Current Affairs May 2020 - National

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1 - Government launched “The Saras Collection” on GeM portal

Government launched “The Saras Collection” on the Government electronic Marketplace (GeM) portal. The Saras Collection showcases daily utility products made by rural self-help groups (SHGs) and aims to provide SHGs in rural areas with market access to Central and State Government buyers.

It is a unique initiative of GeM and the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). Under this initiative, the SHG sellers will be able to list their products in five product categories namely handicrafts, handloom and textiles, office accessories, grocery and pantry and personal care and hygiene.

2 - Third phase of lockdown with relaxations in green, orange and red zones come into effect

The third phase of lockdown with different relaxations in green, orange and red zones came into effect till the 17th of May, 2020. The Health Ministry has divided over 700 districts of the country into Red, Orange and Green zones and Centre's guidelines will be followed according to the zone.

The classification takes into consideration incidence of cases, doubling rate, extent of testing and surveillance feedback to classify the districts. A district will be considered under Green Zone, if there are no confirmed cases so far or there is no reported case since last 21 days in the district.

3 - CSIR launched Kisan Sabha App

CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI), New Delhi has launched Kisan Sabha App to connect farmers to supply chain and freight transportation Management System.

The portal connects the farmers, transporters, Service providers.
The portal acts as a single stop for every entity related to agriculture.
KisanSabha also works for people in agriculture services sector such as dealers of fertilizers/ pesticides.
It would also prove to be useful for those associated with cold store(s) or godown(s).

4 - Five more States, Union Territories (UTs) integrated under 'One Nation, One Ration Card' plan

The Union Government has approved the integration of five more States and Union Territories with the National Cluster under the One Nation, One Ration Card plan. These States and UTs are Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.

Twelve states have already been integrated under One Nation, One Ration Card plan namely - Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Kerala, Karnataka Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana and Tripura.

5 - CAIT to launch national e-commerce marketplace 'bharatmarket' for retail traders

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has announced to launch a national e-commerce marketplace 'bharatmarket'. The marketplace will integrate capabilities of various technology companies to provide end-to-end services in the logistics and supply chains from manufacturers to end consumers, including deliveries at home.

The e-commerce portal aims to bring 95% of retail traders across the country onboard the platform, who would exclusively run the portal. The traders’ body is looking to enroll about one crore retailers on this e-marketplace in 2020 and make it the world's largest e-marketplace ever.

6 - New health warnings on tobacco packs

The Union Health Ministry on Monday notified new sets of specified health warnings for all tobacco product packs by making an amendment to the Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products (Packaging and Labelling) Rules, 2008. This amendment will come into force from 1 September 2020.

The notification states that all tobacco products that have been packaged on or after September 1, 2020 will have to display the first image and the products which are packaged on or after September 1, 2021 will have to display the second image.

7 - CCI approves proposed acquisition of Tech Data Corporation by Tiger Midco LLC

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the proposed acquisition of 100% shares and control of Tech Data Corporation by Tiger Midco LLC. Tiger Midco is a special purpose vehicle set up and managed by investment funds managed by affiliates of Apollo Management, L.P.

Tech Data, a NASDAQ listed corporation, is active globally in the wholesale distribution of technology products and solutions to resellers. Tech Data is present in India through a subsidiary, Tech Data Advanced Solutions (India) Pvt. Ltd. (“Tech Data India”).

8 - CCI approved BP Global proposed 49% acquisition of RBPML

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved Proposed Combination between BP Global Investments Limited (BP Global) and Reliance BP Mobility Limited (RBPML).

The Proposed Combination relates to the subsequent proposed acquisition by BP Global of an aggregate 49% of the fully diluted paid-up equity share capital and voting rights in and of RBPML. BP Global is an investment holding company and holds shares in subsidiaries and associated companies. It currently does not conduct any business operations in India.

9 - IDEAthon on ‘The Future of River Management

The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) recently organised an IDEAthon to explore how coronavirus pandemic can shape River Management strategies for the future. The IDEAthon examined how the social angle of rivers can be leveraged on to address other crises.

National Mission for Clean Ganga had initiated this IDEAthon to garner more attention towards river management and also highlight the interconnectivity of Cities with the River.

10 - GIR approved GI tagging of Kashmiri saffron

The Registrar of Geographical Indication, Government of India has granted Certificate of Registration to Department of Agriculture Kashmir for Kashmiri saffron. The Geographical Indication (GI) tag of the Kashmiri saffron symbolizes its exclusivity in the international market.

Geographical Indication Registry has approved the GI tagging on the saffron with GI no 635. Directorate of Agriculture has been declared as a registered proprietor of the GI of saffron. Kashmiri saffron is known for its quality and aroma worldwide.

11 - DST launched YASH programme with focus on COVID-19

National Council for Science & Technology Communication (NCSTC), Department of Science & Technology (DST) has launched a programme on health and risk communication ‘Year of Awareness on Science & Health (YASH)’ with focus on COVID-19. The programme is aimed at minimizing risks at all levels with the help of public communication and outreach activities.

YASH will envisage specific outcomes, like improved risk understanding amongst target groups including working with local sensitivities, belief systems, traditions, and indigenous knowledge. It also aims to introduce practices based on authentic knowledge duly verified by scientific processes.

12 - GI tag to Manipur black rice, Gorakhpur terracotta

Chak-Hao, the black rice of Manipur and the Gorakhpur terracotta have bagged the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Chak-Hao is a scented glutinous rice and is characterised by its special aroma. It is normally eaten during community feasts and is served as Chak-Hao kheer.

The terracotta work of Gorakhpur is a centuries-old traditional art form, where the potters make various animal figures like, horses, elephants, camel, goat, ox, etc. with hand-applied ornamentation.

13 - All India Institute of Ayurveda launched AYURAKSHA

The All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and Delhi Police organised AYURAKSHA programme for Delhi Police personal at New Delhi. The joint programme titled AYURAKSHA “Corona Se Jung - Delhi Police Ke Sang” aims to fight against corona through simple and time tested Ayurveda immunity boosting measures.

Delhi Police has come forward with a proposal for maintaining the health of front line COVID warriors like Delhi police personal through Ayurveda immunity boosting measures. The proposal would be implemented in a phase wise manner.

14 - AarogyaSetu Mitr Telemedicine Portal launched

The Government of India has launched a new initiative - the Aarogya Setu Mitr telemedicine portal, to offer free telemedicine and consultation services for coronavirus-related inquiries. This would help make Aarogya Setu a one-stop solution for all healthcare and Covid-19 prevention needs.

Aarogya Setu Mitr would also allow the users to book doorstep lab tests. The Aarogya Setu app has partnered with Swasth Foundation, Project StepOne, Tata Bridgital Health and Tech Mahindra’s healthcare initiative Connectsense Telehealth to offer tele-consultation service from verified doctors.

15 - Microwave steriliser to disintegrate novel Coronavirus developed

Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune, a deemed university supported by Defence Research and Development Organisation has developed a microwave steriliser named as ‘ATULYA’ to disintegrate (COVID-19). The virus gets disintegrated by differential heating in the range of 560 to 600 Celsius temperatures.

The product is cost effective solution, which can be operated in portable or fixed installations. This system was tested for human/operator safety and has been found to be safe. The time of sterilisation is from 30 seconds to one minute.

16 - Environment Ministry approved way for new Parliament building

The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)’s has approved the “expansion and renovation” of the existing Parliament building. The project has an estimated cost of Rs 922 crore.

The new Parliament building is a part of the government’s controversial and ambitious Rs. 20,000 crore Central Vista project. The plan includes constructing a new triangular Parliament opposite the existing heritage structure and building a central secretariat for all Ministries.

17 - USAID announced additional $3 million grant to India

The U.S. Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), announced an additional $3 million to India to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. USAID is providing these funds to the Partnerships for Affordable Healthcare Access and Longevity (PAHAL) project.

To date, USAID has provided $5.9 million to assist India in responding to the COVID-19 outbreak. Through the PAHAL project, USAID will support the National Health Authority to establish a financing facility that can mobilise resources from the private sector to assist over 20,000 health facilities enrolled under Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY).

18 - DGCA launched GARUD portal to fast-track approval to COVID-19 related drone operations

The Union Civil Aviation Ministry and Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have launched the GARUD (Government Authorisation for Relief Using Drones) portal for providing fast track conditional exemptions to government agencies for COVID-19 related drone operations. The step has been taken to aid government entities in addressing the challenges posed by COVID-19 and will remain in force until further orders.

The government is using various surveillance techniques to ensure that people are strictly adhering to lockdown restrictions in red and orange zones and are following social distancing norms in green zones.

19 - CSIR-IGIB and TATA Sons sign MoU for licensing ‘KNOWHOW’ for rapid diagnosis of Covid-19

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research’s (CSIR) constituent lab, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB) and TATA Sons signed a MoU for licensing of KNOWHOW for FNCAS9 Editor Linked Uniform Detection Assay (FELUDA) for rapid diagnosis of COVID-19. The license shall include transfer of the knowledge for scaling up the KNOWHOW in the form of a kit that can be deployed for COVID-19 testing.

FELUDA for COVID-19 has been designed for mitigating the ongoing COVID-19 situation and cater to mass testing. Its main advantages are its affordability, relative ease of use and non-dependency on expensive Q-PCR machines.

20 - Facebook and Bollywood come together for I For India concert

Social media networking site Facebook collaborated with some of the biggest names in Indian entertainment to put together a home-to-home fundraiser concert, ‘I For India’. Entire proceeds from the fundraiser concert will go to the India COVID Response Fund managed by GiveIndia, to support on-ground relief efforts.

GiveIndia (www.giveindia.org) is India’s largest giving platform with reach across 23 states. It is associated with over 100 NGOs. The four-hour-long concert was broadcasted live globally on Facebook on May 3.

21 - Health ministry launched Aarogya Setu IVRS facility

The Union Health Ministry has launched Aarogy Setu Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) to include citizens with feature phones and landline connections. It is a toll-free service, wherein citizens can give a missed call to the number 1921 and they will get a call back requesting for inputs regarding their health.

The toll-free service is implemented in 11 regional languages. The government has also launched AarogyaSetu Mitr portal from where users can get free consultancy from doctors on Covid-19 in addition to ancillary services like home collection of samples for Diagnostics and Medicine delivery at home.

22 - Government conducted Vande Bharat Mission to bring back stranded Indians from 12 abroad

The Government has conducted one of the largest evacuation exercises named Vande Bharat Mission to bring home nearly 14,800 Indian nationals stranded abroad due to the Corona virus lockdown. The government operated nearly 64 flights between 7th and 13th of May.

The 64 flights included ten flights from UAE, seven each from Bangladesh,Malaysia, United Kingdom and United States, five each from Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Philippines and Kuwait along with two each from Qatar, Bahrain and Oman.

23 - Indian Navy launched operation 'Samudra Setu'

In one of the largest evacuation exercise of its kind, Indian Navy launched Operation Samudra Setu to repatriate stranded Indian citizens from overseas. The phase one of the operation commenced with evacuation of Indian citizens from Maldives.

Navy Ships INS Jalashwa and Magar were sent to Male in Maldives to repatriate close to 1000 persons in the first trip. The ships were suitably provisioned for the evacuation operation viz., basic amenities and medical facilities.

24 - CCMB tied up with Bengaluru-based company to research on COVID-19

Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad has tied up with a Bengaluru-based company, Eyestem Research Private Limited, to take up research activities on COVID-19. Through this research collaboration, an attempt will be made to grow novel coronavirus in human cell lines, which will enable in vitro testing of potential drugs and vaccines against the COVID-19.

The research team will use Eyestem's human lung epithelial cell culture system provided as part of its Anti-COVID Screening (ACS) platform to understand the molecular and pathological characteristics of the novel coronavirus.

25 - National Gallery of Modern Art presented the virtual program "NGMA KE SANGRAH SE"

National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA), New Delhi presented the virtual program "NGMA KE SANGRAH SE". It aims to showcase the rarely seen or maybe unseen jewels from its repository. This program is based on various weekly or daily themes from NGMA’s prestigious collections.

The theme for the week ended 10th May was ARTIST BY ARTISTS and was dedicated to Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. It coincided with the maestro's 159th birth anniversary on 7^th May 2020.

26 - Niti Aayog started 'Surakshit Dada-Dadi & Nana-Nani Abhiyan'

Niti Aayog in association with Piramal Foundation has launched a campaign 'Surakshit Dada-Dadi & Nana-Nani Abhiyan'. It aims to ensure the well-being of senior citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic. Piramal Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Piramal Group.

'Surakshit Dada-Dadi & Nana-Nani Abhiyan' is aimed at creating awareness about various aspects of senior citizens' health and lifestyle including preventive measures and requisite behavioral changes in view of COVID-19 pandemic. It focuses on behaviour change, access to services, early detection & tracking of COVID-19 symptoms.

27 - Coir Board signed MoU with IIT Madras

The Coir Board signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology-Madras, to establish a Centre of Excellence for Coir Applications. Centre of Excellence aims at furthering the research work done so far in the coir sector with the support of IIT, Madras.

Coir Board will provide a financial assistance of five crore rupees initially for a period of two years for the establishment and running of the Centre of Excellence. In all, 27 areas of Research and Development have be

28 - NIT Trichy, six Central Universities selected for Prime Minister's Research Fellows scheme

National Institute of Technology, Trichy and six Central Universities have been selected for the prestigious Prime Minister's Research Fellows (PMRF) scheme 2020. The scheme was announced in the 2018 - 19 Budget.

Each Institute will get around 20 PMRF scholars who are eligible to get a fellowship of Rs. 70,000 per month for the first two years, Rs. 75,000 per month for the third year and Rs. 80,000 per month in the fourth and fifth year. A research grant of Rs. 2 lakh per year will also be provided to each of the fellows for all five years.

29 - IIT- Kanpur and BDL sign MoU for development of ventilators for Covid-19

Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur has joined hands with Bharat Dynamics Limited for the development of affordable ventilators for Covid-19 treatment. The MoU was signed between BDL, IIT Kanpur, IIT Kanpur’s incubator Foundation for Innovation and Research in Science and Technology and Nocca Robotics Private Limited (NRPL), an incubated start-up of IIT Kanpur.

NRPL has designed and developed a high-end and affordable indigenous ventilator. The ventilator’s design also has unique features to safeguard the frontline healthcare workers from exposure to the virus.

30 - PNB Housing Finance signed MoU with IIT-Delhi to develop PPE kits

PNB Housing Finance has signed a pact with IIT-Delhi for developing sustainable and reusable personal protective equipment (PPE) kits for healthcare workers. Under the agreement, the PNB Housing Finance Limited (PNBHFL) will support research and development of a unique prototype material to be used in manufacturing sustainable (washable and reusable) PPE surgical gowns and masks.

PNBHFL is promoted by Punjab National Bank and is registered with state owned bank and regulation authority of India - National Housing Bank (NHB).

31 - GOI launched three AYUSH based Researches

The Ministry of AYUSH launched following three studies related to COVID-19:

Ayurvedic Interventions: The research will study Ashwagandha and its prophylaxes against COVID-19. It will compare Aswagandha with Hydroxychloroquine.
Population based research: The research will find solutions to improve quality of life of the people in high risk areas. This research is to be carried out through four research
Sanjivani application: The Sanjivani Application will help generating data from around 5 million people. The data will help in learning the acceptance of the people in using AYUSH as a cure to COVID-19.

32 - GoI calls for making integrated soil nutrient management a farmers’ movement

Union Minister Narendra Singh Tomar has called for making integrated soil nutrient management a farmers’ movement. He directed running mission mode awareness campaigns on increasing use of bio and organic fertilisers and reducing chemical fertilisers strictly based on recommendations of Soil Health Card.

The movement will cover more than 1 lakh villages. It is to be launched and implemented in 2020-21. It also aims at promotion of Bharatiya Prakritik Krishi Padhati (BPKP).

33 - Bureau of Energy Efficiency initiatives saved Rs 89,122 Cr in FY19

According to a report on “Impact of energy efficiency measures for the year 2018-19,” the energy efficiency initiatives by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) led to savings worth Rs. 89,122 Cr in FY19. The findings of the report reflect that the implementation of various energy efficiency schemes has led to total electricity savings to the tune of 113.16 Billion Units in 2018-19, which is 9.39% of the net electricity consumption.

The efforts also contributed to reducing 151.74 Million Tonnes of CO2 emissions. This report was prepared by an Expert agency PWC Ltd.

34 - IMD includes PoK in its weather forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has started referring to its meteorological sub-division of Jammu and Kashmir as “Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan and Muzaffarabad”. Muzaffarabad is part of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir while Gilgit-Baltistan is also under illegal Pakistani occupation.

The IMD move comes within days of the Pakistan Supreme Court’s decision to allow the federal government to hold elections in Gilgit-Baltistan. On April 30, Pakistan’s top court had allowed the federal government’s application to set up a caretaker government and conduct provincial assembly elections.

35 - India and AIIB signed USD 500 million “COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health Systems Preparedness Project”

India and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank signed a 500 million dollar “COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health Systems Preparedness Project” in New Delhi to strengthen its public health preparedness. This is the first ever health sector support from the Bank to India.

Funds will address the needs of infected people, at-risk populations, medical and emergency personnel and service providers, medical and testing facilities, and national and animal health agencies. It will help strengthen country's Integrated Disease Surveillance Program, revamp infectious disease hospitals and medical college hospitals.

36 - India Post partnered ICMR for delivery of COVID-19 testing kits

India Post partnered with ICMR for delivery of its Covid-19 testing Kits from its 16 regional depots to the 200 testing labs in the country. Indian Council of Medical Research set a target of carrying out around one lakh tests across the country per day. These kits are being delivered packed in dry ice.

India Post committed to ensure that the delivery of kits is made as per requirements even in far-flung areas like Mizoram, Aizawl, Dungarpur, Churu, Jhalawar, Kolkata etc.

37 - TRIFED and AOL inked MoU to promote tribal enterprises

Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India, TRIFED under Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Art of Living, AOL Foundation signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote Tribal Enterprises. The Art of Living Foundation has agreed to provide Free Ration Kits to Needy Tribes India Artisans.

TRIFED Regional Offices have compiled the list of needy tribal artisans and have identified 9,409 needy tribal artisans located across the country for distribution of ration kits under I Stand With Humanity campaign of AOL. This is being coordinated with the AOL offices in all States.

38 - Khadi and Village industries turnover reached Rs. 90,000 Crore in 2019-20

The turnover of Village Industries products reached to Rs. 84,675.39 crore in 2019-20, registering a growth of over 19% from the previous year, i.e. 2018-19, which was at Rs. 71,077 crore. The village industry sector witnessed a phenomenal growth with production and sale going up by nearly 100 % in the last five years.

The turnover of Khadi registered a growth of 31% from Rs. 3215.13 crore in 2018-19, to Rs. 4211.26 crore in 2019-20. The production of Khadi, the most eco-friendly product of sustainable development, has more than doubled in the last five years.

39 - CSIR approved project to develop human monoclonal antibodies

CSIR through NMITLI program approved a project towards development of human monoclonal antibodies (hmAbs) that can neutralise SARS-CoV-2 in patients. The project aims to generate hmAbs to SARS-CoV-2 from convalescent phase of COVID-19 patients and select high affinity and neutralising antibodies. It focuses on generation of neutralising human monoclonal antibodies as a therapeutic strategy.

The project aims to anticipate future adaptation of the virus and generate hmAbs clones that can neutralise the mutated virus so that could be readily used for combating future SARS-CoV infections.

40 - Union Health & Family Welfare Minister launched “AYUSH Sanjivani” App

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Health & Family Welfare Minister launched the ‘AYUSH Sanjivani’ App and two AYUSH based studies related to COVID-19. The app will generate data on acceptance and usage of AYUSH advocacies and measures among the population and its impact in prevention of COVID 19. It is developed by Ministry of AYUSH and MEITY and shall reach out to a target of 50 lakh people.

The two AYUSH based studies include collaborative clinical research study on Ayurveda interventions as prophylaxis and Interdisciplinary Ayush Research and Development Task Force headed by Dr. Bhushan Patvardhan, Vice Chairman, University Grant Commission (UGC).

41 - Government panel suggested setting up National Land Management Corporation

A government panel on National Infrastructure Pipeline has recommended setting up a National Land Management Corporation. It will help to monetise state-owned surplus land assets in a systematic and specialised way. The Task Force recommends setting up the corporation under Companies Act. The Corporation will also manage the lands that are owned by the Government of India.

The task force made following recommendations:

Hire a CEO and a technical team
Raise capital from the equity market
Liaison with various government departments including Railways and Defence Ministry to Utilise their surplus land assets

42 - IIT Delhi startup launched ‘Reusable Antimicrobial Mask’

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered acute shortage of face masks, which is an important tool to contain transmission from one person to another. An IIT Delhi startup "Nanosafe Solutions" launched an antimicrobial and washable face mask "NSafe", which is reusable up to 50 launderings, thus greatly cutting down the cost of use.

NSafe mask is a highly engineered triple-layered product. It enhances protection through three different mechanisms: mechanical filtration, antimicrobial decontamination and repulsion of aerosol droplets. It has 99.2% bacterial filtration efficiency.

43 - ICMR, Bharat Biotech to develop a fully indigenous vaccine for Corona Virus

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and a Hyderabad based leading Vaccine manufacturing company Bharat Biotech International Limited have partnered to develop a fully indigenous vaccine for COVID-19. The vaccine will be developed using the virus strain which has been isolated at ICMR's National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune.

The details of the virus strain have been successfully transferred from NIV, Pune to Bharat Biotech. NIV will provide continuous support to Bharat Biotech for vaccine development.

44 - CSIR received approval for clinical trial of two drugs to treat COVID-19

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has received approval for clinical trial of two drugs to treat COVID-19. The Drug Controller General of India (DGCI) has given approval for the clinical trials of the drugs namely, Phytopharmaceutical and Favipiravir.

Favipiravir is a proven anti influenza drug used in Japan, China, and other countries while Phytopharmaceutical is a herbal medicine extracted from plants. It is a cocktail of different compounds but has a biological origin from a plant.

45 - BRO opened new 80-km road for Kailash Mansarovar pilgrims

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) completed construction of 80 km road stretch that connects Dharchula to Lipulekh (China Border), popularly known as Kailash-Mansarovar yatra route. The Darchula-Lipulekh road is an extension of Pithoragarh-Tawaghat-Ghatiabagarh road. On this road, the altitude rises from 6000 feet to 17,060 feet.

Nepal has however, raised objection over construction of the road. Lipulekh pass is a far western point near Kalapani. Both India and Nepal claim Kalapani as an integral part of their territory – India as part of Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh district and Nepal as part of Darchula district.

46 - India launched "Mission Sagar"

India launched Mission Sagar as part of the government’s outreach initiative towards five Island nations in the Indian Ocean amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Indian Naval Ship 'Kesari' departed for Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar, and Comoros, to provide food items, COVID-19 related medicines including Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) tablets.

This deployment as ‘Mission Sagar’ is in line with India’s role as the first responder in the region. It is in consonance with the Prime Ministers' vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region ‘SAGAR’ promulgated in March 2015.

47 - Coal India signed MoUs with Russia for coking coal

Coal India signed MOUs with two Russian entities in the areas of coking coal mining in the Russian Far East and the Arctic Region. Coal India signed the first MoU with Far Eastern Agency for Attracting Investments and Supporting Exports (FEAAISE).

CIL signed the second MoU with Eastern Mining Company (FEMC) of Russian Federation for exploring, identifying, sourcing, negotiating and consummating mutually beneficial investment opportunities in the mining sector in the Russian Far East. Coal India is also looking at acquiring coking coal assets in Russia, Canada and Australia.

48 - CSIR to develop human monoclonal antibodies (hmAbs) that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2

CSIR through its flagship New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative (NMITLI) program, has approved a project towards development of human monoclonal antibodies (hmAbs) that can neutralise SARS-CoV-2 in patients. The team comprises of academic institutes and industry with participants from NCCS, IIT-Indore, PredOmix Technologies Pvt. Ltd. and Bharat Biotech International Ltd (BBIL).

The project aims to generate hmAbs to SARS-CoV-2 from convalescent phase of COVID-19 patients and select high affinity and neutralising antibodies.

49 - Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Toiba's shadow terror outfit in Kashmir: The Resistance Front

‘The Resistance Front’, which owns up terror attacks in Kashmir, is an offshoot of the terrorist group Lashkar-e-Toiba. It is also associated with other terror outfits such as Hizbul Mujahideen, Jaish-e-Mohammed.

The TRF is believed to be launched by Pakistan after the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir in a bid to protect itself from the being blacklisted by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and further face international pressure while increasing the terror activities in the Valley.

50 - NIT Tiruchirappalli sanctioned cutting edge Super Computer

National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli was sanctioned a cutting edge Super Computer at a cost of Rs. 17 crores, by the Union Ministry of Science and Technology.

The NSM has been formed with the aim of empowering engineering and technology institutions with high-performance computing capabilities, that can be used for solving intensive and multi layered problems. Super Computer will increase the academic and research quality for research scholars and faculty, who are working on projects involving high-end computing.

51 - Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ launched Central University of Odisha helpline 'Bharosa'

Union Minister for Human Resource Development Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank launched the Central University of Odisha Helpline 'Bharosa' to relieve distress of student community during the difficult time of COVID-19 pandemic. Central and State Universities and other institutions of Higher Education across the country will implement the Bharosa initiative.

The helpline number (080 46 80 10 10) aims at providing Cognitive Emotional Rehabilitation Services to all University Students of Odisha. This helpline would also help the mental health concern of the students.

52 - Central Panel recommended ban of use of TB drugs on crops

The Registration Committee that was set up under the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) recommended ban of streptomycin and tetracycline use by 2022-end for crops for which no alternatives were available for bacterial disease control. However, the antibiotics could be used on crops strictly as per the label claim.

The report has requested the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to initiate research on better and safe alternatives. The final report containing recommendations were accepted.

53 - CAPF canteens to sell only indigenous products

The Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) canteens have announced to sell only indigenous products from 1st June, 2020. 50 lakh families of about 10 lakh CAPF personnel will use indigenous products. The CAPFs -- CRPF, BSF, CISF, ITBP, SSB, NSG and Assam Rifles -- canteens together sell products worth about ₹2,800 crore annually.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had highlighted the importance of local products and local manufacturing for a self-reliant India.

54 - ICMR, NCDC to initiate a population-based Sero-survey in selected districts

Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are in the process of initiating a population-based serosurvey that involves testing of blood serum of a group of individuals to monitor the trend in prevalence of COVID-19 infection at district level. The survey will include 200 samples a week and 800 samples per month.

Data on demographic characteristics will be collected on a specifically designed standard data collection form. The data will be analysed locally for action using standard indicator formats.

55 - MSME Ministry launched CHAMPIONS portal

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, MSME Ministry has launched CHAMPIONS portal www.Champions.gov.in, a technology driven control room-cum-management information system. The initiative is aimed at assisting Indian MSMEs to march into big league as national and global champions.

The CHAMPIONS stands for Creation and Harmonious Application of Modern Processes for Increasing the Output and National Strength. The portal is basically for making the smaller units big by solving their grievances, encouraging, supporting, helping and handholding.

56 - CSIR-NAL developed Non-Invasive Ventilator to treat COVID-19 patients

CSIR - National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) Bangalore, a constituent of lab of CSIR has developed a Non Invasive BiPAP Ventilator in a record time of 36 days to treat COVID-19 patients. BiPAP Non-Invasive ventilator is a microcontroller-based precise closed-loop adaptive control system with a built-in biocompatible “3D printed manifold and coupler” with HEPA filter (Highly Efficient Particulate Air Filter).

These unique features help to alleviate the fear of the virus spread. The system has been certified for safety and performance by NABL accredited agencies.

57 - Centre released Rs. 6,195 crore to 14 states

The Union Government has released over Rs. 6,195 crore to 14 states as the second equated monthly installment of the Post Devolution Revenue Deficit Grant. The amount will provide the States additional resources during the COVID-19 crisis.

The grant was recommendation by the 15th Finance Commission. The grant has been released to the States of Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Tripura, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim.

58 - United States CDC provided USD 3.6 million to India

US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has committed $3.6 million to assist the Government of India's response to the COVID19 epidemic. It will support prevention, preparedness, and response activities in India.

The first tranche of funding is going to help in further strengthening India’s efforts to increase laboratory capacity for SARS-COV-2 testing, and also help in molecular diagnostics and serology. The funds will also support the development of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) centers that can improve the ability of hospital networks to detect Covid-19 cases.

59 - Centre launched online dashboard to monitor movement of migrant workers

The Centre has launched online portal National Migrant Information System (NMIS) for capturing the information on movement of migrants and for better inter-State co-ordination. The portal has been developed by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on the existing NDMA-GIS portal.

The portal will maintain a central repository and help the sending as well as receiving State and district to ask for and give their acceptance in an online format seamlessly.

60 - Government amended Export policy regarding Masks

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has amended its Export policy regarding Masks. The new guideline allows export of non-medical and non-surgical masks made up of cotton, silk, wool and knitted materials. All medical masks will however, continue to remain prohibited for export.

India’s merchandise exports plunged 60.3% and imports fell 58.7% resulting in a trade deficit of $6.8 billion. Of the 30 major exporting items, only iron ore (17.5%) and pharmaceuticals (0.25%) recorded positive growth in April.

61 - HRD Minister e-launched seven titles on "Psycho-Social Impact of Pandemic and Lockdown and How to Cope With"

Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' launched e-editions of titles on "Psycho-Social impact of pandemic and lockdown and how to Cope With". The titles have been launched under the corona studies series published by National Book Trust (NBT) India.

The Corona Studies Series has been especially conceptualised by NBT to document and to provide relevant reading materials for all age-groups for the post-Corona readership needs, under the first-sub series of books focused on ‘Psycho-Social Impact of Pandemic and How to Cope With’ prepared by a Study Group comprising of seven psychologists and counsellors constituted by NBT.

62 - Government launched 'GOAL' programme to provide online mentorship to tribal youth

Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda has launched the “GOAL - Going Online As Leaders” programme in partnership with Facebook. The GOAL programme is designed to provide mentorship to tribal youth through digital mode.

The digitally enabled programme envisages to act as a catalyst to explore hidden talents of the tribal youth, which will help in their personal development as well as contribute to all-round upliftment of their society. The programme intends to upskill and empower 5,000 tribal youths in the current phase.

63 - Dr Harsh Vardhan dedicated COBAS-6800 testing machine to the nation

Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan dedicated the COBAS-6800 Testing Machine for COVID-19 cases to the nation. This is the first such testing machine that has been procured by the government for testing of COVID-19 cases and is installed at the National Centre for Disease Control, NCDC.

COBAS-6800 is a fully automated, high end machine for performing real time PCR testing COVID-19. It will provide quality, high-volume testing with around 1,200 samples in 24 hours.

64 - Government introduced new scheme of interest subvention on working capital loans for dairy sector

Union Government has introduced a new scheme of Interest Subvention on Working Capital Loans for Dairy sector for supporting Dairy Cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organizations engaged in dairy activities for implementation during 2020-21. Interest subvention will be given on working capital loan taken from banks and financial institutions during FY 2020-21.

The scheme has made provisions for providing interest subvention of 2% per annum, with an additional incentive of 2% per annum interest subvention to be given in case of prompt and timely repayment. The modified scheme envisages a budgetary provision of Rs. 100 crore.

65 - Total food grain production estimated at 295.67 million tonnes

According to the third Advance Estimates of production of major crops for 2019-20, the total food grain production is estimated at record 295.67 million tones. It is higher by 10.46 million tonnes from previous year.

The total production of Rice and Pulses during 2019-20 is estimated at around 118 and 23 million tonnes respectively. It is higher by over 8 and 2.19 million tonnes than the five years’ average production respectively. The production of Wheat is estimated at record over 107 million tones, higher by 3.58 million tonnes as compared to previous year.

66 - World Bank approved USD 1 billion aid to India

The Government of India and the World Bank signed a $750 million of $1 billion proposed for “Accelerating India’s COVID-19 Social Protection Response Programme” to support India’s efforts at providing social assistance to the poor and vulnerable households, severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Total commitment from the Bank towards emergency COVID-19 response in India is two billion US dollars. This new support will be funded in two phases – an immediate allocation of $750 million for fiscal year 2020 and a $250 million second tranche that will be made available for fiscal year 2021.

67 - NDB approved USD 1 billion Emergency Assistance Program Loan to India

New Development Bank (NDB) approved USD 1 billion Emergency Assistance Program Loan to India. It is aimed to support India in its efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19 and reduce human, social and economic losses caused by the coronavirus outbreak.

The Program is the Bank’s second emergency assistance program to fight COVID-19. The scope of financing includes Healthcare Sector Emergency Response and Strengthening Social Safety Net for expenditures already incurred since January 1, 2020 so far, and the expected public health expenditures for onward transmission containment up to the March of 2021.

68 - ICCR released new song 'United We Fight'

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has launched a new song to help people stay united and encourage them to think positive amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The song 'United We Fight' is written and composed by Joe Alvares and is sung by Usha Uthup, Salim Merchant, Shefali Alvares Rashid, Benny Dayal, Sonam Kalra, Chandan Bala Kalyan, Joe Alvares, Salome, and Samira. The music is created by Tubby, Pandit Ravi Chari, Pandit Rakesh Chaurasiya, and Ustad Faisal Qureshi.

69 - Government sets up new body to promote rice exports

The Union Government has set up a new body – Rice Export Promotion Forum (REPF) to promote rice exports. REPF has been set up under the aegis of the Agricultural and Processed Foods Export Promotion Development Authority (APEDA). India is the second largest producer of rice in the world.

As per reports, rice, both basmati and non-basmati variety, is the largest commodity in India’s agri-export basket with shipments at $7.77 billion in 2018-19. Rice production has touched a record 117.47 million tonnes in 2019-20.

70 - IIT Gandhinagar researchers developed Covid-19 dashboard

A team of researchers and students at the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) have developed an interactive “COVID-19 Dashboard”. The dashboard called “MIR AHD Covid-19 Dashboard,” is aimed at helping various stakeholders in optimised testing efforts and post-lockdown operations to contain community infection.

The dashboard, first of its kind for Indian cities, assesses the local risk factors to give a city-scale projection of COVID-19 incidence, while accounting for various social distancing scenarios.

71 - Rs 18,253 crore transferred to farmers under PM-KISAN scheme during lockdown

The government has disbursed Rs. 18,253 crore to 9.13 crore farmers under the PM-KISAN scheme during the ongoing nationwide lockdown. Under the PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) scheme, each farmer gets Rs. 6,000 in a year in three equal installments directly in bank account.

Under the scheme, an income support of Rs. 6,000/- per year is provided to all farmer families across the country in three equal installments of Rs. 2,000 every four months.

72 - Rs. 3,100 crore allocated from PM CARES Fund for fight against COVID-19

PM CARES (Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations) Fund Trust allocated Rs. 3100 Crore for fight against COVID-19. Out of Rs. 3100 crore, a sum of approximately Rs. 2000 crore will be earmarked for the purchase of ventilators, Rs. 1000 crores will be used for care of migrant labourers and Rs. 100 crores will be given to support vaccine development.

The PM CARES Fund, formed by the cabinet on March 27, is managed by a trust with PM Modi as its chairperson and senior cabinet members as trustees.

73 - Centre declared six cities as five-star garbage free cities

Centre declared Ambikapur, Rajkot, Surat, Mysore, Indore and Navi Mumbai as five-star garbage free cities. Six cities were rated 5 Star, 65 Cities rated 3 star and 70 cities rated 1 Star. The star rating protocol was launched by the Ministry in January 2018 to institutionalise a mechanism for cities to achieve garbage free status and to motivate cities to achieve higher degrees of cleanliness.

The assessments were made based on 1.19 crore citizen feedbacks, visit of 5,175 solid waste processing plants by 1,210 field assessors and 10 lakh geo-tagged pictures collection.

74 - CSIR-CMERI developed disinfection sprayers to combat COVID-19

Scientists at CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI) developed two mobile indoor Disinfection Sprayer units named as Pneumatically Operated Mobile Indoor Disinfection (POMID), and Battery Powered Disinfectant Sprayer (BPDS). These units can be used for cleaning and disinfecting pathogenic micro-organism effectively, especially in hospitals.

Intermittent usage of these disinfecting units can help minimise the risk of transmitting coronavirus to people who inadvertently come in contact with those surfaces. These units are unique in dual-chamber storage for disinfectants and better nozzle design, better arrangement of nozzles and lesser droplet sizes.

75 - CySecK launched first accelerator programme “H.A.C.K” for Cyber Security Start-ups

Karnataka’s Centre of Excellence in cyber security (CySecK) launched first accelerator for cyber security start-ups called as “H.A.C.K”. H.A.C.K is the Karnataka’s first cybersecurity-specific accelerator programme comprising of 21 start-ups on board across three cohorts: 10x cohort, 0-1 cohort and virtual cohort.

This accelerator programme will support mature Indian start-ups to accelerate their growth through government and market connections, and nascent start-ups to mature through an innovative incubation eco-system and marquee mentorship. CySecK is housed on the campus of Indian Institute of Science, which is the anchor institute.

76 - Ministry of Finance released Rs. 5,005 crore untied basic grants in advance for non-million-plus cities

Ministry of Finance has released over Rs. 5,005 crore as first installment of untied basic grants in advance for non-million-plus cities to 28 states of the country for the year 2020-21. Non-million-plus city refers to the city having less than one million population.

The urban local bodies grant was released to the State Governments following the recommendation of the 15th Finance Commission. The basic grants are untied and can be used by local bodies for location-specific needs, except for salary or other expenditure.

77 - Cabinet approved Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana

The Union Cabinet has approved Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana. The scheme aims to bring about Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of fisheries section in the country. It will be implemented at a total investment over Rs. 20 thousand crore.

The investment will comprise of Central share of Rs. 9, 407 crore, State share of Rs. 4,880 crore and beneficiaries' share of Rs. 5,763 crore. The scheme will be implemented during a period of five years from 2020-21 to 2024-25. The scheme will address the critical gaps in the fisheries sector and realise its potential.

78 - Cabinet approved extension of Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) up to 31st March, 2023

Union Cabinet has approved extension of Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana, PMVVY for the welfare of and to enable old age income security for senior citizens up to 31st March, 2023. The government will allow an assured rate of return of 7.40% per annum initially for the year 2020-21 and thereafter, to be reset every year.

Finance Minister will approve annual reset rate of return at the beginning of every financial year. PMVVY is a social security scheme for senior citizens intended to give an assured minimum pension to them based on an assured return on the purchase price.

79 - Cabinet approved additional funding of up to Rs. 3 lakh crore through introduction of ECLGS

The Union Cabinet has approved additional funding of up to Rs. 3 lakh crore to eligible MSMEs and interested MUDRA borrowers by way of "Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS)." It will have 100% guarantee coverage by National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company Limited (NCGTC) in the form of a Guaranteed Emergency Credit Line (GECL) facility.

For this purpose, corpus of Rs. 41,600 crore shall be provided by the government spread over the current and the next three financial years. The Scheme would be applicable to all loans sanctioned under GECL Facility during the period from the date of announcement of the Scheme to 31.10.2020, or till an amount of Rs. 3,00,000 crore is sanctioned under the GECL, whichever is earlier.

80 - CCEA approved waiver of interest of Rs. 7.59 crore on GoI loans of HOCL

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs gave its ex-post facto approval for waiver of interest of Rs. 7.59 crore on Government of India loans of Hindustan Organic Chemicals Limited, HOCL, as on 31st March, 2005. This is in addition to the Waiver of penal interest and interest on interest up to 31st March, 2005.

As this is almost 10 years old case, the interest amount of 7.59 crore ruppes has already been written off in the books of accounts of the Government and HOCL.

81 - Government launched National Test Abhyas mobile app

Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank launched a new mobile app named - the ‘National Test Abhyas'. The App has been developed by National Testing Agency-NTA to enable candidates to take mock tests for upcoming exams such as JEE Main and NEET under the NTA’s

The app has been launched to facilitate candidates’ access to high quality mock tests as there was a demand for making up the loss to students due to closure of educational institutions and NTA’s Test-Practice Centers due to the lockdown.

82 - Centre launched scheme for 100% solarisation of Konark Sun Temple & Konark town in Odisha

Union Government has launched scheme for 100% solarisation of Konark Sun Temple and Konark town in Odisha. The scheme is launched with an objective to take forward the Prime Minister’s vision to develop the historical Sun Temple town of Konark as Surya

The scheme envisages setting up of 10 Megawatt grid connected solar project and various solar off-grid applications like solar trees and solar drinking water kiosks. Rs 25 crore has been earmarked for this project. The project will be implemented by Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency.

83 - Cabinet approved proposal to launch Special Liquidity Scheme for NBFCs & HFCs

The Union Cabinet approved to launch a new Special Liquidity Scheme for Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and Housing Finance Companies (HFCs) to improve liquidity position of the NBFCs/HFCs. The direct financial implication for the Government is Rs. 5 crore, towards the equity contribution to the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).

A large public sector bank would set up an SPV to manage a Stressed Asset Fund (SAF), whose special securities would be guaranteed by the government and purchased by the Reserve Bank of India only. The proceeds thereof, would be used by the SPV to acquire the debt of at least investment grade of short duration (residual maturity of upto 3 months) of eligible NBFCs / HFCs. The total amount of securities outstanding will not exceed Rs. 30,000 crore.

84 - Cabinet approved "Scheme for formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (FME)"

The Union Cabinet has given its approval to "Scheme for Formalisation of Micro food processing Enterprises (FME)" for the Unorganized Sector on All India basis with an outlay of Rs.10,000 crore.

Salient features are as follows:

Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Expenditure to be shared by Government of India and States at 60:40.
2,00,000 micro-enterprises are to be assisted with credit linked subsidy.
Scheme will be implemented over a 5 year period from 2020-21 to 2024-25.
Micro enterprises will get credit linked subsidy @ 35% of the eligible project cost with ceiling of Rs.10 lakh.
Beneficiary contribution will be minimum 10% and balance from loan.
On-site skill training & Handholding for DPR and technical upgradation.

85 - Cabinet approved Sovereign portfolio guarantee of up to 20% of first loss for purchase of Bonds

The Union Cabinet has approved the Sovereign portfolio guarantee of up to 20% of first loss for purchase of Bonds or Commercial Papers (CPs) with a rating of AA and below. It includes unrated paper with original or initial maturity of up to one year issued by NBFCs or MFCs or Micro Finance Institutions by Public Sector Banks through an extension of the Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme, PCGS.

The window for this one-time partial credit guarantee offered by Gol will remain open till 31st March, 2021 for purchase of pooled assets and for the period as specified under the Scheme for purchase of Bonds/CPs, or till such date by which Rs. 10,000 crore worth of guarantees, provided by the Government, whichever is earlier.

86 - Cabinet approved modifications in the existing "Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme (PCGS)"

The Union Cabinet has approved modifications in the existing "Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme (PCGS)" on purchase of pooled assets, increasing its coverage by −

Making NBFCs/HFCs reported under SMA-1 category on technical reasons alone during the last one year period prior to 1.8.2018 eligible.
Relaxing the net profit criteria to the extent that the concerned NBFC/HFC should now have made a profit in at least one of the financial years of FY2017-18, FY 2018-19 and 2019-20.
Relaxing the criteria regarding date of origination of assets to include new assets originating up to at least six months prior to the date of initial poolrating.
Extending the Scheme from 30.6.2020 to 31.3.2021 for purchase of pooled assets.

87 - CCEA approved methodology for auction of coal & lignite mines/ blocks

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the methodology for auction of coal and lignite mines or blocks for sale of coal or lignite on revenue sharing basis and increasing the tenure of coking coal linkage. This methodology provides that bid parameter will be on revenue sharing basis.

The bidders would be required to bid for a percentage share of revenue payable to the Government. The floor price shall be 4% of the revenue share. The methodology is oriented to make maximum coal available in the market at the earliest. It will allow discovery of market prices for the blocks and faster development of coal blocks.

88 - SCR developed “RAIL-BOT” (R-BOT) to assist in patients care in hospitals

South Central Railway zone has developed a robotic device, “RAIL-BOT” (R-BOT) to assist in hospital management functions towards patient care in the wake of Covid-19 outbreak. R-BOT is being used to provide medicines, medical accessories and to serve food to the patients, without any need for physical contact.

The R-BOT is operated through a unique mobile application. It supports sensor-based features, which are capable to read patients’ body temperature. It enables real-time video camera facility with Pan and Tilt functions. It boasts a speed of 1 Km per hour with a load-carrying capacity of 80 kg.

89 - Indian Railways operationalised its most powerful 12000 HP made in India locomotive

The Indian Railways has put into operation, itss first 12000 HP made in India Locomotive, manufactured by Madhepura Electric Loco Factory situated in Bihar, from Pt Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Jn Station. The loco is named WAG12 with Number 60027.

With this India became sixth country in the world to join the elite club of producing high horse power locomotive indigenously. Railways got the locomotive from Alstom as part of a 3.5 billion euros ‘Make in India’ deal. The locomotive achieved a maximum speed of 120 km per hour.

90 - Central government released Rs. 92,077 crore towards devolution of central taxes

Central government released Rs. 92,077 crore towards devolution of central taxes and Duties to states for April and May 2020. These releases are according to projections of receipts in Budget Estimate 2020-21 and have not been adjusted for the actual tax collections, impacting the Centre's cash balances. It is to ensure that the states' cash flows remain undisturbed at this crucial time.

The Budget had projected the share of the states in taxes at Rs 7.84 lakh crore for 2020-21. The 15th Finance Commission had recommended the share of states at 41% of the divisible pool.

91 - Fifteenth Finance Commission discussed Health Sector and Fiscal Consolidation

A committee under Chairmanship of N K Singh of 15^th Finance Commission discussed the fiscal consolidation roadmap of the central and state for the period - 2021-22 to 2025-26.

The recommendations are as follows:

Government’s financial outlay on the health sector must increase significantly from the current 0.9% of GDP.
Improving the reach of the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
Centre’s reform conditions to allow States to exceed their current borrowing limits.
The vertical devolution be reduced from 42% to 41%. Vertical devolution is the share of tax revenue that is shared by the centre with the states.

92 - Center amended General Financial Rules to ensure procurement from domestic firms

Government notified amendments to General Financial Rules (GFR) to ensure that goods and services valued less than Rs. 200 crore are being procured from domestic firms. Center has notified the amendments to the GFR 2017 to ensure that henceforth global tenders will be disallowed in government procurement up to 200 crore rupees. It will be a big boost to domestic suppliers especially MSMEs.

The amendment is taken to support Aatmanirbhar Bharat Package for micro, small and medium enterprises, which includes disallowing global tender for government procurement up to 200 crore rupees.

93 - India-Bangladesh signed Inland Water Transit and Trade Protocol

India and Bangladesh signed the second Addendum of the Inland Water Transit and Trade Protocol in Bangladesh. The Protocol parameters were revised in the second addendum with inclusion of new routes and declaration of a host of new Ports of Call to facilitate trade between both the countries.

The Protocol on Transit and Trade through inland waterways was first signed between People's Republic of Bangladesh and the Republic of India in 1972. Sonamura-Daudkandi route on Tripura’s River Gomti and Rajshahi-Dhulian-Rajshahi routes were added to the list of Indo-Bangladesh Protocol routes. With this, Tripura got its first ever international waterway.

94 - Exploration underneath Assam National Park receives Environmental Clearance

Oil India Limited received environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) for extension drilling and testing of hydrocarbons at seven locations under the 765 sq. km. park straddling eastern Assam's Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts.

The clearance is given based on the fact that activity will be performed 1.5 km outside the demarcated area of the national park and 3.5 km underground without disturbing surface life of Assam’s Dibru-Saikhowa National Park. Dibru-Saikhowa is an island bounded by the Brahmaputra, Lohit and Dibru rivers.

95 - PM announced Rs. 1000 crore assistance for relief and rehabilitation work

The Centre announced Rs. 1000 crore advance financial assistance to West Bengal for post-Amphan restoration work and an advance financial assistance of Rs. 500 crore for cyclone-battered Odisha. The compensation includes 2 lakh ex gratia for the next of kin of the dead and Rs. 50,000 for the injured.

Super Cyclonic Storm Amphan was a very powerful and deadly tropical cyclone that caused widespread damage in East India and Bangladesh in May 2020. The well-established processes in Odisha to face such natural calamities saved many lives.

96 - IMD launched weather services in UMANG app

Seven services hosted on website of Indian Meterological Department, IMD have been onboarded to UMANG application.These services are Current Weather, Nowcast, City Forecast, Rainfall Information, Tourism Forecast, Warnings, Cyclone. The Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance, UMANG, is a unified, multi-channel, multi-platform, multi-lingual, multi-service mobile app.

The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi launched the UMANG App in 2017 to bring all government services on a single mobile App with a larger goal to make the government accessible on the mobile phone of our citizens.

97 - India became second largest manufacturer of PPE in the world

India became the world's second-largest manufacturer of personal protective equipment (PPE) body coveralls within a short time span of two months. China is the world's leading producer of PPE body coveralls, crucial to safeguard against the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides textile committee, Mumbai too is authorised to test and certify PPE body coveralls required for healthcare workers.

PPE that covers the clothing and skin and completely protects mucous membranes is required when caring for patients with viral infections. It can include items such as safety helmets, gloves, eye protection, rubber boots, face shields etc.

98 - Emission norms for L7 (Quadricycle) category for BS VI notified

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued notification GSR 308(E) regarding the emission norms for L7 (Quadricycle) category for BS VI. These norms are applicable from the date of notification. This completes the process of BS VI for all L, M and N category vehicles in India. The emission norms are in line with European Union’s World Motorcycle Test Cycle (WMTC).

A quadricycle is the size of a three-wheeler but with four tyres and is fully covered like a car. Bajaj Auto Ltd. was the first to commercially launch 'Qute’ under this segment.

99 - India launched five initiatives in conserving biodiversity

Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Prakash Javadekar launched following five key initiatives towards conservation of biodiversity:

The “Biodiversity Samrakshan Internship Programme” that aims to engage 20 students in post graduate programme for a period of one year.
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) campaign called Illegal Trafficking of Endangered Species.
Wildlife Crime Control Bureau campaign called Not All Animals Migrate by Choice.
A Webinar series on “Biodiversity Conservation and Biological Diversity Act, 2002”.
The World Wildlife Fund Model Conference of Parties.

100 - India set to locally produce RT-PCR testing kits for Covid-19

India is set to locally produce RT-PCR testing and rapid antibody detection test kits for Covid-19, reducing dependence on imports. National Biomedical Resource Indigenisation Consortium, NBRIC, in partnership with Richcore Life Sciences Company has developed two enzymes namely Taq Polymerase and Reverse Tranase needed for RT PCR test kits.

The two enzymes form a key to India’s efforts to produce the test kits. Once these enzymes are approved and certified by cGMP, India can produce millions of test kits in a few weeks.

101 - PFC signed MoU with NBPCL

Power Finance Corporation (PFC) entered into an agreement with Narmada Basin Projects Company Ltd. (NBPCL) to fund projects worth Rs. 22,000 crore. NBPCL is a wholly-owned company of Government of Madhya Pradesh.

The funds will be deployed by NBPCL for setting up hydroelectric projects of 225 MW and power components of 12 major multipurpose projects in Madhya Pradesh. Some of the major multipurpose projects that will be financed under the MoU are Basaniya Multipurpose Project Dindori, Chinki Boras Multipurpose Project Narsinghpur Raisen Hoshangabad, Sakkar Pench Link Narsinghpur Chhindwara, Dudhi Project Chhindwara Hoshangabad, etc.

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