognise it as State butterfly. Blue Duke, also called
Bassarona durga, is unique to Sikkim and Eastern Himalayas. It was first discovered in
Sikkim in 1858.
Protection status
Blue Duke is listed in Schedule 2 of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. It is a highly protected
species of butterfly in the Himalayas.
NASA’s DAVINCI Mission
NASA is set to launch a mission called “DAVINCI Mission”. DAVINCI stands for “Deep
Atmosphere Venus Investigation of Noble gases, Chemistry and Imaging Mission”.
About DAVINCI Mission
The mission will fly by Venus and explore its harsh atmosphere in 2029.
It will be the first mission to study Venus by means of both flybys and descent.
Spacecraft is likely to explore layered Venusian atmosphere.
It will reach Venusian surface by June 2031.
The mission would capture data about Venus, that scientists are trying to measure
since early 1980s.
Which missions have visited earlier?
Before this mission, only two NASA missions have visited earlier, namely, Pioneer in 1978
and Magellan in early ’90s.
DAVINCI Spacecraft as chemistry lab
DAVINCI spacecraft will serve as a flying chemistry lab. It can measure different aspects of
atmosphere and climate of Venus. Spacecraft will take the first descent images of its
highlands. Instruments on the spacecraft will also be able to map Venusian surface as well
as detect composition of mountainlike highlands of Venus’. This lab will paint a picture of
layered Venus’s atmosphere as well as the picture of how it interacts with surface in Alpha
Regio mountains.
Tesserae Features
Features called tesserae on Venus, might be similar to continents on Earth. This means
that, Venus may have plate tectonics.
Significance of the measurements
These measurements by DAVINCI will allow researchers in evaluating historical
aspects of atmosphere and detect special rock types at surface of the planet, like
granites.
It will also look for tell-tale landscape features, thus will talk about erosion or other
formational processes.
It will also investigate about the possibility of an ocean on Venus’s surface, by
measuring gases and components of water in its atmosphere.
Climate and Oceans on Venus
According to a 2016 study, by physical scientist Michael Way, there were climate and
oceans on Venus in its past. However, now it is mostly a dead planet with a toxic
atmosphere, which is 90 times thicker than Earth’s atmosphere. Surface temperatures of
the planet can reach to 462 degrees Celsius.
India-Qatar Start-Up bridge
On June 5, 2022, the Vice President of India M Venkaiah Naidu launched the India-Qatar
Start-Up bridge.
Highlights
During his visit to Qatar, Vice President met Prime Minister as well as Interior
Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani.
Both the leaders reviewed increasing bilateral ties between both the countries in
areas of trade, investment, security cooperation and economic cooperation.
What is India-Qatar Start-up bridge?
India-Qatar Start-up bridge is a joint initiative, launched with the aim of linking the start-
up ecosystems of two countries as well as helping their economies mutually. This initiative
was launched as Vice President Naidu addressed the members of business community, at
India-Qatar Business Forum. This initiative is likely to help in boosting business sectors
mutually.
India-Qatar Business Forum
India-Qatar Business Forum was jointly held by FICCI, ASSOCHAM and CII, in association
with Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It witnessed the participation of leading
businessmen from India and Qatar. This forum is likely to result in new networking
opportunities for trade and investment between both the countries.
Trade and investment between India and Qatar
Qatar’s FDI in India stands at USD 450 million. These is a huge potential for increasing
these investments. Invest India and Qatar’s Investment Promotion Agency have agreed
on cooperation for promoting two-way investments between Qatar and India. In financial
year 2021-22, the bilateral trade crossed USD 15 billion. Apart from that, Qatar has
committed to invest over USD 2 billion in various Indian companies in past two years.
50 years of Diplomatic relations
India and Qatar are all prepared to celebrate the 50th anniversary of establishment of
diplomatic relations between both. Diplomatic relations both the countries were
established in 1973.
Recent Conflict
Recently, Qatar summoned Indian Ambassador to launch protest against controversial
remarks of Nupur Sharma & Naveen Jindal on Prophet Muhammad. Qatar was demanding
public apology from India in this matter.
Covid19: IISc develops Mini-proteins to prevent Infection
Researchers from Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore have developed a new class
of artificial peptides or mini-proteins, that can inactivate the viruses like SARS-CoV-2.
Key Facts
This study was published in Nature Chemical Biology journal.
Mini-proteins will block virus entry into our cells. It will also clump virus particles
together by reducing ability of virus to infect.
How was this mini-protein developed?
Researchers also noted that, protein-protein interaction is like that of a lock and a key.
This interaction can be hindered by a lab-made mini-protein that prevents ‘key’ from
binding to ‘lock’. Researchers used this approach for designing mini-proteins. These mini-
proteins can bind to, and block spike protein on the surface of SARS-CoV-2 virus, that
helps it to enter and infect cells in human. This binding was also characterised by cryo-
electron microscopy and other biophysical methods.
Characteristics of Mini-proteins
Mini-proteins are helical and hairpin-shaped peptides. Each mini-proteins are capable of
pairing up with another. This pairing forms a dimer. Each dimeric ‘bundle’ presents two
‘faces’ for interacting with two target molecules.
SARS-CoV-2 spike protein interaction
Researchers tested their hypothesis by using a mini-protein called SIH-5 for targeting the
interaction between ACE2 protein of human cells and spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. Spike
protein is a complex of 3 similar polypeptides. Each polypeptide contains a Receptor
Binding Domain (RBD), which binds to ACE2 receptor on the surface of host cell and thus
facilitates viral entry into the cell. SIH-5 mini-protein was designed for blocking the
binding of RBD to human ACE2.
India’s achievement in Ethanol Blending
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that, India has achieved 10 percent
ethanol blending of petrol, five months before the schedule.
Significance of the blending
10 percent ethanol blending has reduced carbon emission by 27 lakh tonnes. It has
saved India’s Rs 41,000 crore on oil imports, in foreign exchange spending.
In 8 years, blending has also boosted income of farmers by Rs 40,000 crore.
For consumers, this success means that, they are not required to pay an additional
tax of Rs 2 per litre pollution tax from October 1, 2022.
Union Budget of 2022 had proposed an additional tax on unblended petrol from
October 2022. This was decided to speed up adoption of cleaner fuel as part of
India’s energy transition and climate action plan.
‘Save Soil’ programme
Save Soil programme was organised by the Isha Foundation, which is led by spiritual
leader Sadhguru. This programme was organised for marking the World Environment
Day. India’s achievement was announced by PM Modi during this programme.
Background
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had raised his voice on Ethanol in India’s fight against
climate change on the occasion of 2021 World Environment Day. On the occasion, he also
advanced the date for 20% ethanol blending, by five years to 2025. He launched a pilot
project at three petrol pumps in Pune, to run vehicles on ‘swadeshi’ fuel.
Blending Roadmap
A blending roadmap was prepared by oil ministry in collaboration with Niti Ayog. It was
released on the occasion of 2021 World Environment Day. The roadmap presented an
annual plan to gradually rollout ‘E20’ (20% ethanol-blended petrol) by 2025-26. It also set
a target of 5% blending of biodiesel with diesel by 2030.
Ethanol blending
Ethanol blending was first started by Atal Bihari Vajpayee. But the programme faced
difficulties due to supply constraints of ethanol and its price. Thus, in 2014, blending stood
at 2.3%.
What is Ethanol?
Ethanol is simple alcohol, which is made from molasses. Molasses is a by-product of sugar
industry.
India’s first National Air Sports Policy (NASP 2022) has been released by Ministry of Civil
Aviation. It aims to provide a safe, accessible, sustainable, and affordable air sports
ecosystem in India. It has a vision of making country a hub for air sports nation by 2030.
Features of the Policy
It has a provision of a four-tier governance structure:
1. Air Sports Federation of India (ASFI) as apex governing body,
2. National associations for individual air sports or a group of air sports,
3. Regional or state and union territory level units of national air sports associations
and
4. District-level air sports associations.
The air sports associations will be accountable to ASFI on the matter of regulatory
oversight and for providing safe, affordable, accessible, enjoyable and sustainable
conduct of their respective air sport.
NASP 2022 includes sports such as aeromodelling, aerobatics, amateur-built and
experimental aircraft, ballooning, gliding, hang gliding, drones, paragliding,
microlighting, skydiving, paramotoring, and vintage aircraft.
ASFI will represent India at FAI as well as other global platforms of air sports.
Through this, greater participation and success of Indian sportspersons will be
facilitated at global air sports events.
It will help in promoting Domestic design, development and manufacturing of air
sports equipment, in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
