Current Affairs October 2017 PDF Capsule · 2017-11-11 · Puri announced that five more States viz., Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chattisgarh, Jharkhand and Haryana have reached

Current Affairs October 2017

PDF Capsule

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Current Affairs PDF: October 2017

Current Affairs for Competitive Exam Contents

INDIAN AFFAIRS ............................................................................................................................................................ 3

PLACES IN NEWS ......................................................................................................................................................... 26

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS....................................................................................................................................... 32

SUMMITS & CONFERENCES ..................................................................................................................................... 42

RANKINGS & REPORTS ............................................................................................................................................. 49

BANKING & ECONOMY .............................................................................................................................................. 56

BUSINESS ....................................................................................................................................................................... 76

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 87

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNS .................................................................................................................................... 97

ACQUISTIONS & MERGERS ................................................................................................................................... 106

MoUs ............................................................................................................................................................................ 108

SCHEMES ..................................................................................................................................................................... 110

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY ...................................................................................................................................... 123

DEFENCE ..................................................................................................................................................................... 135

ENVIRONMENT ......................................................................................................................................................... 138

OBITUARY .................................................................................................................................................................. 157

BOOKS & AUTHORS ................................................................................................................................................ 161

IMPORTANT DAYS ................................................................................................................................................... 163

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INDIAN AFFAIRS India opens two border crossing points with Myanmar, Bangladesh

In a bid to strengthen bilateral relations with its eastern neighbours, India has opened two

immigration check posts along the borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh.

Details about new Immigration Check Posts along Indo-Maynmar Border:

• Indian Government has designated Zorinpuiland check post in Lawngtlai district of

Mizoram as an authorised immigration check post for entry into or exit from India with

valid travel documents for all classes of passengers to or from Myanmar.

• An agreement on Zorinpui was included in the joint statement issued during the visit of

the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Myanmar in May, 2012.

• It is to be noted that India shares a 1,643-km-long border with Myanmar which

touches Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram.

L&T Infotech bags $100-mn Government contract to nab tax evaders

L&T Infotech, the infotech arm of engineering giant Larsen & Toubro has bagged $ 100-mn

Government contract for an initiative to use social media analytics to identify tax non-

compliance.

‘No helmet, no petrol’ rule comes into force in Andhra Pradesh

On 28th September 2017, ‘No helmet, no petrol’ rule for two wheelers came to act in Andhra

Pradesh.

i. ‘No helmet, no petrol’ rule prohibits petrol supply to two wheeler riders without helmet.

ii. Mr.Chandrababu Naidu has sanctioned Rs.10 crore for implementation of this rule.

All cities and towns in five more States declared Open Defecation Free

On October 2, 2017, Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Mr. Hardeep Singh

Puri announced that five more States viz., Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chattisgarh,

Jharkhand and Haryana have reached the milestone of making all cities and towns Open

Defecation Free. It is to be noted that On October 2, 2017, ‘Swacch Bharat Mission’ completed

three years.

Overview of Progress towards ‘Swacchata’ in urban areas:

i. As against the target of building about 66 lakh individual household toilets in urban areas, 38

lakh toilets have already been built and construction of another 14 lakh toilets is in progress.

ii. Over two lakh community and public toilet seats have been built so far. The mission target is to


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build five lakh toilet seats.

Rajghat gets Mahatma’s statue for the first time

Rajghat, the Samadhi of Mahatam Gandhi in Delhi, has for the first time acquired a statue of

Mahatma Gandhi. The statue was unveiled by Vice-President of India Mr. M.Venkaiah Naidu on

October 2, 2017, on the occasion of the 148 Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Specification of Mahatma Gandhi’s Statue at Rajghat:

i. The statue is 1.80 metre tall and is made of bronze.

ii. It has been sculpted by renowned Indian sculptor, Mr. Ram Sutar.

India unveils third National Wildlife Action Plan for 2017-2031

On October 2, 2017, Union Environment Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan unveiled India’s third

National Wildlife Action Plan for 2017-2031, which outlines the future road map for wildlife

conservation across the country. The plan was unveiled on the inaugural day of the Global

Wildlife Programme (GWP) conference in New Delhi, which is jointly hosted by India, World

Bank and United Nations Development Programme.

Background Information about National Wildlife Action Plan for 2017-2031:

This is the third National Wildlife Action Plan which comes after the first plan in 1983 and second

plan from 2002 – 2016.

It was drafted by a 12-member committee chaired by JC Kala (former secretary to the

ministry) and was initiated in February 2016 by Union Environment Ministry.

Odisha government creating land bank for industrial allocation

Odisha State Government is creating a 1.2 lakh acre land bank across the state which will be

allocated for industrial use and purposes.

Lessons learnt from POSCO Fiasco:

Odisha Government is creating the land bank in order to avoid another POSCO-like fiasco.

• In 2005, South Korean Company, POSCO, signed a memorandum of understanding

with the Odisha government to set up a 12-million-tonne-capacity steel project

in Jagatsinghpur district.

India, Bangladesh to hold border talks on Rohingyas, other issues

On 3rd – 5th October 2017, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), led by Director General Maj Gen. Abul

Hossain conducts talks with Border Security Force (BSF) of India, led by its chief KK Sharma, at

New Delhi.

PM Modi lays foundation stone of AIIMS, IIIT in Himachal Pradesh

On October 3, 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of All India

Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Bilaspur and International Institute of




Information Technology (IIIT) at Una in Himachal Pradesh.

Overview of PM Narendra Modi’s Visit to Himachal Pradesh:

i. During his visit to Himachal Pradesh, PM Modi also inaugurated a Steel Processing Unit of

Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), at Kandrori in Kangra district of Himachal

Pradesh.

Vice President lays foundation stone for inland waterway in AP

On October 3, 2017, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu laid the foundation stone for the

development of an inland waterway in the Krishna River between Muktyala and Vijayawada in

the Andhra Pradesh. Besides, he dedicated seven national highway projects in Andhra Pradesh to

the nation and also laid the foundation stone for six new projects.

U.P. comes first in active gun licences

As per statistics released by the Union Home Ministry, Uttar Pradesh has the highest number

of active gun licences among all states and union territories of India. 12.77 lakh people in

Uttar Pradesh are authorised to carry weapons.

Data on Active Gun Licences in India:

i. Uttar Pradesh is followed by Jammu and Kashmir with 3.69 lakh people in the state

possessing gun licences.

Cabinet Approvals on October 4 2017

Union cabinet has given its approval for the signing and ratification of the Extradition Treaty

between India and Lithuania.

Cabinet approves the Extradition Treaty between India and Lithuania

Union cabinet has given its approval for the signing and ratification of the Extradition Treaty

between India and Lithuania.

Cabinet apprised of the MoU between India and Switzerland on Technical Cooperation

in Rail Sector

Union Cabinet has been apprised of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ministry

of Railways, Government of India and the Federal Department of the Environment,

Transport, Energy and Communications of Swiss Confederation on Technical Cooperation

in Rail Sector.

Cabinet approves MoU on Upgradation of the Women’s Police Training Centre at

Yamethin, Myanmar

Union Cabinet has given ex-post facto approval to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

between India and Myanmar on upgradation of the Women’s Police Training Centre at


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Yamethin, Myanmar.

Centre approves setting up a turtle sanctuary in Allahabad

The Central Government has approved development of a Turtle sanctuary in Allahabadalong

with a River Biodiversity Park at Sangam (confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and mythical

Sarasvati) under Namami Gange programme.

Turtle sanctuary in Allahabad and River Biodiversity Park at Sangam:

These projects have been approved with an aim to protect the rich aquatic biodiversity of river

Ganga from escalating anthropogenic pressures

No service charge on train e-ticket till March 2018: Railways

On 29th September 2017, Ministry of Railways announced that service charge exemption on

tickets booked online (e-tickets) will be extended till March 2018.

Massive search operation ‘CASO’ launched in Jammu & Kashmir

On 4th October 2017, Government forces launched a major Cordon-and-Search-Operation

(CASO), in Hajin town of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district.

Cordon-and-Search-Operation (CASO):

i. Cordon-and-Search-Operation (CASO) was launched following specific inputs about

the presence of militants in the Bandipora area.

ii. Army, Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir and CRPF (Central Reserve

Police Force) launched the joint operation in Hajin town of Bandipora district.

Prime Minister inaugurates Golden Jubilee Year Celebrations of the Institute of

Company Secretaries of India (ICSI) in New Delhi

On 4th October 2017, Prime Minister Mr.Narendra Modi inaugurated the Golden Jubilee Year

Celebrations of the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI), at Vigyan Bhawan, New

Delhi.Golden Jubilee Celebrations of ICSI:

i. The Institute of Company Secretaries of India celebrated Golden Jubilee, to mark the

completion of 50 years.

ii. Prime Minister Mr.Narendra Modi inaugurated the Golden Jubilee and also launched

the motto song of the institute.

Tourism minister launched ‘Paryatan Parv' initiative

On 5th to 25th October 2017, the Ministry of Tourism conducts ‘Paryatan Parv’, a tourist festival to

promote India to Indians, all over India.

Promote India to Indians;

i. ‘Paryatan Parv’ is a tourism festival in which state governments and 18 central

ministries take part. This festival will be conducted for 20 days.




Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari inaugurated sea route to Baratang & laid foundation

stone for shipping projects in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

On October 5, 2017, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister for Shipping, Road

Transport & Highways and Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Nitin

Gadkari inaugurated an alternate sea route to Baratang They also laid the foundation stone

for extension of dry dock in Port Blair, extension of wharf in Hope Town and construction of an

additional jetty along with extension of Berthing Jetty in Neil Island.

Utility of Sea Route to Baratang and upcoming Shipping Projects:

The new sea route to Baratang, which passes through the Jarawa Tribal Reserve will provide

an alternative to the National Highways-4 route that linked Baratang to Port Blair. It will

thereby promote tourism without disturbing the tribal areas.

Aadhaar made mandatory for small saving schemes as post office deposits, PPF, KVP

The government has made Aadhaar is mandatory for all post office deposits, PPF, the National

Savings Certificate scheme and Kisan Vikas Patra.

Chhattisgarh bans Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) used in carry bags

Chhattisgarh Government has completely banned the usage of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) carry

bags in their state. The government also banned the manufacture, storage, import, sale,

transport and use of such plastic-borne goods.

High-Level Meeting on Railways Safety held in Mumbai

On September 30, 2017, a high-level meeting on Railways Safety was held at Western

Railways (WR) headquarter’s at Churchgate in Mumbai, under the chairmanship

of Railway Minister Mr. Piyush Goyal.

PM Narendra Modi’s two day visit to Gujarat in October 2017

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on an official visit to Gujarat on 7th and 8th October 2017,

during which he inaugurated several development projects.

PM lays foundation stone for Rajkot International Airport

PM inaugurated the 6-laning of Ahmedabad-Rajkot highway at Chotila

PM lays foundation stone for bridge in Dwarka

On October 7, 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of a four-lane

cable-stayed bridge between Okha and Beyt Dwarka

PM launched Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan Scheme in Gandhinagar,

During his Gujarat visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Pradhan Mantri Gramin

Digital Saksharta Abhiyan Scheme aimed at imparting digital literacy to citizens in rural areas.




PM launches Intensified Mission Indradhanush

On October 8, 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Intensified Mission

Indradhanush (IMI) at Vadnagar in Gujarat.

Country’s first marine police training institute to be set up at Dev Bhoomi Dwarka

On October 7, 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the setting up of India’s first

“Marine Police Training Institute” at Dev Bhoomi Dwarka district of Gujarat.

Kerala Tourism launches Continuous Tourist Survey 2017-20

On 9th October 2017, the Department of Tourism (Kerala) launched a 3 year long Continuous

Tourist Survey (CTS), to increase the growth of tourism in Kerala.

Continuous Tourist Survey (CTS):

i. The Continuous Tourist Survey (CTS) 2017-2020 sample survey is conducted in collaboration

with M/s Datamation Consultants. The Central Government would provide funds for Rs.25

lakhs.

Drop ‘Muslim’ and ‘Hindu’ from names of BHU, AMU: UGC

On 9th October 2017, a UGC panel recommended that, words such as ‘Hindu’ and ‘Muslim’ in

names of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), should be

dropped.

‘Muslim’ and ‘Hindu’ from names of BHU and AMU to be dropped:

i. This UGC panel was formed to investigate alleged irregularities in 10 central universities.

ii. The recommendations made by the UGC panel state that,centrally funded universities are

secular institutions, but such words related to religion in their names do not reflect

their secular character.

Supreme Court bans firecrackers for Diwali in Delhi

On 9th October 2017, the Supreme Court (SC) imposed a ban on the sale of firecrackers

till 31st October 2017, in the National Capital Region (NCR)-Delhi.

Government approved Rs 2,000 crore to set up Aadhaar units in post offices

With an aim to gradually phase out private contractors from the data collection process in

Aadhaar enrolment, Central Government has approved Rs 2,000 crore for setting up

Aadhaar centres in post offices..

President of India inaugurates India water Week 2017

On 10th October 2017, the President of India, Mr.Ram Nath Kovind, inaugurated India Water

Week 2017, at Vigyan Bhavan, in New Delhi.




India Water Week 2017:

i. Theme of India Water Week 2017 is ‘Water and Energy for Inclusive Growth’. It is held

from 10thto 14thOctober, 2017.

Projects worth Rs 700 crore sanctioned for Namami Gange programme by NMCG

The National Mission for Clean Ganga(NMCG) has sanctioned Rs.700 crore for eight projects in

the Namami Gange programme.

Misson of Eight project

Four projects related to sewage management in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal.Three are

related to treatment of drains through bio-remediation. One of inventorization and surveillance of

river Ganga

1.Four projects related to sewage management in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal.

2.Three are related to treatment of drains through bio-remediation

3.One of inventorization and surveillance of river Ganga

Germany to help Indian Railways to increase speed of trains on existing corridors

On October 10, 2017, a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDI) was signed in New Delhi

between Union Ministry of Railways and Germany for carrying out feasibility study on

existing Chennai-Kazipet corridor of Indian Railways by German Railways for increasing the

speed of passenger trains to 200 kmph.

More information about JDI between Union Ministry of Railways and Germany:

i. The JDI focuses on upgrading trains running in Chennai-Kazipet corridor to semi high speed

trains which run at 200 km per hour.

ii. Feasibility study will be carried out in three phases requiring an estimated time of 22

months.

IIT Kharagpur partners with Samsung for Digital Academy

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) – Kharagpur has signed a Memorandum of

Understanding (MoU) with Samsung India for the setting up of a digital academy in its campus.

First Meeting of the Economic Advisory Council held in New Delhi

On 11th October 2017, the first meeting of the Economic Advisory Council to Prime Minister

Narendra Modi (EAC-PM) was held at NITI Aayog, in New Delhi.

i. The EAC-PM is chaired by Dr.Bibey Debroy. Principal Adviser of NITI Aayog Ratan P.Watal is

the council’s member secretary and Dr.Surjit Bhalla, Dr.Rathin Roy and Dr.Ashima Goyal are its

part-time members.

ii. Main issues discussed were, ways to boost consumer demand, attract private

investments and measures to improve job creation in India.




Cabinet Approvals on October 12 2017

On October 11, 2017, Union Cabinet gave its approval for signing of a Memorandum of

Understanding (MoU) between Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and

Financial Services Commission (FSC), Gibraltar for mutual co-operation and technical

assistance.

Cabinet approves MoU between SEBI and FSC


Understanding (MoU) between Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and

Financial Services Commission (FSC), Gibraltar for mutual co-operation and technical

assistance.

Cabinet approves MoU between SEBI and Capital Markets Authority (CMA), Kuwait


Understanding (MoU) between Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and Capital

Markets Authority (CMA), Kuwait for mutual co-operation and technical assistance.

Cabinet approves MoC between India and Japan on TITP

Union Cabinet has approved the signing of Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between

India and Japan on the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP).

Cabinet approves MoC between India and Japan on Establishing Flexible and Global

LNG Market

On October 11, 2017, Union Cabinet approved the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation

(MoC) between India and Japan on establishing a liquid, flexible and global LNG Market.

Cabinet approves MoU between India and Belarus for Cooperation in the field of

Vocational Education and Training

Cabinet approves MoU between India and Morocco on cooperation in the field of water

resources

Cabinet approves change of status for marine body IALA

On October 11, 2017, Union Cabinet gave its approval for International Association of Marine Aids

to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) to change its status from Non-Governmental

Organisation (NGO) to Inter-Governmental Organisation (IGO).

UP government launches ‘Sankalp Seva’ bus service

On 11th October 2017, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditynath flagged off 50 buses under the

‘Sankalp Seva’ bus service in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. ‘Sankalp Seva’ Bus Service:

i. The buses launched under ‘Sankalp Seva’ bus service will connect 6,000 villages. Uttar

Pradesh Transport Minister Swatantra Dev Singh was also present at the event.


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NMCG signs agreement to set up sewage treatment plants in Haridwar, Varanasi

On 11th October 2017, the Central Government approved setting up of Sewage Treatment Plants

(STPs) at Haridwar and Varanasi under its Namami Gange programme.

STPs at Haridwar & Varanasi:

i. The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has signed an agreement with Uttarakhand Pey

Jal Nigam and Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam and private players for setting up first STPs in Haridwar

and Varanasi under hybrid annuity mode.

Manohar Lal Khattar announces ration cards for nomadic tribe in Haryana

On 11th September 2017, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar announced ration cards for nomadic

tribes living in different parts of Haryana.

Gujarat government announces Garments & Apparel Policy 2017

On October 12, 2017, Gujarat State Government under Chief Minister Vijay

Rupaniannounced its Garments and Apparel Policy-2017.

Salient Features of Gujarat Garments and Apparel Policy, 2017:

i. To encourage women’s employment in textiles sector, State Government will provide

financial assistance of Rs. 4,000 per month to female workers working in the

factories. This assistance will be provided for five years.

Bihar Cabinet approves reservation for ‘Divyangs’ in Govt Jobs

On Oct 11th 2017 , The Bihar state cabinet has approved reservations for persons with

disabilities in government jobs and educational institutions.The approval was given during a

meeting presided by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the Cabinet Secretariat Department

Special Secretary Upendra Nath Pandey.

i. This provision was made in accordance with the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

ii. The cabinet also approved the establishment of a state advisory board for the

empowerment of ‘Divyangjan’ as envisaged in the Act.

Union Textiles Minister inaugurates world’s largest B2B handicraft & gifts fair

On October 12, 2017, Union Textiles Minister Smriti Irani inaugurated the 44th edition of

Indian Handicrafts and Gift Fair (IHGF) 2017 at India Expo Centre and Mart

in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.

i. The exhibition started on October 12, 2017 and will continue till October 16, 2017.

ii. Nearly 2980 exhibitors will be showcasing their products and buyers from around 100

countries including China, Australia, the US and the UK are expected to visit this

exhibition.




Dilli seminar on India & Southeast Asia maritime trade begins in Kerala

The annual Dilli seminar on ‘India and Southeast Asia – Maritime Trade, Expedition and

Civilisation Linkages’ began on October 13, 2017 at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) in

Kerala.

Meet of physiologists, pharmacologists – APPICON 2017

On 12th – 14th October 2017, APPICON 2017, the 63rd Annual National Conference of Association

of Physiologists and Pharmacologists of India, was held at Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate

Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), in Puducherry.

i. Theme of APPICON 2017 was ‘Physiology beyond Academics in the Era of Translational

Research’. Various conferences were conducted related to physiology and pharmacology.

NITI Aayog working with states for agri market reforms

On 13th October 2017, NITI Aayog said that, it is working with states to adopt first set of agri

market reforms, like contract farming, online spot and futures trading, encouraging private

investment.

NITI Aayog working with states:

i. NITI Aayog Member, Ramesh Chand said that, regarding agri reforms, main emphasis is

given on bringing marketing reforms to facilitate and encourage the private sector to

invest in agri logistics, cold chains etc.

ii. In the first set of reforms, contract farming is to be promoted. Regarding this a model law has

been framed both by NITI Aayog and the Agriculture Ministry.

iii. To promote derivative trading in farm commodities, the Finance Ministry has set up a

panel. The NITI Aayog has also proposed discarding of the ‘Essential Commodities Act’

that is destabilising prices instead of keeping them stable.

Chennai Metro Rail introduces free bicycle ride scheme

Chennai Metro Rail (CMRL) has introduced a free bicycle ride scheme for its customers.

i. To implement this scheme, CMRL has tied up with a private agency to provide 100-hours of

bicycle ride free of cost every month.

West Bengal to set up Scheduled Caste advisory council

On October 13, 2017, West Bengal State Cabinet took a decision to set up its scheduled

caste advisory council. As per West Bengal State Government, it is the first Indian state to

have such council.

For dowry-linked cruelty, Supreme Court restores ‘immediate arrest’

On October 13, 2017, three-judge Supreme Court bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak




Misra disagreed with a recent judgment which diluted the rigour of Section 498A of Indian

Penal Code (IPC) in dealing with dowry related complaints of cruelty.

i. Section 498A of IPC warrants immediate arrest of a husband and his relatives in a

dowry-linked complaint of cruelty.

Himachal Pradesh to go to polls on 9th November in single phase

On 12th October 2017, the Election Commission announced that, Assembly elections in Himachal

Pradesh will be held in a single phase on 9th November 2017 and the results will be declared on

18th December 2017.

i. Himachal Pradesh will be the second state after Goa with 100 % VVPAT (Voter-

verified paper audit trail) coverage. The paper trail machines will be deployed along with

EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines) in all the 7,521 polling stations.

iii. For the first time ever, the Election Commission will set up 136 all-woman managed polling

booths in Himachal Pradesh, with each constituency having two women.

Hyderabad High Court makes Gram Sabha nod mandatory for liquor shops

On 12th October 2017, The Hyderabad High Court directed the Telengana government not

to grant licence, to establish liquor retail outlets in the scheduled areas without the

resolution of the gramsabha.

Punjab police launches foot patrolling in all districts

On October 16, 2017 Punjab police launched foot patrolling i.e. an initiative whereby

police personnel will patrol designated areas on foot to keep a watch on anti-social

elements.

i. This initiative has been launched in all districts of Punjab.

ii. Objective of foot patrolling is to reduce incidence of crime by increasing the presence of police

in vulnerable locations.

Footwear Design & Development Institute Act 2017 comes into force

Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI) has been declared an ‘Institute of

National Importance’ as the provisions FDDI Act 2017 have come into force from October 16,

2017.i. With the provisions of FDDI Act 2017 coming into force, FDDI will now be upgraded to

deal with international standards and address the shortage of trained human resource in the

sector.

♦ Headquarters of FDDI is located in Noida, Uttar Pradesh.




Agricultural Minister Radha Mohan Singh reviews Project CHAMAN, likely to be

completed by March 2018

On 16th October 2017, Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Radha Mohan Singh

reviewed Project CHAMAN during a presentation on the project in New Delhi.

Project CHAMAN:

i. In order to provide strategic development to the horticulture sector, and to increase farmers

income, a pioneer project called CHAMAN, was launched 3 years ago by the Government.

ii. This project is being implemented by Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre

(MNCFC) using remote sensing technology. It is likely to be completed in March 2018.

iii. The Minister informed that, it is proposed to hand over the interim reports of North

Eastern States Site Suitability Studies to the respective State Governments by January

2018 for immediate consideration.

Haryana records 39% of cancer cases in India

As per a latest report, prevalence of Cancer in India has been on the rise and Haryana is home

to 39% of cancer patients in India.

i. It is estimated that nearly 17.3 lakh new cancer cases will be registered in India by the

year 2020.

ii. As per a report by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), breast cancer ac counts

for 10% of all cancer cases in India, with 1.5 lakh new cases of breast cancer reported every

year.

Ministry of WCD launches campaign on ‘women for women’: #IamThatWoman

In a bid to end gender bias in women against women, Union Ministry of Women and Child

Development (WCD) has started an online campaign #IamThatWoman.

About #IamThatWoman:

i. This campain aims to highlight various aspects of women standing ‘by’ and ‘for’ women.

Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu lays foundation stone for TU142M aircraft museum

On 17th October 2017, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu laid the foundation

stone for the TU142M aircraft museum in Visakhapatnam.

TU142M Aircraft museum:

i. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Eastern naval command Chief

Vice Admiral H.C.S.Bisht laid the foundation stone of the TU142M aircraft museum. This is

being built at the Beach Road in Visakhapatnam.

ii. The Russian aircraft TU142M was decommissioned at INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu after 29 years.

It was brought to Visakhapatnam on 8th April 2017 to be converted into a Museum.




Indian Army organises Jashn -e-Kokernag to strengthen jawan-awam relationship

With the slogan of“Jawan aur Awaam Amun Hai Muqam”( Army and Locals together, peace

will prevail ), 19 batch Rashtriya Rifles of the Indian Army on 19th October 2017

organised ‘Jashn-e-Breng’ festival in Kokernag village of the Anantnag district to promote

peace and brotherhood between security forces and the local population.

Two day “AYUSH Festival of Stamps 2017” held at Panaji, Goa

On 17th and 18th October 2017, the “AYUSH Festival of Stamps 2017” was held at Panaji, Goa.

AYUSH Festival of Stamps 2017:

i.The two-day exhibition event is jointly organised by the Goa Postal Region, Indian postal

department and the Ministry of AYUSH.

Centre constitutes SOPs to regulate deployment of CAPF in states, UT

In order to meet emergent and unforeseen needs for security measures in States and Union

Territories, Central Government has formulated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

for deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) when such requests are made.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) formulated by Central Government for

deployment of CAPF:

i.State Governments have been asked to constitute a state level committee under

chairmanship of Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) of the

state which may examine and scrutinize requirements of Central Armed Police Forces.

Dharmendra Pradhan launches Odisha’s first PNG supply in Bhubaneswar

On October 19, 2017, Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra

Pradhan inaugurated Odisha’s first PNG (Piped Natural Gas) project in Bhubaneswar.

i. This PNG supply project is a part of ‘Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga’ pipeline project.

ii. The target of the project is to provide one crore PNG connections in the state by 2020,

of which, Ministry expects to cover a major portion of the city by the end of year 2019.

Activists in Mumbai launched Chipko movement to protect Aarey Colony trees

On October 14, 2017, environmental activists in Mumbai launched Chipko movement to

protect over 3,000 trees from being axed in Aarey Colonywhere Mumbai Metro

Corporation is planning to construct a car shed.

i. Activists of Aarey Conservation Group, people in the locality and school children, protested

by embracing the trees and appealed to the government to reconsider its decision to build a





car shed in Aarey Colony.

Punjab CM restores special family pension for widows of govt employees killed by

terrorists

On October 19, 2017, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh restored the Special

Family Pension for widows of government employees killed by extremists.

i. The scheme was revoked in 2016 by the erstwhile Shiromani Akali Dal Government.

Section 247 of the Companies Act 2013, related to Valuation by Registered Valuers

comes into force

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has issued a notification on commencement of Section 247 of

the Companies Act, 2013 (Valuation by Registered Valuers) with effect from 18th October, 2017.

Section 247 of the Companies Act 2013:

i. The Rules, provide regulations for Registration of Valuers, and to conduct valuation,

under the Companies Act, 2013.

ii. Individuals, partnership entities and companies can act as valuers under the Companies Act

after getting registered with an authority specified by the government.

Kerala govt prohibits using ‘Dalit’, ‘Harijan’ in official communications

As per an internal circular of Kerala Information and Public Relations

Department, words ‘Dalit’ and ‘Harijan’ will not be used in its official communications.

i. This circular is based on the directive from Kerala State Commission for Scheduled

Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) Chairman Justice PN Vijayakumar.

ii.Usage of word ‘Keezhalar’ has also been banned. ‘Keezhalar’ refers to scheduled

communities.

Rajasthan limits probes against public servants

Rajasthan State Government under Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje has passed Criminal

Laws (Rajasthan Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 which seeks to protect serving judges,

former judges, magistrates and public servants in Rajasthan from being investigated for on-duty

action without Government’s prior sanction.

i. The ordinance also seeks to bar the media from reporting on accusations till the sanction to

proceed with the probe is obtained.

ii. The ordinance provides 180 days immunity to the officers, during which no investigation

could be ordered nor could any investigation be carried out against serving judges, former

judges, magistrates and public servants in Rajasthan.




UP Government doubles ex-gratia amount for police officials

On October 21, 2017, Uttar Pradesh State Government under Chief Minister Yogi

Adityanath announced to double the ex-gratia amount for police officials martyred on

duty.Post this announcement, the ex-gratia amount for Police officials martyred on duty

stands, revised to Rs. 40 lakh from Rs. 20 lakh earlier.

Centre asks states to name toilets as ‘izzat ghar’ in rural areas

The Central Government has asked each state to name the toilets in their rural households as

“izzat ghar”, or to use a phrase in regional language equivalent to “house of dignity”.

Dasna Jail to rename its dental clinic after Aarushi Talwar

As a gesture to acknowledge the Talwar couple’s services , the Uttar Pradesh government has

decided to rename the dental clinic at Dasna Jail in Ghaziabad after Aarushi Talwar, who was

murdered at the age of 14 at her residence in 2008.

Kandla Port gets green nod to develop Rs 1,176 crore smart city

Government-owned Kandla Port Trust has received environment clearance for setting up

a smart industrial port city in Kutch, Gujarat

About Smart Port Cities to be developed by Kandla Port Trust:

i. As per the proposal, smart industrial port cities will be set up at two separate sites

in Gandhidham city, (in Kutch district of Gujarat).

ii. Cost for setting up these industrial port cities is estimated at Rs. 1176 crore.

iii It is to be noted that Kandla Port Trust has been recently renamed as Deendayal Port

by the Union Ministry of Shipping.

PM launches development initiatives in Vadodara

On October 22, 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on a visit to Vadodara,

Gujarat. During the course of this visit, he launched following development initiatives:

I PM dedicated to the nation, the Vadodara City Command Control Centre; New Head Office

Building of the Bank of Baroda and Waghodiya Regional Water Supply Scheme.

ii. He laid the foundation stones of an integrated transport hub, regional water supply

schemes, housing projects, and a flyover.

Hirasar Greenfield Airport Project in Gujarat gets Green Clearance

Union Environment Ministry has given green clearance for a greenfield airport project at

Hirasar, located about 28 km from Rajkot in Gujarat.

About Hirasar Greenfield Airport Project:

i. Gujarat State Government had proposed to build the Hirasar Greenfield Airport, as the




existing airport in Rajkot is small and the earlier plan to extend the current runway could not be

carried out as it involved high land cost.

ii. Hirasar Greenfield Airport Project will be developed by Gujarat State Aviation

Infrastructure Company Ltd (GSAICL).

iii. Estimated project cost is over Rs 1400 crore

Modi inaugurates ferry services between Ghogha and Dahej in Gujarat

On 22nd October 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the

‘roll-on-roll-off’ (ro-ro) ferry service between Ghogha in Saurashtra and Dahej in south

Gujarat.

Ro-ro ferry service in Gujarat:

i. Chief Minister Mr.Vijay Rupani and Deputy Chief Minister Mr.Nitin Patel were also present

during the launch. Mr.Modi said that, this is the first of its kind project not only in India but also

in South-East Asia.

ii. Gujarat Maritime Board has executed the ro-ro project. This project has been carried out with

funds of Rs.615 crore.

Odisha government approves Bijepur lift irrigation project

On 23rd October 2017, Odisha government approved the Bijepur lift irrigation project and

construction of sewerage system for Bhubaneswar.

Bijepur lift irrigation project:

i. The Bijepur lift irrigation project was approved in the cabinet meeting chaired by Odisha Chief

Minister Naveen Patnaik. The Bijepur lift irrigation project is named after renowned poet

Gangadhar Meher.

Haryana to introduce ‘PGs for cattle’ to boost milk production

On October 22, 2017, Haryana State Government announced to set up ‘PGs (Paying Guests)

for cattle’, through which people living in high-rises or in urban areas will be able to rear their

own cattle and produce quality milk for their personal consumption.

i. Under this initiative, Haryana State Government will earmark 50 to 100 acres of land for

dairy business.

Paika Bidroha to be named as 1st War of Independence

On October 23, 2017, Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar mentioned that from the next

academic session, ‘Paika Bidroha’ (Paika rebellion) of 1817 will included in history text

books as ‘the First War of Independence’.

Central Government under PM Narendra Modi has taken several initiatives to create awareness

among Indians about the Paika rebellion.




• During his visit to Bhubanewar, Odisha in April 2017, Prime Minister Narendra

felicitated the family members of 16 freedom fighters who were martyred during the

Paika Rebellion.

• In July 2017, the then President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated year-long

celebration of Bi-Centenary of the Paika Bidroha of Odisha.

• Central Government has allocated Rs. 200 crore for commemorating it across

the country.

Andhra Government releases 3rd installment under Crop Loan Waiver Scheme

On 23rd October 2017, Agriculture Minister of Andhra Pradesh Somireddy Chandramohan Reddy

announced the release of third installment under Crop Loan Waiver Scheme.

3rd installment under Crop Loan Waiver Scheme:

i. In September 2017, the Andhra Pradesh Government, released Rs.3,600 crores for the

third portion of the third installment, under Waiver Scheme in Andhra Pradesh.

ii. The amount will be deposited in the accounts of the farmers with additional 10 %

interests. Andhra Pradesh Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Chandrababu

Naidu, has been giving the first preference to the farmers.

Centre approves mega Rs 7-lakh crore project to develop 83,000 km highways in 5

years

On October 24, 2017, Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved a

mega plan to build thousands of kilometres of roads and highways across India over the next five

years.

Salient Features of Centre’s Highway Development Plan:

As per the broad contours of the plan, 83677 km of roads, highways, green-field

expressways and bridges will be constructed in a phased manner.

• 34800 km of highways will be constructed in the first phase of this plan which

will be completed by year 2022. The first phase will entail an investment of nearly

7 lakh crore.

• 34,800 km of highways to be constructed under the first phase includes 24800 km of

the Bharatmala Project at a cost Rs 5.35-lakh crore. Constructing 1837 km of

greenfield expressways is also a part of this project.

Construction of Roads – Indian Scenario:

Construction of roads in India has been quite sluggish since year 2007.

• It is to be noted that owing to poor road conditions, a truck in India covers on an

average 250-300 km daily as compared to 700-800 km in developed countries.

• Current Government under PM Narendra Modi has accorded high priority to this sector and

has set an ambitious target of building almost 40 km of roads per day which is significantly




higher than 2014 pace of 9 km/day.

• During last three fiscal years, overall allocation to the highways sector has increased from

Rs 1.3 lakh crore to Rs 2.25 lakh crore marking a 73% hike.

Madhya Pradesh govt shelves plan to shift to Jan-Dec fiscal format

Madhya Pradesh State Government has shelved off its plan to switch to January-December

financial year format from 2018.

i. In May 2017, Madhya Pradesh was the first state to announce that starting from 2018,

it will switch to January-December financial from the existing April-March cycle.

ii. It was also announced that current fiscal works will be completed by December 2017 and next

year’s budget will be presented by end of December 2017 or in beginning of January 2017.

iii. This decision by MP state government was inspired from PM Narednra Modi’s speech at NITI

Aayog’s governing council meet in April 2017, in which he mentioned that there have been

suggestions to change the financial year.

Chhat Pooja celebrations begin in Bihar

On 24th – 27th October 2017, Chhat Pooja is celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar

Pradesh.

i. Chhath Puja is one of the most ancient Hindu Vedic festivals. The festival is observed for 4

days. It is dedicated to lord Surya, the Hindu Sun god and his wife Usha.

ii. Pujas are performed to obtain their blessings and support to sustain life on earth. The main

day, or Chhath, falls on October 26. It is named so, because chhath means sixth, which is the

sixth day of the month of Kartika.

iii. The first day is known as Nahay Khay. Devotees take holy dip in river Ganga to cleanse

themselves of sins and fasts are observed by women. On the second day, devotees observe

Lohanda and Kharna and some women observe fast from sunrise to sunset.

iv. On the third day (Chhath), devotees observe fast without even drinking water. Offerings to

the setting sun, known as Arghya are performed on this day. After fasting for 36 hours the fast

is broken on the final day.

Madras High Court bans photos of living persons on banners

On 24th October 2017, the Madras high court banned the use of pictures of living persons on

banners and hoardings in Tamil Nadu.

Photos of living persons on banners banned:

i. The Madras High Court has banned the use of photographs or pictures of living persons





on banners, flex boards and signboards in Tamil Nadu.

ii.The Madras High Court has asked the Tamil Nadu government to make sure that provisions of

the Tamil Nadu open places (prevention of disfigurement) act, 1959, were amended

from time to time.

CVC to launch new ‘integrity index’ to rank govt departments over anti-corruption

measures

In a bid to practice preventive vigilance, Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) will develop

an ‘Integrity Index’, which will annually rank government entities viz. Public Sector

Undertakings, Public Sector Banks and Financial Institution, Departments and Ministries of

Government of India on anti-corruption measures which will include internal processes and

controls as well as organisation’s interaction with external stakeholders.

Objectives for developing ‘Integrity Index’:

1. To clearly define integrity in context of public organisations.

2. To highlight different factors of Integrity and how they are linked to each other.

3. To have an objective and reliable tool in place that measures the performance of

organisations on predetermined factors of integrity.

4. To validate the findings in order to improve the robustness of the tool.

5. To create an internal and external ecosystem that promotes working with Integrity.

Tamil Nadu CM lays foundation stone for Rs 198 cr aerospace park

On October 25, 2017, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, EK Palaniswami laid the foundation stone

for an aerospace park at Kanchipuram district.

Details about upcoming Aerospace Park in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu:

i. The aerospace park will be set up by Tamil Nadu State Government in 245 acres of land at an

estimated cost of Rs. 198 crore.

ii. This project will be jointly implemented by Tamil Nadu State Industries Promotion

Corporation Ltd and Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation.

Deadline for linking Aadhaar with government schemes extended to March 31, 2018:

Centre to SC

On October 25, 2017, Union Government informed Supreme Court that deadline for linking of

Aadhaar to avail benefits under government welfare schemes has been postponed to

March 31, 2018. Before this extension, the deadline for linking Aadhaar was December 31,

2017.

i.This is the second extension granted by Government. Earlier the deadline was extended

from September 30, 2016 to December 31, 2017.




iii. This extension applies to total 135 schemes which are administered by various ministries

of Union Government.

Odisha government starts work to prepare 2nd phase of SCCAP

Odisha State Government has started the process to prepare the second phase of the State

Climate Change Action Plan (SCCAP) for the next five years with an outlay of Rs. 31667

crore.

Salient Features of Odisha Government’s Second phase of the State Climate Change

Action Plan (SCCAP):

i. Officials of State Forest and Environment departments have been directed to make an

assessment of the benefits derived from the first phase of the SCCAP implemented from

2010-11 to 2015-16.

ii. The second phase of SCCAP will follow a two-pronged approach focusing on

‘adaptation’ and ‘mitigation’.

Rajasthan passes bill increasing OBC quota to 26%

On October 26, 2017, Rajasthan State Assembly passed Backward Classes (Reservation

of Seats in Educational Institutions in the State and of Appointment and Posts in

Services under the State) Bill, 2017 which increases reservation for Other Backward Classes

(OBC) in the state from 21 per cent to 26 per cent.

Piyush Goyal launches Railway’s first set of solar plants with capacity of 5 MW

On October 27, 2017, Union Railway Minister, Piyush Goyal launched railway’s first set of

solar plants with a total capacity of 5 megawatt peak (MWp) installed on the roof tops

of Hazrat Nizamuddin, New Delhi, Anand Vihar and Delhi railway stations. Mr. Goyal

launched these plants at the inauguration of the International Conference on Green

Initiatives and Railway Electrification.

Kiren Rijiju inaugurates Special Centre for Disaster Research at JNU

On October 26, 2017, Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju inaugurated

the Special Centre for Disaster Research at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi.

Ministry of External Affairs Launches “#AsktheSpokesperson” for better understanding

of foreign policy

On 27th October 2017, the Ministry of External Affairs launched the “#AsktheSpokesperson”

initiative on Twitter, to create better awareness and understanding of foreign policy issues to

general public.

i. The inaugural session of #AsktheSpokesperson initiative was held on 27th October




2017 on the External Affairs Ministry’s official Twitter handle @MEAIndia. The

Spokesperson responded to selected questions, live through periscope.

Shipping ministry offers grant to JNPT, Karwar port under Sagarmala project

On October 26, 2017, Union Shipping Ministry announced that it has sanctioned Rs 25 crore to

the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust and another Rs 50 crore to the Karwar port in

Karnataka for development of coastal berth under the flagship Sagarmala project.

i. These funds have been provided as a part of Coastal Berth Scheme under flagship

Sagarmala Project.

ii. Objective of Coastal Berth Scheme is to provide financial assistance to ports or State

Governments in order to create infrastructure for movement of cargo and passengers through

sea or national waterways.

Cabinet approves Rs 7,000 crore for construction of six IIT campuses

Union Cabinet has approved over Rs 7,000 crore for construction of permanent campuses of six

new Indian Institute of Technology (IITs).

More Information about Permanent Campuses of sex new IITs:

i. Permanent campuses for six new IITs will be constructed at Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh),

Palakkad (Kerala), Dharwad (Karnataka), Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir), Bhilai

(Chhattisgarh) and Goa.

ii. From the academic year 2020-2021, each of the six permanent campuses will have a facility

for housing 1,200 students, thereby raising the total strength of students to 7200.

President Ram Nath Kovind launches technocity project in Kerala

On October 27, 2017, President Ram Nath Kovind launched a Technocity in Pallippuram,

Kerala and laid foundation stone of Kerala Government’s first Information Technology (IT)

building in the campus.

i. Technocity in Kerala is spread across 400 acre land in Pallippuram.

ii. In this Technocity, around 300 acres land has been earmarked for IT and IT-enabled

services office spaces and commercial space..

Maharashtra govt makes Aadhar mandatory to avail fertiliser subsidy

Maharashtra Agriculture Minister Pandurang Fundkar has announced that, in order to avail

fertiliser subsidy, farmers in Maharashtra will have to provide their Aadhaar number.

i. As per this announcement, farmers won’t need to have a debit or credit card to purchase

fertilisers. They can pay in cash, but their Aadhar will be entered in the Point of Sale (PoS)

machines.




ii. The subsidy will be deposited to farmers’ account only if Aadhaar number has been

provided.

Centre releases Rs 8,698 cr as GST compensation to states

Central Government has released Rs 8698 crore as compensation to states for revenue

loss following implementation of Goods and Services Tax (GST).

i. All states except Rajasthan and Arunachal Pradesh have been given compensation for the

first two months (July-August) after GST rollout.

ii. Under GST framework, a cess is levied on top of 28 per cent tax on luxury cars, demerit

and sin Goods like aerated drink and tobacco. Compensation to states for any revenue loss

on account of GST implementation has been paid from revenue collected through this cess.

iii. Rs. 8698 crore that has been paid to states as compensation is 58 per cent of the total

cess revenue of Rs 15060 crore collected in July and August 2017.

ITBP gets “GSAT-6” communication satellite to monitor Chinese border

In a bid to enhance security after the Doklam standoff with China, Union Government has

armed the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) with access to ‘GSAT-6’ communication

satellite’s feeds to track activities along Himalayan border.

i. Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) geostationary communication satellite,GSAT-6

was launched in August 2015.

ii. RK Pachnanda, the Director General of ITBP has stated that ITBP has been designated the

nodal agency for obtaining and channelising GSAT-6 communication satellite.

Phase 1 of Bharat Net project to be completed by December 2017

On October 26, 2017, Aruna Sundararajan, Secretary, Department of

Telecommunications announced that first phase of the Bharat Net project (National Optic

Fibre Network) will be completed by December 2017, and will thereby provide internet

access to 100000 gram panchayats across India.

This announcement was made that at the fourth edition of the ‘i-Bharat 2017’ conference

held in New Delhi on October 26, 2017.

• Theme of ‘i-Bharat 2017’ was ‘ICT Elucidations for Unserved and Unsolved.

About Bharat Net Project:

Bharat Net Project, formerly known as National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN) was

launched by Central Government in October, 2011 with an aim to deploy high-speed optical

fibre cables across rural areas of India.

• Its ultimate goal is to provide broadband connectivity to all 2.5 Lakh Gram

Panchayats in India.




• Besides providing digital connectivity, Bharat Net project will also inculcate

projects such as a ‘DigiGaon’ to provide tele-medicine, education and skills by using

digital technology.

• The project is being implemented by Bharat Broadband Network Ltd (BBNL), a

special purpose vehicle (SPV).

• BBNL has assigned the execution work to three government owned companies –

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL), Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCI)

and RailTel Corporation of India (RailTel).

Bharat Net – Financial Allocation and Current Status:

Under Union Budget 2017-18, Rs.10000 crore has been allocated to Bharat Net Project.

Government relaxes Arms Rules to bolster investment in manufacturing

On 30th October 2017, it was announced that, to boost the ‘Make in India’ initiative, the Union

home ministry has relaxed the Arms Rules.

Relaxation of Arms Rules:

i.The new rules came to effect on 27th October 2017. The new rules will be applicable to

licences granted by the home ministry and the Department of Industrial Policy and

Promotion (DIPP).

ii. Under the new rules, the licence granted for manufacturing will be valid for life-time of the

licensee company. Up to 15 % of the quantity approved under the licence will not require any

further approval by the government.

iii. The licence fee has been reduced. Earlier the licence fee was Rs 500 per firearm. The

licence fee will now range from Rs 5,000 to the maximum of Rs 50,000.

Life term for Govt officials indulging in torture, recommends Law Commission

On October 30, 2017, Law Commission of India has recommended that Indian

Government should ratify a United Nations Convention against Torture in order to avoid

difficulties in extradition of criminals from foreign countries.

Major Recommendations of Law Commission on UN Convention Against Torture:

• It has been recommended that, if Indian Government ratifies the UN Convention

Against Torture, than a bill should be passed by the parliament to amend

various laws to prevent torture by government officials.

• Draft of the proposed Prevention of Torture Bill, 2017, prescribes stringent

punishment to people inflicting torture so as to create a deterrent effect in discouraging

such acts.





• Law Commission has recommended that Government Officials convicted of torture

should be sentenced to life imprisonment.

• Section 375B of Criminal Procedure Code, 1973, should be amended by including

payment of compensation, in addition to the payment of fine provided in the Indian

Penal Code.

• A new section 114B should be inserted in Indian Evidence Act, 1872, which will

ensure that in case a person in police custody sustains injuries, it is presumed that

those injuries have been inflicted by the police.

PLACES IN NEWS Third Edition of ‘Women of India Organic Festival’ held in New Delhi

On 1st – 5th October 2017, the 3rd annual ‘Women of India Organic Festival’ is held at Dilli Haat, in

New Delhi.

i. The ‘Women of India Organic Festival’ is hosted by the Ministry of Women and Child

Development.

ii. Ms.Maneka Sanjay Gandhi, Union Minister for Women and Child Development,

inaugurated the festival.

iii The theme for 2017 is ‘Good for Women; Good for India; Good for You’.

CM Sarbananda Sonowal Lays foundation for Country’s First ITI for Differently Abled in

Dibrugarh

On October 3, 2017, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal laid the foundation stone for

the first ever Industrial Training Institute (ITI) exclusively for the Dibyangans (Differently Abled) at

ITI Complex in Dibrugarh.

Gujarat becomes first state to slash VAT on petrol, diesel; cuts taxes by 4 per cent

On October 2017, Gujarat state government announced a 4 per cent reduction in VAT

(Value Added Tax) on petrol and diesel. It has thereby become the first state to cut VAT

on fuel

Bengaluru airport to be the first Aadhaar-enabled airport in the country by December

2018

The Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has planned to make Kempegowda

International Airport (KIA) as India’s first airport to have complete Aadhaar-enabled entry and

biometric boarding system.

Kolkata host the international puppet festival

On 26th – 31st October 2017, Kolkata is to host an international Puppet festival named ‘PUN




(Puppets Unite Neighbours) International Puppet Festival’ at Mohorkunj, Kolkata.

i. West Bengal principal secretary Tourism and Home Affairs Atri Bhattacharya would inaugurate

the International puppet festival. The festival will be conducted for 6 days.

Rajasthan Assembly becomes first in India to call motions online

Rajasthan State assembly has become the first in India to call attention and adjournment

motions and proposals online from legislators.The new online system was inaugurated

by Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Speaker Kailash Meghwal by sending a call for an attention

motion to the state government with a click of mouse.

PM Modi inaugurates first ever All India Institute of Ayurveda

On October 17, 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the All India Institute of

Ayurveda (AIIA) in Delhi on the occasion of ‘National Ayurveda Day’.

About All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA):

i. AIIA has been set up as an apex institute under the Ministry of AYUSH and has been

modelled along the lines of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

ii. AIIA has been set up on 10.015 acres of land at a cost of Rs. 157 crore.

iii. The institute will serve as a platform to establish synergy between traditional wisdom of

Ayurveda and modern diagnostic tools and technology.

iv. AIIA holds the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers

(NABH) accreditation.

Hyderabad to host CFSI’s International Children’s Film Festival

The 20th International Children’s Film Festival (ICFFI) is to be held in Hyderabad between 8 and 14

November 2017.

International Children’s Film Festival (ICFFI):

i. The International Children’s Film Festival (ICFFI) festival is also called ‘The Golden Elephant’. It is

being organised by Children’s Film Society, India (CFSI).

ii. It will be hosted by the Telangana government jointly with CFSI and the Union Ministry

of Information and Broadcasting.

iii. The theme for this year’s festival is ‘New India’. This festival would screen features, shorts,

live action and animation films.

India’s First Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra for Skilling in Smart Cities

On October 23, 2017, Union Home Minister, Rajnath Singh along with Union Minister of

Petroleum and Natural Gas and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dharmendra

Pradhan inaugurated India’s first Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra (PMKK) for Skilling in

Smart Cities in New Delhi in collaboration with New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC).




About India’s First Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra for Skilling in Smart Cities:

i. This centre, located at Mandir Marg, New Delhi, is an exemplary heritage building of approx.

30,000 sq.ft.

ii. It has a capacity of skilling 4000 youth annually and caters to healthcare and solar energy

sectors.

Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu inaugurates Tawang festival

On 26th October 2017, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the fifth edition

of Tawang festival, at Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.

i. Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the Tawang festival. The

NEC (North Eastern Council) secretary Ram Muivah inaugurated the traditional games and sports

competition.

UP declares Vrindavan, Barsana as sacred sites

On October 27, 2017, Uttar Pradesh State Government issued an order notifying Vrindavan

and Barsana towns in Mathura district as “pavitra teerth sthals” (sacred pilgrimage

sites).

i. Due to this notification, no meat and liquor shops will be allowed in these towns anymore.

ii. It is to be noted that, Vrindavan and Barsana are the first two places to be notified as

teerth sthal in Uttar Pradesh Government records.

Government approved development of Harohalli industrial park in Karnataka

Central Government has given approval for the combined development of phase II and phase III

of Harohalli industrial zone in Ramnagara district of Karnataka.

More Details about Harohalli industrial park in Karnataka:

• This industrial park will be built by Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board

(KIADB) in about 904.86 hectares of land.

• Cost of the project is pegged at Rs 1,561 crore and is expected to generate 23,500

jobs.

1st community toilet for third gender inaugurated in Bhopal

On 2nd October 2017, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister, Mr.Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated a

community toilet for third gender, in the Mangalwara area, Bhopal.

1st community toilet for third gender:

Prime Minister Modi temple with 100 feet tall statue to be built in Meerut

On 5th October 2017, follower and supporter of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, J.P.Singh, announced

that, a temple worth Rs.30 crore is to be built in honour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi

in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh.




Temple with 100 feet tall statue for Prime Minister Modi:

i. The temple would be built in the Sardhana area of Meerut. A 100 feet statue of Prime Minister

Modi would be installed in the temple.

Manipur celebrated its traditional Mera Houchongba festival

Manipur’s traditional Mera Houchongba festival symbolizes brotherhood and unity among

indigenous communities settled in both hill and valley of State.It was celebrated at the Manipur

Royal palace (Sana Konung) in Imphal in the presence of King of Manipur, Leishemba Sanajaoba

as the main host.♦ This is the first time Manipur Government and Royal Council of Manipur

King jointly organised the Mera Houchongba festival under the name of State Level Mera

Huchongba Committee.

Haryana’s Amin village renamed Abhimanyupur

On October 13, 2017, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar gave approval to

rename Amin village in Kurukshetra district to Abhimanyupur.

Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated Saudi Aramco India Office

On 8th October 2017,In Gurugram Saudi Aramcos ARAMCO ASIA INDIA office has been

inaugurated by Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Shri

Dharmendra Pradhan along with Mr Amin H Al-Nasser, President and CEO of Saudi Aramco.

Arunachal Assembly approves Kamle as 23rd district

On October 18, 2017, Arunachal Pradesh State Assembly passed Arunachal Pradesh (Re-

Orgaisation of Districts) Amendment Bill 2017 to create a new district named ‘Kamle’. The

bill was introduced on October 14, 2017 by Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prema Khandu.

About Arunachal Pradesh’s Kamle District:

i. Kamle is the 23rd district of Arunachal Pradesh. It has been created by bifurcating the

present Upper and Lower Subansiri districts.

Birsa Munda Tribal University inaugurated in Narmada district

On October 14, 2017, Gujarat Minister of State for Tribal Welfare Shabdasharan

Tadvi inaugurated the Birsa Munda Tribal University in Rajpipla, a tribal-dominated town

in Narmada district of Gujarat.

India International Cherry Blossom Festival to be held in Shillong

Second edition of India International Cherry Blossom Festival will be held from 8th –

11th November, 2017 in Shillong, Meghalaya.




Odisha will be the ‘Focus State’ at World Food India-2017

Odisha will be the ‘Focus State’ in the World Food India (WFI)-2017, the international food event to

be held at New Delhi from 3 to 5 November 2017.

Odisha at World Food India-2017:

i. More than 200 global companies from 30 countries would participate in the World Food India-

2017. Odisha will be the ‘Focus State’ in the event.

ii. Odisha would set up its own Pavilion with 12 stalls. It would showcase various processed

food items of Odisha like spices, cashew, confectionary items, processed agro food and sea food.

FOREIGN VISITS

President Ramnath Kovind’s first overseas visit to Ethiopia and Djibouti

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind made his first foreign trip as the head of state from 4th –

5th October 2017. He visited two African countries, Ethiopia and Djibouti.

i. On October 4, 2017, India and Djibouti signed an agreement to establish regular

India, Djibouti sign agreement on bilateral consultations

On October 4, 2017, India and Djibouti signed an agreement to establish regular Foreign Office-

level bilateral consultations.

• President Kovind’s Djiboutian counterpart, Djiboutian President Ismail Omar

Guelleh was also present at the signing ceremony.

• Kovind thanked Mr. Guelleh for Djoibouti’s support during Operation Rahat for

evacuating Indians from war-torn Yemen in 2015.

• Both the Presidents also discussed cooperation in the maritime and renewable energy

domains.

• It is to be noted that Ram Nath Kovind is the first Indian leader to visit Djibouti.

India, Ethiopia sign agreements on trade, communication.

On October 5, 2017, India and Ethiopia signed agreements on trade, communication and

media to boost bilateral ties. These agreements were signed in presence of Indian President

Ram Nath Kovind during his official visit to Ethiopia.

• They also released a book titled ‘India- Ethiopia: 70 Years of Diplomatic Relations’.

• President Ram Nath Kovind’s visit to Ethiopia is the first by an Indian President in past 45

years since President V V Giri’s visit in 1972.

India extends USD 195 million credit line to Ethiopia

During his visit to Ethiopia on October 5, 2017, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind announced

that India would extend USD 195 million line of credit to Ethiopia for power transmission





sector and another USD 2 million line of credit for medicines.

Dharmendra Pradhan’s two day visit to Japan

An Indian delegation led by Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra

Pradhan visited Tokyo, Japan from 17th – 18th October, 2017 to participate in LNG Producer-

Consumer Conference 2017.

Highlights of Dharmendra Pradhan’s Japan Visit

Besides attending LNG Producer- Consumer Conference 2017, Pradhan also met Hiroshige Seko,

the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry of Japan. Both the ministers discussed issues of

bilateral engagement in the hydrocarbon sector.Mr Pradhan and Mr. Seko also signed

a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) on establishing a Liquid, Flexible and Global LNG

Market between India and Japan.

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan participated in LNG Producer-Consumer Conference

2017 held in Tokyo, Japan

LNG Producer-Consumer Conference 2017 was organized by the Ministry of Economy, Trade

and Industry of Japan (METI) and the Asia Pacific Energy Research Centre (APERC), in

Tokyo, Japan.Pradhan delivered a key note address on ‘Developing LNG Market in Asia:

Government Perspectives’.

India, Mozambique agree to develop Rovuma gas field

On the sidelines of LNG Producer–Consumer Conference 2017, Union Minister of Petroleum and

Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan met Energy Minister of Mozambique, Leticia Klemens to

discuss the development of the gas fields in Mozambique.

• Indian companies have invested about US$6.5 billion in development of gas

projects in Area -1, spanning across 10,000 square kms, located in northernmost

part of offshore Mozambique Rovuma Basin.

Sushma Swaraj’s two days visit to Bangladesh

Union External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was on an official visit to Bangladesh on

22nd and 23rd October 2017.This visit of Ms. Swaraj was on invitation by Bangladeshi

counterpart, AH Mahmood Ali.

• During the course of this visit, Swaraj co-chaired meeting of the fourth Joint

Cooperation Committee (JCC) and also met Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh

Hasina.

• It is to be noted that India-Bangladesh bilateral economic relations have strengthened

considerably in recent years.

Swaraj co-chairs 4th JCC meeting with Bangladesh FM

On October 22, 2017, Ms. Sushma Swaraj co-chaired the fourth Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC)

meeting with Bangladesh Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali.




• The meeting was held in Dhaka. During the meeting, both the ministers reviewed various

aspects of bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh.

Sushma Swaraj opens India’s new chancery complex in Dhaka

On October 23, 2017, Ms. Sushma Swaraj opened the new chancery complex of the Indian

High Commission in Dhaka. Swaraj had lit the ceremonial lamp to mark the opening of this

complex.

• During the opening ceremony, Swaraj also launched 15 development projects in

Bangladesh which have been funded by India.

• These development projects cater to the areas of education, health care, information

technology, water supply, and social welfare and entails investment of about

USD 8.7 million.

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

Burqa ban comes into effect in Austria

Austria’s law banning face veils such as burqa or niqab, came into force from October 1, 2017. This

legislation was brought in by the outgoing centrist government of Chancellor Christian Kern.

More details about Burqa ban in Austria:

The Austrian law called “Prohibition for the Covering of the Face” forbids the wearing of the

full Islamic veil and other items concealing the face in public places and buildings.

UAE begins collecting ‘sin’ taxes on tobacco, energy drinks

From October 1, 2017, United Arab Emirates (UAE) has begun collecting new “sin” taxes

on tobacco products, energy drinks and soft drinks. Tobacco and energy drinks will be taxed

at 100% and soft drinks at 50%.

• A sin taxis an excise tax specifically levied on certain goods deemed harmful to society,

for example alcohol and tobacco, candies, drugs, soft drinks, fast foods, coffee and sugar.

Benghazi port in Libya reopens after 3 years

Benghazi’s commercial port in east Libya reopened on October 1, 2017 for the first time in

three years.

i. Like Benghazi’s airport, the port had been closed since 2014 because of a conflict between forces

loyal to eastern-based commander Khalifa Haftar and an alliance of Islamists and other

opponents.

China opens new highway in Tibet close to Arunachal border

On October 1, 2017 China opened a 409-km new expressway linking Tibet’s provincial

capital Lhasa with Nyingchi, which is close to Arunachal Pradesh border. Lhasa and Nyingchi,




both are major tourist attractions in Tibet.

i. The new expressway has been built at a cost of nearly $5.8 billion.

ii. On account of this expressway, travel time between Lhasa and Nyingchi will be reduced

from eight to five hours at a speed limit of 80 km per hour.

Mahatma Gandhi’s statue unveiled in Wales

On 2nd October 2017, a statue of Mahatma Gandhi was unveiled to mark his 148th birth

anniversary, in Cardiff, Wales.

i. The Mahatma Gandhi statue weighs 300 kg. It is 6 feet tall. It is made of Indian bronze.

ii. It depicts Mahatma Gandhi holding a stick in one hand and the ‘Bhagavad Gita’ in the other.

iii. It is situated at Lloyd George Avenue in Cardiff. It was designed and created by Indian

sculptors Ram Sutar and his son Anil Sutar.

Turkey opens military training base in Somalia capital

Turkey has opened its largest military base in Africa, in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia

to train Somali Soldiers.

• Turkey’s relations with Somalia date back to the Ottoman Empire. Capitalising on

this, President Tayyip Erdogan’s government in Turkey has become a close ally of the

Somali government in recent years.

Pakistan-Iran sign deal to boost border security

Pakistan and Iran have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to improve border

security between the two countries.

More Details about deal between Pakistan-Iran sign to boost border security:

i. This MoU was signed in Gwadar, Pakistan during the 21st two-day meeting of Pak-

Iran Joint Border Commission.

ii. Provincial Chief Secretary Aurangzeb Haque represented the Pakistani side while Iranian side

was headed by Deputy Governor of Sistan-Balochistan province, Ali Asghar Mir Shikari.

Gandhi museum inaugurated in Durban on land owned by Mahatma Gandhi

On 18th October 2017, Gandhi museum was inaugurated on a small piece of land once owned by

Mahatma Gandhi in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa.

i. Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh inaugurated the museum. The museum will

reflect the life and universal influence of Mahatma Gandhi.

China to get first Tesla factory outside US

Electric car maker Tesla has set up its first electric car manufacturing plant outside the US

at Shangai in China. China has the world’s largest auto industry.




Chile named best country to visit in 2018

On 24th October 2017, Lonely Planet, the travel guide company, ranked Chile as the number one

country to visit in 2018, in its Best in Travel 2018 list.

Chile – Best country to visit in 2018:

i.In the top 10 countries category, Chile was ranked the number one country. It was

followed by South Korea and Portugal in the 2nd and 3rd positions.

ii. In the top 10 cities category, Seville of Spain was ranked as number one. In the top 10

regions category, Belfast & the Causeway Coast of Northern Ireland was ranked number

one. In the top 10 best value, Tallinn of Estonia was given the number one rank.

Netherlands Opens First 3D-Printed Bridge to Cyclists

On 24th October 2017, Netherlands opened the world’s first 3D-printed concrete bridge, mainly for

the use of cyclists.

i. There world’s first 3D-printed concrete bridge was inaugurated at the southeastern

town of Gemert, Netherlands. The bridge is 26 feet long and less than 12 feet wide.

ii. The bridge is made of reinforced, pre-stressed concrete. Printing the bridge took around 3

months. It consists of nearly 800 layers.

Nepal, India to conduct first joint tiger count through camera tapping

On 2nd October 2017, Nepal and India planned to conduct a joint head count of tigers in Nepal and

areas in India adjoining Nepal using same technology.

First India-Nepal joint tiger count using same technology:

i. Nepal and India will conduct a joint head count of tigers in the national parks, forests and

sanctuaries in Nepal and those in India adjoining Nepal using the same camera tapping

method.

France Parliament approves new Anti-Terror Law

On 3rd October 2017, France’s lower house of parliament approved a new Anti-Terror Law, in Paris,

France.

New Anti-Terror law:

i. The New Anti-Terror law was approved by 415 votes to 127, with 19 abstentions. By

approving the new counter-terrorism law, several controversial measures under the state

of emergency that has been in act for nearly two years have been made permanent.

Bangladesh signs $ 4.5 billion loan deal with India

On 4th October 2017, Bangladesh signed a $ 4.5 billion Line Of Credit (LoC) agreement with

India, for its infrastructure and social sector development, in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

India’s 3rd LoC with Bangladesh:

i. This is the 3rd LoC agreement of India with Bangladesh. This LoC involves $ 4.5 billion dollar.




ii. Economic Relations Division Secretary Kazi Shofiqul Azam signed the deal on behalf of

Bangladesh and MD of the Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM) David Rasquinha signed for India.

iii. The agreement was signed in the presence of Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and

Bangladesh Finance Minister A.M.A.Muhith.

iv. The $ 4.5 billion, will be used to fund 17 major projects in Bangladesh, which include

electricity, railroads, roads, shipping and ports.

UN ends 13-year military peacekeeping mission in Haiti

On 5th October 2017, the UN soldiers left Haiti finishing their 13 year military peacekeeping mission

in Haiti.

End of UN peace keeping mission in Haiti:

i. A UN peacekeeping mission helped to maintain order in Haiti through 13 years of

political turmoil and disaster. It has come to an end now.

ii.The UN lowered its flag at its headquarters in Port-au-Prince.This will be followed by a

smaller UN operation consisting of police and civilians who will support the country’s

justice system.

US lifts economic sanctions against Sudan

On October 6, 2017, US State Department announced its decision to ease the penalising

economic and trade sanctions against Sudan which have been in place since 1997.

i. This decision of US is in response to Sudanese Govt’s efforts to end hostilities in conflict areas,

improve humanitarian access throughout Sudan, and maintain cooperation with the United States

in regional conflicts to tackle the threat of terrorism.

BRICS-themed subway train debuts in China

A BRICS-themed subway train with carriages representing the five member nations – Brazil,

Russia, India, China and South Africa – has started test operations in China’s south-eastern

Xiamen city on October 6, 2017 The Indian carriage depicts elephants and yoga.

Oman relaxes its visa rules to attract more Indian tourists

On 5th October 2017, Oman announced that, it has revised the tourist visa for people from India,

China and Russia in order to attract more tourists from these countries.

Oman relaxes visa rules for Indian tourists:

i. Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC) announced the revised terms and

conditions for granting non-sponsored tourist visafor the citizens of India, China and Russia,





who reside in or who hold an entry visa to one of the these countries: USA, Canada, Australia, UK

and Schengen States, to enter Oman.

ii. The visa will be granted for a period of one month for a fee of 20 Rial. The spouse and children

of the visa holder would also be allowed to enter Oman.

US and Israel withdraw from UNESCO

On 12th October 2017, the US and Israel announced that, they quit from the UN’s cultural agency

UNESCO, after US accused UNESCO of “anti-Israeli bias”.

i. The US withdrew from the UNESCO, accusing UNESCO of “anti-Israel bias”. Following

US, Israel has also quit from UNESCO.

ii. The withdrawal of the US, which is supposed to provide one fifth of UNESCO’s funding, is a great

blow for UNESCO. As per UNESCO rules, the US and Israel withdrawal will become effective at the

end of December 2018.

Hamas, Fatah sign deal on Palestinian reconciliation

On 12th October 2017, Palestinian political parties Hamas and Fatah signed a reconciliation deal in,

Cairo, Egypt.

Reconciliation deal between Hamas and Fatah:

i. Head of the PA delegation Azzam al-Ahmad said that, the two sides agreed that the Rafah

border crossing between Egypt and Gaza would be operated by the presidential guards of

PA President Mahmoud Abbas by 1st November 2017.

India rules out joining NPT as non-nuclear weapon state

On October 13, 2017, Permanent Representative of India to the Conference on

Disarmament, Amandeep Singh Gill told the UN General Assembly that there is no possibility of

India joining Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as non-nuclear weapon state.

Five Telangana students selected for NASA rover challenge

Five students from SR Engineering College in Warangal, Telangana have been selected to take

part in the 5th annual NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge.The challenge has been

scheduled to be held in April 2018 in the US.

i. For selection in the final challenge, these student had to submit a moon buggy design report that

make their buggy work on the surface of moon, ensuring the safety of its passengers.ii. The five

students are P Paul Vineeth, Prakash Raineni, P Sravan Rao, R Dilip Reddy and V Sneha. At

the final challenge in April 2018, the team will be led by their faculty Manoj Chaudhary.

Egypt extends state of emergency for three months

On October 12, 2017, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi extended the countrywide

state of emergency for an additional three months.




i. State of Emergency was first imposed in Egypt in April 2017 after bomb blasts in two

churches which killed 45 people.

World’s first ‘negative emissions’ power plant in Iceland

On October 11, 2017, world’s first ‘negative emissions’ power plant started operating in

Iceland.

i. The term negative emission in this context indicates that the power plant eliminates more

carbon dioxide (CO2) than it produces.

ii. This feat has been accomplished by a climate-startup named Climeworks by refitting a

geothermal plant in Iceland.

Pakistan gets its first Metro Train

i. The first metro train to Pakistan has arrived from China as a gift to the country and rolled into

Lahore and it is set to be launched in December 2017.

ii.This metro train service is Called as “The Orange Line Metro Train service”, and this is the

Pakistan’s first mass transit system. It’s fully automated and driverless system.

Bangladesh Navy Ship Somudra Avijan on a goodwill visit to Visakhapatnam

On 16th October 2017, Bangladesh Naval Ship (BNS) Somudra Avijan arrived at Visakhapatnam

on a 4 day goodwill visit to the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

BNS Somudra Avijan:

i. BNS Somudra Avijan carried out Passage Exercise, which included naval exercises in the Bay of

Bengal, before entering into the Visakhapatnam port. The ship was received by officials from the

ENC and Eastern Fleet with the Indian Naval Band, in Visakhapatnam.

strong>ii. BNS Somudra Avijan is commanded by Commander M Moniruzzaman. It is a part of

Cadet Training Squadron with 60 cadets onboard for sea training.

Zimbabwe bans Fruit, Vegetable imports as Forex Crunch Deepens

The east African landlocked country Zimbabwe, with immediate effect, banned the import of fruits

and vegetables to preserve the scarce foreign currencies.

i. Already in late 1990’s Hyperinflation occurred and thus the stability of the currency had down

and therefore the country had to dump its currency for the US dollar.

ii. The present situation also running short of dollars as well as quasi-currency “bond

note” introduced last year to ease cash shortages.

Pakistan elected among 15 nations to UN Human Rights Council

On October 16, 2017, 15 member nations including Pakistan have been elected to serve on

the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council.




New Member of UN Human Rights Council:

1.15 new member nations who have been elected are Afghanistan, Angola, Australia, Chile,

the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mexico, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, Qatar,

Senegal, Slovakia, Spain and Ukraine.

2.These members would serve three-year terms beginning on January 1, 2018.

Poland quits IMF’s Flexible Credit Line

Poland’s Finance Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has stated that Poland will quit a

precautionary Flexible Credit Line (FCL) from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) worth $9.2

billion.

Reason for Quitting IMF’s Flexible Credit Line:

i. Recent strength in the Polish economy has been given as the reason for quitting the FCL. The

Polish budget reported a surplus for the period from January 2017 to August 2017 on account of

steep rise in revenue from the value-added tax.

India, Brazil, South Africa sign IBSA Trust Fund agreement

On October 18, 2017, India, Brazil and South Africa signed the IBSA Trust Fund Agreement

that seeks to combat poverty in developing countries.

i. On behalf of Indian Government, the agreement was signed by Minister of State for External

Affairs, V K Singh, who led the Indian side at the 8th IBSA trilateral Ministerial Commission

Meeting in Durban, South Africa.

ii. The IBSA Fund was created in 2004 with an aim at to support viable and replicable projects

that contribute to the national priorities of other developing countries.

iii. Each country (India, Brazil and South Africa – IBSA) contributes USD 1 million

annually to this fund.

iv. The fund is managed by the UN Development Programme’s (UNDP) Special Unit for South-

South Cooperation.

Lebanon’s parliament approves country’s first budget since 2005

On October 19, 2017, Lebanon’s parliament approved country’s first budget in 12 years.

i. This budget is aimed towards reforming the fragile economy and preventing rising debt from

becoming a crisis-like situation.Political crisis gripped Lebanon since assassination of former Prime

Minister Rafik al-Hariri in 2005, thereby preventing successive government from passing the

budget.

World’s first floating wind farm in Scotland starts generating electricity

World’s first floating wind farm located over 15 miles off the coast of Peterhead, Aberdeenshire

in Scotland has started generating electricity.




About World’s first floating wind farm in Scotland:

i. Work of setting up this wind farm started in July 2017. The turbines used in this wind farm

have been towed all the way from Norway by Norwegian multinational company named

Statoil which has developed this wind farm.

Peru passes legislation to legalize medical marijuana

On October 19, 2017, Peru’s conservative Congress passed a bill to legalize medical uses of

marijuana with 68-5 vote in favour.

Use of Marijuana for medical purpose:

i. It is to be noted that Peru’s neighbouring countries, Chile and Colombia have already

legalized marijuana for medical purposes.

Nicaragua signs Paris climate agreement

On October 23, 2017, Central American country, Nicaragua officially signed the Paris climate

change agreement and presented the relevant documents for the agreement at the United

Nations.

i. Now as Nicaragua has signed the Paris Climate Change Agreement, US and Syria are the only

countries who are not party to this agreement.

India gifts war memorabilia to Bangladesh

On 22nd October 2017, India gifted a memorabilia of the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 to the

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

i. The memorabilia of the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 was handed over to Sheikh

Hasina by Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

ii.During the war, about 10 million Bangladesh people took refuge in India. India and Bangladesh

fought together to drive out the Pakistani occupation army.

India grants USD 585,000 aid to Sri Lanka University

On October 25, 2017, India provided equipment and vehicles worth USD 585,000 to

University of Jaffna in Sri Lanka. Jaffna is a Tamil-dominated former war zone in Northern part

of Sir Lanka.

Qatar introduces minimum wage for first time

On 25th October 2017, Qatar announced minimum wage for its workers for the first time.

Qatar – minimum wage for workers:

i. Qatar has introduced certain labour law reforms, including minimum wage. It has not been

announced when these reforms will come into effect.

ii. The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has welcomed this move.




China unveils World’s first track-less train that runs on virtual railways

On 23rd October 2017, China began test runs of its world’s first track-less train in Zhuzhou city,

China.

World’s first track-less train:

i. China’s world’s first track-less train, that runs on virtual track is promoted as the ‘World’s First

smart train’. This train could travel at the speed of 70 kmph. This train is called Autonomous

Rail Transit (ART).

India, US to implement HOSTAC to strengthen maritime security

In a bid to strengthen maritime security, India and the United States have agreed to

implement the programme for Helicopter Operations from Ships other Than Aircraft

Carriers (HOSTAC).

i. This decision was taken during a meeting between Indian Defense Minister, Ms. Nirmala

Sitharama and US Secretary of Defence Jim Mattis.

ii. The meeting between Ms. Sitharaman and Mr. Mattis was held on October 25, 2017

in Philippines on sidelines of ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting – Plus.

Asia now has more billionaires than the US for first time

As per a report by UBS AG and Pricewaterhouse Coopers, Asia now has more billionaires

than US, for the first time.

Highlights of Report by UBS AG and Pricewaterhouse Coopers:

i. In 2016, combined wealth of billionaires across the world increased 17 percent to $6 trillion.

ii. During 2016, 117 Asians entered the billionaire club for the first time, taking the total of

billionaires in Asia to 637. Billionaire headcount for US stands at 563.

Burundi becomes first country to leave International Criminal Court

African country Burundi has withdrawn from International Criminal Court (ICC) with effect

from October 27, 2017 and has thus become the first nation to do so.

i. International Criminal Court is an international tribunal (located in Hague,

Netherlands) having authority to prosecute individuals for the international crimes of

genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes.

ii. In recent years, governments of three African countries, South Africa, Gambia and

Burundi expressed their intent to leave ICC citing the reason that it focuses too much on

African nations.





India to assist Sri Lanka in construction of 1,200 houses

On October 26, 2017, India and Sri Lanka signed two agreements for construction of 1,200

houses through 50 model villages in Sri Lanka.

i. Two MoUs were signed by Indian High Commissioner Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Secretary to

the Ministry of Housing and Construction W K K Athukorala signed two Memorandum of

Understanding (MoUs) in Hambantota, Sri Lanka.

ii. 1200 houses will be constructed with Indian grant assistance of 600 million rupees.

Catalonia declares independence from Spain

On 27th October 2017, Catalonia declared independence from Spain after lawmakers in the

autonomous region voted to declare independence.

Catalonia declared independent:

i. The parliament of Catalonia has voted to declare independence from Spain. The decision was

made during a secret vote in Barcelona on 27th October 2017.

ii. After the declaration, the Spanish government dismissed the Catalan President Carles

Puigdemont and his cabinet. It allowed Madrid to directly administer the region. The

Spanish Prime Minister also suspended top officials of Catalonia’s regional police.

Australian court disqualifies deputy PM for dual citizenship

On 27th October 2017, Australia’s High Court disqualified the deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce

and four senators to sit in parliament due to a constitutional ban on dual citizens sitting in

Parliament.

Australian government disqualified deputy PM:

i. Australia’s High Court declared Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce and four senators

ineligible to remain in parliament. This has been done in line with a constitution

ban that prevents dual citizens from sitting in the Parliament.

India organises tourism promotion campaign in China’s Sanya

On 26th October 2017, India organised a tourism exchange seminar in China’s Sanya city to create

awareness about India’s tourist destinations.

Tourism promotion campaign in Sanya:

i. Indian Consulate in Guangzhou, China organised ‘India-China (Sanya) Tourism

Exchange Seminar’ at Sanya.

First batch of Afghan Pilots complete ‘Black Hawk’ training in U.S.

The first batch of the Afghan Air Force pilots completed their training in the United States

for the newly-deployed modern UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters.




SUMMITS & CONFERENCES G-20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) Meeting held in Washington

D.C

On 13th October 2017, the G-20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) Meeting

was held in Washington D.C., US, in which Finance Minister Arun Jaitley participated.

G-20 FMCBG Meeting:

i. The Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs, Arun Jaitley participated in the G-20

Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) Meeting.

First Edition of the ASEAN India Music Festival begins in New Delhi

The first ever ASEAN-India Music Festival has begun at Purana Quila in New Delhi on October

6, 2017. It will continue till October 8, 2017. About First Edition of the ASEAN-India Music

Festival:

i. It has been organised to celebrate 25th anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations,

which is being commemorated with the theme “Shared Values, Common Destiny”.

14th India-EU summit held in New Delhi

On 6th October 2017, the 14th India – European Union Summit was held, in New Delhi.14th India-

EU Summit:

President of the European Council, Donald Franciszek Tusk, President of the European Commission,

Jean-Claude Juncker and EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-

President of the European Commission, Federica Mogherini attended the 14thIndia-EU Summit

2017.

Global Entrepreneurship Summit 2017 to be Held in Hyderabad

On October 3, 2017, a high-level delegation from Government of India and the United

States met at NITI Aayog to plan the 2017 Global Entrepreneurship Summit, which is

scheduled to be held from 28th – 30th November 2017 in Hyderabad.

About Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) 2017:

i. . Theme of GES 2017 is “Women First, Prosperity for All”.

Three day global medical conference held in Chandigarh

On 4th October 2017, a three day international medical conference, ‘IMTechCon 2017’, began at

CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (IMTECH), in Chandigarh.

IMTechCon 2017:

i. The aim ‘IMTechCon 2017’ is to engage industry and academic leaders to discuss current

unmet medical needs at global level.

ii. Haryana Governor Kaptan Singh Solanki presided over the conference.




Vice President inaugurated the 3rd International Conference on Yoga on the theme ‘Yoga

for Wellness

On 10th October 2017, Vice President, Mr.M.Venkaiah Naidu inaugurated the two day ‘International

Conference on Yoga for Wellness’ at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.

3rd International Conference on Yoga:

i. The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH, Mr.Shripad Yesso Naik presided

over the inaugural function.Secretary (AYUSH), Mr.C.K.Mishra, Special Secretary, Mr.Vaidya

Rajesh Kotecha also participated.

Andhra Chief Minister inaugurates Blockchain Business Conference in Visakhapatnam

On 9th October 2017, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Mr.N.Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated a two

day International Blockchain Business Conference, at Fintech Valley Vizag, in Vishakapatnam.

International Blockchain Business Conference:

i. The International Blockchain Business Conference is hosted by Fintech Valley Vizag. It

is hosted with the support from Ministry of Electronic and IT.

48th Conference of Governors concludes at Rashtrapati Bhavan

48th Conference of Governors was held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi from 12thand

13th October 13, 2017.Sessions on ‘Infrastructure for New India 2022’, ‘Public Services for

New India 2022’ and ‘Higher Education in States and Skill Development’ were also held

during this two-day conference.

Government to organise Global Ayurveda meet in Kochi

Health Minister KK Shailaja told that, The State government will organise a four days international

seminar and Global Ayurveda meet in Kochi on February 2018 .

i. The main fous of this seminar will be showcasing Kerala’s achievements in health tourism,

healthcare and ayurveda, she said after inaugurating the Ayurveda Day celebrations the other day.

India to be guest country at the World Government Summit

On 1st October 2017, The World Government Summit announced India as the guest country for its

annual gathering on 11thto 13th February, 2018, in Dubai.

India as guest country in World Government Summit:

i. Honorary guests from India will attend the World Government Summit 2017 to showcase

India’s economic growth, valuable knowledge, skills, capabilities and unique culture.

♦ Headquarters – Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Sushma Swaraj to lead government delegation to PBD 2018 in Singapore

On 5th October 2017, India’s High Commissioner to Singapore announced that, External Affairs




Minister Sushma Swaraj will lead a ministerial delegation to the ASEAN-India ‘Pravasi Bharatiya

Diwas’ (PBD) to be held in 2018, in Singapore.

Sushma Swaraj to lead delegation to PBD 2018:

i. India’s High Commissioner to Singapore Jawed Ashraf made this announcement. Sushma Swaraj

will lead the Indian delegation to the ASEAN-India ‘Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas’ 2018.

ii. He also said that, PBD is to be held on 6thand 7thJanuary 2018. The PBD 2018 is an important

part of the celebration of 25 years of the ASEAN-India partnership.

Canada chosen as partner country for 2017 Technology Summit, New Delhi

Canada has been chosen as the partner country for the 23rd edition of Technology

Summit which is scheduled to be held from 14th – 15th November, 2017 in New Delhi.

More Details about Technology Summit 2017:

i. This event is India’s largest knowledge and technology conference and exhibition.

ii. It is jointly organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Indian Department

of Science and Technology (DST).

iii. The theme of this summit will be ‘Advanced Manufacturing’ focusing on advances in various

sectors including aerospace, Aviation, Artificial Intelligence and Life Sciences.

First Meeting of India-Australia Joint Steering Committee held in New Delhi

On 6th October 2017, the First Meeting of India-Australia Joint Steering Committee was held in New

Delhi.

22nd GST council meeting held in New Delhi

22nd meeting of the Good and Services Tax (GST) Council was held on October 6, 2017 in

New Delhi, under the chairmanship of Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. The council reduced GST

rates on specific items and also eased the compliance requirement for Small and Medium

Businesses.

Government reduces GST rates on 27 items, gives relief to small and medium businesses

Threshold for composition scheme raised to Rs 1 crore from 75 lakh

• At the 22nd Meeting of GST Council, decision was taken to raise the eligibility

threshold for ‘composition scheme’ to Rs. 1 crore of annual sales from Rs.75

lakh earlier.

PAN card not required for jewellery purchase of above Rs 50,000

On October 6, 2017, post 22nd meeting of GST Council, Government announced to roll back

August 2017 notification under which PAN card was mandatory on the purchase of

jewellery for over Rs 50,000.

9th Annual ‘World Dental Show 2017’ opens in Mumbai

On Oct.6 2017, The 3-day international exhibition -9th Annual ‘World Dental Show 2017’ has




opened Bandra-Kurla Complex in Mumbai.It is an integral part of Asia’s biggest dental event.

Manipur government hosts Northeast labour ministers’ meeting

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has addressed a regional conference of north east labour

ministers and officials to take a sincere effort to end the alienation of people from the north east on

6th Oct. 2017.

♦The conference was held at the Hotel Classic Grande in Imphal. He added that to show our

responsibility to initiate a unity among the citizens of the country.

International Conference on Dialogue of Civilizations – IV begins in New Delhi

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in collaboration with National Geographic Society is

hosting an international conference on “Dialogue of Civilizations – IV” from 8th – 15th October,

2017 at Delhi, Gandhinagar (in Gujarat) and Dholavira (in Gujarat).

About “Dialogue of Civilizations”:

i. “Dialogue of Civilizations” conference was initiated by National Geographic Society in 2013.

ii. Objective of this conference is to encourage scholarly and public discourse about the five

ancient, literate civilizations of the world, i.e. Egypt, Mesopotamia, South Asia, China and

Mesoamerica.

International Peace Conference held in Imphal

International Peace Conference was held in Imphal, Manipur on October 18, 2017.

Highlights of International Peace Conference, Imphal:

i. International Peace Conference in Imphal was held with an objective to promote peace and

harmony in the North Eastern region of India.

ii.14th Dalai Lama too addressed the International Peace Conference. He visited Manipur on

an invitation extended by Y Khemchand, the Speaker of Manipur State Assembly

8th SAARC Speaker, Parliamentarians conference held in Sri Lanka

On 4th to 6th October 2017, the 8th conference of the Association of SAARC Speakers and

Parliamentarians (ASSP) is held at Hotel Hilton, in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

8th SAARC Speaker, Parliamentarians conference:

i. The 8th Conference, organized by the Parliament of Sri Lanka, has brought together Speakers and

Parliamentarians from the member countries of the SAARC. ii. The conference was inaugurated

by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.

ii.Theme of this conference is ‘Association of the SAARC Speakers and Parliamentarians’: a





platform for the Parliamentarians of South Asia to work together to reach the 2030

agenda for Sustainable Development.

Sumitra Mahajan attended special parliamentary session in Sri Lanka

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan attended a special parliamentary session in Sri

Lanka that is being convened to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of Sri

Lankan Parliament.

Eighth conference of the association of (SAARC) Speakers and Parliamentarians:

i. Ms Sumitra Mahajan will also attend eighth conference o the association of the South Asian

Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Speakers and Parliamentarians, which will be hosted

by Sri Lanka in Colombo between 4th and 8thOctober 2017.

ii.Association of the SAARC Speakers and Parliamentarians is a platform for the parliamentarians of

South Asia to work together to reach the 2030 agenda for “Sustainable Development”.

2nd World Congress on Marxism to be held in Beijing

2nd World Congress on Marxism is scheduled to be held in Peking University in Beijing from

5th – 6th May 2018.

About 2nd World Congress on Marxism:

i. The theme of 2nd World Congress on Marxism will be “Marxism and the current world

and China”. 17 sub forums will be held covering topics like Chinese solution and modernization

approach by the developing countries.

ii. The 2nd World Congress on Marxism coincides with the 200th anniversary of Karl

Marx’s birth and 40th anniversary of China’s reform and opening-up.

Power Minister R.K. Singh addresses the 3rd Global Investors’ India Forum

On October 26, 2017, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power and New &

Renewable Energy, R. K. Singh addressed the 3rd Global Investors’India Forum in New

Delhi.

Highlights of 3rd Global Investors’ India Forum:

i. The event was organized by Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India

(ASSOCHAM).

ii. Theme of this event was ‘Ideate, Innovate, Implement and Invest in India’.

PM Modi Inaugurates Int’l Conference on Consumer Protection

On October 27, 2017, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated two-day International

Conference on Consumer Protection for east, south and Southeast Asian countries in New

Delhi.




About International Conference on Consumer Protection:

i. This conference is being hosted by the Department of Consumer Affairs under Union

Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and the United Nations

Conference on Trade and Development.

ii. Theme of this conference is ‘Empowering Consumers in New Markets’.

4th ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM) Plus held in Clark, Philippines

On 24th October 2017, the 4th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)-Plus was held in Clark,

Philippines.

4th ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting (ADMM) Plus:

i. The 4th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)-Plus was hosted by the Philippine Department

of National Defence. The meeting was chaired by Secretary of National Defence of the

Philippines Delfin Lorenzana.

ii. Defence department leaders from 10 ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) nations

and 8 dialog partners participated. They delivered speeches on regional security situations and

issues of common concern.

iii. Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman represented India. This is her first foreign

visit after taking charge as Defence Minister.

14th South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation in Law Conference begins in

Colombo

14th South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation in Law (SAARCLAW)Conference is

being held from 27th -29th October, 2017 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, along with the 11th SAARC

Chief Justices Conference.

Highlights of 14th SAARCLAW, Colombo:

i. The conference was inaugurated on October 27, 2017 by Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil

Wickremesinghe.

ii. Theme of 14th SAARCLAW Conference is “Emerging Legal Trends in SAARC Countries”.

India to host UN wildlife summit in 2020

On 28th October 2017, the UN for Environment Programme announced that, India will host the next

United Nations (UN) global wildlife conference on migratory species (CMS COP13) in 2020.

UN wildlife summit:

i. India will host the thirteenth session of United Nations’ global wildlife conference on

migratory species (CMS COP13) in 2020. The Conference of the Parties to the Convention on

Migratory Species (CMS COP) is held once in three years.

ii. It is the only international treaty devoted exclusively to migratory wildlife species. The summit




aims to conserve terrestrial, marine, and avian migratory species on a global level.

India and US hold 11th Trade Policy Forum Meeting in Washington

On 26th October 2017, the 11th Trade Policy Forum (TPF) Meeting was held in Washington D.C., US.

Trade Policy Forum Meeting:

i. In the 11th Trade Policy Forum (TPF) Meeting, Indian Minister for Commerce and Industry, Suresh

Prabhu had productive discussions with the United States Trade Representative, Ambassador

Robert Lighthizer and his team.

ii. During the meeting, discussions were held on issues related to bilateral trade between India

and US, areas of mutual cooperation, market access in agriculture, non-agricultural goods

and services and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR).

11th World Congress on Adolescent Health held in New Delhi

On 27th – 29th October 2017, the 11th World Congress on Adolescent Health is held in New Delhi.

World Congress on Adolescent Health:

i. The theme for World Congress on Adolescent Health 2017 is ‘Investing in Adolescent

Health—the Future is Now’. This year’s event is focused on lowering mortality rates for

adolescents.

ii. This event is hosted by MAMTA Health Institute for Mother and Child and the Public

Health Foundation of India (PHFI) with support of the Ministry of Health and Family

Welfare.

India, UAE second strategic talks held in Abu Dhabi

On October 29, 2017, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) held second round of

strategic dialogue in Abu Dhabi.

More Information about India-UAE Second Strategic Dialogue:

i. India-UAE Second Strategic Dialogue was held with an objective to deepen bilateral

cooperation in various areas such as trade and investment.

ii. M.J. Akbar, Minister of State for External Affairs led the Indian delegation, whereas UAE

side was represented by Dr. Anwar Gargash, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.





RANKINGS & REPORTS

India ranks highest in online harassment in APAC region: Norton

On 4th October 2017, a report by Norton by Symantec, stated that India ranks first in online

harassment, in the Asia Pacific region.

India tops online harassment in Asia Pacific Region:

i. Norton by Symantec released a report on online harassment. This report surveyed 1,035 adults

in India.

ii. India has faced highest levels of online harassment in the Asia Pacific Region. 8 out of 10

surveyed Indians said that, they had encountered some form of online harassment.

Mukesh Ambani tops Forbes India Rich List for 10th year in a row

With a net worth of $38 billion, Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) chairman Mukesh

Ambani has topped Forbes’s India Rich List 2017. He has topped Forbes rich list for

10th consecutive year.

Global Hunger Index – India slips 3 positions to 100th among 119 nations

India has ranked at 100th position among 119 countries on the Global Hunger Index

(GHI), 2017. This year’s ranking marks a drop of three positions as compared to 97th rank in

Global Hunger Index 2016.

Highlights of Global Hunger Index 2017:

India’s GHI 2017 score of 31.4 , it becomes at the high end of the “serious” hunger problem

category.

• The report outlines that more than 20% of Indian children under the age of five

have lower weight in relation to their height and about 33% are too short in

relation to their age.

• Among Asian countries India’s score is the third worst, only better than Pakistan

and Afghanistan. Even countries like Iraq, North Korea and Bangladesh have

better scores than India.

• The report also cited that despite of India being world’s second largest food

producer it has second highest under-nourished population in the world.

• As per the report, Central African Republic has the worst score and is the only country

having “extremely alarming” hunger levels, whereas Chad, Sierra, Leone, Madagascar,

Zambia, Yemen, Sudan, and Liberia are the countries that are suffering from

“alarming” hunger levels.




India slips to 8th among most valuable brands – Nation Brands 2017

India has ranked as 8th most valuable nation brand as per Brand Finance’s Nation

Brands 2017 report.

Highlights of Nation Brands 2017 report:

In 2017, India has slipped down by one spot as compared to 2016 ranking.India’s National

Brand Value in 2017 at USD 2.04 trillion too has eroded by nearly one percent from last year’s

USD 2.06 trillion.

• US retained its top spot as most valuable nation brand; however meagre growth of

2% percent is putting its dominance at risk. Besides, perception about Donald

Trump’s Presidency is not helping ‘Brand America’.

• China occupied the second spot and has been adjudged as fastest growing nation

brand in 2017. China’s national brand value grew by 44 per cent in

2017.Penetration of Chinese brands in world markets and the transformed national image

of China as an emerging global power are the key factors for rise in its nation brand

value.

SEBI chief Ajay Tyagi named among worlds top 10 regulators

SEBI Chairman Ajay Tyagi has been named among the world’s top 10 regulators in the Market

structure. He has placed seventh position among the top 10 regulators worldwide.i. The Exchange

Invest 1000 (EI1000) , the rankings are part of the World’s Most Influential People in Market

Structure was launched by Patrick Young & Exchange Invest.

The Economist Intelligence Unit announces the Safe Cities Index 2017 – Tokyo 1st, Delhi

ranked 43rd

i. Japan’s capital Tokyo has topped Economist Intelligence Unit’s Safe Cities Index 2017 of 60

cities. Indian cities Delhi and Mumbai have ranked 43rd and 45th respectively

ii. Top 3 Cities:

1.Tokyo, Japan 2.Singapore 3.Osaka, Japan

India is second largest market for pharma & biotech workforce: LinkedIn Report

On 10th October 2017, LinkedIn released a report stating that, India ranks as the second largest

market for pharmaceuticals and biotechnology workforce.

India – 2nd largest market for pharma and biotech workforce:

i. The report by professional networking firm LinkedIn, has stated that India contributes 13.7

% to the global pharmaceuticals and biotechnology workforce. India has become the second

largest market for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry.

ii. The report was published in the newly released e-book “The Indian Pharma and

Biotech Industry”.It showed that New Delhi, Kolkata and Chandigarh are top markets for talent in

this sector, in India.




2017 Melbourne Mercer Global Pension Index: India at 28th position

India has ranked 28th out of 30 countries in the Melbourne Mercer Global Pension Index

2017 published by Australian Centre for Financial Studies (ACFS).

Highlights of Melbourne Mercer Global Pension Index 2017:

I Although India has ranked 28th, its pension system has been adjudged as more sustainable than

that of Poland, Germany, France, Japan, Italy, Austria, Brazil, China and Argentina.

ii. Denmark has retained the top spot in this index for sixth consecutive year.

Delhi ranks among the worst cities in the world for women

As per a survey by the Thomson Reuters Foundation, India’s capital Delhi is one of the worst

megacities in the world on the parameter of women safety.

Observations from Survey by Thomson Reuters Foundation:

i. Delhi along with Sao Paolo (Brazil) were adjudged as the worst cities on the sub-parameter

of sexual harassment. Japan’s capital Tokyo emerged as the safest city in terms of risk of

sexual harassment.

IIT Bombay top ranked Indian institute in QS Asia University Rankings 2018

Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) has emerged as top-ranked Indian

institute in the latest Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Asia University Rankings 2018.

Highlights of QS Asia University Rankings 2018:

i. IIT Bombay has ranked 34th and is the only Indian institute to better its performance among

the top 100 universities in QS Asia University Rankings 2018.

ii. It is to be noted that IIT Bombay was ranked 179th in the latest edition of QS World University

Rankings.

iii. IIT Delhi (41st rank), IIT Madras (48th rank), Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore

(51st rank), IIT Kanpur (59th rank), IIT Kharagpur (62nd rank), University of Delhi (72nd rank), IIT

Roorkee (93rd rank) and IIT Guwahati (98th rank) are other Indian institutes which have featured in

QS Asia University Rankings 2018.

iv. Singapore’s Nanyang Technology University has topped QS Asia University

Rankings 2018.

Google viewed as Most Authentic Brand in India: “Authentic Brands Study 2017”

On 17th October 2017, a new survey named “Authentic Brands Study” stated that, Indian

consumers regard Google as the most authentic brand.





Google – Most Authentic Brand in India:

i. In India, Google is considered as the most authentic brand, stated by “Authentic

Brands Study 2017” survey conducted by Cohn & Wolfe. It is followed by Microsoft,

Amazon.com, Maruti Suzuki and Apple.

ii. Globally, Amazon occupies the 1st place and Apple the 2nd, as the most authentic

brands, according to the Cohn & Wolfe survey.

Singapore passport becomes ‘most powerful’ in the world

As per ‘Global Passport Power Rank 2017’, compiled by international financial advisory

firm Arton Capital, passport of Singapore is now the “most powerful” passport in the

world

Rank Country Visa-Free Score (VFS) 1 Singapore 159 2 Germany 158 3 Sweden, South Korea 157 4 Denmark, France, Finland, Italy, Japan, Norway, Spain,

United Kingdom 156

5 Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Portugal, Switzerland, Netherlands

155

Biocon ranked 9th in Science Careers’ top employers’ survey

Biocon, a Banglore based company, is the first Indian company, which was ranked ninth in the

survey.

i. . Biocon has been ranked No.9 in The Science Careers Top 20 Employers Survey 2017. It is the

only Asian Company in the prestigious list of global biotech and pharma companies.

iii. Biocon has been recognised for‘being an innovative leader in the industry’, ‘having a

clear vision’ and ‘being socially responsible’.

India has 3rd highest number of family-owned businesses

As per “CS Family 1000” report by Credit Suisse Research Institute, India has 3rd highest

number of family-owned businesses in the world.

Highlights of “CS Family 1000” Report:

i. As per the report, there are 108 publicly-listed family-owned businesses in India, which is

the third highest in the world.

ii. With 167 family-owned businesses, China is at the top followed by US, which has 121 such

businesses.

India tops list of new TB cases in 2016 – WHO

According to ‘Global TB Report 2017’ released by World Health Organization (WHO), India




has topped the list of seven countries, accounting for 64 per cent of the 10.4 million

new tuberculosis (TB) cases worldwide in 2016. Highlights of ‘Global TB Report 2017’:

In 2016, nearly 7 million people died from TB, marking a 4% drop as compared to 2015

report.

• It is estimated that out of the 1.7 million people who died from TB in 2016, around

400000 people were co-infected with human immunodeficiency virus(HIV).

• In terms of new tuberculosis (TB) cases worldwide in 2016, India is followed by

Indonesia, China, Philippines, Pakistan, Nigeria and South Africa.

• As per the report, around 490000, multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) cases were

registered in 2016. Almost half of these cases were reported from India, China and

Russia.

India emerges as biggest source for digital talent – Survey by Capgemini and LinkedIn

According to a survey by global consulting firm Capgemini and LinkedIn, India has the highest

proportion of Digital Talent among the countries surveyed.

i. At 76%, India had the highest proportion of Digital Talent among all the countries that

were surveyed. The global average stood at 56%.

ii. 64 per cent organisations in India cited that digital talent gap has widened over the past few

years

Highlights of Survey by Capgemini and Linkedin:

At 76%, India had the highest proportion of Digital Talent among all the countries that were

surveyed. The global average stood at 56%.

• 64 per cent organisations in India cited that digital talent gap has widened over the past

few years.

India overtakes US to become 2nd largest smartphone market

India has overtaken the United States and become the 2nd largest smartphone market in the world,

according to independent analyst Canalys.

India – 2nd largest smartphone market in the world:

i. Canalys has released a report recently that states, India has become the second largest

smartphone market in the world. The 1st position is occupied by China.

Madhya Pradesh tops in digital initiatives: Report by Coeus Age Consulting

As per a report by Coeus Age Consulting, Madhya Pradesh has emerged as the top state in

terms of digital initiatives undertaken by State Government. Coeus Age Consulting is an

organisation which provides consultancy services on various aspects of digital economy.




Digital Initiatives – Top 5 State State Score Madhya Pradesh 100.1 Maharashtra 99.9 Andhra Pradesh 99.8 Chhattisgarh 97.4 Karnataka 95.3

India among five countries responsible for 50% newborn deaths

As per a report titled “Levels and Trends in Child Mortality 2017”, India along with

Pakistan, Nigeria, Congo and Ethiopia is responsible for half of all new-born deaths in the

world.

About “Levels and Trends in Child Mortality 2017” Report:

“Levels and Trends in Child Mortality 2017” are the estimates developed by United Nations Inter-

agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation (UN IGME) in context of monitoring child

survival.

• This report has been authored by United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), World

Health Organization (WHO), World Bank Group and United Nations.

• Estimates of under-five, infant and neonatal mortality have been presented in this report.

Besides, progress at the country, regional and global levels has also been assessed.

Highlights of “Levels and Trends in Child Mortality 2017”:As per the report, 6 million

children died before reaching the age of five in 2016.This marks a decrease as compared to

year 2000 in which 9.9 million children had died before turning five.

• The report outlined that neonatal deaths (deaths during the first 28 days of

life)accounted for 46 per cent whereas 6 million babies were stillborn in 2016.

• 24 per cent of new-born deaths occurred in India. Pakistan accounted for 10 per

cent whereas African countries – Nigeria Democratic Republic of Congo and Ethiopia

accounted for 9 per cent, 4 per cent and 3 per cent respectively.

Indian tourism industry holds potential to grow by 2.5%: Study by ASSOCHAM and Yes

Bank

The Indian travel and tourism industry is expected to grow by 2.5 %, according to a study by the

ASSOCHAM and Yes Bank.

Indian tourism to grow by 2.5%:

i. A study conducted by ASSOCHAM and Yes Bank has predicted the growth for Indian

tourism industry as 2.5 %.It has also proposed developmental suggestions for the tourism

industry.

ii. The travel and tourism industry has supported over 25,400,000 jobs in 2016, which is

5.8 % of the total employment. This has tremendous potential to rise by 2.5 % if the budget is

increased from the current 0.9 % to at least 0.15 % in 2018-19.




Maharashtra is top Indian tourist source market for Australia

Maharashtra has become the leading Indian tourist source market for Australia with over 59,000

tourists having visited Australia in the year ended in June 2017.

i. Maharashtra ranks as the leading Indian tourism source market for Australia. According to the

data compiled by Tourism Australia, Maharashtra contributed to a growth of 18 % in tourist

entries and 41 % in spend for the year ended in June 2017.

ii.Maharashtra was followed by Delhi with 32,000 travelers, then by Karnataka (30,000),

Tamil Nadu (20,000), Punjab (18,000) and Gujarat (17,000).

State of World Population 2017 Report launched

As per the recently released State of World Population 2017 report by the United Nations

Population Fund, prevailing inequality between rich and poor has to be tackled on an urgent basis

and poorest and most vulnerable women will have to be empowered to make their own decisions

about their lives. On failing to do so, countries across the world could face unrest and their

development will be hampered.

Highlights of State of World Population 2017:

The report has been titled “Worlds Apart: Reproductive Health and Rights in an Age of

Inequality.”

• As per the report, economic inequality goes hand in hand with inequality in reproductive

health.

• As of 2017, half of 1.6 billion women of reproductive age living in developing

regions want to avoid a pregnancy.

• Around 59 million women use unreliable traditional methods of pregnancy

prevention whereas 155 million use no method of contraception at all.

• South Asian region is home to largest number of women with an unmet need for

modern contraception and thereby has high maternal mortality rate.

• Maternal mortality rate is much lower in countries where family planning services have

been expanded.

• Due to limited access to family planning, every year there are 89 million

unintended pregnancies and 48 million abortions in developing countries. This

not only harms women’s health, but also restricts their ability to join or stay in the paid

labour force and achieve financial independence.

• The report has also suggested 10 Action points which are aimed to bridge the

inequality gap between rich and poor.





BANKING & ECONOMY RBI announces 4th Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy

On October 4, 2017, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) announced Fourth Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy

Statement for financial year 2017-18. This time the Policy Repo Rate has been kept unchanged.

Policy Repo Rate 6.00% Unchanged – since 2nd August 2017

Reverse Repo Rate 5.75% Unchanged – since 2nd August 2017

Marginal Standing Facility

Rate

6.25% Unchanged – since 2nd August 2017

Bank Rate 6.25% Unchanged – since 2nd August 2017

Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) 4.00% Unchanged – since 9th February 2013

Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) 19.50% With Effect from 14th October 2017

Highlights of RBI’s Second Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy Statement:

The six-member RBI Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 5:1 for the decision. Only Ravindra

Dholakia (External Member) voted for a 0.25 percent reduction in repo rate.

• RBI has projected inflation to stay in the range of 4.2-4.6 per cent in the second

half of 2017-18.

• Economic growth forecast has been revised down to 6.7 per cent from the August

2017 projection of 7.3 per cent.

Reserve Bank of India opens branch in Dehradun

In a bid to make transactions of the Uttarakhand State Government more convenient, Reserve

Bank of India (RBI) opened a branch in Dehradun on October 3, 2017.

i. The branch was inaugurated by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat.

ii. Earlier, all the banking related works of the Uttarakhand State Government were carried out

through the Reserve Bank of India branch at Kanpur.

iii. RBI principal chief General Manager S Ramaswamy mentioned that as RBI’s Department

of Government accounts is situated in the State, it will be possible to work with improved

coordination among treasuries, sub-treasuries, agency banks and RBI.

US fines HSBC $175m over ‘unsound’ FX trading

On September 29, 2017, The U.S. Federal Reserve fined HSBC Holdings PLC $175 million for

“unsafe and unsound practices” in its foreign exchange trading business.

SBI waives closure charges for savings accounts that are over 1 year old

From October 1, 2017, savings bank account customers of State Bank of India (SBI) will not

have to pay any charges for closing the account. This waiver applies to savings accounts which




have existed for more than 1 year.

More Information about waiver of account closure charges for SBI Savings Bank Account:

i. Earlier, SBI levied closure charges of Rs 500 with Goods and Service Tax (GST)for its

savings account customers.

ii. Before the closure charges waiver, only those customers who close their accounts within 14

days after opening (termed as free-look period) were exempted from any charges.

ClearTax upgrades GST software to help businesses avoid working capital lock-in

On 2nd October 2017, ClearTax, upgraded its GST-compliant software to intelligent features, to help

businesses ensure unobstructed flow of credit.

GIFT-IFSC ranks at 10th place in global financial centres index

India’s first International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), Gujarat International Finance

Tec-City (GIFT) IFSC has ranked at 10th place in the latest September 2017 edition of Global

Financial Centres Index 22 (GFCI) – London.

i. GIFT IFSC is located between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar in Gujarat.

ii. Currently it is operational with approximately 10 leading banks, eight insurance companies and

participating brokers, and two international exchanges.

Fitch lowers India’s 2017-18 growth forecast to 6.9%

Credit Rating Agency Fitch Ratings has lowered India’s economic growth forecast for

Financial Year 2017-18 to 6.9 % from 7.4% after the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth

was lower than expected in the April-June 2017 quarter (at 5.7% vs. 6.1% in previous quarter).

Highlights of Fitch Ratings’ latest Global Economic Outlook (GEO):

i. As per the report, economic activity in April-June 2017 quarter may have been disrupted due to

inventory de-stocking by firms ahead of the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax

(GST) in July 2017.

HDFC Life launches Neo, a bot for Twitter

On 3rd October 2017, HDFC Life Insurance Company launched Neo, a servicing bot for Twitter, to

improve customer service.

Neo – HDFC’s bot for Twitter:

i. HDFC Life Insurance Company has launched Neo in partnership with Smart Connect

Technologies. Neo uses Artificial Intelligence.

ii. Neo would answer policy related queries on Twitter. It will be available 24/7.

NABARD sanctions Rs. 273 crore to Andhra Pradesh for development projects

National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has sanctioned an

amount Rs. 273 crore to the Andhra Pradesh Government for Rural Water supply, Road




and Bridge projects. These funds have been sanctioned under Rural Infrastructure

Development Fund (RIDF)

Lenders, borrowers cannot have exposure of over Rs 10 lakh on P2P platforms: RBI

On October 4, 2017, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) came out with master directions for peer-to-

peer (P2P) lending.

What is peer-to-peer (P2P) lending?

i. Peer-to-peer lending is an online mechanism which raises loans for people who need to borrow,

from people who want to invest.

ii. It is to be noted that in September 2017, Reserve Bank of India notified that peer-to-peer

(P2P) lending platforms would be treated as non-banking financial companies (NBFCs).

AIIB, ADB approves $100 million loan for India’s power sector

Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and Asian Development Bank (ADB)will co-

finance a USD 100-million loan for boosting the power sector in India.

i. The loan will be used to improve power transmission network and expand the use of solar and

wind energy.

ii. This is the fourth co-financing made by the AIIB and the ADB. Earlier both the entities have co-

financed infrastructure projects in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

MobiKwik renames its payment gateway

On 5th October 2017, Mobile wallet provider, MobiKwik renamed its payment gateway as ‘MobiKwik

Payment Gateway’MobiKwik Payment Gateway:

i. The new payment gateway has been introduced with new features for secure

transactions. It supports all major instruments like credit and debit cards, netbanking,

UPI and wallets.

IBBI amends norms for setting up information utilities

On October 5, 2017, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board (IBBI) announced that it has amended

the rules for information utilities.

New Norms applicable to Information Utilities:

i. Information Utilities: Unique entities that are governed by Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code

(IBC) and serve as repositories of information about lending and borrowing activities done by all

financial institutions. They play vital role in providing financial and related details during the

insolvency resolution process.

ii. Now onwards, a person can, either alone or together with persons acting in concert, have

a maximum of 51 per cent stake in an information utility for up to three years from the

date of its registration.

iii. Indian company listed in India can hold up to 100 per cent of the paid-up equity share




capital or total voting power of an information utility for three years from the date of inception.

IFC invests $76 mn in Fullerton India’s masala bond

World Bank Group member, International Finance Corporation (IFC) has announced that it

has invested USD 76 million in 5-year unrated masala bond issuances of

Fullerton India Credit Company.

India, EIB ink pact for financing Bangalore Metro Rail Project

On 5th October 2017, India and European Investment Bank (EIB) signed the finance contract for

lending of 300 million euros (about Rs.2,293 crore) for Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase-II.

India, EIB financial agreement for Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase-II:

i. As per the financial agreement, European Investment Bank (EIB) would lend 300 million euros,

as first portion of funds, for phase-II works of Bangalore Metro Rail Project. The project

implementation period is 5 years.

ii. Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase II would be jointly financed by the EIB (500

million euros) and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (300 million euros).

Government launched Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme (2017 -18) – Series-III

Government of India has decided to issue Sovereign Gold Bonds 2017-18 – Series-III. These

bonds will be issued by Reserve Bank India (RBI) on behalf of the Government of India.

Details about Sovereign Gold Bonds Scheme 2017-18–Series I:

Subscription Date: October 9, 2017 to December 27, 2017

Denomination: 1 gm

Issue Price: Simple average of closing price of gold of 999 purity published by the India Bullion and

Jewellers Association Limited for the last 3 business days of the week preceding the subscription

period. Discount of Rs. 50 per gm, for those who subscribe online and pay through digital

mode.

Tenure: 8 years

Interest Rate: 2.50% per annum, payable every 6 months.

Exit Option: From 5th year onwards, to be exercised on interest payment dates

Minimum Size: 1 gm

Maximum Limit:4 KG for individual, 4 Kg for HUF and 20 Kg for trusts and similar entities per fiscal

(April-March) notified by the Government from time to time.

Sold By: Banks, Post Offices, Stock Holding Corporation of India (SHCIL), National Stock Exchange

(NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE)

Vijaya Bank inks MoU with HPCL for digital payments with BHIM/ UPI

Vijaya Bank (a public sector bank) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL) for enabling all HPCL retail outlets




in Karnataka with BHIM/UPI merchant solutions.More Details about MoU between Vijaya

Bank and HPCL:

i. With the signing of this MoU, petrol pump attendants and LPG delivery personnel will be able to

accept digital payments.

ii. Customers of HPCL will now be able to make payments by scanning a payment QR code,

using BHIM Vijaya or any BHIM app that supports payments via Unified Payments

Interface (UPI).

JSA become the first law firm in GIFT city

J Sagar Associates (JSA) is the first law firm have a plan to open an office at Gujarat International

Finance Tec-City (GIFT).

♦The office was inaugurated by Sudhir Mankad – Chairman of GIFT IFSC, along with CEO Ajay

Pandey.

Tata AIA Life launches ‘Eazy Connect’

On 5th Oct. 2017 ,Tata AIA Life launches of Chatbot ‘Eazy Connect’ ,a online customer service

through social media platform like Facebook Messenger, Twitter DM, Web chat and Whatsapp.

♦ This Chatbot service helps to support the customers to resolve the frequent queries by

providing 24/7 service.

RBI imposes banking business restrictions on Oriental Bank of Commerce

On October 5, 2017, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed certain restriction on banking activities

of Oriental Bank of Commerce.

Details about Prompt Corrective Action on Oriental Bank of Commerce:

i. RBI initiated prompt corrective action (PCA) against OBC in view of high non-performing

assets.

ii. Owing to PCA, OBC will face restrictions in terms of opening new branches, hiring staff

and lending to sub-investment grade companies.

iii.It is to be noted that, since March 2017, RBI has placed similar restrictions on six other

banks which include Dena Bank, Central Bank of India, IDBI Bank, Indian Overseas Bank,

Bank of Maharashtra and UCO Bank.

AU Small Finance Bank partners Aditya Birla Health Insurance

AU Small Finance Bank has entered into a corporate agency tie-up agreement to sell health

insurance products of Aditya Birla Health Insurance.More Details about AU Small Finance





Bank – Aditya Birla Health Insurance tie-up:

i. AU Small Finance Bank was initially a non-banking finance company (NBFC) which got licence of

Small Finance bank from Reserve Bank (RBI) in December 2016.

ii. Aditya Birla Health Insurance is the health insurance arm Aditya Birla Financial Services

Group(ABFSG). It is a joint venture between the Aditya Birla Group and MMI Holdings Ltd (MMI),

a diversified financial services company in South Africa.

Govt raises stake in IDBI Bank to 77.79%

On 7th Oct. 2017, IDBI Bank informed that its promoter the government of India, has increased its

stake in the company to 77.79% by acquiring 3.81% shares through preferential allotment. In

previous, government had 73.98% stake in IDBI Bank.

Reliance Commercial Finance Ltd inks agreement with IREDA for Rs.300 crore loan

On 9th October 2017, Reliance Commercial Finance Ltd said that, it has signed an

agreement with Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Ltd (IREDA) for Rs.300

crore loan, in Mumbai.

Reliance Commercial Finance Ltd agreement with IREDA:

i. Reliance Commercial Finance Ltd said that, the IREDA loan of Rs.300 crore would be used to lend

to renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.

ICICI Bank commits Rs 10 cr for welfare of armed forces

As a part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, ICICI Bank has committed a financial

assistance of Rs 10 crore to the Indian Armed Forces, which will be utilised for welfare

activities and betterment of the families of ex-servicemen who have lost their lives on duty.More

Information about ICICI Bank’s contribution for welfare of armed forces:

i. This contribution by ICICI Bank would be made in two equal tranches, out of which a cheque

worth Rs 5 crore was handed over to Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi

on October 9, 2017.

ii. This fund will be used for two programmes. The first will support post-graduation

education of the widows of the soldiers and education for their wards. The second

programme will provide financial assistance for marriages of the daughters of ex-

servicemen.

Standard Chartered Bank opens new GBS centre in Bengaluru

On October 10, 2017, Standard Chartered Bank opened its Global Business Services (GBS)

centre in Bengaluru which will complement its existing GBS centres in China, India and

Malaysia.




IMF lowers India’s growth forecast to 6.7% in 2017

As per latest edition of World Economic Outlook released on October 10, 2017, International

Monetary Fund (IMF) has lowered India’s growth forecast for 2017 to 6.7% from its

earlier estimate of 7.2%.

SBI to setup country’s largest Innovation Centre in Mumbai

On 10th October 2017, State Bank of India (SBI) announced the setting up of its 15,000 square feet

Innovation Centre, India’s largest Innovation Centre, in Navi Mumbai.

India’s Largest Innovation Centre by SBI:

i. The Innovation Centre of SBI would be built at its Global IT Centre in Belapur, Navi

Mumbai. It will be the largest Innovation Centre by any financial services company in India.

ii. SBI is investing Rs.100 crore on this Innovation Centre.It has decided to allocate 5 % of

its IT budget for innovation regularly.

Moody’s assigns Baa3 rating with positive outlook to NHAI

On October 9, 2017, credit rating agency, Moody’s Investors Service assigned a Baa3 issuer

rating with positive outlook to National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

World Bank lowers India’s growth forecast to 7%

On 11th October 2017, the World Bank released a report that stated that, India’s GDP might

slowdown from 8.6% in 2015 to 7.0% in 2017.

World Bank lowers India’s growth forecast to 7%:

i. The World Bank released a report before the annual meeting of the International Monetary Fund

and the World Bank.

ii. World Bank said that, growth is expected to slow down from 8.6% in 2015 to 7.0% in

2017. Good policies balancing public spending with private investment might increase

growth to 7.3% by 2018.

HSBC launches ‘HSBCnet Trade Transaction Tracker’,app to track trade transactions

On 10th October 2017, HSBC launched the mobile app, ‘HSBCnet Trade Transaction Tracker’, to

help customers track the status of their trade transactions on a real-time basis.

Trade Transaction Tracker:

i. The Trade Transaction Tracker feature has been built into the existing HSBCnet mobile

application and has been launched in select countries in which HSBC operates, including India.

ii. The HSBCnet Trade Transaction Tracker enables to:

1.Get an overview of documentary credits, collections and payments

2.Access export and import documentary credits and collection transactions status

3.View real-time trade transaction status detail




4.Save time on the phone, faxes or email with access to transaction status

SEBI fixes penalty for non-compliance of shareholding norms

On 10th October 2017, SEBI announced that, listed companies not following the norms with regard

to Minimum Public Shareholding (MPS) would be taken action including fine (penalty) and delisting.

SEBI’s action on non-compliant Listed Companies:

i. According to MPS norms, any listed company must have at least 25 % as public shareholders and

75 % can be held by promoters. Companies not following these norms should to pay a fine

of Rs.5,000 a day.

ii. The entire promoter holding, except for compliance to MPS, will be frozen by depositories. The

promoter group and directors of the particular company will not be allowed to hold any position in

other companies.

iii. If the non-compliance continues for more than 1 year, the amount of fine per day will

double to Rs.10,000. Such companies might be de-listed of their shares from stock exchanges.

NBFC bad loans rise to 5% in 5 years: RBI

On 12th October 2017, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said that, Gross Non-Performing Assets

(GNPA) ratio for NBFCs has increased to 5 % at end of March 2017 from 2.9 % at end of

March 2012.Increase in NBFC bad loans:

i. Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) have faced a steady reduction in asset quality in the

past 5 years. Bad loans of NBFCs amount to around Rs.74,230 crore. RBI said that, the

reduction in asset quality could be mapped to the change in NPA recognition norms.

ii. Return on Assets (RoA) of NBFCs declined from 2013 onwards. However, compared to

banks, NBFCs reported a fairly higher RoA.

SBI launches SME Assist to provide short-term loans to MSME clients

On October 12, 2017, State Bank of India (SBI) launched a new product called ‘SME Assist’

to provide a short-term working capital demand loan to its Micro, Small and Medium

Enterprises (MSME) clients.

More Details about SBI’s ‘SME Assist’:

i. The loans shall be provided on the basis of clients’ input credit claims under Goods

and Services Tax (GST), subject to submitting of a certificate from their chartered accountant

confirming the input credit claims.

ii.. Loans under ‘SME Assist’ will be provided at concessional interest rates.

iii. Borrowers of loan under ‘SME Assist’ will have the benefit of a moratorium period for the

first three months.

Mastercard launches its first Innovation Centre in India

On October 10, 2017, American financial technology company Mastercard launched its first




innovation lab in India in Pune, Maharashtra. More Details about Mastercasrd’s first

Innovation Centre in India:

i. This centre is Mastercard’s ninth lab in the world and the second in Asia Pacific besides

Singapore.

RBI allows interoperability of wallets in six months

On October 12, 2017, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) instructed banks and non-bank entities to

make their digital wallets/prepaid payment instruments (PPIs), interoperable through the

Unified Payments Interface (UPI) within six months.

More Details about RBI’s instruction pertaining to interoperability of wallets:

i.RBI has stated that PPIs will be permitted to be loaded or reloaded by cash, by debit to a

bank account, by credit and debit cards, and other PPIs. However, cash loading to PPIs

will be limited to Rs 50,000 per month.

ii. At any point of time, PPI’s should not have outstanding amount of more than Rs 100000.

GIC Re launches India’s third largest IPO

India’s biggest reinsurer, General Insurance Corp of India (GIC Re)’s Rs. 11,370 crore

Initial Public Offer (IPO) opened for subscription on October 11, 2017.

More Details about GIC Re’s IPO:

i. GIC Re’s Rs. 11370 crore IPO is Indian primary market’s third largest IPO after Coal India

(Rs.15,200 crore in 2010) and Reliance Power (Rs. 11,600 crore in 2008).

ii. Following this IPO, government’s stake in GIC Re will fall by 14.22% and will fetch Rs.

9,800 which shall help in meeting its disinvestment target.

RBI Introduces Strict KYC Norms to Keep E-Wallets Safe

Through its latest set of guidelines for E-Wallets, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced

strict know your customer (KYC) norms which has evoked mixed response from digital wallet

companies.

RBI’s Latest KYC Guidelines for E-Wallets:

E-Wallet firms have been instructed to ensure KYC compliance of existing users by December

31, 2017.

• Users who do not have stipulated KYC in place, will be allowed to keep only up

to Rs 10,000 in wallets post the deadline.

• No credit facility will be provided to such users, if KYC is not completed within next

12 months.

• RBI has directed all PPI issuers (both bank and non-bank entities) to make all KYC-

compliant PPIs issued in the form of wallets interoperable amongst themselves

through Unified Payments Interface (UPI) within next six months. Thus, the latest




KYC-compliance norm is a pre-condition for interoperability of Prepaid Payment

Instruments.

• RBI has also hiked initial net worth requirement for prepaid payment instruments

(PPI) licence to Rs. 5 crore from Rs. 2 crore.

• In addition to this, the firms getting authorisation for licence should have net

worth of Rs. 15 crore within three financial years of receiving authorisation.

HDFC Bank launches SmartUp zones to nurture, collaborate with start-ups

In a bid to become preferred banker for the start-up community in India, HDFC Bank has

announced the launch of SmartUp zones in its branches across India.

About HDFC Bank’s SmartUp Zones:

i. An exclusive area inside the branch premises of HDFC Bank (to be referred as SmartUp Zones)

will be dedicated to start-ups.

ii. Specially trained HDFC bank staff will be present in these Smartup Zones, who will offer tailor-

made banking and advisory solutions to entrepreneurs.

iii. To start with, SmartUp zones will be launched in over 65 HDFC Bank branches in 30

cities including Tier-2 and-3 cities that are emerging as start-up hubs.

Odisha government department signs MOU with SBI

On 14th October 2017, the Odisha government’s Directorate of Treasuries and Inspection signed a

MoU with SBI, for integration of SBI e-Pay with cyber treasury.

MoU between Odisha and SBI:

i. The MoU was signed by Bhabani Prasad Nanda, Director, Treasuries & Inspection, Odisha

and Goutam Roy, DGM, SBI. This MoU is an initiative by the Odisha government to facilitate

revenue collection from citizens through digital banking platform.

ii. The SBI e-Pay is the payment aggregator service wing of SBI. It facilitates on-line

payment of government dues by the customers of any public or private sector banks.

strong>iii. Any mode like debit card, credit card, mobile banking, net banking facility provided by

approximately 42 partner banks can be used by the payers for paying dues. Also, facility of cash

deposit at any branch of SBI in Odisha can be used.

IWAI raises Rs. 660 crore through Bonds

On October 13, 2017, Union Shipping Ministry stated that Inland Waterways Authority

of India (IWAI) has raised Rs 660 crore through bonds.

More Details:

i. Funds raised through these bonds will be deployed as capital expenditure for development of

National Waterways (NWs) under the National Waterway Act, 2016during 2017-18.

ii. e-bidding for these bonds was held on Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) portal on October 11,

2017.




iii. The bonds carry a coupon rate of 7.47%. Interest will be paid on semi-annual basis.

IMF favours three structural reforms in India

Kenneth Kang Deputy Director Asia Pacific Department of International Monetary Fund

(IMF) has suggested three policy priorities for India in the area of structural reforms.

i. Addressing the corporate and banking sector weaknesses: This is to be done by accelerating the

resolution of non-performing loans, rebuilding the capital buffers for the public sector banks, and

enhancing banks’ debt recovery mechanisms.

ii. Continued fiscal consolidation through revenue measure: Mr. Kang is of the view that India

should continue with the fiscal consolidation through revenue measures, as well as further

reductions in subsidies.

iii. Improving the efficiency of labour and product markets: Strong momentum for structural

reforms is to be maintained in addressing the infrastructure gaps, improving the efficiency of labour

and product markets as well as furthering agricultural reforms.

Union Bank launches Union Sahyog app

On 13th October 2017, Union Bank of India launched an Android app named, ‘Union Sahyog’, as a

part of its efforts to digitise customer-facing banking services.

Union Sahyog app:

i. The Union Sahyog app was launched by RajKiran Rai G, Managing Director & Chief

Executive Officer, Union Bank of India. This App is bilingual, offered in both English and Hindi.

Yes Bank partners with Abu Dhabi Global Markets for collaboration on fintech

On 11th October 2017, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), the International Financial Centre in Abu

Dhabi, and Yes Bank have signed a MoU, to further encourage cross-border exchange between the

fintech ecosystems of the United Arab Emirates and India.

Yes Bank partners with Abhu Dhabi Global Markets:

i. The collaboration will enable fintech innovators from the Middle East region and India to apply

into Yes FinTech programmes and the ADGM’s Regulatory Laboratory, and will get the opportunity

to expand into each other’s markets.

Vanuatu becomes first nation to accept Bitcoin in Exchange for citizenship

South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu has become the first country in the world to accept

Bitcoin in exchange for citizenship.





First Investment Agreement signed between NIIF and Abu Dhabi Investment Authority

(ADIA)

On October 16, 2017, National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) of Indiasigned an

investment agreement worth $1 billion with Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA).

About NIIF and the agreement with ADIA:

i. As a part of this pact, ADIA has become the first institutional investor in NIIF’s Master

Fund and a shareholder in NIIF’s investment management company named National Investment

and Infrastructure Limited.

ii. NIIF is a fund created by the Government of India for enhancing infrastructure financing

in the country.

Moody’s affirms rating on SBI’s bond programmes

Credit Ratings firm Moody’s Investors Service has affirmed its ratings on domestic

as well as foreign currency bond programmes of State Bank of India (SBI).More Details:

i. Moody’s is expecting that SBI’s financial profile will remain stable over the mid-term.

ii. Ratings on SBI’s senior unsecured debt (issued via its London branch) and its senior unsecured

medium term note (MTN) programme have also been affirmed by Moody’s.

Bangkok Bank signs deal with Intellect Design for Digital Transaction Banking Platform

iGTB (Intellect Global Transaction Banking) a specialist firm of Intellect Design Arena

Ltd. has been selected by Bangkok Bank, as a technology partner to implement a comprehensive

cash management platform and corporate portal.

i. Bangkok Bank is Thailand’s market leader in corporate and small and medium-sized enterprise

(SME) banking.

MCX launches first commodity options trading with gold

On October 17, 2017, the auspicious occasion of Dhanteras, Multi Commodity Exchange

(MCX) launched trading in Gold option’s contract in presence of Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.

Details about Gold Options Contract launched on MCX

i. Options contract offers the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell a

stock/commodity/asset at an agreed-upon price (referred to as strike price) during a

certain period of time up to a specific date.

ii. Underlying for Gold options contract which are currently available for trading are Gold (1 Kg)

futures expiring on November 28, 2017 and January 29, 2018.

iii. Options in securities and commodities market are primarily meant for hedging.

However they are also used for speculation.

North East Small Finance Bank starts operations: RBI

North East Small Finance Bank Limited has commenced operations as a small finance bank




from October 1, 2017.

i. Guwahati-based RGVN (North East) Microfinance Limited, was one of the 10 applicants

which got Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) in-principle approval for setting up a small finance bank in

September 2015.

ii. In April 2017, it received the final licence from RBI under the Banking Regulation Act,

1949 to carry on the business of small finance bank in India.

Yes Bank commits Rs 156 cr for Namami Gange project

On October 16, 2017, Yes Bank announced that it has committed Rs 156 crore to fund first

Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) to be constructed at Varanasi under Namami Gange

Project.

i. Yes Bank has signed a deal with Essel Infraprojects for the above mentioned STP which will be

constructed under Hybrid Annuity-Public Private Partnership (PPP) Model.

ii. Management of Yes Bank has stated that they are committed to sustainable projects such as

STPs which have significant social and ecological impact.

iii. ‘Namami Gange Programme’ is Union Government’s Integrated Conservation Mission,

which was launched to accomplish the twin objectives of effective abatement of pollution,

conservation and rejuvenation of National River Ganga.

SBI Foundation commits Rs.10 crore for conservation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Terminus

On 17th October 2017, SBI Foundation granted Rs.10 crore for the conservation and restoration of

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSTM) of Mumbai over the period of 3-5 years.

SBI commits Rs.10 crore for CSTM conservation:

i. Central Railway’s Divisional Railway Manager SK Jain and SBI Managing Director PK

Gupta signed a MoU. As per the MoU, SBI Foundation will provide Rs.10 crore for the project

under the “SBI-Project Swachh Iconic CSMT”.

Banks to provide funds at 7% to women SHGs under DAY-NRLM: RBI

On October 18, 2017, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued revised guidelines on Interest

Subvention Scheme under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods

Mission (DAY-NRLM), stating that banks will provide funds to women Self Help

Groups (SHGs) in rural areas at 7 per cent under the DAY-NRLM in current fiscal, 2017-18.

Interest Subvention under DAY-NRLM:

i. RBI issued above mentioned revised guidelines as received from the Ministry of Rural

Development. These guidelines will be implemented by 21 public sector banks and 19

private banks.

ii. As per the scheme, banks will be subvented to the extent of difference between the

Weighted Average Interest Charged and 7 per cent subject to the maximum limit of 5.5 per




cent for the year 2017-18.

iii. Women SHGs availing credit up to Rs. 3 lakh rupees will be eligible for this interest

subvention scheme.

Kotak Mahindra Bank launches Paymint

Kotak Mahindra Bank in collaboration with financial technology firm Zeta has launched a

multi-wallet digital prepaid solution for salaried employees named ‘Paymint’.

About ‘Paymint’:

i. Paymint will not only help corporate to get rid of cumbersome process of executing employee

benefits programme but will also simplify the process for employees.

Kotak Bank ties up with Samsung Pay

Kotak Mahindra Bank has tied up with Samsung, under which its credit and debit cardholders

will be able to tap and pay using Samsung smart phones at merchant establishments.

i. Currently, Samsung Pay works on 2.9 million points-of-sale card machines across

India. It uses the Magnetic Secure Transmission (MST) technology which enables consumers

to make in-store payments without the need for a physical card.

Govt permits banks to sell more small savings schemes

In order to encourage savings, Central Government has issued a notification allowing all public

sector banks and top three private sector banks (ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and Axis Bank) to accept

deposits under various small savings schemes, which until now, were only sold through post offices.

Permission to sell more Small Savings Scheme:

According to this recent government notification, all public sector banks and top three private

sector banks (ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and Axis Bank) can now sell National Savings Time

Deposit Scheme 1981, National Savings (Monthly Income Account)Scheme 1987, National

Savings Recurring Deposit Scheme 1981 and National Savings Certificate – VIII issue.

• So far, banks were permitted to receive subscription only under Public Provident Fund,

Kisan Vikas Patra-2014, Sukanya Samriddhi Account and Senior Citizen Savings

Scheme-2004.

Interest Rates on Small Savings Scheme:

As per current interest rates, investments in the public provident fund (PPF) scheme will fetch

7.8 per cent return while Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) investments will yield 7.5 per cent and

mature in 115 months.Sukanya Samriddhi Account Scheme, the scheme related to girl child

savings offers8.3 per cent annually, whereas investment on 5-year Senior Citizens Savings

Scheme will yield 8.3 per cent, with the interest being paid quarterly.

RBI clarifies linking of Aadhaar with bank account mandatory

On 21st October 2017, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) clarified that linking of Aadhaar to bank




account is mandatory under the Prevention of Money-Laundering (Maintenance of Records).

Linking Aadhaar with bank account mandatory:

i. The clarification has been made after a section of the media reported, while giving a reply to a

Right to Information Act application, that linking of bank accounts with Aadhaar is not mandatory.

ii. Reserve Bank of India has clarified that linking of Aadhaar to bank account is

mandatory under the Prevention of Money-Laundering (Maintenance of Records) Second

Amendment Rules, 2017, published in the Official Gazette on 1st June, 2017.

PMLA: Banks to now match original IDs with photocopies

As per the latest notification issued by Department of Revenue under the Finance Ministry,

banks and financial institutions will have to mandatorily check the original identification documents

of individuals dealing in cash above the prescribed threshold.

i. As per the notification, in case the identification document does not contain updated address,

a utility bill like electricity, telephone, post-paid mobile phone, piped gas or water bill which is not

more than two months old can be considered as a proof of address.

ii. This notification by Department of Revenue is an amendment to the Prevention of Money-

laundering (Maintenance of Records) Rules.

iii. Prevention of Money-laundering Act (PMLA) is Indian Government’s framework to curb

money laundering and generation of black money.

SBI launches ‘2nd SBI Digital Hackathon’ – Digitize For Bank

State Bank of India (SBI) has launched second edition of its Hackathon. This hackathon has

been named ‘Digitize For Bank’.

About ‘Digitise For Bank’ Hackathon:

i. ‘Digitise For Bank’ hackathon will be held from 1st – 12th November, 2017.

ii. It is presented by SBI Collaborative Innovation Centre (CIC).

iii. This edition focuses on four ‘Cognitive’ themes viz. Facial Recognition, Signature

Recognition, Voice based Authentication and Cheque Truncation Value Enhancers.

RBI to make LEI must for companies with over Rs 5 crore exposure

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is set to make Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) compulsory for

companies having aggregate fund-based and non-fund based exposure over Rs 5 crore. i. LEI is a unique 20 digit alphanumeric code that will be assigned to corporate

borrowers.

ii. Banks will be required to acquire this number from the borrower and report it to the Central

Repository of Information on Large Credits (CRILC) database. CRILC is a database in which

details of loan above Rs 5 crore are maintained.




EEPC signs pact with PNB for export finance

Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC) India, the premier trade and investment

promotion body has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Punjab National

Bank (PNB) to provide easy access to export finance to the exporters in India.

Terms of MoU between EEPC and PNB:

i. Members of EEPC will be offered foreign currency loans and advisory support to financing projects

through 200 authorised foreign exchange branches of PNB.

ii. Exporters can avail loans up to Rs 10 crore at competitive rates. Such loans will be

processed within six to seven weeks after application.

SBI ties up with Escorts to finance farmers for purchase of tractors

On October 23, 2017, India’s largest public sector bank, State Bank of India (SBI) announced

that it has entered into a tie-up with Escorts Limited to finance farmers for the purchase

of Escorts tractors.

i. As per the terms of the tie-up, farmers across India, who wish to purchase Powertrac and

Farmtrac brand tractors manufactured by Escorts, will be provided finance facility by SBI at

competitive interest rates.

IndusInd Bank launches Cobrand App with MobiKwik

On October 23, 2017, IndusInd Bank and MobiKwik announced the launch of a co-branded

wallet, “IndusInd Mobikwik”.

Government to infuse Rs 2.11 lakh crore into PSU banks over 2 years

On October 24, 2017, Union Government announced to infuse Rs. 2.11 lakh crore capital

over the next two years into public sector banks (PSBs). This announcement was made

by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley post a cabinet meeting in which this recapitalisation plan was

approved.

Need for Recapitalisation of Public Sector Banks:

On account of indiscriminate lending earlier, Indian public sector banks have accumulated

high level of non-performing assets (NPS).

• The NPA problem has been affecting the profitability of these banks and is thereby

curtailing their ability to extend new loans.

• Unavailability of fresh credit for private investment especially to small and medium

enterprise is not only causing a slowdown in Indian economy but is also affecting





employment generation.

• Added to this woe was the demonetisation drive in November 2016 which sucked

out 86% cash from circulation. This was followed by destocking by manufacturers

ahead of Goods and Service Tax (GST) Implementation in July 2017.

• Owing to these factors, in April-June 2017 quarter, Indian economy grew at 5.7%

which is the weakest pace since 2014.

• Thus the latest announcement of capital infusion in PSBs is a part of an attempt to boost

up the economy and reinstate the growth momentum.

Recapitalisation Plan – Breakup

18000 crore out of Rs. 2.11 lakh crore will be funded through Government’s Indradhanush

Plan. In 2015 Government had announced Indradhnush Plan to infuse Rs 70,000 crore in public

sector banks over four years to meet their capital requirement as per Basel –III norms.

• 35 lakh crore for recapitalisation will be raised through sale of recapitalisation bonds.

• Balance amount will be raised by selling parts of Government stake in these banks.

Govt. of India and Asian Development Bank Sign $300 Mn Loan to Promote Further Fiscal

Reforms in West Bengal

On October 24, 2017, Asian Development Bank and the Government of India signed a $300

million loan to continue fiscal reforms in West Bengal aimed at improving the quality of

public service delivery.

i. Funds procured through this loan will be deployed in the second phase of West Bengal

Development Finance Program which has a target to increase public investment by reducing

unproductive expenditure and generate savings from efficiencies in revenue collections.

ii. The first phase of the program focused on fiscal consolidation through which West

Bengal’s fiscal deficit reduced to 2.2% in FY2016 from 3.4% in FY2012.

RBI imposes Rs 6 crore penalty on Yes Bank, Rs 2 crore on IDFC Bank

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed penalties on two private sector banks, Yes Bank and

IDFC Bank for regulatory violations.

i. Monetary penalty of Rs. 6 crore has been imposed on Yes Bank for non-compliance of

RBI’s guidelines on Income Recognition Asset Classification (IRAC) and delayed reporting of

information security incident involving ATMs of the bank.

ii. It is to be noted that last year, data of over 32 lakh debit cards of Yes Bank used at about

80 ATMs was suspected to have been compromised due to a malware in the systems of

Hitachi Payments Services, which served Yes Bank. Information pertaining to this matter was

not reported by Yes Bank to RBI in the prescribed timeframe.

iii. Rs. 2 crore penalty has been imposed on IDFC Bank for violating rules relating to sanction

and renewal of loans and advances.




SBI foundation among seven shortlisted companies given LOI under Adopt a Heritage

Scheme

Union Finance Minister, Arun Jaitley has presented Letters of Intent (LOI) to seven

shortlisted entities under the ‘Adopt a Heritage Scheme’. LOIs were presented at the closing

ceremony of ‘Paryatan Parv’ in New Delhi on October 25, 2017.

About ‘Adopt a Heritage Scheme’:

‘Adopt a Heritage Scheme’ was launched on World Tourism Day i.e. 27thSeptember, 2017 by

President Ram Nath Kovind.This scheme has been initiated by Ministry of Tourism in close

collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Shortlisted Entities under ‘Adopt a Heritage Scheme’:

Post announcement of this scheme, Ministry of Tourism received positive response from several

organisations.

• After detailed scrutiny, 14 monuments have been allocated for adoption to 7

entities. These entities are reputed names in hospitality industry, travel industry and

banking industry.

Shortlisted Entities and Adopted Monuments: Entity Adopted Monument SBI Foundation Jantar Mantar, Delhi TK International Ltd. • Sun Temple, Konark, Odisha

• Raja Rani Temple, Bhubanewar, Odisha • Ratnagiri Monuments, Jajpur, Odisha

Yatra Online Pvt. Ltd. • Hampi, Karnataka • Leh Palace, Jammu & Kashmir • Qutub Minar, Delhi • Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra

Travel Corporation of India Ltd. • Mattancherry Palae Museum, Kochi, Kerala • Safdargunj Tomb, Delhi

Adventure Tour Operator Association of India

• Gangotri Temple Area and Tril to Gaumukh • Mt. StokKangri, Laddakh, Jammu & Kashmir

Special Holiday Travel Pvt. Ltd. (with) Rotary Club of Delhi

Agrasen ki Baoli, Delhi

NBCC Purana Quila, Delhi

IDFC to exit $2.6 billion infra, PE funds business

Infrastructure Development Finance Company (IDFC) has started work on exiting the

infrastructure and private equity funds management business, IDFC Alternatives, which

has assets worth $2.6 billion.

i. IDFC Alternatives has been one of the longest running risk investment managers in the country.

ii. It consists of three asset classes — infrastructure, real estate and generic private equity

investments.

Government retains General Provident Fund interest rate at 7.8% for Oct-Dec

On October 25, 2017, Government retained the interest rate for general provident fund




(GPF) at 7.8% for October –December 2017 quarter in line with that for public provident

fund (PPF).

i. General Provident Fund is a provident fund account which is available for government

employees. All Government employees are eligible to contribute a certain percentage of their

salary to GPF which is paid back (along with interest) at the time of his/her superannuation or

retirement.

Asian Development Bank signs $65.5 mn Loan with GOI to support Coastal Protection in

Karnataka

International financial institution, Asian Development Bank has signed a USD 65.5 million

loan agreement with Government of India for checking coastal erosion on the western

coast of Karnataka.

i. This is the second tranche of a USD 250 million financing facility under the Sustainable

Coastal Protection and Management Investment Programme.

ii. The loan agreement was signed on October 26, 2017 in Bengaluru by Sameer Kumar Khare,

Joint Secretary (Multilateral Institutions), Union Finance Ministry and ADB’s country

director Kenichi Yokoyama.

SEBI revises block deal norms, minimum order size hiked to Rs10 crore

On October 26, 2017, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) revised the framework

for ‘block deals’ on stock exchanges by providing two separate trading windows of 15

minutes each and increasing the minimum order size to Rs 10 crore.

New Framework of ‘Block Deals’:

i. Firstly, the minimum order size has been raised to Rs. 10 crore.

ii. Besides, two separate trading windows of 15 minutes each (before market opening and

during market hours) will be provided for executing block deals.

iii. Views of market participants and recommendations of Secondary Market Advisory

Committee (SMAC) have been taken into consideration for finalising these norms.

iv. These norms will ensure confidentiality of the large trades and stable prices for such

transactions.

Star Health Insurance Launches First-ever Insurance Policy for Persons Diagnosed with

Cancer

Star Health and Allied Insurance (SHAI) has introduced first-ever health insurance cover

for people already diagnosed with cancer.

Salient features of Star Health’s Insurance Policy for Persons Diagnosed with Cancer:

i. This insurance policy has been named ‘Star Cancer Care Gold’.

ii. It covers the risk of recurrence, the spread of cancer (metastasis) and second cancer




(second malignancy).

ii. There are two sum-insured options – Rs. 3 lakh and Rs. 5 lakh.

SIDBI revamps portal for easy credit access

Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has revamped its portal udyamimitra.in with

enhanced features to provide easy access to credit and hand-holding services for micro small

medium enterprises (MSME).

i. In the market place, any bank, other than those requested, can also pick up the application for

sanction, and this will be one of the best updates. The portal brings transparency and competition

among lenders and removes the need to approach several banks individually.

ii. The portal is mobile-enabled and provides a self-assessment module inbuilt within it.

AU Small Finance Bank, SIDBI launch Rs. 200-cr fund for MSMEs

AU Small Finance Bank has entered into a tie-up with Small Industries Development Bank

of India (SIDBI) to launch Rs. 200 crore fund for providing loans to micro, small and medium

enterprises (MSMEs).

More Details about AU Small Finance Bank-SIDBI Rs. 200-cr fund for MSMEs:

i. As per the terms of this tie-up, AU Small Finance Bank and SIDBI will earmark a corpus of

Rs100 crore each for lending in the current financial year.

ii. Term loans in the range of Rs. 25 lakh to Rs. 2 crore will be extended in the next 12-15

months to nearly 100 MSME units.

iii. 10% interest rate will be charged on these loans.

Government makes use of Public Finance Management System mandatory for central

schemes

In a bid to ensure that the benefits of the various Government Schemes reach to the last

mile, Government has made use of Public Finance Management System (PFMS)mandatory

for central schemes.

i. PFMS has been rolled-out by the Controller General of Accounts (CGA) at the behest of

Union Finance Ministry.

ii. It is an end-to-end solution for processing payments and monitor the usage of funds

including information on its ultimate utilization.

Transcorp launches pre-paid card in association with Yes Bank

Foreign Exchange and inward remittance service provider company Transcorp International has

launched a platinum pre-paid card in association with Yes Bank.

More Details about Transcorp’s Pre-Paid Card in association with Yes Bank:

i. This card can be used for transactions in stores and ATMs across the country.




ii. It can even be used by companies/organisation to disburse wages and salaries to those

employees who do not have a bank account.

India signs $200 mn deal with World Bank for rural transformation in Assam

On October 30, 2017, Union Finance Ministry and World Bank signed a loan agreement

worth $200 million for the Assam Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project.

About Assam Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project:

i. The $200 million from International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) is

for 16.5 yrs term and has a grace period of seven years.

ii. This project will not only increase agriculture productivity and market access, but will also

help Assam Govt. to facilitate agri-business investments.

SBI-World Bank sanction Rs 2,317-cr for 575 mw rooftop solar projects

On October 30, 2017, State Bank of India (SBI) and the World Bank announced Rs 2317

crore credit facilities to seven companies to finance grid connected rooftop solar

projects.

i. Seven corporate to which the credit facilities have been extended include Adani Group, Hinduja

Renewables, JSW Energy, Tata Renewable, Azure Power, Cleantech Solar and Hero Solar

Energy.

ii. These grid connected rooftop solar projects which will together generate 575 mw.

BUSINESS India receives first-ever shipment of US crude oil at Paradip port

On 2nd October 2017, India received its first-ever shipment of US crude oil at Paradip port,

in Odisha, as a part of purchases made by Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and Bharat Petroleum

Corporation Limited (BPCL).

First ever-shipment of US crude oil to India:

i.IOC and BPCL have placed orders for over 2 million barrels from the United States. This

is the first shipment as per the deal.

BBC World offers news services in four more Indian languages

On October 4, 2017, British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) announced the launch of news

services in four more Indian languages — Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi and Telugu.





BBC’s Expansion in India:

i. With this announcement, BBC’s Delhi bureau will become its largest bureau outside the

United Kingdom.

MobiKwik, IRCTC Rail connect partner for ticket bookings

On October 3, 2017, Digital payments firm MobiKwik announced its partnership with Indian

Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation – IRCTC Rail connect app, which will allow

customers book railway tickets using Mobikwik’s payment gateway.

Andhra Pradesh Signs MoU With Mastercard to Set Up Centre of Excellence in Vizag

On October 5, 2017, Andhra Pradesh State Government signed a MoU with American

payments solution company Mastercard for setting up centre of excellence in Vizag.

Details about MoU between Andhra Pradesh State Government and Mastercard:

i. The MoU was signed between Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and

Mastercard CEO, Ajaypal Singh Banga in New Delhi.

ii. As agreed under the MoU, MasterCard will organise business summit in Vizag every year.

ESMA recognises NSE and BSE’s clearing arms as qualified CCP

European Securities & Markets Authority (ESMA) has certified the clearing arms of National

Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) as qualified central counterparty

(CCP).

More Details:

i. A central counterparty (CCP) is a corporate entity which guarantees the terms of a trade even if a

buyer or seller defaults on the agreement.

ii. Under the Basel III framework introduced by the Basel Committee on Banking

Supervision, entities are subjected to lower capital requirement/charges while participating in

capital markets through qualified central counterparty (CCP).

iii. NSE’s arm National Securities Clearing Corporation Ltd (NSCCL) and BSE’s subsidiary

Indian Clearing Corporation Limited (ICCL) have been granted certification by ESMA.

FDI proposals of Wockhardt, Coastal Local Area Bank, KPB Holdings approved

On 3rd and 4th October 2017, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), under

Union Commerce Ministry approved several foreign direct investment (FDI) proposals.

Approval of FDI proposals related to Coastal Local Area Bank, KPB Holdings and

Wockhardt Ltd.

Among FDI proposals that have been recently approved, one of them is of KPB Holdings’, a

financial services company. Its proposal to issue shares to NRIs (non-resident Indians) has been

approved by the DIPP.




• Similarly, Coastal Local Area Bank has also got nod for issuance of shares to NRIs.

• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, Wockhardt Ltd. got approval for issuance

of ESOPs (employee stock option plan) to NRIs

Government approves 5 FDI proposals in single brand retail sector

On October 3, 2017, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) approved five foreign

direct investment proposals in the single-brand retail sector. These proposals include those of

luxury brand Louis Vuitton, Oppo Mobiles, Chumbak Design, Daniel Wellington and

Actoserba Active Wholesale.

• Actoserba Active Wholesale proposal was for retailing products under its brand Zivame,

whereas Louis Vuitton’s proposal is for addition of products.

• Oppo Mobiles India has got the nod to undertake single brand retail trading (SBRT)of

OPPO brand, in addition to existing business of wholesale.

• Information about expected value of investment from Actoserba Active Wholesale and

Louis Vuitton has not been clear so far. Chumbak Design is expected to bring FDI

inflows of $8.62 million and Daniel Wellington will bring in $10 million.

Adobe invests in Aadhaar-based authentication for its ‘e-signature’ solution

Adobe announced investment on integration of Aadhaar-based authentication in its e-signature

solution “Adobe Sign” on 4th Oct.2017.

i. The market for e-signatures in India is growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 57

percent, and is expected to cross over a massive 90 million transactions by 2020 as per the Adobe

commissioned survey conducted by Forrester Consulting.

ii. “Adobe Sign” is aimed at helping organizations to eliminate their dependency on wet signatures

and allow digital validation of users’ legal identity.

Flipkart Unveils MarQ, its New Private Label Brand for Large Appliances

On 5th October 2017, Flipkart announced the launch of MarQ, an in-house brand in the large

appliances category.

i. MarQ is an in-house brand of Flipkart, that sells large appliances.This has been done in a

move expands Flipkart’s self-branded offerings on its marketplace.

ii. For now, the company has launched microwave ovens under the MarQ private label

brand.More products including televisions, washing machines, air conditioners, and sound bars

would be launched.

Maharashtra govt & Tata Trusts tie-up for programs in Chandrapur district

On October 6, 2017, Maharashtra State Government and Tata Trusts entered into a tie-up for

social development initiatives in Chandrapur district. The tie-up will focus on livelihood, digital

literacy, data driven governance and child protection.




More Details about Maharashtra Govt & Tata Trusts tie-up:

i.. In a bid to improve literacy indicators and make the education programme robust, Maharashtra

State Education Department and Tata Trusts will be introducing 10 mobile computer literacy buses

through the ‘Palak Mantri Sanganak Prashikshan Prayogshala’ project for a year.

Magicbricks Launches India’s First Online Property Bidding Platform

Magicbricks announced its launch of India’s first online bidding platform for residential and

commercial properties.It tied-up with leading developer ‘Magnificence in the Trinity Of Men,

Materials & Money'( M3M) for their new inauguration of ‘My Bid, My Home’ .

NBCC partners Finland company for EV charging infrastructure

On Oct. 5 2017, National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) has signed a MoU

with Finlands Fortum Oyj for developing electric vehicle charging infrastructure in upcoming

development projects in India.i. This MoU has been made only for cooperative institutional

relationship and does not involve any joint venture or financial implication.

CBDT signs two more APAs with taxpayers

On October 6, 2017, Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) said it has signed two more advance

pricing agreements (APAs) in September 2017 with Indian taxpayers.

Details about APAs signed by CBDT:

i. These two latest APAs pertain to automobile and healthcare consulting sectors.

ii. Including these two agreements, CBDT has so far entered into 177 APAs, out of which 164

are unilateral and 13 are bilateral.

iii. Objective of APA scheme is to provide certainty to taxpayers in the domain of transfer

pricing by specifying the methods of pricing and thereby reducing litigation.

Visa, Andhra Pradesh ties up for Digital Dhan Sankalp project

On October 10, 2017, Andhra Pradesh State Government and international digital payments

company Visa announced a tie up for Visakahpatnam Digital Dhan Sankalp Project.

More Details about tie-up between Andhra Pradesh State Government and Visa:

i. Digital Dhan Sankalp project, is an initiative to develop Visakhapatnam into India’s first

‘less cash’ city.

Government reduces GST on bunker fuels; sets tax for offshore exploration, gas sales

On 11th October 2017, the government announced that, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council

has revised rates for transportation of natural gas through pipeline, offshore works contracts etc.

GST rates revised:

i. The GST rates were revised in a GST Council meeting on 6thOctober 2017.

ii. The transportation of natural gas through pipeline will attract 5% GST without input




tax credit, and 12% with input tax credit.

Centre imposes anti-dumping duty on imports of steel wire rods from China

On October 9, 2017, Indian Government imposed anti-dumping duty on imports of certain

steel wire rods from China to safeguard the interest of domestic industry.

More Details about anti-dumping duty on imports of steel wire rods from China:

i. The anti-dumping duty has been imposed for a period of five years.

ii. It was imposed on recommendation of Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied

Duties (DGAD), under Union Commerce Ministry.

MSE’s clearing arm certified as qualified CCP by ESMA

European Securities & Markets Authority (ESMA) has certified Metropolitan Clearing

Corporation of India Ltd. (MCCIL), the clearing arm of Metropolitan Stock Exchange of

India (MSE) as qualified central counterparty (CCP).

More Details:

i. A central counterparty (CCP) is a corporate entity which guarantees the terms of a trade

even if a buyer or seller defaults on the agreement.

Gujarat government to set up 16 new GIDC townships to encourage SMEs

On 11th October 2017, Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced the setting up of 16 new

Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) townships, in Gujarat.

16 new GIDC townships in Gujarat:

i. Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said that, 16 new GIDC townships would be set up in 2400

hectare area to encourage the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).This township would

attract 15,000 industrial units.

ii. He said that,the new Garment and Apparel Policy in Gujarat will create job

opportunities for 1 lakh people. He said that, about Rs.20,000 crore investments is likely to

come up in Gujarat following this policy.

Government forms ‘think-tank’ for guidance to achieve oil and gas targets

On 10th October 2017, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan announced the

formation of an internal ‘think-tank’, consisting of experts to advise on technology and build a

successful gas network in India.

‘Think-tank’ for Oil & Gas:

i. The think tank will be in an advisory role and will look after gas infrastructure, financing model

for projects, price competitiveness etc.




HPCL becomes first Indian oil company to trade lubricants in Myanmar

Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL), a public sector oil company has started selling

lubricants in Myanmar.

HPCL’s venture in Myanmar:

i. With this move, HPCL has become first oil company of India to start marketing lubricants

in Myanmar.

ii. HPCL has started operations in Myanmar’s commercial hubs of Yangon and Mandalay.

Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) Act 2016 came into force

A new Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Act 2016 which was notified on March 22, 2016 has

been brought into force with effect from October 12, 2017.

Salient Features of Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) Act 2016:

As per this act, any goods/article/product of any scheduled industry and any

process/system/service can be brought under compulsory certification regime by the government if

it considers it necessary in the public interest or for the protection of human, animal, plant health,

environment, or in order to prevent unfair trade practices and in the interest of national security.

• Hallmarking of the precious metal articles has been made mandatory under this

new act.

• The Act empowers the Central Government to appoint any authority/agency, in

addition to the BIS, to verify the conformity of products and services to a

standard and issue certificate of conformity.

IIP rises to 9-month high of 4.3% in August 2017

As per data released by Central Statistics Office (CSO) on October 12, 2017, Industrial

production in India grew at a nine-month high of 4.3 per cent in August 2017.

i. Previous Index of Industrial Production (IIP) growth high of 5.7 per cent was registered in

November 2016.

Hyperloop One rebrands itself as ‘Virgin Hyperloop One’

On 12th October 2017, Hyperloop One has announced to rebrand itself as ‘Virgin Hyperloop One’

after Richard Branson’s Virgin Group invested in the firm.

Airports need $45 billion investment to improve capacity by 2030

India must invest around $45 billion to generate an additional capacity of handling 500- 600

million passengers at its airports by 2030

i. By the next five years the passenger capacity is possible to increase as per a study by an aviation





think-tank.

ii. As per the estimation of Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA) the country’s top 17 airports

current capacity is 298-316.5 million passengers per annum approximately.

Indian Accent features in Asia’s top 10 restaurants

On 13th October 2017, Indian Accent restaurant in New Delhi featured among the top 10 best

restaurants in Asia Travellers’ Choice in TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards 2017.

Indian Accent in Asia’s top 10 restaurants:

i. Indian Accent has secured the second position among the top 10 restaurants in Asia in

TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice awards 2017. Indian Accent is known for introducing innovative

cuisine by involving Indian flavours with global ingredients and techniques.

Myntra, Textile Ministry tie-up to promote handloom industry

On 16th October 2017, E-commerce major Myntra has tied up with the Union Textile Ministry, to

work directly with weavers and improve their economic status.

Myntra ties up with Textile Ministry:

i. Myntra has tied up with the Government, involving some of its partner brands also, to

bring artisans and their products online.This has been done in a move to support to the

Government’s plan to improve demand for arts and handloom products in India.

ii. These products will retail on Myntra through a dedicated online store. This would create

a one-stop shop for all handloom products. This would provide the weavers, access to new

customers and opportunities.

Mahindra launches ‘Prerna’ project for women farmers

On October 15, 2017, auto manufacturer Mahindra and Mahindra celebrated ‘Mahila Kisan

Diwas’ and launched a programme, ‘Prerna’ to empower women working in the agriculture sector

About Mahindra & Mahindra’s ‘Prerna’ Project:

i. ‘Prerna’ project is aimed at promoting the use of efficient and ergonomic farm tools and

equipment by women who work long hours in the fields.

ii. It will be first launched in Odisha, with an aim to positively impact the lives of over 1,500

families across 30-plus villages.

BNP Paribas teams up with TCS to deliver Corporate Event Connect

BNP Paribas Securities Services has teamed up with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) to

deliver an innovative blockchain based platform, Corporate Event Connect.

About Corporate Event Connect:

i.By using TCS’ Quartz blockchain technology, BNP Paribas will not only be able to capture and

store corporate action information in a structured format but will be able to disseminate the same

to its clients in a speedy way without compromising on the accuracy.




Madame Tussauds among 3 FDI proposals cleared by DIPP

The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) has approved three foreign direct

investment (FDI) proposals, including that of Merlin Entertainment-owned Madame Tussauds,

to open single-brand retail.

3 FDI proposals cleared by DIPP:

i. Mountain Trail Foods, which operates the Chai Point outlets, has got approval for food retailing.

This would bring in FDI inflows of Rs.65 crore. Kohler India Corp’s proposal for single-brand retail

has been approved.

ii. Madame Tussauds is expected to open its first museum in India in Delhi. DIPP has approved 20

single-brand retail proposals worth Rs.4,900 crore so far.

iii. Single brand trading applications that got approval include Amazon, Grofers, Urban Ladder,

Acer, Fossil India and Bally International.

Nasscom to set up centres of excellence to better learn AI

Software industry association National Association of Software and Services Companies

(NASSCOM) is setting up centres of excellence on artificial intelligence (AI) and data sciences for a

better understanding on the emerging technologies.

More Details:

i. These centres of excellence are being set up in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

US starts antidumping probe against PTFE resin from India

The US has initiated an antidumping duty investigations against the import of

polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) resin from India and China, according to the US Department of

Commerce.

i. These investigations were started based on petitions filed by the Chemours Company on

September 28.

ii. The U.S. Department of Commerce said had done the investigation into whether imports

of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) resin from India and China were being dumped on the U.S.

market.

APEDA to promote NE products in Bangladesh and Myanmar

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)an apex

organisation under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry will conduct programmes to

promote products of north eastern India in Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Indian companies top global list on reporting CSR

According to 10th KPMG Survey of Corporate Responsibility Reporting, India has emerged




as the top country for reporting corporate social responsibility information in the annual

financial report of companies.

Australia closes its last car factory

On 20th October 2017, Australia’s last car factory was shut down, as GM Holden Ltd, a unit

of US carmaker General Motors Co, closed its plant in South Australia.

Closure of car industries in Australia:

i. GM Holden would shift production to Germany where advanced automation will help to

keep manufacturing costs low. Similarly, last year Toyota Motor Corp and Ford Motor Co moved

out of Australia.

Centre de-affiliates 400 ITIs for failing quality norms

400 out of the 13,000-odd industrial training institutes (ITIs) have been being de-affiliated

by the Union Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.

i. The 400 ITIs have been de-affiliated on basis of quality inspection which revealed that these

institutes did not have requisite infrastructure and trainers for imparting vocational training to

students.

Maruti becomes No.1 exporter of passenger vehicles from India, Hyundai 4th

According to the latest data by Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Maruti

Suzuki India has emerged as the largest passenger cars exporter from India for the April –

September 2017 period.

i .As per the latest data by SIAM, Maruti exported 57300 units of passenger cars in the first

half of the ongoing fiscal, which marks a 6% growth as compared to 54008 units exported in the

same period of previous fiscal year.

‘US in UP’: Big American firms meet Yogi Adityanath

On October 23, 2017, 26 major American companies headed by Aircraft

Manufacturer Boeing interacted with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adtiyanath to explore

investment opportunities in the state. This interaction has been given the tagline ‘US in UP’.

.

BHEL starts execution of 4,000 megawatt Yadadri plant in Telangana

On October 23, 2017, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) announced that it has

commenced execution of Yadadri supercritical thermal power project ordered by the

Telangana State Power Generation Corporation Ltd. (TSGENCO).

More Details about BHEL’s Yadadri plant in Telangana:

i. The project is located at Damaracherla in Nalgonda district of Telangana and is valued at

approximately Rs 20,400 crore.




TRAI recommends 40 percent reduction in carbon emissions in telecom networks by

2023

In its recommendations to the Department of Telecom, on approach towards sustainable

telecommunications, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended 40

per cent carbon emission reduction in telecom network by 2022-23.

TRAI’s Recommendations towards sustainable telecommunications

i. Target of reduction in carbon emission be set as 30 per cent by year 2019-20 and 40 per cent by

the year 2022-23.

GMR Hyderabad Airport, Malaysia Tourism, MAHB sign pact to promote tourism

On 26th October 2017, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd, Malaysia Airports Holdings

Berhad (MAHB) and Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (MTPB) signed a MoU to promote

the growth of tourism traffic.

Petroleum ministry launches Rs 320 crore startup fund for entrepreneurs

On October 25, 2017, Union Petroleum Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan launched Start-up

Programme for entrepreneurs in Oil and Gas sector.

More Details:

i. 10 public sector oil and gas companies have setup venture capital fund to encourage

start-ups based on innovative ideas in the oil and gas sector.

ii. The venture fund will disburse Rs 320 crore over a 3-year period to support novel ideas

which would cause positive disruption in the energy sector.

iii. At the launch function, 36 startups signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) to

partner with various state-run firms like Indian Oil, Hindustan Petroleum and GAIL India.

SAP launches Asia Pacific Japan region’s first Leonardo Centre in Bengaluru

On 26th October 2017, SAP launched the Asia Pacific Japan (APJ) region’s first SAP Leonardo

Center, in Bengaluru.

Leonardo Centre in Bengaluru:

i. The Leonardo Centre in Bengaluru is the first in Asia Pacific Japan region and the fourth

SAP Leonardo Center globally.

TCS, National University ink pact to train nearly 5,000 in Philippines

Indian software company, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has signed a pact with the

National University in the Philippines to launch a comprehensive training programme aimed at

enhancing the skills of university graduates for the job market.

i. Under this scheme, 5000 students of National University, Philippines will have access to

digital courses, updated curriculum, faculty training, workshops and internships which




will train them to acquire skills required in Information Technology (IT) and ITeS (IT

Enabled Services) sector.

Karnataka govt signs MoU with Microsoft for technology oriented solutions to farmers

On October 27, 2017, Karnataka State Government announced signing of a Memorandum of

Understanding with Microsoft Corporation India Private Limitedwith an objective to provide

technology-oriented solutions to small farmers for helping them to increase their income.

More Information about MoU between Karnataka Govt. and Microsoft:

i. As per the terms of this MoU, Microsoft India along with Karnataka Agricultural Price

Commission and Department of Agriculture will conduct experiments to improve price

forecasting practices to benefit farmers.

RIL becomes first Indian company to cross Rs6 trillion market cap

Mukesh Ambani’s company Reliance Industries Limited has reached yet another milestone by

becoming the first Indian company ever to cross a market capitalization of Rs. 6-

trillion.The recent tariff hikeby Reliance Jio also contributed to RIL’s stock price rise.

Reliance Jio

i. RIL stock got a further push as Jio, its telecom arm, recently hiked tariffs earlier than anticipated.

ii. RIL’s 15-20 per cent hike in telecom tariffs raises confidence in our bullish (rising share prices)

earnings estimates.

.

RCom to shut down its 2G mobile business in about a month

The telecom company owned by Anil Ambani, The Reliance Communications, is planning to shut

down its 2G mobile business by the end of November because the company is running under a debt

of nearly Rs 45,000 crore.

APAI launches membership cards – Flysecure

On October 25, 2017, Air Passengers Association of India (APAI) launched its unique

membership card titled “Flysecure”, which provides insurance cover related to air travel.

Salient Features of APAI ‘Flysecure’:

i. APAI card “Flysecure” is available in three variants – Annual price of Rs. 1500 for Silver, Rs

3000 for Gold and Rs 5000 for Platinum.





India sends 1st wheat shipment to Afghanistan via Chabahar

On October 29, 2017, India sent its first consignment of wheat to Afghanistan through the

Chabahar port in Iran.

i. The shipment was flagged off from the Kandla port in Gujarat. After reaching Chabahar, it

will be transported to Afghanistan viz. land route.

ii. It is the first shipment under the trilateral agreement (between India, Iran and

Afghanistan) on Establishment of International Transport and Transit Corridor. The

agreement was signed in May 2016 during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to

Iran.

Dassault to invest $116 mn in venture with Reliance Aerospace

French Aircarft manufacturer, Dassault Aviation will invest over USD 116 million in a joint

venture with Anil Ambani-led Reliance Aerospace to manufacture aircraft components

of 36 Rafale fighter jets, which India has agreed to purchase from France.

More Details about Dassault-Reliance Aerospace Joint Venture:

i. It is to be noted that this joint venture is the largest ever foreign direct investment in the

defence sector in India.

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS Indian entrepreneur Birendra Sasmal wins UK business award for innovative IT solutions

A Ghana-based Indian entrepreneur named Birendra Sasmal has won a

prestigious International Business Person of the Year at the Asian Achievers Awards in

London for turning his company into a thriving Information Technology (IT), telecoms and

manufacturing success story with operations across West Africa.

INA veteran, 91 year old Rama Khandwala awarded the ‘Best Tourist Guide’

On 27th September 2017, tour guide Ms.Rama Khandwala was awarded a National Tourism Award

in the `Best Tourist Guide’ category, in Delhi.

Rama Khandwala awarded ‘Best Tourist Guide’:

i. Ms.Rama Khandwala was awarded the `Best Tourist Guide’ award by President Mr.Ram

Nath Kovind.

ii She has been a Mumbai tour guide for almost 50 years.

iii. Earlier, she served in Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army (INA).

Madurai’s Meenakshi Temple named best ‘Swachh Iconic Place’ in India

On 2nd October 2017, the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple of Madurai was awarded the best

‘Swachh Iconic Place’ (Cleanest Iconic Place), in India.




Swachh Iconic Place:

i. Madurai District Collector K.Veera Raghava Rao and Corporation Commissioner S.Aneesh Sekhar

received the ‘Swachh Iconic Place’ award from Uma Bharati, Minister for Drinking Water and

Sanitation.

ii. This award was given by the Central Government, as a part of the ‘Swachh Bharat Abhiyan’

(Clean India Mission).

Jeffrey C Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael W Young awarded the 2017 Nobel Prize in

Medicine

American Scientists Jeffrey Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael Young have won the 2017 Nobel

Prize for Physiology or Medicine.

About Winners of 2017 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine:

i. Jeffrey Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael Young have been awarded the 2017 Nobel Prize for

Physiology or Medicine for their discoveries of molecular mechanisms controlling our

biological clocks.

Government announces Swacchhata awards

On October 2, 2017, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs conferred Swacchhata

awards on those who contributed towards the Clean India objective in urban areas. 20

individuals and agencies in seven categories were felicitated with these awards.

Winners of Swacchhata Awards:

i. Delhi-based Facebook citizen group — ‘My Delhi Keep It Clean’ – was awarded for

promoting efforts to clean public places.

ii. Fertiliser Cooperative KRIBHCO was conferred the Swacchata Award for marketing of

compost made from municipal solid waste.

iii .In schools and colleges category, award was given to Kasturba Gandhi Balika Awasiya

Vidyalaya, Ambikar.

iv .In self-help group category, Swacch Ambikapur Sahakari Samiti was chosen for the award

for women empowerment and livelihood generation by converting garbage into wealth.

v .In the category of religious institutions, Pemayangste Monastery in Sikkim was felicitated for

being a Zero-waste institution.

Ministry of Health awarded as the best department in ‘Swachhta Pakhwada’

On 2nd October 2017, The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare was awarded as the best

department for its contribution during ‘Swachhta Pakhwada’, in New Delhi.

Best Department during ‘Swachhta Pakhwada’:

i. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare was awarded as the best department during

‘Swachhta Pakhwada’ on 2nd October, 2017, on the 3rd anniversary of Swachh Bharat Mission.

ii. C.K.Mishra, Secretary, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, received the award.




Gravitational wave scientists win 2017 Nobel Physics Prize

On October 3, 2017, US scientists Rainer Weiss, Barry Barish and Kip Thorne won the 2017

Nobel Prize in the field of Physics for their pioneering role in the detection of gravitational waves at

Stockholm, Sweden.

i. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has announced the winners of the 9 million Swedish

crown ($1.1 million) award.

Manipal Institute bags Most Clean Campus award

On 3rd October 2017, Manipal University’s Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) bagged the

1st place in ‘Most Clean Campus in South Western Region’ award and 3rd place in ‘Most Clean

Campus 2017’ award, in Pune, Maharashtra.

Manipal Institute – Most Clean Campus in South Western Region:

i. Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT) bagged the ‘Most Clean Campus in South

Western region’ award. It also, ranked 3rd in the ‘Most Clean Campus in India’ award.

Microscope trailblazers win 2017 Nobel Chemistry Prize

Scientists Jacques Dubochet, Joachim Frank and Richard Henderson have won

the 2017 Nobel Prize for Chemistry.

About Winners of 2017 Nobel Prize for Chemistry:

i. Scientists Jacques Dubochet, Joachim Frank and Richard Henderson have been awarded the

2017 Nobel Prize for Chemistry for developing cryo-electron microscopy which simplifies

and improves the imaging of biomolecules.

2017 Nobel Prize in Literature Awarded to Kazuo Ishiguro

British author Kazuo Ishiguro has won 2017 Nobel Prize in Literature. Kazuo Ishiguro is

best known for his novel ‘The Remains of the Day’.

TAKE Solutions to receive Golden Peacock Award

TAKE Solutions would receive the Golden Peacock Award for Excellence in Corporate Governance,

from the Institute of Directors, in London, on 25th October 2017.

Golden Peacock Award for Excellence in Corporate Governance:

i. The Golden Peacock Award is given by the Institute of Directors, in London. It honours

extra-ordianry organisational performances through a three-tier process.

Nobel peace prize 2017 awarded to International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons

On 6th October 2017, the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced, the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize

winner as International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), in Oslo, Norway.

Nobel peace prize 2017:

i. The Norwegian Nobel Committee has honoured ICAN for its work to draw attention to the




catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons and for its efforts to

achieve a treaty-based prohibition of such weapons.

Gauri Lankesh posthumously honoured with Anna Politkovskaya Award

On 5th October 2017, Reach All Women (RAW) in War announced Gauri Lankesh as the winner of

Anna Politkovskaya Award 2017.

T D Radhakrishnan selected for Vayalar award

Noted Novelist T D Radhakrishnan’s has been selected for this year’s prestigious Vayalar

award. The award will be presented to him on October 27, 2017, the death anniversary of poet

and lyricist Vayalar Ramavarma.It is given for the best literary work in Malayalam.

GCMMF awarded best FMCG in food sector by IAA

On 8th October 2017, the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), was awarded as

the best FMCG in the food sector, at the 5th International Advertising Associations (IAA) Leadership

Awards, in Mumbai.

GCMMF awarded best FMCG in food sector:

i. K.M.Jhala, Chief Operating Officer, GCMMF received the best FMCG in the food sector award

at the 5thInternational Advertising Associations (IAA) Leadership Awards.

President Kovind honours Boxing coach Sandhu & Dr.Bindeshwar Pathak with National

Awards

President Ram Nath Kovind gave away the National award for senior citizens to Indian boxing

coach Gurbax Singh Sandhu and Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence in

Public Administration, Academics and Management for 2017 to Dr.Bindeshwar Pathak.

Richard Thaler wins 2017 Nobel prize in economics –

Richard H. Thaler won the 2017 Nobel Prize for Economics for his work on behavioural

economics. He plans to spend the prize money “irrationally”.

i. Thaler, 72 and a professor at the University of Chicago, is one of the founders of behavioral

economics and finance.

Actor Prakash Raj receives Karanth award

On 10th October 2017, Prakash Raj, actor and film-maker, received the Kota Shivaram

Karanth Huttura Prashasti award, at the Kota Shivaram Karanth Theme Park, in Kota,

Udupi district of Karnataka.

M K Sanu chosen for Mathrubhumi Literary Award

On 12th October 2017, Mathrubhumi Managing Director M P Veerendra Kumar announced that,




famous critic, biographer and orator M K Sanu has been chosen for the Mathrubhumi Literary

Award for 2016.

M K Sanu to receive Mathrubhumi Literary Award:

i. M K Sanu has been chosen for the Mathrubhumi Literary Award for 2016 to honour his

contribution to the Malayalam literature.

Namita Gokhale bags Centenary National Award for Literature

Eminent writer Namita Gokhale has been nominated for the first Centenary National Award

for Literature, for her outstanding literary contributions.

Singer T M Krishna wins Indira Gandhi National Integration

Singer T M Krishna has won 30th Indira Gandhi Award for National Integration for the

year 2015 and 2016.

i. T M Krishna has been awarded for promoting and preserving national integration in the country.

12-year-old girl from city bags sub-title at ‘Little Miss World’ pageant

12-year old Indian girl Poorvi G B has been awarded the ‘best performer’ subtitle at the

‘Little Miss World 2017’ pageant held in Greece.

i. With this award, Poorvi G B has become the first Indian kid to win the title in the international

beauty pageant and talent competition.

Actor Varun Dhawan to get a wax statue at Madame Tussauds, Hong Kong

Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan’s wax statue is to be displayed in Madame Tussauds wax museum

in Hong Kong.

Varun Dhawan’s wax statue:

i. Varun Dhawan will unveil his wax statue in the first quarter of 2018. This is his first ever

wax figure.

ii. Varun Dhawan’s wax statue is the fourth from India to be displayed in Madame

Tussauds, Hong Kong. Already wax statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Narendra Modi and Amitabh

Bachchan are on display.

Gopal Gowda gets ‘Kalakar Puraskar’ award

This year’s ‘Kalakar Puraskar’ instituted by Mandd Sobhann will be conferred on renowned





Konkani folk artiste Gopal Gowda.

Eminent poet Prabha Varma chosen for Padma Prabha Puraskaram

Prabha Varma, an eminent poet, lyricist and journalist has been selected for this year’s Padma

Prabha Puraskaram for his contribution to Malyalam literature.

Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan awarded UN medal

On 17th October 2017, 50 Indian peacekeepers placed in South Sudan were awarded the UN

Medal for their service in maintaining peace in South Sudan.

Indian peacekeepers awarded UN medal:

i. The Indian peacekeepers were awarded UN medal for their professionalism and service in

protecting civilians and building peace in the conflict driven South Sudan.

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Swraj Paul honoured Life Time Achievement Award for contributions to manufacturing,

education

Swraj Lord Paul, a famous NRI industrialist and Chairman of “The Caparo Group” a leading UK-

based manufacturer of steel products, has been honoured with the Life Time Achievement Award at

the 2nd British Asian Achievers Awards which was organised by Jagatwani a Hindi weekly.

Indian-origin teenager Akshay Ruparelia becomes one of UK’s youngest millionaires

Indian-origin teenager Akshay Ruparelia has become one of UK’s youngest millionaires, after his

online real estate agency business reached the value of 12 million pounds.

One of UK’s youngest millionaires:

i. Akshay Ruparelia, a 19 year old Indian-origin teenager had started online real estate

agency, “doorsteps.co.uk” a year ago. This online real estate agency sells houses to buyers for

just 99 pounds as service charge.

Indian-American Attorney Ajay Raju Recognised With Philanthropy Award

Noted Indian-American attorney Ajay Raju has been honoured with the 3rd American Bazaar

Philanthropy award. Ajay Raju has been awarded for his philanthropic activities in the US.

US author George Saunders wins 2017 Man Booker Prize

US author George Saunders has won 2017 Man Booker Prize for his novel ‘Lincoln in the

Bardo’.

i. George Saunders has become second American author to win this award. In 2016, Paul

Beatty became the first American to win this award for his novel ‘The Sellout’.




Javed Akhtar to be honoured with Hridaynath Mangeshkar Award

Veteran writer and lyricist Javed Akhtar is to be honoured with the Hridaynath Mangeshkar

Award on 26thOctober 2017.

Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas conferred with Swachh Bharat Inter-Ministerial

Award

On 2nd October 2017, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas (MoPNG) was awarded Swachh Bharat

Inter-Ministerial Award in Swachh Bharat National Award ceremony on Gandhi Jayanti, in New

Delhi.

CSS Corp Wins NASSCOM Customer Service Excellence Award 2017

CSS Corp, a US-headquartered IT services and technology support company, has won

the Customer Service Excellence Award 2017 by National Association of Software and

Services Companies (NASSCOM).

ACI ranks Hyderabad airport No. 1 in 5 to 15 million category

Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) has ranked No. 1 in the Airports

Council International’s (ACI) service quality survey in the category of 5 to 15 million

passengers per annum.

i. On a scale of 1 to 5, Hyderabad airport’s score improved from 4.4 in 2009 to 4.9 in 2016.

ii. RGIA was opened in year 2008 and is operated by GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd.

(GHIAL).

Jaipur, Srinagar top ranked airports in small aerodrome

On 18th October 2017, Jaipur and Srinagar Airport got first and second rank respectively in the

category of 2-5 million passengers in Airport Council International (ACI)-Airport Service Quality

(ASQ) Survey.

Top ranked small aerodromes:

i. Dr.Guruprasad Mohapatra, Chairman, Airports Authority of India (AAI) and his team received

the ACI-ASQ Award at a function held in Mauritius on 17th October 2017.

ii. This is for the second consecutive time Jaipur Airport has been rated the Best Airport

in the World in the traffic volume of 2 to 5 million passengers per year.

Environmental scientist Hans Joachim Schellnhuber receives Blue Planet Prize

Environmental scientist Hans Joachim Schellnhuber has received Blue Planet Prize, world’s

most prestigious award for pioneers in environmental science.

ISKCON’s Govardhan Eco Village gets green platinum award

Govardhan Eco Village, set up by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness

(ISKCON) in Palghar district of Maharashtra has won the ‘Green Platinum Award’.




Green Platinum Award for ISKCON’s Govardhan Eco Village:

i. Green Platinum Award has been instituted by Indian Green Building Council (IGBC), which is

a part of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

Adesina Receives 2017 World Food Prize Laureate Award

DR. AKINWUMI AYODEJI ADESINA,the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), will

be recognized as the 2017 World Food Prize Laureate.i. He was Nigeria’s former Minister of

Agriculture and rural development

Alka Yagnik and Udit Narayan to get Lata Mangeshkar Award

The very popular playback singers Alka Yagnikand Udit Narayan and the music

composers Usha Khanna, Bappi Lahiri, Anu Malik and have been selected for the Madhya

Pradesh state government’s prestigious National Lata Mangeshkar

Cristiano Ronaldo tops the Forbes Rich List of sport stars

According to the latest Forbes’ Rich List Cristiano Ronaldo is the richest sports personality in

the world,

i. Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli is the only cricketer to feature in the Top 100 list.

11-Year-Old Gitanjali Rao Named America’s Top Young Scientist

11 years old Gitanjali Rao from Lone Tree, Colorado, is the winner of this year’s Discovery

Education 3M Young Scientist Challenge for her sensor that can detect lead levels in water

better than traditional methods.

i. Gitanjali after winning will take home US$25,000 for her innovative idea, which she said that

she developed approximately five months ago in response to learning about the ongoing water

crisisin Flint, Michigan.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lieke Martens win FIFA player-of-the-year awards

Footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has been named FIFA Men’s Player of the Year and Lieke

Martens has been named FIFA Women’s Player of the Year.

Meghalaya Election Department enters Limca Book of Records

On 24th October 2017, an official announced that, the Meghalaya Election Department has entered

Limca Book of Records for the formation of the biggest human logo comprising young voters in the

state.. A total of 2,870 students, 113 schools, three colleges participated. The logo size was 120ft x

75ft. This has secured a place in the Limca Book of Records for the record on maximum

number of enrolled young and future voters forming human logo formation in one single

venue.




L&T Technology Services conferred with CII Industrial Innovation 2017

On October 24th 2017, L&T Technology Services (LTTS) has been honored with the CII

Industrial Innovation Award, 2017 in New Delhi.

i. This award is referred as one of the most innovative Indian companies in the services category at

the CII Industrial Innovation Awards ceremony in New Delhi.

ii. The Confederation of Indian Industry praised LTTS’ efforts to create a collaborative ecosystem

comprising of global technology firms and internationally reputed institutes such as the Indian

Institute of Science, IITs, Germany’s Fraunhofer and US-based Purdue University to make advances

in R&D, creating best in class engineering solutions that can benefit the nation.

South African Indian-origin couple Salim Abdool Karim and Quarraisha Abdool Karim

wins top US award for AIDS research

On 25th October 2017, Professors Salim Abdool Karim and Quarraisha Abdool Karim, a South

African Indian-origin researcher couple, were awarded the 2017 IHV Lifetime Achievement Award

for Public Service.

Indian-Origin Gina Miller named Britain’s most influential black person

On 25th October 2017, Indian-origin campaigner, Gina Miller, became the UK’s most influential

black person, by topping the 2018 ‘Powerlist’ of 100 people of African and African

Caribbean heritage.

AP CM Naidu receives ‘Golden Peacock Award’ in London

On 25th October 2017, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu received the Golden

Peacock Award, at the 17th London Global Convention, held in London.

Golden Peacock Award:

i. Chandrababu Naidu received the ‘Golden Peacock Award’ under the category, Global

Leadership in Public Service and Economic Transformation.

ii. Nara Bhuvaneswari, Chandrababu Naidu’s wife and managing director of the Heritage

Foods received ‘Golden Peacock Award’ under the category Corporate Governance and

Sustainability.

Sharmila Tagore honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award

On 24th October 2017, Sharmila Tagore was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the

PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, at a ceremony held at Siri Fort Auditorium, in New

Delhi.

EDII bags AICTE award for supporting start-ups

Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) has received an award from All India

Council for Technical Education (AICTE), at the International Science Festival’s Start-up Summit –




2017, at Chennai.

Madame Tussauds unveils Justin Bieber’s wax figure in Delhi

At Madame Tussauds Delhi, wax figures of famous personalities including sports, history, politics

and glamour will be displayed under one roof.

i. Justin Bieber has a huge fan following among youngsters in our country and the request for his

figure has been long awaited.He is the first among all figures which have been unveiled straight to

the public at such a platform, meeting the audience demands of the international stars.

Cleartrip named ‘Best Mobile App for Travel and Leisure’ at Mobexx Awards 2017

On 27th October 2017, online travel solutions provider Cleartrip was named the ‘Best Mobile App for

Travel and Leisure’ at the Mobexx Awards 2017.

Cleartrip – ‘Best Mobile App for Travel and Leisure’:

i. On 27th October 2017, Cleartrip was awarded the ‘Best Mobile App for Travel and Leisure’

at the Mobexx Awards 2017. The award was given to Cleatrip for the success it has had on the

mobile platform. It is seen by many as the future of advertising and brand marketing.

Jeff Bezos replaces Gates as world’s richest person with $90.6 billion fortune

On 27th October 2017, Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s founder, replaced Microsoft co-founder Bill

Gates as the richest person in the world.

Jeff Bezos – world’s richest person:

i. According to Forbes magazine, the wealth of Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s founder reached $90.6 billion,

compared to the $90.1 billion of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.

Anupam Kher receives Parmod Mahajan Smriti Award

On October 29, 2017, veteran Bollywood actor Anupam Kher received Parmod Mahajan Smriti

Award in Pune.

i. Anupam Kher is the current Chairman of Film and Television Institute of India.

Venezuela’s opposition awarded European Union’s Sakharov Prize for human rights

The democratic opposition and political prisoners in Venezuela won the European Union’s

Sakharov Prize for human rights on October 26th 2017. The prize amount of this award

is 50,000euros ($59,000).





Michael Jackson named top-earning dead celebrity for 5th time

Michael Jackson, who died in the year 2009 i.e, Eight years ago, is still generating millions of

dollars.

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNS SC appoints Amrender Sharan as amicus on a plea seeking re-probe of Mahatma Gandhi

murder

On October 6, 2017, Supreme Court appointed senior advocate and former additional solicitor

general Amrender Sharan as amicus curiae on a petition seeking re-probe into the

assassination of Mahatma Gandhi.

Sambit Patra appointed as Non-Official Director of ONGC

On 29th September 2017, BJP’s national spokesperson Mr.Sambit Patra was appointed as the Non-

Official Director on the board of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Ltd. (ONGC).

Sambit Patra as Non-Official Director of ONGC:

i. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the appointment of Mr.Sambit Patra to

the post of Non-Official Director of ONGC for a period of 3years.

Saudi Arabia appoints first woman to senior government post

On 27th September 2017, Saudi Arabia appointed a woman to a senior government post for the

first time, in Riyadh.

First woman Senior Government Official of Saudi Arabia:

i. Ms.Eman Al-Ghamidi was appointed as the assistant mayor of Al Khubar governorate.

ii. She has become the first woman senior government official of Saudi Arabia.

Jagmeet Singh becomes first non-white politician to lead a major party in Canada

On 1st October 2017, Jagmeet Singh, a 38 year old Sikh lawyer, was elected to lead Canada’s New

Democratic Party, in Toronto, Canada.

First non-white politician to lead a major party in Canada:

i. Jagmeet Singh has become the first non-white politician to lead a major political party in Canada.

ii. He has been elected as the leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada.

Chandrababu Naidu launches ‘Swachh Andhra Mission’, PV Sindhu chosen as the brand

ambassador

On 2nd October 2017, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Mr.Chandrababu Naidu launched ‘Swachh

Andhra Mission’ on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti.

Swachh Andhra Mission:

i. The Chief Minister said that, 22 lakh more toilets need to be constructed by March 2018.




ii. Shuttler PV Sindhu has been appointed as the brand ambassador of ‘Swachh Andhra

Mission’.

Rahul Bothra appointed Swiggy’s first-ever CFO

Food delivery company Swiggy has appointed former Olam International executive & former

Britannia Industries executive Rahul Bothra as its first chief financial officer (CFO).

Government appoints MK Gupta, DK Gayen as new Railway Board members

On 11th October 2017, the Government of India appointed MK Gupta and DK Gayen as new

members in the Railway Board.

Two more Top Executives resign from Infosys

A top executive at Infosys Ltd’s products,Abdul Razack, senior vice-president, and Pervinder

Johar, CEO of Edge Verve, the wholly owned products and platforms subsidiary, have resigned

from Infosys. This is the fourth senior-level exit in last 40 days.

Baishya elected as chairmen of two sub-committees of IWF

Birendra Prasad Baishya the President of Indian Weightlifting Federation has been elected

as chairman of two sub-committees of International Weightlifting Federation (IWF).

Brenda Hale appointed as UK Supreme Court’s first female president

Brenda Hale has been appointed as the first female president of the UK Supreme Court. Hale, 72,

was born in Yorkshire who has been a consistent champion of judicial diversity.

i. Jill Black becomes the second female justice in the UK’s highest court. Two other appeal judges,

David Lloyd Jones and Michael Briggs, were also appointed to the Supreme Court on the same day.

Dr Soumya Swaminathan appointed WHO’s deputy director general

Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Dr Soumya

Swaminathan has been appointed the Deputy Director General for Programmes (DDP) of

World Health Organisation (WHO). This position is the highest post held by an Indian in the

WHO.

Rajnish Kumar named as next SBI Chairman

On 4th September 2017, the government appointed Rajnish Kumar as the new Chairman of SBI

(State Bank of India).

Rajinish Kumar as SBI Chairman:

i. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Rajinish Kumar as

SBI Chairman, for a period of 3 years from 7th October 2017.

ii. Rajinish Kumar is currently one of the four Managing Directors of SBI. He joined SBI as a




Probationary Officer in 1980. He has worked in various departments of SBI.

Pakistan appoints Zafar Mahmood Abbasi as new Navy Chief

On October 4, 2017, Vice Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi was appointed as Navy Chief of

Pakistan.

i. Zafar Mahmood Abbasi will succeed Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah who will retire on October

6, 2017.

Actress Jacqueline Fernandez announced as brand ambassador of Delhi Dynamos

On 4th October 2017, Delhi Dynamos FC announced that Bollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandez

will be the club’s brand ambassador for the upcoming Indian Super League season.Jacqueline

ICC names Corey Anderson as event ambassador for U-19 World Cup 2018

On 5th October 2017, International Cricket Council (ICC) announced New Zealand all-rounder,

Corey Anderson as the event ambassador for the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup 2018.

Pooja Kapur concurrently appointed as next Ambassador of India to the Republic of

Macedonia

On 4th October 2017, Ms.Pooja Kapur, presently the Ambassador of India to the Republic of

Bulgaria, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Macedonia,

concurrently (at the same time).

Mongolia names Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh as new PM after ousting previous leader

On 5th October 2017, Mongolia appointed Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh as its new prime minister, in

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.

Axis Bank acquires Freecharge, appoints Sangram Singh as CEO

Private Sector bank, Axis Bank has announced that it has completed the acquisition

of Freecharge.

More Details about Axis Bank’s acquisition of Freecharge:

i. Axis Bank has completed the acquisition of Freecharge for a cash consideration of 373.27 crore.

ii. It has also announced appointment of Sangram Singh as the CEO of Freecharge Payment

Technologies Private Ltd.

John K Paul re-elected as FADA President

On 5th October 2017, John K Paul was unanimously re-elected as the President of the Federations of

Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA) for 2017-18, in New Delhi.




PNB MetLife appoints Ashish Srivastava as MD & CEO

On 9th October 2017, PNB MetLife India Insurance Company Ltd (PNB MetLife), appointed Ashish

Srivastava as MD & CEO.

Lenskart ropes in Katrina Kaif as brand ambassador

On 9th October 2017, Online eyewear firm, Lenskart announced Bollywood star Katrina Kaif as its

first ever brand ambassador.

Vinay Mohan Kwatra appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Principality of

Monaco

On 9th October 2017, Vinay Mohan Kwatra was appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the

Principality of Monaco.

PepsiCo Chairman D Shivakumar quits

On 10th October 2017, PepsiCo, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) D Shivakumar

resigned from the company after serving for nearly four years.PepsiCo chairman D Shivakumar

Vinit Kumar takes over as Kolkata Port Trust chairman

On 9th October 2017, Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE) officer, Vinit Kumar,

took over as full-time Chairman of Kolkata Port Trust.

Actor Anupam Kher appointed as new FTII chairman

On 11th October 2017, the government appointed Actor Anupam Kher as the Chairman of Film and

Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune.Anupam Kher will replace Gajendra Chauhan as Chairman

of FTII. Gajendra Chauhan’s tenure ended in March 2017.

Facebook India MD Umang Bedi quits; Bhushan named interim head

On 10th October 2017, Umang Bedi, Managing Director, India and South Asia, at Facebook resigned

from his position.

Nisha Desai Biswal appointed as head of USIBC

On 11th October 2017, Nisha Desai Biswal, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for South and

Central Asia, was appointed as President of the U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC).

John Flint appointed as CEO of HSBC

On 12th October 2017, HSBC announced that, it has appointed John Flint as its next CEO, in

London.




Yuvraj Singh named Laureus’ first Indian ambassador

On 11th October 2017, Yuvraj Singh was announced as the first Indian ambassador of Laureus at an

event in Mumbai.Yuvraj Singh has become the first Indian ambassador of Laureus. Laureus

works to improve the lives of young people through sport.

Samsung CEO Kwon Oh-hyun resigns

On 13th October 2017, Samsung Electronics Co Ltd announced that, its Vice Chairman and CEO,

Oh-Hyun Kwon, had decided to step down from management.

Rukaiya Rangwala appointed as head of MobiKwik Payment Gateway

On 13th October 2017, MobiKwik, mobile wallet service and payment gateway provider, announced

the appointment of Rukaiya Rangwala as the Business Head of ‘MobiKwik Payment Gateway’.

Bambawale appointed as next Indian ambassador to China

On 12th October 2017, India’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Gautam H. Bambawale was

appointed as next ambassador to People’s Republic of China.

Government clears appointment of Leslie Thng as Vistara CEO

On October 11th 2017, Tata-SIA joint venture airline named Vistara pads up for the launch of

international operations 2018, announced the appointment of its new Chief Executive Officer

Leslie Thng who takes charge in the month October, 2017. The former CEO Phee Teik Yeoh will

return to Singapore International Airlines.

Appointment Committee of Cabinet appoints 11 new secretaries

On October 11, 2017, Appointment Committee of Cabinet carried out a major bureaucratic

reshuffle wherein 11 new secretaries have been appointed to various government

departments.

i. Environment secretary Ajay Narayan Jha (IAS, 1982 batch, Manipur-Tripura cadre) will

succeed Ashok Lavasa as the secretary in the expenditure department in the Finance Ministry.

ii. Health and Family Welfare Secretary C.K. Mishra will take charge as Environment secretary

from Ajay Narayan Jha.

iii. Sports Secretary Injeti Srinivas has been appointed as the new corporate affairs secretary in

the Union Finance Ministry.

iv. Rahul Prasad Bhatnagar will take charge as the new Sports Secretary whereas Preeti

Sudan, Secretary of Department of Food and Public Distribution, has been assigned the charge of

health and family welfare.





v. Other cabinet secretary appointments include Alok Shrivastava (Department of Justice),

K.V. Eapen (Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances and Pensions

and Pensioners` Welfare), Ravi Kant (Food Ministry), Shakuntala Gamlin (Department of

Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities), Gopal Krishna (Shipping Secretary) and

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha (AYUSH Ministry).

France’s Audrey Azoulay to be next UNESCO chief

On 13th October 2017, UNESCO’s executive board voted to make former French government

minister, Audrey Azoulay, the U.N. cultural agency, UNESCO’s next chief

Voltas appoints Pradeep Bakshi as MD, CEO

On 16th October 2017, Voltas announced the elevation of Chief Operating Officer Pradeep Bakshi as

the managing director (MD) and chief executive officer (CEO) of the company.

Naresh Kumar Gupta appointed as Madhya Pradesh Lokayukta

On 16th October 2017, the Madhya Pradesh government appointed Naresh Kumar Gupta as the

Lokayukta (Ombudsman) of the state.

Sunny Verghese appointed as WBCSD Chair from 2018

The World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) has appointed NRI businessman

Sunny Verghese, co-founder and CEO of Singapore-based Olam International, as its new chairman

from 2018.

Manika Jain appointed as Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Cambodia

On 18th October 2017, Manika Jain was appointed as Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of

Cambodia.

Ranjit Kumar resigns as Solicitor General of India

On 20th October 2017, Ranjit Kumar resigned as the Solicitor General of India.

Jacinda Ardern to become New Zealand Prime Minister

New Zealand Labour Party’s leader Jacinda Ardern is set to become youngest-ever female

Prime Minister of New Zealand.

Oxford University college drops Suu Kyi from common room name

On 19th October 2017, students at the St Hugh’s College voted to remove Aung San Suu Kyi’s name

from the title of their Junior Common Room, in North Oxford, England.




Sibi George appointed as the Ambassador of India to Switzerland

On 21st October 2017, Sibi George was appointed as the next Ambassador of India to Switzerland.

Malaysia Airlines names Izham Ismail as new CEO

On 20th October 2017, Malaysia Airlines (MAS) announced that, it has appointed its current chief

operating officer, former pilot Captain, Izham Ismail as its new Group CEO.

HSBC appoints Jayant Rikhye as India CEO

On 22nd October 2017, the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) appointed Jayant

Rikhye as the Chief Executive Officer for India operations.

Former AC Milan football star Kakha Kaladze is the new mayor of Tbilisi

On 22nd October 2017, Georgia announced that, former AC Milan football star Kakha Kaladze had

been elected as the mayor of its capital Tbilisi.

WHO withdraws Mugabe’s goodwill ambassador title

On October 22, 2017, World Health Organisation (WHO) announced that it has withdrawn the

appointment of Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe as the goodwill ambassador for

non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Africa.

Government appoints ex-IB chief Dineshwar Sharma as interlocutor

Dineshwar Sharma, the Former director of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), has taken charge as the

interlocutor, for peace talks in Jammu and Kashmir ii. Dineshwar Sharma was already posted in Kashmir in early 1992, when militancy there was at its

peak.

Bureaucratic reshuffle: Rakesh Asthana appointed as CBI Special Director

On 22nd October 2017, the Government promoted senior IPS officer Rakesh Asthana as Special

Director of Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Other appointments were also made as a part of

bureaucratic reshuffle.

Ngangom Sarat Singh appointed as member of the Joint Electricity Regulatory

Commission (JERC) for Manipur and Mizoram

On 23rd October 2017, Ngangom Sarat Singh was appointed as member of the Joint Electricity

Regulatory Commission (JERC) for Manipur and Mizoram.

Shinzo Abe’s coalition wins supermajority in Japan election

In the snap election held in Japan, ruling coalition headed by incumbent Prime Minister

Shinzo Abe has won two-thirds “super majority” in the 465-member lower house.




i. This electoral victory will boost Abe’s chances of winning another three- year term next

September.

IPPB appoints Suresh Sethi as its MD & CEO

Suresh Sethi has been appointed as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of India

Post Payments Bank (IPPB).

i. Suresh Sethi replaces AP Singh who had held the post since January 2017.

Kanwaljit Singh Cheema appointed as principal secretary of BoA in Darjeeling

On 23rd October 2017, the West Bengal government appointed Kanwaljit Singh Cheemaas

the principal secretary of Board of Administrators (BoA) in Darjeeling.

NS Venkatesh appointed AMFI chief executive

Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI)has been hunting for a new CEO for quite some

time after the former CEO Rajendran left while half way through in his tenure in the month of

December.

i. Almost after ten months, India’s mutual fund lobby, Association of Mutual Funds in India (Amfi) is

set to get its chief executive officer (CEO) MR. NS Venkatesh.

Nepal government accepts resignation of its Ambassador to India

On 23rd October 2017, the Nepal government accepted the resignation of Deep Kumar Upadhyay,

Nepal’s ambassador to India.

Alok Kumar Pateria appointed as ADG of CISF

Alok Kumar Pateria has been appointed as the Additional Director General (ADG) of Central

Industrial Security Force (CISF).

i. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Alok Kumar

Pateria, IPS (Indian Police Service) Officer (MP:86) as Additional Director General (ADG)

of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Utpal Kumar Singh Takes Charge as Uttarakhand Chief Secretary

On 25th October 2017, senior IAS officer Utpal Kumar Singh took charge as the new chief secretary

of Uttarakhand replacing S Ramaswamy, in Dehradun.

American Express CEO Kenneth Chenault to Step Down After 16 Years

On 25th October 2017, American Express Co said that, its chairman and chief executive officer

Kenneth Chenault would step down in 2018.




USISPF announces Richard Verma as new board member

On 26th October 2017, the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) announced the addition

of Richard Verma, former U.S. Ambassador to India and current Vice Chairman of The Asia Group,

as its Board member.

N.J.Gangte appointed as High Commissioner of India to Republic of Zambia

On 27th October 2017, N.J.Gangte was appointed as High Commissioner of India toRepublic of

Zambia.

Satya Gopal appointed chief secretary of Arunchal Pradesh

Delhi Principal Home Secretary Satya Gopal has been transferred to Arunchal Pradesh as the

chief secretary.

Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar assumes charge as the Vice Chief of Naval Staff (VCNS)

On 30th October 2017, Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar took charge as the Vice Chief of Naval Staff

(VCNS) from Vice Admiral Karambir Singh at a formal ceremony held at South Block, New Delhi.

Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar – Vice Chief of Naval Staff (VCNS):

i. Vice Admiral Karambir Singh would take charge as Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern

Naval Command in Vishakapatnam. Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar has taken charge as Vice Chief

of Naval Staff (VCNS).

Suresh Raina appointed as brand ambassador of Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation

On 29th October 2017, cricketer Suresh Raina was appointed as the brand ambassador of the

Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC) at a programme at Ghaziabad.

SK Sinha appointed Secretary (security) in Cabinet Secretariat

On 30th October 2017, senior police officer SK Sinha was appointed as the Secretary

(security) in the Cabinet Secretariat.

AP Maheshwari appointed DG, Bureau of Police Research

On 30th October 2017, senior police officer AP Maheshwari was appointed as Director General of

Bureau of Police Research and Development.

Tata Steel elevates T V Narendran as global CEO, MD

On 31st October 2017, Tata Steel Ltd promoted T V Narendran as chief executive officer and

managing director globally.




Vikram Singh appointed Private Secretary to President

On 30th October 2017, Railway officer Vikram Singh was appointed as Private Secretary to

President Ram Nath Kovind.

i. Vikram Singh is a 1997 batch officer of the Indian Railway Traffic Service. The

Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved his appointment to the post of Private

Secretary to President Ram Nath Kovind for 2 years.

Birendra Prasad Baishya re-elected as President of IWLF

On 30th October 2017, Birendra Prasad Baishya was re-elected as President of the Indian

Weightlifting Federation (IWLF) in the Annual General Body Meeting.

ACQUISTIONS & MERGERS Zee Ent fully acquires 9X Media, INX Music for Rs 160 cr

On Oct.6 2017, Zee Entertainment has acquired 100 per cent stake in two media entities, 9X

Media and INX Music for Rs 160-crore.

i. The 9X Media operates five music channels- 9XM (Hindi), 9X Jalwa (Hindi), 9X Jhakkas (Marathi),

9XO (English) and 9X Bajao (Hindi). ZEEL will acquire 91,453,000 equity shares of Rs 10 each of

9X Media for a consideration of Rs 155.20 crore.

China approves HP’s $1.1 bn buy of Samsung’s printer business

China has approved HP Inc’s $1.1 billion purchase of Samsung Electronics’ printer business with

certain restrictions and concerns about the U.S. firm’s dominance in the laser printer market.

i. Under the deal, HP would add an intellectual property portfolio of more than 6,500 printing

patents and nearly 1,300 researchers and engineers with expertise in laser printer technology,

imaging electronics and printer supplies.

RCom, Aircel call off merger talks

Anil Ambani-led Reliance Communications (RCom) has called off plans to merge its wireless

business with rival Aircel. As announced by RCOM, the merger has been called off owing to legal

and regulatory uncertainties as well as ‘intervention of vested interests to derail the deal’.

Qatar Airways acquires 49 percent stake in Italy’s Meridiana

Qatar Airways, one of the Middle East’s biggest carriers has announced that it has completed the

acquisition of a 49 per cent stake in Italy’s AQA Holding. Alsarda, previous sole shareholder will

retain a 51 per cent share in the company.





Airtel Ghana gets approval for Tigo Merger in Ghana

On 3rd October 2017, Bharti Airtel received Ghana’s National Communications Authority’s approval

for the merger between Bharti Ghana (Airtel) and Millicom Ghana (Tigo), in Ghana

PFC board approves PFC Green Energy merger with parent

On 29th September 2017, Power Finance Corp (PFC)’s board approved the proposal for merger of its

wholly-owned subsidiary PFC Green Energy with the parent company.

PFC Green Energy Merger:

i. In the board meeting, on 29th September 2017, the PFC board approved the merger of

its subsidiary PFC Green Energy with the parent company.

ONGC Videsh completes stake buy in Namibia oil block

On 4th October 2017, ONGC Videsh Ltd (OVL), the overseas arm of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation

(ONGC), announced that, it has acquired 30 % interest in the Namibian Petroleum Exploration

License (PEL) 37, from UK’s Tullow Oil.

itelligence acquires Hyderabad-based vCentric Technologies

itelligence India Software Solutions Private Limited has acquired the Hyderabad-based

reseller of SAP software and SAP services provider named vCentric Technologies. The acquisition

deal value has not been disclosed so far.

Bharti Airtel, Millicom concludes deal to combine operations in Ghana

Bharti Airtel Limited and Millicom International Cellular S.A with their respective subsidiaries (Airtel

Ghana and Tigo Ghana) came out with the conclusion to combine their operations in Ghana.

i. The Ghana National Communications Authority (NCA) granted approval for the merger

proposal early this month.

NABARD buys additional 7% stake in SIDBI from IDBI Bank for Rs 900 crore

Rural financial institution National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has

bought an additional 7% stake in Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) for

Rs900 crore from IDBI Bank Ltd.

Details about NABARD’s Stake Purchase in SIDBI from IDBI Bank:

i. This is the largest investment made by NABARD so far. Consequential to this move,

NABARD’s stake in SIDBI has now gone up to 10%.

Tata Teleservices to merge Consumer Mobile Business with Bharti Airtel

On 12th October 2017, Bharti Airtel announced the acquisition of Consumer Mobile Businesses

(CMB) of Tata Teleservices Ltd (TTSL) and Tata Teleservices Maharastra Ltd (TTML).




IndusInd bank seals deal to buy Bharat Financial

On 14th October 2017, India’s IndusInd Bank Ltd agreed an all-share deal to buy Micro-lender

Bharat Financial Inclusion Ltd.

IndusInd bank buys Bharat Financial:

i. IndusInd Bank has sealed the deal for $2.4 billion to buy Bharat Financial. This

acquisition would boost IndusInd’s presence in microfinance lending and rural banking.

ii. IndusInd will give Bharat Financial’s shareholders 639 of its shares for every 1,000

shares they own in Bharat Financial.

Reliance Communications gets final nod from DoT for merger with Sistema

On October 23, 2017, Anil Ambani-led Reliance Communications (RCom) announced that it

has received the final approval on its merger with Sistema from the Department of

Telecommunication (DoT).The closure of merger transaction will be completed in November

2017. However, RCom will carry on SSTL business in India under MTS brand.

Cisco buys US software company BroadSoft for $1.9 billion

American technology conglomerate, Cisco Systems has finalised a deal to acquire American

communication software and service provider BroadSoft for $1.9 billion.

Thomas Cook India acquires Tata Capital’s travel firm

On 30th October 2017, Thomas Cook India announced the acquisition of the wholly-owned

subsidiaries of Tata Capital Limited, Tata Capital Forex Limited(foreign exchange) and TC Travel

and Services Limited (travel services).

MoUs Meghalaya, UP and Arunachal Sign MoU to Boost Culture and Tourism

On 5th October 2017, a MoU was signed by Uttar Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya under

the ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat’ programme, to boost cultural ties.

MoU between Meghalaya, UP and Arunachal Pradesh:

i. Uttar Pradesh Additional Chief Secretary, Secondary and Higher Education, Sanjay

Agarwal, Arunachal Pradesh Tourism Secretary, Joram Beda, Meghalaya Education Secretary, W R

Lyngdoh signed the MoU.

ii. This MoU under the ‘Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat’ programme, aims to enhance cultural

relationship between these 3 states.

Three agreements signed during 14th India-EU Summit in New Delhi

14th Annual Summit between India and the European Union (EU) was held in New

Delhi on October 6, 2017. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with Donald Tusk,




President of the European Council and Mr. Jean Claude Juncker, President of the

European Commission reviewed the wide-ranging cooperation under the India-EU Strategic

Partnership.

Following three agreements were signed during the 14th India-EU Summit:

i. Finance Contract of Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase-2-Line R6 for Euro 300 million out of

total loan of Euro 500 million.

ii. Implementing Arrangement between the European Commission and the Science and

Engineering Research Board (SERB) for Indian Researchers hosted by the European Research

Council grantees in Europe.

iii. Joint Declaration between the Interim Secretariat of the International Solar Alliance and the

European Investment Bank.

CWC sign MoU with IIT Roorkee and MNNIT Allahabad to support capacity building in

dam

Central Water Commission (CWC) has signed MoUs with IIT Roorkee and Motilal Nehru

National Institute of Technology (MNNIT) Allahabad to support dam rehabilitation efforts of

various implementing agencies and CWC.

NRCB signs agreement with Andhra Pradesh government

National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB) has signed a memorandum of cooperation (MoC)

with Andhra Pradesh State Government to develop technologies relating to banana production.

India, France agree to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation

Ms. Florence Parly, the French Minister for the Armed Forces, was on an official visit to India

from 26th – 28th October, 2017. During Ms Parly’s meeting with Indian Defense Minister Ms.

Nirmala Sitharaman, India and France agreed to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation.

Highlights of Meeting between Ms. Parly and Ms. Niramala Sitharaman:

i. Besides, a range of measures to expand military to military ties, including enhancing the scope

of joint exercises, specifically VARUNA (Joint Naval Exercise between India and France –

scheduled to be held in early 2018) were agreed upon.

India, Tunisia agrees to combat terror, extremism

On October 30, 2017, India and Tunisia agreed to jointly combat terrorism and

extremism and scale up bilateral cooperation in the field of security.i. On October 30,

2017, Union External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj co-chaired the 12th India- Tunisia

Joint Commission Meeting with Tunisian Foreign Affairs Minister, Khemaies Jhinaoui.




SCHEMES

Uttar Pradesh government launches ‘Mukhyamantri Samoohik Vivaah Yojana’

On October 3, 2017, Uttar Pradesh State Government launched a mass marriage scheme

called ‘Mukhyamantri Samoohik Vivaah Yojana’.Details of ‘Mukhyamantri Samoohik

Vivaah Yojana’

i. Under the scheme, Uttar Pradesh social welfare department will conduct mass marriages.

ii. In order to avail the benefits of this scheme, parents of the brides have to be residents of

Uttar Prdaesh and should be from below poverty line category. The scheme will also cover

widows and divorced women.

HP Cabinet approves Heritage Tourism policy & ‘Mukhya Mantri Rural Road Repair

Scheme’

On October 4, 2017, Himachal Pradesh Cabinet under Chief Minister Virbhadra

Singhapproved ‘Heritage Tourism Policy 2017’ & ‘Mukhya Mantri Rural Road Repair

Scheme’ along with other developmental and welfare initiatives.

‘Himachal Pradesh Heritage Tourism Policy’ 2017:

i. This policy has been approved with an aim to offer an experience of the culture and

heritage of Himachal Pradesh.

‘Mukhya Mantri Rural Road Repair Scheme’:

This scheme has been approved under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment

Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) for rural roads.

♦The roads to be renovated would be selected by the concerned panchayats after approval in gram

Sabha.

Government launches special course for untrained teachers

On 4th October 2017, the Human Resource Development (HRD) Ministry started a special training

course for untrained teachers, designed by National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS), called

Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed).

Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed):

i. The HRD Ministry had announced that ‘untrained teachers’ have to complete the Diploma in

Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) course, within 2019.

ii. This course would be offered through ‘Swayam’, a platform for online education and

knowledge through Dish TV. A mobile application has also been launched to help with

clarifications.

Centre launches six-year secure Himalaya project

On October 2, 2017, Union Environment Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan in association with

the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched SECURE Himalaya




project for conservation of biodiversity, land and forest resources in the high Himalayan

ecosystem.

Salient Features of SECURE Himalaya Project:

• SECURE Himalaya stands for securing livelihoods, conservation, sustainable use

and restoration of high range Himalayan ecosystems.

• The project is meant for specific landscapes in High Himalaya ecosystem spread across

four states viz. Jammu and Kasmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Sikkim.

Landscapes-States to be covered under SECURE Himalaya:

Landscape State

Changthang Jammu & Kashmir

Lahaul-Pangi and Kinnaur Himachal Pradesh

Gangotri-Govind and Darma-Byans Valley in Pithoragarh Uttarakhand

Kanchenjunga – Upper Teesta Valley Sikkim

National Wildlife Action Plan for the period 2017-2031 and Global Wildlife Programme

conference

On October 2, 2017, during the inaugural day of Global Wildlife Programme conferencein New

Delhi, Harsh Vardhan also launched India Wildlife mobile App and released National Wildlife

Action Plan for the period 2017-2031.

• Through 103 wildlife conservation actions and 250 projects, National Wildlife Action Plan

for the period 2017-2031, which is India’s third National Wildlife action plan will focus

on preservation of genetic diversity and sustainable development across the India.

Madhya Pradesh launches ‘Single Click Pension Delivery’ scheme

On October 1, 2017, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched ‘Single

Click Pension Delivery’ scheme. Under this scheme, the money will go directly into the account

of the beneficiaries.

‘Single Click Pension Delivery’ scheme and “Shataayu Award” by Madhya Pradesh Government:

• ‘Single Click Pension Delivery’ scheme will benefit 35 lakh people in Madhya Pradesh.

• On October 1, 2017, Mr. Chouhan also honoured the elderly who completed the age of

100 years with the “Shataayu” award.

L-G Anil Baijal approves Delhi government education loan scheme

On 5th October 2017, Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal approved the Delhi government’s students

higher education loan scheme, in New Delhi.

Approval for Delhi government’s higher education loan scheme:





i. The Delhi government’s students higher education loan scheme would help thousands of students

and parents.

ii. The Delhi government had started this scheme 2 years back, to provide loans to

students for higher education, even if they didn’t have any property or land as security.

Karnataka launches ‘Mathru Purna’ scheme for pregnant women

On 2nd October 2017, Karnataka Chief Minister Mr.Siddaramaiah launched ‘Mathru Poorna’

scheme, for nutritional wellness of pregnant and lactating women in rural areas, at Vidhan

Soudha, in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Mathru Purna:

i. The ‘Mathru Purna’ scheme, aims at providing pregnant and lactating poor women in

rural areas with one nutritious meal daily, for 25 days in a month.

ii. A full meal, of rice, dal with vegetables or sambar, one boiled egg and 200ml of milk, will be

given to pregnant women, through anganwadis. Two varieties of sprouts will be provided to

vegetarians instead of egg.

iii. This will meet 40-45% of the daily nutrition requirement of pregnant and lactating

mothers. Each meal would cost around Rs.20.

Uttarakhand Govt. launches ‘Solar Briefcase’ to provide electricity in remote areas

On October 8, 2017, Uttarakhand State Government and a charitable funding agency

named Swan Cultural Center and Foundation, launched ‘Solar Briefcase’ in Kedarnath Dham.

i. This initiative aims to provide electricity to far flung areas in Uttarakhand.

ii. Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has stated that around 47 villages and

1,40,000 families in Uttarakhand do not have access to electricity. Moreover there are 60 villages in

the state where electrification has not yet been done due to the difficult terrain.

President Ram Nath Kovind launches Rs.100 crore clean water initiative

On 8th October 2017, President Ram Nath Kovind launched Mata Amritanandamayi Math (MAM)’s,

‘Jivamritam’ filtration system, a clean water initiative, in Vallikkavu, Kollam district of Kerala.

‘Jivamritam’ filtration system:

i. ‘Jivamritam’ filtration system aims at providing filtration for clean drinking water to 1 crore

villagers. The first phase of this project is to install ‘Jivamritam’ filtration systems for clean drinking

water in 5,000 villages all over India.

ii. This project will be funded by MAM for Rs.100 crore.MAM has planned to implement all

5,000 Jivamritam systemswithin 1 year. Each Jivamritam system would filter daily drinking-water

supply for around 400 five-member families.

iii. The Jivamritam system was conceptualised and designed by faculty and students of

MAM’s university, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Amrita University).




Cabinet approves SANKALP & STRIVE Schemes to boost Skill India Mission

In a bid to provide a boost to ‘Skill India Mission’, on October 11, 2017, Union Cabinet approved

two new skill development schemes named Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for

Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) and Skill Strengthening for Industrial Value

Enhancement (STRIVE). Both these schemes are result oriented programmes focusing

on vocational education and training.

Salient Features of Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion

(SANKALP) Scheme:

SANKALP is a centrally sponsored scheme having financial outlay Rs 4,455 crore out of

which 3300 crore will be in the form of a loan from World Bank.

• Under this scheme, over 50 Trainers and Assessors academies with self-sustainable

models will be set up in priority sectors.

• The scheme also has provision to set up additional academies to plug sectoral and

geographical gaps.

• Underprivileged and marginalised sections of the society including women, Scheduled

Castes (SCs), Schedule Tribes (STs) and Persons with Disabilities (PWD) will be provided

skill training opportunities under SANKALP.

Salient Features of Skill Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement (STRIVE)

Scheme:

STRIVE is a central sector scheme having financial outlay Rs 2200 crore out of which half the

amount will be in the form of loan assistance from World Bank.

• Under STRIVE scheme, emphasis will be laid on incentivizing Industrial Training

Institutes (ITIs) to improve overall performance including apprenticeship by

involving Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), business associations and industry

clusters.

• A robust mechanism for delivering quality skill development training will be developed.

This will be done by strengthening institutions such as State Skill Development

Missions (SSDMs), National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), Sector Skill

Councils (SSCs), ITIs and National Skill Development Agency (NSDA) etc.

• National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF) including National Quality

Assurance Framework (NQAF) across central and state government schemes will be

universalised in order to ensure standardization in skill delivery, content and training

output.

Department of Post launches Sampoorna Bima Gram Yojana

On 13th October 2017, the Minister for Communications Manoj Sinha launched the Sampoorna Bima

Gram (SBG) Yojana and an initiative for expansion of clientele base of Postal Life Insurance (PLI).

SBG Plan & for expansion of clientele base of PLI:

i. Under Sampoorna Bima Gram (SBG) Yojana, at least one village (having a minimum of 100




households) will be identified in each of the revenue districts India.

ii. All households of that identified village will be covered with a minimum of one RPLI

(Rural Postal Life Insurance) policy each.

iii. Under the expansion of clientele base of PLI, benefits of PLI will not be confined to

Government and semi-Government employees anymore.

Maharashtra govt approves climate change adaptation policy

On October 10, 2017, Maharashtra State cabinet approved a climate change adaptation

policy that will focus on developing environment-friendly villages and cities.

Decisions taken by Maharashtra State Cabinet:

Maharashtra State Government will set up a special cell under the state Environment

department for the effective implementation of this policy of developing environment-friendly

villages and cities.

• Besides, Maharashtra cabinet has approved financial allocation for special scheme for

pending agricultural pumps in Vidarbha and Marathwada region.

• Grant of Rs 10 lakh to the Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Mahamandal and six other

regional educational institutions have been approved by Maharashtra cabinet.

Maharashtra launches web portal with information on new government schemes

On October 10, 2017, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnacis launched a web portal

that will help people get information about all the government schemes. The portal has been

named ‘MahaLabharthi‘.

VAJRA faculty scheme – 260 applicants for government’s visiting researcher programme

Central Government has received 260 applications from foreign scientists for Visiting Advanced

Joint Research (VAJRA) Faculty scheme. Out of these 260 applications, 70 will be shortlisted

for this year.

About Visiting Advanced Joint Research (VAJRA) Faculty scheme:

VAJRA Faculty scheme is a pilot project by the Department of Science and Technology (Under

Union Ministry of Science and Technology) which was launched in May 2017.

• The department intends to select 1,000 scientists every year under this scheme.

• Public funded academic institutions and national laboratories in India are eligible to host

VAJRA faculties and can appoint them as visiting faculty. At these

institutions/laboratories, the selected scientists will be involved in co-guiding and

mentoring students as well as in developing collaborative programmes.

• Interacting with these scientists will help Indian doctorate students to collaborate with

best scientific minds and gain international exposure in their area of research.

• Scientists selected under this scheme will be paid US $15,000 in the first month

of residency and US $10,000 per month from the next month.

• They will work in India for a minimum of a month and a maximum of three months.




Himachal Pradesh implements Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS)

On 9th October 2017, Himachal Pradesh government implemented the Senior Citizen Health

Insurance Scheme (SCHIS), in Shimla.

Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS):

i. SCHIS has been introduced to provide easy access to curative old age related health care

services through additional cover.

ii. The scheme would increase coverage of Rs.30,000 per senior citizen to all existing

Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojna (RSBY) smart card holders.This would be in addition to the

basic coverage of Rs.30,000 in Trust and Society mode.

iii. The beneficiaries of this scheme would be RSBY enrolled people aged 60 years and

above. But, senior citizens who are eligible for RSBY but not currently enrolled in this scheme, will

not get the benefit of SCHIS.

Assam approved new IT policy

On October 17, 2017, Assam State Government approved a new Information Technology

(IT) Policy.

i. Under the new IT policy, companies involved in Business Process

Outsourcing (BPO),companies engaged in software development and firms carrying out

research will be provided financial support.

ii. Call centres will receive one-time incentive of Rs. 1.20 lakh per employee, with minimum intake

of 100 employees.

iii. Companies engaged in software development will receive one-time support of Rs 1.50 lakh per

employee.

Assam govt rolls out new Tourism policy

On October 19, 2017, Assam State Government rolled out ‘Tourism Policy of Assam

2017’ with an aim to increase tourist inflow in the state by at least two to three times within next

five years.

Details about ‘Tourism Policy of Assam 2017’:

‘Tourism Policy of Assam 2017’ will be effective from January 2018 to December 2022.

• To channelize resources in making this policy a success story, tourism sector in Assam

has been accorded the ‘Industry’ status.

• In the policy, special emphasis has been laid on making the state a preferred

destination of film making by offering a range of incentives to movie producers.

• Hindi, English and foreign language cinema makers, who have produced a minimum of

five feature films in Assam will be offered cash grant of 25 per cent or Rs 1 crore,

whichever is less, of expenditure in Assam.




Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister launches Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana

On October 16, 2017 Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched the

ambitious ‘Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojna’ in the presence of the farmers at the Krishi Upaj Mandi

in Khurai, Sagar district of Madhya Pradesh.

Under this scheme, farmers will be compensated the difference between Minimum Support

Price (declared by Union Government) and the actual sale price or Model Price,

whichever is higher.

• Currently, compensation under this scheme will be provided for 8 crops including

oilseed and pulses.

• Registration is compulsory to avail benefits under this scheme. Besides, farmers are

required to sell their crops only in mandis and obtain a receipt for the same.

• The difference amount will be deposited in the bank account within a period of 2

months.

Chhattisgarh government reduces interest on loan under Saksham Yojna

Chhattisgarh State Government has reduced the rate of interest on loan given to women and

their self help groups (SHGs) under ‘Saksham Yojna’ from 6.5 per cent to 5 per cent.

More Details:

i. This decision was taken by Chhattisgarh Women and Child Development Minister

Ramsheela Sahu while chairing a meeting of ‘Chhattisgarh Mahila Kosh’ (CMK)’.

ii. Through various schemes, ‘Chhattisgarh Mahila Kosh’ (CMK) disburses easy term loans to

women and SHGs in Chhattisgarh.

iii. Saksham Yojana too is operated by Chhattisgarh Mahila Kosh, under which loans to the

tune of Rs 72 lakh had been distributed to about 111 SHGs during current fiscal year 2017-18.

Maharashtra government releases Rs 4,000 crore in phase 1 of loan waiver scheme

On October 18, 2017, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis announced that the

State Government has released a sum of Rs 4,000 crore under the first phase of the farm

loan waiver scheme.

Details about First Phase of Farm Loan Waiver Scheme in Maharashtra:

i. Out of Rs 4000 crore which has been released under Phase I, Rs 3200 crore is for writing off

the loans of 4.62 lakh farmers and Rs 800 crore will be distributed as incentive for 3.78

lakh farmers who are paying their loans on time.

ii. It is to be noted that total farm loan waiver (announced in June 2017) which will be

provided to the farmers has been estimated at Rs. 34000 crore.





COMMITTEE President appoints Commission under Justice G.Rohini to Examine Sub Categorization of

OBCs

On 2nd October 2017, President Ram Nath Kovind appointed a five member Commission under

Delhi High Court’s former Chief Justice G Rohini to examine sub categorization of Other Backward

Classes (OBCs)

Commission to examine Sub Categorization of OBCs:

i. The head of the Commission is Delhi High Court’s former Chief Justice G Rohini. It consists of 5

members.

ii. The Commission would examine sub categorization of Other Backward Classes (OBCs)

under Article 340 of the Constitution.

Government constitutes a High Level Committee for proper management of water

resources in North Eastern Region

On 4th October 2017, the Government constituted a high-level committee for proper management

of the water resources in the North Eastern Region (NER).

Committee for water management in NER:

i. The Committee has been formed under the Chairmanship of Rajiv Kumar, Vice-

Chairman of Niti Aayog.

ii. The Committee will submit its report, including Plan of Action, by June, 2018.

Panel under A. Arumughaswamy begins probe into Former CM J.Jayalalithaa’s death

On 27th October 2017, panel under former Madras High Court judge A.Arumughaswamy started

probe into the death of former Chief Minister J.Jayalalithaa.

Probe into J.Jayalalithaa’s death:

i. The commission under the leadership of former Madras High Court judge A.Arumughaswamy was

constituted by Tamil Nadu government on 25th September 2017.

ii.The Commission would complete its inquiry and submit its report to the Tamil Nadu

Government within three months of its constitution.

Punjab CM constitutes committee under Randhir Singh for sports varsity in Patiala

On October 30, 2017, Punjab Chief Minister, Amarinder Singh constituted a steering committee

under International Olympic Committee (IOC) member, Randhir Singh, to work out the

modalities for setting up a sports university in Patiala.

More information about Committee for sports varsity in Patiala:

i. This committee has been set up under the aegis of the Sports and Youth Affairs

Department.




Government sets up Arun Jaitley led panel on PSU bank mergers

On October 30, 2017, Union Government set up an alternative mechanism panel headed by

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, to consider and oversee mergers among the India’s public

sector banks.

Background Information:

Suggestion to merge banks in India has been floating around since more than two decades. First

such suggestion came up in 1991 when M. Narasimham, former Governor of Reserve Bank

of India (RBI), recommended the government to merge banks into a three-tiered

structure.

• On similar lines, in 2014, a committee headed by a former Axis Bank Chairman, P.

J. Nayak recommended that Government’s stake in public sector banks should

be transferred to an alternated entity in order to improve the functioning of

these banks.

• In August 2017, Union cabinet gave its approval to set up an alternative mechanism for

providing in principle approvals to merger proposals.

Uday Kotak-led panel on corporate governance wants MD, CEO roles split; 6 independent

directors on board

On October 5, 2017, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)-appointed panel

on Corporate Governance submitted its recommendations.

About SEBI Panel on Corporate Governance:

• The panel was led by Uday Kotak, the Executive Vice Chairman and Managing

Director of Kotak Mahindra Bank.

Important Recommendations of Uday Kotak –led panel on Corporate Governance:

• Separate Roles of Chairperson and MD/CEO: Listed companies with more than 40% public

shareholding should separate the roles of chairperson and MD or CEO from April 1,

2020. Implementation of this decision in future could impact big companies such Reliance

Industries, ONGC and Wipro, as they have same person occupying both posts.

• Strengthening Role of Directors: The panel has recommended that board of directors of the

company must have at least six directors. This recommendation doubles the existing

requirement of having minimum three directors under the Companies Act.

• Women Independent Director: As per current rules, Boards are required to have at least one

woman director. The rule does not specify that she has to be an independent director. As per

the recommendations of the panel, there should be an independent woman director in

addition to the existing requirement.

• Audit of Subsidiary companies: In order to ensure more transparency, audit committee of

parent company which has invested/lent Rs. 100 crore or more in a

subsidiary/group company should review the books of accounts of the subsidiary/group




company to check the use of funds.

Government forms Committee for 5G rollout by 2020

On 26th September 2017, the government formed a committee to achieve the target of rolling out

5G technology in India by 2020.

Committee for 5G rollout:

i. The ‘5G 2020’ committee consists of secretaries of the ministries of Communications,

Information Technology and Science and Technology, representatives from industry and

academics.

ii. This committee would analyse and approve plans for 5G rollout in India by 2020. This is aimed

to have Indian participation in defining global standards for 5G technology.

Centre sets up group under Rina Mitra to study problems of people along IB, LOC in J&K

Central Government has set up a study group to examine the problems being faced by the people

residing near the International Border (IB) and the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and

Kashmir. The study group has been formed in the wake of regular cross border firing by Pakistan.

i. The study group will be headed by Rina Mitra (Special Secretary in the Home Ministry).

ii. Members of the study group will prepare a detailed report of the issues being faced by the public

living near IB and LOC.

GoM set up under Assam FM Himanta Biswa Sarma to review composition scheme

On October 6, 2017, Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council, chaired by Finance Minister Arun

Jaitley constituted a group of ministers (GoM) to make the ‘composition scheme’ more

attractive and also revisit GST rates on restaurants.

About GoM to Review Compostion Scheme:

i. The GoM has been set up under Assam Finance Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and will

submit its report within 2 weeks.

ii. Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Modi, Jammu and Kashmir Finance Minister Haseeb

Drabu, Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal and Chhattisgarh Minister of

Commercial Taxes Amar Agrawal are the other members of the GoM.

Haj Committee presents report on New Haj policy 2018-22

Committee to review the existing Haj Policy of Indian Government for 2013-17 and to suggest

framework for new Haj policy 2018-22, has presented its report to Union Ministry of Minority

Affairs.

Background Information:

In order to improve Indian Government’s current Haj policy and also to look into issue of Haj

subsidy in light of 2012 Supreme Court order on gradually reducing and abolishing it by 2022,

Ministry of Minority Affairs had a formed this committee in February 2017.




• Afzal Amanullah, IAS (Retd.), former Secretary to Govt. of India and Ex Consul General of

India, Jeddah was appointed as the convener of this committee and Alam, Joint Secretary, in-

charge of Haj, Ministry of Minority Affairs was made the Member Secretary of the Committee.

Important Recommendations of Haj Policy Review Committee:

The committee has recommended distributing quota between Haj Committee of India (HCOI),

and registered Private Tour Operators (PTOs) in the ratio of 70:30 for the next 5 years.

• Special quota for Jammu & Kashmir is to be increased from 1500 to 2000.

• Embarkation Points (congregation place from where all the Hajis start the journey) to

be reduced from 21 to 9. The 9 embarkation Points which have been retained are

(1) Delhi (2) Lucknow (3) Kolkata (4) Ahmedabad (5) Mumbai (6) Chennai (7)

Hyderabad (8) Bengaluru and (9) Cochin.

House panel headed by Shashi Tharoor to look into China-India relations

On 10th October 2017, the Standing Committee on External Affairs headed by Shashi Tharoor,

Congress member of the Lok Sabha, was formed to examine the India-China relations.

Standing Committee to examine India-China relations:

i. The Standing Committee on External Affairs will examine the issue of cooperation

between India and China in international organisations.

ii. This move has been made after Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi demanded Prime

Minister Narendra Modi to explain the resumed road-construction by the Chinese near the

Doklam plateau.

RBI panel headed by Janak Raj reveals ad hoc, arbitrary practices by banks to inflate

interest rates

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) panel on an external benchmark rate for banks headed byJanak Raj,

Principal adviser of Monetary Policy Department has submitted its report

Observations by RBI panel:

It has been observed that banks deviated in an ad hoc manner from the specified

methodologies for calculating the base rate and MCLR.

• This was done either to inflate the base rate and MCLR or prevent it from falling in line

with the actual cost of funds.

• The panel report also stated that effective interest rate burden on the borrower has

remained the same even after switching to the MCLR regime from the base rate

regime since April 1, 2016.

PV Reddi headed panel to look into pay hike issue of lower court judges

Union Law Ministry has finalised the appointment of a panel (Second National Judicial Pay

Commission) to recommend new salary structure for judges of lower courts in India.




About Second National Judicial Pay Commission:

i. In coming days, Union Cabinet will take up Law Ministry’s proposal to appoint the Second

National Judicial Pay Commission to recommend salary hikes for the 21,000 lower court judges.

ii. Former Supreme Court judge PV Reddi will be the head of this proposed commission

which will submit its recommendations in early 2019.

iii. It is to be noted that judges of the lower court got the last pay hike in 2010 on basis

of Supreme Court-appointed one-member committee under Justice E Padhmanabhan, a

retired high court judge, report in July 2009 recommending the three-fold hike.

Parliamentary panel under BJP MP B C Khanduri to examine operational preparedness of

armed forces

A Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence, headed by BJP MP B C Khanduri will

examine the operational preparedness of the armed forces. Next meeting of this committee is

scheduled to be held in November 2017.

Issues which will be examined by Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence:

i. Procurement policy relating to defence equipment.

ii. Critically review accidents involving strategic defence assets. It is to be noted that recently

several accidents have been reported involving Indian Navy ships and Indian Air Force helicopters.

iii. To look into the quality of ration given to the forces especially in border areas.

Committee formed to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary

On 12th October 2017, the Ministry of Culture announced that, a government committee has been

formed to coordinate year-long celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary from

2nd October, 2019.

Committee to coordinate Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary celebrations:

i. The government committee will be headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The

committee includes the chief ministers of all the states, representatives from political sector,

Gandhians, thinkers, and important persons from different fields.

ii. The Committee will guide and approve policies, programmes, activities for the celebrations. It

will also supervise implementation of the decisions taken by the committee.

iii. The event would be celebrated at both national and international levels. The focus

would be, to propagate the message of Mahatma Gandhi.

Government sets up expert group for suggestions on artificial intelligence policy

Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has set up an internal committee which





will provide suggestions to Indian government on framing a national policy on artificial

intelligence (AI).

About Committee for Suggesting Artificial Intelligence Policy:

This internal committee comprising of experts will advise the IT ministry on the most appropriate

technology for India in context of emerging trends in the area of AI.

• Reducing/averting cyber attacks carried out with the help of AI is the main

focus area of Indian government.

• Members of the committee will also hold consultations with officials from Union

Home Ministry as well as Union Finance Ministry.

• The committee will soon submit a detailed report including suggestions/recommendations

to the Government, which will serve as a base for forming the national policy.

Five-member committee to select RSTV’s next editor-in-chief

As per an order from Rajya Sabha secretariat, a five-member committee has been formed to

select the candidate for the post of editor-in-chief of Rajya Sabha TV (RSTV).

More Details about committee to select RSTV’s next editor-in-chief

i. This committee is headed by Prasar Bharati Chairman A Surya Prakash.

ii. Rajya Sabha MP Swapan Dasgupta, Prasar Bharati CEO Shashi Shekhar Vempati,

Additional Secretary (Personnel) in the Rajya Sabha Secretariat P P K Ramacharyulu and

journalist Rahul Srivastava are the other members of this search-cum-selection committee.

SEBI revamps expert panel on Market Infrastructure Institutions

On 16th October 2017, SEBI reorganised its committee on Market Infrastructure Institutions (MII)

that advises it on reviewing norms related to stock exchanges, clearing corporations and depository

participants.

Expert Panel on Market Infrastructure Institutions revamped:

i. The five member expert committee on MII is now chaired by R Gandhi, former Deputy

Governor at Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

ii. Other members are Leo Puri, UTI AMC Managing Director, Gopal Naik, Dean, faculty at IIM

Bangalore, G Anantharaman, former whole time member SEBI, and S Ravindran executive director

at SEBI.

RBI forms High-level Task Force on Public Credit Registry under Yeshwant M. Deosthalee

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has formed a High-level Task Force on Public Credit Registry

(PCR) for India. The task force has been constituted under the chairmanship of Yeshwant M.

Deosthalee.

What is Public Credit Registry (PCR)?

PCR is an extensive database of credit information of entities/individuals in a particular

area (country/state/region) that is accessible to all stakeholders.




Constitution of Task Force and Mandate:

The High-level Task Force on Public Credit Registry (PCR) for India consists of representatives

from various stakeholders including the Reserve Bank, banks, non-banking financial

companies (NBFCs), industry bodies, and experts in information technology.

• Based on the above mentioned review and considerations, it will then propose a state-of-the-

art information system and suggest a roadmap for developing a transparent,

comprehensive and near-real-time PCR for India.

• The task force has been asked to submit its report by April 4, 2018.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Government rolled out ‘ARPAN Version 3.0’ for Defence Security Corps

On 29th September 2017, the Defence Ministry launched ‘ARPAN Version 3.0’ software for the

Defence Security Corps.

ARPAN Version 3.0:

i. ‘ARPAN Version 3.0’ software was rolled out by Deputy Chief of Army Staff – Information

Systems & Training (DCOAS -IS &T) J.S.Cheema for the Defence Security Corps.

ii. This software was developed by Tech Mahindra.

Scientists make first ever video call using ‘unhackable’ quantum network

On 29th September 2017, Scientists in Austria and China made the first video call using quantum

encryption.

First video call using quantum network:

i. Scientists in Austria and China made the first video call using quantum encryption

technology.

ii. The video call was done using a satellite named ‘Micius’.

World’s first Blockchain technology based smartphone unveiled

On 30th September 2017, Gurugram-based VVDN Technologies, in partnership with Ireland’s

Embedded Downloads, launched the first Blockchain technology based smartphone ‘BitVault’.

Russia launches ‘world’s biggest & most powerful’ nuclear icebreaker Ship

In a bid to reinforce its leadership in the Arctic, Russia has launched world’s largest nuclear-

powered icebreaker ship named Sibir (Siberia). It was launched into the water at the Baltic

Shipyard in St Petersburg.

About icebreaker ship ‘Sibir’:

i. Sibir has been developed by the Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation to open up

crucial shipping lanes in the icy Northern Sea Route.




New breast cancer test Oncotype DX may spare patients from chemotherapy

On 2nd October 2017, Researchers announced that, they have developed a new test ‘Oncotype

DX’, that predicts the return of cancer, thus sparing breast cancer patients from unnecessary

chemotherapy, in London.

Oncotype DX Test:

i. The Oncotype DX test, analyses the samples of tumour that is removed during surgery. It

provides a score between 1 and 100 on the chances of the cancer returning.

ii. This helps to prevent breast cancer patients from undergoing unwanted chemotherapy.

Australia announces new space agency

On 25th September 2017, Australia announced that it will establish a national space agency, as a

part of long term plan to develop Australia’s domestic space industry, in Australia.

NHAI launches App to track projects

On 3rd October 2017, Deepak Kumar, Chairman of National Highways Authority of India (NHAI),

launched a new multilingual website and a Project Monitoring Information System (PMIS)

Mobile App.

New website and PMIS App of NHAI:

i. In two months, the new NHAI website would enable the public to rate national highways.

ii. The Project Monitoring Information System (PMIS) Mobile App provides close, in-

house monitoring of NHAI projects on the mobile phone. NHAI uses PMIS to ensure timely

delivery of its projects, by tracking their progress.

WWF-India launches Environment Education Portal

On 4th October 2017, WWF-India, in partnership with Capgemini, launched One Planet

Academy, the first environment education portal for students and teachers in India.

One Planet Academy:

i. The One Planet Academy website is a digital network for schools, teachers and students. It

acts as a training and resource centre for environmental education.

ii. It encourages schools to employ green practices, offers project and activity ideas for

teachers. It provides online training course and games, comics, interactive maps for

students.

New rapid test developed to detect Zika and Dengue

A team of researchers, including those from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in

the US has developed a low-cost rapid test that can quickly and accurately detect Zika and

dengue viruses from blood.




ISRO to set up Research Centre in Guwahati

On 5th October 2017, the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) announced the setting up of a

research centre for startups, academicians, environmentalists and entrepreneurs, in Guwahati,

Assam.

ISRO Research Centre in Guwahati:

i. The decision of setting up ISRO research centre at Guwahati was taken at a meeting between

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and ISRO Chairman Dr.A.S.Kiran Kumar on 5thOctober

2017.

ii. This is the first time ISRO is setting up an exclusive research facility in Assam. Assam

government would provide land to the ISRO free of cost for the research centre.

Embryo Transfer Technology, a promising revolution in Bovine breeding

Embryo transfer technology (ETT) has revolutionized the breeding strategies in Bovines and is

being used as a tool to optimize the genetic improvement in cattle.

‘National Mission on Bovine Productivity’:

i. Under this scheme, Department of Animal husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries in co-

operation with 12 States has undertaken a Mass Embryo Transfer programme in Indigenous

Breeds.

ii. 440 embryo transfers are to be carried out in 12 ETT centres across India from 2nd –

10th October, 2017.

Governor E S L Narasimhan launches ‘GST Rate Finder’ Telugu Mobile App

On 5th October 2017, Governor for Telangana and Andhra Pradesh E S L Narasimhan launched the

first regional language version of ‘GST Rate Finder’ App in Telugu, in Hyderabad.

GST Rate Finder App:

i. Already the English version of the ‘GST Rate Finder’ app was launched in July 2017.

Now, telugu version of the app has been launched. This App will be available for Android

phones.

ii. E S L Narasimhan said that the Telugu version of the GST Rate Finder mobile app is a much-

needed tool and helpful for the common man.

India’s First Portal Dedicated to Para-sports Launched

‘thenationspride.com’, India’s First Portal Dedicated to Para-sports was launched on

October 6, 2017. This platform has been launched to create awareness about para-sports and

provide a platform to para sportspersons to share their success stories against adversities.

More Details about ‘thenationspride.com’:

i. Inspiring stories of Indian para-sportspersons, who have consistently delivered stellar

performances on domestic and global arenas, will be posted on this portal.

ii. Through regular updates and incisive analysis, the portal will gradually evolve into an extensive




reference source for all para-sports related news and information.

Prasar Bharati launches online application system for AIR

On October 7 2017,Prasar Bharati Chairman A Surya Prakash has launched an online

application system for music auditions for the All India Radio (AIR) due to the occasion of 64th

Akashvani Sangeet Sammelan.

i. Prasar Bharati CEO Sashi Sekhar Vampati and AIR Director General F Sheheryar are also

participated on this occasion.

ii. AIR expected to arrange the auditions in different genres of music like classical, light, folk, tribal

and western.

SS Athenia, first British ship lost in World War II discovered in UK

On 5th October 2017, SS Athenia, the first British ship to be sunk during the Second World War was

believed to be found, in Ireland.

SS Athenia believed to be found:

i. SS Athenia was sunk by German submarine during World War II in 1939. It is believed

to be found on the sea bed off the coast of Ireland.

ii. Remains of the 13,400 ton vessel (SS Athenia) which was lost with more than 110 crew and

passengers, is believed to be found.

SpaceX launches 10 satellites for Iridium mobile network

On October 9, 2017, 10 more satellites for the Iridium Satellite Constellation were

launched by SpaceX from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California, US.More details about

10 satellites launched by SpaceX for Iridium mobile network:

i. These 10 satellites are part of Iridium satellite constellation which provides voice and

data coverage to satellite phones, pagers and integrated transceivers over the Earth’s entire

surface. The Iridium constellation is spread around the globe in six orbital planes, and thereby

provides worldwide coverage.

ii. The 10 French-designed, U.S.- built satellites were launched by SpaceX Falcon 9

rocket. All the satellites were successfully deployed in the destined orbit after one hour from the

launch.

China launches remote sensing satellite for Venezuela

On October 9, 2017, China launched a remote sensing VRSS-2 satellite for Venezuela

from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in Gobi desert.





More Details:

i. VRSS -2 Satellite was launched by China’s Long March-2D carrier rocket.

ii. Venezuela will use this satellite for environmental protection and disaster monitoring, as well

as land resources inspection, crop yield estimation and city planning.

Japan launches fourth satellite for high-precision GPS

On October 10, 2017, Japan launched Michibiki satellite, the fourth satellite for a new high-

precision global positioning system (GPS).

More Details about Japan’s Michibiki Satellite:

i. Michibiki satellite was launched by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency aboard H-2A

rocket from Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture.

ii. With this satellite, Japan now has 4 satellites that orbit over Australia and Japan and allow

for uninterrupted coverage.

NVIDIA announces World’s first AI Computer to make Robotaxis

On 11th October 2017, NVIDIA unveiled the world’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) computer

designed to drive fully autonomous robotaxis, named Pegasus.

Pegasus:

i. The new system developed to drive robotaxis is codenamed Pegasus. Pegasus will be

available to NVIDIA automotive partners in the second half of 2018.

SpaceX completes successful launch of recycled rocket Falcon 9

On 12th October 2017, SpaceX launched its recycled rocket Falcon 9 and landed it on a drone ship

in the Atlantic Ocean.

Launch of Falcon 9:

i. SpaceX has launched the rocket Falcon 9, that had already flown to space and landed it

successfully on an ocean platform. It is as part of SpaceX’s effort to recycle costly rocket

components.

ii. At 6:53 pm (2253 GMT), the tall, white Falcon 9 rocket blasted off from Cape

Canaveral, Florida carrying the Echostar 105/SES-11 satellite.

iii. About 10 minutes after launch, the tall portion of the rocket, known as the first stage,

returned to Earth for a controlled, upright landing on a drone ship called “Of Course I

Still Love You,” stationed in the Atlantic.

Experimental Ebola vaccines found safe & effective in human trial

On 12th October 2017, two experimental vaccines against the Ebola virus proved safe and

efficient to produce an immune response that would last for at least one year, through a

clinical trial in Liberia.




Experimental Ebola vaccines prove safe:

i. The results of the clinical trial were, published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

They are based on a study of 1,500 adults, that began during the West Africa Ebola

outbreak.

ii. The trial included men and women aged 18 and older with no reported history of Ebola virus

disease at Redemption Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia. Three groups of 500 volunteers received one

of the vaccine candidates or a placebo (saline injection).

Indian Air Force launched mobile health App ‘MedWatch’

On 12th October 2017, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched an innovative mobile health App named

‘MedWatch’ on the occasion of its 85th anniversary.

MedWatch – a mobile health App by IAF:

i. The concept and content of the App were developed by the Directorate General of

Medical Services (Air). It was developed in-house without any financial support by the

Directorate of Information Technology (DIT).

ii. ‘MedWatch’ is available on the IAF’s AFCEL (Air Force Cellular) network. It consists of

features that will provide authentic health information to all IAF personnel.

World’s largest combustion research centre inaugurated at IIT Madras

National Centre for Combustion Research and Development (NCCRD), world’s largest

combustion research centre was inaugurated at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT),

Madras on October 13, 2017.

About National Centre for Combustion Research and Development (NCCRD):

i. The centre was inaugurated by NITI Aayog member V K Saraswat in the presence of Prof

Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary, Department of Science and Technology.

ii. It has largest infrastructure facilities for any combustion research centre in an academic

setting globally.

Indian Navy aircraft P81 in Philippines to search missing sailors

The Indian Navy long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft P 8I has dispatched to Manila to

undertake a Search and Rescue operations (SAR) to find the missing sailors of a merchant

vessel that sank off the coast of Phillippines.

Scientists develop futuristic military watch that can survive nuclear blast

Scientists have developed a military watch for the Russian army kit, that can resist high impact,

and even survive the consequences of a nuclear blast, in Russia.

Military watch that can survive nuclear blast:

i. The watch has been developed by experts of the Central Scientific Research Institute for

Precision Machine Engineering (TsNIITochMash) — part of the Rostec State Corporation




in Russia.

US to provide EMALS technology to India for aircraft carriers

Trump Government has promised to provide the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch

System(EMALS) technology to India for aircraft carriers.

i. When Obama was the President, India had earlier expressed its interest to acquire EMALS.

ii. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson will be visiting India soon and before his visit Trump

administration has informed of its decision to give EMALS to India.

Odisha unveils portal for easy access to government data

On 17th October 2017, Odisha government unveiled the State Open Government Data Platform

namedwww.odisha.data.gov.in.

Portal for easy access to government data:

i. Odisha’s Chief Secretary A P Padhi inaugurated the portal www.odisha.data.gov.in. He

asked the data officers of all departments to upload information of their respective departments on

the website within a week.

ii. This Government data Portal has been launched with the main objective of sharing

data with people. Various service delivery departments like health & family welfare, education,

women & child development were asked to upload their data on the platform.

Income Tax department launches ‘online chat’ to answer taxpayers queries

The Income Tax Department has launched an ‘online chat’ service for taxpayers to seek answers

to their basic queries and doubts relating to direct tax issues.

Online chat option by Income tax department:

i. A window has been hosted on the main page of the income tax department’s website —

www.incometaxindia.gov.in/ — with an icon stating ‘Live Chat Online – ask your query.’

ii. A team of experts from the department and independent tax practitioners have been

assigned to answer the general queries of a taxpayer.

World’s largest mud eruption ‘Lusi’ caused by volcano: Study

Scientists have said that, ‘Lusi’, the world’s largest ongoing mud eruption that began on the

Indonesian island of Java in 2006, would not stop soon, as it is connected to a nearby volcanic

system.

Lusi:

i. The study, published in the ‘Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth’, discovered that

the hot magma from the Arjuno-Welirang volcano has been heating the organic rich

sediments under Lusi.




Tejas jets to get French-made radars

On 17th October 2017, French defence firm Thales announced the development of a radar catering

to the specific needs of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to equip the Tejas light combat

aircraft.

French made radars for Tejas:

i. In 2016, HAL had issued a tender for Active Electronically Scanned Array (ASEA) radars

for Tejas Mk-1A LCAs and till date no company has been selected.

WhatsApp introduces live location sharing

On 18th October 2017, WhatsApp rolled out the option to share “live location” for its users.

Live location sharing through WhatsApp:

i. The “live location” sharing feature of WhatsApp enables a user to let a contact or a

group trace his/her location or movement on a map in real time for a defined window of

time.

World’s oldest warship “USS Constitution” sailing again

The refurbished “USS Constitution” which is world’s oldest commissioned warshipsailed

again on October 20, 2017.

i .USS Constitution’s ride from Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston, US to Fort Independence

on Castle Island marks 220th anniversary of its launch as well as U.S. Navy’s 242nd birthday.

Mumbai civic body opens online portal for business approvals

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has introduced an online single window system to

issue permissions for new businesses and factories, in Mumbai.

Online portal for business approvals:

i. All new business permissions will now be available through the online portal and the

BMC will stop accepting physical applications. This system will also display real-time status of

the application, from all the departments handling the request.

ii. The system has been started on a trial basis between 17th and 30th October 2017. It

will be fully operational from 31st October 2017. The system will make it simpler to get up to

nine permissions online.

GSTN launches excel-based offline tool to file initial GSTR-3B returns

GST Network (GSTN) has launched an excel-based offline tool for businesses to file initial GSTR-3B

returns.

Excel-based offline tool to file initial GSTR-3B returns:

i. Taxpayers can download excel-based offline tool from the GSTN portal under the

download section and later fill in the data. Following this, the file can be uploaded on GST portal.




Astronomers discover Sun-like star ‘Kronos’ that was devourer of planets

Astronomers have discovered a Sun-like star, a planet-eater that’s currently 350 light years

away. This Sun-like star has consumed the rocky equivalent of 15 Earths.

Other Points

i. Initially, Scientist Semyeong Oh and her team were not trying to find a planet-eating star and its

thin twin. Instead, they were using new stellar data collected bythe European Space Agency’s

Gaia spacecraftto simply identify co-moving stars that formed together from the same materials

around the same time.

World War II shipwreck of SS Thistlegorm recreated with virtual reality

Scientists have developed a new online virtual reality experience that lets users explore a Second

World War shipwreck of SS Thistlegorm.

Shipwreck of SS Thistlegorm in Virtual reality:

i. Researchers from University of Nottingham in the UK, have combined a 3D model of the

sunken ship SS Thistlegorm, based on thousands of photographs, with 360-degree

underwater video of divers exploring key sections of the wreck.

ii. Archaeologists collected thousands of photographs and videos from the site. The team processed

and combined images of the shipwreck with photogrammetric software.

NASA extends Dawn mission at dwarf planet Ceres

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has announced a second mission

extension for Dawn spacecraft which is currently in an orbit around dwarf planet Ceres.

Dwarf planet Ceres is the largest object in the asteroid belt (located between the orbits of

Mars and Jupiter).

i. Dawn arrived in orbit around Ceres in 2015 and thereafter provided important information to

scientists that helped in understanding its properties.

Myanmar to launch own satellite system in 2019

India’s neighbouring country, Myanmar has announced to launch its own satellite system

MyanmarSat-2 in June in 2019. MyanmarSat 2 will carry six C-band and six Ku-band

transponders

i. Myanmar Vice President Vice President U Myint Swe told a coordination meeting of the

steering committee that state-owned satellite system should be established through three modes

viz. to lease the use of satellite transponder of another country (Condosat), joint ownership system





and total ownership system.

Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu launches CIPAM’s Website

On 24th October 2017, Minister for Commerce and Industry, Suresh Prabhu launched the official

website for the Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM) of the Department of Industrial

Policy and Promotion (DIPP).

L aunch of CIPAM website:

i.CIPAM has been set up under the support of DIPP to implement the National Intellectual Property

Rights (IPR) Policy. Secretary of DIPP, Ramesh Abhishek was also present during the launch.

ii. The CIPAM website is interactive and provides regular updates on all upcoming events

including awareness programs conducted on Intellectual Property Rights.

World’s oldest astrolabe that guided ships to India found

A navigation tool recovered from a ship of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, that guided ships

to India in the 16th century, has been confirmed as the world’s oldest astrolabe (maritime

navigation tool).

World’s oldest astrolabe:

i. It showed that, it was an astrolabe from the 15th century, used by mariners to measure

the altitude of the sun while at sea. It is the world’s oldest astrolabe.

First 3D printed wearable ‘battery’ developed by Brunel University researchers

Researchers from Brunel University in the UK have developed the first 3D printed wearable

‘battery’.

First 3D printed wearable ‘battery’:

i. The 3D printing method of the wearable ‘battery’ stacks silicone, glue and gel

electrolyte, layer by layer to make a supercapacitor. The supercapacitor stores energy on

its surface without chemical reactions.

Indian Navy approves new mission-based deployment plan

During the ongoing Naval Commanders’ Conference, Indian Navy has approved a “new

mission-based deployment” plan under which mission-ready ships and aircrafts will be deployed

along critical sea lanes of communications.

i. This plan comes in the wake of China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean region.

ii. It is to be noted that Indian Navy has been deploying its warships in the Indian Ocean region for

carrying out anti-piracy patrol and providing humanitarian assistance. Now onwards deployments

will be maintained round-the-clock




India’s first all-woman crew on circumnavigation of globe arrives in Australia

On October 23, 2017, India’s first all-woman crew on circumnavigation of globe under ‘Navika

Sagar Parikrama’ expedition arrived at Fremantle, Australia after sailing for 43 days.

i. Under ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’, six-member all-women crew will cover 21,600 nautical miles

around the world in eight months and will return to Goa from where the expedition began in

September 2017.

ii. The all women-crew will circumnavigate the globe on an Indian-built sail boat INSV

Tarini which was inducted into the Indian Navy on February 18, 2017.

Saudi Arabia becomes first country to grant citizenship to a robot

On 26th October 2017, Saudi Arabia became the world’s first country to grant citizenship to a robot,

by granting citizenship to Sophia, an Artificially Intelligent (AI) robot.

Sophia – AI robot gets Saudi Arabia citizenship:

i. The robot, Sophia, was awarded citizenship of Saudi Arabia at the Future Investment

Initiative summit in Riyadh. Specific details of Sophia’s citizenship were not discussed.

ii. It is not clear whether she will receive the same rights as human citizens, or if Saudi Arabia will

develop a specific system devoted to robots.

Scientists develop new tool to improve monsoon forecast

Researchers from Florida State University have developed a new tool for objectively defining the

onset and departure of the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM).

Tool to improve monsoon forecast:

i. The researchers from Florida State University, US have developed a method that uses

rainfall rates to mark the span of the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM) at any given

location throughout the affected region.

Assam CM launches a new web portal “Assam Darpan” to provide data to people on

government projects

On 27th October 2017, Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched a web portal ‘Assam

Darpan’ where details of government schemes and projects would be available to the people.

Assam Darpan:

i. The Assam Darpan platform has been developed by the National Informatics Centre,

Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, as a part of the Digital India Programme.

ii. In the first phase, progress indicators of 15 government schemes have been made available in

the web portal in English and Assamese.




World’s first hydrogen tram begins operation in China

The world’s first hybrid electric tram powered by hydrogen fuel cells has started running

in China, marking a big step in the application of green energy in public transport.

i. Researched and manufactured by Chinese, it is the world’s first hybrid electric tram, with

hydrogen being the main power source, according to China Railway Rolling Corporation (CRRC)

Tangshan Co, the maker of the tram.

ii. The vehicle was developed by Sifang, a subsidiary of China South Rail Corporation, and was

rolled off the assembly line in Qiangdao, Shandong Province, last week.

Swiss researchers break record for shortest-ever light pulse

Swiss researchers have generated the world’s shortest laser pulse, a 43-attosecond X-ray flash,

beating the 53-attosecond record set by the US earlier in 2017.

Shortest laser pulse:

i. Scientists at the ETH Zurich have demonstrated the fastest light pulse ever developed, beating

the 53-attosecond record set by the US. The newly developed laser pulse is a 43-attosecond X-

ray flash.

Gadkari digitally flags off RORO ship from Chennai Port to Bangladesh

On October 28, 2017, Union Minister of Shipping, Road Transport & Highways and Water

Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Nitin Gadkari digitally flagged off a Roll-

On/Roll-Off (RoRo) ship from Chennai Port to Mongla port in Bangladesh.

i. M.V. IDM DOODLE, a RoRo cum general cargo vessel carried an export consignment of 185

trucks by Ashok Leyland to Bangladesh.

ii. Export of these trucks was earlier done through land route by covering a distance of about 1500

km. Transport through the sea route will not only save about 15-20 days of travel time

but will also be more cost effective.

iii. As the fuel consumption in terms of per tonne cargo is much lower via sea route, transportation

by sea will also reduce carbon footprints on the environment.

Scientists link new virus to kala-azar

Scientists have linked a new virus to the kala-azar or visceral leishmaniasis infection, a parasite

infection that has affected thousands of Indians.

New virus linked to kala-azar:

i. Kala-azar is an endemic disease in four countries namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal. If

untreated, kala-azar can kill the patient within two years.

ii. Earlier, the parasite Leishmania donovani was believed to be responsible for the kala-

azar infection. People get infected when bitten by an insect called sandfly, which carries the

disease-causing parasite.




iii. Recently, a group of scientists from West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh have said that another

parasite called Leptomonas seymouri may also be responsible for the infection. Their

findings have been reported in an online version of Archives of Virology.

NASA’s GRACE-1 and GRACE-2 satellites end operations

On 27th October 2017, NASA’s GRACE-1 and GRACE-2 satellites ended operations after

experiencing problems due to failure of several battery cells.

GRACE-1 and GRACE-2 end operations:

i. NASA said that, the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) mission, carried out

in cooperation with the German space agency DLR, had ended science operations after the

retirement of one of its twin spacecraft GRACE-1 and GRACE-2.

ii. The satellites had been experiencing problems due to failure of several battery cells, which

caused a loss of contact recently. GRACE-2 is expected to reenter in December 2017 or

January 2018.

iii. GRACE-1’s batteries remain healthy. It will reenter in the start of 2018 and operate for the

remainder of 2018 to collect calibration data.

ERO-Net launched in Rajasthan

On 30th October 2017, Rajasthan’s Chief Electoral Officer Ashwini Bhagat launched the

Election Commission’s web-based project, ERO-Net, using which voters can register their names

on electoral rolls.

ERO-Net:

i. Till now, the Electoral Roll Management System (ERMS) software was being used to make voter

lists. It could not identify multiple entries of a voter.

ii. ERMS software has been replaced with ERO-Net, which is a transparent mechanism to

identify whether the voter was listed anywhere in the country.

DEFENCE Bangladesh, US begin disaster response exercise

On October 8, 2017, Bangladesh Armed Forces Division and U.S. Army began their

participation in the Pacific Resilience Disaster Response Exercise and Exchange

(DREE).More Information about Pacific Resilience Disaster Response Exercise and

Exchange (DREE):

i. It is a civil-military disaster preparedness and response initiative between the governments

of Bangladesh and US.

ii. The exercise will be conducted from 8th – 12th October 2017, in Dhaka and Mymensingh in

Bangladesh.




INS Satpura, Kadmatt to participate in PASSEX with Japan

Indian Naval Ships Satpura and Kadmatt are visiting Sasebo, Japan from 12th to 15th

October 2017. The visit of these ships is in line with India’s Act East Policy and reiterating of

India’s commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

PASSEX with Japan:

During this visit, INS Satpura and INS Kadmatt will engage with Japan Maritime Self-Defense

Force (JMSDF) in formal calls, as well as social and sporting interactions.

• The two Indian naval ships will also take part in Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with the

Murusame Class destroyer, JS Kirisame.

Mitra Shakti 2017: India-Sri Lanka Joint Military Exercise held in Pune

On 13th – 25th October 2017, Mitra Shakti 2017, a joint exercise between India and Sri Lanka for

military co-operation and interoperability, is conducted at the Aundh Military Camp, in Pune. Mitra

Shakthi 2017:

i. The Mitra Shakthi training exercises started in India’s response to China’s growing

influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region.

Other recent joint-military exercises of India:

SLINEX 2017 – India – Sri Lanka joint naval exercise

♦ Nomadic Elephant 2017 – India – Mongolia joint military exercise

♦ Varuna 2017 – India – France joint naval exercise

Indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warship INS Kiltan commissioned into Navy

On October 16, 2017, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman commissioned India’s

third indigenously built Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) corvette INS Kiltan into the Indian

Navy. The commissioning ceremony was held at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh and was

attended by Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Sunil Lanba.

INS Kiltan is 109 meters long and 14 meters at the beam. Its displacement tonnage (ship’s

weight) is 3500 tonnes.

• It is Indian Navy’s first major warship which has superstructure made of carbon fibre

composite material imported from Sweden. This not only improves the stealth

features but has also resulted in lower weight (100 tonnes lighter than the previous

corvettes) and maintenance costs.

• It is named after a coral island in Aminidivi group of the strategically located

Lakshadweep and Minicoy group of Islands.

About Project 28:

Project-28 is Indian Government’s 7800 crore project to build and induct four Kamorta-class Anti





Submarine Warfare (ASW) corvettes in Indian Navy.

• It was approved in year 2003.

• Besides INS Kiltan, other two ships that have been commissioned under this project are INS

Kamorta (commissioned in 2014) and INS Kadmatt (commissioned in 2016).

• Construction work on the fourth ship, INS Kavaratti is in progress and is expected to be

completed by end of 2017.

INDRA – 2017: Indo-Russia’s first-ever tri-service joint exercise begins in

Vladivostok,Russia

Exercise INDRA-2017, the first ever Tri Services Joint Exercise between Indian and

Russian Armed Forces begun in Vladivostok, Russia on October 19, 2017. INDRA -2107 will

continue till October 29, 2017.

About INDRA-2017

i. The previous editions of INDRA Exercise between India and Russia were single service bilateral

exercise. ‘INDRA-2017’ marks the first bilateral exercise in which all the three Services of

the Armed Forces viz. Army, Navy & Air Force of India and Russia will participate.

Sri Lanka Navy commissioned Coast Guard Ship Suraksha provided by India

On October 21, 2017, Sri Lankan Navy commissioned Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCGS) Ship

Suraksha.

About SLCGS Suraksha:

i. SLCGS Suraksha is an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) provided by the Indian Coast Guard

to the Sri Lanka Navy.

ii. During its tenure with Indian Coast Guard, this OPV was named ‘Varuna’. It was formally

handed over to Sri Lankan Navy in September 2017.

30th edition of India – Indonesia Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) begins in Indonesia

On 24th October – 5th November 2017, the 30th edition of CORPAT (Coordinated Patrol) and

3rd Bilateral exercise between the Indian Navy and the Indonesian Navy is conducted in Belawan,

Indonesia.

India – Indonesia Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT):

i. Indian Naval Ship Sukanya under the command of Commander SA Deodhar, arrived at Belawan,

Indonesia, to participate in the 30th edition of CORPAT (Coordinated Patrol) and 3rd Bilateral

exercise between the Indian Navy and the Indonesian Navy.

L&T hands over India’s first private OPV ‘Vikram’ for Indian Coast Guard

On October 27, 2017, Larsen & Toubro (L&T) handed over offshore patrol vessel (OPV)

‘Vikram’ to Indian Coast Guard. V S R Murthy, Additional Director General, Coast Guard,

launched OPV ‘VIkram’ at a function at Kattupalli shipyard (in Tamil Nadu), in presence of J D Patil,




Larsen and Toubro Board Member and Whole Time Director (Defence Business) and B Kannan,

Larsen and Toubro Ship Building Managing Director.

i. In March 2017, Union Ministry of Defense had awarded Rs 1,432-crore contract to L&T to build

seven offshore vessel patrol vessels for the Indian Coast Guard.

ii. As per the delivery schedule mentioned in the contract, the first vessel was to be handed over

in March 2018

IAF planes carry out emergency landing drill on Lucknow-Agra Expressway

The Indian Air Force (IAF) aircrafts on 24th oct 2017 took off as part of a special drill on a Four

kilometre stretch of the Agra-Lucknow Expressway in Uttar Pradesh’s Unnao district.

i. The exercise by the IAF, in collaboration with the Uttar Pradesh government, saw aC-130

J Super Hercules transport aircraft make a short landing on the highway, around 65 km from

Lucknow.

India, Japan begins three-day anti-submarine drill

In a bid to deepen operational coordination in the strategically important sea lanes, Indian Navy

and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) began a three-day anti-

submarine warfare exercise in the Indian Ocean region on October 29, 2017.

India-Japan anti-submarine drill:

i. On October 29, 2017, Japan’s two P-3C Orion jets, which are anti-submarine warfare aircraft,

landed at naval air station Hansa in Goa to take part in the drill.

ii. In this exercise, Indian Navy is represented by two P-8 I long-range maritime

reconnaissance anti-submarine warfare aircrafts.

Army finalises mega Rs 40,000 crore procurement plan to replace ageing weapons

Indian Army has finalised one of its biggest procurement plans for infantry modernisation

at a cost of nearly Rs 40,000 crore to replace its ageing and obsolete weapons.

i. Under this plan, around 7 lakh rifles, 44,000 light machine guns (LMGs) and nearly

44,600 carbines will be procured.

ii. Indian Army has been insisting to fast-track the procurement in back drop of evolving security

threats along India’s borders with Pakistan and China.

ENVIRONMENT

Snow Leopard Photographed First Time in Arunachal Pradesh

On October 5th 2017,The Snow Leopard has been clicked first time in India at Thembang village’s

Community Conserved Area, a community-owned reserve, in West Kameng district, Arunachala

Pradesh.i. It was spotted in the High Asian region, especially in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ladakh




region in India. It was clicked at a height above sea level of 3,900 metres.

Sawfish more threatened than tigers, say scientists

On 17th October 2017, Marine scientists said that, the sawfish, included in Schedule I of the Indian

Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972 is more threatened than tigers and elephants.

Sawfish:

i. On 17th October 2017, the first Sawfish Day was observed all over the world. A

statement was issued by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) on 16th October

2017, which said that, the sawfish may be the most endangered fish species in India.

ii. The CMFRI statement said that, the sawfish family has been declared as either

‘Endangered’ or ‘Critically Endangered’ in the International Union for Conservation of

Nature Global Red List. This has been done considering their threatened status, high extinction

risk and population decline.

World’s Deepest Lake “Baikal” is in Deep Trouble

Experts have said that, the world’s deepest lake, Siberia’s Lake Baikal, containing 22–23% of the

world’s fresh surface water, is in deep trouble.

Lake Baikal:

i. One-fifth of all non-frozen fresh water in the world is located in a single Russian lake,

Baikal. It is a UNESCO world heritage site.

ii. It is home to more than 3,600 species of plants and animals. It is the only source of the omul

fish, a type of salmon fish.

New species of large gecko discovered from Eastern Ghats

According to a paper published in the taxonomic journal Comptes Rendus Biologies, a team of

scientists have discovered a new species of gecko (lizard) from the Eastern Ghats.

More information about new species of Gecko:

i. This new species of gecko is being referred to as Kanger valley rock gecko. Its scientific name

is Hemidactylus kangerensis.

ii. It was discovered at Chhattisgarh’s Kanger Ghati National Park by a team led by Zeeshan

Mirza of the National Centre for Biological Sciences.

India tops list of pollution-linked deaths in world – Study by Lancet

As per a study conducted by Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health, released in Lancet

medical journal, India has topped the list of countries with highest pollution-related

deaths in year 2015. In this context, pollution-related death refers to death caused by diseases

linked to air, water and other forms of pollution.




Highlights of Study conducted by Lancet Commission on Pollution and Health:

In 2015, pollution-related death toll in India stood at 2.51 million, which is 28 per cent of

an estimated 9 million pollution-linked deaths worldwide in the same year.

Pollution-Related Deaths – Worst Affected Countries:

Country Pollution-Related Deaths

India 2.15 million

China 1.83 million

Pakistan 0.31 million

Nigeria 0.25 million

Indonesia 0.21 million

Supreme Court Fined Rs. 2 Lakh Fine On Environment Ministry

On October 24th 2017,The Supreme Court has fined of Rs 2 lakh on the Union Environment Ministry

for not fixing the pollution emission standards of Sulphur Dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide for 34

categories of industries as per May 2 order and also SC banned of using pet coke and furnace

oil in Delhi and the NCR to control the air pollution.

Standards should be fixed on or before June 30

i. The bench of Justice Madan B Lokur and Justice Deepak Gupta noted that in its May 2 order had

directed the ministry and Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to fix sulphur oxides and

nitrogen oxides standards for these industries and had said that standards should be fixed on or

before June 30 in view of the provisions of the Environment Protection Act, 1986.

Central Pollution Control Board Eases Norms for Sewage Treatment Plants

Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has eased standards for sewage treatment

plants (STP) coming up after June 2019.

i. As per 2015 proposal of Government, biochemical oxygen demand (BoD) in water

treated by upcoming STPs should not be more than 10 mg/litre. BoD is a marker for organic

pollutants in the water.

ii. This requirement has been eased and now upcoming STPs will have to conform only to 30

mg/litre of BoD (permitted by the current law).

First Jurassic-era ‘fish lizard’ fossil found in India

An almost completely fossilized skeleton of ‘fish lizard’, a type of marine reptile that lived in the

Jurassic-era, has been discovered for the first time in India from Kutch district of Gujarat.

Fossil of ‘fish lizard’:

i. The skeleton was discovered by a team of Indo-German geologists near the Kaas hills of Bhuj

town, in January 2016. At that time, it was believed to be fossil of a dinosaur.

ii. After a year-long study experts have concluded that the fossil was of ichthyosaur from the




Jurassic era. It is the first to be found in India. It is 5.5 metre long.

Skull found in Papua New Guinea was world’s ‘oldest-known tsunami victim’

Scientists have declared a 6,000-year-old human skull that was discovered in Papua New Guinea in

1929, as the world’s oldest tsunami victim’s skull.

World’s oldest-known tsunami victim:

i. The study published in the journal PLOS ONE, states that, Papua New Guinea has experienced

repeated tsunamis. The human skull that was discovered in Papua New Guinea in 1929 is

declared as the skull of the world’s oldest tsunami victim.

Four Asian vulture species included on highest protection list

On 28th October 2017, several species including four Asian vultures, were awarded the highest

protection by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, held in

Manila.

SPORTS

Max Verstappen wins Malaysian Grand Prix 2017 title

On 1st October 2017, Mark Verstappen won the Malaysian Grand Prix 2017 title, in Selangor,

Malaysia.

Max Verstappen wins Malaysian Grand Prix 2017:

i. Max Verstappen of the Red Bull team won the Malaysian Grand Prix 2017 title.

Jagan Kumar wins sixth title in a row at National Motorcycle Racing

On 1st October 2017, Jagan Kumar of TVS Racing won his sixth consecutive title in the premier

Super Sport Indian (165cc) class, in the MRF MMSC FMSCI Indian National Motorcycle Racing

Championship, in Chennai.

Jagan’s 6th title in a row:

i. This is the 6th consecutive year, Jagan Kumar has won the title in National Motorcycle Racing

Championship.

ii. Jagan Kumar of TVS Racing won the Super Sport Indian (165cc) title.

Female assistant referee to be seen in FIFA U-17 World Cup for the first time

On 1st October 2017, FIFA (International Federation of Association Football) announced that, female

assistant referees will work in the FIFA U-17 World Cup, for the first time in a FIFA men’s





competition.

Hyundai India Join Hands with FIFA U17 World Cup Tournament as Official Partners

Hyundai India has announced that it will be official transportation partner for the upcoming FIFA

U17 World Cup Tournament which starts from October 6, 2017 in India.

Anand finishes joint 2nd at Isle of Man Chess Meet

On 1st October 2017, Viswanathan Anand finished joint second at the Isle of Man Chess

Championship, in Douglas, Isle of Man.

Team Europe wins Laver Cup 2017

On 26th September 2017, Team Europe defeated Team World by 15-9 and won the first

Laver Cup 2017, in Prague, Czech Republic.

Team Europe wins Laver Cup 2017:

i. Laver Cup 2017 is the first edition of Laver Cup tennis tournament. Laver Cup is an

international indoor hard court men’s tennis tournament.

ii. It is a men’s tennis tournament between teams from Europe and the rest of the world.Two

teams namely Team Europe and Team World participated in the tournament.

International Weightlifting Federation suspends nine countries for doping violations

On 1st October 2017, nine countries were suspended from weightlifting for 1 year by the

International Weightlifting Federation (IWF), in Budapest, Hungary.

9 countries suspended for doping violations:

i .International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) has announced the suspension of 9 countries, after

the retesting of anti-doping samples from the 2008 and 2012 Olympics.

ii. Countries with at least 3 doping offenses from those Olympics were suspended from

weightlifting.

Adidas unveils new campaign ‘#HereToCreate’ for FIFA U-17 World Cup in India

On 4th September 2017, Adidas launched its new campaign named #HereToCreate, to inspire

young football talent in India and to kick start a football revolution.

Mahaveer Raghunathan becomes first Indian to claim European racing title

On 4th October 2017, Mahaveer Raghunathan became the first Indian to win a European

racing championship, by winning the Boss GP Championship (Formula Class) title, at Imola, Italy

.European Racing title:

i. Mahaveer Raghunathan is a 19 year old racer from Chennai. He has won the Boss GP

Championship (Formula Class) title.




Pooja Kadian hands India its first gold in Wushu World Championships

On 4th October 2017, Pooja Kadian created history by winning India’s first ever gold medal at

Wushu World Championships, in Russia.

Pooja Kadian wins gold at Wushu World Championship:

i. Pooja Kadian, a Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) Wushu champion, finished on top in the

75 kg women’s Sanda Category by defeating Evgeniya Stepanova of Russia in the finals.

ii. Pooja Kadian has won gold medal, becoming India’s first gold medal winner in Wushu

World Championships.

♦ Host City – Kazan, Russia

♦ Dates – 29thSeptember – 3rd October 2017

Australian fast bowler John Hastings retires from Tests, ODIs

Australian Cricketer John Wayne Hastings confirmed his retirement from Tests and One-Day

Internationals (ODIs). He plans to focus on T20 cricket.

American Morgan Hurd won all-around title at world gymnastics championships

On Oct.6th 2017,Morgan Hurd from America won the women’s all-around title in world

gymnastics championships at Montreal’s Olympic Stadium.

i. Canada’s Ellie Black took silver and Elena Eremina of Russia won the bronze.

Olympic Committee suspends Brazilian arm after chief’s arrest

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has suspended its Brazilian arm amid an

investigation into corruption allegations.

i. It also suspended the head of Brazil’s Olympic committee, Carlos Nuzman, as an honorary

member, and has frozen all its payments to the body.Mr Nuzman was arrested and is being

investigated as part of a cash-for-votes probe linked to the bid for the 2016 Rio Games.

India bag 37 gold medals, finish second in 20th Asia Masters meet

India finished second in 20th Asia Masters Athletics Championship held in Rugao, China. and

bagged 146 medals, including 37 golds, 43 silvers and 66 bronze.China was topped.

Ajeetesh Sandhu Wins First-ever Asian Tour Title in Taipei

On 8th October 2017, Indian golfer 28-year-old Ajeetesh Sandhu won Asian Tour title at the USD

500,000 Yeangder Tournament Players Championship (TPC) at Taipei.

.

Lewis Hamilton wins Japanese Grand Prix, extends lead at top

On October 8, 2017, Formula One motorist Lewis Hamilton won Japanese Grand Prix.i.

Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes finished the race 1.2 seconds ahead of Red Bull’s Max




Verstappen.

China Open 2017 – Overview

On October 8, 2017, Spanish tennis player Rafael Nadal won the men’s singles title at China Open

2017. He defeated Australia’s Nick Kyrgios in the final match.

• Nadal Storms to 75th Career Title in Beijing

• Caroline Garcia win Women’s Singles

• Henri Kontinen & John.Peers clinched men’s double

• Chan Yung-jan & Martina Hingis bags women double title

India’s Anupama Ramachandran wins inaugural snooker meet

On 8th October 2017, Anupama Ramachandran of India won the World Open Under-16 Snooker

Championship title in the girls category, in Saint Petersburg, Russia.Anupama Ramachandran

wins World Open Under-16 Snooker Championship title:

i. Federation of Billiards Sports of Russia (FBSR) hosted the first ever World Open

championships for Under-16 boys and girls.A total of 73 cueists from all over the world

participated.

Epic world solar car race begins in Australia

2017 World Solar Challenge – the solar car race, began on October 8, 2017 from the northern

Australian city of Darwin.

More Details about World Solar Challenge:

i. In this race, 42 solar cars will cover a distance of 3,000 kms from Northern Australian city of

Darwin to southern city of Adelaide.

ii. The route of the World Solar Challenge race passes through the desert heart of Australia.

Indian pair win gold at World Archery Youth Championship 2017

On 9th October 2017, mixed pair of Jemson Ningthoujam and Ankita Bhakat from India, won the

recurve team gold medal, in the World Archery Youth Championship 2017, in Rosario, Argentina.

Indian pair wins gold at World Archery Youth Championship 2017:

i. India bagged one gold, one silver and one bronze at the World Archery Youth

Championship 2017.

ii. Ningthoujam and Bhakat, defeated their Russian opponents by 6-2 in the finals.Jemson

Ningthoujam and Ankita Bhakat pair won the recurve team gold medal.

Iceland became smallest country to qualify for 2018 FIFA World Cup

On 9th October 2017, Iceland became the smallest country ever to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.




Iceland – Smallest country to qualify for 2018 FIFA World Cup:

i. Iceland has qualified to participate in FIFA World Cup 2018 by defeating Kosovo by 2-0

in the finals. Iceland finished the group with 22 points from their 10 games.

BCCI makes yo-yo tests compulsory criterion for Team India selection

In a bid to make India Cricket team one of the fittest sides in world cricket, the Board of Control

for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made it mandatory for cricketers to pass the ‘yo-yo’ endurance

test.

About Yo-Yo Endurance Test:

i. In a yo-yo test, players have to pace themselves to and fro between two rows of cones kept 20

metres apart. For every round the player has to sync his sprint with the beeps that are played.

Duration between beeps progressively shorten as the test proceeds.

ii. This test is widely used by selection bodies in various sports including hockey, football

and cricket. For every sport the performance benchmark in the test may vary.

Gurusaidutt wins Bulgarian International Tournament

On October 8, 2017, Commonwealth Games bronze medallist RMV Gurusaidutt won the

men’s singles title at the Bulgarian International Future Series Badminton tournament.

i. In the final match, Gurusaidutt defeated Muhammed Ali Kurt of Turkey. The match lasted for

35 minutes at the end of which Gurusaidutt earned the victory by 21-17, 21-16.

Ashish Nehra announces retirement from all forms of cricket

On 12th October 2017, Ashish Nehra announced that, he will be retiring from all forms of

cricket, after the first Twenty20 international between India and New Zealand at Delhi’s

Feroz Shah Kotla, on 1st November 2017.

i. Ashish Nehra is glad to retire at his home ground. He wanted to retire while he was still on top.

FIFA suspends the Pakistan Football Federation

The Pakistan football federation was suspended from FIFA (Fédération Internationale de

Football Association) by the Bureau of FIFA council on 10th Oct 2017.

Reason for suspension

The reason behind the suspension was the “Interference of third party” in PFF i.e, the PFF

accounts and their offices were under the control of an administrator appointed by court and this

actually violated the rules of FIFA that it should manage its affairs independently and without the

interference of third parties.

Arjen Robben retires from International Football

Arjen robben, the 33 years old football player announced his retirement news from the international

football. He played for Bayern Munich, a German club. He is well known for his speed and




accurate shots. He scored two goals against Sweden on the last match and it was not enough for

his team to get qualified to World cup 2018. That made him to end up his international carrier.

India beat Macau to qualify for 2019 AFC Asian Cup

i. On 11th Oct. 2017, India won against Macau at the Sree Kanteerava stadium and secured the

path into the 2019 AFC Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates.

Test championship & ODI league approved by International Cricket Council

On Oct.13 2017, International Cricket Council approved to conduct Test championship and one-

day international league.

i. Nine teams will be participated and will play six series of Test matches over a two-year period

.This will be three series at home and three series away in a world Test championship final.

ii. The ODI league will be conducted with 13- team , contested by the 12 Full Members plus the

winners of the current ICC World Cricket League Championship.

ICC approves South Africa-Zimbabwe 4 day test on trial basis

On 13th October 2017, The International Cricket Council (ICC) approved four-day Tests on a trial

basis between South Africa and Zimbabwe from 26-29 December, 2017.

ICC approves South Africa-Zimbabwe 4 day test:

i. ICC Chief Executive David Richardson made the announcement after an ICC meeting in Auckland,

New Zealand. He stated that, members are free to organise bilateral four-day matches as an

experiment till the 2019 World Cup.

Shakib Al Hasan becomes first Bangladeshi to be inducted in MCC World Cricket

Committee

On 13th October 2017, all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan became the first cricketer from

Bangladesh to be inducted in the MCC World Cricket Committee.

i. Shakib Al Hasan is regarded as one of Bangladesh’s finest players. He has played 51 Test

matches and 177 one-day internationals.

Maria Sharapova wins Tianjin Open

On October 15, 2017, Maria Sharapova of Russia beat Aryna Sabalenka of Belarusby 7-5 7-6

(10-8) in the final match of Tianjin Open tennis tournament.

i. The match against Aryna Sabalenka was hotly contested. Sharapova broke Sabalenka’s serve

six times, and the extra break in the first set proved to be decisive.





Federer beats Nadal to win Shanghai Masters

On October 15, 2017, Roger Federer of Switzerland beat Rafael Nadal of Spain by 6-4 6-3 to

win the final match of Shanghai Masters tennis tournament.i. This is Roger Federer’s 94th

career title and has equalled Ivan Lendl’s record in terms of Open era titles. Top spot is held by

American player Jimmy Connors with 109 career titles.

Indian paddler Selena Selvakumar wins gold in Egypt

India’s young paddler Selena Selvakumar,17 won gold medal in the Junior Girls Team event to

annex the 2017 Egypt Junior and Cadet Table-Tennis Open.

i. She is from Chennai city. She beat Sarah Abousetta 3-1 in the opening encounter and Marwa

Alhodaby 3-1 in the fourth match to set up the victory.

Mohun Bagan lifts Governor’s Gold Cup for 10th time

Football club Mohun Bagan has won the 37th All India Governor’s Gold Cup football

tournament.

i. Mohun Bagan defeated Partha Chakra by a narrow 1-0 margin to win the 37th All India

Governor’s Gold Cup.

ii. The final match was played at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, Sikkim.

Kavita Devi becomes first Indian woman wrestler to sign with WWE

On 15th October 2017, Kavita Devi, a former competitive powerlifter, became the first Indian

woman to be signed by the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).

Kavitha Devi – 1st Indian woman wrestler to sign with WWE:

i. Jinder Mahal, the current WWE champion, made this announcement in a special visit to New

Delhi. Kavitha Devi would begin training at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando,

Florida, by January 2018.

Legendary Brazilian sailor Scheidt announced his retirement from Olympics

On 16th October 2017, Brazilian sailor Robert Scheidt announced his retirement from Olympic

competition.

Robert Scheidt’s retirement:

i. Robert Scheidt has ended his 25 year career. He is 44 years old. He said that, he would

continue to participate in non-Olympic events and support Brazil’s sailors to prepare for the 2020

Tokyo Games.

India’s Selena clinches triple gold at Egypt Junior and Cadet TT

On 15th October 2017, India’s Selena Selvakumar won three gold medals in Egypt Junior and

Cadet Table Tennis Open 2017, with the junior girls’ singles and doubles titles at Sharm El

Sheikh, in Egypt.




Selena wins triple gold at Egypt Junior and Cadet TT:

i. Selena Selvakumar is a 17 year old Chennai girl. She won the girls’ singles and doubles gold

medal and a team championship gold in in Egypt Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Open

2017.

ii. In the girls’ singles final, Selena defeated Marwa Alhodaby by 4-3 (11-5, 12-10, 8-11, 6-11, 11-

3, 6-11, 11-4) and won the gold medal.

Kerala High Court restores life ban on Sreesanth

On 17th October 2017, the Kerala High Court restored life ban imposed on

cricketer S.Sreesanth by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Life ban on Sreesanth restored:

i. The order came on an appeal filed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) CEO Rahul

Johri against a single-judge verdict cancelling the life ban imposed on Sreesanth over allegation of

IPL spot-fixing scandal.

ii. Sreesanth was imposed a life ban by the BCCI in 2015. He was charged with spot-fixing while

playing for Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Ravi Shastri becomes World’s Highest Earning Cricket Coach

Indian cricket team coach Ravi Shastri is the world’s highest-earning cricket coach in the

world.

i. He is paid around 1.17 million dollars per year from the BCCI which is more than the salary

of Indian cricket team’s captain Virat Kohli.

South Africa displaces India from top of ODI rankings

On 19th October 2017, India lost its number 1 status in ICC ODI rankings to South Africa, following

South Africa’s win over Bangladesh in an ODI match.

Playboy features first transgender model as its playmate

Men’s magazine Playboy has featured its first ever transgender model as ‘playmate’ centerfold in its

November 2017 issue.

First transgender model in Playboy centerfold:

i. Playboy has featured its first ever transgender ‘playmate’ centerfold in its November 2017 issue.

This has been done in a move to create way for all women including transgenders in fashion and

other sectors.

ii .Ines Rau, a French fashion model has become the first transgender model to appear as

a centerfold in the Playboy magazine’s 64-year history.

Park Ji-Sung to be first South Korean to carry Olympic Games flame

On 19th October 2017, the Greek Olympic committee announced that, Champions League




winner Park Ji-sung will be the first South Korean to carry the flame for the 2018

Pyeongchang Olympics.1st South Korean to carry Olympic Games flame:

i. Park Ji-sung is 36 years old. He has won several titles with Manchester United and Eindhoven

before retiring.

ii. He will be the second torchbearer in Olympia, after Greece’s Nordic skier Apostolos Aggelis at the

start of the Greek relay.The ceremony is on 24th October 2017.

Mohit Dudeja, Kiran bag medals at World skills competition

Indians Mohit Dudeja and Kiran bagged a silver and a bronze medal respectively at the World skills

competition 2017 in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

Indians win medals at Worldskills competition:

i. World skills competition 2017 was held in Abu Dhabi. Over 1,300 candidates from 59 countries

participated. Competitions were conducted in 51 skill categories.

ii. The results were announced in a closing ceremony on 18th October 2017. The Indian team

consisting of 28 competitors won 2 medals and nine Medallions of Excellence in key

skills.

Veda Krishnamurthy signs for Big Bash League, to play for Hobart Hurricanes

Veda Krishnamurthy, Indian cricketer, has signed a 1 year contract with Hobart

Hurricanes and will be available for their 10 league games of the third season, starting on

9th December 2017.

Lewis Hamilton wins the United States Grand Prix

On 22nd October 2017, Lewis Hamilton won the 2017 United States Grand Prix at Austin, Texas,

United States.

Lewis Hamilton wins US Grand Prix:

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton started from 72nd pole position. He finished in the 1st position in the

race. This is his ninth win in 2017 and fifth win in Texas and the 62nd win of his career.

i. Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel came 2nd in the race. Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen finished in the

3rd position. The United States Grand Prix was the seventeenth round of the 2017 FIA Formula

One World Championship.

Virat Kohli Top Run Scorer at 200 ODIs

On October 22, 2017, during the one day international (ODI) match between India and

New Zealand at Wankhede stadium, Mumbai, Virat Kohli became the highest run-scorer

after 200 ODIs.i. During his innings in this match against New Zealand, Virat’s total runs

scored in ODIs reached 8888 mark and thereby overtook South Africa captain AB de

Villiers, who has 8621 runs after 200 ODIs.




Marc Marquez wins Australian MotoGP

Marc Márquez Alentà who was born on 17 February 1993 is a Spanish Grand Prixmotorcycle road

racer and three-time MotoGP world champion.

India beat Malaysia to win its 3rd Hockey Asia Cup title

On 22nd October 2017, India beat Malaysia by 2-1 in the finals and won the Asia Cup hockey

championship for the third time, in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

India wins Asia Cup hockey championship:

i. India has won the 2017 Men’s Hockey Asia Cup. India’s previous Hockey Asia Cup titles

were won in 2003 at Kuala Lumpur and 2007 at Chennai.

ii. At the finals against Malaysia India scored goals through Ramandeep Singh (third minute) and

Lalit Upadhyay (29th). Malaysia fought back and scored a goal in the 50th minute through Shahril

Saabah.

Indian boxers win 8 medals, including 4 Gold at Youth International Championships

Balkan Open 2017 at Sofia, Bulgaria

On 18th – 22nd October 2017, India’s junior women boxers won eight medals, including four gold,

in the third Youth International Championships Balkan Open 2017 at Sofia, Bulgaria.

Indian boxers win 8 medals at Balkan Open 2017:

i. The Indian junior women boxers have won 4 gold, 1 silver and 3 bronze medals in the third Youth

International Championships Balkan Open 2017. Also, the Indian youth team was honoured as

the best team in the championship.

ii. India’s Nitu (48kg) defeated Emi-Mari Todorova of Bulgaria by 5-0. Nitu (48kg) won a gold

medal. India’s Shashi (57kg) defeated Italy’s Giordana Sorrentino and won a gold medal.

2017 Denmark Open Super Series Premier – Kidambi Srikanth wins Denmark Open to

Clinch Third Super Series Title of 2017

Kidambi Srikanth of India defeated Lee Hyun-il of South Korea by 21-10, 21-5 in the Men’s singles

finals. Kidambi Srikanth won the Men’s singles title. This is his third Super Series title in

2017.

Men’s singles title won by Kidambi Srikanth:

Kidambi Srikanth of India defeated Lee Hyun-il of South Korea by 21-10, 21-5 in the Men’s singles

finals. Kidambi Srikanth won the Men’s singles title. This is his third Super Series title in

2017.

Women’s singles:

Ratchanok Intanon of Thailand defeated Akane Yamaguchi of Japan by 14-21, 21-15, 21-19 in

women’s singles finals. Ratchanok Intanon won the women’s singles title.




Men’s doubles:

Liu Cheng and Zhang Nan pair of China defeated Marcus Fernaldi Gideon and Kevin Sanjaya

Sukamuljo pair of Indonesia by 21-16, 22-24, 21-19 in the men’s doubles finals. Liu Cheng and

Zhang Nan won the Men’s doubles title.

Women’s doubles:

Lee So Hee and Shin Seung Chan pair of South Korea defeated Shiho Tanaka and Koharu Yonemoto

pair of Japan by 21-13, 21-16 in the women’s doubles finals. Lee So Hee and Shin Seung Chan

won the women’s doubles title.

Mixed doubles:

Tang Chun Man and Tse Ying Suet pair of Hong Kong defeated Zheng Siwei and Chen Qingchen pair

of China by 24-22, 19-21, 23-21 in the mixed doubles finals. Tang Chun Man and Tse Ying Suet

won the mixed doubles title.

Gaganjeet Bhullar wins Macao Open golf

On October 22, 2017, Indian Golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar won Macao Open 2017 at the Macau

Golf and Country Club in Macau.

i.This was eighth Asian Tour title of Gaganjeet’s career and his first title this year.

ii. In the finals, Gaganjeet was leading with four shots which reduced to one in round three.

However he drained five birdies on the front nine and won by three shots.

FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 – Overview

17th edition of FIFA U-17 World Cup took place in India from 6th – 28th October 2017. FIFA

U-17 is a biennial international football tournament of men’s under-17 national teams organised

by Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).

England Crowned Champions After Stunning Comeback Vs Spain

• England has won the FIFA U-17 World Cup

• In the final match, England defeated Spain by 5-2.

• The final match was held on October 28, 2017 in Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan/Salt

Lake Stadium in Kolkata.

Phil Foden and Rhian Brewster lead Under-17 World Cup awards

Phil Foden of England has been adjudged tournament’s best player and has been awarded

‘Golden Ball’.

• Another Player from England, Rhian Brewster who scored the most goals in the

tournament (8 goals) has been awarded ‘Golden Shoe’.

• Gabriel Brazao the goalkeeper of Brazil’s national football team has won the ‘Golden

Glove’.





India’s first match: Amarjit Singh and Co lose 3-0 to Americans

India’s first match in FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 was against USA.

• The match was played at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on October 6, 2017.

• Indian team under Captain Amarjit Singh lost the match to Americans by 3-0.

USA-Based Namit Deshpande becomes the First NRI to Play for India’s U17 World Cup

Team

Namit Deshpande, from Maryland, USA, created history by becoming the first Non Resident

Indian (NRI) to represent India in an International football match across any age group.

• In the FIFA U-17 world Cup 2017, Central defender Namit Deshpande was a part of

the Indian U-17 football team in a match against Colombia on October 9, 2017.

• Namit Deshpande had sent his clipping to All India Football Federation (AIFF) and

was selected on basis of his skills.

Jeakson Singh creates history by scoring India’s first ever goal in FIFA World Cup

Jeakson Singh created history when he scored India’s first goal in the FIFA Under-17 World

Cup 2017 during a match against Colombia on October 9, 2017.

• Jeakson is a defensive midfielder. He is the cousin of Amarjit Singh, the Captain of India U-17

Football national team.

• He hails from Manipur and has trained for several years in Chandigarh at the Chandigarh

Football Academy (CFA).

FIFA U-17 WC in India becomes most attended in event’s history

17th edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup which took place in India from 6th -28thOctober,

2017, became the most attended in the history of the event.

• Total attendance at all matches played in this tournament reached 1347133

surpassing the earlier 1230976 attendance recorded at the 1st edition which

took place in China in 1985.

• 2011 edition in Mexico attracted a total of 1002314 spectators and is the third one

which was attended by more than one million spectators.

Other Important Facts related to FIFA U-17 World Cup:

The official Mascotfor the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017, clouded leopard named ‘Kheleo’ was

revealed on February 10, 2017 in New Delhi at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. The clouded leopard

is a rare and vulnerable wild cat which can be found in the Himalayan foothills.

• The official ball for Under-17 football World Cupis called ‘Krasava’, a word generally

used by Russian sports fans to describe a striking performance. The ball is manufactured

by ‘Adidas’ and the pattern on it features a striking red design with jagged lines running

through it.

• Switzerland’s Esther Staubli became the first female football referee to officiate a

match at the FIFA U-17 World Cup. She was the referee for the match between Japan




and New Caledonia in the final round group E match on October 14, 2017 at Salt Lake

Stadium in Kolkata.

Divij Sharan and Scott Lipsky crowned European Open champions

India’s Divij Sharan and America’s Scott Lipsky won the European Open trophy in Antwerp,

Belgium.

European Open champions:

i. Divij Sharan and Scott Lipsky defeated Santiago Gonzalez and Julio Peralta by 6-4, 2-6, 10-

5 in the finals. They won the 2017 European Open title.

Thakkar first Indian to top ITTF Junior Circuit standings

Manav Thakkar has become the first Indian to occupy the top spot (3,455 points) on the ITTF World

Junior Circuit standings.

First Indian to top ITTF Junior Circuit standings:

i. Manav Thakkar hails from Surat. He was previously placed at No. 5 position. He has reached

the top position of top ITTF Junior Circuit standings after finishing runner-up at the 2017

Serbian Junior and Cadet Open, Belgrade.

Jitu Rai, Heena Sidhu win Gold in 10m Air Pistol mixed team event at ISSF World Cup

Jitu Rai, a Commonwealth and Asian Games gold-medallist, and Heena Sidhu, also a

former Commonwealth Gamesgold-winner, picked up their third gold together in the 10m air

pistol mixed team event, being held officially for the first time at an ISSF World Cup on the

opening day of competitions .

i. India is hosting the tournament for the first time in its history.

Flemming joins NBA India as head of Basketball operations

The National Basketball Association (NBA) announced Scott Fleming, former India men’s

national team head coach, has joined NBA India as Head of Basketball Operations.

Flemming – head of Basketball operations – NBA India:

i. Scott Fleming will oversee the league’s youth and elite basketball development in India,

including the Reliance Foundation Jr. NBA program, NBA Academy India and NBA Basketball School.

Kochi Tuskers win arbitration against BCCI

Kochi Tuskers have won arbitration case against the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)

over wrongful termination from the Indian Premier League (IPL) and demand Rs.850 crore

compensation from BCCI.

Kochi Tuskers demand Rs.850 crore compensation:




i. Kochi Tuskers’ IPL contract was terminated by previous BCCI president Shashank Manohar citing

breach of franchise agreement in 2011. Kochi Tuskers appealed against this decision.

Puducherry becomes associate member of BCCI

On 25th October 2017, the Committee of Administrators (COA) chose Puducherry as an associate

member in the Indian cricket board (BCCI).

Puducherry – associate member of BCCI:

i. Three parties had claimed to represent Puducherry in the Board of Control for Cricket in India

(BCCI). The Cricket Association of Puducherry (CAP) was chosen by the Committee of

Administrators (CoA) as an associate member of the BCCI.

ii. The BCCI approved Puducherry’s associate membership in its Senior General Meeting in October

2017.

Virat Kohli ranked above Lionel Messi in Forbes most valuable brands among

athletes;Federer tops list

Virat Kohli, the captain of Indian cricket team, has been ranked above the Argentinean and

Barcelona football legend Lionel Messi, as one of the most valuable brands among sports athletes

by Forbes..

Most valuable athletes:

1.Roger Federer $37.2m 2.Virat Kohli $14.5m 9.Lionel Messi $13.5m

Gokul Natesan becomes second Indian-origin player to be signed by NBA G-League side

On 21st October 2017, Gokul Natesan became the second Indian-origin player to be signed by an

NBA G-League side.

Gokul Natesan – signed by NBA G-League side:

i. Gokul Natesan was signed by Canton Charge, a minor league affiliate team of Cleveland

Cavaliers of the National Basketball Association (NBA).

ii. Gokul Natesan is 23 years old. He is a computer science graduate. He lives in a small town

sandwiched between Santa Clara and Cupertino, in the USA.

China secure maiden Hockey World Cup qualifications

The International Hockey Federation (FIH) declared that China have qualified for the Hockey

World Cup for the first time.

i. China’s place was confirmed when South Korea drew 1-1 with Malaysia, a result which put

the Malaysians into the final against India.




Amanpreet wins bronze at ISSF World Cup Final

India’s Amanpreet Singh secured third place in the 50-metre pistol final at the International

Shooting Sport Federation World Cup Final in Delhi on October 27, 2017

i. He shot 76 out of 80 targets, three behind gold medallist Hu Binyuan (79).

ii. This is Sangram’s first-ever medal in senior level, earlier he had won a gold at the Asian

Shooting Championship for junior back in 2009 and silver in World cup.

Patna Pirates clinch third consecutive Pro Kabaddi title

On 28th October 2017, Patna Pirates defeated Gujarat Fortune giants by 55-38 at the finals in

Chennai and won the fifth edition of Pro Kabaddi, for the third consecutive time.

Patna Pirates – Pro Kabaddi winner:

i. Patna Pirates’ Raider Pardeep Narwal won the Most Valuable Player and Best Raider awards in

the 2017 Vivo Pro Kabaddi League season.

ii. Pardeep Narwal secured top score in the final with 19 points. Patna Pirates’ Defender Jaideep

also played an important role securing 5 points in the finals.

Rwanda gets first cricket stadium

Rwanda’s first cricket stadium was inaugurated on 29thoct 2017 by President Paul Kagame as a

permanent home for developing the sport in the country.

i. The Rwandan Cricket Stadium Foundation was set up by Alby Shale, the son of a late British

politician and cricket lover who visited Rwanda to do aid work.

ii. Rwanda also holds the world record for women after Cathia Uwamahoro, a national team cricket

player, became the first woman to bat for 26 hours.

Yonex French Open Badminton 2017 – Overview

Yonex French Open 2017 Badminton tournament was held from 24th – 29th October, 2017

in Paris, France.French Open Badminton Tournament is held annually since 1909 in France

Kidambi Srikanth Wins French Open to Clinch 4th Super Series Title of 2017

On October 29, 2017, Indian shuttler Kidambi Srikanth became the first Indian to win the

men’s singles title at French Open badminton tournament.

• In the final match played in Stade Pierre De Coubertin, Paris, Srikanth defeated

Kento Nishimoto of Japan by 21-14, 21-13.

• With this victory, Srikanth also achieved the distinction of being the first Indian

player to win four Super Series titles in a year.

Winners of Yonex French Open Badminton 2017 – Summary: Category Winner Runner-up Men’s Singles Kidambi Srikanth (India) Kenta Nishimoto (Japan) Women’s Singles Tai Tzu Ying (Chinese Taipei) Akane Yamaguchi (Japan) Men’s Doubles Lee Jhe-Huei & Lee Yang (Chinese

Taipei) Mathias Boe & Carsten Mogensen (Denmark)




Women’s Doubles Apriyani Rahayu & Greysia Polii (Indonesia)

Lee So Hee & Shin Seung Chan (South Korea)

Mixed Doubles Tontowi Ahmad & Liliyana Natsir (Indonesia)

Zheng Siwei & Chen Quingchen (China)

Saudi to allow women into sports stadiums from 2018

Women in Saudi Arabia have been allowed to attend matches at sports stadiums form

2018.

i. Saudi Arabia is considered as one of the countries having tightest restrictions on women. As per

the current rules, women are not allowed in sports stadiums.

ii. This decision is a part of economic and social reforms implemented by Crown Prince

Mohammed bin Salman.

Virat Kohli becomes fastest to score 9,000 runs in ODIs

On 29th October 2017, Virat Kohli became the sixth Indian and the fastest to score 9000 runs in

ODI, during a match against New Zealand in Kanpur.

Virat Kohli – fastest to score 9000 runs in ODIs:

i. Virat Kohli became the fastest player to score 9000 runs in ODI during the 3rd ODI

against New Zealand in Kanpur.

Italy top medal tally, Chinese crowned ‘Champion of Champions’

On 29th October 2017, Italy topped the medal count and Chinese were crowned ‘Champion of

Champions’, in the ISSF World Cup Final 2017, in New Delhi.

ISSF World Cup Final 2017:

i. Italy topped the medal count by winning 2 gold, 3 silver, 1 bronze medals. It was followed

by China in 2nd position with 2 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze medals.

ii. India, which hosted the event, finished in the 7th position overall. It won 1 gold, 1 silver and

1 bronze medal.

Max Verstappen wins Mexican GP, Lewis Hamilton wins the 2017 Formula One

championship title

On 29th October 2017, Max Verstappen won the Mexican Grand Prix title and Lewis Hamilton won

the 2017 Formula One championship title.

Lewis Hamilton won 2017 Formula One championship & Max Verstappen won Mexican

GP:

i. On 29th October 2017, Max Verstappen of Red Bull team won the Mexican Grand Prix, at

Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez race track, in Mexico. This is his third victory in Formula 1.

ii. Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes finished in the 9th place in the Mexican Grand Prix. He won the




Formula One Drivers Championship 2017 title. He has won this title for the fourth time.

West Bengal to lease land for football centre to AIFF for Rs 1

On 30th October 2017, the West Bengal cabinet decided to provide a 15 acre land to the All India

Football Federation (AIFF) on lease for Rs 1 to help set up the National Centre of Excellence.

West Bengal to lease land for AIFF for Rs 1:

i. The West Bengal cabinet has decided to give 15 acre of land to the AIFF for 90 years on

an exchange of Rs 1 only.

ii. AIFF President Praful Patel has said that, a National Centre of Excellence for football will be

set up with the land, at Rajarhat New Town in Kolkata, with help from the FIFA.

Mithali Raj, Virat Kohli top spot in ICC ODI rankings

Indian cricket team captains Virat Kohli and Mitali Raj occupied the No.1 position in the latest

ICC ODI Cricket rankings for batsmen and bats women which was published on 29thoct 2017.

Diya wins one gold, one silver in ITTF World Cadet Challenge

On 29th October 2017, Indian table tennis player Diya Chitale won silver medal in the girls’

doubles category of the 2017 ITTF World Cadet Challenge, inSuva, Fiji.

Diya Chitale – silver medal in ITTF World Cadet Challenge:

i. Diya Chitale hails from Mumbai. She was the only Indian player selected to represent Asia in this

tournament.

ii. Diya Chitale (India) and Hanna Ryu (South Korea) pair were defeated by Yingqi Huang (China)

and Yumeno Soma (Japan) pair by 0-3 (7-11, 11-13, 7-11). Diya Chitale (India) and Hanna Ryu

(South Korea) pair and won silver medal.

OBITUARY

Veteran writer HM Marathe passes away in Pune

On 2nd October 2017, famous Marathi writer and journalist Hanumant Moreshwar Marathe

passed away due to prolonged illness, in Pune, Maharashtra.

Fomer Union minister Purushottam Lal Kaushik passed away

On 5th October 2017, Former Union minister and socialist leader Purushottam Lal Kaushik died in

Chhattisgarh’s Mahasamund district.

Veteran director Kundan Shah passed away

On 7th October 2017, National Award-winning director Kundan Shah died at his age of 69 due to

heart attack.i. Kundan Shah received his first and only National Award — Indira Gandhi




Award for Best First Film of a Director.He went to the small screen by directed television shows

like ‘Nukkad’ and ‘Wagle Ki Duniya’.

Congress leader Prabhakarpant Ojharkar no more

Congress leader Prabhakarpant Ojharkar passed away on October 7, 2017 in Nashik,

Maharashtra.

Noted journalist Bismoy Kumar Mohanty dies

On 8th October 2017, noted journalist Bismoy Kumar Mohanty died due to heart attack at Puri,

Odisha.

About Bismoy Kumar Mohanty:

♦ Occupation – Journalist ♦ State – Odisha

Historian Satish Chandra passes away at 95

On 13th October 2017, Veteran historian of medieval India and noted educational administrator,

Satish Chandra passed away, in New Delhi.

Death of Satish Chandra:

i. Professor Satish Chandra was the author of the NCERT’s Medieval India textbook that

was in circulation in the 1970s till the early 2000s. It was considered as the most comprehensive

textbook of that period. It was a two volume book loaded with information.

Filmmaker Lekh Tandon passes away

On 15th October 2017, veteran filmmaker, Lekh Tandon, passed away at his residence in Powai,

Mumbai.

Shamsher Khan, India’s first Olympic swimmer, passes away at 87

On 15th October 2017, India’s first Olympic swimmer, Shamsher Khan passed away in Andhra

Pradesh’s Guntur district.

Poet Punyaslok Dasgupta passes away

On 15th October 2017, poet Punyaslok Dasgupta, died of kidney ailment at a hospital in Jalpaiguri,

West Bengal.

About Punyaslok Dasgupta:

♦ Occupation – Poet ♦ Language – Bengali

Veteran British Actor Roy Dotrice dies at 94

On 16th October 2017, Veteran British actor, Roy Dotrice, best known for playing Leopold Mozart in

the Oscar-winning film ‘Amadeus’, died at the age of 94.




Richard Wilbur, Poet Laureate and Pulitzer Winner, Dies at 96

On 14th October 2017, Richard Wilbur, the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and translator died

in Belmont, Massachusetts, US.

About Richard Wilbur:

♦ Occupation – poet, literary translator ♦ Nationality – American

Congress MLA Ram Singh Yadav passes away

Mr. Ram Singh Yadav, Congress MLA of Shivpuri (Madhya Pradesh) passed away on 18thoct

2017 after a sudden heart attack.

i. The 74 years old, was living with his wife and two children.

ii. He was also popularly known as “Dadaji” among his supporters, was also holding the post

of Shivpuri District Congress president.

Chess grandmaster William Lombardy passed away

William James Joseph Lombardy was an American chess grandmaster, chess writer, teacher,

and Catholic priest who passed away due to some natural causes, probably heart disease, on

Friday in Martinez, Calif. He was 79.

French film legend Danielle Darrieux dies aged 100

On 19th October 2017, Danielle Darrieux, one of France’s long time and glamourous film stars died,

at the age of 100, at her home near Paris.

Former MP Amal Datta passes away

On 20th October 2017, former Lok Sabha member Amal Datta died at a private city hospital

due to cardiac arrest, in Kolkata.

Shankaracharya Madhavashram Maharaj passes away at 76

On 20th October 2017, Badrikashram Jyotirpeeth Shankaracharya Swami Madhavashram ji

Maharaj passed away in Chandigarh.

Noted Malayalam director IV Sasi passes away

On 24th October 2017, noted Malayalam filmmaker I.V.Sasi passed away in Chennai.

Death of IV Sasi:

i. I.V.Sasi was 69 years old. He had been ill for a while. He passed away on 24th October 2017

in Chennai. He is survived by his wife, a son and a daughter.

Thumri Queen, Padma Vibhushan awardee Girija Devi passes away at 88

On 24th October 2017, famous classical singer and Padma Vibhushan awardee Girija Devi died of

cardiac arrest, at BM Birla Heart Research Centre, in Kolkata.




About Girija Devi:

♦ Occupation – Indian classical singer

♦ Awards – Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, Padma Vibhushan, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award etc.

Cross-Country Woman Biker Sana Iqbal Dies in Car Crash

On 24th October 2017, cross-country woman bike rider Sana Iqbal died in a car accident in

Hyderabad.

Death of Sana Iqbal:

i. Sana Iqbal met with a car accident while driving with her husband Abdul Nadeem in

Hyderabad. She had severe head injuries and was declared dead while undergoing treatment at a

nearby private hospital.

Gaur Kishore Ganguli, the noted freedom fighter passed away

On 24th October 2017, freedom fighter and lawyer Gaur Kishore Ganguli died at his residence in

Dhanbad, Jharkhand.

Death of Gaur Kishore Ganguli:

i. Gaur Kishore Ganguli died in a cardiac arrest at his residence in Dhanbad, Jharkand. His

last rites was performed with state honours.

Fats Domino, rock ‘n’ roll pioneer, dies at 89

On 25th October 2017, singer Fats Domino died due to natural causes in New Orleans, United

States.

Manikchand Group chairman Rasiklal Dhariwal dies of cancer

On 24th October 2017, Rasiklal Dhariwal, an industrialist popularly known as the ‘gutkha baron’,

died due to parotid gland cancer, at Ruby Hall Clinic, in Pune.

Punathil Kunjabdulla, Distinguished Malayalam Writer, Passes Away

On 27th October 2017, Malayalam writer Punathil Kunjabdulla passed away at a private hospital, in

Kozhikode, Kerala.

Death of Punathil Kunjabdulla:

i. Kunjabdulla was 77 years old. He was suffering from an aging-associated disease for a long

time. On 27th October 2017, he died at a private hospital in Kozhikode.

Former BJP minister Dr Digamber Singh passes away in Jaipur

On 27th October 2017, former BJP minister Dr Digamber Singh passed away due to multiple organ

failure, in Jaipur, Rajasthan.




Death of Dr Digamber Singh:

i. Dr Digamber Singh, passed away on 27th October 2017 due to multiple organ failure in

Jaipur, Rajasthan. He had been suffering from pancreatic cancer since three years.

Former BCCI GM M.V. Sridhar passes away

On October 30 2017 ,Dr. M.V. Sridhar , 51 a Former Hyderabad Ranji Trophy star and ex-

secretary of the Hyderabad Cricket Association passed away .He was suffering from a massive

heart attack.i. He is also serving as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) General

Managerfrom 2013.He also has a great administration skill.

ii. He has the distinction of the third-highest individual score in the history of the Ranji

Trophy against Andhra in January 1994.

Gautam Adhikari, co-founder of SAB TV dies at 67

On 27th October 2017, Gautam Adhikari, Chairman and whole time Director of the SAB group,

passed away after suffering a heart attack.

Death of Gautam Adhikari:

i. Gautam Adhikari was 67 years old. He died due to heart attack in Mumbai on

27th October 2017. He is survived by his wife Ranjana and two children.

ii. His last rites were performed in Vile Parle suburban area of Mumbai. It was attended by various

Bollywood celebrities.

South Korean veteran actor Kim Joo-hyuk passed away

On 30th October 2017, South Korean veteran actor Kim Joo-hyuk died in a car crash in

Seoul, South Korea.

Writer and journalist Khadri Achyuthan dies at 71

On 29th October 2017, veteran Kannada writer and journalist Khadri Achyuthan died after a

brief period of illness, in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

BOOKS & AUTHORS The book titled ‘The Singing Tree’ launched to spread awareness on preventing child

blindness

On 4th October 2017, a book titled ‘The Singing Tree’ was launched by an international NGO, Orbis

India, to spread awareness on preventing child blindness.





The Singing Tree:

i. The book ‘The Singing Tree’ is about visual impairment due to refractive error in

children. This is a part of Orbis India’s programme to reach over three million school children,

screen and treat them for refractive error.

An Insignificant Man: Movie on Arvind Kejriwal

A documentary on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, titled ‘An Insignificant Man’, is to be

released on 17th November 2017 in theatres.

An Insignificant Man:

i. Vice Media is presenting the movie ‘An Insignificant Man’. It was produced by Memesys Lab. It

was directed by Khushboo Ranka and Vina Shukla.

The Coalition Years 1996-2012: Pranab Mukherjee’s political autobiography

On October 14, 2017, former president Pranab Mukherjee released ‘The Coalition Years: 1996-

2012’, the third part of his memoir in New Delhi.

i.First part of Pranab Mukherjee’s memoir is ‘The Dramatic Decade: The Indira Gandhi Years’.

The title of the second part is ‘The Turbulent Years: 1980-1996’.

Beyond the Dream Girl – Hema Malini’s Biography launched

On 16th October 2017, Deepika Padukone launched the biography of veteran actress Hema Malini

named ‘Beyond the Dream Girl’ in Mumbai.

Beyond the Dream Girl:

i. The biography of Bollwood actress Hema Malini titled ‘Beyond The Dream Girl’, is

written by Ram Kamal Mukherjee. It was unveiled on Hema Malini’s 69th birthday by Bollwood

actress Deepika Padukone.

Rajasthan CM launches Rajiv Mehrishi’s ‘India 2017 Yearbook’

On 23rd October 2017, Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje launched an e-book titled ‘India

2017 Yearbook’.

India 2017 Yearbook:

i. ‘India 2017 Yearbook’ was compiled by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG)

and former Union home secretary Rajiv Mehrishi.

Nirmala Sitharaman releases coffee table book on the DDP – A journey towards self-

reliance

On 27th October 2017, Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman released a coffee table book on

the Department of Defence Production (DDP), titled ‘A journey towards self-reliance’.




A journey towards self-reliance:

i. A journey towards self-reliance is the first ever coffee table book on the Department of

Defence Production (DDP

Dreamnation: Uniting a Country with Handwritten Dreams” – Book on Kalam’s

inspirational words

On 15th October 2017, the book ‘Dreamnation: Uniting a Country with Handwritten Dreams’

was released online by Indian women’s cricket team captain Mithali Raj.

Dreamnation: Uniting a Country with Handwritten Dreams:

i. The book “Dreamnation: Uniting a Country with Handwritten Dreams” contains inspiring words of

Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. It was released on 15th October 2017, which is the 86th birth anniversary of

APJ Abdul Kalam.

ii. The book was co-authored by Saji Mathew and Jubie John. It was published by

Bloomsbury in collaboration with NGO LetterFarms.

IMPORTANT DAYS October 12017

Remember Day:International Day of Older Persons

Purpose :Enabling and expanding the contributions of older people in their families, communities

and societies

Theme: ‘Stepping into the Future: Tapping the Talents, Contributions and Participation of Older

Persons in Society’

Organization: UN

Remember Day:World Vegetarian Day

Purpose :Day of celebration established by the North American Vegetarian Society.World

Vegetarian Day initiates the month of October as Vegetarian Awareness Month

Remember Day:International Coffee Day

Purpose :To promote and celebrate coffee as a beverage across the world

October 22017

Remember Day:International Day of Non-Violence

Purpose :To mark the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of the Indian independence movement.

Organization: UNGA

Remember Day:World Habitat Day

Purpose :To emphasize the basic right of all to receive adequate shelter. United Nations declared




the first Monday of every October as World Habitat Day.

Theme:Housing Policies: Affordable Homes

Organization:UN

October 4-10 2017

Remember Day: World Space Week

Theme :Exploring New Worlds In Space.

October 5 2017

Remember Day:International Teachers Day

Purpose :Its aim is to mobilize support for teachers and to ensure that the needs of future

generations will continue to be met by teachers

Theme :Teaching in Freedom, Empowering Teachers

Organization: UNESCO

October 8 2017

Remember Day:Indian Air Force Day

Organization: Indian Air Force

October 9 2017

Remember Day:World Post Day

Purpose :To mark the anniversary of the establishment of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in

1874 in the Swiss Capital, Bern

October 10 2017

Remember Day:World Day against the Death Penalty

Purpose :The World Day against the Death Penalty aims at raising awareness about reasons why

people living in poverty are at a greater risk of being sentenced to death

Theme :‘The death penalty and poverty’

October 10 2017

Remember Day:World Mental Health Day

Purpose :Its objective is to raise awareness of mental health issues and mobilize efforts in support

of better mental health

Theme : Mental health in the workplace

October 11 2017

Remember Day:International Day of the Girl Child’




Purpose :To raise awareness about several issues faced by girl child pertaining to education,

nutrition, child marriage, legal and medical rights.‘Because I Am a Girl’ campaign was initiated

Theme : EmPOWER Girls: Before, during and after crises

Remember Day:Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Week

Theme :“Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Week- The Daughters of New India”

Organization: Union Ministry of Women and Child Development

October 13 2017

Remember Day:International Day for Disaster Reduction

Purpose :to promote a global culture of risk-awareness and disaster reduction.

Theme :Home Safe Home: Reducing Exposure, Reducing Displacement

October 14 2017

Remember Day:World Standards Day

Purpose :to honour the contributions of all those who develop the technical agreements that

arepublished as international standards.

Theme :Standards make cities smarter

October 15 2017

Remember Day:International Day of Rural Women

Purpose This day recognizes the critical role and contribution of rural women in enhancing

agricultural and rural development, improving food security and eradicating rural poverty

Theme : “Challenges and opportunities in climate-resilient agriculture for gender equality and the

empowerment of rural women and girls”.

Organization:UNGA

Remember Day:World Students Day

Purpose :The United Nations declared former Indian President APJ Abdul Kalam’s birthday as

‘World Student’s Day’ in 2010.

Organization:UN

October 162017

Remember Day:World Food Day

Purpose :Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) celebrates World Food Day to mark its creation

Theme :‘Change the future of migration. Invest in food security and rural development’.

Organization:FAO




October 17 2017

Remember Day:International Day for the Eradication of Poverty

Purpose :International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 2017 marks the 25th anniversary of

declaration by the UN General Assembly

Theme :‘Answering the Call of October 17 to end poverty: A path toward peaceful and inclusive

societies’

Organization:UNGA

October 20 2017

Remember Day:World Statistics Day

Purpose :highlights the importance of reliable and timely data for informed decision-making by

governments and individuals

Organization:The United Nations Statistical Commission

October 21 2017

Remember Day:the Police Commemoration Day

Purpose : This day remembers the sacrifice of ten policemen who died in Chinese firing in 1959

October 22 2017

Remember Day:International Stuttering Awareness Day

Purpose :to raise public awareness of the millions of people (one percent of the world’s

population), who have the speech disorder of stuttering, also known as stammering.

Theme :‘A World That Understands Stuttering’.

Organization:International Stuttering Association

October 242017

Remember Day:World Polio Day

Purpose :It is held on October 24th in celebration of the birth of Dr. Jonas Salk, the man who led

the first team to develop a vaccine against polio.

Remember Day:World Development Information Day

Purpose :to draw the attention of the world to development problems and the need to strengthen

international cooperation to solve them.

Organization:UNGA





Remember Day:United Nations Day

Purpose :To mark the anniversary of UN Charter which came into force on October 24, 1945.

Organization:UNGA

Remember Day:first International Day of Diplomats was celebrated in Brasilia.

Purpose :to mark the anniversary of UN Charter which came into force on October 24, 1945.

Organization:UNGA

October 24 - 30 2017

Remember Day:Disarmament Week

Purpose :The idea of celebrating International Day of Diplomats is to recognise the hard work and

sacrifices of diplomats and their families

October 272017

Remember Day:World Day for Audiovisual Heritage

Purpose :To mark the adoption, of the Recommendation for the Safeguarding and Preservation of

Moving Images, by the 21st General Conference, in 1980.

Theme :“Discover, remember and share”..

Organization:UNESCO and CCAAA (Coordinating Council of Audiovisual Archives Associations).

Remember Day:Infantry Day

Purpose :27th October is celebrated as Infantry Day, since, on this day in 1947, the first contingent

of infantry landed at Srinagar Airfield

October 282017

Remember Day:International Animation Day

Organization:ASIFA (International Animated Film Association)

October 292017

Remember Day:World Stroke Day

Purpose :On the World Stroke day, organizations around the world conduct events emphasizing

education, testing, and initiatives to improve the damaging effects of stroke worldwide.

Theme :“What’s your reason for preventing stroke?”.

Organization:The World Stroke Organization (WSO)

October 312017

Remember Day:World Savings Day or World Thrift Day

Purpose :to spread awareness among people around the world about the idea of saving money in

a bank




Theme :‘Our future starts with savings’

Remember Day:Rashtriya Ekta Diwas or National Unity Day

Purpose :This day marks the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who played an

instrumental role in integration of princely state with Indian Union post independence

Remember Day:World Cities Day

Purpose : To promote public interest in global urbanization, to seek cooperation among countries

in meeting opportunities and addressing challenges of urbanization, and contributing to sustainable

urban development across the world

Theme :‘Innovative Governance, Open Cities’




Documents

Current Affairs October 2017 PDF Capsule · 2017-11-11 · Puri announced that five more States viz., Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chattisgarh, Jharkhand and Haryana have reached