Current Affairs Study PDF - March 2016 by AffairsCloud

Current Affairs March 2016
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Current Affairs PDF: March 2016
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Contents
INDIAN AFFAIRS............................................................................................................................................................ 3
STATE BUDGET 2016-17..........................................................................................................................................35
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS.......................................................................................................................................36
BANKING & FINANCE .................................................................................................................................................53
BUSINESS .......................................................................................................................................................................69
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS.....................................................................................................................................79
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNS....................................................................................................................................94
ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS .................................................................................................................................. 105
SCHEMES ..................................................................................................................................................................... 107
MoUs ............................................................................................................................................................................ 113
COMMITTEES ............................................................................................................................................................ 121
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ...................................................................................................................................... 123
DEFENCE ..................................................................................................................................................................... 134
ENVIRONMENT ......................................................................................................................................................... 138
SPORTS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 143
OBITUARY .................................................................................................................................................................. 154
BOOKS & AUTHORS ................................................................................................................................................ 162
IMPORTANT DAYS ................................................................................................................................................... 163
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INDIAN AFFAIRS
IWAI instigated two vital projects on NW-2
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has introduced two prime projects
for National Waterway No 2, a section of the Brahmaputra River between the Bangladesh
border and Sadiya (Assam).
These two facilities will encourage the Inland Water Transport users to interpose
into environment friendly mode of transportation.
The Projects include:
Development of a ship repair facility (Slipway Project) at Pandu, Guwahati with an outlay
of Rs 50.76 crore.
Commencement of Ro-Ro ferry service between Dhubri & Hatsingimari of Assam.
Mustafabad village to be renamed as Saraswati nagar

Haryana government has announced to rename Mustafabad village as Saraswati nagar.
Mustafabad is a village located in the Yamuna nagar district in North- eastern part of Haryana .
Mustafabad village near Yamuna nagar district has a population of around 8500 people
Mumbai Home To Most Number Of Billionaires In India

Indias Financial Capital, Mumbai, with 1094 billionaires (Ultra High Net Worth Individuals) has
become home to the wealthiest people in the country, followed by Delhi at 545, according to the
Knight Frank Wealth Report 2016.
Key Points:
In the past 10 years, the billionaire counts in India jumped by 333% against the global
rate of 68%.
97 cities surveyed globally
Rankings of Mumbai and Delhi: 21 & 33 respectively.
The cities are expected to improve their rankings to 14 and 29 by 2025, globally.
India accounts for 6% of the billionaire population across the world
Chennai gets first smart self cleaning toilets in India

In a move to ensure public sanitation and to promote the use of public toilets, 183Automatic self
cleaning smart toilets have been installed in Chennai. They are known as e-toilets as they could
be located by people using a smart phone and authorities can control their function using
smartphone.
They are designed by Eram scientific solution who have provided 1600 such e-toilets in
16 Indian states to various private organizations
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Each toilet cleans itself with 5 litres of water after 3 min usage and 4.5 litres if
usage period is longer
43 toilets are specially for women with a sanitary napkin generator and an incinerator
Each toilet costs around 4,50,000
Rajya Sabha passes carriage by Air amendments bill

The parliament passed the Carriage by Air amendment bill to empower Union government to
revise the limits of liability for airlines and compensation as per the Montreal Convention
which India accepted in 2009.
Flash points
The Bill intends to review the liability limit for damage in case of death or bodily injury
for each person
With the amendments implemented, Indian airlines would be required to pay

compensation amount that is equivalent to the rates paid by their global counterparts
Telengana to illuminate 25 municipalities with LED Bulbs

The Telengana government as a part of development has decided to replace the existing bulbs
with LED in 25 municipalities within 100 days.
Flash points
A high level meeting held on Tuesday consisting of IT Minister KT Rama Rao, Energy
Minister G Jagadish Reddy, Housing Minister A Indrakaran Reddy and officials of power
sector held a discussion with ESSL to supply LED at lower prices
ESSL(Energy Savings Services Limited) is a joint venture of PSUs of ministry of

power with the objective of implementing energy efficient projects
12 lakh households of 25 municipalities are going to be supplied with LED bulbs in

the first phase
The aim of the government is to supply LED to 90 lakh households
Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Ramagundem, Waranagal and Khammam, the municipalities of

Siddipet, Siricilla, Mahbubnagar, Manchiryal, Nalgonda and Tandur, and the Gajwel nagar
panchayat are the areas to be benefitted under this project
Tikhor park to be set up in Guwahati and Shillong

Organizing Committee of the 12th South Asian Games has decided to set up Tikhor Park
(Games Mascot) in Guwahati and Shillong and Rs. 2 Crore has been earmarked on behalf of
the project.
The Parks are mean to preserve the legacy of the South Asian Games concluded
recently in Guwahati and Shillong.
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These Parks will would be set up at Guwahati University and Shillong based North
Eastern Hill University.
PM Narendra Modi Launches Setu Bharatam Project

Infrastructure plays a pivotal role in the development of any country and India is no exception.
With a view to get the country on a fast track growth and development, the NDA Govt has come up
with a Highways project that will ensure our highways without railway crossings, the Setu
Bharatam Project.
SETU BHARATAM PROJECT
Budget : Rs. 50,800 cr
Target year for completion: 2019
Alappuzha Backwaters To Get Indias First Solar Ferry

Allepey, the Venice of the East, and a favourite tourism spot in Kerala is going to get Indias
first 75-seater Solar Ferry, within three months.
The boat is being built by NavAlt, a Kochi based joint venture, in collaboration with a
French company. The Project cost is estimated to be 1.7 crore.
The boat is 20 meter long, 7 m wide with a maximum cruising speed of 7.5 knots
The boat is being built by NavAlt, a Kochi based joint venture, in collaboration with a
French company. The Project cost is estimated to be 1.7 crore.
Raisina Dialogue begins in New Delhi

Raisina-Dialogue the three day Flagship Programme on Geopolitics and Geo-economics began
in New Delhi. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj set the tone for the conference by
addressing Inauguration session.
There was a common idea among participants that A Lack of political will, mistrust and
poor regional security are the biggest barriers in the way of fully economically Integrated
South Asian Region.
Raisina Dialogue a joint initiative of Ministry of External Affairs and Observer

Research Foundation.
Former Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga, former Afghan President Hamid
Karzai and the Bangladeshi foreign Minister Mahmood Ali those who shared chair with
External Affairs Minister Sushma in the Inauguration Ceremony of the Dialogue.
Aadhaar Bill Introduced In Lok Sabha

Union Finance Minister, Sri Arun Jaitley introduced the Aadhaar (Target Delivery of Financial
and other Subsidies, Benefits and other Services) Bill, 2016.
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The bill was presented as a Money Bill, that will not need approval from the Rajya Sabha
to become Legislation, if it is not returned to the lower house within 14 days of its receipt
by the Upper House.
It will provide statutory support to Aadhaar for its use for transferring government
subsidies and benefits to Indians.
Japan pledges Rs 5,700-crore loan for highways in Northeast

Japan International Cooperation Agency has pledged Official Development Assistance loan of
Rs. 5700 crore in two installments for widening and up gradation of National Highway projects in
North East India.
The up gradation will be two lane with paved shoulder and geometric improvements
of NH 54 in Mizoramand NH 51in Meghalaya.
Interest rates on the loan for Construction works and procurement of materials associated
with are 1.4% per annum and for consulting services is 0.01%.
Election Commission announces Assembly Election in 5 States

The Election Commission of India have announced Assembly Elections dates for Kerala, West
Bengal, Tamilnadu, Assam, and Puduchchery.
Election Bound States:
The polls will be held between April 4 and May 16, the counting of votes in all five
states and one Union Territory will be done on May 19.
Chief Election commissioner Nazim Zaidi announced the Poll dates in New Delhi. 824
assembly constituencies going to polls in these states and UT.
Union Government To Provide Loan To FACT

Fertilizers and Chemicals Travancore (FACT), a Central Public Sector Undertaking in Kochi
signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with the Union Government to get a loan of Rs.
`1000 crores.
FACT has been facing financial issues for over a decade
The loan of Rs. 1000 crores comes as a relief to the organization when it needs to clear
its debts and augment production.
It needs to be repaid within five years with a moratorium of one
Traditional Chapchar Kut Festival Celebrated Across Mizoram

The traditional Spring Festival of Mizoram, Chapchar Kut, was celebrated across the state and
Mizo inhabited parts of the neighbouring states on March 5, 2016.
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The festival is celebrated every year with great pomp and show in March after
theycomplete the Jhum operation, the shifting of agriculture by clearing jungle. It is
believed that the festival started during 1450 AD-1700 AD.
Nagaland Information Commission Rated one of the best

Nagaland Information Commission has been regarded as one of the best of its kind in the
entire country. This was revealed by the Nagaland Information Commissioner during the decade
celebration of RTI Act.
Flash points
RTI Act was passed in 2005 by the UPA government
During the decadal celebration, Nagaland CII informed that only 7% of the Right To
Information applications are rejected in Nagaland making it one of the best in the whole
country
Buckchem Phom revealed that the theme of CII in Nagaland was Trust operating
through Transparency
National conference of Women Legislators inaugurated by the President

President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the National conference of Women
legislators at Vigyan Bhawan. Vice president Hamid Ansari and PM Narendra Modi were also
present in the event.
Flash points
The conference, hosted by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra mahajan, is being attended
by former President Pratibha Patil, Union ministersSushma Swaraj, Najma Heptullah
and Maneka Gandhi, Gujarat CM Anandiben Patel, former Delhi CM Sheila
Dikshit, Congress president Sonia Gandhi, among others
Bangladesh Jatiyo Samshad Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury will chair a session
of the 2 day conference
President having inaugurated the National conference expressed his concern over the
33% reservation for women in legislation
He told that despite proposing 33% reservation for women in parliament the
SRESHTA: Indian Railways To Set Up Special Wing For Research

Technology and Digitizing are the latest buzz ever since the Modi Government came into power.
Indian Railways, after all, the heart of the Indian economy cannot be left behind when it comes to
innovation and research.
In an effort to make Indian Railways technology driven, the national transporter will set up
its in-house research wing,SRESHTA(Special Railway Establishment for Strategic
Technology and Holistic Advancement) comprising of mostly scientists and railway experts.
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What will it do? - Responsible for long term research to improve the functioning of
Railways.
Uttar Pradesh passes UP revenue code amendment bill

The Uttar Pradesh government passed the UP revenue code amendment bill that facilitates
Dalits to sell their land to Non-Dalits.
Flash points
The Pre-British era revenue law was replaced by UP Revenue Code (Amendment)
Bill, 2016
The amendment allows Dalit people to sell their land to Non-Dalits
The bill was presented in the legislative assembly by Revenue minister Shivpal Singh
Yadav
The bill permits Dalits to sell their land even if they are left out with less than 5 acres
GOI to digitise all rural post offices by 2017

Government of India will digitalise all the 1.29 lakh rural post offices by 2017.Department of
Post IT Modernisation project will get Rs. 4909 crore outlay for digitalisation and Networking of
155, 000 post offices including 129, 323 Gramin Dak Sewak Post Offices in the country.
The Project envisages Computerisation and networking of all postal mail, accounts and
administrative offices through WAN (Wide Area Network) also to set up centralised
data centre and Disaster recovery centre.
Infosys is the Service provider for rural system integrator and Telecommunication
Consultant India ltd is the lead partner with Ricoh India ltd for Hardware & Maintenance.
Third phase of Gyan sangam to focus on consolidation of banks

The government told that it has started the second edition of Gyan sangam and in the third
phase of Gyan sangam it has planned to focus on Consolidation of banks.
Gyan Sangam is a retreat for banks and financial Institutions. It was held for the first
time last year.
State minister of finance, Jayant sinha told that the transformation has to be carried out
in phases
Oil Ministry laid out the foundation stone of Octomax unit at Mathura
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan laid out the foundation stone for Octomax unit in the oil
refinery at Mathura.
Octomax unit is the countrys first high octane gasoline production unit
It is a part of the oil refinery at Mathura
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Octomax, a novel technology is developed in-house by Research and Development

Centre of Indian Oil
The Sex ratio has come down in Gujarat placing it at 22nd rank in the Nation
The Sex ratio in Gujarat has fallen significantly from 920 in 2001 to 919 in 2011.It is a fall
against the overall 10 points increase in the average of sex ratio of the Nation.
Flash points
The socio-economic review presented in the state assembly revealed that the sex ratio of
Gujarat was 919 against the National sex ratio which is 943
With 919 females for every 1000 males, Gujarat ranked 22nd among 28 states as per the
2011 Census
The sex ratio in rural areas have increased while that in urban areas have remained
low
In rural areas of the state, it has increased by 4 points from 945 in 2001 to 949 in
2011 while in urban areas it remained at 880 in both the years
Among the tribal areas, tribal district of Tapi is at the first position with a sex ratio
of 1007 followed by other tribal districts Dang (1006) and Dahod (990)
The last place is occupied by Surat with just 787 preceded by Ahmedabad with 904
River Information System like ATC to Be Launched for Inland Waterways Traffic
Union Government proposes to launch a River Information System (RIS) the system is similar
to Air Traffic Control.
River Information system is a combination of tracking meteorological equipment with

specialised software designed to optimise traffic and transport processes in Inland
Navigation.
Mumbai to host BRICS Friendship Cities Conclave in April

The financial capital of India to host BRICS Friendship Cities Conclave in April involving top
Urban Policy makers and Planners from BRICS Nations.
The BRICS Friendship Conclave is a joint initiative of Ministry of External Affairs and
Maharashtra Government to be held between April 14 and 16 this year.
Germany to develop Bhubaneswar, Kochi, Coimbatore as Smart Cities

Germany will partner with Indias flagship program Smart City Mission to develop
Bhubaneswar, Kochi, and Coimbatore as smart Cities.
The three Cities are among the twenty cities which have been announced by the Urban
Development Ministry.
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Germany helped India in the selection process of the cities consists of three delegations
from Germany , Two of them from Urban Development Ministry and One from Ministry of
Housing and Poverty Alleviation.
Womens Day News box

March 8th is celebrated as Womens day across the globe every year since 1975.News from
various fields with special emphasis on Womens day have been combined to give special
importance for this day.
ICICIS Womens day gift
The largest private sector lender ICICI bank has announced a work-from-home programme to
the women workers as a special gift on Womens day.
ICICI and IIT Delhi have designed iWork @ home platform which enables the women
workers to work from home
The platform has a facial recognition technology which enables authenticity of the
worker.
Air India Runs the first Longest all Women Flight
As an initiative to promote women joining in Aviation sector, Air India flew its first worlds
longest all women flight from New Delhi to San Francisco.
The flight, which travelled a distance of around 14,500 kilometre in close to 17 hours,
was operated as part of International Womens Day celebrations
The worlds longest non-stop flight, entire flight operations from cockpit crew to cabin
crew, check-in staff, doctor, customer care staff, ATC (air traffic control) and the
entire ground handling were handled by women
TATA Housing- SBI Launch Special Home Loan for Women
As a part of the global Womens day celebrations various organizations launch special plans for
women. Tata housing also joined the list by tying up with SBI to provide special home loan.
Real estate developer Tata Housing has partnered with the countrys largest
lender,State Bank of India
TATA Housing allows the women to pay just 20% of the loan initially and the
remaining amount can be paid after taking the possession of the property
SBI Life Insurance Launched Smart Women Advantage

To give more emphasis on empowerment of Women, the SBI life insurance launched the Smart
Women Advantage scheme as a part of Womens day celebrations.
SBI Life Smart Women Advantage plan provides for life cover, savings and femalespecific critical illness benefits
Women Representation in Indian Parliament Slips
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Though many steps are taken to empower women in various fields, the representation of women in
legislation is considerably very low. On the day of celebration it is unfortunate to know that Indias
rank in women representation has slipped from 117 to 144.
Flash points
India though remains to be the largest democracy in the world has been given
only 144thrank in terms of women representation in legislation across the globe
Last year it was in 117th position among 188 nations and the scenario collapsed
to144 among 191 countries in February 2016
The total % of women in parliament accounts for a meager 12% in Lok Sabha and 8%
in Rajya Sabha and an average of 22% on the whole
Rwanda ranks No 1 with 8% women in the lower house of parliament and 38.5% in
the upper house
Mahila e-Haat portal launched by Union Government
With the aim of supporting the as Self help groups of women to sell their products the Union
Minister for Women and Child Development Maneka Sanjay Gandhi launched Mahila e-Haat
portal in New Delhi.
Flash points
The Mahila e-Haat portal, http://mahilaehaat-rmk.gov.in, is an online marketing

platform to enable women to sell their products across the nation
The product along with photograph description, cost and mobile no./address of the
participants will be displayed on the e-Haat enabling direct contact between
sellers/service providers and buyers
Rahstriya Mahila Kosh (RMK) is primarily involved in the creation of the portal and the
entire business of e-Haat can be handled through mobile phone
Haryana Global Investors Summit 2016

The first Happening Haryana Global Investors Summit-2016 will began in Gurgaon, which
will see participation from 12 countries.
The two day summit is organized by the state government of Haryana along with CII
The summit is inaugurated by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley
It is expected to attract a 25 lakh crore investment
Enemy Property Bill Amendment Introduced In Parliament

A bill to amend the 48-year-old Enemy Property Act to allow the custodians to continue to hold
sway over enemy properties was introduced in Lok Sabha. It proposed to amend the Enemy
Property Act, 1968.
Enemy property - The central government had designated some properties belonging to nationals
of Pakistan and China as enemy properties during the 1962, 1965 and 1971 conflicts with
the respective countries
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The government of India vested these properties in the custodian of Enemy Property for
India, an office instituted under the central government

The vesting of enemy property with the Custodian will mean that all rights, titles and
interests in the property will vest with the Custodian. No laws and customs governing
succession will be applicable to these properties
Gujarat tops the list of states with most investment potential

Gujarat government has topped the list of states with most investment potential that has
been according to the survey from New Delhi based think tank National Council of Applied Economic
Research (NACER).
However the ranking released by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion in
September last year that emphasizes the success rate of states in implementing 98 regulatory
reforms is offset with the NACER data.
The list of 21 states that kept on survey, Gujarat, New Delhi and Tamilnadu as the top
destinations for making investments.

Top Five Destinations among Investors:Gujaratm,New Delhi,Tamilnadu,Andhra Pradesh and
Maharashtra
Industries ranked Uttarakhand (32.5%) as the least corrupt state and Tamil Naduas
the most corrupt with 100% of the survey participants voting against it. The bottom
three parameters where industries have least concerns are availability of unskilled labour,
availability of water and labour relations.
Gujarat is leader in governance and political stability and perception,New Delhi

topped in infrastructure and economic climate, Kerala is ranked first in Labour issues.
Govt mulls policy to promote wind energy projects

In Order to propel the Wind Energy Potential in India, Union government will soon unveil a policy
to give incentives including an interest discount of 0.25 % for increasing capacity of Wind mills of
up to 1MW.
The objective of the mooted policy is to promote optimum utilisation of wind energy
resources by creating facilitative framework for repowering.
The policy mooted by Ministry of New and Renewable energy will float a draft for
repowering of Wind power projects in the country.
India to Deploy Women Pilots In Fighter Plane by June

As a part of women empowerment the announcement came from Air force on International
Womens day celebrations that Indias air force will induct its first female fighter pilots in June.
Last month President Pranab Mukherjee announced that women will be allowed in all
combat roles in the armed forces
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Bhawna Kanth, Avani Chaturvedi and Mohana Singh are likely to create history as
Indias first women fighter pilots
India, Saudi Arabia hold talks on regional and global issues

Countrys largest Crude oil supplier Saudi Arabia and India hold talks on regional and global
issues of mutual interests.
The Saudi Arabias foreign minister was on two day visit to India during the visit Union
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj held extensive talks with her Saudi Arabian
counterpart Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir in New Delhi.
Parliament passes Bureau of Indian Standards bill

The Bureau of Indian Standards bills was passed in the parliament, following its approval
from Rajya Sabha. The bill was earlier passed in Loksabha during the winter session last year.
Bureau of Indian Standards bill
The bill proposes to make BIS, a national standards body, introduce mandatory hallmarking of
precious metal, prevent misuse of Standard marks and provide for recall of ISI marked products
not conforming to relevant standards.
Flash points
The bill was passed in Lok Sabha following a voice vote during the winter session in
December, 2015
The Bill extends the ambit of the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) to include services,
processes and products while ensuring production of world class goods
57 Countries to participate in first Maritime Summit

The first Maritime summit to be held at India is going to witness the participation of 57
countries from the world.
Flash points
The maiden Maritime summit is going to be organized in Mumbai, Maharashtra
The summit is conducted by Union Ministry of Shipping in April,2016
During the media launch of Maritime summit, Union minister of Shipping Nitin
Gadkaritold that 57 countries are likely to participate in the summit
The two day Maritime summit is conducted by India and South Korea
A wide array of investment opportunities and collaborations are expected both at the
national and the international level at the event
The main focus of summit is to give impetus to Make In India and blue economy
The shipping ministry is targeting around 1.2 trillion in investment from the event
Rajya Sabha passes National Waterways Bill
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The Upper House of the Parliament passed The National Waterways Bill, 2015, which was tabled
in Lok Sabha on May 5, 2015 by the Minister of Road Transport and Highways and Shipping, Mr.
NitinGadkari.
Having been passed in the Rajya Sabha, It would be kept before The President for his assent
in the bill. The bill comes under Entry 24 of the Union List of the Seventh Schedule of the
Constitution.
Significance of the Bill:
Additional 101 waterways as national waterways identified under the bill The
Schedule of the Bill also specifies the extent of development to be undertaken on each
waterway.
India currently has five inland waterways as national waterways. These include
waterways on Ganga from Haldia to Allahabad and on Brahmaputra from Dhubri to
Sadiya and others.
The Waterways Bill revokes the five Acts that declare the existing national waterways.
These five national waterways are now covered under the Bill.
Cycling event of Indian Army with theme Cycle to Recycle flagged off
To create public awareness about the need of nature and environment conservation, a 10-member
army team boarded upon a 1,000-km bicycle journey from Pangsau Pass in the India-Myanmar
border.
The journey organised as part of the Assam Rifles 181st raising day celebrations was
flagged off by Brigadier DK Singh, commander of the 25 Sector Assam Rifles
The theme of the Event Cycle to recycle
National Anthem compulsory in all schools in WB

West Bengal Board of Secondary Education has notified that in order to pursue Government
direction it directed to sing the National Anthem during Assembly before the commencement of
the School Hour.
This Decision comes from West Bengal government days after Madras High Court
mandated all the Private Schools to Sing National Anthem during morning Assembly.
Rajya Sabha Passed the Real Estate Bill

The Real Estate Regulation and Development Bill was passed in the Rajya Sabha. This bill is
in the favour of protection of Home buyers and to bring in more transparency into the real
estate business and avoid the flow of Black money.
Features of the Bill
Certainty: The Bill provides that 70 per cent of sale proceeds will have to be kept aside by the
developer in an escrow account
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Tribunal for Resolution: The Bill will help establish state-level real estate regulatory
authorities and appellate tribunals to regulate transactions
Deadline: 60 days, thereby setting a timeline for resolution of disputes
Punishment: Imprisonment up to three years for promoters and up to one year for real
estate agents and buyers in case of any violation of orders of the appellate tribunals or monetary
penalties or both
Registration: Promoters will be required to register projects with the regulatory
authorities disclosing project information
Norms: The legislation also brought down norms for registration of projects to a plot area of 500
sq m or 8 apartments as against 4,000 sq m proposed in the draft Bill in 2013 and 1,000
sq m or 12 apartments suggested by the Standing Committee.
Union Cabinet Nods to the new Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy
The Union Cabinet, presided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the Hydrocarbon
Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP).
Flash Points
The HELP will replace the New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP)
It will enhance domestic oil and gas production, bring substantial investment in the
sector and generate sizable employment. The policy also targets the enhancement of
transparency and reduction of administrative discretion
It will provide Uniform license for exploration and production of all forms of hydrocarbon
including CBM, shale gas/oil, tight gas and gas hydrates under a single license
The concept of Open Acreage Policy will enable Exploration & Production (E&P)
companies choose the blocks from the designated area
Union Cabinet approved Sikh Gurudwaras Act

The Union Cabinet approved the proposal of the Ministry of Home Affairs to amend the Sikh
Gurdwaras Act, 1925 through the Parliament with effect from 8 October 2013
Flash points
The proposal gave green signal to remove the exception given to Sehajdhari Sikhs in
1944 to vote in the elections for selecting members of the board and the committees
constituted under the Act
The Sehajdhari Sikhs were continuously exercising their voting rights in the SGPC
elections since 1949
In 2003, the Union Home Ministry debarred the Sehajdhari Sikhs from voting by
amending the Sikh Gurdwara Act, 1925
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It was done through a notification dated 8 October 2003
Union Cabinet Nods for BIMSTEC Convention in Criminal Matters

The Union Cabinet headed by PM Narendra Modi gave its approval for the BIMSTEC
Convention on mutual legal assistance in Criminal Matters.
BIMSTEC
It is the Bay of Bengal Initiative on Multi Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation
It comprises seven countries Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka
and Thailand
It mainly covers cooperation in commerce, technology, investment, agriculture,

tourism, human resource development, fisheries, transport and communication,
textiles, leather etc
IMF to set up data sharing centre in India

International Monetary Fund (IMF) will establish a knowledge-sharing centre in India, to
provide technical support and assistance to India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan
and Bhutan.
Data sharing centre will extend expertise in core macroeconomic and financial
management areas. This would be the first such initiative in Asia. An agreement will
be ratified in this regard by IMF chief Christine Lagarde and Prime Minister Narendra
Modi.
Cabinet approves amendment to mining law, move to spur M&As

Cabinet Approved Amendment to mining law The Mines and Minerals (Development and
Regulation) Amendment Bill 2015 to transfer of mining lease for captive mines.
The proposed amendment will permit transfer of captive mines granted on discretion
to spur merger and acquisitions in the mining sector
The amended bill to help in checking the stressed and non-performing assets of Indian
Banking industry also push the stuck M&A deals could be moved in the right direction.
Lok Sabha passes Aadhaar bill 2016

The bill enabling Aadhaar card to be mandatory to avail the subsidies and schemes of the
Government has been passed in the Lok Sabha.
Aadhaar card:It is a valid identity proof issued by the Government of India by recording the
finger print, retina and photograph of a person.
Aadhaar bill:The Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits
and Services) Bill, 2016 aims to ensure targeted services to intended beneficiaries
through Aadhaar card
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Kakrapar nuclear plant shut down after coolant system develops leak
A power generation unit at nuclear powered Kakrapar atomic power Plant in Gujarat was
shut down after leakage developed of heavy water.
A break in the coolant system of one of the nuclear reactors at Kakrapar Gujarat,Plant
authorities confirmed that there was no harmful, radioactive leakage and the backup
safety mechanisms that were made back up.
Unit 1 of the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station, which was operating at its rated
power, had to be shut down, consequent to a small leak in the Primary Heat Transport
(PHT) System.
PM inaugurated three Railway projects at Bihar

Bihar gained special importance with the political rivals-PM Narendra Modi and Bihar CM Nitish
Kumar being present on the same stage for inauguration of three important Railway
projects at Bihar .
Estimated cost of 3 projects- 7200 crores
3 Railway projects:
1. Patna Rail-cum-road Bridge
2. Mokama double line Railway bridge
3. Munger rail-cum-road Bridge
Govt to computerise all ration shops by 2019
Government aims to computerise the PDS sector to help remove corruption in PDS,by installing
electronic Point of Sale (ePoS) devices at all the 5.35 lakh fair price shops across the country by
March 2017.
Government has also started a pilot project linking the PDS with Aadhar card
under Direct Benefit Transfer scheme in Puducherry, Chandigarh and in urban areas of
Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
The cost of such e-PoS, is around Rs 20,000 and a total sum of Rs 884 crore has been
earmarked and the Centre will spend a total of Rs 879 crore while states will spend Rs
393 crore under the scheme.
Honey festival Celebrated in Mangaluru

Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat has conducted a honey festival in Mangaluru a two-day
festival on apiculture and organic farming organised by Horticulture Department.
The government has been supporting organic farming and it targeting in a bright future.
The demand for crops cultivated using organic manure is increasing. The people should
also accept organic farming,
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Foreign Minister of Mexico on two day visit to India
The Foreign Minister of the Government of Mexico, H.E. Ms Claudia Ruiz Massieu Salinas,
visited India on two day visit to India (11-12 March) and held bilateral meeting with, External
Affairs Minister of India Smt. SushmaSwaraj.
During her visit the Mexican Foreign Minister also interacted with the private sector in a
business event organized with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and delivered a
lecture in the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA) on the subject Mexico in the
international context and its relations with India.
In the course of the official visit the yembark on a complete review of the entire range of
bilateral relations comprising political, commercial & trade, financial, technical and other
areas to further increase and strengthen cooperation.
Allahabad High Court celebrates 150th foundation year

Allahabad High Court established in 1866 celebrates its 150th Foundation Day on 14th March
2016.
Key Points:
CJI Justice Thakur inaugurated the dedicated digitization centre of the High court.
Reserve bank of India (RBI) also released a 10 rupees coin.
Postal department released a postage stamp and a Souvenir of the High court.
Advancing Asia: Investing for the Future Conference

A Conference jointly hosted by the Government of India and the IMF on Advancing Asia:
Investing for the Future in New Delhi.
The Conference was attended by IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde and Prime
Minister Narendra Modi delegations from Indian side.
Key issues for discussion include slowing potential growth, rising debt, infrastructure
bottlenecks, regional integration, and the role of trade and other structural
reforms in boosting output and macroeconomic resilience.
International Monetary Fund endorsed monetary policies of central banks in Europe and
Japan, even as policymakers from emerging markets warned that such policies were
increasing risks for the global economy. The Conference held in New Delhi from March
11-13.
UP GOVT Shows Green Signal To Kanpur Metro Project, Senior Citizen Policy
UP Govt approved a policy for senior citizens recently under which it will establish old age homes
for them. The Govt has also declared to raise monthly pension from Rs. 300 to Rs. 400.
The policy will come into effect from 1 April 2016 and the social welfare department has been
made the nodal agency for this new policy.
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KEY POINTS:
The policy was formulated under which old age homes and juvenile homes would be set
up under one roof
The policy reserves 25 percent seats in these old age homes for the BPL families who
will be provided free residence and food
The Govt has also approved the Kanpur Metro Rail Project. The details of which are
below:
The project would cover 32 km through two corridors spanning over 31 stations, including
19 elevated and 12 underground ones
The project, as on August 2015, is estimated to cost Rs 13,721 cr
Indias First Education Focused Accelerator Programme Started At MIT, PUNE

Edugild, Indias first education technology accelerator has been set up by Maharashtra Institute of
Technology at Pune. It will focus only on the education sector. The CEO of the Eduglid programme
is Rishi Kapal.
EDUGILD PROGRAMME
Edugild will conduct two batches every year.
Start-ups will receive seed funding worth Rs 15 lakh in return for a minority stake.
It will provide mentorship and guidance regarding instituting a start-up, pitching to

venture capitalists (VCs), business management and customer acquisition, marketing and
help in scaling up business.
Of the 300 applications received this year, Eduglid has selected four companies for its
accelerator programme.
Jammu & Kashmir adopts new Industrial policy

Jammu & Kashmir adopts new industrial policy to attract an investment of Rs.2000 crores every
year. The policy will hold good for 10 years.
Flash points
The State Administrative Council under the chairmanship of Governor N N Vohra,

approved the Industrial Policy-2016
The new policy was framed by the Industries and Commerce department
The new policy sought views from various departments which includes power, finance,
law, justice, planning and development, parliamentary affairs etc
The new policy incorporates e-governance for registration of Industrial units in a timebound manner
Maharashtra passes Prohibition of Social Boycott bill

In a move to strengthen the laws against discrimination the Maharashtra government passed
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the prohibition of social Boycott bill in its state assembly.
Features of Social Boycott bill
The social boycott is prohibited and its commission shall be an offence.
The maximum punishment for social boycotting will be 7 years in prison or fine up
to 5 lakh rupees or both
The maximum punishment for extending aid in relation to the commission of offence will
be 3 years or 3 lakh rupees or both
The victim or any member of his family may file a complaint either through the police or
directly to the Magistrate
To ensure speedy justice, the trial shall be completed within a period of six months
from the date of filing of the charge sheet
International Childrens Film Festival for the North East Region began in Gangtok
The International Childrens Film Festival for the North East Region began in Gangtok.The Festival
named, The Golden Elephant has been organised by the Childrens Film Society of India,in
association with the Sikkim Governments Culture and Heritage and Human Resources
Development Departments.
Over a dozen children films from the country and abroad are to be screened during the
three day long Film Festival. Workshops on film making and also on storytelling and
creative writing will be held as a part of the event.
Order Amendment Bill, 2016 passed in Lok Sabha

The Peoples house passed the Amendment of Constitution (Scheduled Caste) order bill, 2016. The
bill seeks to amend the Constitution Scheduled Castes Order 1950.
Need of the amendment
The bill was passed on proposals of five states, namely Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Kerala,
Odisha and West Bengal, to modify the list of Scheduled Castes in their states
Amendment criteria
The proposal relates to the inclusion of certain communities, modification and

removal of area restriction in respect of certain communities and exclusion of certain
communities in the case of State of Odisha
Castes included
Chhattisgarh included Sais, Sahis, Sarathi, Soot-Sarathi, Thanwar in the SC list
Haryana included Aheria, Aheri, Hari, Heri, Thori, Turi and Rai Sikh
Kerala include Peruvannan in the list
AAHAR 2016 Inaugurated In New Delhi

The largest fair on Food & Hospitality Sector in India, AAHAR 2016 was inaugurated by Hon.
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Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Ms. Harsimrat Kaur Badal on March 15, 2016. It is
the 31st edition in this series.
ABOUT THE FAIR
Largest show of its kind in South Asia
Organized by India Trade Promotion Organization (ITPO), supported by the respective

ministries
Aim: A growth propelling event to promote Brand India on a global platform
Foreign Business Delegations from USA, UAE, Singapore, Bangladesh, Nepal etc.Foreign companies
represented Australia, Afghanistan, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Japan, Korea and USA among
others
High level of satisfaction with 98% of exhibitors desiring repeat participation in AAHAR
2016
Over Rs 1 lakh crore disbursed under MUDRA Yojana

Under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana Loans worth Rs1.09 lakh crore have been sanctioned to
small entrepreneurs, loans worth over Rs.1.09 lakh crore were given to over 2.96 crore
beneficiaries.
MUDRA Yojana, which was launched in April last year, loans between Rs.50, 000 and
Rs.10 lakh are provided to small entrepreneurs. The Micro Units Development and
Refinance Agency Ltd (MUDRA) focuses on the 5.75 crore self-employed who have
deployed funds totalling Rs.11 lakh crore and provide jobs to 12 crore people.
Centre releases Rs 609 crore for upgrading prisons in eight States

The Centre has released 609 crore rupees for upgrading prisons in eight States as
recommended by the Thirteenth Finance Commission.
In the eight States Kerala has got 154 crore,Chhattisgarh 150 crore rupees and
Odisha 100 crore rupees.Andhra Pradesh has been sanctioned 90 crore
rupees andMaharashtra 60 crore rupees.
The other States to receive Central funds for modernization of jails are Mizoram, 30
crore rupees, Tripura 15 crore rupees and Arunachal Pradesh 10 crore rupees.
Centres nod for Mega Food Park in Khammam

Union Government has given final approval for setting up a Mega Food Park in Khammam
District of Telanganato facilitate creation of modern infrastructure for food processing along the
value chain from the farm to the market.
This is the first Mega Food Park in Telangana and set up with the project cost of
Rs. 108.95 crore in an area of 78 acres.
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These Food Processing Industries is centring on increasing the Food Processing Sector so
that agriculture sector grows and becomes the engine of growth to drive the Make in
India initiative.
Punjab passed Punjab Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal land (Transfer of Proprietary Right) Bill,
2016
Punjab Assembly unanimously passed the Punjab Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal land bill-2016.
The bill was passed in contradiction of the construction of contentious Sutlej Yamuna Link.
The bill emphasizes to offer transfer of proprietary rights back to the land owners from
whom the land was acquired by the state government for the construction of SYL free
of cost.
Career Guidance Counselling Centres launched in Delhi to improve employment

opportunities for women
Young women seeking Employment in the Delhi NCR region can receive career Guidance from
the newly launched Dedicated Counselling centres.
This is the first of its kind dedicated to women,established on the findings of a UNDP
commissioned study which revealed that almost 80 percent of young women in Delhi
did not have access to accurate and timely information on educational and job
opportunities.
India aviation show 2016 begins in Hyderabad

President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the 5th edition of the India Aviation 2016 and the fiveday biennial aviation show jointly organised by the Union Civil Aviation Ministry and the Federation
of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
The theme of Indian civil aviation sector: Potential as global manufacturing hub.
About 25 countries and 200 major participants are expected to take part in the Indian
Aviation show at the Begumpet airport. Hyderabad.
Leading aircraft and helicopter manufacturers such as Boeing, Airbus, Textron,AA

Embraer, Gulfstream, Dassault, Agusta Westland, Bell Helicopters, and Russian
Helicopters are participating in the show.
Punjab Government notified Swine Flu under Epidemic Disease Act

Health and Family Welfare department of the Punjab government notified Swine Flu
(H1N1) under the Epidemic Disease Act.
All the Hospitals be it government or private owned will have to inform the Department of
Health about a case of ILI (Influenza like Illness) having chronic diseases.
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In order to ensure such cases are treated at the earliest and proper guidelines of the
Government is been followed. The treatment of swine flu is provided free of cost to all
the patients as recommended by the Government.
Surat Cleanest Railway Station; Varanasi Among The Dirtiest: Survey

The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan- Ek Kadam Swachhta Ki Aur is the pet project of our Prime
Minister Narendra Modi which was flagged off on October 2, 2014 with a vision to make India free
of open defecation by 2019 and to fulfil Mahatma Gandhis dream of a clean India
As a part of this project, a survey was conducted at 407 railway stations, which included 75
A-1 stations and 332 A-category stations, Surat has emerged to be the cleanest Railway
Stations in India, followed by Rajkot and Bilaspur. Varanasi stood last when evaluated onforty
cleanliness parameters which formed the basis of the survey.
KEY POINTS:
The survey was conducted by Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)
Cisco to set up Internet of Everything (IoE) innovation centre in Visakhapatnam

Cisco will set up an Internet of Everything (IoE) Innovation centre in Visakhapatnam to drive
regional innovation and will enable partners and start-ups to build solutions around IoE and engage
in rapid prototyping.
The MoU was signed as a part of the inauguration of Indias first statewide broadband
project-AP Fiber Net in Visakhapatnam in the presence of Andhra Pradesh CM Mr. N
Chandrababu Naidu and Cisco executive chairman Irving Tan among others.
World Sufi Forum Inaugurated In New Delhi

Giving a boost to the rich Sufi culture in India, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated the first World
Sufi Forum in New Delhi. It is called the Bain-ul-Aqwami Sufi Conference started with a new
ray of hope in New Delhi.
200 Sufi scholars from across 20 countries have converged for the 4 day conference
Organised by the All India Ulama and Mashaikh Board, the apex body of Sufi Dargahs
in India.
Indian Airforce to conduct day-night exercise Iron-fist

Indian Air Force displayed its combat and fire power at Rajasthans Pokhran firing range in a
day & night demonstration. The event comprised six packages depicting six themes in
which more than 180 aircraft, including fighters, transport and helicopters participated.
Flash points
A MiG-27 aircraft heralded the commencement of the flypast by towing the Ex Iron
Fist banner, which was followed by Supersonic run by the MiG-29 aircraft.
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The fly past by a mixed formation comprising a MiG-21 Bison, MiG-27 Upgrade, MiG29 and the mighty Su-30, showcased the transformation of the IAF over the decades
Feni now classified as Heritage spirit of Goa.

Government of Goa has declared Feni, a form of spirit as the heritage spirit of the state. Feni,
was the first liquor product in the country which got Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2000.
It finds its uses in various cultural traditions, cuisines as well as it is famed for its
medicinal use. So it should not have been categorized as country liquor and it is presently
defined under the Goa Excise Duty Act, 1964.
SC allows photos of CMs, Governors, and Ministers in Public ads.

The SC has allowed photographs of CMs, Governors, and Ministers in Public advertisements.
A bench led by Justice Ranjan Gogoi allowed review petitions filed by various state
governments, which had sought a modification of the previous order.
Earlier SC had issued Guidelines on Regulating Government Advertisements based on

recommendations of Prof NR Madhava Menon
Union government unveiled Model Building Bye-laws, 2016

The Union Government has unveiled Model Building Bye-Laws, 2016 for granting permission for
construction of buildings. It was released by the Union Urban Development Minister Venkaiah
Naidu in New Delhi.
Aim: Online single window framework to provide approval for construction of buildings
Highlights
Model Building Bye-Laws, 2016 intends to improve ease of doing business regarding
issuance of construction permits.
The time limit for all kinds of single window approvals is 30 days and if it is not done
by the concerned agencies within this time-frame then it will be deemed as approved.
Different set of environmental conditions are provided for each category of building
ranging from 5000 square meters to 1.5 lakh square meters.
The provision of rain water harvesting for various types of buildings has been
mandatory
PM to inaugurate Krishi Unnati Mela in New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated three-day Krishi Unnati Mela providing information
on new farm schemes and technologies that will help farmers double their incomes within the
next few years.
Venue: Pusa Campus , New Delhi
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Events
PM Narendra Modi will give Krishi Karman Awards to states and progressive farmers
who made remarkable contribution to Agriculture
He will visit the theme pavilion and address the farmers
There will be live demonstration of agriculture and horticultural crops, animal

husbandry, innovative technologies and farm mechanisation in big plots
Public and private companies will display theirfarm inputs and technologies in
over 500 stalls
Shri J P Nadda launches new initiatives to combat TB

With a view to combat tuberculosis in the country, the govt. of India is making every effort.
Recently, Union Health Minister J P Nadda, launched Bedaquiline new anti-TB drug for Drug
Resistant TB as part of the Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP) on the eve of
World TB Day.
The event was organsied by Health Ministry and WHO ahead of the World Tuberculosis
Day on March 24.
Mumbais Wilson College adopts railway station for cleanliness

As part of the Swachch Bharat Abhiyan the Wilson College in Mumbai has adopted the Charni
Road station in Mumbai for cleanliness and up keep.
Wilson College students led by executive co-ordinator Dr Kamal Jadhav met the
Governor Chennamaneni Vidyasagar Rao at Raj Bhavan and briefed him about the
decision taken by the students during the past few months to keep the Charni Road
station neat and clean.
India to host 8th BRICS Summit, 2016

The external affairs ministry has notified that India will host the 8th BRICS Summit from 15
October to 16 October 2016 in Goa.
BRICS- Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa
Chairmanship India assumed chairmanship of BRICS from Russia on 15 February 2016

and it will last till 31 December 2016.
Five pronged approach
Institution building, Implementation, Integrating, Innovation, Continuity
Theme and Logo
The logo for the Summit is a lotus having colours from all the five member countries and
a traditional Namaste in the centre.
The theme of Indias BRICS Chairmanship is Building Responsive, Inclusive and

Collective Solutions.
Punjab Assembly passes Agriculture Indebtedness bill
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The Punjab Assembly has a passed a bill that provides relief to the farmers. The Punjab
Settlement of Agricultural Indebtedness Bill, 2016. The bill specifies that the interest
payable on debt shall be calculated at such rate as may be notified by the government.
Features of the bill
According to the new bill, the interest rates on debts will be calculated by the state
government
This would be in accordance with the interest rates charged by banks on yearly
basis.
The bill, aimed at providing fair and expeditious settlement of agriculturists debtrelated disputes.
Union Ministry of Health & Welfare launches LASI

The Union ministry of Health & Welfare have launched a study on Longitudinal Ageing of Indians
termed as LASI(Longitudinal Ageing Study in India)
Need for LASI
The 2011 census revealed that around 6% of the total population of India is elderly
people and with increase in life expectancy it will grow further in future
Currently there are no clear databases on elderly people in India
It becomes essential to know about the elderly people, their health based study and other
social and economic issues related to them
This will help to evolve them in the economic planning of the nation whose population will
rise up to 7 billion that includes 340 million of 60+ aged people in 2050
Conducted by: The International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai in collaboration
with Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) and University of Southern California (USC)
India Post releases customised My Stamp on HAL

Post has released a customised commemorative stamp on HAL the first time India Post is coming
out with customised My Stamp and HAL is the first organisation to have it.
The stamp in recognition of the companys 75 years services to the nation was
released by Usha Chandras hekhar, Chief Post Master General, Karnataka Circle, and V M
Chamola, Director (HR), HAL.
The tag line HAL: the force behind the forces for its Platinum Jubilee logo.
Government clears new Defence Procurement Policy

Govt approves key changes to accord priority to locally made equipment and fund privatesector R&D the objective of the new Defence Procurement Procedure is to ensure expeditious
procurement of the approved requirements.
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The Policy will come into effect from April 1, 2016.The DPP, which will have provisions
to fast-track acquisition of critically-needed equipments, will be unveiled at
the Defence Expo on March 28
The new DPP that will introduce measures to promote indigenization and self-reliance in
defence will be unveiled at the Defexpo India 2016, a biennial show of military and
security
PM Inaugurates Power transmission line between India & Bangladesh

India strengthens its relationship consistently with its Neighboring nations. Further improving the
relation between India and Bangladesh, PM Narendra Modi has inaugurated a power transmission
line between the 2 countries.
Highlights
PM Narendra Modi, inaugurated a transmission line from Tripura that will supply 100 MW
power to Bangladesh
Modi inaugurated the new line via video conferencing from Agartala
The power generated from Palatana generating station will be given to Bangladesh
In return, Bangladesh expressed their contribution by providing 10GB Internet Bandwidth

to India
Himachal, Mumbai to have electric buses

Himachal Road Transport Corporation and Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority to
introduce zero-emission retrofitted electric buses under its flagship scheme Faster Adoption and
Manufacturing of Hybrid & Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India).
HRTC and MMRDA will roll out 25 electric buses each. Under FAME India, the
department will fund up to 75 per cent cost and the department of heavy industry has
granted in-principle approval.
Govt approves National Highway project worth Rs 6,284 cr

Union government has approved 11 highway projects with a total length of about 453 km
and worth of Rs 6,284 crore for various states.
Swachh Bharat rankings: RashtrapatiBhavan among the cleanest buildings

Rashtrapati Bhavan, UPSC Building, Hyderabad House, Jawaharlal Nehru Bhavan and
Vigyan Bhavan have been ranked among the cleanest government buildings in New Delhi in a
survey carried out under Swachh Bharat Mission.
Rashtrapati Bhavan and UPSC building have got full marks to be stated as the
cleanest buildings in a survey, however NirvachanSadan, Jaipur House, Jamnagar House,
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Jaisalmer House and AGCR Building found their place at the bottom of the list of 36 such
buildings.
110 villages in Chhattisgarh declared open defecation Free

110 gram panchayats in Chhattisgarh were declared open defecation-free under the Centres
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, taking the total number of such villages in the state to 1,849.
Mehbooba Mufti set to become first woman CM of J & K

Mehbooba Mufti was elected Chief Minister of J & K, after clearing the decks for government
formation in the state. This decision is taken in the legislature party meet Chaired by Mahbooba at
her official residence in Gupka.
PDP legislature party leader set to become the first woman chief minister of Jammu
and Kashmir. PDP has 28 MLAs in the 87-member House while its alliance partner BJP
has 25 MLAs. Plus the coalition has support of two and Independent MLA Aga Baqar
Rezvi has also extended support to the candidature of Mehbooba.
Andhra Pradesh inaugurates Indias first lift irrigation project

Andhra government which is known for its innovations and use of technologies in various sectors
has also become the first Indian state to implement lift irrigation.
Points to note
Pattiseema lift irrigation project is known as the first river linking project in India
It connects river Godavari with Krishna and the first pump of the project is completed in
1 year
The project was taken by Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited
They finished the first lift irrigation project worth of 1300 crores in 6 months
The lift irrigation scheme was inaugurated at Pattiseema village to meet the demands
of water scarce regions in Krishna before the completion of the main project
By this project water is pumped up to a nearby point and discharged into Polavaram
Right Main Canal which will join a tributary of Krishna which is 170 km long
The project contains 24 motors and 24 pumps of 6,300 HP and 5,300 HP

respectively with a combined capacity to discharge 8,500 cusecs of water.
The project is expected to be completed by March, 2016 and MEIL will receive an
incentive of 268 crores from the government
Arogya Fair began in Goa

In a move to popularize the Indian medicines with special attention to Ayurveda, Arogya fair is a
four day programme is began in Goa.
Flash Points
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The fair is launched as a cooperative effort by AYUSH ministry and Confederation of

Indian Industry
The main objective is to popularize the Indian Medicinal system and update the
industry with recent developments in the sector
The fair will concentrate to popularize Indian medicines like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani,
Homeopathy, Sowa-Rigpa and Yoga
Free medical checkups, distribution of medicines and technical sessions are to be

held at the four day fair
India to become 100% e-vehicle nation by 2030

The increasing emissions across the world have forced all the nations to move towards renewable
energies and adopt measures to bring down the pollution. As a part of these measures India has
planned to promote the use of electricity operated vehicles.
India have decided to provide electricity operated cars at zero down payment making it as
a 100% e-vehicle nation by 2030
Piyush Goyal also told that they dont need support from neither the government nor
the people
MP to have its first ITBP centre

Madhya Pradesh is going to have its first Indo Tibetan Border Police weapon training centre at
Batiagarh, Damoh.
It is going to be established at 1800 acres between Batiagarh and Fatehgarh at a

cost of 2100 crores
The newly recruited constables of ITBP will be given training at the centre for operating all
kinds of small and big weapons including cannons capable of firing up to 5-km range
and sten guns
A similar training centre is already operational in Allahabad
J P Nadda launches Rota virus vaccine

The Union Ministry of health and welfare has been taking consistent efforts to develop new
medicines and keep the contagious diseases under control. Recently, the minister of Health and
Welfare launched the Rota virus vaccine.
Flash points
Rotavirus vaccine is an initiative to provide immunity against Diarrhoea and bring

infant mortality rate under control
The vaccine is a cost effective program and it is to be rolled out in of Himachal Pradesh,
Haryana,Odisha and Andhra Pradesh in the first phase
The event was organized in Bhubaneshwar
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Maharashtra gets its first set of Women Commanders to protect forest

Women have been finding a place for themselves in all the challenging fields. Recently Indian Navy
announced to recruit 3 female fighter pilots. Similarly, Women have been chosen as forest guards
in Maharashtra.
Flash points
A batch of 20 women are likely to become the first women commandos of the state
forestry department.
They were trained from Gadchirolis Jungle Tactic and Survival Course (JTSC)
The one-month training began on February 8 and it include women of the age group 1924
The training focused on weapon handling and firing, setting up ambush, carrying
out raids, nakabandis, patrolling information through the jungle and surviving for
days in the jungle in emergencies
It is the first time the forest guards are given commando training
Common Yoga protocol revealed for 2nd International day of Yoga

The International Yoga day has been earmarked on 21st June. The second year celebrations are
yet to come and as a part of it the protocol has been released by the AYUSH ministry.
Highlights
The booklet consisting of the protocol was released in the Arogya fair which commenced
in Goa.It was released by Shripad Yesso Naik on 26th March,2016
The protocol includes certain yoga practices such as Yogic Sukshma Vyayama ,
Yogasanas, and Pranayama which have been added in the 2nd revised edition
President Rule mulled in Uttarkhand

Fuelling up the political chaos in Uttarkhand, the President rule has been imposed in the state.
The chaos began when the congress ruled government faced the opposition from the 9 rebel MLAS.
The 9 rebel MLAs proposed to support BJP in framing the new government
The congress government was forced to prove their majority. They had 27 MLAs and also
supported by 6 more.
Himachal Pradesh government released Sixth Economic Census report

Sixth Economic Census of Himachal Pradesh was released by Pradeep Chauhan, the
Economic Advisor of Himachal Government. The survey was started in 2012 and completed in two
phases with 8303 enumerators, 3844 supervisors and 175 charge officers covering 24,932
enumeration blocks.
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Himachal was first state in the country to complete the census and release the
report and the parameters and methods adopted by the state are being followed by
other states.
This is the first census in which nearly 100 per cent establishments, both in urban and
remotest rural areas had been covered.
Haryana approves Jat reservation bill

Haryana Cabinet approved the Jat reservation bill to provide reservation to Jats and four
other castes in government jobs and educational institutions.
The draft Bill on reservation to Jats and four other castes was cleared at a Cabinet
meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar.
The Bill proposes reservation for Jats and four other castes namely, Sikhs, Rors,
Bishnois and Tyagis
Government Constitutes the Board of Trade

The government has reconstituted the Board of trade headed by the commerce minister.
Flash points
Board of Trade- It is a advisory body consisting of representatives from Industries headed

by the Commerce Minister
The first meeting will be held on April,6
Objective- To have continuous discussion and consultation with trade and industry
Madhya Pradesh to join National Agri Market platform

Madhya Pradesh all set to join the recently-announced National Agriculture Market (NAM)
platform, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to launch it from the stat on April 14 to mark B
R Ambedkars birth anniversary.
Initially, the state government would include only one commodity chana (gram) for eauction through the NAM platform.
The Union government has decided to release Rs 15 crore for all 50 mandis to equip
them with online support system, software, hardware, and grading of farm yield.
Mandi traders who contribute in regular auction of commodities carry localised mandi
licence, the trading would take place only in Karond mandi.
Haryana Becomes 1st To Launch Injectable Contraceptive

A unique Project named by Salamati has been launched by the Haryana Govt for the first time
ever in order to maintain a healthy balance between the births of children by using injectable
contraceptive.
The objective is to check high mother and infant mortality rate
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Highlights:
The objective is to check high mother and infant mortality rate
The state has an outlay of Rs 3,916.94 crore has been earmarked for health and family
welfare in the year 2016-17.
Gujarat To Set Up Nations First Organic Farming University

Gujarat is going to be the first state to set up a University exclusively focussed Organic Farming.
Objective To help farmers in switching to unconventional methods of farming.
Key Points
A fund of Rs 10 crore has been earmarked towards the university in the annual 2016-17
budget.
The place may be chosen near to agriculture Kamdhenu University in Gandhinagar

district.
Under its organic farming policy, the Gujarat government plans to increase the organic
farming area by 10 times in five years
Govt notifies Aadhaar Act

Union government has notified the new Aadhaar Act, 2016 which gives the numbers assigned by
it a statutory backing for transfer of subsidies and benefits to people eligible for them.
Both central and state government can use Aadhaar for disbursal for benefits and
subsidies. However the Aadhaar number cannot be used as a proof of citizenship or
domicile.
Telengana passed bill for hike in salary

The Chandrasekhar Rao headed Telengana government has passed the bill unanimously for hike in
salary of MLAs and MLCs.
The Telangana Payment of Salaries and Pensions and Removal of

Disqualifications(Amendment) Bill-2016 was passed, as per a recommendation of
the Committee on Amenities of the Telangana Legislature which met on March 21.
This hike will cause an added expenditure of 97 crores for the telengana government
Dr. Najma Heptulla Launches Innovative Entrepreneurship & Skill Development

Programme of MANAS
Minority Affairs Minister Najma Heptulla Launched Innovative Entrepreneurship & Skill
Development Programme of MANAS through Renowned Experts in Different Skill Sets that is the
desire and striving for excellence in any field of activity.
The Minister also inaugurated online two training centres of Beauty & Wellness Sector,
one in Okhla that will be trained by Jawed Habib in scientific and systematic training to
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the aspirants wishing to pursue a career in cosmetology and another in Daryaganjarea
where Ms.ShahnazHussain will impart training to aspirant sat in the area of natural
care and cure.
MANAS has identified and launched Skill Development Programme for traditional
Educational Institutions of Minorities in the states of Bihar, Maharashtra, Jammu &
Kashmir and Assam.
Arun Jaitley launches Make in India conference in Sydney

Finance minister Arun Jaitley who is in Sydney for two days has launched the Make in India
conference in Sydney.
Inaugurating the conference, Arun Jaitley called the Australian investors to invest in India
He informed that with Make in Indiacampaign the investors can invest in India and
capitalize the biggest market in the world
India will allow private sector hiring through government job exams
Union government will now share the results of government recruitment exams and PSUs will be
shared with private player after taking the consent of candidates so that other employers can
benefit from that.
The scores in examinations have been retained by the government. Hereafter, it will be
available to all employers openly, wherever consent is given by the candidate.
Kachhabali Becomes 1st Liquor-free village in Rajasthan

Kachabali village in Rajsamand district of Rajasthan, has become the first in state to vote in
support of closing down the only liquor shop in the village.
The polling was carried out by the excise department of the state and 94% of
the voters demanded that they want a complete ban on the sale of alcohol in the
village.
Mumbai to get its first Arbitration Centre

The financial capital of India is likely to get the International Arbitration Centre. This will be
the Indias first arbitration centre for dealing the financial disputes.
Flash points
The financial disputes of India were dealt in the Singapore Arbitration centre, now with
the establishment of the International arbitration centre in Mumbai it will be a boon to the
Indian companies
Out of the 259 cases registered at Singapore arbitration centre in 2013, 85 were from
Indian companies
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The MCIA will be implemented under the Make in India initiative and it is likely to attract
$2billion worth investments
Government Unveils new building bye laws in New Delhi

The Union government has been constantly taking efforts in reducing the paperwork and it
motivates the single window system that makes the obtaining of approvals easier and faster. One
such effort is the unified building bye laws proposed by the central government in Delhi.
Flash points
The unified building laws combines the rules and regulations of various departments in
obtaining permission for constructing a building
The bye laws have been amended after a gap of 33 years and it enables the single
window approval
The permissions to be obtained has been reduced to 14 from 40
The time limit has also come down from 60 to 30 days
The environmental ministry had given power to the urban local bodies to provide
environmental clearances for buildings of area upto 1,50,000 sq m
The payments can also be made electronically to the single urban body
National anthem made mandatory in UP primary schools

The national anthem must be sung by the Students every day in the primary schools of Uttar
Pradesh and on every Wednesday, schools will have to observes wachhata diwas -Cleanliness
Day.
The Youngest CM of India Akilesh Yadav led UP government directed that singing of
the national anthem, written by Rabindranath Tagore, has been made mandatory in basic
education schools.
BHEL commissions 250 Mw unit at Nabinagar plant in Bihar

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited has commissioned 250 MW coal-based thermal power plant in
Bihar.
This is the first 250 MW unit to be commissioned in the plant located at Nabinagar in
Aurangabad district of Bihar.
BHEL Commissions Supercritical Thermal Unit In Karnataka

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited owned by the Government of India, is a power plant equipment
manufacturer and operates as an engineering and manufacturing company based in New Delhi,
India
It has announced to commission a 700 MW Supercritical thermal unit at Bellary

Thermal Power Project in Karnataka.
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Singareni 600 MW power unit synchronized in Telangana
Power generation in the first of two 600 MW has been synchronised at the Singareni Thermal
Power Plant (STPP) at Pegadapalli in Jaipur of Adilabad District.
BHEL commissions second 270 MW thermal unit in Punjab

BHEL has commissioned another 270 MW unit at Goindwal Sahibcoal-fired power project in
Punjab, This comes after one month of the successful commissioning of a 270 MW thermal
generating unit of coal-based power unit at the same site.
The unit has been commissioned at the 2270 MW Goindwal Sahib coal-fired thermal
power project of GVK Power and Infra Limited (GVKPIL), in Tarn Taran district, near
Amritsar in Punjab
NTPC starts 250 MW unit in Bihar

Power major NTPC has commissioned a 250 MW Unit-I of its arm at Bihar.
The Unit-I of 250 MW of Nabinagar Thermal Power Station of Bhartiya Rail Bijlee
Company Ltd (a subsidiary of NTPC) has been commissioned on March 20, 2016
BHEL commissions 600 MW unit of Singareni project in Adilabad

Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd has commissioned 600 MW for the State-owned Singareni
Collieries, the second largest coal mining company. The first 600 MW unit of the 2600
MW(1,200 MW) thermal power project.
The second unit of the same project is in acutting-edge stage of construction and is
expected to be commissioned soon.
Fourth unit of NTPC-Bihar govt owned 195-Mw plant synchronized

The fourth unit of 195 Mw of Muzaffarpur Thermal Power Station (MTPS) was successfully
synchronised with the national grid.
The plant is owned by KantiBijlee Utpadan Nigam Ltd
BHEL commissions 40 MW hydropower generating unit in West Bengal
BHEL has commissioned the second 40 MW hydropower generating unit at the Teesta low
dam hydro electric project (HEP) stage IV in West Bengal.
STATE BUDGET 2016-17
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh presented the State Budget for the fiscal year
2016-17.
Uttarkhand Government presented the 40422 crores State budget 2016-17
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Telengana Government to present 1.30 Lakh crore Budget 2016-17

Goa CM Laxmikant Parsekar Presented State Budget for 2016-17
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis Government presented its State Budget for the year
2016-17
Haryana gov proposed a tax free budget for the financial year 2016-17.
Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia presented a Rs 46,600 crore annual budget for
2016-17
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Strategic dialogue between US and Pakistan
After the controversial deal of F-16 jets between US and Pakistan, a strategic dialogue on key
areas is likely to take place. This ministerial level dialogue will focus on areas like economy,
security and counter terrorism.
Flash points
This is the 3rd strategic dialogue between US and Pakistan after the Nawaz sheriff
government came into power
The initial talks began in 2010 was intervened after Osama Bin-laden was killed by US
forces in 2011
The talks resumed in 2014 after the meeting between Aziz and Mr.Kerry in
Washington
The six segments of the strategic dialogue include cooperation in economy and finance;
energy; education, science and technology; law enforcement and counterterrorism;
security, strategic stability and non-proliferation and defence
Peru declared emergency after oil spill Hits Rivers

Peru government has declared state emergency after a major oil pipeline burst affecting two
rivers in the countrys northeast region.
At least 3, 000 barrels of crude oil have spilled into the Chiriaco and Morona rivers
which are prime source of water for the use of people of this region.
Japan To Stipulate 80% Emission Cut Goal By 2050

Following the International Climate Agreement reached in Paris in December 2015, the
Japanese government will stipulate a long-term goal of cutting green house emissions by 80 per
cent by 2050 from current levels. A plan is being compiled to be completed before the G7 Summit
due in May.
Aiming to have all households shift to more energy efficient LED Lights by2030. It aims
to bring up the ratio of nuclear and renewable energy to 44% or more by 2030 to prevent
the non-nuclear thermal power generation from rising.
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WEF: India stood at 90th rank in terms of Energy Security
In accordance with the Global Energy Architecture Performance Index Report compiled by
WEF, India has been ranked at the 90th place in a list of 126 countries. The report prepared in
collaboration with Accenture.
Among the BRIC nations, Brazil led the list as by positioned at the 25th It is
followed by Russia (52nd), India (90th) and China (94th).
Fuel Trade patterns

As per report, fuel trade patterns have dramatically changed especially in Asia which accounted for
less than 20% of the world fuel trades in 2004 but this figure
has sharply risen to 35% in
2014, leading to a redistribution of forces and new alliances
around the world.
By 2040, Chinas net oil imports will be 5 times

those of the United States while Indias will easily
exceed EU.
Rank
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Country
Switzerland
Norway
Sweden
France
Denmark
Austria
Spain
Colombia
New Zealand
Uruguay
EU releases 252 million euros in aid for Palestinians

To support the Palestinian Authoritys health and education programmes and to offer
services to their refugees in the middle east, EU has released 252 mn Euros($274 millions).
The aid will help Palestine become prepared for a more accountable and democratic state in
the future. It is the first part of the 2016 aid package.
London-the most expensive city to live

A recent UK study reveals that London is the most expensive city to live in overtaking Hong
Kong .The study conducted by real estate firm Savills survey revealed that the most expensive
city to live and work in is London
Flash points
London has overtook Hong Kong, New York and have occupied the topmost place
It is also found that London is twice expensive as Sydney and four times that of Riode-Janeiro
The cost of living of London has grown up by 18% in the past 5 years
The accommodation for the average Londoner calculated as a total of housing and
office rental costs comes to 80,700 pounds a year, compared to 79,600 pounds in
New York and 73,800 pounds in Hong Kong
The productivity of cities and their value to global businesses clearly has a pronounced
effect on demand and hence rental costs
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The rising rents and the strong pound had pushed up the typical cost per individual
employee of renting somewhere to live and leasing office space to $120,000 (73,800)
a year
Londons overall real estate costs grew in US dollar terms by an annualised rate of 6%
in the first six months of the year, making the it the worlds most expensive city for
companies to locate employees
On the contrast, falling residential rents and a weakening currency contributed

toHong Kong, which had previously topped the table for five years running, dropping to
second place
The only Indian city in the list is Mumbai which occupies 17th position in the list of 20 cities ahead
of Rio-de-Janeiro,Berlin and Johannesberg
China launches first self propelled floating dock

In a move to modernize Beijings Navy, China has launched its first self propelled floating
dock, giving it the ability to repair warships from the coast.
The dock , Huachuan No.1 would enable the navy to return damaged ships to fighting
capability in very rapid time and is designed to be sent into combat zones. With this
achievement, the warships with minor damages can be repaired at mobility far out in the
sea.
The dock can handle cruisers, destroyers and submarines, but not Aircraft Carriers and
cope with waves upto 2 m high.
Worlds Costliest Train Station Opened In New York

The 9/11 site where the deadliest terrorist attack on the World Trade Centre in New York 14
years ago happened has the worlds costliest railway station . It was opened on March 3, 2016.
Key Highlights:
The station has been built at a cost of $3.85 billion and its space measures 350*115
feet at its widest point.
The centre connects New York to New Jersey, provides indoor commuter access to the
Trade centre towers.
UNSC Imposes Tough Sanctions Against North Korea Over Nuclear Test
The recent Nuclear test and the missile launch by North Korea which defied International
sanctions have come under scrutiny by the UN Security Council as it adopts tough sanctions against
her. It was her fourth nuclear test.
Reduce or ban exports of iron and iron ore, titanium, coal, gold, titanium and rare
earth minerals from North Korea and prohibit imports as well
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Japan signs pact to supply defence equipment to Philippines

Japan signed an agreement with the Philippines to supply defence equipment, the first such
pact by japan in the South Asian region.
Defence Secretary Voltaire Gazmin has signed pact with Japanese Ambassador to
Philippines Kazuhide Ishikawa.
India Signs Agreement With IEA For Energy Initiatives

The International Energy Agency, a Paris based organization will enhance its ties with India in
the fields of energy data and forecasting, a step towards raising engagement in technology
research and policy making.
THE AGREEMENT:
AIM:
To promote co-operation relating to energy sector analysis and planning, energy

sector modelling and forecasting and seeking broader dissemination of best practices of
energy sector analysis, modelling and forecasting techniques and a strategy towards
development of human resource in the energy sector.
To conduct joint research and studies for contribution towards development of integrated
energy policy, development of relevant technologies and in relation to global trends in pricing
and supply of energy supplies.
Pakistans Senate rejects national airline privatization bill

Pakistans upper house of Parliament rejected National Airline privatization bill- PIA (Pakistan
International Airlines) Corporation Conversion Bill 2015.
The bill was introduced by Federal Climate Change Minister Zahid Hamid.
India Denies Visa To Members Of US Religious Commission

The members of the US religious commission seeking to investigate the declining religious
independence in the country have been denied the Indian Visa.
Highlights
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is an

independent, bipartisan US federal government commission with commissioners
appointed by the US President and the leaders in both Houses of Congress.
The Chairman of USCIRF is Robert P. George
The members of the commission prepare reports on Religious Freedom in various

countries across the globe.
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UNHCR, UNICEF launched Blue Dot hubs to protect children & families on move across
Europe
UN Refugee Agency and UNICEF are setting up special support centres to ensure protection for
the growing numbers of children and others with specific needs arriving in Europe.
Twenty Child and Family Support Centres known as Blue Dots will provide a safe space
for children and their families.
The Dedicated Hubs aim to support vulnerable families, unaccompanied or separated

children at risk of sickness, trauma, violence, exploitation and trafficking.
Womens wages remain unchanged in 20 years: ILO Report

Women have actively involved themselves in various works across the world yet the gender
inequality in terms of income and work quality still remains unchanged in the past 20 years. This
was revealed in the International Labour Organizations Report.
Flash points
On International Womens Day, a new ILO report, Women at Work: Trends

2016 was released
The report noted that women are over represented in clerical service and sales work,
which are among the lowest paying jobs
Across the globe, the gender gap has just closed by 6% compared to 1995
The employment to population ratio remains 46% for women whereas it is 72% for men
in 2015
The proportion of women above retirement age receiving a pension is on average 6

percentage points lower than that of men
Though women have improved their educational Qualification the report shows that it has
not been reflected in the employment
In terms of wages, the results in the report confirm previous ILO estimates that globally,
women still earn on average 77 percent of what men earn
Women work for longer hours per day in both paid and unpaid work than men
In developed economies
Women work for 8 hours 9 min per day
Men work for 7 hours 36 min per day
In developing economies
Women work for 9 hours 20 min per day
Men work for 8 hours 7 min per day
Bangladesh and India sign $ 2 billion agreement for Socio economic projects
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India and Bangladesh have signed a new $2 billion credit agreement to implement socioeconomic development projects in Bangladesh and strengthen bilateral relations
Flash points
The interest rate has been fixed at 1 per cent annually with a 20-year repayment
term, including a five-year moratorium period
This is the biggest line of credit India has extended to any country so far
The agreement supports infrastructural projects, cooperation in social sectors such as

health and education, involving the establishment of medical colleges and hospitals,
the modernization of two teachers training institutes, and the upgrading of 49 polytechnic
institutes for better vocational training
India first extended a Line of Credit of $1 billion to Bangladesh in 2010
Of this, $200 million was later converted into grant and the line of credit was enhanced
from $800 million to $862 million in 2015 by means of an amendment to the
agreement
Seven of the total 15 projects have been completed
UNICEF & UNFPA launch Acceleration Programme to end Child Marriage

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations Childrens Emergency
Fund(UNICEF) jointly launched the Global Programme to Accelerate Action to End Child
Marriage.
Flash Points
The programme is a multi country cooperative and it will help protect the rights of
millions of the worlds most vulnerable girls by involving families, communities,
governments and young people
It will support those married girls in 12 countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle
East where child marriage rates are high
If current trends continue, the number of girls and women married as children will reach
nearly 1 billion by 2030
Child marriage hurts economies and leads to intergenerational cycles of poverty.
The programme supports the Target 5.3 of the Sustainable Development Goals that
vouches for elimination of child marriage by 2030
Pak launches probe into MQMs alleged ties with RAW

Pakistan Government has initiated probe into Karachi-based Muttahida Qaumi Movement
(MQM) partys Alleged ties with New Delhi based Research Analysis Wing (RAW) to destabilise
the country.
The Allegations levelled against Indias RAW gave money to the MQM party to
destabilise Pakistan, India has dismissed the allegations levelled against it.
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EIU Ranked Mumbai and Bangalore among Cheapest cities to live

Mumbai and Bangalore are among the cheapest cities in the world, according to a top London
forecast group (EIU).
Survey conducted by: Economic Intelligence Unit
Editor of the survey: Jon Copestake
Factors of the survey: Strength of the US dollar and currency devaluations to falling oil
and commodity prices and geopolitical uncertainty
Most expensive city: Singapore
Other expensive cities: Zurich, Hong Kong, Geneva and Paris
Least expensive cities: Lusaka followed by Bangalore and Mumbai
Flash points
London was sixth and New York seventh
Though Singapore was the most expensive, the cost of living there was 10 per cent cheaper
when compared to New York than was the case in the EIU survey a year ago
Serbia declares state of emergency over floods

The Serbian government has proclaimed a state of emergency as heavy rains are causing
extensive flooding and might force thousands to leave their homes
More than 50 people died in the deluge and about 700 homes were flooded across the
country with 170 people needing to be moved for their safety forcing thousands to leave
their homes.
India Inc first in the world to formally adopt UNs SDG

India Inc. is set to formally adopt the United Nations (UN) agenda for the
worlds sustainable development and the 17 goals identified for its implementation.
Flash points
Companies to adopt SDG: Tata Group, the Aditya Birla Group, Reliance, Vedanta, the Adani
Group and public sector behemoth Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and several MNCs
Aim of SDG: SDG aims at broadening the horizon for growth and transformation under the
theme of people, planet and prosperity
Implementing agency: UN Global Compact is the implementing agency for SDGs
First to adopt: India Inc. will be the first in the world to adopt the SDGs and implement them at
their companies
SDG & MDG:
SDG- Sustainable Development Growth; MDG- Millenium Development Growth
SDG- 17 goals; MDG- 8 goals
SDG will be a evaluated, monitored and reported in a time-bound manner
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MDG was in implementation from 2001-2015
Arab League declares Lebanese movement Hezbollah a terrorist group

The Arab League has declared Lebanese movement Hezbollah a terrorist group the decision
came during an Arab League foreign ministers meeting at the organisations headquarters in
Egypts capital Cairo.
Ireland Parliaments fails to elect Prime Minister

Ireland has arrived new constitutional territory after its parliament failed to elect a prime
minister and government following last months unsettled general election held on February 26
Incumbent Enda Kenny remains as prime minister until he manages to build coalition
support behind him or a different prime ministerial candidate is nominated.
China to set up an International Maritime Judicial Centre

Chinas Supreme Court is setting up its own international maritime judicial centre to
handle territorial disputes. China has been consistently fighting with its neighbours in Maritime
borders in South China Sea.
China & its controversies
China claims a large swathe of the South and East China Sea, creating multiple
overlaps with areas claimed by the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan
The new announcement by China is not welcomed by its rivals across the borders
The Philippines currently has a case lodged against China at the UNs Permanent Court
of Arbitration in The Hague
UNESCO & CJ Welfare signs agreement to launch Rainbow Ruby

In a move to support the education of girls across the world, UNESCO has joined hands with CJ
Welfare to start an animation program named Rainbow Ruby.
Organizations involved: UNESCO, CJ Welfare, Varkey foundation
Flash points
The agreement was signed during the 2016 Global Education and Skills Forum, hosted
by the Varkey Foundation
It builds on the Better Life for Girls campaign
It aims to help address the lack of access to quality education faced by girls in developing
regions
of a dream job, letting them imagine how their jobs can improve their lives in the future
Fourteen Indians in top 100 Global Venture Capitalists
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Is there anything in which Indians have not ventured into? Is there something which Indians have
not made a mark in? May be not! In fact, we should be proud that wherever we go, we will find at
least one Indian in the crowd and how could venture capitalism be left behind?!!
Of the top 100 Global Venture Capitalists, fourteen Indians have made us proud
today as they get themselves on the list.
The top ten among them are:

Name
Company
Sameer Gandhi
Accel Partners
Promod Haque
Norwest Venture Partners
Salil Deshpande
Bain Capital Ventures
Navin Chadda
Mayfield Fund
Asheem Chandna
Greylock Partners
Deven Parekh
Insight Venture Partners
Jai Das
Sapphire Ventures
Hemant Taneja
General Catalyst Partners
Neeraj Aggarwal
Battery Ventures
Krishna Kolluri
New Enterprise Associates
GLOBAL RANK
25
32
35
45
47
52
59
67
68
73
The list has been complied by CB Insights, a research firm that tracks VC and angel
investments
The report was led by Peter Fanton
Mauritania ratified 2014 Protocol to the Forced Labour Convention

Mauritania has ratified the 2014 Protocol to the Forced Labour Convention, 1930, emphasising
thereby the global movement against forced labour in all its forms, including human trafficking.
The country is among the first to formally implement the 2014 Protocol to the ILOs
Forced Labour Convention,This protocol comes after the likes of Mauritania, Niger,
Norway and the United Kingdom (Europe) ratified the protocol.
India ranked 118 in Happiness Index

The World Happiness report, 2016 released by Sustainable Development Solutions Network
(SDSN), a global initiative of the United Nations placed India in 118th rank in terms
of Happiness Index.
Top 10 Nations
Denmark tops the list holding the tag of Happiest Nation in the world
It is followed by Switzerland, Iceland ,Norway, Finland, Canada, Netherlands, New

Zealand with Australia and Sweden occupying 9th and 10th position respectively
US has been placed 13th behind Israel
India was ranked 118th in the list, down one slot from last year on the index
India comes below Somalia (76), China (83), Pakistan (92), Iran (105), Palestinian
Territories (108) and Bangladesh (110)
150 countries were analyzed
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Syria & Burgundi occupied the last positions in the list
Modi To Join World Leaders In Wax At Madame Tussauds

The Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is set to join the league of the most prominent
world leaders at the World famous Wax Museum Madame Tussauds in London.
Recently, Modi figured in the Time Magazines Person of the Years list which gives him
enough support to figure in the museum.
He is currently the second most followed politician on twitter after President Obama also
confirms the intense interest the public have in him
4th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves inaugurated in Lima

The 4th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves was inaugurated in Lima, Peru. It is a 3 day
event from 14th to 17th March. The event will focus on Sustainable Development Goals and the
Post Development agenda of 2015.
Participants of World Congress
It is a world meeting of the Committees of UNESCOs Man and the Biosphere Program(MAB)
The participants include experts from governments, biosphere reserves, local communities, UN
agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and organizations and institutions from all over the
world working with the MAB Programme
Objectives
To review of the implementation of the Madrid Action Plan for Biosphere

Reserves2008-2013, the Seville Strategy and the Statutory Framework of 1995
To assess the lessons learned and the new challenges to be faced by the World Network
of Biosphere Reserves
To develop and launch an Action Plan for Biosphere Reserves for 2016-2025
First Electrical Double decker bus operated in London

The worlds first fully electric-powered double-decker bus has been unveiled in London a
month ahead of its road release.
Being built by Chinese manufactures BYD, will be able to travel 180 miles on a single
charge
The buses are expected to cost more than 350,000
Modi On TIMEs Most Influential People On Internet For 2nd Yr

Well known for his Selfies, world tours, and catchy speeches to the Indian diaspora; and his social
media engagement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has earned another badge to his Kurta, TIMEs
Internet Star.
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Among Times thirty most influential people in the world, Modi has figured in the unranked
list for the second time in a row. Kudos to the visionary who has the most number of followers
on Social media after President Obama with 18 million Twitter Followers and 32 million
Facebook likes!!
Some of the people in the list include:
US presidential hopeful Donald Trump, Reality TV star Kim Kardashian and her husband
Kayne West, Author J K Rowling, Former Olympic athlete Caitlyn Jenner, Soccer star
Cristiano Ronaldo, Lily Singh and Josh Ostrovsky
Bangkok slaps curfew on Worlds biggest water festival

Bangkok is to impose a curfew during Songkran festival, the worlds biggest water festival in
April to show solidarity with farmers hit by drought.
Now, Thailand is facing its worst water shortage in two decades, with 14 out of 76
provinces hit and large swathes of agricultural land at risk.
FIFA admits taking bribes to hosting World Cup

FIFA has acknowledged that tens of millions of dollars in bribe money seized by U.S. federal
prosecutors in past World Cup hosting contests for the first time.
FIFA has submitted a 22-page claim to the U.S. Attorneys Office in New York on that
seeks a big share in restitution from more than $190 million
FIFA claims it is the victim of corrupt individuals, despite widespread criticism that bribetaking was embedded in its culture in the presidencies of Joao Havelange and Sepp
Blatter.
13th Broadband commission meet conducted at Dubai

The 13th meeting of Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development was held on 14
March 2016 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The two day meet of 13th Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development aims to
promote the power of broadband networks and services for the 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development
The meet brought the leaders from the public, private and social sectors together to seek
the solutions to achieving education, equity and employment for all
UNESCO Released Eatlas Of Gender Inequality In Education

The eAtlas of Gender Inequality in Education has been realised by the UNESCOs Institute for
Statistics (UIS).
AIM:To show gender gaps in education and educational trails of girls and boys.
The Report:
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One out of eight children between the ages of 6 and 15 remain entirely excluded
from receiving basic education, with girls facing the biggest barriers
Despite all the efforts and developments, the girls are still the first ones to be denied their
right to education
Almost 16 million girls will never get the chance to learn to read or write compared to
about 8 million boys
Gender inequalities remain highest in the Arab States, sub-Saharan Africa and
South, and West Asia
Across sub-Saharan Africa, 9.5 million girls will never set foot in a classroom compared to
5 million boys. Over 30 million children are out-of-school across the region
The gender gap is even wider in South and West Asia
In India, the number of out of school children of primary school age (both sexes) is 1
million and the number of out of school children of primary school age (only female) is
13.4 million
India provides 265 million grant for constituting Tagores memorial

As a part of the agreement signed during Narendra Modis visit to Srilanka, 265 million is given as
grant to constitute Rabindranath Tagores memorial Auditorium in Srilanka.
Location : Rabindranath Tagore memorial Auditorium is constructed in University of Ruhuna,
Matara
Grant : 265 million from India
Bidding
The competitive bidding was signed with M/S.Link engineering ltd
The bidding was signed in the presence of high commissioner of India, Y.K.Sinha, state
secretary,Minister of Higher education D.G.M.V.Hapuarachchi, Vice Chancellor of University of
Ruhuna Gamini Senanayake and other officials
Hinduja brothers top the Rich Asians List

The Hinduja brothers have emerged as the richest Asian-origin entrepreneurs in Britain for the
fourth consecutive year with an estimated personal fortune of 16.5 billion pounds.
Published by: Asian Media and Market
Assessment based on: The Asian Rich List assesses the total wealth of Britains top 101
richest Asians
Hinduja Group
Hinduja group had added one billion pounds to their personal fortune in a year to be
worth an estimated 5 billion pounds
Its Conglomerates- automotive, real estate and oil Gulf Oil, Ashok Leyland, IndusInd
Bank and Hinduja global Solutions appear to have done well
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Others in the List
Steel tycoon Lakshmi Niwas Mittal was ranked second in the list, with total wealth
Of 6.4 billion pounds
Sri Prakash Lohia, chairman of the Indorama Corporation, is listed 3rd richest with
fortune worth 3 billion pounds
The Arora brothers Simon, Bobby and Robin owners of discount retail chain
are4th richest with a fortune worth 1 billion pounds
The highest riser and a new entry is Cyrus Vandrevala, with 2 billion pounds at
number five
Leading NRI industrialist Lord Swraj Paul is listed as 15th richest with fortune
worth500 million pounds
EU strikes a deal with Turkey to return Migrants

The EU has struck a deal with Turkey that would allow all refugees and migrants arriving in
Europe being sent back across the Aegean Sea.
Confirmation of deal
The European council president, Donald Tusk, confirmed the deal on Friday afternoon
after clearing the key sticking points with the Turkish prime minister, Ahmet Davutolu
IKEA donates Rs 92 crore for safe water projects in India, Indonesia

On the occasion of the World Water Day Swedish retailing giant IKEA majorly sells Furniture
has pledged to contribute Rs 92.84 crore to provide safe water and sanitation to one million
people in India and Indonesia through Water.Org.
IKEA Foundation is committing Rs 92.84 crore to Org to expand its Water Credit model,
helping families have access to small, affordable loans so they can get
safe water andsanitation.
2% of Contagious diseases in India are linked to unsafe water and the lack of hygiene
practices the World bank survey stated, and 50% of Indias population continues to
practice open defecation.
Anand Mahindra and Aditya Puri among top global 30 CEOs

Barrons top list of CEOS across the globe finds a place for corporate honchos Anand
Mahindra(M&M) and Aditya Puri(HDFC).
Companies in the list Amazon, JP Morgan, Netflix, Disney, Alphabet ,Google are few top firms
in the list
Top CEOS
Warren Buffet(Berkshire Hathaway),David Cote(Honeywell), Jamie Dimon(JP Morgan Chase), Larry
Page(Alphabet), Howard Schultz(Starbucks) and Mark Zuckerberg(Facebook)
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Nepal to join Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO)

Nepal has joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as a dialogue partner. Joining SCO,
Nepal will enjoy the benefit of mutual cooperation with the other member nations of SCO.
Nepal joining SCO
Nepal joined SCO as dialogue partner after memorandum was signed by SCO secretarygeneral Rashid Olimov and Nepalese Foreign Secretary Shanker Das Bairagi
Being a dialogue partner, Nepal is able to participate in the multi-field cooperation of

the SCO
Azerbaijan was the another nation to join SCO as dialogue partner
PM Modi, Sania Mirza among contenders for TIMEs Most Influential people
The popular magazine across the globe, TIME has released its contenders for the top most
influential people in the world. India must feel proud having PM Modi, tennis player Sania
and Bollywood actress Priyanka in the list.
The editors of the Magazine will remain the final deciders however it has asked people to
vote for their favourite leader among the 127 contenders
Indian born CEOs of top firms Google and Microsoft- Sundar Pichai and Satya
Nadella also occupy the honorary position
Indian origin actor Aziz Ansari is also in the list
OECD released Standardised e-format for Exchange of Country-by-Country reports to

assist Tax Administration
The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development(OECD) has made a standardised
electronic format for the exchange of Country-by-Country (CbC) Reports between jurisdictions to
ensure swift and efficient implementation of the BEPS measures.
BEPS Measures:
Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS)refers to tax planning strategies that exploit
these gaps and mismatches in tax rules to artificially shift profits to low or no-tax
locations where there is little or no economic activity, resulting in little or no overall
corporate tax being paid.
The G20 BEPS Project had set out 15 key actions to reform the international tax
framework and ensure that profits are reported where economic activities are carried out
and value created.
Arvind Kejriwal placed in Fortune 50 leaders

The man who brought change in the Indian politics heading the Capital of the nation, Arvind
Kejriwal has been placed in the Fortune 50 leaders listed by Fortune magazine.
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Flash points
The 47 year old Aam Aadmi founder is placed in the top 50 leaders of the world
released by Fortune.He is the only Indian leader to occupy the list placed
at 42nd position
The list is headed by Amazon chief Jeff Bezos
The list also includes the Indian American South Carolinas governor Nikki Haley is also on
the list at 17th while another Indian- American Resham Saujani is at the 20th spot
Arvind Kejriwal has been placed at the list for his efforts to curb pollution in the capital
through Odd-even scheme
Women to be noted
Saujani-Founder and CEO of tech organization Girls Who Code
Her organization aims to get more women into computer science and by the end of this year,
more than 40,000 girls will have gone through its training and internship programmes
German Chancellor Angela Merkel (2), Myanmars pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi
at (3), IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde (36), Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Cochair and CEO Melinda Gates(41)
Another South Asian to be noted is Sheik Hasina(10), PM of Bangladesh
She has committed Bangladesh, the nation with the worlds fourth-largest Muslim population,
to securing legal protections for women and helping them attain more education, financial
freedom, and political power
US Congress passes bill to allow India to join APEC

In a move to strengthen the ties between India and US, the US congress has passed the bill in
senate which will allow India to be a member of APEC.
Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific Matt Salmon, introduced
the legislation in the US Congress
He was joined by Ami Bera, the only Indian- American lawmaker in the current
Congress, Co-Chair Congressional Caucus on India
Radovan Karadzic imprisoned for 40 years

Bosnian Serb convicted of genocide and war crimes in Bosnian war 1992-95 have been
sentenced to 40 years of imprisonment.
Karadzic, 70, is the most senior political figure to face judgment over the violent
collapse of Yugoslavia
His case is being seen as one of the most important war crimes trials since second
World War
China, India leading investors in Renewable energy: UN report
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The need of the hour, Renewable energy is the focus of all nations of the world owing to the rising
emissions. A recent report released by UN reveals that India & China have overtaken the
developed economies in terms of investment in Renewable energy.
The report Global Trends in Renewable Energy Investment for 2015 has been
released by the UN
The contribution by India, China & Brazil in 2015 in renewable energy sector amounts
to $156 billion
This is 19% more than that of 2014
On the contrary, the investments of developed nations declined by 8% to $130 billion
China holds one third of the global investment with $102.9 billion and India raised its
stake by 22% to $ 10.2 billion
Top 10 investments
The US, Japan, UK Brazil, South Africa, Mexico and Chile all made it to the top 10
investing countries in 2015
India to appeal against WTO verdict in solar case

India has decided to appeal against WTO verdict in solar panel case which was in favour of US.
The Union government earlier as part of its National Solar Mission, imposed a
stipulation that solar cells and solar modules be locally sourced
The US government filed a case in WTO against India demanding equal market for
domestic as well as foreign traders
The measure was taken by the ministry of power following the concerns raised by the
domestic traders to protect their interests
Ministry of Power, Piyush Goyal also told that the government would have imposed
heavy anti dumping duty to support the domestic manufacturers but the government
paid respect to the US
Security Council extends UN Mission in Somalia

The Security Council has decided to extend the UN assistance provided to Somalia due to the
political instability prevailing in the nation.
The 15 members of the Council unanimously adopted an extension of UNSOMs work to

support the Federal Governments peace and reconciliation process
It includes preparation for an inclusive, free, fair and transparent electoral process in
2016 and universal elections by 2020
The assistance will be given till March,2017
Obama makes Historic visit to Cuba
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US President, Barack Obama made a historic visit to Cuba which was its rival nation for years.
This visit is historic because it is the first visit of a US president in 88 years.
It is a three day visit by Obama. Since rapprochement, the two sides have restored
diplomatic ties, signed commercial deals on telecommunications, and scheduled
airline services
On the eve of Obamas visit, a US hospitality company announced its first business
deal in Cuba since the 1959 revolution, while online lodging service Airbnb said it
would now allow travellers from around the world to book stays in private homes in Cuba
U.K. Lifts Ban On Sikh Separatist Outfit

The British government has lifted the ban on the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF)
after both houses of the British Parliament supported a motion to drop it from the list of proscribed
organisations.
The International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF) is a proscribed organisation that aims to
establish an independent homeland for the Sikhs of India in Khalistan. It is banned
under Japanese, British, Indian, Canadian and American terrorism legislation.
Syrian Army recaptures historic city of Palmyra from IS

Syrian government forces drove Islamic State out of Palmyra, inflicting what the army called a
mortal blow to militants who seized the city last year and dynamited its ancient temples.
Egyptian plane hijacked to Cyprus

EgyptAir Flight MS181 was taken over by a passenger claiming to be wearing a suicide
explosive A hijacking that diverted a domestic Egyptian flight that was scheduled to land in Cairo.
At least 55 passengers were on board to Cyprus has ended with all hostages released
and the hijacker surrendering.
UNICEF Launches Unfairy Tales Of Refugee And Migrant Children

The UN Childrens Fund (UNICEF) launched a series of animated films to help frame positive
insights toward the tens of millions of children and young people on the move worldwide.
At least 65 million children and young people globally are on the move to escape
conflict, poverty and extreme weather and find a stable life and a place to call home
The Unfairy Tales are part of an initiative,#actofhumanity, highlighting that children are
children, no matter where they come from, and that every child has rights and deserves a
fair chance
Ebola threat comes to an end in West Africa
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Ebola the viral disease that had been haunting the African Nations and their neighbours for
more than a year has been declared no longer a medical emergency.
WHO has declared the Ebola outbreak to be no longer a global threat as the disease is
under control and necessary measures are available to treat the epidemic.
France operation Sangaris comes to an end in CAR

France will end its three year long military operation Sangaris in Central African Republic which
came into force in 2013 following a communal violence.
The France government proposed to withdraw its troops citing the formation of the new
government under Faustin-Archange Touadera and restoration of peace
ICCR to set up first Indian Chair in Arab world at Cairo

India will institute its first Chair in the Arab world at Egypts third largest university Ain Shams
University (ASU) in Cairo.
Indias Ambassador to Egypt Sanjay Bhattacharyya and Prof AbdelWahab Ezzat, acting
president signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the project.
BANKING & FINANCE

IFC launched its first Uridishi Masala bond mobilizing $ 4.3 million
IFC, a member of World Bank group has launched its first Uridishi masala bond in India to
mobilize 300 million rupees from Japanese household investors to promote private sector
investment in India.
Masala bonds are rupee-denominated instruments sold only to offshore investors
Uridishi bonds are sold to Japanese household investors
The three-year bond builds has raised the equivalent of $1.7 billion from international
investors for investment in India
Uridishi Masala bonds will be used to support private sector investment in India
Indo-WB inked Financing Agreement worth US$300 Million for MPHEQIP

Washington D.C. headquartered World Bank, Government of India and Government of
Madhya Pradesh has inked a credit concord worth of US $300 million for the Madhya Pradesh
(MP) Higher Education Quality Improvement Project.
The credit has been given by the International Development Association (IDA), the
World Banks concessionary lending arm.
It is sanctioned for a period of 25 years, including a 5 year grace period.
RBI unlocks 40000 crores to capitalize banks
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RBI announced relaxation of certain norms in the balance sheet which will unlock 40,000 crores
to support the capital requirement of Indian banks.
Flash points
Indian banks are facing a huge loss due to the increase in Non Performing
assetswhich have eroded the Capital of these banks
The revised RBI norms will give public sector banks (PSB) access to additional capital of
INR 35,000 crore
It could be about INR 5,000 crore for private sector banks
Indias GDP growth to hike by 7.8% in 2016-17: Nomura

Nomura has told in a recent report that Indias GDP growth will rise from 7.6% to 7.8% in the
year 2016-17.GDP growth would be based on high discretionary demand driven by 7th pay
commission.
Flash points
Industrial production declined to 2 % in November, however these are temporary and

the under lying Industrial growth remains positive says Nomura
The industrial production was slowed down due to Chennai flood and diwali holidays but in
January the growth has picked up
According to Nikkei India PMI Index, Indias manufacturing growth has remained
unchanged in February at 1 from January reading, which was a four-month high
Government Cancels IRB Contract

Union Government has cancelled the contract for the RS. 10, 050 crore Zojila Pass Tunnel
Building Project.
South Asias longest Tunnel project at Zojila Pass in Jammu & Kashmir to offer all
weather connectivity to the Lah ladakh region.
With this cancellation of the contract, IRBs order size will decline to about Rs. 6, 500
crore.
RBI Released Draft Directions For Non-Banking Financial Company Account Aggregator
The Non Banking Financial Company- Account Aggregator Directions, 2016 was released by RBI on
March 3, 2016 to put in place a regulatory framework to allow a separate category of Non
Banking Financial Company to emerge as an Account Aggregator.
Key Points:
Only Companies registered with RBI as NBFC-AA will be allowed to carry out the
business of an account aggregator.
The net owned fund of such companies should not be less than Rs 2 crores
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Initially, Financial Assets of which the records are stored electronically and are under the
regulation of any Regulator namely SEBI, PFRDA, RBI and IRBA will be considered for
aggregation.
Foreign Banks Get Myanmar Licence

Under the Junta rule, Myanmars banking system was closed for decades for outside competition
which now has been changing in the recent past since the 2011 reformist government came to
power and the landmark elections in November 2015.
Vietnams Bank for Investment and Development
Taiwans E.SUN Commercial Bank
South Koreas Shinhan Bank
State Bank of India
Capital Area Bank first to get small finance bank licence

Jalandhar based Capital Local Area Bank Limited has given small financial bank licence by the
Reserve Bank of India, The Operation of the Bank will kick start from April 13, 2016.
Punjab based company is the first among ten players to get final licence from the Bankers
Bank. The Bank currently serving as a local area bank.
Axis bank better placed than ICICI and other PSU Banks
Nomura reports reveal that Axis bank is better placed than ICICI and other public sector bank in
terms of corporate book profitability.
Flash points
Global financial services firm Nomura said that the third largest private sector bank in
India-Axis bank is better placed than ICICI and other PSUs in terms of corporate book
profitability
About 20-25% of Axis banks corporate books are stressed
Government May Merge 27 Public Sector Banks Into Just Six

Bad Loans in the Public Sector Banks have been a pressing issue for the growth of the economy
and in an attempt to address the problem; the Government may look into merging the twenty
seven PSBs into just six.
Such a move was discussed in the recently held retreat of the chiefs of the PSBs, Gyan
Sangam.
Global rating agency Fitch has maintained the Forecast of Indias growth at 7.5
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Global rating agency Fitch has maintained its growth forecast for India at 7.5 per cent this fiscal
and sees higher growth over the next two financial years.
Points to note
Fitch also claims for a 8% growth in short term is not possible
Fitch has maintained its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for India for
the fiscal year ending March 2016 at 5 per cent
Growth is expected to gradually accelerate to 7 per cent in 2016-17 and 7.9 per cent
in 2017-18
Higher real disposable income, a normal monsoon and a substantial wage increase
for central government employees will support economic recovery
Structural reforms like Land Acquisition Amendment Bill and the Goods and
Services Tax also likely to support the growth
SoftBank splits into two subsidiaries

Japan based Telecommunication major Soft Bank group Corp plans to split its domestic and
overseas business given them Separate Chief executives for their entity.
This move is to bolster Shareholder value after a staggering $ 4.4 billion US share
buyback plan a month ago.
Softbanks stakes in U.S. wireless carrier Sprint and Chinese E-commerceCompany

Alibaba Group Holding to a new global operations management subsidiary. The Company
president Nikesh Arora will now head the overseas Management Company.
CBDT sets up dedicated structure for monitoring taxpayer services

To address various issues of taxpayers the Department of Revenue has sets up dedicated
structure for monitoring taxpayer Services.Revenue and Tax Payer Services member will watch
over the delivery and monitoring of taxpayer services in CBDT.
Under this initiative two separate Directorates, called Directorate of Tax Payer
Services-I&II have been set up. These Directorates will be responsible for delivery and
monitoring of taxpayers services in the field offices and e-services deliverable through
various electronic platforms of the Department.
YES Bank started its All Women Branch in Bengaluru

As a part of the International Womens day celebrations various Banks announced schemes related
to women. YES Bank also joined this list by starting its first All women operated branch Yes
Grace in Bengaluru.
Flash points
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The new branch, served by eight employees currently and with plans to raise the count
to 12, will also drive for financial literacy, family banking, safety and wellness amongst
women
Two more all-women bank branches were opened in at Kalkaji, New Delhi and Vile
Parle (E), Mumbai
RBI to share FDI details with IB & RAW

The Reserve Bank of India will now share its FDI details with the Intelligence Bureau and
Research and Analysis Wing to prevent the entry of Black money into the country.
Flash points
The committee headed by Revenue Secretary decided to provide the details of FDI
resting with RBI to IB & RAW
Govt removes proposed tax on EPF withdrawals

Union government has rolled back controversial EPF Tax withdrawal
The proposal announced in the Budget Speech had sought to make up to 60 per cent of
savers corpus withdrawn from the EPF tax-free if invested in annuity, the period return on
the annuity was to be taxable.
ICICI Bank launches credit-linked subsidy scheme under PMAY

Indias largest private Sector Lender launched a credit-linked subsidy scheme for home loans
under the Pradhan MantriAwasYojana.
This Scheme will benefit the individuals including women borrowers from the economically
weaker section low income grouped people.
They will be able to acquire and construct the first brick-and-mortar (Pucca
House) house of the family by paying significantly lower Equated Monthly Instalments
(EMIs).
HDFC Bank ties up with 5 start ups

The HDFC bank has chosen five start ups from 30 applications to work together in its field of
operations.
Five companies
Senseforth Technologies into AI customer response
Tagnpin -a marketing and customer engagement company
Safe 2 Pay-a point of sale-free payment system
Bugclipper-an in-app feedback tool
Taptis Technology a biometric payment company
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Employees to get incentive for 1 year from EPFO

The Employee Provident Fund Organisation as a part of seeding the UAN number with KYC has
announced an incentive for the employees who register between January and December 2016.
Flash points
Incentive: Employees can claim 5 to 10% of administrative charges for 1 year
Duration: From January to December 2016
What for? To encourage the employees to seed the UAN with KYC details
Details included in KYC: Permanent Account Number, Aadhar Card, Bank account details
Allotted UAN numbers: 6.38 crores
Crisil Estimates Indias GDP Growth at 7.9%

The domestic rating agency Crisil has estimated the GDP growth of India at 7.9% for the fiscal
year 2016 provided the Monsoon remains normal and the government implements the
announced reforms.
The estimated GDP growth remains to be the highest prediction so far pointing at 9%
growth as estimated by Crisil
The chief economist pointed that it is possible with the Monsoon being normal and the
implementation of the economical reforms gearing up to achieve the target
Moody maintains SBI & IDBI ratings unchanged

Moodys Investors Service have told that the local and foreign currency deposit ratings of State
Bank of India and IDBI Bank at Baa3/P-3
Baa-3: Baa (Global Long-Term Rating Scale) are judged to have medium-grade intrinsic, or
standalone, financial strength, and thus subject to moderate credit risk
P-3 : P-3 (Global Short-Term Rating Scale) issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3
has an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations
Modifier 3 specifies to generic rating classification and Baa represents lower rank
India Post selects Deloitte as consultant for payments bank

India Post Picked Deloitte as Consultant for Payments Bank to advise it on setting up a payments
bank and an agreement between the two would be signed.
The PIB has already approved the Rs 800-crore proposal of India Post and in 15 days it
will be kept before the cabinet for its final approval.
ICICI Bank Ties up with Ferrari for co-branded Credit Card

Indias largest private sector lender ICICI has signed a pact with Italian luxury sports car
manufacturer Ferrari to issue co-branded credit cards.
The Ferrari Credit Card comes on the Visa platform in two variants and offers
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customers a host of offers including an all-expenses-paid trip for top spenders to Italy
and also includes a Scuderia Ferrari watch as a joining gift.
Kotak Mahindra Group ties up with Canada Pension Plan for investment in Indian
stressed assets
Kotak Mahindra Bank Group has signed an agreement up with Canadian Pension Plan
Investment Board (CPPIB) to launch a $525 million fund to invest in the stressed asset market
in India. The Canadian pension fund manager will have the option to invest up to $450 million in
this partnership
Under this agreement stated fund will work with Kotak Mahindra Group and its
associate firms.
RBI is likely to pay 57000 crores as dividend to the Government

The Reserve Bank of India is likely to pay the government Rs 57,000 crore in dividends in the
fiscal year 2016-17.
Flash points
The amount paid is slightly lesser than the previous fiscal year but much higher than the
previous years
Last year, the government received Rs.73,905 crores as dividends from various state
owned banks and the RBI
This fiscal year it has estimated to receive Rs.69,897 crores
However the split up of money from banks is not given and it expects 55000-60000
crores from RBI
SBI disburses Rs 1,465 crore OROP arrears

Indias largest lender State Bank of India has released arrears worth Rs.1, 465 crore to about
7.75 lakh defence beneficiaries under OROP scheme ,the scheme is expected to cost the
government Rs 7,500 crore per
Under One Rank One Pension the pensioners will get their first instalment (1/4th of the
total arrear amount up to February, 2016) to service pensioner
Family pensioners and gallantry award pensioners will be eligible to get full amount of
arrears paid on 14th March.
Pay interest on savings accounts every quarter: RBI to banks

Reserve bank of India asked banks to credit interest on savings accounts every quarter or
shorter than that of the fiscal.
Interest rate on savings bank account is calculated on daily basis since April 1, 2010
and it is credited in savings bank account on half-yearly basis.
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The revised interest rate credit payment may put a burden of 500 crore on banksbut the
move by the central bank which will benefit crores of savings account holders.
ICICI Bank launches contactless mobile pay solution iTap

ICICI Bank, has now launched a new NFC-based mobile payment system enabling contactless
transactions via itsPockets app.
The new system enables its credit and debit users to make in-store contactless payments
by simply waving their smartphones near an NFC-enabled mobile phone running
Android 4.4 and above for making the payment at any merchant terminal.
ICICI has become the first bank to use Host card Emulation Technology for its
payment system.
IDBI Bank ATMs Can Be Used For Bond Purchase

The Industrial Development Bank of India (IDBI) is an Indian Public Sector Bank
headquartered at Mumbai which was established in 1964.
HIGHLIGHTS
In order to boost retail participation in Govt bond investments, IDBI has now allowed its
customers to invest in these bonds through its ATMS.
The facility of investing in G-Sec through ATM is an extension of Banks Samriddhi GSec Portal to enable retail investors to transact in government securities.
The retail customers of the Bank can register, one time, for this facility and invest in GSec through any of the Banks ATMs
Government slashed the interest rates of PPF from 8.7% to 8.1%

The government announced that Interest rate on Public Provident Fund (PPF) scheme will be
cut to 8.1 per cent for the period April 1 to June 30, from 8.7 per cent.
The rates of Public Provident Fund was slashed by 60 basis points, and Kisan Vikas
Patra, by 90 basis points
Schemes suffering reduction

The new interest rates for 12 small savings schemes, including term deposits of one to five years
maturity, five-year recurring deposit, five-year Senior Citizen Savings Scheme, five-year
Monthly Income Scheme, Sukanya Samriddhi Account Scheme, and National Savings
Certificate
New Rates
Five-Year National Savings Certificates will earn an interest rate of 1 per cent as
against 8.5 per cent
Five-year Monthly Income Account will fetch 7.8 per cent as opposed to 8.4 per cent
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Two-year time deposit will now earn 2 per cent instead of 8.4 per cent, three-year time
deposit will earn 7.4 per cent instead of 8.4 per cent, five-year time deposit will
earn7.9 per cent instead of 8.5 per cent
Five-year recurring deposit will earn 4 per cent instead of 8.4 per cent
Chhattisgarh Disburses 1800 crores for MUDRA

The Chhattisgarh government has disbursed Rs 1, 821-crore loans to several beneficiaries under
the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA (Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency) Yojana (PMMY)
Flash points
The Chhattisgarh state government had designed a grass-root level planning to

promote the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) for facilitating investment in
the sector
The Department of Commerce and Industry planned to organise workshop in each

district in which public representatives were invited
HDFC Bank launches banking solution for startups

After SBIs InCube and RBL Banks India start-up Club, HDFC Bank has also come up with
its solution for startups, called SmartUp. SmartUp has been launched in association with Zone
Startups India (ZSI), a Mumbai-based start-up accelerator.
The mission of SmartUp is not only to provide basic banking transactions, but also
valuable services like advisory services, forex and payment solutions. Account holders
can also get recommendations of a chartered accountant for tax, regulatory and
compliance issues.
IRDA approved LICs idea to invest in PSBs

The regulatory authority of Insurance sector has given its nod to the Biggest life insurance
company of India- LIC to invest in the Public Sector Banks.
Flash points
IRDA after complete scrutiny of the investments of LIC in PSUs have agreed to the proposal
of increasing its investments in Public sector banks
RBI had expressed concern over LIC making huge investments in PSU banks, saying it can
affect the financial stability
But VR Iyer, Member, IRDA, led the team which held discussions with LIC and also found
LICs equity investment is just 6-7 per cent and investments in banks are still a smaller
portion
Government cancels Recognition of Delhi Stock Exchange

The Government has withdrawn its recognition to DSE following the cancellation of recognition of
its activities by SEBI in 2014.
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DSEs recognition was cancelled following the serious irregularities in its

demutualization functioning
DSE was formed in 1947
Under certain provisions of Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956, the

recognition to stock exchanges can be withdrawn if it has not been corporatized and
demutualised within the specified time
Current Account Deficit fell to 1.3% of GDP

Indias current account deficit, the excess of imports over exports, fell further to 1.3% of the
gross domestic product due to benefits of lower commodity prices.
Flash points
Reserve Bank of India data showed current account deficit (CAD) at $1 billion in the
third quarter ending December, lower than $8.7 billion or 1.7% of GDP in the
preceding quarter
Last year the CAD was at $7.7 billion and at 1.5% of GDP
The fall in commodity prices helped lowering of trade deficit to $34 billion from $37.4
billion
Net outflow for the third quarter was just about $0.2 billion compared with net
outflow of $3.5 billion in the preceding quarter
Remittances by Indians employed overseas fell to $15.8 billion
Indias foreign exchange reserves, excluding changes in currency valuation rose

$14.6 billion during April-December 2015 as compared with $31.3 billion in the last
year
Indias GDP growth projected at 7.7%

Indias GDP growth has been projected at 7.7% in a report released by Rating agency ICRA.
Estimation
The GDP growth for the current fiscal is estimated at 7.6% in current fiscal and it is projected to
grow to 7.75% in 2016-17
Reasons
Increase in domestic consumption post the implementation of the Seventh Central Pay
Commissions recommendations and One Rank One Pension (OROP)
Rs 1.2 lakh crore in Plan expenditure in 2016-17 will influence the pace of
infrastructure augmentation and economic growth
Hikes in excise duty has brought a revenue of 17,000 crores
Bajaj Finance enters life care financing segment
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Bajaj Finance is entering the Rs 20,000-crore life care segment under which it will finance
expenses for stem cells storage units, cosmetics-based hair treatment, dental and eye care, IVF &
maternity care, laparoscopic cure for a dozen ailments, and elective medical/paramedical care for
many other issues.
Anyone can get interest-free loan for personal care treatment at VLCC, Kaya Skin
Clinic and Enhance Clinic, among others.
In the next five years, the company expecting a segment growth of Rs 1,000 crore.
The segment has the potential to grow up to 12% of the portfolio.
World Bank to support Swachh Bharat Mission

World Bank proposed a $ 1.5 billion dollar as funding to the clean India campaign popularly
known as the Swachh Bharat in rural areas
According to the cabinet approval, the fund will be incentivized based on the performance
based indicators like DLis
The states are asked to disburse 95% of the fund to various channels in the rural areas
to implement the measures of SBI(G)
RBI makes it easier for banks to improve liquidity

The watchdog of the Indian Banking system, RBI has announced to soften the rules on
Liquidity measurement there by providing a sigh of relief for the banks to be in accordance with
the new Basel III norms.
Measures announced by RBI
Liquidity Coverage Ratio need not include the retail deposits whose maturity value is
beyond a month
The calculation also excludes the pledged deposits over 30 days maturity date
Cash outflows of retail term deposit whose residual maturity or withdrawal notice
period of greater than 30 days can be excluded from cash outflows calculation
Previously bulk deposits over 1 crore where earlier withdrawals were not permitted only
can be excluded from calculations
Corporate debt securities which are not issued by banks, NBFCs, financial institution
will be subject to 50% haircut which earlier was 20%
The above can also be considered as Liquidity Risk Monitoring tool
Lakshmi Vilas Bank ties up with NBHC for collateral management & warehousing
Sector lender Lakshmi Vilas Bank kept its alliance with National Bulk Handling
Corporation Private Limited (NBHC), a major Agri-Infrastructure player for collateral
management and warehousing services.
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The primary objective of these services will allow industry traders and farmers in
financing their capital requirements at all stages of supply chain, ranging from preharvesting to the marketing and export stages.
This would allow the bank to provide financial flexibility to farmers, minimising the
seasonal price fluctuations and distress sales during crop harvest season.
South Indian Bank gets ISO 9001:2008 certification

Kerala based South Indian Bank has disseminated that its personnel department has achieved
the ISO 9001:2008 certification.
South Indian Bank came into being during the Swadeshi movement established
in1929 spread across more than 26 states and 3 union territories in India
BMI projects Indias growth at 7.2%

The Indian economy which is a fast growing economy in the world has been projected at 7.2% by
the BMI research. The growth has been speculated by various rated agencies across the world.
Central Statistics Office had projected 6 per cent GDP growth rate in February
According to Japanese financial services major Nomura, Indias GDP growth is likely to
pick up to 8 per cent in fiscal 2016-17
But the BMI research has projected the GDP growth at 2% compared to 7.3% last year
Indian economy is likely to face challenges in various sectors owing to the weak
economy of the world
It also told that schemes under Modis governance have contributed to the incremental
growth of economy
The Indian government aims to reduce subsidies through the JAM (Jan Dhan-AadhaarMobile) initiative that will avoid leakages will help reduce expenditures and aid longterm fiscal deficit consolidation plans
DIPP nods 49% FDI in Insurance and Pension Sector

The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) board have approved the liberalization
in Insurance and pension sector. It has given its nod to 49% of FDI in the sector
The Commerce and Industry Ministry on Wednesday notified 49% foreign direct
investment (FDI) under automatic route in insurance and pension sector as announced by
FM Arun Jaitley
Earlier, only up to 26% FDI was permitted through the automatic approval route
FDI into the country grew by 40% to $29.44 billion in 2015
Revised RBI rules for rehab of MSMEs to reduce Bad loans
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The biggest problem faced by the Indian banking sector in the recent days is the piling up of Bad
loans. The RBI has been taking various measures to reform the banking sector and bring down the
NPAs. As a part of its efforts, it has revised the Rules for rehabilitation of MSMEs.
Flash points
FICCI has commented on RBIs move calling it to be a rehabilitation measure for

MSMEs
The measures include formation of special mention account and committee at the
district level to manage stressed accounts
The new framework is applicable to MSMEs having loan limits of upto 25 crores
The framework proposed will be institutionalized by MSMEs before June 30, 2016
RuPay to launch Credit Cards in September

National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) owned and developed RuPay will be offering the
credit card segment this September. It plans to issue 100,000 such cards in the first year of its
launch.
Initial focus to be on two variants regular and platinum, there are 241 million RuPay
cards in circulation comprising 35 per cent of the total card base in India and accounting to
20 percent of all card-based transactions.
IOB Starts issuing of Gold bonds

The Union government announced three important gold schemes in the last year.One of the three
schemes is the issue of gold coins through banks. As a part of implementation, the Indian
Overseas Bank has started issuing the gold coins in its branch.
Flash points
IOB is the first bank which has started the issue of gold coins
The gold coins are available in the denomination of 5,10 and 20 gms
The Indian Gold Coin is of 24 carat purity, 999 fineness and has the national emblem
of Ashok Chakra engraved on one side and the face of Mahatma Gandhi on the other
World Bank approved to Jordan and Rajasthan

The long-term loan, almost interest free by World Bank of $100 million loan to Jordan for job
creation, comes after Lebanon was also awarded $100 million to ensure universal school enrolment
for Lebanese and Syrian refugee children by 2017.
In an attempt by the international community to improve conditions for refugees in

overburdened regional host Jordan will get a cheap $100 million loan to help create
100,000 jobs for Syrian refugees and its own citizens.
World Bank approved $250 million loan to Support Electricity Distribution Sector Reforms
in Rajasthan
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The World Bank Board granted Long term Loan of $250 million Development Policy Loan for
Rajasthan.
The loan, from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), has a
5-year grace period, and a maturity of 18 years.
Federal Bank to open incubation centres for startups

Federal Bank plans to set up incubation centers for startups in Bangalore and Ernakulam.
These are expected to offer advice on capital, regulatory support and even disburse funds in the
branches.
These centres are named as Launchpad, equipped with fast internet connections, support
staff from the financial world and advisory mechanisms.
The bank has a dedicated startup fund of worth 25 crore which will be utilized for funding
or lending to promising startups. The bank also plans to integrate its mobile payments
application Chillr.
RBI announces private placement of securities under UDAY scheme

The Banking regulator RBI had announced the private placement of securities for UDAY
scheme adding further boost to the scheme.
Flash points
RBI has asked the interested market participants to subscribe for securities before March
30
The special securities under UDAY are being issued by governments of Bihar, Haryana,
Jammu and Kashmir, Jharkhand, Punjab and Rajasthan
The scheme is expected to help discoms save around Rs 8 lakh crore in the next three
years
Bharat Bank ties up with Chillr to make payments easier

Mumbai based Bharat Bank customers now will be able to use Chill app services, a lender from
the co-operative space, will be able to instantly transfer money to anyone in their phonebooks.
Chillr is the fastest and easiest way to send money between bank accounts and works
even on bank holidays.
RBI, Sri Lanka Central Bank Sign Currency Swap Pact

Reserve Bank of India Currency swaps agreement with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka the pact
would allow its Sri Lankan counterpart to draw up to $700 million over a maximum period of
three months under a new special currency swap agreement signed by the two central banks.
Sri Lanka is seeking a loan of $1.5 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to
boost foreign exchange reserves and help avert a balance of payments crisis.
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RBI has previously provided currency swaps to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, including plans
to extend a $1.5 billion agreement by one year.
ADB lowers Asias growth forecast to 5.7%

The Asian Development Bank headquartered at Manila, has brought down the forecast of growth of
Asia to 5.7% for the financial year 2016-17.
Flash points
The Asian Development Outlook, a supplement of ADB has predicted the growth of Asian
economy to be at 5.7%
This was due to the reduced global demand and a slow Chinese economy
Earlier the growth was predicted at 6%for 2016 in December,2015
However the weak recovery in major industrial economies and softer growth prospects
for the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) have acted as reasons to bring down the projections
Projections for India
It has remarked that India will be one of the fast growing economies in the world
Due to the stall of certain development projects , the growth may dip to 4% but the
reforms taken will increase the rate by 7.8% in 2017-18
The economy will expand to 7.6% in 2016-17
CBDT signed 11 Advance Pricing Agreements

The Central Board of Direct Taxes department has signed 11 Advance Pricing Agreements with
taxpayers overseas to reduce litigations.
Flash points
With this India has signed totally 59 unilateral and/or bilateral agreements
The APA was enacted in the Income tax act, 2012 and rollback provisions were provided
in 2014
The agreements cover corporate guarantees, royalty, software development services,

IT enabled services and trading
European Investment Bank to loan 450 million for Lucknow Metro

The European Unions official bank European Investment Bank will Provide loan to Lucknow
Metro Project of 450 million (about Rs. 3,300 crore) towards constructing a 23-km long rail line
and a purchasing a fleet of new trains.
The metro project will be the most expensive public transport system in the state
of Uttar Pradesh costing Rs.6928 cr
The EUs official bank and the worlds largest international public bank, and its loan will
cover half of the total project costs for the Lucknow Metro.
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Government permits 100% FDI in e-commerce
The government has allowed 100% FDI in e-commerce through automatic route in marketplace
model of retailing. This is not applicable to the inventory based model of e-commerce.
Key features
100 per cent FDI is permitted in B2B (business-to-business) transactions under the
automatic route
According to the norms, an e-commerce firm will not be permitted to sell more than 25
per cent of total sales from one vendor or its group companies
RBI cancels recognition of 22 NBFCs

RBI has cancelled the certificate of registration of 22 NBFCs . Earlier, in the month beginning 6
more NBFCs licenses were cancelled Due to the cancellation, the firms cannot enter into the
financing business.
RBI has cancelled the registration owing to its powers conferred under Section 45-IA (6)
of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934
Kundan Leasing and Finvest, Raseera Investments, Limtex Impex, Dignity Motors
Finance, Akansha Consultancy Services, Bini Commercial Enterprises, Nirankar
Investments, and Surin Investments are the NBFCs whose registration has been
cancelled
SEBI raises FPI investment limit

The market regulator SEBI has raised the FPI (Foreign Portfolio Investors) investment limit in
government securities to 1,40,000 crore from April,4.
Hikes in limits
FPI Investments in government securities will be raised to 140000 crores in April,4 and
1,44,000 crores in July
FPI limits in SDLs will be increased from 7000 crores to 10,500 crores in April and 14000
crores in July
Long term FPIs will be made 50000 crores in April and 56000 crores in July
Japan commits loan worth 14251 crores

Japan has been providing support to India both financially and technically when it comes to the
development of Infrastructure. It has now committed a loan worth 242.2 billion yen for the
various infrastructure projects in India.
Transmission System Strengthening Project in Madhya Pradesh -JPY 15.45 billion
Odisha Integrated Sanitation Improvement Project -JPY 25.7 billion
Dedicated Freight Corridor Project (Phase 1) -JPY 103.6 billion or Rs 6,170 crore
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North East Road Network Connectivity Improvement Project- JPY 67.1 billion
Jharkhand Horticulture Intensificationby Micro Drip Irrigation Project -JPY 4.65 billion
BUSINESS
Delhi Metro To Ferry Cargo On Airport Express Line From March 1.
The Delhi Metro will start cargo Services on Airport Express Line from March 1, 2016, the
service will be experimental for the period of three months.
This service to carry only Non- perishable and merchandise of E-commerce sites.
This initiative by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation would be the first ever occasion in
India to carry Cargo on Metro Rails.
Infosys to collaborate with Microsoft on analytics solution

Indias second largest IT Company Infosys to offer Healthcare Analytic Solutions on Microsoft
Intelligent Cloud Technology.
This initiative will provide managed care organisations with the tools to improve clinical
and operational effectiveness at a reasonable cost and also provide health-care call
centres with customer support and self-service options to both health care workers
and consumers.
Reliance Brands Ltd Sign Pact with Kate Spade & Co

Mumbai based Reliance Brands limited has inked long term licensing and distribution deal with
Kate Spades fashion to bring its fashion in Indian market.
Reliance would open few stores initially for the brand also add 18th portfolio of Reliance
which also runs 142 stores of Hamleys, Diesel and Steve Madden among others.
Amazon is Indias most trusted online shopping brand: Survey

World largest E-commerce player Amazon has emerged as a most trusted online Brand in
Indian market followed by India based Sanpdeal and Flipkart.
The survey reported had other firms to figure in the top 10 trusted online brands are Ebay,
Myntra, Jabong, Naaptol, Yepme, Shopclus and Askmebazaar.
The Brand Trust Report India Study 2016 have listed various brands on the report which
covers various market segments.
Brand Segment:
South Korean smart phone maker Samsung has emerged as top player followed
bySony and LG.
TATA Group is the only Indian Corporate to figure in the Top five.
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Samsung Mobiles, Sony, Nokia, Honda, ICICI Bank, Maruti Suzuki, HDFC Bank,
Airtel, Hero Motorcorp, Dovo, Lux, Samsung, Pepsi, and Puma these brands
improved their ranking over last year. However LG, Bajaj, Tata and Apple were slipped
from the last year standings.
Freecharge Partners With Mexico-Based Movie Theatre Chain Cinepolis

To provide secure and easy digital payments, Freecharge has partnered with Mexico based movie
theatre chain Cinepolis.
The transactions will get completed in a secure manner within 10 seconds using the
dynamic On-The-Go-Pin.
Thomas Cook India inks pact with Western Union, DCB Bank
Travel Solutions giant Thomas cook India has signed pact with Western Union Business
Solutions and DCB bank to enable international trade payments by small and medium sized
enterprises.
This Pact by the Thomas cook to penetrate the high growth Indian SME sector for its
international trade payment needs.
Ford gets nod for tech, business centre in Tamil Nadu SEZ
Ford Motors gets approval from Central government to set up Global Technology and business
Centre in an IT/ ITES Special Economic Zone in Tamilnadu.
The Centre will be Co-developer of the Automotive Company for Developing IT/ITES
services related to Automotive, Finance and Allied sectors.
Indian Railways Signs Agreement with Bajaj Power

Bajaj Power inked agreement with Indian Railways for Lalitpur- Udaipura rail section
electrification project.
The Project would cost nearly 47 crore to be completed in a year time by PPP(Public
Private Partnership) model.
If the section gets electrified it would facilitate uninterrupted coal supply to 1, 980 MW
thermal Power Plant in Lalitpur district Uttar Pradesh.
The power plant wholly owned by Bajaj Power generation Company. The third unit of
660 Mw is likely to get operationalby this month.
Tata Motors partners US Firm for Rs 50 K Crore project

Tata Motors has signed Tri Partite Partnership with Bharat Forge and US based General
Dynamics Land Systems for Rs. 50 K crore future infantry combat Vehicle project.
Indias Defence Force needs partners with long-term commitments to develop products
and solutions through multiple generations of evolution.
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This tie up will position us well to help the country realise its Make in India vision
through the development of the first completely indigenised combat vehicle
DIPP nods clearances for 12 industrial licenses for Reliance

The Development of Industrial Promotions Board gave its clearance to 12 industrial licenses
to Reliance Defence.
Flash points
DIPP gave clearance to 12 industrial licenses for Reliance Defence an arm of Reliance
Infrastructure for manufacturing of Defence equipments in India and Overseas
DIPP gave its clearance to the Strategic Business Unit of Reliance
Aerospace sector: licences for manufacture of military aircraft and helicopters
Land systems: licenses for manufacturing of missiles & all terrain combat vehicles
Naval systems: licenses for air independent propulsion technology and hull
penetrators and connectors along with motor shafts and propulsion systems
Quikr launches service for doorstep pickup & delivery of pre-owned goods
Indias largest E- Classifieds major Quikr has launched its Quikr Doorstep service to offer customer
to customer buying and selling in India.
The services will be available for all categories including mobile phones, electronics,
kitchen appliances and household furnitures with an escrow account which
guarantees that transactions are safe for buyers.
Make in India model- Baleno introduced in Japan

Maruti Suzukis hatchback model Baleno which is a Make in India model is now launched in
Japan.
The MSI manufactures Baleno solely at the automakers Manesar facility in Haryana
Union Cabinet approves New price formula for Undeveloped Gas Discoveries
The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved a new price formula for their undeveloped gas
discoveries in difficult areas, which will lead to a near-doubling of rates.
Flash points
Domestically produced gas costs at average of rates in US, Russia and Canada
Deep sea discoveries which are unexplored will be given the cost of alternative fuels
The price will be the lowest of weighted average of fuel oil and imported LNG or
weighted average of fuel oil, naphtha and imported coal
The price of gas will come to USD 7 per million British thermal unit (mmBtu)
Gas price in India is currently at USD 3.82 per mmBtu, which will fall to USD 3.15 in
April
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The new pricing would help in production of 35 million standard cubic metres a day of
natural gas production for the next 15 years translating to around 7 trillion cubic feet
of natural gas.
Mahindra Aerospace to set up operations in UAE

Mahindra Aerospace mulling to set up operations in Abu Dhabi in the near future, Mumbai based
company that produces aircraft and sell them in 30 countries, including in the US and in parts of
Africa and Asia.
The company currently the worlds largest importer of defence equipment, will become
the third
Largest aerospace market by 2020 once the operations commenced formally.
Uber opens Asias first engineering hub in India

The California-based Uber services has opened its first Asian engineering centre in
Bengaluru.
The company has started in India from about 30 cities when he joined three years ago,
to 400 cities today local competitors in India such as ANI Technologies owned OLA the
countrys leading taxi rider service provider will be forced to raise its fund on market by
this move.
BSNL Jumps into Video-On-Demand Service

State Owned BSNL mulling to offer video-on-demand services to their 2 crore customers across
India. We will implement this MoU to cover the entire nation within next six months. Under this
MoU Tata Sky will offer its VoD service free for the first month to download content worth up to
Rs 500.
They have announced partnership with DTH Major Tata Sky to kick-start their
operations, Tata Sky, which has a user base of about 11 million, will approach
potential subscribers across the country.
Government Relaxes Norms Under Public Procurement For Start-Up MSMEs

The start ups in India have been witnessing a favourable environment as the Union Government
stresses on creating a nation of more job providers than job seekers.
Giving a boost to several initiatives including the Stand Up India, Start Up India and
empowering the small entrepreneurs, it has decided to relax procurement norms
related to experience and turnover for micro, small and medium start-ups with a
view to enabling these ventures to be part of its public procurement.
This development will enable start-up MSMEs to be a part of the mandatory 20 per cent
public procurement.
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Union government to fix the MSP of Bt cotton seed

The Union Government notified maximum sale price of Bt cotton seed for 2016-17. The
government for the first time has taken a decision in the favour of Farmers. The notification was
released as per the Cotton Seed Price (Control) Order, 2015 that was issued under the Section
3 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
The new price fixation
The price of BG-I version of Bt cotton hybrid (9450 grams of Bt Cotton plus 120 grams
refugia) was fixed at 635 rupees
The price of BG-II version was fixed at 800 rupees
A nine member committee was set up to recommend the maximum sale price after
taking into consideration the seed value, licence fees including one-time and recurring
royalty (trait value), trade margins and other taxes
Last season the price ranged between 830-1300
With the new price fixation the price is likely to reduce by 70%
FSSAI to train 20K street vendors in Delhi

Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare J P Nadda launched Project Clean Street
Food in New Delhi on the successful completion of the training Food vendors will receive Smart
Skill cum Registration cards.
In the maiden phase of the project of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
(FSSAI) primarily aims at to raise the safety standards of foods sold on streets
across the capital city of New Delhi
The Scheme would provide training as many as 20,000 roadside vendors over the
next four weeks at 40 training centres set up for the purpose across the Capital on
aspects of health and hygiene.
French major Michelin ties up with Snapdeal to sell tyres online

French based tyre maker Michelin had joined hands with E-Commerce major Snapdeal to sell
its products through Snapdeal.
The Joint initiative will enable consumers to place an order online using Snapdeal to
purchase Michelin tyres from an authorised dealer and request for fitment at a time
and place of their choice.
Glenmark gets final FDA nod for migraine relief drug

Mumbai based Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inchas received in principal approval from the US
Food and Drug Administrator to manufacture and market therapeutical equivalent of Endo
Pharmaceuticals Frova tablets, used to treat migraine headaches, in America.
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Govt Bans More Than 300 Combination Drugs

Government has banned the manufacture and sale of more than 300 combination medicines,
including two widely used cough syrups, and Vicks Action 500 being sold without government
approval.
The banned medicines include the codeine-based cough syrups Phensedyl and Corex,
Phensedyl made by U.S. drug maker Abbott Laboratories, accounts for about a third
of the Indian cough syrup market, and its sales are estimated to make up more than 3
percent of Abbotts $1 billion India revenue. Corex is sold by Pfizer.
Survey lists Reliance, Tata Industries under Sustainable Business Practices

A survey of corporate India by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) says the metals and
mining, automobile and construction materials sectors lead in sustainable business
practices. This survey lists leading Industries like Tata, Reliance, Mahindra and few others as
Sustainable Business Practices.
Areas focused in the survey
The survey involves checking the environment, social and governance dimensions of business
and measures the progress of Indian companies in adopting sustainable business practices
Companies listed in the survey
Mahindra & Mahindra, Tata Motors, Hindustan Zinc, Vedanta, ACC and Reliance Industries
These industries were given Platinum Rating
Banking sector include the HDFC and Axis banks
Tech Mahindra and Wipro represented the software and services sector
Companies under Sustainable gold plus
Apart from the companies listed above, Sevenother companies got a Sustainable Plus
Gold classification
These include Bajaj Auto, Ambuja Cements, Hindustan Unilever and Tata Steel
Union Government imposes anti-dumping duty on Plastic-Processing imports

Union government had imposed anti-dumping duty of up to 44.7 percent on import of plasticprocessing machines from Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam for five
years.
To protect the domestic industry the duty will be levied on imports of all kinds of plasticprocessing or injection-moulding machines.
SBI Partners With Uber For Instant Vehicle Financing

Indias largest Public Sector lender, SBI ties up with Taxi Aggregator, Uber to provide instant
vehicle finance to driver partners on the latters platform.
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The scheme would encourage skilled drivers to overcome liquidity crunch and excess
documentation requirements to become an entrepreneur
The loans could be sanctioned in one day using an inbuilt digital offering.
Gamesa wins solar order from Sri Lanka

Spain Major Gamesa Wind Turbines has won the solar energy order from LAUGFS Power Ltd in
Sri Lanka to provide solar power in Baruthankanda village in Sri Lanka.
The project capacity of 20 MW solar power project in Sri Lanka, which is expected to
commence operations by October. Gamesa will provideEPC (Engineer, Procure, and
Construct) solutions that include engineering & design, supply of Gamesa Electric
inverters, erection and commissioning.
India the second Biggest Investor in London

London & partners, the official promotion company of London has revealed that India is
the second biggest investor in London after USA.
Flash points
There has been a 117 per cent increase in Indian companies across all business sectors
investing in London since 2005
There has been a 133 per cent increase in tech companies investing in the city
It is also found that tech companies contribute to 46% of all the projects
Major investors are Software testing service Cigniti Technologies and customer support
company Kayako
The data was released at the India Emerging 20 event
10 Indian Companies among the 25 best workplaces in Asia list

It is exciting to know that 10 Indian companies among the top 25 best workplaces in 2nd annual
best workplaces Asia-pacific list.
Flash points
Best workplace in the world for MNC- DHL
Best workplaces in the world for small & medium industry- Salesforce
Best workplace in the large industry- Atlassian
Asias best
The best multinational workplaces in Asia include DHL, Omnicom, Google, EMC, Marriott,
NetApp, Hyatt, MARS, American Express and SAP
Indian offices
The best large workplaces list had 10 Indian companies including Godrej Consumer
Products, Lupin and InterGlobe Enterprises.
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Other Indian company on this list were RMSI Private Ltd, Forbes Marshall, Lifestyle
International, Bajaj Finance, Silver Spark Apparel, Ujjivan Financial
Services and Mahindra & Mahindra Automotive & Farm Equipment Sectors
WHO suspends TB drugs from Svizera Labs on quality concerns

After the investigations, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has suspended the approval of
tuberculosis (TB) drugs made by Indias Svizera Labs, a major supplier to developing countries
due to the manufacturing standards and quality management being unreliable.
Svizera Labs has its headquarters in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Ola expects newly-launched service Micro to overtake Uber in India

Taxi app Ola has launched its new service called Micro and it expects that Micro will alone
overtake its rival Uber in terms of a number of rides in a months time. Micro has been launched in
seven Indian cities Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad and Puneand
will be launched in other cities as well.
Ola chief marketing officer said, Micro in merely three weeks has achieved the same
number of rides what Ola took around three years to achieve.
Paytm ties up with PVR to sell online movie tickets

PVR cinemas has tied up with Vijay Shekhar Sharma founded Paytm to sell Movie tickets
through the Paytm platform.
In Indiamovie-ticketing market lies about $2 billion, growing at 10 per cent annually..
Cisco to invest $100 millions in India; to train over 250,000 students

US based Cisco Systems announced that the company will invest over $100 million over the next
18 to 24 months in India to support the countrys plan.
The series of investments will include $40 million that will be used to fund early-stage
and growth-stage companies in the country, and train around 250,000 students by
2020.
Sachin Tendulkar invests in Smartron India

Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar has become a shareholder and brand ambassador of
domestic original equipment manufacturer Smartron.
In a Bangalore-based start-up Smartron Sachin invested undisclosed amount and also

become the brand ambassador of the company.
India overtakes China in investment by US
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Though Indias exposure within the emerging market basket has gradually declined, India has
overtaken China in terms of direct equity allocation by US investors.
Flash points
The report was revealed by US treasury showed that 1.8% of direct equity holdings of US
is with India
It is 6% equity holdings for China
The direct investment has risen from $7 billion in September 2013 to $12 billion in
December 2015.
US investors direct investment in Chinese equities has declined from $12.8 billion
to $11.1 billion.
Microsoft shuts Artificial Intelligence Robot Tay

Microsoft had shut its artificial intelligence robot Chat program which launched artificial
intelligence powered bot on Twitter for a playful chat with people, closed within 24 hours.
Tay is designed to engage and entertain people where they connect with each other
online through casual and playful conversation.
Ola ties up with Bajaj Allianz General Insurance

Ola Cabs has tied up with Bajaj Allianz General Insurance to provide motor insurance to its
drivers. It will not only provide a cover for accidents, but will also insure theft of vehicles as well as
damage, in addition to a personal accident cover of Rs 2 lakh.
The two companies are also working together to create a digital infrastructure that will
bring insurance transactions like purchase or claims, fully online.
Recently Ola had announced a partnership with Indifi to offer personal loans to its
drivers.
First director container to Bangladesh

India is consistently looking to strengthen the ties with its neighbouring Nations. Many agreements
were signed between India and Bangladesh including the transmission line, road agreement etc.
Now, the First MV 1 Harbour vessel will be sent to Bangladesh.
Flash points
The first direct container MV Harbour-1 Vessel between India and Bangladesh carrying
cotton was flagged off from Krishnapatnam of Andhra Pradesh to Chittagong
A standard operating procedure was signed between India and Bangladesh in

November 2015 to move commercial cargo between the two countries
The operating vessels will be treated as domestic vessels and not as foreign vessels
Tata Power SED inks MoU with Cranfield University for R&D
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Tata Power Strategic Engineering is involved in cutting edge technology for the armed forces
and Cranfield University have signed an agreement to explore possibility of entering into a
strategic partnership through research and development (R&D).
A strategic partnership through research and development and academic study in the
areas of defence related engineering and emerging technologies
Areas of cooperation:
Large System of Systems, MoDAF for Software Systems, Guns, Military vehicles(both Combat
& Launcher vehicles).
Snapdeals FreeCharge Partners With Payment Gateway CCAvenue

FreeCharge a wholly -owned subsidiary of snapdeal has partnered with a payment gateway
CCAvenue to strengthen its offline offerings, as it gains access to over one lakh online merchants
across sectors like hospitality, retail and education.
It also plans to allow merchants to upgrade their payment limits of Rs 1,00,000 with
necessary KYC verification.
Reliance signs deal with Rafael

Mukhesh Ambani owned Reliance defence has entered into a deal with Israeli based Rafael
defence to manufacture air to air missile systems, air defence and observatory balloons.
Features of the deal
Reliance will hold 51% of the stake and Rafael will hold 49% in the joint venture
agreement
They will target over $ 10 billion in the next 10 years
The project will have an initial capital outlay of more than Rs.1,300 crore, excluding
the cost of technology
Gujarat, Maharastra top contributors of Indian Export

The industrial body ASSOCHAM in one of its recent study revealed that Gujarat and Maharashtra
contribute nearly 46% of the Indian exports occupying the topmost place.
The report mentions that the first five states contribute to 69% of the total export of
India
Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh occupy the first
5 places respectively
Adani Aero Defence ties up with Elbit, Alpha for unmanned aircraft systems
A subsidiary of Adanigroup Alpha Design Technologies Pvt Ltdhas tied up with the Israeli
company Elbit Systems for Unmanned Aircraft Systems.
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The Adani Group is worth over $10 billion. Aadanikept this pact for unmanned aircraft
system(UAS), and is an aircraft without a human pilot aboard.
SC approves Centres guidelines to protect Good Samaritans

The Supreme Court approved the central governments guidelines to protect people who help
victims of road
A bench comprising justices Gopala Gowda and Arun Mishra directed the Centre to
give wide publicity to the guidelines.
Key guidelines:
Good Samaritans will be treated respectfully and without any discrimination on any grounds
of gender, religion etc.
Any one, except an eyewitness, who calls the police to inform them of an accidental injury
or death need not reveal his or her personal details such as full name, address or phone
number.
The police will not force the Good Samaritan to disclose his or her name, identity, address and
other such details in the police record form or log register.
The police will not compel any Good Samaritan in procuring information or anything else.
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

5 Indian International Airports bagged ASQ Awards 2015
5 Indian International Airports have been conferred with Airport Service Quality Awards
(ASQ) 2015. These airports will be presented with award during the ACI Asia-Pacific Regional
Assembly in Gold Coast, Australia, which is scheduled to be held in April 2016.
Indian Airports named in Asia Pacific region:
In the category of Best Airport by Region (over 2 million passengers per year)
Mumbai and New Delhi (tie at 2nd rank).
Best Airport by Size (25 40 million passengers per year) Mumbai and New Delhi (tie at
1st rank).
Best Airport by Size (2 5 million passengers per year) Jaipur (1st rank) and
Lucknow (2nd rank).
Best Airport by Size (5 15 million passengers per year) Hyderabad (3rdrank)
TCS awarded the Global Top Employer Award

TCS, one of the leading IT solutions providers has been awarded the Global Top Employer award
by Top Employers Institute.
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TCS have been given the Global Top employer award by the Top Employers Institute
after assessment of 1072 companies across the globe
TCS has been rated top across the 9 core HR areaswhich includes talent strategy,
workforce planning, on-boarding, learning and development, performance management
and leadership development
Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda honoured in Australia

Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda was felicitated by Melbourne based South Asian community
members at a function and he was also honoured with achievement award for his contributions to
film industry by SAPAC.
Sataparna Mukherjee teenager of West Bengal selected for NASA Scholarship

Sataparna Mukherjee, an 18 year old class 12th student of West Bengal is selected by NASA for
its Goddard Internship Programme to study in Goddard Institute of Space Studies.
Sataparna Mukherjee is a class 12th student of Judes School in West Bengal
She belongs to a village called Madhyamgram in West Bengal
She is one among the top 5 elite scholars selected across the globe
Indian Accent again bags the Best Restaurant of India

Indian Accent, the fas restaurant situated in New Delhi again bags the best restaurant award
in India in the Asias best 50 Restaurants event sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua
panna presented at Gala ceremony in the Thai capital yesterday.
The award was given to the restaurant for the second consecutive time and it was
collected by Sandeep tandon, Managing director of Old World Hospitality and Shantanu
Mehrotra- the Executive Chef of Indian Accent
Armaan Ebrahim won FMSCI Motorsports Man of the Year Trophy

Chennais car racer Armaan Ebrahim won Motorsports Man of the Year Trophy organized by
Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India at a Gala Award ceremony held in New Delhi.
He was awarded the Raymond GautamSinghania Rolling Trophy along with prize
money of 2 lakh.
The award is bestowed for his performance at the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo
Asia series where he finished second at Fuji.
Forbes 2016 Worlds Billionaires List

Forbes Magazine released its 30th annual list of the worlds richest people, featuring 1,810
billionaires around the world. Their total net worth was $6.48 trillion.
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates sat again at top position for the third consecutive year with
a net worth of $75 billion.
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Rank
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
9
Name
Bill Gates (60)
Amancio Ortega (79)
Warren Buffett
(85)
Carlos Slim Helu (76)
Jeff Bezos (52)
Mark Zuckerberg (31)
Larry Ellison (71)
Michael Bloomberg(74)
Charles Koch (80)
David Koch (75)
Net Worth
$75 B
$67 B
$60.8 B
$50 B
$45.2 B
$44.6 B
$43.6 B
$40 B
$39.6 B
$39.6 B
Source
Microsoft
Zara
Berkshire Hathaway
Telecom
Amazon.com
Facebook
Oracle
Bloomberg LP
Diversified
Diversified
Country
United States
Spain
United States
Mexico
United States
United States
United States
United States
United States
United States
The youngest billionaire in the world is a 19 year old Norwegain heiress, Alexandra Andresen,
who has a 42% in her familys business.
Here is the list of top 10 Indian Billionaires:
Rank
Name
Net Worth
36
Mukesh Ambani (58)
$20.6B
44
Dilip Shanghvi (60)
$16.7 B
55
Azim Premji (70)
$15 B
88
Shiv Nadar (70)
$11.1 B
133
Cyrus Poonawalla (74)
$8.5 B
135
Laxmi Mittal (65)
$8.4 B
184
Uday Kotak (56)
$6.3
196
Kumar Birla (48)
$6.1 B
219
Sunil Mittal (58)
$5.7 B
Source
Reliance
Sun Pharmaceuticals
Wipro Ltd
HCL
Serum Institute of India
Steel
Kotak Mahindra
Aditya Birla group
Bharti Airtel
There are 5 Indian women billionaires who have marked their names in the list and are
Savitri Jindal (OP Jindal group), Indu Jain (Bennett, Coleman & Co), Smita Crishna
Godrej (Godrej), Leena Tiwari (USV) and Vinod Gupta (Havells India).
The youngest Indian billionaires are the Bansal duo of Flipkart Sachin and Binny
Bansal with net worth of 1.2 billion.
Three Britain professors have won the Grete Lundbeck European Brain Research Prize
Three Britain professors Tim Bliss, Graham Collingridge and Richard Morris have won the
Grete Lundbeck European Brain Research prize worth of 1 million Euros. This is the first time
that the brain prize has all Britain names in the winners list.
FLASH POINTS
Three scientists have won the Brain prize for their discovery of how memories are
formed in the brain
In 1900, scientists found connections between the nerve cells called synapses since then
they were unable to discover how memories are formed
Windham-Campbell Prizes Announced

Nine writers, including one from India, Jerry Pinto, have been awarded with the Windham
Campbell Prizes at Yale University for their literary achievements.
Award: $150,000 to each Awardee.
This years recipients are
Drama:
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins (United States)
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Hannah Moscovitch (Canada)
Jerry Pinto (India)
Abbie Spallen (Ireland)
Non- fiction:
Fiction:
Hilton Als (United States)
Tessa Hadley (United Kingdom)
Stanley Crouch (United States)
E. Morgan (United States)
Helen Garner (Australia).
Science Journalist Pallava Bagla Bags National Award

Noted Scientist Pallava Bagla was conferred with the national award for Outstanding Efforts in
the Field of Science and Technology Communication on Electronic Medium, carrying a
citation, memento and Rs. 1 Lakh. It was presented by Union Minister of Science and
Technology, Harsh Vardhan during the function.
Theme of NSD-2016 : Make in India: S&T Driven Innovations
Noted Scientist Pallava Bagla was conferred with the national award for Outstanding
Efforts in the Field of Science and Technology Communication on Electronic
Medium, carrying a citation, memento and Rs. 1 Lakh. It was presented by Union
Minister of Science and Technology, Harsh Vardhan during the function.
Ratan Thiyam conferred with META Awards

Ratan Thiyam a veteran playwriter and a director is conferred with Lifetime achievement
award 2016 at the upcoming Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards (META).
Flash points
Ratan Thiyam the theatre guru is going to be awarded the Lifetime achievement award
at the 11th META function
He is currently the chairman of National school of drama
He has been given this award for creating a new language in theatre and enriching the art
form in various roles as writer, director, designer, composer and choreographer
Other awardees
This award has been given to theatre greats such as Zohra Sehgal, Badal Sarkar, Khaled
Chowdhury, Ebrahim Alkazi, Girish Karnad and Heisnam Kanhailal in the past
Bhagwathi Lal Vyas chosen for Bihari puraskar prize of 2015

Eminent poet Bhagwathi Lal Vyas has been chosen for the Bihari Puraskar Prize in the year
2015 for his anthology poems Katha Sun Aawe Hai Sabad
He has authored several short stories and poems and his acclaimed works
includeShatabdi Niruttar (1977), Footpath Par Chiriya Nachti Hai (1984) and Suraj
Leelti Ghatiyan
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His works reflect the unpleasant changes in human relations, social disparity and loss
of human values although positivity and his faith in human life also shine through the vast
collection of his poetry
Vyas, a recipient of Sahitya Academy Awardretired as Principal of RNT College of

Teacher Education in Chittorgarh district of Rajasthan
Manoj Kumar To Be Awarded With Dada Saheb Phalke Award

The Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest award in Cinema is presented annually at the National
Film Awards Ceremony.
The Award for 2015 will be conferred upon Manoj Kumar, the 78 year old Veteran Actor
who became famous with some his popular movies like Roti, Kapda aur Makaan, Kranti,
Woh Kaun Thi.
He has received a National Award for the film Upkaar and Padma Shri by GOI.
Whitfield Diffie And Martin Hellman Won Acm 2015 A M Turing Award
The deserving two, Stanfords cryptographers who brought up cryptography from a shadowy realm
to the public space have been conferred upon the A M Turing Award 2015 of the Association of
Computing Machinery (ACM). The Award is often referred to as the Nobel Prize for
Computing that comes with a whooping $1 million prize funded by Google.
The Awardees are into Public-Key Cryptography which is a method of scrambling data
in which each party has a pair of keys, one which can be shared publicly and the other
with the intended recipient.
Stevie Wonder Honoured With Global Green Hero Award

American Musician Little Stevie Wonder was honoured with Global Green Hero award at the 13 th
Annual Global green USA pre-Oscar party.
The Veteran singer performed a rousing nine-song set of his at the 13th Annual Global
Oscar party.
The Veteran singer performed a rousing nine-song set of his at the 13th Annual Global
Oscar party.
The Innovation Award 2016 To Prof. Sirshendu De

Over 100 million people in India and Bangladesh are at a health risk due to arsenic content in
ground water. It is generally agreed that arsenic contamination is of geological origin and
derives from the geological strata underlying Bangladesh. Hence, it becomes necessary to mitigate
such contamination in rural households in both the nations.
A milestone achievement in this regard has been made by an IIT

Kharagpur Professor,Sirshendu De, Head of the Chemical Engineering Department for
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developing Low CostEco-friendly Laterite based Arsenic Filter for Providing Safe
Drinking Water.
The Award will be given by the Indian Desalination Association (South Zone).
Dr.Amrita Patel awarded with the Mahindra Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr Amrita Patel has been conferred with the Mahindra Samriddi India Agri Lifetime
Achievement Aear-Krishi Shiromani Samman in New Delhi.
Flash points
Dr Patel is the current Chairman of Charutar Arogya Mandal
She was conferred with the award by Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh
Krutitava Smagra Samman 2015 To Dogri Poetess Padma Sachdev

Well known Dogri Writer and Poetess, Padma Sachdev has been awarded the 2015 Krutitava
Smagra Samman. She is being honoured for her outstanding contribution to Dogri
Literatureand services to the Dogri Language.
First modern woman poet of Dogri language but writes in Hindi as well.
Saudi Arabian Prince conferred with Frances highest Civil Award

Saudi Arabian prince was conferred with the prestigious The Legion of Honour award which has
fuelled controversies in France.
Flash points
Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz has received the Legion of
Honour Award
Though official notifications have not been stated, French President made the
announcement
NTPC bags Poll Based Investor Communication Award

State run NTPC Ltd has been conferred the Research Investor Communication Award among
the Large Corporates category .Director Finance of the Company Shri K. Biswal, received the
award at a ceremony held at BSE in Mumbai
This award is bestowed for following transparent and fair communication practices by
Research Bytes in an independent poll having participation of over 3000 Fund
Managers/Analysts/Non Institutional Investors.
President Pranab Mukherjee presented 2015 Nari Shakti awards

The President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presented Stree Shakti Puraskars and Nari Shakti
Puraskars for the year 2015 at a function organized on the International Womens Day in
Rashtrapati Bhawan, New Delhi.
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The International Womens Day is observed this year with the theme Planet 50-50 by
2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality.
Every year March 8 is observed as International Womens Day to celebrate

womanhood. From this year onwards Nari Shakti Puraskars has been initiated by the
Government in recognition to singular contribution of women.
ZilaMahilaSammnas and RajyaMahilaSammnas have also been instituted since this

year in order to reward the selflessly working and committed women particularly at the
community and grass root levels.
Stree Shakti Puraskar Award Winners:
The Stree Shakti puraskars are conferred to six women in the area of
womensendeavour and exceptional contribution each year. The award carries a cash
prize of Rs. 3lakh and a citation.
1. AnyayRahitZindagian NGO of Goa Devi AhilyabaiHolkar Award

2. Seema Prakash of Madhya Pradesh-Rani Lakshmibai Award
3. AsthaSansthan , NGO of Rajasthan Rani Rudramma Devi Award
4. ChandraprabhaBokey Maharashtra Mata Jijabai Award
5. P Bhanumati Kerala-Kannagi Award
6. Mariola Rajasthan Rani GaidinliuZeliang Award
The Nari Shakti Puraskar Awardees:
The Nari Shakti Puraskar has been conferred for the first time this year. Each award carries
a 1 lakh rupees and a citation.
The following eight women have been bestowed with this award in recognition to their
contribution in specific areas
1. RashmiAnand (Delhi)
2. DrNandita Krishna (Tamilnadu)
3. DrLaxmiGautam(Uttar Pradesh)
4. NehaKirpal(Delhi)
5. LatikaThukral(Haryana)
6. DrSailakshmiBalijepally(Tamilnadu)
7. Kausalya(Tamilnadu)
8. DrSwarajVidwan(Uttarakhand)
Sonakshi Sinha enters Guiness book of records

The famous bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha has entered into the Guiness world book of records
for most people painting their nails simultaneously.
The event was organized by Inglot and Major Brands as a celebration to mark
theInternational Womens Day
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Actress Sonakshi Sinha along with several other women participated in an initiative to
set a record for most people painting their fingernails simultaneously
This has been given the Guiness record for most people painting their nails
simultaneously.
Anand Mahindra conferred with Frances highest civilian award

French Ambassador to India Frano is Richier conferred the Knight of the Legion of Honour on
Anand Mahindra, at his France residence to Mahindra & Mahindra Group, in recognition of his
outstanding national and international achievements and initiatives.
Knight of the Legion of Honour:
The honour is bestowed at the Residence of France ,Frances highest civiliandistinction

comes in recognition of Mr Mahindras outstanding national and international
achievements and initiatives at the helm of the Mahindra Group.
Tezpur and JNU won Visitors Award for 2016

Tezpur University won the annual Visitors Award for the Best University. Rakesh Bhatnagar and
the Molecular Parasitology Group of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) have also won the
Visitors Awards for Research and Innovation respectively.
Visitors Award for Innovation:
Professor Rakesh Bhatnagar of Jawaharlal Nehru University for development of a genetically
engineered vaccine and a therapeutic antibody against anthrax
The Visitors Award for Research:
The Molecular Parasitology Group of Jawaharlal Nehru University of pioneering work in the area of
molecular parasitology, especially anti-malaria, leishmaniasis and amoebiasis
India, US launch Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship

The United States-India Educational Foundation formally launched U.S.-India FulbrightKalam Climate Fellowship on behalf of both the governments.
The initiative will advance bilateral cooperation on climate change, which will enable
Indian research scholars to work with American institutions in the field.
The fellowship is jointly funded by both governments and will be operated by The United
States-India Educational Foundation headquartered in New Delhi.
Kerala Tourism campaign wins Golden City Gate Award

Gods own Country official logoed Kerala Tourisms campaign on tourism has bagged
theGolden City Gate Award at the travel trade show ITB in Berlin.
The award bagged campaign Titled New Worlds, the multimedia campaign containing
three short films directed by reputed Malayalam filmmaker Anwar Rasheed won
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thesilver prize of this years Golden City Gate (Das Golden Stadttor), at the International
Tourismus-Borse Berlin
The New Worlds campaign was launched by UNWTO Secretary General Taleb Rifai at the
World Travel Mart in London.
Certificates Of Honour And The Maharishi Badrayan Vyas Samman Awarded To Eminent
Scholars
The President of India, Sri Pranab Mukherjee awarded the certificates of honour to eminent
scholars of Sanskrit, Pali/Prakrit, Arabic and Persian and the Maharishi Badrayan Vyas
Samman to young scholars for the year 2014.
The recipients of the awards are listed below:
AWARD
LANGUAGE
AWARDEES
Certificate of
SANSKRIT
Manohar Vidyalankar
Honour
S Sambanda Sivacharya
Jagadgurunimbarkacharya Shri
Radhasarveshwarshadevacharya Shri Sjriji Maharaj
Dr. Rama Shankar Tripathi
V Krishnamurthy Ghanapatigal
Areyar Srirama Sharma
R Krishnamurthy Sastri
Dr. Francois Grimal
Raja S Giri Acharya
Prof. Radhavallabh Tripathi
Chellam Srinivasa Somayaji
Prof. Vempaty Kutumba Sastry
Padamshri Prof. Om Prakash Upadhyay
SANSKRIT
(INTERNATIONAL)
ARABIC LANGUAGE
Prof. Dr. Shashi Prabha Kumar

Prof. Pierre-Sylvain Filliozat.
Prof. Dr. Ahmed Ibrahim Rahmathullah
Prof. Nisar Ahmad Ansari Azmi
Maharishi
Badrayan Vyas
Samman
PERSIAN AND
PALI/PRAKRIT
LANGUAGE
SANSKRIT
Prof. Shameen Akhtar (Persian

Mahopadhyaya Vinay Sagar (Pali/Prakrit)
Dr. KS Maheswaran
Dr. Pramod Kumar Sharma
Dr. Madhav Janardan Ratate
Dr. Vinay Kumar Pandey
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ARABIC
PERSIAN
PALI/PRAKRIT
Dr. Aurang Zeb Azmi

Dr. Atiqur Rahman
Dr. Samani Sangeet Prajan
Palestinian Hanan Al Hroub Won 2016 Global Teacher Prize

Teachers are one of the most important pillars among the building blocks of the society and they
truly deserve to be recognized and rewarded for their remarkable contribution to the world. Their
service is commendable!
The 2016 Global Teacher Prize worth $1 million has been announced by Pope
Francis and the reverent awardee is a Palestinian Teacher, Hanan Al Hroub, who teaches
Refugee Children and was a refugee herself.
She beat Indias Robin Chaurasiya, who runs a not-for-profit school in Mumbai for girls
from the citys red light district of Kamatipura, and eight other finalists to bag the Varkey
Foundations prize at the end of the annual Global Education and Skills Forum
Jagran Group CEO and Dainik Jagran editor, chosen IAA Editor of the Year
The Jagron Group CEO and the Editor of the well known daily, Dainik Jagran, Sanjay Gupta has
been chosen as the Editor of the Year at the fourth Indian Advertising Association Awards in
Mumbai.
The list of other Awards given away on the occasion includes:

OTHER AWARDS
AWARDEE
Brand Endorser of the Year
Varun Dhawan, a Bollywood actor
TV Anchor of the Year award
Rajat Sharma of India TV
Media Person of the Year
Raj Nayak of Colors
CEO of the year
Kumar Mangalam Birla
India-based software engineer Abdulqadir Rashik won First Prize in UN #LinksSDGs Data
Visualization Challenge
The United Nations honoured the founder of India-based Miavy Systems Abdulqadir
Rashik for the Unite Ideas #LinksSDGs Data Visualization Challenge. Itwill be used to identify
further research opportunities and guide policy decisions around the implementation of global
sustainability initiatives.
He was bestowed with the Challenges top prize for his submission Links to Sustainable
Cities an interactive visualization that identifies and maps the links between Sustainable
Development Goal 11, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and the other 16 Goals.
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Mother Teresa To Be Canonised On September 4
The Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, the founder of the Missionaries of Charity and a wonderful
human being as known to the world, Mother Teresa is set to attain sainthood on September 4, as
confirmed by Pope Francis.
The Life Of The Great Soul
Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity in 1950 and spent 45 years serving
the poor, the sick, the orphaned, and the dying on the streets of Kolkata.
In 2002, the Vatican officially recognised a miracle she was said to have carried out after
her death, namely the 1998 healing of a Bengali tribal woman, Monika Besra, who was
suffering from an abdominal tumour. The traditional canonisation procedure requires at
least two miracles
Andrew Wiles awarded with the Nobel prize of Mathematics

Sir Andrew wiles has been awarded the 2016 Abel Prize, regarded as mathematics equivalent
of the Nobel Prize, for his stunning proof of Fermats Last Theorem which baffled the
Mathematicians for more than 300years.
Fermats Theorem
There are no whole number solutions to the equation xn + yn = zn when n is greater than 2, unless
xyz=0
He proclaimed of having found the proof of Fermats theorem in 1993
He proved the Fermats theorem by way of the modularity conjecture for semistable
elliptic curves, opening a new era in number theory
He published his theory in Annals of Mathematics in 1995, with the title Modular Elliptic
Curves and Fermats Last Theorem
Assassin wins the maximum awards in 10th Asian film awards

The 10th Asian film awards were presented in Macau, China. The Assassin, a movie about a
highly trained female assassin bagged prizes for, best actress and best director.
Awards won by Assassin
Assassin wins more than half of the 15 awards presented in the Asian film awards
Best Film: The Assassin
Best Director: Hou Hsiao-Hsien for The Assassin
Best Actress: Shu Qi for The Assassin
Best Supporting Actress: Zhou Yun for The Assassin
Best Cinematography: Mark Lee Ping-bing for The Assassin
Best Production Design: Hwarng Wern-ying for The Assassin
Best Original Music: Lim Giong for The Assassin
Best Sound: Chu Shih-yi, Tu Duu-chih and Wu Shu-yao for The Assassin
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Other Awards presented
Best Actor: Lee Byung-hun for The Inside Men
Best Newcomer: Jessie Li for Port of Call
Best Supporting Actor: Tadanobu Asano for Journey to the Shore
Best Screenplay: Jia Zhangke for Mountains May Depart
Best Editing: William Chang Suk-ping, Chu Ka-yat, Liao Ching-sung, Wong Hoi, Philip
Yung for Port of Call
Best Visual Effects: Prasad Sutar for Bajirao Mastani
Best Costume Design: Lee Ji-yeon and Shim Hyun-seob for The Throne
Priyanka & Raksha win Chameli Devi Jain Award, 2016

Priyanka Kakodkar and Raksha Kumar were named as joint winners of the 2015-16 Chameli
Devi Jain Award. They were awarded for their work that clubs social concern and compassion with
pioneering reportage and analytical skills.
Skoch Lifetime achievement Award presented to Venkaiah Naidu

Union urban Development minister M Venkaiah Naidu was conferred with the Skoch Lifetime
Achievement Award at 43rd SKOCH summit held in New Delhi.
Flash points
Venkaiah Naidu was selected for the award for his contributions to inclusive growth and
towards poverty alleviation in India
IT minister of Telangana State KT Rama Rao was awarded the Skoch Award in the Startup
India category for his initiative in establishing the path breaking tech incubator T-Hub
Tikka Shatrujit Singh conferred with French Civil Award

The royal scion of Kapurthalas Ahluwalia dynasty, Tikka Shatrujit Singh was conferred with
the Chevalier de la Legion dHonneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour).
French ambassador to India Francois Richier bestowed the honour on Singh in a

ceremony held in New Delhi
Geetakshi Arora conferred with Noor Inayat Khan prize

Geetakshi Arora of SOAS South Asia Institute has won the first Noor Inayat Khan Prize, the
Noor Inayat Khan Memorial Trust announced in London.
Noor Inayat Khan
She was a secret agent in World War II and was sent behind enemy lines. She
operated from Paris, doing crucial work for the allies.
Noor was betrayed, arrested and killed in Dachau Concentration Camp at the age of 30.
Her last word was Liberte
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PM Confers Himachal Pradesh with Krishi Karman Award

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conferred Himachal Pradesh with the Krishi Karman Award for
its landmark achievement in showing highest production of food grains in year 2014-15,
despite adverse weather conditions and rain-fed farming in the state.
Flash points
The award was presented at the Krishi Unnati Mela, a three day event which began in
New Delhi
Six other states receive the Krishi Karman Award for their valuable contribution to
Agriculture
The award to Himachal Pradesh was received by the Agriculture minister of the
state Sujan Singh Pathania
M.Sukumaran chosen for CV Kunhiraman Literary prize

Renowned Malayalam writer M Sukumaran in the third week of March 2016 was chosen for the CV
Kunhiraman Literary Prize.
About Sukumaran
M Sukumaran is an author and short story writer in Malayalam.
He won the Kerala Sahithya Academy award in 1976 for his book Marichittillathavarude
Smarakangal.
The themes of all of his writings deal with the plight of the dispossessed and advocate
an armed struggle for the liberation of the oppressed
5th National Photography Awards

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting led by ArunJaitly who also the chief of finance
Ministry gave away National Photography Awards of fifth edition in New Delhi.
The Official theme of 5th National Photography Award is Save Mother

Earth for Professional Photographers and Festivals of India for Amateur
Photographers..
Recipients of major awards
Bhawan Singh Life Time Achievement Award
Javed Ahmed Dar- Professional Photographer Award
Himanshu Thakur- Amateur Photographer
Hockey India Annual Awards: Sreejesh, Deepika walk away with honours
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In the Hockey India second annual awards for the year 2015 Event various awards have been
given away in the function held at Bengaluru.
DhruvBatra Player of the Year award:India goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and Deepika
Lifetime Achievement Award:Captain Shankar Laxman
Upcoming Players of the Year:Harjeet Singh and Preeti Dubey
Other Awardees: .
Baljit Singh Award for Goalkeeper of the Year Savita
Pargat Singh Award for Defender of the Year Kothajit Singh
Ajit Pal Singh Award Midfielder of the Year Ritu Rani
DhanrajPillay Award for Forward of the Year Rani
JamanLal Sharma Award for Invaluable Contribution- Baldev Singh
Hockey India Presidents Award for Outstanding Achievement Madhya Pradesh Hockey
Academy
The milestone awards were presented to Dharamvir Singh, Kothajit Singh, BirendraLakra
and SushilaChanu for making 100th appearance for India.
Gurbaj Singh and V R Raghunath were awarded for turning out in India colours for the
200th time.
P.Susheela enters into Guiness book of Records

The famous playback singer P.Susheela enters into the Guiness world book of records for
singing highest number of songs .
Points about achievement
She holds title for the highest number of solo, duet and chorus backed songs in over
six Indian languages
As per the official records, she has sung 17,695 solo, duet and chorus backed songs as
on January 28, 2016
Susheela has over 30,000 songs to her credit across multiple languages
She has sung 20000 songs in Telugu and around 10000 songs in other languages
She has sung an exceptional 1,336 duets with S. P. Balasubrahmanyam which is a

record of maximum duets by the same duo
Pallavi enters Limca book of records for crossing Mana pass

Pallavi Fauzdar , a 35 year old housewife from Agra has entered the Limca book of records for
crossing the Mana pass as a solo motorcyclist.
Flash on the Achievement
She has become the first women motorcyclist to cross the Mana Pass which is the
worlds highest motorable mountain pass.
Pallavi who is married to an Army officer is passionate about Motorcycling
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She scaled eight Himalayan mountain passes, all above 5,000 metre, last year
This was also recognized by the Limca book of records
63rd National Film Awards

The 63rd National Film Awards were started as an annual incentive by the Government of India
to encourage meaningful films.
The Complete List of Major Winners:
Best actress: Kangana Ranaut for Tanu Weds Manu Returns
Best actor: Amitabh Bachchan for Piku
Best Film: Baahubali: The Beginning
Best Director: Sanjay LeelaBhansali for BajiraoMastani
Best popular film providing wholesome entertainment: BajrangiBhaijaan
Best Film Friendly State Award: Gujarat (special mention to UP and Kerala)
Most Film-Friendly State
Gujarat was named the Most Film-Friendly State at the 63rd National Film Awards, a
major step by the Indian government to promote film tourism in the states because this
sort of an award will enthuse the states.
The awards bestowed including Best films from various languages across India.
The Complete List of Major Winners:
Best Bodo film
Best Punjabi film
Best Odiya film
Best Marathi film
Best Malyalam film
Best Konkani film
Best Kannada film
Best Hindi film
Best Bengali film
Best Assamese film
Best Khasi film
Best Haryanvi film
Best Wancho film
Best Manipuri film
Best Mizo film
Best Maithili film
Best Sanskrit film
Best Telugu film
Best Tamil film
Best Choreography
Best Background score
Best Music direction
Best Costume Designer and Make-up Artist
Best Editing
Best Dialogues
Best Screenplay Writer (Original)
Best Cinematography
DauHuduniMethai
ChauthiKoot
Pahada Ra Luha
Ringan
Pathemari
Enemy
Thithi
DumlagaKHaisha
Shankhachil
Kothanodi
Onaatah
Satrangi
The Head Hunter
EibusuYaohanbiyu
Kimas lode Beyond the Class
MithilaMakhaan
Priyamanasam
Kanche
Visaaranai
Remo SSouza (DeewaniMastani in
Ilaiyaaraja (ThaaraiThappattai)
M Jayachandran (KaathirunnuKaathirunnu in
Nanak Shah Fakir
Late Kishore TE (Visaaranai)
JuhiChaturvedi (Piku) and Himanshu Sharma
JuhiChaturvedi (Piku) and Himanshu Sharma
SudeepChaterjee (BajiraoMastani)
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Best Female Playback Singer
Best Supporting Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Special Mention
Special Mention
Special Mention
Best Childrens Film
Best Film on Environment
Best Film on Social Issues
NargisDutt Award for Best Feature Film on
Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a
Monali Thakur (MohMohKeDhage)

TanviAzmi (BajiraoMastani)
Samuthirakani (Visaaranai)
RinkuRajguru (Sairat)
Jayasurya (Su
Ritika Singh (IrudhiSuttru)
Duronto
ValiyaChiraKullaPakshikal
Nirnayakam
Nanak Shah Fakir
NeerajGhaywan (Masaan)
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNS

Hashim Thaci elected as President of Kosovo
Kosovo Lawmakers have elected Hashim Thaci as the countrys new president, proving simple
majority in the third round after the indecisive first two stages of voting in Pristina.
Prior to his appointment he was serving as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign
Minister of the Government.
He will succeed Atifete Jahjaga as the new President of the country, the will formally
take oath on April 7, 2016.
Vice admiral Atul Kumar Jain takes over as Chief of staff, Eastern Naval Command
Vice Admiral Atul Kumar Jain took over as Chief of staff, Eastern Naval Command from Vice
Admiral Bimal Verma.
He was commissioned in Navy in 1982 and post specialization in Gunnery Missile and
Warfare
He was the Gunnery officer of missile destroyers, IN ships Ranvijay and Ranvir
Micromax CEO Vineet Taneja resigns

Micromax CEO Vineet Taneja resigns has formally resigned from high profiled post, and
however company did not reveal whether the company was looking for a new face.
Prior to his Micromax appointment in July 2014 he was a business head at Samsung
India and skimps at Bharati Airtel and Nokia.
The homegrown mobile maker facing terrific competition in Indian market from Chinese
and Indian Handset makers. However Micromax become the third largest handset
player in Russian market recently.
Portugal nominated ex-refugee chief for UN Secretary-General
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A former UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) , Antonio Guterres has been nominated
for UN Secretary General by Portugal as the incumbent Ban Ki Moon of South Korea is about to
end his tenure in 2016.
He was the Prime Minister of Portugal between 1995 and 2002. He was from the Socialist
Party. He served as the 10th UN high Commissioner from 2005 until 2015.
Sanjiv Kapoor named Vistaras new chief strategy officer

Sanjiv Kapoor has been appointed as Chief strategy and commercial officer succeeds Giam
Ming Toh who is returning to Singapore airlines on completion of his term.
Sanjiv will be responsible for inflight services andground operations also oversee
strategic planning and commercial operations.
Prior to his new appointment he served as a Chief Operating Officer at Spice Jet also
have 19 years of experience in the Airline Industry.
Indian-American Investor Sunil Sabharwal Occupies Key IMF Position

Bringing pride to the nation, Sunil Sabharwal, an Indo-American Independent Investor has been
confirmed by the US Senate to take up charge as the International Monetary Funds Alternate
Executive Director. This is one of the most powerful positions in the organization and he has
become the first Indian to turn an incumbent.
Mrugank Paranjape Appointed As MCX MD

The Multi Commodity Exchange named Mrugank Paranjape as MD & CEO of the company, the
appointment is valid for three years subjected to approval of SEBI.
It also re-designated Praveen Kumar Singhal , the President Joint Managing Director as
President & Whole time Director with effect from 1 st April.
UEFA names new general secretary, holds back on Platini

Union of European Football Associations named Theodore Theodoridis as interim general
secretary, this decision is taken at the Executive committee meeting at their headquarters in
Nyon, Switzerland.
The Greek Based Administrator comes after Gianni Infantino left the role to become
the new president of FIFA.
Ajit Singh sworn in as Chief Justice of Guwahati High Court

Justice Ajit Singh was sworn in as chief justice of the Guwahati High Court, the Oath of the
Justice was administrated by Assam Governor Padmanaba Balakrishna Acharya.
Prior to his new appointment he was serving as the Acting Chief Justice of the Rajasthan
High Court.
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SanjivKohli concurrently accredited as the next High Commissioner of India to the

Independent State of Samoa
Sanjiv Kohli has been concurrently accredited as the next High Commisioner of India to the
independent state of somoa with residence in wellington.
SanjivKohli presently he is serving High commissioner of India to New Zealand.
Non official directors appointed to the board of RBI

The Appointments committee of the cabinet headed by PM Narendra Modi appointed three part
time non official directors to the RBI board.
Flash points
Three non official members include Sudhir Mankad, Bharat Narotam Doshi and
Natarajan Chandrasekaran
They will serve on the board for four years from March 4
M S Dhoni signed as Revital H brand ambassador

Mumbai based Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited has appointed Indian Cricketer and
Captain MS Dhoni as the Brand ambassador for its top selling health supplement Revital H.
This move is in the companys Pipeline to reposition the brand after 25 years since its
launch on the planks of active lifestyle.
S Rao will take over as the new public interest director and chairman of BSES
Ramadorai has retired from the BSE Chairman and Karnatakas former Chief Secretary Sudhakar
Rao will replace the former.
Ramadorai has served since 2010 and retire on 7th March after serving six years.
Prior to Raos appointment he served as Public Interest Director of Bangalore Stock

Exchange.
Gamlin appointed new CS of Arunachal

A 1984- batch IAS officer Shakuntala Doley Gamlin has been appointed as Chief Secretary
of Arunachal Pradesh .she replacing Ramesh Negi.
Before her new appointment, Gamlin, first woman IAS officer from Mishing tribe of
Assam, served as Principal Secretary (Power) in New Delhi.
Negi has been transferred to the Government of National Capital Territory of

Delhi (GNCTD) with immediate effect.
Tapan Chand elected AAI chief

In the aftermath of National Governing Council meeting of Aluminium Association of India Tapan
Kumar Chand has been unanimously elected as the President of the metal governing body.
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Prior to his appointment he was serving chairman and Managing Director of National
Aluminium Company.
Balbir Singh Chauhan appointed as Indias 21st Law Commissioner

Balbir Singh Chauhan the former Supreme court Judge has been appointed as the 21st Law
commissioner of India. The post has been vacant since the retirement of 20th law commissioner in
September 2015.
Balbir Singh Chauhan is currently the head of Cauvery River Water Dispute tribunal
Myanmar Elects its First Civilian President

It must be a historical moment for Myanmar as its selects its first Civilian President, Htin Kyaw, in
fifty years of military rule. He is a close ally of Aung Sang Suu Kyi, who became victorious in the
last national elections. However, she herself cannot hold the constitutional post.
The president is chosen from candidates put forward by each of the two houses of parliament,
in addition to a third nominee from the military.
Egyptian diplomat Ahmed AboulGheit named Secretary General of the Arab League
Egypt officially nominates Ahmed Aboul-Gheit to head Arab League.His appointment was
contained in a statement released by the 22-member bloc.
Ahmed AboulGheit as the Arab Leagues new secretary general,will replace fellow
Egyptian Nabil El-Araby, who announced that he would not seek another term after the
expiration of his current tenure in July 2016.
Prior to his new appointment Abul Gheit served as Egypts last Foreign Minister under
expelled leaded Hosni Mubarak.
Kangana Ranaut Has Become the Brand Ambassador of Reebok India

Reebok India has announced Bollywood actress Kangana Ranautas the brand ambassador, the
actress also launched the new campaign has been released on international Womens day of the
under the brand title of Be More Human.
Kangana will be seen challenging herself with various fitness activities including functional
training, dance, yoga, kick-boxing and others, thereby communicating the overarching brand
message how fit you are defines how far you go.
Ajit Singh & Satish Mittal sworn-in as Gauhati & Rajasthan HC CJ respectively
The President is pleased to appoint Shri Justice Ajit Singh, Judge of the Rajasthan High Court,to
be the Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court
Justice Satish Kumar Mittal was sworn in as Chief Justice of the Rajasthan High Court.
The oath was administered by Rajasthan Governor Kalyan Singh.
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Justice Ajit Singh was sworn in as Chief Justice of the Gauhati High Court. The oath
of office to the Chief Justice was administered by Assam Govenor P B Acharya.
Lt Gen N P S Hira appointed as Deputy chief of Army Staff

Chief of the Armys Northern Command, Lt Gen N P S Hira has been appointed as Deputy
Chief of Army Staff and would assume office on March 14.
General N P S Hira has been the commander of Sikh Light Infantry and has wide
experience in counter insurgency operations in J&K
Vishvas ViduSapkal appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the Republic of
Fiji
Vishvas ViduSapkal currently Deputy Chief of Mission in Embassy of India, Cairo, has been
appointed as the next High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Fiji.
Sapkal, an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer of the 1998 batch, was expected to
take up his assignment shortly.
Anil Wadhwa concurrently accredited as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of
San Marino
Anil Wadhwa, Ambassador of India to Italy, has been concurrently accredited as the next
Ambassador of India to the Republic of San Marino with residence in Rome. He is an Indian
Foreign Service Officer of the 1979 batch was also posted as Secretary (East) in 2014.
He has also served as the Indian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand (Nov 2011 to
Jan 2014) and previously as the Ambassador to Poland and to the Sultanate of Oman
Ravindra appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Cote dIvoire
Shri R. Ravindra currently Counsellor in High Commission of India, Colombo, has

been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Cote dIvoire.
He is likely to take up his assignment shortly. In his new stint Ravindra will succeed
Dinesh Bhatia
Indian scholar appointed VC of Canberra University

Shri H Deep Saini, a noted Indian Scholar and a plant Physiologist has been appointed the next
Vice Chancellor of the prestigious University of Canberra.
He will will succeed Vice Chancellor Stephen Parker in September who steps down from the
post in July after over nine years in the service.
Altico Named Naina Lal Kidwai as Its New Non executive Director
Altico capital, a non banking finance company has named veteran banker Naina Lal Kidwai as its
new independent non executive director on its board.
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She is on the boards of Larsen & Toubro Limited, Advent Private Equity, Nestle SA,
Cipla Limited, Max Financial Services Limited
She is also the chairperson of South Asia Harvard Business School
Before joining Altico she was the chairperson of British lender HSBC India last year
and served the bank for 13 years
Before joining HSBC, Kidwai was vice-chairperson and head, investment banking, at JP
Morgan Stanley
Nepal To Have Its First Woman Chief Justice

Nepal is on a gender equality drive as it chooses its first woman Chief Justice, in a row of
selecting women to top posts. Recently, the country got its first woman President and Speaker.
Sushila Karki, the senior most of the judges in the Nepals Supreme Court has been
nominated for the top post by the judicial council chaired by the Prime Minister, K P
Oli.
She will take charge as Nepals first woman President Bindya Bhandari, endorses
her nomination and the current chief justice, Kalyan Shreshtha retires.
Bangladeshs bank governor resigns on $81 million cyber theft

Atiur Rahman, the governor of Bangladeshs central bank, resigned after $81 million cyber
theft from the countrys official account at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
The resignation came days after the Bangladesh finance minister said the central bank did
not inform him about the theft. The Governor resignation was accepted by the Prime
Minister SheikhHasina.
Bangladesh government has appointed former finance secretary and Sonali Bank
chairman Fazle Kabir as governor of the central bank for four years.
UN suspended Maria Sharapova as goodwill ambassador after doping allegations

The United Nations formally suspended relationship with Russian Tennis great Maria
Sharapova as a goodwill ambassador after she failed a drug test at the Australian Open.
Sharapova tested positive for meldonium at the Australian Open and has been
provisionally suspended from tennis pending an independent panel ruling on the case.
Michelle Yeoh appointed UNDP goodwill ambassador

Malaysian-born action heroine Michelle Yeohhas been appointed as United Nations
Development Programme (UNDP) Goodwill ambassador.
The New ambassador will focus on raising awareness and mobilising support for the
recently propelled Sustainable Development Goals.
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US President Barack Obama nominates Merrick Garland for US Supreme Cour
President Barack Obama selected the nations 113th chief justice Merrick Garland for the U.S.
Supreme Court choosing a centrist judge meant to win over recalcitrant Senate Republicans.
Ashley Judd appointed U.N. Goodwill Ambassador

American actress Ashley Judd has been appointed as their latest Goodwill
Ambassador by United Nations.
Ashley and UNFPA will be joining forces to raise awareness of the huge work that still
needs to be done across the world to stop women dying giving life and to empower
women to choose when and how often to become pregnant.
Amar Abrol to succeed Mittu Chandilya as CEO of AirAsia India

AirAsia India announced that Amar Abrol will succeed Mittu Chandilya as the CEO of AirAsia
India, with effect from April 1, 2016.
Chandilyas contract ends March 31, 2016, but he will continue with the company until the
end of April to ensure a smooth transition of the CEO role.
Pfizer appoints Sridhar as its MD

Pharmaceutical major Pfizer appointed S Sridhar as its new Managing Director (MD) with
immediate effect for a period of five years.
Prior to joining Pfizer, Mr. Sridhar worked as the Finance Director of Diageo India Pvt
Ltd
Honeywell appoints Suresh Senapaty as its Chairman

Honeywell Automation India Ltd (HAIL) announced appointment of former Wipro CFO Suresh
Senapaty as its Chairman.
Suresh Senapaty has been appointed as an Additional Director (Non-Executive,

Independent) and as Chairman of its Board of Directors, effective from March 8, 2016
He succeeds Surendra L. Rao, who served as member of the Board of Directors of HAIL
since January 2002 and as Chairman of the Board of Directors from August 2014 to
February 2016
Lori Robinson-the First female US Army Combatant Commander

The big boss(USA) has named its first female army combatant commander to be Lori
Robinson. The position is one of the most senior in the US military and she was nominated by the
President Barack Obama.
General Lori Robinson has been nominated to lead the US Northern Command
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She is currently commander for the Pacific Air Forces and enrolled in the Air Force in
1982
She would also be the first ever female combatant commander if nomination is approved
by the senate
Vijay Mallya resigned as Director of Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited

Vijay Mallya has resigned as Director of Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL) and
decided only to be an Honorary Chief Mentor till his son Siddhartha is in the Board of Directors.
With this, the new chairman of Royal Challenger Bangalore is Amrit Thomas, President and
Chief Marketing Officer of United Spirits.
Indian Professor appointed 56th President of ISA

An Indian Professor named Thazha Varkey Paul has been chosen as the 56th President of
International Studies Association (ISA), at its annual convention at Atlanta, Georgia. ISA is a
scholarly group in the US dedicated to international studies.
He is presently serving as James McGill professor of International Relations in the

department of Political Science at McGill University.
UN appoints Red-the leader of angry birds as the Ambassador to Climate change

The popular mobile game figure Angry bird-Red is now to become the honorary ambassador
of Climate change announced by the UN.
Flash points
It was declared on the International day of happiness by the UN that red the head of
angry birds will be the honorary ambassador of climate change
The
campaign
is
in
partnership
with Sony
Pictures
Entertainment,
the
UN
Development Programme (UNDP) and UN Foundation
It asks people to make the angry birds happy by taking actions on climate change
It is insisted to promote the hashtag #AngryBirdsHappyPlanet in the social media to

spread the awareness
The campaign was launched by the UN General Secretary Ban-ki-Moon
Lionel Messi-Ambassador of Huawei

The world famous soccer, Lionel Messi has been appointed by Huawei as its Global ambassador
for its mobile products.
Huawei shipped 108 million smartphones in 2015 and became the third-largest player
after Apple and Samsung.
The company has set a target of growing its smartphone sales by 300% this year.
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Ritu Beri appointed as Adviser to Khadi Commission

Fashion designer Ritu Beri was appointed advisor to the Khadi and Village Industries
Commission (KVIC) for promotion of khadi in India and across the world.
The Khadi and Village Industries Commission is a statutory body formed by the
Government of India, under the Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act of
1956
The commission appointed Beri as an advisor for a period of one year during which
she will advise on ways to promote khadi
Ali Mohamed Shein won the Presidential election of Zanzibar

Ali Mohamed Shein of Tanzania ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has become the
winner of the presidential elections. He won with 91.4 percent of the votes.
The presidential elections held was the re-run of the elections held in October 2015,
which were cancelled by the ZEC on grounds of fraud
Shein won 299982 votes against just 6076 votes (1.9 percent) won by his main rival
Seif Sharif Hamad of the opposition Civic United Front (CUF)
Paytm appoints ex-head of Alibaba as its President

Mobile Payment and e-commerce site Paytm has appointed Bhusan Patil as its new President. He
was the head of Alibaba wholesale groups earlier.
Paytm has appointed its new President to help Paytm grow across the borders
Currently Paytm has a userbase of 125 Million and it has planned to sell $ 2 billion
worth products in 2016
It has planned to increase its sellers form 7 lakh to 5 lakhs
Justice Permod Kohli appointed as Chairman of Central Administrative Tribunal

Permod Kohli named as the Chairman in the Central AdministrativeTribunal, Appointments
Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved the appointment.He is a retired Chief Justice of
Sikkim High Court.
The appointment was for a period of five years with effect from the date of assumption of
charge of the post, or till attaining the age of 68 years, whichever is earlier.
Former Malaysian PM Badawi named new Petronas adviser

Former Malaysian PM Abdullah Ahmad Badawi named as an adviser for state oil firm Petroliam
Nasional Bhd (Petronas), His appointment is effective April 1.
Government owned Petronas headquartered in Kuala Lumpur is Malaysian Oil and Gas
Company that was founded on 17 August 1974.
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He will be replacing countrys longest serving prime minister Mahathir Mohamad who has
been expelled from the post two weeks ago.
Tata Steel Europe CEO to quit

Karl Koehler, chief executive officer (CEO) and managing director (MD) of Tata Steel Europe is
stepping down to take up a senior leadership positions, Hans Fischer, currently chief technical
officer of Tata Steel Europe, will be appointed as the new CEO.
Koehler, who has been with Tata for six years, but he will remain available in an
advisory capacity for a short period.
Indian appointed UN adviser on human rights and businesses

Professor Surya Deva has been appointed by the Geneva-based UN Human Rights Council as
an adviser formally known as Special Procedure Mandate Holder on human rights and
multinationals and businesses.
He will be a member of the four-member Working Group on the issue of human rights
and transnational corporations and other business enterprises.
The advisers of the body report annually to the Council and in most cases to the UN
General Assembly.
Taiwan Nationalist Party selected its first female leader

The Nationalist party of Taiwan has chosen Hung-Hsiu-chu as its first female leader after
ousting her as its presidential candidate.
Hung takes over from Eric Chu, who was the partys eventual presidential candidate
and who resigned as party chairman after the defeat
Tsai
Ing-wen,
who
belonged
to
the Democratic
Progressive
Party won
the
presidential election of Taiwan

Indian-American named president CEO of bank of the west
Indian-American Nandita Bakshi has been appointed the President and Chief Executive
Officer of Bank of the West.
The new Chief Executive will replace Michael Shepherd as Bank of the Wests next President
and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and is expected to join the bank as a CEO-in-training on
April 1 and will take the helm officially on June 1.
Currently she also serves on the board of the Consumer Bankers Association.
Rakesh Mohan joins Nestle India Board

Former RBI Deputy Governor Rakesh Mohan will join its board as an independent director in
Nestle India.
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Mohans would come on Nestle Indias board from May 1, 2016, as an Independent NonExecutive Director.
Zaheer Khan appointed Captain of Delhi Daredevils for 2016 IPL season
Indias best left-arm pace bowler ever, Zaheer Khan was appointed captain of Delhi Daredevils
for the upcoming ninth edition of Indian Premier League.
Htin Kyaw sworn in as Myanmar President

Htin Kyaw was sworn as Myanmars new president along with his two vice presidents and18
Cabinet ministers.
Htin Kyaw from the National League for Democracy (NLD) was sworn in as Myanmars
new president. The first elected civilian leader in more than 50 years.
Htin Kyaw from the National League for Democracy (NLD) takes over from Thein Sein,
who introduced wide-ranging reforms during his five years in power.
Faustin-Archange Touadera sworn in as President of Central Africa

Faustin-Archange Touadera was sworn in as the president of the Central African Republic in
the main stadium at Bangui.
Following this, France sent its troops and established Sangaris operation to restore
peace
Jitendra Jagota Has Appointed As the Chairman of IDSA

Self-regulatory body for the direct selling industry in India named JitendraJagota as the new
Chairman in its new Executive Committee at the General Body Meeting held in New Delhi.
Mr.Jagota will succeed RajatBanerj.
Prior to his new appointment he is the Director Legal and Government Affairs, Avon
Beauty Products India Pvt. Ltd has been has become the Chairman of the Association.
Wipro appoints Patrick Dupuis as its Board member

The IT Major Wipro has announced the appointment of Patrick Dupuis as its new independent
board member.
Patrick Dupuis was the Senior Vice President of Paypal Holdings
First female speaker for Vietnam Parliament

Vietnam has chosen Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan as its first female speaker.
Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan got 472 votes out of the total 481 votes and got a clean sweep of
majority in becoming the speaker of the assembly
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She became the first female speaker of the nation and also elected as thechairperson
of National Election council with 467 votes out of 477
ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

Hinduja group acquires Britain Building
Hinduja group have officially acquired the famous 1,100 room Old War Office Building of
Britain in central London for an undisclosed sum.
The historic Old War Office Building in Central London is situated near the Britain
parliament
The UK defence ministry told that the building was sold for a 250 year lease
arrangement to the companies following a competitive market
CCS gives nod to acquire 2 AWACS from Israel

Cabinet Committee on security gives nod to acquire two advanced Israeli Phalcon
AWACS(Airborne Warning and Control System) from Israel.
The two AWACS will be the tune of Rs. 7500crore and will enhance India to detect any
threat by aerial route than ground based radars.
Pincon Spirit acquires Singapore-based Orbitol Solutions

Pincon Spirit has acquired Singapore based merchant trading Agriculture Company Orbitol
Solutions, However the company did not reveal the deal size.
After this acquisition Orbitol Solutions has become a wholly-owned subsidiary of

PinconSpiritthe
InnerChef acquires EatonGO, Flavour Labs

Entrepreneur Rajesh Sawhney founded InnerChef, a food tech startuphas acquired two
startups Bengaluru-based EatonGo and Gurgaon-based Flavour Labs.
Innerchef, which started its operations in April 2015 working on the ready-to-cook
and ready-to-eat meals segments.
The acquisition of Flavour Labs, a food company, will help InnerChef enter the mobile
kitchen segment, while EatOnGo, which specialises in breakfasts, will help the company
expand its presence in Bengaluru.
DBS to acquire RBS on shore branch for 1000 crores

The leading South Asian bank DBS is set to acquire the on shore operations of RBS in India for a
deal of 1000 crores.
RBS- Royal bank of Scotland
Balance sheet-19000 crores
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Loan book value- 11,150 crores
Main parts of RBS operations
Network of 10 branches
Corporate loan platform
Debt capital market
Bharti Airtel to acquire Videocons spectrum in 6 circles for Rs 4,428 crore

Bharti Airtel acquire Videocon Telecoms spectrum in six circles for Rs 4,428 crore through a
bandwidth trading deal.
Bharti Airtel has entered into a definitive agreement with Videocon Telecommunications
Limited to acquire, at an aggregate consideration of Rs 4,428 crore rights to use 2 x 5
MHz spectrum in the 1800 MHz Band
Magic Bricks acquires property analysis platformProperji.com

Property site, Magic Bricks has acquired property analysis startup Properji.com of Invact
Technologies for an undisclosed sum. It will help the consumer to make an informed property
buying decision.
Ola acquires payment solutions-Qarth technologies

Taxi cab app based company Ola has acquired payment technology solutions Qarth technologies
to strengthen its money base.
Qarth, incubated from IIT madras has been acquired by Ola to integrate it with its Ola
money to facilitate the payment
Inox Wind acquires Sarayu Wind Power

Wind energy solutions provider Inox Wind Infrastructure Services Limited, has acquired Sarayu
Wind Power (Kondapuram in Andra Pradesh) Private Limited, with effect from March 25, 2016.
Noida based Inox Wind Limited conveyed to the Bombay Stock Exchange in a
regulatory filing that it has acquired Sarayu Wind Power with effect from March 25.
Yokohama Rubber Co to buy Alliance Tire Group for $1.2 billion

Tokyo based Yokohama Rubber Co. Ltd has agreed to buy Alliance Tire Group, a Netherlandsbased company led by Indian entrepreneur Yogesh Mahansaria, for $1.2 billion from private equity
firm KKR & Co. Ltd. Yokohama Rubber, a Japanese maker of passenger-car tyres.
The Yokohama Group will acquire the 90% stake held by KKR and 10% of the
Mahansaria family.
Billon Dollar Deal:
The deal is valued at about 2.2 times Alliance Tires annual sales and more than 12
times its operating profit for the 2015 fiscal year. The deal is fifth largest off road tyre
making market.
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ITC Has Acquired TechnicoAgri Sciences Ltd For Rs 121 Cr.
FMCG Major ITC has acquired Technico Agri Sciences Ltd (TASL), a company owned by its direct
subsidiary, Technico Pty Limited (TPL), Australia for Rs 121 crore.
Prior to such acquisition, Technico Agri Sciences Limited was a wholly owned
subsidiary of Technico Pty Limited, which in turn is a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC
Limited.
NTT acquires IT firm of Dell

Japan based NTT has acquired the IT arm of PC manufacturer Dell. The deal is valued at $ 3
billion. Dell has been debt ridden due to the acquisition of data storage provider for $ 67 billion.
With the new acquisition, NTI will make its presence in North America and expand its
global network and improve its infrastructure services
NTI will now have around 230 data centres across the globe including those of Dell in
UK,Australia and US
Dell services in India are in Bangalore, Noida, Chennai and Coimbatore
Russia approved OVL deal to acquire 15% stake in Vankor oilfield for $1.3 billion
Russia has approved a deal of ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL) to acquire 15% stake in Vankor oilfield
from Rosneft, The deal size of 1.3 billion US dollars was signed between the OVL and Rosneft in
September 2015.
The new deal enables OVLs stake in Vankor will raise to 26% from 15% and will give it
about 3.5 million metric tonnes of oil a year Consequently,
Sun Pharma buys Novartis 14 brands for $ 293 mn in Japan

Mumbai based drug Major Sun Pharma has entered into the Japanese medicine market by buying
14 established brands from Novartis and Novartis Pharma AG in Japan for $293 million.
SCHEMES
Food Security Scheme implemented in 47 districts in UP
Akhilesh Yadav led Uttar Pradesh government to implement Food Security Act 2013 in 47 more
districts of the state.
With this the entire state of 75 districts will come under the ambit of the food scheme, UP
government having launched this Act in 28 districts from January 1this year.
The beneficiaries will get subsidized food grains, including wheat at a rate of Rs. 2and
the rice at a rate of Rs. 3 per kg. Each beneficiary will be allowed to get 5 Kg per month.
The scheme to cover to benefit more than 1.64 crore people in around 40 lakh
households.
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Punjab Becomes Seventh State To Sign Up For UDAY

Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY) is the financial package and the turnaround and
revival package for electricity distribution companies of India (DISCOMs) initiated by the
Government of India to support them overcome the financial turmoil they are in.
Punjab has become the seventh state to join the scheme. Therefore, it will be able to
handle a debt of 20,838 crores and revive the power sector of the state.
MOEFCC Has Classified Industries Based On Colour Based Index

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has released a
new Four-colour Classification Scheme for industries based on their pollution level.
The four-colour classification scheme of industrial sectors based on the Pollution Index (PI)
which is a function of the Emissions (air pollutants)
Red category: PI score of 60 and above. These are severe polluting industries. It
includes sugar, thermal power plants, paints
Orange category: PI score of 41 to 59. They moderately polluting industries. It

includescoal, automobile servicing and washeries
Green category: PI score of 21 to 40. They are significantly low polluting industries.
Totally there are 63 industries in it.
White category: PI score below and upto 20. They are non-polluting industries. These
industries do not require Environmental clearance for their functioning
Haryana launches Adapting homes for the differently-abled scheme.

Haryana launched a new scheme, under which six months pension would be given in advance to
persons with disabilities for adapting their homes as per their requirement. This amount would be
recovered over a period of 42 months under the Adapting homes for the differently-abled
scheme.
Other Schemes for PWD persons:
Haryana has also been selected by the Centre as a pilot State for universal ID for persons with
disability, for which work has already been started.
Gurgaon and Faridabad districts have been selected for the Accessible India campaign
for persons with disabilities.
PM selects Nagepur village in Varanasi for development under SAGY

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Selects his own Varanasi constituency village Nagepur for
development under Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana.
This Village Nagepur selected after Jayapur village of the same constituency is going to be
adopted by the Prime Ministers in order to develop India.
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Karnataka launches Mukhyamantri Santwana Harish Yojana for free treatment to

accident victims
Karnataka Government led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched Mukhyamantri Santwana
Harish Yojana for free treatment to accident victims for the first 48 hours in the nearest hospital
be it Government or Private Hospital.
The accident victims treatment scheme Mukhyamantri Scheme Harish Yojana has been
named after Nanjappa who donated his eyes minutes before he passes away seeking
help after severely injured in a mishap in the city.
Santwana Harish Yojana Highlights:
The Scheme emphasizes to provide immediate medical relief would be provided to the
victim during the Golden Hour with financial aid up to Rs. 25, 000 during the first two
days.
The Accident Victims could be treated in nearest government or Private hospital.
Cabinet approves Pradhan Mantri Ujjwal Yojana

The cabinet approved the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwal Yojana a scheme for providing LPG to
households Below Poverty Line.
Flash points
The scheme is estimated at the cost of 8000 crores
The scheme will benefit five crore families below poverty line
It ensures a financial support of Rs 1600 for each LPG connection to the BPL
households
This Scheme would be implemented over three years, namely, the FY 201617, 201718 and 2018-19
Haryana to join UDAY scheme

Seven states have already joined the UDAY(Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana) scheme which is an
initiative to clear the debts of the state run power distribution companies.
Need of UDAY It is a scheme for restructuring debt of power distribution companies
(discoms) in the state.
Flash points
The power discoms in the state had a total debt of Rs 34,500 crore, of which the state
government would take over Rs 25,000 crore in two tranches
In the first tranche, the state will take over Rs17,000 crore debt in 2016-17
Rs 8,000 crore will be taken over before September 2018
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The actual transfer would happen over five years. The grant component would be 20 per
cent, while the remaining would be debt.
Non-statutory liquidity ratio bonds would be issued against the 80 per cent debt for
which the distribution companies would have to pay an interest of 8.5-nine per cent
against 12.5-13 per cent, which is normally paid.
The state discoms stand to gain Rs 8,000 crore from the scheme
NITI Aayog launches Women Transforming India Campaign

The NITI Aayog as a part of International Womens Day launched the Women Transforming India
initiative in partnership with the UN in India and MyGov.
Empowerment through essays:
NITI Aayog seeks for entries in the form of written essays/stories. These stories should reflect
new ground broken by women in empowering themselves/others, or of challenging stereotypes.
Features of the Campaign
To encourage and recognize women
To encourage the stories of change fostered through the setting up of small

businesses/enterprises
To identify successes in leading change achieved either through the use of technology or
by employing innovating on-ground
LED based lighting programme named UJALA(means Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for
All)
In an effort to promote measures that can save energy the Union government launches various
programmes.One such important initiative is to provide LED lamps to households and promote its
usage to save energy. The new scheme of LED based lighting has been named UJALA.
About UJALA Programme:
UJALA
is
the
name
given
for
the
LED
based
Domestic
Efficient
Lighting
Programme(DELP)
DELP is successfully implemented across 120 cities in India
This scheme is implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited
PM Narendra Modi launched the scheme to provide LEDs in January 2016
It targets to replace 77 crores of incandescent lamps with energy saving LEDs
UJALA is successfully running across 12 states in India namely Rajasthan, Maharashtra,

Karnataka, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Puducherry,
Jharkhand, Bihar and Uttarakhand
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RUSA Scheme to be implemented to improve Equity, Quality of Higher Education

An initiative to improve the Quality of Higher education in India by implementing RUSA scheme
which was started in 2013 was in news again with the Minister of HRD providing information
about the scheme in the Lower house.
RUSA- Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan
Aim To provide strategic funding to eligible state higher educational institutions
Implementation Authorities
National Mission Authority, Project Approval Board and the National Project Directorate at the
centre and the State Higher Education Council and State Project Directorate at the state level
Funding for RUSA
The central funding in the ratio of 65:35 for general category States and 90:10 for
special category states
The funding will be given by the Union Human Resources Ministry through the state
governments/union territories to the State Higher Education Councils
Union government mobilizes 370 crore for Swachh Bharat Khosh

Narendra Modis government launched the Swachh Bharat campaign in October, 2014.Since then
various initiatives have been taken by the government to improve the cleanliness of the nation. As
a part of it, the fund for Swachh Bharat Khosh is mobilized with 370 crores by the government.
Swachh Bharat Khosh It is a fund created to support the various cleanliness programmes across
the nation
Fund collected: 365 crores from Corporates and 5.95 lakhs from individuals and total fund as
on January 31 is 369.74 crores
Projects funded under the scheme:
The funds are used for achieving the objective of improving cleanliness levels
in ruraland urban areas including in schools.
For construction of toilets funds to the extent of Rs 359 crore have been released to
various state level implementing agencies during December 2014 to January 2016.
Central Government amends Atal Pension Yojana(APY)

Central Government has amended Atal Pension Yojana (APY) to give an option to the spouse to
continue to contribute for balance period on premature death of the subscriber.
According to the amendment, the spouse of the subscriber shall be entitled to receive
the same pension amount as that of the subscriber until the death of the spouse.
After the death of both the subscriber and the spouse, the nominee of the subscriber shall
be entitled to receive the pension wealth, as accumulated till age of 60 years of the
subscriber.
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Wages of NREGS hiked by 6%

The Union government has proposed to hike the wages of NREGS workers by 6%. They have
dropped the new wage calculation formula.
Flash points
The government appointed a committee to revise the wage calculation formula for the
MGNREGA workers
According to the new recommendations, the wages will be calculated on CPI-rural index
The current scheme of wages is based on the agricultural labour index
It is said by officials that the new scheme will help the workers to combat with the spiking
prices due to inflation
However this will cost an additional 2000 crore rupees for the government
Hence hey have dropped the new wage scheme and hiked the wages by 6%
Arun Jaitley Launches Fasal Bima Yojana

The Union governments scheme to revamp the farmers by providing crop insurance known as the
Fasal Bima Yojana and Unified Package Insurance scheme was launched by the Finance
Minister Arun Jaitley.
Importance of the scheme
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana It is an insurance scheme for the farmers which
provide relief to the farmers when crops are affected by Natural calamities
It is different from the other schemes in that it provides a higher sum compared to other
insurance schemes and also it requires low premium
Hence this scheme is in complete interests of the farmers
Cabinet approves Udaan scheme till 2019-20

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its
approval for extension of time period of the Udaan Scheme for Jammu & Kashmir till 201920 from the earlier time period of 2015-16.
Udaan Scheme:
Udaan is a national integration scheme with the goal to mainstream J&K youth with rest
of the country and targeting to train and enhance employability of 40,000 graduates,
post graduates and three year engineering diploma holders, will be achieved by
2019-20.
Cabinet approves Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana

As announced by the president during his Presidential address in 2014 Independence Day speech,
the Housing for all scheme has been approved by the cabinet.
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Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana
This scheme intends to provide houses for all people in the rural area
Under this scheme, incentive will be given by the government to build Pucca house
Financial assistance of 1,20,000 in plain areas and 1,30,000 in hill areas will be
given to all houseless and people those who live in dilapidated houses
The scheme proposes to build 1 crore houses in the year 2016-17 to2018-19
The cost will be shared between the centre and states in the ratio of 60:40 in plain areas
For north eastern and Hilly areas, the ratio will be 90:10
The total fund allotted for 2017-19 is 81795 crores
The beneficiary is entitled to 90 days of unskilled labour from MGNREGA. This will be
ensured through a server linkage between PMAY and MGNREGA.
MoUs
Telangana, Maharashtra ink MoU for five irrigation projects
The Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between Telangana and Maharashtra
government on river Godavari Water Projects in Mumbai.
The MoU will pave the way for construction of five Barrages on Godavari River and its
tributaries Penganga and Pranahita projects which has kept aside due inter-state
disputes.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Davendra Fadnavis and Telangana Chief Minister K

Chandrasekhar Rao signed five MoUs which will include both the Ongoing and new
projects.
NTPC signs MoU for research with IIT Delhi

Power giant NTPC has signed pact with Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, have signed
aMoU for Research and Development.
The R&D emphasized in areas of mutual interest such as Simulation and modelling, heat
transfer
and
thermal
process, artificial
intelligence
Solar and Renewable
integration.
Under this agreement Joint research projects will be taken up for development of new
technologies and performance improvement.
Union Government and Jammu & Kashmir Government signed MoU on UDAY Scheme
Jammu and Kashmir Government has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Union
Ministry of Power, An overall net benefit of approximately Rs.9800 crore would accrue to the
State by opting to participate in UDAY.
Jammu and Kashmir reforms and issue power bonds worth about Rs 7000 crores, which
were equal to the power liabilities of the State.
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Union
Power
Secretary PK
Pujari andCommissioner
Power
Development
Department, J&K Dheeraj Gupta signed the agreement in New Delhi
India Inks Social Security Agreement Pact with Australia

India has signed a pact with Australia under which the employees deputed to Australia from India
and viceversa need not make double social security contribution.
Social security agreement - This agreement provides the exception to the employees who
have been deputed on a short term basis say less than 60 months from paying social security
contribution to both the countries.
India And China Exchange Tariff Cut Offers
India and China, Asias two fast growing large economies of the decade have planned to liberalise
trade ties as they exchange offers on tariff cuts in goods imports.
Highlights
Against Indias offer to remove 5% of tariff lines under the 16-country Regional
Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), China has expressed its willingness to
abolish equivalent amount of tariff lines for India.
Removal of tariff lines would mean that the import taxes on the items would be reduced
to zero over a specified period of time
Indias merchandise exports to China stood at a mere $11.9 billion in 2014-15, while
Chinas exports to India were to the tune of $60.4 billion.
MS Swaminathan Research Chair for Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences

MS Swaminathan Research Foundation has signed MoU with Bhubaneswar based Kalinga
Institute of Social Sciences.
The MoU signed between Professor M S Swaminathan and AchyutaSamanta Founder

of KISS, this is the first in the nation to establish Research Chair in any private
Institute.
On behalf this MoU the two institutes will work on Promotion of Knowledge and skill
empowerment for less privileged children in India.
Cabinet nods to MoUs signed by Railways with Russia and Japan

The Union cabinet apprised the MoU signed by the Railway ministry with Japan and Russia
for technical cooperation in the railway sector.
An MoC was signed between the Ministry of Railways and the Japans Ministry of Land,
Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) for technical cooperation in the railways
An MoU was signed by Indian Railways Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO)
with Japanese Railway Technical Research Institute (RTRI) on December 11,2015
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Union Cabinet approved MoU between India and Bahrain on Cooperation for Prevention
of Human Trafficking
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Bahrain on cooperation for prevention
of human trafficking especially trafficking in women and children,,rescue, recovery,
repatriation and re-integration of victims of trafficking has been approved by the Union
Government.
Decision in this regard taken by the Union Cabinet headed by the Prime Minister Narendra
Modi. The approved MoU is expected to be signed during the Home Minister visit to Bangkok
in the April.
MoU Signed Between M/O Tourism and Ecotourism Society of India for Responsible and
Sustainable Tourism
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India signed a MOU with the Ecotourism Society of
India (ESOI) to take its commitments to Responsible and Sustainable tourism.
Under this MOU it is projected that sustainable tourism and Responsible Tourism will
take the front and achieve the commitments of the Ministrys action plan. The ESOI
will prepare a 10-year Road Map for advocacy and certification under the Sustainable
Tourism Criteria for India.
Over the past eight years it attempted to spread awareness and educate tourism service
providers as well as local government officials on the urgent need to ensure sustainable
tourism practices,13 workshops have been conducted across the country in this
context
Railways Sign MoU with ISRO for use of Space technology

Ministry of Railways has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Indian Space
Research Organisation (ISRO) for developing Remote Sensing and geographic information
system (GIS) for Remote Sensing at unmanned railway crossing and other uses.
Aim of the MoU
The MoU aims for developing applications in the field of Remote Sensing and Geographic
Information System (GIS) for Remote Sensing at unmanned railway crossings
India and Bangladesh Enter into New Era of Petroleum Trade

India and Bangladesh began a new era of petroleum trade with a special goodwill train loaded
with High speed diesel from India to Bangladesh.
The 42 wagon rail rake is loaded with around 2500 MT High Speed Diesel
It started off from Siliguri station to Parbatipur station over 516 kms
It is a symbolic gesture of friendship and cooperation that exists between India and
Bangladesh
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This is the first major petroleum consignment from India
It is a part of the Sale-Purchase Agreementsigned between NRL and Bangladesh

Petroleum Corporation(BPC)
India signs USD 35 Million loan deal with World Bank

World Bank approves USD 35 million credit agreement to Madhya Pradesh for the Citizen Access
to Responsive Services Project.
The main objective of the project is to improve access to selected public services for the
people of the state, particularly those belonging to disadvantaged groups.
MoU between Indian Army and Indusind Bank

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Indian Army and Hinduja Grouped
IndusInd Bank on the Defence Salary package.
The signing ceremony of MoU was headed by Lt Gen Rakesh Sharma and the
Dignitaries
from IndusInd
bank headed
by Anil
Rao
Head-General
Banking
Operations.
The first MoU was signed earlier in 2011 was valid for a period of three years, this MoU
revised to suit the requirements of serving soldiers also provide them opportunity to
access modern banking facilities.
RBI inks information exchange pact with Bank of Israel

Mumbai based Reserve Bank of India has signed a pact with Bank of Israel for Information
Exchange and Banking supervision.
A memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between HedvaBer from Bank of

Israel and Parvathy V sundaram Chief General Manager on behalf of RBI.
With this, the RBI has signed 32 such MoUs, one Letter for Supervisory Co-operation
and one Statement of Co-operation.
Yes Bank in pact with Indo-Brazil chamber for strategic co-op

Yes Bank, is Indias fifth largest private sector Bank has signed pact with the India Brazil
Chamber of Commerce for cooperation in knowledge sharing, consultancy, skill and technology.
Sports, media and entertainment with special focus on IT, infrastructure, broadcast
driven business opportunities are the core sectors covered under this MoU.
Four Oil Psus Sign Pacts To Raise Stake In Russian Oil Field
The national Oil Giants namely ONGC Videsh Ltd, Oil India Ltd, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd
and Bharat Petro Resources and Russias Rosneft have signed two separate memorandums of
understanding, one Heads of Agreement, and one sale purchase agreement worth $2 billion to
increase Indias participation in the Siberian oil and gas fields.
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NHAI ties up with Indian School of Business for skill development of its technical and
managerial manpower
National Highway Authority of India joined hands with Hyderabad based Indian School of
Business for skill development of its technical and managerial manpower.
Road sector is seen as the one of the key areas to achieve the objective and ensure
sustained economic growth.
ISB to train officials from NHAI on Leadership Programme in Infrastructure

Management aims at developing skills and competencies relating multiple disciplines
including strategic Planning , Finance, Economics, Law, Social and Environmental Issues.
India to supply Locomotives to Myanmar

RITES (Public Sector Enterprise under Ministry of Railways) signed a contract to supply 18 Meter
Gauge 1350 HP Diesel Electric Locomotives to Myanmar Railways.
Flash points
India will supply 18 meter Gauge 1350 HP Diesel Electric Locomotives to Myanmar
Railways according to the new MoU signed between India and Myanmar
The agreement was signed on March 4 at Naypyitaw, Myanmar
These locomotives will be manufactured by Diesel Locomotive Works, Varanasi
AYUSH joins hands with WHO

In a move to popularize the Ayurvedic medicines, AYUSH ministry has roped in with World
Health Organisation and signed an MoU.
India also enters into agreement with US in research field of Cancer through Ayurveda
medicines
The Arogya fair which aims to create awareness among the people about efficiency of
the AYUSH Systems, their cost effectiveness and the availability of herbs and plants
used for prevention and treatment of common ailments was inaugurated in Pune
TATA motors to supply 619 HMVS to Indian Army

The automobile giant, TATA motors have signed a agreement with the Indian Army to supply 619
more Highly mobilized trucks to the Indian Army.
Tata 6X6 HMV is meant for the loading-unloading and transportation of ammunition
pallets, spares and other operational equipment.
Tata has already supplied 1239 units and it being the highest order to a private
company from the defence sector under Defence Procurement Procedure
The 6X6 HMV is a indigenously developed vehicle
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Consumer Affairs Ministry signs MoUs with industry bodies to promote consumer welfare
Consumer Affairs Department has signed MoUs with the Industry bodies to promote consumer
interests and a Joint Working Group will monitor the implementation of agenda
The
MoUs
broadly
covers
the
collaborative
programmes
on developing and
implementing a self-regulatory code of fair business practices
The MoU initiating advocacy action against unfair trade practices and preventing fake,
counterfeit and
sub-standard
products
and
services
and
adoption
of
voluntary
standards.
India & France signed MoU to create 6 Nuclear Reactors

India ,whose power demand grows day by day is now concentrating on Renewable energy sources
and Nuclear power to meet its demand. In a move to further increase the Nuclear power
generation potential of India, it has signed an MoU with nuclear energy pioneer France.
Points to note
The proposed MoU will enable the building of six new nuclear reactors at Jaitapur in
Maharashtra
The agreement was signed between Electricite de France and the Nuclear Power
Corporation of India Ltd
The agreement was initially conceived during the France PMs visit to India in
January,2016
The construction of 6 EPR will be under Make in India initiative
Cabinet approves agreements with other Nations

The Union cabinet has given its approval to various MoUs signed between India and other nations.
The MoUs approved by the cabinet belong to various sectors and various nations.
India and Lithuania sign agreement in Field of Agriculture
India and Lithuania signed an MoU in the field of agriculture and the agreement proposes to
include horticulture, post-harvest management, organic farming, cold chain development and agro
processing industry, animal husbandry, dairying and aquaculture etc
Areas of concentration
Capacity building, Knowledge exchange between scientists and technicians
Exchange of genetic resources
Development of appropriate technologies and farm practices for enhancing agriculture

productivity at farmers field
India & UAE ink MoU in Infrastructure development

India signed a agreement with UAE in fields of Infrastructure development with the NIIF
NIIF National Investment and Infrastructure Fund
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The agreement will mobilize long term investments through NIIF
It includes investments in Commercially viable projects like green stalled projects and
brown stalled projects
India to accede Ashgabat agreement

The Union government has given its approval to the Ashgabat agreement which facilitates
transport of goods between Central Asia and Persian Gulf.
Founding members: Oman, Iran, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan
India by joining this agreement can use the existing transit corridor to facilitate goods
transport in Eurasian region
It will also help India in implementing the International North South Transport
Corridor (INSTC) for enhanced connectivity
India will convey its acceptance to depository state Turkmenistan
India joins hands with Russia in Disaster Management

India and Russia will join hands to minimize the consequences of Natural calamities like Flood
and Earthquake.
An MoU was signed in Prevention and Elimination of Consequences of Emergencies

in the field of Disaster Management
The MoU will allow both the Nations to come together in the areas such as controlling
floods, minimising its consequences as well as collaboration in capacity building
Telangana inks pact with French aviation trainer

To provide training to the aviation fraternity and aerospace, the agreement was signed between
Telangana industries department principal secretary Arvind Kumar and Aerocampus Aquitaine
general manager Jerome Verschave on the sidelines of the ongoing India Aviation 2016.
The agreement paving the way for institute that will come up at Begumpet Airport in
Hyderabad.
The French company plans to set up an academy to train local talent in addition to skilled
workforce for the maintenance, repair and overha
The Program aiming to train at least 1,000 students a year in aerospace and related
areas. We want this aero campus to give maximum preference to Telangana students.
These courses will be of various durations from few weeks to one year.
Nepal inks transit treaty with China, to have first rail link
Land locked country Nepal signed pact with China to build a strategic railway link between the
two countries through Tibet to reduce land-locked Nepals total dependence on India
During the Nepal Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Olis seven day visit to China the two
countries sealed 10 agreements, including the much-publicised transit trade treaty that
will end Nepals total dependency on Indian sea ports for third-country trade.
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The agreements signed include a feasibility study on the establishment of a Free Trade
Agreement, Chinas assistance to build a new airport and a border bridge over
theSimikot-Hilsa road section that will connect Humla district with Tibet.
Iran signs Oil contract with France

Iran has signed a confidential oil agreement with France total company to develop the
Azadegan oil field.
Iran reached an with the Japanese Inpex a decade ago to develop the oil field
The Azadegan oil field has 2 billion barrels oil reserve
Iran & Pakistan sign agreements to boost security, trade

Iran has signed agreements with Pakistan to boost trade and security. The agreements were
signed during Iran Presidents visit to Pakistan.
Importance of the Agreements
The talks between the two leaders mainly concentrated on economic relations and
security reasons
This is the visit by an Iranian president after 14 years to Pakistan
Iran has invested over $2bn in the project, but Pakistan has yet to finish construction on
its half of the pipeline
The two countries were targeting $5 billion worth of mutual trade by 2021
Mizoram, JICA sign pact for promoting sustainable agriculture

North-eastern state Mizoram and Japanese International Cooperative Agency signed pact on
Capacity Enhancement for Sustainable Agriculture and Irrigation Development.
JICA had conducted development study during 2013 and 2015 and had formulated a
master plan covering 20 years and the technical cooperation project would commence
from October this year and continue till September 2021.
ADB, USAID join hands to support Indias clean energy expansion plan
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the United States Agency for International
Development (USAID) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on
supporting Indias expansion plans for clean energy infrastructure.
The MoU will pave the way to make USAID to align the components of its technical
assistance with ADBs current and planned investments in renewable energy.
The Department of Economic Affairs had demanded ADB to provide financing up to $ 500
million each to support rooftop solar, and expansion of the transmission network to
connect solar parks in multiple states.
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COMMITTEES
Maharashtra government forms committee to track MoUs signed during Make in India
week
Maharashtra Government has formed a high-powered committee headed by Chief secretary
Swadhi Kshatriya to ensure that the MoU s signed during the make in India week fructify.
The Committee will have sub-committee to monitor and report the progress on the MoUs
signed. In the Make in India last month held in Mumbai over 2500 MoUs were signed.
These MoUs progress will be monitored by the Concerned Department while the rest
officials will be reviewed and monitored by Head committee.
Mahesh Kumar Singla committee constituted to consider ST status to 6 communities of

Assam
The Centre to set up Committee to recommend the modalities for Granting of SC statusto six
OBC communities in Assam.
The committee will be headed by Special Secretary in the Home Ministry Mahesh Kumar
Singla, and the committee will submit its report by May 31 this year.
The Six communities that have been demanding ST status are Moran, Koch
Rajbongshi, Muttuck,Sootea,Tai Ahom and Adivasis
In article 342 of the constitution communities are notified as Scheduled Tribes if they
display five basic characteristics Primitive traits, geographical isolation distinct
culture, Shyness of contact with higher community and Economic Backwardness.
If these communities were granted ST status the state will be a Tribal Dominated State
accounting 50 % of Tribal population.
CCEA Approved Winding Up Of National Manufacturing Competitiveness Council (NMCC)

The National Manufacturing Competitiveness Council (NMCC) will be wound up with
immediate effect as it has fulfilled the mandate for which it was constituted.
CCEA One of the standing committees of the cabinet constituted by GOI
Some of the main functions are
To review economic trends, problems and prospects to evolve an efficient and consistent
economic policy framework for India
To direct and coordinate all economic policies and activities, including foreign
investments that need economic decisions of the highest order.
SAC sets up panel on regularisation of casual labourers
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State Administrative Council(SAC)Headed by the Governor Narinder Nath Vohra formed high
level committee to look into the issue of regularisation of casual labourers and seasonal
labourers.
The committee would be chaired by the Chief Secretary with the financial
commissioner, Planning and Development department and some key officials.
The committee look into the extent of problems pertaining with casual labourers and
financial, legal and administrative issues that might arise while considering the
regularisation for dealing with such employees.
Indian Railways forms SPV to execute Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project

Railways shifting the gears to introduce trains that run at speeds around 320 kmph, the railways
have formed a new Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) to implement the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High
Speed Bullet Train project named the National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited.
Completion of the project aimed on time to avoid additional expenses of the

project, a Joint Committee has been formed under the Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog
with the secretaries of the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP),
Departments of Economic Affairs and Foreign Ministry as its members along with the
Chairmanof Railway Board.
The project expected that it will take about seven years after the awarding of the
contract for the project to be completed.
81 per cent of the funding for the project would come from the loan from Japan. It
is a soft loan for 50 years at 0.1 per cent annual interest with 15 years moratorium
period.
Akhilesh Ranjan committee submits recommendations on Taxation of e-commerce

A committee was constituted by the Central Board of Direct Taxes to examine the business
models for e-commerce, identify the direct tax issues in relation to e-commerce transactions
and provide suggestions.
This committee was headed by Akhilesh Ranjan, Joint Secretary (CBDT) and it includes
officers of the Central Board of Direct Taxes, representatives from the industry, the Institute
of Chartered Accountants of India and tax experts
Recommendations
Equalization Levy may be imposed on payments to non-residents for specified

services by a separate chapter in the Finance Act, 2016
The rate of Equalization Levy may be between 6 to 8 percentof the gross sum received
Any income arising from a transaction on which Equalization Levy has been paid should
be exempted from income-tax, by necessary amendment in Section 10 of the Incometax Act, 1961
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The implementation and impact of Equalization Levy may be monitored on a regular

basis.
Justice H L Dattu appointed as member of International Coordinating Committee Bureau

of NHRI-ICC
The National Human Rights Commission announced in a statement that Former Chief Justice
HL.Dattu has been appointed as member of the International Coordinating Committee
Bureau of National Human Rights Institutions Bureau in Geneva.
He was chosen unanimously after no other NHRI from the region nominated candidate
against him to fill vacancy made after the representative of NHRI of South-Korea vacated
it.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

NASA invites India to jointly explore Mars, send astronauts
Indias maiden Successful Red Planet mission Mangalyaan paving the way for Joint Mission with
NASA.
ISROs capabilities at undertaking low cost, high value inter planetary mission has
opened the eyes on Indias stand in the sector.
NASA eying for the next mission to Mars for the next decade, which is 2020- 2030. US
delegations invited ISRO to take part in the meeting to be held in Washington to plan for
5-6 mission to Mars.
Delhi government to launch first HPV vaccine

Delhi government has launched the first HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) vaccine in the state to
prevent cervical cancers. It has been found in a recent research that 1, 22,844 women are
diagnosed with cervical cancer and 67,477 die from the disease every year in India.
The vaccination for HPV virus will prevent the cervical cancer in women caused by sexual
transmission
American Astronaut Scott KellyReturns to Earth after 340 Days in Space

American Astronaunt Scott Kelly returns to earth after spending almost a year at International
Space Station floating 250 miles above the earth
He landed in barren Kazakhstan with a Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko who

shared his whole journey.
After 340 days he has seen 5400 earth orbits and nearly 11, 000 sunsets, with this Kelly
have set the American record of 520 days in space.
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Jual Oram Launches New Website of NCST
Union Tribal Affairs Minister JualOram launched the revamped website http://www.ncst.gov.inof
National Commission for Scheduled Tribes in the Capital.
The new website will be a tool of source for students, media and the common man, the
site would come with interactive section, mobile app and customer focused Toll free
interactive service.
First Edition Of e-Newsletter of Textiles Ministry Launched by Santosh kumar Gagwar

Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar the Union Textiles Minister today launched the first edition of
the e-newsletter of the Ministry of Textiles.
The monthly newsletter of the Ministry is designed to share our focus on making
development inclusive and participative and on a regular basis.
The newsletter will share important news on the functioning of the Ministry and on
the developments in the textiles sector, with a view to better empower and engage all
our stakeholders, and thereby take governance closer to the people.
Indian Scientists Develop Breakthrough Dengue Drug

Dengue, one of the most deadly diseases caused by mosquitoes, estimated to risk almost 50 per
cent of the global population has finally found an enemy- A herbal drug claimed to be developed
by Indian Scientists.
The project was undertaken jointly by:
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the Ministry of Science and Technology
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering
Biotechnology (IGCEB) and Ranbaxy Research Laboratory (now owned by Sun Pharma)
These organizations employed Ayurveda to come out with the drug.
Iran conducts several ballistic missiles tests

Iran has test fired several ballistic missiles in silos across the country as part of a military
exercise.
In the Military Exercise Missile test medium and long range precision guided
missiles were test fired from various sites to display the countrys Hostility to confront
any threats.
In the Missile test fire the armaments used had ranges of 300 kilometres (190
miles),500 km, 800 km and 2,000 km.
Five health care ATMs have come up in four states

Five Healthcare ATMs have come up in four states that dispense Medicines based on a
prescription unless they refer the patient to a doctor.
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Five Medicine ATMS will come in Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and
Andhra Pradesh under a health Ministry pilot that merges telemedicine with a basic free
drugs programme.
Any Time Medicine:These Medicine ATMs will be handled by a multipurpose public health
worker (MPHW) or an auxiliary nurse midwife (ANM) equipped with a multi-parameter patient
vital monitor to check the basic health parameters.
China plans to land probe on Mars in 2021

China plans to land a probe on Mars in 2021 that coincide with the 100 th anniversary of
founding of the ruling communist Party of china and a decade after its first failed mission in
2011.
China is likely to initiate a Mars probe in 2020, after many months flying the probe to land
in the Mars
ISRO geared up for launch of its Sixth Satellite

The Indian Space Research Organization is geared up towards launching its Sixth Navigation
Satellite today.
Flash points
The sixth navigation satellite IRNSS-1F will be launched by the PSLV C-32
The Polar
Satellite
Launch
Vehicle-C32,
on
its
34th
mission,
would
launch
the IRNSS-1F from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota
The satellite is aimed at providing navigation services on par with the US-based Global
Positioning System
NASAs new Mars exploration mission set for May 2018 launch
NASAs new exploration InSight mission that begins on May 5, 2018, with a landing scheduled
for November 26. It will help scientists know how rocky planets including Earth formed and
developed.
InSight project managers proposed a plan to redesign the science instrument was
accepted in support of a 2018 launch.
Project Mausam of M/O Culture aims to explore Multi-Faceted Indian Ocean World
Ministry of Culture has initiated Project Mausam which is to be implemented by the
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) as the nodal agency with research support of the Indira
Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) and National Museum as associate bodies.
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Prime Objectives of the Project:
This initiative is to explore the multi-faceted Indian Ocean world collating

archaeological and historical research in order to document the diversity of cultural,
in Indian Ocean extending from East Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, the Indian
Subcontinent and Sri Lanka to the Southeast Asian archipelago.
Plastic Decaying Bacteria Discovered

The important cause of pollution especially land and water pollution is the non -bio degradable
Plastics. The most important bio discovery of the century has come with the discovery of bacteria
that can decompose Plastics
Plastics to become decomposable:The Japan researchers have discovered a new species of
bacteria that is capable of breaking downPolyethylene terephthalate or PET in short
Railway launches online clean my coach service

Railways launched mobile app called Clean My Coach for all long-distance trains in which you can
ask for your coach or toilet to be cleaned by putting a request on the app.
Any passenger demanding cleaning staff by entering PNR in the form given above.
Passengers may also send their requests as SMS to 58888 by typing CLEAN < Space
>< 10-digit PNR number>they can also use the android app or Web page
www.cleanmycoach.com for logging the request.
Googles next operating system is Android N

Search Giants Google is previewing the next version of its Android operating system in an effort to
get the upgraded software on more mobile devices as the Upgraded version is ready before the
schedule by two months
The Upgraded OS Android N for now, offers a split-screen feature so users can toggle
between apps more easily.
Telecom Operators Asked To Not Exceed 2% Limit On Call Drops By Supreme Court
A Supreme Court Bench headed by Justice Kurian Joseph asked the Telecos to not to exceed the
call drops limit over 2% and no penalty will be levied on them until they dont cross this threshold.
The TRAI regulation - It has been mandated the Telecos to pay subscribers Re 1 for every call
drop they experience on their network, subject to a cap of three call drops a day, starting from
January 1, 2016.
Interactive Web portal Kendriya Sainik Board launched
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In an effort of modernizing various government sectors, the announcement came today from
the Defence ministry in introducing an interactive web portal Kendriya Sainik Board. This web
portal will be under the Department of Ex-Serviceman Welfare.
The interactive portal Kendriya Sainik Board enables the ex-serviceman to avail various
schemes by submitting online applications thereby reducing the paperwork and saves
time
Free Wi-Fi Service launched At Srinagar International Airport

The 4G hotspot-based internet servicelaunched by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) to
offer free Wifi services at the Srinagar International Airport. Users will have access to 15
minutes of free-of-charge Wifi services.
The first 15 minutes will be free and after that if passengers want to continue, they will be
redirected to payment gateway after selecting the preferred plan.
Europe and Russia launched Exo-Mars to explore the Red Planet

Europe and Russia launched an unmanned spacecraft, named ExoMars 2016, to explore if life
once existed on the Red Planet or still possibilities are there for existence.
Exo-Mars
The ExoMars programme is a joint endeavour between European Space Agency (ESA) and the
Russian space agency, Roscosmos
It aims to explore whether life has ever existed on Mars
Earthquake Warning System Installed At Haryana Govts Building

The new Secretariat in Haryana has become the only building in India to have an Earthquake
Warning System installed onsite.
The Early Earthquake Warning and Security System has been installed by Terra
Techcom free of cost. Around 26 countries in the world have this technology already. This
system can save lives by giving alert of a future earthquake well ahead of time.
Early Earthquake Warning and Security System
Terra Techcom collaborated with Secretary Electronics GmbH, Germany for the
project.
Wikipedia Developing Speech Engine for Visually Impaired Users

Wikimedia Sweden has partnered with the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden to
develop the crowd-sourced speech engine in order to make more accessible to the visually impaired
users.
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Researchers will begin developing the engine for Swedish, English, and Arabic, which
they aim to complete by September 2017.
Malawi, UNICEF tested first UAV flights for early diagnosis of HIV in infants
UNICEF launched the first test for the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles-drones with Malawi
government to search the cost effective ways of decreasing waiting period for HIV testing of
infants.
The joint initiative took place at Area 25 Health Centre in Lilongwe where theset
drone airborne on its test flight to Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) covering a distance of
10 km at 400ft above the sea level.
Webportal Launched for allocation and monitoring of Coal resources

Another move in making transparent governance, Union Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal
New and Renewable Energy launched the web portal for distribution of coal by State Distribution
agencies.
Features of Web portal
Motivates states for paperless communication digitizing all the information
It will save time and energy of government organizations
The Web portal would provide small and medium consumers access to information
about SNAs, availability, booking/supply distribution of coal in public domain
IMD develops Drishti for providing real time visibility information to pilots
The India Meteorology Department (IMD) has indigenously developed Drishti, an instrument that
will provide real time visibility information to pilots.
About Drishti:
It has enabled in transferring the crucial visibility updates to the pilots every minute.
It will update the real time weather parameters like wind speed, humidity, temperature
conditions, etc.,
Drishti was introduced first at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in New Delhi in
2015 on a trial basis.
FCIS Depot Online System Has Been Launched by the Union Government
Depot Online System of state run Food Corporation of India (FCI) has been launched by the Union
Government to carry transparency and minimize storage losses of food grains.
The Union Food and public Distribution Minister Ram Vilas Paswan have launched this
system in New Delhi as part of Digital India initiative of Union Government.
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Union Government bans repeat animal testing of drugs
The Health Ministry has banned the repeat animal testing of new drugs which have been already
tested abroad. The step is taken in order to spare thousands of animals on which the
experiments are done. So the new rule states that if a complete data is available on animal toxicity
as per the specifications by the regulatory authority of the country which had earlier approved the
drug, repeating of testing is not required.
This move was taken after Women Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi wrote to
the Health Ministry on this practice.
I-T gets new tech tool to identify, kill duplicate PAN cards
The Income Tax department has finally got a new technology tool to check the duplication of
PAN cards.
The department has operationalized an electronic smart platform called the Income Tax
Business Application-Permanent Account Number (ITBA-PAN) to identify any
duplicate numbers every time a new application for generation of PAN card reaches their
portals.
Baxi app to now work without Internet

Gurgaon-based Baxi has come up with a new feature in its android mobile app which will allow its
users to book rides on the app without using Internet. The bike-taxi hailing app offers services
in Gurgaon and Faridabad.
For booking offline, the user will have to open app and just press the BOOK button. The
app will send SMS to send the users location and request to its server, find the closest
Baxi and respond to the user with that information using SMS.
With this innovation, Baxi app has become the first and only taxi-booking app in the
world that will operate without an Internet connection.
Telephone feedback mechanism for Grievance Redressal

The Union government has taken various technological initiatives to ease the administrative works
of various departments. The telephone feedback system is one such initiative for redressal of
grievances of the people.
It was launched by the Union Minister of State for Personnel and Public GrievancesJitendra Singh
This mechanism will allow the people to come in direct contact to register their
complaints about various departments
ISRO establishes GIRI radar system in Tirupathi

The Space pioneer of India ISRO has established the Gadanki Ionospheric Radar
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Interferometer (GIRI) near Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh.
Located at: National Atmospheric Research Laboratory (NARL) which is an autonomous research
institute of the Department of Space
Construction: It consists of a rectangular antenna array of 160 two-element Yagi-antenna,
arranged in a 208 matrix, 20 transmitter units, 6 digital receivers including data processing
systems, a radar controller, and a host computer
Objective :
To carry out unattended observations towards studying the forces from the sun like
variation in solar flux, solar flare and magnetic storm on the ionospheric irregularities
To study unattended observations from the underneath atmosphere (e.g., waves

generated by weather phenomena) on the ionospheric irregularities.
South Korea tops the world with high Internet speed

In an era of Internet, where the worlds functions greatly rely upon the connectivity. A report
revealed by Akamei technologies places South Korea at the topmost position in terms of
internet speed.
Positions based on Speed
South Korea has the fastest average connection speed in the world at 26.7 Mbps.
Sweden occupies the second spot with an average speed of 19.1 Mbps
Norway followed at 18.8 Mbps.
India stands at 114th position with an average internet speed of 2.8 Mbps
Highlights of the report
United Kingdom had the fastest average mobile connection speed at 26.8 Mbps,
with Spain in second place at 14.0 Mbps.
Iran had the lowest average connection speed, at 1.3 Mbps, followed by Vietnam with an
average connection speed of 1.8 Mbps.
In the fourth quarter, Finland and Australia led the world with 99% 4 Mbps adoption
rates, followed closely by Sweden with 98% adoption
Global average connection speed increased 8.6% to 5.6 Mbps from the third quarter, a
23% increase year-over-year.
South Korea had the top average connection speed at 26.7 Mbps, posting a 20%
increase over the fourth quarter of 2014.
Malaysia to launch counter-messaging centre to fight IS in cyberworld

Prime Minister NajibRazak announced that Malaysia will set up its first counter-messaging
centre in a bid to curb the influence of the Islamic State in the cyber world. A countermessaging centre will be operational by April 1 to tackle terrorism threats.
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Malaysia is taking the fight against the Islamic State online with the launch of the
countrys first counter-messaging centre.
Every state in Malaysia will have a unit to counter ISIS narratives on the internet and stop
them from radicalising and recruiting Malaysians to join the militants in SyriaCurrently there is
only one such facility is the United States and another based in Dubai, the setting up of a
counter-messaging centre in Southeast Asia is long overdue.
China launches first cyber-security organisation

The Countrys first cyber security public organisation has been launched by China which
consists of academic institutes, individuals and internet companies including Tencent and popular
internet Security Company Qihu 360.
The Organisation aimed at better safeguarding national cyber security and guiding
internet companies in perform their duties.
The Cyber Security organisation will focus on promoting self-discipline in the

industry, accelerating the establishment of industry standards and cyber security studies
and participating in international cooperation.
China launched its first special fund for cyber security with an initial capital of 300
million Yuan($46 million) to realise the nations strategic goal of becoming a strong
internet power in February this year.
China discovers New Lightweight, low cost batteries

China which is the manufacturing hub of the world has been consistently experimenting with the
Electronic items. Adding to its new discoveries, a new light weight, low cost, efficient
battery(AGDIB) has been found to replace the Lithium ion batteries.
The new aluminium-graphite dual-ion battery (AGDIB) has low weight, volume and
manufacturing cost and it has higher energy density compared to the Lithium ion
batteries used in smart phones
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched KisanSuvidha mobile app

Kisan Suvidha a mobile Application launched by Narendra Modi will prove helpful for farmers in
this regard but they must own a smartphone.
The platform will help in providing information on subjects such as weather, market
prices, seeds, fertilizers, pesticides and agriculture machinery.
PM Modi emphasised that the digital transformation in India will begin only if countrys
farmers are empowered and villages are developed.
To operate this app farmer should own a smart phone and should register his or her
Mobile Number and enter details of the state, district and block or sub-district. The
information will be available in Hindi and English.
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Researchers have developed a new Gravity Map of Mars

A new map of Mars gravity made with three NASA spacecraft is the most detailed to date,
providing a revealing glimpse into the hidden interior of the Red Planet.
Gravity maps allow us to see inside a planet, just as a doctor uses an X-ray to see inside
a patient, the new gravity map will be helpful for future Mars exploration.
The better knowledge of the planets gravity anomalies helps mission controllers
insert spacecraft more precisely into orbit about Mars.
ISRO to create history by launching 22 satellites in single Mission

Indias Space pioneer ISRO has been creating records and making achievements in all its missions.
It is set to launch 22 satellites in Single mission and create new history.
Flash points
ISRO is planning to launch 22 satellites in its upcoming mission that includes micro and
nano satellites from other nations
NASA holds the record for launching 29 satellites in a single mission in 2013
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)s workhorse Polar rocket PSLV C34
carrying Indias Cartosat 2C would also have 21 other satellites from countries
The countries whose satellites to be sent are US, Canada, Indonesia and Germany
The launch would be made from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in the spaceport of
Sriharikota
112 to soon become single number for all emergency service

India Government is in process to adopt 112 as the national emergency number against at
present, a person dials 100, 101, 102 and 108 for police, fire brigade, ambulance and emergency
disaster management, respectively
All existing emergency numbers will be phased out within a year of rolling out 112,
depending upon the awareness about this new facility. The move would be similar to the
911 all-in-one emergency service in the US.
Indian media industry to reach 2026 billion by 2020

Indias media and entertainment industry will reach a net worth of 2.20 lakh crores by the year
2020. A report by the FICCI-KPMG had predicted this net worth of the industry.
Flash points
The report also reveals that the industrys revenue will be dominated by the
advertisements contributing to almost half of the entire worth
The revenue from ads has been estimated at99400 crores by 2020
The revenue was just 47500 crores in 2015as against 41700 crores in 2014
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This was a 7% growth only in the revenues from advertisements
The overall the sector grew by 8% to Rs 1.15 lakh crore in 2015 as against Rs 1.02
lakh crore of 2014
The digital advertising would scale up to Rs 25,500 crore and contribute to 7% of total
advertising revenues.
Digital format would have the highest growth of 5% in the advertising segment between
2015-20, followed by Radio with 16.9%.
Digital advertising is projected to be around Rs 8,100 crore and is expected to be

aroundRs 25,500 crore by 2020, while radio advertising would be around Rs 2,340
crore in 2016 and Rs 4,330 crore in 2020.
Films are expected to grow at 5% CAGR and television medium at 15.1% CAGR
Uber launches Uber MOTO in Gurgaon

The cab hailing company Uber just launched its pilot bike sharing service called uberMOTO on
Car-Free in Gurgaon. Users can request for a ride through the Uber app between 7:30 am
and 9:30 pm.
UberMOTO will work on Ubers app, but will use bikes to ferry commuters around instead
of cars.
The uber MOTO driver offers a helmet, which users need to wear before they take the
ride. Uber MOTO can be paid through one of the Uber payment options, including cash.
The fares start at Rs 15. The service then charges Rs 3 per kilometre and Rs 1 per minute for
a ride.
China Launches BeiDou Navigation Satellite
China has launched its navigation satellite BeiDou from Xichang Satellite launching centre.
It was taken into orbit by a Long March-3A carrier rocket.
It is the 22nd satellite in the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS)
It is 225th launch of Long March Carrier Rocket
India ranks third among highest financial Trojan Infections

The Internet which has been ruling the world has also left the possible risk of security like Virus
infections and hacking risks. It is unfortunate to know that India has been globally placed at third
rank in terms of Trojan infections.
Flash points
The analysis was made by Symantec, a global security solutions firm
The report places India at third place owing to the continued exposure of Indian
financial systems to Trojan infections
India has been found increasingly vulnerable year by year, it was placed 7th in 2013;
5thin 2014 and finally third in 2015
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Narendra Modi to launch Asias Biggest telescope Aries in Nainital

A Major achievement and progress in the field of Astronomy, the Aryabhatta Research Institute
for Observational Sciences abbreviated as ARIES the first optical telescope is set to be
inaugurated by PM Modi in Nainital.
ARIES evolution
It is a combined effort of Indian, Russian and Belgian scientists to develop a telescope to

study the structure of stars and further promote the research
It was a contract undertaken by the Aries and Belgian company- Advanced Mechanical and
Optical Systems in March , 2007
Govt launches e-CGHS cards, GIS-enabled HMIS application

Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare JP Nadda has launched two major Digital initiatives to
provide easy access to health services to the public to strengthen the public health systems and
providing user-friendly health services. The Services as follows,
1. GIS-enabled HMIS application
2. The self-printing of e-CGHS card
Health Management Information System:HMIS app services will provide comprehensive data
on a GIS platform on 1.6 lakhGovernment Health facilities spread across the country
Self-printing of the E-CGHS card:Self-printing of the E-CGHS cards that this will provide ease
and access to all those beneficiaries such as the pensioners, in cases of renewal, and in the event
of loss/misplacement of the card.
Telangana Road Transport Authoritys Mobile App M-Wallet launched
Telangana State Transport Authoritys launched brand-new mobile app named M-Wallet, whichis
first of its kind in India.
The initiative is going to benefit 60 lakh driving licence holders, 80 lakh vehicle The
App was launched by IT minister KT Rama Rao and transport minister P.Mahender Reddy.
DEFENCE
MoD Gives Nod To 7 Frigates Worth Rs 13,000 Cr
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) approved a Rs 13,000 crores weapons and sensors package for
the seven new stealth frigates being constructed by defence shipyards for the Navy as well as
accorded the initial approval for the Rs 7,200 crore project to indigenously manufacture 244 air
defence guns for the IAF.
Details
The Rs 13,000 crores package for stealth frigates will be undertaken on a single vendor
and repeat order basis.
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The frigates will be equipped with long-range surface-to-air missile (LR-SAM) systems,
jointly developed by DRDO and Israeli Aerospace Industries, which are already fitted on
the three Kolkata-class destroyers.
Military Exercise FORCE 18 kicked off in Pune

Indian Army kicked off a week long Multinational Field Training Exercise (FTX) Force 18in
Pune at headquarters of the Indian Armys Southern Command. It will conclude on March 8,
2016. This is the maiden multinational exercise ever conducted by ground forces on Indian soil.
Participants It involves army units from 18 countries.
Participants It involves army units from 18 countries.
10 members of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Brunei,

Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and
Vietnam.
8 observer states India, Japan, Korea, China, Russia, the United States, Australia,
and New Zealand.
Theme Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) and Peacekeeping Operations (PKO)

Aim To teach methods for maintaining peace and stability
South Korea and US Begin Military Exercise

A day after the North Koreas threat to US, the rivals of North Korea has began a joint military
exercise. The military exercise has started by US and South Korea.
Flash points
The joint U.S. and South Korean military command said the training involves
about17,000 American troops and more than 300,000 South Koreans
The latest N. sanctions imposed on North Korea were drafted by the United States and
China as punishment for its nuclear test and satellite launch of ballistic missile technology
India Indonesia joint Military exercise- Shakti IV

India and Indonesia are begann their Joint Military Exercise Shakti IV from March 10-23 in
Indonesia.
Flash points
The Joint Military Exercise between India and Indonesia Shakti was started in 2012 in
India
It is conducted on a reciprocal basis with first edition in India ,second edition in

Indonesia and so on
This year is the fourth edition of Shakti and it is conducted at Meaglang, Indonesia
It is a thirteen day exercise conducted between March 10-23
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The exercise is aimed at building and promoting positive relations between the two
Armies of India and Indonesia
Launch Of Yard 2097

The sixth ship of LCU MK IV project, was launched on 12 March 2016 at an exciting ceremony
at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd, Kolkata.
The traditions, invocations from Atharva Veda were related and SmtSeemaVerma, wife
of Vice Admiral Bimal Kumar Verma, AVSM, Commander-in-Chief, Andaman & Nicobar
Command, applied Kumkum on the ships stem. She, thereafter, named the ship as
LCU-L56, wished the ship good luck and launched the vessel.The vessel is likely to be
delivered shortly to the Indian Navy.
India successfully test fired Agni -I ballistic Missile

In a move to strengthen our defence, India today successfully test-fired its indigenously built
nuclear-capable intermediate range Agni-I ballistic missile.
Target700 km
Launched fromOdisha coast
Developed by: Advanced Systems Laboratory, the premier missile development

laboratory of (DRDO) in collaboration with Defence Research DevelopmentLaboratory
and Research Centre Imaratand integrated by Bharat Dynamics Limited, Hyderabad
Indian Coast Guard ship Arnvesh commissioned at Visakhapatnam

Indian Coast Guards fast patrol vessel (FPV) Arnvesh ship was commissioned at
Visakhapatnam, by the Eastern Naval Command, Vice-Admiral HCS Bisht.This Indian Coast
Guards fast patrol vessel (FPV) Arnvesh ship was commissioned at Visakhapatnam, by the
Eastern Naval Command, Vice-Admiral HCS Bisht.this
The Ship will enhance Coast Guards capability in furthering its mandate of maritime
safety, security on the eastern sea board
The 300-tonne and 50-m long vessel is propelled by triple Rolls Royce Kamewa
water jets and can achieve a maximum speed of 33 knots.
This is the 16th vessel among the 20 vessels in this category being constructed
by Cochin Shipyard limited.
DRDO develops RADAR to look through walls

The Indian Army gets its first Thermal based RADAR technology that will enable to look through the
walls.
Developed by: LRDE(Electronics & Radar Development Establishment) of DRDO
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Features- It looks through walls of 20-30cm thickness and it works based on Thermal
RADAR technique
Name- Divyachaksu (divine eye)
US Navy ship discovered after 95 years

The US Navy ship which went missing was discovered after 95 years at the San Francisco coast.
The USS Conestoga tug boat, which disappeared on March 25, 1921 after departing
San Francisco on its way to Pearl Harbor in Hawaii has been found in 2016
India deploys P8I maritime aircraft to Seychelles

Indian Navy has deployed a P8I maritime Aircraft to Seychelles for monitoring purpose.
This is the first time India has deployed a P8I maritime aircraft to Seychelles
It will be deployed in Seychelles till March 23,2016
It will help in curbing illegal activities and piracy as well as ensuring stability and
safety in the Indian Ocean region
Indian Coast Guard to re-base ICGS Rajkamal, six interceptor boats

The Indian Coast Guard re-based one ship and six boats from Chennai to Andaman and
NicobarRegion to rebase the assets was taken to strengthen the maritime border operations in
the region.
Among the assets that would find a new base are ICGS Rajkamal and six Interceptor
Boats (C-407, C-412, C-414, C-416, C-417 and C-428).
These platforms are rebased to Andaman and Nicobar Region as part of the Coast Guard
Headquarter rebasing plan, the newly commissioned ICGS Arnvesh has already joined
the Eastern CG fleet as part of replacement.
Singapore Corvette Test-Fires Barak Missile

Singapore Navy (RSN) has successfully test-fired a Barak missile from its Victory-class missile
corvette RSS Vigour during Fleet Exercise conducted in the South China Sea
The RSNs Missile Corvette Squadron, on the conduct of the exercise and the capabilities
of the missile corvette.
Manohar Parrikar flags off Indias first indigenous Sonar Dome

Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has flagged off Indias first indigenous composites
sonar dome, a ships underwater eyes and ears.
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The first indigenous composites bow mounted sonar dome was dedicated to the nation
during Def Expo 2016 in Goa. The sonar dome will be supplied to Mazgaon
Docks,Mumbai for use in the warships of Indian Navy.
The sonar dome has been designed by Research & Development Establishment
(Engineers), a Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratory
based in Pune and manufactured by composites manufacturing company Kineco Ltd,
Pilerne, Goa.
ENVIRONMENT
New Snake species discovered in Western Ghats

Researchers have discovered a new snake species in the Western Ghats in Kolhapur
and Sindhudurg districts. It is a burrowing snake of the Melanophidium genus and belongs to
the Uropeltidae family of snakes.
Flash points
The snake is named after Pune-based herpetologist Neelimkumar Khaire to pay tribute
to his contribution to the knowledge, appreciation and conservation of snakes in India
The scientific name of the species is Melanophidium khairei while its common name is
Khaires Black Shieldtail
The research papers main authors are Dr David Gowerand and Dr Mark Wilkinson of
the NHM, Dr Varad Giri of NCBS and Ashok Captain of IHS/BNHS
Climate change could kill 500,000 adults by 2050

With the rise in global emissions the Global Warming could be aggravated. In turn the climate
changes can affect the people worldwide. A recent study shows that it is likely to cause 500,000
deaths by 2050.
The latest computer modeling study reveals that climate change would badly affect China
and India
The study released by The Lancet predicts 36 lakh death in India and 2.48 lakh
death in China owing to the Climate change and its effects
The researchers used an agricultural economic model fitted with data on emission
trajectories, socio-economic pathways, and possible climate responses to evaluate the
effects on global food production, trade, and consumption for 2050
The research leader, Marco Springmann is from the Oxford Programe on the Future of
Food at the University of Oxford in England
The model projects that by 2050, climate change will lead to per-person reductions of
32% in global food availability, 4% in fruit and vegetable consumption, and
07% in red meat consumption
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It also projects that around 5,29,000 deaths will be caused across the world due to
climate change by 2050
Most climate-related deaths were projected to occur in south and east Asia
The study has also indicated that adoption of climate-stabilisation pathways can reduce
the number of climate-related deaths by 29-71%
India signs MoU to conserve Birds of Prey

The Union Government signed an important Raptor MoU for the Conservation of Migratory Birds of
Prey in Africa and Eurasia.
Flash points
This Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the Convention of Migratory bird
species Secretariat at Abu Dhabi on March 7
The Raptor MoU covers 76 species of birds of prey, of which over 50 occur in India,
including the critically endangered vulture
Raptors, or birds of prey, are threatened by habitat loss and degradation, illegal
shooting and poisoning, collisions with aerial structures and electrocution by power
lines
Uttar Pradesh government to launch a campaign to protect sparrows

The UP Government announced to conduct campaign at school levels to create awareness about
the conservation of birds.The programme will be conducted at primary and secondary schools.
Features of the programme
The event has been named as Gauraiya Diwas
It is planned to be celebrated on March 20 at Janeshwar Mishra park
UP chief minister is likely to inaugurate the event
On March 14, the students would be administered an oath to conserve plants and trees
and make sincere efforts towards conservation of sparrows
The students would also be made to take oath to make the state clean and green
underCleanUP Green UP
It is also told that persons and forest officials working in the field of sparrow protection
would be felicitated with Gauraiya Mittra award
More than 50 animal species critically endangered

Over 50 animal species have been judged as critically endangered and 310
asendangered out of 96, 000 animal species present in India according to the studies taken
by Zoological Survey of India.
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International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Survey:
Critically endangered is the highest risk category assigned by the Nature Conservation
body.
Switzerland based organisation has assessed 18 species of amphibians, 14 varieties

of fish, 13 birds and 10 mammals as critically endangered and 310 species as
endangered, including 69 fish, 38 mammals and 32 amphibians.
Botanical Survey of India (BSI) Survey says a total of 19,156 species of vascular
plants, 1,236 species belong to different threatened categories like critically
endangered, endangered
Fossil of 250 million year old reptile species discovered

A team of scientists has discovered a new fossil reptile that lived 250 million years ago in Brazil.
The discovery is important because the reptile lived just after the great Permo-Triassic mass
extinction event that occurred 252 million years ago
Discovery
The species has been named as Teyujagua paradoxa, derived from the language of the
Guarani ethnic group and means fierce lizard
The species has been identified from a mostly complete and well-preserved fossil skull.
The fossil fuel was discovered by a team from the Federal University of Pampa
(Unipampa)
Four Giant Exoplanets Discovered

A group of Scientists led by Matias Jones of the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile have
discovered four enormous planets with masses from 2.4 to 5.5 times that of Jupiter, orbiting
stars much bigger than our Sun.
The newly found planets are:
HIP8541b, HIP74890b, HIP84056b and HIP95124b
New Golden Frog Species discovered in Colombia
A team of scientists including a Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) research associate
have discovered a new species of pale-gold coloured frog in the cloud forests of the
high Andes in Colombia.
The new species was found calling from bushes along a roadside at about 8,700 feet
elevation near Chingaza National Park, roughly 10 miles east of Bogota, capital and
largest city of Colombia.
British Astronomers discover nine monster stars
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British astronomers have discovered a cluster of nine monster stars, 30 million times brighter
than the Sun. It is the largest group of very massive stars ever identified.
The star cluster is named as R136. It is located in the Tarantula Nebula within the Large
Magellanic Cloud.
It includes four stars which are more than 150 times the mass of the Sun, five which are
more than 100 times as massive and dozens of stars exceeding 50 solar masses. It
is1,70,000 light years from Earth.
Agasthyamala included among UNESCOs new 20 Biosphere Reserves

Agasthyamala the biosphere reserve shared by Kerala and Tamil Nadu has been placed in the
new 20 Biosphere reserves list released by UNESCO.
Location: Western Ghats, in the south of India
The Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve (ABR) was established in 2001 and is spread
across the two states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Union Government notified new Plastic Waste Management Rules to curb 6000 tonnes of
plastic waste
The government notified new norms aimed at curbing the over 6,000 tonnes of uncollected
plastic waste generated daily by industries for plasticwaste management across the country.
Industries using plastic will have to pay proportionately towards collection through the
same distribution system they use for retailing their products.
However specification about the extent of fines that would be imposed on the
manufacturers not mentioned in the Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar and how
exactly the monitoring system will operate.
This initiative aims to standardise the 50 micron size plastic bags as opposed to the
40 micron ones, which was the minimum permissible limit earlier.
MoEFCC notifies new environment standards for Gensets

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) has notified new
environment standards for Gensets running on various kinds of fuels including LPG, petrol and
diesel in various cities.
The objective of the new standards for Gensets is to control air and noise pollution
emanating from the operation of Gensets. These standards were recommended by the
Central Pollution Control Board after consultations with industries and other stakeholders.
It would be revisited in 4-5 years once air and noise emission quality data and
technological details pertaining to Gensets are available.
Under these standards certification is mandatory for Gensets in terms of Type approval
and Conformity of Production for air emission as well as noise emission.
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Asia most exposed to disasters, Africa most vulnerable: Study

Asia has the largest number of people affected by natural disasters, but African countries are the
most vulnerable to them, largely because of political instability, corruption, poverty and inequality,
a new global assessment shows.
Over 1.4 billion people in South Asia such as India, Bangladesh and Pakistan face at
least one major threat from nature. In the case of Bangladesh, 100% of its population
is exposed, compared to 82% for India and 70% in Pakistan.
India has a billion people at risk, with China, Bangladesh, Indonesia, the Philippines,
Japan and Pakistan also ranked among the 10 countries with the most people exposed
to natural hazards.
More than 85 percent of people are exposed to at least one kind of natural hazard, In the
case ofJ apan, Taiwan and Hong Kong. But all three countries are classed as having
low vulnerability, and together recorded less than 32,000 deaths from natural disasters
since 1990.
Africa Most vulnerable:
But the list of countries most vulnerable to disasters in terms of their ability to prepare for,
respond to and recover from them is topped by African nations, particularly conflictplagued South Sudan, Burundi and Eritrea.
Much vulnerability in Africa and elsewhere is the result of poor governance including
corruption and an inability to implement policies to reduce disaster risk.
Haiti, on the other hand, is not as exposed to potential disasters but is considered highly
vulnerable, having suffered over 230,000 deaths since 1990, many in a major 2010
earthquake.
Nine countries ranked as most vulnerable to natural hazards out of 10 in the index are in subSaharan Africa, and 23 of 25 are on the continent.
South Sudan snowed under by drought and war heads the list of the countries most
defenceless against disaster, followed by Burundi, Afghanistan, Eritrea, Chad, Niger,
Sudan, Mali and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Mint plant can help fight cancer: CIMAP Researchers

Scientists at CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants in Lucknow have discovered
that a compound called L-Menthol derived from Mentha plant, popularly known as mint, can also
be used in anti-cancer drugs.
It has been proved scientifically that L-Menthol can kill the colon cancer cell line
without affecting the normal cell line.
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The research also claims that production of L-menthol is cost-effective, nondestructive and easily available in comparison to anti-cancer compound used at present,
derived from the bark of European Yew tree.
Union Government notified E-Waste Management Rules, 2016

Union environment ministry has notified new plastic waste management rules, The Plastic Waste
Management (PWM) Rules 2016, issued will replace the Plastic Waste (Management and
Handling) Rules 2011.The ministry also increased the minimum thickness of plastic carry bags
from 40 microns to 50 microns.
The new rules also focus on phasing out of non-recyclable multi layered plastic and
increasing reuse of plastic waste especially in applications like road construction and waste to
energy.
The move will help in achieving our Prime Minister Narendra Modis vision of Swachh
Bharat bringing the countrys gram panchayats into the picture and introducing the concept
of extended producer Responsibility (EPR).
Every day Staggering 15,000 tonnes of plastic waste is generated but of that, only 9,000
tonnes is collected and processed.
Volcano erupts in South Alaska

Pavlof Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the heart of Alaska region erupted.
The volcano in the 8,261-foot mountain erupted about 4 p.m. Sunday, spitting out an
ash cloud that rose to 20,000 feet.
Alaska Volcano Observatory, along with the University of Alaska and the state Division
of Geological and Geophysical Surveys observed the eruption
However the eruption of the volcano began to decline by Monday afternoon and so the
alert was reduced to Watch stage
The volcano, about 4 miles in diameter, has had 40 known eruptions
Sand-eating Micrixalidae tadpoles species found in Western Ghats

Sand-eating tadpoles has been discovered by scientists from the Various Universities in the
Western Ghats.These species named Micrixalidae belongs to the so-called Indian Dancing Frog
family.
They were discovered from the deep recesses of streambeds, these tadpoles lack teeth
but have well-serrated jaw sheaths which helps them avoid large sand grains while
feeding.
SPORTS
Rahul Sachdev won 1st All India Open Invitational Snooker Championship 2016
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Rahul Sachdev clinched first All India open invitational snooker championship 2016, Sachdev had
achieved the highest by reaching the national 6 Reds final in the year 2013, and however
winning this feet will certainly raise his confidence.
Rahul Sachdev of Maharashtra defeated current national 6 Reds no 4 Pushbender Singh

of Railways 5-3.
The Invitational Snooker championship 2016 held at Aurangabad in Maharashtra.
Rana wins gold in 50km race walk in National Championships

Basant Bahadur Singh Rana clinched gold in 50 Km race walk in National Championship held
at Jaipur in Rajasthan, the winner clocked 4 hours seven minutes and 24 seconds.
The Delhi hailed walker could not achieve the revised Olympics Qualification time of
4:06:00, he must have disappointed with his performance as he would not be eligible to
walk in Rio Olympics this time.
However in the 20 Km walk stream as many as seven men walkers breached the qualification
time limit.
Rana has a career best of 3: 56: 48 earlier in the London Olympics that took place in 2012,
which was a national record then.
50km walk rcae
Basant Bahadur Singh Rana
Chandan Singh (Silver)
Jitender Singh Rathore (Bronze)
Junior Women category of 10 Km

Walk Neena(gold)
Bhawna Jat(Silver)
Priyanka Patel(bronze)
Cricketer Aaron Phangiso suspended for illegal bowling action

Proteas left arm spinner Aaron Phangiso has been suspended from bowling in Domestic
cricket for suspect bowling action.
The South African spinner will not be picked for the first two T20 matches to be played
against Australia at home.
Phangiso will take tests on March 7 in ICC accredited lab at the University of Pretorias
High Performance Centre by ICC.
Meghalaya to bid for 2022 National Games

Meghalaya Government has decided to bid for 2022 National Games after the successful host
of 12th south Asian Games concluded recently in the state.
Meghalaya government proposes to bid for Nation Games in 2022. The sports ministry
is emphasized that potential of talented sportspersons available in the Northeastern
region of the country.
The Ministry has approved grant of Rs. 87.50 crore for 15 sports infrastructure projects
under Urban Sports Infrastructure Scheme.
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Mumbai U-23 team clinched CK Nayudu Trophy 2015-16
Mumbai U 23 team clinched CK Nayudu Trophy 2015-16 title ,by beating Madhya Pradesh by
virtue of taking first innings lead at the MPCA Stadium in Indore
This title comes after Mumbai senior team clinched their 41st Ranchi Trophy
titleagainst Saurashtra in Pune.
By this the winning team became richer by Rs. 20 lakh for winning CK Nayudu trophy,
Mumbai team carried their bat to a tall score of 577 to which Madhya Pradesh replied with
422 all out before the game into a tame dram on final day.
FIH promotes Napoleon Singh as International Umpire

National level Hockey Umpire Napoleon Singh has been promoted to the International Outdoor
Umpire by International Hockey Federation.
His performance in the recently concluded 12th South Asian Games held at Guwahati
has been the key for his appointment.
He started his career as an umpire in the third Hockey India Junior Women National
Championship 2013 held at Ranchi.
He was a regular Umpire to officiate in all the major tournaments conducted under the
aegis of Hockey India.
Lionel Messi Hat-Trick Steers FC Barcelona to Unbeaten 35-Game Record

Lionel Messi hat-trick steered FC Barcelona to unbeaten 35 game record, this defeat in a match
against nine man Rayo Vellecano 5-1 to become the first Spanish club to play 35 consecutive
matches without loss.
The new record breaking Real Madrids record of nearly three decades ago. Messi
also helped Barcelona to extend their lead over Atletico Madrid to eight points with Real
Madrid.
Patna Pirates win their first Pro Kabaddi title

In the Third season of Star Sports Pro Kabaddi league Patna Pirates beat U Mumba by three
points to take home the trophy.
Patna Pirates captained by Manpreet Singh dominant U Mumba to emerge as

Champions of Pro Kabaddi League in the title clash held at Indira Gandhi Indoor
Stadium in New Delhi.
Indian paddlers win Gold at World Table Tennis Championship

Manika leading from the front contributed Indian women table tennis team lifted their game by
several cuts and won gold in the second division of the World Table Tennis Championship
2016 Held at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Womens Table Tennis Team Created History:
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This is for the first time in12 years in womens Tables Tennis history. The team beat
Luxemburg 3-1 in the second division final before their male counterparts overcame a
stiff competition from Brazil.
Indian Team cemented their hopes on the most experienced Mouma Das who continued
to prove that she is countrys Numero Uno star in the game.
Mens Table Tennis Team:
Mens Table Tennis team defeated Brazil in the Second Division of Tournament held
at Kuala Lumpur.
PepsiCo named new associate sponsor of BCCI

Beverage giant PepsiCo entered into a four year partnership with the countrys apex cricket body
BCCI as an associate sponsor for all its International Matches played at home.
The deal would make PepsiCo as BCCIs official partner for refreshment, Snacks and
drinks besides grounds right where the PepsiCo would have visibility on the playing field.
The deal would add Rs. 150 crore to the boards coffers over four years. The mentioned
sum is the cumulative sum of three deals the other two sponsor deals are in the pipeline
of BCCI.
India win Asia Cup title for sixth time

Indian Team Chased down Bangladeshs 120/5 in 13.5 overs to win the Asia Cup for the
sixth time, the match took place was a miracle , given the amount of rain that lashed Dhaka 90
minutes before start of play.
In a rain bound game the Bangladesh posted decent 120/5 in 15

overs,SabbirRahman and Mahmudullah accumulated thirties with some exceptional
batting from Mahmudullah at the end.
This is the second time that Bangladesh team reaching final of the Asia Cup. India
Winning the Trophy for the sixth time in history.
Player of the Tournament: Sabbir Rahman (Bangladesh)

Man of the Match: Shikhar Dhawan (India)
Novak Djokovics first Davis Cup defeat in 5 years
Serbian Novak Djokovic s suffered his first Davis Cup defeatin five years as he trailed
Kazakhstan in their World Group first round match on Saturday.
The Top seed teamed up with his Serbian teammate Nenad Zimonjic for the doubles
match but suffered a tight 6-3, 7-6, 7-5 defeat to AndreyGolubev and Aleksandr.
Anirban Lahiri Finishes 28th at World Golf Championship

Indian Golfer Anirban Lahiri surprized to a poor seven-over 79 on a windy day as he dropped
sharply from a likely to the top-10 finish to tied-28th at the World Golf Championships. Held
at Doral in USA.
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The Winner:
Australian Golfer Adam Scott recovered from two double bogeys in his first five holes with
six birdies the rest of the round to prevail by one stroke over Bubba Watson from the
USA who finished second in the tour.
Jindal Panther beats Sona Polo to win Amity Polo Cup trophy
Jindal Panther defeated sona Polo to lift the Amity Polo Cup trophy, Jindal Panther beats Sona
Polo by 5/12 goals to 3 in the summit clash.
SimranShergill who secured three goals also secured 5 goals in the semifinal that made
the team to win the final named as the Most Valuable Player of the tournament.
Maria Sharapova provisionally suspended after failing drug test at Australian Open
Russian Tennis great Maria Sharapova officially suspended from March 12 after failing drug
test at Australian Open, the highest paid female athlete had failed a drug test at the Australian
Open due to substance she has been consuming for a decade.
Rest of India wins 2015-16 Irani Cup Cricket Title
Rest of India batsmen Showed brilliance as they completed a classic run-chase against
Incumbent Ranji Trophy Winners Mumbai, winning the Paytm Irani Cup by 4 wickets reaching a
victory target of whooping 480 runs in Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai.
This is the 10th-highest successful chase in the history of First-Class cricket. It was
also the third-highest on Indian soil.
Karnataka Opener Karun Nair was named Player of the Match.
JituRai wins gold at Shooting World Cup

Indian Shooter jiturai bagged gold at ISSF World cup held in Bangkok Thailand. Shooters will
put upon test their form ahead of the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games will start in September this
year.
Rai clinched gold in the mens 50m pistol event shooting World Cup. Jitu scored 191.3
points in the final round.
Former World champion Pang Wei of China took second place with 186.5 who will clinch
Silver in the event. Olympic medallist Wang Zhiwei, also of China, finished thirdwith a final
round score of 165.8.
Hyundai Is Now the Official Partner of BCCI

South Korean Auto major Hyundai Motors has entered into a four-year partnership with the
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as an associate sponsor for all international
matches played in India.
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Under this agreement Hyundai cars would be used for transporting various stakeholders
of the game throughout the event.
BCCI offered space for three official associate sponsors from which the governing
body would get 150 crore in the next four years.
Vijender Singh clinches fourth successive professional win

Vijender Singh retained his unbeaten run in Professional Boxing alive with yet another
knockout win over Hungarys Alexander Horvath at the Echo Arena in Liverpool.
Indian boxing star Vijender Singh has achieved up his fourth consecutive
knockout professional win by thrashing Hungarys Alexander Horvath in under three
rounds.
The Professional boxing star eyeing to win the Asia title in front of my home crowd and
lookingforward to record two more knockout wins in April before he plays in India.
Lin Dan wins 2016 All England Badminton title

Lin Dan of China Wins His Sixth All England Badminton Championships Title 2016, this
victory came four years after his last. He awared with a trophy and cash prize of USD 550,000.
Mens Singles
Womens Singles
Mens Doubles
Mixed Doubles
Lin Dan won by defeating TianHouwei

NozomiOkuhara of Japan won by defeating Wang Shixian.
Ivan Andreyevich Sozonov of Russia with compatriot
VladimirIvanov defeated Japan pair Hiroyuki Endo and Kenichi Hayakawa
Indonesia pair Praveen Jordan and his partner Debby Susanto
defeated Denmark pair Joachim Fischer Nielsen and Christinna Pedersen
Services wins 70th Santosh Trophy football title 2016

In the 70th Santosh Trophy Football Championship Tournament Services beat Maharashtra 21 to clinch title for fifth time. Riding on Arjun Tudus double strike helped the side to lift the
trophy.
Services on Sunday retained the Santosh Trophy National Football Championships

title after beating hosts Maharashtra 2-1 in the title clash inthe Final at the SEC
Railway Stadium Nagpur
Delhi lift Llyod Pro-Am Championship trophy

In the 20th edition of the Indias most prestigious corporate Golf tournament Delhi emerged as a
winner by defeating Mumbai to lift the 20th Lloyd Business Today Pro-Am of Champions golf
tournament.
The summit clash of this event was played at the Jack Nicklaus designed Classic Golf
Resort in Gurgaon New Delhi.
Paralympics Games began in Arunachal Pradesh
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The first Paralympic Games in Arunachal Pradesh began at the SangayLhaden Sports Academy
Complex, Chimpu, Itanagar began on March 15 with Sport and Youth affairs
Secretary DaniSalu officially inaugurated the Open Event.
The three-day event being organised by the Arunachal Pradesh Paralympics Association
(APPA)Scheduled to be held from March 15 to 17.
The five point memorandum has been submitted by APPA to the Sports Secretary during
the event that demanded corpus fund of Rs. 20 Lakh for Paralympic Games, Rs. 10
Lakh each for Umang Festival and for procurement of sports goods, boys and girls
hostels for persons with disabilities, their training at SLSA, and appointment of five posts
of coaches for them.
The Events and Winners:
Around 130 participants have registered for the 12 events, the numbers indicate a very
positive start. The event is being held in collaboration with District Administration Capital
Complex and state Directorate of Sports.
The events included, 100M, 400M, 800M and Wheel Chair Race (100M), Long Jump, Shot Put,
Javelin Throw, Chess, Carrom, Volleyball (Men) and Arm Wrestling.
In the wheelchair race event Techi Talla remerged as the Winner.
In the boys 100 meter race,Tabam Tatak won the race.
LiterOri came in at first place in the girls100 meter
In the mens 100 meter race category, Thasang Ajay won first place.
Shweta Rathore wins Miss India title in Body building

Shweta Rathore the silver medalist in Asian Championship in 2015 has won the gold medal in
held at New Delhi.
Rathore is the founder and president of the NGO Gods Beautiful Child
Gayle become second player to hit century in 2016 T20 WC

Chris Gayle becomes second player to hit century in 2016 T20 World Cup after Tamim Iqbal.
He smashed century in just 47 balls against England in a Group 1 match at the

Wankhede Stadium in the 2016 T20 World Cup
He is also the first player to hit a century in the history of tournament, against South
Africa in 2007.
TCS named official tech partner for London Marathon

Indias leading IT services provider Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) announced a partnership
with the Virgin Money London Marathon for three year
Aim: To enhance the digital experience delivered to marathon participants.
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Now TCS will become the races Official Technology Partner for the 2016, 2017 and
2018 events.
Du Plessis 2nd fastest to reach 1,000 T20I runs

Playing in a World T20 match against England, Faf du Plessis became the second fastest
player to reach 1,000 T20 runs, taking 32 matches.
Virat Kohli was the fastest to achieve the feat, in 27 matches. Meanwhile, Du Plessis
also became the third South African player to reach 1,000 T20I runs, behind JP Duminy
and AB de Villiers.
Yogeshwar Dutt Qualifies for Rio Olympics

Yogeshwar Dutt secured an Olympic quota place for India with a gold-medal finish in the
mens 65kg freestyle category in Asian Olympics qualification tournament at Astana.
Flash points
Yogeshwar Dutt joins the list along with Narsingh Yadav to qualify for Rio Olympics
The top two finishers in each weight category here are assured of a Rio berth
The wrestler reserved his place by virtue of reaching the final on the second day of the
competition even before clinching the gold medal
Gurmeet Singh creates History winning Asian 20km walking race

Gurmeet Singh created history by becoming the first Indian athlete to clinch a gold medal in the
Asian 20km race walk championships as he won the mens event of the season.
Flash points
Gurmeet finished the race in 1 hour 20 minutes and 29 seconds clinching the Gold
medal
Japans Isamu Fujisawa ended up with a silver medal in 1:20:49 in a close fight in the
last 5km with Gurmeet
Kazakhstans Georgiy Sheiko won the bronze medal in 1:21:52
Gurmeet won the Asian championship there by confirming his berth to Rio Olympics
9 Indians have bettered the standard in mens 20km walking race while only three will
make it for the Rio Olympics
Highlights of Women walking race
Chinas Rui Liang won the gold medal finishing in 1:28:43
Kumiko Okada of Japan won silver ending up at 1:30:03
South Korean Jeongeun Lee (1:33:53) clinched bronze
National champion Sapna finished the 20 Km walking race in 1:35:57 occupying the
fourth place
ICC suspends Bangladesh bowlers Taskin, Sunny
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The International Cricket Council (ICC) has suspended Bangladesh left-arm spinner Arafat Sunny
and pacer Taskin Ahmed from bowling in international cricket. They were suspended with
immediate effect after an independent assessment found their bowling actions to be illegal.
They underwent assessments in Chennai after being reported for suspect actions during
the World T20 round-one match against Netherlands.
Nico Rosberg wins an incident packed Australian Grand Prix

The Australian grandprix was won by Nico Rosberg overtaking Sebastian Vettel and Lewis
Hamilton.
Nico Rosberg led a Mercedes one-two in the opening race of the 2016 F1 season in
Australia Sunday after Fernando Alonsomet with a accident in the race
Rosberg won by 10 seconds from his teammate and two-time defending world champion
Lewis Hamilton
It was Rosbergs 15th career victory and fourth in a row after dominating the closing
races of the 2015 season
Novak Djokovic and Victoria Azarenka won BNP Paribas Open titles
Novak Djokovic and Victoria Azarenka who beat Milos Raonic and Serena
Williams respectively in straight sets to win BNP Paribas Open Titles 2016 at Indian Wells in
California.
Mens Singles:
Serbian Novak Djokovic beat Milos Raonic of Canada in straight sets 6-2, 6-0 to win
the BNP Paribas Open for a record fifth time.
Novak Djokovic won the Indian Wells title in 2008, 2011, 2014, 2015 and now
2016. The victory, the 62nd of his career, sees the 28-year-old draw level with Roger
Federer on 27 Masters 1000 tournament victories, and he has a chance to go past
theSwiss with victory at the Miami Masters.
Women Singles:
Victoria Azarenka of Belarus beat world number one Serena Williams of US to claim
the BNP Paribas Open title in Indian Wells.
She defeated Serena Williams by 6-4, 6-4 with this will return to the top 10 in the world
rankings after this Victory.
Mens Doubles:
In the Doubles in Mens category Pierre-Hugues Herbert and his compatriot Nicolas Mahut of
France defeated Vasek Pospisil of Canada and his US Partner Jack Sock by 64, 76.
Womens Doubles:
US Pair Bethanie Sands and Coco Vandeweghe defeated Julia Gorges of Germany and his
Partner Karolina Pilskova of Czech Republic by 4-6, 6-4.
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Chennai girl wins at street Child Games in Rio
Hepziba, who won three medals, including a gold, at the Street Child Games in Rio She sprinted
to win in the 100-metre dash at the Street Child Games held in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil
The tournament is a global movement for street children to receive the protection and
opportunities that all children are entitled to unite street children from across five
continents to play football and unite in a unique international conference.
Shane Watson to quit international cricket after World T20

Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has decided that he will end his international career after
the Ongoing ICC World Twenty20 in India.
The 34-year-old retired from Tests last year after Australias unsuccessful Ashes
campaign in England but opted to continue playing in the limited-overs formats. He
debuted for the Australian cricket team in 2002, playing his first ODI match against
South Africa.
Shane Watson is the only player to win Australian Player of the Year award across the
format of the game.
Quick enough wins Dr. GnaniLaksumanan Memorial Cup

Quick Enough Clinched the Dr.Gnani Laksumanan Memorial Cup trained by R Foley and ridden
by jockey N. Rupa, the main event of the races in Chennai.
The winner is owned by MAM RamaswamyChettiar of ChettinadChartiable Trust, Three

favourites obliged in a card of seven events.
Trainer B Suresh saddled three winners, while jockeys C. Umesh and Md. Hesnain rode
two winners each.
9th International Abilympics held at Bordeaux in France

The 9th Edition of International Abilympics is held at Bordeaux, France. The two day event
hosted from March 25-26.
Near about 600 participants representing 35 teams from different continents will take
part in this competition.
The 9th International Abilympics 2016 is a prestigious event for every PwD across the
world to showcase their limitless abilities. This time around the competition will be held
infive different categories, which include services, IT, industry, craft and food.
HS Prannoy wins Mens single title in Swiss open

HS Prannoy won the mens singles title at the 2016 Swiss Open in Basel, Switzerland.
He is Indias fourth highest ranked mens badminton player
He clinched the title by defeating Marc Zwiebler of Germany 21-18, 21-15 in the final
The 2016 Swiss Open mens singles title is Prannoys second title at a Grand Prix
Gold tournament, after he won the 2014 Indonesian Master
152 | P a g e
SSP Chawrasia clinches the Hero Indian Open title

SSP Chawrasia, who remained four-time runners-up, has finally clinched the Hero Indian Open
2016 title at the Delhi Golf Club. He won by 2 strokes with runner ups Anirban Lahiri of India and
Jeunghun Wang of Korea.
The 2015 title was won by Anirban Lahiri with runner up SSP Chawrasia.
With this victory he also secured his European Tour card. Overall, this is his 14th win of
his professional career.
India to host 2017 FIFA Under-17 World Cup

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India is going to host under-17 FIFA World Cup in
2017 in the 18th edition of his Mann Ki Baat programme.It is a big chance to present the Indian
brand on the global level.
2015 Chile and 2017 India
California Chrome lands worlds richest horse race

California Chrome won a Kentucky Derby, a Preakness, and a Horse of the Year title. Yet for all
of that, California Chrome redefined himself with his brilliant victory in the Dubai World Cup.
This Dubai World Cup was the best performance of California Chromes career.
This victory brings Chrome of $6 million to his $6.53 million career earnings and
surpassed 2008 World Cup champion Curlin as the all-time richest racehorse outside of
Japan.
Curlin, the World Cups 2008 winner, went into with $10.5 million in career earnings
Virat Kohli zooms to top in ICC T20 rankings, India also No.1
Number One T20 Batsman:
Indian Test Captain Virat Kohli kept his Performance at the top helped his side into the semifinals
of the World Twenty20 after defeating Australia, has replaced Aaron Finch as the number
one batsman in the latest ICC T20 rankings.
England middle order batting great Joe Root has rocketed 38 places to career-high 11th
after scoring 168 runs in four matches at a strike-rate of 150.
Number one Bowler:
West Indies right-arm leg-spin bowler,Samuel Badree has displaced Indian off-spinner
Ravichandran Ashwin to return to the number-one position.
Badree has taken six wickets in four matches to date, while Ashwin has dropped to third
place.
Number One Team:
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Number-one ranked India will go head to head with third- ranked West Indies in
Mumbai, while in the first semi-final in Delhi while second-ranked New Zealand will
square-off against fifth-ranked England.
India has retained their pre-tournament ranking as well as points, while the West Indies
have gained two points to move to 120.
New Zealand, who has been the only unbeaten side in the competition so far, has earned
six points to rise to 122 and have consequently moved up two places to second
Sergey Karjakin won 2016 World Chess Candidates Tournament

Ukraine born Russian grandmaster Sergey Karjakin, won the FIDE World Chess Candidates
Tournament held in Moscow.
The Russian triumphed over the United States Fabiano Caruana, whom he played in
the last round. Karjakin scored 8.5/14 to finish first in the eight-player tournament.
Russian Grandmaster Sergey Karjakin has won thrilling Moscow cliffhanger to challenge
for world title against the incumbent world champion, Norwegian Grandmaster Magnus
Carlsen, in a match for the world chess crown in the United States in November this
year.
OBITUARY
US actor George Kennedy passes away
US actor Geroge Kennedy passed away due to old age related ailments. He was at the age of 91
when he died.
The Actor appeared in more than 200 film and Television productions.
Kennedy was born in New York in 1925, began his career as a radio performer and then
started acting in movies.
He won OSCAR Award in 1968 for his supporting role in Cool Hand Luke, also made
notable appearances in Earthquake and Airport in 1975.
He worked with the US Infantry during Second World War.
Former New Zealand cricket captain Martin Crowe passed away

Auckland born right handed elegant batsman and Former New Zealand Skipper Martin Crowe
passed away of cancer .
The Cricket Saga (1962-2016):
Widely considered stylish batsman debuted against Australia aged 19 in 1982.he was
well known among cricket fan for his stylish and meticulous batting that given him
cricket reputation.
154 | P a g e
The New Zealander made with 17 Test Centuries including his career best of 299
against Sri Lanka. He scored 5, 444 test runs at an average of 45.36.
Crowe played 77 Tests and 143 One Day Internationals for New Zealand in his 13
year cricket career.
In 1992 World Cup Crowe took his side to the top of the table before a narrow defeat
to a Champions Pakistan in the semifinal.
He retired from the Game of cricket in 1995 aged only 33 citing Knee problems.
PA Sangma, former Lok Sabha Speaker, dies

Former Lok Shaba speaker and acclaimed Politian PurnoAgitok Sangma died of heart attack, he
was a nine time member of the Lok Shaba and the speaker in the 11thlok Shaba from 1996 to
1998.
He was elected member of lower house from Meghalayas Tura constituency.
Sangma unsuccessfully contested against Pranab Mukherjee in the presidential run off,
he lost by more than 3 lakh votes.
He had held various positions between 1974 and2008 from both Independent and
from National Congress Party.
Coronation Street creator Tony Warren died

Tony Warren the coronation street creator and writer has died. He was 79
Coronation Street has been on the air for 56 years and it has millions of
viewersaround the world.
Warren started his career at the age of 24 as a television actor in England later the series
appeared in USA cable network in 1980.
He wrote several novels and other TV shows and was a co-writer of the 1965 film Ferry
Cross the Mersey
A drama based on his life and the creation of the show, The Road to Coronation Street was
broadcast on BBC 4 in 2010.
Film scholar P K Nair passes away

Paramesh Krishnan Nair the founder and director of the National Film Archive of
India passed away. He was in critical condition since the last 10 days.
Nair is considered as the Henri Langlois of India because of his lifelong dedication
towards the preservation of films in India.
He contributed in preserving exquisite films such as Raja Harishchandra (1913),

AchhutKanya (1936) and Uday Shankars Kalpana (1948) is significant.
All-India Forward Bloc Leader Ashok Ghosh Died
155 | P a g e

93 years old, All India Forward Bloc Leader, Ashok Ghosh passed away at Kolkata. All India Forward
Bloc was founded by Subhash Chandra Bose in 1939, which emerged as a faction within Indian
National Congress.
He Remained its Secretary since 1951 until death.
He was also an instrumental member in the formation of the CPI-(M) Left Front
government in West Bengal.
Pat Conroy, Prince of Tides and Great Santini Author, Dies At 70

Legendary Novelist Pat Conroy served as an unending sources of inspiration for his fiction
notably the novels The Great Santini, The Lords of Discipline and the Princes of Tides died on
Friday.
He announced last month that he was suffering from pancreatic cancer, He was 70.
In 1976 Conroy published his first novel The Great Santini. He was a New York Times
bestselling American Author who wrote several acclaimed novels and memories.
Two of his novels The Prince of tides and The Great Santini were made Oscar dominated
films
E-Mail Inventor Ray Tomlinson Dies

Today, sending or receiving every letter is just a click away with the invention of Electronic
mail in 1972. Kudos to 74 year old, Mr. Tomlinson Ray who has now left us with this incredible
technology! People like him leave the world leaving their legacy behind. They bring the real
difference to make the world a better place to live.
Who is he? : A Technology Pioneer who picked @ symbol for addresses.
Credited for sending the first e-mail and developing such technology for internets
predecessor ARPANET.
American Actress Nancy Reagan died at 94

Nancy Davis Reagan, the veteran American actress and the former First lady of US died at the
age of 94 following a cardiac arrest.
About Nancy Reagan
She was an American actress and the wife of the 40thPresident of the United
States, Ronald Reagan.
She was the First Lady of the United States from 1981 to 1989
During 1940-50, she acted in many films such as The Next Voice You Hear, Night Into
Morning, and Donovans Brain
In 1989 her autobiography My Turn which reflects her life in White house was released
Malayalam actor Kalabhavan Mani dead
156 | P a g e

Mani Raman better known for his stage name Kala Bhavan Mani Popular Malayalam actor died at
private hospital in Kochi Kerala.The actor was undergoing treatment for liver and kidney related
diseases.The Chalakudy Police have registered a case for unnatural death after traces
ofmethanol found in his body.
The Actor and Singer has starred in more than 200 films including Malayalam, Tamil and
Telugu movies
Comedy was his forte, but he proved that he was not just a comedian with his superb
portrayal of a blind singer in Vasanthiyum Lakshmiyum Pinne Njanum, the movie
remade in Tamil as Kasi he was a favourite to win both the State and national awards for
the best actor.
Brazilian percussionist, Nana Vasconcelos, died

Eminent Percussionist, vocalist and Berimbau player Nana Vasconcelos has died of lung
cancer at age 71.He was a master of the single-string percussion instrument.
Brazil born eight time Grammy Award Winner worked over the decades with Brazilians
Milton Nascimento and EgbertoGIsmonti, Americans Don Cherry and Pat Metheny.
The American jazz magazine Downbeat named Vasconcelos percussionist of the

year each year from 1983 to 1991.
Sir George Martin, fifth Beatle, passes away

Legendary Producer Sir George Martin Known as the fifth Beatle has died at 90,He passed
away peacefully at his residence in besides Producing he is also an arranger, composer,
conductor, audio engineer and musician.
In his seven decades career ,he was recognized globally as one of musics most
creative talents and a gentleman.
He worked numerous legends Including Peter Sellers, Shirley Bassey, America,

Cheap Trick,Jeff Beck andCeline Dion.But his reputation, and his influence, rests on
the seven years he spent with the Beatles, the most successful group in music history.
Keyboardist Keith Emerson dies at 71

Legendary Musician Keith Emerson, Lakeand Palmer keyboardist who turned the instrument
into every bit the powerful and cool rock weapon as the guitar, has died in his residence in
California US
He was 71, when he died.Emersons first commercial success with the Nice in the late
1960s, before becoming a founding member of Emerson, Lake and Palmer one of the
early supergroups, in 1970.
He has been considered as one of the top keyboard players of the progressive rock
era.
157 | P a g e

Nobel Prize winner Lloyd Shapeley passed away
The World famous Mathematician ,Economist and Nobel laureate Lloyd S Shapeley passed
away at 92 in Arizon, USA.
About Lloyd S Shapeley
He was the creator of the game so long sucker
He also worked as a professor at the University of California from 1981 till his death
He was awarded with the Nobel Memorial prize in statistics in 2012 for his theory of
stable allocations and Game theory of economics field
Awards :
John Van Neumann theory prize in 1981
Golden goose award in 2013
Renowned British author Anita Brookner passes away

British award-winning novelist and art historian Anita Brookner passed away.She died at the age
of 87.
She was highly regarded as a stylist and her novels explore themes of emotional loss
and difficulties associated with fitting into society, and typically depict intellectual, middleclass women.
She has awarded with Man Booker prize in 1984 and in 2010 she had won James Tait
Black Memorial
Shehnai Exponent Ustad Ali Ahmad Hussain Khan Passes Away

The 77 year old Shehnai maestro, Ustad Ali Ahmad Hussain Khan passed away leaving his
mesmerising Indian Classical tunes with the world.
A Quick Look at his Life:
Born on March 21,1939 in Kolkata
He taught Shehnai at Sangeet Research Academy, Kolkata in 1974
He represented the Benaras School of Shehnai
He was regularly featured on All India Radio and Indian Television
Khan had performed in several countries including Belgium, Russia, Switzerland, France,
Tunisia, Singapore, Indonesia, Hongkong and the Philippines
Awards:
o
Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2009
Bangabhushan award by the West Bengal government in 2012
Paul Daniels, TV Magician, Dies Aged 77

Newton Edward Daniels, has died aged 77, after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.
158 | P a g e
Daniels is best known for his BBC TV series The Paul DanielsMagic Show, which
ran from 1979 to 1994.He achieved international fame through his television series
Debbie started to work with Paul as his assistant in his 1980 show in Bournemouth before
she graduated to the role in his long-running BBC series The Paul Daniels Magic Show.
Meir Dagan, Ex-Mossad chief passes away

Meir Dagan, a former chief of Israeli intelligence agency Mossad has died. He was 71.
He was widely known for disrupting Irans nuclear program. He served as the Director of
Mossad from 2002 until his retirement in 2011.
Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, called the former spy director a great
fighter who had devoted his life for the country and the Jewish people.
Frank Sinatra Jr. Has Passed Away

Francis Wayne Frank Sinatra known as Frank Sinatra Jr., the son of the legendary entertainer
Frank Sinatra died of cardiac arrest. He was 72.
He was an American singer, songwriter, and conductor.
In his early times he has performed at local clubs and venues and also with some bands.
He has also done acting, appearing in almost 20 shows, including the animated series
Family Guy.
Former Danish PM Anker Joergensen died

Former Danish Prime Minister Anker Joergensen died at 93. He served as the Prime Minister 2
times from 1972 to 1973 and from 1975 to 1982.
He had also served as the Foreign Minister of Denmark.
He also led the economy through two oil crises while the country recorded its slowest
growth in the postwar era.
Andrew Grover-former Intel CEO dead

Andrew Grove, former Chairman and CEO of Intel, passed away. He was 79 and he has been
battling Parkinsons disease for years.
Flash points
Andrew Stephen Grove, also known as Andy, was a Hungarian-born American

businessman, engineer, and author.
He later became CEO of Intel Corporation and helped transform the company into the
worlds largest manufacturer of semiconductors.
He was also referred to as the guy who drove the growth phase of Silicon Valley
159 | P a g e
In 1995, he was awarded with the 1st Annual Heinz Award in Technology, the
Economy and Employment
In 1997, he was chosen as theTime Magazines Man of the Year
He went on to become Intels president in 1979, CEO in 1987 and chairman from
1997 to 2005
Kadhaprasangam famous V D Rajappan died

The famous story telling Kadhaprasangam artist and Malayalam Actor V D Rajappan died at
the age of 70.
He is a famous comedian in Malayalam cinema and acted over 50 movies
He was in peak in 1970s & 1980s for his unique satirical style of Kadhaprasangam
His famous Kadhaprasangams include Kumari Eruma, Mak Mak, Priye Ninte Kura,
Amittu, Pothu Puthri and Ennennum Kurangettandeh
His last movie was Ok Chacko Cochin Mumbai
Football legend Johan Cruyff passed away

The Holland football legend Johan Cruyff has died peacefully in Barcelona, in the presence of his
family of lung cancer at the age of 68.
The Dutchman, was named as the world player of the year on three occasions. He
guided Holland to the World Cup final in 1974 and as a manager he spent eight years in
charge of Barcelona.
Cruyff scored 392 times in 520 games over a 19-year career but his influence reached
far beyond creating goals, thanks to his qualities as a leader, thinker and speaker.
As a player for Dutch international, Cruyff played 48 matches, scoring 33 goals. As a

coach he had 242 victories in 387 matches, with 75 draws and 70 losses.
He was adjudged as European Footballer of the Year in 1971, 1973 and 1974.Johan
Cryuff.
He joined Barcelona for a then-world record transfer fee of $2.0 million.
Comedian Garry Shandling Diesat 66

American actor and comedian Garry Shandling has died. He was 66. His office did not yet have
any details about Shandlings death.
His brand of comedy, which ceaselessly mocked the non-natural nature of show business,
is credited with influencing other hit shows like Tina Feys 30 Rock and Larry Davids Curb
Your Enthusiasm.
He was best known for his work inits Garry Shandlings Show and The Larry Sanders
Show.
160 | P a g e

Former BJP MP Lal Muni Chaubey passed away
Veteran BJP leader and Politician Lal Muni Chaubey passed away at the age of 73 owing to
prolonged illness.
He has been selected as the MP from Buxar district during 1996-2009 four times
He had also been the MLA from Kaimur constituency thrice
He belongs to Bihar
He is close to the former BJP PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Global Catholic Network founder Mother Angelica has died

Mother Mary Angelica, a folksy Roman Catholic nun who used a monastery garage to begin a
television ministry that grew into a global religious media empire, has died. She was 92.
Mother Angelica had been in declining health since suffering a severe cerebral
haemorrhage on Christmas Eve 2001.
Jim Carrison Passed Away

Veteran lyricist, Poet, Essayist and Novel writer Jim Harrison passed away at the age of 78
following cardiac arrest.
His famous novel Legends of the fall in 1979 describes about a Montana family that
was ravaged in worldwar-I was a huge hit
He has released 21 volumes of fiction, 14 books of poetry, two books of essays; one
memoir and a child book
His most recent book of fiction, The Ancient Minstrel, was published this month. A
book of poetry, Dead Mans Float, was published this year
Former USC President Steven Sample dies at 75

Steven Browning Sample, who was president of the Columbia based University of
Southern California for nearly two decades during which the school rose to international
prominence has passed away. He was 75.
Steven as a president made Excellence campaign on the USC Building that raised $2.85
billion, and USC became the first university in the country to receive five donations of
$100 million.
His initiatives to boost the universitys global outreach also led to the dramatic rise in
the number of international students.
Sample became president in 1991 and he is the 10th president of the University of
Southern California.
Oscar winning actress Patty Duke dies at 69

US actress Patty Duke, has died of sepsis from a ruptured intestine,at the age of 69.
161 | P a g e
Patty Duke, who as a teen won an Oscar for playing Helen Keller in The Miracle
Worker, then maintained a long career while battling personal demons
she appeared in stages and television in her earlier period of the career.
She first became known as a teen star, winning an OSCAR Award for Best Supporting
Actress at age 16 for her role as Helen Keller in The Miracle Worker (1962).
Over the course of her career, she received ten Emmy Award nominations and three
Emmy Awards, and two Golden Globe Awards.
BOOKS & AUTHORS

Who Was Shivaji ?
Who was Shivaji ? is a book authored by Sri Govind Pansare , a CPI leader who was shot
dead in February 2015. The book portrays Shivaji in a rare new light in contrast to the image
created by the Hindu nationalist discourse.
The book is an outcome of a speech delivered in 1987, which probably cost the
author his life. The controversial book has been printed in eight languages.
Dr. Mahesh Sharma releases the book The Culture Heritage of Trans Himalayas-Kinnaur
The Minister for State (I/C) for Culture and Tourism and Minister of State for Civil Aviation Dr.
Mahesh Sharma released a book entitled The Culture Heritage of Trans HimalayasKinnaur authored by Shri P.S. Nagi Loktus, IAS (retd.)
The book, published by IGNCA under Ministry of Culture.
It is a study of the cultural heritage of the trans-Himalayan area of Himachal

Pradesh, especially Kinnaur that involves documentation of traditional institutions
like temples, monasteries, Bon chos, artefacts, forts and old dialects of various ethnic
groups.
Gandhi: An Illustrated Biography authored by Pramod Kapoor

An Illustrated Biography: Gandhi was authored by Pramod Kapoor is a one platform for all
those who want to know about the life of the Father of the Nation.
It is a biography of Mahatma Gandhi who played a key role in Indian

independence movement
In the 68 years since his assassination, Gandhi has been studied and reanalysed infinitely, with respect and critically.
162 | P a g e
IMPORTANT DAYS
Mar 1 2016
Remember Day: Zero Discrimination Day
Purpose : To create awareness to people from all corners of the world, about the evil
consequences of discrimination, to celebrate diversity, and to reject discrimination.
Organization: UNAIDS
Theme: Stand Out
Mar 3 2016
Remember Day: : World Wildlife Day
Purpose : To raise awareness of the World's flora and fauna.
Organization: UNGA
Theme: The future of wildlife is in our hands
Remember Day: National defence day
Purpose : To commemorate in the memory of Pakistan's successful defence against India that
marked the ceasefire in the 1965 war
Organization: India
Theme: Its My Turn
Mar 4 2016
Remember Day: National Security Day
Purpose : To praise the work of security forces, who plays a major role in maintaining peace and
security of the people in India.
Organization: India
Mar 8 2016
Remember Day: International womens day
Purpose : : To celebrate the achievements of women while calling for greater equality.
Organization:
Theme: Planet 50-50 by 2030: Step It Up for Gender Equality
Mar 10 2016
Remember Day: World Kidney Day
Purpose : To create awareness among the people globally, about the importance of the kidneys
and also to reduce the frequency and impact of kidney disease and its associated health issues.
Organization: WHO
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Theme: Kidney Disease & Children: Act Early to Prevent It
March 13 2016
Remembered Day: World Rotaract Day
Purpose: To recognize the services offered by the Rotaractors through out the World.
Mar 15 2016
Remember Day: World Consumer Rights Day
Purpose : To promote the basic rights of all the consumers, to demand that those rights are
respected and protected.
Organization: WCRD
Theme: Antibiotics off the menu
Mar 18 2016
Remember Day: World Sleep Day
Purpose : To celebrate the benefits of good and healthy sleep and to draw society attention to the
burden of sleep problems and their medicine, education and social aspects
Organization: WASM
Theme: Good Sleep is a Reachable Dream
Mar 19 2016
Remember Day: Earth Hour
Purpose : To create awareness for global warming and Earth Hour is a global campaign with a
simple message to switch off non-essential lights for one hour
Organization: WWF
Time: From 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m
Mar 20 2016
Remember Day: World Sparrow Day
Purpose : To create awareness of the house sparrows and other birds to the rapidly changing
environments, and of threats to their populations.
Theme: Rise for the SPARROW Experience the power of One
Remember Day: International Day of Happiness
Purpose :To recognised happiness as a fundamental human goal and called for a more inclusive,
equitable and balanced approach to economic growth
Organization: UN
164 | P a g e

Mar 21 2016
Remember Day: International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Purpose : Aims to remind people of racial discrimination's negative consequences. It also
encourages
people to remember their obligation and determination to combat racial discrimination.
Organization: UN
Theme: Challenges and Achievements of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action
Remember Day: World Down syndrome Day (WDSD)
Purpose : To raise public awareness and create a single global voice for advocating for the
rights, inclusion and well being of people with Down syndrome.
Organization: WHO
Theme: My friends, My Community
Remember Day: International Day of Forests
Purpose : To raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests and of trees outside forests
Organization: UN, FAO
Theme: Forests and water
Remember Day: World Poetry day
Purpose : To promote the reading, writing, publishing and teaching of poetry throughout the world
Organization: UNESCO
Remembered Day: International Day of Nowruz
Purpose: To celebrates the start of the Persian spring festival March 21 ever year. It occurs on
or around the time of the March equinox.
Organization: UN
Mar 22 2016
Remember Day: World Water Day
Purpose : To create awareness among the people about the importance of conservation of this
valuable finite resource for the future generations.
Organization: UN
Theme: Water and Jobs
Mar 23 2016
Remember Day: World Meteorological Day
Purpose : To support the all the countries by providing meteorological services related to natural
disasters, climate and water.
Organization:UN,WMO
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Theme: Hotter, drier, wetter. Face the Future
Remember Day: Martyrs day
Purpose : To marks the assassination of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi in 1948
Organization: GOI
Mar 24 2016
Remember Day: World Tuberculosis Day
Purpose : To create awareness to the public about the dreadful tuberculosis (TB) and efforts to
eliminate the disease.
Organization: UN, WHO
Theme: Unite to End Tuberculosis
Remembered Day: International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights
Violations and for the Dignity of Victims
Purpose: To promote the importance of the right to truth and justice.
Organization: UN
March 25 2016
Remembered Day: International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the
Transatlantic Slave Trade
Purpose: It honors the lives of those who died as a result of slavery or experienced the horrors of
the transatlantic slave trade. It is also an occasion to raise awareness about the dangers of racism
and prejudice.
Organization: UN
Theme: Remember Slavery: Celebrating the Heritage and Culture of the African Diaspora and its
Roots
Remembered Day: International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members
Purpose: Date is the anniversary of the abduction of Alec Collett, a journalist who died while
working for the UN.
Organization: UN
Mar 27 2016
Remember Day: World Theatre Day
Purpose : To figure of world stature shares his or her reflections on the theme of Theatre and a
Culture of Peace
Organization: International Theatre Institute (ITI)
166 | P a g e

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The Projects include:

Commencement of Ro-Ro ferry service between Dhubri & Hatsingimari of Assam.

Mustafabad village to be renamed as Saraswati nagar

Mumbai Home To Most Number Of Billionaires In India

97 cities surveyed globally

Rankings of Mumbai and Delhi: 21 & 33 respectively.

India accounts for 6% of the billionaire population across the world

Chennai gets first smart self cleaning toilets in India

Copyright 2016 @ AffairsCloud.Com

Current Affairs PDF: March 2016

Each toilet costs around 4,50,000

Rajya Sabha passes carriage by Air amendments bill

With the amendments implemented, Indian airlines would be required to pay

Telengana to illuminate 25 municipalities with LED Bulbs

ESSL(Energy Savings Services Limited) is a joint venture of PSUs of ministry of

12 lakh households of 25 municipalities are going to be supplied with LED bulbs in

The aim of the government is to supply LED to 90 lakh households

Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Ramagundem, Waranagal and Khammam, the municipalities of

Tikhor park to be set up in Guwahati and Shillong

Copyright 2016 @ AffairsCloud.Com

Current Affairs PDF: March 2016

PM Narendra Modi Launches Setu Bharatam Project

Budget : Rs. 50,800 cr

Target year for completion: 2019

Alappuzha Backwaters To Get Indias First Solar Ferry

Raisina Dialogue begins in New Delhi

Raisina Dialogue a joint initiative of Ministry of External Affairs and Observer

Aadhaar Bill Introduced In Lok Sabha

Copyright 2016 @ AffairsCloud.Com

Current Affairs PDF: March 2016

Japan pledges Rs 5,700-crore loan for highways in Northeast

Election Commission announces Assembly Election in 5 States

Union Government To Provide Loan To FACT

FACT has been facing financial issues for over a decade

It needs to be repaid within five years with a moratorium of one

Traditional Chapchar Kut Festival Celebrated Across Mizoram

Copyright 2016 @ AffairsCloud.Com

Current Affairs PDF: March 2016

Nagaland Information Commission Rated one of the best

RTI Act was passed in 2005 by the UPA government

National conference of Women Legislators inaugurated by the President

SRESHTA: Indian Railways To Set Up Special Wing For Research

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Current Affairs PDF: March 2016

Uttar Pradesh passes UP revenue code amendment bill

The amendment allows Dalit people to sell their land to Non-Dalits

GOI to digitise all rural post offices by 2017

Third phase of Gyan sangam to focus on consolidation of banks

It is a part of the oil refinery at Mathura

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Current Affairs PDF: March 2016

Octomax, a novel technology is developed in-house by Research and Development

River Information system is a combination of tracking meteorological equipment with

Mumbai to host BRICS Friendship Cities Conclave in April

Germany to develop Bhubaneswar, Kochi, Coimbatore as Smart Cities

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Current Affairs PDF: March 2016

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