Current Affairs February 2016

Current Affairs February 2016

INTERNATIONAL

Canada, US, Mexico Memorandum of Understanding on climate change

To tap energy cooperation among Canada, the US and Mexico signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Climate Change and Energy Collaboration at the North American Energy Ministers Meeting in Winnipeg, Canada. All these countries work jointly and share information in key areas such as low-carbon electricity, clean energy technologies, energy efficiency, carbon capture, climate change adaptation and reducing emissions from the oil and gas sector and methane.they work together to increase policy alignment Among these countries 167 billion Canadian dollars ($120 billion) worth energy products were traded in 2015 across the continent.

NATO, EU sign agreement on cyber defense cooperation

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and European Union (EU) have signed an agreement to improve Cooperation in Cyber Defence to counter modern forms of hybrid warfare.The agreement was signed between NATO Computer Incident Response Capability (NCIRC) and the Computer Emergency Response Team-European Union (CERTEU) at NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. The agreement facilitates technical information sharing between NCIRC and CERT-EU so as to improve cyber incident prevention, detection and response and also allow the objectives of the EU Cyber Defence Policy Framework.

US president launches cyber-security ‘action plan’

President Barack Obama on 9th feb launches a new cyber security “national action plan” because of aging government networks and a high-level commission to boost security awareness.Under this US government will spent 19 billion US dollars for cyber-security efforts Increase 35 per cent from current levels,to modernise the patchwork of computer systems used in government agencies.the 12-member cyber-security commission is made to change both the public and private sectors. It is done because of 20 million federal employees, contractors data has been leaked at a massive breach at the Office of Personnel Management.The US intelligence agencies has named China, Russia, Iran and North Korea as leading threat actors which cause risks for US cyber security.

Transpacific partnership agreement signed by 12 countries

On 4th Feb the twelve pacific rim countries signed US leading Trans-pacific partner ship (TPP) agreement in Auckland, New Zealand. It is one of biggest trade deals in history It is leaded by New Zealand prime minister John Key and US trade Representative Mike Froman this agreement was signed by Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, United states of America and Vietnam It will Facilitate investment between 12 countries across pacific rim about 40% of It aims to promote economic growth, support the creation and retention of jobs to promote economic growth,support the creation and retention of jobs, enhance productivity and competitiveness, raise living standards reduce poverty enhance labour and environmental protection.

WHO declares Zika virus global health emergency

The World Health Organization (WHO) on 2 February 2016 announced that the explosive spread of the Zika virus in the Americas is an “extraordinary event” that merits being declared an international emergency.The WHO convened an emergency meeting of independent experts to assess the outbreak after noting a suspicious link between Zika’s arrival in Brazil last year and a surge in the number of babies born with abnormally small heads.The last such public health emergency was declared for the devastating 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa, which killed more than 11,000 people.

$250 million flood recovery project signed with world bank

Jhelum and tawi flood recovery project has been signed between government of India and world bank with financing agreement of US$250 million. The agreement is signed between Mr.Raj Kumar joint secretary department of economic affairs from government of India and MR.OnnoRuhal. The primary benefit to communities in Jammu & Kashmir district that were affected by loss of public service infrastructure. the loan implementation period is for 5 years with implementing agency as government of Jammu & Kashmir.

INDIA & WORLD

India, Seychelles joint military exercise LAMITYE 2016

On 14th Feb 2016 the 7th edition of joint military exercise LAMITYE 2016 was begun in Victoria, Seychelles between Indian Army and Seychelles People’s Defence Forces (SPDF). It is 14 day joint exercise conclude on February 28, 2016 at Seychelles Defence Academy (SDA), Victoria.The India and Seychelles joint drill ‘Exercise Lamitye’ are started from 2001 with the aim of enhancing military cooperation and interoperability between the two countries.

Abu Dhabi National oil company agreed to store crude oil in India storage

The UAE’s national oil company Abu Dhabi National Oil (ADNOC) Company has agreed to store crude oil in India’s maiden Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPRs) storage used for emergency purpose. UAE has agreed to give two-third of the oil for free by this agreement, 0.5 million tons of stored crude oil will belong to India and it can use it at the time of emergencies.India imports up to 8 per cent of crude oil from UAE.

International Fleet Review 2016 at Visakhapatnam

The 2nd International Fleet Review (IFR) at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh at the coast of Bay of Bengal held by Indian Navy held from February 4 to February 8, 2016. This was the 11th Fleet Review after Independence and the second with participation of foreign navies. Almost 22 navies from across the world participated in the event, which included Naval ships. The theme for the International Fleet Review 2016 was ‘United through Oceans’. with 65 Indian Naval warships and three IN (Indian Navy) Submarines, the Review also included 24 foreign ships, two ships from the Indian Coast Guard and three from Mercantile Marine. Several enthralling waterfront activities by sail boats, water skiing, display by Marine Commandos and helicopter demonstrations were also held in review. the latest acquisitions of the Indian Navy such as MiG 29K, Long Range MR aircraft P8I and AEW helicopter KM-31 were also presented.

Union government launched 24×7 tourist help line no

Union ministry of tourism on 8 February 2016 launched the 24×7 Toll Free Tourist Infoline in 12 International Languages including Hindi and English in New Delhi. It mainly include ten International languages Arabic, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.The 24×7 Toll Free Multi-Lingual Tourist Info project has been implemented by the Union Ministry through TATA Business Support Services (BSS) Limited. The callers will be advised during times of distress while travelling in India and also alert the concerned authorities. Calls made by both international and national will be free of cost.

India, Afghanistan ink pack for visa-free travel by diplomats

India and Afghanistan on 1 February 2016 inked a pact for visa-free travel by their diplomats following Afghan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah’s meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during which they discussed key bilateral and regional issues including security cooperation.

EDF signs deal to build six nuclear plants in India

For construct ion of six EPR nuclear reactors at Jaitapur, India French utility Firm (EDF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) with nuclear power corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) In 2010 it got an Initial Environmental clearance and a pre-engineering studies were signed by Areva and NPCIL to secure certification for EDF reactor in India and Finalize Economic and Financial conditions & technical specifications of project.

NATIONAL

National Wild Life Action Plan(2017-2031) by Union Environment Minister

Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate (MoEF) on 3 February 2016 Draft National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-2031) prepared by the Committee under the chairmanship of JC Kala It is third National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP-3) of the country rather NWAP-1 in 1983, NWAP-2 2002. Under this life support systems that strongly moderated by Eco systems, preservation of living resource and conservation for genetic diversity, support by people for core buffer multiple use surrounded structure, preserve Forests by light of Forest Right Act are implemented.

Union government released Hydrocarbon Vision 2030 for North-East

The Hydrocarbon Vision 2030 for north-east was released by Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan on 9 February 2016 to enable social and economic development.The north east states that comes under this are Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. The Main objectives of the plan is to Extend features of hydrocarbon potential, enhance access to clean fuels, improve availability of petroleum products, facilitate economic development and to link common people to the economic activities in sector.It rests on 5p’s People, Policy, Partnership, Projects and Production. It aims at doubling Oil and Gas production by 2030, making clean fuels accessible, fast tracking projects, generating employment opportunities and promoting cooperation with neighboring countries.

Project sun raise launched to prevention of AIDS in 8 north east states

Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare J.P. Nadda had launched “Project Sunrise” for prevention of AIDS on 6th February in the eight North-Eastern states with a aim to bring the people living with HIV/AIDS into the national mainstream and creating awareness about the disease in these N-E states. It is a 5-year programme implemented in 20 districts of 8 north eastern states at an estimated cost of 70 crore rupees. Under the project, needles and syringes will be made available through secondary distributors such as Government health care facilities, preferred health care providers, non-traditional outlets and peer volunteers.

Government Launches sahaj scheme for online booking of LPG Cylinders

The Union minister for Petroleum and Natural gas DharmendraPradhan as part of governments 2016-year has launched sahaj scheme for online booking of LPG Cylinders. The booking can be done through web portal available in 13 languages. The Union minister said that government is targeting to add 10 crore new LPG Connections by december 2018 to existing 16.5 crore connections This facility will enable consumers to book the cylinder and make payment online or offline as per their comfort and delivery of the cylinders at home will be done even if the consumer is absent as he paid in online.

World’s tallest, largest tricolour flag hoisted at ranchi

On occasion of 119th birth anniversary of freedom fighter Netaji subhas chandrabose Union defense minister Manohar Parrikor hoisted India’s tallest and largest tri colour flag at famous Pahari mandir in Ranchi this flag remain hoisted for 24 hours It as 66 feet height and 99 feet width hoisted on pole of height 293 feet, flag is 80 kg in weight. In previous years on march 2015 the worlds tallest national flag raised at Faridabad (Haryana).

STATES

MoEFCC declares wild pig as Vermin in Uttarakhand

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has declared Wild Pig (sus scrofa) as vermin in Uttarakhand for a year. In this regard, MoEFCC by section 62 of the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972. wild pig changed category to Schedule V from schedule III of the Act due to their over population in forest, they created harming life and property including agriculture destruction. This announcement will allow state forest authorities and people with license gun can kill them and maintain balance population of pigs. MoEFCC has rejected forest department’s proposal to declare Neel Gai (blue bull) as vermin. Currently, some animals like the common crow, fruit bats, mice and rats have been listed as vermin in Schedule V of WPA.

Maharashtra tops in internet readiness index

According to report “Index of Internet readiness of Indian states” by Internet and mobile Association of India(IAMAI) the order of states are Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Telangana and Tamil Nadu. The Internet Index has been arrived on basis of e-infrastructure, e-participation, IT services and egovernance. This report based on not only services and but also usage of citizens for Example Madhya Pradesh score very high in terms of citizen participation, but ranks low in other components hence it is 14th position Among smaller states a Delhi on top in Internet readiness followed by Puducherry and Goa among Union territories Chandigarh ranks top.

CONFERENCES

4th World Government Summit in Dubai

The three day long 4th World Government Summit (WGS) concluded on 10 February 2016 in Dubai,UAE. The summit was hosted by the UAE Government, the UN, the World Bank, OECD and World Economic Forum (WEF). 4500 participants from more than 130 countries attended summit and discussed challenges and opportunities for future governments in world wide and also showcased their innovations, best practice and smart solutions to inspire future challenge and also discussed humanity challenges like climate change, financial inclusion, pension sustainability, education for all, etc.And technological solutions and strategies like sustainable development goals, internet of things, virtual health, etc were done. During the summit, 2016 Best m-Government Service Award was presented to Karnataka’s Mobile One project in One Stop App category at the international level. Edge of Government report was released that captures leading edge case studies of government innovation across the world.

Arun Jaitley inaugurated the “India Investment Summit 2016”

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on 4 February 2016 inaugurated the two-day India Investment Summit 2016. The Summit is to showcase and discuss the huge long term infrastructure investment opportunities in India.This summit seeks to attract long term investors including Sovereign Wealth Funds and Pension Funds across the globe. SBI Caps is partnering with the Department of Economic Affairs (Ministry of Finance) in organizing this summit.

19th National Conference on e-governance in Nagpur

The two day National Conference about e-governance has been organized by Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances(DARPG) at Nagpur in Maharashtra. The main objective of this conference is to discus about e-governance to cybersecurity framework. About 600 delegates are participated in which 150 from Maharashtra and 250 from other states. In this 2015-16 National awards for e-governance total 18awards (10gold & 8silver) are presented. The exhibitions and brain storming sessions on e-governance are conducted with also a release of four books on e-governance.

4th India and Africa Hydrocarbons conference in New Delhi

The India Africa Hydro Carbons Conference (IAHC) was inaugurated by Minister of Petroleum and Natural gas Shri Dharmendra Pradhan in new Delhi. In this 22 African nations are participated. The main objective of IAHC is to provide a global forum and common plat form to African countries for Energy Cooperation’s. India imports about 75% of crude oil and gas.

AWARDS & HONOURS

Global teacher prize for Robin Chaurasiya

An Indian teacher who runs a not-for-profit school in Mumbai for girls from the city’s red light areas was named in the top 10 shortlist for a global prize for teachers on 19 February 2016. Robin Chaurasiya, founder of Kranti, will compete with teachers from the U.K., U.S., Nairobi, Palestine, Japan, Finland, Australia and Pakistan to win the $1 million Global Teacher Prize 2016. The top 10 have been narrowed down from 8,000 nominations and applications from 148 countries from around the world. The prize will be announced at a ceremony in Dubai on March 13.

58th Annual Grammy Awards of 2016

The 58th Annual Grammy Awards distributed on 16 February 2016. Taylor Swift first women who won second Grammy award album of year 1989. The top awards are Edsheeran song of the year for Best Pop Solo Performance “Thinking Out Loud”, Mark Ronson Best Pop Duo/ Group Performance for Bruno Mars “Uptown Funk”, Mux Best Rock Album for his “Drones”, Alabama Shakes Best Alternative Music Album for his “Sound & Colour”, Angclique Kidjo Best World Music Album “Sings”, Skrillex and Diplo Best Dance/ Electronic Album for their “Skrillex and Diplo Present Jack U”, The Record of year for Bruno Mars, Best New Artist Meghan Trainor, Kendrik Lamar Best Pop Album for his to pimpa butterfly.

President Pranab confers honorary General rank on Nepalese Army Chief

President Pranab Mukherjee on 3 February 2016 conferred honorary ‘General of the Indian Army’ rank to Nepalese Army Chief General Rajendra Chettri who is on a six-day official visit to India. The honour was given for his military prowess and immeasurable contribution to fostering Nepal’s long and friendly association with India, at a special investiture ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Chettri began his visit to India on February 1. It is his first visit abroad after assuming the top Army post in September last year. Since 1965, both the armies have been conferring the honorary rank of General on each other’s army chiefs in view of the close military ties shared by the two neighbours.

Padma Awards 2016 announced

On the eve of Republic Day, the government announced the list of recipients of this year’s Padma awards. Some Awards are.

Padma Vibhushan

1. Ms. Yamini Krishnamurthi Art- Classical dance Delhi

2. Shri Rajinikanth Art-Cinema Tamil Nadu

3. Smt. Girija Devi Art-Classical Vocal West Bengal

4. Dr. Viswanathan Shanta Medicine- Oncology Tamil Nadu

5. Shri Shri Ravi Shankar Others-Spiritualism Karnataka

6. Shri Avinash Dixit (Foreigner) Literature & Education USA

7. Late Shri Dhiru Bhai Ambani (Posthumous) Trade & Industry Maharashtra

Padma Bhushan

1. Shri Anupam Kher Art-Cinema Maharashtra

2. Ms. Saina Nehwal Sports-Badminton Telangana

3. Ms. Sania Mirza Sports-Tennis Telangana

4. Ms. Indu Jain Trade & Industry Delhi

5. Shri Robert Blackwill (Foreigner) Public Affairs USA

Padma Shri

1. Shri Ajay Devgn Art-Cinema Maharashtra

2. Ms. Priyanka Chopra Art-Cinema Maharashtra

3. Shri S.S. Rajamouli Ar t-Film Direct ion and Production Karnataka

4. Ms. Malini Awasthi Art-Folk Music Uttar Pradesh

5. Shri Ujjwal Nikam Public Affairs Maharashtra

6. Dr.Mylswamy Annadurai Science & EngineeringKarnataka

7. Ms. Deepika Kumari Sports-Archery Jharkhand

8. Late Shri Saeed Jaffrey (NRI/PIO/Posthumous) Art-Cinema UK

Indian-Origin Cottalango Leon won Oscar award

The 44-year-old technician of Indian origin Cottalango Leon has been chosen for this year’s Oscar for scientific and technical achievement. The Indian-American has won the award under the ‘Scientific and Technical Achievements’ category for the design, engineering and continuous development of Sony Pictures Image works. The academy award recognises the collaborative tool he and his two team members developed for Sony. Dubbed as “itview” the software makes review of movie segments by artists at various levels a lot easier during film making. Born in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin district, Mr Cottalango grew up in Coimbatore. He moved to the US to pursue his Masters in 1994. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will present 10 scientific and technical achievements during its annual Scientific and Technical Awards Presentation on February 13. The main Oscar Award ceremony will take place on February 28, 2016.

SPORTS & GAMES

Domminic Thiem won ATP Argentina open title

On 14 Feb 2016 world No19 Dominic Thiem won the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) Buenos Aires tournament by defeating Spaniard Nicolas Almagro 7-6 (2), 3-6, 7-6 (4). ATP is an world Tour 250 series event. In 1970 to 1989, it is a part of the Grand Prix tennis circuit and a Grand Prix Super Series event (1970–71).

Sania Mirza, Martina Hingis won 2016 St. Petersburg Ladies Trophy

Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis on 14 February 2016 won the 2016 St. Petersburg Ladies Trophy in St. Petersburg, Russia.By defeating the Russian-Czech team of Vera Dushevina and Barbora Krejcikova by 6-3 6-1 in doubles final. This is 13th title and 4th in 2016. earlier 2016, the pair won Australian Open, Apia International Sydney title and Brisbane Tennis trophy.

West Indies won ICC U19 Cricket World Cup

The West Indies on 14 February 2016 won Under-19 Cricket World Cup title by defeating three time champions India by five wickets. played at Mirpur, It was the first major title for the West Indies from 2012. West Indies’ Keacy Carty was Man of the Match and Mehidy Hasan Miraz from Bangladesh was declared as the Player of the Tournament. The 2016 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup was an international cricket tournament held in Bangladesh from 22 January to 14 February 2016.

Shane Watson became the most expensive player in the 2016 IPL

Shane Watson became the most expensive player in the 2016 Indian Premier League(IPL) auction when Royal Challengers Bangalore snapped him up for Rs 9.5 Crore. Pawan Negi continued to have a golden period as he became the most expensive Indian player at Rs 8.5 Crore. Yuvraj Singh, with Rs 7 Crore, Mohit Sharma with Rs 6.5 Crore and Ashish Nehra with 5.5 Crore.

Kerala won the 61st National School Athletics Championship

Kerala has won the 61st National School Athletics championship which concluded in Kozhikode on 2 February 2016. This is for the 19th consecutive time Kerala becomes the champions in the event. Tamil Nadu came second. Kerala, the host of the championship got 306 points winning 39 gold, 29 silver and 17 bronze medals. Tamil Nadu, who came second, got 116 points winning 11 gold, 8 silver and 13 bronze medals. Maharashtra with 101 points gained the third position. Kerala won 10 meet records out of 20 records which were reported in the meet.

ECONOMY

Central Government announced 0.25% cut in Interest Rate for short term deposits

The Central Government on 16 February 2016 announced 0.25% cut in interest rates for short term post office deposits and Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) & it is not applicable for long term deposits like Monthly Income Scheme, PPF, Senior Citizen and Child Schemes. These new interest rates for small saving schemes will be applicable from April 1, 2016. The compound-ing of interest rates in case of 10 years National Saving certificate are discontinued since December 2015, five year National Saving Certificate and Kisan Vikas Patra will be done on annual basics from April they will no longer earn 0.25 percent higher interest than Government securities of similar tenures.

Coca Cola stops manufacturing in three Indian plants

The Coca Cola Beverages Pvt. Ltd, has suspended manufacturing at three Locations in India at Kaladera (Rajasthan), Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and Brynihat (Meghalaya) due to long term economic viability and market demands of products. The company faces significant opposition in Various parts of Indian mainly from water stressed ares and challenges to Coca Cola botting operations are expected to grow as water conditions reaches worse across they country the main reason to shut down.

India Beats USA and Became 2nd Largest Smart phone Market in the World

By crossing 220 million in active unique smartphone users in 2015 India has crossed the US and became the world’s second largest smartphone market, for the first time in Smartphone market India grew 15% annually. India crossed the 100 Million smartphones-sold-in-year milestone at the end of 2015.The top three smartphone sellers are Samsung with 25.7% in smartphone market. Micromax in the second position in both mobile phone market with 13.7% and smartphone segment with 14.3%, Apple stands in third with 11 per cents in smartphone market.

Infosys, TCS, Wipro join Obama’s “Computer science for all”scheme

Three major IT companies of India Infosys, Tata consultancy services and wipro have joined US president Barak Obama’s ambitious “computer science for all” initiative as a part of public private collaboration pleding over USD 3million grants. The Infosys had given a $1million in donation, Tata consultancy services is providing grants to teachers in 27 US cities, wipro announced a $2.8 million grant for multiyear project in partnership with Michigan University to have hundred of school teachers.

India to be fastest growing economy at 7.3% in 2016

As per recently released United Nations world economy report India will be the world’s fastest growing large economy at 7.3 per cent in 2016, improving further to 7.5 per cent in the following year.this results in the sharp decline in the prices of oil, metals and food. Spending on infrastructure, health and education is very low compared to other nations. Consumer and investor confidence has raised. The report is produced annually by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN/DESA), the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the five UN regional commissions and the World Tourism Organisation.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Japan Launches Astro-H Satellite

The ASTRO-H space observation satellite launched by H2A rocket to study mysterious Blaci Holes at Tanegashima space centre Japan. The ASTRO-H satellite has been developed by the Japan Aero space exploration Agency (JAXA) in Co operation with National Aeronautics and space Administration (NASA). It is present at 580 kilometers from earth and observe X-rays monating from black holes and galaxy clusters. It is the heaw’est scientific satellite of Japan with 14 meters long and 2.7 tonnes weight. The satellite contain four X-ray telescopes and two gamma-ray detectors.

NASA Finds First Super-Earth Exo planet

Astrophysicists at NASA has found a Super-Earth Exoplanet duo of 55 cancrie with an atmosphere for first time when working with European space Agency (ESA) and University College London. 55 cancrie was discovered using Nubble telescope’s wide field cameraz (WFG3) located around 40 light years away and eight times bigger then earth. With 2000 degree celsius temperature close to its star and largely contain Hydrogen (H) and Helium (He) gases.

India Successfully test fired Prithvi-II

India Successfully test fired Prithvi-II missile from Chandipur of Odisha on 16 February 2016. It is a medium range missile capable of carrying 500 kg to 1000 kg of warheads and liquid propulsion twin engines. In the trail it strike at range of 350 km. It is the first missile to be developed by DRDO under India’s Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP). It was introduced into Indian armed forces in 2003 before Prithvi-II was successfully test fired on 26 November 2015.

Scientists sported Elusive Space Time Ripples(Gravitational waves)

Physicists have announced the Discovery of gravitational waves, ripples found at space time that was first predicted by 12th century scientist Albert Einstein a century ago. after 50 years of trail and error ,25 years perfect setting to identify sensitive distortion in space time about thousandth diameter. The waves are detected by signals of gravitational waves travelling at speed of light from collision of two massive black holes each ten times heavier than sun at 1.5 billion light years away in deep space officially it is Known as GW150974 by this rather than gravitational force other two mile stones of physics has been detected. The first observation of a binary black hole and natures black holes are the objects. The waves are confirmed by US Laser Interferometer Gravitational waves Observatory (Ligo) scientists in washing ton. By this detection of gravitational waves astronomers able to see Universe in a different light almost to the beginning of time itself.

North Korea launched the Kwangmyongsong-4 satellite

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) on 7 February 2016 successfully launched a Kwangmyongsong-4 satellite. The earth observation satellite launched from the Sohae Space Center in Cholsan County, North Phyongan Province. DPRK’s top leader Kim Jong Un signed the order to launch the satellite on 6 February 2016.The satellite is going round the polar orbit at 494.6 km perigee altitude and 500 km apogee altitude at a 97.4-degree angle of inclination, with a cycle of 94 minutes and 24 seconds.

PERSONS IN NEWS

A). APPOINTMENTS

Indian origin Harinder Sindu is Australia’s high commissioner to India

Indian-origin Harinder Sindu has appointed as Australian high commissioner designate to India announced by Foreign Minister Julice Bishop commissioner designate to India.After Peter Varghese who had served southern Indian state of Kerala. she is second enovy from Australia to be Indian she replaces the partrick suckling.he studied Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Economics degrees from the University of Sydney.United States Ambassador to India Richard Verma, Canadian High Commissioner to India Nadir Patel were also Indians.

US General John Nicholson appointed NATO Commander in Afghanistan

Army Lieutenant General John Nicholson has been appointed as the commander of the NATO forces in Afghanistan on 5 February 2016. He succeeded US General John Campbell who has been leading the Afghan operations for nearly 18 months. At present, Nicholas was US Army commander of NATO land forces. Earlier, he had served in multiple capacities like chief of staff of operations for the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) and US Forces – Afghanistan, director of Pakistan/ Afghanistan Coordination Cell for the Joint Staff, and deputy commander – Stability of ISAF Regional Command – South.North Atlantic Treaty Organization is an intergovernmental military alliance based on the North Atlantic Treaty which was signed on 4 April 1949.NATO’s headquarters are located in Haren, Brussels, Belgium, where the Supreme Allied Commander also resides.

Justice R. Subhash Reddy appointed CJ of Gujarat High Court

Justice R. Subhash Reddy, the senior-most judge of the Hyderabad High Court, has been appointed Chief Justice of the Gujarat High Court on 3 February 2016. Justice Subhash Reddy was born in 1957 in Kamaram village of Chinna Shankarampet mandal in Medak district. He obtained his Law degree from University College of Law and enrolled as an advocate with the Bar Council of AP on 30 October 1980 and joined the chambers of Justice B. Subhashan Reddy. After elevation of Justice B. Subhashan Reddy as Judge of the High Court of AP. He was elevated as Additional Judge of High Court of AP on December 2, 2002 and sworn in as permanent judge of the High Court on 24 June 2004. Justice Subhash Reddy will take charge as Chief Justice of Gujarat High Court after 13 February 2016.

Saroj Kumar Jha appointed as Director in World Bank

An Indian Origin Saroj Kumar Jha was appointed as the Senior Director for the Fragility, Conflict and Violence Group at the World Bank on 1 February 2016. Earlier to this, he was the World Bank Regional Director for Central Asia based in Almaty, Kazakhstan since February 2012. He also worked as the World Bank’s Global Manager for Disaster Risk Management Practice. Jha is an alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur.

Archana Ramasundaram is SSB chief

Senior IPS officer Archana Ramasundaram on 1 February 2016 was appointed Director General of Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), the first woman to head a paramilitary force. Ms. Ramasundaram, a 1980 batch officer of the Tamil Nadu cadre, is currently Special Director, National Crime Records Bureau. She has been appointed to the post till the date of her superannuation — September 30, 2017. 58-year-old Ms. Ramasundaram is the first woman police officer to be appointed chief of a paramilitary force. The SSB is entrusted with guarding the country’s frontiers with Nepal and Bhutan. The other four paramilitary forces are the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force and Indo Tibetan Border Police.

B). RESIGNS

Arunachal Pradesh Governor Advisor

The Y S Dadwal, former Commissioner of Delhi Police, who was recently appointed as advisor to the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh on 26 January, after President’s rule was imposed in the state resigned from the post on 3rd February due to his personal reasons. B D Sharma, a 1980 batch IPS officer of West Bengal Carder who had retired as Director General of paramilitary SSB on January 31, has been appointed in place of Dadwal. G S Patnaik, an IAS officer of 1980 batch, who was appointed along with Dadwal, will continue his duties as advisor to the Governor.

Face Book MD Kirthiga Reddy steps down

Face book Managing Director Karthiga Reddy on 12th February said that she was steeping down as MD in India and returns to United states at the company’s head quarters in Menlo park California in 6-12 months to explode new opportunities. She took this decision after TRAI shut down “free Basics” in India. she is first employee in India to join in Face book on 2010. Kirthiga Reddy studied at MGM college of Engineering in Nanded and passed out in 1992 with second rank.

C). DEATHS

Jnanpith Award Winning Poet O N V Kurup Died

Jnanpith award winner and Malayalam’s most celebrated contemporary poet Ottaplakkal Neelakandan Velu Kurup was died on 13 February 2016 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He was 84. He began his career as a progressive writer and matured in to a humanist.He received the fourth and second highest civilian honours Padma Shri in 1998 and Padma Vibhushan in 2011, from the Government of India.In 2007 received awarded on Honorary Doctorate by University of Kerala and India’s highest literary honour fifth Jnanpith Award. he is second Malayalam poet to win the prestigious award. He published a book named Dahikunna Panapatram (The Thirsty Chalice), His first poetry collection is Porutunna Soundaryam.

Renowned Urdu poet Nida Fazli dead

Renowned Urdu poet and Bollywood lyricist Muqtida Hasan Nida Fazli, died in Mumbai on 8 February 2016 due heart attack.He was 78 .Fazli was awarded the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award in 1998 and conferred with the Padma Shri in 2013.Born in a Kashmiri family in Delhi in October 1938, his parents migrated to Pakistan after Partition, but he chose to stay back in India.He came to Mumbai in 1964 hoping to make a career in Bollywood and also wrote for certain top Hindi magazines of that era and later started penning lyrics for Hindi film songs.His soulful ghazals include the evergreen “Kabhi kisi ko mukammal jahan nahin milta” (“Ahista, Ahista”), “Tu is tarha se meri zindagime shamil hai” (“Aat To Aise Na The”), “Hoshwalon ko khabar kya” (“Sarfarosh”), “Aa bhi jaa,” (“Sur”). He also penned for films like “Razia Sultan”, “Nakhuda”, “Harjaee”, “Yatra”, “Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin”, “Tamanna” and many others.Fazli published collections of poetry which include “Lafzon Ke Phool”, “Mor Naach”, “Aankh Aur Khwab Ke Darmiyan”, “Safar Mein Dhoop To Hogi”, “Khoya Hua Sa Kuchh” and “Duniya Ek Khilona Hai”.

Cartoonist Sudhir Tailang passed away

Cartoonist Sudhir Tailang who was suffering from a brain tumour passed away on 6 February 2016 at Medanta Hospital in Gurgaon. He was 55 .Born in Bikaner, Tailang came out with his first cartoon in 1970. He started his career with the Illustrated Weekly of India in Mumbai in 1982. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 2004 for his contribution to the art of cartooning.

Mudra Founder AG Krishnamurthy Passed Away

AG Krishnamurthy, the founder of Mudra Communications passed away on 5 February 2016.He was founder Chairman and Managing Director of Mudra Communications.Born on the 28th of April, 1942 in Vinukonda, in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh, Krishnamurthy graduated in History at the Andhra University. In 1968 he joined the Calico Mills, a big textile name in the 60s and 70s, to assist Giraben Sarabhai. In 1972, he moved to their Advertising Agency, Shilpi Advertising as an Account Executive and then joined Reliance Industries in 1976 as their Advertising Manager. Four years later, on the 25th of March, 1980, he founded Mudra Communications. In March 1991, he set up Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad (MICA), the only advertising institute of its kind in Asia. MICA was set up to feed the growing Indian advertising industry with trained talent. He retired from Mudra on 31st March, 2003, and was The Chairman of AGK Brand Consulting.

Tabla maestro Shankar Ghosh passed away

Legendary tabla player Shankar Ghosh(80), died on January 22 due to pneumonia, cardiac problems. He is the creator of the much acclaimed all-drum orchestra Music of the Drums – later called the Calcutta Drum Orchestra.the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1999-2000. He also received the ITC Sangeet Research Academy award and the Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan award.

D). VISITORS

Nepal PM Sharma Oli will visit India

India and Nepal hope to begin repairing ties as Nepal Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli makes his first official visit to India on 19 February 2016. But as Mr. Oli lands in Delhi on the six-day visit, the two sides are unlikely to dwell too much on the past few months of strain, choosing instead to focus on the earthquake reconstruction effort, Indian power projects in the pipeline and future cooperation. Oli is also likely to travel to Mumbai to have a meeting with the top business leaders.

Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited India

The deputy supreme commander of UAE armed forces and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on 12 February 2016 made a three day visit to India from 10th February and 12th February on invitation of Prime minister Narendra Modi of India During his visit both countries signed nine agreements mainly on cyber security, infrastructure, renewable energy and finance. He visited Mumbai and met Indian business leaders at the Mumbai Stock Exchange. He also held talks with President Pranab Mukherjee, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and made a complete range on bilateral relations.

Indian Vice president Dr.Hamid Ansari visited Thai land

Vice president Dr.Hamid Ansari visited Thai land on official invitation of prime minister GenPrayutchancha of Thai land on 4th &5th Feb after his threeday visit in Brunei. In Thai land he made a talks with prime minister,delivered a speech at prestigious chalalong University on topic India&Thai land and confirmed India’s participation in cobra gold 2016 Amphibious Military Exercise.He also visited wat phrakew (Emerald Buddha) and Reclining Buddha in capital Bangkok.

French President Hollande arrived India for 3-day Visit

French President Francois Hollande reached Chandigarh,India on 24 January 2016 for his three-day visit to India.Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Francois Hollande attended the Indo-French CEO’s forum and a business summit. Hollande is the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations. Hollande had expressed his desire to visit Chandigarh, one of the few planned cities in the country, designed by famous French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950s and 1960s.President Hollande is likely to visit Chandigarh’s ‘Capitol Complex’, Sector 17 Plaza (the city’s commercial and business centre), Tagore Theatre and the Le Corbusier Centre in Sector 19.

E). MISCELLANEOUS

India’s Lightest Revolver weighing 250grams ‘Nidar’

The Rifle Factory Ishapore, has developed country’s lightest revolver ‘Nidar’ weighs 250 grams of cost 35,000 rupees. Nidar is made with an aluminium alloy called ‘DTD5124’ which makes it light and strong. It has a 40-mm barrel and just 140mm length it is enough to fit into small purse, handbag, pockets of trousers and jackets.The revolver is capable of firing eight rounds loaded in a revolving chamber. Two years ago India had also launched Nirbheek,made of costly titanium alloy the country’s “first gun for women” weighing 500 grams of cost 1,22,000.Both guns Nirbheek and Nidar have been named after Nirbhaya mean fearless in Hindi the December 2012 gang rape.

YouTube launches its first original movies and series

YouTube has launched its first original movies and series exclusively for YouTube Red subscribers to compete with the likes of Amazon and Netflix. they decided to launch live videos and some of the company’s best stars Lilly Singh, Rooster Teeth, PewDiePie and Awesomeness TV first. At the end of October YouTube has first launched its Red service at the The $10 per month was charged to watch completely ad-free videos. YouTube Red is only available in the United States but some YouTube Red originals will be available for purchase through YouTube and Google Play.

Narendra Modi inaugurated Paradip Oil Refinery in Odisha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Paradip Oil Refinery in Odisha on 7 February 2016. It is 11th refinery of Indian Oil Corporation Limited. This was dedicated to the nation by PM Modi. The foundation stone for the Paradip Oil Refinery was laid by ex-prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on 24 May 2000. The refinery was expected to start production in the third quarter of 2013. Due to delays the cost of refinery project has increased by 2.5 per cent. The cost of the refinery is 34555 crores.

Sushma Swaraj inaugurated Rise of Digital India Exhibition in Colombo

The External Affairs Minister Ms Sushma Swaraj inaugurated the Rise of Digital India Exhibition in Colombo, Sri Lanka on 6 February 2016. The Rise of Digital India exhibition showcases the initiative of Indian government to take the benefits of Information Technology to the common man. India is ready to set up an IT Park in Sri Lanka to attract investment in this sector. The exhibition is a part of six month long Festival of India celebrations in Sri Lanka. Swaraj was on a two day visit to Sri Lanka to co-chair the 9th session of the India-Sri Lanka Joint Commission meeting along with her Sri Lankan counterpart, Mangala Samaraweera.

2015 is Earth’s warmest year since 1880

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) made an Independent analysis and said that globally averaged temperature on land and ocean surfaces was highest in 2015 among all years since 1880. In 2015 ten months had record as high temperature this made highest temperature in 2015 since 136 years.

PLACES IN NEWS

Titanic 2 is set to sail in 2018

More than a century after the original Titanic ship that sank on Maiden voyague in North Atlantic ocean, a fully Functioning replica will set sail in 2018. It is built at a cost of £300 million (Rs 2960 crore) by an ambitious brainchild Australian billionaire Uive palmer and his company Blue star line. The Titanic II is 270 meters long, 53 metres high and 40000 tonnes weight. Unlike the original titanic the TitanicII four meters wider and have enough life boats along with marine evacuation systems. It starts its journey from Jiangsce in eastern china to Dubai. It has modern systems satellite controls, digital navigation and rader systems. It has nine Floors to accommodate 2,400 passengers and 900 crew members besides swimming pool, Turkish baths and gyms.

World’s largest concentrated solar plant opened in Morocco

The world’s largest solar power plant, Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex opened in Souss-Massa-Drâa area in Morocco, 10 km from Ouarzazate town on 4th February 2016.The plant capacity is to produce power for one million homes by 2018 and reduce carbon emissions by an estimated 760000 tons per year. The pant is constructed in Three phases, Phase one named Noor I (160MW concentrated solar power (CSP)) , Phase two Noor II (200MW CSP) plant and the Noor III (150MWCSP) plant, and in Phase three Noor IV CSP plant is constructed. The 240000 and 533000 tones of carbon dioxide is eliminated in NoorI and NoorII. The World Bank financed about 97 million US dollar loan in Clean Technology Fund.

India’s first fully solar-powered educational institute in Puducherry

Sri Aurobindo International Centre for Education, Puducherry has become India’s first fully solar-powered educational institute. The institute generates thrice the electricity it consumes through solar power plants installed on the roofs of the dining room, primary school, library and high school in the campus. The institute has been self-reliant in energy since September 2014.

Worlds best hotel of 2016 is Jodhpur’s Umaid Bhawan in India

In 14th edition of travel sites the travellers choice awards is for Umaid Bhawan in Jodhpur, Rajasthan was named as best hotel of 2016, with 5/5 bubble rating among 840 guests the rest of top 10 list is made up of European, south east Asian & tropical regions. This is the first time that an Indian hotel in such top position.

World’s largest canyon spotted by Chinese Scientists

The world’s largest Canyon is hidden under Princess Elizabeth Land in East Antarctica has been spotted by Chinese scientists who are in countries largest 32nd Antarctic Expedition to south pole. The canyon, is more than 1000 kilometers long, 1500 meters deep and 25.6 kilometers wide at top,is larger than Grand canyon present in United states.

ABBREVIATIONS

DARPG – Department of administrative Reforms and Public Grievances

IAHC – India Africa Hydro Carbon Conference

ISA – International Solar Alliance

NHFDC – National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation

ADB – Asian Development Bank

CBDT – Central Board of Direct Taxes

HFEA – Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority

SEBI – Securities and Exchange Board of India

NATO – North Atlantic Treaty organization

MOER – Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate

IFR – International Fleet Review

Books in News

Former President Kalam’s Book launched in South Africa

Transendence’ book written by Former President of India APJ Abdul Kalam’s was launched in South Africa with religious leaders, politicians, diplomats and businessmen from all communities sharing the lessons by leader of the global Bochasanwasi Shri Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), Pramukh Swami Maharaj regarding spiritual experiences.

Book Titled “Midnight’sFuries” won 2016 william Ecolby Award

Prestigious book on India’s partition, Nisid Hajari’s book Midnight’s Furies:the Deadly leagancy of India’s partition won 2016 william Ecolby Award which contain USD5,000prize in US.The book covers violence when partition of India in 1947 the prize is awarded annually by Norwich University to a author in recognition of work of friction (or) non-friction that makes to under stand military history, intelligence operations (or) International affairs.

10 Books by Mamata Banerjee released at Kolkata Book Fair

West Bengal chief Minister Mamata Banerjee broke her own record at the 40th Kolkatta International Book Fair (KIB) by composing and releasing 10 books on a wide ranging subjects like delivery of good governance to “return of peace” in Darjeeling hills or partially Moist controlled junglemahal area ,on intolerance and rest of books for children. Ms.Banerjee has written more than 60 books over few decades.

COMMITTEES

Supreme Court appoints panel to sell PACL’s assets

Supreme Court has appointed a committee under former chief justice RM Lodha to sell assets of Pearls Agrotech Corporation Ltd (PACL) and refund 49 thousand crore rupees to the investors. A bench headed by justice Anil Dave also said that the title deeds of various lands belonging to PACL should be handed over by the CBI to the SEBI. SEBI will accordingly take appropriate steps to ensure their sale. It also directed the PACL not to accept any deposit from the public and restrained any court from interfering with sale proceedings. The bench posted the matter for further hearing on August 2, 2016.

Companies Law Committee submitted recommendations on Companies act

On Feb 1st the companies law committee submitted its recommendations on companies act 2013 to Union government this committee was formed in June 2015 for Examining and making recommendations on issues arising out of implementation of companies act,2013. It is chaired by Japan Ray Secretary, ministry of corporate affairs with 8 members and one member convener. The committee has proposed changes in 78 sections in companies act, 2013 which results 100 amendments in act. The Recommendations mainly cover significant areas of act, including definitions, raising of capital, accounts and audit, corporation governance, managerial remuneration, companies in corporated outside India and offences/ penalties.

Expert panel to review Specific Relief Act, 1963

On 28 January 2016,The Legislative Department in the Ministry of Law & Justice constituted an expert committee to review the Specific Relief Act, 1963. The committee will have five members besides the Chairman. The committee has been asked to submit its report within three months. The Specific Relief Act, 1963 provides for the law relating to certain kind of specific relief and has not been amended since its inception.