September, 2020

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Current Affairs [PDF] - September 1-30, 2020
Last Updated: September 30, 2020
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Contents
September 1, 2020
1. Indian Railways: More than 960 stations solarised
2. India sets target of achieving 100 MT coal gasification by 2030
3. India develops World’s Largest Solar Tree
4. Ministry of Defence signs Rs 2,580 crores of contracts to boost Make in India
5. Landslide Susceptibility mapping of Himalayas
6. WHO report: 25 key health services disrupted globally
7. China builds missile site in Kailash-Mansarovar
8. Supreme Court: 10 years time granted to Telecoms to pay their AGR dues
9. Japan provides Rs 3,500 crores assistance to India to fight COVID-19
10. Australia, Japan and India meet on Supply Chain Resilience
September 2, 2020
11. Defence Minister to visit Russia: To attend SCO, CSTO and CIS
12. Indian Astronomers discover the farthest star galaxy
13. Ladakh and Lakshadweep integrated to One Nation One Ration Card Scheme
14. 27 Integrated Cold Chain Development Projects approved under Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPDA Yojana
15. India to extend flagship jobs programmes in villages to cities
16. NCRB releases data on Farmer Suicides
17. INDRA 2020: India-Russia to conduct Naval drills in Andaman Sea
18. India-Nigeria to deepen their ties on defence, energy and counter terrorism
19. September 2: World Coconut Day
20. Union Cabinet approves Mission Karmayogi
21. Union Cabinet approves India-Finland Cooperation in the field of Geology and Mineral Resources
22. Coal India to invest Rs 1.22 lakh crores on 500 projects by 2023-24
September 3, 2020
23. Union Cabinet approves Hindi, Dogri and Kashmiri to become official languages of Jammu and Kashmir
24. Global Innovation Index: India ranks 48
25. Biodiversity Council set up in Jammu and Kashmir
26. GoI bans printing of calendars, diaries and festival greeting cards
27. THE World University Ranking 2021: No Indian University in top 300
28. Assam Assembly passes bill to protect Tangible Heritage
29. What is Water Heroes Contest?
30. India attends BIMSTEC meet
31. EESL to procure 250 Electric Vehicles from Tata Motors and Hyundai Motor
32. US Annual Defence report: Chinese Navy the largest in the world
33. India to host Summit of SCO Council on November 30
34. UNSC: Pakistan request to designate four Indians as Terrorists rejected
September 4, 2020
35. India-Russia sign agreement on manufacturing AK-203 rifles
36. G-20 Foreign Ministers meet: India proposes “G-20 Principles on coordinated Cross-Border Movement of
People”
37. WHO recommends use of Steroids in critical COVID-19 patients
38. UNEP report: Changes in food systems mandatory to boost Climate Action and achieve NDCs
39. What is Secretive Special Frontier Force of Indian Army?
40. GoI: Currently working on rejuvenation of 13 rivers
41. Germany launches Indo-Pacific Strategy
42. Karnataka approves New Information Technology Policy
43. Supreme Court: Held HC order against Andhra Government English Medium Move
44. Facts Box: No Question Hour and Private Members Bill during monsoon session of Parliament
September 5, 2020
45. Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh meets his Chinese Counterpart
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46. India attends BRICS Culture Ministers Meet
47. State of Young Child in India Report released by Vice President Venkaiah Naidu
48. GJEPC launches first virtual buyer-seller meet
49. What is bud drug?
50. Kaziranga park set to be expanded by 3,053 hectares
51. Ministry of Finance launches Business Reforms Action Plan ranking of states
September 7, 2020
52. September 7: International Day of Clean Air for blue skies
53. Kesavananda Bharati passed away
54. 10 Hafte 10 Baje 10 Minute: Delhi Government anti-Dengue Campaign launched
55. Khadi Agarbatti Aatmanirbhar Mission approved
56. Indo-Pacific Business Forum to be held in Hanoi
57. Cannbis Medicine Project: First Foreign Investment in Jammu and Kashmir
58. GoI releases draft guidelines for advertisements
59. International Solar Alliance: Eight Initiatives to be launched at the first World Solar Technology Summit
60. Tamil Nadu Government releases Electronics and Hardware Manufacturing Policy
61. India tests HSTDV
September 8, 2020
62. India-US-Israel Summit: Collaboration in 5G Technology
63. Kamath Panel report to RBI: 26 sectors identified for loan restructuring
64. NSO Survey: Kerala tops literacy rate at 96.2%
65. September 8: International Literacy Day
66. Andhra Pradesh Government launches YSR Sampoorna Poshana Scheme
67. Indira Gandhi Peace Prize awarded to Sir David Attenborough
68. UNICEF to lead procurement and supply operation of COVID-19 vaccine
69. Facts Sheet: Kochi Metro Phase – I
70. What is Real Mango Software?
71. Svanidhi Samvaad: PM to address street vendors in Madhya Pradesh
September 9, 2020
72. 22 Bamboo Clusters adopted in nine states
73. Five PSUs to join International Solar Alliance for Sustainable Climate Action
74. India-Angola hold first Joint commission Meet
75. Union Cabinet approves amendment to Three Labour Codes
76. Oxford led COVID-19 Vaccine trial put on hold
77. Sri Lanka proposes ban on Cow Slaughter
78. United Nations releases “Levels and Trends in Child Mortality” report
79. PM Modi to launch Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
80. Asol Chini: Bangladesh Campaign to curb Fake News
81. US blocks key exports from China
September 10, 2020

82. First India-France-Australia Trilateral Dialogue Held Virtually
83. World Suicide Prevention Day
September 11, 2020

84. SAROD ports launched by Shipping Ministry
85. India attends 10th East Asia Summit Foreign Minister meet
86. India-China agree on five-point plan to resolve border tension
87. GoI launches Five Star Village Scheme to ensure 100% rural coverage of postal schemes
88. India-Japan sign Defence agreements
89. Trump nominated for Noble Peace Prize 2021
90. Trump rules out extension of TikTok deadline
91. US cancel 1000 Chinese Student’s Visa
92. Fire erupted in Beirut
93. Taliban and the Afghan government to hold a meeting
94. Covid-19 could trigger more conflict, poverty and starvation: UN
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September 12, 2020

95. Germany conducts siren testing after cold war
96. Nepal finally culminates prolonged meetings
97. Economic Freedom of the World Report 2020
98. Free health insurance for J&K residents
99. Ayushman Khurrana appointed as UNICEF’s celebrity advocate in India
100. SEBI shortlists Airtel, Wipro and others to revamp its communication system.
101. Inauguration of Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana
102. J&K gets grievance redressal system
103. Punjab to convert stubble into biomass fuel
104. SII directed to suspend recruitment for Oxford vaccine trial
September 14, 2020

105. Fraudsters duped crores of rupees under PM-KISAN Nidhi Scheme
106. Oxford vaccine to resume trial in the UK
107. Hindi Diwas celebrated on September 14, 2020
September 15, 2020

108. JDU’s Harivansh Narayan Singh re-elected as Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman
109. India’s entry to United Nation’s Commission on Status of Women: Important facts
110. The decision of TRAI to regulate the cloud service providers: Important features and impact
111. Introduction of Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Bill, 2020 in LS: Important note
112. Government bans exports of all kinds of onions
113. ADB’s prediction of Asian economy shrinking for the first time since 1960s: Important facts
114. India’s Retail inflation dips marginally from 6.73% of July to 6.69% in August: Important facts
115. TikTok to merge with Oracle
116. RBI’s power extension to restructure Cooperative banks through the New Banking Regulation
(Amendment) Bill, 2020: Important notes
117. Eight challenges for future operations announced by UN peacekeeping Chief: Important facts
118. Union ministry set up 16-member committee to study ancient Indian culture
September 16, 2020

119. Seven Projects under “Namami Gange” and “AMRUT” schemes inaugurated
120. Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020: Key Facts
121. Yoshihide Suga to succeed Shinzo Abe as Prime Minister of Japan
122. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package Insurance Scheme for Health Workers fighting COVID-19 extended
123. India-US Defence Technology and Trade Initiative group meeting held virtually
124. Facts Box: Salaries and Allowances of Ministers (Amendment) Bill, 2020
125. September 16: World Ozone Day
126. Facts Box: Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda Bill, 2020
127. Russia to sell COVID-19 vaccines to India
128. Abraham Accord: Israel, Bahrain and UAE sign peace agreement
129. Facts Box: Banking Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2020
September 17, 2020

130. PM Modi’s birthday: Seva Saptah organised
131. India becomes an observer of Djibouti Code of Conduct
132. India-Brazil-South Africa IBSA Foreign Ministers Meet chaired by External Affairs Minister
133. G20: Global Initiative to reduce Land Degradation and Coral Reef Programme launched
134. What is the significance of Hilsa Fish Imports of India from Bangladesh?
135. What is the importance of Kosi Mahasetu Bridge?
136. Facts Box: New Parliament Building to be constructed by TATA
137. World Bank Human Capital Index: India ranks 116
138. Price cap on Knee implants extended by 1 year
139. BRICS NSA Summit: Key Facts
140. Trump identifies India as major illicit drug producing country: Reasons, Causes and Facts
141. Defence Minister statement on India-China issue in Rajya Sabha
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September 18, 2020

142. Brucellosis Outbreak in China: Key Facts
143. Government tells SC to Regulate Digital Media
144. Global Smart City Index 2020
145. The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020
146. Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal Resigns
147. India- Pakistan to meet in SAARC Virtual meeting On September 24, 2020
148. Union Government Approved Amendment to FDI Policy in Defence Sector
149. Indian Railways to Levy User Fee at Major Stations
150. Gujarat Announces New subsidy schemes for e-Vehicles
September 19, 2020

151. J&K launches National Generic Document Registration System
152. Udit Singhal Named to 2020 class of Young Leaders For SDGs
153. SC Asks HC to form Special Benches to Hear criminal Cases Against legislators
154. VAIBHAV: Vaishwik Bharatiya Vaigyanik Summit 2020
155. Bangladesh Allowed to Import Onions from India.
156. Public Procurement Order, 2017 -Amended To Curb Chinese Investment
157. Eight Indian beaches recommended for Blue Flag international eco-label
158. Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Second Amendment) passed in Rajya Sabha
159. Rajya Sabha Passed the Epidemic Diseases Amendment Bill, 2020
September 21, 2020

160. What is CRISPR test?
161. Labour Sector Reforms: Three Bills introduced in Lok Sabha
162. MoU signed between AYUSH Ministry and MoWCD to control Malnutrition
163. September 21: World Alzheimer’s Day, 2020
164. September 21: International Day Of Peace 2020
165. Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Operational in 272 Districts
166. Emmy Awards 2020
167. Foreign Contribution Regulation (Amendment) Bill 2020 Introduced in Lok Sabha
168. Women Empowerment: Women Officers will Join The Helicopter Stream of Indian Navy
169. What are FISH CRYOBANKS?
170. Ghar Tak Fibre Scheme launched in Bihar
September 22, 2020

171. What is the Significance of First Direct Cargo Ferry Service between India and Maldives?
172. Why GoI increased the Minimum Support Price of Rabi Crops?
173. What are Hydrogen Energy, its Applications and Development Targets set by GOI?
174. How Covid-19 Crisis is an Opportunity for Transition to Clean and Cheap Energy?
175. What are the Objectives of O-SMART Scheme?
176. What are Indian Neutrino Observatories that GOI plans to set up?
177. Significance of the Launch World’s first Commercial Hydrogen Aircraft by 2035
178. Govt launched National Conservation Strategy for Indian One-Horned Rhino
179. Features and Significance of IIIT Laws (Amendment) Bill 2020
180. What are Cyanobacteria that caused the Death to 330 Botswana Elephants?
September 23, 2020

181. What is Tax Amnesty Scheme?
182. ABHYAS : Flight test conducted by India
183. What are the new guidelines by DGCI on COVID-19 vaccines?
184. Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor to be commissioned in 2022
185. International Day of Sign Languages is being observed on September 23
186. Provisions of Taxation and Other Laws (Relaxation and Amendment of Certain provisions) Bill
187. Why Jammu and Kashmir Official Languages Bill, 2020 is being Opposed?
188. India-Australia two-day Naval Exercise in the Indian Ocean- Key Facts and Significance
189. Mukhya Mantri Kisan Kalyan Yojana to be Launched in Madhya Pradesh
190. DRDO test fired the Laser-Guided Anti-Tank Missile
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September 24, 2020

191. Tuberculosis in India- Challenges and Elimination
192. World Maritime Day is Being observed on September 24.
193. What is Kritagya Hackathon?
194. Provisions of the Major Port Authorities Bill, 2020
195. CAG report – Gaps in toilet constructions by CPECs.
196. Indian Railways: CAG Report
197. Why Over 380 Whales Died of Mass Stranding?
198. State Disaster Relief Fund eased by Prime Minister to help States
199. Stubble Burning- Causes, Impact and Solution.
200. Irregularities in Defence Purchases- Highlights the CAG.
201. 46th Foundation Day of Central Pollution Control Board
202. Plastic Parks Scheme- Need and Challenges.
September 25, 2020

203. What is U-RISE Portal Launched in UP?
204. Three years of Saubhagya Scheme- Facts and Assessment.
205. Why FM allowed Five States to raise financial resources through Open Market Borrowings?
206. Cyber Security Vision Framework for Urban Cooperative Banks Released
207. India successfully Fire tested Prithvi II Missile
208. Ministerial Roundtable Dialogue on Biodiversity held on September 24, 2020
209. Kerala Tourism’s Human by Nature campaign won PATA Grand Award
210. 670 new electric buses and 241 charging stations sanctioned under the FAME Scheme.
211. National Medical Commission Became Operational Today
212. What are the New Evaluation Standards for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles?
213. CBDT Launched Faceless Income Tax Appeals
September 26, 2020

214. Vodafone Vs India Case: Vodafone won tax case against India at International Arbitration Tribunal
215. What is Positive Pay System for Cheques Payments?
216. India-Japan Maritime Bilateral Exercise- JIMEX 2020 Commenced today
217. Highlights of September 26 meeting of the Quad Grouping
218. World Environmental Health Day on 26 September
219. ADB approved $300 million loan to develop Rajasthan’s secondary towns
220. DRDO commences Production of Pinaka Missiles
221. World Bank approved 200 million dollar loan for safe water & sanitation in Bangladesh
222. India holds talk with Sri Lanka- Key Highlights
September 28, 2020

223. What is IQWAT?
224. International Day for Universal Access to Information observed on September 28
225. World Tourism Day Celebrated on September 27
226. Nation pays homage to Bhagat Singh on his 113th Birth Anniversary
227. World Rabies Day: 28 September
228. What is Sandalwood Spike Disease which is Threatening Sandalwood Forests in India?
229. Union Health Minister launched Vaccine portal for COVID-19
230. Defence Minister unveils Defence Acquisition Procedure-2020
231. Health in India Report Released
September 29, 2020

232. Highlights of India- Denmark Green Strategic Partnership
233. WHO and Partners to roll out 120 million Rapid Diagnostic Tests for COVID-19
234. World Heart Day being celebrated on September 29, 2020
235. A first-of-its-kind Museum on Ganga: “Ganga Avalokan” to be Inaugurated
236. DAC approved proposals for capital acquisition of equipment worth Rs. 2,290 crores
237. Why India is bringing Indo-Pacific and ASEAN Policies under single Unit?
238. Cat Que Virus? – ICMR warns of another virus from China
239. Why Amnesty International quits India Operations?
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240. India Protests Election Announcement at Gilgit-Baltistan by Pakistan
241. Serum Institute to produce additional 100 million COVID-19 vaccine doses
September 30, 2020

242. Harijan Sevak Sangh : Celebrating its Foundation Day Today.
243. India-Bangladesh to set up monitoring committee to review project implementation
244. 2nd Sero Survey report: Urban slum & non-slum areas have higher prevalence of Corona infection.
245. Defence India Startup Challenge-4 launched by Defence Minister
246. International Translation Day being observed on September 30
247. MECL Starts exploring the Kolar Gold Fields in Karnataka after 16 years
248. India test fired the Brahmos Missile with an Indigenous Booster
249. National Institute of Nutrition increases Ideal weight for Men and Women
250. NITI Aayog and Netherlands sign SoI on ‘Decarbonization and Energy Transition Agenda’
251. Google India launches Make Small Strong campaign
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September 1, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
1. Indian Railways: More than 960 stations solarised
The Indian Railways has solarised more than 960 railway stations. This is being done to
achieve the objective of becoming 100% self sustainable for all its power needs.
1. Highlights
Currently, the Indian Railways have orders to place 198 MW of solar roof top in 550
stations. Some of the major stations solarised so far are Varanasi, Delhi (both old and
new), Hyderabad, Secunderabad, Guwahati, Howrah and Jaipur.
2. Plans of Indian Railways

 The Indian Railways has set a target of becoming net zero carbon emitter by 2030.
 Also, it has set to meet all of its consumption needs by solar power alone. This is to be
achieved by 2030. In order to achieve this target, the Indian Railways requires 33 billion units
of power.
 Indian Railways has a mega plan to install solar plants of 20 GW in its vacant land by 2030.
There are more than 51,000 hectares of vacant land available with the Indian Railways.
3. Solar Power Plant by Indian Railways

The Indian Railways have set up a solar power plant in Bina, Madhya Pradesh. The solar
power from the plant is to be used to power Railway overhead lines. This is the first time
in the world, a solar power from a power plant is used to run trains.
4. Innovative Methods
In order to become a net-zero carbon emitter, the Indian Railways is adopting innovative
methods to install solar power projects along the railway lines. This is to help in
preventing encroachment, reduce infrastructure costs and enhance speed and safety of
trains.
5. Railway Energy Management Company

It was established in 2013. It is a joint venture of the Ministry of Railways and RITES
Limited. The RITES Limited holds a share of 51% and the Indian Railways holds 49%. The
company was begun to tap the business potential in the energy sector by setting up
renewable energy projects.
2. India sets target of achieving 100 MT coal gasification by 2030
On August 31, 2020, the Union Minister of Coal and Mines Shri Prahlad Joshi announced
at a webinar that India aims for 100 million tonnes of coal gasification by 2030. This is to
be achieved through investments worth Rs 4 lakh crores.
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1. Highlights
The Government of India has provided concession of 20% on revenue share of coal that
is used for gasification. The GoI is promoting Coal Gasification in order to reduce energy
imports of the country.
2. Coal Gasification
It is the process by which coal is converted into synthesis gas. The gas is also called
Syngas. It is a mixture of Carbon Monoxide, Hydrogen, Carbon Dioxide. Syngas is used in
applications such as making fertilizers.
3. How will coal gasification help reduce energy imports?

According to Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Urea is being used to produce pooled
natural gas. Pooled natural gas comprises of both imported LNG (Liquified Natural Gas)
and domestic natural gas. Thus, usage of locally available coal to make fertilizers will
help reduce import of LNG. In other words, syngas shall be used to make fertilizers
rather than importing natural gas.
4. Concerns
Coal Gasification is the most water-intensive form of energy production. It also leads to
land subsidence, water contamination and disposing of waste water safety.
5. Steps by GoI
The Government of India has been bringing in private firms to establish Goal gasification
units. In September 2019, contract was awarded to M/s Wuhan Engineering Limited for
Coal Gasification Plant in Talcher Fertilizer Plant, Odisha.
3. India develops World’s Largest Solar Tree
The CSIR-CMERI operating under the Ministry of Science and Technology has developed
world largest solar tree. The tree has an annual capacity of generating 12,000 to 14,000
units of Clean and Green power.
1. Highlights
The Solar Tree has been designed in such a way that maximum exposure of each Solar
Photo Voltaic Panel is achieved. There are a total of 35 Solar PV panels in each tree.
Each panel has a capacity of 330 watt-power.
2. Application
The Solar Trees can be aligned with agriculture to substitute price-volatile fossil fuels.
One solar tree can reduce ten to twelve tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. Also, the
surplus power from these trees can be fed to the energy grids.
3. E-Suvidha Kiosks
The CSIR-CMERI along with the Solar Trees have also developed the E-Suvidha Kiosks
that can be connected to the solar trees for real time access to vast majority of
agricultural database and also to eNAM. This will help in making instant and real time
access to an unified online market.
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4. Harnessing Solar Energy with Agriculture
The Government of India has launched KUSUM scheme to harness solar energy. The
scheme aims to replace all the diesel pumps with solar pumps. Under the scheme, the
excess power generated in the solar power is to be purchased by the state governments
at profitable price to farmers.
5. How is solar tree highly potential solution?

Solar energy is clean, renewable and is present throughout the year in India. However,
the availability of land to install solar panel on a large scale is the basic hurdle in India.
This problem is overcome by solar trees.
4. Ministry of Defence signs Rs 2,580 crores of contracts to boost Make

in India
On August 31, 2020, the Ministry of Defence signed contracts worth Rs 2,580 crores to
boost Make in India. The contracts were signed for supply of six Pinaka Regiments to the
Indian Army.
1. Highlights
The contracts were signed with Tata Power Company, Bharat Earth Movers Limited and
Larsen and Toubro. The Pinaka Regiments comprised of 114 launchers with Automated
Gun Aiming and Positioning System. The six Pinaka regiments are to be operationalised
along the Northern and Eastern borders of the country. It will enhance the operation
preparedness of Indian Army.
2. DRDO
The Pinaka multiple launch rocket system was indigenously designed and developed by
DRDO. It is a flagship project that showcases public private partnership enabling Atma
Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
3. What is Pinaka?
Pinaka is a multiple rocket launcher that was designed and developed by DRDO. It has
maximum range of 40 km for Mark-I and 75 km for Mark II. Pinaka was used in Kargil war
and was successful in neutralising enemy positions.
4. Deployment
Pinaka is to be operated in conjunction with Swathi Weapon Locating Radar. Swati was
developed by India. It locates incoming artillery and determines point of origin to counter
battery fire.
5. Recent developments
Pinaka II is a guided missile. It is being developed at Armament Research and
Development Establishment, Pune. It is equipped with control kit and navigation
guidance. It was successfully tested in Chandipur in 2013.
6. Way forward
Israel has joined hands with DRDO to implement the Trajectory Correction System on
Pinaka. There are also plans to integrate Unmanned Aerial Vehicles with Pinaka.
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7. Background
India is currently pushing Make in India initiative after 20 Indian soldiers were killed in a
violent face off with the Chinese troops in Ladakh. It is the most aggressive encounter
with China since 1962 war. Also, India is the second largest importer of defence goods.
Thus, the defence ministry is trying to cut the imports by boosting domestic
manufacturers.
5. Landslide Susceptibility mapping of Himalayas
The scientists from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology operating under the
Department of Science and Technology carried out a study covering 84 square
kilometres in the Lesser Himalayas. According to the study, 15% of the region is highly
susceptible to landslides.
1. Highlights
Mussoorie in Uttarakhand witnessed several landslides recently. The increase in the
disaster hazard has led the scientists to map the landslide susceptibility in the region.
The study has found that the very high and high landslide susceptible zone lies in areas
that are covered by highly fractured Krol limestone.
2. Key findings of the study

The study says that the possible causative factors of the landslides are land use, road
cut drainage, curvature, elevation.
3. What are the Lesser Himalayas?

There are three major ranges in the Himalayas. They are the Himadri, Himachal and the
Shiwalik. The Himachal is called the lesser Himalayas. Himadri is the Greater Himalayas
and the Shiwalik is the outer Himalayas.
4. What is Landslide Susceptibility Mapping?

It is a map that identifies areas that are subject to landslides. It also says what creates
the landslides in that particular area.
5. International Conference on Landslides Risk Reduction and resilience

The National Institute of Disaster Management organized the fist International
Conference on Landslides Risk Reduction and resilience in November 2019. The main
aim of the conference was to bring the stakeholders and experts together.
6. Landslides in India
The regions that are highly susceptible to landslides in India are Western Ghats, Easten
Ghats, Nilgris, Himalayas, North Eastern hills and the Vindhyas.
7. National Institute of Disaster Management

It operates under Ministry of Home Affairs and is located in New Delhi. The Institute has
been assigned the responsibilities of capacity building, human resource development,
documentation, research and policy advocacy in disaster management under Disaster
Management Act, 2005.
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6. WHO report: 25 key health services disrupted globally
The World Health Organization recently reported that at least half of 25 kinds of health
services experienced disruptions due to COVID-19. The findings were based on the
survey conducted by the international organization in its five of six regions regions. The
survey is called the “Global Pulse Survey”.
1. Highlights
According to the report of the WHO, the immunisation-outreach were the most hit.
Following this, the second most impacted was the non-communicable diseases diagnosis
and treatment. It was followed by family planning and contraception, treatment for
mental health disorders and cancer diagnosis and treatment.
2. Reasons
The Report has found the following reason for the disruption in the services
3. Key findings of the report

The report had found the following
4. Regions of WHO
WHO divides the world into six regions. The six regions of the organization are African
region, European region, South-East Asia region, Eastern Mediterranean region, western
pacific region and the European region. India lies in the south east Asia region. The other
countries belonging to South East Asia region are Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, North
Korea, Maldives, Indonesia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste and Thailand.
7. China builds missile site in Kailash-Mansarovar
Amidst border tensions between India and China, China has reportedly built a missile
launch site in Kailash-Mansarovar.
1. Highlights
The Kailash-Mansarovar is revered by four religions and is linked to high spiritual
scriptures in India. The Hindus in India call the Mountain as the abode of Lord Shiva and
his consort Parvati. The Tibetan Buddhists call the mountain the abode of Demchong and
his consort, Dorje Phagmo. According to the Jains, the mountain is the dwelling place of
their first 24 spiritual masters. The Bons call the mountain as the dwelling place of the
sky goddess.
2. Who are the Bons?

Bons is a Tibetan religion. The followers of Bons are called the Bonpos. Shenrab Miwo is
considered to be the founder of Bon religion. The religion heavily relies on Buddhism and
is seldom referred to as pre-Buddhist religion.
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3. Origin of transnational rivers
The region is also the origin of four transnational rivers namely Indus, Sutlej,
Brahmaputra and Karnali. Indus flows through India and Pakistan. Brahmaputra flows
through India, Tibet and Bangladesh. Karnali is also called Ghaghara and is a trans
boundary river of India and Nepal.
4. What are China’s intentions?

China is building the missile site in the region for greater militarisation of Tibet. The
Chinese has mounted missile DF-21 in the region. The missile site is also a response to
India’s recently built road to Lipulekh.
5. About the DF-21 missile

The missile is a medium range missile with a range of 2,200 kilometres. It can cover all
cities of north India including New Delhi.
6. Irritants
Between 2006 and 2010, China has carried out 180 projects in the region that were not
mentioned in the defence budget. This includes building of 14 small air strips, four large
strips and 17 radar stations.
7. Recent Stand off

On August 29-30, the Chinese troops violated the recent consensus that was arrived at
during the stand off at Ladakh and had carried out provocative military movement.
8. Supreme Court: 10 years time granted to Telecoms to pay their AGR

dues
On September 1, 2020, the Supreme Court pronounced its judgement on the AGR dues
issues. The judgement was announced by a three-judge bench headed by Justice Arun
Mishra through video conferencing. The court said that the telecom companies shall pay
their AGR dues with in a time frame of 10 years to the central government
1. Highlights
Alongside pronouncing the judgement, the court asked the National Company Law
Tribunal to decide on spectrum trading as a part of Insolvency and Bankruptcy code.
2. What is the issue?

The Supreme Court had earlier asked the telecom companies to pay the AGR dues by
March 17, 2020. To this the company sought a period of 15-20 years for the repayment
of AGR dues.
3. What are AGR dues?

AGR is Adjusted Gross Revenue. It is the usage and licensing fee that the Department of
Telecommunication charges on the telecom operators. It is divided as licensing fees,
spectrum usage charges. It is fixed between 3%-5% and 8% respectively.
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4. Background
In 2005, the COAI (Cellular Operators Association of India) challenged the GoI definition
of AGR calculation. The Department of Telecommunication argues that the AGR should
include all revenues from both telecom and non-telecom services. The definition was
opposed as it would bring down the profit to the companies. Also, the companies were
already under financial stress.
9. Japan provides Rs 3,500 crores assistance to India to fight COVID-19
On August 31, 2020, the Japanese Government announced that it will provide loan
assistance of Rs 3,500 crores to India as a response to COVID-19 crisis. This will also
include implementation of health and medical policy. The loan is being received by India
as an emergency fund.
1. Highlights
 The loan agreement was signed by Japan International Cooperation Agency in New Delhi. It
has an interest of 0.01% per annum along with a redemption period of 15 years.
 India and Japan also exchanged notes worth 1 billion Yen through a Japanese scheme called
“The Economic and Social Development Programme”. It is one of Japanese official
developmental assistance programme.
2. Objective
The main objective of the loan is to provide necessary fund for India’s fight against
COVID-19. It will be used to develop hospital equipment, ICUs and management
facilities.
3. India-Japan relations
3.1. Civil Nuclear Cooperation

India is not a signatory of Non-Proliferation Treaty. It is the only non-signatory to receive
exemption from Japan to receive fuel to nuclear reactors.
3.2. QUAD
Both Japan and India counter actions of China in the Indo-Pacific. It was under the
initiatives of these two countries that QUAD grouping was formed. It includes Australia
and USA as well.
3.3. Military Exercises

 The military exercise between Indian Army and the Japanese Army is called Dharma Guardian
 The bilateral exercise between Indian Air Forces and the Japanese Air Force is called the
Shinyuu Maitri
 Japan also participates in the India-US Malabar Navy Exercise
 Japan has also joined the “Cope-India”. It is India-US air Force Exercise
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3.4. Act East Policy
The Act East Policy of India and the Free and Open Indo-Pacific Strategy of Japan
converge at the North East Region of India. India has allowed Japan to deposit in the
north east region of India at large scale. Also, the countries are teaming up to set up a
diesel power plant in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
10. Australia, Japan and India meet on Supply Chain Resilience
On September 1, 2020, Australia, India and Japan held a ministerial video conference.
The meeting reaffirmed free, inclusive, transparent, non-discriminatory and stable trade
to keep their markets open.
1. Highlights
India was represented by the Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal.
2. India’s views on the initiative

India believes that Australia, India and Japan are the crucial players in the Indian Ocean
Region. In 2019, their cumulative GDP was 9.3 billion USD and the goods and services
trade was 2.7 trillion USD. According to India, this should be enhanced.
3. Supply Chain Resilience Initiative

The initiative aims to reduce the dependency of the countries’ needs on a single nation
(currently China). It was first proposed by Japan. The Japanese targeted India and
Australia as key partners to the initiative. They see other Asian and Pacific Rim nations
as potential partners as well.
4. Background
The initiative aims at international trade that will help a country to ensure that it
diversifies supply risk instead of depending on just one. In unanticipated events such as
natural disasters (earthquakes or tsunamis), pandemic or armed conflict the supplies get
disrupted. Sometimes international halts to trade occur and adversely impact economic
activity. The Supply Chain Resilience initiative aims to address the above problem.
5. Why is the initiative important?

With COVID-19 crisis, it has been realised that dependence over a single nation is not
good for an economy. The impacts on importing nations can cripple when production
sources stop for involuntary reasons. Also, the increasing US-China trade tensions and
the countries applying tariff on each other has affected international businesses as well.
6. How is India dependent on one-nation, China?

A major share of Indian imports are from China. India imports 14.5% of goods from
China. India is completely dependent on China for certain goods such as Active
Pharmaceutical Ingredients for medicines. China accounts to 45% of Indian imports. The
Chinese are dominating in automotive parts, electronics, pharmaceuticals, shipping,
textiles and chemicals.
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September 2, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
11. Defence Minister to visit Russia: To attend SCO, CSTO and CIS
The Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh is to visit Russia from September 3, 2020 to
September 5, 2020. He will attend the Defence Ministers meet of Shanghai Cooperation
Organization, Collective Security Treaty Organization and Commonwealth Security
Treaty Organization.
1. Highlights
During the visit, the minister will also meet his Russian counter part Defence Minister
General Shoigu to discuss issues of mutual interest. During the talk, Mr Singh will insist
on timely delivery of S400 missiles. The missiles are set to be delivered by the end of
2021. India had signed a deal of 5 billion USD in 2018 to buy five S400 defence missile
systems in 2018. In 2019, India paid the first tranche of around 800 million USD for the
missiles.
2. Shanghai Cooperation Organization

The SCO is seen as one of the largest transregional international organization that
accounts to 44% of the world population that stretches between Pacific Ocean and Baltic
sea and also between Arctic Ocean and Indian Ocean. It aims to maintain stability, peace
and security in the region. India and Pakistan became the members of the organization
only in 2017.
3. Collective Security Treaty Organization

It is an inter-governmental military alliance that was signed in 1992. The alliance was
first formed by signing the Collective Security Treaty called the Tashkent Pact. The
countries that signed the treaty were Armenia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan,
Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. In 1994, three other countries namely Belarus, Georgia and
Azerbaijan joined the organization in 1994.
12. Indian Astronomers discover the farthest star galaxy
India’s first multi-wavelength satellite “Astrosat” detected extreme Ultra Violet light from
a galaxy located 9.3 billion light years away from the earth. The galaxy is called
AUDFs01.
1. Significance
India was able to achieve the discovery as the background noise in the UVIT detector of
the satellite is very less. It is lesser than that of the Hubble Space Telescope.
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2. UVIT
UVIT is Ultra Violet Imaging Telescope. It weighs 230 kg. It has a spatial resolution of 1.8
arc seconds. The UVIT is a suite of far ultra violet, near ultra violet and visible band. Far
Ultra Violet lies in the band of 130 to 180 nm. The Near Ultra Violet lies in the band of
200 to 300 nm and visible band lies in the band of 320 to 550 nm.
3. Hubble Space Telescope

The telescope was launched in 1990. It is one of the largest space telescopes. It was
launched by the Space Shuttle Discovery in 1990. It is the only telescope designed to be
serviced in space by astronauts.
4. Recent discovery of Hubble

On September 1, 2020, NASA revealed that the Halo in Andromeda Galaxy is much more
massive than expected. The researchers have found that Halo stretched much farther in
space extending 1.3 million light years out of the galaxy. According to the researchers,
Halo covers more than half the distance between Andromeda and the Milky Way.
13. Ladakh and Lakshadweep integrated to One Nation One Ration Card
Scheme
On September 1, 2020, Ladakh and Lakshadweep were integrated in the One Nation One
Ration card scheme. With this a total of 26 states and union territories are now
connected with each other under the scheme.
1. Highlights
The 26 states and UTS that are connected under One Nation One card scheme are
Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Tripura, Telangana, Sikkim, Rajasthan, Punjab, Odisha,
Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Lakshadweep, Ladakh,
Kerala, Karnataka, Jharkhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Gijarat,
Goa, Daman and Diu, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh.
2. One Nation One Card

It is an ambitious project of Government of India that ensures delivery of food security
entitlements to the beneficiaries covered under National Food Security Act, 2013. The
scheme mainly targeted the migratory NFSA beneficiaries. These are the beneficiaries
who frequently change their dwelling in search of temporary employments.
3. Integrated Management of Public Distribution System

In order to make the scheme a success, a portal called http://www.impds.nic.in/ has
been opened. It provides technological platform for the inter-state portability of ration
cards. Also, the Annavitran portal enables a migrant worker to avail the benefits of the
Public Distribution System outside the district. It enables a migrant worker to buy food
grains where ever he or she is based and the rest of the family members can purchase
food grains from their ration dealer back home.
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4. National Food Security Act, 2013
Under the act, around 81 crores of persons are entitled to buy subsidized food grains
from designated fair price shops. So far, 23 crores of ration cards have been issued to
nearly 80 crore beneficiaries under the act.
14. 27 Integrated Cold Chain Development Projects approved under

Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPDA Yojana
On September 1, 2020, the Government of India approved 27 projects under the

Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana. Under the project, integrated cold chains are to
be developed.
1. Highlights
The new projects will generate direct and indirect employment for 16,000 people. It will
benefit 2,57,000 farmers. These projects will help to boost farmer income and will help
make India self-reliant in fruits and vegetable sector. The projects will leverage
investment of Rs 743 crores to create modern innovative infrastructure and cold chain
facilities for food processing sector.
2. Pradhan Mantri KISAN Sampada Yojana

The SAMPADA is Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-
Processing Clusters. It was approved in 2017 under 14th Finance Commission. It was
then renamed as Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana. The main aim of the scheme is
to modernize agricultural processing and to decrease agri-waste.
3. Benefits
The scheme will provide big boost to the growth of food processing sector. It will help to
provide better prices to farmers and thereby help India achieve its target of doubling
farmers’ income by 2022. Also, it will create huge employment opportunities in rural
areas. The scheme will help reduce agricultural waste and will ensure availability of safe
and convenient processed foods at affordable price and enhance exports of processed
foods.
15. India to extend flagship jobs programmes in villages to cities
On September 2, 2020, the Government of India announced that it is to extend flagship

jobs programme in villages to cities in order to help the workers left unemployed due to
the pandemic.
1. Highlights
The programme when approved will initially be rolled out in smaller cities. This step is
expected to cost 4.8 billion USD initially. However, it will benefit 121 million Indian who
lost their jobs in April due to the pandemic.
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2. Current Scenario
The GoI has been using the rural programme such as road-building, reforestation and
well-digging to provide employment. The Jal Jeevan Mission was launched on a wide
scale to boost rural development and also create employment. The mission aims to
provide drinking tap water connection to all. Also, the fund allocation to MGNREGA was
increased and so was the wages under the scheme. The Indian Railways identified areas
where the employment could be created and the jobs were assigned under MGNREGA.
This includes station road building, line construction, station infrastructure upgradation,
etc.
3. Background
Currently India is implementing the following employment generation programmes. They
are as follows
16. NCRB releases data on Farmer Suicides
On September 1, 2020, the National Crime Records Bureau released the data on farmer
suicides. This is a part of the report Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India published by
NCRB.
1. Why the delay?

The National Crime Record Bureau released ‘’Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India”
report in October 2019. However, it did not include the data on farmer suicides. This
created huge controversies in the country. The data about farm suicides were available
only till 2015. The data of farm suicides of 2016 was submitted by NCRB to the
Government in early 2018. However, it was not published.
2. Key highlights
The recently released data on farmer suicides say that in 2019 around 42,480 farmers
and daily wagers committed suicide. This is an increase of about 6% from the previous
year. The other findings of the report are as follows
3. Concerns
The NCRB report on farmer suicide that was released in 2015 had published elaborate
data in farmer suicides. This included reasons for suicides as well. However, the recent
data that was released for the year 2019 did not include these details.
17. INDRA 2020: India-Russia to conduct Naval drills in Andaman Sea
India and Russia are to hold bilateral naval exercise INDRA 2020 in Andaman Sea, close
to strategic Strait of Malacca. The exercise is being conducted while the Indian Navy is
on high operational alert due to the standoff with China in Ladakh.
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1. Highlights
Three Russian Naval ships are to take part in the exercise on September 4 and 5. The
exercise comes just after India withdrew from Kavkaz-2020 multinational exercise that is
to be held in Russia. Also, it coincides with Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh’s visit to
Russia for Shanghai Cooperation Organization.
2. India-US
In July 2020, Indian Navy held PASSEX exercise with the US aircraft carrier USS Nimitz in
the same area as INDRA 2020 is to be conducted. PASSEX is Passage Exercise. It means
that it was arranged suddenly without a proper pre plan. The USS Nimitz was passing the
Indian Ocean as it was returning from the South China Sea through the Malacca Strait.
The exercise was held as USS Nimitz was just transiting the region.
3. Significance
It is important for the Indian Navy to involve in such frequent naval drills with its close
defence partners. This is because, the Chinese Naval presence in the region has
increased recently in the name of anti-piracy patrols.
4. Why is Andaman important?

Over 60,000 commercial vessels traverse each year through the Andaman waters. China
is increasing its presence in the region. Chinese Naval vessels camouflaged as fishing
boats have been sighted in the region. They also make their presence in the name of
port visits to Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The Hambantota port of Sri Lanka has been leased
to China for 99 years which China is developing into a naval base. Similarly, China is
building Gwadar port in Pakistan.
18. India-Nigeria to deepen their ties on defence, energy and counter

terrorism
On September 1, 2020, India and Nigeria agreed to deepen their cooperation to counter
terrorism, piracy and insurgency to boost trade exchanges.
1. Highlights
The countries agreed to their cooperation in defence equipment, maintenance services
and medical. They also agreed on regular exchange of information to counter terrorism,
insurgency and piracy. During the meet, Nigeria appreciated donation of essential
medicines to India. In July 2020, India donated 50 million USD worth essential medicines
to Nigeria to fight COVID-19.
2. India-Nigeria
India is the largest trading partner of Nigeria. The bilateral trade between India and
Nigeria was 13.9 billion USD in 2019-20.
3. Why is Nigeria important for India?

Nigeria is rich in oil. Recently, Nigeria stated that India has replaced the United States as
its largest oil importer. Around 20% to 25% of oil demand of India is covered by Nigeria.
Currently, India purchases 30% of Nigeria’s every day crude oil production.
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4. India-Africa
Africa is resource rich nation. The trade between India and Africa is dominated by pulses,
oil, gas, lentils, gold and other metals. In the last two decades, India has increased its
trade with African countries. India launched duty-free tariff preferential scheme for the
Least Developed Nations in 2008. This benefitted 33 African countries. As China is
increasing its dominance in the region, it is important for India to increase its hold of
trade and investment and security cooperation with these countries.
19. September 2: World Coconut Day
Every year World Coconut Day is celebrated on September 2. The day is celebrated
mostly in the Asia-Pacific region including India. In India, Coconut grows in Kerala,
Karnataka, Sundarbans, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. This year, the day is
celebrated under the following theme
1. Highlights
Coconut is believed to have originated from Melanesia. It is the region of modern
Indonesia. They are native to the coastal regions in the tropics.
2. About World Coconut Day

The day was established in 2009. It is celebrated to commemorate the formation of
APCC. The APCC operates under United Nations Economic and Social Commission for
Asia and Pacific (UN-ESCAP). The APCC has 18 members. It is an inter-governmental
organization that promotes, coordinates and harmonizes coconut development activities
in the Asia Pacific region. The headquarters of APCC is located in Jakarta, Indonesia.
3. Coconut in India
Coconut plays a major role in the national economy of India. According to the United
Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, India is one of the largest producers of
coconut in the world.
4. Exports
Fresh coconut contributes to more than 10% of India’s export earnings. More than 63%
of fresh coconut exports is to Gulf countries. Other than this, India also exports activated
carbon made from coconut shells. This accounts to more than 45% of India’s export
earning from export of coconut products. Activated carbon is a form of carbon that has
small lo volume pores that increases surface area available for adsorption.
20. Union Cabinet approves Mission Karmayogi
On September 2, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved National Programme Services

Capacity Building called “Mission Karmayogi”.
1. Highlights
The mission is to be launched with the following institutional framework
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2. Key features of the programme
The programme was designed to lay foundations for capacity building of civil servants.
The programme will enhance the Indian culture values and sensibilities among the civil
servants. An iGOT Karmayogi platform is to be set up in order to deliver the programme.
iGOT is Integrated Government Online Training platform. The main principles of the
programme are as follows
3. Funds allocated
The scheme is to cover 46 lakh central government employees. Thus, the GoI has
estimated the required funds as Rs 510.86 crores. The scheme is to be implemented
between 2020-21 and 2024-25. Also, an evaluation platform is to be put in place to
monitor the success of the scheme.
21. Union Cabinet approves India-Finland Cooperation in the field of

Geology and Mineral Resources
On September 2, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved Memorandum of Understanding

between India and Finland for the cooperation in the field of geology and mineral
resources.
1. Highlights
The MoU will facilitate cooperation in the field of geology, training, suitable analysis and
mineral prognostication. The Geophysical and seismic surveys were finalised to reinforce
and strengthen scientific links between the countries. Also, the MoU aims to provide a
framework and a platform to promote and foster cooperation in the field of mineral
resources and geology. The platform will also help to share experiences on geological
data, information dissemination.
2. Significance
Finland is rich in minerals such as iron, copper, chromium, nickel and gold.
3. About Finland
Finland is usually at the top if various metrics of national performance. This is mainly
because the country has good education system, civil liberties, economic
competitiveness, human development. Between 2011 and 2016, Finland was the most
stable country.
4. UN World Happiness Report, 2020

The report was published in March 2020. The report ranked 156 countries. The rankings
were based on GDP per capita, life expectancy, social support, generosity and absence
of corruption. India was ranked 140 in the report.
5. Sustainable Development Solutions Network

It was launched in 2012 to promote practical problems in solving Sustainable
Development Goals and Paris Climate Change.
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22. Coal India to invest Rs 1.22 lakh crores on 500 projects by 2023-24
The Coal India Limited is to invest Rs 1.22 lakh crores to develop 500 projects related to
coal evacuation, infrastructure, project development, exploration and clean coal
technologies.
1. Highlights
The investment aims to make India self-reliant in coal. It will also help to achieve
production target of 1 billion tonnes by 2023-34. The National miner Coal India Limited is
to invest Rs 14, 200 crores in the next three to four years. The first mile connectivity is
the transportation of coal from pitheads to dispatch points. The investments is to be
done in two phases for its 49 first mile connectivity projects.
2. What is the plan?

The Coal India Limited has identified 15 green field projects. The projects are to be
operated under Mine Developer and Operator Model. Around Rs 34,600 crores is to be
invested via this route.
3. Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan

In line with the scheme that was launched to support the citizens during COVID-19
times, a slew of reforms were introduced in commercial mining of coal in India. The
reforms introduced are as follows
4. Coal Sector in India

India has the fourth largest coal reserves in the world. Still India imported 235 million
tonnes in 2019. In order to attract new investment, the GoI has been liberalising the coal
sector in the last few months.
September 3, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
23. Union Cabinet approves Hindi, Dogri and Kashmiri to become official
languages of Jammu and Kashmir
On September 2, 2020, the Union Cabinet headed by PM Modi approved the Jammu and
Kashmir Language Bill, 2020 to make five languages namely Urudu, Hindi, Dogri, English
and Kashmiri as the official language of the Union Territory.
1. Highlights
Earlier, that is, before the abrogation of Article 370, Urudu and English were the official
language of the state. Now Hindi, Dogri and Kashmiri have been added. Till the approval,
Dogri and Kashmiri were not official language in any of the states in India though they
were included in eighth schedule. Apart from these two, Sindhi is still not an official
language in state though it has been included in eighth schedule.
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2. Article 343
The article says that the official language of the union shall be Hindi in Devanagari
script. It also says that the numerals shall be used in international form
3. Eight Schedule
The Eight Schedule of Indian Constitution lists 22 scheduled languages as official
languages of the states. The states are not mandated to choose their official language
from the scheduled languages.
4. Parliamentary proceedings
Parliamentary businesses, according to the constitution, shall be conducted in Hindi or
English. The Constitution also allows the person to express themselves in his or her
mother tongue if the person is unable to express in Hindi or English. However, this
requires permission of the speaker of the house.
5. Judiciary
The Constitution says that the proceedings in Supreme Court and High court shall be in
English. However, certain high courts have obtained the option of Hindi after consent
from the President. This includes MP, UP, Rajasthan and Bihar.
24. Global Innovation Index: India ranks 48
On September 2, 2020, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) released the
Global Innovation Index. For the first time, India has ranked among top 50 countries. It
has moved up to 48th rank from 52nd position in 2019. India was at the top position
among central and southern Asian countries.
1. Highlights: World
Switzerland acquired the first position followed by Sweden, USA, UK and Netherlands.
2. Highlights: India
India was the third most innovative lower middle-income country.
3. Income Groups
The World Bank classifies economies based on their Gross National Income per capita in
USD. The classification is as follows
25. Biodiversity Council set up in Jammu and Kashmir
The Jammu and Kashmir Government has issued an order to set up Biodiversity Council
in Jammu and Kashmir. The council is to be headed by the Chief Conservator of Forests.
1. Highlights
The council is to include 10-members. Out of these, five will be non-official members.
The council will look after the conservation of biological diversity in the Union Territory
and also will focus on sustainable use of the components of the UT.
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2. Key Features of the council
 The term of office of the non-official members are to be for three years
 Jammu and Kashmir Biodiversity Council Fund is to be constituted.
 The council will perform its function under the jurisdiction of the Jammu and Kashmir Union
Territory in consultation with the National Biodiversity Authority.
3. National Biodiversity Authority

It is a statutory autonomous body operating under Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate change. It was established in 2003 under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.
These measures were taken after India signed Convention on Biological Diversity in
1992.
4. Convention on Biological Diversity

In 1992, at the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, the world leaders agreed on sustainable
development meeting the needs and ensuring healthy and viable world for future
generations. After signing the summit, India framed 12 National Biodiversity Targets to
be achieved by 2020. They are as follows
5. What are Aichi Targets?

They were adopted in COP-10
26. GoI bans printing of calendars, diaries and festival greeting cards
The Government of India banned printing materials such as diaries, calendars and
festival greeting cards. The order was passed by the Ministry of Finance. The ministry
has asked the government organs to adopt digital means to publish such materials.
1. Highlights
The Government of India has banned calendars, diaries, coffee table books, and festival
greetings. This is being done to reduce GoI costs in printing activities and also to
encourage adoption of digital tools. The Bureau of Outreach and Communication has
been directed to collect the printed materials from the government bodies.
2. Bureau of Outreach and Communication

The Bureau was formed in 2017. It is the nodal agency of GoI for advertising ministries
and organizations including public sector undertakings and autonomous bodies. The
Bureau also acts as an advisory body in media campaigns of the ministries.
3. How is digitisation strengthening Indian Economy?

Rapid Digitisation in India began after the launch of Digital India programme. The
programme is highly concentrated to robust electronic manufacturing sectors. There are
31 mission mode projects under the scheme. This includes Digital Infrastructure used by
the citizens, E-Governance and Digital empowerment of citizens.
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27. THE World University Ranking 2021: No Indian University in top 300
On September 2, 2020, the Times Higher Education announced the results of World
University Rankings, 2021.
1. Highlights: India
In the 2021 ranking, India has recorded its highest ever number of universities to qualify
Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2021. However, none of Indian
Universities could make it to top 300. Around 63 universities from India have qualified
for the ranking. This year 14 more universities have qualified as compared to that of the
2020 ranking. It is the highest jump by any country in south Asian region.
2. Highlights: World
The University of Oxford was at the top position followed by Stanford University, Harvard
University, California Institute of Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
3. About the ranking

The ranking assessed the performance of 1527 higher education institutes from 93
countries. The institutes were assessed on several parameters such as research,
knowledge, international outlook, transfer and teaching.
4. Competition
The UK universities retain the top spot for the fifth consecutive year. However, progress
was inevitable in Asian Universities. The US also sees the upcoming Asian Universities as
main challenge. 50% of the top 20 performing US Universities failed to maintain their
position.
5. Asia factor
The growth in quality education in Asia and the improvement of rankings of Asian
Universities is dominated by China. The rise of Chinese Universities have been
accredited by the tanking. Since 2016, the Chinese mainland has gained five additional
places in the top 200. Also, the representation of Chinese Universities in the top 100
have been doubled. Of the seven Chinese Universities that achieved the top 200 places
in 2020, 85% of them have improved their position in 2021.
28. Assam Assembly passes bill to protect Tangible Heritage
On September 2, 2020, the Assam Assembly passed bill to protect Tangible Heritage
that are not currently covered by the state and national law. According the Assam
Government the passage of the Assam Heritage (Tangible) Protection, Preservation,
Conservation and Maintenance Bill, 2020 is a historic step towards implementing Clause
6 of Assam Accord.
1. Highlights
The Tangible Heritage bill seeks to include museum objects such as sculptures, coins,
manuscripts, epigraphs and other works of cultural artifacts and craftsmanship. The bill
seeks to protect except the tangible heritage that are covered in Assam Ancient
Monuments and Record Act, 1959.
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2. Assam Ancient Monuments and Record Act
The act was enacted by the Parliament. Under the act, the state government shall notify
any of the ancient monument as protected
3. Clause 6 of Assam Accord

The Clause 6 of the Assam Accord says that the constitutional, legislative and
administrative safeguards may be provided to protect, promote and preserve social,
cultural and linguistic identities and heritage of Assamese people.
4. Assam Accord
Assam Accord was signed by Government of India, leaders of Assam Movement in 1985
and State Government of Assam in 1985. It was signed to conclude six-year agitation
that was launched by the All Assam Students Union in 1979. The students protested on
detection and deportation of migrants who had illegally entered Assam in 1951.
5. Biplab Kumar Sharma Committee

The committee was formed to define Assamese people and institute the safeguards for
them.
29. What is Water Heroes Contest?
The Water Heroes contest was launched by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti. The main
aim of the contest is to reach out to people with messages of water conservation and
management.
1. Highlights
The main aim of the Ministry of Jal Shakti is to make water conservation a people’s
movement and also to strengthen water consciousness in the country.
2. About the Contest

The entries of water conservation would be invited to share their success stories. This is
to be done through video of 1-5 minutes along with a write up of 300 words. Of these, 10
entries are to be invited for awards. The selected entries are to be awarded with cash
prize of Rs 10,000.
3. GoI measures
The GoI is taking several measures to make water conservation as a national movement.
One such is the contest. The following are the other measure
4. Jal Shakti Abhiyan

It was launched in 2019 to cover 256 water stressed districts in the country. The scheme
runs through citizen participation. The key features of the scheme are as follows
5. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana

It is also called the Per Drop More Crop scheme. Rs 4,000 crores was allocated under the
scheme for the year 2020-21. It was launched in 2015-16.
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30. India attends BIMSTEC meet
On September 2, 2020, India attended BIMSTEC meet and discussed ways to expand
cooperation among its member countries. It further discussed ways to expand
cooperation to deal with the current COVID-19 challenges.
1. Background
The grouping accounts to 22% of global population. It has a combined Gross Domestic
Product of 2.8 trillion USD. India has been pushing to make BIMSTEC a vibrant forum.
This is mainly because initiatives under SAARC are not moving forward due to non-
cooperation from Pakistan.
2. BIMSTEC
There are seven countries participating in BIMSTEC. They are Bangladesh, India,
Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan, Nepal. It was established through Bangkok
Declaration in 1997 with four initial members Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India and Thailand.
3. National Security Chiefs

The first meet of the National Security Chiefs of BIMSTEC was held in 2017. It aimed to
discuss common security challenges being faced by member countries.
4. Why BIMSTEC over SAARC?

India is keen on promoting BIMSTEC over SAARC for the following reasons
5. India-BIMSTEC
Alongside BRICS summit in Goa, PM Modi hosted outreach summit with BIMSTEC leaders.
31. EESL to procure 250 Electric Vehicles from Tata Motors and Hyundai
Motor
On September 3, 2020, the energy Efficiency Services Limited announced that it will
procure 250 electric Vehicles from Tata Motors and Hyundai Motor India.
1. Highlights
The Tata Motors is to supply 150 Nexon electric compact SUVs and the Hyundai Motor
India Limited will supply 100 Kona Electric SUVs for government use. EESL is to procure
Tata Nexon at Rs 14.86 lakhs each. This is Rs 13,000 cheaper than its show room price.
The Hyundai Kona is to be procured at Rs 21.36 lakhs which is 11% lower.
2. Government initiatives
The Government of India aims to produce 6 million electric and hybrid vehicles under
National Electric Mobility Plan 2020. The GST of electric vehicles were reduced from 12%
to 5%. The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) was launched
to improve electric mobility in India. The implementation of smart cities will also help to
boost growth of electric vehicles in the country. The Union Power Ministry has
categorised charging batteries as service. This will help charging stations to operate
without licenses.
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3. What are the concerns?
The following are the concerns that are associated to widen the usage of Electric
Vehicles in India
4. Way Forward
The focus should be shifted from subsidizing vehicles to subsidizing batteries. Recently,
the GoI announced that the companies shall sell electric vehicles without batteries.
Considering the fact that the batteries contribute to 50% of cost of electric vehicles, it is
essential to incentivise or subsidise batteries as well.
32. US Annual Defence report: Chinese Navy the largest in the world
The United States recently published an annual report on Chinese Military power.
According to the report, the Chinese Navy is now the largest in the world.
1. Highlights
The report says that the overall battle force of China is approximately 350 ships and
submarines. This includes 130 major surface combatants. On the hand the US Navy has
approximately 293 ships as of early 2020.

 The Western theatre command of china is oriented towards India.
 The official budget allocated by china annually is 174.4 billion USD. On the other hand, India
allocated 61.7 billion USD. These figures were as of the year 2019.
 China’s recent economic policies are innovation based, especially the following three
Made in china 2025: It seeks to increase China’s domestic innovation

One Belt One Road
Digital Silk Road: It was announced in 2015 as a subset of OBOR. It aims to boost China-
centric digital infrastructure.
 Made in china 2025: It seeks to increase China’s domestic innovation

 One Belt One Road
 Digital Silk Road: It was announced in 2015 as a subset of OBOR. It aims to boost China-
centric digital infrastructure.
 China aims to build world class military by 2049. The Chinese define world class military as a
military force that is superior to the United States.
 China has increased the participation of armed forces at STRIDE in the last two years (2018
and 2019). STRIDE is a live military exercise of China
 China is to double nuclear warheads in the coming decade.
3. Theatre Commands
There are five theatre commands namely Eastern Theater, Southern Theater, Western
Theater, Northern Theater and Central Theater.
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4. India’s Concerns
The report is a warning bell to India. This is because, China is looking for opportunities to
expand its footprint in the Indian Ocean Region. China has already established its naval
bases in Djibouti, Horn of Africa in 2017. It has also extended its influences in two ports
of Pakistan namely Gwadar and Karachi. China is to supply 8 Yuan class diesel-electric
submarines and other weapons and build naval platforms in Pakistan. This would pose
additional threats in the Indian Ocean Region.
33. India to host Summit of SCO Council on November 30
India is to host a summit of council of heads of SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization)

on November 30, 2020. India is in the plan of expanding its cooperation with the
grouping.
1. Highlights
India was an observer of SCO till 2005. It became a member in 2017 along with Pakistan.
Since then, India has been pushing for connectivity projects such as International North-
South Transport Corridor to gain more access to the resource rich Central Asian
countries. Also, SCO will act as a good platform for India to strengthen its ties with the
extended neighbourhood.
2. What is Extended Neighbourhood of India?

The extended neighbourhood of India is variously defined in geographical terms. It is
usually outside of the neighbourhood list. The neighbourhood of India are Pakistan,
China, Afghanistan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh. Indonesia
is included as a maritime border of India.
3. Significance
India wants to expand its cooperation with SCO to increase its trade in the central Asian
region. This is to be achieved through India’s Connect Central Asia Policy.
4. Connect Central Asia Policy

The policy is based on 4Cs namely Commerce, Consular, Connectivity and Community.
5. Concerns
The region accommodates Golden Cresecent (Pakistan-Iran-Afghanistan). The instability
in the region will have spill over effect on India.
34. UNSC: Pakistan request to designate four Indians as Terrorists

rejected
The United Nations Security Council recently rejected Pakistan request to list four Indians
as terrorists. Pakistan wanted to add four Indian nationals under ISIS and Al-Qaeda
operations. The request was backed by France, USA, UK, Germany and Belgium. The
UNSC rejected mainly due to lack of evidence.
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1. Highlights
The permanent members that backed India were USA, UK and France. On the other
hand, the non-permanent members that backed India were Germany and Belgium.

In September 2019, Pakistan alleged four Indians working in Afghanistan had formed an
Afghanistan based Indian terror syndicate. According to Pakistan, they were organising a
banned terror group called the Jammt-Ul-Ahrar and Tekreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.
3. Why did Pakistan make such a move?

 Pakistan is trying to attempt to target India ahead of January 2021 when India is to join the
UNSC as a non-permanent member for two years.
 Also, India succeeded in naming Jaish-e-Mohammad chief as a global terrorist after repeated
attempts since 2009. This was not received well by Pakistan. This was because this proved
Pakistan of terrorism supporter.
 The tension between India and Pakistan increased after Abrogation of Article 370 by India.
Countering this, Pakistan released a new political map that included Ladakh, Sir Creek,
Jammu and Kashmir and Junagadh.
 Pakistan opposes India’s leadership in dealing COVID-19 crisis in the SAARC region
4. Way ahead
Pakistan’s attempts to claim Indians in international soil as terrorists is only tainting its
image in the international community. On the other hand, India’s efforts of combating
terrorism has been internationally acclaimed. For instance, India updated its Look East
Policy to Act East Policy to give importance to security and counter terrorism along with
economic cooperations.
September 4, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
35. India-Russia sign agreement on manufacturing AK-203 rifles
The Defence Minister is at Russia’s capital Moscow attending SCO meet. He arrived on
September 2, 2020 and is on a three-day visit.
1. Highlights
The Defence Minister on the side lines of the SCO meet held talks with his Russian
counter part Shoigu. During the meet, the leaders signed the AK-203 rifles deal.
According to the deal, the rifles are to be produced in India under the Make in India
initiative with Russia support.
2. About AK-203
The rifles are the latest and the most advanced version of AK-47 rifles. The AK203 are to
replace the INSAS. INSAS are Indian Small Arms System (5.56x45mm) assault rifle.
Indian Army has a requirement of around 770,000 AK-203 rifles. Of these 100,000 are to
be imported and the rest are to be manufactured in India.
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3. Discussions
The leaders discussed the following
4. Inter-Government Commission for Technical and Military Cooperation

It was set up in 2000. The commission meets alternatively in India and Russia to review
and discuss the status of ongoing projects. The commission oversees indigenous
production of T-90 tanks and Su-30 MKI aircraft and supply of MiG-29K aircraft and
supply of Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher Smerch.
5. Aero India
It is a biennial air show that is held at Yelahanka Air Force Station. The exhibition is
organized by Ministry of Defence. The first edition of the show was held in 1996. During
the show, several Indian aerospace and aviation industry manufacturers and service
providers meet their potential buyers.
36. G-20 Foreign Ministers meet: India proposes “G-20 Principles on

coordinated Cross-Border Movement of People”
Saudi Arabi recently hosted the G-20 foreign ministers’ meet focusing on cross border
movement amidst the pandemic. During the meet, India proposed development of G-20
Principles on Coordinated Cross border movement of people.
1. Highlights
The proposed principles are based on three elements. They are as follows
2. About the meet

India was represented by External Affairs Minster S Jaishankar at the meet. During the
meet, the minister highlighted the steps taken by India in the awake of the pandemic.
He also briefed about the steps under Vande Bharat Mission and creation of “travel
bubbles”.
3. G-20 initiatives
The G-20 countries agreed to inject 5 trillion USD during their virtual meet held in March
2020. Later an additional 21 billion USD was pledged to fight the pandemic. They also
agreed to contribute to World Health Organization led COVID-19 solidarity response
fund.
4. Digital Ministers Meet

In July 2020, the Digital Economy Ministers meet was held under the theme Realizing
opportunities of the 21st century for all.
5. Finance Ministers Meet

During the G-20 Finance Minsters meet that was held in July 2020, India shared its G-20
Action Plan. India also discussed on two deliverables at the meet. One was to enhance
access to opportunities for youth and women and the other was on international taxation
agenda related to digital sector.
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37. WHO recommends use of Steroids in critical COVID-19 patients
The World Health Organization recently recommended the use of steroid drugs to treat
COVID-19. The WHO trials say that the Corticosteroid drugs reduce the risk of death in
critical COVID-19 patients by 20%.
1. Highlights
An analysis of seven international trials found that the Corticosteroid drugs reduced the
risk of death in critical COVID-19 patients. The trials also found that low dose
hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone and dexamethasone improved the survival rates of
critically ill COVID-19 patients.
2. About the trials

The trials were conducted in China, Brazil, UK, France, US and Spain. The steroids were
chosen as they are inexpensive and are effective in anti-microbial actions. It was found
during the trials that corticosteroids showed 87 fewer deaths per 1000 patients.
3. Steroids
Steroids are anti-inflammatory drugs. They work by decreasing the inflammation.
Inflammation is a process by which White Blood Cells of the body protect against
infection caused by foreign substance such as virus and bacteria. However, in certain
cases, inflammation might work against the body organs causing damages. This is when
steroids are used. They reduce the activity of immune system.
4. WHO Essential Medicines

Corticosteroids are listed in WHO list of Essential medicines. They are readily available at
low cost. These medicines are those that satisfy priority health care needs. The Essential
Medicines are to be available in adequate amounts in appropriate dosage forms and
strengths.
38. UNEP report: Changes in food systems mandatory to boost Climate

Action and achieve NDCs
The United Nations Environment Programme recently released a report, “Enhancing

Nationally Determined Contributions for Food Systems”. According to the report, adding
diet and food loss to climate change shall improve mitigation and adaptation
contributions towards food systems by 25%.
1. Highlights
The report says that food loss has been ignored widely. The Sustainable Development
Goals can be achieved by 2030 if food loss and waste are added to climate action plans.
According to the 2015 Paris Agreement, the member countries of the United Nations are
required to revise and submit their Nationally Determined Contributions every five years.
The report helps the policy makers to adopt food system solutions in their updated NDCs
2. For the Policy makers

The report suggests the following for the policy makers
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39. What is Secretive Special Frontier Force of Indian Army?
The Special Frontier Force is also called Establishment 22. The commandos in the force
are drawn from Tibetan refugees who took shelter in India after the Tibetan uprising.
1. Highlights
The SFF was founded in 1962 while Indo-China war was drawing close. The troopers in
the force were initially trained by IB, RAW and even CIA. They are based at Chakrata,
Uttarakhand. The SFF are skilled in mountain warfare and are paratroopers. They were
deployed in covert operations behind the enemy lines that include tracking of Chinese
plans to deploy nuclear war heads.
2. Why the name Establishment 22?

The SFF received its name Establishment 22 after its founder Sujan Singh Uban who
commanded the 22nd Mountain Regiment in the second world war.
3. Role of SFF
 The tops secret SFF was raised with the help of Tibetan Guerrilla fighters of Chushi Gangdruk
 Just after the force was founded in 1962, the Chinese declared ceasefire during the war.
 The forces played a major role in stopping Pakistani forces at Chittagong during Bangladesh
war of 1971, Operation Bluestar in 1984 and also in securing Siachen glacier in 1984 and in
Kargil war in 1999
 The force is not a part of the Indian Army officially.
 The force operates under the direct supervision of the Prime Minister of India
4. How was the secret revealed?

A Tibetan member of the SFF unit died near the site of border (shores of Pangong Tso
lake). The 53-year old Nyima Tenzin was the leader of the SFF. He died when the Indian
and Chinese forces came in close confrontation in the area during the weekend.
40. GoI: Currently working on rejuvenation of 13 rivers
On September 3, 2020, the Union Minister Prakash Javadekar announced that the centre
is working rejuvenation of 13 rivers. The minister announced this on the occasion of
celebration of “Cauvery Calling” movement.
1. Highlights
The 13 rivers that are under rejuvenation are Beas, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Sutlej,
Yamuna, Luni, Narmada, Godavari, Cauvery, Krishna, Mahanadi, and Brahmaputra. Apart
from these, a special programme is being implemented to rejuvenate River Ganga under
National Mission for Clean Ganga.
2. Update of rejuvenation of the rivers

The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education is currently working on technical
study to assess the river landscape and prepare a Detailed Project Report.
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3. Cauvery Calling
It is a campaign that was launched by the founder Isha Foundation Sadhguru Jaggi
Vasudev in 2019. It was launched immediately after the Cauvery Revitalisation project.
The project is jointly being implemented by the Government of Karnataka. Under the
project, 25 crore saplings are to be planted.
41. Germany launches Indo-Pacific Strategy
The current European Union President and the largest economy of Europe, Germany
launched Indo-Pacific strategy. It was launched with India.
1. Highlights
The strategy has several indirect references to Chinese behaviour in the Indo-Pacific
region. Germany has also suggested to play a key role in the Bay of Bengal Initiative for
Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation and Indian Ocean Rim Association. It
will work on maritime safety and disaster risk management.
2. Why is Germany launching the strategy?

 Around 90% of the world foreign trade is conducted by sea and a large part via Indian and
Pacific Oceans.
 25% of world maritime trade passes through Strait of Malacca.
 More than 2,000 ships per day transport goods between South China Sea and Indian Ocean.
Disruption in these maritime routes will affect the supply chins to and from Europe.
3. Why is it important for India to gain international support on Indo-Pacific?

According to Annual Defence Report of the United States, China has the biggest Naval
Force in the world. It has more than 350 ships and submarines. Also, China is looking for
opportunities to expand its foot prints in the Indian Ocean Region.
42. Karnataka approves New Information Technology Policy
On September 3, 2020, Karnataka cabinet approved a new Information Technology

Policy, 2020. The policy will help the state to increase its contribution in achieving its
goal of 1 trillion USD. Also, the policy will help the state to create six million jobs. The
policy is to be executed between 2020 and 2025.
1. Highlights
The main goal of the policy is to enable IT industry to contribute 30% to India’s goal of
becoming a trillion-dollar economy. The new policy aims to boost IT penetration and
innovation, distributed labour force and evolve a Cyber security policy.
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2. Why the new policy?
The economy of Karnataka is centred around its IT ecosystem. The state is the IT hub of
India. The capital of the state, Bengaluru is the fourth largest technology cluster in the
world. It is one of the largest contributors to the central coffers. Also, Karnataka was the
first state in the country to formulate IT policy in 1997. This boosted the growth of the
industry. Around 80% of global IT companies have their operations in India and Research
and Development centres in the state.
3. Other approvals
The Cabinet also approved the following
43. Supreme Court: Held HC order against Andhra Government English

Medium Move
On September 3, 2020, the Supreme Court refused to stay Andhra Pradesh High court
Order to strike down the decision of making English the medium of education in
Government Schools. The court quoted Section 29 of the Right to Education Act, 2009.
According to the section, the medium of instruction should be in the child’s mother
tongue.
1. New Education Policy

The New Education Policy that was recently launched states that the students till Class V
should be taught in their mother tongue or regional language or local language. Also, the
policy introduces three language formula as per the recommendation made by the
Kothari Commission in 1968.
2. Other Measures of GoI

The Government of India has taken several other measures to promote regional
languages. They are as follows
3. United Nations
 The Yuelu Proclamation of UNESCO launched in 2018 at Changsha, China aims to protect
linguistic resources and diversity
 United Nations proclaimed 2019 as the International Year of Indigenous Language.
4. Constitutional Provisions
 Article 29: It protects interests of minorities and gives all citizens right to conserve their
language
 Article 120: It speaks about the language to be used in Parliament. It allows a Parliamentarian
to express himself in his mother tongue.
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44. Facts Box: No Question Hour and Private Members Bill during
monsoon session of Parliament
The government of India recently announced that there will be no Question Hour, Zero
Hour and introduction of private member bill during the monsoon session. This is being
done in the view of COVID-19 pandemic.
1. Question Hour
The first hour of every parliamentary sitting was slotted for Question Hour. This was
shifted to 11 AM to 12 noon in Rajya Sabha in 2014. During this time period, the
Members of the Parliament ask questions to the ministers. The questions can also be
asked by the private members as well.
2. Zero Hour
Zero Hour starts immediately after question hour. During this hour, the members can
raise matters without any prior notice.
3. History
In the last five years, around 60% of question hour was wasted due to disruptions. Also,
in the history of parliament records show that question hour was done away in 1962,
1975, 1976, 1991, 2004 and 2009.
4. Private Member Bill

It is introduced in the legislature by the legislator who is not acting on behalf of
executive branch.
September 5, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
45. Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh meets his Chinese Counterpart
On September 4, 2020, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met his Chinese counter
part in Moscow. The Defence Minister is on a three day visit to Russia to attend the
Shanghai Cooperation Organization. He had earlier met the Russian Defence Minster and
signed a deal to acquire AK-203 rifles.
1. Highlights
Tensions prevail between Indian and Chinese soldiers along Line of Actual Control for
more than three and a half months. Since the border row escalated, this is the highest-
level face-to-face meeting between the two sides. The meeting was held for two and a
half hours.
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2. Background
Indian and Chinese troops are engaged in stand off in multiple places at the Ladakh
border. The Chinese recently attempted to occupy the southern bank of Pangong Tso
lake that has escalated tensions. India on the other hand has occupied Finger 2 and
Finger 3 of the lake to counter Chinese actions.
3. India’s plan
India is not ready to compromise its territorial and sovereignty integrity. India is
affirmative that ties cannot go back to normal till unless peace and tranquillity are
restored.
4. Why is China increasing its deployment in LAC?

 India is strengthening border infrastructure
 India’s growing cooperation with the US and increasing tensions between US and China, and
also the trade war between them.
 India growing an influential economic power in the Asian region.
46. India attends BRICS Culture Ministers Meet
On September 4, 2020, the Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism Shri Prahlad
Singh Patel attended the 5th BRICS Culture Ministers Meet. It was held under the
chairmanship of the Russian Federation.
1. Highlights
During the meet, India proposed the following
2. How will Culture help bind BRICS countries?

Lately, BRICS countries are holding cultural exchange programmes. This is to develop
tourism and increase people-to-people contact.
3. Steps taken earlier to improve cultural relations

 BRICS countries introduced Visa waiver programme in 2010
 This increased the number of Brazilians visiting Russia. The numbers increased from 15,131
in 2010 to 30,049 in 2013.
 Brazil and South Africa also signed similar agreements in 2013
 In 2013, on the side lines of BRICS Cultural exchange programme, China allowed Brazilian
and Russian passport holders to spend 72 hours in Shanghai or Beijing without Visa.
47. State of Young Child in India Report released by Vice President

Venkaiah Naidu
On September 4, 2020, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu released the “State of Young
Child in India” report. The report was prepared by the Mobile Creches, a policy advocacy
organization. The report measured Health and Nutrition in the country.
1. Key Findings of the report
38
 There are 159 million children aged below 6 years in India. Of these, 21% are
undernourished, 36% are underweight and 38% do not receive full immunization.
 The top five high performing states according to Environment Index are Kerala, Goa, Punjab,
Sikkim and Himachal Pradesh.
 There are eight states in the country that have scores less than the country’s average in child
development. They are Assam, Rajasthan, Meghalaya, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh,
Jharkhand, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
 Kerala, Tripura, Goa, Mizoram and Tamil Nadu are the top five states that support well being
of children to larger extent
 The public spending on children in the country has increased. The expenses are targeted
towards healthcare, nutrition, education and protection services
2. Indices of the Report

The report framed in two indices namely
3. Concerns
According to the report, the funds allocated under Ministry of Women and Child
Development is increasing day by day. However, the additional funds are allocated
towards schemes such as ICDS. While the population if children under 6 years of age is
159 million, the ICDS covers only 71.9 million
48. GJEPC launches first virtual buyer-seller meet
On September 3, 2020, the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council inaugurated its
first virtual Buyer and Seller meet to facilitate loose diamonds.
1. Diamond mining in India

Until the discovery of diamonds in Brazil in 1726, India was the only place where
diamonds were mined. In 2013, India mined 37,515 carats of diamond. This is less than
1% of world diamond production. However, India is the largest diamond cutting and
polishing centre in the world. This is mainly because of India’s heritage of using
diamonds, gems and jewellery to large extent. Thus, the work force and artisans with
knowledge of diamond cutting are many in numbers in India. India had well established
trade of jewellery since ancient times. The methods of diamond processing has been
updated in the country and new techniques have been adopted. This is the main reason
for India to be at the top of cutting and polishing.
2. Diamond mines in India

The Vindhyan system have diamonds from which the Panna and Golconda diamonds are
mined. Diamonds are also mined in Kollur mines, Bunder project of Madhya Pradesh, and
Majhgawan mines. Cutting and polishing of diamonds is done in Surat, Ahmedabad,
Navasari, Palampur, etc.
3. Diamonds in the world

Botswana is the leading diamond producing country in the world. The two prolific mines
are Jwaneng and Orapa. The other important producers are Namibia, Sierra Leone, Ivory
Coast, Venezuela, Brazil, etc. Russia has the largest diamond reserves in the world.
39
4. Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council
It was established in 1966. It is one of the several Export Promotion Councils started by
GoI. The aim of the organization is to promote Indian Gem and Jewellery industry.
5. Diamond Exports in India

India exported 18.66 billion USD cut and polished diamonds in 2019. This contributed to
64% of total gems and jewellery export.
49. What is bud drug?
On September 4, 2020, the Narcotics Control Bureau took Rhea’s brother Showik
Chakraborty and Sushant Singh Rajput house manager Samuel Miranda to question in
connection with a “bud” supply racket. Sushant Singh Rajput is a Bollywood actor who
committed suicide in his home recently.
1. What is Bud?
Bud refers to smoking elements of Marijuana plant. On the other hand, weed, colloquially
called ganja, is made from the extract of Marijuana leaves. The Tetrahydrocannabinol
levels in bud are much higher as compared to weed. The cost of bud is very high and is
between Rs 4,000 and Rs 5,000 per gram.
2. How is Bud different from Hydrophonic Weed?

Hydrophonic weed is different from bud. It refers to soilless medium of cultivation of
marijuana. The weed is grown at home in the presence of LED lights. The potent of the
hydrophonic weed is more than that of the usual weed.
3. Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985

The act does not differentiate between arts of the same plant-Cannabis. Therefore, bud
under the act has commercial quantity upward limit of 20 kg. The GoI has plans to
amend the act as none would keep 20 kgs of bud in one place.
4. Source of Bud
Bud is sourced from Spain, Amsterdam and North California according to the officials of
Narcotics Control Bureau.
5. Narcotics Control Bureau

It is the chief law enforcement agency of India that is responsible for fighting drug
trafficking and abuse. It was created in 1986 to enable the implementation of Narcotic
Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
6. National Policy on Narcotic Drugs

The policy is based on Article 47 of the Indian Constitution. It brings about prohibition of
consumption, intoxicating drugs injurious to health except for medicinal purposes.
40
50. Kaziranga park set to be expanded by 3,053 hectares
The Assam Government recently added 3,053 hectares (884 sq km) to Kaziranga
National Park. Kaziranga is home to Asiatic one-horned rhinos. The additions will connect
the park with Karbi Anglong hills and Nameri National Park.
1. Highlights
The areas are being added after 35 years. The Kaziranga National Park hosts two-thirds
of world’s great one-horned rhinoceroses. It is a world heritage site. It was declared a
national park in 1974. It was declared a tiger reserve in 2007.
2. Census
The Rhino census of Kaziranga National Park was held in 2018. The numbers counted
were 2,413. This has increased by 15 as compared to that of 2015.
3. Three Species of Rhinos

The three species of Rhinos other than the One-Horn Rhinos that are “Critically
Endangered” according to IUCN Red List of Threatened species are Black Rhinos,
Sumatran rhinos and Javan Rhinos. Recently, the Sumatran Rhinos became extinct in
Malaysia.
4. National Board of Wild Life

No alteration in wild life sanctuaries and national parks can be done without the approval
of NBWL. The main role of NBWL is giving advises to GoI in framing policies and
measures of conservation. The main function of the board is to promote conservation
and development of forests and wildlife. It has powers to review wildlife related projects.
5. India Rhino Vision 2020

It was launched in 2005. It is an ambitious project that was launched to attain wild
population of rhinos to at least 3,000. This is to be achieved in at least seven protected
areas.
51. Ministry of Finance launches Business Reforms Action Plan ranking

of states
On September 5, 2020, Union Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs launched the
fourth edition of Business Reforms Action Plan ranking of states.
1. Key Highlights of the ranking

The rankings are being launched since 2015. The Business Reform Action Plan 2018-19
includes 180 reform points that covers business regulatory areas such as Single Window
System, Access to Information, Labour, Environment, etc.
2. What is Business Reforms Action Plan?

The plan was released by DPIIT-World Bank. It comprises of 80 reforms (187 reform
action points) to be implemented by 19 state departments. Among them, Andhra
Pradesh achieved 100% compliance to 187 reform action points.
41
3. Andhra Pradesh
The state was the first to come up with “ReSTART” package for the business continuity
of micro-small-and medium enterprises.
4. Background
The Business Reforms Action Plan helps to improve Ease of Doing Business. India jumped
to 63rd position in 2019 out of 190 countries. It improves 14 places from 77th position in
2018. India’s performance improved based on following four parameters
September 7, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
52. September 7: International Day of Clean Air for blue skies
The very first International Day of Clean Air for blue skies is to be held on September 7,
2020.
1. Key Highlights of the day

The day aims at the following
2. Resolution
The resolution to hold the International Say of Clean Air for blue skies was adopted in
December 2019 during the 74th session of United Nations Environment Programme.
3. India
India will host a webinar under the Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar. The
minister is to review National clean Air Programme that was launched in 2019.
4. National Clean Air Programme

The programme has set a target to achieve 20%-30% reduction of Particulate Matter 2.5
and Particulate Matter 10 concentration between 2017 and 2024. The programme was
launched with a budget of Rs 300 crores in first two years. This includes 102 non-
attainment cities in 23 states and Union Territories that have been identified by the
Central Pollution Control Board.
4.1. Non Attainment cities

They are those cities that have been consistently showing poor air quality in National
Ambient Quality Standards. Some of the non-attainment cities are Bhopal, Delhi,
Varanasi, Noida, Kolkata, Mumbai and Muzaffarpur.
4.2. Initiatives under the programme

The National Air Quality Monitoring Network is to be augmented under the programme.
Thea National Emission Inventory that will hold the quantity of pollutants discharged into
the air is to be established. Also, a network of technical institutions and Technology
Assessment Cell are to be established.
42
53. Kesavananda Bharati passed away
On September 6, 2020, Kesavananda Bharti, the head seer of Edneer Mutt in Kerala
since 1961 passed away. He was famous for initiating the historic judgement of Supreme
Court that “Basic Structure of Constitution” cannot be amended by the Parliament.
1. Highlights
The Kerala Government had passed a land law with an objective to distribute land to the
landless farmers. Kesavananda Bharti challenged the Kerala Government in 1970 on this
Kerala land reforms legislation. He contended that the land reforms passed by the Kerala
Government will impose restrictions on management of the mutt property that was the
only source of income.
2. About the case

In 1970s, the Government of India under former PM Indira Gandhi enacted 24th, 25th,
26th and 31st constitutional amendments to get over the judgements of Supreme Court
in Madhavarao Scindia (1970) and RC Cooper and that of Golaknath. In Madhavaroa
Scindia case, the Supreme Court stuck down the bank nationalisation policy of Indira
Gandhi and in that of the Madhavrao Scindia case, it annulled the abolition of privy
purses of former rulers.
3. What is basic structure?

Till the Kesavanada Bharati case, there was no such reference called the basic structure
of the constitution. The case of Kesavananda Bharti Vs the State of Kerala was heard for
68 days and brought out the basic structure. The court, however, did not define the
basic structure. It only listed a few principles such as secularism, federalism, and
democracy.
54. 10 Hafte 10 Baje 10 Minute: Delhi Government anti-Dengue

Campaign launched
On September 6, 2020, the Delhi Government launched a mass campaign against

Dengue and other vector borne diseases.
1. Highlights
The campaign seeks the residents of Delhi to pick up their phone and call 10 of their
relatives and friends and advise them on practices to prevent Dengue. The campaign
also urges the citizens to spend 10 minutes to inspect their own residence for clean
stagnant water in order to avoid breeding of mosquitos and prevent the spread of
malaria, dengue and Chinkungunya.
2. Dengue in India
According to the report, “Dengue in India” prepared by the National Vector Borne
Disease Control Programme, the numbers of Dengue went up in 2019. The report also
said that in 2018, the number of Dengue cases in India were 1,01,192.
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3. Controlling Dengue
In August 2020, the World Mosquito Programme used mosquito infected with Wolbachia
bacteria to control dengue successfully in Indonesia. The Dengue vaccine Dengvaxia was
approved by USFDA (United States Food and Drug Administration) in 2019. It is a live,
attenuated vaccine that is administered in people of the age 9-16 years.
4. National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme

It is a programme launched by GoI to control Malaria, Kala-azar, Filaria, Japanese
Encephalitis, Chikungunya and Dengue. The Programme is implemented under National
Rural Health Mission.
5. Malaria
Around 80% of Malaria burden is on the north eastern states, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh,
Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and West
Bengal. There is a need to give thrust to Urban Malaria Scheme that is presently
implemented only in 131 towns/cities.
6. Filariasis
The GoI had earlier set a target of Global Elimination of Filariasis by 2020. India is a
signatory of World Health Assembly Resolution in 1997. The resolution was on Global
Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis. The annual Mass Drug Administration strategy
recommended dose of DEC and Albendazole tablets. This is being implemented since
2004.
55. Khadi Agarbatti Aatmanirbhar Mission approved
On September 6, 2020, the Ministry of MSME approved the Khadi Agarbatti Aatma
Nirbhar Mission. The scheme aims to create employment for migrant workers in different
parts of the country, support the local Agarbatti industry and handholding artisans.
1. Background
The current Agarbatti consumption in India is 1,490 metric tonnes per day. However, the
production of Agarbatti per day is 760 metric tonnes. The deficit in the country is
sufficed through imports from Vietnam and China. The mission will thus help reduce
imports in the country.
2. About the scheme

The scheme will make India self-reliant. The total size of the programme has been
increased to Rs 55 crores. This includes immediate support to about 1,500 artisans of
about Rs 3.45 crores. The scheme will develop two centres at IITs/NITs and at Fragrance
and Flavour Development Centre, Kannauj. Around 10 new clusters are to be set up at
Rs 50 crores under SFURTI (Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries).
Earlier the size of the programme was to cover 500 artisans with an allocated amount of
Rs 2.66 crores.
3. Key Features of the Scheme

 The scheme is to be designed on Public-Private Partnership mode
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 Under the scheme, KVIC will provide automatic Agarbatti making machines and powder
mixing machines.
 Under the scheme, KVIC is to provide 25% subsidy on the cost of machines. The remaining
75% are to be recovered from the artisans through instalments.
 The cost of training the artisans are to be shared between KVIC and private business partner.
4. Employment
The automatic Agarbatti making machines are capable of producing 80 kg of Agarbatti
per day. This will provide direct employment to four persons. Currently, the job work rate
of Agarbatti industry is Rs 15 per kg. At this rate, with four persons working on a
machine, the artisans will earn Rs 1,200 per day making 80 kg of Agarbatti.
56. Indo-Pacific Business Forum to be held in Hanoi
The third annual Indo-Pacific Business Forum is to be held in Hanoi, Vietnam capital
between October 28, 2020 and October 29, 2020. The forum is to be sponsored by US-
ASEAN Business Council, Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, US Chamber of
Commerce and Government of Vietnam.
1. Highlights
The forum aims to provide a free and open Indo-Pacific region with countries that are
independent, prosperous and strong. During the forum, the business leaders will discuss
infrastructure, energy, market connectivity, digital economy, health.
2. Background
The economic growth of the world has shifted towards Asia-Pacific, now called the Indo-
Pacific that includes South Asia. The idea of Indo-Pacific Economic Corridor was
conceptualised during US-India Strategic Dialogue, 2013.
3. Geography of Indo-Pacific
The World-wide Fund (WWF) has divided the Indo-Pacific into three regions, The Central
Indo-Pacific includes seas in Indonesian archipelago, Philippines sea, South China sea.
The Eastern Indo-Pacific region includes islands in central pacific ocean. The western
Indo-Pacific includes red sea, Arabian sea, Persian Gulf, Bay of Bengal.
4. Indo-Pacific Maritime Exercises

The Malabar Exercise has now become a major Indo-Pacific Exercise. It was started as
Indo-US maritime exercise in 1992. However, today Japan has also joined. Australia has
agreed to join this year.
5. Indo Pacific Ocean Initiative

The Indo Pacific Ocean Initiative was launched for a safe and secure maritime domain in
the Indo-Pacific region. It was launched at the 14th East Asia Summit. The initiative
focuses on enhancing maritime security, disaster prevention, sustainable use of marine
resources, cooperation in trade and maritime transport.
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6. India in the Indo-Pacific
For India, the Indo-Pacific has strategic and geographic importance for the trade in the
region and for maritime security. Also, the region is important for fisheries, mineral
resources and offshore oil. 40% of world offshore oil production takes place in Indian
Ocean.
57. Cannbis Medicine Project: First Foreign Investment in Jammu and

Kashmir
The first ever Cannabis Medicine project that is to be set up in Jammu and Kashmir in
collaboration with Canada is to be the first foreign investment in the union territory.
1. Highlights
The project is to be set up at the Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine in Jammu and
Kashmir. The project was recently reviewed by the Union Minister Jitendra Singh. Along
with this, the minister also reviewed progress of the construction of new biotech
iindustrial park in KAthua, Jammu and Kashmir.
2. Background
Jammu and Kashmir is to be the first in the country to develop medicines from the
cannabis plant.
3. Cannabis in India
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime report, World Drug Report says that
around 2.83% of Indians of age 10-75 years use Cannabis products. Also, the retail price
of Cannabis in India is 0.10 USD per gram. This is the lowest of any country in the world.
4. Legal status
The 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, an international treaty classed cannabis
as a hard drug. Drugs that are more harmful are hard drugs and those that are less
harmful are soft drugs.
5. Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act

India is a signatory of United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961. Abiding
to the convention, the Narcotic Drug and Psychotropic Substances Act was framed.
58. GoI releases draft guidelines for advertisements
On September 6, 2020, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs issued draft guidelines on

advertisements. The guidelines have been prepared by the Central Consumer Protection
Authority under Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
1. Key Highlights of the Guidelines

 The endorsements of celebrities through blogs, posts and tweet should be based on adequate
information or experience with the product
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 The disclaimers in the advertisements in small font size will be treated as misleading ads and
shall be penalised. They should be easily noticeable to the consumers and should be in same
font and language as that of the claim of the advertisement
 If the disclaimer of the ad is being presented through voice over, then the disclaimer should
be displayed in sync with it.
 An advertisement should declare a product or a service as ‘free’ or ‘without charges’ and
similar other terms.
2. Consumer Protection Authority

The authority was established in 2020 under Section 10(1) of the Consumer Protection
Act. It will protect the rights of consumer by tracking unfair trade practices and
misleading advertisements. The powers and functions of the authority are as follows
3. Consumer Protection Act

The Consumer Protection act, 2019 was enacted in July 2020. It replaced the Consumer
Protection Act, 1986. The GoI notified Consumer Protection Rules, 2020 under the act.
59. International Solar Alliance: Eight Initiatives to be launched at the

first World Solar Technology Summit
On September 7, 2020, the International Solar Alliance released the agenda of the first
World Solar Technology Summit. The summit is to be held on September 8, 2020.
Around 8 initiatives are to be launched at the summit.
1. Highlights
The World Solar Technology Summit is to be held between 4 PM and 9:30 PM. The
summit will have five sessions focusing on the following
2. About the summit

The summit is to be conducted to achieve the following
3. Initiatives to be launched at the summit

The International Solar Alliance is to launch the following eight initiatives
4. International Solar Alliance

The ISA has 121 countries that work to tap benefits of solar power and promote clean
energy applications. The alliance was initiated by India. It was proposed at the Paris
Climate change Conference that was held in 2015.
5. Solar Power in India

According to Central Electricity Authority, India produced 35 GW of solar power in July
2020.
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60. Tamil Nadu Government releases Electronics and Hardware
Manufacturing Policy
On September 7, 2020, Tamil Nadu Government released Electronics and Hardware

Manufacturing Policy. The main aim of the policy is to increase the electronics industry
output to 100 billion USD by 2025.
1. Highlights
The Tamil Nadu State will contribute 25% of India’s total electronic exports of the
country after implementation of the policy. The policy will undertake skill training of
more than one lakh people by 2024. It targets to increase the level of value addition that
is already being implemented in the state. This includes chip designs, PCB designs,
mobile handsets, solar photo voltaic cells, mobile handsets. Medical electronics, etc.
2. Key features of the policy

 The policy says that the incentives to be provided by the state government is to be of
additional to those offered by the Central Government.
 A special package of incentive for the ESDM units is to be formulated for MSME sector under
the policy. This includes interest subvention, capital subsidy, generator subsidy, low power
tariff subsidy.
 The policy has identified districts under three categories. They are as follows
CATEGORY A
For Investments between Rs 200 crores and Rs 500 crores capital subsidy would be 15%
For investments over Rs 500 crore capital subsidy would be 18%
CATEGORY B
For investments between Rs 200 crores and Rs 500 crores capital subsidy would be 20%
For investments over Rs 500 crores the capital subsidy would be 24%
CATEGORY C
For investments more than RS 500 crores capital subsidy would be 30%
 CATEGORY A
For Investments between Rs 200 crores and Rs 500 crores capital subsidy would be 15%
For investments over Rs 500 crore capital subsidy would be 18%
 For Investments between Rs 200 crores and Rs 500 crores capital subsidy would be 15%
 For investments over Rs 500 crore capital subsidy would be 18%
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 CATEGORY B
For investments over Rs 500 crores the capital subsidy would be 24%
 For investments between Rs 200 crores and Rs 500 crores capital subsidy would be 20%
 For investments over Rs 500 crores the capital subsidy would be 24%
 CATEGORY C
For investments more than RS 500 crores capital subsidy would be 30%
 For investments between Rs 200 crores and Rs 500 crores capital subsidy would be 25%
 For investments more than RS 500 crores capital subsidy would be 30%
 A Mega Electropreneur Centre is to be established. The centre is to focus on hardware,
products and build a robust ecosystem for entrepreneurs and start ups and hence the name
Electropreneur.
61. India tests HSTDV
India joined the elite group Russia, China, US, after successfully conducting first test
flight of the indigenously developed HSTDV (Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator
Vehicle) from Odisha coast. This giant leap will lead to the development of hypersonic
cruise missiles in future.
1. What is HSTDV?
HSTDV abbreviated form of Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle is an
unmanned scramjet demonstration aircraft. HSTDV is designed to voyage at Mach 6
speed with scramjet engine up to an altitude of 32.5 km in 20 seconds. These can be
used for launching satellites at low cost and also for long-range cruise missiles in the
future. HSTDV also have multiple civilian applications.
2. What is scramjet engine?

This technology is a major breakthrough. In scramjet technology enabled engines the
process of fuel combustion takes place in a chamber in missile at supersonic speeds
whereas in a ram jet enabled one, the engine collects air at subsonic speed from the
atmosphere during the flight itself. While, the propellants burn in combustion chamber.
3. What are the salient features of HSTDV?

The vehicle having weight up to 1-metric-ton and length 5.6-meter is a landmark
progress in aero vehicle technology. The technology can be used for launching satellites
at low cost. Also, it has multiple application for civilians. This vehicle features a flattened
octagonal cross section with mid-body stub-wings and raked tail fins and a 3.7-meter
rectangular section air intake. It is currently under construction. This technology will lead
to the development of hypersonic cruise missiles in the future.
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4. What is Hypersonic Cruise Missile?
A Hypersonic cruise missile is the fastest running missile at the present time. These
missiles run at a speed which is at least five times the speed of sound which is huge in
terms of speed.
September 8, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
62. India-US-Israel Summit: Collaboration in 5G Technology
India, Israel and the Unites States recently held a summit virtually. During the summit,
the countries decided to work together in 5G technology.
1. Highlights
The trilateral summit was initiated by PM Modi during his visit to Israel in 2017. The
outcomes of the summit were not disclosed due to security concerns.
2. India-Israel
Israel is the third largest defence supplier to India. It accounts to 40% of defence exports
of Israel. This includes Barack missiles, powerful Phalcon radar on Airborne Warning and
Control System (AWACS). The drone fleet in India is completely based on Israeli
technology and many directly bought from Israel. Apart from Israeli drones, the DRDO
(Defence Research Development Organization) has also developed drones such as
Bharat, RUSTOM. Bharat drones are indigenously developed surveillance drones that are
already carrying out surveillance long Line of Actual Control. On the other hand, RUSTOM
are drones that are being developed. RUSTOM is to replace Heron drones. Heron was
developed by Israel.
3. India-US
India imports 10 billion USD worth defence equipment from the US.
63. Kamath Panel report to RBI: 26 sectors identified for loan

restructuring
On September 7, 2020, the five member committee under the leadership of the former
chief of New Development Bank K V Kamath submitted its report to the Reserve Bank of
India. The panel was formed to make recommendations on financial parameters to be
considered for one-time restructuring of loans that were affected by COVID-19
pandemic.
1. Highlights
The panel did not identify the amount that would be required for restructuring. However,
has provided recommendations based on discussions with stakeholders and rating
agencies and also after going through financial reports of companies.
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2. Recommendations of the panel
 The panel recommended lenders to consider total outstanding liabilities, total debt, current
ratio, average debt service coverage ratio.
 The debt coverage ratio should be one and above
 To frame a recast plan, banks should consider pre-covid financial state of the company and
COVID impacts
 The Inter-Creditor agreement has been made mandatory in all cases that involves multiple
lending institutions.
3. Key Findings of the panel

 The sectors that are most-affected by pandemic are textiles, wholesale trade, roads and
engineering.
 The sectors that were already under stress such as non-banking financial companies, real
estate, steel piled up miseries due to COVID-19. The current debt in these sectors according
to the panel are as follows
Non-Banking Financial Corporation: Rs 7.98 trillion

Power: Rs 5.69 trillion
Steel: Rs 2.66 trillion
Real Estate: Rs 2.29 trillion
Construction: Rs 1.03 trillion
 Non-Banking Financial Corporation: Rs 7.98 trillion

 Power: Rs 5.69 trillion
 Steel: Rs 2.66 trillion
 Real Estate: Rs 2.29 trillion
 Construction: Rs 1.03 trillion
 The sectors that were unaffected by COVID-19 are food, agriculture, pharma and IT.
64. NSO Survey: Kerala tops literacy rate at 96.2%
On September 7, 2020, the National Statistical Office released its report on “Household
Social Consumption: Education in India as part of 75th round of National Sample
Survey”. The survey provides state wise details of literacy between the period July 2017
and June 2018.
1. Highlights
According to the survey, Kerala has the highest literacy rate in the country. Around
96.2% of the people the state were literates. On the other hand, Andhra Pradesh was at
the bottom with 66.4%.
2. Key Findings of the survey

 The overall literacy rate in India is 77.7%
 The literacy rate in rural areas is 73.5%
 The literacy rate in urban areas is 87.7%
 The male literacy rate is higher than that of female literacy rates in all states.
In Kerala, the male literacy rate was 97.4% and female literacy rate was 95.2%
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In Delhi the male literacy rate was 93.7% and the female literacy rate was 82.4%
In Andhra Pradesh, male literacy rate was 73.4% and female literacy rate was 59.4%
In Rajasthan, the gap was wider. Male literacy rate was 80.8% and female literacy rate was
just 57.6%
 In Kerala, the male literacy rate was 97.4% and female literacy rate was 95.2%
 In Delhi the male literacy rate was 93.7% and the female literacy rate was 82.4%
 In Andhra Pradesh, male literacy rate was 73.4% and female literacy rate was 59.4%
 In Rajasthan, the gap was wider. Male literacy rate was 80.8% and female literacy rate was
just 57.6%
 Around 35% of persons between age 15 and 29 years had access to and used internet.
 Around 4% of rural households and 23% of urban households possessed computers
 Around 24% of persons in the age between 15 and 29 years had knowledge to operate
computer
 Around 56% of persons in urban areas had knowledge to operate computer
65. September 8: International Literacy Day
Every year International Literacy Day is celebrated on September 8 by the UNESCO and
other world organizations. The day was first celebrated in 1967.
1. Highlights
The main aim of celebrating the day is to highlight the importance of literacy to
individuals. This year, in 2020, the day is celebrated under following theme
2. About the Day

The day was adopted as a part of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal
Programme in 2015. It is important to mark the day as there are more than 775 million
that lack literacy skills. Out of this, two-thirds are women and 60.7 million are children.
3. Literacy in India
The National Statistical Office recently released its report on literacy in India. According
to the report, 77.7% of Indians are literate.
66. Andhra Pradesh Government launches YSR Sampoorna Poshana

Scheme
On September 7, 2020, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YSR Jagan Mohan Reddy launched
YSR Sampoorna Poshana scheme and YSR Sampoorna Poshana Plus scheme. The
schemes aim to provide nutritious food to lactating mothers and pregnant women.
1. Highlights
The scheme will bring down malnutrition in vulnerable section. Around 30.16 lakh
children and mothers are to be benefitted through the schemes. It will mainly focus on
malnutrition and anaemia in pregnant and lactating mothers. The scheme will provide
supplementary nutrition through Anganwadi centres.
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2. Background
Around 52.9% of pregnant women in Andhra Pradesh are suffering from Anaemia. Also,
31.9% of children in the state are suffering from low birth weight and 31.4% of children
are suffering from stunted growth.
3. Malnutrition in India
According to Food and Agriculture Organization, there are around 194.4 million people in
India that are under nourished. India ranked 102 among 117 in Global Hunger Index,
2019.
4. Central Government schemes

The following schemes were launched by the Central Government to tackle malnutrition
in the country
5. Global Initiatives
The United Nations has included ending hunger as one of its Sustainable Development
Goals that is to be achieved by 2030. The World Food Day is observed on October 16 to
address the problem of Global Hunger.
67. Indira Gandhi Peace Prize awarded to Sir David Attenborough
On September 7, 2020, sir David Attenborough was conferred with the prestigious Indira
Gandhi Peace Prize for the year 2019.
1. David Attenborough
He is an English broadcaster and a historian. He is popular for writing and presenting
BBC Natural History unit. He worked to make aware to preserve and protect biodiversity
of the planet.
2. Other recipients
The other recipients of the award are Centre for science and Environment in 2018,
United Nations High Commission for Refugees in 2015, ISRO (Indian Space Research
Organization) in 2014, Kofi Annan in 2003, UNICEF in 1989, Parliamentarians for Global
Action in 1986.
3. About the award

The Indira Gandhi Peace Prize award is for peace, disarmament and development. It has
been named after the former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It Is being conferred every
year since 1986 by Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust. It consists of monetary award of Rs 25
lakhs. The award recognizes efforts of organizations and individuals working to create
international economic order, ensure that scientific discoveries are used for lager goof to
humanity and also to those who ensure scientific discoveries are used to enlarge scope
of freedom.
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68. UNICEF to lead procurement and supply operation of COVID-19
vaccine
In an attempt to ensure that all countries have safe, fast and equitable access to initial
doses of COVID-19 vaccine UNICEF has announced that it will be leading the
procurement and supply of Corona Virus vaccines. The mission is said to be the world’s
largest and fastest ever operation of its kind.
1. Why UNICEF has taken such step?

On behalf of around hundred countries, UNICEF procures more than two billion doses of
various vaccines annually. Generally, these vaccines are meant for routine immunization
and various other outbreak response. This makes the UNICEF world’s largest single
vaccine buyer. Though in the current pandemic situation there are numerous vaccine
candidates available but, the UNICEF in collaboration with PAHO (Pan American Health
Organization) will lead these candidates. The UNICEF will procure on behalf of the COVAX
Global Vaccines Facility. This purchase will help nearly 92 low and lower middle-income
countries whose vaccine purchase mechanism is not so good.
2. Who all are participating in the operation?

92 Lower income economies along with 80 higher income economies have expresses
their intent to participate in the COVAX facility. This huge operation involving more than
170 countries will be world’s largest and fastest ever operation of its kind. This giant
operation will involve a partnership between governments, manufacturers and
multilateral partners.
3. What is COVAX facility?

In its attempt to take control over the global pandemic a universal platform was setup in
April this month to ensure equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccine. COVAX onboard
has nearly 165 countries which is nearly sixty percent of the world’s population.
4. Progress of vaccine so far

Various researchers world-wide are on their toe working around the clock to find a
vaccine against the COVID-19. Several vaccines are already in the trial phase. With all
this good news, till date just one vaccine has reached up-to the final approval stage.
Sputink-V erstwhile known as Gam-COVID-Vac is researched and developed by the
Gamaleya Research Institute in Moscow. The vaccine was approved by the Ministry of
Health of the Russia Federation. However, the experts have growing concern with the
vaccine efficacy and safety.
69. Facts Sheet: Kochi Metro Phase – I
Pinarayi Vijayan Chief Minister of Kerala recently inaugurated the phase – I construction
of the Kochi Metro through video conferencing. The newly constructed three-kilometer
stretch will increase the total length of Kochi Metro Network to 28.61 Km.
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1. Design and Operation
KMRL (Kochi Metro Rail Limited) has dedicated a complete wall inside the metro coach
for the fisherman community. Fisherman community played an important role in the
evacuation and help operation during the Kerala’s flood. KMRL has also done a
tremendous work. The organisation has employed people form LGBT community in its
daily operational work. While doing so the KMRL has become the first such organisation
to appoint the transgender persons in the country. In its attempt to make the coaches
appear more unique and attractive the metro coach has been painted with various
unique themes such as, Kerala’s heritage, culture, art, Western Ghats and etc.
2. Which payment model does it follow?

The Automated Fare Collection (AFC) system is a critical core component of any Metro
Rail Network. Following the path now taken, the Kochi Metro Rail Limited has developed
a unique PPP model. In this new model the capital investment as well as the
maintenance cost of the Metro rail is taken care by a bank and the bank in return
launched its co-branded Metro card. This is the first time the world has seen such an
innovate model. This model is expected to change funding models for AFC systems in
the metro industry globally.
3. What is expected next?

With the total expenditure of 6218 crore Indian Rupee the construction work of Phase – I
is now complete. The Phase – II will be implemented soon provided it gets central
government final nod and approval. In the virtual inauguration the CM flagged off the
train Petta station at 12:30 PM. The increased operational routes are expected to handle
passengers up to one lakh per day.
In a nation-wide probe the Railway Protection Force (RPF) obstructed the use of Real
Mango software. While conducting the probe Railway Protection force also made around
50 arrests in Assam, Bihar, West Bengal, and Gujarat. Few facts here:

Real Mango software is an illegal notorious software developed for booking Tatkal ticket
over the IRCTC website. This illegal and commonly banned software makes the complete
process of Indian Rail ticket booking at a fly speed.
2. How does software works?

The agent logs into the IRCTC server through multiple Ids. The software bypasses
captcha code which is a major time taking process while booking the tickets over the
website. The software also gets sync with the bank OTP with the help of a mobile app
and feeds it to the requisite form to book tickets automatically. It also auto-fills the
passenger and payment details in the forms and makes the whole process a quick and
less time-consuming process. The software is mainly used by the ticket booking agent
who by illegal means books the tatkal ticket and sells to the customer on a high rate.
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3. How does software reach to the agents?
Its obvious that these agents do not make software on their own rather they buy it
illegally through a middle man who acts in between the agent and the software
developer. The mentioned illegal software is sold through a five-tiered structure. In most
of the cases the software developer accepts the payment through Bitcoins only.
4. Why does the Software developer accept payments only through Bitcoin?
Bitcoin has been emerged as a viable option for conducting all financial transactions
across the world. All the illegal activity uses Bitcoins as a payment option. The reason is
that while doing payment through Bitcoin the government has no control and restrictions
over the transactions. The government cannot stop the transactions neither they can
trace the two ends of the transaction that is who sent money to whom.
71. Svanidhi Samvaad: PM to address street vendors in Madhya Pradesh
During the lock down due to the global pandemic the whole world’s economy has fallen
steeply and the one who are affected the most are the street vendors, the unorganized
sectors and the unskilled labor. Keeping in view their conditions Prime Minister Narendra
Modi is to address the street vendors in Madhya Pradesh through Svanidhi Samvaad
programme.
1. What is Svanidhi Samvaad?

The Svanidhi Samvaad programme was launched on 1st June 2020 in an attempt to help
poor street vendors resume their livelihood activities. They are worst hit by the
pandemic. Special arrangements for the telecast of PM’s address has been made across
the state. Hundreds of LCD screens have been installed at the public places in around
378 municipal bodies. The programme will be live telecasted through webcast. The
registration for attending the same has been made available on My Gov website which is
an official website for Central government all work force.
2. Who all will be benefited?

The major stake holders are, street vendors, MSME, un organized sector and unskilled
workers. During the registration process itself nearly 4.5 lakh street vendors did the
registration through the portal out of which more than 4 lakh vendors having been given
identification and vendor certification. About 2.45 lakh eligible beneficiary application
have been presented through the My Gov portal to Banks, out of which the bank has
granted acceptance to around 1.4 lakh street vendors. The amount granted is nearly Rs
140 crore. With all this Madhya Pradesh is positioned at the number one for total
applications accepted. The state has contribution of 47% alone.
September 9, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
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72. 22 Bamboo Clusters adopted in nine states
On September 8, 2020, the Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar launched
22 bamboo clusters in nine states. They are Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra,
Nagaland, Assam, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Tripura and Karnataka.
1. Highlights
Six of the 22 clusters are located in Maharashtra, five in Tripura, two each in Madhya
Pradesh and Nagaland, three in Odisha and one each in Karnataka, Assam, Gujarat, and
Uttarakhand. It is to be noted that in 2017, the Central Government amended Indian
Forest Act, 1927 to remove bamboo from the category of trees. This made it possible to
do business in bamboo products. Also, this now made anyone undertake cultivation in
bamboo products.
2. Restructured National Bamboo Mission

The restructured National Bamboo Mission will capitalize immense bamboo potential for
the north eastern states. Bamboo is a multi-utility grass and more than 300 ethnic
groups in the north east have been traditionally using bamboo for housing, food and
other needs. It was classified as trees in spite of it being a grass. This prevented the
North Eastern states that grows 67% of India’s bamboo from exploiting it. China has
even richer bamboo genetic resource than that of the north east.
3. Concerns
Bamboo flowers once in 50 to 55 years. During this time, the rat population increases
exponentially. The rats create immense damage to the crops and trigger famine. One
such famine that occurred in 1966 led to the creation of Mizo National Front. The famine
is popularly known as Matuam famine.
4. Way Forward
The Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur Governments have signed agreements to supply
bamboo to the bio-refinery in Numaligarh. These initiatives should be adopted at larger
scale. They will offer permanent source of revenue.
73. Five PSUs to join International Solar Alliance for Sustainable Climate
Action
On September 8, 2020, Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan

announced that five Public Sector Undertakings will join the International Solar Alliance
(ISA) Coalition for Sustainable Climate Action.
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1. Highlights
The five PSUs to join the ISA are Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Oil and Natural Gas
Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Hindustan Petroleum
Corporation Limited and GAIL India Limited. These five PSUs are to focus on clean energy
transition. The companies will deploy solar panels. Currently, the installed solar capacity
is 270 MW. An additional 60 MW is to be added in the coming years. The GoI has also set
targets to solarize 50% of fuel stations that are owned by PSUs in the next five years. In
2019 alone, alone 5,000 fuel stations owned by Indian Oil were solarized.
2. Significance
The move will help India achieve its NDCs. India promised to take steps to reduce Green
House Gas emissions in following ways
3. International Solar Alliance

The alliance was formed under the initiative of India. It was open for signature during
COP22. The main objective of the alliance is to generate 1000 GW of solar generation
and mobilize 1000 billion USD of solar energy by 2030. Recently, India hosted the first
World Solar Technology Summit of the International Solar Alliance. The announcements
were made during the summit.
74. India-Angola hold first Joint commission Meet
On September 8, 2020, India and Angola held their first joint commission meeting during
which the countries decided to expand their trade and discuss cooperation in health,
pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and defence.
1. Highlights
The countries during the joint commission meet held discussions on food processing,
agriculture, defence, pharmaceuticals, health, digitization and telecom. Angola is not a
member of India Africa Forum Summit. It is held once in three years.
2. India-Africa Forum Summit

The first India-Africa Forum Summit was held in New Delhi, India. Around 14 countries
participated in the meet. The second summit was held in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia
in 2011. The third summit was held in 2015 in New Delhi.
3. Background
India has extended 40 million USD for the RITES project in Angola. RITES is Railway India
Technical and Economic Consultancy services. It is a rehabilitation project of Angola. The
EXIM (Export Import) bank of India provided 28 million USD for agricultural equipment
purchases. Also, India had provided 30 million USD to establish cotton spinning plants
and 15 million USD for cotton grinning plants in 2010.
4. India-Angola
Diplomatic relations between India and Angola were established in 1975 after Angola
attained its independence. India exports 223 million USD of goods and services to
Angola. In 2005, the State Bank of India opened a branch in Luanda in 2005.
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5. Why is Angola important for India?
Angola is important to India mainly for its oil resources. Angola is the second largest
crude oil supplier in the sub Saharan desert. Nigeria is first. GAIL imports LNG (Liquified
Natural Gas) from Angola. As India predominantly aims on oil resources of Angola, it
naturally is facing trade deficit with the country. The major barriers in trade between the
countries are issue of work permits, complicated procedures in business visas and
language barrier.
75. Union Cabinet approves amendment to Three Labour Codes
On September 8, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved amendments to Labour Codes.

These three labour codes were proposed in Industrial Relations Code, 2019. The three
codes include Occupational safety and health, social security and industrial relations.
1. Highlights
The Industrial Codes will define areas and conditions under which fixed-term
employment shall be allowed. It recognizes trade unions. The Industrial Relations Code,
2019 also seeks to provide pension and medical benefit to gig workers.
2. Industrial Relations Code, 2019

This is the third bill in a series of four bills that aim to amalgamate and rationalize more
than 40 laws related to labours. The other two bills are Occupational Safety, Health and
Working Conditions code, 2019 and Code on Wages, 2019.
3. Key Features of the Code

 Seven or more members of trade union shall apply to register it
 The trade unions with at least 10% of workers or 100 workers are to be registered. The lesser
count is taken for registration
 A Negotiation Union shall be formed to negotiate with the employers
 In case of multiple trade unions, the union with at least 75% of workers are to be recognized.
 The strikes by union needs prior notices
 It allows GoI to modify or reject awards that are passed by National Industrial Tribunal and
Industrial Tribunal.
4. Significance
Easing labour laws will help to promote setting up of enterprises and catalyze creation of
employment opportunities.
76. Oxford led COVID-19 Vaccine trial put on hold
When the whole world is eyeing the successful launch of COVID-19 vaccine, there is bad
news for folks out there. Oxford which is one of the biggest contenders for the
production of vaccine has gotten into a serious problem. The vaccine trial has been put
onto hold giving reasons to safety concerns.
1. Why the trial of the vaccine has put onto ban?
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1.1. Background
Oxford has been world’s leading COVID-19 vaccine candidates since the time it first
released the news of finding the vaccine for Corona Virus. The vaccine was jointly
developed by pharmaceutical company AstrZeneca and scientists at the University of
Oxford. The joint development was considered as the front runner in the global race to
find a safe and effective vaccine for the SARS-CoV-2 infection.
1.2. Reason for the ban

Fortunately, the vaccine reached the phase three trial and was doing great. The whole
world hoped it would soon successfully complete the trial and will be available for the
public. The vaccine was in trial at various country including, United States, Brazil, South
Africa, and the United Kingdom. While the trial was in progress one of the volunteers at
UK has developed an unexplained illness. This event has triggered the medical
authorities and a big question has been put on the vaccine development.
2. How it will impact other contenders?

A severe adverse reaction to the vaccine in one of the trials has forced researchers to
ponder upon the vaccine development once again. However, for now only the trial
conducted by the Oxford has been suspended but the move is of great concern for other
developers as well. Now, other companies will have to cross check before launching any
trial.
77. Sri Lanka proposes ban on Cow Slaughter
Sri Lanka; a Buddhists majority country where nearly 99% people are meat eaters but
most of the Hindus and Buddhists do no eat Beef. The ruling Sri Lanka Podujana
Peramuna (SLPP), which won a two-thirds majority in the parliamentary elections last
month under the leadership of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, has decided to ban
slaughtering of cows across the island nation. However, there is no restriction on import
of Beef in the country yet.
1. Sri Lanka’s Demography

As per the latest census data of 2012, the island country has around 20 Crores of
population among which the majority of population around 70 percent practices
Buddhism and around 12.6 percent practices Hinduism. Buddhism is considered as the
State religion of the country and has been granted some special privileges such as
government protection and fostering of Buddhist Dharma in the Sri Lankan constitution.
In 2008, in a nation-wide poll conducted by the Gallup; an American analytics and
advisory company based in Washington Sri Lanka was ranked at third most religious
country in the world. In the poll around 99% Sri Lankan accepted that religion is an
important part of their daily life.
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2. Reason for the ban
Since a long-time the influential Buddhists monks under the SLPP party have been
pressurizing the government to ban slaughtering of cow for religious activities as well as
daily consumption. In the recent time the country has witnessed a lot of protests raising
voice for the complete ban on the cow slaughter. Easter Bombing of Aprils last year has
also provoked anti-Muslim sentiments among the people
3. Sri Lanka’s Religious History

Buddhism was introduced into the Sri Lanka by Arahath Mahinda, son of emperor
Ashoka. rahath Mahinda led a missionary to Sri Lanka in 246 BCE and converted the Sri
Lankan king Devanampiya Tissa to Buddhism. Further adding to this, the daughter of
king Ashoka – Arahath Sanghmitra brought a sapling of Bodhi tree to Sri Lanka from
Buddha Gaya. The sapling known as Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi was planted in the
Mahameghavana Park in Anuradhapura by the King Devanampiya Tissa. From that time
the royal family of the country has been indulged in the spread of Buddhism.
78. United Nations releases “Levels and Trends in Child Mortality”

report
On September 9, 2020, the United Nations released “Levels and Trends in Child
Mortality” report. The report says that child mortality rate of India has declined between
1990 and 2019. It was 126 in 1990 and has now declined to 34 in 2019.
1. Highlights
Though, there is reduction in child mortality, India along with Nigeria accounts to almost
one-third of under five deaths in 2019. India registered 4.5% annual rate of reduction
between 1990 and 2019. The number of annual under-five deaths in India was 3.4
million in 1990 and it has now dropped to 824,000 in 2019.
2. Key Findings of the report

 India witnessed decrease in neonatal mortality rate from 57 in 1990 to 22 in 2019. India saw
around 22 million neonatal deaths in 1990 and in 2019, the deaths were reduced to 522,000.
 The sex specific under-five deaths have also reduced. In 1990, under-five mortality rate
(deaths per 1000 births) in males was 122. In females, it was 131. IT declined to 34 males in
2019 and 35 females in 2019.
3. Global Findings
 The report says that the regions of Oceania, Central and Southern Asia saw a faster decline
between 2010-19 as compared to that of 2000-2009
 Around 53% of under-five deaths occurred in the sub-saharan Africa in 2019 and 28% in
central and southern Asia. These two regions alone account to 80% of the total under-five
deaths in 2019.
 India was one among the five countries of the world that contributed to half of the under-five
deaths in the world. The other four countries are Pakistan, Nigeria, Democratic Republic of
Congo and Ethiopia.
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4. Concerns
With COVID-19 crisis, there are several disruptions in child health services. This includes
vaccinations, health check ups, prenatal and post natal care, etc.
79. PM Modi to launch Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
On September 10, 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to launch Pradhan Mantri
Matsya Sampada Yojana. Along with the scheme, the PM will also launch e-Gopala
application.
1. About the scheme

The scheme focuses on sustainable development of fisheries in India. It is to be
implemented between 2020-21 and 2024-25. The funds allocated to fisheries under the
scheme is Rs 20,050 crores. This is the highest ever allocated to that of the fisheries
sector.
2. Key Features of the scheme

 The scheme aims to enhance fish production to 70 lakh tonnes by 2024-25.
 It aims to double income of fish farmers.
 The scheme will reduce the post harvest losses of fisheries sector from 20% to 25% to 10%
 It will generate 55 lakhs of direct and indirect employment in the fisheries sector.
 The scheme will also aim at establishing finfish hatcheries, construction of biofloc ponds,
ornamental fish culture units, ice plants, installation of cages, fish feed plants, etc.
3. E-Gopala Application
The application aims at improving breed improvement marketplace and information
portal for direct use of farmers. The application will include the following
4. Other Programmes
The Prime Minister is to launch the other following initiatives along side Pradhan Mantri
Matsya Sampada Yojana
80. Asol Chini: Bangladesh Campaign to curb Fake News
In order to keep a check on rumors and fake news information which spreads like fire in
jungle on social media platform, the government of Bangladesh has launched a special
campaign called, “Asol Chini” when translated in English it is called “Real Sugar”.
About the campaign

The State minister while addressing the campaign stated that, the rate of literacy has
increased substantially but the digital literacy is still very less among the mass. The
Minister emphasized on country’s youth who represents young generation and also 90
percent of the social media user in the country. They can educate the local groups and
also elder people in their locality.
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81. US blocks key exports from China
Amid global lock down due to COVID-19 and economic tensions between US and China,
The US is working towards blocking exports of core products from the China’s Xinjiang
region.
1. What all products will be banned?

Amid growing tensions between the world’s two largest economy, U.S. Customs and
Border Protection officials while preparing order to block presented the list mentioning
the products banned. The major products which are being blocked by the US export
authorities includes, cotton yarn, textiles and apparel, as well as tomatoes, tomato paste
and other products. Apart from these the ban also includes five important commodities.
2. Why the ban?

U.S. government in a press release mentioned about the report published by the United
Nations. The report talks about ill-treatment of Xinjiang’s Uyghur Muslims. Through a
credible report United Nation stated that around one lakh Uyghur Muslims have been
detained in the camp and from there they are made to work on a minimal-wages under
worst condition. Mentioning United Nations report U.S. stated that we cannot allow the
entry of products manufactured under such condition inside our country. The U.S. law
strictly criticizes child labor and other human rights abuses. The law also aims at
combating human trafficking. Pointing to this the U.S. export department has made to
implement the ban.
3. What does China say in response?

After the news of U.S government’s decision reached China, the country in response
completely denied the ill treatment of Uyghur Muslim community and said that the
camps are for vocational training and is made to help Centre fight against extremism.
4. Who are Uyghur Muslims?

Uyghur Muslims are the Turkish speaking people of central Asia. Population of Uyghurs
are spread over China, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Uyghurs are considered
to be China’s one of the officially recognized ethnic minority groups among 55 others.
September 10, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
82. First India-France-Australia Trilateral Dialogue Held Virtually
On September 9, 2020, the first India-France-Australia Trilateral Dialogue was held

virtually with a focus on enhancing the cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region. The
dialogue held discussions on economic and geo-strategic challenges and cooperation in
the Indo-Pacific region in context with Covid-19 particularly.
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1. Participants
The participants from India, France and Australia were as follows:
2. What was discussed?

This was the first trilateral dialogue between these three countries. It was decided in the
meeting that such dialogues will be held annually now onward. The key discussions held
were on below topics:
3. What is Indo-Pacific?
The term Indo-Pacific represents an economic and strategic community comprising the
vast areas around Indian and Pacific Oceans between East Coast of Africa and West
Coast of America; including the littoral countries. In last one decade, this term has
become relevant because of increased bullish activities of China in Indian Ocean and
Pacific Ocean. America described the situation as a geopolitical competition between
free and repressive visions of world order with China and North Korea on one side and all
others on the other.
Every Year, September 10 is observed as World Suicide Prevention Day. The objective of
this day is to create awareness about the mental health and prevent suicides.
1. Suicides Global Condition

Suicide is 10th leading cause of death worldwide and more than 1 million people die by
suicide every year globally. This amounts to a death in every 40 seconds and about
3000 every day. This is almost 1.5% of total deaths. Suicide is more common in people
above age 70, but in certain countries people in age group of 15-30 is also highly
vulnerable. Despite of the high mortality, there are very limited numbers of
organizations engaged in suicide prevention.
2. Suicides in India
According to a 2018 research by Public Health Foundation of India, India now accounts
for over one third of the world’s annual female suicides and around one fourth of male
suicides. The suicide rates for men and women in India were much higher than the
global averages. India shares 17.8% of global suicides. The report highlighted that
India’s southern states are more developed but also more prone to suicide deaths. This
follows the global trend that more developed countries have higher suicide rates. The
age group of 15-39 years is most vulnerable in India.

This day is observed since 2003 by International Association for Suicide Prevention
(IASP) and World Health Organisation. IASP is a NGO active in field of suicide prevention.
It was established in 1960 by Professor Erwin Ringel and Dr. Norman Faberlow. It is
based in Vienna.
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4. World Suicide Report
First WHO World Suicide Report was released in 2014, titled Preventing Suicide: A Global
Imperative. The report focussed in making prevention of the suicides a high priority on
the global public health agenda.
5. World Suicide Prevention Day 2020 Theme

World Suicide Prevention Day theme has been “Working Together to Prevent Suicide” for
last two years.
September 11, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
84. SAROD ports launched by Shipping Ministry
On September 10, 2020, the Union Minister of Shipping Manusukh Mandaviya launched a
dispute redressal mechanism called SAROD Ports. SAROD is Society for Affordable
Redressal of Disputes.
1. Highlights
Earlier the SAROD Saroj Port was in place where the dispute between port and the
concessionaire working with the port was arbitrated. However, decisions were not made
in timely manner and thereby affecting the ongoing projects. Thus, this is being replaced
by SAROD ports.
2. About SAROD Port

It will designate an export team. Also, an expert team will address and resolve disputes
that will be decimated on time. SAROD port has been established under Societies
Registration Act, 1860.
3. What is Model Concession Agreement?

Model Concession Agreement is the core of public private partnership projects in India. It
sets regulatory framework to implement PPP (Public Private Projects) in India. There are
MCAs for national highways, urban rail transit system, state highways and ports.
4. Need
The MCAs are important to ensure transparency, uniformity and quality in the
development of large scale infrastructure projects. The other versions of PPP are as
follows
85. India attends 10th East Asia Summit Foreign Minister meet
The Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan represented India at the 10th
East Asia Summit held virtually on international and regional developments including
COVID-19 pandemic.
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1. Highlights
The meeting discussed ways and means to strengthen the East Asia Summit platform. It
aims to make it more responsive to the emerging challenges in its 15th anniversary. The
ministers during the meet exchanged their views on speedy and sustainable recovery
from COVID-19.
2. Manila Action Plan

The plan is being implemented between 2018 and 2022. It aims to implement Phnom
Penh Declaration of the East Asia Summit Development Initiative. It was adopted by the
leaders in 2012.
3. East Asia Summit

It was established in 2005. The first East Asia Summit was held in Kuala Lumpur, 2005.
The East Asia Summit represents 50% of the world population, 20% of global trade. It is
considered as the third pole of world economy after Europe and US. The four major
economic players at the summit are China, Japan, India and Korea.
4. Concerns
The China-Japan rift is the biggest concern of the East Asia Summit. Now China-India
rivalry is also increasing. The other major concern is its relationship with APEC (Asia
Pacific Economic Cooperation).
5. Significance
For India, the summit acts as an alternative to APEC. EAS will prove crucial to India in
implementing its Act East Policy. With China’s assertiveness in South China Sea, ASEAN
countries view India as a potential power to balance a rising China.
86. India-China agree on five-point plan to resolve border tension
On September 11, 2020, India and China agreed on five-point action plan for quick
disengagement of troops and avoid actions that will escalate tensions.
1. Five-Point Action Plan

 India and China agreed that both sides should take guidance from consensus of the leaders
to develop India-China relations.
 Both India and China agreed to continue their dialogue in the border to disengage, ease
tension and maintain proper distance
 India and China should abide all existing agreements, protocols and maintain peace and
tranquility in the border
 The countries should continue their communications through Special Representatives
mechanism for consultation and coordination on border affairs.
 The countries should expedite work to conclude on confidence building measures.
2. 1993 India-China Agreement

The agreement provided framework for maintenance of peace and tranquillity along Line
of Actual Control. According to the agreement, the countries agreed to reduce their
troop levels with friendly and good relations between them. They also agreed to reduce
the troop levels.
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3. 1967 Nathu La clashes
The Nathu La clashes were a series of military clashes in 1967 between India and China
along side Sikkim. During these clashes, Indian forces defeated the Chinese.
4. 2017 Doklam Standoff

In June 2017, military stand off occurred between India and China over the disputed
territory of Doklam.
87. GoI launches Five Star Village Scheme to ensure 100% rural
coverage of postal schemes
On September 10, 2020, the Department of Posts launched a scheme called the “Five
Star Villages”. The scheme ensures universal coverage of flagship postal schemes in
rural areas of India. It seeks to bridge the gap in public awareness and reach postal
services and products in the interior of villages.
1. Highlights
The schemes that are to be covered under Five Star Villages Scheme are
2. About the scheme

The scheme is to be implemented by a team of Gramin Dak Sevak. The team will be
headed by the Branch Post Master. The five-member team is to conduct door-to-door
awareness campaign on all the above schemes. They will arrange small melas and will
target prominent places of targeted villages such as schools, panchayat offices, village
dispensaries, markets.
3. India Posts Payments Bank

The IPPB is operating under Ministry of Communications. It aims to use all India’s
155,015 post offices as access points to provide house to house banking services.
88. India-Japan sign Defence agreements
On September 10, 2020, India and Japan signed Logistics agreement on “Reciprocal
Provision Supplies and Services” to allow the armed forces of India and Japan to
coordinate closely in supplies and services.
1. Highlights
The following are the key highlights of the agreement
2. India-Japan relations
Japan is the third largest source of Foreign Direct Investment into India after Mauritius
and Singapore. Also, it is the most important partner in the Indo-Pacific region. India and
Japan conduct SHINYUU Maitri-18 and Dharma Guardian exercises. SHINYUU Maitri-18 is
an Indian Air Force exercise and Dharma Guardian is a joint army exercise. Japan, just
like India has several rivalries with China. The countries are thus countering Chinese
actions in the Indo-Pacific and have formed QUAD grouping.
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3. Japan-India Coordination Forum
JICF was established in 2017 to develop north-eastern region of India. It will focus on
strategic projects and improve road, rail connectivity. It will also focus on electric
infrastructure, roads, food processing, promote organic farming and disaster
management.
89. Trump nominated for Noble Peace Prize 2021
A week after his mediation between Israel and UAE (United Arab Emirates) US President
Donald Trump has been nominated for the Noble Peace Prize 2021. The nomination was
submitted by a right-wing Norwegian politician and parliamentarian Christian Tybring
Gjedde.
1. Who is Christian Tybring Gjedde?

Christian Tybring Gjedde is a 57-year-old politician for the right-wing progress party.
He has been a member of parliament since 2005. He is the second vice-chancellor of the
standing committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence. He also wrote a book on
immigration politics back in 2004.
2. Why he nominated Trump for Noble Peace prize 2021?

He while conveying his point mentioned Trump’s various efforts to maintain global
peace. He mentioned about Trump’s important role in establishing the relation between
Israel and the UAE and how it will be a game-changer in the Arab region. This agreement
can bring cooperation and prosperity in the region. Christian was also found stating
Trump’s recent involvement in Kashmir border dispute between India and Pakistan and
the conflict between North Korea and South Korea.
3. How many US president has received the Noble Peace Prize in history?
Trump has seen repeatedly expressing his desire for the Noble Peace Prize. Last year in
2019 he took partial credit of the award given to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali
in resolving Ethiopia’s border dispute with neighbouring country Eritrea. If won Donald
Trump will become the fifth US president for receiving Noble Peace Prize. Before him,
Theodore Roosevelt in 1906, Woodrow Wilson in 1919 Jimmy Carter in 2002 and Barack
Obama in 2009 have received the award.
4. How the peace prize is awarded?

The Nobel Peace Prize winner is determined by a five-person Nobel Committee. The
committee is appointed by the Norwegian Parliament and the committee from the
nomination received selects the final winner for the award depending upon his or her
work. The winner of the Peace Prize for the upcoming year will be announced after
October next year.
90. Trump rules out extension of TikTok deadline
U.S. President Donald Trump ruled out an extension of the deadline for TikTok to either
change its ownership to an American company or shut it down completely.
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1. What is the TikTok controversy?
A popular video-sharing app TikTok which became famous globally due to its ability to
create viral sensational videos was developed and is owned by the Chinese company
ByteDance. The app became so popular that it helped several artists to make debut in
the cinema industry. Amid growing tension between the US and China, the Trump
administration took strict action against the app. Giving reasons to data privacy and
threat to national security the trump administration signed an executive order banning
the app in the US. Trump cited that, the app may potentially allow China to track the
locations of the federal employees and also collect their personal data which can be
used to manipulate or blackmail them and conduct corporeal espionage.
2. What does the US rule against TikTok states?

The app like TikTok works on user data like Facebook or any other social media app. The
app tries to collect as many user data as possible to provide customer much better user
experience. Now, the data centre is installed in China it states a potential threat to the
user data privacy. Taking all these details in consideration the Trump administration
stated that, either the ownership of the company to be shifted to any American company
or shut down its operations completely in the US.
3. Which US firm is the biggest contender to buy TikTok?

Microsoft has emerged as the biggest contender to purchase the TikTok’s operation in
the U.S., Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Apart from Microsoft, Twitter is also in
discussion with the company’s management for the merger. The biggest problem with
Twitter is that the company does not have the cash to make the purchase. The new
owner has to make sure that there is not any connection with the Chinese government.
Any purchase will be a piece of news to follow.
91. US cancel 1000 Chinese Student’s Visa
This year, the relation between the US and China have witnessed major drops from.
Amid all this recently US revoked the visa of more than a thousand Chinese students
who were coming to the US from China on a student visa.
1. Why such a move?

The move was issued by President Trump in May end this year and got implemented
form June 1st. It says that China is involved in wide-ranging and heavily resourced
campaign to acquire sensitive United States technologies and intellectual property to
boost and modernize its own military capabilities. US Secretary of States Mike Pompeo
flagged moves on a Student visa.
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2. Chinese students in the US
Chinese students stand at number one in terms of international university students in
the US. As per the latest data, three hundred seventy thousand students were enrolled
in the various universities in the US in the 2018-19 session. Some Chinese students who
are already in US universities recently received an email from the US embassy in Beijing
stating that their visa has been cancelled and if they want to travel in the US they have
to apply for a new visa.
3. Way ahead
In the wake of recent time, the U.S. and China both the country has witnessed a huge
drop in the relationship. Before this issue of visa cancellation, a ban on core commodities
like, cotton and tomato also made a big headline across the global news platform. A
trade war plus blame game between both the country for the spread of the Corona Virus
has already made the relationship sour.
92. Fire erupted in Beirut
A huge fire at the port of Beirut triggered big chaos among the people residing at the
port area. The fire erupted a month after the massive explosion. Already traumatized
residents couldn’t figure out how to deal with it in real-time.
1. Event in detail
Last Thursday residents staying around the port area saw huge sky-reaching flames
erupting from the port after enquiring the port officials told them that the duty-free area
of the warehouse where the oil and tires are kept is on fire. The officials were also found
saying, the blaze fighting work is in process and there is nothing to worry. The resident
already traumatized from the last month explosion opened their window and called on
each other for help. The cause of the fire is still unknown.
2. What happened a month ago?

On 4th August this year, Port of Beirut trembled with a huge explosion leading to huge
loss and damage. A large amount of Ammonium Nitrate was stored at the port which
became the source of a huge explosion. A total of 190 people lost their life, 6500 got
injured and around the US $10-15 worth public property got damaged. Apart from all this
damage, approximately three hundred thousand people left homeless. In an
investigation report, it was found that, around 2,750 Ton of the Ammonium Nitrate which
is equivalent to 1.1 kilotons of TNT. It was stored in the warehouse without any proper
safety measures for the last six years. These explosives were seized by the Lebanese
authorities from an abandoned ship called MV Rhosus. The ship was confiscated at the
port of Beirut itself by the port authorities and after a long time when the ship was
declared unworthy and the charter lost interest in the ship, the port officials brought
2750 Tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate to the port and kept it without following any proper
safety measures.
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93. Taliban and the Afghan government to hold a meeting
Amid all the global chaos it is for the first time in the history that the Afghan
Government and Taliban which does not recognise the Afghan government will sit across
the table and discuss the future of the country
1. Background
The talk comes soon after the release of the last batch of six Taliban prisoners both the
party announced that they would begin direct intra-Afghan talks on 12 September in
Doha which is the capital of Qatar. The talk comes as the second step after the US-
Taliban agreement which leads to the withdrawal of US troops from the country. The
group also made an assassination attempt on Afghan Vice-President Amrullah Saleh. The
targeted his convoy and killed ten innocent people in the act. In recent times there has
been an exchange of prisoners the Taliban released 1000 prisoners and
2. What to expect from the talk?

A permanent ceasefire will be a major agenda of the intra-afghan dialogue and
negotiations. The group may discuss the date and propositions of the permanent
ceasefire which may take place. However, a settlement is undoubtful. Taliban had
already increased the levels of violence in order to leverage their demands and taking
control of territory.
3. What does the Taliban expect?

What the Taliban wants from the talk is also yet uncleared. In the past, they have
criticized democracy and told it is a western construct for which there is no place in
Afghanistan. However, since the discussions with the US, they have come in accordance
with the little democracy which prevails in Afghanistan.
94. Covid-19 could trigger more conflict, poverty and starvation: UN
The COVID-19 global pandemic has blanketed the whole world. Recently, United Nations
warned about the major consequences of COVID-19 if not dealt properly. The UN officials
were found stating, that the world may witness more conflict, poverty and starvation and
how deeply it may impact the fragile nations of the world.
1. What may trigger conflict, poverty and starvation?

UN political chief Rosemary DiCarlo and UN humanitarian chief Mark Lowcock while
discussing the event stated the major consequences which the world may have to face.
In the recent wake of the time when the whole world is facing problems like
unemployment, closure of schools and colleges, sharp fall in the economy, declining
remittance, and disruption to trade it has forced us to ponder on the outcomes it may
generate.
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2. What all issue can we face?
This may affect us in the very worst manner. As per the United Nations World Food
Program and Food and Agriculture Organization report, food insecurity is on top high as
people have lost their source of income and the consumption has reduced. A report says,
as many as 27 countries are on a verge of facing sharp deterioration in food. This will
eventually lead to acute malnutrition and several other health diseases. Also, not all
students have access to online contents and studying medium, this lack of access may
affect more than half a billion child all over the world.
September 12, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
95. Germany conducts siren testing after cold war
For the first time since the end of the cold war in 1990, the whole of Germany resonated
with the sound of the emergency siren as an emergency test. 10th September will now
be observed as National Warning Day or Warn tag across the country.
1. What happened on 10 September?

More than thousands of sirens started blowing on 10 September, 11 AM in the morning.
Smartphone users also received emergency push notifications on their phone. After a
long 20 minute, the drill ended giving all-clear message to the people. However, in order
to prevent any chaos and panic places like, schools, Old age homes, care centres, and
asylum seeker centres were made aware of it in advance. There was a chance that older
might associate the siren with the war and started creating panic.
2. Why siren was blown?

Christopher Unger, President of the federal office for civil protection and disaster relief
(BBK) stated that Germany has an unprepared population. We took this initiative to
make our population aware and prepare them to face such a catastrophic situation in
future.
3. Lessons ahead
In the coming days, the German population will be trained on how to interpret the sound
of a siren and how to tackle it. When the siren changes its pitch without any
interruptions in between then it serves as a warning. A single tone for a minute without
any wavering means the end of the emergency and situation back to normalcy.
4. How did the drill test go?

Though everything was preplanned, the drill test did not go well. Several people
reported that they did not receive the emergency push notification on their
smartphones. Some reported a delay in the push notification. The officials gave a reason
that it was due to various alarms system installed across the country has been
dismantled after the reunification in 1991. Also, there was a huge load on the modular
warning system this overload led to the delay in the receiving of the notification.
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96. Nepal finally culminates prolonged meetings
Standing Committee of Nepal’s Communist Party finally concluded the prolonged

meeting which convened in July and was long due. It is the longest meeting conducted
by the party in recent times.
1. Why the meeting was arranged?

Recently when the country launched its new political map, the move put the country in a
diplomatic row with India. The move severely affected the country’s relationship with its
neighbouring country India. This whole incident divided the party into two groups and
created big chaos in Nepal’s political system. However, the recently unveiled map was
passed unanimously by the ruling party, it failed to reduce differences between the
sections of Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli and party co-chair Pushpa Kamal Dahal
‘Prachanda’. To lessen this difference among the party members the meeting was called.
2. What was the outcome?

The long-awaited meeting finally ended with the adoption of a special resolution based
on the task force report. Nepalese Foreign Minister while concluding the meeting said
that the differences between the party have been ended now and the unity of the party
have got more strength.
3. What was the recent map controversy?

Recently this year, Nepal showed Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura area in its new
map and raised claim over the region. India also claims Kalapani and calls it a part of
Pithoragarh districts in Uttarakhand. Giving historical evidence Nepal claimed the
disputed area and asked Indian troops to a standoff. There have not been any final
discussions yet from both side on the disputed map and any event will be a piece of
news to follow.
97. Economic Freedom of the World Report 2020
Recently, Global Economic Freedom Index 2020 report India witnessed a sharp fall of 26
spots and landed to the 105th position. As per the last year ranking the country was at
the 79th spot.
1. About the report

It is an annual index created in 1995 first by the Heritage Foundation and the Wall Street
Journal to gauge the degree of economic freedom in the world’s nations. The ranking
scores countries on an economic freedom scale between 0 to 100 where zero meaning
no economic freedom and 100 meaning total economic freedom. There are twelve
aspects divided into a total of four categories. This year Singapore with a score of 89.4
ranked as first in the world’s freest economy among 42 other countries in the Asia-
Pacific region. Hongkong stood second at the report. The interesting thing about the
index is that China ranked lower than India
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2. The objective of releasing the report
The main objective of publishing this report is to gauge economic freedom which exists
in the nation across the world. The main purpose of the report is to measure economic
freedom, the economic security of privately owned property, levels of personal choice,
the ability for business players to enter markets, rule of law, among other by analyzing
policies and institutions of 162 countries and territories.
3. Ranking in brief:
Switzerland ranked first while Hongkong stood at second rank. Ten lowest-ranked
countries in the index are Algeria, Angola, African Republic, Democratic Republic of
Congo, Iran, Libya, Republic of Congo, Sudan, Venezuela, and Zimbabwe. Some other
popular rankings include Japan (20th), Germany (21st), Italy (51st), France (58th),
Mexico (68th), Russia (89th) and Brazil (105th).
98. Free health insurance for J&K residents
Recently in a major announcement, the Jammu & Kashmir government announced the
health scheme in which the government will provide universal health insurance.
1. What is the scheme?

The scheme announced by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha will cover all the residents of the
Union Territory. The scheme which is implemented by Lt Governor in convergence with
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) will provide universal
health insurance coverage to all the residents of Jammu & Kashmir.
2. Diseases and expenses covered

The package covered in the scheme includes all-important life-consuming diseases such
as cancer and kidney failure. COVID-19 is also covered in the recent scheme. Oncology,
Cardiology and Nephrology will also be covered from day one. High-end hospitalization
will also be covered. Three days of pre-hospitalization, hospitalization, 15 days of post-
hospitalization costs, and other major expenses like, diagnostic care and expenditure on
medicine will also be covered. Currently, there are about 23,300 empanelled hospitals
across the country where residents can avail the benefits. There are around 218 public
and private hospitals already empanelled in J&K.
3. Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (ABPMJAY)

Launched in the year 2018 in September the scheme was launched by the Ministry of
Health and Family Welfare, Government of India in an attempt to provide free access to
healthcare. The scheme is launched to alleviate the condition of 50 crores poor and
vulnerable Indian.
4. Features of ABPMJAY
The scheme provides beneficiary five lakh per family for a medical treatment which can
be availed in empanelled hospitals be it public or private. There are no restrictions on
family size, age or gender. The scheme covers the expenses from pre-hospitalization to
15 days of post-hospitalization. The scheme also provides free access to COVID-19 and
lot more.
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99. Ayushman Khurrana appointed as UNICEF’s celebrity advocate in

India
In a recent move, UNICEF (United Nations International Children Education Fund)

appointed Ayushmann Khurrana as its celebrity advocate for promoting and supporting
its work around ending violence against children. The actor will work towards ending
violence against children especially in the current scenario when COVID-19 risk has
blanketed the whole world.
1. What important role will he play?

Ayushman Khurrana will spread awareness and bring the child issue in light for public
debates. The special focus will be towards ending violence and abuse against the child.
In the recent wake of times, extended lockdown and socio-economic impacts of the
global pandemic has worked as a catalyst for child abuse and violence. It will be a
challenging task for the actor to ensure that, every child has a safe and bright future.
Before this in past, Sachin Tendulkar in the year 2013 has also advocated the UNICEF in
India.
2. UNICEF
Popularly known as United Nations Children Fund and erstwhile known as United Nations
International Children Emergency Fund, UNICEF was formed on 11th December 1946, 73
years ago from now. UNICEF has a presence in 191 countries excluding nine countries.
Its headquarter is present in New York City, US. It has regional offices in seven countries
which includes, Panama, Switzerland, Thailand, Kenya, Jordan, Nepal, and Senegal. Apart
from these, there are national committees in around 36 developed nations whose
primarily function is to raise funds from the public sector as UNICEF is entirely
dependent on voluntary contributions. They are responsible for fundraising for UNICEF.
100. SEBI shortlists Airtel, Wipro and others to revamp its

communication system.
Securities and Exchange Board of India which is responsible for regulating the Indian
market in order to revamp its IT infrastructure network and communication system
shortlisted top companies which includes, Bharti Airtel and Wipro and others.
1. What all SEBI wants to change?

The board is currently looking to revamp its IT infrastructure network and
communication system. Apart from this, the board is planning to have centralized control
over its network and Internet Protocol telephone system. They want the new system to
be stable, safe, secure, robust, efficient, easy to manage and also the new system
should come with latest features.
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2. Who all are involved?
Apart from Bharti Airtel, Wipro, and Tata Communication other shortlisted companies
which will take place in the bidding process are — Hewlett Packard Enterprise India, IBM
India, NTT India, Orange Business Services India Technology and Sify Technologies.
3. Who is SEBI?
Securities and Exchange Board of India which in short is known as SEBI is India’s apex
regulator of the securities and commodity market. SEBI owned by Government of India
was established on 12 April 1988 and on 30 January 1992, the board was given statutory
power through the SEBI Act, 1992. Ajay Tyagi is the current chairman of the board.
4. Organizational setup of SEBI

SEBI is managed by talented group members, which includes a chairman who is
nominated by the Union Government of India, two members who are the officers from
the Union Finance Ministry, one member from the Reserve Bank of India and remaining
five members are nominated by the Union Government
5. What are the functions and responsibility of SEBI?

Constitution lays down the basic functions of the board as it is to protect the interests of
investors in financial securities and regulate the security market. The board can also
conduct investigation and enforcement action in its judicial capacity.
101. Inauguration of Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana
Recently Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part in a programme called “Grih Pravesh”
the programme was organized under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana. The programme
fulfils the Modi Government agenda of housing for all by 2022. The program was live
telecasted in 16,440 Gram panchayats and 26,548 villages. About 1 crore 25 people in
total registered to listen to this program.
1. When the programme was launched?

PMAY-G (Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin) is a flagship programme which was
launched on 20th November 2016. The programme erstwhile known as Indira Awaas
Yojana is a social welfare programme started by the Indian Government in order to make
sure every people get housing by 2022. The programme was launched by the then Prime
Minister Rajiv Gandhi in the year 1985
2. Benefits provided under the programme

A beneficiary is provided with the support the of unskilled labour wages for a 90-95 man-
day under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
A total of 12,000 rupees is provided for the construction of the toilets through Swachh
Bharat Mission. The funds are sent directly to the beneficiary’s account in four
instalments.
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3. Aim of the programme
The programme was launched with an aim to provide financial assistance to the weakest
people of the society the people who lie at below poverty line. The main objective of the
programmes is to replace kutcha house to pukka house.
4. Progress so far
Despite global pandemic, eighteen lakh houses have been completed in the country. Out
of 18 lakh, 1.75 lakh houses were constructed in Madhya Pradesh itself. The work was
proposed to be completed in 125 days and it got completed in 35-40 days.
102. J&K gets grievance redressal system
Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant-Governor of Jammu and Kashmir recently launched a new

grievance redressal portal. The newly launched portal will be linked to the Union
government’s grievance mechanism.
1. About the grievance redressal system

An effective grievance redressal mechanism is the lifeblood of any good governance
system and the aforesaid mechanism must be the top priority for any Government. A
common citizen wants a sympathetic, courteous, responsive, and helpful administrative
setup who listens to their problems and tackle it. The Integrated Grievance Redress and
Monitoring System will be first launched on a pilot basis in selected districts of Jammu &
Kashmir which are, Jammu, Srinagar, and Reasi. In the remaining districts, it will be
rolled out by 2 October. The stated system is said to replace the current portal launched
by the government in 2018. After the launch, it will be first-ever grievance redressal
system which will be linked with central government portal called CPGRAMS.
2. What is CPGRAMS?
CPGRAMS is the abbreviated form of Centralized Public Grievance Redress and
Monitoring System. The system was first created in June 2007 by the Department of
Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances. The headquarter is in New Delhi and
Prime Minister of India is the supreme head.
3. Feature of the system

Any Indian national can raise their problems, grievance or pleas to the central govt and
state government Ministries and Departments under this system. Grievances can be
submitted to all-important portfolio ministers and departments.
103. Punjab to convert stubble into biomass fuel
The Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) in association with the Government of
Punjab, is soon coming up with an alternative for paddy stubble utilisation. Stubble
burning is one of the biggest problems in north India to curb this, the Punjab
government’s own agency; PEDA is playing a stellar role in weeding out the problem
indigenously.
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1. What is the problem?
Stubble which is a residue left out of the paddy and wheat field is normally burnt in the
field itself. This stubble burning brings a lot of environmental problems as well as health
problems. In Punjab itself, around twenty million tonnes of paddy stubble is generated
out of these only five per cent are used in a cleaner way for generating biofuel or
environmentally friendly usage rest are burnt in the field. This burning is one of the
biggest cause of pollution and smog in Delhi. Apart from this the stubble burning also
reduces soil fertility and the heat from the burn kills the bacteria and reduces the
moisture of the soil.
2. What is the solution offered by the agency?

PEDA, which is a state nodal agency is working towards the promotion and development
of renewable energy for more than the last thirty years. The agency has set up 11
biomass power plants where 97.50 megawatts (MW) of power is generated. In these
plants, less than 5 per cent of the total 20 million tonnes paddy stubble which is around
8.80 lakh metric tonnes of paddy stubble, is used annually to generate power. Most of
these plants are 4-18 MW and are consuming 36,000 to 1,62,000 metric tonnes stubble
annually.
3. Plans ahead
Apart from the aforementioned plant, two more biomass power projects with 14 MW
capacity are in pipeline and will start working completely from June 2021. These 14 MW
plant will also require 1.26 lakh metric tonnes paddy stubble per annum for operation.
These biomass power projects are environmentally friendly due to relatively lower CO2
and particulate emissions and also displace fossil fuels such as coal which is very
beneficial for the environment.
104. SII directed to suspend recruitment for Oxford vaccine trial
Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) which is country’s apex drug regulator has
directed Serum Institute of India SII to suspend the new recruitments which were about
to happen for recent phase 2 and 3 clinical trials of the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine till
further orders.
1. Why the SII is asked to suspend recruitment for vaccine trial?

AstraZeneca a drug manufacturing company which in collaboration with Oxford
University is involved in the clinical trial of the vaccine. Recently during one of its trial
the company faced a huge blow when one of the volunteers in the UK experienced some
unknown illness in his body. This resulted in the issuance of the show-cause notice to
AstraZeneca and all its trial operation was paused. The company halted all its vaccine
trial across four countries, the UK, US, South Africa and Brazil. The halt will remain till the
company investigates the recipient’s “potentially unexplained” illness and find out
whether it is a side effect of the vaccine shot.
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2. What was DCGI’s order?
Dr VG Somani the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) in his recent order asked the
Serum Institute of India to suspend any new recruitment in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials
for the COVID-19 vaccine till further orders. The order was ruled under Rule 30 of the
New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019
3. A major point in DCGI order

The aped drug regulator directed SII to increase the safety monitoring of the volunteers
who have already been vaccinated with the vaccine under trial and submit the plan and
report. DCGI also directed the Serum institute to submit clearance from DSMB UK and
DSMB India to obtain clearance from this office prior to the resumption of future
recruitment in the trial.
4. About DCGI
Drugs Controller General of India is a department of the government of India who is
responsible for all the regulatory work related to the drug in the country. DCGI is also
responsible for setting standards for manufacturing, sales, import, and distribution of
drugs in India. VG Somani is the current head.
September 14, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
105. Fraudsters duped crores of rupees under PM-KISAN Nidhi Scheme
Department of Agriculture in a recent probe identified as many as 90,000 ineligible

beneficiaries under the PM-KISAN Nidhi Scheme in Villupuram districts in Tamil Nadu. So
far 7.5 crore amount has been recovered from the ineligible beneficiaries.
1. How did ineligible beneficiaries receive the amount?

In a report generated after the primary investigation, it was revealed that fake
beneficiaries from Villupuram districts and other districts misused the user ID and
password of the government officials and registered their names under the scheme.
These fraudulent people registered more than one person from their family under the
scheme and received the cash subsidy in their bank account. Moreover, they also
received more than one instalment in their bank account under the scheme.
2. What is PM-KISAN Nidhi Scheme?

It is a central government scheme wherein, hundred per cent funding is provided by the
Government of India. The Scheme came into existence from the year 2018. As per the
scheme, small and marginal farmer family who have combined land of up to two Hectare
will receive three thousand rupees per year in three equal instalments. The fund will be
directly transferred to the bank account of the beneficiary without any involvement f
middle man. As per the scheme, the definition of family will include husband, wife and
minor children. The farmer families will be identified by the State government and UT
government.
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3. What about the rest of the amount?
As of now, around 7.5 crore amount which was credited in the bank account of 20,500
ineligible beneficiary family in a fraudulent way has been recovered by the government.
The remaining amount is expected to be recovered within the next ten days then only
we will know the total amount which was duped by the fraudsters.
106. Oxford vaccine to resume trial in the UK
The clinical trials of AstraZeneca vaccine were halted recently due to some safety
reasons in the United Kingdom when one of the volunteers reported unexplained illness
in his body after taking the vaccine. After the safety review, the Oxford and his partner
drug company said in a separate statement that the clinical trial will resume.
1. Why the trial was halted?

AstraZeneca in collaboration with Oxford University was working on the front line for a
successful trial of the COVID-19 vaccine. The collaboration seemed promising and
everyone had hope. The trial was running in countries like US, UK, Brazil and South
Africa. Recently in the UK one of the volunteers who participated in the trial of the
vaccine experienced an unexplained illness due to which the drug regulator had to
thwart the vaccine trial and look for the reason of the unexplained illness. An
independent expert team was sent for probe and to verify whether the illness was
caused due to the vaccine or it happened due to something else.
2. Why the trial resumed now?

Recently on Saturday both the Oxford University and the drug regulator completed the
probe and came up with the safety report that the unexplained illness was not caused
due to the vaccine. The report, however, did not mention the cause of the illness neither
did it mentioned about the fate of the clinical trials happening in other countries.
3. Progress of clinical trial

The clinical trial of the vaccine is ongoing in the US, UK, Brazil, South Africa and India.
The trial has reached in phase III in South Africa, Brazil and the US. In the UK and in India
phase II and Phase III trial is being conducted simultaneously.
4. Other major contenders

As of now around 180 vaccine manufacturing company are in the pre-clinical and clinical
trial of the vaccine. Out of these around 35 have reached in clinical trials and eight in the
final stage of trial that is phase III trial. Some popular companies other than AstraZeneca
are, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, Novavax, Russian vaccine being developed by Gamaleya.
107. Hindi Diwas celebrated on September 14, 2020
Hindi Diwas or Hindi Day is being celebrated on September 14, 2020 across India in
order to mark the adoption of Hindi as one of the official languages of India and to make
people aware of the language.
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1. Hindi Day: At a Glance
After the independence of the country in the year 1947, apart from the rules and the
law, the issue of the official language of the new nation was also important in the
Constitution as India had hundreds of languages and thousands of dialects. After much
deliberation, Hindi and English were chosen as the official languages of the new nation.
On 14 September 1949, the Constituent Assembly accepted Hindi written in Devanagari
script along with English as the official language of the nation. Later Jawaharlal Nehru
Government decided to celebrate September 14 as Hindi Day every year, seeing the
importance of this historic day. The first official Hindi day was observed on 14
September 1953.
2. Constitutional provisions for Hindi language

Under Article 351 of the Constitution, it is the responsibility of the central government to
develop and promote Hindi as a medium of expression. In addition to the official
language, 22 other languages are included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian
Constitution.
3. Celebrations on Hindi Diwas

On this day, there are many programs, various types of competitions are organized in
many places to develop interest in children towards the language. Students are taught
respect for Hindi and use of Hindi in daily practice etc.
September 15, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
108. JDU’s Harivansh Narayan Singh re-elected as Rajya Sabha Deputy

Chairman
On September 14, 2020, National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate and Janata Dal
(United) MP (Member of Parliament) Harivansh Narayan Singh (64) has been once again
elected as Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha (RS) by Voice vote.
The Opposition put RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) MP Manoj Jha in front of Harivansh, whose
name was proposed by BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) president Jagat Prakash Nadda and
his proposition was supported by Leader of the House, Thawarchand Gehlot.
1. Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha

The Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha is a constitutional post. Article 89 of the
Constitution of India states that the Rajya Sabha can elect one of its MPs for the post of
Deputy Chairman when the post is vacant. Actually, the post of Deputy Chairman
becomes vacant after the resignation, removal from the post of the Rajya Sabha MP.
2. Harivansh Narayan Singh

 Harivansh was born on 30 June 1956 in Sitabadiyara village in Ballia district of Uttar Pradesh
(UP). For Harivansh, he is believed to have been strongly influenced by the Gandhian JP
(Jayaprakash Narayan) movement.
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 Harivansh studied MA in Economics and Diploma in Journalism from Banaras Hindu University
and started his career with the Times Group. After this Harivansh was given the responsibility
of the weekly magazine Dharmyuga. Harivansh remained a sub-editor of the Dharmayuga
until 1981. After this, he left journalism and joined Bank of India in Hyderabad and Patna from
1981 to 1984.
 In 1984, Harivansh again made a comeback to journalism and till 1989 was the assistant
editor of Anand Bazaar magazine’s weekly magazine Sunday.
109. India’s entry to United Nation’s Commission on Status of Women:

Important facts
The permanent representative of India to the United Nations, Sh. TS Tirumurti confirmed
India’s entry as a member of the United Nation’s Commission on Status of Women
(CSW). It is a body of the prestigious Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
1. Who were the other participants?

Apart from India, the elections to become a member of the Commission on Status of
Women had been participated by Afghanistan and China. India and Afghanistan
managed to win the ballot among the 54 members but China failed to cross the halfway.
2. What is the Significance of this membership?

India is going to be a member of the Commission on Status of Women for a time period
of four years starting from 2021 to 2025. It will strengthen the initiatives taken by India
on the issue of women’s empowerment and promoting gender equality.
3. What is the function of UN-CSW?

Commission on the Status of Women is the prime global intergovernmental body that
was established in 1946 for the promotion of gender equality and the empowerment of
women.
4. What is ECOSOC?
United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is a principal organ of the United
Nations. It is responsible for coordinating the economic, social, and other activities of 15
UN specialized agencies, their functional commissions, and five regional commissions.
5. United Nations
The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization, established in 1945 with the
aim of maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations among
the nations, achieving international cooperation, etc. The current Secretary-General of
the United Nations is Mr. Antonio Guterres.
110. The decision of TRAI to regulate the cloud service providers:

Important features and impact
The apex telecom regulatory body TRAI intended to set up an industry body and
recommended a “light-touch regulatory framework” for cloud service providers. The
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Department of Telecom has been given the green light to initiate the process in this
regard and asked the service providers to become its member.
1. Key features & impacts

 The industry body will work in association with the Department of Telecom or TRAI. It will
enable the stakeholders to invent the right spot in the sequence.
 The first industry body set up by DoT will be a non-profit body.
 The industry body will review its experience and further calculate upon the need to constitute
other bodies that may be required.
 The scope of the providers will be confined to delivering Infrastructure as a Service and
Platform as a Service at the very beginning.
 The membership is not mandatory for Software as a Service provider. But they can acquire it
voluntarily.
2. What are the functions of the Cloud Service Providers?

A cloud service provider offers a cloud-based platform like infrastructure, storage
services, business applications, etc. A customer has to pay only for the number of cloud
services they use. Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Salesforce, SAP, IBM are some of the
popular cloud service providers.
3. TRAI
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India is a statutory body set up by the Government
of India under section 3 of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997. It is the
regulator of the telecommunications sector in India.
111. Introduction of Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Bill,

2020 in LS: Important note
The central government introduced the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation)

Bill, 2020, in Lok Sabha, seeking the control to regulate assisted reproductive technology
services across the country to ensure ethical practices.
1. What are the key provisions of the bill?

 It will mandate registering of all fertility clinics and banks in India with a national registering
authority.
 All activities of such clinics have to be reported from time to time.
 It is also going to introduce age-based restrictions for both men and women to be a part of
the service.
2. What are the restrictions prescribed by the bill?

A national registration authority will register such clinics and banks which is mandatory.
National and state boards will be set up to monitor the clinics.
3. What is Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)?

Assisted reproductive technology is the procedure to address infertility as a prime focus.
It could also be called as fertility treatment. The egg of a female and the sperm of a
male are mixed to create embryos and it is then planted to the woman’s body. In vitro
fertilization is a type of ART.
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4. How will the bill impact society?
The practice of ART has been increasing day by day in India. And the legal, ethical, and
social issues have also increased. The bill will ensure women’s reproductive rights and
protect the rights of the child by smoothening the process through standardization of
protocols.
112. Government bans exports of all kinds of onions
Recently Government of India released a notification outlawing the export of all kinds of
onions. The ban is imposed three months after the central government made changes in
the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
1. Why the ban on export?

There seem to be two major reasons why the government imposed the ban on export.
One in recent times there has been a steady increase in the wholesale prices of onions.
This price surge has made onion a popular kitchen staple, costlier item in the Indian
household. Secondly, the high CFPI value released by the Ministry of Statistics and
Program Implementation (MoSPI).
2. Why the onions are costlier in the market?

This year country received heavy rainfall in August. This has badly impacted the ready
crop which was supposed to hit the Indian market this year. The stock also got badly
affected in MP, Gujarat and parts of Maharashtra.
3. Will the export ban reduce the price?

A sharp down surge in the onion price is expected once the market opens after the
release of government’s notification. However, the marketers and traders speculated
that the price may increase again within a week. The new crop will only arrive after
November
4. What is the Essential Commodities Act 1955 and what all changes have
made in the act recently?
Indian economy like every other economy works on demand and supply basis. Prices are
apparently decided by demand and supply. However, in order to protect the interests of
the consumer certain country law empowers the Indian government to intervene in the
market. the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 is one of such Act which empowers the
government to regulate the production, supply and distribution of essential commodities
to consumers at fair prices. In a recent change, the Central Government made the
imposition of stock limit and movement restrictions on commodities only applicable in
extreme conditions like war or natural calamity.
113. ADB’s prediction of Asian economy shrinking for the first time since
1960s: Important facts
The prediction of the Manila-based Asian Development Bank says due to pandemic hit
the Asian economy is going to shrink for the first time since the early 1960s. It also
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stated that the period will continue until next year with a downfall in the level of growth
as projected before the pandemic.
1. What is the GDP prediction of ADB?

 In June the GDP projection showed a significant increase of 0.1% but in 2020, the gross
domestic product of the region is going to decline by 0.7%.
 The GDP will downgrade by 9% this year in India because of the stalled private spending amid
the lockdown.
2. What is the condition of other countries?

 Philippines and Thailand will also face a GDP shrink.
 China with its successful public health measures will tackle the problem of the GDP downfall.
3. What is the solution prescribed by ADB?

To recover the condition, policies should be framed with special attention on the
protection of lives and livelihoods, that will ensure a safe resume to work and business
operations.
4. What are the functions of the Asian Development Bank?

ADB is a regional development bank established in 1966. Its headquarter is located in
Manila, Philippines. India became a member of ADB since its foundation. It focuses on
the alleviation of poverty in Asia and the Pacific through the process of inclusive
economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration.
114. India’s Retail inflation dips marginally from 6.73% of July to 6.69%
in August: Important facts
The data released by the government showed a slight downfall of CPI-based Retail
inflation in India from 6.73% of July to 6.69% in August. Food inflation in August also
degraded marginally to 9.05% from the previous 9.62%.
1. What is retail inflation?

Retail inflation is the increase in the price of goods which is sold at the retail market. The
increase in inelastic goods, whose price change does not significantly impact the
demand for that product causes retail inflation. In India, it is measured by the consumer
price index. RBI uses the retail inflation data to take the policy decisions
2. What is the consumer price index?

Consumer Price Index calculates the change in the price of commodities and services i.e.
foods, health care, education, electronics, etc from the buyer point of view. The
classifications of CPI are CPI for Industrial Workers (CPI-IW); CPI for Agricultural Labourer
(CPI-AL); CPI for Rural Labourer (CPI-RL) and CPI for Urban Non-Manual Employees (CPI-
UNME). The CPI data is used by the Monetary Policy Committee to control inflation.
3. What are the impacts of Retail inflation?

 Hikes or dips of retail inflation do not always give exact statistics. It is core inflation that gives
the exact value.
 It will return back to the comfort level when the vegetable prices cool down.
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 The higher price of farm products also ensures the economic revival of the rural population.
 The common household faces the problem with inflation as their demand for other products
shrinks.
4. Decision taken by the monetary policy committee

The monetary policy committee has mandated the central bank to maintain inflation at
4% until March 2021.
115. TikTok to merge with Oracle
Byte Dance a Chinese Company which owns a popular video-sharing app called TikTok in
its recent merger deals choose Oracle a US-based firm. Byte Dance was instructed by
Trump’s administration to either close its operation in the US or sell the company to a
US-based company.
1. Why the company was forced to sell?

Recently TikTok was trapped in a controversy where India banned its operation and app
use in the country. While the US forced the company to either stop its operation in the
country or sell it to any US-based firm to continue its operation. Trump administration in
its probe found that TikTok has its database in China which is a big threat to the privacy
of the US people and federal employees in the US government. TikTok can manipulate
the data and can use it in an evil manner. Due to this, Donald Trump gave the Chinese
company a deadline of 15 September to either sell its ownership to a US firm or the app
will be banned in the US also as it was banned in India.
2. What is the next step now?

Earlier speculation was high that the Chinese company will merge with Microsoft
however, the talks did not go well between both the company and finally Byte Dance
choose Oracle to merge with. Now the merger is in the final stage. The Chinese firm has
submitted a proposal to the Treasury Department of the US which is awaiting final
approval related to security concerns.
116. RBI’s power extension to restructure Cooperative banks through

the New Banking Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2020: Important notes
The government introduced the new Banking Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2020, that
intended to give the powers to restructure cooperative banks to the Reserve Bank of
India. The power of RBI’s banking regulations will be extended to the cooperative banks
after the ratification of the bill.
1. What is Banking regulation?

Banking regulation is a type of government regulation that is framed to bring market
transparency between the banking institutions and the concerned individuals and
corporations. It focuses on formulating certain requirements, restrictions, and guidelines.
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2. Who is the regulator of the co-operative banks?
Presently, cooperative societies as well as the Reserve Bank of India regulate the co-
operative banks. But after the bill is ratified RBI will have the control of the cooperative
banks. But it will not affect the existing powers assigned with the state registrars of co-
operative societies.
3. What are the benefits of the new amendment for the co-operative banks?
 Presently, the co-operative banks enjoy limited access to capital.
 The bill will enable the co-operative banks to raise the money by public issues and private
placements of equity, the preference shares as well as through unsecured debentures. But it
needs the prior recommendation of RBI.
117. Eight challenges for future operations announced by UN

peacekeeping Chief: Important facts
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the undersecretary-General of United Nations for Peace Operations

announced eight challenges for the future operations and asked for necessary efforts to
ensure peace operations remain in a positive state.
1. What is United Nations peacekeeping mission?

United Nations peacekeeping is the responsibility look after by the Department of Peace
Operations which is a department of the United Nations, assigned with the role of
planning, preparation, management, and the direction of UN peacekeeping operations.
2. What are the challenges?

 Achieving short-term stability is not sufficient rather it should be focused on inclusive,
responsive, and transformative futures for the people.
 To reduce the inequality that has been emerged with the pandemic, more substantive,
strategic integration with development and peacebuilding is needed.
 Deepening of amalgamation within UN peacekeeping operations, among the civilians and
uniformed components as well as with the country team in the countries with rising conflicts.
 More focus needed for the safety and security of peacekeepers and for the improvement of
peacekeeping operations.
 Strengthening of strategic guidance and planning capacities with strong objectives by the
adoption of new technologies.
 Problems of gender inequality in the working sector.
3. United Nations
The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization, established in 1945 with the
aim of maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations among
the nations, achieving international cooperation, etc. The current Secretary-General of
the United Nations is Mr. Antonio Guterres
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118. Union ministry set up 16-member committee to study ancient
Indian culture
Union Minister of Culture and Minister of Tourism of India, Prahlad Patel announced the
formation of an expert committee to conduct a study on the origin and evolution of
Indian culture. The committee consists of 16 members that include K.N. Dikshit,
Chairman, Indian Archaeological Society.
1. What are the objectives of the committee?

The committee will conduct a holistic study of the origin and evolution of Indian culture
from the time of 12,000 years before to the present. It will also study and its interface
with other cultures around the world.
2. What is the function of the Archaeological Survey of India?

Archaeological Survey of India was established in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham to
conduct archaeological research and conservation as well as the preservation of the
cultural monuments in India. It is a government agency under the Ministry of Culture. It
is headquartered in New Delhi.
3. What was the condition of India before 12,000 years ago?

During the time phase before 12,000 years which is known as the Mesolithic era, modern
humans or Homo sapiens settled in the Indian subcontinent. By that time the last ice age
had just ceased. The climate was warm and dry. The first settlements of human beings
in India are found in Bhimbetka (Present Madhya Pradesh). The occupation of the people
at that time was hunting, fishing, and food gathering.
September 16, 2020
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119. Seven Projects under “Namami Gange” and “AMRUT” schemes

inaugurated
On September 15, 2020, PM Modi inaugurated seven projects under Namami Gange and
AMRUT Schemes in Bihar. Four of these projects were related to water supply, one to
river front development and two of the projects were related to sewerage treatment.
1. Highlights
The projects are to be implemented at an estimated cost of Rs 541 crores. They are to
be implemented by Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited.
2. Engineers’ Day
The projects were inaugurated by the prime minister to commemorate Engineers’ Day.
Engineers’ Day is celebrated on September 15 every year. It is celebrated to mark the
birth anniversary of engineer M Visvesvaraya, one of the great engineers of India.
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3. Visvesvaraya
Sir Visvesvaraya was the 19th Diwan of Mysore and also an Indian Civil Engineer. He was
the chief Engineer of Krishna Raja Sagara dam. He also served as the chief engineer of
flood protection system in Hyderabad. He received Bharat Ratna in 1955.
4. Progress of Namami Gange

Around 50 projects of worth Rs 6,000 crores are being implemented in Bihar under
Namami Gange programme. Several tourist spots are emerging along the banks of river
Ganga in the state. The programme is changing the life pattern of people in the region.
More than 180 ghats are being developed under the project. Over 2 crore water
connection has been provided.
5. Namami Gange
It is an integrated conservation programme and a flagship programme of GoI launched in
2014. It was launched to accomplish abatement of pollution, conservation and
rejuvenation of river Ganga. The main pillars of the mission are as follows
6. AMRUT
AMRUT is Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation. The main aim of the
mission is to establish infrastructure to provide adequate water supply and robust
sewerage network in urban region.
120. Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020: Key Facts
On September 15, 2020, Lok Sabha passed the bill to amend Essential Commodities Act,
1955. The bill seeks to deregulate food items, pulses, cereals and onion.
1. Highlights
The amendment is already being implemented as ordinance. The GoI, in June 2020,
promulgated the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020.
2. Key features of the bill

 The amendment empowers Government of India to control, supply, production, distribution,
trade and commerce of certain commodities.
 The Central Government can now regulate supply of onions, potato, edible oil seeds, oils,
cereals, pulses under extraordinary circumstances. The extraordinary circumstances include
famine, war, natural calamity and extraordinary price rise.
 It empowers the central government to regulate stock of essential commodities.
 The amendment is not applicable to food items that are included in Public Distribution
Systems. Also, the stock limits are not applicable to PDS outlets. Under PDS system, the GoI
provides food grains at subsidized prices to eligible prices.
3. When can stock limit be imposed?

The amendment provides conditions to impose stock limit to the essential commodities.
They are as follows
4. Need for the amendment
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 Imposition of curbs on stocking of farm produce under Essential Commodities Act was one of
the major reasons for less entrepreneurial spirit. It hindered the investment towards
agriculture sector.
 India became surplus in most of the agricultural commodities and farmers were unable to
receive better prices due to lack of investment in processing, cold storage and exports.
5. Significance
The amendment will help farmers unbind the farmers to sell their crops. The amendment
breaks the boundary that restricted farmers to sell their produce only to licensed traders
in the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) Mandis.
6. What are essential commodities?

Currently there are seven commodities that are scheduled under the Essential
Commodities Act, 1955. They are
121. Yoshihide Suga to succeed Shinzo Abe as Prime Minister of Japan
On September 16, 2020, Yoshihide Suga was elected as the new prime minister of Japan
after Shinzo Abe resigned.
1. Background
The longest serving Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe resigned in August 2020 due to
health reasons. He was first elected to the Diet of Japan in 1996.
2. Diet of Japan
Diet is the bicameral legislature of Japan (in layman terms, DIET is the parliament of
Japan). It is the supreme organ of Sovereignty. Along with passing laws, Diet is also
responsible for electing the prime minister. Diet first convened in 1889 to adopt Meiji
Constitution. The constitution of Japan is informally called the Meiji Constitution.
3. Monarchy in Japan
Unlike most of the constitutional monarchs, the emperor of Japan is not the nominal
chief executive. The executive powers vests in the hands of Prime Minister of Japan, the
leader of the cabinet. Also, the emperor is not the commander in chief of Japan self
defence forces.
4. About Yoshihide Suga

He was born in 1948 to a strawberry farmer and a school teacher in Japan. He is widely
described as the right hand man of Shinzo Abe. He is different from all the other
Japanese leaders as unlike the other Japanese leaders he does not belong to an elite
political family or to a dynasty. Abe on the other hand was the third generation
politician. He is the grandson of former Japanese Prime Minister.
5. Way forward
Suga is to amend Japanese Constitution that has not been amended since it took effect
in 1947. This was one of Abe’s long held goals. He is to continue Japan’s previous
national interests focusing on US-Japanese alliance on the basis of foundation of Japan’s
security.
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6. Abenomics
The Abenomics economic policy of Japan focused on combined structural reforms,
Japan’s economic revival, monetary easing, fiscal expansion with a goal to increase
domestic demand of the country.
122. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package Insurance Scheme for Health
Workers fighting COVID-19 extended
The Government of India recently extended Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package
Insurance Scheme to provide an insurance cover of Rs 50 lakhs to COVID-19 health care
providers. The scheme was announced in March 2020 for a period of 90 days. It has now
been extended for another 180 days.
1. Highlights
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare collaborated with New India Assurance
Company limited to provide insurance amounts to health workers fighting COVID-19.
2. About the insurance scheme

The scheme provides an insurance cover of Rs 50 lakhs to health care providers. The
beneficiaries mainly include health workers that are in direct contact with COVID-19
patients. It also includes accidental loss of life on account of contracting COVID-19.
3. Key Features of the scheme

 The insurance amount provided to the workers is borne by the Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare.
 The benefit under the scheme is payable in addition to amount that is being paid to other
polices and schemes
 No age limit has been fixed for the scheme and any individual shall enroll in the scheme.
 So far, the GoI has paid 61 claims under the scheme. There are 156 claims under the
examination of New India Assurance Company Limited.
 It is essential for the beneficiaries to provide positive certificate towards COVID-19 testing.
However, in case of accidental loss of life on account of COVID-19 related duty the certificate
is not required.
4. Beneficiaries of the scheme

The public health care providers in direct contact with COVID-19 patients and those at
risk of being impacted by COVID-19 are included in the scheme. Apart from these
beneficiaries, the scheme also includes retired hospital staff, staff, volunteers, daily
wage workers, contract health workers, ad-hoc workers, AIIMS/INI workers, autonomous
hospital workers, outsourced staff requisitioned by states, central hospitals, hospitals of
central ministries.
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123. India-US Defence Technology and Trade Initiative group meeting
held virtually
On September 16, 2020, the tenth Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) Group
meeting was held virtually. The meeting is usually held twice a year alternating between
India and US. For the first time, the group meeting has been held virtually.
1. Highlights
The initiative signed statement of intent to strengthen dialogue on defence technology
cooperation. Also, the grouping reported several on-going activities and collaborative
opportunities targeted for completion on priority.
2. What is DTTI?
The DTTI is a flexible mechanism to make sure the senior leaders of the both India and
US engage consistently to strengthen opportunities in the field of defence. It aims to
include defence industrial base, explore new areas of technological development and
expand India-US ties.
3. About DTTI
The India-US DTTI was formed in 2012. The initiative paved way for the countries to sign
agreements such as BECA, LEMOA, COMCASA, GSOMIA. The GSOMIA agreement will help
in upgradation of India to STA-1 status. It will help in exchanging classified information
between India and US military.
4. Projects under DTTI

During the meet, the projects to be executed have been identified as near, medium, and
long-term projects. Near-term projects include Air-launched Small Unmanned Systems,
ISTAR (Intelligence-Surveillance-Targeting and Reconnaissance), Small Arms Technology.
124. Facts Box: Salaries and Allowances of Ministers (Amendment) Bill,

2020
The Lok Sabha recently passed Salaries and Allowances of Ministers (Amendment) Bill,
2020. According to the amendment, the salaries of the parliamentarians are to be
reduced by 30% for one year to mitigate fallout of disruptions that were created by
COVID-19.
1. Highlights
The bill replaced the “Salaries and Allowances of Ministers (Amendment) ordinance”,
2020. It amends the following acts
2. Concerns
 The proposed reduction in salaries is to have negligible impact on the financial resources
needed to fight against COVID-19. When the salaries and allowances are reduced, the
amount saved will be Rs 54 crores. This is less than 0.001% of the special economic package
of Rs 20 lakh crores that was allocated by the centre.
 The allowances of Indian MPs differ from that of other countries. In India, the MPs are
provided housing. On the other hand, the MPs of UK are provided with allowances to rent a
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house. There is no such allowance in US. However, these MPs are provided with office spaces
that are not provided to Indian MPs.
3. Constitutional Provisions
Article 106 empowers the MPs to determine salaries and allowances by enacting laws. In
2018, Parliament revised the salary, pension, daily allowance of all MPs. The amendment
said that the salaries will be revised every five years based on cost inflation index that is
provided under Income-Tax Act, 1961.
4. Salary of parliamentarians in different countries

In India, the salary of parliamentarians is revised every five years based on the cost
inflation index. In Canada, the salary is fixed based on average consumer price index of
the previous year. In short, the salary is fixed based in inflation.
125. September 16: World Ozone Day
The World Ozone Day is also called the International Day for the preservation of the
ozone layer. The day is being celebrated since 1994. The United Nations General
Assembly proclaimed September 16 as World Ozone Day to commemorate the signing of
Montreal protocol in 1987. The Protocol aims to reduce usage of substances that deplete
ozone layer.
1. Highlights
The Montreal Protocol was framed at the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the
Ozone Layer. This year, 2020 marks the 35 years of Vienna Convention. Till date,
Montreal Protocol is the only UN treaty that has been ratified by every country on the
earth (197 members of the UN).
2. Progress
The Montreal Protocol has greatly helped to heal the ozone layer. The ozone layer is
expected to return to pre-1980 values by mid-century. The Kigali Amendment came into
force in 2019 in support of Montreal protocol. Kigali agreement works towards reducing
hydrofluorocarbons, greenhouse gases.
3. Ozone Layer
In 1976, it was found that the chlorofluorocarbons being released due to anthropogenic
activities is depleting the ozone layer. The ozone layer blocks UV rays from the sun and
thus protects the earthly beings.
4. Kigali Agreement
According to the agreement, the countries agreed to reduce the usage of HFCs
(Hydrochlorofluorocarbons) by 80% to 85% by 2040. The agreement came in to force in
2019.
5. Ozone
Ozone is a form of oxygen with a chemical formula O3..90% of Ozone is found in
stratosphere at a height of about 10 km to 40 km. While the rest of 10% is found near
the earth’s surface and is called surface ozone
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6. Surface Ozone Vs Ozone Layer
The Surface ozone is a health hazard to people living. Increased amounts of Ozone in the
atmosphere, close to earth’s surface will affect breathing process and will aggravate
asthma. Surface Ozone are considered as a pollutant.
126. Facts Box: Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda Bill,

2020
On September 16, 2020, Parliament passed the Institute of Teaching and Research in
Ayurveda Bill, 2020 with approval from Rajya Sabha. The lower house, Lok Sabha had
already passed the bill.
1. Highlights
The bill aims to establish an institute of teaching and research in Ayurveda. The institute
is to be declared as an Institute of National Importance. Also, the bill has provisions to
merge three Ayurveda institutes that are situated in Jamnagar in Gujarat into one single
institute. They are Shree Gulabkunverba Ayurved Mahavidyalaya, Institute of Post-
Graduate Teaching and Research in Ayurveda and Indian Institute of Ayurvedic
Pharmaceutical Sciences. The institutes are to be situated inside the campus of Gujarat
Ayurved University, Jamnagar.
2. Objective
The institute is being established to achieve the following objectives
3. About the institution

The institution will provide UG (Under Graduate) and PG (Post Graduate) courses in
Ayurveda. This includes pharmacy as well. These institutions will prescribe course and
curricula for PG and UG studies in Ayurveda for colleges in India and abroad. They will
maintain well-equipped hospitals for Ayurveda and supporting staffs such as pharmacists
and nurses. The institutions will hold examinations, grant diploma degrees and other
degrees with varied titles in the field. Also, these institutions will provide facilities for
research in various branches of Ayurveda.
4. Funds
The funds for the institutions are to be received from the centra government. Also, the
amount collected as fees and other charges are to be used. The fund and the
expenditure of the university is to be audited by Comptroller and Auditor General of
India (CAG).
127. Russia to sell COVID-19 vaccines to India
On September 16, 2020, Russia’s sovereign wealth fund agreed to supply 100 million
doses of COVID-19 vaccine, Sputnik-V to an Indian drug company Dr Reddy’s
Laboratories. The deal has been finalized after the Russian Direct Investment Fund
(RDIF) reached agreements with the Indian manufacturer to produce 300 million doses
of COVID-19 vaccines to India.
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The RDIF will cooperate with Dr Reddy’s Laboratories on clinical trials and distribution of
Sputnik-V vaccine in India. Sputnik-V vaccine was the first registered vaccine against
COVID-19 in the world. It has been developed based on human adenoviral vectors
platform.
2. Concerns
Several experts all over the world had raised doubts over Russia’s COVID-19 vaccine due
to lack of transparency regarding trial data.
3. Russian Direct Investment Fund

The Russian Direct Investment Fund was established in 2011 by the Russian
Government. It makes investment in leading companies of high-growth sector of Russian
economy. It acts as a catalyst to direct investment in Russia.
4. COVID-19 vaccines in India

On September 15, 2020, the Serum Institute of India received a go-ahead from the
Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) to resume clinical trials of Oxford COVID-19
vaccines. The vaccine has been developed by AstraZeneca along with the researchers of
Oxford University.
4.1. Concerns
AstraZeneca recently halted the clinical trials that were conducted in four countries such
as Brazil, South Africa, UK, and USA. This was mainly due to “potentially unexplained”
illness and also due to side effects.
5. ZyCOV-D
ZyCOV-D is another COVID-19 vaccine whose clinical trials are ongoing in India. This
vaccine was developed under Vaccine Discovery programme. The programme is
supported by Department of Biotechnology under the National Biopharma Mission.
6. National Biopharma Mission

The mission was launched in 2017 at a cost of Rs 1500 crores. It is co-funded by World
Bank. The mission is being implemented by BIRAC. BIRAC is Biotechnology Industry
Research Assistance Council operating under Department of Biotechnology.
128. Abraham Accord: Israel, Bahrain and UAE sign peace agreement
On September 15, 2020, US President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu and foreign ministers of Bahrain and UAE signed the historic peace
agreement Abraham Accord. It is the first peace deal between Israel and Arabs in 26
years.
1. About the deal

According to the deal, the UAE and Bahrain will exchange ambassadors with Israel, and
will work together in range of sectors such as trade, tourism, healthcare and security.
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2. Background
Amongst the Arab countries, Bahrain and UAE have fought wars with Israel unlike Egypt
and Jordan. Egypt was the first Arab country to sign peace deal with Israel in 1979. In
1994, Jordon signed peace pact under the watch of President Bill Clinton.
3. Normalization Agreement
Apart from Abraham Accord, Israel and Bahrain signed separate agreements called the
Normalization Agreement. With this agreement, Bahrain has become the fourth Arab
state to recognize Israel.
4. What is Arab-Israeli conflict?

The conflict includes military conflicts, political tension and disputes between Israel and
Arab. This escalated in the 20th century. The root cause of the conflict is the support by
Arab League for the Palestinians in the ongoing Israel-Palestinian conflict. Arab League
was formed in 1945 with six members namely Iraq, Egypt, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Jordan
and Syria. There are 22 members in now and Syria’s participation has been suspended
since November 2011.
5. India’s stand in the conflict

India recognized Israel in 1950. However, India was also the first non-Arab country to
recognize Palestine Liberation Organization as the sole representative of Palestine.
129. Facts Box: Banking Regulation (Amendment) Bill, 2020
On September 16, 2020, Lok Sabha passed the Banking Regulation (Amendment) bill,
2020. The bill aims to bring cooperative banks under the supervision of Reserve Bank of
India.
1. Highlights
The bill replaced the Banking Regulation (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020. The ordinance
was promulgated in June 2020. It amends the Banking Regulation Act, 1949. It will
regulate functioning of banks on aspects such as management, licensing, and operation
of banks. It will help safeguard the interests of cooperative banks. The act is being
amended to prevent PMC bank like scenarios in the future.
2. Exclusions
The amendment is not applicable to cooperative societies such as primary agricultural
credit societies and land mortgage banks. The bill restricts the cooperative banks from
making loans or advances of its own shares. It also prohibits grant of unsecured loans to
its directors.
3. Key Features
 The amendment allows RBI to initiate a scheme to reconstruct or amalgamate without
imposing moratorium. The RBI shall prepare a scheme to secure proper management in the
interest of depositors, banking system or general public.
 The bill allows the cooperative banks to issue equity and special shares to its members or any
other person residing within the area of operation. The cooperative bank shall not reduce or
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withdraw its capital except as specified by RBI. Also, no person shall be entitled to demand
payment towards surrender of shares that are issued to him by the cooperative bank.
 A person who is insolvent cannot be employed as Chairman of a cooperative bank. The bill
empowers RBI to remove the chairman is he is found unfit and appoint a suitable person.
 The board of directors appointed by RBI should have at least 51% of members with special
knowledge or experience in areas such as banking, accounting, economics or law. The bill
empowers RBI to direct a cooperative bank to reconstitute its board.
 RBI under the amendment, shall exempt cooperative bank from certain provisions through
notification. The provisions can be related to appointment of chairman, qualification of board
of directors or types of employment.
4. What is PMC bank crisis?

A 35 year old Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative Bank faced severe distress in 2019.
The Reserve Bank of India interfered and imposed a ruling that the customers of PMC
cannot withdraw more than Rs 1,000 from their accounts for six months. The apex bank
was greatly criticised for this step. The Banking Regulation act is being amended to
prevent these situations where cooperative banks face huge distress especially due to
bad loans.
September 17, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
130. PM Modi’s birthday: Seva Saptah organised
Every year, on Prime Minister Modi’s birthday that falls on September 17, Seva Diwas is
celebrated. This year Seva Saptah has been organized to mark the PM’s 70th birthday.
The Seva Saptah is observed between September 14, 2020 and September 20, 2020.
Seva Saptah is also called a week of Seva.
1. Highlights
The Gujarat Government is to launch projects and schemes to commemorate birthday of
the prime minister. The Chief Minister of Gujarat is to launch cow-based organic farming
wherein the government is to provide a monthly assistance of Rs 900 to the farmers.
Also, Gujarat Government is to provide kits to farmer to make Jivamrut (natural
fertiliser).
2. Seva Saptah
The Seva Saptah is observed by the Bharatiya Janata Party to mark PM Modi’s birthday.
The theme of Seva Saptah is “Seventy”. The party is to provide artificial limbs to 70
people, spectacles to 70 blind people, distribute fruits to 70 hospitals. Also 70 blood
donation camps are to be organised.
3. Seva Diwas
Every year, the birthday of PM Modi is being celebrated as Seva Diwas. Surat is to plant
70,000 saplings to commemorate PM Modi’s birthday.
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4. About PM Modi
HE served as the Chief Minster of Gujarat between 2001 and 2014. He brought in several
reforms after becoming the prime minister. He abolished the planning commission
system. He organised high-profile sanitation campaign. The prime minister brought in
demonetisation campaign, weakened several environmental and labour laws.
131. India becomes an observer of Djibouti Code of Conduct
On September 16, 2020, India joined Djibouti Code of Conduct as an observer. The
Djibouti Code of Conduct is also called the Jeddah Amendment.
1. What is Djibouti Code of Conduct?

It is a regional maritime security cooperation agreement. It was established by
International Maritime Organization (IMO) in 2008.
2. Jeddah Agreement
The revised Djibouti Code of Conduct is called Jeddah Agreement. Under the agreement,
the countries agreed to work together to build national and regional capacity to address
maritime security issues to enable sustainable development. Under Jeddah Agreement,
the countries agreed to cooperate on the following
132. India-Brazil-South Africa IBSA Foreign Ministers Meet chaired by

External Affairs Minister
On September 16, 2020, the External Affairs Minister of India Shri S Jaishankar chaired
the IBSA Foreign Ministers meet. IBSA is India-Brazil-South Africa.
1. Highlights
The ministers during the meet agreed on issues such as peace, security, climate change,
countering terrorism, multilateral trading system, non-proliferation issues, disarmament
and South-South Cooperation. They also agreed to renew their commitment towards
United Nations Security Council.
2. Ezulwini Consensus
It is a position on international relations agreed by African Union. The consensus calls for
representative and democratic security council where Africa shall be represented just
like other regions of the world.
2.1. Demands
The following demands were placed by African Union through Ezulwini Consensus
3. Sirte Declaration
The Sirte Declaration followed the Ezulwini Consensus. It was also adopted by African
Union. The Sirte Declaration was adopted at the fourth session of Organization of African
Unity. The Sirte Declaration announced the following
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4. African Union
It is a union with 55 member states. It was founded in 2001 in Addis Ababa. The main
intention of African Union was to replace Organization of African Unity.
133. G20: Global Initiative to reduce Land Degradation and Coral Reef
Programme launched
On September 16, 2020, the G20 Environment Ministers Meet was held virtually. India
was represented by the Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar at the meet. The
meeting was held as a part of Sherpa Track for the G20 Leaders Summit, 2020.
1. Key Highlights
The Global Initiative on reducing land degradation was launched at the meet. The
meeting was held under the following theme
2. Global Initiative on Reducing Land Degradation

The main aim of the initiative is to strengthen existing frameworks. It will prevent, halt
and reverse land degradation within G20 member states. This is be done in the path of
achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
3. Coral Reef Programme

The programme aims to fast track research and development in conserving, restoring
coral reefs and protect them from further degradation.
4. What is Sherpa Track?

Sherpa Track is meetings of ministers. The Sherpa Track mainly focuses on education,
agriculture, climate, digital economy, anti-corruption, employment, energy, tourism,
health, trade and investment.
5. India’s stand
India highlighted its National Coastal Mission Programme at the meet
6. National Coastal Mission Programme

The mission was set up under the National Action Plan in Climate Change. Under the
mission, the GoI aims to protect shorelines and communities in the coastal areas. Also, it
will address the impacts of climate change on coastal and maritime ecosystems in
coastal areas.
7. Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project

It was launched in 2010 at a cost of Rs 1,400 crores. The project was implemented in
Gujarat, West Bengal and Odisha. Under the project the shelter belt plantation,
mangrove plantation, coral transplantation, pollution abatement and enhancement of
livelihood security were undertaken.
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134. What is the significance of Hilsa Fish Imports of India from
Bangladesh?
The Bangladesh Government recently granted permission for traders to export Hilsa fish
to India in the view of forthcoming Durga Pooja. The Government of Bangladesh imposed
a ban on export of Hilsa fish to India in 2012. However, the ban is usually lineated during
festivals. In 2019, around 500 tonnes were imported from Bangladesh during Durga
Pooja.
1. Hilsa Fish
It is an endemic species of Bangladesh. IT is usually called the “King of Fish” for its
pleasant flavour and soft texture. The Hilsa fish is the National Fish of Bangladesh. The
IUCN status of Hilsa fish is “Threatened”.
2. Concerns
Bangladesh stopped the export of Hilsa fish to India due to following reasons
3. Bangladesh
Bangladesh has a shore of 75% world Hilsa fish production.
4. Habitat
The fish is present in Sundarbans. They cannot be farmed like other fishes due to their
peculiar habitat. The adult fishes from the sea swims several kilometres from upstream
to lay eggs in fresh water and return back to sea.
135. What is the importance of Kosi Mahasetu Bridge?
On Sep 18, 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to dedicate the Kosi Rail mahasetu to
the nation. He will also inaugurate 12 other rail projects that are related to passenger
facilities for the benefit of the state of Bihar.
1. About the bridge

Maha Setu Bridge is 1.8 km long and provides a short route to the Eastern parts of India.
It enhances the accessibility to transport army and military related equipment from
Northern part of India to North Eastern parts of India.
2. Current scenario
Currently the trains from Northeast India have to come to Katihar in Bihar and Malda in
West Bengal to reach other parts of the country. This route is called chicken neck and
the bridge will reduce congestion in the area.
3. History of the bridge

A rail link between Nirmali and Bhaptahi was built in 1887 by the North Western Railway
in Bengal. However, due to the Indo Nepal earthquake in 1934 this rain link was washed
away. There were no efforts to restore the link due to the meandering nature of river
Kosi. In 2003, the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee laid the foundation of the
bridge after the demand of the people living in the region. The bridge is to become
operational after 17 years of its foundation.
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4. Other projects to be launched
Prime Minister will also be launching the Saharsa-Asanpur Kupha Railway services. This
will make it easy for long distance travel to the Metropolitan cities such as Mumbai Delhi
and Kolkata. Also, he will launch other railway line projects such as Islampur-Nateshar
and Hajipur-Ghoswar-Vaishali.
5. River Kosi
Kosi is a Trans boundary river. It flows through Nepal, India and Tibet. River Kosi is called
the sorrow of Bihar. This is mainly due to the floods caused by the river in the state. The
flow of the river increases by 18 times during flood season.
136. Facts Box: New Parliament Building to be constructed by TATA
The TATA Group of Companies recently won the bid to construct a new Parliament
building for Rs 861.90 crores. The project is expected to be completed in 21 months
from the start of construction.
1. Highlights
The L and T had submitted a bid of Rs 865 crores. The TATA Group was the lowest
bidder. The development project of Central Vista will envisage a common Central
Secretariat, a new triangular Parliament building and will revamp the three-kilometre-
long Rajpath that extends from Rashtrapati Bhawan to India Gate.
2. About the central Vista

The new Central Vista can accommodate more MPs than that of the previous building.
It will provide 1400 seating arrangements to the members. The building is to be
constructed with Reinforced cement concrete frame structure.
3. Buildings to be demolished
The Government of India will demolish building structures such as Shastri Bhawan and
Krishi Bhawan to facilitate the new Central Secretariat under the project.
4. History
In December 1911, King George V announced to shift the capital of India from Calcutta
to Delhi. The announcement was made in Delhi Durbar. Durbar is Grand assembly. Delhi
Durbar was hosted to mark the coronation of King George V.

North and South Block or to be converted into museums. The Rashtrapati Bhawan area
to the ridge is to be turned into biodiversity arboretum. It will showcase India’s
biological diversity.
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137. World Bank Human Capital Index: India ranks 116
On September 17, 2020, the World Bank released the annual Human Capital Index.
India has ranked 169th position in the annual Human Capital Index. The Index
benchmarks the key components of human capital all over the world.
1. Highlights
The human capital index includes education and health data from 174 countries. It
covers 98 percentage of the world population. It provides a pre-pandemic baseline on
the education and health.

 In 2019, India ranked 115 out of 157 countries.
 The report says that more than 1 billion children are out of school.
 There are significant disruptions in health services to women and children.
 Several children have been listed out of their crucial vaccinations.
 The report has found that there has been a major decline in remittances and the total income
has declined by 11% to 12%.
3. About human capital index

The index is calculated based on three pillars. They are survival, school and health.
Under the school category the quantity and quality of education is included in calculating
the index. In the health category, the other survival rates and healthy growing among
children are included. This includes stunting rates of children under five and share of 15-
year-old who survive until age of 60.
4. How is Human Capital Index different from Human Development Index?

The human capital index is released by the United Nations development programme. On
the other hand, Human Development Index is released by the World Bank. The HCI uses
stunting rate and survival rate to measure health.
138. Price cap on Knee implants extended by 1 year
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) recently extended the price cap on
Knee implants by one year till September 2021. The price regulator has made the
extension after the order validity ended in August 2020.
1. Highlights
The regulator capped the prices of knee implants by 70% in 2017 under the Drug Price
Control Order, 2013. In 2017, the prices where capped at Rs 54720. However, in 2019,
the NPPA allowed firms to take 10% hike for the year in their implant products.
2. What is DPCO?
Under the provisions of DPCO 2013, only the prices of drugs that are included under
National List of Essential Medicines can be controlled by NPPA. Essential medicines are
those medicines that satisfy the needs of majority of the population. The NLEM promotes
the use of these essential medicines under three important aspects namely cost, safety,
and efficacy.
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3. Background
In August 2018, under the recommendation of Niti Aayog 23 medical devices were
notified as drugs and regulated under Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Of these, four were
included under NLEM. They were cardiac stents, condoms, drug eluting stents and intra
uterine devices.
4. Legislation
The price cap of the knee implants was done based on para 19 of DPCO, 2013. Para 19
of the order empowers NPPA to control the prices of drugs that are not listed under
NLEM. The Orthopaedic devices (like that of knee implants) are not included in NLEM.
5. National Pharmaceuticals pricing authority

it is an organisation operating under Ministry of chemicals and fertilizers. It was
established in 1997. The authority is empowered to control the prices of bulk drugs, drug
formulations and to enforce availability of medicines in the country under drugs price
control order.
139. BRICS NSA Summit: Key Facts
On September 17, 2020, the BRICS high representatives on national security met
virtually. The meet was chaired by Russia.
1. Highlights
The national security advisors of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa discussed
issues related to security and cooperation among BRICS countries. During the meet, the
countries exchanged their views on biosafety, cyber security, International Security,
Counter Terrorism.
2. Significance
The National Security Advisor Summit has gained importance due to the strained
diplomatic relations between the two Asian giants India and China. The NSA-level meet is
the third high level engagement between India and China. The Indian Defence Minister
Shri Rajnath Singh and the external affairs minister Shri S Jaishankar had already held
meetings with their Chinese counterparts on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation
Organisation Summit.
3. Controversy
The Indian National Security Advisor Ajit doval recently walked out of a virtual meeting
of SCO NSA as his Pakistani counterpart sat before a new political map that included the
disputed regions of Kashmir and Junagadh as a part of its territory. The new political map
was approved by Pakistani Federal cabinet in August 2020.
4. BRICS
Originally, the grouping was formed with four of its members namely Brazil, India, Russia
and China. In 2010, South Africa was added to the grouping. Excluding South Africa, four
of these members are among the world’s 10 largest countries by population and area.
These countries make up to 25 percentage of world land mass.
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5. Sino-Indian Rivalry
The strained relations between India and China has multifaceted implications towards
the development of South Asian region and mostly BRICS. China is increasing its
diplomatic and economic engagement with South Asia under its Good Neighbour Policy.
India on the other hand is focusing on east and Southeast Asian countries under its Look
East Policy.
140. Trump identifies India as major illicit drug producing country:

Reasons, Causes and Facts
On September 17, 2020, the US President Donald Trump identified India along with other
20 Nations as a major drug transit or illicit drug producing countries in the world. The
president designated Bolivia, India, Afghanistan, Bahamas, Burma, Costa Rica, Columbia
and some of the other countries as the major drug transit nations in the world.
1. United Nations
According to the report by United Nations Office on drugs and crime India is one of the
major hubs of drug trading.
2. Why is it so?
The illicit drug trafficking is higher in India mainly because of its strategic location in the
drug trafficking routes. India is in the middle of two major illicit opium production regions
in the world. They are Golden Triangle and Golden Crescent. The Golden Crescent
includes Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. On the other hand, the Golden Triangle includes
Laos, Burma and Thailand.
3. Indian Context
The drug trafficking in India has increased lately due to the following reasons
4. Impact of COVID-19 and lock down

The covid-19 crisis and the lockdown has worsened the situations. According to the
world drug report 2020, the drug seizures during the pandemic has declined greatly.
This is yet another reason for increase in drug trafficking in India lately.
5. Drug menace in India

In February 2019, the AIIMS submitted a report called the “Magnitude of substance use
in India” to the Ministry of Social Justice. According to the report, alcohol is the most
abused substance in India. More than 5 crore Indians are using Cannabis and opioids.
Around 8.5 lakh people are using injectable drugs.
6. Steps taken
 India is a signatory to the United Nations single convention on narcotic drugs 1961, the
convention on illicit traffic in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances 1988, and the
convention on psychotropic substances 1971.
 The main legislative instrument to control drug usage in India is the narcotics drugs and
psychotropic substances act 1985. The act gives strict provisions to regulate operations
related to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
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141. Defence Minister statement on India-China issue in Rajya Sabha
On September 17, 2020, the Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh addressed Rajya
Sabha. He gave a complete statement on India China issue and answered several
questions raised on the current border situation.
1. Highlights
The Defence Minister noted that the Chinese actions expressed disrespect to all the
previous bilateral agreements. The amassing of troops by China along the line of actual
control violates agreements signed in 1993 and 1996.
2. Key points of the statement

 The Chinese are continuing their illegal occupation of around 38,000 square kilometres in the
union territory of Ladakh.
 The Chinese are also claiming approximately 90,000 square kilometre of Indian territory in
the state of Arunachal Pradesh.
 According to the Defence Minister, Pakistan has illegally ceded 5,180 square kilometres of
Indian territory in PoK (Pakistan occupied Kashmir) to China. The territory was ceded under
the so-called Sino-Pakistan boundary agreement that was signed in 1963.
 While the Indian forces abide by 1993 and 1996 agreements, the same has not been
reciprocated by the Chinese.
 In the past China has undertaken several infrastructure construction activities in the border
areas. In order to counter Chinese actions India too have stepped up the budget of border
infrastructure development, double the previous levels.
 The ongoing 2020 India China conflict is different from those in the past in terms of troops
involved and also the number of friction points. India remains committed to peaceful
resolution and is also prepared to deal with every possible contingency.
3. What and Why did India-China issue occur?

The Defence Minister made a detailed statement on what, how and why the current India
China issue occurred. The details are as follows
4. 1993 Agreement
The 1993 agreement between India and China states that when personnel from either
side cross the line of actual control, they shall immediately pull back to their side of the
line upon caution from the other side. China has not done this in Galwan Valley and in
Pangong tso Lake.
5. 1996 Agreement
 The 1996 agreement between the countries states that when two sides come face to face
due to differences on alignment of line of actual control, they shall exercise self-restraint.
They shall take all necessary steps to prevent an escalation of the situation. Also, both the
countries shall enter into immediate consultations through available channels and prevent
escalation of tension.
 For the first time, the 1996 agreement made it clear that neither side shall open fire within 2
kilometres of the line of actual control.
 The Chinese PLA are conducting summer exercises opposite to Ladakh that clearly violates
the agreement and threatens India.
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6. 2013 Agreement
The 2013 India China border defence cooperation agreement is the latest document on
line of actual control. According to the agreement the countries agreed not tell patrols.
They also agreed to avoid folding large-scale military exercises nearby the line of actual
control.
September 18, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
142. Brucellosis Outbreak in China: Key Facts
Brucellosis, also known as Malta fever has recently affected thousands of people in
Northwest of China. The infection spread in the country after a leak from a Bio
pharmaceutical company in 2019.
1. Highlights
The disease is generally caused buy direct contact with livestock carrying the bacteria
called brucella. So far, China has not reported any fatalities due to the disease. However,
around 1401 have tested positive to the disease.
2. What is brucellosis disease?

The disease is also known as Mediterranean fever. It results in symptoms such as
fatigue, fever, muscle pain and headache. An advanced brucellosis causes chronic
symptoms such as swelling in certain organs or arthritis. According to the United States
Centre for Disease Control and prevention, the human to human transmission of the
disease is extremely rare. People generally contract the disease by breathing in the
bacteria or by eating contaminated food.
3. Current scenario in China

In the Chinese city Lanzhou there has been a leak at Zhongmu Lanzhou biological
pharmaceutical company. It is a veterinary Research Institute located in Gansu province
of China. The leak occurred in late July and August 2019. The people in the City are
reported to have breathed in the bacteria.
4. Brucellosis in other parts of the world

The disease is said to have been common in China in 1980s. There have been few others
scattered instances of brucellosis outbreak in other parts of the world as well. In
2008, thousands where infected with the brucella bacteria in Bosnia. Here the bacteria
got transmitted to humans from Sheep and other infected life stock
5. Brucellosis in India
Government of India has launched the National Animal Disease Control Programme to
eradicate foot-and-mouth disease and brucellosis in livestock. The main objective of the
programme is as follows
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143. Government tells SC to Regulate Digital Media
The Union government have initiated in the Supreme Court (SC) that SC should first
frame the guidelines to regulate the digital media. The government said that there is a
need to draw the line between “freedom of journalism” and “responsible journalism” for
digital media first instead of the electronic and print media.
1. What Is the issue?

Petition have been filed in the court against the “Bindas Bol” show on the Sudarshan tv.
The show has been accused of defaming the Muslim community joining the prestigious
civil services. The petitioner has urged in the court to initiate contempt against the
show’s anchor and the channel’s Editor-in-Chief for his tweets that he published after the
stay order.
2. Supreme court’s Take

The apex court had proposed to the government to frame guidelines on the communal
and derogatory content that runs in the mainstream media. The court also put a stay on
the broadcast of the show.
3. Center’s Take
The Central Government have appealed to the Apex Court to not take any steps to
regulate the electronic media like television channels stating that there is already a law
on this. The law has been made after the decisions of Parliament and Supreme Court
earlier. Center have argued in written that such guidelines are required to regulate
digital media such as web portals, YouTube channels etc., first since it has a greater
reach and wider audience as compared to the mainstream media.
4. What does the rule say?

Presently, India does not have any regulatory mechanism for online streaming platforms.
Though, such streaming platforms have been classified as intermediaries according to
the section 2(1)(w) of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000. With respect to
electronic records “intermediaries” means any person who receives, stores or transmits
that record or provides any service with respect to that record on behalf of another
person. It also includes the network service providers.
144. Global Smart City Index 2020
The Institute for Management Development (IMD) along with Singapore University have
released the Smart City index for the year 2020 on September 17. The report highlights
that the Indian cities have declined in their technological updates.
1. Key Facts
 Smart City index has ranked 109 cities this year, all across the world.
 It has been prepared by recording perceptions of 120 residents in each City.
 The residents were selected randomly.
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 The selected residents were asked questions on technological provisions in five areas
including mobility, health and safety, activities, governance and opportunities in their
respective cities.

 Indian cities have slipped in their rankings.
 Hyderabad has been kept at 85th rank. While in 2019 index city was at 67th position.
 New Delhi dropped to 86th position from 68th in 2019.
 Mumbai slipped from 78th (2019) to 93rd position.
 Bengaluru dropped to 95th from 79th position in 2019.
 Mumbai and Bengaluru face severe road congestion.
 Delhi and Hyderabad lagged on basic amenities.
3. World Scenario
 Singapore topped the index.
 Helsinki and Zurich are at second and third positions respectively.
 Other cities that ranked under 10 includes,
4. Why Indian cities have dropped?

The report states that pandemic might have led to the drop in ranking.
5. Smart City index

Smart City Index is prepared by IMD World Competitiveness Centre, SCO Smart City
Observatory and Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). The index
offers a balanced focus on economic and technological aspects of smart cities. It also
includes humane dimensions of smart cities including the quality of life, environment
and inclusiveness.
6. Smart City
Those cities that apply technologies to overcome the shortcomings and enhance the
benefits of urbanisation are called as smart cities.
145. The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price

Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020
On 14th September 2020, The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of

Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020 was introduced in Lok Sabha by Union
Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Shri
Narendra Singh Tomar. The bill was passed in Lok Sabha on September 17, 2020. The
bill is aimed at transforming agriculture in the country and raising farmers’ income. It
replaces the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and
Farm Services Ordinance, 2020 promulgated on 5th June 2020.
1. Provisions of the Bill

 It seeks to provide for a national framework on farming agreements.
 It protects and empowers farmers to engage with agri-business firms, wholesalers, exporters,
processors, large retailers for farm services.
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 It enables the farmers to sale their future farming produce at a mutually agreed price in a fair
and transparent manner.
 It provides for an effective dispute resolution mechanism transparent time lines for redressal.
2. Background
Agriculture in India is highly fragmented because of its small holding sizes. It highly
depends on weather. There also exists production uncertainties and market
unpredictability. Thus, agriculture is highly risky here and inefficient in input & output
management. Thus, this bill has been introduced in order to transfer the risk of market
unpredictability from the farmer to the sponsor.
3. Benefits
It will empower farmers to engage with processors, wholesalers, aggregators,
wholesalers, large retailers, exporters. It will also create a level playing field without fear
of exploitation. It will also reduce marketing costs and double the farmers income. The
legislation will also act as a catalyst to attract private sector investment for building
supply chains. As a result, Farmers will get access to technology and advice for high
value agriculture. Farmers will be engaged in direct marketing.
146. Union Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal Resigns
The Union Food Processing Industries Minister Shrimati Harsimrat Kaur Badal resigned on
September 17, 2020. Her resignation was to showcase her protest against the three
farm sector bills that was introduced to reform the agriculture sector. The President of
India Ramnath Govind has accepted her resignation on the advice of the Prime Minister
Shri Narendra Modi.

 The Lok Sabha recently passed three bills,
2. Constitutional Provisions on Resignation

 Third Schedule of Government of India (Transaction of Business) Rules, 1961- It states that
the Prime Minister and other ministers of the union shall resign by submitting a letter to the
President of India.
 The President of India can reject or accept the resignation as advised by the Prime Minister.
 However, since there is a provision of taking two oaths. One before the Chairman of Rajya
Sabha or Speaker of Lok Sabha as a member and second before the President of India as a
minister. So, if the representative is resigning as the minister, it does not affect the
Membership of Parliament.
147. India- Pakistan to meet in SAARC Virtual meeting On September 24,

2020
External Affairs Minister (EAM) of India and Pakistan Foreign Minister (PFM) are expected
to meet at the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) meeting via
videoconference on September 24. The announcement has been made days after India-
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Pakistan tensions that had spilled into a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation
Organisation (SCO).
1. Key Facts
 All member countries have confirmed to attend the meeting.
 Meeting will be chaired by the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal.
 India will attend the meeting despite the conflict at SCO virtual meeting of National Security
Advisors.
2. What was the conflict at SCO meeting?

 In the meeting, Pakistan’s Special Advisor on National Security had showed a map of Pakistan
that claimed Indian territory as their territory.
 India’s National Security Advisor alleged that it was violating the norms of the meeting that
was chaired by Russia.
 After consultation, India left the meeting in protest.
3. About SAARC
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is an intergovernmental
organization. It is also designated as the geopolitical union of states in South Asia region.
Its member states include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, The Maldives, Bhutan, Nepal,
Sri Lanka and Pakistan. The grouping was founded on 8th December 1985 at Dhaka,
Bangladesh.
4. Significance of SAARC
The SAARC is a significant grouping because it seeks to promote the welfare of the
peoples of South Asia. It can strengthen collective self-reliance, promote mutual
assistance and active collaboration in various fields by cooperating with the international
and other regional organisations.
5. Why SAARC is dysfunctional?

 Pakistan always vetoed the major initiatives that the grouping decides to work upon. For
instance, Pakistan did not agree on the SAARC Motor Vehicle Agreement proposed at
Kathmandu summit, 2014.
 Bilateral issues cannot be discussed in SAARC but India-Pakistan often end up conflicting over
the bilateral issues.
 India alleges Pakistan that it uses terror as an instrument of foreign policy. This has made
SAARC business dysfunctional.
 Disputes between Pakistan and Afghanistan over the Durand line is another reason.
 India lacks trust on Pakistan in the aftermath of URI terror attack on the Indian security forces
in 2016.
 Further, other forums like Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic
Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is gaining the momentum.
6. Revival of SAARC
 Creation of SAARC COVID-19 Emergency Fund has made the SAARC functional up to some
extent
 The SAARC Foreign Ministers meeting has been scheduled on the sidelines of the UN General
Assembly in New York. This would also help in reviving the grouping.
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7. COVID-19 Emergency Fund
This was proposed by the Prime Minister of India. He also proposed for the formation of a
Rapid Response Team of doctors, specialists, testing equipment and attendant
infrastructure so as to combat Covid-19. The emergency fund is based on a voluntary
contribution from all SAARC members. India extended $10 million as a contribution to
the fund. This fund can be used to meet the cost of immediate actions by any member
county. The Foreign Secretaries and Embassies of the member countries would be
coordinating the fund.
148. Union Government Approved Amendment to FDI Policy in Defence

Sector
The union Government of India have approved Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) of 74%.
This FDI has been allowed under the automatic route in defence sector. This will attract
more overseas investors in the defence industry. This announcement was made by the
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
1. Background
 Government of India has permitted 100% foreign investments in the defence sector, until
now.
 49% were allowed under automatic route.
 Above 49% FDI was allowed through the government’s approval.
2. What has changed now?

49% share under the automatic route has been increased to 74%.
3. Other reforms in Defence Sector

Under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan, government of India introduced following
reforms in the defence sector:
4. What is the Need of such reforms?

It will make India self-Reliant in defence procurement. The reforms would also help India
to increase its defence Exports.
5. Key Facts to remember

 India is the third largest country in the world in terms of allocating the defence budget.
 India is having the second largest armed force in the world.
 OFB is the largest government-operated production organisation in the world.
6. Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)

The DPIIT was established in 1995 as Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion
(DIPP). It was named as DPIIT on January 27, 2019. The department, under the Ministry
of commerce and Industry, is responsible for formulation and implementation of
promotional and developmental measures. These measures are required for the growth
of the industrial sector.
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149. Indian Railways to Levy User Fee at Major Stations
The railway board has announced that it will soon start charging a token user fee. The
user fee will be charged from the passengers who will take trains from the busy stations.
The decision by the Railways will slightly increase the total fare of the tickets.
1. Key facts
 The user fee collected by the Railway will be used for the redevelopment and modernization
of railway infrastructure.
 The fee will be inclusive in the total ticket fare.
 This is being done on the line of user fee in the air tickets.
 Amount charged will be a very small amount and it will be charged as a user fee.
 The board have stated that it as an important step to bring world-class facilities in the
Railways.
2. Details regarding the fee

Railway Board CEO and Chairman VK Yadav has announced that, an official notification
will be issued for the user charges. The notification would contain, both, a list of stations
that are being redeveloped and not being redeveloped. The collected user fee will be
utilized for providing better facilities and to redevelop the stations. After the
redevelopment of the station is complete, the user fee will be transferred to the
concessionaries.
3. Stations selected for charging the user fee

Around 7000 stations are currently operating in India. Out of this, some 700-1000 (10-
15%) stations would be selected to levy the use fee. The selected stations are supposed
to pull more crowd in upcoming years and that is why they need to be redeveloped.
150. Gujarat Announces New subsidy schemes for e-Vehicles
Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has announced a scheme for e-Vehicles. This would
encourage the use of battery-operated two-wheelers and three-wheelers in the state.
The announcement was made to curb the air pollution in Gujarat.
1. Key Facts
 Government would provide a subsidy of 12,000 rupees to students who are studying in
Standard-9th to colleges in order for them to use battery-operated two-wheelers.
 Around 10,000 students would be benefited under this scheme as per the government target.
 Subsidy of 48,000 rupees would be given for three-wheeler e-rickshaw to the individual and
institutional beneficiaries.
 Around 5000 e-rickshaw would be provided under the subsidy.
 50-lakh rupee has been allocated under the scheme for creating necessary infrastructure for
charging e-vehicles.
 These announcements were made on the occasion of foundation day of the climate change
department in the state and PM’s Narendra Modi birthday that is celebrated as “Seva Saptah”
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2. Partnering with the climate change
These announcements were made to combat the climate change and air pollution. On
the same occasion, the government signed a memorandum of understanding with 10
organisations in order to increase the use of renewable energy by using the
geoinformatics and space Technology. Some of the MoUs include,
September 19, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
151. J&K launches National Generic Document Registration System
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha has launched the National
Generic Document Registration System for the region on September 18, 2020. This is an
online registration system for transactions in purchase or sale of land.
1. National Generic Document Registration System

 The system has been generated by the National Informatics Centre (NIC).
 The registration system was developed under Digital India Land Records Modernization
Programme.
 It will address the diversity and variations prevailing across the union territory in the context
of formats, languages, processes and formulae.
 This system will enable access to the information from anywhere.
 Data of the system would be available to both the Enforcement Agencies and to common
man.
 Earlier, this system has been adopted in three states including the Punjab Rajasthan and
Maharashtra.
 Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Goa, Mizoram, Manipur, Bihar and Jharkhand have also
agreed to launch the system.
2. Digital India land records modernization programme

This programme is aimed at digitising maps integrated data and carrying out survey in
order to update records using the new techniques such as Geographic information
system (GIS) mapping. The programme emphasises more on to establish conclusive
ownership using biometric identification and blockchain Technology. The programme is
centrally funded and was launched in 2016. The primary aim of the program is to create
error-free land records and to enable easy access to information.
152. Udit Singhal Named to 2020 class of Young Leaders For SDGs
The United Nations has named a 18-year-old Indian teenager Udit Singhal in the list of
2020 Class of Young leaders for Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) along with 17
others.
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1. Young leaders for SDG
The young leaders for sustainable development goal initiative is the highest profile
recognition opportunity for the young people who raise their voices and make efforts to
combat the most challenging issues in the world. The initiative is organized biennially by
the United Nations.
2. Why Udit Singhal has been selected?

The Delhi based teenager has been selected because of his Glass2Sand initiative.
3. Glass2sand Initiative
 It is a zero waste ecosystem that converts glass to sand.
 The system addresses the growing problem of glass in the national capital region.
 This has prevented empty glass bottles from getting dumped into the landfills.
 The project was started in 2018.
 The project was started because the demand for glass bottles had dropped significantly then
because of their huge transportation cost and large storage areas. So, these glass bottles
started accumulating as landfills.
4. Benefits from the initiatives

The initiative has produced 4,815 kilograms of high Grand silica sand and has prevented
8,000 bottles from entering into the landfills, so far.
5. Current Scenario
In India the glass waste is classified as non-biodegradable. Annually, around 960 million
tonnes of solid waste are being generated in India. Out of this, only 68% of the garbage
is collected and only 28% of the collected waste is treated by the municipal authorities.
So, collection and treatment capacity of waste in the country is poor and the Glass2Sand
initiative needs to be encouraged in order to improve solid waste treatment and
management in the country.
153. SC Asks HC to form Special Benches to Hear criminal Cases Against

legislators
The Supreme Court (SC) recently asked the Chief Justices of High Courts (HC) to form
Special Benches and hear the long-pending criminal cases against all those sitting and
former legislators immediately. The SC gave this direction in response to a Public
Interest Litigation (PIL) that was seeking a ban on the convicted politicians from fighting
elections.
1. Pending cases
Following cases are pending against the legislators, as of now,
2. Why these cases are Stuck?

The primary reason for the pending cases was the interim stay that was granted by the
higher courts to the powerful MPs and MLAs.
3. What SC has directed?
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 The Supreme Court has asked the Chief Justices of High Courts to make a list of pending
cases immediately.
 SC has also directed to review all the interim stay that were granted before their respective
Special Benches.
 The SC has also said that, if the interim stay is still necessary, Special Bench should decide
upon the pending petitions to withdraw the criminal trial within two months.
 The SC also asked the Chief Justices to create special courts exclusively for criminal
politicians.
4. Background
 Association for Democratic Reforms v. Union of India (ADR) case, 2002 in which The SC
mandated for the candidates contesting the election to disclose the information related to the
criminal antecedents, educational qualification, and personal assets.
 In Lily Thomas vs. Union of India, 2013, the Supreme Court stated that sitting MP/MLA would
be disqualified immediately if he/she is convicted.
154. VAIBHAV: Vaishwik Bharatiya Vaigyanik Summit 2020
The virtual Vaishwik Bharatiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Summit would be inaugurated by

Hon’ble Prime Minister on 2nd October 2020. The summit would be followed by a month-
long deliberation sessions virtually that will start from 3rd October to 25th October 2020.
It will be organized among the researchers through a webinar. The session would
conclude on 2nd November 2020.
1. Vaishwik Bharatiya Vaigyanik (VAIBHAV) Summit

It is an initiative by S&T and Academic Organizations of India so as to enable the
deliberations on thought process, practices and R&D culture along with a problem
solving approach. The initiative is aimed at bringing out the comprehensive roadmap to
enable the expertise and knowledge of global Indian researcher for solving the emerging
and ongoing challenges.
2. Key Facts
 It will reflect the collaboration and cooperation instruments with academia and scientists in
India.
 It seeks to create an ecosystem of Knowledge and Innovation in the country through a global
outreach.
 Summit aims to bring out mechanisms to advance the education, research and
entrepreneurship in India as an element for sustainable development.
 This is a joint effort of all S&T and Academic organizations.
 The summit is meant for the NRI scientists who with Indian roots, global outlook and
experience can play a vital role in the AatmaNirbhar Bharat initiative.
3. Objectives of the Summit

The summit will be organized in order to bring NRI scientists on a single platform so as to
debate on the collaboration mechanisms and methods to strengthen S&T base in India. It
will bring together their experiences and proficiency of diverse academic cultures and
thus will strengthen AatmaNirbhar Bharat initiative. It will also add new dimensions to
the Atal Innovation Mission.
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155. Bangladesh Allowed to Import Onions from India.
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade has lifted the ban on export of onions that
were in transit to all the countries including the neighbor Bangladesh. This decision was
taken in a meeting between Ministry of External Affairs and Commerce.
1. Background
 India recently had decided to ban the export of onions to other countries including the
Bangladesh after the crop was damaged.
 The ban was imposed as the prices in the retail onion markets shot up.
 Crop damage and price hike happened mainly because of high rainfall in the month of
August.
 Also, the Flood like situation amid the high rainfall destroyed the onions stocks in Gujarat,
Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
 Further, he demand for Indian onions was rising from international market including Sri
Lanka, Bangladesh and Gulf Countries. So, India imposed the ban.
2. How does the ban affected Bangladesh?

The prices of onions in Bangladesh increased up to 100 Taka per kilogram after the ban
was imposed which stands nearly three times the normal price of onions in the country.
Later, Bangladesh raised the concerns. Thus, India lifted the ban after Bangladesh High
Commission complained to India about price hike.
3. Onion Production In Bangladesh

Bangladesh total production of onion stands at 25.57 lakh tons every year While, the
demand of onion in Bangladesh is 25 lakh tonnes. So the country is self-sufficient in
onions. But, large quantity of this perishable crop got damaged there. To fulfil the
demands and make up the deficit Bangladesh started importing onions from India. Apart
from India, Bangladesh also import onions from Turkey and Egypt.
156. Public Procurement Order, 2017 -Amended To Curb Chinese

Investment
he Government of India has amended the public procurement (Preference to make in

India ) order 2017. These amendments would curb the Chinese investment in India.
1. Key Facts
 The amendment states that the entities from other countries that do not allow Indian
companies to participate in their government procurement procedures shall not be allowed to
participate in Indian government procurement procedures.
 It has been done to promote Make in India and to curb investments from neighboring
countries with emphasis on China.
 It will enable the departments and nodal Ministries to increase the share of local content for
class 1 and class 2 local suppliers.
 As per June 2020 data, share of class 1 and class 2 local suppliers were fixed at 50 % and 20
% respectively.
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 After these amendments, Government of India will set an upper threshold value for
procurement above which foreign companies will have to create joint ventures with Indian
companies so as to participate in government tenders.
2. Public Procurement
It is a process by which the government and state-owned enterprises purchases goods
from the private sector. It uses money from the collected tax to procure the goods.
3. Public Procurement Policy of India

The public procurement policy in India aims to incentivize the production that is linked
with the local content requirements. The Government of India has also created a public
procurement policy for the micro and small enterprises. As per the policy, 25 % of total
procurement made by the department, Central Ministries and public sector enterprises
must to be from the micro and small enterprises.
4. Types of Suppliers
 Class-I Local supplier – whose goods, services or works offered for procurement, has local
content equal to or more than 50%.
 Class-II Local supplier – whose goods, services or works offered for procurement, has local
content more than 20% and less 50%.
 Non-Local supplier – whose goods, services or works offered for procurement, has local
content less than or equal to 20%.
5. Local Content
Local content is the value that is added to the goods, services or work locally, in the
country itself.
157. Eight Indian beaches recommended for Blue Flag international eco-
label
Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar said on September 19, 2020 that eight beaches
of the country have been recommended for the ‘Blue Flag’ international eco-label. The
minister said this on the eve of ‘International Coastal Clean-Up Day’ that is being
celebrated across 100 countries since 1986.
1. Recommended Beaches
 Mr Javadekar also announced India’s own eco-label ‘Beach Environment and Aesthetics
Management Services’ (BEAMS) under its Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM)
project.
 The eight beaches that have been recommended Under the BEAMS includes- Shivrajpur in
Gujarat, Ghoghla in Daman and Diu, Kasarkod and Padubidri in Karnataka, Kappad in Kerala,
Rushikonda in Andhra Pradesh, Golden in Odisha and Radhanagar in Andaman and Nicobar
Islands.
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2. Beach Environment & Aesthetic Management System (BEAMS)
The BEAMS which is also referred as the Beach Management Services has been started
under the integrated coastal zone management project of India. It has been started to
plan a sustainable tourism and healthy coastal management in India by the Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC). BEAMS will work to reduce
pollutants on the beaches. The main objective of BEAMS programme is to promote
sustainable development in coastal regions of India. It also strives to achieve high
international standards in four categories-
3. Blue Flag certification

The Blue Flag Certification is awarded by a Denmark based non-profit organization
called the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). For the Blue Flag certificate,
beaches needs to certify certain criteria related to environmental, educational, access
and safety. There are 33 criteria in total. The certificate is awarded only to the local
authorities or private operators of the member countries.
4. Key Facts about the Programme

 The Blue Flag Programme was started in France in 1985, originally.
 In 1987, it was presented to the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE ).
 After that, it became the European Blue Flag.
 South Africa became the first country from outside Europe to join the programme, In 2001.
 Then, the initiative changed its name to “International Blue Flag”.
 Currently, there are more than 4000 blue flag beaches worldwide.
 Spain have the largest number of blue flag certified beaches.
5. What all ” Blue Flag Certified” beaches does?

 The Blue Flag is an eco-label. It is mandatory for the Blue flag beaches to provide clean and
hygienic bathing water to the tourists, besides the basic infrastructure.
 Operators of beaches or boating tourism are also allowed to display the blue flag logo they
have won.
 It also check against the inequality, depletion of natural resources, disparity, unemployment,
Pollution, health and environmental threats and other environmental degradation problems.
6. Blue Flag Mission

The mission have following objectives-
7. Blue Flag Beaches in India

 Chandrabhaga beach on the Konark coast of Odisha is India’s first beach to get the blue flag
certification.
 It is also Asia’s first beach to get the Blue Flag certification.
 In 2019, the Indian Government had identified following beaches under the blue flag
certification:
8. Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE)

It has been headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark. It was founded in 1981. It has 77
member countries, currently.
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158. Insolvency and Bankruptcy (Second Amendment) passed in Rajya
Sabha
The Rajya Sabha has passed the Insolvency and Bankruptcy code (second Amendment)
Bill 2020. Under the new provisions, fresh insolvency proceedings will not be started for
the next six months taking the Covid-19 pandemic into account.
1. Why Insolvency proceedings has been suspended?

The companies are under crisis amid the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. These
restrictions have also affected their ability to pay back the interest and loan. The micro
small and medium enterprises have also been affected in the situation. Under the relief
measures, Government of India had increased the threshold for initiating the insolvency
process. Also, The Reserve Bank of India allowed Moratorium on all loans till August
2020. Despite these steps, number of non-performing assets were increasing. Thus, the
insolvency proceedings has been suspended in order to provide some relief to the
companies to payback the loans.
2. Insolvency and Bankruptcy code

The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 is the bankruptcy law of India. It consolidates
all the existing framework by creating a single law for the insolvency and bankruptcy. It
was introduced to resolve timely the insolvency proceedings of the Individuals,
Corporate, firms in partnership. Evaluation and viability is determined and completed
within 180 days of its initiation under it. The National Company Law Tribunal is the
adjudicating authorities under the code to compete the insolvency proceedings.
159. Rajya Sabha Passed the Epidemic Diseases Amendment Bill, 2020
Rajya Sabha has passed the Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Bill, 2020 on September
19, 2020. It amends the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897. Now it will include protections for
healthcare service personnel who are combating the epidemic diseases . The bill also
expands the powers of the central government to prevent the spread of such diseases.
1. Key Facts
 The Bill replaces the Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance which was promulgated in
April 2020.
 This makes harm, injury, hurt or danger to the life of any healthcare service personnel, a
cognizable and non-bailable offence.
 In such cases, there is a provision of imprisonment from three months to five years and a fine
between 50 thousand rupees to two lakh rupee.
2. Key Provisions of the Bill
September 21, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
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160. What is CRISPR test?
India’s first CRISPR test for COVID-19 has been launched by the TATA group. It has been
named ‘Feluda’, the TATA CRISPER (Clustered Regulatory Interspaced Short Palindromic
Repeats) COVID-19 test. The test recently received regulatory approvals for the
commercial roll out from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI).
1. Key Facts
 The Tata CRISPR test is the world’s first diagnostic test that will deploy a specially adapted
Cas9 protein in order to detect the virus that is causing the COVID-19.
 For the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, test uses indigenously developed CRISPR
technology
2. CRISPR technology?
 CRISPR is Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats.
 CRISPR are the Family of DNA sequences that are found in the genomes of prokaryotic
organisms that includes bacteria and archaea.
 The protein Cas9 which is also called as “CRISPR-associated” is an enzyme that acts like a
pair of molecular scissors which is capable of cutting the strands of DNA.
 The technology was first adapted from the natural defence mechanisms of bacteria and
archaea .
 This technology was first unveiled in 2012.
 These bacteria and archaea uses the CRISPR-derived RNA and Cas proteins like Cas9 in order
to foil attacks by viruses and other foreign bodies. They do so by eating up and destroying
the DNA of a foreign bodies.
 CRISPR technology is a powerful tool for editing genomes.
 The technology allows researchers to easily alter DNA sequences and modify gene function.
3. Application of the CSISPR technology

Potential applications of the technology include- correcting genetic defects, Improving
crops and treating and preventing the spread of diseases.
4. Archaea
Archaea are a domain of single-celled organisms. These microorganisms does not have
cell nuclei so they are prokaryotes. Archaeal cells can separate themselves from
Bacteria and Eukaryota. This is the unique property of Archaea.
5. Bacteria
Bacteria is a biological cell. They contains a large domain of prokaryotic microorganisms.
Typically, they are a few micrometers in length. They can be spherical, rods shaped and
spirals. Bacteria were among few forms that appear on Earth first. The study of bacteria
is known as bacteriology.
161. Labour Sector Reforms: Three Bills introduced in Lok Sabha
The government introduced three Bills in the Lok Sabha to bring reforms in the labour
sector. The bill includes laws on social security, occupational safety and health and
industrial relations. These bills are the part of government’s labour reform agenda
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under which, government plans to amalgamated all the existing labour laws into four
labour codes that are- on wages, industrial relations, social security and safety, health
and working conditions. This is being done to improve ease of compliance and bring
uniformity in labour laws.
1. The Industrial Relations Code, 2020

 The bill subsumes- the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947; the Trade Unions Act, 1926; and the
Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946.
2. The Social Security Code Bill

 The Bill replaces nine social security laws.
 It subsumes the Employees’ Provident Fund Act, 1952, the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, and
the Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008.
 The bill seeks to bring unorganised sector, gig workers and platform workers under the
umbrella of social security schemes by providing them life and disability insurance, health
benefits, maternity benefits, provident funds and skill upgradation.
3. The Occupational Safety Code

 It replaces 13 labour laws on safety, health and working conditions.
 The laws include: Factories Act, 1948; Mines Act, 1952; Dock Workers Act, 1986; Contract
Labour Act, 1970; and Inter-State Migrant Workers Act, 1979.
 The bill seeks to regulate health and safety conditions of workers in establishments with 10 or
more workers.
4. Who can regulate the labour?

 Labour stands under the Concurrent List of the Constitution. So, both Parliament and state
legislatures can make laws regulating the labour.
162. MoU signed between AYUSH Ministry and MoWCD to control

Malnutrition
The Ministry of Ayush and Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to control malnutrition in the country, On
September 20, 2020 . The MoU was signed under the Poshan Abhiyaan.
1. Key Facts
 Women and Child Development Ministry would initiate scientifically proven and user based
solutions to control malnutrition in the country.
 Medicinal and nutri Gardens would be established at the Anganwadi centres.
 Under that MoU, specific areas has been identified for co-operation:
Integration of AYUSH into POSHAN Abhiyaan.

Controlling malnutrition through the principles and practices of Ayurveda, Yoga and other
Ayush initiatives.
 Integration of AYUSH into POSHAN Abhiyaan.

 Controlling malnutrition through the principles and practices of Ayurveda, Yoga and other
Ayush initiatives.
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 The MoU seeks to implement following activities:
Yoga programmes at Anganwadi centers.

Visit of AYUSH workforce to Anganwadi centers once in a month.
Sensitization meeting of AYUSH medical officers with Anganwadi workers.
Development of Poshan Vatika.
Generation of baseline data in nutritional status of targeted population.
Implementation of region specific nutrition values.
 Yoga programmes at Anganwadi centers.

 Visit of AYUSH workforce to Anganwadi centers once in a month.
 Sensitization meeting of AYUSH medical officers with Anganwadi workers.
 Development of Poshan Vatika.
 Generation of baseline data in nutritional status of targeted population.
 Implementation of region specific nutrition values.
 The Anganwadi worker may be designated as ‘DHATRI’ – Dedicated Health Activist to
Replenish the Innutrition, who is providing the Ayurveda nutrition messages at the ground
level.
 The Ministries will also launch the hashtag #Ayush4Anganwadi to generate awareness on the
activities through digital media.
2. Reports on Malnutrition
 As per the reports of Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, 194.4 million
people are undernourished in India. It is about 14.5 % of the total population.
 In the Global Hunger Index, India ranked 102 out of 117 countries in 2019.
 Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) reported in 2017 that, malnutrition was the major
cause of death of children under 5 years of age in that year.
 Global burden of disease study 2017 also reports that, malnutrition is the leading cause of
death and disability in India.
 Global Nutrition Report, 2020:
According to the report, one in two women of reproductive age in India is anaemic.
20.8% of children are wasted while 37.9% of children are stunted.
India is among 88 countries that are likely to miss Global nutrition targets by 2025.
 According to the report, one in two women of reproductive age in India is anaemic.
 20.8% of children are wasted while 37.9% of children are stunted.
 India is among 88 countries that are likely to miss Global nutrition targets by 2025.
3. What are the Causes of malnutrition?

Major causes of Malnutrition includes- Poverty, Poor health conditions of lactating
mothers, Social inequalities, poor hygiene and sanitation, lack of nutritious and
diversified food, poor food security provisions and failure of government initiatives.
4. Initiatives in India
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163. September 21: World Alzheimer’s Day, 2020
World Alzheimer’s Day is observed on September 21 across the world. The day is
observed to raise awareness about the neurological condition, underlying causes,
symptoms and its management.
1. World Alzheimer’s Month

 The month is a global opportunity to raise awareness, to educate, tp encourage, to support
and to demystify the stigma surrounding the dementia.
 The theme for World Alzheimer’s Month in 2020 is ‘Let’s talk about dementia’.
 September 2020 is the 9th World Alzheimer’s Month.
 The campaign was launched in 2012.
2. Key Facts
 2 out of every 3 people believe there is little or no understanding of dementia in their
respective countries.
 Though the impact of World Alzheimer’s Month is growing, but the stigmatisation and
misinformation is still a global problem.
 As per the Dementia India Report 2010 by the Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Society of
India (ARDSI), there were around 3.7 million Indians with dementia in 2010. The report also
projected that the number would rise to 7.6 million by 2030.
3. Importance of World Alzheimer’s Month

Dementia has become one of the biggest challenges globally. Nearly 50 million people
are living with dementia all across the world. So to tackle the challenge, the Alzheimer
month bring together the people to work together, collaborate and share best practice
with each another. So, the Alzheimer’s Society is working with partners on global
research and campaigning, sharing their learning, best practice and experiences.
4. What is Alzheimer?
Alzheimer’s is a neurological disorder that causes problems of memory loss, thinking
skills, and behaviour. Memory loss and confusion are the main symptoms associated
with the disorder. Though, there are no proper cure for the disease. But , medication and
management strategies can improve the conditions.
164. September 21: International Day Of Peace 2020
Each year, the International Day of Peace is observed on September 21. It is also known
as the World Peace day.
1. Key Facts
 Theme for world peace day 2020 is- “Shaping Peace Together“
 On this day, the body encourages countries to observe the day by creating an environment
of “24 hours of non-violence”.
 The United Nations invites nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities during the
Day.
 The day is also commemorated through education and public awareness on issues related to
peace.
 India also contributes to the world peace by following the path of Mahatma Gandhi.
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2. Significance of the day
This year is significant because the United Nations is focusing on to encourages people
in order to celebrate the day by spreading compassion, kindness and hope amidst the
COVID-19 pandemic, which has emerged as a common enemy of the world.
3. Background
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had established the day in 1981. In 2001,
UNGA voted to designate the Day as a period of non-violence and cease-fire.
4. United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)

The UNGA is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations (UN). It serves as the
main policy-making, deliberative, and representative organ of the United Nations (UN).
The body is responsible for UN budget, appointing the non-permanent members to the
Security Council, receiving reports from other parts of the UN system, appointing the
Secretary-General of the United Nations and making recommendations through
resolutions. The body establishes subsidiary organs to advance in its broad mandate. It
is the only body of UN where all member states have equal representation. The first
session of the body happened on 10 January 1946.
165. Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan Operational in 272 Districts
The minister of state for Social justice and Empowerment Shri Ratan Lal Kataria said In
Lok Sabha on September 20, 2020 that the Ministry has launched Nasha Mukt Bharat
Abhiyan in more than 272 districts so far. He also said that the National Action Plan for
Drug Demand Reduction has been formulated and is being implemented by the Ministry
Of Social justice and empowerment. The scheme was launched in 2018 and would
sunset in 2025.
1. Key Facts
 The National Plan for Drug Demand Reduction is aimed at reducing the consequences of drug
abuse.
 The plan also include awareness generation programs for schools and colleges, capacity
building of service providers and facilities for treatment.
 This plan is being implemented in 272 districts that were identified by the narcotics control
bureau.
 These districts have been selected mostly from Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and
North Eastern States. These districts are highly affected by drug abuse.
2. Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan annual Action Plan 2020-21

The action plan was launched on international day against drug abuse and illicit
trafficking which is celebrated on 26 June every year. The plan includes following
objectives:
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3. Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan
The Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan was launched by the Shiromani Akali Dal in Punjab in
2015. The National list of districts affected by substance abuse says that 18 of 22
districts of Punjab are affected with the drug abuses. So the programme was launched to
tackle this problem.
166. Emmy Awards 2020
Emmy Awards 2020 2020 were hosted live by Jimmy Kimmel from an empty Los Angeles
Staples Center on September 21, 2020T. The nominees tuned in from their homes in the
wake of COVID-19 pandemic. The winners collected their trophies from home this year
The Emmys has become the first big awards show to take place amid the pandemic.
Highlights
 Popular sitcom Schitt’s Creek wons most awards in a single season by a comedy series. He
took home seven Primetime awards and nine Emmys in the comedy categories. The family
saga series Succession took home five awards that also include best drama series at
the 72nd Emmy Awards. Thus a new record is set.
 Euphoria’s Zendaya became the youngest winner for best lead actress in the drama series
category.
 A mini FRIENDS reunion also took place with the show’s three female leads – Jennifer Aniston,
Courteney Cox and Lisa Kudrow.
 List of winners is given below:
167. Foreign Contribution Regulation (Amendment) Bill 2020 Introduced

in Lok Sabha
Foreign Contribution Regulation (Amendment) Bill 2020 introduced in Lok Sabha to

amend the FCRA act, 2010.
1. Key Provisions of the Bill

 The bill proposes to include those public corporations owned and controlled by the
Government of India under the list of entities that are not eligible to receive foreign funding.
 It proposes to include public servants under the list.
 The bill makes Aadhar mandatory for all the non-government organisations and other
organisations that seeks foreign contributions.
 It also proposes to limit the foreign funds received under the act from 50% to 20%.
 Government would now be empowered to question a violator using the funds received from a
foreign organisation.
 As per the new provisions, Persons who have been granted certificate for the foreign funding
will receive funding only through accounts that are designated as FCRA account.
2. Aim of the Bill

 The bill is aimed at amending the provisions of the FCRA act to streamline the funding
procedure.
 The bill aims to increase transparency and accountability.
 It also aims to strengthen the compliance mechanism in the utilisation of foreign contribution.
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3. Background
The annual inflow of foreign funds has doubled between 2010 and 2019. But, the
contributions received in this route were not being utilised by the recipient registered
under FCRA. Thus, to regulate these foreign contributions under the act amendments
has been proposed.
4. Conditions under the Act to use funds

The act imposed following conditions to use the foreign funds:
168. Women Empowerment: Women Officers will Join The Helicopter

Stream of Indian Navy
Two women officers have been selected to join as “Observers” (Airborne Tacticians) in
the helicopter stream of the Indian Navy for the first time in history of Indian naval
aviation. The selected women officers would be the first set of women airborne
combatants who would be operating from warships.
Key Facts
 The two women officers include-Sub Lieutenant (SLt) Kumudini Tyagi and SLt Riti Singh.
 These officers are a part of a group of 17 officers of the Indian Navy, who were awarded
“Wings” on graduating as “Observers” along with the four women officers and three officers
of the Indian Coast Guard in a ceremony held on September 21, 2020 at INS Garuda, Kochi.
 The group includes 13 officers from the Regular batch and 4 woman officers from the Short
Service Commission batch.
 The graduation ceremony was presided by Rear Admiral Antony George NM, VSM, Chief Staff
Officer (Training).
 The chief guest presented the awards and coveted wings to the graduating officers and also
awarded the ‘Instructor Badge’ to six other officers out of which five are from the Indian Navy
including a woman officer and another from the Indian Coast Guard.
 These graduating officers will now be serving on-board Maritime Reconnaissance and Anti-
Submarine Warfare aircraft of the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard.
169. What are FISH CRYOBANKS?
The National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR) has reported on

September 21, 2020 that Fish sperm cryobanking technology is undergoing field level
validation. It has shown a potential to improve fish seed quality. The Fish sperm
cryobanking technology is in experimental stage currently. The establishment of the fish
cryobanks for fish seed production will be finalised only after experimental attempts has
been completed.
1. Fish Cryobanks
 The National Fish Development Board (NFDB) and the National Bureau of Fish Genetic
Resources(NBFGR) will work together to establish Fish Cryobanks in different parts of the
country.
 The cryobanks would facilitate availability of fish sperm of desired species to fish farmers all
time.
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 This would be the first time in the world when Fish Cryobank will be established.
2. Signifiance
The cryobanks can bring a revolutionary change in the fisheries sector for enhancing the
fish production and productivity. This would also be increasing prosperity among the
fish farmers.
3. Technology used
Cryomilt technology has been developed by the NBFGR and NFDB which will be helpful
in establishing the Fish Cryobanks.
4. ICAR-NBFGR
ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR) is working since 1983
under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research. It does the research related to the
conservation of fish germplasm resources in the country.
5. National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB)

NFDC was established in 2006. It is as an autonomous organization under the
Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying,
Government of India. It works with an objective to enhance fish production and
productivity in the country. It also coordinate with the fishery development in an
integrated manner.
6. Other Initiatives to encourage fishery sector
7. 1. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampadan Yojana (PMMSY)

PMMSY has been launched with a vision to double the farmer’s income. This scheme
addresses the gaps in fish production and productivity, technology, post-harvest
infrastructure and management, quality, modernisation and strengthening of value chain
and fishermen’s welfare.
8. 2. National Fish Farmers Day

It is celebrated in remembrance of scientists Dr. K. H. Alikunhi and Dr. H.L. Chaudhury
who demonstrated the technology of induced breeding (Hypophysation) in 1957. The
event is celebrated on 10th July every year with an aims to draw attention to change the
way the country manages fisheries resources in order to ensure sustainable stocks and
healthy ecosystems.
170. Ghar Tak Fibre Scheme launched in Bihar
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched nine highway projects and Ghar tak
Fiber scheme in Bihar on September 21, 2020. Under the Ghar tak fibre Scheme, optical
fibre services will be provided to households.
1. About Highway Projects

 The Highway projects will construct 350 km of road.
 The roads will be built at a cost of Rs 14,250 crores.
 These roads will improve connectivity among people of Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh.
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 The road projects would also enhance convenience and economic growth in and around the
state.
2. Background
The Prime Minister had announced special package for the state of Bihar in 2015. Ithe
package included 75 projects of worth Rs 54,700 crores. Out of these 75 projects, 13
projects have been completed while 38 are at the implementation stage.
3. Optical Fibre Services in Bihar

The project is to be implemented Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
under the Ghar Tak Fibre Scheme. It will connect 45,945 villages in the state. The project
thus enable the Digital revolution to reach even to the remote areas of Bihar.
4. Ghar Tak Fibre scheme

The scheme has been launched to provide optical fibre enabled internet connections to
every householdin the country concentrating on village and rural areas. PM Modi had
said in his 74th independence-day speech, that over 1.5 lakh village panchayats have
received optical fiber connections after 2014 under the scheme. The scheme ensures
digital connectivity under the Bharat Net programme.
5. Digital India Programme

The program has launched initiatives like Digital Locker System, Bharat Net, national
scholarship portals, online registration systems, etc. in the country to bring digital
revolution. The Government of India has planned to make “Digital Village” all across the
country under the programme.
September 22, 2020
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171. What is the Significance of First Direct Cargo Ferry Service between
India and Maldives?
The Minister of State for Shipping, Mansukh Mandaviya launched the first direct Cargo
Ferry service to Maldives. This cargo service will help in boosting the business and trade
relations between the countries. This service has been launched in the wake of
strengthening the Neighbourhood First Policy.
1. Key Facts
 The cargo Service will be connecting the Tuticorin and Cochin ports of India with Male and
Kulhudhuhfushi ports of Maldives.
 India will subsidise the service at 3 million USD.
 The entire link will be operated by the Shipping Corporation of India.
2. Significance
 The service will be beneficial for small and medium enterprises largely.
 The export of Tuna fish from Maldives can easily enter the Indian market with ease.
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 Maldives would find new opportunities to send their goods to Europe through Tuticorin and
Cochin ports.
 Indian exporters would also be benefitted as the Maldives Parliament have reduced the
custom duties by 50% for imports clearing at Kulhudhuffushi port.
 The service would boost the service link to the economic growth of Northern Maldives.
 It will also facilitate investments in tourism and machinery.
 Ferry is capable of carrying 3,000 metric tonnes of bulk cargo.
 It also has a storage facility. It can carry all types of commodities including the furniture,
machinery, pharma products and other perishable goods.
3. Operators
 The Cargo Vessel MCP Linz will transport cargo between the countries.
 In India it will be operated by the Shipping Corporation of India.
172. Why GoI increased the Minimum Support Price of Rabi Crops?
The Government of India increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of rabi crops on
September 21, 2020. The MSP on Wheat has been increased by Rs 50 per quintal. The
other crops for which MSP has been increased includes Chana, Mustard, Safflower and
Masoor.
1. Key Facts
 The decision to increase MSP was taken at the meeting of Cabinet Committee on Economic
Affairs.
 The GoI has released Rs 1.13 trillion as MSP to farmers for Rabi crops including the and
pulses, wheat, oil seeds.
 The MSP on grams has been increased by 8.3%, on mustard by 7% and on barley by 5.7%.
2. Why MSP has been increased?

The decision to increase the MSP was taken in the aftermath of ongoing protests in
Punjab and Haryana over the passage of two farm bills- the Farmers Produce Trade and
Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020 and the Farmers (Empowerment and
Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020.
3. Minimum Support Price

The minimum support price is an agricultural product price that is set by the government
of India in order to purchase directly from the farmer. This rate acts as a safeguard for
the farmer as it provides a minimum profit for the harvest irrespective of the market
conditions. In India, a committee set up under the M. S. Swaminathan in 2006 had
recommended that the MSP must be at least 50% more than the cost of production
4. Who fixes the MSP?

The MSP is fixed on the recommendations of the Agricultural Costs and Prices
Commission. The commission recommends the prices after visiting to the states for on-
spot assessment of constraints faced by farmers in selling their produce. The
Government fixes the price based on the recommendations and circulated to the state
governments and various other concerned ministries.
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5. Who Procure the food?
The Food Corporation of India is the nodal agency to procure the crops.
173. What are Hydrogen Energy, its Applications and Development

Targets set by GOI?
The Government of India has planned to set a target to generate 175 gigawatts of
renewable energy by 2022. However, hydrogen has not been included in the renewable
energy future plan. The targets include to attain 100 Watts of solar power energy, 60
gigawatts of wind energy, 10 GW biofuels energy and 5 gigawatts of energy from
projects based on hydrogen.
1. Highlights
According to The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), if India starts focusing on the
Carbon Neutral Economy, hydrogen uses in India will expand to 3 -10 times by 2050 .
2. Framework
 A committee have been formed as a part of hydrogen mission.
 This committee will focus on setting up the regulations, supporting demonstration,
generating volumes and Research and Development.
3. National Hydrogen Energy Roadmap

The roadmap was adopted in 2006 by the national hydrogen energy board. The roadmap
was created with an objective to introduce hydrogen energy gradually into the economy
and to accelerate and commercialise hydrogen energy infrastructure. The roadmap is
also involved in production, storage, transport, delivery and application of hydrogen
energy.
4. Hydrogen Energy
 Hydrogen energy uses the hydrogen and/or hydrogen-containing compounds in order to
generate energy to be supplied to all practical uses. It has a high energy efficiency,
environmental and social benefits besides the economic competitiveness.
 The Ministry of New and renewable energy has also called hydrogen energy as a Future
Energy.
5. Application of Hydrogen Energy

 Hydrogen is produced for non-energy applications in India. Its application incudes – petroleum
refineries and fertiliser Industries.
 Hydrogen gas is also used for spacecraft preparation and internal combustion engines.
 Hydrogen can also be used in fuel cells for electric vehicles
6. Hydrogen Gas
Hydrogen gas is the lightest elements. It rises in the atmosphere. It is rarely found in its
pure form and known for its zero-emission property when burnt with oxygen.
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174. How Covid-19 Crisis is an Opportunity for Transition to Clean and
Cheap Energy?
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has recently said that the current COVID-19 crisis
should be used as an opportunity to make the transition to smoother, faster, more
resilient and affordable clean energy. He made his statement at the launch of a report
on ‘Sustainable Recovery Post COVID-19’ by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and
Niti Aayog on September 18.
1. Highlights
 Indian Railways has also committed to achieve 100 per cent electrification by December 2023
and it will thus become a net zero emitter by 2030.
 NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant also said at the event that after the 2008-09 financial crisis,
green initiatives accounted for around 16% of the total stimulus measures.
 Chief Economic Adviser K V Subramanian mentioned that the COVID pandemic has
highlighted the role of sustainable economic development.
2. Sustainable Recovery Post COVID-19 report

 It has been prepared by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and Niti Aayog and it suggests
measures that can be taken over the next three years.
 The plan is focused on cost-effective measures to be implemented during 2021 to 2023.
 It highlights six key sectors – electricity, transport, industry, buildings, fuels and emerging
low-carbon technologies that need to be focused for long-term growth, future-proofed jobs
and sustainable development goals.
 The Sustainable Recovery Plan has three main goals including- boosting economic growth,
creating jobs and building resilient and clean energy systems.
3. How Clean energy system can be created?

As per the report, following action plans can be implemented for transition to clean and
cheap energy:
4. Significance
 The plan would lower the annual energy-related greenhouse gas emissions by 4.5 billion
tonnes 2023 than usual.
 Air pollution emissions would also decrease by 5%.
175. What are the Objectives of O-SMART Scheme?
The Union Minister of Science and Technology, Earth Sciences and Health and Family
Welfare Dr Harsha Vardhan recently said in the Rajya Sabha that the Indian tsunami
early warning Centre is currently serving 25 Indian ocean countries under the O-SMART
scheme of Ministry of earth sciences.
1. O-SMART Scheme
O-SMART scheme is the Ocean Services, Modelling, Applications, Resources and
Technology scheme. It generates and updates information on Marine living resources in
the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The main objectives of the scheme includes:
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2. Indian tsunami Early Warning Centre
It was established at Indian national Centre for Ocean information Services (INCOIS),
Hyderabad. It operates under the aegis of Ministry of Earth Sciences since 2007. The
centre provides Tsunami warning services to over 25 Indian ocean countries under the
intergovernmental oceanographic commission of UNESCO. It also coordinate with coastal
States/UTs to implement Tsunami Ready Programme, introduced by UNESCO, at
community level
3. Indian national Centre for Ocean information Services (INCOIS)

The INCOIS conducts training and exercises to get prepared for the tsunami conditions
and spread awareness about it.
176. What are Indian Neutrino Observatories that GOI plans to set up?
The Union Minister of state of North Eastern region Dr Jitendra Singh said on September
21, 2020 that around 21 neutrino observatory will be set up in the country.
1. Key Facts
 According to the information provided by the Minister following observatory would be set up:
Six observatories in Karnataka
 Six observatories in Karnataka


Four observatories in Uttarakhand.

One observatory in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Meghalaya. Maharashtra,
Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Puducherry, and the Andaman and Nicobar
Island.
 Four observatories in Uttarakhand.

 One observatory in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Meghalaya. Maharashtra,
Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Puducherry, and the Andaman and Nicobar
Island.
2. Indian Neutrino Observatory (INO) project

INO Project has been launched with an aim to build a world-class underground laboratory
having a rock cover around it in order to conduct basic research on neutrino. The Tata
Institute of Fundamental Research is the nodal agency for implementing the project. The
construction would jointly be done by the department of Science and Technology and
Department of Atomic Energy and would be operated by the Indian Institute of
geomagnetism.
3. Objectives
 Observatory would provide information about the properties of Neutrino particles.
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 It would also study about the neutrino particles from the Sun and from the earth’s
atmosphere.
4. Concerns
Explosions, blasts and vibrations from the construction will affected the ecological
system of Western Ghats and in other regions since the observatory is being
constructed underground.
5. Neutrino
It is a tiny elementary particle but not a part of the atom. Though it is similar to electron
but It has a tiny mass and have no charge. These are the most abundant particles in
universe. Since they interacts with other particles negligibly, it is difficult to detect them.
177. Significance of the Launch World’s first Commercial Hydrogen

Aircraft by 2035
The aviation company Airbus launched three concepts for the first zero emission
commercial aircraft or the Hydrogen Aircraft on September 21, 2020. The aircrafts would
be operational by 2035.
1. Key facts
 The hydrogen aircraft will be designed and created by airbus and is the first commercial
hydrogen powered aircraft.
 Airbus has introduced three concepts for zero emission under the code name ZEROe. The
concepts include:
Turbofan design, which can accommodate 120 to 200 passengers and can fly at a range of
2000 plus nautical miles.
Blended wing body design, which can accommodate up to 200 passengers. In such aircrafts
the wings merge with the main body of the aircraft.
Turboprop design, which can accommodate up 200 passengers. It can travel at a speed of
1000 + nautical miles and are perfect for short haul trips.
 Turbofan design, which can accommodate 120 to 200 passengers and can fly at a range of
2000 plus nautical miles.
 Blended wing body design, which can accommodate up to 200 passengers. In such aircrafts
the wings merge with the main body of the aircraft.
 Turboprop design, which can accommodate up 200 passengers. It can travel at a speed of
1000 + nautical miles and are perfect for short haul trips.
 Earlier, Russian manufacturer Tupolev had built a prototype of the aircraft called Tu-154
which was the first experimental aircraft that operated on liquid nitrogen.
2. Significance of the hydrogen aircrafts

The shift towards clean aircraft fuels such as hydrogen is significant in the light of
increasing air pollution and climate change in which aviation emissions contributes
around 5%.
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3. Challenges
Constructing the hydrogen refueling infrastructure will be a biggest challenge in the
launch of such aircrafts. However, with the government supports, model can be
successful.
4. Why Hydrogen has been chosen?

Hydrogen is the lightest element and hence can lift the aircrafts easily. Further,
hydrogen is a clean fuel and it is more expensive than that of the fossil fuels.
5. Key fact to remember

 World’s largest hydrogen production Centre is the Fukushima hydrogen energy research field,
in Japan.
178. Govt launched National Conservation Strategy for Indian One-

Horned Rhino
Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said on the occasion of World Rhino Day that India is
home to the largest number of One-Horned Rhinoceros in the world. The population
ranges around 3000 in Assam, West Bengal and UP. On this occasion Environment
Ministry has launched a National Conservation Strategy for Indian One-Horned Rhino.
1. World Rhino Day

World Rhino Day is celebrated on September 22 every year by the World Wildlife Fund
and other organisations. It is celebrated to create awareness about the threats that
Rhinoceros face in Asia and Africa region.
2. Key Facts
 First World Rhino Day was announced by the World Wildlife Fund, South Africa in 2010.
 Theme for the Day this year is Five Rhino Species Forever
3. National Conservation Strategy

The strategy includes conservation of Greater one horned rhinoceros in India as well as
in Nepal. The strategy follow the same protocol to manage the population of rhinos in
Valmiki Tiger Reserve in India, Shuklaphanta in Nepal and Chitwan National Park in
Nepal and Dudhwa that are separated by political boundary. Further, the conservation
initiatives for rhino has also enriched the grassland management thus it will help in
reducing the negative impacts of climate change through carbon sequestration.
4. Rhinos
A rhinoceros commonly called rhino is one of the five extant species of the family
Rhinocerotidae (scientific name of rhino) of the Animalia kingdom. Out of 5, 2 are native
to Africa, and 3 to Southern Asia.
5. Rhinos count
The population of one horned Rhinos in the world is 3584. Out of this, India has 2938 and
Nepal has 646 rhinos. There are 5 species of Rhinos in total for which IUCN status is
listed below:
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179. Features and Significance of IIIT Laws (Amendment) Bill 2020
The Parliament on September 22, 2020 has passed the Indian Institutes of Information
Technology Laws (Amendment) Bill 2020 after the Rajya Sabha approved the bill. The bill
seeks to give five IIITs in Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode – IIIT Bhopal, IIIT
Agartala, IIIT Surat, IIIT Bhagalpur and IIIT Raichur, a tag of Institutions of National
importance.
1. Key Facts
 Currently there are 20 IIITs which are designated at institutions of national importance.
 With the addition of these 5 institutes, total number would increase to 25.
2. Significance
 The Institutions of National importance would have the power to give degrees and and
categorise them as B.Tech, M.Tech or Ph.D. degree, which is currently issued by a University
of National Importance.
 The Institutes would then be able to attract more students to develop a strong information
technology research base in the country.
3. Key Features of the Bill

 The IIIT Laws Amendment Bill 2020 will amend the principal Acts of 2014 and 2017.
 It Grant statutory status to five IIITs in PPP mode and declare them as Institutions of National
Importance.
 The bill mainly aims to formalize the institutes.
 The institutes functioning as societies, registered under the Societies Registration Act of
1860, will now fall under the IIIT (PPP) Act, 2017 .
 It also formalize the post of Director and Registrar in each of these IIITs without any
additional financial burden.
180. What are Cyanobacteriathat caused the Death to 330 Botswana

Elephants?
Cyanobacteria (cyanobacterial neurotoxins) produces toxins in water. The toxins killed

more than 300 elephants in Botswana in the year 2020.
1. Key Points
 Authorities have said that cyanobacteria caused the deaths of 330 elephants in Botswana.
 Earlier In July, authorities reported that 281 elephants died mysteriously.
 The first mass death was reported in May 2020, when a group of 169 elephants were found
dead.
 Botswana is home to roughly one third of Africa’s elephants population with about 130,000.
2. Concerns
 Some cyanobacterial blooms can harm people and animals though not all of them are
harmful.
 Toxic cyanobacteria are occurring more frequently because of climate change and increasing
global temperatures.
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 Scientists are concerned because of climate change leading to warm temperatures which
cyanobacteria loves.
 As per the report by Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), Africa’s
temperatures are rising at twice the global average in the southern part.
3. What are cyanobacteria?

These are a group of photosynthetic bacteria though some of them are nitrogen-fixing
bacteria. Cyanobacteria got their name from blue pigment called phycocyanin, which
they use to capture light for photosynthesis. Cyanobacteria are microscopic organisms
that are common found in water and can be found in soil sometimes. They live in a moist
soils and water freely or they are found in a symbiotic relationship with plants or lichen-
forming fungi. They contain chlorophyll a- the photosynthetic pigment used by the
plants.
4. Botswana
It a landlocked country in Southern Africa with its capital Gaborone. Its landscape is
defined by Kalahari Desert and the Okavango Delta. The area becomes a lush animal
habitat at the time of seasonal floods. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is home to
animals including giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas and wild dogs.
September 23, 2020
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181. What is Tax Amnesty Scheme?
Recently, North Delhi Mayor Jai Prakash announced that the New Delhi Municipal Council
(NDMC) has rolled out a property tax amnesty scheme so as to provide relief to the
residents of unauthorised regularised colonies.
1. Key Highlights
 According to the scheme, all the outstanding tax prior to the financial year 2019-20 would be
exempted if the taxpayer of residential properties in such colonies pays property tax for the
financial years 2019-20 and 2020-21.
 In the case of non-residential properties. if a tax payer pays outstanding property tax of the
last three financial years and of the current year i.e., of 2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20 and
2020-21, his or her property tax for the period prior to it i.e., before 2017 would be
exempted.
 The benefit under the scheme will be available only on filing of property tax return and
making the payment of the aforesaid tax dues, without any interest and penalty.
 Scheme is valid only till October 31.
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2. Tax Amnesty
It is a limited-time opportunity for some taxpayers in order to pay a defined amount, in
exchange for forgiveness of a tax liability including interest and penalties related the
previous tax period without fear of criminal prosecution. The scheme expires when some
authority begins a tax investigation of the past-due tax. It is a voluntary compliance
strategies in order to increase tax base and tax revenue. The main purpose of the
scheme is to replicate the economy and encouraging individuals and corporations to
declare their wealth.
3. Tax Amnesty in India

India in 2016 has run one of the biggest Tax Amnesty scheme called the IDS,2016 in the
world. The scheme is one of the component of Sabka Viswas scheme. Through the
scheme, India gather around $4 billion as taxes in 4 months.
4. Sabka Vishwas Scheme

The scheme is a dispute resolution scheme notified by Government in order to close the
pending disputes related to the Service Tax and Central Excise cases. It operationalised
from 1st September 2019. The main components of the Scheme are dispute resolution
and amnesty.
182. ABHYAS : Flight test conducted by India
Defence Research and Development Organization conducted a successful flight test of

ABHYAS- High speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) vehicle at the Balasore test range
in Odisha on September 22, 2020. While testing, the vehicle achieved 5 km of flying
altitude, 2g turn capability of test vehicle and vehicle speed of 0.5 mach. The project
costs Rs 150 million.
1. ABHYAS – HEAT
 It is an air vehicle that uses twin underslung boosters.
 It was developed by adopting DRDO’s Lakshya which is a high-speed target drone system
developed by DRDO.
 The vehicle was designed and developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment of
DRDO.
 It is powered by a small gas turbine and has MEMS based Inertial Navigation System.
 It contains a Flight Control Computer for control and guidance.
 The ABHYAS was launched first in Chitradurga Aeronautical Testing Range in 2012.
2. Treaties on Missile Testing

Though, there are no legally binding multilateral instrument to deals with issues of
missile under United Nations. However, Hague Code of Conduct and Missile Technology
Control Regime are two multilateral treaties to prevent proliferation of missiles and
missiles related technology
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3. 1. Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)
The MTCR was established in 1987 by G-7 countries. The purpose of MTCR was to check
on the proliferation of unmanned delivery system of nuclear weapons that can carry
payload up to 500 kg and can cover 300 km of range. Under MTCR, every member
establish the national export control policy on ballistic missiles, rocket, space launc
vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles. India got membership of MTCR in 2016.
4. 2. Hague Code of Conduct

The Hague code of conduct was established in 2002. It is aimed at regulating access to
ballistic missiles. It does not ban using the missiles , but only restricts its production.
The codes also do not restrict the testing and export of missiles.
183. What are the new guidelines by DGCI on COVID-19 vaccines?
The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) issued new guidelines that focuses on
safety, immunogenicity and efficacy parameters for pharma companies who are
developing COVID-19 vaccines.
1. Highlight from the guidelines

 The guidelines were framed by CDSCO is in line with USFDA and WHO.
 The DCGI said that COVID-19 vaccine candidate should have at least 50 per cent of efficacy in
the Phase-III clinical trial in order for it to be widely deployed.
 The guidelines also mention that adequate data on the potential risk of vaccine-associated
Enhanced Respiratory Disease (ERD) also needs to be generated.
 The Indian Council for Medical Research have approved COVID-19 vaccines with 50-100%
efficacy since no respiratory vaccines have 100% efficacy according to ICMR.
 Guidelines highlights that, pharma companies should take pregnant and childbearing women
into consideration while making the vaccines.
2. What does WHO says?

World Health Organization (WHO) states that a vaccine should have three things- safety,
efficacy and immunogenicity. It also says that, vaccines with more than 50% efficacy is
a accepted vaccine.
3. Vaccines in India
Three vaccines are undergoing human trials in India including the COVAXIN, Oxford
Vaccines and SPUTNIK-V (Russian Vaccine).
4. World Scenario
More than 169 vaccines are undergoing human trial all across the world. The countries
have even made pre-purchase agreements before the final stage human trials of
vaccines. According to the WHO, this has led to “Vaccine Nationalism” under which the
countries are securing doses of vaccines for their own citizens and prioritising their own
domestic markets. However, WHO have taken several steps to stop this including,
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5. 1. COVAX
It has been launched by WHO , Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) and
Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) to prevent vaccine nationalism. It
aims to speed up the search for effective vaccines for all countries. The main objective
of the initiative is to distribute at least 2 billion doses by the end of 2021 all across the
world.
6. 2. Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator

This programme has been launched by the WHO in collaboration with France, European
Union and The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. It aims is to provide equitable access
to COVID-19 vaccines, tests, treatments and vaccines for all nations.
184. Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor to be commissioned in 2022
Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Atomic Energy and Space Shri Jitendra
Singh said that the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor will be commissioned by October
2022.
1. About Reactor
 The reactor is being constructed by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI) and
the Indira Gandhi centre for Atomic Research (ICGAR)
 Reactor will add 500 MW of power to the national grid once commissioned.
 The reactor is being constructed at Kalpakkam Atomic Power Station in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
 The reactor was planned to be commissioned in 2012 but it getting delayed due to technical
errors.
2. Features of the reactor

 The reactor is a pool-type reactor whose core are immersed in liquid (water).
 The reactor has negative void coefficient so it provides a high level of nuclear safety.
 The speed of the fission chain reaction decreases automatically when the reactor overheats.
This lowers the temperature and power level.
 Liquid Sodium is the coolant in the reactor.
3. India’s three Stage Nuclear Programme

This was initiated by Homi Bhabha by using the thorium and uranium reserves found in
Monazite sands of coastal regions of India. The programme runs with an objective to use
Thorium reserves in India to meet the energy requirements. The programmer is running
successfully by Indo-US Nuclear deal. The three stages in the programme includes,
4. Thorium reserves in India

Thorium reserves in India accounts for 1%-2% of global Uranium reserves.
185. International Day of Sign Languages is being observed on

September 23
International Day of Sign Languages is observed on September 23, 2020 by the United
Nations. Theme for the year 2020 is Sign Languages are for Everyone
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1. Significance of September 23
 International Day of Sign Languages is observed on September 23 because the World
Federation of the Deaf was established on this day.
 World Federation of the Deaf brought the concept of celebrating International Day of Sign
Languages.
 The first International Day of Sign Languages was celebrated in 2018 along with the
International Week of the Deaf.
 The International week of the Deaf was was first celebrated in 1958 by World Federation of
the Deaf.
2. World Federation of Deaf data

 It says, there are more than 72 million deaf people across the world.
 80% of the deaf people live in developing countries.
 These Deaf people uses more than 300 sign languages.
3. Goals and Convention dealing with Disabilities
4. 1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Goal 10 of SDG deals with the prevalence of disability in the world. It aims to reduce
inequality between the countries by empowering and promoting social, political and
economic inclusion for all including the persons with disabilities. Apart from that, Goal 11
of the SDG is aimed at making human settlements and cities inclusive of all, safe and
sustainable.
5. 2. Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

The convention was adopted in 2006. It recognizes and promotes the use of sign
languages and facilitates its learning. The convention has been ratified 177 times so far.
It main aims is to end the discrimination against disabled persons.
6. Steps take by India

India ratified the convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2007. Rights of
Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 was enacted after that to fulfil obligations under
United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Government also
launched the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan to make public places more accessible to
disabled people.
186. Provisions of Taxation and Other Laws (Relaxation and Amendment

of Certain provisions) Bill
Parliament passed the Taxation and other laws (Relaxation and Amendment of certain
provisions) bill, 2020 on September 23, 2020. It replaces the Taxation and Other Laws
(Relaxation of Certain Provisions) Ordinance, 2020 that was promulgated on March 31,
2020. The new bill will make few changes to direct and indirect tax laws including the
Income Tax Act, 1961 (IT Act), Finance Acts, the Customs Act, 1962, and the Prohibition
of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988. It was passed in Rajya Sabha through voice
vote.
1. Provisions of the Bill

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2. Issues with PM CARES Fund
187. Why Jammu and Kashmir Official Languages Bill, 2020 is being
Opposed?
The Lok Sabha passed the Jammu and Kashmir Official Languages Bill, 2020 on
September 23, 2020. Under the bill Dogri, Kashmiri, and Hindi will be the official
languages in the Union territory of J&K besides Urdu and English. The bill was passed by
the voice vote despite opposition.
1. Why the bill is being opposed?

 Gujjar and Sikh communities protesting the exclusion of Gojri and Punjabi languages from the
bill stating that it is anti-minority move.
 Party in opposition stating that the central government does not have legislative competence
to frame the bill with respect to the language.
 Further, only 0.16% population of the UT speaks Urdu which link the Jammu and Kashmir
region.
 There is a argument that, No other state has five official languages.
 It will the 131-year-old status of Urdu as the sole official language of the region.
 People will start demanding for inclusion of more languages as the official language.
2. Highlights
 The bill make five languages including the Urdu, Hindi, Kashmiri, Dogri and English, the
official language of the region.
 This was a pending public demand of the region since long.
 It is developing the spirit of equality that triggered in after Jammu and Kashmir was dropped
of its statehood and bifurcated it into two Union territories in August 2019 through the J&K
Reorganization Act.
 Urdu, Hindi and Dogri also among Eight Schedule Languages.
3. J&K Reorganisation Act

The Act gave legal mandate to revocation of Article 370. The Act was introduced to
bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories – Jammu and Kashmir, and
Ladakh.
4. New domicile rules

As per the rules, people belonging to West Pakistan, Valmikis, women marrying outside
communities, non-registered Kashmiri migrants and displaced people will get domicile in
the region.
5. Eight Schedule Languages

It is the list of 22 official languages recognized by the Constitution. It includes
Assamese, Bengali, Urdu, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, Kashmiri, Malayalam, Marathi,
Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Telugu, Sindhi (added by 21st Amendment Act, 1967), Konkani,
Manipuri, Nepali (added by 71st Amendment Act, 1992), Maithili, Bodo, Dogri, Santhal
(added by 92nd Amendment 2003) as the official languages.
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188. India-Australia two-day Naval Exercise in the Indian Ocean- Key
Facts and Significance
Indian Navy and the Australia navy will be conducting a two-days mega naval exercise in
the Indian Ocean commencing from September 23, 2020. This will include various anti-
aircraft drills, complex naval maneuvers, and helicopter operations.
1. India-Australia Naval Exercise

 The exercise involve advanced surface and anti-air exercises.
 It also include seamanship exercises, weapon firings, cross-deck flying operations, and naval
manoeuvers.
 HMAS Hobart will be deployed in the exercise by the Royal Australian Navy. It is a lead-ship
of the Hobart-class air warfare destroyers.
 From Indian side, Karmuk and Sahyadri ships will be a part of the exercise.
2. Significance
 The naval exercise aims to improve the understanding, enhancing the interoperability, and
sharing the best practices from each other.
 Earlier, Indian Navy conducted similar exercises with Japan, Russia and The US.
 This is the fourth major drill by the Indian Navy since June 2020 in the Indian Ocean.
 The exercise can be seen as counter to the India’s rising border tension with China and
presence of Chinese Navy in the Indian Ocean Region.
 It is a step towards strengthening the Indo-Australia Defence Relations.
 This will bring both the governments to work closely in order to enhance the safety and
security of the global commons.
3. Recent Exercises in the Indian Ocean Region
189. Mukhya Mantri Kisan Kalyan Yojana to be Launched in Madhya

Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh government is going to launch the ‘Mukhya Mantri Kisan Kalyan Yojana’
by following the path of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi which is an initiative of the
central government.
1. Highlights
 Existing beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi who are getting Rs. 6,000 per
annum, will also be getting additional financial assistance of Rs. 4,000 under the announced
scheme. Thus, in total, the farmers would be getting annual assistance to be Rs. 10,000.
 Around 80 lakh farmers will be benefitted from the announced Chief Minister Kisan Kalyan
Yojana.
 The state government also plans to integrate the farmer-friendly schemes.
 This announcement was made in the Sabko sakh- Sabka Vikas program that was attended by
Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.
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2. Sabko Sakh- Sabka Vikas Program
Sabko Sakh-Sabka Vikas Program was organised under the Garib Kalyan Week in Bhopal
on September 22, 2020. The Chief Minister of the state addressed the programme and
deposited Rs. 800 crores in the accounts of the cooperative banks and societies. He also
disbursed the credit cards and loans to the farmers. Kisan Credit Cards were also
provided by the chief minister to 63,000 beneficiaries. Further, a loan of Rs. 122 crores
were given to 35,532 farmers by cooperative societies.
3. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sammann Nidhi

It is an initiative of the Indian government announced by the Union Minister Piyush Goyal
during the interim Union Budget of India, 2019. It came into effect in December 2019. It
provides all the farmers up to Rs. 6000 per year in three installments as minimum
income support. The support money is directly transferred to the farmer’s bank
accounts. The total cost of the scheme is Rs. 75,000 crores per annum.
190. DRDO test fired the Laser-Guided Anti-Tank Missile
DRDO has successfully test fired an indigenously developed laser-guided anti-tank

guided missile (ATGM) at the firing range in Maharashtra.
1. Key Facts
 The weapon has a range of up to 4 km.
 It was test fired from an MBT Arjun Tank at KK Ranges in Armored Corps Centre and School
(ACC&S).
 It is a laser-guided anti-tank guided missile (ATGM).
 It will enhance the fire-power capability of the Indian Army along border with Pakistan and
China.
 The ATGM hits the targets with accuracy and precision.
 The missile have a tandem heat warhead in order to defeat the armored vehicles.
 The missile is undergoing technical evaluations currently.
2. About Anti-Tank Missiles (ATMs)

ATMs are the guided missiles designed to destroy the heavily armored vehicles and
tanks. These missiles uses various guiding programmes including the laser-guided
missiles, wire-guided missiles, etc. ATMs have various sizes,
3. MBT Arjun Tank

The Arjun is a 3rd generation battle tank that has been developed by India’s Defence
Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for its use in the Indian Army. It has
been named after Arjun, the archer prince from the EPIC Mahabharata. It entered into
service of Indian Army in 2004.
September 24, 2020
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191. Tuberculosis in India- Challenges and Elimination
Dr Harsh Vardhan, while addressing Ministers of Member Nations of WHO, Heads and
Representatives of UN Agencies on September 23, 2020 said that India has accorded
high priority for ending tuberculosis by 2025. India would achieve this target five years
ahead of the Sustainable Development Goals.
1. About Tuberculosis
 It is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) bacteria.
 Tuberculosis majorly affects the lungs and can affect other parts of the body as well.
 Symptoms of active TB includes- chronic cough with blooded mucus, fever, night sweats, and
weight loss.
 It is of two types:
2. Key Facts
 One quarter of the world’s population is supposed to have latent infection with TB as of 2018.
 Each year, 1% of the population get infected from it.
 Most TB cases recorded in South-East Asia (44%), Africa (24%) and the Western Pacific (18%).
 India accounts for 27% of the cases in word as of 2018.
3. How does it spread?

The disease spread from one person to the other through the air when people having
active TB cough, speak, spit, or sneeze. However, People with latent TB do not spread it.
4. Who are vulnerable to TB?

People diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and those who smoke are vulnerable to TB.
5. How TB is diagnosed?
For Active TB- Chest X-rays, microscopic examination and culture of body fluids.
6. Prevention
TB can be prevented,
7. Concerns
Presently, antibiotic resistance is a growing problem. The number of cases of multiple
drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-
TB) is increasing.
8. Initiatives in India to end TB
192. World Maritime Day is Being observed on September 24.
The World Maritime Day is observed on September 24 by the International Maritime

Organization (IMO) and other international organizations . The day is celebrated on the
last Thursday of the September every year. Theme for this year is Sustainable Shipping
for a Sustainable Planet.
1. Key Facts
 The World Maritime Day was celebrated for the first time in March 1978.
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 It was first celebrated to mark the IMO Convention.
2. Significance
As per the reports of UNCTAD, around 80% of global trade by volume and 70% of global
trade by value are carried through sea and handled by ports worldwide. These shares
stands more higher in the Developing countries. More than 50,000 merchant ships
operate for trading internationally. They are involved in transporting every kind of cargo
and are manned by more than a million seafarers. So the day is significant as it spread
awareness about the importance of shipping safety, marine environment and maritime
security.
3. International Maritime Organization (IMO)

IMO is an agency of the United Nations which is responsible for regulating the shipping.
It was established in 1948 and came into force in 1959. It is headquartered in London,
United Kingdom. It has 171 member and 3 associate members. India joined IMO as
member-state in 1959. Its main function is to develop and maintain a regulatory
framework for shipping.
4. National Maritime Day

India also celebrates its National Maritime Day which is observed on April 5 every year.
It was first celebrated in 1964.
5. Maritime Initiatives involving India
193. What is Kritagya Hackathon?
Kritagya (Krishi-Raknik-Gyan) Hackathon was launched by Indian Council of Agricultural

Research (ICMR) on September 23, 2020 under the National Agricultural Higher
Education Project. It was launched with an objective to promote Farm Mechanisation
specially women friendly equipment’s.
1. Key Facts
 Students from any university and college can apply and participate in the event.
 The event will distribute prizes as well:
first prize winner will receive Rs 5 lakhs,

second prize will receive Rs 3 lakh and
third prize winners will receive Rs 5 lakh.
 first prize winner will receive Rs 5 lakhs,

 second prize will receive Rs 3 lakh and
 third prize winners will receive Rs 5 lakh.
 The hackathon aims to enhance the farm productivity and profitability by enhancing the
innovation in farm mechanization.
 This event is providing an opportunity to the students, faculties, innovators, entrepreneurs,
and other stakeholders to present their innovative approaches and technological solutions to
promote farm mechanization in India.
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 The hackathon is in line with the high-quality higher education that provides equity and
ensures inclusion as is the target of National Education Policy( NEP) 2020.
2. National Agricultural Higher Education Project

The National Agricultural Higher Education project was launched in 2019. The total cost
of the project was Rs 1100 crores. World Bank provide the funding support to the
project. The share of fund between GoI and the World Bank is in the ratio of 50:50. The
programme support ICAR and participating agricultural universities. Under the project,
194. Provisions of the Major Port Authorities Bill, 2020
The Major Port Authorities Bill, 2020 was passed in Lok Sabha on September 23, 2020.
The bill replaces the Major Ports Act, 1963. It aims to regulate, operate and plan major
ports in India. The bill will provide a greater autonomy to ports in the country.
1. Key provisions
 The bill specifically deal with the major ports including the Vishakhapatnam, Paradip,
Mormugao, V.O. Chidambaranar, New Mangalore, Kolakata, Kandla, Mumbai, Jawaharlal
Nehru Port, Chennai, Cochin port.
 As per the Bill, ports will be managed by Port Authorities Board and every port will have a
port authority which will act under the leadership of a central board.
2. Port Authority Board

 The Port authority boards will replace the port trusts.
 The board comprises of chairperson, members from respective state governments,
representatives from Defence Ministry, Railway Ministry and Customs Department.
 The chairperson of the board will be appointed by the Central Government.
 The board will also include two to four independent members who will represent the interests
of the port authorities.
 The board will be empowered to use its properties and fix scales of rates for assets.
3. Other functions
 Adjudicatory Board: The Adjudicatory Board will do the functions of the tariff authority of the
ports. It will review the stressed PPP projects and adjudicate on the disputes related to rights
of major ports.
195. CAG report – Gaps in toilet constructions by CPECs.
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) report titled “Construction of Toilets
in Schools by CPSEs” was presented in the Parliament on Wednesday. The report has
pointed out that toilet construction in schools by central public sector enterprises
(CPSEs) has several gaps that were constructed under the Swachh Vidyalaya Abhiyan.
The report highlighted that the objectives of the scheme has not been achieved because
of poor maintenance of toilets, lack of dedicated funds and poor water availability inside
toilets.
1. Highlights
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 Report says, 40% of the surveyed toilets (Around 3000 toilets were surveyed out of 1.4 lakh)
were found to be non- existent, partially constructed, or unused.
 70% of the toilets did not have the running water facilities.
 75% of the toilets were unhygienic.
 Hand washing facility was not available in 55% of the toilets.
 27% of the school did not have separate toilets for boys and girls.
2. Why there is gap?

Lack of dedicated funds, poor maintenance and poor water availability in toilets are
the reason for these loopholes.
3. Background
4. Swachh Vidyalaya Abhiyan

This programme was launched by the Human Resource Development Ministry in
September 2014. The programme was launched with an aim to construct separate
toilets for boys and girls in order to meet the mandate of Right to Education Act.
5. CAG recommendation
The CAG has recommended to the concerned ministries to address the issues of non-
existence of toilets and the absence of basic amenities in toilets including hand wash,
running water, urinals and drainage of waste water.
196. Indian Railways: CAG Report
The Comptroller and Auditor General of India submitted its report titled “Assessment and
Utilisation of Locomotives and Production and Maintenance of LHB coaches in Indian
Railways” on Indian Railways in the Parliament on September 23, 2020.
Findings of the Report

 As per the report, the number of diesel locos has been increased by 20% between 2012 and
2018.
 CAG highlighted that there is an increase because the Indian Railway Board failed to assess
the requirement of electric locos.
 This also highlights the lacunae in the implementation of the Mission Electrification and De-
Carbonisation that is being operated under Indian Railways. As per these directives, railway
has planned for 100% electrification by 2022 that later postponed to 2023.
 According to the report, 46% of new locos failed within 100 days of commissioning because of
defective materials used in manufacturing.
 Half of the electric and diesel locos failed to receive timely maintenance.
 The CAG report says that accidents data show there is an urgent need to switch over to Linke
Hoffmann Busch (LHB ) coaches to ensure safety of passengers.
197. Why Over 380 Whales Died of Mass Stranding?
Around 380 whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia on September
23, 2020. The entire pod of 460 long whales got stuck in Macquarie Harbour, Tasmania
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Island, Australia. It is the largest mass stranding recorded in Australia and in the world.
The whales have been found stranded over an area of 10 kilometres. The causes of mass
stranding is unknown even to scientists. However, Such Mass Stranding of whales is a
natural in Australia and New Zealand. Mass stranding is also common in North Sea.
1. Mass Stranding
It is a natural phenomenon in which Whales move towards the shore when they are sick,
in their old age, due to bad weather, navigation errors and sometimes for hunting seals
in the shore. Majority of the mass stranding occur when their echolocation does not
work. Echolocation is used by them for navigation.
2. Reasons for mass stranding

Possible reasons of mass stranding could be:
3. How they are disposed?

The dead whales are often moved away from the shipping lanes and back to the sea
where they are allowed to decompose naturally. In case whales are half dead, the large
whales might take weeks to die. They might require a dose of potassium chloride to the
heart or explosives. While, smaller whales are usually shot with a firearm.
198. State Disaster Relief Fund eased by Prime Minister to help States
PM Modi in the recent meet with chief ministers have eased the norms for State Disaster
relief Fund. The meeting was with the chief ministers of seven states including Tamil
Nadu, Punjab, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, that
have been severely affected from the covid-19 virus. More than 63% of active cases of
covid-19 are concentrated in these seven States.
1. Key Facts
 Prime Minister announced that the limit of use of state disaster response fund (SDRF) is being
increased from 35 % to 50%.
 The increased limit would will help the states in developing covid-19 related infrastructure.
 In March this year, the Government of India had declared covid-19 as a notified disaster
under disaster management Act 2005.
 This was done to help the states to use the State disaster response Funds for covid-19 relief
measures.
 Apart form Covid-19, there are 13 disasters covered under the act for which the disaster
response funds can be used- landslides, earthquakes, cyclone, hailstorm, drought, fire, pest
attacks, Tsunami, Avalanche, Frost, cloudburst and cold waves.
2. State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF)

On the recommendations of 13th finance commision, SDRF was constituted under
disaster management Act, 2005. The Government of India allocates 75% of SDRF to the
states and 90% for special category states annually. The disbursement of the fund for a
state is based on the Recommendation of the finance commission. Apart form that, the
ministry of home affairs is empowered to release 25% of the central share in case of
emergency. The fund is audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India every
year.
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199. Stubble Burning- Causes, Impact and Solution.
The Supreme Court had appointed Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control)
Authority on the problem of stubble burning. The authority have said to the chief
secretaries of Punjab and Haryana that early burning of crop residue is taking place in
the region. It has also urged them to look after the issue urgently. Recent SAFAR
(System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research under the Central
government) estimate based on the INSAT-3, 3D and NASA satellite data, there were 42
fires on September 21, 2020.
1. Key Facts
 Agricultural fires begin around late September and peak around the last week of October
after the paddy crops have been harvested.
 These fires caused pollution in and around the Delhi region as particulate matter floats into
the city.
 As per a report, Stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh contributes 17% to
78% to the particulate matter emission in Delhi during winter.
2. Causes of Stubble Burning

 To prepare the field for the sowing of winter (Rabi) wheat quickly.
 High cost of collecting the stubble, prompts the farmer to burn it on the field.
 Equipment like Rotavator and happy seeder are expensive.
 Less number of biomass power plants in India.
3. Impact of Stubble Burning

 Paddy stubble burning affects air quality.
 Burning of crop residues emits methane, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide,
Sulphur dioxide and particulate matters which are poisonous and affects human health.
 It deteriorate the organic content in the soil.
4. Government Steps to tackle the problem
200. Irregularities in Defence Purchases- Highlights the CAG.
The Comptroller and Auditor General submitted its report on Defense Ministry to both
the houses of the Parliament on September 23, 2020.
1. Findings of the Report
2. Issue with the UAV Rotax Engines

CAG highlights that, In March 2010, the Israel Aerospace Industries contracted to supply
five 914F certified UAV Rotax Engine worth Rs 87.45 lakhs per engine. But the same
engine was procured by DRDO at Rs 23.30 lakh per engine in 2012. Also, the average
price for engine in the international market is Rs 21 lakhs to Rs 25 lakhs. The audit
accused that the vendor has gained Rs 3.16 crores in supplying five UAV engines. CAG
has recommended an investigation in to the matter.
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201. 46th Foundation Day of Central Pollution Control Board
The government organised a webinar to commemorate 46th foundation day of Central

Pollution Control Board on September 23, 2020.
1. About Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)

 It is a statutory organisation under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974.
 It was constituted in September, 1974
 It entrusts powers and functions Under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
 It provides technical services to the Ministry of Environment and Forests under the provisions
of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
 It is a technical wing of the Government for doing the environmental research, monitoring
and regulation it and to enforce in the country.
2. Functions of CPCB
Some of the functions include:
3. Significance
The Central Pollution Control Board collects real time data on pollution which thus acts
as a key policy input for the concerned agencies to improve air quality. Data provided by
the board is crucial to tackle the problem of environmental degradation because of rapid
industrialization and population growth. The board is continuously working towards re-
defining the pollution control technologies and management strategies.
202. Plastic Parks Scheme- Need and Challenges.
The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers has approved to set up ten plastic parks in the
country under the Plastic Park scheme. The Scheme was launched in 2019.
1. Key Facts
 The plastic parks will be set up in Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Jharkhand,
Chhattisgarh and Uttarakhand.
 A plastic park is a dedicated zone of plastic and related industries.
 6 Out of the 10 plastic parks are being implemented currently. While the draft plan for the
four is underway.
 The Government of India will share Rs 40 crore per project and rest of the cost will be borne
by the state government.
2. About the scheme

The plastic Park scheme has been launched with an aim to increase the competitiveness
and value addition in the plastic processing industry. This will be achieved through
research and development in the field.
3. Need of the scheme

The scheme would boost the plastic trade. Currently, India’s share in the Global market
of plastics is very low. The Global trade of plastics is 1 trillion USD while India’s share is
just 1%.
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4. Challenges
Major challenge with the plastic industries in India is its Recycling. Only 60% of plastic
waste gets recycled in India. This further causes pollution which is also threatening
aquatic resources at a larger scale.
5. Plastic Industry in India

Plastic industry is classified into two categories:
September 25, 2020
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203. What is U-RISE Portal Launched in UP?
The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a unified portal called ‘U-Rise’- Unified Re-
imagined Innovation For Student Empowerment. The portal will guide students in
learning, career counselling, and getting employment in the state. The portal has been
developed by Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam Technical University.
1. Key Facts
 Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the portal in Lucknow on September 24, 2020.
 The programme will connect students with practical and technical knowledge.
 Uttar Pradesh is the first state to launch a unified portal along with the implementation of
National Education Policy (NEP) -2020.
 Around 20 lakh students and technical experts will get benefit from this portal who are
getting vocational and technical education.
 The e-content, e-library, and online courses from this portal will be accessible by students
even in the remote areas of the state.
 This portal would benefit students and empower them by providing every possible
information including online exams, digital assessment, digital content, internship, digital
examination papers, webinars, e-library, recorded video content as well as employment.
2. National Education Policy (NEP) -2020

NEP-2020 was approved by the Union Cabinet on 29 July 2020. It outlines the vision of
India’s new education system. This policy replaces the National Policy on Education,
1986. The policy provides a comprehensive framework for elementary education to
higher education. It also include framework on vocational training in both rural and
urban India. It is aimed at transforming India’s education system by 2030.
3. Education
 Education is a Concurrent List subject in India.
204. Three years of Saubhagya Scheme- Facts and Assessment.
The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana -“Saubhagya” has completed three years
since its inception on September 25, 2020. The Scheme was launched on September 25,
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2020 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The scheme ensures electrification of all willing
households in rural and urban areas of the country.
1. Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana -“Saubhagya”

 The scheme was launched to achieve universal household electrification.
 It seeks to provide last mile connectivity and electricity connections to all households in rural
areas urban areas.
 The government also launched a website saubhagya.gov.in to provide information about the
scheme.
2. Project Cost
 The scheme was started with an estimate of 16,320 crore rupees.
 Out of this, outlay for the rural households is 14 thousand crore rupees while for the urban
households is 2,295 crore rupees.
3. Beneficiary
Households have been identified though the Socio-economic and Caste Census (SECC) of
2011. Eligible households are getting electricity for free, while others are being charged
Rs. 500. The beneficiary household got One LED lights, one DC power plug. The
beneficiaries would also get Repair and Maintenance of Meter Only (R&M) for 5 years.
4. Criticism
Though the scheme provides the capacity for electricity in poor and rural households.
But, It does not solve the problem of power outages. Further, the scheme contains no
provision households who can not afford electricity bills.
5. Current status
As of June 2019, 91% of rural Indian households have received electricity access. In
other words, over 2 crore 62 lakh households have been provided electricity connection
under the scheme so far.
6. Case study
Bihar recently, in October 2018, completed its target of 100 per cent electrification of
willing households.
205. Why FM allowed Five States to raise financial resources through

Open Market Borrowings?
Union Finance Ministry Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman has granted permission to raise
additional financial resources of Rs. 9,913 crore to five states through Open Market
Borrowings (OMBs). The five states Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Goa, and
Tripura.
1. Key Facts
 This permission allows Karnataka to raise Rs. 4,509 crore.
 Andhra Pradesh can borrow Rs. 2,525 crore.
 Telangana got permission to borrow Rs. 2,508 crore
 Goa can raise Rs. 223 crore and
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 Tripura can raise Rs. 148 crore.
2. Why these States have been granted permission?

 The permission has been granted because these States have successfully implemented the
One Nation One Ration Card System.
 Further, In light of the unprecedented pandemic the Central Government had also allowed
additional borrowing limit of up to 2% of Gross State Domestic Product (GDP) to the States
for the current financial year.
3. Open Market Borrowing or Open Market Operation

The buying and selling of government securities in the open market is termed as open
market operations. It is done by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) only. When RBI wants to
infuse liquidity or money into the monetary system, it purchases government securities
in the open market. Thus, providing liquidity to the commercial banks. On other hand it
sells securities to curbs liquidity. Thus, RBI indirectly controls the money supply and
influences short-term interest rates. There are two kinds of OMOs:
4. One Nation One Ration Card

It is an ambitious plan of Department of Food & Public Distribution on order to ensure
the delivery of food security entitlements to beneficiaries covered under the National
Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013. It provides food security entitlements irrespective of
their physical location anywhere in the country.
206. Cyber Security Vision Framework for Urban Cooperative Banks

Released
The Reserve Bank of India released Cyber Security Vision Framework under the title
‘Technology Vision for Cyber Security’ for Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) – 2020-2023
on September 25, 2020. The central bank referred to four guiding principles in order to
formulate the framework because of the heterogeneity of UCBs in India in terms of
regions, size, digital depth and financial health.
1. Cyber Security Vision Framework

The framework is aimed at achieving its objectives through five pillared strategic
approach as stated below:
2. Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs)

The term Urban Co-operative Banks has not been formally defined. But, it refers to the
primary cooperative banks located in urban and semi-urban areas. These banks were
earlier allowed to lend money only for non-agricultural purposes. But now they can lend
to anyone. They traditionally operated around communities, localities work place groups
and lent to small borrowers and businesses. But, now their scope of operations have
been widened.
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207. India successfully Fire tested Prithvi II Missile
India successfully test fired the Prithvi II missile which was developed indigenously. The
test was conducted at the Chandipur Integrated Test Range, Odisha.
1. Key Facts
 The missile attained the range of 350 km.
 The test fire was a routine exercises.
 Electro optical tracking systems, radars and telemetry stations of Defense Research and
development Organizations (DRDO) traced the trajectory of the missile.
 Strategic Force Command of Army and scientists of Defence Research Development
Organization successfully carried out the launch operations.
2. Prithvi II
 It is a single-stage liquid-fueled missile.
 It has a maximum warhead mounting capability of 500 kg.
 Indian Air Force is its primary user.
 It was first test-fired on 27 January 1996 with a range of 250 km.
 350 km (220 mi) range is its extended version which has improved navigation because of an
inertial navigation system.
3. About Prithvi Missile

It is a short-range surface to surface ballistic missile that has been indigenously
developed by the DRDO. Prithvi missile was the first missile to be developed under the
Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme. It has 3 variants:
4. Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme

The project was started under the leadership of the late Shri Abdul Kalam in 1983in
order to achieve self-sufficiency in the development and production of wide range of
ballistic missiles and surface-to-air missiles. The programme was ended in 2008. Four
main projects under the programme includes:
208. Ministerial Roundtable Dialogue on Biodiversity held on September

24, 2020
The Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change represented India at the
Ministerial Roundtable Dialogue on Biodiversity that was hosted by China on September
24, 2020 virtually.
1. Key Facts
 The dialogue was conducted on the topic of Biodiversity Beyond 2020: Building a Shared
Future for All Life on Earth.
 The dialogue was held a week ahead of the United Nations Summit on Biodiversity.
 More than 15 ministers from different countries participated in the virtual dialogue.
2. India’s Statement
The Minster said:
3. International Treaties on Biodiversity

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209. Kerala Tourism’s Human by Nature campaign won PATA Grand

Award
Kerala Tourism’s internationally-acclaimed ‘Human by Nature’ campaign won the

prestigious PATA (Pacific- Asia Travel Association) Grand Award 2020 for Marketing. This
gives a huge stimulus to tourism industry in the state which has been severely affected
due to COVID-19 pandemic.
1. Key Facts
 Awards were announced during a virtual presentation ceremony in Beijing.
 Kerala has bagged one of the three PATA Grand Awards.
 The event was attended by,
2. Human By Nature Campaign

The idea of a new campaign was put forth by Kerala Tourism. It was then conceptualized
and scripted by Stark Communications. The campaign showcases the culture and daily
life of the people of Kerala. The campaign has helped in achieving Kerala’s record
growth rate of 17.2 per cent in 2019 which stands to be the highest growth rate in
tourism arrivals in 24 years. The campaign also helped in reviving the tourism sector
after the Flood in 2018 and outbreak of Nipah virus there.
3. The PATA Grand Award

The PATA Gold Awards was incepted in 1984. It recognizes exceptional achievement in a
variety of endeavors. It acknowledge and reward the very best of Asia Pacific’s travel
industry. PATA Grand and Gold Awards winning projects has set industry standards for
excellence and innovation, serving as examples for others to follow.
4. The PATA Gold Awards 2020

This year, the award had121 entries from 62 organizations and individuals worldwide. An
independent judging committee of 16 personalities from various destinations selected
the winners. It presented 21 Gold Awards and three Grand Title Winners for best show
entries in the Marketing, Sustainability and Human Capital Development categories.
PATA enhanced the Gold Awards this year, by introducing new categories such as
Climate Change initiative, Tourism for All, and Youth Empowerment Initiative to redefine
its position as an innovative and prestigious award for the Asia Pacific travel and tourism
industry.
210. 670 new electric buses and 241 charging stations sanctioned under
the FAME Scheme.
The Government of India recently sanctioned 670 Electric buses and 241 charging
stations under phase II of Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME)
Scheme. The scheme was launched to enhance the electric mobility in the country.
1. Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) Scheme

 The scheme aims for electrification of public transportation.
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 It provides incentives for three wheelers and four wheelers, especially those used for public
transport.
 The Scheme was launched to achieve the goals of National Electric Mobility Mission Plan,
2020
 Benefits of the scheme are extended to those vehicles that are fitted with advanced batteries
such as Lithium Ion batteries.
 The scheme seeks to establish 2,700 charging stations in metro cities, smart cities and in
cities having population more than 1 million.
2. FAME II
The second phase of the scheme was launched in 2019. The scheme has to be
implemented between 2-19 to 2022. A total of 10,000 crores were allocated for the
second phase. Out of this, Rs 1,000 crores have been allocated for setting up the
charging stations. Charging stations will be set up on major highways connecting the city
clusters under the scheme. Under the second phase, the Government of India (GOI) has
planned to incentivize 5 lakh three wheelers, 35,000 four wheelers and 7,000 electric
buses.
3. Objective
The scheme has been launched to counter the environmental pollution and for a better
fuel security. It also seeks to increase the demand of electric vehicles, enhancing the
vehicle charging station infrastructure and provide a platform for technological
innovations.
4. Concerns
There is a controversy regarding the subsidies under the Electric Vehicle (EV) Adoption
Policy. The GOI has recently allowed the sale of electric vehicles without batteries to
make the Electric vehicle more affordable. Batteries account for half the cost. If the cost
of batteries is delinked electric two- and three-wheelers could cost less than fossil-fuel-
powered vehicles. But, Manufacturers questioned that if vehicles will be sold without
batteries how government would give subsidies since the government incentivizes the
purchase of EVs by providing direct purchase subsidies which is linked to the capacity of
the battery of the vehicle.
211. National Medical Commission Became Operational Today
The National Medical Commission (NMC) has come into existence from September 25,
2020. It has replaced the Medical Council of India (MCI), as the country’s apex regulator
of medical education and profession.
1. National Medical Commission (NMC)

 NMC is an Indian regulatory body having 33 members.
 It was earlier established for 6 months by an ordinance in January 2019.
 Later it became a permanent law passed by Parliament of India.
 It was approved by President of India on 8 August 2019.
2. Composition
The NMC will consist of 33 members:
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3. Functions of NMC
Main Functions of the NMC are:
4. Background
The NITI Aayog had recommended to replace the Medical Council of India with National
Medical Commission. National Medical Commission ordinance replaced the Medical
Council of India in 2019.The Supreme Court of India also allowed the Central
Government to replace the medical council. The planning commission had also
recommended to replace the Medical Council of India with National Medical Commission.
5. Medical Council of India (MCI)

It was a statutory body that was set up to establish uniform and high standards
of medical education in India. The Medical Council of India was established in 1934 under
the Indian Medical Council Act, 1933. As the NMC is operational now, MCI automatically
got dissolved on 25th September, 2020.
212. What are the New Evaluation Standards for Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Vehicles?
The Central Government has notified the standards for safety evaluation for hydrogen
fuel-cell based vehicles on September 24, 2020. Notification was issued by the Ministry
of Road Transport and Highways and notified that the Standards for safety evaluation of
vehicles being propelled by the Hydrogen Fuel Cells. This has been done by bringing an
amendment to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989.
1. Standards for safety evaluation
2. Objective
The new rules are aimed at promoting environment-friendly and energy-efficient
hydrogen fuel cell-based vehicles across the country.
3. Background
4. Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles Project

National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) had announced a new project involving
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles to run in Leh and Delhi in April 2020. Under the
project, NTPC will provide ten Hydrogen Fuel Cell based buses. This is first of its kind
project in India.
5. Benefits of Hydrogen Fuel Cells
6. Concerns
213. CBDT Launched Faceless Income Tax Appeals
The Central Board of Direct Taxation (CBDT) has launched the faceless income tax
appeals today on September 25, 2020. The Announcement was made by the Prime
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Minister Narendra Modi on the birth anniversary of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhayay. He
made his statement during the launch of Faceless Assessment and Taxpayers’ Charter
under the “Transparent Taxation – Honoring the Honest” platform. Under the new
mechanism all appeals will be finalized in a faceless manner. However, it will be barring
the cases of major tax evasion, black money act, serious frauds and international tax to
follow the same mechanism.
1. Key Facts
 All income tax appeals including e-allocation of appeal, e-communication of notice or
questionnaire, e-verification or e-enquiry, e-hearing and e-communication will be done
online.
 Taxpayers can now make submissions from the comfort of their home.
 Now, there will be no physical communication between people, their counsel and the income
tax department.
 The Faceless Appeal system includes allocation of cases through Data Analytics and AI.
 The appeals would remain in the jurisdiction of central issuance of notices with Document
Identification Number (DIN).
 Under this jurisdiction, the draft appellate will be prepared in one city while the reviewing of
the order will be done in another city.
2. Significance
The faceless appeal will provide convenience to the taxpayer by ensuring that there is
just the appeal orders on the platforms. It will minimizing the litigations for the ease of
taxpayers. the new mechanism also seeks to ensure greater transparency and
accountability.
September 26, 2020
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214. Vodafone Vs India Case: Vodafone won tax case against India at
International Arbitration Tribunal
Vodafone Group has won the tax case against India at the international arbitration
Tribunal over retrospective tax demand of ₹20,000 crore including the capital gains tax
and withholding tax. The Permanent Court of Arbitration has ruled that conduct of
Income Tax Department is breach of fair and equitable treatment.
1. Key Facts
 DMD Advocates represented Vodafone at The Hague by DMD Advocates.
2. What was the Issue?

 The tax dispute started after Vodafone acquired the 67% of the assets from Hutchison
Whampoa of India in 2007.
 The Indian government then said that Vodafone was liable to pay for tax deduction at source
(TDS) on the acquisition as per the Income Tax (IT) Act and demanded capital gains tax and
withholding tax from Vodafone.
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 So in that context, government has made a tax demand of ₹20, 000 crore related to
Vodafone’s $11 billion acquisition of Hutchison Telecom stake since Vodafone had not
deducted the tax at the source.
 However, the Supreme Court of India had ruled down the government demand on January 20,
2012.
 But later, the government amended the finance act and gave power to the Income tax
department to retrospectively tax similar deals. Thus, it put the liability back on Vodafone
Group.
 In April 2014, Vodafone filed an arbitration proceedings against India in the International
Arbitration Tribunal.
3. Retrospective tax
Retrospective tax is the tax that government charges from the back date, before some
particular law is passed.
4. Capital Gains Tax

Capital gains tax is levied on the positive difference between the sale price and original
purchase price of an asset. Basically, It is charged on the profit.
5. Withholding Tax
Amount that an employer withholds from employees’ wages and pays directly to the
government is called as withholding tax.
6. International Arbitration Tribunal

The tribunal is an independent non-governmental panel comprising of independent and
impartial experts. It generally comprises of three members nominated by the Parties or
appointed by the International Arbitration Institution, or by a National Court based on
their legal expertise and knowledge. It is a Permanent Court of Arbitration established in
1899. It is headquartered in Hague, Netherlands. The organization is dedicated to
resolve the dispute and facilitate arbitration between States.
215. What is Positive Pay System for Cheques Payments?
The Reserve Bank of India has introduce a “Positive Pay System” that will come into
effect from January 2021. The system has been launched to make the cheque payment
more secure. The system will make mandatory to re-confirm key details of cheques for
the payments beyond Rs 50,000.
1. Key facts
 As per the new system, the issuer of the cheque will now have to submit details of the
cheque including the name of the beneficiary, date, amount of the drawee bank through a
 Issuer can also submit the details through internet banking, mobile app or ATM.
 These details will be cross-checked by the banks before the cheque is presented for payment.
 If there are discrepancies in the Cheque Truncation System, redressal measures would be
followed.
 This mechanism would be applicable only to those account holders who are issuing cheques
for amounts beyond Rs 50,000.
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2. History
The positive Pay system is not the new phenomenon in India. The ICICI bank has been
using this system since 2016.
3. Who has developed the system?

“Positive Pay” in Cheque Truncation System is being developed by the National
Payments Corporation of India. RBI would also set up an innovation hub to ease the
usage of the system. An Online Dispute Mechanism would also be developed. Under the
Dispute Resolution Mechanism at Cheque Truncation System (CTS) only those cheques
would be accepted that are compliant with the Positive Pay System.
4. What is Cheque Truncation System (CTS)?

CTS is an image-based clearing system that was launched in 2010. Under this, Cheques
are cleared digitally by matching and verifying the data.
216. India-Japan Maritime Bilateral Exercise- JIMEX 2020 Commenced

today
Fourth edition of India-Japan Maritime bilateral exercise (JIMEX) began in North Arabian
Sea from September 26, 2020. It will be conducted for three days. In the light of COVID-
19 restrictions, the exercise is being conducted in a ‘non-contact at-sea-only format’ this
year.
1. JIMEX- 2020
 JIMEX 2020 will showcase high degree of inter-operability and joint operational skills.
 The Navies will conduct several advanced exercises, across the spectrum of maritime
operations.
 The two navies will conduct a multi-faceted tactical exercises that will involve weapon firings,
cross deck helicopter operations, anti-submarine and air warfare drills.
 The Indian navy will be represented by:
Indigenously built stealth destroyer Chennai.

Teg Class stealth frigate Tarkash.
Fleet Tanker.
 Indigenously built stealth destroyer Chennai.

 Teg Class stealth frigate Tarkash.
 Fleet Tanker.
 The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force will be represented by:
JMSDF Ships Kaga, an Izumo Class Helicopter Destroyer.

Ikazuchi, a Guided Missile Destroyer.
Commander Escort Flotilla – 2 (CCF – 2).
P8I Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, integral helicopters and fighter aircraft.
 JMSDF Ships Kaga, an Izumo Class Helicopter Destroyer.

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 Ikazuchi, a Guided Missile Destroyer.
 Commander Escort Flotilla – 2 (CCF – 2).
 P8I Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, integral helicopters and fighter aircraft.
2. About JIMEX
The exercise was commenced in 2012. It is conducted biennially between the Indian
Navy and Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). It emphasizes on maritime
security cooperation. The last edition of JIMEX was conducted in October 2018 along the
Visakhapatnam coast.
3. Significance
Advanced level of operations and exercises indicates the upswing in Indo-Japanese
defence relations. The regular exercise shows a continued efforts by both Governments
in order to work closely for a more secure, open and inclusive global commons. JIMEX
2020 would further enhance the cooperation and mutual confidence between the two
navies. It would also enhance the bond of friendship between the two countries.
217. Highlights of September 26 meeting of the Quad Grouping
Senior officials from the Foreign Ministries of the Quad group of countries met virtually
on September 26, 2020. This meeting was held during the United Nations high level
week. This was a part of their periodic consultations on the Indo-Pacific region.
1. Key Facts
 In the virtual meet, ongoing and proposed practical cooperation in the areas of connectivity
and infrastructure development were discussed by the officials.
 Citing the importance of digital connectivity and secure networks, they discussed the ways to
promote the use of trusted vendors. This was specifically meant for the fifth generation (5G)
networks.
 U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo has been promoting clean telcos in order to stop
Chinese G5 giant Huawei from setting up shop networks in other countries.
 A list of companies has been considered by the U.S. administration in order to be free from
security risks and the risk of surveillance by the Chinese government.
 The Quad officials also discussed counter-terrorism, cyber security, maritime security and
quality infrastructure in the region.
2. ASEAN inclusiveness
The officials also committed to support the concept of ASEAN-centrality in the Indo-
Pacific Region. They also agree to recognize ASEAN’s leadership in the architecture of
the region. The grouping explored the ways to work together in the Mekong sub-region,
in the South China Sea and across the Indo-Pacific in order to support international law,
promote regional stability and post-pandemic recovery efforts. The ASEAN as well as
other countries would towards realizing “a common and promising vision for the Indo-
Pacific”.
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3. Bone of contention
USA though mention and forced upon “free and open Indo-Pacific” but the grouping has
been hesitant for the Quad to be seen as a framework to exclude or contain China.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also articulated an inclusive vision for the Indo
Pacific in 2018 at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore. But then, India-China relations
were on a high relative and there were no tensions and clashes along the Line of Actual
Control (LAC).
4. QUAD grouping
The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QSD) is also known as the Quad. It is an informal
strategic forum that includes the United States, Japan, Australia and India. The forum
was initiated in 2007 by Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe. They maintain semi-regular
summits, information exchanges and military drills between member countries.
5. ASEAN Nations
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a regional intergovernmental
organization that comprises of ten countries of Southeast Asia- Brunei Darussalam,
Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, and
Vietnam and one Observer – Papua New Guinea. The organization promotes
intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, military, political, security,
educational and sociocultural integration among the members and other countries in
Asia region.
218. World Environmental Health Day on 26 September
World Environmental Health Day is being observed globally today on 26th September.
The day is celebrated to throw the light on important works being done on the
environmental health around the world. Theme for the 2020 edition of the day is :
Environmental health, a key public health intervention in disease pandemic prevention.
It has been targeted towards preventing the disease and creating health-supportive
environments.
1. Background
 The World Environmental Health Day was launched by the International Federation of
Environmental Health (IFEH) council.
 The observance of the day was inaugurated in 2011 in Indonesia. On this occasion Indonesian
students-activists composed special hymn and performed it tin order to celebrate the launch
of this event.
 In 2012 the event was observed in Africa and Europe.
 In 2013 the event was further supported by Canadian, British, American, Australian and
Asian activists.
 Theme for 2019 was- ‘Climate change challenges, time for global Environmental Health to act
in unison’ in order to tackle climate changes.
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2. Significance
According to 2020 report by the world health organization (WHO), 24% of global deaths
that is 13.7 million deaths per year are related to the environment. So the day plays a
significant role in educating the public about methods of reducing the environmental
health issues and take precaution in order to avoid diseases.
3. International Federation of Environmental Health (IFEH)

The International Federation of Environmental Health was established in 1986.It is based
in London, England. The IFEH spreads knowledge about environmental health among
people and promotes cooperation between countries to improve the environmental
situation of our planet. Every year it announces a special theme and organizes various
activities in order to draw public attention to the problems of our environment.
219. ADB approved $300 million loan to develop Rajasthan’s secondary

towns
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a 300 million dollar (about Rs 2,200
crore) loan to develop the inclusive water supply, sanitation infrastructure and services
in secondary towns of Rajasthan.
1. Key Facts
 The project will improved water supply services for about 5.7 lakh people.
 It will enhance sanitation services for about 7.2 lakh people in at least 14 secondary towns.
 Secondary towns means the localities have 20,000 to one lakh residents.
 Water supply systems in at least eight project towns will improve by 2027 with the
implementation of the project.
 One lakh households including the urban poor households will from 5 new or rehabilitated
water treatment plants and 1,350 km of distribution networks.
 Under the project, Citywide sanitation systems will be developed which will be based on the
most cost-effective solutions.
 The project will be built on three related projects which were started earlier and sector
reforms funded by ADB in Rajasthan.
2. Significance of the project
220. DRDO commences Production of Pinaka Missiles
The Defense Research Development Organization (DRDO) has began the mass
production of Pinaka rockets on September 26, 2020. The Authority Holding Sealed
Particulars (AHSP), which is responsible for collecting and analyzing defense items, has
handed over the Pinaka weapon system production project to Directorate-General of
Quality Assurance.
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1. Background
The Indian government is currently working towards increasing the capacity of Defense
forces. The mass production is being done to counter border issues created by Pakistan
and China along line of control and line of actual control.
2. Pinaka Missiles
 The Pinaka missile system has a range of 37.5 kilometers.
 These are launched from multi barrel rocket launcher which is capable of launching 12
Rockets in 44 seconds.
 The system was designed and developed by Armament Research and Development
Establishment, a Pune based DRDO lab.
 India has been producing 5000 missiles every year currently.
 An advanced version of Pinaka is under development.
 Recently, an upgraded Pinaka system with a range of over 90 km was test fired.
3. History
The Pinaka was started being developed by the Defense Research and Development
Organization (DRDO) in 1980s. The project was started as an alternative to the multi-
barrel rocket launching systems of Russian make called Grad. The first successful test of
the project was done in 1990 with the successful tests of Pinaka Mark-1. The missile was
first used during the Kargil War of 1999.
221. World Bank approved 200 million dollar loan for safe water &
sanitation in Bangladesh
The World Bank (WB) has approved a 200 million dollar loan for Bangladesh in order to
improve access to safe water and sanitation services in the rural areas of the country.
The Bangladesh Rural Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) project will help 6 lakh
people to get access to clean water through piped water schemes in rural areas.
1. Highlights of the Project

 The project will provide sanitation services to over 3.6 million rural people in Bangladesh.
 The WB said that the project will help to prevent diseases.
 The project would also help people to protect them from pandemics like COVID 19 by
providing access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) facilities at homes and in public
places.
 The project would provide clean water and sanitation services. It will reduce diarrheal
diseases, improve nutrition, health and also reduce stunting among children under five.
 The project will also help to set up more than 2500 handwashing stations in public places.
 It will also set up overhead tanks for running water and sanitation facilities.
 To ensure the quality and sustainability of piped water scheme and fecal sludge
management, project will train the local entrepreneurs.
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2. International Development Association (IDA)
The International Development Association (IDA) is an international financial institution
under the World Bank. It offers concessional loans and grants to the world’s poorest
developing countries. It has been headquartered in Washington, D.C. , United States. It
was established in 1960. It was established with an objective to help the existing
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development by lending to developing
countries which suffer from the lowest gross national income. It is important to note
that, The International Development Association and International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development are collectively called as the World Bank.
222. India holds talk with Sri Lanka- Key Highlights
The India-Sri Lanka virtual Bilateral Summit held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi
and Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapaksa today on September 26, 2020. Pm Narendra Modi
thanked PM Mahinda Rajapaksa for accepting invitation for the virtual summit and also
congratulated the Sri Lankan PM for the victory of his party in the Sri Lankan elections.
This is the first time that PM Modi hold a bilateral meeting with the neighborhood amid
the current situation of COVID-19 pandemic. The two leaders discussed various bilateral
and regional issues.
1. Highlights
 PM Modi said that the relation between India and Sri Lanka is thousands of years old.
 PM Modi said that, India gives special priority to relations between India and Sri Lanka under
the India’s neighborhood first policy and the SAGAR doctrine.
 His counter part, expressed gratitude for the way in which India worked with and for other
countries during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 PM Mahinda Rajapaksa highlighted that the joint operation between India and Sri Lanka to
control the fire on MT New Diamond ship. He said that the tragedy provided an opportunity
for greater cooperation between the two nations.
2. India-Sri Lanka relation

India and Sri Lanka have also engaged for various bilateral projects including
infrastructure projects in Colombo that need to be renewed. It include,
3. India’s Neighborhood-first Policy

India’s neighborhood first policy actively focus on improving the ties with India’s
immediate neighbors. It is one of the major policy initiatives to bring back the focus on
its immediate neighborhood in South Asia. To enhance its neighborhood first policy India
has planned and executed many of the summits and assistance programme recently:
4. Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) Doctrine

It is India’s policy of maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. The Prime Minister
of India had first taken reference to SAGAR in a speech in March 2015 and elaborated it
under five points:
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September 28, 2020
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223. What is IQWAT?
It is an virtual platform that has been launched by three corporates Sanjay Kaul who
happens to be ex country head of Apple, India, Ajay Kaul who happens to be ex CEO of
Jubilant Food Works and Mukesh Kachroo who happens to be ex CTO, Gain Capital, USA.
It is an app to preserve and promote Kashmiri Pandit culture.
1. IQWAT
Iqwat is a virtual platform which allow Kashmiri Pandits to come together and engage in
professional and social networking in order to seek, explore, inspire, and collaborate. It is
a bridge between yesterday and today. The platform will provide a way to stay in touch
with their roots, culture and rich traditions. It will revive the folk tales and songs that
have been lost to time. It will also provide a foundation for the youth of the community
to rise and shine. The app will be rolled out in January 2021.
2. How the platform will be launched?

The app will be rolled out in two phases:
3. Background
Kashmiri Pandits have faced exodus seven times. Most recent being in 1990. They have
been forced to flee the Kashmir valley on account of being targeted by insurgents. Since
then, they have been scattered across India and abroad. Thus the culture, language and
heritage have eroded gradually. App will help in reviving the culture.
224. International Day for Universal Access to Information observed on

September 28
The 74th United Nations General Assembly proclaimed on 15th October 2019 that 28th
September 2020 would observe the International Day for Universal Access to
Information. 2020 edition of the day is focusing on the right to information in the times
of crisis. It is celebrated to showcase the advantages of statutory and constitutional
policies in order to provide public access to information.
1. Key facts
 The day is commonly called as the Access to Information Day.
 It was designated by the UNESCO General Conference, initially.
 The day was inaugurated in November 2015.
 This day was first observed on 28 September 2016.
 Since 2002, the day had been recognized as International Right to Know Day.
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2. Right to Information in India
Right to Information (RTI) is governed by the Right to Information Act, 2005 I India. It
replaced by Freedom of Information Act, 2002. Key features of the act include-
225. World Tourism Day Celebrated on September 27
The World Tourism Day is celebrated on September 27 as an annual event. The day is
celebrated to raise awareness on the role played by tourism sector in integrating the
international community. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has
designated year 2020 as the “Year of Tourism and Rural Development”. The day was
celebrated under the theme– Tourism and Rural Development, this year. It encourages
the celebration of the role played by tourism in job creation.
1. Highlights
 For the first time, World Tourism Day was hosted by the Mercosur Bloc nations this year.
 Usually, the day is hosted by a single member country of the United Nations.
 The idea to designate a host country was given by UNWTO In 1997.
 Blue is the colour of World Tourism Day.
2. How India celebrated the day?

 The day was celebrated by the Ministry of Tourism.
 Sophisticated Analytical and Technical Help Institutes (SAATHI ) Application was launched on
the occasion by the Ministry of Tourism along with Quality Council of India. It will assist the
hospitality industry in continuing to operate safely and build confidence among staff,
employees and guests about the safety of the hotels and units.
 The minister of tourism Shri Dharmendra Pradhan also announced to adopt 100% clean fuel
for prime tourist cities in order to help protect the monuments and ensure cleaner
environment in the cities.
 India also integrated the day with “Dekho apna desh” Mantra.
3. Significance
According to the UNWTO, Tourism is a lifeline, that offer young people a chance to earn
a living without having to migrate. It employs one in every ten people on Earth. In the
present time of COVID-19 Pandemic, 100-120 million tourism jobs are at risk.
Latest UNWTO World Tourism data shows that the lockdown led to a 98% fall in
international tourist numbers in May as compared to 2019. Thus, the celebration of the
day will now encourage the tourism sector and help us move beyond the pandemic, by
bringing people closer in advancing the global cooperation in the current situation.
4. Mercosur Bloc
The Bloc was established in 1991 under Treaty of Asuncion. It is an economic and
political bloc including Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. Other associate
members of the bloc include Chile, Bolivia, Guyana, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and
Suriname. The bloc work with an objective to promote fluid movement of goods, current
and people. It also promote free trade. The official language of the bloc include Guarani,
Portuguese and Spanish.
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226. Nation pays homage to Bhagat Singh on his 113th Birth
Anniversary
Nation is paying homage to the revolutionary freedom fighter Bhagat Singh on his 113th
birth anniversary today on September 28, 2020. Bhagat Singh was born on this day in
1907, in Banga village of Lyallpur district of undivided Punjab province.
1. About Bhagat Singh

 Bhagat Singh was an Indian socialist revolutionary.
 He turned out to be a hero because of violence against the British India and his execution at
young age.
 He fought against British rule for the India’s independence.
 He was hanged in Lahore jail at the age of 23, along with Rajguru and Sukhdev.
2. Why was he hanged?
3. Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA)

Bhagat Singh was a member of HSRA which was founded by Chandrasekhar Azad. HSRA
was created in the light of political vacuum that was created after the Chauri-Chaura
incident. HSRA had created two bomb factories, one at Firozpur. The bomb factory at the
Firozpur has been declared as national monument by Government of Punjab.
4. Chauri Chaura incident

In 1920, Non-Cooperation movement was launched against British rule. On February 4,
1922, protestors from the Non-Cooperation Movement clashed with police at the place
called Chauri- Chaura in Gorakhpur. The police then open fired on them while protesters
in return attacked and set ablaze the police station. This incident is called as Chauri-
Chaura incident and it led to the suspension of the Non-Cooperation movement.
227. World Rabies Day: 28 September
World Rabies Day is observed on 28th September every year, globally. It is celebrated to
raise awareness regarding the impact of rabies on humans and animals, to provide
information and to advice preventive measures that is needed to cure the disease. The
day also encourage people to take efforts in order to control rabies. This year, the day is
being celebrated under the theme ‘End Rabies: Collaborate, Vaccinate’.
1. Key Facts
 The theme for the 14th World Rabies Day focuses on vaccination and collaboration.
 The day also commemorate the death anniversary of the French chemist and
microbiologist, Louis Pasteur’. He was the first person to develop the first rabies vaccine.
 The day was endorsed by Pan American Health Organization, World Organization for Animal
Health, WHO and the USA Centers for disease control and prevention.
 The first World Rabies Campaign took place in 2007.
 It reached to more than 100 countries by 2009.
 By the year 2009, message had reached to the 100 million people and some 3 million dogs
were vaccinated.
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2. Rabies in India
36% of rabies death in the world occur in India because of insufficient dog vaccines and
lack of awareness. More than 20,000 people die of rabies in India every year. India has
around 30 million stray dogs that leads to 96% of rabies in human. In this regard, India
launched a National Rabies Control Programe. It has two components that include the
animal component and the human component. Under the animal component, following
measures are taken:
3. Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC)

The GARC was founded in 2007 and has been headquartered at Manhattan, Kansas,
United States. Louis Nel is the current executive director of GARC. It aims at preventing
human deaths from dog-mediated rabies. It has an objective of eliminating deaths from
rabies by 2030, completely.
228. What is Sandalwood Spike Disease which is Threatening

Sandalwood Forests in India?
India’s sandalwood trees are facing a serious threat from the destructive disease called
Sandalwood Spike Disease (SSD). The infection has remerged in the natural habitats of
sandalwood in Kerala and Karnataka and Kerala.
1. Key Facts
 As per the report, the sandalwood trees in Marymoor forests of Kerala and several other
forest regions in Karnataka are heavily infected with this disease.
 This disease is caused by bacterial parasites which are transmitted by insect vectors.
 The report says, cutting down the tree is the only option left as of now in order to prevent the
spread of the disease.
 Reports highlight that, around 1% to 5% of sandalwood trees are lost every year in India as a
result of this disease. The disease could also wipe out the entire population if timely
measures are not taken to prevent its spread.
2. Sandalwood Spike Disease (SSD)

 Sandalwood is a semi-root parasitic tree which is the source of the East Indian sandalwood
and oil. In the tree, the Spike disease is caused by phytoplasma.
 The disease is characterized by huge reduction in leaf size which is also accompanied by
stiffening and reduction of internode length.
 At the advanced stage of the disease, entire shoot gives the appearance of a spike
inflorescence.
 Spiked trees usually die within 1–2 years after the visible symptoms.
 This disease was first reported in 1899 in Kodagu. In past, between 1903 and 1916 million of
sandalwood trees were cut down in Mysuru region due to the disease.
 Since there was no remedy, the Maharaja of Mysuru announced a reward of Rs 10,000 for
those who find a remedy for the disease.
 As the time proceed impact of the disease also increased. In between 1980 and 2000 the
number of sandalwood trees in Karnataka reduced by 25% of usual growing stock.
 Following this, the International Union of Conservation of Nature to declare Sandalwood as
“Vulnerable” in 1998.
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3. Pathogen- sandal spike phytoplasma
The pathogen, sandal spike phytoplasma, was first detected in 1969 by electron
microscopy. These are the pleomorphic and fragile organisms that occupy small areas
within the sieve tubes (phloem) of the host plants. The organism of the phytoplasma
disease has not been isolated and cultivated in vitro. This is the biggest obstacle that
limit the research on the disease.
4. Recent Steps by Government

Currently, the spread of the infection is due to restrictions on green felling in forests. It
has allowed vectors to spread the disease to healthy trees. Reason being this,
production of sandalwood in India has reduced from 4,000 tonnes in 1930s to 300
tonnes. To combat the disease, Institute of Wood Science and Technology (IWST) has
joined hands with the Pune-based National Centre for Cell Sciences for a three-year
study. This has been initiated by the Union Ministry of AYUSH. Total fund allocation for
the initiative is ₹50 lakh.
5. History
Tipu Sultan also declared Sandalwood tree as the “Royal Tree of Mysuru” in 1792. Thus,
India has been a traditional leader in sandalwood production. India has been exporting
sandalwood oil since 18th century.
229. Union Health Minister launched Vaccine portal for COVID-19
Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan inaugurated the vaccine portal for Covid-19 on
September 28, 2020 in order to create awareness among masses.
1. Key Highlights
 Portal will share the vaccine related information.
 It will update regarding the Indian efforts towards vaccine development against COVID-19.
 Currently, 3 vaccines are undergoing clinical trials for COVID-19 in India.
 The Health Minister also launched the Indian Council of Medical research (ICMR) history
timeline depicting 108 year journey of the Council.
 The timeline displays key milestones and captures policy and program interventions by ICMR.
 He also released a NIN History Book on its 100 year Journey.
 The Real Time data collection Program “Mapping of Nutrition and Health Status’ was also
launched. This will collect data on dietary intake through crowd sourcing approach.
 ICMR-NIN web portal – It is a first of its kind web portal that was launched. It has been
developed to collect data which will be useful in the present complications created by COVID-
19 pandemic.
 A report named ‘What India Eats’ was also released by the health minister in order to know
the main dietary patterns in India. This is important for nutrition and health policy makers so
as to understand distributions in diets within populations.
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2. National Clinical Registry for COVID-19
National Clinical Registry for COVID-19 was launched by the Ministry of Health & Family
Welfare, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and All India Institute of Medical
Sciences (AIIMS) New Delhi . The registry is aimed at collecting good quality real time
clinical data in order to inform evidence-based clinical practice, research, formulating
guidelines and policy.
3. Stroke Care Unit

The ICMR has also initiated to provide Stroke treatment through state of the art Mobile
Stroke Unit in Tezpur and Dibrugarh areas of Assam. The stroke care unit was
inaugurated by Union Health and family welfare Minister Harsh Vardhan via video
conferencing.
230. Defence Minister unveils Defence Acquisition Procedure-2020
The Defence minister Rajnath Singh unveiled the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) -
2020 today on September 28, 2020. The minister said that the new DAP 2020 will
empower the Indian domestic industry through Make in India initiative.
1. Highlights
 The DAP is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
 It aims of turning India into a global manufacturing hub under the Make In India Initiative.
2. Provisions
 The Offset guidelines have been revised, Under the new offset guidelines, preference will be
given to manufacture of complete defence products over components.
 The new DAP also protect the interests of Indian domestic industry. The categories including
the Buy(Indian-IDDM), Make I, Make II, Production Agency in Design & Development,
OFB/DPSU and SP model will be exclusively reserved for Indian Vendors. This, it meets the
criteria of Ownership and Control by resident Indian citizens.
 It Notify a List of Weapons/Platforms for Ban on Import.
 Request For Information (RFI ) stage has been introduced that will explore willingness of the
prospective foreign vendors in order to progressively undertake manufacture and setup an
indigenous eco system.
 New Category of Buy (Global – Manufacture in India) has been added that
incorporates ‘manufacture of either the entire or a part of the equipment including the
spares, assemblies, sub-assemblies and Maintenance.
 Contractual Enablement has been incorporated that optimizes Life Cycle Support costs and
system enhancements through indigenous eco system incorporated.
 FDI in Defence Manufacturing- It has incorporated new category ‘Buy (Global – Manufacture in
India)’ to encourage foreigners to setup ‘manufacturing or maintenance entities’ through its
subsidiary in India .
 Time Bound Defence Procurement Process and Faster Decision Making PMU be set up to
facilitate obtaining advisory and consultancy support to streamline the Acquisition process.
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231. Health in India Report Released
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation has released the “Health in
India” report. The main objective of the report was to gather quantitative data on India’s
health sector. The report have highlighted on the health of religious communities across
country.
1. Background
The report has been prepared on the basis of information provided by the NSS Schedule
25.0 (Household Consumption: Health). The data was collected through a sample survey
of around 1.13 households that include 5.55 lakh people.
2. Findings of the Report

 The report highlights that around 7.5% of Indians suffered from ailments.
 6.8% suffered from ailments in the rural area while in Urban area, the numbers were high at
9.1%.
 Report says, the Zoroastrians were the most susceptible to ailments. Around 31.1% of
Zoroastrians were suffered from ailments as of July 2020 as per a report.
 The percentage of sick people other communities are
Jains: 11.2%
Sikhs: 11%
Christians: 10.5%
Muslims: 8.1%
Buddhists: 8%
Hindus: 7.2%
 Jains: 11.2%
 Sikhs: 11%
 Christians: 10.5%
 Muslims: 8.1%
 Buddhists: 8%
 Hindus: 7.2%
 Report states that, women were more susceptible to suffering than men.
 Around 6.1% of males were suffering from ailments in rural area while percentage of women
in rural area was 7.6%. On the other hand, In urban areas, 8.2% of males and 10% of
females were sick of ailments.
 Thus, number of females suffered from ailments were high as compared to male in both the
urban and rural area.
 The survey defines ailment as a deviation faced by the person in his or her physical well
being.
3. Relation between Health and Religion

The relation between health and religion is highly important in the manner that many
religious practices helps to reduce the impacts of some of the diseases. The religious
practices works as a guard against blood pressure. These practices also helps to
strengthen the immune system.
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September 29, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
232. Highlights of India- Denmark Green Strategic Partnership
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen held a
virtual bilateral summit on September 28. 2020. In his opening remarks PM Narendra
Modi said that this virtual summit will prove useful for India-Denmark relations and will
also help in creating a common approach towards global challenges while the Prime
Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen in her opening remark said that the Summit is a
milestone on our bilateral relations and our forward-looking agreement on green
strategic partnership.
1. Highlights
 Indian side referred to important reforms in agriculture and labour sector brought by the
government recently. The Prime Minister also mentioned that Denmark has been
continuously participating in the Vibrant Gujarat Summit since 2009.
2. India-Denmark Green Strategic Partnership

 According to a Joint Statement. Both the Prime Ministers confirmed the close partnership in
addressing global challenges and solutions on green energy transition and climate change.
 They also agree to be at the forefront in the global fight against climate change.
 The two countries have set very ambitious national targets on climate and energy in order to
contribute to an ambitious implementation of the Paris Agreement.
 The two countries want to show to the world that how the world that delivering on ambitious
climate and sustainable energy goals is possible.
 They agreed to join efforts and initiatives to support and promote a rule-based multilateral
system.
 The multilateral system includes,
strong multilateral cooperation to face the urgency to step up global efforts to tackle the
global challenges on energy and climate change.
common commitment to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Renewable
Energy Agency (IREA) and the International Solar Alliance(ISA).
 strong multilateral cooperation to face the urgency to step up global efforts to tackle the
global challenges on energy and climate change.
 common commitment to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the International Renewable
Energy Agency (IREA) and the International Solar Alliance(ISA).
233. WHO and Partners to roll out 120 million Rapid Diagnostic Tests for
COVID-19
The World Health Organization announced on September 29, 2020 that it will roll out 120
million rapid diagnostic tests for COVID-19 joining hands with its partners. This would
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allow the lower- and middle-income countries to fill in the testing gap with richer
countries.
1. Key Facts
 These rapid diagnostic tests will be antigen based.
 The price of a single test kit is to be 5 USD per piece.
 The programe will begin by October 2020.
 It will help in reaching to those areas where the Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests do not
reach.
2. Background
The high-income and developed countries are currently carrying 292 tests per day per
100,000 people. While the low-income countries and developing countries are
conducting just 14 tests per 100,000 people. Therefore, the testing capabilities of these
countries needs to be increased. Antigen Tests would amplify the process. Further, the
PCR tests are expensive and are generally used by rich countries. It also require large
number of experts to conduct the test.
3. Antigen Tests
The Antigen based rapid diagnostic tests look for proteins or antigens that are found on
the surface of the virus. A rapid antigen test (RAT) is suitable for point-of-care testing
which directly detects the presence or absence of an antigen. They are considered less
accurate. They are much faster than the high-grade genetic tests called the PCR tests.
4. Significance
The World Health Organization (WHO) finds the rapid diagnostic tests is of great
significance specially where community transmission is widespread and nucleic acid
amplification based diagnostic tests (NAAT) such as PCR- tests are unavailable.
234. World Heart Day being celebrated on September 29, 2020
September 29 is observed as World Heart Day. It is an initiative by the World Heart

Federation. It is observed in order to spread awareness about cardiovascular diseases
(CVD), including heart disease and stroke.
1. Key Facts
 The day is aimed at drawing people’s attention to heart ailments and the associated health
issues.
 The initiative was launched in 2000 by the World Heart Federation.
 It is as an annual event and is celebrated on 29th day of September since then.
 World Heart Day is also commemorated to promote different preventative steps and changes
in lifestyle in order to avoid cardiovascular diseases including the heart attack, stroke, heart
failure and any other related condition.
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2. WHO estimates on CVDs
The World Health Organization estimates that over 17.9 million people die of CVDs every
year. This accounts for over 31% of global deaths. One-third of these deaths are
premature that is below 70 years of age. About 80 % of the CVDs turns into heart
attacks or strokes. WHO also estimate that 75 % cases come from low and middle-
income countries.
3. CVD cases in India

As per the Lancet report of September 2018, CVDs contributed to around 28 % of the
total deaths In India in 2016 as compared to 15.2 % in 1990. As per the report, the CVDs
are more prevalent In Punjab, Kerala and Tamil Nadu where it accounts for at least 5000
per 100,000 people. The report further states, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh are the
only states where prevalence of CVDs is less than 3,000 per 100,000 people. Overall, In
India, the prevalence of CVDs accounts for around 54.5 million.
4. Preventive Policy
India’s National Health Policy 2017 has been launched with an aim to reduce premature
mortality from CVDs, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases to 25% by 2025.
5. World Heart Federation

The World Heart Federation is a non governmental organisation. It is headquartered in
Geneva, Switzerland.
235. A first-of-its-kind Museum on Ganga: “Ganga Avalokan” to be

Inaugurated
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 29, 2020 will inaugurate six ‘Namami
Gange’ projects mostly relating to the sewage treatment in Uttarakhand. The Prime
Minister will also dedicate a museum on Ganga named- “Ganga Avlokan” located at the
Chandi Ghat to the Nation.
1. Highlights
 The Prime Minister will launch a book “Rowing Down the Ganges” on the occasion. It has
been co-published by National Mission for Clean Ganga and Wildlife Institute of India.
 The Prime Minister is also going to release a logo of Jal Jeevan Mission, Magdarshika for Gram
Panchayats and Paani Samitis under Jal Jeevan Mission.
2. About the Project

 The sewage treatment capacity in Uttarakhand was limited to only 61.5 MLD in 2014. Out of
this, 45 MLD (Million Litres per Day) capacity needed improvement.
 So under the Namami Gange, 45 MLD STP (Sewage Treatment Plant) capacity has been
rehabilitated and 153 MLD new capacity has been created.
 The projects include:
Project in Haridwar- It will increase the city’s sewage treatment capacity to 145 MLD from the
present 45 MLD.
Jagjeetpur Project upgradation- Upgradation of project having capacity of 27 MLD.
Jagjeetpur Project construction- This sewage treatment plant has the capacity of 68 MLD It is
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the first sewerage project which is awarded under Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM).
Sarai Project, Haridwar- having capacity of 18 MLD (Tertiary treatment)
Rishikesh sewage Plant- Generation in the city was 14.6 MLD in 2016 which was upgraded
from 6 MLD in 2014-15. Here, a new STP of 26 MLD has been completed at a sanctioned cost
of Rs 158 crore.
STP at Chandreshwar Nagar- it has a capacity of 7.5 MLD.
Chorpani Project- the capacity of Chorpani in Muni ki Reti project is 5 MLD
2 projects at Badrinath- having capacity of 1 MLD and 0.01 MLD.
 Project in Haridwar- It will increase the city’s sewage treatment capacity to 145 MLD from the
present 45 MLD.
 Jagjeetpur Project upgradation- Upgradation of project having capacity of 27 MLD.
 Jagjeetpur Project construction- This sewage treatment plant has the capacity of 68 MLD It is
the first sewerage project which is awarded under Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM).
 Sarai Project, Haridwar- having capacity of 18 MLD (Tertiary treatment)
 Rishikesh sewage Plant- Generation in the city was 14.6 MLD in 2016 which was upgraded
from 6 MLD in 2014-15. Here, a new STP of 26 MLD has been completed at a sanctioned cost
of Rs 158 crore.
 STP at Chandreshwar Nagar- it has a capacity of 7.5 MLD.
 Chorpani Project- the capacity of Chorpani in Muni ki Reti project is 5 MLD
 2 projects at Badrinath- having capacity of 1 MLD and 0.01 MLD.
3. Ganga Avalokan Museum

The Prime Minister will inaugurate the nation’s first museum on Ganga. It has been
dedicated to showcase the biodiversity, rejuvenation and culture in Ganga river. The
museum is located at Chandi Ghat, Haridwar.
4. Namami Gange
The Namami Gange programme was launched with an objective to achieve Effective
Abatement of Pollution and Conservation and Rejuvenation of National River Ganga. The
mission is operated under Ministry of Jal Shakti and implemented by the National Mission
for Clean Ganga. Recently, the World Bank approved a loan of Rs 3,000 crores for 5
years under the project. Under the mission, 313 projects has been cleared so far at a
cost of Rs 25,000 crores.
236. DAC approved proposals for capital acquisition of equipment worth

Rs. 2,290 crores
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the proposals for the capital
acquisition of equipment that the Armed Forces of India requires at an cost of Rs. 2,900
crores. The approval was given on September 28, 2020 by the Defence Minister Rajnath
Singh.
1. Approved Equipment’s
 The armed forces would procure 72,000 assault rifles from the United States, in the aftermath
of ongoing border dispute with China.
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 The DAC has also approved the procurement of Smart Anti Airfield Weapon and Static HF
Trans-receiver sets, under the buy Indian category.
 HF radio sets are being procured approximately at a cost of Rs. 540 crores. This will enable
seamless communication for the field units the force.
 Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon will be procured at an approx. cost of Rs. 970 crores in order to
enhance the firepower of the Air Force and Navy.
 Procurement of SIG SAUER Assault Rifles at the cost of approx Rs. 780 crores. This will equip
the Frontline troops of the Indian Army.
2. Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)

The Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)- 2020 was released by the Defence Minister
Rajnath Singh on September 28, 2020. DAP will be effective from October 1, 2020. The
DAP policy has been aligned with the government’s vision of creating Atmanirbhar
Bharat and encouraging the Indian Domestic Industry under the Make in India to make
India a global manufacturing hub. The new policy have provisions to encourage Foreign
Direct Investment (FDI) in order to establish manufacturing hubs to provide protection to
the Domestic Industry of India. It includes the procurement from both the domestic and
foreign vendors.
237. Why India is bringing Indo-Pacific and ASEAN Policies under single
Unit?
The Ministry of External Affairs recently announced that it will create a new Oceania
Territorial Division having its centre at Australia. The division will integrate ASEAN
divisions and the Indo-Pacific under it.
1. Why India integrated the two divisions?

China is increasing its influence in the Indian Ocean. So, it becomes essential for India
to seek international in order to counter the Chinese influence. So this integration is
being done with an aim to align policies in the region from the western Pacific to the
Andaman Sea. which is considered by China as its strategic backyard. Apart from that,
India is also actively taking part in the affairs of groupings like QUAD along with Australia
and Japan, Indian Ocean Rim Association etc. and has been providing soft assistance to
neighboring countries and countries surrounding the Indian Ocean in order to counter
the Chinese influence.
2. Indo- Pacific Division

India created the Indo-Pacific division in 2019 which include Indian Ocean Rim
Association, QUAD countries and ASEAN Nations.
3. Indian Ocean Division

The Indian Ocean Division was created to bring together Maldives, Sri Lanka, Mauritius
and Seychelles. It also included Comoros, Madagascar and Reunion Islands later.
4. How India is increasing her influence in the Indian Ocean region?

India have signed many deals and have established following military cooperation’s on
foreign soil:
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238. Cat Que Virus? – ICMR warns of another virus from China
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has warned of the danger that is being
posed by another virus that have been found in China named ‘Cat Que Virus’ (CQV).
ICMR warns that the virus has potential to spread diseases all across India.
1. Key Facts
 The virus may cause febrile illnesses, meningitis and paediatric encephalitis among humans.
 Antibodies for the virus were found in two out of the 883 human serum samples taken from
Indian states while doing the research at the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune. This
shows that these people have been infected with the virus.
 The two samples that were tested positive for CQV antibodies belong to Karnataka from 2014
and 2017.
2. Why India should worry?

As per the ICMR study, Indian mosquitoes are susceptible to CQV. This could also
become a public health pathogen. These virus have been spotted in culex mosquitoes
and pigs across China and Vietnam. It is a cause of concern for India since India is also
home to species of culex mosquitoes.
3. Cat Que Virus

Cat Que virus (CQV) is a simbu serogroup virus of the genus Orthobunyavirus of family
Bunyaviridae. It was first isolated in 2004 from mosquitoes during surveillance of
arbovirus activity in northern Vietnam. Its natural host is a mosquito called Culex
tritaeniorhynchus. Apart from that, domestic pigs are also considered the primary
mammalian host.
4. Culex tritaeniorhynchus
Culex tritaeniorhynchus which is commonly called as Culex is a species of mosquito. It is
the main vector of the disease called Japanese encephalitis and also cause West Nile
fever, St. Louis encephalitis and viral diseases in birds and horses. The mosquito is a
native of northern Asia, northeast and sub-Saharan Africa. Female mosquitoes are
strongly anthropophilic which usually target large animals like cattle and swine for blood
extraction.
239. Why Amnesty International quits India Operations?
Rights group Amnesty International has halted its operations in India after alleging a
“witch-hunt” by the government.

 The group said, It is being targeted over its adverse reports on alleged rights violations
during the February Delhi riots and in Jammu and Kashmir after the abrogation of Article 370.
The group also had to cut off its staff since its accounts were frozen as per the direction
government.
 While, the government said that the global rights watchdog was receiving foreign funds
illegally and it was never registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act.
178
2. FDI in the NGO
Foreign direct investment for the Non Government Organizations (NGOs) is highly
regulated. The Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) is the regulatory body that
regulate the foreign funding for NGO’s in India. Currently, 30,000 Indian NGO’s are
registered with the FCRA to get the foreign funding.
3. About Amnesty International (AI)

Amnesty International is a non-governmental organization. Amnesty International was
founded in London in 1961. It has been headquartered in the United Kingdom that is
mainly focused on human rights across the world. It has more than eight million
members and supporters across the world.
240. India Protests Election Announcement at Gilgit-Baltistan by

Pakistan
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that they have come across reports
regarding elections in the “Gilgit-Baltistan” Assembly that will be held on November 15,
2020 . The ministry took a strong objection to it.
1. Key Facts
 The Government of India also rejected the “Gilgit-Baltistan (Elections and Caretaker
Government) Amendment Order 2020”.
 India has rejected attempts by Pakistan to bring material changes in areas under its illegal
and forcible occupation.
 The ministry said that the government of Pakistan has no locus standi on territories it has
illegally and forcibly occupied.
2. Gilgit-Baltistan
Gilgit-Baltistan also called as the North Area is a disputed territory. But Pakistan is likely
to change it after an assembly election on November 15. This will provide fuller political
rights to the roughly 1.2 million residents of the region. The region will become the fifth
State of Pakistan after Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the
amendment that Pakistan has moved to grant full statehood to the region.
3. What is the Issue?

IN 2018 order, the supreme court of Pakistan allowed the amendment to the
Government to conduct the general elections in the region. Now the election is going to
happen in November. India’s stand is that Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and
Ladakh, including the areas of Gilgit and Baltistan, are an integral part of India.
4. Background
 Pakistan occupied 78,114 sq km of the land of Jammu and Kashmir, including the ‘Northern
Areas’, during the first Indo-Pak war.
 Pakistan was governing the Gilgit-Baltistan directly from the central authority. The region was
separated from ‘Azad Jammu and Kashmir’.
 Pakistan gave away 5,180 sq km of the region to China, despite local protests in 1963.
 Under Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, a new name Federally Administered Northern Areas
was given to the region.
179
 Now, the region is going to become Pakistan’s fifth state.
5. Importance of the region

 It is rich with mines of gold, emerald and strategically important minerals.
 The region is known for its extraordinary scenic beauty, diversity, ancient communities and
languages.
 It is home to K-2 which is the second tallest mountain in the world.
 The region is water-rich where biggest hydroelectricity project Diamer-Bhasha dam was
launched in July 2020.
6. India’s stand
After Pakistan’s announcement of holding the legislative election in Gilgit-Baltistan, India
have claimed her territorial sovereignty over the region. Ministry said that the election
have no legal basis. India has been opposing Pakistan’s activities in Gilgit-Baltistan since
long. It recently opposed the Diamer-Bhasha dam project. India has also objected to
build and operate the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in the region.
7. India’s recent steps to claim the region

India launched its new political map in 2019 that showed the Gilgit-Baltistan region as
part of the new Union Territory of Ladakh. Though, In response to this, Pakistan claimed
the whole Jammu and Kashmir in its map.
241. Serum Institute to produce additional 100 million COVID-19 vaccine

doses
Serum Institute of India (SII) has announced today on September 29, 2020 that it will
produce an additional 100 million COVID-19 vaccine doses for India and other low and
middle-income countries in 2021. The announcement is taking forward the collaboration
that was made between the Serum Institute of India, GAVI Vaccine Alliance and the Bill &
Melinda Gates Foundation.
1. Key facts
 Earlier, in August the institute had announced to deliver 100 million doses to India and other
low and middle-income countries.
 With the latest announcement, a total of 200 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines will now be
delivered to India by 2021.
 The Serum Institute of India in a press release said with the support of Gavi and the Bill &
Melinda Gates Foundation the manufacturing would be accelerated further.
 The COVID-19 vaccines will cost a maximum of USD 3 per dose.
 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will be funding a further USD 150 million to Gavi under the
Strategic Investment Fund. The total funding provided through this collaboration stands at
USD 300 million.
2. Recent updates by Ministry

 The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare assured that first COVID-19 vaccine will
likely be available in India by early 2021.
 The Health Ministry recently launched a special web portal developed by Indian Council of
Medical Research (ICMR) in order to provide all the important information regarding
180
coronavirus and vaccine development. A National Clinical Registry of COVID-19 has been
created by ICMR to collect all data regarding the treatments, clinical and laboratory
investigations and the outcomes of hospitalized COVID-19 patients in India.
September 30, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
242. Harijan Sevak Sangh : Celebrating its Foundation Day Today.
Harijan Sevak Sangh was founded today, on September 30, in 1932, when Gandhi Ji was
on fast in the Yervada Jail, Pune.
1. Background
 Just before that, during the Second Round Table Conferece in London in 1931, Gandhi ji had
opposed the segregation of the depressed classes of the Hindu community into a separate
electoral group.
 Gandhi Ji said that, this step is a device of British government to create a split in the Hindu
community in order to strengthen its policy of divide and rule.
 So, On 30 September, Gandhi founded All India Anti Untouchability League, so as to remove
untouchability in the society.
 The league was later renamed as Harijan Sevak Sangh meaning “Servants of Untouchables
Society”.
 In that regard, the Harijan- a weekly newspaper was also started.
 Gandhi ji called untouchables Harijan which means children of God.
2. Key Facts
 Gandhi ji began to fast On 20th September 1932. So this day was observed as a day of
fasting and prayer.
 This step of Gandhi ji to support the untouchables was further supported by Poet
Rabindranath Tagore At Shantiniketan. He spoke to a large gathering stating them the
significance of the fast and the urgency of fighting an age-old evil.
3. Harijan Sevak Sangh

It is a non-profit organisation which was founded by Mahatma Gandhi in 1932 in order to
eradicate untouchability in India, working for Harijan or Dalit people and their upliftment.
It is headquartered at Kingsway Camp in Delhi having its branches in 26 states across
India. Ghanshyam Das Birla was its founding president and Amritlal Takkar was its
Secretary.
4. Function
The Sangh helped the depressed classes to provide them access to public places
including temples, schools, roads and water resources. The Sangh also conducted inter
dining and inter caste marriages. It constructed and maintains several schools and
hostels.
181
243. India-Bangladesh to set up monitoring committee to review project
implementation
India and Bangladesh have agreed to set up a ‘High Level Monitoring Committee’ to
regularly review the progress of implementation of projects which are being run with
Line of Credit (Loc) provided by India. The committee would be headed by the Secretary,
Economic Relations Division of Bangladesh and High Commissioner of India in
Bangladesh.
1. Highlights
 The decision was taken during the 6th meeting of the Joint Consultative Commission (JCC)
held on a virtual platform.
 The meeting was chaired by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister of
Bangladesh Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen jointly.
 India have assured Bangladesh that it will expedite the investment proposal from Bangladesh
in case they face delays in approval.
 Bangladesh has invited investment from top investor of India that will encourage the
potential investors to invest in Bangladesh.
 Both sides agreed to hold the next meeting of the Annual Defence Dialogue in November.
 Both sides also agreed to strengthen the Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP) in
order to bring such incidents to zero.
2. Bangladesh’s Requests
 Bangladesh in the meeting also urged an early implementation of the Defence Line of Credit.
 To facilitate travel of certain travellers, both countries agreed to initiate ‘air travel bubble’
flights. However, Bangladesh sought resumption of regular travel through the land ports at
the earliest.
 The Foreign Minister of Bangladesh have also requested India to resume granting of visas to
the Bangladeshi nationals including medical patients, students and business persons.
3. India’s stand
 The External Affairs Minister emphasized on the importance of Bangladesh in India’s
‘Neighborhood First’ policy.
 India have also directed officials to expedite exchange of required information related to
Phase-III testing, vaccine distribution, co-production and delivery in Bangladesh.
4. Rohingya Issue
India and Bangladesh have also reiterated the importance of safe, speedy and
sustainable return of the displaced persons from the Rakhine state of Myanmar.
Bangladesh said that delay in resolving the issue of Rohingyas might lead to emergence
of radicalism which would disrupt the peace and stability in the region.
244. 2nd Sero Survey report: Urban slum & non-slum areas have higher
prevalence of Corona infection.
Second sero-survey findings were released on September 29, 2020 by the Indian Council
for Medical research (ICMR).
1. Key Findings
182
 6.6% of over 29 thousand people, aged 10 and above, surveyed from 17th August to 22nd
September.
 They showed evidence of past exposure to COVID-19.
 7.1% of the adult population, aged 18 and above, also showed evidence of past exposure to
the virus.
 Report says that, 1 in 15 individuals aged 10 years and above were estimated to be exposed
to SARS-CoV2 by August.
 Report shows that a considerable population is still susceptible to COVID-19.
 As per the report, containment and behavioral change at the population level have effectively
checked the potential spread of SARS-CoV2.
 As per the report, risk in urban slums was twice than that in non-slum urban areas and four
times the risk in rural areas.
 The second sero-survey was conducted in the same 700 villages and wards from 70 districts
from 21 states as surveyed during the first survey but on different households and
individuals.
2. Sero- Survey
Sero-survey tests the blood serum of a group of individuals to determine the presence of
antibodies against that infection in them. People from different zones in a district are
randomly tested for COVID-19 to check if they have developed antibodies against the
infection even though they are asymptomatic or show mild symptoms. The survey
involves collection of venous blood samples from random individuals in each selected
district, divided into low risk and high-risk groups.
3. How does it survey?

While conducting the survey, Throat and nasal swabs are collected for RT-PCR tests,
blood samples are collected for detecting Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies for ELISA
testing. Later, IgG ELISA-based testing of serum samples replaces RT-PCR based testing
for surveillance purpose. After the survey, Data on demographic characteristics are
collected on a specifically designed standard data collection form. The data are then
analyzed locally for action using standard indicator formats.
4. Conclusion
Thus, the survey evaluates the trend of covid1-19 and establish systematic surveillance
for SARS-CoV-2 infection in all districts, to determine the burden of infection at the
community level, to monitor the transmission trends and help generate evidence on role
of asymptomatic and mild infections in transmission and to Check for community
transmission in any part of the country. The ICMR in the second sero survey report said
that a large proportion of the population is still susceptible to the virus which can only
be prevented by adhering to the 5T strategy — test, track, trace, treat, technology.
245. Defence India Startup Challenge-4 launched by Defence Minister
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has launched the Defence India Startup Challenge (DISC
4) during the iDEX event on September 29, 2020. The challenge features the initiatives
which are aimed at expanding the horizons of Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)
183
ecosystem. iDEX4Fauji initiative and Product Management Approach (PMA) guidelines
were also launched during the event.
1. Defence India Startup Challenge (DISC 4)

Under the DISC 4, eleven challenges from Armed forces, OFB&DPSUs were made open to
startups, innovators, MSMEs in order to provide their innovative ideas on technologies.
These technologies could have their application in the defence sector. The eleven
challenges include:
2. iDEX4Fauji initiative
iDEX4Fauji is a first of its kind initiative. It has been launched to support the innovations
identified by members of the Indian Armed Forces. The initiative will bolster innovation
ideas from soldiers and field formations. The iDEX initiative stands as one of the most
effective and well-executed defence Startup ecosystem of the cpuntry. The initiative
would be a decisive step for India in achieving its self-reliance under the AtmaNirbhar
Bharat campaign.
3. Conclusion
With the launch of initiatives, different stakeholders have been brought together to push
for innovations in the defence sector. Such atmosphere has been created in the country
fir the first time. The private sector also plays a crucial role to strengthen defence
system and make it self- reliant. The government has taken various steps including the
partnerships with private sector, technology transfer, 74 % Foreign Direct investment
(FDI) through automatic route and the recently released negative list of 101 items for
import ban in this direction. The Defence Acquisition procedure 2020 has also been
launched in order to encourage the private industry to participate in the defence sector.
246. International Translation Day being observed on September 30
30th September is observed by the United Nations as International Translation Day,

every year. The primary aim of the day is to celebrate and appreciate the work of
language translation professionals. These language translator professionals facilitates
dialogue, understanding and cooperation. They also contribute to the development and
strengthening the world peace and security. This year the day is being observed under
the theme- “Finding the words for a world in crisis”.
1. Significance of September 30
September 30 is the day to mark the feast of St Jerome. He was a priest belonging to
Italy. He translated Bible from Greek to Latin manuscripts for the first time on this day.
Apart from that, he translated the Hebrew Gospel into Greek.
184
2. International Translation Day
International Federation of Translators (FIT) prompted to celebrate the day every year
after it was set up in 1953. FIT launched an idea officially in 1991 to recognized
International Translation Day in order to show solidarity of the worldwide translation
community. So, United Nations (UN) passed a resolution in 2017 to celebrate September
30 as the International Translation Day. Thus, it provided an opportunity to the world in
order to display pride in a profession which is becoming increasingly essential in the era
of globalization. Presently, the President of International Federation of Translators is
Kevin Quirk, While Real Paquette is its secretary general.
3. Signatories
Currently, eleven countries including the Azerbaijan, Costa Rica, Bangladesh, Belarus,
Cuba, Qatar, Ecuador, Turkey, Paraguay, Turkmenistan, and Vietnam – are the
signatories of Draft Resolution of 2017 passed by UN.
4. International Federation of Translators (FIT)

It is an international grouping translators, interpreters and terminologists. Currently,
more than 100 professional associations are affiliated who are representing over 80,000
translators in 55 nations. The Federation promote professionalism in the disciplines
which it represents. It seeks to improve conditions for the profession across the
countries.
247. MECL Starts exploring the Kolar Gold Fields in Karnataka after 16
years
The Bharat Gold Mines Limited (BGML) in the Kolar Gold Field (KGF) again hopeful for its
revival in last 16 years after the Union Minister for Coal, Mines and Parliamentary Affairs
Pralhad Joshi directed the Mineral Exploration Corporation Limited (MECL) to start
exploring the gold fields.
1. Background
 The Kolar Gold mine fields are located some 100 km from Bengaluru. These mines were
closed on February 28, 2001 after the gold prices fell down
 The Geological Survey of India (GSI) have declared the pyroclastic and pillow lava at Kolar
Gold Fields as a National Geological Monument in order to protect, maintain and encourage
the geo-tourism.
 The mining operations on the fields were stopped by the Union Government on February 28,
2001 because of environmental and economic reasons. Also, the productions were not
justifying the investments.
2. Key Facts
 One among India’s first, the power generation units in Shivanasamudra, Mandya districts
were built to support the mining operations in 1889.
 Kannada films “K.G.F: Chapter 1” and “K.G.F: Chapter 2” were also set on the fields.
 The Kolar Gold mines were nationalised in 1956.
3. Gold Reserves and productions in India
185
 As per the World Gold Council, India has 10th largest gold reserves in the world with capacity
of 600 tonnes.
 Karantaka is the largest producer of gold in India.
 Kolar gold mines in Karnataka is one among the deepest mines of the world.
 Second largest producer of gold is Andhra Pradesh.
 Ramagiri, Anantpur of Andhra Pradesh is an important gold field.
4. Gold Reserves in World

 US has the highest gold reserves in the world having capacity of 8,133 tonnes.
 Germany have second highest reserved with capacity of 3,366 tonnes.
 International Monetary Fund is holding 2,451 tonnes of gold.
 Deepest gold mine of the world is- Mponeng Gold Mines of South Africa.
5. Largest Producer
 China is top gold producing nation that accounts for 11% of global mine production. It
produces some 420 million tonnes of gold annually.
 Australia with the production capacity of 330 million tonnes (MT) stands at second position.
Russia took lead over Australia recently.
 Russia is the third largest producer having capacity of 310 million tonnes. 83 percent of
European gold comes from Russia.
 Other countries in top list include:
United States – 200.2 MT

Canada – 180 MT
Indonesia- 160 MT
Peru – 130 MT
Ghana – 130 MT
Mexico- 110 MT
Uzbekistan- 100 MT
Kazakhstan- 100Mt
South Africa – 90 MT
 United States – 200.2 MT

 Canada – 180 MT
 Indonesia- 160 MT
 Peru – 130 MT
 Ghana – 130 MT
 Mexico- 110 MT
 Uzbekistan- 100 MT
 Kazakhstan- 100Mt
 South Africa – 90 MT
6. Gold Imports and Exports

Currently, India is the largest importer of gold in the world while, China is the world
largest exporter of gold.
186
248. India test fired the Brahmos Missile with an Indigenous Booster
India successfully test fired the surface-to-surface supersonic cruise missile BrahMos
having an indigenous booster and airframe section at Balasore, Odisha on September
30, 2020.
1. About Brahmos
 It was developed by jointly by Defence Research Development Organization (DRDO) and the
Federal State Unitary Enterprise NPO Mashinostroyenia (NPOM) of Russia.

BrahMos is a ramjet supersonic cruise missile which can be launched from submarines, land,
ships or fighter jets.
 It is a two-stage missile with:
A solid propellant booster engine as its first stage- it brings the missile to supersonic speed
after which it gets separated
And the liquid ramjet or the second stage- which takes the missile closer to Mach 3 or three
times the speed of sound in cruise phase.
 A solid propellant booster engine as its first stage- it brings the missile to supersonic speed
after which it gets separated
 And the liquid ramjet or the second stage- which takes the missile closer to Mach 3 or three
times the speed of sound in cruise phase.
 It has been named after the rivers Brahmaputra and Moskva.
 It has a flight range of 300 km.
 The range of Brahmos missile has been increased to 450-600 km in compliance with the
Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).
2. Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)

The MTCR was started by the G7 countries in 1987. There are 35 members in total. India
became the member of MTCR in 2016. The members of MTCR are required to establish
national export control policies for cruise missiles, unmanned aerial missiles, ballistic
missiles, drones, space launch vehicles and the underlying components and
technologies.
3. Group of Seven or G7 countries

The G7 is an international intergovernmental economic organization. It consists of seven
major developed countries including Canada, Italy, Japan, France, Germany, the United
Kingdom and the United States. These countries are the largest IMF-advanced
economies in the world. The grouping was founded in 1975.
187
249. National Institute of Nutrition increases Ideal weight for Men and
Women
The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) has increased the average body weight for
Indians by 5kg in its recent report. Thus, the average weight for Indian men has been
increased from the 60kg in 2010 to 65kg now. While for Indian women average weight
has been increased from 50kg in 2010 to 55kg now.
1. Key Facts
 Along with the change in the average weight, the NIN has also revised the heights.
 The average height for Indian men is 5.8 feet (177 cm)
 And the average height for women is 5.3 feet (162 cm).
 Earlier, the average heights for men was 5.6 feet (171cm) and for women was 5 feet (152
cm).
 These revised weight and height for both men and women will now be taken into
consideration for the calculation of normal body mass index (BMI).
 The definition of a reference Indian adult with respect to age has also been changed to 19-39
years. Earlier it used to be 20-39 years.
2. Report covering the wider population

The 2020 panel have derived the body weight and height values using data taken from
all over India. It also include the:
3. Why these changes have been made?

The decision to revise the average height and weight was taken because of increased
intake of nutritional food. For deciding on weight and height, data from the rural as well
as the urban areas was taken into account. Earlier, in 2010 data unlike only urban data
was used.
4. Recommended dietary allowance (RDA)

NIN has also revised its recommended dietary allowance (RDA) and estimated average
requirement (EAR) of nutrition in the 2020 report. The ICMR expert committee has
recommended fibre-based energy intake for the first time .They stated that 40 grams
per 2000 kilocalories of food consumption are safe. Other recommendations include:
250. NITI Aayog and Netherlands sign SoI on ‘Decarbonization and

Energy Transition Agenda’
NITI Aayog and Embassy of the Netherlands, New Delhi have signed a Statement of
Intent (SoI) on 28 September 2020 in order to support the decarbonization and energy
transition agenda to accommodate cleaner and more energy.
1. Key Facts
 The SoI was signed by NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant and Ambassador of the Netherlands to
India Marten van den Berg.
 With the SoI, NITI Aayog and the Dutch Embassy seek a strategic partnership to create a
platform which will enable a comprehensive collaboration among stakeholders and
188
influencers that also include policymakers, OEMs, industry bodies, private enterprises, and
sector experts.
 The Primary focus of the partnership is on co-creating innovative technological solutions by
leveraging the expertise of the two entities.
 The innovative technological solutions will be achieved through an exchange of knowledge
and collaborative activities.
 Key elements of the SoI include:
To lowering the net carbon footprint in industrial and transport sectors.

To realise the target potential of natural gas and to promote bio-energy technologies
To adopt clean air technologies from monitoring to reducing the actual particulates.
To adopt next-generation technologies including hydrogen and carbon capture utilization and
storage for sectoral energy efficiency .
To set up financial frameworks so as to deliver and adopt climate change finance.
 To lowering the net carbon footprint in industrial and transport sectors.

 To realise the target potential of natural gas and to promote bio-energy technologies
 To adopt clean air technologies from monitoring to reducing the actual particulates.
 To adopt next-generation technologies including hydrogen and carbon capture utilization and
storage for sectoral energy efficiency .
 To set up financial frameworks so as to deliver and adopt climate change finance.
2. Significance of the deal

 Both India and the Netherlands have set up sustainable energy targets and they face similar
issues in realizing cleaner energy transition goals. So, India’s expertise in deploying high-tech
solutions in a cost-effective manner in combination with the Dutch expertise in low carbon
technologies will strengthen the Indo-Dutch collaboration.
 As both India and the Netherlands work to transform their energy sector, SoI will help both
the countries to move towards becoming climate-resilient economies.
 SoI meet the two objectives of generating economic growth and safeguarding the
environment for future generations.
3. India’s Goal for energy transition

 India is committed to reduce emissions’ intensity by 33%–35% by 2030.
 Apart from emphasis on renewable energy, India also stands committed on the rapid
adoption of electric vehicles.
4. Significance of Netherlands for India

The Netherlands and India have a long history of trade and investment. Netherlands is
India’s sixth largest EU trading partner. 20% of India’s exports to the European continent
goes through the Netherlands. Thus, Netherlands is India’s ‘gateway to Europe’. It is also
one of the top five investors and the third largest source of Foreign Direct Investment for
India.
189
251. Google India launches Make Small Strong campaign
Google India on September 30, 2020 announced the launch of its nationwide campaign
“Make Small Strong” in order to help support small businesses and drive demand
through customer support.
1. Key facts
 ‘‘Make Small Strong’ campaign is meant to “rally support from the citizens for small
businesses.
 The citizens can help small businesses by buying locally, leaving reviews and ratings and by
promoting their favourite retailers on social media.
 This would help to generate demand for these businesses.
2. New Initiative
 The new initiative is based on feedback from Small and Medium sized Businesses (SMBs).
 It was announced as part of a research by Google in collaboration with Kantar.
 As per the report, 5 out of 10 businesses are engaged with customers through digital
channels.
 However, 92% of businesses are facing customer-related challenges, revenue loss due to less
demand and payment of fixed costs.
 So, the need to go digital is necessary and SMBs need to be digitize fast in order to support
business recovery during the current crisis.
3. Other announcements
 Google India also announced new partnerships with Zoho, Instamojo, Dunzo and Swiggy.
Zoho will offer a free three-month subscription for three of its services, Zoho Sites, Zoho
Inventory and Zoho Commerce until March 31, 2021.
Instamojo will offer a six-month free subscription for its ‘Premium Online Store Solution’.
Dunzo’s 24×7 Merchant support will be provided for free with zero sign-up fees and instant
registration to SMBs.
Swiggy offered 7-day Fasttrack onboarding process for a restaurant to come on its platform.
 Zoho will offer a free three-month subscription for three of its services, Zoho Sites, Zoho
Inventory and Zoho Commerce until March 31, 2021.
 Instamojo will offer a six-month free subscription for its ‘Premium Online Store Solution’.
 Dunzo’s 24×7 Merchant support will be provided for free with zero sign-up fees and instant
registration to SMBs.
 Swiggy offered 7-day Fasttrack onboarding process for a restaurant to come on its platform.
 Google will also launch a new television show called Namaste Digital in partnership with
Doordarshan. It will be a mass media program for SMBs in order to learn about the Internet
and help them grow their business.
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1. Indian Railways: More than 960 stations solarised

2. Plans of Indian Railways

3. Solar Power Plant by Indian Railways

5. Railway Energy Management Company

2. India sets target of achieving 100 MT coal gasification by 2030

3. How will coal gasification help reduce energy imports?

3. India develops World’s Largest Solar Tree

5. How is solar tree highly potential solution?

4. Ministry of Defence signs Rs 2,580 crores of contracts to boost Make

5. Landslide Susceptibility mapping of Himalayas

2. Key findings of the study

3. What are the Lesser Himalayas?

4. What is Landslide Susceptibility Mapping?

5. International Conference on Landslides Risk Reduction and resilience

7. National Institute of Disaster Management

6. WHO report: 25 key health services disrupted globally

3. Key findings of the report

7. China builds missile site in Kailash-Mansarovar

2. Who are the Bons?

4. What are China’s intentions?

5. About the DF-21 missile

7. Recent Stand off

8. Supreme Court: 10 years time granted to Telecoms to pay their AGR

2. What is the issue?

3. What are AGR dues?

9. Japan provides Rs 3,500 crores assistance to India to fight COVID-19

3.1. Civil Nuclear Cooperation

3.3. Military Exercises

10. Australia, Japan and India meet on Supply Chain Resilience

2. India’s views on the initiative

3. Supply Chain Resilience Initiative

5. Why is the initiative important?

6. How is India dependent on one-nation, China?

2. Shanghai Cooperation Organization

3. Collective Security Treaty Organization

12. Indian Astronomers discover the farthest star galaxy

3. Hubble Space Telescope

4. Recent discovery of Hubble